Tasmanian Wilderness
—
2018 —
WHE730A8178E4
Boardwalks and walking trails in Australia’s Cradle Mountain, part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, serve as material conduits that shape outdoor recreation mobilities, conservation politics, and sensory experiences. The study reveals that different ground surfaces influence how people engage with natural landscapes, highlighting the transformative role of pathways in both environmental and social contexts. Using nonrepresentational theory and audiovisual fieldwork, researchers analyzed the interplay between walking surfaces, mobility infrastructure, and tourism dynamics, demonstrating that trails are active elements in the world’s self-transformation.
Archaeological Area and the Patriarchal Basilica of Aquileia
—
2018 —
WHE75CE636987
Roman glass from northern Adriatic Italy, including samples from Aquileia and Adria, reveals that primary production likely originated in the eastern Mediterranean. The study, conducted over a decade at the University of Padova, analyzed 260 glass samples using geochemical and archaeological methods to determine raw material provenance and consumption patterns. Most samples were silica-soda-lime glass produced with natron flux, while some intentionally colored soda ash glasses were also identified. Five compositional groups were distinguished, suggesting varied sources or production techniques. Isotopic data supports the eastern Mediterranean as a likely origin for these Roman glasses, though alternative hypotheses remain possible.
Mount Etna
—
2018 —
WHE717FEC3594
A groundbreaking three-dimensional model of Mount Etna, Europe's largest and most active volcano, reveals that its eruption rates have surged dramatically over the last 15,000 years, nearing levels typical of oceanic-arc volcanic systems despite its continental rift setting. This finding challenges conventional geodynamic frameworks, suggesting a possible transition in Etna's magmatic source from plume-related to island-arc related. The study also proposes that slab breakoff north of the volcano may have triggered this shift by allowing fluid-enriched mantle material to flow toward Mount Etna, mixing with its magmatic source. Researchers used 3-D modeling to assess volcanic product volumes emitted over the past 60,000 years, providing unprecedented insights into Etna's eruptive history and geodynamic significance.
Aksum
—
2018 —
WHE0411CFE984
Integrated geophysical techniques, including magnetic reconnaissance and electrical resistivity tomography (ERT), successfully delineated subsurface features of archaeological interest at the pre-Aksumite settlement of Seglamen near Aksum, northern Ethiopia. The study identified localized anomalous zones associated with well-preserved stone-based walls, some located as shallow as 20 cm below the surface, which were later validated through test excavations. This approach not only provided a detailed 3D model of the site but also highlighted the effectiveness of these geophysical methods for guiding future excavations and conserving cultural heritage in areas vulnerable to agricultural activities. The findings contribute to reconstructing the cultural and environmental history of central Tigray and offer recommendations for similar archaeological projects in the region.
Lagoons of New Caledonia: Reef Diversity and Associated Ecosystems
—
2018 —
WHE452E4AE41C
CO₂ and CH₄ emissions from the water column within a Rhizophora mangrove forest in New Caledonia exhibit significant tidal variability, driven primarily by flow/ebb cycles, water column thickness, and neap/spring tides. Emissions were inversely proportional to water column depth, with higher rates observed during ebb tides due to increased residence time over the forest floor, leading to progressive enrichment of the water column. Spring tides further amplified emissions, suggesting enhanced soil-water exchange and electron acceptor renewal. δ¹³CO₂ values indicated mixing between CO₂-enriched pore waters and lagoon waters. This study highlights that such emissions cannot be overlooked in mangrove carbon budgets, emphasizing the need for tidal dynamics to be integrated into future assessments.
Rio de Janeiro: Carioca Landscapes between the Mountain and the Sea
—
2018 —
WHE4F9F440FA8
Tijuca Forest, an urban remnant of the Atlantic Forest within Rio de Janeiro's Tijuca National Park, exemplifies successful reforestation and ecological rehabilitation in the Anthropocene. As one of the world's largest urban forests, it demonstrates how degraded landscapes can be restored to mitigate air pollution and CO2 concentrations. The study revisits the history of deforestation in the Atlantic Forest, highlighting Tijuca's role as a pioneer in freshwater protection and reforestation efforts under Dom Pedro II. It also discusses ongoing initiatives like the Reforestation Joint Effort and native fauna reintroduction projects, emphasizing their potential for global environmental restoration. Air quality studies within the forest underscore its critical function in pollutant mitigation, offering hope for the future of Earth's ecosystems.
Khangchendzonga National Park
—
2018 —
WHE1660CCCC04
A study of timberline forests in Khangchendzonga National Park reveals that tree density here is significantly higher than in other parts of the Western Himalayas. The research identified 20 woody species, with Abies densa, Rhododendron lanatum, and Sorbus microphylla dominating 50% of the importance value index (IVI). Notably, Betula utilis, a common treeline species in the region, was absent. Environmental factors such as elevation, slope, and humus were found to influence species composition, while species dominance negatively correlated with diversity and richness. The study also observed irregular spatial patterns of timberline elements, suggesting that upslope advancement is unlikely in the near future, but treeline densification may occur. These findings provide a baseline for understanding timberline dynamics in this critical Himalayan ecosystem.
Kairouan
—
2018 —
WHEED7D22919B
A first geophysical map of the near-surface aquifer system in the extremely conductive environment of Sebkha Kelbia, Tunisia, reveals the geometry of a clayey confining bed that separates two groundwater reservoirs. This study highlights significant differences in electrical conductivity between the shallow (1,200 mS/m) and deeper aquifers, with the latter being used for irrigation. The research utilized time-domain electromagnetic (TDEM) surveys to assess potential connectivity between these reservoirs, addressing recent salinity increases that pose challenges for agriculture. By combining TDEM with vertical electrical soundings, the study provides critical insights into the subsurface structure of this semi-arid Plio-Quaternary aquifer, offering a foundation for managing groundwater resources in the Kairouan Plain.
Taj Mahal
—
2018 —
WHEC7D7911536
Ornamental elements known as Pachin Kari in the Taj Mahal serve multiple functions, including symbolic, aesthetic, and structural purposes. These ornate designs are strategically applied to areas of special interest within the complex, enhancing its visual appeal while also providing structural support. The study focuses on the 'Hiraki' program, which governs the application and organization of these elements, contributing significantly to the Taj Mahal's architectural beauty and stability. By analyzing material usage and ornamental arrangement, researchers highlight how Pachin Kari not only beautifies but also strengthens the structure, offering insights into Mughal architectural techniques.
Tokaj Wine Region Historic Cultural Landscape
—
2018 —
WHE7A828D33E6
The Tokaj Wine Region, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers significant potential for sustainable development through integrated ecological, social, economic, and cultural strategies. A 2018 study identified key opportunities for the region's growth, including viticulture, tourism, infrastructure, and cultural preservation, supported by primary and secondary research involving 41 wineries and local stakeholders. The establishment of the Tokaj Wine Region Development Council in 2014, alongside the Hungarian Tourism Office, plays a pivotal role in enhancing regional marketing and fostering collaboration among key actors. The region's unique blend of natural endowments and historical significance positions it as a model for balanced development in heritage landscapes.
Archaeological Site of Atapuerca
—
2018 —
WHE5487241A2A
A groundbreaking analysis of Homo antecessor molars from the Early Pleistocene Gran Dolina-TD6 site (Atapuerca, Spain) reveals that while these teeth exhibit thick enamel typical of most hominins, their dentine distribution and enamel thickness patterns more closely resemble those of Neanderthals than other fossil or modern humans. This suggests an early emergence of Neanderthal-like dental traits in this species, predating the Middle Pleistocene by over 800,000 years. Researchers used high-resolution imaging to characterize the inner structural organization of 17 H. antecessor molars, comparing them with a vast comparative sample (n=355) from African, Asian, and European hominin populations. The findings indicate that while total crown dentine percentages align with modern humans, lateral crown dentine proportions are higher, mirroring the Neanderthal signal. Enamel distribution maps further support this similarity, with thicker enamel spread more peripherally in H. antecessor molars, unlike other hominins and modern humans where cuspal enamel tends to be thicker.
Blenheim Palace
—
2018 —
WHE2097D94782
England's grand country houses, including Blenheim Palace, transitioned from elite retreats to celebrated tourist attractions during the 18th century. This shift was driven by their architectural significance, extensive art collections, and landscaped gardens, which were extensively documented in travel books, guidebooks, and tourists' accounts. The study reveals that these sites became symbols of national culture, with tourism practices established then influencing British culture today. By analyzing historical texts and tourist diaries, the research examines how country-house tourism emerged as a critical cultural practice during a period of societal change.
Okavango Delta
—
2018 —
WHEF37D49C694
Lodges and camps in the Okavango Delta, Botswana, predominantly rely on fossil fuels—such as diesel, petrol, and paraffin—for energy, with minimal use of renewable sources like solar. This dependency undermines the potential for sustainable tourism in the region. The study analyzed secondary data from management plans and policy documents while gathering primary insights through stakeholder interviews. Findings highlight a critical gap in energy policy, emphasizing the urgent need to integrate environmentally friendly renewable energy solutions—particularly solar—to align with sustainable tourism goals.
Mount Wuyi
—
2018 —
WHE72BBAA2A6F
A UNESCO World Heritage Site's brand significantly boosts its tourism attractiveness. At Mount Wuyi, natural landscapes, tea culture, ecological conditions, accommodation, transportation, ticket pricing, staff service quality, and the world heritage brand all positively influence tourist satisfaction. Cultural relics, security, and individual characteristics did not show significant impacts. The study used questionnaires and factor analysis to assess tourism attraction while employing an ologit model for regression analysis of satisfaction.
Lumbini, the Birthplace of the Lord Buddha
—
2018 —
WHEC5FB54778F
Lumbini, Nepal, recognized as the birthplace of Lord Buddha and a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site, faces challenges in maintaining its attractiveness as a tourism destination. A study analyzing data from 184 visitors reveals that while Lumbini holds strong religious significance, its marketing strategies require refinement to enhance visitor satisfaction and sustainability. The research employs field surveys and statistical analysis to assess the destination's positioning and attractiveness, identifying key prospects and policy recommendations for future development. This case study provides actionable insights for balancing religious heritage preservation with tourism growth in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Great Zimbabwe National Monument
—
2018 —
WHE35DE9101AF
Zimbabwe boasts a diverse range of tourist attractions, including natural wonders like the Victoria Falls—one of the world's largest waterfalls—and cultural and historical sites such as Great Zimbabwe Monuments. The study provides a comprehensive database of local tourism destinations, addressing a gap in existing literature on the subject. Data was collected in March 2018 through document interrogation or literature surveys, offering insights into tourist arrivals, facility occupancy, challenges, and opportunities. The research highlights the significance of Zimbabwe's tourism sector, emphasizing its potential for growth and development.
Old Town of Lijiang
—
2018 —
WHE37B4423036
A balanced approach to tourism development at World Heritage Sites (WHSs) is critical for sustaining economic growth, sociocultural integrity, and environmental preservation. Research highlights that the Old Town of Lijiang, a cultural WHS in China, serves as a case study demonstrating how tourism can be managed to benefit all three pillars of sustainability—economic, sociocultural, and environmental. The study emphasizes the importance of considering both host (local community) and guest (visitor) perspectives in tourism planning. By analyzing these dimensions, the research provides insights into effective strategies for WHSs worldwide to achieve long-term conservation while maximizing tourism benefits.
Sundarbans National Park
—
2018 —
WHE36D74B8D30
Adaptive co-management (ACM) significantly enhances governance in protected areas, particularly through its adaptive elements that foster iterative learning among stakeholders. A study on Bangladesh's Lawachara National Park and Sundarbans East Wildlife Sanctuary found that ACM improved key governance principles such as participation, accountability, transparency, power dynamics, rule of law, and social learning. The approach successfully broadened stakeholder engagement and collaboration, with the adaptive component proving most impactful by enabling behavior change and attitude shifts toward conservation. This research provides empirical evidence for developing countries on how ACM can sustainably improve governance in nature-based tourism destinations.
Lut Desert
—
2018 —
WHE9915FF6649
Iran's tourism sector, particularly in the UNESCO World Heritage Site Lut Desert, faces significant challenges due to geopolitical tensions and sanctions. The chapter highlights the growth of tourism since the 1930s, marked by the establishment of early facilities and promotional efforts. It identifies key issues impacting tourism development, including regional rivalry between Sunni and Shia countries and the lifting of sanctions. The research approach combines historical analysis with contemporary geopolitical context to provide a comprehensive overview. This study underscores the complex interplay between tourism potential and external pressures in Iran.
Gelati Monastery
—
2018 —
WHE01A4CDB387
Georgia's Imereti region, home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Bagrati Cathedral and Gelati Monastery, presents significant tourism potential due to its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and strategic location. The study highlights Georgia's unique blend of ancient history, architecture, and natural beauty, including mountains, seaside resorts, and health spas, all concentrated within a small territory. Recent government efforts to restore Kutaisi, the regional capital, have further enhanced its appeal as a cultural and historical destination. The research emphasizes the region's potential for sustainable tourism development, leveraging its heritage assets while ensuring preservation and safety.
Bale Mountains National Park
—
2018 —
WHE3670D982B3
Agriculture and tourism sectors in the Bale Mountains National Park, Ethiopia, are not effectively linked for sustainable economic development. The study found that agriculture dominates local economies but lacks profitable synergy with tourism, hindered by non-commercial agricultural practices, a small tourism market, and over-reliance on wildlife. Despite challenges, increasing tourist numbers and government attention present opportunities to strengthen this linkage. The research employed a community-based cross-sectional design, combining quantitative (372 households) and qualitative methods (FGDs, key informant interviews), using statistical analysis and thematic coding. Stakeholders are urged to foster market-based interactions between tourism and agriculture for long-term economic benefits in the region.
Melaka and George Town, Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca
—
2018 —
WHE5680899D43
International tourists at Melaka World Heritage Site prioritize historical attractions over other elements, consuming more space and time there while spending significantly on secondary aspects like food and shopping. This behavior, revealed through a study of 384 Free Independent Tourists using questionnaires, trip diaries, and tracking devices, offers critical insights for managing tourist impact. Authorities can leverage these findings to develop more effective visitor management plans that balance preservation with tourism sustainability, ensuring the site's Outstanding Universal Value remains intact.
City of Quito
—
2018 —
WHE9647D5C557
Tourist satisfaction in Quito is highly influenced by 20 key aspects, with tourists' expectations balanced in dimensions such as uniqueness, multisensory experience, rational quality, and personal enrichment. However, performance in relational development and responsibility falls short of expectations. This study validates a theoretical model using Likert-type scales to measure tourist experience holistically, employing multivariate analysis and importance-performance analysis matrix for graphic presentation. The research identifies influential factors on tourist satisfaction, providing insights into improving the tourist experience in Quito.
Melaka and George Town, Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca
—
2018 —
WHE0FBB7DCDEE
Tourists' intention to visit heritage hotels at George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (WHS), is significantly influenced by multiple factors including perceived price, experience quality, prior knowledge, perceived authenticity, and social influence. These factors positively impact tourists' perceptions of value, which in turn mediates their intention to visit these heritage hotels. The study highlights the importance of adaptive reuse of heritage buildings into hotels as a strategy for enhancing tourist engagement while preserving cultural heritage. This research provides actionable insights for hotel owners and operators to refine their service designs and promotional strategies, ensuring sustainable tourism growth at WHS.
Teide National Park
—
2018 —
WHE665BF4DAA7
Research reveals that the recreational value of Teide National Park, when calculated using discrete choice models independent of labor market factors, significantly differs from traditional wage-based approaches. By analyzing trade-offs between time and money in transport mode choices among 801 visitors, the study estimates distinct travel time values for different stages of the trip and transport modes. This novel method, combining Mixed Logit models with Zonal Travel Cost Method, challenges conventional practices by focusing on the opportunity cost of leisure rather than work time, offering a more accurate assessment of recreational value.
Galápagos Islands
—
2018 —
WHEA715A8CDDC
Recent policy reforms in the Galápagos Islands have strengthened provincial governance and introduced landscape-scale planning, but significant gaps remain. The study reveals that while institutional arrangements now better address socio-ecological and land-sea management challenges, fragmented conservation-development approaches between local and provincial governments persist, alongside policy inconsistencies. These limitations hinder comprehensive policy integration—critical for achieving sustainable development in insular ecosystems. The research analyzed legal and planning documents to assess their support for integrated governance, highlighting the need for more cohesive, multi-level coordination to address pressing socio-ecological issues effectively.
Villages with Fortified Churches in Transylvania
—
2018 —
WHEDEB909AB35
Research demonstrates that virtual reality (VR) significantly enhances public interest and engagement with Transylvanian fortified churches, particularly those in the 'Țara Bârsei' region. The study leverages photogrammetry to create 3D models of these medieval structures, which are then integrated into a holographic stand accessible via a mobile application. This approach combines high-profile and low-profile visualizations side by side, aiming to attract tourists and foster awareness about these historically significant but often overlooked monuments. User feedback, assessed using a modified HARUS questionnaire, confirmed increased interest directly attributable to the visualization technology. The findings underscore VR's potential as an effective tool for cultural heritage preservation and promotion.
Cathedral, Alcázar and Archivo de Indias in Seville
—
2018 —
WHE90CD97651D
A recent restoration project at the Royal Alcázar of Seville successfully revived the 16th-century design by architect Vermondo Resta, transforming a medieval wall into a double-storey gallery with panoramic views over the palace gardens. The 'Galería del Grutesco,' or Grotto Gallery, had lost its defensive function but was reimagined as an elevated walkway. The study highlights the technical challenges and solutions employed in this 21st-century restoration, ensuring historical accuracy while addressing modern conservation needs.
Upper Svaneti
—
2018 —
WHE82885FFCA4
This study highlights the significant morphonological and lexicological inter-merging of Upper Svan dialects within the Kodorian dialect, providing new insights into the complex linguistic landscape of late-populated mountainous regions. The research, conducted by the Arnold Chikobava Institution of Linguistics with support from the Rustaveli Foundation, employs both linguistic and cartographic methods to analyze dialectal differentiation, particularly in the context of Kodorian and Cholurian Svan dialects. The study addresses a critical gap in ethnolinguistic research, exacerbated by political conflicts that displaced local populations, forcing researchers to rely on refugee communities for data. By synthesizing fragmentary previous works, this research offers a comprehensive framework for understanding dialectal interferences and the unique linguistic features of Kodorian Svan speech.
The Causses and the Cévennes, Mediterranean agro-pastoral Cultural Landscape
—
2018 —
WHE8713E68D05
Historical mining and metallurgical activity in France's UNESCO-listed Causses and Cévennes region continue to impact wildlife, with trace metals like cadmium, copper, lead, and zinc remaining bioavailable to free-ranging mammals such as wood mice. Researchers found that soil metal concentrations near ancient mining sites were one or two orders of magnitude higher than typical European levels, and these elevated levels correlated with increased kidney lead (and, to a lesser extent, cadmium) in the animals. Unlike copper and zinc, which did not show strong correlations, lead's persistence suggests long-term environmental effects on wildlife health, as evidenced by a negative relationship between kidney lead concentration and body condition. This study highlights the lingering ecological risks posed by historical mining, offering insights into the long-term fate of trace metals and their potential threats to both ecosystems and human health.
Archaeological Areas of Pompei, Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata
—
2018 —
WHE19D445073E
A new study reveals that trachy-phonolite lava pebbles found in the ancient settlements of Oplontis (Torre Annunziata, Naples) and Longola originate from an old effusive activity of the Somma-Vesuvius volcano, predating 8 ka BP. These pebbles, used in building foundations during the Roman period, show petrochemical compatibility with pre-8 ka BP magmas and pyroclastic products, as well as affinity with lava trachyte ejecta from Plinian eruptions preceding the A.D. 79 eruption. Despite their abundance, these pebbles do not match any known lithostratigraphic units, suggesting they were reworked from original lava flows or autoclastic breccias. The research compared samples from Oplontis and Longola to trace their provenance, providing insights into the volcano's complex evolutionary history.
Paris, Banks of the Seine
—
2018 —
WHEBD4D86FEED
Research on the Orge River, part of the Seine basin in France, reveals that urban areas are a significant and consistent source of particle-bound trace metal contamination, particularly lead (Pb), with isotopic analysis confirming an 'urban' signature linked to road deposited sediments. The study found that while urban-derived particles dominate during low-flow periods, their contribution diminishes during seasonal floods due to increased input from less contaminated agricultural soils and riverbanks. Trace elements like Cu, Zn, Pb, and Sb show increasing contamination levels with higher urbanization, underscoring the need for better management of urban runoff to mitigate diffuse pollution in rivers draining urban catchments.
Lines and Geoglyphs of Nasca and Palpa
—
2018 —
WHEF847C587B2
A groundbreaking study leverages high-resolution COSMO-SkyMed satellite imagery to document human-induced disturbances at the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Lines and Geoglyphs of Nasca and Palpa' in Peru. The research identifies two significant events—December 2014 and January 2018—using interferometric SAR (InSAR) techniques, which detect temporal decorrelation linked to landscape changes. These findings align with photographic evidence, published reports, and official records from Peruvian authorities. Additionally, Sentinel-2B data reveal surface reflectance changes in the Pampa de Jumana, exposing underlying clay layers beneath darker pebble surfaces. This study underscores the value of SAR imagery archives for retrospective analysis and digital preservation, offering critical geospatial insights into heritage conservation.
El Tajin, Pre-Hispanic City
—
2018 —
WHE84BB61CCEC
A groundbreaking study demonstrates that integrating traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) can effectively restore biocultural landscapes, offering a sustainable model for preserving UNESCO World Heritage Sites like El Tajín. The research highlights how local communities' long-standing practices, particularly those related to agriculture and forest management, contribute significantly to biodiversity conservation and landscape resilience. By combining indigenous expertise with scientific methods, the study achieves tangible restoration outcomes in northern Veracruz, Mexico, showcasing TEK as a powerful tool for both ecological and cultural heritage preservation.
Old City of Sana'a
—
2018 —
WHE04E40A5532
Adaptive reuse of traditional neighborhoods (Haras) in Sana'a's Old City has shown mixed outcomes, with economic benefits for residents and the revival of traditional handicrafts. However, increased vehicular accessibility and the conversion of public spaces into parking areas have disrupted resident privacy, particularly affecting women, who have retreated indoors. The study, conducted through on-site spatial observations, measurements, and structured interviews in Hara Al-Abhar, highlights these trade-offs, offering insights for balancing development with cultural preservation in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Taxila
—
2018 —
WHE31577C2D08
A study at Taxila, Pakistan, identifies critical traffic congestion issues at unsignalized intersections along the N-5 highway, where complex roadway geometries exacerbate problems like accidents and high operational costs. The research quantifies these challenges through traffic flow analysis, aiming to assess system performance and its interaction with land use activities. By deriving actionable insights from traffic data, the study proposes solutions to improve efficiency, offering recommendations for policy changes and infrastructure adjustments—such as banning heavy vehicles during peak hours or expanding road capacity—to mitigate congestion and enhance safety.
Camino Real de Tierra Adentro
—
2018 —
WHE96C260F27C
Research on fortifications along the northern stretch of the Camino Real de Tierra Adentro in Mexico reveals significant transformations over three centuries, reflecting inherited construction techniques and strategic occupation patterns. Unlike isolated studies on individual fortifications, this work provides a comprehensive analysis of multiple fortified sites, tracing their evolution as tangible evidence of historical processes. The study highlights how these structures, built both individually and collectively, embody enduring knowledge and adaptability, underscoring their cultural and architectural significance within the UNESCO-listed Camino Real de Tierra Adentro.
Museumsinsel (Museum Island), Berlin
—
2018 —
WHE4E99D38569
A critical reassessment of the Altes Museum on Berlin's Museum Island reveals that its historical and political narratives have been systematically censored, obscuring its ties to power structures such as those related to politics, religion, military, and economics. The study argues for a more transparent approach—'transhistoricism'—that openly addresses the museum's complex, heterogeneous histories rather than perpetuating a homogenizing mythology of universality. This perspective challenges conventional museological practices by advocating for the acknowledgment of institutional instrumentalization, particularly in light of Museum Island's evolving role as a site of contested heritage, including the controversial 2019 reconstruction of the former royal palace.
Strasbourg, Grande-Île and Neustadt
—
2018 —
WHE9222EEA8DD
Strasbourg's Neustadt district exemplifies the duality of urban modernization and heritage preservation, reflecting both its modern planning origins (1880) and its UNESCO World Heritage status (2017). This study reveals how the district's identity oscillates between these two narratives, shaped by historical processes and local resident practices. By focusing on the scale of individual apartment buildings, the research uncovers heterogeneous patrimonial practices that coexist and interact within the neighborhood. It also deconstructs the factors leading to Neustadt's reclassification as heritage, highlighting the role of residents in this transformation. The findings underscore the dynamic interplay between global recognition (UNESCO) and local appropriation, challenging static notions of heritage preservation.
Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks
—
2018 —
WHE6DF6C12259
Transplanting native plants with well-developed root systems (10–15 cm) significantly improves survival and growth in Rocky Mountain foothills fescue grassland restoration, outperforming shallow-rooted tray transplants. Research at three sites in Waterton Lakes National Park demonstrated that glyphosate-based non-native plant control enhanced transplant success, while rhizomatous forbs and bunchgrasses exhibited the highest persistence (>50% over 14 months). Though winter mortality reduced long-term effectiveness, key native species were successfully established and maintained for two growing seasons. This approach offers a viable alternative to seed-based restoration in disturbed park ecosystems.
Manú National Park
—
2018 —
WHEA5D0EB74A0
Abandoned pineapple plantations around Peru's Manu National Park exhibit a distinct pattern of secondary succession dominated by tree ferns, particularly Cyathea delgadii and Cyathea microdonta. Within 6-10 years post-abandonment, these ferns form dense communities, with C. microdonta acting as a short-lived pioneer species that declines after its peak density. In contrast, C. delgadii persists beyond 10 years, suggesting a prolonged pathway to climax vegetation compared to adjacent areas with higher tree diversity and fewer ferns. This study highlights the potential role of tree fern dominance in shaping ecosystem restoration trajectories in buffer zones, which could influence biological connectivity and ecosystem services.
Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche
—
2018 —
WHEDFA523CA19
A diachronic analysis of the Royal Court Complex at Calakmul, Campeche, Mexico, reveals that the city's political and economic structure was characterized by a triadic form of governance, similar to historical Maya models. The study demonstrates that elite structures, including temples, central plazas, and dynastic palaces, were not only symbols of power but also accessible to the public, as evidenced by the distribution of figurines within these spaces. This finding challenges traditional perceptions of Maya urban planning and provides insight into the social dynamics of one of the most significant regional capitals in the lowland Maya area.
Aldabra Atoll
—
2018 —
WHEC131837C64
A new analysis of Late Pleistocene fossils from Aldabra Atoll reveals evidence of predator-prey interactions between giant tortoises and larger crocodilians, suggesting that these apex predators likely attacked or scavenged on the tortoises. Researchers examined fossilized bones showing bite marks, indicating direct interaction, while also noting that recently discovered crocodilian remains were significantly larger than previously known species, implying the presence of an even bigger predator in the ecosystem. This finding challenges previous assumptions about the atoll's prehistoric dynamics and provides insights into the trophic relationships of Aldabra during a critical period of its evolutionary history.
Archaeological Site of Troy
—
2018 —
WHEFBAD1C11D4
Troy stands out as one of the earliest and most extensively excavated pre-Classical sites in Anatolia and the Aegean, holding significant archaeological and historical importance. Beyond its academic relevance, Troy has permeated modern culture through myths, metaphors, and references spanning from cinema to technology. The site's enduring legacy is rooted in its multifaceted significance—archaeological, historical, and cultural—making it a symbol that transcends time and disciplines. This publication explores the intersection of myth, history, and iconography, illustrating how Troy's narratives have influenced contemporary expressions while anchoring its place in ancient history.
Archaeological Site of Troy
—
2018 —
WHE0044C8E500
Ukrainian archaeology's renewed focus on Troy (Illion, Vilusa) has significantly advanced the understanding of Bronze Age chronology across Ukraine and broader Eastern Europe. The stratigraphic column of Troy serves as a foundational reference for dating sites in the region, while comparisons with steppe zone artifacts have yielded productive insights. Recent discoveries, such as fortified settlements in the North Pontic area and Lower Dnieper basin, have synchronized local Bronze Age horizons with Troy VII, sparking discussions on potential Late Bronze Age steppe involvement in the 'Sea Peoples' campaigns that impacted Troy between the 13th–12th centuries BCE. The study underscores the dynamic nature of cultural connections between steppe tribes and Troy's inhabitants, emphasizing the need for enhanced collaboration between Turkish and Ukrainian archaeologists to further unravel Circumpontic processes during the 3rd–2nd centuries BCE. A 2018 Trojan colloquium in Kyiv is highlighted as a catalyst for this revitalization, though caution is advised against misrepresenting local sites as Troy.
Serengeti National Park
—
2018 —
WHE8A286B2ADE
A rare case of Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense infection, causing human African trypanosomiasis (HAT), was documented in a Chinese traveler returning from the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. This marks the first imported case of rhodesiense HAT reported in China, highlighting the disease's potential to spread beyond endemic regions through travel and migration. The diagnosis was confirmed using blood film analysis and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing after the traveler developed fever upon return. Treatment with pentamidine followed by suramin led to recovery within a month. This case underscores the importance of vigilance in clinical settings for HAT in travelers visiting high-risk African regions, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Serengeti.
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park
—
2018 —
WHE383055979F
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park (TRNP), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest no-take marine protected area (MPA) in the Philippines, has been identified as a global hotspot for reef sharks. This study, the first comprehensive assessment of elasmobranchs in TRNP, reveals some of the highest densities of grey reef sharks (<em>Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos</em>) and whitetip reef sharks (<em>Triaenodon obesus</em>) worldwide. Using underwater visual census (UVC) and baited remote underwater video (BRUV) surveys conducted between 2015 and 2016, researchers documented eight species via UVC with an average density of 7.18 sharks per hectare, while BRUV surveys recorded 14 species at a catch rate of 2.09 elasmobranchs per hour. The findings underscore the critical role of large, well-managed MPAs like TRNP in conserving reef-associated elasmobranch populations amid global declines driven by anthropogenic stressors.
Rideau Canal
—
2018 —
WHEB94C77BDB2
A 26-year study (1990–2015) of zebra mussel (<em>Dreissena polymorpha</em>) recruitment in the Rideau River, Eastern Ontario, revealed a persistent upstream-downstream pattern, with highest densities in downstream reaches, peaking at levels comparable to those seen during the peak invasion in the Laurentian Great Lakes (200,000–500,000+ mussels/m²). The study also identified a 'lake effect' at Long Reach, where larval development conditions were optimal. Initially low recruitment rates in upstream areas increased over time due to drift of veligers from the Rideau Lakes and headwaters. This long-term monitoring provides unprecedented insight into the invasion dynamics of zebra mussels in a small river system.
Wet Tropics of Queensland
—
2018 —
WHE4BB9D3A402
Two new species of the liverwort genus Chiastocaulon, C. fasciculatum and C. pachycephalum, have been identified in the Wet Tropics Bioregion of north-eastern Queensland, Australia. C. fasciculatum is distinguished by its ovate leaves with two to three prominent teeth and additional smaller ventral teeth, differing from its similar species C. dendroides. This discovery underscores the ongoing exploration needed for the bryophyte flora in this region. Additionally, C. pachycephalum, previously known only from Borneo, marks its first documented occurrence in Australia. These findings highlight the bioregion's rich but underexplored biodiversity.
Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks
—
2018 —
WHECE9EF135DC
Researchers have identified two new dwarf species of Homalolepis, a genus recently reinstated based on molecular evidence. These species, Homalolepis planaltina and H. pumila, are geoxylic subshrubs with restricted distributions in the Brazilian Cerrado, a Neotropical savanna. H. planaltina is known from a single population in southeastern Minas Gerais, while H. pumila is found in Emas National Park, Goiás. The study provides detailed descriptions, distribution maps, and conservation assessments for both species, increasing the total diversity of the genus to 28 accepted species. It also includes diagnostic features, an identification key, and ecological data, contributing significantly to the understanding of this genus.
