Central University City Campus of the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM)
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2018 —
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A 2017 intraslab earthquake (Mw 7.1) near Mexico City exhibited anomalously strong ground motion at critical frequencies (0.4–1 Hz), unlike previous interplate earthquakes, leading to distinct damage patterns. Unlike the 1985 quake (Mw 8.0), this event occurred closer to the city and at greater depth, with higher stress drop, resulting in high-frequency wave enrichment that intensified shaking in vulnerable structures. The study analyzed seismic recordings over 54 years to quantify ground motion differences, highlighting the unique hazards posed by intraslab earthquakes.
Abbey Church of Saint-Savin sur Gartempe
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2018 —
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A multidisciplinary exploration of death culture in the Middle Ages and Early Modern period reveals how premodern societies conceptualized mortality through material and spiritual practices. The study, featuring contributions from art history, history, literary studies, and drama, examines diverse representations—from heroic memorialization in Anglo-Saxon texts to the symbolic use of a false arch at Saint-Savin-sur-Gartempe, France, which exemplifies martyrdom. It also analyzes revenant folklore, cosmological iconography, and macabre imagery, including Chaucer’s satirical 'Pardoner’s Tale' and German estates satire, highlighting how death was ritualized, feared, or weaponized across centuries. The research employs chronological ordering to trace evolving attitudes toward mortality, blending textual analysis with material culture, offering a nuanced understanding of death's cultural resonance.
Yosemite National Park
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2018 —
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A comprehensive analysis of fatalities on Half Dome in Yosemite National Park reveals that over 85 years, 31 deaths occurred, with activities at the time of death including technical climbing (36%), suicide (26%), cable handrail use (16%), hiking (16%), and base jumping (6%). Contrary to expectations, only two cable handrail-related fatalities were due to weather conditions. The study also highlights that a minority of deaths were attributable to unfavorable weather or unskilled hiking participants, with three medically related deaths caused by cardiac disease and altitude. The research suggests the potential for climber registration to provide more reliable accident incidence statistics and emphasizes the need for renewed focus on suicide prevention.
Memphis and its Necropolis – the Pyramid Fields from Giza to Dahshur
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2018 —
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A detailed analysis of Old Kingdom tombs reveals that images of the deceased's son engaged in fishing and fowling were prevalent, with 14 such scenes identified across ten tombs. The study suggests that fishing was more commonly depicted than fowling, possibly due to symbolic or practical reasons. It also examines the attire of the son, including the fillet, streamer, short kilt, and triangular apron, as well as the positioning of the spear, which was typically held at a straight or slightly sloping horizontal angle rather than steeply. The research explores the significance of these scenes, their dating, and the accompanying inscriptions to provide insights into ancient Egyptian burial practices and social customs.
Kakadu National Park
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2018 —
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A recent study reveals alarming declines in populations of threatened mammal species on Melville Island, one of Australia's last strongholds for intact mammal assemblages. Over the period from 2000 to 2015, researchers documented a 62% reduction in small mammal trap success and a 36% decrease in site-level species richness. Notable declines included a 90% drop in the northern brown bandicoot (Isoodon macrourus), 64% for the brush-tailed rabbit-rat (Conilurus penicillatus), and 63% for the black-foot tree-rat (Mesembriomys gouldii). These declines mirror patterns observed two decades earlier in Kakadu National Park and across northern Australia, suggesting widespread threats driven by feral cat predation and altered fire regimes. Without effective management interventions, these species risk extinction from one of their last remaining refuges, further exacerbating Australia's significant contribution to global mammal extinctions.
Diyarbakır Fortress and Hevsel Gardens Cultural Landscape
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2018 —
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Hevsel Gardens, part of the Diyarbakır Fortress and Hevsel Gardens Cultural Landscape, has undergone a significant rediscovery during its UNESCO World Heritage Site inscription process. This transformation has led to a re-evaluation of its historical and cultural value by experts, artists, urban planners, and local inhabitants. The research highlights key events and works that have shaped the Gardens into a recognized heritage site, emphasizing its unique significance in the region's history.
Talamanca Range-La Amistad Reserves / La Amistad National Park
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2018 —
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A robust phylogenetic analysis reveals that the Red-crowned Ant Tanager (<em>Habia rubica</em>) exhibits deep genetic divergence, with seven distinct phylogroups corresponding to major geographical discontinuities such as the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, Talamanca Cordillera, and Isthmus of Panama. These findings suggest a complex history of diversification in this polytypic species, particularly in its northern distribution, where at least seven well-supported lineages may represent distinct species. The study used multilocus analyses of five molecular markers (ND2, ACOI-I9, MUSK, FGB-I5, and ODC) across the species' range from Central Mexico to South America, providing a detailed hypothesis for its evolutionary trajectory.
Great Barrier Reef
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2018 —
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Deep reefs of the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) offer limited thermal refuge during mass coral bleaching events, despite initial assumptions. While summer upwelling provided temporary relief at 40 meters depth, it later subsided, leading to anomalously warm temperatures even in deeper zones. Bleaching impacts were severe but significantly lower than in shallower reefs—40% of colonies bleached and 6% dead at 40 meters compared to 60-69% bleached and 8-12% dead at 5-25 meters. This study highlights the transient nature of deep reef protection, challenging the notion that mesophotic zones can serve as broad ecological refuges from thermal stress.
Kakadu National Park
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2018 —
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A critical assessment identifies riparian habitats and biotic interactions as the most vulnerable ecological processes to potential mine-derived stressors in Kakadu National Park's Magela Creek catchment. The study prioritizes these processes for monitoring, emphasizing the need for early detection indicators during the rehabilitation phase of the Ranger uranium mine due to significant lags in biological response times. While current assessment endpoints are adequate for operational phases, additional indicators are crucial to prevent undetected impacts on underlying ecological processes that sustain ecosystem structure and function.
Saloum Delta
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2018 —
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In the Saloum Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with high biodiversity but increasing vulnerability to climate change, land scarcity has become a pressing issue. Young people face significant challenges in accessing land due to economic constraints and sociocultural barriers, which exacerbate their exclusion from this critical resource. This study highlights that while young individuals harbor strong aspirations for land ownership, their ability to translate these into practices is hindered by systemic factors. The research contrasts the aspirations and real-world strategies of youth, revealing a gap between potential and actual land access. By employing qualitative methods, including interviews and case studies, the authors provide insights into how social norms, economic pressures, and environmental changes shape land tenure dynamics in this fragile ecosystem.
The Architectural Work of Le Corbusier, an Outstanding Contribution to the Modern Movement
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2018 —
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Le Corbusier's architectural work, particularly his use of color, revolutionized the concept of space by transcending traditional materialization. This study reveals how his integration of cubism and purism influenced his designs, enabling him to achieve 'pure space' through color alone. The research focuses on the chapel of Notre Dame du Haut in Ronchamp, highlighting its east light tower (painted vermilion) and west-facing twin (white), as exemplars of this approach. By analyzing color theories from movements like purism and cubism, the study demonstrates how Le Corbusier's work shifted architectural paradigms, drawing inspiration from Rainer Maria Rilke's 'pure space' concept in his <em>Duino Elegies</em>. This innovation redefined spatial perception without relying on physical boundaries.
Qutb Minar and its Monuments, Delhi
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2018 —
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Delhi's Qutb Complex, featuring the iconic Qutb Minar and its monuments, stands as a testament to the architectural and historical significance of the region. This comprehensive study by Catherine B. Asher delves into the intricate details of the complex, offering insights into its construction, evolution, and cultural importance. The research approach combines thorough historical analysis with architectural examination, providing a nuanced understanding of the site's development from its inception in the 12th century to its current status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Asher's work not only highlights the technical prowess behind the monuments but also explores their social and political contexts, enriching our knowledge of India's medieval history.
Chitwan National Park
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2018 —
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A significant imbalance exists between the demand and supply of forest products in Bandevi Buffer Zone Community Forest (BZCF) within Chitwan National Park, Nepal. Despite improvements in forest conditions since community management began, the study estimates annual deficits of 26,173 cubic meters for timber, 3.21 million tonnes for fodder, and 0.12 million tonnes for fuelwood. These shortages are met through agricultural lands outside BZCF and illegal harvesting from nearby forests and national parks, highlighting unsustainable dependencies. The research used stratified random sampling and forest inventory methods to quantify these gaps. While the BZCF program has successfully enhanced forest conditions, its long-term viability depends on addressing livelihood needs and reducing reliance on forest resources through policy interventions and income-generating initiatives.
Ujung Kulon National Park
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2018 —
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Ujung Kulon National Park (UKNP) is confirmed as a critical biodiversity hotspot for endangered Javan leopards and dholes, with density estimates of 10.91–11.54 individuals per 100 km² for leopards across wet and dry seasons. The study reveals distinct spatial partitioning between the two species, with leopards preferring areas near secondary forest edges and exhibiting crepuscular activity, while dholes avoid leopard territories but overlap with red muntjac, wild boar, and banteng. Using camera-trap data (39,420 night-traps from 108 stations) and maximum entropy modeling, researchers identified seasonal environmental factors influencing habitat use, highlighting UKNP's importance for conserving these sympatric carnivores.
Byblos
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2018 —
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A significant discovery at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Byblos reveals that a large deposit of Middle Bronze Age I–II artefacts (1850–1650 BC), previously overlooked, provides critical insights into the material culture and trade relations between Egypt and the Levant. The deposit, comprising 455 objects—including 294 faience figurines—was likely manufactured in late Middle Kingdom Egypt and imported to the Levant, indicating frequent cultural exchanges during this period. Preliminary analysis suggests these artefacts were part of a structured deposit, although their exact dating and purpose remain unresolved. This finding challenges traditional views on artefact mobility and trade dynamics between Egypt and the Levant, offering new perspectives on the economic and social interactions of the time.
Badain Jaran Desert - Towers of Sand and Lakes
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2018 —
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Research reveals that seasonal soil moisture variations in the Badain Jaran Desert's thick vadose zone stabilize below 47 meters, leading to consistent groundwater recharge of approximately 30.7 ± 4 mm/yr regardless of season. This finding highlights the depth-dependent dynamics of infiltration and its minimal impact on groundwater recharge due to the significant distance (50–480 m) to the water table in this arid region. The study combined numerical and analytical models to assess these variations, demonstrating how deep vadose zones can buffer seasonal meteorological influences on soil water content.
The Maison Carrée of Nîmes
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2018 —
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A rare collection of fifteen wooden objects, including boxes, mirror cases, sigillaria containers, writing tablets, furniture hinges, spinning spindles, and a wicker basket base, was discovered in a well (PT3094) dating to 60-70 AD during archaeological excavations at the Place d’Assas in Nîmes. These artifacts, preserved in a humid environment, provide unprecedented insights into Roman-era woodworking techniques and materials, with identified species and manufacturing processes revealed through analysis of chippings and waste from cutting or sawing. The well’s proximity to the forum suggests that skilled artisans were likely active in the vicinity, contributing to our understanding of commercial and public life in this UNESCO-listed city.
Matobo Hills
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2018 —
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A re-evaluation of Philippe Descola’s ontological framework reveals that his concepts of incarnation and figuration, rather than the proposed fourfold scheme, better explain religious practices and human-environment relationships. This insight emerges from a detailed ethnographic study of the Mwali cult in Matobo Hills, Zimbabweconducted through prolonged participant observation and interviews. The research challenges Descola’s model by demonstrating that incarnation and figuration more effectively capture the nuanced ways in which religious forms shape human engagement with nature.
Everglades National Park
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2018 —
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A new spider species, Zodarion berryi n. sp., has been identified in the Everglades National Park, USA, likely introduced from the Mediterranean region of the Palaearctic. Belonging to the pusio group within the Zodariidae family, this discovery highlights the potential for invasive species to establish themselves in unique ecosystems like the Everglades. The identification was based on morphological analysis, distinguishing it from related species through key characteristics such as body structure and web-building behavior.
The Forth Bridge
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2018 —
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A novel system for monitoring the structural health of long-span bridges, GeoSHM, demonstrates significant potential in enhancing safety and integrity through advanced technologies. Utilizing Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) and Earth Observation (EO), this system was initially tested on the 2.5 km-long Forth Road Bridge in Scotland, with promising results leading to its expansion into a demonstration project involving additional bridges in China. The GeoSHM Demo project, led by UbiPOS UK Ltd., addresses previous limitations and introduces innovative data strategies for processing, storing, and interpreting monitoring data. This study highlights the effectiveness of GNSS and EO technologies in structural health monitoring, offering a robust framework for future infrastructure safety assessments.
Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey including Saint Margaret’s Church
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2018 —
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The architecture and spatial design of the Palace of Westminster significantly influence political culture, shaping user interactions such as inspiring deference, augmenting partisanship, or perpetuating democratic inequalities. This study highlights three key elements: the building's external projection, its internal structure, and how these affect space usage. It traces the historical evolution of Parliament's design, including attempts to modify it, while addressing challenges in assessing its impact. The research combines architectural analysis with political science to demonstrate that design is not merely aesthetic but a fundamental component of democratic processes.
Jodrell Bank Observatory
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2018 —
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PHAROS2, a cryogenically cooled Phased Array Feed (PAF) with digital beamforming capabilities, represents a significant advancement in radio astronomy technology. Designed to synthesize four independent single-polarization beams using 24 Vivaldi antennas, PHAROS2 builds upon the success of its predecessor, PHAROS. Key innovations include the integration of commercial cryogenic Low Noise Amplifiers (LNAs), a warm section for signal processing and downconversion, and an analog Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) fiber-optic link for Intermediate Frequency (IF) signal transportation. The FPGA-based Italian Tile Processing Module (iTPM) digital backend further enhances its functionality. PHAROS2 is set to be mounted at the primary focus of the 76-meter diameter Lovell radio telescope at Jodrell Bank Observatory, UK, for technical and scientific validation, marking a crucial step towards improving the capabilities of large reflector telescopes in radio astronomy.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome)
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2018 —
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Hiroshima's post-war reconstruction centered around the Hiroshima Municipal Stadium, symbolizing resilience and community healing after the atomic bombing. Opened in 1957 with citizen-funded support, the stadium became a geographical and cultural anchor for the city, embodying Hiroshima's memorial historical origins. Its demolition due to physical deterioration prompted rejuvenation plans, including proposals for a new soccer stadium, which may not align with Hiroshima's broader vision: 'to become a worldwide pride for citizens.' This thesis proposes a master plan for the site adjacent to the sacred Peace Memorial Park, addressing its future development while preserving its significance as a symbol of peace and reconstruction.
China Danxia
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2018 —
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Researchers have identified and described a new species of cyanobacterium, <em>Desmonostoc danxiaense</em>, from the UNESCO World Heritage Site China Danxia. This discovery expands the recently established genus <em>Desmonostoc</em>, known for its macroscopic colonies with mucilaginous envelopes and long akinete chains. The study employed a polyphasic approach, combining morphological traits with molecular data from 16S rRNA gene sequences and ITS (internal transcribed spacer) regions, including secondary structure analysis. Phylogenetic clustering revealed that <em>D. danxiaense</em> is closely related to other <em>Desmonostoc</em> species but distinct in phenotypic characteristics and genetic markers. This finding contributes to the understanding of cyanobacterial diversity in unique geological environments like Danxia's colorful sandstone formations.
National Archeological Park of Tierradentro
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2018 —
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A deep-seated indigenous memory, rooted in ontological communication with the landscape, was awakened among the Nasa people of Tierradentro, Colombia, following a 1994 earthquake. This seismic event became a catalyst for restoring cosmic balance and reinforcing territorial identity, embodying resistance through the concept of 'avalanche'—a metaphor for both natural disaster and indigenous resilience. The study reveals how memory restoration practices, spanning from 1971 to 2016, serve as tools for re-establishing equilibrium and extending Nasa subjectivity beyond Tierradentro, thereby expanding the scope of indigenous resistance. Research employed qualitative analysis of oral histories, archaeological evidence, and ethnographic observations to explore the interplay between memory, territory, and subjugation processes.
The Four Lifts on the Canal du Centre and their Environs, La Louvière and Le Roeulx (Hainaut)
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2018 —
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Ground conductivity mapping effectively detects buried mine shafts, offering precise relocation and uncovering previously unknown shafts. This method proved highly successful in two Walloon coalfield sites (Sambreville and La Louvière), with results varying based on local geology and shaft abandonment conditions—backfilled or unbackfilled shafts. The study highlights its potential for future development projects, marking a significant advancement in using geophysical surveys to mitigate post-mining hazards and geotechnical risks in the region.
Historic Villages of Korea: Hahoe and Yangdong
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2018 —
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A Chinese juniper tree in Gyeongju's Yangdong village, part of the UNESCO-listed Historic Villages of Korea, has been assessed as healthy with a score of about 70 out of 100, placing it at Level C. This evaluation was conducted using a risk indicator-based health assessment system, which categorizes trees into five levels based on weighted scores. The study, involving 30 old trees, demonstrates the practicality and scientific validity of this system in accurately reflecting the actual condition of heritage trees. It also highlights the need for urgent intervention for high-risk trees to ensure their preservation. This research provides a methodical approach to monitoring and managing old trees, crucial for landscape construction and heritage protection.
Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex
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2018 —
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A key factor influencing the dispersal of wild Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) from Kaeng Krachan National Park into adjacent agricultural lands is the presence of water sources near the park's border. The study identified six elephant trails, primarily aligned east-west, leading to major reservoirs like Deng, Paloa, and Kralang, which are located within 10–30 km of communities and at elevations of 170–380 meters above mean sea level with gentle slopes (<10%). Satellite imagery analysis revealed significant land-use changes from 1975 to 2011, showing a shift from near-complete forest cover to agricultural and community areas, which disrupted elephant trails through fragmentation. The research also found indirect evidence of elephant activity along these trails, such as dung piles, feeding signs, and footprints. These findings underscore the importance of water development for elephants within conserved forests, suggesting that local community-based natural resource management could mitigate conflicts arising from land-use changes.
Djerba: Testimony to a settlement pattern in an island territory
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2018 —
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Two contrasting perspectives on island settlement patterns emerge from this study of Djerba, Tunisia. The research highlights the tension between economic development—driven by tourism and rental practices—and heritage preservation, focusing on traditional agricultural and residential units called 'menzel' and 'houch.' While local stakeholders, including the Association for the Preservation of Djerba (Assidje), advocate for protecting these structures as cultural heritage, others prioritize their adaptation to modern demands. The study reveals how this duality shapes environmental transformation and raises critical questions about balancing heritage conservation with evolving land-use practices.
Historic City of Ahmadabad
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2018 —
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Research on Ahmedabad, India, reveals significant urban development trends characterized by the emergence of new employment sub-centres and the rapid growth of peripheral areas, indicating sprawl-type development and polarization reversal. The study found that retail and commercial sectors have experienced exponential growth from 1980 to 2010, while industrial sector growth has stagnated. This heterogeneous development is strongly linked to access to labour and transport infrastructure, providing critical insights for urban planners in locating future employment activities and transit-oriented development nodes.
City of Safranbolu
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2018 —
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A web-based GIS system was successfully developed to document and model Safranbolu's cultural heritage, enabling the 3D visualization of historical buildings using close-range photogrammetry. This approach integrates diverse data sources into an accessible online platform, facilitating heritage preservation and tourism. Safranbolu, a UNESCO-listed site in Turkey, benefits from this system, which enhances the protection and revitalization of its architectural legacy. The study demonstrates how digital tools can bridge gaps between historical documentation and public engagement, offering a scalable model for other heritage sites.
Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche
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2018 —
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By no later than 600–400 B.C., the late Middle Preclassic period, the Mirador-Calakmul Basin in northern Guatemala and southern Campeche, Mexico, witnessed the emergence of a state-level society characterized by complex economic interactions. This conclusion is drawn from archaeological evidence including long-distance exchange systems, sophisticated architecture, and advanced agricultural strategies. A mutually sustaining relationship between specialists and a governing elite likely fostered innovation, with lasting implications for subsequent cultural development spanning over a millennium. The study integrates developmental dynamics, energetics, and economic interactions to elucidate the foundational structures of this early Maya civilization.
Wixárika Route through Sacred Sites to Wirikuta (Tatehuarí Huajuyé)
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2018 —
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A comprehensive diagnosis of the Wixárika Route through Sacred Sites to Wirikuta (Tatehuarí Huajuyé) in Mexico highlights its exceptional cultural and natural value, justifying its inclusion as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This route, spanning 135,360 hectares across Nayarit and San Luis Potosí, serves as a vital corridor for the Wixárika people's pilgrimage, integrating sacred sites, diverse ecosystems, and traditional practices. The study identifies unique attributes such as its role in cultural exchange, ritual significance, and biodiversity conservation, meeting multiple UNESCO criteria (iii, v, vi, x). Despite its potential universal importance, the route faces threats from resource exploitation and development pressures. The research, based on over 20 field expeditions spanning two decades, combines ethnographic, biological, and legal data to support its nomination as an Associative Cultural Landscape, emphasizing the deep interplay between culture and nature.
Lake Baikal
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2018 —
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Lake Baikal, the world's deepest and oldest freshwater lake, has shown significant ecosystem changes over the past two decades due to atmospheric warming. Recent sediment core analysis reveals a shift in pelagic diatom communities, with a marked increase in the cosmopolitan species Synedra acus and a decline in endemic species such as Cyclotella minuta and Stephanodiscus meyerii. These changes, particularly pronounced in the south basin since the 1990s, align with predictions of diatom responses to warming, including reduced ice cover duration and stronger thermal stratification. Contrastingly, the north basin shows no evidence of recent diatom response despite significant ice cover decline. The study also finds no indication of eutrophication from deep water sediments, though localized shoreline pollution from inadequate sewage treatment poses a growing threat. This research underscores the urgent need for action to mitigate anthropogenic impacts on Lake Baikal's unique ecosystem.
Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek
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2018 —
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A comprehensive survey of diatom biodiversity in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Alaska, reveals 139 taxa from lake, stream, spring, and glacier habitats, with springs exhibiting the highest species richness due to their stable conditions. The study highlights two notable discoveries: Surirellaarctica, previously known only from the High Arctic north of 68°N, and Gomphonemacaperatum, a disjunct taxon with a restricted distribution in montane regions of eastern and far western contiguous United States, marking its first recorded presence in Alaska. The findings contribute to understanding diatom biogeography in the northern Rocky Mountains and provide high-resolution light microscope images for taxonomic identification.
L'viv – the Ensemble of the Historic Centre
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2018 —
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Armenian quarters in Ukrainian towns, spanning from the 14th to 18th centuries, were not as large or architecturally distinct as those in Crimea, and their development was influenced by population stability, legal autonomy, and social communities. These quarters, existing in over 20 towns, gradually lost their Armenian identity due to assimilation, particularly during the Polish counterreformation, when Armenians faced discrimination leading to architectural integration with prevailing Ukrainian-Polish styles. The study critiques existing research for inadequate evaluation of cartographical, textual, and archaeological sources, advocating for a more rigorous methodological approach to avoid misinterpretations. It highlights four 17th-century archival sources from Lviv illustrating real estate ownership, emphasizing the need for deeper analysis of iconographic and textual materials.
Taxila
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2018 —
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Taxila, first introduced to the Western world through Alexander the Great's Indian campaign, emerges as a significant historical and cultural hub. This study highlights Taxila's dual importance: its strategic location along a major trade route connecting India with West and Central Asia, and its renown as an educational center, particularly noted in indigenous sources for its university status. The research, based on archaeological findings and historical accounts, underscores Taxila's role as one of the most populous cities between the Indus and Hydaspes rivers, as described by Arrian. The study employs a combination of historical documentation and geographical analysis to elucidate Taxila's historical significance, offering insights into its cultural, economic, and academic prominence during antiquity.
Bauhaus and its Sites in Weimar, Dessau and Bernau
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2018 —
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This study reveals the complex and contrasting biographies of two Bauhaus graduates, Franz Ehrlich and Fritz Ertl, who both studied under Hannes Meyer at the Bauhaus Dessau. Their lives exemplified the social, cultural, and political contradictions inherent in the Bauhaus movement during the Weimar Republic era. Ehrlich became a prominent architect and furniture designer in post-war East Germany (GDR), while Ertl was involved in the planning of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp and later acquitted in the Vienna Auschwitz Trial. The research approach involves analyzing their biographies to highlight these contrasts, providing insight into the dual nature of Bauhaus graduates' political affiliations and professional trajectories.
Archipiélago de Revillagigedo
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2018 —
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Research on feral cats (Felis catus) in Isla Socorro, part of the UNESCO-listed Revillagigedo Archipelago, reveals critical insights for their eradication to protect local biodiversity. Analysis of stomach contents from 79 cats showed their diet primarily consisted of domestic mice (22.16%), endemic lizards (Urosaurus auriculatus, 15.09%), anthropogenic waste (15.09%), and insects (Orthoptera, 13.20%). Telemetry tracking of four cats using GPS/VHF collars further uncovered significant differences in home range sizes: males averaged 219.10 hectares, while females averaged 118.86 hectares. These findings are pivotal for planning effective eradication efforts, as they inform the required trapping density and bait distribution to minimize environmental impact during ongoing conservation actions.
Bisotun
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2018 —
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Support for sustainable tourism development (SSTD) at UNESCO World Heritage Sites varies significantly among community groups, with farmers, businesses, handicraft sellers, and local government employees exhibiting distinct perspectives. A study of Bisotun, Iran, found that while community attachment, involvement, and perceived benefits universally positively influence SSTD, the strength of these effects differs across groups. This suggests tailored strategies are needed to engage diverse stakeholders effectively. The research employed structural equation modeling on survey data from 489 respondents, applying social exchange and identity theories to analyze group-specific dynamics in a developing country context.
Galápagos Islands
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2018 —
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A comprehensive survey of digenetic trematodes in Galápagos fish populations revealed that 82 species of Digenea parasites were found across nearly 100 different host species, with approximately 43% of the 532 examined fishes harboring these parasites. This high prevalence underscores the rich parasitic diversity in the region's marine ecosystems. The study, conducted during the third Allan Hancock Expedition to the Galápagos Islands in 1934, employed a thorough examination of fish specimens, many of which were identified by experts at the U.S. National Museum. The findings contribute significantly to our understanding of parasite-host dynamics in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Royal Domain of Drottningholm
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2018 —
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A counter-factual digital experience at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Drottningholm, Sweden, demonstrates how historical figures from the 18th century can be integrated into a living portrayal of past court life. While technically feasible, this project raises critical questions about broadening social perspectives—such as class, gender, and ethnicity—and the artistic choices needed to visualize activities in the palace and park. It also explores which forms of digital interaction best engage diverse visitor groups. The study suggests that while such an approach may offer poetic pleasures, bridging the historical gap remains a theoretical challenge, leaving unanswered whether Hans-Georg Gadamer's concept of 'fusion of horizons' can be achieved in practice.
Church and Dominican Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie with “The Last Supper” by Leonardo da Vinci
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2018 —
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A groundbreaking digital restoration of Leonardo da Vinci's <em>The Last Supper</em> reveals previously unseen details, including an ideal city sketched behind Jesus and a salt shaker disrupted by Judas, using high-definition imaging and pigment cloning. The project, displayed at the Leonardo3 Museum in Milan, reconstructs the fresco's original colors through virtual archaeological techniques, comparing it with contemporary copies like Giampietrino's version. Multimedia tools and virtual reality (VR) enable an 'edutainment' experience, allowing users to interactively explore the painting as it appeared when da Vinci created it. This innovative approach combines art history, science, and heritage preservation, offering a new way to engage with cultural landmarks.
Yosemite National Park
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2018 —
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A detailed analysis of the Half Dome pluton in Yosemite National Park reveals that its growth was driven by multiple intrusive events, characterized by complex internal deformation and dike intrusion. The study identifies at least four ages of dikes, with evidence suggesting dozens of discrete intrusive increments. Synintrusive bulk strain patterns indicate E-W extension and N-S contraction, consistent with Late Cretaceous Cordilleran tectonics, implying that regional tectonic dilation played a significant role in creating space for the pluton's growth. Additionally, narrow shear zones and extreme strains are observed, but late-magmatic to subsolidus recrystallization obscured the pluton's intricate structure and deformation history.
Ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani and Ruins of Songo Mnara
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2018 —
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Local residents of Kilwa Kisiwani World Heritage Site, Tanzania, view historic ruins not only as culturally significant but also as vital economic assets that generate income, employment, and infrastructure development. However, their socio-economic dependence on these ruins often leads to destructive practices, such as illegal digging, quarrying, and animal grazing, due to limited alternative livelihoods and inconsistent business opportunities. This study reveals a critical gap in conventional Cultural Heritage Management (CHM), which overlooks local economic perspectives, thereby undermining sustainable conservation efforts. By integrating socio-economic discourse into heritage management, the research offers new strategies for balancing conservation with community needs, contributing to both the economist-anthropologic debate on CHM and practical policy recommendations.
Gough and Inaccessible Islands
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2018 —
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A rare albatross species, Diomedea dabbenena, exhibits significant migratory behavior between the South Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Geolocation data reveals that non-breeding adults traverse from the southwestern Atlantic during the austral summer to the southeastern Atlantic and Indian Ocean, extending as far as Australia in winter. Additionally, banded specimens found in Brazilian waters suggest a seasonal presence influenced by oceanographic features like the Subtropical Convergence, particularly off the coast of Rio Grande do Sul (RS). Historical museum records further support these findings, indicating a distribution pattern tied to specific environmental conditions.
Tipasa
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2018 —
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A late 4th-century inscribed mensa mosaic from the Matarès necropolis at Tipasa, Algeria, provides unique evidence of the <em>refrigerium</em>, a commemorative meal ritual performed at tombs. Unlike other examples, this inscription explicitly names the rite in situ, supported by archaeological features such as a water basin and channel, suggesting a structured sacred space for dining with the dead. The vivid marine mosaic, likely flooded or 'refreshed' during rituals, further implies a rich, allusive meal experience. A second epitaph from the same cemetery demonstrates direct integration into these rites, reinforcing their significance in late-antique funerary practices.
Town of Luang Prabang
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2018 —
WHE1192BB4BCC
Researchers have uncovered a new open-air Hoabinhian site near Lak Sip, Luang Prabang province (Lao PDR), providing significant insights into the variability of this Southeast Asian techno-complex. The discovery includes sumatralithes dated to approximately 5,500 years ago, offering a rare opportunity to study the temporal and spatial dynamics of Hoabinhian technology. This finding contributes substantially to the understanding of prehistoric technological evolution in Laos and its broader regional context.
Phoenix Islands Protected Area
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2018 —
WHEA75D2B457E
A resilient coral community in Kanton Lagoon, part of the remote Phoenix Islands Protected Area (PIPA), has shown remarkable recovery from near-total mortality caused by thermal stress. Despite temperatures reaching up to 30.5°C, which typically induces bleaching, Acropora stands within the lagoon exhibited minimal signs of thermal stress, suggesting that recovering coral species may have developed greater resistance. An expedition in 2015 documented a 52.8% recovery of hard corals, indicating a potential shift toward a more thermally tolerant climax community. This discovery highlights the capacity for coral reefs to rebound under protected conditions, even after severe disturbances.
Shark Bay, Western Australia
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2018 —
WHEC76AF1713C
A groundbreaking metagenomic analysis of Shark Bay's microbial mats reveals the functional complexity underlying its biogeochemical cycles, particularly carbon fixation via the Wood–Ljungdahl pathway. The study identified 87 medium-to-high-quality metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs), including novel bins under the Asgard archaeal groups Thorarchaetoa and Lokiarchaeota. Key pathways for sulfur, nitrogen, phosphorus cycling, and environmental adaptation—such as UV resistance, hypersalinity tolerance, and heavy metal resistance—were mapped at a millimeter scale using shotgun sequencing on the Illumina NextSeq 500 platform. Over-representation of genes like those for sulfate assimilation, methanogenesis, and polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) synthase suggests specialized carbon storage and microbial interactions. The research also highlights putative viral defensive mechanisms, offering new models for how biogeochemical processes and adaptive responses partition in these extreme environments.
