Brú na Bóinne - Archaeological Ensemble of the Bend of the Boyne
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2018 —
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A reappraisal of the archaeological landscape around Dowth, a key Neolithic passage tomb within Ireland's Brú na Bóinne World Heritage Site, reveals new insights into its medieval transformation and long-term human activity. Geophysical surveys challenge previous assumptions about the location of the manorial village, suggesting that most earthworks in the area stem from agricultural practices rather than medieval settlements. The study also identifies potential remnants of two additional passage tombs and a terraced platform, hinting at Anglo-Norman modifications to Dowth's great mound as part of a motte-and-bailey system. This research integrates field investigations with documentary evidence, providing a nuanced understanding of the site's evolution from Neolithic to post-medieval periods.
Lut Desert
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2018 —
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A critical reassessment of the Chalcolithic chronology in southeastern Iran reveals that the period spans from the early 5th to the early 3rd millennium BCE, challenging long-standing assumptions based on outdated excavations. This study presents 10 new radiocarbon dates from Tepe Dehno and Tepe East Dehno, located near Shahdad, which define three distinct occupation phases (Dehno I-III) with precise temporal boundaries. Dehno I (4250–4000 BCE), the earliest phase, is followed by Dehno II (3700–3300 BCE), linked to the Aliabad culture, and Dehno III (3200–2900/2800 BCE), a previously undocumented period. These findings, derived from Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS) analysis of charcoal samples, provide a more accurate chronological framework for the region, addressing gaps in knowledge that have been overlooked due to a historical focus on Bronze Age urban centers.
Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape
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2018 —
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Research reveals that the genus Jacobsenia, known for its succulent shrubs endemic to quartz-gravel patches in arid South Africa, is polyphyletic and should be recircumscribed. Phylogenetic analysis using ten chloroplast markers demonstrates that Jacobsenia vaginata does not belong in this genus but rather in Drosanthemopsis, where it is reclassified as D. vaginata. Two new species, D. bella and D. kwaganapensis, are also identified within Drosanthemopsis, both exhibiting unique antler-like epidermal cell protrusions on their leaves. Additionally, the monotypic genus Knersia is sunk into Drosanthemopsis, expanding its distribution across three phytochoria in southern Africa's quartz-field flora (QFF). The study suggests a northward diversification pattern for quartz-endemic taxa in Aizoaceae, from the Knersvlakte to the Richtersveld. Taxonomic revisions and species distributions are provided.
Hegmataneh
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2018 —
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A study of the human skeleton from Korijan of Kabudarahang, housed in Hegmataneh Museum, reveals significant insights into gender and age estimation techniques. Researchers analyzed skeletal remains to determine biological sex and approximate age, employing morphological and metric methods. The findings contribute to understanding past populations' demographic characteristics, particularly in the context of UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Hegmataneh, which holds archaeological significance. This case study highlights the importance of skeletal analysis in reconstructing historical human life, providing a foundation for further anthropological research.
Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex
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2018 —
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Tabriz, a historic metropolis in northwest Iran and former capital of multiple dynasties, stands out for its rapid urban growth and the preservation of one of the world's largest roofed bazaars. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2010, the Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex reflects the city's rich cultural legacy, including its role as the 'city of the firsts.' Despite severe earthquakes that destroyed ancient structures, Tabriz remains a symbol of resilience and historical significance, earning accolades such as Iran's most beautiful city in 2012. This study sheds light on the city's urban development trajectory through a comprehensive literature review, aiming to deepen understanding of its dynamic growth patterns and challenges, including the emergence of slum settlements on its peripheries.
Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga
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2018 —
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The Stairway of the Senses in the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, Braga, holds significant symbolic meaning within its monumental Via Crucis. This study reveals that the terrace's symbolism, particularly through its sensory elements, contributes to a deeper understanding of the site's broader religious and cultural narrative. By analyzing signs displayed at the Terrace of the Taste, researchers deciphered a layered message that integrates sensory perception with spiritual reflection. The approach involved close examination of textual and visual cues, contextualized within the architectural and historical framework of the Bom Jesus do Monte. This work sheds light on the often-overlooked symbolic dimensions of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering new insights into its cultural and religious significance.
Namhansanseong
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2018 —
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A study of Namhansanseong Fortress identified four key tourism motivation factors that influence visitor behavior: daily life escape, cultural experience, friendship, and fun pursuit. These factors were derived through cluster analysis of 421 valid responses from a survey conducted in late 2015. The findings provide actionable insights for tailoring marketing strategies to different tourist segments, enhancing the site's appeal as both a leisure and sightseeing destination.
Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple
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2018 —
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Korean dry lacquer Buddhist statues, previously thought to have originated around the mid-Goryeo period under Song Chinese influence, may trace their roots back to the Silla-Goryeo transition period. This study challenges the established timeline by comparing early Korean statues, such as the seated Bhaisajyaguru at Cheongnyangsa Temple and Master Huirang at Haeinsa Temple, with Chinese counterparts from the Sui to Tang dynasties. Analysis revealed striking similarities in materials (hemp cloth and lacquer), construction techniques (hollow interiors without wooden frames, use of wooden struts for support, and lead glass eyes inlaid with hemp fabric and lacquer), and stylistic elements, suggesting a direct influence from China during the 6th to 7th centuries. The research also highlights the potential for future scientific studies on Chinese dry lacquer statues to further elucidate the origins and evolution of these artistic traditions.
Baekje Historic Areas
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2018 —
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Gongju Gongsanseong Fortress, a key component of the Baekje Historic Areas, holds significant universal value as it represents a royal palace site from the Baekje Kingdom period. This study identifies the fortress's potential for sustainable revitalization through innovative approaches such as virtual reality-based restoration and community education initiatives. By analyzing current utilization challenges, the research proposes alternative strategies to align visitor engagement with the cultural heritage's intrinsic values, ensuring long-term preservation and development.
Historic Villages of Korea: Hahoe and Yangdong
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2018 —
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A study on the relationship between authenticity, tourist experience, satisfaction, and acculturation among Chinese residents visiting Yangdong Folk Village reveals that tourism can play a significant role in mitigating cultural conflicts. The research, conducted through convenience sampling and self-administered questionnaires from May 1 to May 15, 2016, analyzed responses from 278 valid participants out of 300 distributed. Findings suggest that the perceived authenticity of the site positively influences tourist experience and satisfaction, which in turn affects acculturation processes. This study highlights the importance of preserving cultural heritage while fostering inclusive tourism practices to bridge cultural divides.
Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple
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2018 —
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Recent research on the Buddhist reliquaries from Bulguksa Temple's Three-Storied Stone Pagoda has uncovered significant insights into the pagoda's history and the evolution of relic-enshrinement styles. The study, which analyzed newly discovered Goryeo-era renovation records (mokseoji) and re-examined previously unearthed relics during a 2012-2013 conservation project, revealed previously unknown details about the pagoda's construction phases—dating back to Unified Silla's founding in 726 CE and later renovations in 1024 and 1038. These findings highlight the unique traditions of Buddhist culture during the Silla and Goryeo dynasties, offering valuable historical context for understanding the site's significance as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Gochang, Hwasun and Ganghwa Dolmen Sites
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2018 —
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Ganghwa Island's rich cultural heritage, including Bronze Age dolmens and significant Shaman sites, offers untapped potential for innovative festival content that can enhance local tourism and economic growth. This study demonstrates how integrating global Shaman communities with Ganghwa's indigenous Shaman culture could create modern, nature-friendly festival experiences. By leveraging these unique cultural assets, the region can attract both domestic and international visitors seeking authentic, immersive encounters with Shaman traditions. The research suggests that such an approach not only preserves but also revitalizes local cultural identity while providing a creative solution for regional economic development.
Ancient Villages in Southern Anhui – Xidi and Hongcun
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2018 —
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Hongcun Village exemplifies how Feng Shui principles shaped its spatial configuration through an intricate water system. The study reveals that the village's layout—defined by ditches, ponds, and waterways—integrated seamlessly into daily life, reflecting historical water management practices. However, modern influences like tourism and infrastructure development have altered traditional compliance with waterway conventions, leading to pollution and deviations from original designs. Researchers analyzed historical records, resident interviews, and field surveys to map the village's water network, its role in spatial organization, and its impact on local habits. The findings highlight the tension between preserving cultural heritage and adapting to contemporary pressures.
Kaziranga National Park
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2018 —
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A comprehensive survey of gastrointestinal parasites in wild and orphan greater one-horned rhinos (Rhinoceros unicornis) at Kaziranga National Park, Assam, India, revealed near-universal infection rates. Parasite ova were detected in 100% of wild rhino samples, with trematodes Paramphistomum sp., strongyle nematodes, and the cestode Anoplocephala sp. being the most prevalent. Orphaned juveniles exhibited a 96% infection rate, while orphan calves showed significantly lower rates (27%). Strongyles were the only parasites identified in orphans. Fecal egg counts indicated higher parasite loads in wild rhinos (mean 64 eggs per gram) compared to orphans (mean 43 epg for juveniles and 2 epg for calves). The study highlights the widespread nature of gastrointestinal parasite infections in this population, suggesting potential implications for individual health and population viability. Further sampling is recommended to elucidate epidemiological patterns.
Yungang Grottoes
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2018 —
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A novel, highly efficient method for classifying the weathering degree of large outdoor stone relics has been developed, with a focus on the UNESCO World Heritage Site Yungang Grottoes. This approach combines terahertz (THz) spectra and ultrasonic velocity measurements, utilizing a least squares support vector machine (LS-SVM) regression model to predict weathering levels with remarkable accuracy—relative errors of 8.16% or less. The method is particularly advantageous for areas where ultrasonic testing is impractical, as it requires only approximately 0.2 grams of sample material to obtain THz spectra. This synthetic approach offers a cost-effective and efficient solution for assessing the weathering of stone relics, advancing conservation efforts for such significant cultural heritage sites.
Heart of Neolithic Orkney
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2018 —
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A re-analysis of human remains from the Neolithic chamber tomb of Quanterness, Orkney, reveals subtle variations in funerary ritual within and between megalithic tombs. Using advanced taphonomic analysis, researchers uncovered new data that challenges current understanding of Neolithic practices and cosmologies associated with these structures. Unlike previous studies, this approach successfully addressed the complexity of disarticulated and comingled remains, providing insights into themes of transformation, fragmentation, and body manipulation. The findings suggest a more nuanced interpretation of how these tombs functioned as places of transition.
Aldabra Atoll
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2018 —
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Aldabra Atoll's Pleistocene vertebrate assemblage reveals a more diverse fauna than previously documented, with notable discoveries including an Ardeola heron, three Procellariformes, tropic-bird Phaethon, gull Larus, rail Dryolimnas, harrier Circus, and owl Tyto. The study, based on fossil material collected in 1987 from Ile Picard, suggests that Aldabra was completely submerged between the deposition of Ile Picard and Point Hodoul deposits, leading to local faunal extinctions. Evidence indicates recolonization by seabirds, rails, harriers, owls, giant tortoises, and lizards post-submergence event.
Pre-Hispanic City of Teotihuacan
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2018 —
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Two burials excavated at Izapa in 1963 contain rare green obsidian artifacts linked to Teotihuacan, suggesting political independence for Izapa during the Middle Classic period. The study describes these burials and their contents, interpreting the Teotihuacan-made objects as gifts that reflect Izapa's autonomous status. This interpretation aligns with Spence's (1996) model of Teotihuacan exchange dynamics, providing new insights into the social and political relationships between these ancient Mesoamerican centers.
Caves of Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst
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2018 —
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A unique microclimatic gradient within the Silická ľadnica Ice Cave, part of the UNESCO-listed Caves of Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst, harbors an exceptionally high diversity of soil Collembola, with 129 species identified—approximately 91% of the estimated total richness. This small-scale gradient, characterized by a steep temperature decrease from the karst plateau edge to the doline bottom, serves as a climatic microrefuge for endemic and cold-adapted species. The study, conducted over three years at seven sites along an 117.5-meter slope, revealed that species richness correlates positively with soil temperature, with the middle zone of the gradient hosting a high number of Carpathian endemics (10) and psychrophilic species (21). Additionally, cold and wet karst scree slopes may act as borderline habitats for obligate subterranean species. The findings suggest that such microclimatic gradients in temperate karst systems can serve as biodiversity reservoirs, offering critical microrefugia for endemic and relict taxa.
Gyeongju Historic Areas
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2018 —
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Restoring Hwangnyongsa Temple (HT), a historically significant site within South Korea's Gyeongju Historic Areas—designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site—proves economically viable. A cost-benefit analysis reveals that the benefits of restoration, valued at KRW 415.3 billion (USD 366.9 million), significantly exceed its costs (KRW 232.2 billion, USD 205.1 million). This conclusion stems from a contingent valuation survey involving 1,000 households, which estimated an average annual willingness to pay of KRW 2,341 (USD 2.07) per household for the restoration project. The study underscores the potential economic and social profitability of preserving such cultural heritage sites.
Cultural Landscape of Sintra
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2018 —
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British sculptor Anne Seymour Damer’s 1790–1791 journey to Lisbon, documented in letters and her novel <em>Belmour</em> (1801), offers a unique lens on Portugal as a picturesque, Catholic, and sentimental space of convalescence and learning. Damer’s vivid depictions of Lisbon—both as a place of recovery and Sintra as an escape for cultural and emotional growth—mirror contemporary British travel narratives while introducing nuanced themes of religion, health, and the 'cultural Other.' Her work stands out for its ethnographic and historical depth, blending personal experience with broader societal observations. This study reveals how Damer’s portrayal challenges conventional representations of Portugal in British literature, emphasizing sentimentality and intellectual curiosity over mere exoticism.
Fortress of Suomenlinna
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2018 —
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A new coastal wave forecast for the Helsinki Archipelago in the Gulf of Finland demonstrates adequate accuracy, particularly for south and southwest waves, with minimal deterioration over a 54-hour period. The study validated the forecast using seven months of wave buoy data from 2017, comparing significant wave height and peak wave period near Suomenlinna. While the model performed reliably for most directions, easterly waves were slightly overestimated. This operational tool enhances marine safety by providing timely sea state information, crucial for heavy marine traffic and emergency response in the Baltic Sea.
Qinghai Hoh Xil
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2018 —
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Recent surveys reveal that the population of wild yaks (Bos grunniens) in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau has increased since the 1990s, with estimates ranging from 11,222 to 21,072 individuals in Chang Tang, Tibet, and 659 to 1,793 in Hoh Xil, Qinghai. Despite this growth, the distribution area of wild yaks is shrinking due to climate change and intensifying human activities. The study, conducted between 2012 and 2014 using field data and published literature, highlights the need for stronger conservation actions to protect this endemic species in one of China's most ecologically significant regions.
Historic Town of Zabid
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2018 —
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Shaykh Abdussamad al-Falimbani emerged as a pivotal figure in the 18th-century Islamic intellectual tradition, significantly influencing both the Malay World and Arab lands, including Zabid, Yemen. His contributions were multifaceted: he disseminated religious works across vast regions of the Islamic world, fostered extensive teacher-student networks linking Southeast Asia and the Middle East, preserved classical Islamic knowledge for future generations, and harmonized Sufi teachings with Shari'a law, ensuring their continued practice. This study highlights al-Falimbani's enduring legacy in maintaining the continuity of Islamic sciences from classical times to the modern era.
Taos Pueblo
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2018 —
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A tailored water agreement for the Taos Valley, achieved through settlement outside formal court proceedings, offers a more historically aligned resolution to complex water rights disputes. The case, sparked by an unbuilt dam but extending to broader water use negotiations, involved key stakeholders—including Taos Pueblo, regional acequias, and the city of Taos—to craft a compromise that reflects traditional practices. While the agreement is now in effect, ongoing concerns persist regarding groundwater pumping, shortages, and the exclusion of some parties. This study highlights the potential for collaborative, non-adversarial processes to address contentious water management issues.
Te Wahipounamu – South West New Zealand
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2018 —
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Aoraki / Mount Cook, the highest mountain in New Zealand at 3,724 meters, stands as a cornerstone of geotourism within Te Wahipounamu – South West New Zealand World Heritage Region. This study highlights how geotourism, driven by visitor engagement and educational initiatives like the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, plays a pivotal role in both promoting awareness and supporting conservation efforts. The mountain's unique geological features, combined with its status as a major international tourist destination, underscore the significance of sustainable tourism practices in preserving natural heritage. With approximately half a million visitors annually, Aoraki / Mount Cook serves as a model for integrating scientific knowledge with tourism development to foster long-term ecological stewardship.
Islands and Protected Areas of the Gulf of California
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2018 —
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A systematic review reveals a significant gap in evidence regarding the effectiveness of systematic conservation planning worldwide. Despite its widespread use, only three rigorous studies—conducted in the Gulf of California (Mexico), Réunion Island, and The Nature Conservancy’s landholdings across the USA—met criteria for robust evaluation. These studies varied in context, purpose, and outcomes, employing non-experimental or qualitative designs such as spatial analysis, stakeholder surveys, and modeling. The findings highlight a lack of rigorous evaluations in academic journals or public repositories, suggesting that while systematic conservation planning is claimed to be effective, its actual impact remains poorly understood. This imbalance in the literature emphasizes the need for more robust evaluation methodologies and transparent reporting to improve conservation science and practice.
Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche
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2018 —
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A dominant native earthworm species, Zapatadrilus siboney, was found to thrive equally in both managed and non-managed fallow lands within the Calakmul Reserve, Mexico. The study revealed no significant difference in total biomass or density between these land management types, though species richness was notably lower in non-managed areas. A strong correlation emerged between earthworm density and richness with the age of fallow lands (r²: 0.9 and 0.7; p < 0.05), while management type appeared to influence biomass (r²: 0.56; p < 0.05). The research analyzed 49 sites, including managed fallow lands, non-managed fallow lands, and tropical rain forests, using the TSBF method to collect earthworms at the end of the rainy season.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
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2018 —
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Limited access to water and sanitation facilities persists among pastoralist communities in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania, with over half (61.7%) having year-round access to improved water sources but nearly half (50.3%) practicing open defecation. Socio-economic status, family size, presence of under-five children, history of diarrhoeal diseases, sanitation education, and motivation for improvement were key determinants of household sanitation facility ownership. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to enhance access to water and sanitation in the region, aligning with global sustainable development goals.
Zagori Cultural Landscape
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2018 —
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Pastoralist communities, such as the Sarakatsani shepherds of Greece's Zagori region, exhibit distinct patterns of resistance and accommodation to state control, challenging traditional models of incorporation or assimilation. This study highlights how these shepherds maintain cultural and ethnic distinctiveness despite political dependence, suggesting a model of 'encapsulation' rather than full integration into broader agrarian regimes. The research employs sociological analysis to identify shared elements defining pastoralist lifestyles and their interactions with state power structures, offering new insights into the dynamics of resistance in preindustrial societies.
City of Verona
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2018 —
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Hosts on Airbnb dynamically adjust accommodation prices based on their experience and market demand, according to a study analyzing 1,056 listings in Verona, Italy. The research, using regression analysis, found that price flexibility increases with host experience and responds to booking date demand. This challenges traditional pricing models and offers insights for hotels facing Airbnb's disruptive growth. The findings support innovator’s dilemma theory, suggesting strategies for conventional hospitality businesses to adapt.
Pyu Ancient Cities
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2018 —
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Ancient Pyu cities in Myanmar, predating King Anawrahta's reign, demonstrated advanced irrigation systems with reservoirs, lakes, and canals to ensure a steady water supply for agriculture. These systems were highly systematic and employed methods of irrigated cultivation along the Ayeyarwady River basin and flooded plains. Beikthano, Sriksetra, and Kyaukse are notable for their ancient weirs, showcasing the ingenuity of ancient Myanmar kings in managing water resources efficiently.
Port, Fortresses and Group of Monuments, Cartagena
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2018 —
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This study reveals significant spatial variations in underwater noise levels within the Port of Cartagena, identifying key sources of impulsive noise that could impact marine biodiversity. Researchers used a smart digital hydrophone mounted on a vessel to record sound pressure levels between 10 and 200 kHz, coupled with GPS data to create a GIS map of spatiotemporal noise distribution. The findings highlight the need for targeted management strategies to mitigate impulsive noise pollution in port environments, serving as a foundation for future studies on its ecological effects.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome)
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2018 —
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A key insight from the reconstruction of Hiroshima after its atomic bombing reveals that local design offices played a pivotal role, often overshadowed by larger firms and contractors. This study found that most immediate post-bombing building activity was led by these local entities, which significantly contributed to both the city's recovery and the development of post-war Japanese architecture. The research also highlights the impact of major competitions, such as those for the Peace Memorial Cathedral and Hiroshima Peace Center, which spurred reconstruction efforts and brought national attention to Hiroshima's rebuilding process. Using documentary investigations, interviews, and on-site analyses, the study contrasts Hiroshima's reconstruction with that of other disaster-stricken areas, offering a model for future urban recovery strategies.
Yakushima
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2018 —
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Wild Japanese macaques (Macaca fuscata) on Yakushima adjust their activity patterns primarily to thermal conditions, with temperature positively influencing and rainfall negatively affecting their daily behavior. The study, conducted using 30 camera traps over 8658 camera-days between July 2014 and July 2015, found that macaques were most active during the hour after sunrise and midday, shifting activity to warmer periods in winter. Even minimal rainfall (0.5–1 mm/min) significantly reduced their activity. These findings highlight the significant impact of thermal conditions on primate behavior at multiple temporal scales.
Architectural Ensemble of the Trinity Sergius Lavra in Sergiev Posad
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2018 —
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Boris Konstantinovich Zaytsev's religious prose, particularly his work 'Venerable Sergius of Radonezh,' reinterprets the life of Saint Sergius within the context of Russian medieval religious literature, emphasizing its enduring influence on Orthodox culture and spirituality. The study highlights how Zaytsev, a Russian emigrant author, used antithesis as a narrative technique to depict Sergius's asceticism and spiritual leadership, contrasting his modest demeanor with his significant public role. This work is part of a trilogy that compares Saint Sergius with other saints, presenting the Trinity-Saint Sergius Lavra as a sacred center of Russian Orthodox culture and statehood. Zaytsev's interpretation preserves emotional evenness while drawing on the teachings of Epiphanius the Wise, demonstrating the monastery's profound impact on medieval Russian society and its role in reviving the medieval state.
Kalwaria Zebrzydowska: the Mannerist Architectural and Park Landscape Complex and Pilgrimage Park
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2018 —
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Adam Gruca's military service from 1914 to 1920 provided him with significant practical medical experience and surgical training, culminating in his graduation as a doctor in 1922. Initially conscripted into the Austro-Hungarian Army during World War I, Gruca served at Kalwaria Zebrzydowska's Merciful Brothers Monastery hospital and later at Field Hospital No. 2 in Andrychów, where he began learning surgery. His service included promotions to second lieutenant and subsequent transfer to the Italian front. After joining the Polish Armed Forces post-war, he completed his studies while serving in various regiments. This period of military service allowed him to gain substantial medical knowledge and skills, contributing to his later career as a medical professional. The study by Bać and Cwanek (2018) highlights Gruca's unique trajectory, illustrating the intersection of military duty and medical education during a tumultuous historical period.
Sundarbans National Park
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2018 —
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Adaptive co-management (ACM) emerges as a promising approach to enhance tourism destination governance in protected areas, particularly in developing countries. This study demonstrates that ACM can facilitate iterative learning among diverse stakeholders, leading to attitude and behavior changes that support protected area conservation. By integrating four interconnected principles—communication and collaboration, social learning, shared rights and responsibility, and building adaptive capacity and resilience—the research shows how ACM fosters a congenial environment for stakeholder engagement. Empirical findings from two Bangladesh protected areas highlight the importance of social learning in creating new knowledge, raising awareness, and empowering local communities. This approach not only strengthens governance systems but also contributes to sustainable tourism development and effective conservation management.
Melaka and George Town, Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca
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2018 —
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Heritage buildings in Melaka and George Town, Malaysia's UNESCO World Heritage Cities, are increasingly being adaptively reused as hotels, yet this practice often lacks proper conservation concepts. A study identified 14 such heritage hotels and surveyed their owners or managers to assess current adaptive reuse approaches. Findings revealed significant gaps in conservation methods, highlighting the need for improved strategies to balance heritage preservation with modern hotel functionality. These insights aim to guide future adaptive reuse projects, ensuring better alignment with UNESCO standards while maintaining cultural significance.
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park
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2018 —
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Coral disease prevalence is significantly higher in areas affected by ship groundings, with long-term impacts potentially hindering reef recovery. A study at Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park found that coral diseases, particularly white syndromes, were an order of magnitude more prevalent two years post-grounding compared to undamaged control sites. Recovery rates varied drastically between grounding sites: the USS Guardian site showed steady hard coral cover growth (3% annually), similar to control sites, while the Min Ping Yu site exhibited negligible recovery due to unstable rubble substrates. The research suggests that ship movement during and after groundings, along with wave-influenced debris persistence, strongly influences long-term recovery trajectories, with disease prevalence persisting in damaged colonies.
Yakushima
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2018 —
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Mountainous river basins, key sources of sediment, adjust differently under varying tectonic uplift patterns. This study reveals that rivers subjected to landward-tilting uplift develop a distinct convex-up longitudinal profile with an inactive knickpoint at the upstream end, due to insufficient cumulative uplift for equilibrium. Conversely, seaward-tilting uplift leads to smooth concave profiles over time, indicating spatial and temporal variations in sediment production linked to uplift type. To investigate this, laboratory experiments were conducted alongside a case study of two river basins on Yakushima Island, Japan. The findings highlight the nuanced response of river basins to heterogeneous uplift, offering insights into long-term basin dissection and sediment dynamics.
Kalwaria Zebrzydowska: the Mannerist Architectural and Park Landscape Complex and Pilgrimage Park
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2018 —
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Adolf Hyła's Marian iconography, particularly his depictions of Our Lady of Sorrows, reveals a significant influence from Baroque painter Carl Dolci. Among the 65 Marian-themed works by Hyła (1897-1965), six specifically portray Mary as Mater Dolorosa, created between 1940 and 1962. These paintings are distributed across private collections and religious sites, including Kalwaria Zebrzydowska's Seraphic Sisters chapel. The study identified these works through a preserved catalog of Hyła's oeuvre, providing insight into his artistic evolution and iconographic choices during this period.
Western Caucasus
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2018 —
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The Lagonaki Highland in the Western Caucasus, renowned for its ancient carbonate platform and diverse karst features, exhibits significant aesthetic attractiveness due to three key properties: openness, pattern, and uniqueness. These properties align with tourists' expectations of beauty, enhancing emotional satisfaction and adding value to the geological heritage landscape. The study employed field studies to assess these aesthetic properties, distinguishing between their local importance and appearance—whether positive or negative. This research highlights the interplay between geological features and human perception, offering insights crucial for sustainable tourism development in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Australian Convict Sites
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2018 —
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This study reveals that heritage sites can effectively educate visitors about confronting historical narratives, such as Australia's convict system, through affective practices. The research found that the Cascades Female Factory more comfortably communicates its challenging history compared to Port Arthur Historic Site, which often focuses on countering perceptions of darkness and cruelty. By analyzing exhibitions, education programs, staff interviews, and archival materials between 2012 and 2015, the study applied Margaret Wetherell's concept of 'affective practice' to explore how these sites foster historical thought and empathy. The findings highlight the potential of using contested histories in heritage education to deepen visitor understanding and emotional engagement.
City of Cuzco
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2018 —
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A grassroots educational center in Cusco, Peru, mediates the lives of Quechua-speaking girls through postcolonial biopolitical governance, revealing how they navigate rural-to-urban mobility, labor precarity, and tourism-driven professionalization. The study employs an affirmative biopolitical framework to analyze affective responses to education, social care, and vocational training, highlighting contested terrains of youth in urban spaces. This approach contributes to understanding the production of aid, protection, and alternative childhoods in marginalized contexts.
Lavaux, Vineyard Terraces
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2018 —
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Agricultural activities, particularly the use of pesticides, significantly contribute to micropollutant levels in freshwater environments. A study focusing on the Lavaux vineyard terraces, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site bordering Lake Geneva, revealed that glyphosate and its metabolite AMPA can be highly mobile despite their strong sorption abilities. This mobility poses environmental risks, as demonstrated by species sensitivity distribution (SSD) curves for these compounds. The research examined the transport dynamics of pesticides from application to their impact on living organisms, highlighting a critical gap in understanding the persistence and movement of micropollutants in catchment areas.
Samarkand – Crossroad of Cultures
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2018 —
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Private wheat-cultivating farms in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, could increase production by 21% or reduce input costs by 18% without compromising output levels. This potential stems from inefficient resource allocation, as revealed by a study using data envelopment analysis (DEA) and Tobit modeling on data from 124 farms. Key determinants of technical efficiency included farmer age, agricultural education, soil fertility, and seed quality. The findings highlight opportunities for productivity gains during Uzbekistan's agricultural transition, with implications for food security in the region.
Writing-on-Stone / Áísínai’pi
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2018 —
WHEF43F2807B5
White prairie clover (Dalea candida) populations native to the Canadian prairies exhibit significant variation in nutritional content, with differences observed in acid detergent fibre, neutral detergent fibre, crude protein, phosphorus, and iron levels. While biomass and seed yield did not differ significantly among six populations from Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta—including those from Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park—nutritional parameters varied notably during the bloom stage. This is the first comparative study of its kind for white prairie clover in Canada, providing insights into its potential as a domesticated forage crop. The research employed a randomized complete block design to evaluate growth characteristics and nutritional traits under field conditions.
City of Quito
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2018 —
WHE06F120CE4D
A city-wide air pollution control program in Quito, Ecuador, led to a 48% reduction in the incidence of acute respiratory illness (ARI) among school children aged 6-12 years over five years. The study compared data from two cohorts observed in 2000 and 2007, finding a significant decline in both ARI cases and serum carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) levels—a proxy for carbon monoxide exposure—due to vehicle emission controls. While no direct link was found between elevated COHb concentrations and ARI incidence, the overall reduction in air pollution correlated with improved respiratory health in children. This highlights the potential public health benefits of targeted traffic-related pollution management.
Kasbah of Algiers
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2018 —
WHE531CAEB785
Algiers, the capital of Algeria, embodies a unique architectural and urban coexistence shaped by two dominant historical periods: Muslim rule since the 15th century and French colonialism from 1830 to 1962. This dual heritage manifests in the city's landscape as a blend of the traditional Arab Casbah, reminiscent of Middle Eastern cities like Istanbul or Cairo, and modern French-inspired urban structures akin to Paris or Marseille. The study highlights how these contrasting architectural traditions coexist harmoniously, contributing to Algiers' cosmopolitan identity. However, this delicate balance faces threats from rapid rural-to-urban migration, which has led to the proliferation of slums (bidonvilles), potentially disrupting the city's unique urban fabric.
