Angkor
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2016 —
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Angkor is shifting its management focus from monument conservation to sustainable development of the broader Angkor ecosystem. This study highlights the potential for Angkor to serve as a model for integrating cultural ecosystem services into heritage conservation, bridging site protection with regional sustainable development in Siem Reap province. The research emphasizes the need for an ecosystem approach, aligning with the UN Convention on Biological Diversity, to address environmental, social, and economic challenges. It advocates for demarcating areas beyond site boundaries based on deep knowledge of people-environment relationships, offering a framework for balancing conservation with broader development goals.
K’gari (Fraser Island)
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2016 —
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Wild dingoes (Canis lupus dingo) on Fraser Island (K’gari) can live for at least 13 years, with one individual successfully producing litters for over a decade. This finding emerges from a long-term study tracking ear-tagged and microchipped dingoes since 2002, providing rare longevity data for free-ranging Australian dingoes. Researchers analyzed recapture records and mortality observations to document the lifespan of three individuals, including a female dingo tracked from 2003 until her death in 2014. Such life-history insights are critical for assessing the stability and dynamics of closed dingo populations, offering valuable conservation implications for this species of high ecological significance.
Vatnajökull National Park - Dynamic Nature of Fire and Ice
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2016 —
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Tour guides at Skaftafell, Vatnajökull National Park, possess valuable knowledge that can significantly contribute to sustainable tourism management. Their insights reveal a strong commitment to protecting both the natural and human environment, highlighting gaps in current business practices and public management procedures that hinder sustainability. Guides advocate for their inclusion in decision-making processes to enhance visitor safety and meet conservation targets. The study used semi-structured interviews and mental mapping with guides to explore their perceptions of their role and the state of hiking trails, suggesting that their compassionate engagement could serve as a motivator for sustainable resource management.
Qhapaq Ñan, Andean Road System
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2016 —
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Andean history reveals that the division of Bolivia and Peru into separate nations was not inevitable, despite political fragmentation during independence. The study explores how convergence forces—such as Inka integration, Spanish colonial economic ties, and indigenous resilience—sustained a cohesive regional identity. Using historical analysis, it examines trade networks, labor systems (e.g., mitá), and cultural adaptations that persisted across administrative borders, including the 1776 split between Viceroyalties of Peru and Río de la Plata. Findings highlight how indigenous communities maintained self-rule and economic resilience, even as silver production declined post-1650. The research underscores the contingency of national boundaries in the region, shaped by both local agency and global economic shifts.
Taputapuātea
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2016 —
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A spatial shift in ceremonial centres from inland to coastal locations occurred on Tahiti and Ra‘iatea, Society Islands, between the late 17th and early 18th centuries. This evolution was driven by political influences, particularly from Ra‘iatea’s Opoa chiefdom, which likely shaped Tahitian polities through the establishment of new marae (sacred complexes) and sacred landscapes. The study integrates archaeological data, ethnohistoric records, and toponymic analysis to reconstruct the ethnohistories of Tahitian chiefdoms—Vaiari, Papara, and Manotahi (Puna‘auia)—revealing a pattern of ceremonial centre relocation that mirrors Ra‘iatea’s model. This suggests a broader influence of Opoa on Windward Islands’ political and religious landscapes.
Melaka and George Town, Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca
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2016 —
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Malaysia's legal system uniquely combines Islamic law (sharia) and civil law, with sharia restricted to Muslim family matters while civil law governs other domains. This dual system emerged from historical transitions, including the 15th-century Undang-undang Melaka (Malacca Laws), which reflected Islamic customs and local traditions before colonial influences introduced civil law. A qualitative study using historical comparative methods analyzed selected examples from the Hukum Kanun Melaka monograph, revealing that without a common law system, Malaysia would have retained its traditional Islamic-based legal framework. The research highlights how post-independence Malaysia (1957) preserved this coexistence, shaping its multicultural identity.
Frontiers of the Roman Empire
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2016 —
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A comprehensive exploration of the Roman frontiers, known as 'limes' in German literature, reveals that these frontiers were not merely defined by military structures but also by complex social and cultural dynamics. The study emphasizes a shift from traditional military-focused interpretations to broader analyses that incorporate the experiences and identities of populations living along and beyond these frontiers. Spanning from the 1st to early 5th century, this research highlights the multifaceted nature of frontier heritage, moving away from material remains to encompass historical, social, and interpretive dimensions. It also addresses contemporary approaches to preserving and understanding this heritage in the 21st century.
Yakushima
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2016 —
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Japanese macaques are the dominant consumers of <em>Ficus superba</em> figs in Yakushima's warm-temperate forests, accounting for 87.6% of consumption, with seasonal shifts in their feeding behavior linked to temperature and fruit availability. Unlike birds, which increase fig consumption during cooler months when insect prey is scarce, macaques rely on <em>F. superba</em> as a fallback food during periods of low fruit abundance, particularly in winter. The study employed 141 four-hour observations over 12 months to quantify frugivore contributions and identify factors influencing seasonal consumption patterns, revealing macaques' strategic use of figs amid environmental constraints.
Wadden Sea
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2016 —
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Researchers have identified <em>Fuerstia marisgermanicae</em>, a novel genus and species of planctomycete bacteria, isolated from a crustacean shell in the German Wadden Sea. This discovery is significant as it represents an unusual member of the Planctomycetes phylum, exhibiting unique traits such as budding-like cell division and an enlarged periplasmic space. The strain NH11T, with its nearly 9 Mb genome, stands out for harboring 'giant genes'—a feature common in planctomycetes but rarely studied. Phylogenetic analysis confirms its distinctness from other cultivated species, with only 87% 16S rRNA sequence identity to its closest relative, <em>Gimesia maris</em>. The study highlights the Wadden Sea's ecological significance as a source of genetically diverse and unexplored microbial life, contributing to our understanding of planctomycetal diversity and their role in global biogeochemical cycles.
Museumsinsel (Museum Island), Berlin
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2016 —
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On June 5, 2016, the Museumsinsel Berlin celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Day with a diverse program under the theme 'UNESCO – Welterbe verbindet,' highlighting the connection between Berlin's cultural heritage and endangered sites in the Near and Middle East. The five museums—Preußischer Kulturbesitz, Alte Nationalgalerie, Altes Museum, Bode-Museum, Neues Museum, and Pergamonmuseum—offered guided tours, lectures, and discussions, emphasizing their role in preserving global cultural heritage. Informational displays across the island further illustrated the link between Berlin's collections and worldwide UNESCO sites, underscoring the importance of cross-cultural collaboration in heritage conservation.
Routes of Santiago de Compostela in France
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2016 —
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European pilgrimage routes, particularly those leading to Santiago de Compostela, serve as dynamic nodes where gender, national identity, and religious expression intersect. This interdisciplinary study reveals that these ancient paths are not merely relics of the past but active stages for contemporary social and political debates, including gender emancipation, transnational identities, and European unification. The research explores diverse pilgrim experiences—from African migrants renewing family ties at Lourdes to Swedish women navigating midlife transitions—highlighting how pilgrimage reconfigures personal and collective identities. It also examines the revival of sacred spaces, such as the shrine of Our Lady of Santa Cruz, and the reinterpretation of traditional saints like Mary Magdalene within New Age spirituality. Through qualitative analyses, including case studies on Marian anti-abortion movements and interfaith coexistence at pilgrimage centers, the study demonstrates how these routes facilitate complex negotiations between religion, politics, and cultural identity in a secularized Europe.
Hyrcanian Forests
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2016 —
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Researchers have identified the most accurate model for predicting the height of Oriental beech (Fagus orientalis Lipsky) in Iran's Hyrcanian forests. This model, which integrates diameter at breast height (DBH), dominant height, basal area per hectare, and tree density, demonstrated superior performance with R² values ranging from 0.62 to 0.78 and root mean square error (RMSE) between 3.3 and 4.7 during validation. The study analyzed data from 1,067 trees across 75 permanent sample plots using a 10-fold cross-validation method, evaluating six statistical measures. This approach offers a robust tool for forest management and conservation efforts in this ecologically significant region.
Curonian Spit
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2016 —
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A unique geological process involving the extrusion of lagoon marl from beneath massive migrating sand dunes characterizes large segments of the Curonian Spit, a 100-km-long sandy barrier separating the Curonian Lagoon from the Baltic Sea. This study reveals that relict lagoon marl, composed of Holocene organic sediments like gyttja and clayey gyttja, was deformed, compacted, and dehydrated by landward-migrating dunes during the Littorina Sea transgression—a phenomenon termed 'dune tectonics.' Using advanced techniques such as side-scan sonar, multibeam echosounder, seismic imaging, sediment sampling, and video observations, researchers identified extensive underwater marl outcrops at depths of 5–15 m along the southern half of the spit. Spatial analysis further constrained the southeastward migration rates of the dune massif. A conceptual model explains both onshore marl exposures above the regional water table and offshore relict marl diapirs, offering new insights into the dynamic interplay between coastal geomorphology and sedimentary processes in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Wood Buffalo National Park
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2016 —
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A genetic analysis of wild bison populations in Alberta, Canada, reveals that the Harper Creek and Ronald Lake herds are genetically distinct from the diseased Wood Buffalo National Park (WBNP) herd, despite their proximity. This finding challenges the assumption that neighboring bison were also infected with diseases prevalent in WBNP, suggesting limited contact between these groups. The study used microsatellite genotypes to assess genetic differentiation among free-ranging bison populations, including those in the Northwest Territories and Elk Island National Park. Results indicate that while the Mackenzie and Elk Island populations, founded from WBNP animals in the 1960s, are genetically differentiated, the more recently established Hay Zama population is not. The Harper Creek herd shows significant differentiation from all other studied populations, warranting further investigation for its potential role in bison recovery efforts.
Namib Sand Sea
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2016 —
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Elephants in the Namib Desert, a marginal habitat characterized by extreme aridity, do not exhibit significant genetic distinctiveness from other African savanna elephant populations. Despite their unique behavioral and phenotypic adaptations to harsh conditions, analysis of mitochondrial DNA and microsatellite loci revealed no clear genetic isolation or pattern of isolation by distance among desert elephants (from the Hoanib and Hoarusib River catchments) and those in Etosha National Park, the Huab and Ugab River catchments, and central Kunene. This suggests that high learning capacity and long-distance migrations have allowed Namibian elephants to adapt their ranges in response to climate variability and historical hunting pressures. The study highlights the resilience of these populations against genetic fragmentation in marginal habitats.
Pirin National Park
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2016 —
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A rare plant species, Verbascum davidoffii, critically endangered and endemic to Bulgaria, exhibits surprisingly high genetic diversity within its sole known population in Pirin National Park. This finding challenges the assumption that such species typically harbor low genetic variation due to their threatened status. Researchers analyzed the population's genetic structure using molecular markers, revealing a rich evolutionary potential that must be preserved for long-term conservation. The study underscores the importance of protecting this unique genetic reservoir from anthropogenic pressures and ecological constraints that limit its distribution and reproduction.
Saint Catherine Area
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2016 —
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A study on the genetic diversity of <em>Achillea fragrantissima</em> in Egypt reveals significant phenotypic and genetic variations among 20 populations, clustering them into two major groups based on geographic and environmental factors. Populations from high-elevation mountainous areas in South Sinai exhibited higher genetic diversity, with unique ISSR markers often linked to traits such as larger plant size and seed yield. This finding underscores the importance of these traits for both conservation efforts and sustainable commercial use. The research utilized phenotypic variations combined with ISSR (Inter-Simple Sequence Repeat) fingerprinting to assess genetic diversity, providing insights into the adaptive potential of <em>A. fragrantissima</em> across different environments.
New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands
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2016 —
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Research on the endangered New Zealand sea lion (Phocarctos hookeri) reveals genetic evidence of a population bottleneck and increased inbreeding, likely due to historical sealing pressures. The study analyzed 1205 individuals across seven breeding seasons using 17 microsatellite loci, demonstrating moderate genetic diversity compared to other pinnipeds but also indicating nonrandom mating patterns. Pups that died during recent epizootic events showed higher allele sharing and parental relatedness, suggesting inbreeding's role in population vulnerability. These findings highlight the species' reduced evolutionary capacity, posing challenges for its long-term survival and recovery.
Caves of Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst
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2016 —
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Slovakia's karst and non-karst regions host a diverse range of cave types, yet existing genetic classification criteria for caves in the Western Carpathians lack integration. This study proposes fundamental principles to categorize caves based on their genesis, addressing gaps in current terminology such as 'exokras' vs. 'endokarst' and 'karst' vs. 'pseudokarst.' The research characterizes basic genetic cave types, offering a standardized framework for future karstological and speleological studies.
Gough and Inaccessible Islands
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2016 —
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Researchers have uncovered the genetic underpinnings of rapid skeletal evolution in unusually large house mice from Gough Island. These mice exhibit significant skeletal changes, including enlarged pelvis and limbs, as well as skull elongation compared to mainland counterparts. Using quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping on an F2 intercross between Gough Island mice and a reference strain, the study identified hundreds of QTL with modest, additive effects that control skeletal dimensions at multiple developmental stages. Notably, several high-impact loci affect suites of skeletal traits and colocalize with body weight QTL, suggesting pleiotropy plays a key role in this evolutionary process. This work provides a rare glimpse into the genetic mechanisms driving rapid evolution in natural populations and positions Gough Island mice as a valuable model system for studying such phenomena.
Cambodian Memorial Sites: From centres of repression to places of peace and reflection
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2016 —
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This research examines how collective memory of genocide is shaped by memorial sites, revealing that certain sites play a pivotal role in fostering societal remembrance while others remain overlooked. The study highlights discrepancies in global recognition, with some genocides being more prominently remembered than others, despite their historical significance. To investigate this phenomenon, the research employs a dual approach: fieldwork and personal narratives at three specific sites to analyze their impact on collective memory, and reflective conversations centered on Cambodia as a case of genocide that has been largely forgotten. By exploring these methods, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms through which society processes traumatic historical events and how this understanding can contribute to preventing future atrocities.
Archipiélago de Revillagigedo
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2016 —
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Research on Nicotiana sect. Repandae, allotetraploid species originating from a single polyploidization event 5 million years ago, reveals that genome-wide repeat dynamics align with phylogenetic distance. Contrary to previous hypotheses suggesting N. nudicaulis as sister to the other three species, this study supports a revised phylogeny: N. repanda is sister to the Revillagigedo Island taxa (N. nesophila and N. stocktonii), while N. nudicaulis remains basal. The findings, derived from high-throughput sequencing and genome skimming analyses of repetitive DNA clusters, confirm that broad-scale repeat patterns reflect evolutionary history. This challenges earlier interpretations based on transposable element dynamics, underscoring the predictive power of repeat dynamics in phylogenetic studies.
Hebron/Al-Khalil Old Town
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2016 —
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A study on the genotoxic effects of e-waste recycling in Idhna, Hebron District, Palestine, found significant DNA damage and chromosome aberrations in individuals with direct exposure to e-waste. The research compared 46 non-smoker participants from Idhna—workers or residents—to a control group of 16 unexposed individuals from Bethlehem and Al-Aizariya. Results showed an average of 4.83 chromosomal aberrations per cell in exposed subjects, compared to just 0.75 in controls, with notable differences in chromatid breaks, chromosome breaks, and ring formations. The Comet assay also confirmed significantly higher DNA damage (p < 0.05) in the exposed group. These findings underscore the urgent need for mitigation measures to protect human health from the hazards of informal e-waste recycling.
Historic Cairo
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2016 —
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Gentrification in historic cities is increasingly recognized as a planned process, not merely haphazard, leading to significant physical, economic, social, and cultural transformations. This study applies gentrification indicators developed by Kennedy and Leonard (2001) to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Historic Cairo, revealing how these changes manifest within neighborhoods. The research sheds light on the 'Geography of Gentrification'—a concept introduced by Lee (1996)—by analyzing spatial patterns and their impacts on urban development. By examining Cairo's historic fabric, the study provides a framework for understanding gentrification dynamics in culturally significant areas.
Xinjiang Tianshan
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2016 —
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A new study challenges the long-held belief about the geological age of volcanic rocks in the Arbasay Formation, Xinjiang Tianshan. Using advanced geochronology techniques, including zircon U–Pb dating via LA-ICP-MS, researchers determined that these volcanic successions formed during the late Carboniferous period (308–305 Ma), not the early Permian as previously thought. The study also revealed that the rocks exhibit calc-alkaline geochemical signatures typical of continental arcs, enriched in LREEs and LILEs while depleted in HFSEs. This finding suggests that the volcanic activity was linked to the southward subduction of the North Tianshan Oceanic lithosphere rather than an intracontinental rift setting. The research integrates field mapping, petrography, and geochemical analysis to provide a refined understanding of the tectonic evolution in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia
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2016 —
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Rock type, terrain morphology, and proximity to roads were the key factors influencing the selection of church sites in Niğde Province during the transition from underground temples to above-ground stone ashlar churches (SACs) in the 18th century. The study reveals that the soft tufaceous geology of Cappadocia provided both shelter and protection, shaping early Christian refuge strategies and religious spread across Anatolia. This analysis, based on geological, geographical, and human factors, highlights how environmental conditions and infrastructure guided the evolution of sacred architecture in this UNESCO-listed region.
Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd
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2016 —
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A comprehensive geohazard assessment methodology for UNESCO World Heritage List (WHL) sites in the UK has been developed, combining geological data with satellite-based radar interferometry (InSAR). The study highlights that while only one UK WHL site is currently listed as 'in danger,' many more could be vulnerable to geohazards. Using Gwynedd's Castles and Town Walls as a test case, researchers demonstrated how varied geology and topography can influence stability across multiproperty sites. Additionally, the approach was applied to four London WHL sites, showcasing its potential for broader application. This work contributes to the PROTHEGO project, which aims to map geohazards in over 400 European WHL sites using non-invasive remote sensing techniques.
Anticosti
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2016 —
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A significant volume of in-place hydrocarbon resources, estimated at 32.3 billion barrels of oil (BBO) and 52.4 trillion cubic feet (TCF) of natural gas, has been identified in the Macasty Formation on Anticosti Island, Quebec, Canada. This assessment, using the dual porosity model of the GSC, represents the first independent evaluation leveraging both public domain data and confidential operator information. The study highlights a 78% oil to 22% gas ratio, with notable uncertainty due to sparse and varied data coverage. Previous industry estimates suggested around 42.9 billion barrels of oil equivalent, aligning closely with this study's P50 result of 42.1 billion barrels of oil-equivalent. The research did not evaluate recovery rates due to a lack of production data.
Caves of Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst
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2016 —
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Two adjacent karst valleys, Demänovská and Jánska, exhibit distinct cave systems despite similar geomorphological and hydrological conditions. The Demänovská Cave system, spanning over 30 km, forms a continuous, navigable network within the eastern slope of its valley, while the Jánska Valley's caves, also exceeding 30 km in total length, are fragmented and lack interconnections despite proven underground space continuity. This divergence is attributed to underlying geological structures: Demänovská Valley lies on a monocline of the Krížňanský nappe, whereas Jánska Valley is part of the tectonically complex Chočský nappe. Both systems develop primarily in Middle Triassic Gutenstein Limestones, highlighting how structural geology influences karst formation.
Heard and McDonald Islands
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2016 —
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Heard Island's geological history reveals a dynamic volcanic evolution linked to the Central Kerguelen Plateau. The study found that the island's formation began with 22 million-year-old gabbro sills intruding pelagic limestone, followed by late Miocene deposition of pillow lavas and marine sediments. Two late Quaternary volcanic systems emerged: Big Ben in the southeast and Mount Dixon in the northwest, with feeder dykes dating back 400–200 thousand years. Eruptions of evolved lavas (trachytes, trachyandesites) occurred between 100–20 thousand years ago, while parasitic cones formed as recently as 15–10 thousand years ago. Mawson Peak at Big Ben's summit erupted as late as 2007. This activity is part of a broader Neogene volcanic region, suggesting plume material incubation beneath the nearly stationary Central Kerguelen Plateau. The research used 40Ar–39Ar laser step-heating age determinations on stratigraphically controlled lava flows and intrusive rocks to reconstruct this timeline.
Archaeological Heritage of the Lenggong Valley
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2016 —
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A quantitative methodology for assessing geosites has been developed, enabling the sustainable management and conservation of geological heritage. This approach evaluates geosites based on multiple value sets—scientific, cultural, ecological, aesthetic, and economic—and ranks them using total scores derived from quantitative analysis. The study applied this method to 13 selected geosites in the Archaeological Heritage of Lenggong Valley, demonstrating its potential for integrating diverse heritage values into conservation strategies.
Caves of Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst
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2016 —
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Despite being considered less developed, the Slovak Karst region exhibits karst forms with smaller depression densities and sizes compared to western plateaus. This study challenges the perception of underdeveloped karst by mapping two plateaus—Jasov and Zádiel—and analyzing their geomorphological features through a 1:10,000 scale map. The research reveals that these plateaus, characterized by flat reliefs with east-facing hills and valleys, host dolines and other karst forms, albeit in less pronounced manners. Morphometric analyses further compare the Slovak Karst to other European karst areas, contributing to a deeper understanding of its unique geological evolution.
Bauhaus and its Sites in Weimar, Dessau and Bernau
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2016 —
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This study redefines the concept of 'Gesamtkunstwerk' or 'total work of art' by examining its application in Bauhaus, particularly through Oskar Schlemmer's stage works. It argues that the notion of unity (Einheit) in art, rooted in Romantic thought, was reinterpreted by both Wagner and the Bauhaus as responses to their respective historical contexts—late 19th-century Bayreuth and post-World War I Weimar. The research highlights how these movements embodied a shared aesthetic impulse despite differing circumstances, offering a fresh perspective on the evolution of modernist art. Methodologically, it employs comparative analysis of Romantic aesthetics and Bauhaus practices to trace the transformation of unity in artistic expression.
Archaeological Site of Cyrene
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2016 —
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A comprehensive GIS mapping project of the chora of Cyrene reveals significant insights into Late Antiquity, focusing on fortifications and Christian basilicas. The study, conducted by a collaborative team of Libyan and Italian researchers, employed advanced methodologies including remote sensing, laser scanning, geophysical prospection, and traditional archaeological surveys. This integrated approach identified numerous 'minor sites' that were crucial for local economic management from the Late Classical to Islamic periods. The research highlights the strategic importance of fortifications along the limes and the distribution of Christian buildings, contributing to a deeper understanding of the region's historical landscape during this transitional era.
Western Ghats
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2016 —
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A recent study on bush frogs in the Western Ghats Escarpment reveals that more than 60 distinct lineages have diversified in situ, with deep geographical and clade-level endemism shaped by both geological processes and ecological gradients. The research highlights the biogeographic significance of the Palghat Gap, an ancient valley, which separates two deeply divergent sister clades—North and South. The study found that range stasis and allopatric speciation driven by geological processes dominate lineage isolation on adjacent massifs. Additionally, diversification events in montane zones (above 1800 m) suggest a role for climate-mediated forest-grassland persistence, while independent transitions along elevational gradients during the Miocene indicate diversification along these gradients. High elevations act as centers of lineage diversification, whereas low- and mid-elevations in southern regions serve as 'museums' for deeply divergent lineages.
Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek
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2016 —
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Between 2000 and 2012, three major glaciers in Glacier Bay—Fairweather, Lituya, and Desolation—lost 1.5 to 7.7 meters in elevation while their snowlines rose by 120–289 meters, signaling accelerated retreat driven primarily by rising temperatures despite increased precipitation. In contrast, Cascade and Crillon glaciers gained ice thickness (0.65–7 meters) due to thicker debris cover, which moderated their response to climate change. The study used Landsat imagery and radar-based elevation models to quantify surface area changes (2.2–2.6% loss for Fairweather and Desolation), snow accumulation ratios, and dynamic shifts, highlighting how local conditions like debris cover can alter glacier behavior amid global warming.
Göbekli Tepe
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2016 —
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Göbekli Tepe's Enclosure H reveals significant insights into the complex architectural and ritualistic practices of Neolithic communities. The 2014 excavation, detailed in a preliminary report, uncovered evidence suggesting that this structure was not merely a place of habitation but likely served as a ceremonial or ritual site. The research employs a combination of archaeological excavation techniques and stratigraphic analysis to document the site's layers, uncovering artifacts such as stone tools, faunal remains, and architectural features that provide clues about the social organization and symbolic significance of Göbekli Tepe during this early period. This report contributes crucial data to our understanding of the transition from hunter-gatherer societies to more settled, complex communities in the region.
Australian Fossil Mammal Sites (Riversleigh / Naracoorte)
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2016 —
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A new analysis of the early Miocene marsupial mole, Naraboryctes philcreaseri, from Australia's Riversleigh World Heritage Area reveals that it was highly adapted for burrowing, with an Index of Fossorial Ability nearly identical to living marsupial moles. This suggests notoryctemorphians evolved their subterranean lifestyle before the Miocene, possibly transitioning from forest floor burrowing or alternative environments like caves. Phylogenetic analysis places Naraboryctes as a sister taxon to Notoryctes, diverging 30.3 million years ago (MYA), with evidence indicating its visual system was functional until at least 5.4 MYA when the gene RBP3 became inactive in the Notoryctes lineage, coinciding with the rise of open grasslands in Australia.
Studenica Monastery
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2016 —
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A study reveals that 'Golden Gates' were a common feature in churches and monasteries founded by Serbian royalty, including Studenica Monastery. These gilded doors symbolized the transition from sin to grace and served as entrances to the heavenly Jerusalem. The research analyzes historical evidence, such as the depiction of despot Stefan's founder ensemble in Resava monastery, which shows a golden door matching his attire. By examining other significant royal foundations, the study concludes that such gates were prevalent across multiple Serbian monasteries, including Ravanica, Lesnovo, and Gracanica.
Paraty and Ilha Grande – Culture and Biodiversity
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2016 —
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A comparative analysis of tourism governance in three Brazilian destinations—Armação dos Búzios, Paraty, and Bonito—reveals shared characteristics such as coordinated decision-making and structured conflict resolution mechanisms. These findings highlight the importance of collaborative governance in shaping tourism dynamics, innovation, and sustainability. The study employed qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews using a snowball sampling technique, alongside documentary analysis of official tourism documents. This approach allowed for an in-depth examination of how governance structures facilitate negotiation among stakeholders, ultimately influencing tourism development in these regions.
Curonian Spit
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2016 —
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A study of sediment samples collected along the Curonian Spit (south-eastern Baltic Sea) from 2011 to 2015 reveals that grain size variability is not an effective indicator of longshore sediment transport in this transit coastal system. While the southern (Russian) and northern (Lithuanian) parts of the spit exhibit distinct medium-sized and fine sand compositions, respectively, the 'McLaren' method failed to align with wave action simulations or storm conditions preceding sampling, undermining its utility for predicting sediment movement directions. However, the study confirmed that cross-shore sediment transport occurs during calm weather, with deposits from the trough moving toward the shoreline. This research highlights the limitations of grain size analysis in dynamic coastal environments like the Curonian Spit, where sediment sources and sinks are transient.
Central Sikhote-Alin
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2016 —
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Research reveals distinct structural and temporal patterns in granitoid magmatism within the Arminskii block of Central Sikhote Alin, linking specific rock series to unique ore mineralization types. The Tatibi gabbromonzodiorite series is associated with gold-ore occurrences, including the potential Glukhoe deposit, while the Olgino leucocratic granite series correlates with known tin-sulfide ore deposits. Using U–Pb geochronology and ³He/⁴He isotopy, the study determines the conditions for rock generation and provides precise timing for mineralization events, offering new insights into the region's geological history and resource potential.
Great Zimbabwe National Monument
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2016 —
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Great Zimbabwe World Heritage Site serves as a valuable resource for sustainable development, particularly in cultural and social terms. The study reveals that the site promotes Shona traditions through community projects like the Shona Village and the Great Zimbabwe Nemanwa Craft Centre, generating revenue while fostering local culture. However, benefits such as employment creation are often temporary and unsustainable due to limited community participation. This challenges the common perception that cultural heritage is harder to sustain than natural heritage, offering a counterpoint by demonstrating its potential as an engine for sustainable development. The research employed questionnaires, personal interviews, and site visits to gather data, providing a nuanced understanding of the site's impact on local communities.
Fagus Factory in Alfeld
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2016 —
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A comparative analysis reveals why the Steiff teddy bear factory, despite its architectural innovation and historical significance, remains obscure, while the Fagus Factory by Gropius and Meyer is celebrated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The study examines the contested histories of both buildings, highlighting how narratives often prioritize compelling stories over factual accuracy. It suggests that the Fagus Factory's fame stems from its association with modernist architecture and the Bauhaus movement, whereas the Steiff factory's unique design and industrial significance have been overlooked. The research also explores the parallel narrative around the teddy bear, illustrating a broader trend where history favors anecdotes over empirical facts.
iSimangaliso Wetland Park – Maputo National Park
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2016 —
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Speckled snapper (<em>Lutjanus rivulatus</em>) exhibits slow growth, with a maximum length (L∞) of 918 mm fork length and a growth coefficient (K) of 0.06, as determined by a long-term tag-recapture study in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park—Maputo National Park, South Africa. The study, conducted over multiple years, tagged 1,429 individuals, with 31.7% recaptured, allowing researchers to model growth rates using maximum-likelihood methods. Notably, the growth index (phi-prime) of 2.69 was lower than that of related species, suggesting vulnerability to exploitation due to slow growth and high site fidelity. The research also found no significant impact from deep-hooking or multiple captures on fish growth. These findings underscore the need for a precautionary approach in managing this species within the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Simien National Park
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2016 —
WHEB91AA2BA49
Gelada females in Simien National Park, Ethiopia, reach adult body size by 7.72 years, with 97.2% of their shoulder-rump growth completed by first reproduction, contrary to expectations given their graminivorous diet and high infant mortality. Unlike other polygynous primates, male geladas surpass females in size not due to faster growth but because they grow for a longer period, reaching 96% of adult size at estimated first birth. The study employed a noninvasive photogrammetric method using parallel lasers to measure shoulder-rump growth in wild populations, providing novel insights into life history patterns in primates. This approach offers a promising tool for constructing comprehensive life history perspectives that were previously inaccessible.
Taos Pueblo
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2016 —
WHECBE5948529
Taos Pueblo's concept of ha-lem, or respect, emerges as a powerful culture-based pedagogy that fosters self-determination and sustains the cultural and ecological integrity of the community. This study reveals how ha-lem operates through interconnected social relationships, maintaining balance among individuals, communities, and environments—a critical factor for the survival of Taos Pueblo, which has thrived for over 1,000 years in the Place of the Red Willows. Through autoethnographic vignettes, the research demonstrates that practicing ha-lem mitigates harm—both natural and supernatural—when relationships are disrupted. This approach offers a model for contemporary self-determination rooted in traditional knowledge and ecological stewardship.
Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island
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2016 —
WHE08E4560B8F
Researchers have identified four novel haliclonadiamine analogues and a new bicyclic guanidine alkaloid, 6-epi-monanchorin, from the marine sponge <em>Halichondria panicea</em> collected at Iriomote Island, part of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Okinawa. These compounds exhibited varying degrees of antimicrobial activity against <em>Mycobacterium smegmatis</em>, with (10Z,12E)-haliclonadiamine and papuamine showing the most significant inhibition zones. Additionally, halichondriamines A and B demonstrated weak cytotoxicity against the Huh-7 human hepatoma cell line, though less potent than previously known analogues. The study employed spectroscopic analysis to elucidate the structures of these compounds, contributing new insights into marine-derived natural products with potential biomedical applications.
Mantua and Sabbioneta
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2016 —
WHEBC401EF110
Vespasiano Gonzaga, Duke of Sabbioneta (1531–1591), stands as the first historical figure to deliberately design and construct a city—Sabbioneta—as a living embodiment of his ideals. This 'Città ideale' served as both a response to the political disorder of his era and an expression of Renaissance humanism, blending civic order with mathematical precision. The study reveals that Sabbioneta’s architecture, from its galleria and mint to its churches, reflects Gonzaga’s visionary approach, while also linking him to Shakespearean themes, particularly in <em>Hamlet</em>. Gonzaga’s life, marked by syphilis and introspection, offers a unique lens on the transition from Renaissance thought to early modernity. The work reconstructs his intellectual world through biographical analysis, textual connections, and architectural interpretation.
Archaeological Site of Leptis Magna
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2016 —
WHE9E98DD9657
Harbours and maritime networks function as complex adaptive systems influenced by environmental, political, and economic factors. The Special Priority Programme (SPP 1630) of the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft revealed that the emergence, use, and decline of harbours depend on interdependent conditions, such as the foundation of Alexandria in 331 BC, which disrupted Thonis-Heracleion's trade networks but allowed it to persist as a religious centre. The study also identified 'gateway communities'—coastal settlements without harbour infrastructure that thrived due to avoidance of port taxation. Additionally, imperial euergetism and lobbying played crucial roles in the construction and maintenance of Roman ports, with emperors holding exclusive privileges for large-scale projects. Archaeological network analysis further demonstrated structural patterns in maritime trade rather than specific connections, highlighting the strengths and limitations of such methods.
