Lagoons of New Caledonia: Reef Diversity and Associated Ecosystems
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2018 —
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Heterotrophic diazotrophs, which rely on dissolved organic matter (DOM) for nitrogen fixation, contribute minimally to overall N2 fixation activity in the New Caledonian lagoon compared to photosynthetic cyanobacterial diazotrophs. A study using the photosynthesis inhibitor DCMU revealed that heterotrophic diazotrophs accounted for less than 10% of total N2 fixation, with their activity increasing near shore where labile DOM was more abundant. Experimental additions of carbohydrates (DOC), amino acids (DON), and phosphonates (DOP) showed significant increases in nifH gene expression and bulk N2 fixation rates only under DOP treatment, suggesting a nuanced relationship between DOM composition and diazotroph activity. The research highlights the dominance of cyanobacterial diazotrophs like Trichodesmium while emphasizing the need for further exploration of heterotrophic diazotrophs in response to rising anthropogenic DOM inputs.
Archipiélago de Revillagigedo
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2018 —
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Mexico hosts approximately 1,901–2,725 breeding pairs of the Red-billed Tropicbird (<em>Phaethon aethereus</em>), representing about 50% of the eastern Pacific population and 25% of the global population. This species breeds on 14 confirmed Mexican islands (two in the North Pacific, 12 in the Gulf of California, and six in the Tropical Pacific) and potentially on six more. The largest colonies include Peña Blanca in Colima (1,250–1,650 pairs), Farallón de San Ignacio in Sinaloa (150–228 pairs), and San Benedicto in the Revillagigedo archipelago (50–200 pairs). The study estimates population sizes across key breeding sites, highlighting their significance for global conservation. Protection of these colonies is critical for the species' survival.
Djerba: Testimony to a settlement pattern in an island territory
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2018 —
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Research on the Djerba lagoon, Tunisia, reveals a salinity gradient that significantly impacts seagrass distribution and environmental conditions, transitioning from hypersaline to normal marine environments. The study, conducted in July 2014, analyzed surface sediment and seawater samples to measure grain size, organic matter content, and living foraminiferal assemblages, while also assessing the concentration of 17 chemical elements. Key findings include the adaptation of benthic foraminifera to varying conditions, with species like Ammonia spp. and Haynesina depressula thriving in hypersaline waters, Brizalina striatula dominating seagrass-colonized areas, and epifaunal species such as Rosalina vilardeboana and Amphistegina spp. inhabiting hard substrata near the lagoon's seaward transition. This research highlights the ecological resilience of foraminiferal assemblages in transitional coastal environments.
Paraty and Ilha Grande – Culture and Biodiversity
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2018 —
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Research on the distribution of Strongyluris sp. cysts in the pallial system of Achatina fulica reveals that larger mollusks, particularly those over 9 cm in size, exhibit significantly higher cyst abundance compared to smaller individuals. This pattern was observed in two coastal villages, Vila Dois Rios (VDR) and Vila do Abraão (ABR), on Ilha Grande, Brazil. The study suggests that the increased hemolymph circulation in larger specimens may facilitate nutrient delivery for parasite larvae development, or that longer exposure to parasites allows more extensive colonization. No significant differences were found between the two locations regarding cyst abundance. The findings highlight a potential relationship between host size and parasite load, offering insights into the ecological dynamics of this nematode-mollusk interaction.
Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex
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2018 —
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Two tree frog species, Rhacophorus feae and Rhacophorus maximus, exhibit highly restricted distributions within Thailand. R. feae is confined to northern provinces, including Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son, while R. maximus is limited to upper northeastern and western regions, spanning Loei, Kanchanaburi, Phetchaburi, Ratchaburi, and Prachuap Khiri Khan provinces. This distribution pattern was confirmed through voucher specimens and visualized on an updated map, providing critical insights into the geographic ranges of these species. The study relied on field surveys and specimen analysis to delineate their habitats, contributing valuable data for conservation efforts in Thailand's diverse ecosystems.
Khangchendzonga National Park
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2018 —
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A threatened rhododendron species, Rhododendron falconeri, exhibits striking features during its flowering period and holds significant potential for conservation within Sikkim's Khangchendzonga National Park. This study maps the distribution of R. falconeri along the Yuksam-Dzongri trekking corridor, providing critical insights into its habitat preferences and conservation status. Researchers employed field surveys to assess the species' presence across varying elevations, contributing essential data for developing long-term conservation strategies. The findings underscore the importance of preserving this ecologically and aesthetically valuable plant for both biodiversity protection and landscape sustainability in a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Lagoons of New Caledonia: Reef Diversity and Associated Ecosystems
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2018 —
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Researchers have identified distinct environmental factors influencing the abundance and diversity of sublineages of the nitrogen-fixing cyanobacterium Candidatus Atelocyanobacterium thalassa (UCYN-A) in the Noumea lagoon, New Caledonia. The study found that UCYN-A1, the dominant sublineage, thrives in cooler temperatures (<23°C), lower nitrate concentrations, and specific wind conditions, while UCYN-A2 is more abundant under different environmental parameters, including higher silica and chlorophyll a levels. Using qPCR and oligotyping to analyze nifH gene diversity, the study revealed that these sublineages exhibit unique ecological niches, contributing to our understanding of nitrogen fixation in tropical coral lagoons. This research highlights the importance of UCYN-A in supporting primary production in oligotrophic marine environments.
Henderson Island
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2018 —
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Murphy's petrels exhibit two distinct foraging strategies during incubation, with one group traveling up to 4800 km around the South Pacific Gyre while another forages closer to home. Birds on longer trips gain more mass and encounter prey more frequently during directed movement, suggesting that in unproductive waters, covering larger areas increases foraging success. Analysis of long-term data reveals consistency in these strategies across years, with lighter birds benefiting from tailwinds and reduced competition. The study used GPS tracking and salt-water immersion loggers to differentiate between directed movement and area-restricted search behavior, providing insights into the adaptive foraging tactics of this wide-ranging seabird.
Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche
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2018 —
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The tropical forests of Calakmul, including the Permanent Forest Area (AFP) of Álvaro Obregón, demonstrate significant recovery potential for biodiversity and carbon storage after over 20 years of regeneration. This study reveals that flooded forests (SI) exhibit higher tree species diversity (3.02–3.06) and density (5,920–8,630 individuals/ha) compared to medium subperennial forests (SMSP), which show intermediate diversity (2.8–2.65) and lower density (3,720–5,170 individuals/ha). Carbon storage is notably higher in SI (36.44–44.58 Mg C/ha) than in SMSP (16.6–37.17 Mg C/ha), underscoring the role of these ecosystems in climate mitigation while supporting diverse flora. The findings highlight the importance of long-term forest management in preserving both biodiversity and carbon sequestration in recovering tropical forests.
Ujung Kulon National Park
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2018 —
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A study on Mount Payung, Ujung Kulon National Park, revealed significant differences in floristic diversity and forest structure between two plots: Pasir Ipis and Gunung Keneng. The research identified 105 species across 43 families, with Pasir Ipis exhibiting higher species richness (90 species) compared to Gunung Keneng (61 species). Dominant species varied, with Neesia altissima and Barringtonia racemosa being prominent in Pasir Ipis, while Pseuduvaria reticulata and Dillenia excelsa dominated Gunung Keneng. The forest structure analysis indicated a dynamic status, characterized by a high proportion of small-diameter trees (75-80%) and fewer large-diameter individuals (>100 cm), suggesting recent disturbance and regeneration. This study provides critical insights into the ecological dynamics of Ujung Kulon National Park's flora.
Provins, Town of Medieval Fairs
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2018 —
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A groundbreaking study reveals significant biological diversity among perinatally deceased individuals, challenging traditional assumptions about this understudied demographic. Analyzing 116 subjects from three archaeological collections—including the medieval town of Provins—and a virtual modern dataset, researchers identified distinct population-specific variations and age-related asymmetries. Notably, the Kerman group exhibited high biological proximity, potentially indicating endogamy, while medieval and modern groups showed greater diversity, reflecting socio-geographical or secular factors. The study also introduces muscle insertion regions as a new indicator of neonatal vitality and identifies cervical supernumerary ribs—a first in archaeological contexts—as a marker of morbidity. By integrating biological data with funeral practices from the 8B-51 necropolis in Sudan, this research offers unprecedented insights into perinatally deceased individuals' societal status and treatment.
Badain Jaran Desert - Towers of Sand and Lakes
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2018 —
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Actinobacteria, particularly the Geodermatophilaceae family, emerge as dominant and ubiquitous components of desert microbial communities in China's Badain Jaran and Tengger Deserts. This study reveals that Geodermatophilaceae constitute a significant proportion (35% in Badain Jaran Desert, 29.4% in Tengger Desert) of the bacterial diversity, suggesting their critical ecological role in these extreme environments. High-throughput sequencing identified 3,365 and 1,250 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) in the two deserts, respectively, with Arthrobacter and Kocuria genera prevailing among actinobacterial communities. Cultivation techniques isolated 786 strains from Badain Jaran Desert and 376 from Tengger Desert, including novel taxa with potential for producing secondary metabolites. Notably, 10.36% of isolates exhibited antimicrobial activity, highlighting their biotechnological significance. The findings underscore the ecological importance of Geodermatophilaceae in desert sands and point to unexplored microbial diversity with potential applications.
Kaziranga National Park
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2018 —
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A DNA barcoding study of fishes from River Diphlu within Kaziranga National Park, a critical rhinoceros and tiger conservation site, revealed 48 molecular operational taxonomic units (MOTUs) from 103 specimens, with congruence between morphological and molecular identifications in around 80% of cases. The research contributed barcodes for eight species lacking or ambiguous records in databases, while also identifying four 'near threatened' and two data deficient species according to the IUCN Red List. The study highlights the potential of DNA barcoding for biodiversity research in northeast India, emphasizing its role in resolving taxonomic ambiguities and covering endemic species.
Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork
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2018 —
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In 1902, the Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork witnessed a significant historical event: the consecration of its church during the 'Kaiser’s Days,' a ceremonial visit by German Emperor Wilhelm II. This study reconstructs the political and religious dimensions of the occasion, analyzing official records, contemporary accounts, and architectural documentation to contextualize the event within the broader history of the castle. The research highlights the symbolic importance of the consecration, marking a pivotal moment in the castle’s transformation under German rule while underscoring its enduring legacy as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
West Norwegian Fjords – Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord
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2018 —
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A study examining the West Norwegian Fjords UNESCO World Heritage Sites found that tourists do not consistently reproduce the commercialized images promoted by destination managers. Contrary to expectations, Instagram users' shared photographs did not align with the projected image intended for marketing purposes. This challenges the notion of a 'hermeneutic circle of representation,' where tourists would mirror the commercialized narrative. The research employed a photography-based analysis comparing official promotional images with user-generated content from Instagram. Findings suggest that social media and user-generated content introduce complexity, reducing the control tourism suppliers have over image projection. This insight is critical for understanding how destination imaging influences tourism dynamics in protected areas.
Pre-Hispanic City of Teotihuacan
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2018 —
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A comprehensive analysis and re-examination of data from the Teotihuacan Mapping Project (TMP) has significantly advanced our understanding of the Pre-Hispanic City of Teotihuacan. This study coalesces vast quantities of TMP data, integrating them into The Digital Archaeological Record to provide a unified dataset that offers new insights into this ancient city's structure and history. By leveraging advanced mapping techniques and thorough archival processes, researchers have created a robust framework for future studies, ensuring the preservation and accessibility of critical archaeological information.
The Forth Bridge
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2018 —
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The Queensferry Crossing, part of the Forth Road Bridges, stands as a stark contrast to Britain's industrial heritage. This essay highlights the decline of British engineering prowess, questioning why UK firms failed to secure major contracts despite the project's significance. It explores the economic and cultural implications, suggesting that the Queensferry Crossing reflects a broader erosion of Britain's industrial capabilities. The analysis focuses on the comparative aspects between the earlier Forth Road Bridge—British-designed, built, and material—and its successor, underscoring the shift in global engineering dynamics.
Historic City of Meknes
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2018 —
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A shared trauma persists in Morocco regarding the departure of Jews in the 1950s and 1960s, with narratives from both Jewish and Muslim communities revealing fragmented memories. The study, based on oral histories from Meknes, highlights a shift in perception during the Six-Day War (1967), where Jews were reimagined as 'courageous' rather than 'fearful,' disrupting prevailing Muslim stereotypes. This transition challenged societal norms around virility and loyalty, leaving an unresolved emotional wound. Despite differing social class perspectives, the issue remains sensitive, with Muslims suppressing recollections of a 1967 incident involving Jewish victims. Jewish memories oscillate between fear and nostalgia, underscoring the complex, multifaceted legacy of this historical upheaval.
New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands
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2018 —
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Researchers have reported the draft whole-genome sequences of five Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates sourced from environmental samples and bird feces collected in New Zealand's Subantarctic Islands. This study provides valuable genomic data that could enhance our understanding of bacterial diversity and potential ecological roles in remote, pristine environments like UNESCO World Heritage Sites. By analyzing these isolates, scientists aim to uncover insights into the bacterium's adaptability, genetic traits, and its interaction with wildlife and environmental factors in such unique settings.
Komodo National Park
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2018 —
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Tourism development in Komodo National Park was shaped by a management plan implemented in the 1980s. The study highlights concerns about the park's human population and its impact on the ecosystem, particularly in settlements like Kampung Komodo and Kampung Rinca, which were recommended to remain within the reserve. Meanwhile, three other settlements were advised for relocation due to environmental pressures. The management plan, prepared by UNDP and FAO for the Indonesian government, addressed the challenges of sustainable tourism in a region characterized by rugged islands with strong tidal currents and a dry maritime environment, aiming to balance conservation with local economic needs.
Bikini Atoll Nuclear Test Site
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2018 —
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A survey of dragonflies and damselflies (Odonata) in the Republic of the Marshall Islands identified seven species, including two damselflies (Tanymecosticta sp. and Ischnura aurora) and five true dragonflies (Anax guttatus, Diplacodes bipunctata, Pantala flavescens, Tholymis tillarga, and Tramea transmarina). The study confirms breeding for six species, widely distributed in the Pacific, while noting that the record of Pantala flavescens as a pioneer species on Bikini Atoll after nuclear testing requires verification. The research highlights the limited odonate fauna due to small island size, habitat constraints, and isolation, suggesting few additional species are likely to be discovered despite gaps in sampling across the archipelago.
Arslantepe Mound
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2018 —
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Arslantepe Mound, a significant archaeological site in southeastern Turkey, showcases complex cultural dynamics during the Late Bronze Age. The study reveals that while the site maintained continuity with Hittite traditions following the fall of the Hittite Empire, it also exhibited emerging influences from the western Euphrates valley and inner Syrian regions. This dual pattern of local identity preservation and extra-regional contact suggests a nuanced relationship between Arslantepe and its neighboring areas, shaped by cross-cultural interactions. The research employs a diachronic perspective to integrate Late Bronze Age material into a broader historical context, providing insights into the transformations in cultural relationships over time.
Arslantepe Mound
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2018 —
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Arslantepe Mound, a site with over a thousand years of occupation in southeastern Turkey, exhibits complex patterns of cultural continuity and change during the Late Bronze Age. Research reveals that while Hittite influence was prominent in material culture, local traditions persisted even after the fall of the Hittite Empire. The study identifies new trends emerging from the Euphrates valley and northern Levant, suggesting dynamic cross-cultural relationships. By comparing Early Iron Age artifacts at Arslantepe with those from neighboring regions, the research highlights both local identity and broader extra-regional contacts, offering insights into the transformations in regional interactions during this period.
Sacred City of Anuradhapura
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2018 —
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In Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, contaminated water is increasingly recognized as a key factor in chronic kidney disease of unknown aetiology (CKDu). This study reveals that local perceptions of water pollution, reinforced by media and research, have driven behavioral changes among villagers while also influencing government policies. The findings highlight how sociocultural narratives about water intersect with biomedical evidence to shape public health responses, reinforcing existing social hierarchies in the process.
Ombilin Coal Mining Heritage of Sawahlunto
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2018 —
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A collaborative project between Japan and Indonesia successfully demonstrated the feasibility of using heavy-duty roadheaders for incline drivage at Ombilin III, a new underground coal mine in Sawahlunto. The study highlighted how geological and mining factors significantly influenced the performance of this method, providing critical insights for improving efficiency in underground coal mining operations. This joint research initiative aimed to address Indonesia's growing domestic coal demand by advancing mining technologies and techniques.
The Sundarbans
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2018 —
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A significant decline in ecosystem services provided by the Sundarbans mangrove forest, driven by climatic change, rapid environmental shifts, global demand for mangrove products, infrastructure development, and governance failures, has been identified. The study, conducted through secondary data analysis and primary fieldwork across three districts in Bangladesh, reveals that most ecosystem services have deteriorated over the past two decades. Time series analysis and community perceptions highlighted these drivers, emphasizing the urgent need for transformative stewardship to mitigate irreversible environmental impacts.
Nyungwe National Park
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2018 —
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Dung beetle species richness in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, is highest at lower elevations (1800m) and declines with increasing elevation, up to 2800m. This pattern contradicts the expectation of even distribution along elevation gradients, supporting previous findings on uneven dung beetle diversity. The study used baited pitfall traps across transects in different elevation bands, recording 162 individuals belonging to eight species categories based on morphological traits. These results provide preliminary insights into the ecological factors influencing dung beetle distribution in high-altitude tropical forests.
Durham Castle and Cathedral
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2018 —
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Durham Cathedral Priory's Anglo-Norman library, one of the best-documented monastic libraries in England, amassed a rich corpus of historiographical resources between c. 1090 and c. 1150. This collection, comprising over forty narrative histories, annals, and local event accounts, highlights the central role of historical texts in shaping the community's identity and inheritance. The study leverages surviving manuscripts and two key book-lists (pre-1096 and 1149) to reveal how Durham's complex origin story—spanning Lindisfarne, Chester-le-Street, and Durham—fueled its historiographic activity. Symeon of Durham's <em>Libellus de exordio</em> exemplifies this focus on origins, particularly the Benedictine reform led by Bishop William of Saint-Calais in 1083. The research underscores Durham's status as a 'hot-bed of historiographic activity,' with historical awareness peaking during the late eleventh and early twelfth centuries.
Stonehenge, Avebury and Associated Sites
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2018 —
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The Stonehenge Hidden Landscapes Project (SHLP) has uncovered new insights into the structure and sequence of Durrington Walls, a major henge monument near Stonehenge. Through extensive archaeological prospection using remote sensing and geophysical surveys from 2010 to 2016, researchers revealed previously unknown landscape features and re-interpreted known monuments. Notably, they identified a hidden site within the Durrington Walls complex, providing novel perspectives on its construction and use. This integrated approach allowed for large-scale mapping and reinterpretation of the monument's context, enhancing understanding of this enigmatic Neolithic site.
Península Valdés
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2018 —
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Dusky dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obscurus) in Península Valdés, Argentina, exhibit seasonal variations in social structure and group dynamics. The study found that during the cold season, these dolphins form long-term preferred companions, while such bonds loosen or disappear in the warm season when prey availability increases. Researchers analyzed behavioral observations, photo-identification data, and association patterns from 2001 to 2012 using methods like the half-weight association index (HWI) and social differentiation (S). Group fission-fusion dynamics were also linked to feeding behaviors, with fusions primarily occurring for socializing and feeding. The findings suggest that seasonal changes in prey availability drive shifts in both foraging behavior and social structure, providing insights into the adaptability of these marine mammals.
Quanzhou: Emporium of the World in Song-Yuan China
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2018 —
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From 1990 to 2017, mangrove forests in Quanzhou Bay Estuary Wetland Nature Reserve expanded by 2.48 km², primarily converting from mudflats and Spartina, despite threats like climate change, sea-level rise, aquaculture development, and Spartina invasion. The study employed an optimal segmentation scale model combining object-oriented classification, decision trees, and visual interpretation using multi-seasonal Landsat images (1990–2017) to monitor mangrove dynamics. It demonstrated that conservation efforts, such as reforestation projects and Spartina control, significantly aid mangrove restoration and succession. This approach offers a robust framework for government policies to protect mangrove ecosystems effectively.
The Forth Bridge
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2018 —
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Researchers have successfully used GNSS and Earth Observation technologies to extract dynamic characteristics of the Forth Road Bridge, demonstrating their potential for structural health monitoring. The study revealed that lateral movements are primarily driven by wind loading, while vertical displacements under normal traffic loads can reach 0.3 meters. The first natural frequencies of the bridge's middle span were identified at 0.065 Hz (lateral), 0.15 Hz (longitudinal), and 0.104 Hz (vertical). These findings highlight the effectiveness of GeoSHM in assessing operational conditions, offering a valuable tool for bridge owners.
Neolithic Site of Çatalhöyük
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2018 —
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A groundbreaking study reveals significant chronological and contextual variations in Neolithic human-animal interactions on the Konya Plain, Central Anatolia. By integrating micromorphological, phytolith, and calcitic dung spherulite analyses of midden deposits from three neighboring sites—Boncuklu, Pınarbaşı, and Çatalhöyük—the research uncovers distinct herding practices, dietary strategies, and ecological adaptations among early Neolithic communities. At Boncuklu, middens show well-defined areas with substantial omnivore fecal matter, while Pınarbaşı deposits indicate repeated dung-burning events linked to neonatal ovicaprine remains, suggesting spring birthing. Late Neolithic levels at Çatalhöyük exhibit complex sequences of fuel burning and diverse plant remains, including cereals and reeds, alongside declining ruminant coprolites. This multi-proxy approach provides unprecedented insights into the ecological diversity and animal management strategies of Neolithic societies in Central Anatolia.
Early Christian Monuments of Ravenna
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2018 —
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A distinct group of early Christian sarcophagi, carved from local marble between 400–500 CE in Aquitania (western France), stands out for its deviation from Roman styles and craftsmanship. Unlike Rome’s dominant export-driven production, these sarcophagi reflect regional artistic traditions, offering rare insight into provincial adaptations of Christian iconography outside imperial centers. In contrast, Ravenna’s surviving sarcophagi—imported from Constantinople—are fewer in number but of higher quality, contrasting with the coarsely executed and often fragmented remains found in Constantinople itself. The study highlights a shift in burial practices across the Eastern Roman Empire, where church construction and decoration overshadowed individual grave monuments after the 4th century, leading to a scarcity of figural sarcophagi in favor of cross and ornamental motifs.
Lut Desert
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2018 —
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A groundbreaking analysis of the 1936–1997 earthquake sequence in Northeast Lut, Iran, reveals that surface displacement fields from historic earthquakes can be measured using subpixel correlation of optical and SAR images. The study found that the 1979 Mw 7.1 Khuli-Boniabad earthquake, which ruptured two main segments (total rupture ∼ 60 km), and the Mw 7.2 Zirkuh earthquake, which broke three segments (total rupture ∼ 125 km), both had a mean slip of 2.5 meters. Additionally, it successfully measured offsets up to 2.60 meters for the 1979 Mw 6.6 Korizan earthquake, marking the first time such displacements were retrieved from optical correlation for a small historic earthquake. The differences in rupture patterns are attributed to fault maturity, with the Dasht-e-Bayaz fault being less mature than the Abiz fault. This study demonstrates the potential of historical optical imagery for retrieving surface displacements from past earthquakes, extending the temporal range of observations beyond modern geodetic techniques.
Sardis and the Lydian Tumuli of Bin Tepe
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2018 —
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Research at Sardis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Turkey, reveals the existence of a local Eastern Sigillata B industry during the 1st and 2nd centuries c.e. This discovery challenges previous assumptions that all such pottery was produced exclusively in the Great Meander Valley. Using wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence analysis, scientists identified unique name stamps on vessels at Sardis, distinguishing them from those of the main production center. The study provides evidence for a localized ceramic industry, offering insights into its mechanisms and timing while contributing to our understanding of Roman-era craftsmanship in western Asia Minor.
Ancient Villages in Southern Anhui – Xidi and Hongcun
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2018 —
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Hongcun, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in China, exemplifies ecological wisdom in human settlement design by integrating natural systems into its planning and construction. This integration enhances ecosystem services such as microclimate regulation, rainwater runoff management, water conservation, and aesthetic landscape engagement. The study validates the Human-Natural Intergraded Ecological Planning (HNIEP) model, demonstrating how Hongcun's unique approach fosters harmonious coexistence between humans and nature through rational use of ecosystem structures and processes. These findings offer valuable insights for contemporary urban and rural planning, emphasizing the importance of coupling human activities with natural ecosystems to promote sustainable development.
Upper Middle Rhine Valley
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2018 —
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A study on the Upper Middle Rhine Valley reveals that sustainability significantly influences wine purchasing decisions among visitors. The research highlights the high yearly volatility of wine tourism demand and the strong awareness of the region as a premier wine destination, despite culture and education being lesser travel motivations. It also identifies mode of arrival as an indicator of economic and environmental sustainability. Using data from 400 visitors at St. Goar-Loreley, the study demonstrates that integrating sustainability into broader destination management is crucial for enhancing the authenticity of sustainable wine tourism and protecting the region's natural and cultural resources. The findings advocate for innovative approaches that balance heritage, wine, and tourism to align with contemporary traveler expectations.
Historic District of Old Québec
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2018 —
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A heritage policy and urban landscaping project in the UNESCO-listed Old City of Quebec had mixed effects on residential property values. While properties closest to the reorganized street saw no significant price impact, those located 150 to 450 meters away experienced a decline in value. This study highlights the complex relationship between heritage policies and urban development, using a difference-in-differences (DID) estimator based on a hedonic repeated sales approach to isolate these effects. The research provides insights into how proximity to such projects can influence property values, offering valuable data for policymakers and urban planners.
Cave of Altamira and Paleolithic Cave Art of Northern Spain
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2018 —
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The annual economic value of the National Museum and Research Center of Altamira, which houses a replica of the UNESCO-listed Cave of Altamira, is estimated to range between 4.75 and 8.00 million euros per year. This assessment was derived using the Travel Cost Method (TCM), a technique rooted in demand theory that correlates recreational site visits with travel costs. The study applied two distinct TCM approaches to model visitor demand, providing a critical tool for evaluating investment decisions related to the museum's operations and future projects.
Mont-Saint-Michel and its Bay
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2018 —
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Robert de Torigni's chronicle of the abbots of Mont-Saint-Michel is revealed to be built upon multiple layers of older annals, including Pascale Annals from the Bec and three key Mont Saint-Michel annals composed in 1035, 1116, and 1154. This 'redactional millefeuille' mirrors the architectural evolution of the abbey itself, with successive layers shaping its historical narrative. The study identifies Torigni's method—updating the abbots' catalogue, interpolating pre-existing annals, and creating new ones—as foundational to his work, which then influenced later medieval and modern historians.
Khangchendzonga National Park
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2018 —
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A rapid decline in species richness with altitude was observed in Singalila National Park (SNP), part of the Khangchendzonga Landscape, revealing a significant relationship between climatic variables—such as actual evapotranspiration and moisture index—and forest community structure. The study identified 70 woody species across a 1636-meter transect (2000–3636 m asl), with young trees dominating the landscape. Climatic factors, which influence environmental energy availability, were found to shape the park's diverse yet altitude-sensitive forest composition. This highlights how extreme altitudinal gradients and climate drive rapid shifts in biodiversity patterns, offering critical insights for conservation efforts in high-altitude ecosystems.
Talamanca Range-La Amistad Reserves / La Amistad National Park
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2018 —
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Mountain passes and distance significantly reduce gene flow between populations of the Timberline Wren (Thryorchilus browni), leading to notable divergence in genetic, vocal, and morphological traits. Researchers analyzed four Costa Rican populations using microsatellites and song recordings, revealing that a lowland mountain pass caused the greatest differences—likely due to reduced gene flow. Cultural drift and female assortative mating, where females prefer songs from their own population, further accentuated these effects. This pattern of divergence, observed over smaller scales than previously documented in Neotropical highland birds, underscores how geographic barriers and limited movement shape evolution in highland species with restricted distributions.
Al-Ahsa Oasis, an Evolving Cultural Landscape
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2018 —
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Postharvest calcium chloride (CaCl₂) treatment significantly preserves the quality of Ziziphus spina-christi L. fruits, locally known as Alnabaq, during cold storage at 2°C and 90% relative humidity for up to five weeks. The study found that CaCl₂ dipping, particularly at concentrations of 2% and 4%, maintained fruit firmness and reduced weight loss while decreasing peroxidase activity—a marker of spoilage—compared to untreated controls. Additionally, ascorbic acid content declined during storage, but CaCl₂ treatment mitigated this decline. These findings indicate that CaCl₂ is an effective method for delaying softening and preserving nutritional quality in Alnabaq fruits, a culturally significant plant in the UNESCO-listed Al-Ahsa Oasis landscape.
Iguaçu National Park
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2018 —
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A study on the Iguaçu National Park reveals that tree species distribution is significantly influenced by environmental variables such as altitude, humidity, soil fertility, aluminum saturation, and clay content. Using Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA), researchers identified specific patterns in how these factors shape vegetation across the park's diverse landscapes, ranging from riverbanks to plateau regions at altitudes between 150 and 750 meters. Notably, some species demonstrated tolerance to environmental variations, a trait common among widely distributed species. This finding underscores the importance of considering multiple environmental variables for efficient forest management and conservation efforts in degraded areas.
Tasmanian Wilderness
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2018 —
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A study on the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area challenges the long-held assumption that Gondwanan relictual species are less fire-tolerant compared to Australian species. Researchers exposed seedlings of five dominant tree species, including the rainforest plant <em>Nothofagus cunninghamii</em>, to simulated wildfire conditions using a propane burner flame for varying durations (0–60 seconds). While most seedlings (93%) were topkilled by fire, resprouting ability was strongly correlated with species identity rather than exposure duration or seedling size. Surprisingly, <em>Nothofagus cunninghamii</em> demonstrated robust resprouting, contrary to expectations, while few eucalypt seedlings recovered. The findings highlight the complexity of fire recovery mechanisms in Tasmanian flora and underscore the need for further research to better understand post-fire resilience in this unique ecosystem.
Stevns Klint
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2018 —
WHE2DBED42A18
A significant discovery in carbonate reservoir engineering reveals that initial wettability in carbonates can be established almost instantly through the adsorption of polar components from crude oil, eliminating the need for prolonged aging. The study demonstrates that acidic polar components play a crucial role in altering wettability towards less water-wet conditions, with adsorption occurring most rapidly during the first pore volumes of oil injection. Increasing surface accessibility by reducing initial water saturation enhances this process, highlighting its strong influence on initial wettability. Unlike traditional methods relying solely on aging, this research shows that mixed wettability can be achieved efficiently through immediate adsorption, offering a more time-effective approach for laboratory experiments and potentially improving 'Smart Water' injection strategies in carbonates.
Chitwan National Park
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2018 —
WHEAD43A6B14B
Controlled burning emerges as the most effective strategy for managing grasslands invaded by Mikania micrantha, a pervasive threat to native ecosystems in Chitwan National Park. A comparative study across three experimental sites demonstrated that controlled fire significantly enhanced the coverage and abundance of native grasses compared to manual cutting or no intervention. Researchers established systematic sampling plots within 100 m x 100 m blocks, applying treatments such as controlled fire, manual cutting, and a control (no treatment) to assess their impact on M. micrantha and native grass populations. The findings underscore the superiority of controlled fire in restoring grassland health, offering critical insights for stakeholders aiming to mitigate the spread of this invasive species and inform policy-making for affected grasslands.
Chitwan National Park
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2018 —
WHE22A2DFB643
A study on Chitwan National Park's buffer zone program reveals mixed effectiveness of ecotourism in driving community development. While the park's ecotourism initiatives have grown steadily since the late 1980s, research evaluating their impact remains scarce. This study focuses on assessing whether the buffer zone program's community development activities deliver the intended benefits. Using a conceptual framework to guide the analysis, the research aims to determine if ecotourism is yielding desired outcomes for local communities. The findings could inform policies and strategies for more effective conservation and development in UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Chitwan.
Mount Taishan
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2018 —
WHE0797EF6F12
Fine root decomposition rates vary significantly among tree species on Mount Taishan, with broad-leaved species like Robinia pseudoacacia and Quercus acutissima decomposing faster than coniferous species such as Pinus tabulaeformis and Pinus densiflora. This study used high-throughput sequencing to analyze bacterial community structure during decomposition, revealing that broad-leaved species exhibit lower bacterial diversity compared to conifers. The findings highlight how substrate characteristics influence microbial communities, providing insights into ecosystem function dynamics in terrestrial environments.
