Kinabalu Park
—
2017 —
WHE031FF7085B
A significant increase in household income for local residents has been observed due to tourism development in Kinabalu National Park, Malaysia. However, the study reveals that local community involvement in tourism activities is hindered by a lack of essential knowledge and skills, as well as the seasonal, part-time, low-paying nature of available jobs. These constraints pose challenges to long-term tourism development. The research, based on 378 questionnaires, highlights the need for strategies to minimize these barriers to sustain tourism growth in the region.
Tiwanaku: Spiritual and Political Centre of the Tiwanaku Culture
—
2017 —
WHE380DC2247E
Research on the Tiwanaku State (C.E. 500–1100) reveals that labor within its multiethnic communities was organized through reciprocal, guild-like systems rather than elite-driven coercion. Skeletal evidence, including musculoskeletal stress markers and osteoarthritis, indicates habitual activity patterns varied significantly across groups in the Titicaca Basin, Bolivia, and colonies near Moquegua, Peru. This suggests a complex social structure where labor was collaborative, challenging traditional assumptions about state-level societies.
Sacred Island of Okinoshima and Associated Sites in the Munakata Region
—
2017 —
WHEFA6600B9B1
A comparative analysis of the UNESCO World Heritage inscription processes for 'The Southwestern Coast Tidal Flats' in Korea and 'The Sacred Island of Okinoshima and Associated Sites in the Munakata Region' in Japan reveals two key differences: shared awareness among stakeholders in Japan, leading to systematic participation and governance, versus fragmented engagement in Korea. While Japan's site was inscribed in 2017, Korea's remains on a tentative list after seven years, highlighting the importance of cohesive local stakeholder involvement and policy network dynamics for successful heritage recognition.
Waterton Glacier International Peace Park
—
2017 —
WHEB2124B4311
A study comparing citizen science data with professional surveys found that volunteer-collected mountain goat (Oreamnos americanus) location data can effectively evaluate species distribution models, offering a low-cost alternative for wildlife managers. The research analyzed aerial and ground survey data from professionals and volunteers across Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, comparing these datasets to two extrapolated mountain goat models. Results showed that all dataset types correlated positively with model predictions, with aerial observations (rs = 0.964) slightly outperforming professional ground surveys (rs = 0.946) and volunteer ground data (rs = 0.898). A model developed in the Greater Yellowstone Area proved most informative, suggesting that citizen science, when paired with robust protocols and training, can reliably contribute to wildlife research. The findings recommend expanding this approach to other species and developing distribution models using citizen science data.
Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island
—
2017 —
WHE10C94B88DE
Mangrove clams, <em>Polymesoda</em> spp., exhibit optimal survival rates (90%) in the mesozone of mangrove forests, where salinity changes gradually and remains moderate. A 10-month field experiment across four zones on Iriomote Island revealed that survival plummeted to 40% in seaward zones due to rapid or prolonged high-salinity conditions, with no survival in freshwater landward plots. Salinity fluctuations emerged as a critical factor influencing clam viability, highlighting the mesozone's suitability for these bivalves by balancing environmental stability.
The Grand Canal
—
2017 —
WHE490B3F4BDD
Residents' willingness-to-pay (WTP) for preserving China's UNESCO-listed Grand Canal significantly exceeds that of non-residents, with key differences in how place identity and revisit intention influence their economic valuation. Using a contingent valuation method applied to tourist surveys conducted between April and May 2015, researchers found that while both groups value the Canal's cultural heritage, residents attach stronger emotional and long-term ties to it. Logit models revealed distinct factors driving WTP, underscoring divergent stakeholder perspectives on heritage conservation. The study highlights the economic disparity in heritage appreciation between local communities and tourists, with implications for sustainable tourism policies.
Al-Ahsa Oasis, an Evolving Cultural Landscape
—
2017 —
WHEFA93761EAC
Yemeni honeybees (Apis mellifera jemenitica) outperform Carniolan bees (Apis mellifera carnica) in pollen collection, brood rearing, and colony growth under the environmental conditions of Al-Ahsa oasis, Saudi Arabia. While Carniolan bees produced more honey during alfalfa and sidir flow seasons, Yemeni bees exhibited superior survival rates due to higher pollen storage, larger brood production, and greater adult population size. The study, conducted at King Faisal University's apiary, compared the two subspecies' foraging activity, colony growth, and honey yield over time, revealing that bee race significantly impacts productivity in this region.
Hyrcanian Forests
—
2017 —
WHE06747240AC
A comparison of three methods—fuzzy AHP, spatial correlation, and the Dong model—revealed that fuzzy AHP (accuracy 0.8) and spatial correlation (accuracy 0.92) are significantly more effective than the Dong model (accuracy 0.51) in predicting high-risk fire areas in Hyrcanian forests of Iran. The study overlaid actual fire perimeters with risk maps generated by each method, demonstrating that fuzzy AHP and spatial correlation closely align with observed fire patterns, while the Dong model showed only moderate agreement. This finding highlights the superior predictive power of fuzzy AHP and spatial correlation for forest fire risk assessment in this UNESCO-listed region.
Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks
—
2017 —
WHEA9425B0B2E
A novel approach to geotectonic evolution studies has been successfully applied in the Chapada dos Veadeiros region, Brazil. The research demonstrates that integrating geomorphological analysis with geological data can effectively identify distinct morphostructural compartments, providing critical insights into regional tectonic history. By analyzing lineaments, drainage patterns, and soil classes, the study distinguished 17 geomorphological units—including dissected plateaus, valleys, and escarpments—each named after significant geographical features. This methodology not only advances understanding of structural domains but also offers a temporal framework for tectonic events dating back to the Neoproterozoic Brasiliano orogeny. The findings underscore the potential of morphostructural mapping as a foundational tool for geotectonic research, particularly in complex orogenic regions.
Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks
—
2017 —
WHEE109EFE755
Enforcing Brazil's Forest Code could potentially rescue the Cerrado biome from significant biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation. The study finds that establishing restoration programs on private properties with insufficient native vegetation could create habitat for 25% more threatened species, enhance water security, and increase carbon stock by 56.6 million tons. Additionally, strategic expansion of protected areas and trading environmental reserve quotas could further bolster conservation efforts. This is the first assessment evaluating the impacts of the Forest Code on biodiversity and ecosystem services across 200 million hectares of the Cerrado, highlighting both challenges and opportunities for compliance.
Venice and its Lagoon
—
2017 —
WHE7B44424F1A
Over the past five decades, Venice's historical center has experienced relative land subsidence (RLS) of up to 190 mm compared to the Northern Adriatic mean sea level. This study quantifies RLS using a combination of levelling surveys from 1961 to 1993 and satellite-based Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) interferometry data from 1993 to 2016, revealing an average subsidence rate of 0.8 mm/year alongside a mean sea-level rise of 1.9 mm/year. The findings highlight significant spatial variability in subsidence, with cumulative losses ranging from 8 mm to 93 mm. Projections suggest that without mitigation, Venice could face an additional 190 mm loss of elevation by 2100, exacerbating flooding risks and threatening the city's survival. This research underscores the urgent need for climate adaptation strategies to protect this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Qhapaq Ñan, Andean Road System
—
2017 —
WHEDC0E8DF2D0
Pre-hispanic small-scale mining communities in the Atacama Desert leveraged the Inca Qhapaq Ñan road system for economic and logistical advantages, despite Inca attempts to control their economy. The study reveals that miners relocated settlements along the road to optimize trade of lapidary goods like malachite beads and pigments, capitalizing on increased traffic and connectivity. This unintended benefit highlights a nuanced dynamic between local adaptation and Inca domination, demonstrating how imperial infrastructure was opportunistically repurposed by indigenous communities for their own productive gains.
Sydney Opera House
—
2017 —
WHE590EDBC947
A concrete conservation framework for the Sydney Opera House has been developed to ensure its long-term structural integrity while preserving its iconic design. The approach integrates advanced materials science, non-destructive testing, and architectural conservation principles to address challenges such as concrete degradation, corrosion, and aesthetic maintenance. By combining innovative techniques like fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites and microclimate monitoring, the framework aims to minimize invasive interventions while maintaining the site's UNESCO World Heritage status. This collaborative effort, presented at the IABSE Conference in 2017, offers a model for sustainable conservation of modern architectural landmarks.
Historic Cairo
—
2017 —
WHE2FE6772688
A significant conflict exists between local communities and heritage managers in the conservation of Historic Cairo, stemming from a lack of community input in government-led preservation efforts. The study highlights how legislative decisions and management practices, primarily driven by the Ministry of Antiquities and the Governorate, have overlooked the social, cultural, and economic dimensions of local residents and non-governmental stakeholders. This disconnect has led to persistent tensions, undermining effective heritage conservation despite Egypt's long-standing efforts.
The Great Wall
—
2017 —
WHE08D9638A98
A striking disparity emerges between domestic tourists' admiration for modern facilities over heritage value and the government's emphasis on preservation, while business operators prioritize commercialization. This study, analyzing 7,466 online reviews and official documents, reveals how conflicting objectives among stakeholders shape cultural heritage tourism experiences at Mutianyu Great Wall. Using quantitative word frequency analysis and qualitative discourse semantics, researchers expose a tension where tourists' focus on amenities overshadows historical significance, while regulators advocate for protection. The findings underscore the need for balanced approaches in managing China's iconic World Heritage Site to reconcile commercial interests with conservation goals.
Changdeokgung Palace Complex
—
2017 —
WHEB0A43A620F
Storytelling significantly enhances user immersion and engagement with video data in augmented reality (AR) environments at cultural heritage sites, according to research conducted at Changdeokgung Palace Complex. The study demonstrated that a themed narrative approach, which connects points of interest (PoIs) in a fixed order through embedded video data, outperforms traditional search-based AR experiences in providing meaningful guidance and deeper user engagement. This innovative method leverages multimedia databases indexed with a specialized metadata schema designed for AR applications, offering a more cohesive and immersive experience for visitors.
Great Barrier Reef
—
2017 —
WHE84C410B38B
Around 100 reefs, or approximately 3% of the Great Barrier Reef (GBR), exhibit unique properties that enhance systemic resilience and recovery following disturbances such as cyclones, coral bleaching, and crown-of-thorns starfish outbreaks. These 'robust source reefs' are highly connected by ocean currents, experience lower disturbance risks, and promote the recovery of desirable species while minimizing COTS spread. A single dispersal event from these reefs can replenish up to 47% of the ecosystem, highlighting a natural resilience mechanism driven by oceanographic conditions and geographic location. This finding underscores the potential for similar processes in other reef systems, offering hope as climate change increases disturbance frequency.
Tchogha Zanbil
—
2017 —
WHEC03EBD7308
A significant finding from this study is that Iran's adobe architectural heritage, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Bam Citadel and Tchogha Zanbil, faces severe threats from seismic activity and urban development. The research highlights the vulnerability of these structures to earthquakes, as demonstrated by the devastating 2003 Bam earthquake, which caused extensive damage to one of the world's largest adobe complexes. The study critically assesses current conservation strategies in Iran, identifying deficiencies that exacerbate the risk of further deterioration. It proposes technical solutions and policy recommendations based on international best practices to safeguard these cultural treasures from future seismic events, aiming to preserve their social, historical, and economic value.
Old Town of Lijiang
—
2017 —
WHE310D2E1252
Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in China, faces significant challenges balancing tourism-driven development with heritage conservation. While rapid tourism growth has been a crucial economic driver for poverty-stricken regions, it has also threatened the site's 'outstanding universal value.' Since 2002, Lijiang has implemented policies to protect its authenticity and integrity while improving local living conditions and ensuring community benefits. This study analyzes these interventions through data analysis, field investigations, and surveys, offering insights into sustainable heritage management for human-inhabited World Heritage Sites in developing countries.
Galápagos Islands
—
2017 —
WHEAFC929DDF6
A comprehensive survey of landbirds on Floreana, the smallest inhabited island in the Galápagos, reveals alarming declines and extirpations among its avian species. Of the 22 originally occurring landbirds, at least 10 have been lost or likely extirpated since human settlement, primarily due to introduced mammals, habitat destruction, and direct persecution in the 19th century, as well as the parasitic fly <em>Philornis downsi</em> since 1960. While some species like Small Ground-Finches and Small Tree-Finches maintain stable populations comparable to other Galápagos islands, others such as Medium Tree-Finches are confined to a mere 24 km² in the highlands. The study underscores the urgent need for strategies to mitigate the impact of <em>P. downsi</em>, alongside habitat management and restoration, to preserve Floreana's remaining landbird populations.
Vilnius Historic Centre
—
2017 —
WHE718F642A92
Research on the Old Town of Vilnius reveals that reconstruction and renovation activities generate significant chemical and biological pollution, posing potential hazards to human health and the environment. The study identified Aspergillus spp., Penicillium spp., and Fusarium spp. as dominant fungal genera in building wastes collected during 2012–2014. Scanning electron microscopy, Fourier Transform InfraRed spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction analysis were employed to characterize the mycobiota's morphology and chemical composition. Notably, the mycobiota composition varied significantly across different construction materials, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to mitigate health risks during urban conservation efforts.
Lake Baikal
—
2017 —
WHE29D8F1D1C5
A significant portion of dissolved silicon (DSi) entering Lake Baikal, the world's oldest and deepest lake, is exported into its sediment record, accounting for 20–24% of total input. This finding highlights the role lakes play in sequestering continental DSi, which has implications for understanding nutrient fluxes to the ocean and the interplay between silicon and carbon cycles. The study used silicon isotope data (δ30SiDSi) from Lake Baikal and its catchment, revealing no seasonal or anthropogenic impact on riverine δ30SiDSi composition. Spatial variations in spring bloom nutrient utilization were also observed, with lower rates in the northern basin compared to the southern basin. The research employed an open system model to estimate DSi export and examined seasonal and spatial variations across the lake.
Archaeological Site of Troy
—
2017 —
WHE78652FCCF4
Neo-relics, modern constructions designed to mimic ancient structures or sites such as Troy, are not merely seen as threats to authorized heritage discourse but are instead valued by ordinary people for their meanings and functions. This study challenges the conventional view by demonstrating that neo-relics serve as novel ways for individuals to engage with the past through personal involvement, localness, and storytelling. By applying Cornelius Holtorf's concept of 'pastness,' which emphasizes age-value over actual age, researchers highlight how these structures enhance a sense of connection to history. The findings suggest that embracing neo-relics could redefine public interaction with archaeological heritage, offering a dynamic approach to experiencing the past.
Timbuktu
—
2017 —
WHEE87A769F54
Timbuktu's manuscript collections face significant challenges in preservation and access, reflecting broader issues in special collections management. The study highlights the need for libraries to adapt to contemporary librarianship trends, such as inclusion and civil growth, while addressing the unique demands of special collections. It examines ongoing projects in Mali, focusing on activities and organizational structures that balance access with scholarly needs. This case study offers insights into the evolving role of special collections within the changing landscape of library missions, emphasizing the importance of adapting to new requirements while preserving cultural heritage.
Vatican City
—
2017 —
WHE1AFEB68C36
The Vatican's unique international identity, shaped by its religious authority and transnational political influence, challenges traditional state-centric models of diplomacy. This study reveals that the Holy See leverages its status as a non-territorial entity under the Lateran Treaty to engage in frequent diplomatic activities, maintaining its core interests while advocating for global Catholic unity. By constructing a dual identity—balancing secular leadership with universal spiritual authority—the Vatican navigates globalization effectively. However, this approach differs from contemporary state strategies, highlighting its distinct role in international relations.
Acropolis, Athens
—
2017 —
WHE069AA0B00D
The entrance area of the Athenian Acropolis functioned as a deliberate space for dissent and unity during Athens' democratic rise, challenging the invisibility of such public protest spaces. Jessica Paga's study reveals that this area was consciously elaborated to serve as a site of social and political expression in late sixth and early fifth centuries BCE. By analyzing archaeological records and historical context, Paga demonstrates how this contested space contributed to the propagation and success of democracy in ancient Athens.
Costiera Amalfitana
—
2017 —
WHECA1041B83A
A context-aware computing approach enhances the touristic experience by dynamically adapting itineraries and services to individual user needs, leveraging the Internet of Things (IoT) paradigm. This study demonstrates that personalized content delivery improves engagement on the Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Southern Italy. The research introduces an adaptive system capable of tracking contextual changes—such as user preferences or environmental factors—to tailor real-time recommendations. Experimental validation confirms the effectiveness of this method in optimizing travel experiences, offering a scalable model for other heritage sites.
Quebrada de Humahuaca
—
2017 —
WHE9D6F02036E
Recent research in the central sector of Quebrada de Humahuaca, Jujuy, Argentina, reveals that the Inca Empire established a new and strategic road network, the Qhapaq Ñan, to integrate and control territories. This system connected key sites such as tambos (rest stops), administrative centers, agricultural fields, and high-altitude sanctuaries, demonstrating the Incas' ability to adapt local religious practices into their state cult while reshaping the landscape. The findings suggest that this road network was part of a flexible policy aimed at territorial expansion through cultural assimilation.
Galápagos Islands
—
2017 —
WHE7295E20E58
In the Galápagos Islands, small non-finch passerine birds emerge as the most effective seed dispersers when considering both the quantity of seeds dispersed and their impact on seedling emergence. This study, which analyzed 16 vertebrate species dispersing 58 plant species across lowland and highland habitats, found contrasting patterns based on seed occurrence in droppings versus actual seed dispersal per unit area. While giant tortoises and medium-sized passerines were prominent in seed occurrence data, small non-finch passerines led in effective dispersal, followed by finches and medium-sized passerines. Gut passage effects varied significantly between dispersers and plant species, with medium-sized passerines like mockingbirds often outperforming lava lizards. The research highlights that quantitative measures of seed dispersal are stronger predictors of seed dispersal effectiveness (SDE) in the Galápagos archipelago.
Lakes of Ounianga
—
2017 —
WHE136E8673D9
A groundbreaking study of the Ounianga Lakes in Chad reveals significant variations in bathymetry and water physio-chemistry, contributing to our understanding of these unique ecosystems. The research found that Lake Yoan reaches depths of up to 27 meters, while Lake Teli is shallower with a maximum depth of 5.7 meters. Water temperatures in Teli Lake ranged from 20.8°C to 36°C, whereas Lake Yoan exhibited a broader range from 10.5°C to 32.9°C. Conductivity values also varied dramatically, with Teli Lake showing measurements between 69 and 111,700 μS/cm, and Lake Yoan ranging from 100 to 64,000 μS/cm. The study employed advanced bathymetric surveys and in situ physicochemical analyses, providing a comprehensive characterization of these lakes. This research not only advances our knowledge of continental hydrology but also highlights the ecological diversity within the Ounianga Lakes, which are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Valley: originary habitat of Mesoamerica
—
2017 —
WHE8720DFE978
A comprehensive floristic inventory of the Sierra Mazateca, Oaxaca, Mexico, reveals 648 vascular plant species across 136 families and 389 genera, highlighting its rich biodiversity. Dominant angiosperm families include Asteraceae, Orchidaceae, Rubiaceae, Melastomataceae, and Piperaceae, with Polypodiaceae as the most diverse fern family. Conducted between 1999 and 2002 in highland cloud forests (1,000–2,750 m), this study documents flora in varying successional stages due to land-use changes, contributing critical data for conservation efforts in this UNESCO World Heritage Site's originary habitat of Mesoamerica.
Vatican City
—
2017 —
WHED7CB2F1465
A pioneering study of the bryophyte flora at the Pontifical Villas of Castel Gandolfo, Vatican City State, reveals 87 species, including one liverwort and six mosses new to Lazio Region. Among these, Zygodon forsteri—a European Vulnerable epiphyte—was identified, alongside other rare Italian species like Anthocerosagrestis. The research also analyzed life-forms in relation to the territory's ecological and climatic traits, contributing critical data for potential updates to the European and Mediterranean Red Lists of Bryophytes. This marks the first bryological exploration of a largely unstudied Vatican City State site.
Borobudur Temple Compounds
—
2017 —
WHE0E139A7974
Vendors at Borobudur Temple, despite lacking formal English education, effectively communicate with foreign tourists using Grice's cooperative principle maxims of quality and relation. This study reveals that vendors rely on simple sentences to sell products, avoiding maxims of quantity and manner due to limited vocabulary. The research employed qualitative ethnomethodology, including interviews, observations, and conversation recordings, to explore how vendors learn English in their community and the linguistic strategies they employ. Key findings highlight the vendors' ability to adapt communication without formal schooling, offering insights into informal language acquisition and cross-cultural interaction at a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Kaziranga National Park
—
2017 —
WHECE3D72090F
Researchers have identified coprophilous fungi, particularly Sporormiella, Saccobolus, Ascodesmis, Cercophora, and Sordaria, in the dung of the greater one-horned rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) within Kaziranga National Park, India. This discovery marks the first documentation of these fungi in rhino dung across both forest and grassland habitats. The Sporormiella–Ascodesmis–Saccobolus assemblage is notably abundant, providing insights into the ecological relationships between rhinoceroses, flora, and other fauna. By analyzing fungal spore distribution, the study offers a novel approach to reconstructing past herbivory patterns (paleoherbivory) and ecosystem dynamics (paleoecology), with implications for understanding historical animal distributions in India and surrounding regions.
Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island
—
2017 —
WHE95E26EA7F8
Amitori Bay, Iriomote Island, maintains its coral populations primarily through local recruitment, with most larvae traveling less than 400 meters and a maximum distance of 5.5 km. The study found that the recruitment of dominant coral species, such as Acroporidae, was positively correlated with nearby coral community abundance. By analyzing settlement plate data and combining it with numerical models for seawater flow and particle tracking, researchers determined that larvae supply comes mainly from the bay's immediate surroundings, suggesting self-sustaining coral populations within Amitori Bay.
Dougga / Thugga
—
2017 —
WHE41F7204740
This interdisciplinary study reveals how ritual spaces in ancient Mediterranean cultures, particularly under Roman influence, evolved through the integration of bodily practices, ideological frameworks, and symbolic representations. Focusing on Dougga (Thugga) in Roman Africa, it demonstrates that 'romanization' transformed indigenous cultic landscapes, as seen in the Thinissut sanctuary and other sacred sites. The research employs epigraphic and archaeological evidence to analyze shifts in spatial organization, monumentalization of worship areas, and the embedding of polytheistic beliefs within Romanized contexts. By bridging religious history, anthropology, and archaeology, it offers a nuanced understanding of how cultural encounters reshaped ritual perceptions across civilizations.
Mantua and Sabbioneta
—
2017 —
WHE2071B369B0
Knowledge-based festivals, such as Italy's Festivaletteratura in Mantua, serve as dynamic hubs for knowledge creation and spillovers, extending their impact beyond the event itself. By leveraging a dual network structure—comprising local cultural organizations, firms, volunteers, and civic groups alongside an international creative community—the festival fosters innovation and attention. This study shifts focus from viewing festivals as transient events to recognizing them as permanent, regionally embedded knowledge generators. The research employs qualitative analysis to explore these networks' roles in disseminating knowledge, highlighting the festival's potential to drive cultural and economic development within UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
City of Valletta
—
2017 —
WHE4C6B54CE1F
A creative cluster approach has shown potential for urban regeneration in Valletta, Malta, particularly along Strait Street. This study identifies key strengths and weaknesses in the strategy by analyzing policy documents and material constructs within a 'system-wide' framework. The research reveals that while the creative city model can foster cultural politics and development narratives, it also faces challenges rooted in the neighborhood's historically contentious background. By scrutinizing discursive and material elements, the study highlights the importance of understanding specificities to effectively implement regeneration strategies.
Minoan Palatial Centres
—
2017 —
WHE6D542697DB
The Late Minoan II period (c. 1470–1420 BC) at Knossos marked a transformative phase in Aegean Bronze Age history, serving as the foundational experiment for Mycenaean palatial administration. This study reveals that Mycenaeans, upon gaining control of Knossos—previously an unmatched administrative center—adapted to ruling a complex palatial system, a novel experience for them. This period, often overshadowed by later Mycenaean dominance, provided the blueprint for mainland palaces that would shape Aegean politics for centuries. The research contextualizes the rise of Late Helladic III culture within this critical transition, emphasizing Knossos as a pivotal site in Mycenaean history rather than merely a Minoan legacy.
Old City of Acre
—
2017 —
WHE146EF08829
Crusader Acre's thirteenth-century urban layout and topography can be reconstructed with unprecedented clarity, thanks to abundant contemporary sources and surviving fourteenth-century maps. The study reveals significant continuity from the Arab period but also identifies pronounced changes post-1191, particularly after Saladin's conquest. The term 'ruga,' central to Crusader-era city descriptions, is critically analyzed for accurate topographical interpretation. This reconstruction leverages a wealth of ecclesiastical and lay building records, providing a nuanced understanding of Acre's urban evolution during the Crusades.
Tongariro National Park
—
2017 —
WHE0F92DFF490
Research at the Tongariro graben, New Zealand, reveals that tectonic faulting dominates crustal extension over magma intrusion in this young continental rift. The study quantifies geological extension at 7 ± 1.2 mm/yr since 20 ka, with 78%–95% (5.8–7.0 mm/yr) attributed to tectonic activity and only 5%–22% (0.4–1.6 mm/yr) linked to dike intrusions, including volcanic eruptions and deep arrested dikes. Field observations and theoretical fault dislocation modeling were used to distinguish between tectonic and volcano-tectonic faults. These findings refine seismic and volcanic hazard assessments for the region and provide insights into volcano-tectonic interactions in similar continental rifts worldwide.
Aldabra Atoll
—
2017 —
WHED6CE8588AD
Research on Ligia isopods at Aldabra Atoll and the Seychelles archipelago reveals the presence of highly divergent lineages, suggesting at least three novel species within this group. These findings indicate cryptic biodiversity and independent origins, challenging previous assumptions about species diversity in coastal invertebrates. The study employed mitochondrial and nuclear markers to analyze genetic diversity across inner and outer islands, uncovering distinct lineages closely related to known species complexes such as Ligia vitiensis and Ligia dentipes. This discovery highlights the potential for undocumented speciation events in Seychellois organisms, contributing to our understanding of phylogeographic patterns in highly biodiverse regions.
Taos Pueblo
—
2017 —
WHE1A6D9C8D22
Local food systems at Taos Pueblo foster positive farming ideologies that reciprocally strengthen native identity and heritage preservation. A three-month ethnographic study involving 16 interviews and participant observation revealed how youth-led agricultural movements reinforce cultural pride, suggesting these systems could mitigate language loss and cultural erosion. The findings highlight a covert but significant link between food sovereignty and indigenous identity, offering potential strategies for community development and future quantitative research.
Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park with the Archeological Sites of Paestum and Velia, and the Certosa di Padula
—
2017 —
WHE43C6BE55CC
A Spatial Information System (SIS) integrating Close Range Photogrammetry (CRP) and other advanced survey technologies demonstrates significant potential for enhancing the documentation, monitoring, maintenance, and conservation of cultural heritage sites. The study highlights how SIS can efficiently manage diverse data types, including raster imagery, 3D point clouds, and vector data, while connecting spatial elements to attribute tables. A case study at Paestum's 'Porta Sirena' archaeological site illustrates the practical efficiency of this approach, showcasing its utility for heritage documentation in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastra
—
2017 —
WHEA032473E69
A multidisciplinary approach to architectural research, particularly for UNESCO World Heritage Sites, can effectively engage students and foster comprehensive understanding. The study highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in architecture education, as demonstrated by a course module at TU Wien focusing on the Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastra in Albania. This module encouraged students to develop their own research projects, integrating various disciplines to analyze architectural identity. The research approach taught in this module emphasizes holistic analysis, combining theoretical knowledge with practical application, thereby enhancing students' interest and capability in conducting independent research.
Lake Baikal
—
2017 —
WHE5491A566A9
Lake Baikal's pelagic zone maintains stable ionic composition, with favorable conditions for hydrobiont growth, while its littoral areas face localized pollution near settlements and tourist hotspots. A study conducted between 2010 and 2015 analyzed water samples across eight expeditions, revealing consistent major ion concentrations, nutrients, dissolved oxygen, and low levels of persistent organic pollutants and heavy metals in the pelagic zone. However, eutrophication and pollution near urban areas like Listvyanka, Severobaikalsk, Baikalsk, and Slyudyanka were attributed to inadequate sewage treatment, tourism, and ship traffic. The research highlights the need for ongoing monitoring to address littoral zone degradation.
Hoi An Ancient Town
—
2017 —
WHEBB10A3741B
Termite infestations pose significant threats to Hoi An Ancient Town, with Coptotermes gestroi identified as the most destructive species. A study of 178 buildings revealed that 4 species—C. gestroi, C. formosanus, C. ceylonicus, and Cryptotermes domesticus—were primary pests, affecting 57% of structures. Treatment with BDM10 bait proved highly effective, achieving 100% control across all treated buildings: 78% required only one application, while 20% needed a second treatment, and just 2.5% demanded a third due to severe damage. This research underscores the potential of targeted bait-based interventions for preserving heritage structures in termite-prone regions.
Curonian Spit
—
2017 —
WHE25D4FF9F1D
A unique cytogenetic study of eight dragonfly species from the Curonian Spit reveals that most share a conserved karyotype (2n = 25) with minor variations. Notably, Sympetrum vulgatum shows clear telomeric signals using FISH with the (TTAGG)n probe, suggesting the presence of canonical insect telomeric repeats despite their low copy number in this ancient order. The research employed C-banding and FISH techniques to map 18S rDNA clusters on autosomes while also investigating telomere organization. This finding challenges previous assumptions about Odonata telomere structure and underscores the need for further phylogenetic studies.
Taï National Park
—
2017 —
WHE4AB106A862
Researchers identified six novel cytomegaloviruses (CMVs) in wild nonhuman primates from Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire, with no evidence of cross-species transmission. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that CMVs in this region are strictly host-specific, despite intensified sampling. The study suggests long-term co-divergence between CMVs and their hosts, though other evolutionary processes like lineage duplication may also play a role. Investigators used PCR targeting betaherpesviruses to detect CMV DNA in 17 of 87 primates across seven species, including sooty mangabeys, Campbell's monkeys, and Diana monkeys.
Beaches of the D-Day Landings, Normandy, 1944
—
2017 —
WHE73492730C9
The Normandy landings of June 1944, pivotal to World War II's outcome and the shaping of modern geopolitical and economic landscapes, are analyzed through a comprehensive lens in this edited reference book. It reveals the immense logistical challenges faced by Allied forces—supplying tens of thousands of troops and vast amounts of equipment across beaches while dealing with mislandings, decimated command structures, and adverse weather conditions—that complicated pre-invasion planning. The work also dissects the elaborate Allied deception strategies, their execution, and their impact on battlefield dynamics. Through nine primary documents, including invasion plans and operational directives, it provides a detailed account of the battle's complexities, technical innovations, and human cost, offering new insights into the factors that determined its eventual success.
