Archipiélago de Revillagigedo
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2018 —
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Researchers have identified two new endemic species of sea fans (Gorgoniidae) in the Revillagigedo Archipelago, Mexico: <em>Eugorgia wilkiei</em> and <em>Leptogorgia waltonae</em>. These discoveries highlight the archipelago's high endemism, likely driven by its isolation and unique environmental conditions. <em>E. wilkiei</em> exhibits distinct chromotypes (yellow or red) and irregular branching patterns, while <em>L. waltonae</em> is characterized by wart-like terminal twigs, 90°-angled lateral branching, and a range of vibrant colors. The study, based on morphological analysis and extensive sampling from 1995 to 2016, confirms these species are exclusive to the Revillagigedo Islands, supporting the hypothesis that oligotrophic waters, strong currents, and hurricane perturbations contribute to the archipelago's low-species diversity but high endemism.
Ogasawara Islands
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2018 —
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Researchers have identified two new species of Aphanodactylidae crabs from the Ogasawara and Ryukyu Islands, Japan. One, <em>Takedactylus compressus</em> n. sp., is distinguished by unique carapace shape, third maxilliped, and ambulatory legs, while the other, <em>Lichtylus kaisha</em> n. gen., n. sp., introduces a new genus characterized by its elongated palp of the third maxilliped, slender ambulatory legs, and distinct morphological traits. These discoveries bring the total number of Aphanodactylidae taxa to 7 genera and 15 species, expanding our understanding of crab diversity in these regions.
Wood Buffalo National Park
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2018 —
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A two-decade study in Wood Buffalo National Park, Canada, revealed that aboveground net primary production (ANPP) in self-thinning jack pine stands peaks at around 500 grams per square meter annually in stands aged 30–50 years. The research found a declining trend in ANPP after 50 years, with older stands exhibiting lower biomass turnover rates compared to younger ones. The study employed long-term litterfall collection and biomass estimation using allometric relationships, providing insights into the carbon dynamics of jack pine stands at different stages of self-thinning.
Garamba National Park
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2018 —
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A study using unmanned aerial system (UAS) imagery demonstrates that drone technology can provide accurate and efficient population estimates for the vulnerable common hippopotamus (<em>Hippopotamus amphibius</em>), offering a promising alternative to traditional survey methods. The research identifies optimal flight parameters, such as an altitude of 150 meters, and highlights the importance of environmental conditions like low sun reflection and minimal cloud cover for improved detection rates. Experienced observers achieved higher detection accuracy (86.5%) compared to inexperienced ones, with a correction factor (Factor 2) aligning well with previous studies using traditional aerial counts (1.22 vs 1.25). This approach not only enhances monitoring efficiency but also addresses the challenges of surveying species often overlooked in wildlife conservation efforts.
Muskauer Park / Park Mużakowski
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2018 —
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The Muskauer Park, designed by Prince Pückler-Muskau and executed with the help of gardener Reder, stands as a masterful fusion of poetry and painting, transforming an ordinary landscape into a sublime natural artwork. This 19th-century creation exemplifies how poetic and pictorial arts can collaborate to shape nature into a harmonious composition, requiring not only imaginative genius but also a deep understanding of landscape painting principles. The park's design involved strategic removal of excess elements, integration of found features, and coaxing nature to fulfill missing components, all while balancing light, shadow, and perspective. Such an approach underscores the interplay between human creativity and natural beauty, setting a precedent for landscape architecture that blends artistic vision with environmental harmony.
Koh Ker: Archaeological Site of Ancient Lingapura or Chok Gargyar
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2018 —
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New LIDAR surveys of Koh Ker, Cambodia, reveal the site as a complex network of habitation, significantly altering our understanding of its settlement history. Previous research focused on isolated temples and visible structures, but these findings highlight the importance of exploring communication channels like streets and hydraulic systems, as well as surrounding settlements and industries. This approach provides critical insights into human environmental intervention and the development of Koh Ker, a former royal center, offering a more comprehensive framework for interpreting its past occupation.
Um er-Rasas (Kastrom Mefa'a)
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2018 —
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A groundbreaking approach to the preservation of UNESCO World Heritage Sites has been demonstrated at Um er-Rasas (Kastrom Mefa'a) in Jordan. The research, led by CNR-ITABC, successfully integrated advanced techniques such as laser scanning and photogrammetry to create detailed geometric models of two Byzantine churches and their mosaic floors. These models not only enabled precise documentation of the archaeological area but also provided critical data for interpreting the masonry and mosaics' conditions. The study's innovative methodology offers a blueprint for planning restoration projects, focusing on arresting the decay of mosaics by identifying key conservation challenges and designing sustainable tourist pathways. This work underscores the potential of integrated digital techniques to enhance the protection and valorization of culturally significant sites.
Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont: Langhe-Roero and Monferrato
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2018 —
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An integrated evaluation methodology has been developed to measure the values and pressures within the UNESCO-listed Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont, specifically the Langhe-Roero and Monferrato regions. This approach assesses both the economic value of the territory and the pressures exerted on its components through a system of indicators. The methodology provides a reliable tool for decision-making in defining territorial transformation scenarios, offering a comprehensive framework to balance economic and environmental considerations in this culturally significant landscape.
Historic Monuments Zone of Tlacotalpan
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2018 —
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A study on the Historic Monuments Zone of Tlacotalpan reveals that young students, particularly those with natural leadership qualities, can serve as effective agents for promoting flood resilience and protection civil practices within their communities. The research, conducted in Tlacotalpan, La Antigua, and Cotaxtla—municipalities frequently affected by hydrometeorological phenomena in Veracruz—highlights the potential of youth to drive community-level changes through education and proactive engagement. By analyzing survey responses from bachillerato students and interviews with key stakeholders, including local authorities and protection civil personnel, the study identifies practices that enhance social resilience while reducing vulnerability to climate-induced flooding. The findings suggest that fostering intergenerational and cross-community collaboration can strengthen solidarity and reciprocity, offering a model for similar at-risk populations.
Costiera Amalfitana
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2018 —
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A strong sense of identity and pride among residents of the Amalfi Coast, reinforced by UNESCO recognition, plays a pivotal role in sustaining cultural heritage and driving tourism growth. This study highlights how local communities actively promote their region despite economic disparities, such as the North-South divide, to attract visitors. The research confirms that foreign tourists prioritize the region's natural beauty and cultural appeal over socio-economic challenges, contributing to its rise in global recognition—Positano, for instance, earned a spot in TripAdvisor's Travelers' Choice Awards. Statistical data on tourism trends further validate this upward trajectory, underscoring the interplay between heritage preservation, local initiative, and international appeal.
City of Cuzco
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2018 —
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The Spanish Crown's establishment of cabildos, or city councils, in the New World during the 16th century provided a unique opportunity to study the transplantation and adaptation of political institutions. In Cuzco, Peru, Francisco Pizarro installed one such cabildo in 1534, staffed by members of Spain's urban elite who had previously held government positions in Castile. This institution served as both a representation of Spanish power and a model for local governance in America. The study reveals how these cabildos were instrumental in maintaining political and administrative continuity from the Iberian Peninsula to the colonies, allowing Spain to exert greater control over its new territories without facing resistance from established local powers. By analyzing archival records and historical documents, researchers Domínguez-Guerrero and López Villalba examine the influence of Spanish traditions on American governance and trace the evolution of early local governments in the region.
Mammoth Cave National Park
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2018 —
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In September 1972, a team of cave explorers successfully linked the Flint Ridge Cave System to Mammoth Cave, creating the world's longest known cave system. This discovery occurred during a pivotal period for Mammoth Cave National Park, as it grappled with the implications of the 1964 Wilderness Act, which aimed to protect 'untrammeled' natural areas while balancing increased visitation and local development demands. The study explores the unique challenge of designating underground wilderness within national parks, contrasting it with surface-focused preservation efforts nationwide. It also examines the park's historical context, including its role in the War on Poverty through the Job Corps program and the tension between preservationists and local communities over park development.
Fortifications of Vauban
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2018 —
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A pivotal shift in architectural influence occurred at Malte's Fortifications of Vauban during the 17th century, marking the transition from Spanish to French dominance. This study reveals that the arrival of prominent French military engineers in 1645 catalyzed this change, significantly shaping Malta's strategic and architectural landscape. The research highlights the role of Médéric Blondel, the first resident French engineer, whose influence introduced classical elements into Malta's baroque architecture, aligning with Louis XIV's preferred French school of architecture. By analyzing political, strategic, social, and aesthetic factors, as well as the careers of key figures, the study demonstrates how French military expertise, particularly Vauban's innovations, became central to Malta's fortifications under the Order of Saint John.
Plantin-Moretus House-Workshops-Museum Complex
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2018 —
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An exhibition at the Moretus-Plantin University Library in Namur, Belgium, showcased the historical significance of the Plantin-Moretus House-Workshops-Museum Complex. The display highlighted the library's rare collection of 16th to 18th-century books and manuscripts, providing insights into the cultural and intellectual legacy of the Plantin family, renowned for their contributions to printing, publishing, and pharmacology. The exhibition underscored the site's dual role as both a preserved industrial heritage and a repository of scientific and literary history, offering a unique perspective on the intersection of commerce, innovation, and knowledge dissemination during the early modern period.
Incense Route - Desert Cities in the Negev
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2018 —
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A comprehensive study challenges long-held assumptions about the static nature of tribes and chiefdoms in the Negev, Edom, and northern Hejaz during the Iron Age. By integrating socio-economic analysis with archaeological data, including ceramics, metals, inscriptions, and radiocarbon dating, the research demonstrates that these polities evolved dynamically in response to changing imperial administrations and economic policies, particularly those linked to copper mining and incense trade. The study also revisits the significance of Timna as a key mining site, suggesting a longer usage period than previously thought and questioning the role of Egyptian administration in its development. Additionally, it provides new insights into the production and distribution of Edomite pottery, indicating local manufacturing rather than imports from Transjordan, which necessitates a reassessment of assumptions about ethnicity and trade networks.
Jelling Mounds, Runic Stones and Church
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2018 —
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Recent excavations at Jelling Mounds, Runic Stones and Church—a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994—revealed significant new structures that have transformed the understanding of this historic Danish site. Discoveries included a large palisade encircling the area, three Trelleborg-type houses, and the largest Viking Age ship setting in the Nordic region. These findings led to a boundary modification of the original inscription in 2018, highlighting their archaeological significance. The study also explores the challenges and opportunities of managing cultural heritage outside major urban centers, drawing on insights from a 2017 conference in Poland. Jelling's status as one of Denmark's most visited historical sites underscores its importance in both research and heritage preservation.
Lena Pillars Nature Park
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2018 —
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Lena Pillars Nature Park, the only Russian karst area nominated for UNESCO World Heritage status, stands out due to its unique 'ground frozen karst' formation. This study reviews 37 global World Karst Natural Heritage sites, analyzing their distribution and significance, with a focus on extreme climate conditions like cold or arid environments. It highlights the need for recognizing new properties that represent sulfate and salt rock karst development. The research employs geographical and geological analysis to emphasize the outstanding universal value of Lena Pillars Nature Park, while also considering broader implications for karst heritage conservation.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
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2018 —
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Research at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park reveals that wild mountain gorillas exhibit a previously unrecognized diversity of terrestrial hand postures, challenging the long-held assumption that they are exclusively 'knuckle-walkers.' High-speed video analysis of 77 habituated gorillas—representing 8% of the global population—showed that nearly 40% used non-knuckle-walking (KW) hand postures, accounting for 15% of all hand contacts. Some of these postures have never been documented in gorillas but resemble those seen in orangutans, suggesting a broader versatility in African ape locomotion. This finding implies that the ability to adopt multiple hand postures may be a shared trait among great apes and humans, rather than knuckle-walking alone, potentially reshaping our understanding of hominin locomotor evolution.
The Jantar Mantar, Jaipur
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2018 —
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A key insight from the study on Jantar Mantar, Jaipur, is that universal design interventions can significantly enhance accessibility and appreciation of heritage sites for diverse users. The research demonstrates how integrating principles of equal opportunity, non-discrimination, and designing for diversity can improve physical and intellectual access to such sites. Conducted as part of a Master's in Architectural Conservation Design Studio at Jantar Mantar, the study involved diverse stakeholders and proposed practical solutions. It highlights the role of architects and education in fostering accessibility awareness, emphasizing the need to incorporate universal design teaching in architecture schools. This approach aims to create more inclusive heritage sites that cater to varied needs while preserving cultural significance.
Mont-Saint-Michel and its Bay
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2018 —
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A previously unknown collection of lost charters from the abbey of Le Mont Saint-Michel, preserved by historian Henry Chanteux, has been identified. This collection includes transcripts of nearly 80 charters destroyed during World War II, offering critical insights into the abbey's estate management and pilgrimage efforts. The study provides a comprehensive listing of these acts and presents an edited dossier of ten charters related to the church of Argouges, which were often contested between Le Mont and the abbey of Marmoutier. This discovery significantly enhances our understanding of medieval monastic life and administrative practices at one of Europe's most renowned World Heritage Sites.
Venice and its Lagoon
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2018 —
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A new dataset from TIM, capturing GPS positions of mobile devices, reveals distinct pedestrian mobility patterns in Venice during high tourist events. The study identifies characteristic travel time budgets and rest times that influence mobility dynamics, highlighting two interconnected subnetworks responsible for the majority of observed movements. Analysis distinguishes between Italian and foreigner tourists, uncovering unique mobility behaviors linked to points of interest. This approach offers innovative tools to assess pedestrian flows in historical cities, aiding governance efforts to balance tourist influx with urban livability and cultural heritage preservation.
Phoenix Islands Protected Area
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2018 —
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A critical analysis reveals that the reported fishing surge around the Phoenix Islands Protected Area (PIPA) was not due to its closure, as previously claimed, but instead a consequence of a strong El Niño event affecting multiple exclusive economic zones (EEZs). The study challenges the 'blue paradox' concept, which posits unintended negative outcomes from conservation policies. By examining regional data and long-term catch trends, researchers demonstrate that the surge was part of a broader phenomenon unrelated to PIPA's closure. This finding underscores the importance of comprehensive data analysis in attributing environmental changes.
Islands and Protected Areas of the Gulf of California
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2018 —
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A recent study debunks unsupported claims that the decline of the critically endangered vaquita porpoise is due to reduced freshwater flow from the Colorado River, caused by damming. Instead, it reaffirms that the primary threat to the vaquita's survival is incidental capture in gillnets, particularly those used for illegal totoaba fishing. The research challenges baseless assertions that the Gulf of California was historically an estuarine environment with significant freshwater influence, citing evidence from salinity data and biological productivity studies. It emphasizes that the vaquita is a marine species and that its habitat has remained highly productive despite river flow reductions. The study warns against the spread of fake science, which can divert conservation efforts away from real threats, ultimately hindering effective protection strategies for this endangered marine mammal.
Sacred City of Anuradhapura
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2018 —
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Urban agriculture in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka's ancient sacred city (377 BCE–1017 CE), played a pivotal role in creating a sustainable and spiritually enriching environment. Large water tanks, paddy fields, and canal systems were not merely functional but integral to the Buddhist sacred landscape, fostering human connection with nature while supporting the city's sustenance. This study reveals that these agricultural elements were central to everyday life, shaping social practices and enhancing human well-being through their integration into the urban form and cultural rituals. By synthesizing phenomenology, anthropology, landscape analysis, and historical methods, the research demonstrates how Anuradhapura's design harmonized practical needs with sacred experiences, offering a model for sustainable urban development rooted in spiritual values.
Historic Centre of Riga
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2018 —
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Urban densification in large housing estates, particularly those built post-World War II outside historic city centers, presents both opportunities and challenges. A study analyzing infill developments in the Imanta district of Riga identified four distinct approaches to densification, some of which enhance public space for residents while others risk isolating new developments from their surroundings. This research highlights the complexities of urban regeneration strategies aimed at promoting compact city models and curbing urban sprawl, offering insights into the potential social and spatial impacts of privatization on public open spaces.
Bursa and Cumalıkızık: the Birth of the Ottoman Empire
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2018 —
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A study on Bursa Hanlar District identified key urban design challenges and community expectations that hinder the site's attractiveness. The research revealed that issues such as accessibility-permeability, mixed-use balance, public-private space quality, density-use relationships, governance, and sustainable structures were critical concerns for both residents and local artisans. To address these problems, the study proposed participatory urban design strategies aimed at enhancing multi-user diversity and strengthening community engagement. The findings underscore the importance of integrating socio-cultural and socio-economic values into heritage conservation efforts to preserve urban identity and memory.
City of Valletta
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2018 —
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Despite its rich urban heritage, Valletta has struggled to transition from sun-and-sea tourism to a more culture-oriented model. While recent policy shifts and investments have improved its cultural appeal, the dominance of traditional tourism persists, limiting the long-term impact of initiatives like Valletta's 2018 designation as European Capital of Culture. This case study reveals that even in destinations with strong heritage, shifting tourism paradigms proves challenging.
Historic Jeddah, the Gate to Makkah
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2018 —
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Two metropolises, Jeddah and Dubai, have leveraged their historic city centres for economic development and national identity reinforcement, with UNESCO World Heritage status acting as a catalyst for new planning and conservation policies. In Dubai, the conservation of historic neighbourhoods integrates diverse ethnic communities and boosts tourism, while in Jeddah, preservation efforts focus on revitalizing the private sector to create dynamic urban growth. The study highlights the unique relationship between modern development and heritage in the Arabian Peninsula, emphasizing how these strategies can integrate urban heritage into broader development agendas.
Saint Catherine Area
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2018 —
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Arab urban heritage sites in mountainous areas, such as Saint Catherine Monastery and Moussa Mountain in Sinai (Egypt), Rijal Almaa' Village in Assir (Saudi Arabia), and the Lady of Lebanon site in Harissa (Lebanon), are prioritized for sustainable tourism development due to their cultural significance and natural appeal. A study assessed these sites against Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) criteria, revealing gaps that hinder their transformation into fully sustainable destinations. Recommendations derived from this analysis can be applied broadly to similar heritage sites, offering a model for balancing conservation with tourism growth in mountainous regions.
Galápagos Islands
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2018 —
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A study on the Galápagos Islands reveals that object-based classification using spectral indices is more effective than sub-pixel spectral mixture analysis for mapping impervious surfaces in heterogeneous urban environments. This method, applied to the three main inhabited islands, showed a strong correlation (R² = 67.7%) between estimated and true impervious surface abundance, despite limitations from Landsat imagery's pixel size. The research found an average annual urban growth rate of 3.3% from 1992 to 2017, highlighting the need for integrated planning systems to balance conservation efforts with sustainable development in this ecologically fragile UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Budapest, including the Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter and Andrássy Avenue
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2018 —
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European capital cities, including Budapest, serve as both national symbols and global tourist destinations, raising critical questions about the balance between monumental heritage representation and sustainable urban living amid rising tourism. This special issue examines how these cities—spanning Berlin to Skopje—navigate the interplay between urban planning, cultural identity, and economic/social carrying capacity. Through case studies, it reveals tensions between heritage preservation, urban development, and the growing demands of mass tourism, offering insights into the evolving dynamics of European cityscapes.
San Cristóbal de La Laguna
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2018 —
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Research reveals that the historic center of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, the first unfortified Spanish colonial town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, exhibits a distinct astronomical alignment pattern. By analyzing the spatial orientation of 21 historic churches in the old city, scientists identified a consistent declination slightly below 20 degrees when correlated with solar movements. This finding suggests a deliberate design linked to the feast day of San Cristóbal de Licia (July 25), offering new insights into the town's urban planning and its symbolic significance as a 'Town of Peace.' The study also critiques recent, speculative hypotheses about the city's layout while highlighting its unique Latin-cross structure, formed by key churches. Published in <em>Journal of Skyscape Archaeology</em>, this work bridges urban history, astronomy, and colonial architecture.
Historic Centre of Siena
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2018 —
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Green areas in Siena's historic center contribute significantly to CO2 absorption, with an efficiency of 1.95 t CO2 per hectare annually—a remarkable figure for a densely populated urban area. This study quantifies the carbon uptake capacity (330.50 t CO2 yr⁻¹) of vegetation types such as trees, olive groves, vineyards, and grasslands, highlighting their role in regulating planetary energy balance. By analyzing 71.54 ha of green spaces within the 169.64-ha historic center, researchers demonstrate that strategic urban planning and maintenance of green areas are critical for sustainable city development. The findings underscore the ecological value of preserving natural heritage even in highly urbanized settings.
M'Zab Valley
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Urban expansion in the M'Zab Valley, Algeria, is significantly threatening its UNESCO-listed oasis heritage, characterized by unique architecture and urban organization. The study identifies key actors and factors driving these urban encroachments, which not only compromise the valley's cultural and architectural integrity but also degrade its environment. By analyzing historical and contemporary urban development patterns, the research highlights the delicate balance between preserving this intangible heritage and addressing modern urbanization demands.
Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove
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2018 —
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The Osun Sacred Grove, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Osogbo, Nigeria, has undergone significant transformations due to urbanization, modernization, and globalization. This study reveals that the city's landscape evolution can be categorized into four semi-concentric phases: natural, traditional, modern, and post-modern, each shaped by political dynamics, sociocultural orders, architecture, land use, urban governance, housing, and religious practices. The research employs a monarchical chronology to trace these changes from the grove's origins around 1800 to 2015, highlighting the critical role of the monarchical system in landscape heritage conservation. It concludes with a prognostic model for the archetypal Yoruba city, emphasizing its cultural and historical significance as a hub for the Yoruba nation.
Angkor
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2018 —
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Excavations at Ta Prohm, a temple site within the Angkor region of the Khmer Empire (9th–15th centuries), reveal that residential occupation occurred within the temple enclosure from before the 11th century until the 14th century. This challenges the traditional assumption that stone temples were solely loci of ritual and highlights their dual role as centers of habitation. By leveraging LiDAR data to guide excavations, researchers identified patterns of urbanism unique to Angkorian cities, offering new insights into the complexity and diversity of ancient urban systems in mainland Southeast Asia.
Taï National Park
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Urinary neopterin levels in wild chimpanzees from Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire, significantly increase during respiratory disease outbreaks and can predict survival outcomes. The study analyzed 185 urine samples from 28 chimpanzees before, during, and after a respiratory outbreak, finding that elevated neopterin levels correlated with symptomatic individuals and those who died, some of whom showed increased levels even before the outbreak. This suggests chronic immune activation may precede acute infections in wild animals. The research validates urinary neopterin as a non-invasive biomarker for monitoring immune responses in free-ranging populations, contributing to broader understanding of life-history trade-offs in wildlife.
Tipasa
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2018 —
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Photogrammetry emerges as a powerful tool for reconstructing the lost architectural details of ancient structures, offering unprecedented insights into their original states. This study demonstrates its application in virtually restoring the three access doors of the Nameless Temple at Tipasa, Algeria, by generating 3D models from fragmented voussoirs unearthed during excavations. By integrating historical documentation and architectural treatises, researchers proposed a plausible reconstruction hypothesis for the temple's sacred courtyard entrance. The approach not only documented existing remains but also enabled the visualization of missing elements, enhancing our understanding of Tipasa's history. This method serves as a model for digital heritage conservation, bridging gaps in archaeological knowledge through advanced surveying techniques.
Namib Sand Sea
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2018 —
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Researchers have developed a rapid, cost-effective method for estimating the age of aeolian sediments using a portable luminescence reader (POSL), enabling large-scale landscape evolution studies. By calibrating POSL signals against 144 samples with known ages from southern Africa, they established region-specific regression models that can predict sediment ages back to tens of thousands of years. The approach, validated across four distinct dunefield regions—Namib Sand Sea (NSS), northern Kalahari barchan dunes, western Kalahari, and southern Kalahari—demonstrates strong correlations (R² values ranging from 0.52 to 0.99). This method avoids chemical exposure, reduces time and costs, and provides a practical tool for reconstructing Late Quaternary climatic changes in arid environments. The findings highlight the importance of regional calibration for accurate age assessments.
Everglades National Park
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A study using bi-seasonal WorldView-2 satellite data and supervised random forest classification successfully mapped coastal plant communities in Everglades National Park with 86% accuracy, revealing that black and red mangroves dominated the landscape, covering half of the study site. The approach outperformed single-season data, providing fine-scale resolution to detect changes in rare and endangered species habitats, including the buttonwood/glycophyte community harboring the federally-endangered Chromolaena frustrata. This method offers a robust tool for monitoring vegetation shifts due to sea level rise and land-use change, with implications for other threatened ecosystems.
Dja Faunal Reserve
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A camera trap survey in the Dja Faunal Reserve, Cameroon, revealed significant differences in mammal communities between two sites 32 km apart. One site exhibited lower species richness, the absence of disturbance-sensitive felids and white-bellied duikers, higher abundance of disturbance-tolerant species, and reduced presence of larger-bodied mammals. These patterns suggest elevated hunting pressure at this site, potentially driving shifts in community structure. The study employed two 40-trap grids over a minimum of 100 days to assess mammal richness, diversity, guild structure, body-size patterns, and relative abundance, providing critical insights into the impacts of anthropogenic pressures on Central African forest ecosystems.
Yosemite National Park
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Yosemite National Park successfully reduced human-black bear incidents by 99% from a peak of 1,584 in 1998 to just 22 in 2018 through the innovative use of GPS collar technology. This study demonstrates that proactive bear management, leveraging GPS tracking, significantly enhances staff and public engagement while improving time efficiency and communication with park management. The research, conducted from 2014 to 2018, highlights the effectiveness of GPS collars in providing insights into bear movements and sustaining low incident rates despite rising visitation and budget constraints. Recommendations for implementing GPS technology in other parks are also provided.
Dja Faunal Reserve
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A novel approach combining semi-structured interviews, hunter diaries, and camera traps reveals that local ecological knowledge can effectively monitor bushmeat species populations and their threats in the Dja Faunal Reserve, Cameroon. The study demonstrates that interview-based occupancy analysis is a robust tool for detecting changes in species distribution and relative abundance, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional monitoring methods. Additionally, it assesses the accuracy of expert hunters' judgments, finding that perceived expertise correlates with more precise and accurate assessments of bushmeat species. This research highlights the potential of integrating local knowledge with scientific methods to improve conservation efforts, while also addressing biases and uncertainties in observational data.
Sangiran Early Man Site
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The Sangiran Early Man Site, a UNESCO-listed cultural heritage site, exhibits fragmented urban development characterized by a low space syntax intelligibility value (R² = 0.012714). This fragmentation arises from dispersed economic activities and parallel road networks, reflecting significant transformations since large-scale development began in 2012. The study employed space syntax analysis, integrating quantitative variables such as scarcity, historicity, scientific value, and road networks to assess the site's form and pattern. Findings reveal a dispersing development pattern, driven by homogeneous economic growth, which contrasts with earlier isolated structures like joglo buildings. This research highlights the impact of infrastructure and economic activities on heritage site morphology, offering insights into sustainable urban planning for similar sites.
Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek
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A novel method to accurately estimate the volume of rock avalanches on glaciers, accounting for ablation, entrainment, and compaction, was developed and applied to the 2016 Lamplugh rock avalanche in Glacier Bay National Park. The study found that ignoring these processes could underestimate deposit volumes by up to 46.8 million cubic meters (Mm³). Using high-resolution stereo satellite imagery, researchers reconstructed pre- and post-event glacier surfaces, revealing the avalanche initially displaced 51.7 ± 1.5 Mm³ of rock while scouring and entraining 13.2 ± 2.2 Mm³ of snow and ice, resulting in a total deposit volume of 69.9 ± 7.9 Mm³. This approach improves the precision of volume calculations in glacial environments, advancing hazard assessment and understanding of rock avalanche dynamics.
Isole Eolie (Aeolian Islands)
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2018 —
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Tourist preferences and motivations for visiting the Aeolian Islands, Italy, reveal distinct visitor profiles shaped by identity, sustainability concerns, and consumption interests. A study using social network analysis and multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) identified three key groups: those prioritizing environmental sustainability and scenic beauty, such as the sea; others drawn to gastronomic and consumption experiences; and a third group indifferent to the island's attractions. The research highlights how relational variables influence destination attractiveness and suggests strategies for eco-sustainable tourism planning in fragile yet high-demand sites like the Aeolian Islands. These findings offer actionable insights for balancing conservation with visitor satisfaction while guiding future studies on sustainable hospitality systems.
Doñana National Park
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2018 —
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Groundwater discharge significantly influences the thermal and chemical dynamics of shallow ponds in Doñana National Park, as revealed by a study analyzing water temperature, electrical conductivity (EC), and pH. The research demonstrated heterogeneous groundwater flow through pond sediments, particularly in Santa Olalla Pond, and quantified its role in surface-subsurface heat exchange using a heat transfer model. Conducted between 2016 and 2018 across two ponds—Santa Olalla and Dulce—the study integrated spatial measurements of temperature, pH, and EC to characterize groundwater-surface water interactions. Findings align with prior hydrological data, deepening the understanding of these ecologically critical systems within Spain's protected Doñana National Park.
Naumburg Cathedral
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Uta von Naumburg, a 11th-century figure known primarily through her statue in Naumburg Cathedral, has been mythologized as a symbol of German femininity, notably during the Nazi era. This study reveals how Claudia and Nadja Beinert's postmodern novel <em>Die Herrin der Kathedrale</em> (2013) employs narrative strategies to demythologize Uta’s figure, challenging medieval paradigms of femininity and power. The research examines the cultural reception of Uta, focusing on her representation in both historical and literary contexts, while analyzing how postmodern narratives can deconstruct entrenched myths. By embedding medieval gender constructs within a contemporary framework, the novel offers a critical reimagining of Uta’s legacy, moving beyond nationalist appropriations.
K’gari (Fraser Island)
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2018 —
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Stranded marine fauna, such as dead cetaceans and marine turtles, provide a substantial and regular food source for dingoes on K’gari (Fraser Island), Australia. Between 2006 and 2016, an average of 30.3 tons of carrion was available annually, supporting the dietary needs of roughly 5–10% of the island’s dingo population. Camera traps revealed that dingoes, including entire packs, visited carcasses daily after a short decomposition period, indicating significant reliance on marine subsidies. This study highlights how marine strandings can influence terrestrial carnivore diet, behavior, and abundance, potentially leading to cascading effects in terrestrial ecosystems.
Ciudad Universitaria de Caracas
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2018 —
WHE9BE918BA48
A proposed architectural redesign for the Biblioteca Central de la Ciudad Universitaria de Caracas aims to balance modern functional needs with the preservation of its historical and cultural significance. The study highlights the building's iconic red façade and 12-story height as key elements that contribute to its identity within the university campus. By leveraging digital technologies and drawing inspiration from successful library renovations, such as the Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, the redesign seeks to optimize spatial distribution while maintaining structural integrity. The goal is to transform the library into a central hub that serves the university community effectively, ensuring it remains both a functional and recognizable landmark for future generations.
