Brazilian Atlantic Islands: Fernando de Noronha and Atol das Rocas Reserves
—
2017 —
WHEB829C04D98
Spinner dolphins in Baía dos Golfinhos, Fernando de Noronha Marine National Park, exhibit distinct daily and seasonal patterns in aerial activities such as leaps, spins, and body slaps. The study found that the frequency of these behaviors increases with the number of dolphins present and peaks during the rainy season compared to the dry season. Notably, aerial activity is most pronounced from 8:00 a.m. to 8:59 a.m., regardless of seasonal variations. Researchers analyzed over 113,027 aerial events recorded across five years (2006–2010) using land-based observations, providing insights into the behavioral ecology of these marine mammals in a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Ajanta Caves
—
2017 —
WHE4C1EA3B04D
A key insight from Walter Spink's study on the Ajanta Caves and their connection to Bagh reveals the pivotal role of Bagh in the evolution of Buddhist shrines, particularly in transitioning from aniconic to iconic worship forms. The research delves into the relationships between specific caves and solstices, as well as advancements in technology, especially concerning door fittings in monks' cells. By analyzing these elements, Spink provides a nuanced understanding of the historical development and significance of these UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Speyer Cathedral
—
2017 —
WHE3DCFF24DD0
Cathedral chapters remain pivotal in the governance and tradition of the Catholic Church, with their legal frameworks continuing to evolve. This study reveals that while the 1983 Code of Canon Law (CIC/1983) provides a universal foundation, its implementation varies significantly across Bavarian dioceses. By comparing the statutes of cathedral chapters in Munich, Augsburg, Passau, Regensburg, Bamberg, Eichstätt, Speyer, and Würzburg, the research highlights distinct self-understandings, practices, and differences among these institutions. The analysis underscores the need for future statutory developments to address these variations while preserving the chapters' unique identities. The study also provides a rare glimpse into unpublished statute texts from 2014, offering a basis for further legal and historical inquiry.
Derwent Valley Mills
—
2017 —
WHE6BC021A6A5
The Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site Research Framework, edited by David Knight, provides a comprehensive approach to understanding the significance of this UNESCO-listed area. It identifies key research priorities that focus on the industrial heritage, technological innovation, and cultural landscape of the 18th- and 19th-century mills along the River Derwent in England. The framework integrates historical analysis with archaeological and environmental studies to uncover the site's role in the Industrial Revolution. By synthesizing existing knowledge and outlining future research directions, it aims to deepen the understanding of how these mills contributed to industrial development while preserving their legacy for future generations.
Anjar
—
2017 —
WHE177B4CEC85
A comparative analysis of ancient capitals from Baalbek and Anjar, two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, reveals distinct stylistic and craftsmanship patterns that reflect their historical and cultural contexts. The study identifies key differences in architectural ornamentation, particularly in the treatment of Corinthian capitals, which suggest varying influences and regional adaptations during the 8th century AD. By examining surviving fragments and employing archaeological and art-historical methods, the research sheds light on the craftsmanship techniques and symbolic meanings embedded in these structures. This work contributes to a deeper understanding of the artistic exchange between the Roman and Islamic worlds during the transition period.
Coffee Cultural Landscape of Colombia
—
2017 —
WHE223B58C95E
The transition from encomiendas (land grants) to haciendas (estates) in the 19th century shaped the cultural landscape and economic foundation of Viotá, Cundinamarca, Colombia. This study reveals how these coffee plantations became pivotal in consolidating territorial order, driving regional economic growth, and attracting population migration. The research traces this historical evolution through an analysis of the paisaje cultural (cultural landscape) of Viotá, highlighting its role as a key driver of municipal development. Methodologically, it combines archival records with spatial analysis to demonstrate how encomiendas were repurposed into specialized coffee haciendas, solidifying their legacy in Colombia's UNESCO-listed Coffee Cultural Landscape.
The Causses and the Cévennes, Mediterranean agro-pastoral Cultural Landscape
—
2017 —
WHEBEDCE5731B
A shift in settlement patterns is observed between the Late Bronze Age IIIa and the early Iron Age in the Garrigues of eastern Languedoc and the Cévennes, with a transition from elevated terraced habitats to more accessible and varied high-ground sites. Initially, during the Bronze final IIIa, settlements were confined to suspended terraces on rugged terrains, but by the Bronze final IIIb, they expanded to include less steep terraces, plateau edges, rocky promontories, and isolated hills, often supplemented with natural fortifications or additional stone structures. While remnants of post-and-wattle dwellings persist, more substantial stone enclosures became common during the early Iron Age, with monumental fortifications emerging only in the second Iron Age. This study highlights the evolving strategies for habitation and defense in this UNESCO World Heritage landscape.
Chaîne des Puys - Limagne fault tectonic arena
—
2017 —
WHE7F7DC649A9
A comprehensive study of the Chaîne des Puys - Limagne fault tectonic arena in central France has identified 81 distinct vegetation units, including 60 series and 21 geoseries, through an integrative analytical approach. This research, part of the CarHAB program, utilized a dynamico-caténale method to model current and potential vegetation across diverse habitats, integrating phytosociological data, ecological variables, and landscape dynamics. The study also developed predictive models for climate change impacts on vegetation series, using Ellenberg bio-indicator values to assess naturality and anthropization levels. Three detailed vegetation maps were produced, including a hypothetical scenario under future climate conditions, providing critical insights for conservation strategies in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Samarra Archaeological City
—
2017 —
WHEC4713BA69A
A re-examination of the famous frescoes from the Gausaq Haqani palace in Samarra challenges earlier interpretations, particularly those by Ernst Herzfeld. The study suggests that the Kufic inscriptions on the so-called 'Picture-columns' are not necessarily artists' signatures but may relate to the content or function of the paintings. This finding complicates the understanding of attribution and authorship in early Islamic art. The research relies on close analysis of the architectural context, iconography, and inscriptions within the palace's harem-court, offering new insights into the symbolic and social dimensions of these ninth-century depictions.
Chitwan National Park
—
2017 —
WHE84095F0CD4
Researchers document the rare death feigning behavior of the Burmese python (<em>Python bivittatus</em>) within Chitwan National Park, Nepal. This is the first reported instance of such behavior in the species from its natural range and highlights a conflict-prone zone where human-python interactions are common. The observation suggests potential for outreach to educate local populations about the behavior, which may help protect pythons from perceived threats. The study contributes valuable insights into the behavioral repertoire of Burmese pythons, particularly in regions where conservation efforts are critical.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh
—
2017 —
WHE64635E39AD
A major epidemic of silicosis and tuberculosis among stonemasons during the construction of Edinburgh's New Town (18th to 19th centuries) is confirmed by historical records and a preserved lung specimen, revealing the deadly impact of high-quartz Craigleith sandstone. The study highlights how prolonged exposure to dusty stonework in unventilated conditions, combined with misplaced employer assurances post-quarry closure, led to widespread illness. Despite awareness of risks, preventive measures were negligible, and this tragic episode remains largely forgotten. The findings underscore the enduring threat of silicosis to stonemasons today, emphasizing the need to learn from historical failures.
Pre-Hispanic City of Chichen-Itza
—
2017 —
WHE23B8840B41
A new chronology for Chichen Itza challenges recent scholarly consensus, proposing that the 'Toltec' or Modified Florescent occupation occurred between 950 and 1150 AD, contrary to the previously favored date of 800/850–1000/1050 AD. This study critiques ceramic, radiocarbon, and stratigraphic evidence, arguing that current data supports a tenth-century florescence for Chichen Itza, with no absolute dates or evidence for monumental construction beyond this period. The research rejects proposals of a hiatus at the onset of the Modified Florescent period, instead advocating for a model of continued development of Toltec ideas from the late ninth century onward.
Kakadu National Park
—
2017 —
WHEF3A61AD398
A significant decline in the mammal assemblage of Kakadu National Park's rugged sandstone environment (Nawurlandja) was documented between 1977 and 2002, with notable reductions in trap success rates for three native species: northern quoll, Arnhem rock-rat, and all combined. The Arnhem rock-rat, once commonly recorded, disappeared entirely by the final sampling in 2002, while northern quoll numbers dropped by approximately 90%. In contrast, the common rock-rat showed an increase in trap success rates. The study, conducted before the arrival of invasive cane toads, suggests that increased fire frequency may have contributed to these declines. This research highlights the vulnerability of small mammal populations in rugged landscapes to environmental changes.
Göbekli Tepe
—
2017 —
WHEB94D6FF63D
Archaeoastronomical analysis of Göbekli Tepe reveals that the 'Vulture Stone' may serve as a date stamp for 10950 BC ± 250 years, aligning closely with the proposed Younger Dryas event (10890 BC). The study matches low-relief carvings on pillars to star asterisms and meteor showers, suggesting Göbekli Tepe functioned as an observatory for tracking cometary encounters, particularly the Taurid meteor stream. This finding proposes a direct link between Göbekli Tepe and the Younger Dryas event, potentially supporting the theory of coherent catastrophism.
Ancient Jericho/Tell es-Sultan
—
2017 —
WHE592AD5D79F
A decolonial uprising against petrocracy, the intertwined rule of fossil fuels and monotheism, is explored through an anarchaeological, visual, and discourse analysis of excavations at Tell-es-Sultan, a site linked to biblical Jericho. The study compares present-day conditions in the Palestinian refugee camp 'Ein-as-Sultan with Kathleen Kenyon's 1952–1958 excavations, challenging conventional narratives around the site's geological and geopolitical significance. It reveals how displacement, drought, and counterinsurgency create non-continuous spaces of global displacement, exemplified by Detroit's role as a symbol for these fragmented landscapes.
Western Caucasus
—
2017 —
WHE7175DC2AA4
New geophysical data confirms the sinking of the southern microplate into the mantle along the Adygei profile in the western Central Caucasus, revealing deep structural insights. This study integrates converted waves from distant earthquakes, magnetotelluric sounding, and gravimagnetic surveys to map crustal sections with unprecedented uniformity. The findings support a model where the contemporary Alpine structure of the Greater Caucasus formed through gentle northward thrusting of the Scythian Plate over the consolidated southern microplate's crust. This research enhances understanding of tectonic processes shaping the region.
Natural System of Wrangel Island Reserve
—
2017 —
WHE2435B81D90
Wrangel Island, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, represents a crustal-scale extensional boudin rather than a continuation of Alaska's Brookian thrust belt. The study reveals that deformation on Wrangel Island occurred during post-shortening north–south extension, not fold-thrust belt activity, based on shared thermal histories with Chukotka. Research used deformational analysis, thermochronology (U-Pb zircon, 40Ar/39Ar biotite, apatite fission track), and seismic data to determine that deformation occurred at greenschist facies (300–450°C) during the Triassic or earlier, with cooling to near-surface conditions by ~95 Ma. The findings challenge previous assumptions about the geological evolution of the region.
Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalú and Monreale
—
2017 —
WHE5C5BC96009
A novel reinterpretation of Norman royal portraits from the Kingdom of Sicily (1130–1189) challenges traditional views on medieval monarchic iconography, revealing that these images served not only political propaganda but also devotional and liturgical functions. By analyzing three key scenes—St. Nicholas blessing Roger II in Bari, Christ crowning Roger II in Palermo, and Christ crowning William II in Monreale—the study integrates iconographic analysis with historical evidence to demonstrate how royal portraiture was part of a broader communicative strategy. This approach moves beyond isolated art-historical interpretation, offering fresh perspectives on the intersection of political ideology, sacral kingship, and religious practice in medieval Sicily.
Jesuit Missions of the Chiquitos
—
2017 —
WHE951069EA6D
Despite widespread demographic decline and out-migration during the colonial period, Jesuit mission settlements in Spanish Latin America demonstrated remarkable resilience. A comparative study of the Guaraní missions (Paraguay/Río de la Plata) and Chiquitos missions (eastern Bolivia) reveals that these communities persisted through the 18th century, with descendants still inhabiting former mission sites today. The research traces demographic trajectories from the 17th to early 19th centuries, challenging narratives of mission settlements as either utopian refuges or oppressive institutions. By extending analysis beyond the 1767 suppression of the Jesuits, the study highlights long-term survival and cultural persistence in the face of colonial pressures.
Archaeological Area of Agrigento
—
2017 —
WHE247E795E87
A critical reappraisal of demolition in urban regeneration, particularly within UNESCO World Heritage Sites, reveals its potential as a 'curative' tool for restoring degraded areas. The study challenges conventional perceptions by framing demolition not as an irreparable act but as a strategic component of urban renewal, capable of removing obsolete structures while preserving cultural identity. It emphasizes the importance of targeted, context-sensitive interventions that balance destruction with reconstruction, fostering emotional and figurative value in the process. This approach is exemplified in the Valle dei Templi di Agrigento, where demolition serves to replace aging or illegal constructions with innovative designs, aligning with broader goals of sustainable urban regeneration.
Central Highlands of Sri Lanka
—
2017 —
WHE29B59E4CEF
Researchers have determined that the density of leopards (<em>Panthera pardus kotiya</em>) in Horton Plains National Park, Sri Lanka, is approximately 11.7 adult individuals per 100 km², marking the first robust estimate for this species in Sri Lanka's montane zone. This finding provides critical baseline data for managing the endangered, endemic Sri Lankan leopard population. The study employed remote cameras within a spatially explicit capture-recapture framework to estimate leopard density and distance sampling to assess prey availability. Notably, sambar density was found to be 178 individuals per km² in central grasslands, highlighting these areas as key resources for both sambar and leopards.
Anjar
—
2017 —
WHEFF20FEEDDB
A study of the Anjar area, Kachchh district, India, reveals that intertrappean and intratrappean beds associated with Deccan volcanics were deposited under shallow marine or ocean-connected lacustrine conditions, contradicting earlier suggestions of a freshwater environment. Foraminiferal assemblages, including Rotalia, Elphidium, Quinqueloculina, and Nonion species, along with siliciclastic grains and bioclasts, indicate shallow water deposition. Notably, the presence of planktic foraminifera (Pseudogloborotalia ranikotensis and Globigerina triloculinoides) in intertrappean bed L-3 suggests higher water depths during deposition. The research documents a transition from non-marine to marine and back to non-marine environments, implying phases of marine transgression followed by regression.
Gros Morne National Park
—
2017 —
WHE68733AE815
A groundbreaking study identifies distinct brachiopod assemblages in the lower Cambrian Forteau Formation, revealing depth-related distributional patterns of these ancient marine organisms. The research distinguishes three assemblages: two shallow-water groups associated with archaeocyathans and one deeper-water assemblage from Gros Morne National Park. These assemblages define two biozones and provide the first analysis of environmental constraints shaping brachiopod distribution in eastern Laurentia's lower Cambrian succession. Notably, specific taxa like Botsfordia caelata thrive in shallow environments, while Eoobolus priscus and Eothele tubulus dominate deeper settings. The study also introduces a new brachiopod species, Kyrshabaktella diabola n., offering insights into palaeodepth indicators and expanding our understanding of Cambrian palaeoenvironments.
Luther Memorials in Eisleben and Wittenberg
—
2017 —
WHE044B0E4600
A comprehensive analysis of the commemoration and memorialization surrounding Martin Luther and the Reformation's 500th anniversary reveals the complex interplay between historical interpretation and political appropriation. The study, led by Heinz Schilling, deconstructs layers of myth and misinterpretation to contextualize Luther's thoughts and actions within their original historical context. It examines the effects of the Reformation on Germany, explores Luther's views on Judaism and Islam, and investigates the reception of his ideas in constitutional development. Additionally, it assesses the impact of Nazi-era commemorations and post-war celebrations on the perception of the Reformation. The research employs a combination of historical analysis, micro-historical approaches, and systematic theology to bridge the gap between academic interpretation and political commemoration.
Hanseatic City of Lübeck
—
2017 —
WHE27082D3B3C
A previously unknown letter from Lübeck to Reval, dated 1571 and preserved in the Tallinn City Archives, reveals the city's strategic efforts to preserve and expand Hanseatic League privileges in Russia and Livonia. The document outlines a program aimed at maintaining old markets while simultaneously seeking to centralize lucrative Euro-Russian trade under Hanseatic control, particularly through Russian cities. This shift would have bolstered Lübeck's economic and political influence during a period of decline for the Hanseatic League. The letter also highlights Lübeck's intent to leverage Reval's mediation in upcoming Russian–Swedish negotiations to achieve these goals.
Niokolo-Koba National Park
—
2017 —
WHE081EB3A712
A new monogenean species, Afrogyrodactylus ardae, has been discovered from the African tetra, Rhabdalestes septentrionalis, in the Niokolo-Koba National Park and Gambie River, Senegal. This finding represents a novel host record for the genus Afrogyrodactylus and distinguishes itself from three known species through its smaller opisthaptoral hard parts and unique sickle-shaped marginal hooks. The study, conducted during 2008, provides critical insights into the diversity of monogeneans in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, contributing to our understanding of parasitic relationships in aquatic ecosystems.
iSimangaliso Wetland Park – Maputo National Park
—
2017 —
WHE0EE864B6D6
Researchers have identified a new species of beetle, Lamellothyrea isimangaliso, within the genus Lamellothyrea Krikken, 1980, found exclusively in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. This discovery resolves previous taxonomic ambiguity surrounding L. descarpentriesi, revealing two distinct species separated by a significant geographical gap in southern Mozambique. The new species is characterized by unique clypeal structure, dorsal tomentum patterns, and aedeagal paramere shape, with its distribution restricted to dune forest habitats along the coastal belt. Adult activity of L. isimangaliso exhibits seasonal peaks tied to rainfall, occurring at the onset of summer and in autumn. The study leverages recent field data from northern KwaZulu-Natal and Maputo Bay, Mozambique, to clarify species boundaries through morphological analysis.
Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island
—
2017 —
WHE83A4E2764C
Scientists have discovered a new species of annelid worm, <em>Mastobranchus uru</em>, from the tidal flats of Iriomote Island, part of Japan's Okinawa region. This species is distinguished by its unique arrangement of capillary chaetae and hook teeth, setting it apart from its three known relatives. The research utilized genetic analysis, specifically barcoding a segment of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene, to confirm the worm's novel status. This finding contributes to our understanding of biodiversity in UNESCO World Heritage Sites, particularly in the Amami-Oshima and Okinawa Islands, highlighting the importance of such ecosystems for scientific discovery.
Area de Conservación Guanacaste
—
2017 —
WHEEA6612BF5C
Researchers have uncovered four new species of Struthoscelis, including one from the Area de Conservación Guanacaste in northwestern Costa Rica. Notably, this study provides the first known biology for the genus and identifies a novel male wing morphology, challenging existing generic diagnoses. The discovery was achieved through detailed morphological analysis and comparative illustrations, shedding light on the diversity and evolutionary intricacies of this lepidopteran group.
Shrines and Temples of Nikko
—
2017 —
WHE012FBCA222
A mobile application leveraging Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacons effectively engages young people in exploring the cultural heritage of Nikko, Japan. By combining real-time information—such as historical context, maps, and local services—with interactive quizzes, the app capitalizes on psychological principles like the Zeigarnik effect to enhance learning. Trials demonstrated positive reception for basic features and improved cultural understanding among young users who utilized quiz functions. The application also facilitates community integration by providing notifications about local businesses and transportation, fostering a sense of living heritage. This innovative approach addresses challenges in traditional signage while offering scalable solutions for UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The Maison Carrée of Nîmes
—
2017 —
WHE988DE8A338
Nineteenth-century France's rapid modernization led to the near-total eradication of its ancient architectural heritage, including Gallo-Roman structures, due to irreconcilable conflicts between preservation and development. Michael Greenhalgh's study reveals that despite the establishment of archaeological societies and efforts by figures like Prosper Mérimée, the period saw widespread destruction of monuments, with only a few exceptions like Nîmes' Maison Carrée surviving. The work challenges the notion that the 19th century valued historical preservation, highlighting how restoration projects often imposed modern interpretations over original ruins. Greenhalgh's analysis, supported by annotated illustrations and French quotations, underscores the irreversible loss of France's cultural heritage during this era.
Tower of Hercules
—
2017 —
WHE9E1CFE69C7
A 10th-century Arab world map, preserved at the Oxford Bodleian Library, features an enigmatic depiction of a dilapidated tower opposite the Iberian Peninsula, initially thought to represent the Tower of Hercules. This study clarifies the circumstances surrounding this representation and explores medieval cartographic depictions of lighthouses, including the Tower of Hercules. The research examines 'The Book of Curiosities of the Sciences and Marvels for the Eyes,' a cosmographic and geographical treatise, revealing that while the hypothesis linking the tower to Hercules was abandoned, it offers valuable insights into how medieval mappae mundi portrayed such structures.
Lines and Geoglyphs of Nasca and Palpa
—
2017 —
WHEE660C5E114
A groundbreaking study leverages synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data from both airborne and satellite platforms to detect and measure landscape disturbances threatening the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nasca and Palpa, home to the iconic Nasca Lines. The research demonstrates that even pedestrian-scale disturbances are discernible using L-band SAR correlation images, while C-band SAR data from ESA’s Sentinel-1 satellites offers high-resolution insights into landscape changes with a repeat pass interval as short as six days. This allows for precise identification of disturbance time windows (1–3 weeks) without compromising spatial coverage. The study also introduces pixel value stretching techniques and statistical methods to quantify and validate landscape changes, providing a robust framework for monitoring archaeological sites and ecosystems under threat.
Kathmandu Valley
—
2017 —
WHECE7C2C76D1
A study applying Differential Synthetic Aperture Radar Interferometry (DInSAR) to ALOS PALSAR data detected significant land subsidence in Kathmandu Valley, Nepal, between 2007 and 2010. Subsidence areas, ranging from 1 km² to 9.9 km², exhibited velocities of up to 4.8 cm/year, with depths reaching 17 cm. The phenomenon was predominantly observed in old settlement zones with mixed land use, correlating with high concentrations of groundwater extraction wells. Geological formations, primarily unconsolidated fine-grained sediments, were identified as the primary factor contributing to subsidence due to groundwater extraction. This research highlights the vulnerability of urban areas built on such geological substrates to subsidence risks.
Lençóis Maranhenses National Park
—
2017 —
WHEBB7B5450C7
A study conducted over 36 months in the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil, revealed significant insights into the transmission dynamics of leishmaniasis. The research identified Lutzomyia longipalpis as a vector for Leishmania infantum with a 3.7% infection rate, while non-vector species like Lu. lenti and Lu. whitmani also showed low infection rates (0.6% and 0.9%, respectively). Notably, Lu. whitmani was detected as a vector for Le. braziliensis at a 0.3% rate, and Lu. flaviscutellata had an 8% infection rate with Le. amazonensis. Blood meal analysis of sand flies indicated feeding on pigs (37.9%), dogs (27.4%), chickens (20.9%), horses (9%), rodents (3.3%), and humans (1.4%). These findings suggest potential transmission of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) and American tegumentary leishmaniasis (TL) in the region, implicating both domestic animals and humans in disease spread.
Temple of Preah Vihear
—
2017 —
WHE0F7C4B54ED
Researchers have determined the construction sequence of the Preah Vihear monument in Cambodia, revealing that it spans from the Bakheng style period to the Angkor Wat style period (9th to 12th century). The study identified five distinct construction stages by analyzing the chemical composition, magnetic susceptibility, and size of sandstone blocks, as well as pediment end styles and tympana reliefs. Notably, the Western Annex Hall (N2) was found to be the oldest structure. Additionally, the research clarified that during Preah Vihear's construction, the style of pediment ends evolved from single-block scrolls to two-block scrolls, culminating in five-headed nagas, while sandstone block sizes increased significantly over time.
Bisotun
—
2017 —
WHE453915FD19
A significant economic value, exceeding $1.2 million annually, has been attributed to the historical monuments of Bisotun based on individuals' willingness to pay (WTP). This study employs a contingent valuation method to quantify the non-market benefits derived from preserving and maintaining these UNESCO World Heritage Sites. By analyzing respondents' stated preferences through surveys, researchers provide empirical evidence supporting the substantial economic importance of cultural heritage conservation efforts at Bisotun.
Historic Fortified City of Carcassonne
—
2017 —
WHEB965CDCE8E
Two reversible ornaments from the 18th century, originally from Saint-Papoul (Aude), were discovered in the cathedral of Carcassonne. These ornements, which exhibit unique craftsmanship and historical significance, provide valuable insights into the artistic and cultural exchanges between regions during this period. The study employed a detailed analysis of the ornaments' design, materials, and provenance to trace their origins and journey from Saint-Papoul to Carcassonne. This research contributes to our understanding of the material culture and heritage conservation practices in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Historic Fortified City of Carcassonne.
Frontiers of the Roman Empire
—
2017 —
WHE2F94A8A829
A detailed zooarchaeological analysis of Roman Germania Inferior reveals significant regional and temporal variations in animal husbandry practices, with distinct differences between western and eastern parts of the province. The study highlights inter- and intra-site variability in species proportions and cattle size, particularly within the well-documented Batavorum civitas, suggesting evolving farming and food supply systems. Changes in butchery methods over time further underscore the dynamic nature of Roman agricultural practices along the Rhine frontier.
Lençóis Maranhenses National Park
—
2017 —
WHEF159048103
A favorable employment landscape is evident in Barreirinhas, Maranhão, Brazil, the gateway to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its unique natural beauty. This study quantifies and characterizes local tourism-related employment using the Touristic Employment Characterization Index (ICET), analyzing data from 12 hospitality businesses. Results indicate a well-structured, idealized employment framework, suggesting robust economic benefits tied to sustainable tourism practices in this critical destination.
Namib Sand Sea
—
2017 —
WHE19D2BA78D0
A groundbreaking study of the Namib Sand Sea reveals that bacterial communities in hot desert soils exhibit complex, diel-dependent inter-community associations. Contrary to expectations, environmental factors like temperature and humidity only account for 10.5% of the variation observed in active bacterial groups over a 24-hour period. The research used T-RFLP fingerprinting and 454 pyrosequencing to track shifts in potentially active bacteria, finding significant changes in Actinobacteria and Proteobacterial groups between morning and night. Notably, cyanobacterial groups acted as inter-module 'hubs,' possibly orchestrating interactions among functional consortia. These findings challenge previous assumptions about microbial dynamics in extreme environments.
Chitwan National Park
—
2017 —
WHE4C5D493859
Bengal tigers (Panthera tigris tigris) in Chitwan National Park, Nepal, rely primarily on wild prey for sustenance, with chital (Axis axis) comprising 45% of their diet. A study analyzing 85 tiger scats identified eight mammal species as primary prey, including sambar (23%), wild pig (15%), and hog deer (9%). Livestock, such as buffalo and cows, constituted a minor portion of the biomass. This research highlights the tigers' dependence on native wildlife while noting occasional livestock predation. The findings were derived from scat analysis, offering insights into the dietary habits of this endangered species within a protected area.
Natural System of Wrangel Island Reserve
—
2017 —
WHE57BA6CB32F
A study on Wrangel Island reveals significant dietary overlap among ruminants, geese, and lemmings during summer, indicating resource partitioning where weaker competitors follow stronger ones. The research suggests that prior to the establishment of a nature reserve, human activities influenced the dynamics of this Arctic herbivore community. The findings highlight how competitive advantages, such as a broad food spectrum, shape community structure in insular ecosystems.
Xinjiang Tianshan
—
2017 —
WHEFFC2DAB1A1
A new study on the easternmost Tianshan, part of China's Xinjiang region and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reveals that this area has experienced two distinct phases of rapid cooling during the Mesozoic era—specifically in the Early to Middle Triassic and Late Cretaceous periods. These cooling events are linked to distant tectonic activities, such as the closure of the Paleoasian Ocean and the Mongol Okhotsk orogeny, rather than more recent Cenozoic collisions like that of India with Eurasia. The research utilized apatite fission track and (U-Th-Sm)/He thermochronology to demonstrate fault-controlled differential exhumation and block tilting across the region. This finding suggests that the easternmost Tianshan's geological history is dominated by older Mesozoic tectonic events, rather than Cenozoic reactivation.
Historic Centre of the City of Salzburg
—
2017 —
WHE05E95761CE
A two-decade study of amphibian populations along roadsides in Salzburg, Austria, reveals starkly contrasting trends for the common toad (Bufo bufo) and the common frog (Rana temporaria). While the common toad population remains stable, the common frog has experienced a significant decline, particularly in alpine regions. This decline is attributed to habitat destruction driven by drainage and agricultural intensification, which disproportionately impacts the micro-climate and spawning habitats of the common frog. The study highlights the severe ecological consequences of such losses for widespread species, often overlooked in conservation efforts.
Rock Art of the Mediterranean Basin on the Iberian Peninsula
—
2017 —
WHEBD4EF0EA92
Augmented Reality (AR) applications offer a promising solution for the dissemination and conservation of rock art, as demonstrated by their successful implementation at the Cova dels Cavalls site. This study presents two innovative AR approaches: one using marker recognition to display virtual content, and another that overlays information directly onto recognized real paintings. These techniques enhance visitor engagement while promoting non-invasive conservation by eliminating direct contact with the fragile surfaces. The research evaluates the effectiveness of these methods, providing a methodology for their development and application in cultural heritage contexts.
Serra da Capivara National Park
—
2017 —
WHE72810E687A
Research at Serra da Capivara National Park reveals that capuchin monkeys employ stone tools to excavate food, challenging the 'necessity hypothesis' of tool use. While these primates primarily forage with their hands, they also utilize stones to loosen soil when digging for tubers, roots, and trapdoor spiders. Contrary to expectations, the study found no support for the fallback food hypothesis, which suggests tool use is driven by accessing scarce resources. Instead, a positive correlation emerged between plant food availability and stone tool frequency, indicating that capuchins may rely on tools when abundant food is present. This insight sheds new light on the ecological and behavioral factors influencing primate tool use in wild settings.
Archaeological Site of Aigai (modern name Vergina)
—
2017 —
WHE37F420BF54
A groundbreaking approach to cultural heritage education through serious games (SGs) demonstrates how 3D models can enhance user engagement, imagination, and immersion. The study introduces three innovative SGs developed under the EU-funded Digiart project, focusing on the Palace of Aigai in Greece alongside other European sites like the Scladina cave in Belgium and an anthropology virtual museum in the UK. By employing pioneering 3D modeling techniques for archaeological assets and integrating them into interactive game engines, researchers have created fully immersive environments that bridge the gap between real-world heritage and digital experiences. This method not only advances the gamification of cultural heritage but also sets a new standard for public communication and educational engagement with historical sites.
Historic Jeddah, the Gate to Makkah
—
2017 —
WHE38A8C8BB39
Terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) and photogrammetry offer a more efficient, complete, and reliable alternative to traditional manual measurement techniques for documenting heritage sites. A case study of Nasif Historical House in Historic Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, demonstrates how these digital methods can accurately capture architectural details without the limitations of time-consuming or unreliable conventional approaches. The research highlights their potential as standard tools for preserving and analyzing heritage structures worldwide.
Site of Palmyra
—
2017 —
WHE80A1B6E398
The Islamic State's (IS) destruction of cultural heritage, particularly at pre-monotheistic sites like Palmyra and Nimrud, is not merely a physical act but a digitally mediated one. The study introduces the analytical framework of 'Digitally Mediated Iconoclasm' (DMI), which captures the three stages of destruction—before, during, and after—as both evidence and a perdurable digital archive. Through an analysis of IS propaganda, including videos and photographs, the research reveals how the group strategically uses photographic and audio-visual techniques to build tension around heritage destruction while allocating significant resources to produce digital content. This framework advances understanding in heritage and media studies by demonstrating the dual role of DMI as both a tool for destruction and a lasting record.
