Yellowstone National Park
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2016 —
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A study on dissolved gases in Yellowstone National Park's hydrothermal and geyser eruptions reveals that carbon dioxide (CO2) from magma and nitrogen (N2) from air-saturated meteoric water significantly lower the near-surface saturation temperature of aqueous fluids. This modulation enhances the explosivity potential of phreatic eruptions and influences geyser dynamics. Researchers collected pressurized samples from research well Y-7 and thermal pools in the Upper Geyser Basin, analyzing gas concentrations and temperatures at depth. Thermodynamic calculations suggest that high concentrations of these gases can trigger hydrothermal eruptions when recharged into shallow reservoirs. Monitoring changes in gas emission rates and composition could provide critical insights into both the natural resources (geysers) and potential hazards (eruptions) in such areas.
Medieval Monuments in Kosovo
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2016 —
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Serbian medieval monuments in Kosovo, recognized for their historical value and four of which are on UNESCO's endangered sites list, face complex challenges as dissonant heritage. These monuments, while symbolizing Serbian identity, are viewed with distaste by the Albanian population due to their association with centuries of Serbian presence in the region. The study reveals that popular tourist publications often distort interpretations or alienate historical identities, contributing to tensions rather than fostering mutual understanding. By analyzing media representations, this research highlights the dual role of these monuments as both cultural symbols and potential tools for tourism promotion, emphasizing the need for balanced narratives that acknowledge their significance without perpetuating divisions.
Península Valdés
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2016 —
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A catastrophic mass mortality event of marine invertebrates, including decapod crustaceans and bivalve mollusks, during the middle Miocene (Tortonian) in northern Patagonia, Argentina, was linked to distal volcanic ash deposition. Despite being at least 650 km away from the Andean volcanic front, the fine volcanic ash introduced into shallow marine environments caused acute respiratory failure in crustaceans, leading to widespread fatalities. The study analyzed sediments and fossils from five localities within the Puerto Madryn Formation using advanced geochemical methods such as SEM, EDS, XRD, petrographic microscopy, and reflected light microscopy, revealing uniform high percentages of volcanic ash across all sites.
Taï National Park
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2016 —
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Research on chimpanzees in Taï National Park, Ivory Coast, reveals a 'distance-decay effect' in stone tool transport, where the weight of hammerstones decreases with distance from raw material sources over ranges exceeding 2 km. This pattern emerges despite short-term tool transport appearing undirected and lacking deliberate movements away from sources. The study analyzed millennia-old tool sites, including Noulo, demonstrating consistency between modern and ancient behaviors. These findings suggest that chimpanzees' complex short-term planning can produce landscape-wide patterns over long periods, offering insights into similar processes in other stone-tool-using primates, including hominins.
Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve
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2016 —
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A significant decline of the jaguar (Tayassu pecari) population in Honduras, with 81.2% habitat loss since 1900, has been quantified using potential distribution modeling. The study predicts that only 6,126 km² remains as suitable habitat, predominantly within the Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve (70%), indigenous territories (20%), and the Tawahka Asagni Biosphere Reserve (10%). The research utilized MaxEnt 3.3.3a with 16 presence records and 19 bioclimatic variables to map this distribution, highlighting critical areas for conservation. Land-use change, habitat fragmentation, and hunting are identified as primary threats. Urgent conservation measures are recommended due to the species' vital role in seed dispersal and supporting top predator populations, essential for sustaining primary forests in the Moskitia region.
Western Caucasus
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2016 —
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Aquatic invertebrate fauna in nine caves of central Abkhazia, western Caucasus, revealed 35 stygobiont species, including 15 new ones. Species richness and abundance peaked near cave entrances due to amphibiotic insects and in deeper areas due to stygobionts. Stygobiotic faunas were distinctly divided by river valleys, with caves within the same valley sharing 50% similarity, while those in different valleys shared only 12%. Profound local endemism was observed in stygobiotic shrimps and gastropods, highlighting the unique biodiversity of these subterranean ecosystems. The study also noted anthropogenic impacts on cave communities.
Plitvice Lakes National Park
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2016 —
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Fecal indicator bacteria (FIB) in Plitvice Lakes National Park exhibit seasonal and spatial variability, with higher densities observed in the spring area compared to Prošćansko Lake. The study identified the White River below the village of Plitvički Ljeskovac as a primary source of fecal pollution, particularly in July and October, likely due to heavy rainfall. Seasonal fluctuations were noted, with increased densities of total coliforms (TC) and fecal coliforms (FC) in these months. The ratio of FC/FS suggested animal-derived contamination in July. Additionally, the Matica River estuary in Prošćansko Lake showed elevated TC and FC levels, potentially influenced by source streams and lake stratification. These findings underscore the impact of weather conditions and water column dynamics on FIB distribution, highlighting the need for targeted monitoring to assess health hazards in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Plitvice Lakes National Park
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2016 —
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A study on fecal indicator bacteria (FIB) in Plitvice Lakes National Park revealed that the spring area sustained higher densities of FIB compared to Prošćansko Lake, with the White River below the village showing the highest values, indicating Plitvički Ljeskovac as a primary source of fecal pollution. Seasonal variations were observed, particularly in July and October, with the latter likely influenced by heavy rainfall. The FC/FS ratio suggested contamination primarily of animal origin during July. Increased densities of total coliforms (TC) and fecal coliforms (FC) were noted at the Matica River estuary in Prošćansko Lake, possibly due to source stream influence and stratification conditions. The study highlights that FIB distribution in this protected area is influenced by season, weather conditions, and water column dynamics.
Lagoons of New Caledonia: Reef Diversity and Associated Ecosystems
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2016 —
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A study on the Lagoons of New Caledonia reveals significant diurnal variability in reef fish diversity and abundance. Researchers used autonomous video systems to record fish assemblages 10 times daily for 34 days, capturing over 50,000 observations from 114 taxa. The findings indicate that fish richness and abundance peak during early morning and late afternoon, with notable temporal patterns in the abundance of 14 taxa, primarily herbivore-detritus feeders. These patterns suggest diel migration behaviors, emphasizing the importance of accounting for small-scale temporal variability in ecological studies and habitat connectivity assessments.
Western Ghats
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2016 —
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A study of fungal endophytes from six wild medicinal plants in the Western Ghats, including two endangered species (Hedychium flavescens and Hedychium coronarium), reveals significant extracellular enzyme activity among 112 isolates. Notably, 40% exhibited asparaginase activity, while 29%, 28%, and 18% showed amylase, cellulase, and pectinase activity, respectively—with no laccase activity detected. This is the first report of such enzymatic diversity in endangered plants from this region. The research used Simpson's and Shannon–Weiner indices to analyze fungal diversity across 26 genera, highlighting potential biotechnological applications while underscoring the ecological importance of endophytic fungi in threatened species.
Medieval Town of Toruń
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2016 —
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A study of Toruń’s medieval town and its suburbs in 2012 revealed significant differences in biometeorological conditions, with the city center offering more favorable thermal environments than agricultural areas. The research used data from 10 weather stations to calculate indices like UTCI (Universal Thermal Climate Index), PST (Physiological Subjective Temperature), Iclp (Predicted Insulation of Clothing), and PhS (Physiological Strain). Key findings included the absence of heat stress in the city center for half the year, while suburban areas experienced moderate to strong cold stress on 42% of days. Urban green spaces played a crucial role in modifying conditions, particularly by reducing wind speed. The study suggests that Toruń’s climate is generally comfortable for residents and tourists, with two-thirds of the year being favorable from a heat stress perspective.
Shiretoko
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2016 —
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Passive acoustic monitoring off Rausu, Shiretoko, revealed distinct vocalization patterns among marine mammals, providing new insights into their seasonal behaviors. Pacific white-sided dolphins emitted burst pulsed calls in July, November, and December, while ribbon seals produced downsweeps likely linked to breeding activities in February and March. Killer whales exhibited pulsed calls from April to August, and sperm whales generated clicks in July and August, suggesting foraging behavior. This non-invasive method overcame limitations posed by seasonal sea ice and harsh weather, offering a comprehensive understanding of marine mammal ecology in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Kaziranga National Park
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2016 —
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Ecotourism significantly enhances economic welfare and fosters positive attitudes toward conservation in communities surrounding Kaziranga National Park. Households engaged in ecotourism report improved living conditions, political empowerment, and increased household expenditures, underscoring its role as a market-based conservation strategy. The study, conducted through random sampling of peripheral villages and regression analysis, reveals that ecotourism strengthens local economies while promoting pro-conservation behaviors. Recommendations include diversifying livelihoods with off-season activities rooted in local culture and skills, alongside government support for eco-development projects, training, and financing to sustain long-term benefits.
Ningaloo Coast
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2016 —
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Whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) exhibit seasonal migrations along the Western Australian coastline beyond Ningaloo Reef, challenging the notion that their aggregations are limited to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Satellite tracking of 14 tagged whale sharks revealed that these marine giants travel an average of 1667 km (±316 km) from Ningaloo Reef during spring and summer, inhabiting most of the Western Australian coast (from 35°S to 12°S). This finding suggests that their movements may be linked to areas of increased productivity beyond Ningaloo, potentially involving migrations north or south. The study combined satellite tracking with public sightings, historical data, and photo-identification to map whale shark distributions, providing critical insights into their broader range and behavior.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome)
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2016 —
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Tourism at UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Hiroshima's Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome) serves dual purposes: commemorating atomic bomb victims and promoting cultural heritage. A study reveals that while both Hiroshima and Nagasaki leverage tourism for educational remembrance, they differ in their approaches—Hiroshima emphasizes traditional Japanese culture and tragedy, whereas Nagasaki presents itself as a multicultural hub. The research, using interviews with government officials and analysis of tourism materials, identifies two key themes: tourism-education and war-peace, both deeply rooted in historical context. This duality underscores the tension between preserving memory and fostering contemporary identity in post-war Japan.
Kaziranga National Park
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2016 —
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Researchers have sequenced the genome of Micromonospora sp. strain HK10, a soil-dwelling actinobacterium isolated from Kaziranga National Park, India. The draft genome spans 6.92 million base pairs (Mbp) with a GC content of 73.39%, encoding 6,196 protein-coding genes and 86 RNAs. This genetic data provides insights into the microbial diversity and potential biotechnological applications of Micromonospora species in one of India's premier biodiversity hotspots. The study highlights the significance of soil microbes in conservation efforts by offering a foundational genomic resource for further exploration of their ecological roles and secondary metabolite production.
Yakushima
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2016 —
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Researchers have sequenced the draft genomes of two Sarcina ventriculi strains, 14 and 17, isolated from the feces of wild Yakushima macaques (Macaca fuscata yakui). These sequences provide valuable insights into the phylogenetic relationships within the family Clostridiaceae and contribute to understanding the role of intestinal microbiota in the survival of this unique primate population. The study leverages genomic analysis to explore the microbial diversity associated with Yakushima macaques, offering potential implications for their health and ecological adaptation on Yakushima Island.
Prambanan Temple Compounds
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2016 —
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A novel approach to sustainable drainage for UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Prambanan Temple Compounds, leverages volcanic ash and coarse volcanic slag (Bantak) to create no-fine concrete. This eco-friendly material not only addresses environmental concerns by repurposing volcanic waste but also maintains the structural integrity and aesthetic authenticity of historic structures. Experimental studies confirmed that this porous drainage system effectively manages water flow while numerical analyses using SAP2000 and Plaxis ensured stability without compromising the site's original design.
Sagarmatha National Park
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2016 —
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A first-of-its-kind study reveals significant fecal contamination of drinking water sources in the Sagarmatha National Park, Nepal, particularly in lower-altitude, more populated areas and during the pre-monsoon summer season. The research identified a strong correlation between E. coli levels, population density, tourist traffic, and elevation, with surface water showing higher contamination than groundwater-fed springs. Despite meeting WHO standards for physical properties like temperature, pH, conductivity, and total dissolved solids (TDS), seasonal variability was observed, with May samples exhibiting higher bacterial presence than November ones. Conductivity and TDS generally decreased with elevation, while pH increased, underscoring the complex interplay of tourism, geography, and climate on water quality in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Gough and Inaccessible Islands
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2016 —
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House mice on Gough Island exhibit extreme body mass (50–60% greater than other island populations) and high predatory behavior, driven by enhanced overwinter survival. This study reveals that mice maintain higher mass and condition during winter, coinciding with peak mortality rates, by exploiting abundant seabird chicks. Proximity to neighboring predated nests and nesting densities further influence predation likelihood. The research highlights how island syndrome traits in introduced rodents, such as increased body size and density, contribute to devastating impacts on native species like burrowing petrels and the Critically Endangered Tristan albatross. The study combines field observations with ecological analysis to link seasonal survival patterns to predatory behavior.
Žatec and the Landscape of Saaz Hops
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2016 —
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Research reveals that drought severity in the Czech Republic, particularly in intensive agricultural areas like Žatec, has shown highly statistically significant increasing trends (P < 0.01) over the period 1971-2015. Using the Effective Drought Index (EDI), the study identified years with unfavorable precipitation conditions, such as 1972, 1984, and 2015, and favorable ones like 1987 and 2010. The analysis also highlighted dry growing seasons in 1973, 1974, 1976, and 1993, as well as wet growing seasons in 1987, 2006, and 2010. While the trend suggests a slight increase in effective precipitation, this does not guarantee optimal water supply for agricultural lands due to uneven distribution and rising evapotranspiration demands.
Durham Castle and Cathedral
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2016 —
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Durham Cathedral stands as a testament to Norman architecture and engineering. Built between 1093 and 1133, its unique ribbed vaults and massive stonework reflect advanced medieval construction techniques. The cathedral's fabric, including its iconic lantern tower, reveals insights into the materials and craftsmanship of the period, offering a window into the cultural and technological achievements of Norman England. This concise study synthesizes historical records, architectural analysis, and material science to illuminate the cathedral's enduring legacy as both a religious monument and a symbol of Norman power.
Durham Castle and Cathedral
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2016 —
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Durham Cathedral: History, Fabric and Culture, edited by David Brown, presents a comprehensive multidisciplinary study of one of England's most beloved cathedrals. The volume, supported by the Friends of Durham Cathedral, the Paul Mellon Centre for Studies in British Art, and the Chapter of Durham Cathedral, offers an in-depth exploration of the cathedral's history, architecture, and cultural significance through contributions from eminent scholars, many with direct ties to the cathedral or university. The book stands out for its extensive coverage, including specialized chapters on topics such as the choir, plate, library, and archives, as well as historical analyses of Durham College and medieval education in Durham. Its lavish illustrations and substantial scope make it a monumental resource for both academic and general audiences.
Stonehenge, Avebury and Associated Sites
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2016 —
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Neolithic monuments, such as Stonehenge and Avebury, are not static structures but dynamic assemblages that continuously evolve through the interplay of materials, cosmic forces, human activity, and historical narratives. This study challenges traditional interpretive frameworks by emphasizing the relational ontologies of these monuments, viewing them as 'mesh works' that integrate diverse elements into moments of creation and form. By categorizing recent research themes—social relations, process, landscape, and experience—the work highlights the tension between archaeological evidence and interpretive vibrancy. The study argues that understanding these monuments requires recognizing their constant state of becoming, where the past is not a fixed entity but an enduring process shaped by enduring relations.
City of Potosí
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2016 —
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While the mita system of forced labor dominated Potosí's silver mines from the late 16th to early 19th centuries, significant shifts and alternative forms of work emerged during this period. This study reveals that labour relations were not static but dynamically influenced by the Spanish monarchy's policies, which prioritized revenue generation, as well as by the actions of both mine entrepreneurs and workers—whether unfree, free, or self-employed. Analyzing archival records and policy documents from 1680 to 1812, the research demonstrates how these interactions reshaped labour dynamics, challenging the perception of the mita as a monolithic system.
Western Tien-Shan
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2016 —
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Research reveals that the Tarim lithosphere indents into the Kazach shield, driving crustal thickening and mountain formation in the Tien Shan through a distributed thrust fault system. Analysis of 160 earthquakes (1969–2009) using centroid moment tensor inversion showed active thrust faulting from the upper crust to ~30 km depth, with some events near the crust–mantle boundary indicating brittle lower crust behavior. The findings suggest rotational convergence and localized flexure in the Tarim basin, challenging the notion of discrete boundary deformation.
Okavango Delta
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2016 —
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Contemporary natural resource governance in the Okavango Delta, Botswana, undermines the inclusion of local communities as legitimate stakeholders despite policies aimed at community-based management. A critical literature review reveals that bureaucratic systems marginalize traditional institutions and restrict rural communities' access to resources, perpetuating an anthropocentric approach that excludes local knowledge and decision-making authority.
New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands
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2016 —
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A groundbreaking study reveals that orographic gravity waves generated by airflow over the Auckland Islands significantly impact mesospheric dynamics. During the DEEPWAVE experiment, large-amplitude wave oscillations were detected at altitudes of 78–83 km, leading to intense wave breaking beneath a zero-wind region. These waves, influenced by migrating semidiurnal tides, caused rapid westward flow accelerations (~350 m/s/h) and substantial dynamical heating (~8 K/h). The research used high-altitude reanalysis data and a 3D Fourier gravity wave model to replicate observed wave fields, confirming the islands' role in altering middle-atmospheric circulation and climate during austral winter. This finding underscores the broader implications of subantarctic island-generated waves on global atmospheric dynamics.
Kakadu National Park
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2016 —
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By 2070, sea-level rise will convert 40 % of Kakadu’s floodplains into saline habitats, replacing freshwater vegetation with salt-tolerant mangroves and marsh species. High-resolution satellite imagery revealed that natural water-depth gradients already shape plant community patterns. Hydrodynamic modelling confirmed that increased saltwater intrusion threatens to alter both vegetation structure and the animal communities that depend on these floodplains. The study maps the salinity tolerance of key floodplain plants, providing a baseline for assessing future ecosystem shifts under climate change.
Abbey of St Gall
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2016 —
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A groundbreaking virtual manuscript library, e-codices, now offers free access to 1,363 digitized medieval manuscripts from Swiss libraries, including 541 from the Abbey of St. Gall. This initiative, launched in 2005 and expanded nationally, provides high-resolution images, scholarly descriptions, and bibliographies for manuscripts dating from the fourth century to early modernity. Notably, it includes rare musical notations like the Cantatorium of St. Gall, the earliest known complete manuscript with neume notation, and the oldest extant neumed mass antiphonary. The updated Web Application 2.0 enhances user experience with improved search functions, metadata display, and compliance with international digital scholarship standards.
Nan Madol: Ceremonial Centre of Eastern Micronesia
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2016 —
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Research at Nan Madol, Pohnpei, reveals the earliest direct evidence of monumental architecture in Eastern Micronesia, dating its onset to AD 1180-1200. This groundbreaking finding was achieved through high-precision uranium-thorium (230Th/U) coral dating and geochemical sourcing of basalt used in construction. Nan Madol, an ancient administrative and mortuary center, features artificial islets and structures built with columnar basalt and coral, serving as the former capital of Pohnpei. The study suggests that monument building at Nan Madol predates similar developments across Oceania by several centuries (AD 1300-1600), highlighting its significance in prehistoric social transformations. Future research is encouraged to explore the causes behind these changes through more detailed data on monument construction.
Fossil Hominid Sites of South Africa
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2016 —
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A groundbreaking discovery reveals the earliest confirmed case of malignant cancer in the hominin fossil record, dating back 1.7 million years to Swartkrans Cave in South Africa. This osteosarcoma was identified using advanced 3D imaging techniques, challenging the assumption that neoplastic diseases were rare or limited to benign conditions in pre-modern humans. The finding suggests that primary bone tumors, often occurring in younger individuals and unrelated to modern lifestyles, have a significant antiquity. This case underscores the potential for ancient fossils to preserve evidence of malignant diseases, providing new insights into the evolutionary history of cancer.
Chavin (Archaeological Site)
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2016 —
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A distinctive art style, identified by archaeologist Julio Tello in 1943, links stone, ceramics, and precious metals across highland Peru, tracing its origins to the Chavin de Huantar ceremonial center. This cultural mosaic reflects shared spiritual beliefs and dynamic exchanges between coastal and highland regions, as well as neighboring valleys and population centers. The study highlights the evolutionary pathways of Andean civilization, culminating in the Inka Empire, while noting the flourishing of sedentary villages along Peru's north coast. It also underscores the Middle Horizon (AD 600–1000), marked by monumental architecture at Tiwanaku, which exerted influence across Peru, signaling a shift from fishing to large-scale irrigation agriculture.
Mining Area of the Great Copper Mountain in Falun
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2016 —
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Sweden's early geological studies and mapping, pioneered by figures like Urban Hiärne and Wilhelm Hisinger, laid the foundation for modern geological research. Urban Hiärne initiated systematic data collection on Sweden's natural resources in 1694, while Hisinger published the first illuminated geological map in 1797. This period saw significant contributions from notable scientists such as Georg Brandt, Carl von Linné, and Johan Gottschalk Wallerius, who advanced knowledge in mineralogy, chemistry, and geology. The establishment of a mining school in Falun around 1820 marked the beginning of formal geological education and research, integrating earlier efforts with structured academic frameworks.
Neolithic Site of Çatalhöyük
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2016 —
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A significant shift in seasonal climate around Çatalhöyük, Turkey, during the Early Holocene (ca. 9150–8000 cal years BP) is revealed through stable isotope analysis of <em>Unio</em> sub-fossil shells. The study found a marked decrease in summer δ18O values circa 8300 years BP, indicating reduced evaporation and seasonality, likely due to cooler conditions or changes in precipitation patterns. This shift coincides with the proposed end of a fission-fusion farming system at Çatalhöyük, suggesting that altered water balance may have driven cultural transformations during the Late Neolithic/Early Chalcolithic period. The research supports the hypothesis of wet winter/early spring conditions, which could have led to flooding of the Çarşamba Fan, while also linking the climate change to solar-forced shifts and the 8.2k event.
Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape
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2016 —
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Sporadic human activity in the Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape, part of South Africa's arid Namaqualand coast, was most intense during a period of heightened humidity around 50,000 to 17,000 years ago. This finding contrasts with the region's current harsh conditions and suggests that early human movements were linked to environmental shifts, particularly increased winter rainfall. The study analyzes chronological and subsistence data from Spitzkloof A Rockshelter, using late Pleistocene records to infer patterns of occupation and resource use. By comparing these insights with better-documented Holocene archaeological evidence, researchers predict how the earliest coastal desert dwellers adapted to fluctuating environmental conditions.
Persepolis
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2016 —
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A groundbreaking analysis of glazed bricks from Persepolis and Tepe Rabat reveals the early use of sophisticated opacifiers in Persian glaze production during the first millennium BC. The study identifies lead antimonate as a yellow opacifier and brizziite (NaSbO3) as a white opacifier, with brizziite also found in green and turquoise glazes. Additionally, the research suggests accidental co-formation of these opacifiers alongside CaSb2O6 in some samples. The findings hint at a possible link between Achaemenid glaze techniques and those used by the Mannean culture at Tepe Rabat, offering new insights into ancient ceramic technology and cross-cultural influences.
Byblos
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2016 —
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Aging water infrastructure in Byblos, Lebanon, faces significant seismic threats due to the region's moderate to high earthquake risk. Research assessed potential earthquake damage to the city's potable water network using advanced modeling techniques, including Geographic Information System (GIS) data preparation and Ergo Platform analysis with lifelines fragility functions. The study evaluated three likely earthquake scenarios, revealing critical vulnerabilities in the network that could lead to substantial disruptions. Findings highlight the urgent need for mitigation strategies, such as infrastructure strengthening, to enhance resilience against seismic events.
Białowieża Forest
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2016 —
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A 40-year study of the Białowieża Forest's avifauna reveals that its bird communities exhibit primeval ecological traits, including stability over time, high species richness, and low densities. These features are linked to natural processes such as predation pressure, abundant nesting sites for cavity-nesting birds, and pulsed food resources driven by rodent outbreaks. The research highlights the critical role of maintaining old-growth forest conditions to preserve this unique ecosystem. Threats like tree stand rejuvenation, dead wood removal, fragmentation, and changes in tree species composition are identified as significant risks to the forest's ecological integrity.
Serengeti National Park
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2016 —
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A four-year study of over 2,600 free-roaming domestic dogs in rural villages near Serengeti National Park revealed that vaccination against rabies did not significantly alter dog population dynamics. While vaccinated dogs in intervention villages showed higher survival rates than unvaccinated ones, overall population growth remained similar across all villages, suggesting other factors like body condition and village characteristics play a more substantial role. The research also identified sickness and hyena predation as the primary causes of mortality, with adult dogs exhibiting better survival than puppies. Male-biased sex ratios were observed across age classes, and poor body condition correlated with lower survival rates regardless of vaccination status.
Site of Palmyra
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2016 —
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Bristle-thighed Curlews (Numenius tahitiensis), a vulnerable migratory shorebird, show habitat preferences driven more by prey availability than the degree of historical anthropogenic impact on Palmyra Atoll's lagoon sand flats. Despite the persistence of Navy modifications affecting benthic habitat quality post-World War II, curlew abundance was strongly correlated with the presence of key prey items like spionid polychaetes (Malacoceros sp.). The study used camera trapping, focal individual observations, and sediment analysis to assess curlew behavior across a gradient of habitat alteration. While land reclamation did not determine habitat preferences, two highly impacted sites were among the most preferred, highlighting the importance of prey availability in shaping curlew distribution. This research provides critical insights for habitat management at Palmyra Atoll and similar wintering grounds.
Kilimanjaro National Park
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2016 —
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Kilimanjaro National Park's recreation value is estimated at USD 193.9 million annually, with a revenue-maximizing entry fee of USD 55.8 per visitor. Using the Travel Cost Method, researchers analyzed data from 384 visitors to determine consumer surplus and willingness-to-pay, revealing significant influences of travel costs, income, age, employment status, and service quality on visitation duration. The study highlights the need for economic valuation research to guide sustainable management and resource allocation in national parks.
Heritage of Mercury. Almadén and Idrija
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2016 —
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Ecotoxicological bioassays prove invaluable for assessing the ecological risks of contaminated soils, offering a more comprehensive and realistic evaluation than traditional chemical analysis alone. This study demonstrates that integrating terrestrial and aquatic ecotoxicity tests—encompassing various endpoints (mortality, growth), exposure times (acute or chronic), and organisms (earthworms, plants, algae, etc.)—effectively captures the complex interactions between pollutants, soil matrices, and living organisms. Applied to samples from abandoned mercury mines in Spain (Almadén and Idrija) and other contaminated sites, these bioassays reveal critical insights into toxicity parameters and ecological impacts, including those of hydrocarbons and the insecticide imidacloprid. The research highlights their suitability as essential tools for soil risk assessment and remediation monitoring, bridging gaps left by conventional chemical quantification methods.
Kyiv: Saint-Sophia Cathedral and Related Monastic Buildings, Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra
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2016 —
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A historical and bibliological study of 46 exemplars of six editions of works by Ioanikii Galiatovsky, a prominent figure in Ukrainian baroque literature, reveals that his anti-Catholic and anti-Muslim treatises were widely circulated among Ukrainian monasteries, educational institutions, and libraries of notable secular and religious figures. The research provides detailed bibliographic descriptions, analyzing artistic decoration, pagination specifics, defectiveness, bindings, and proveniences, while also identifying one exemplar mistakenly attributed to Galiatovsky. This study highlights the significant presence and influence of Galiatovsky's works in Ukrainian cultural and intellectual spheres during his time.
Poblet Monastery
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2016 —
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Eduard Toda's legacy as a bibliophile and patron of libraries is highlighted for enriching Catalonia's cultural heritage. His generosity significantly contributed to the libraries and archives of Escornalbou and Poblet Monastery, including the introduction of book restoration classes and a shared workshop with the Escola de Bibliotecàries. This relationship, documented in the school's archives, showcased mutual affection and collaborative efforts that defined its unique character during the 1930s.
Península Valdés
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2016 —
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This study reveals the existence of 'piósferas' or sheep grazing gradients around water sources (aguadas) in Península Valdés, Argentina, demonstrating that grazing intensity decreases with distance from these points. Using generalized linear mixed models and multivariate techniques, researchers found that reduced grazing led to increased vegetation coverage, soil organic matter, vertical complexity, and microtopography, while higher grazing correlated with bare soil, gravel content, annual plant coverage, and soil compaction. The findings highlight significant ecosystem degradation linked to sheep grazing, emphasizing the need for integrated management strategies to balance livestock activities with biodiversity conservation in this UNESCO-recognized region.
Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche
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2016 —
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A study on the Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche, reveals that long-term forest management practices, such as thinning, harvesting, and species enrichment, significantly influence tree diversity and structure in secondary vegetation derived from dry tropical forests. The research found that while species composition remained similar between managed and unmanaged secondary vegetation, differences emerged when comparing these to primary dry tropical forests (BTS). Notably, apicultural management (VSMA) led to the lowest species diversity but the highest tree density, whereas conventional forest management (VSMF) resulted in lower densities. Primary BTS exhibited the highest basal area, underscoring its structural dominance. The findings highlight the need for continuous monitoring of managed areas to assess both adverse and beneficial impacts on floristic diversity and long-term conservation outcomes.
Okavango Delta
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2016 —
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A significant increase in dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) and stable carbon isotopic composition (δ13C DIC) was observed in the Okavango River, with DIC concentrations rising by 379% during flood conditions and 500% during non-flood periods. Evaporation experiments on river samples demonstrated even more pronounced increases, with DIC concentrations surging by 535% and 850% for proximal (Mohembo) and distal (Maun) portions of the delta, respectively. The δ13C DIC increase was attributed to CO2 loss during chemical equilibrium with atmospheric CO2, followed by carbon exchange between DIC and atmospheric CO2. However, the river's δ13C DIC never reached the expected value for full equilibration (~0‰), suggesting that isotopic enrichment is balanced by respiration and photo-oxidation of carbon-depleted dissolved organic matter. This study highlights the complex interplay between evapotranspiration, DIC dynamics, and stable carbon isotopes in semi-arid river systems.
Neolithic Site of Çatalhöyük
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2016 —
WHEF3D271B9FF
Archaeological heritage education programmes often lack critical assessment of their effectiveness, which is crucial for ensuring the protection of sites. This study highlights that most such programmes fail to measure success adequately, despite their long-term operation. Focusing on Çatalhöyük, one of the world's longest-running education initiatives, it argues that evaluating outcomes—considering social, political, and educational contexts—is essential for improving heritage conservation efforts. The research suggests that without systematic assessment, even well-established programmes may not achieve their goals effectively.
Bryggen
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2016 —
WHE259C002260
A new hydrological barrier at Bryggen, Norway's UNESCO World Heritage Site, has significantly improved conditions for preserving organic archaeological remains. The barrier, designed to regulate groundwater levels and flow, reduced groundwater temperatures by up to 2 °C near the redeveloped area. This mitigation measure addresses degradation caused by urban development, ensuring optimal preservation of archaeological deposits while minimizing drainage and subsidence upstream. Monitoring post-implementation confirmed enhanced groundwater conditions, highlighting the barrier's effectiveness in safeguarding this historically significant site.
