Paphos
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2016 —
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A significant portion of archaeological sites in the Paphos region, Cyprus, are located on areas prone to erosion and landslides, posing substantial risks to their preservation. This was revealed through an innovative risk assessment model that integrated remote sensing and GIS technologies, addressing limitations of traditional monitoring methods which are time-consuming and cost-inefficient. The study demonstrated how these modern tools can provide comprehensive spatial data analysis, enabling scientists to monitor both natural and anthropogenic hazards more effectively. Additionally, the research highlighted extensive construction activity in the broader area, further exacerbating risks to cultural heritage sites.
Saryarka – Steppe and Lakes of Northern Kazakhstan
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2016 —
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The etymology and geographical significance of oronyms in the Saryarka region reveal deep connections between place names, geological features, and mineral resources. This study demonstrates that toponymic analysis, integrating geography, history, linguistics, and archaeology, provides critical insights into the geological structure and mineral potential of mountain systems such as Kokshetau, Yereimentau, Bayanaul, Chingiztau, Kyzylaray, Karkaraly, and Ulytau. The research highlights how local toponyms serve as markers for rock composition, mineral deposits, and historical archaeological contexts, offering geologists valuable information for resource exploration. Additionally, the study underscores the importance of understanding the propagation laws of names in shaping the region's geographical identity, with implications for sustainable tourism development.
Historic Cairo
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2016 —
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Old Islamic houses in Cairo, particularly their courtyards, demonstrate sophisticated passive ventilation strategies that can inform modern sustainable building design. These courtyards, integral to social and environmental functions, offer insights into natural ventilation techniques that have been overshadowed by contemporary reliance on mechanical systems. The study employs inductive methods, including literature review and analytical application of passive ventilation principles in a historic courtyard house, to highlight the potential for energy-efficient, sustainable built environments. By revisiting traditional architectural practices, this research provides actionable knowledge to address rising energy demands while preserving cultural heritage.
Pantanal Conservation Area
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2016 —
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A critical examination of conservation policies along the Paraguay River in Brazil's Pantanal wetlands reveals that historic fisher-farmers do not deplete fish stocks, contrary to assumptions by reserve officials. The study challenges the notion that eco-tourism benefits conservation and exposes private reserves as often being hobby ranches or land speculation ventures. Using radical environmental history and critical global political ecology perspectives, researchers highlight a class conflict between conservationists and local peasants, with courts siding with the latter. This work underscores the need for equitable policies that recognize the ecological knowledge and practices of indigenous communities.
Greater Blue Mountains Area
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2016 —
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A significant decline in domestic per-capita nature tourism visitation was observed in Australia and the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area from 1998 to 2012, challenging assumptions about the growth of this sector. The study compared visitation trends with population growth, revealing that while nature-based tourism remains economically vital, its per capita decline poses risks for biodiversity conservation and local economies. Strategies to boost visitation, particularly targeting children to foster long-term environmentally responsible behavior, are recommended as critical for sustaining park survival and political support.
Paphos
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2016 —
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Excavations at the Hellenistic House in Nea Paphos, Cyprus, revealed significant architectural and artifactual evidence from the 2nd century AD. The site, which collapsed due to an earthquake, yielded oblong tumble blocks, including entablature fragments of the eastern peristyle and acroteria depicting Dioskouroi symbols. A cistern beneath the courtyard contained two successive well-heads, one of which had collapsed into it. Notably, the disturbed fill from the courtyard surface included a sling bullet mold with scorpion relief decoration and fragments of 'Nabatean' capitals featuring schematic volutes. These findings provide insights into the architectural style and craftsmanship of the period, as well as the functional use of the space.
Historic Fortified City of Carcassonne
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2016 —
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A comprehensive interdisciplinary field study at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Carcassonne, reveals significant insights into the construction and use of its medieval fortress walls using near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy and hyperspectral imaging. The research, conducted by a collaboration between universities and institutes, successfully identified raw materials used in wall construction and elucidated different phases of their development and vulnerabilities. This study builds upon earlier work that demonstrated simplified NIR imaging with modified digital cameras, advancing the technique's application to large-scale, protected archaeological sites where traditional laboratory analysis is impractical.
Hanseatic City of Lübeck
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2016 —
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During the period of 1650 to 1730, negotiation and diplomacy emerged as critical strategies for survival among the Hanseatic cities of Lübeck, Bremen, and Hamburg, as well as the duchies of Schleswig-Holstein-Gottorp and Mecklenburg-Schwerin. This study highlights how France's political influence became a pivotal factor in these regions, particularly against the backdrop of shifting constitutional dynamics within the Holy Roman Empire. The research underscores the indispensable role of diplomatic engagement in securing state existence during this transformative era.
Sian Ka'an
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2016 —
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Punta Allen, located within the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve and under the jurisdiction of Tulum Municipality, holds unique agency in shaping regional tourism development. Unlike other communities, Punta Allen's lobster fishing and tourism cooperatives engage in meaningful negotiations with both the reserve and municipality, enabling them to influence their village's future. This 'negotiated living' approach demonstrates how local governance structures can balance ecological conservation with sustainable economic growth, offering a model for other UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Historic Areas of Istanbul
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2016 —
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Current top-down, neo-liberal urban regeneration policies in Istanbul prioritize economic growth and gentrification over earthquake resilience, leaving vulnerable communities at risk. The study identifies three phases of post-1999 earthquake neighborhood regeneration: an initial phase focused on resilient redevelopment with minimal gentrification, a second phase dominated by controversial displacement and gentrification under pro-development policies, and a third phase where economic incentives drive profitable redevelopment rather than seismic vulnerability reduction. A case study of Bağcılar highlights both limitations and potential for improvement. The paper argues that 20th-century urbanization challenges continue to shape regeneration problems today and calls for 'bottom-up' research to evidence the social costs of current practices and propose alternative, resilient models.
Pont du Gard (Roman Aqueduct)
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2016 —
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Nemausus, originally a Celtic settlement and later a significant Roman city in Gallia Narbonensis (modern Nîmes), emerged as a rival to Narbo, becoming one of the most successful urban centers in Roman Gaul. By 28 BCE, it was established as a *colonia Latina, hosting an important mint and expanding its walls to enclose approximately 220 hectares. The city's prominence is underscored by its architectural marvels, including an amphitheater, a precinct dedicated to Deus Nemausus, and the iconic Maison Carrée temple, later dedicated to Julius Caesar. Additionally, the Pont-du-Gard aqueduct, part of its extensive water infrastructure, stands as a testament to Roman engineering. Nemausus produced notable figures, including ancestors of Emperor Antoninus Pius, reflecting its enduring cultural and economic influence.
Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu
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2016 —
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Neoliberalism and Global Theatres: Performance Permutations, edited by Laura D. Nielsen and Patricia Ybarra, provides a critical examination of how neoliberal economics influences global theatre and performance cultures. The collection of 17 essays explores the intersections of arts, globalization, and market dynamics across diverse regions, including Latin America, Asia, and North America. Key findings include the analysis of institutional strategies in neoliberal contexts, such as Yale University's financial control over Peruvian artifacts from Machu Picchu, and the impact of neoliberalism on artistic expression and cultural identity. The study employs a multidisciplinary approach, integrating economic theory with performance studies to challenge conventional narratives of globalization. Notable contributions include examinations of space in Chicano theatre and the threats to experimental theatre spaces like Teatro Oficina Perdiz in Brasilia due to economic pressures.
Heart of Neolithic Orkney
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2016 —
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Designating Orkney's Neolithic landscapes as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (WHS) in the 1990s has significantly reshaped global perceptions of Scotland's Neolithic period, highlighting its unique socio-political and cultural importance. This recognition, overlapping with a National Scenic Area, created a synergistic effect that offers valuable lessons for heritage management. The study reviews how this designation influences broader interpretations of Scotland’s Neolithic past while examining the contemporary implications of preserving such landscapes.
Ancient City of Qalhat
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2016 —
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Research on the Jebel Ja’alan and Qalhat inliers in Oman reveals the oldest magmatic events linked to the closure of the Mozambique Ocean, dating back approximately 900–880 million years. This discovery sheds light on the Neoproterozoic crustal growth at the margin of East Gondwana, a critical period for the assembly of supercontinents. The study employed U-Pb SIMS zircon dating and Nd isotopic analysis to determine crystallization ages and evaluate the juvenile to slightly evolved nature of the rocks, indicating variable contamination by older continental material. These findings contrast with younger, more uniformly juvenile rocks in southern Oman, suggesting a progressive development of arc rocks onto East Gondwana's western margin. The research highlights the complex geological processes shaping this region's ancient crust.
Natural System of Wrangel Island Reserve
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2016 —
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Wrangel Island's granitoids, dated to the Neoproterozoic era (Cryogenian period), reveal ancient geological secrets. A study using U–Pb geochronology identified inherited zircon cores within these rocks, suggesting the presence of Neoarchean–Mesoproterozoic foundations on the island. These ancient components, aged 1010, 1170, 1200, and over 2600 million years, indicate that older rocks were partially melted during granitoid magma formation. This discovery sheds light on Wrangel Island's complex geological history, hinting at a deeper, more ancient foundation than previously recognized.
Island of Mozambique
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2016 —
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Loggerhead and leatherback sea turtles exhibit distinct nest site preferences on Inhaca Island, Mozambique. Loggerheads distribute nests more evenly across the eastern coast, with higher concentrations at the northernmost section, while leatherbacks concentrate nesting in central areas. Beach height significantly influences loggerhead nest density (r = 0.309, P < 0.01), whereas fin grain particles (0.125 mm) and organic content are critical for leatherback nest selection (r = 0.399, P < 0.01; r = 0.218, P < 0.05). The study analyzed six nesting seasons using satellite imagery to assess beach features correlated with nest site selection, revealing species-specific environmental preferences that may impact offspring survival and adult fitness.
Keoladeo National Park
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2016 —
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Nest survival in Painted Stork (Mycteria leucocephala) colonies is significantly influenced by environmental factors such as annual rainfall, daily minimum temperature, and colony-specific parameters like nest density. Research indicates that nests built early in the breeding season exhibit higher survival rates, while lower winter temperatures negatively impact daily survival. Additionally, nests in high-density colonies show improved survival probabilities. The study analyzed 1,095 nests across four northern Indian colonies over two breeding seasons (2013–2014 and 2014–2015), monitoring them every 4–7 days to assess the impact of these variables on nest survival.
Historic Centre of Oporto, Luiz I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar
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2016 —
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A study on the Historic Centre of Oporto, including the Luiz I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar, reveals that while collaboration among stakeholders is prevalent, there is no official network for managing, planning, or protecting this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The research highlights significant challenges in balancing sustainable tourism development with heritage preservation, emphasizing the need for structured networking to address these issues effectively. The study employs a qualitative approach to analyze stakeholder dynamics and identify key difficulties in heritage management.
Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis
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2016 —
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Late Byzantine and early Islamic Thebes, particularly the town of Jeme (Medinet Habu) and its neighboring monastic communities, functioned as a vital regional hub within broader Egyptian exchange networks. This study reveals that Jeme's symbiotic relationship with nearby monasteries—such as Apa Phoibammon, Epiphanius, and Frange—enhanced both their economic and religious significance. While not rivaling nome capitals in importance, this west Theban network demonstrated interdependence, where the town's prosperity supported monastic growth, which in turn elevated Jeme’s status. Leveraging extensive Coptic documentary evidence from well-defined chronological periods, the research provides a rare, data-driven insight into social and economic interactions across the Hermonthite and Koptite nomes. This work lays groundwork for future sociological studies of the region, framing its significance within broader historical contexts.
Volcanoes of Kamchatka
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2016 —
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Scientists have discovered katiarsite, a new mineral with the chemical formula KTiO(AsO4), in sublimates from the Arsenatnaya fumarole at Tolbachik volcano, Kamchatka. This orthorhombic mineral, characterized by its sword-like crystal forms and optical properties, is associated with other arsenate minerals like hatertite and bradaczekite. Katiarsite exhibits a unique structure akin to synthetic KTA, a known non-linear optical material, suggesting potential applications in optics. The study employed electron-microprobe analysis, X-ray diffraction, and Raman spectroscopy to elucidate its composition, crystal structure, and physical properties. The mineral's name reflects its chemical makeup, combining potassium (kalium), titanium, and arsenate.
Monte San Giorgio
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2016 —
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Paleontologists have uncovered two new species of holostean fish, Ticinolepis longaeva and T. crassidens, from the Middle Triassic carbonate platform deposits of Monte San Giorgio in Switzerland. These findings provide critical insights into the evolutionary history of neopterygian fishes, revealing a mosaic of halecomorph and ginglymodian traits that suggest these species represent basal holosteans. The study highlights distinct habitat partitioning between the two species, with T. longaeva adapting to more restricted environments while T. crassidens exhibited anatomical adaptations indicative of a durophagous diet. Additionally, the research documents intraspecific variation and ontogenetic changes in T. longaeva, offering a nuanced understanding of its ecological adaptability over time.
Jodrell Bank Observatory
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2016 —
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Research at Jodrell Bank Observatory reveals that young glitching pulsars, including PSR B1800-21 and PSR B1823-13, exhibit long-term braking indices (n ≤ 2), suggesting they may be older than previously estimated. This challenges established evolutionary models by introducing a new trend in the P-P' diagram. The study employed a glitch-template method to mitigate timing noise and post-glitch recovery effects, enabling precise measurements for five pulsars, including updated data for Vela. Short-term inter-glitch braking indices (n_ig > 10) were also observed, indicating possible short-term re-coupling and long-term decoupling of superfluid dynamics in these stars. This work sheds light on the complex spin evolution of glitching pulsars and their potential connection to supernova remnants.
Shark Bay, Western Australia
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2016 —
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A recent intensive field program at Shark Bay, Western Australia, has revealed that coccoid cyanobacteria, not filamentous ones, dominate the microbial mats forming lithified stromatolite buildups, contradicting traditional views. This discovery was enabled by multi-scale mapping and molecular studies, which identified eight distinct 'Stromatolite Provinces' with unique geographic distributions of stromatolite structures. Additionally, analysis of internal fabrics showed pervasive microcrystalline carbonate precipitation in microbial mats, suggesting parallels with Precambrian stromatolites. These findings advance our understanding of benthic ecosystems on early Earth and provide a foundation for further studies on stromatolite morphogenesis.
Białowieża Forest
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2016 —
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A rare and endangered moss species, Buxbaumia viridis (Green Shield-moss), has been newly documented in the Białowieża Forest. This discovery is significant as it extends the known range of this ancient forest species, which is legally protected across Europe due to its vulnerability to logging and intensive forest management. The study highlights the importance of preserving its habitat, particularly amid proposals for increased logging activities.
Western Caucasus
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2016 —
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A groundbreaking discovery of three adventive beetle species—Arthrolips fasciata, Silvanoprus cephalotes, and Psammoecus trimaculatus—in the Western Caucasus marks a significant expansion of known biodiversity for Russia and Europe. Notably, Psammoecus trimaculatus represents the first recorded instance in Europe, while Arthrolips fasciata and Silvanoprus cephalotes extend their range into Eastern Europe. These findings highlight the region's ecological importance as a conduit for species dispersal, likely facilitated by human activity or environmental shifts. The study, rooted in meticulous field surveys and taxonomic analysis, underscores the need for enhanced monitoring of adventive species to better understand their impacts on local ecosystems.
Paraty and Ilha Grande – Culture and Biodiversity
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2016 —
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A recent study significantly expands the known avian diversity of Ilha Grande, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in southeastern Brazil. Researchers identified 32 new bird species on the island, increasing its total from 222 to 254—representing one-third of Rio de Janeiro's recorded species. Among these, seven are endemic to the Atlantic Forest, including two with conservation concerns: <em>Sporophila falcirostris</em> (globally Vulnerable) and <em>Haematopus palliatus</em> (Near Threatened in Brazil). The study also documents the second record of <em>Agelaioides badius</em> for Rio de Janeiro state. By surveying new sites, the team suggests these findings may reflect both recent colonization and range expansions, while 13 species recorded are threatened at regional, national, or global levels. This update enhances our understanding of Ilha Grande's biodiversity and underscores its importance as a critical habitat.
Iguaçu National Park
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2016 —
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A taxonomic inventory of Cosmarium (Desmiadiales, Zygnematophyceae) in a subtropical stream adjacent to Iguaçu National Park, Paraná State, Brazil, revealed 37 taxa, including 15 new records for the state. These discoveries expand the known biodiversity of the region, contributing valuable data to conservation efforts at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The study employed monthly sampling of periphytic material associated with Eleocharis minima Kunth from August 2012 to July 2013, providing a comprehensive baseline for future ecological research.
Ashur (Qal'at Sherqat)
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2016 —
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Newly recovered manuscripts from Nineveh, Ashur, and Tarbisu reveal previously unknown details of Sennacherib's first military campaign (704–702 BCE) against Marduk-aplu-iddina and his Babylonian allies. The study provides a comprehensive edition of these inscriptions, mapping the Aramean tribes and Chaldean towns targeted by Assyrian forces while challenging assumptions about the authorship of celebratory campaign narratives. By synthesizing fragmented sources, researchers reconstruct the geographical extent and political context of this early Assyrian expansion, offering fresh insights into Near Eastern conflict dynamics during the 8th century BCE.
Wet Tropics of Queensland
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2016 —
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Researchers have identified six new species of Austropurcellia, tiny leaf-litter arachnids endemic to the Wet Tropics rainforests of northeast Queensland. These cryptic mite harvestmen, studied through morphological data, contribute significantly to the documented diversity of the genus, with the majority now accounted for. The study sheds light on the biogeographic history of limited-dispersal invertebrates in the region, offering insights into how climatic changes like rainforest contraction have shaped its exceptional biodiversity and endemism.
Stone Town of Zanzibar
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2016 —
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The perceived distinction between Stone Town and Ng’ambo, two parts of Zanzibar City, is not inherent but a product of colonial impositions. This study reveals that both areas developed alongside since the mid-19th century, forming the largest Swahili city globally by the early 20th century, with deep economic, social, and cultural connections. Despite British segregation policies that labeled Ng’ambo as a slum, it retained its Swahili character due to the resilience of its inhabitants. The research explores the Ng’ambo Tuitakayo project, which aimed to redevelop Ng’ambo inclusively using UNESCO Historic Urban Landscape principles while reviving historical ties with Stone Town. Through morphological analysis and urban history examination, the study unravels the (dis)continuities between both parts and details the methods used in crafting the redevelopment plan.
Sangha Trinational
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2016 —
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Nocturnal transects significantly outperform diurnal ones for monitoring duiker populations in hunted forests, yielding higher encounter rates and more accurate density estimates. A study in the Dzanga-Sangha Protected Areas (APDS), Central African Republic, found blue duikers at densities of 58.6 per km²—among the highest reported in western and central Africa—despite hunting pressure. Researchers used DISTANCE software to analyze data from 135 km diurnal and 150 km nocturnal transects, demonstrating that nocturnal surveys are critical for adaptive management in such ecosystems. This work provides vital baseline data for the Sangha Trinational Landscape (UNESCO World Heritage Site) and underscores the importance of nighttime monitoring in hunted forests.
Te Henua Enata – The Marquesas Islands
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2016 —
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A new species of lizardfish, <em>Trachinocephalus gauguini</em>, has been identified from the Marquesas Islands (Te Henua Enata), challenging the long-standing assumption that the genus <em>Trachinocephalus</em> was a single circumtropical species. This discovery splits the genus into three distinct species: <em>T. myops</em>, restricted to the Atlantic Ocean, and <em>T. trachinus</em>, resurrected for populations in the Indo-West Pacific. Morphometric analyses and phylogenetic evidence based on mitochondrial DNA (COI) sequences confirmed deep genetic divergences among these lineages, with substantial overlap only between <em>T. myops</em> and <em>T. trachinus</em>. The study also suggests the potential existence of additional cryptic species within the complex, using advanced species delimitation models. A taxonomic key is provided for identification.
Keoladeo National Park
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2016 —
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A refined model for biodiversity prioritization, building on Weitzman's Noah’s Ark framework, demonstrates that successful conservation strategies must integrate ecological value, diversity, economic benefits and costs, and the probability of protection success. Applied to Keoladeo National Park in India, this new approach reveals how interactions among these factors can more effectively guide resource allocation for biodiversity preservation.
Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City
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2016 —
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A groundbreaking approach to assess the consolidation effects on earthen archaeological sites, such as the UNESCO-listed Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City, has been developed. This study demonstrates that nondestructive and micro-damage testing methods—including thermo-physical parameter analysis, infrared thermal imaging, high-density microelectrode resistivity testing, portable microscopy, and hydrophilic/hydrophobic testing—can effectively evaluate the properties of consolidation materials used in cultural relic preservation without causing harm to the sites. These techniques provide a scientific basis for judging the efficacy of conservation treatments, addressing a longstanding challenge in archaeology where assessments have traditionally relied on subjective visual observations and expert evaluations.
Ogasawara Islands
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2016 —
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Researchers have developed novel microsatellite markers for Distylium lepidotum, a small tree endemic to the Ogasawara Islands and the sole food source for an endemic locust. These markers enable detailed investigation of genetic diversity and structure in two populations on Chichijima and Hahajima Islands, with allele counts ranging from three to 23 per locus and expected heterozygosity values between 0.156–0.940 and 0.368–0.845 for the respective populations. The markers were generated using next-generation sequencing on the Illumina MiSeq platform, providing a robust tool for future population genetics studies and conservation efforts in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Chiribiquete National Park – “The Maloca of the Jaguar”
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2016 —
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Researchers have identified a new species of sword-nose bat (Lonchorhina) within the Chiribiquete National Park, Colombia, distinguished by its exceptionally large noseleaf (>41.5 mm) and tragus (>22.3 mm), surpassing all known phyllostomid bats. This discovery, based on phenetic analysis of 105 specimens representing five recognized species, highlights the genus's underappreciated diversity. The new taxon, closely related to <em>L. mairkellei</em> and <em>L. inusitata</em>, exhibits a larger skull (GSL mean = 27.31 mm) and more robust dentition. Collected from an inselberg near Rio Mesay, the species honors the Karijona people of Chiribiquete, where ancient Amazon pictograms depict bats, underscoring its cultural significance in this biodiverse yet unexplored region.
Monasteries of Daphni, Hosios Loukas and Nea Moni of Chios
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2016 —
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Grouting significantly improved the structural stability of Daphni Monastery's Katholikon, as revealed by numerical simulations. The study analyzed the post-intervention behavior of this octagonal structure, which includes a nave, sanctuary, narthex, and chapels, using advanced modeling techniques. By simulating the entire structure from its basement to the drum-dome system, researchers ensured accurate calibration and assessed the effectiveness of grouting as a stabilization method. The findings highlight the potential of targeted interventions in preserving historical masonry structures, offering insights for similar conservation efforts worldwide.
Cidade Velha, Historic Centre of Ribeira Grande
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2016 —
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This study reveals the complex interplay between memory, heritage preservation, and urban transformation in Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Belém do Pará. It highlights divergent perspectives on the 'Feliz Lusitânia' project, which introduced new spaces of memory to the historic district. While visitors praise the revitalization efforts, local residents express concerns about security and infrastructure, underscoring the tension between heritage as a source of vitality and practical urban challenges. The research employed photographic documentation and interviews with users, locals, and preservation officials, capturing multifaceted views on heritage management in contemporary Belém.
Mbanza Kongo, Vestiges of the Capital of the former Kingdom of Kongo
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2016 —
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A groundbreaking ethnographic fieldwork experience conducted by anthropology students in the commune of Luvo, Mbanza Kongo, revealed the profound insights and challenges of immersive cultural engagement. The study highlighted the significance of direct interaction with local communities in understanding historical narratives and social dynamics within the vestiges of the former Kingdom of Kongo. By combining archaeological site visits with deep ethnographic fieldwork, participants gained firsthand experience in navigating new situations and collecting data, offering a unique perspective on anthropological research methods. This approach not only enriched their academic understanding but also provided valuable reflections on the application of theoretical knowledge in practical settings.
Ningaloo Coast
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2016 —
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Research identifies seasonal variations in ocean transport pathways to Ningaloo Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site off Western Australia. Using Lagrangian particle tracking and regional ocean circulation models, the study reveals two primary subsurface water sources: a year-round northeast source and an additional summer source offshore and west of Ningaloo, at depths of 30–150 meters. Transient wind-driven coastal upwelling, onshore geostrophic transport, and offshore eddies influence these pathways. These findings are critical for understanding how materials like nutrients, larvae, or contaminants are exchanged between the reef and surrounding ocean, offering insights into the region's complex ocean dynamics.
Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary
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2016 —
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A decade-long study (2001–2010) of marine mammal sightings around Malpelo Island and its continental waters reveals that the bottlenose dolphin (<em>Tursiops truncatus</em>) is the most consistently abundant species, with stable encounter rates year-round. The research, combining data from four sources, identified seven species near the island—with peak richness in October–November—and 13 during cruises, where humpback whales (<em>Megaptera novaeangliae</em>) dominated (March–April). Humpbacks were seasonally linked to Malpelo, suggesting reproductive use. The study also found species associations with distinct water zones: <em>M. novaeangliae</em> near the continental shelf, <em>D. delphis</em> in intermediate waters, and <em>T. truncatus</em> across both, indicating overlapping populations. This work advances knowledge of marine mammal distribution in Colombian waters, highlighting Malpelo’s ecological significance.
Delos
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2016 —
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A palm tree described by Odysseus at Apollo’s altar on Delos, referenced in Homeric texts and later confirmed by inscriptions, reveals the island's enduring significance as a sanctuary. This study demonstrates that classical authors preserved Archaic traditions about Delos, shaping subsequent perceptions of its cult sites. Material evidence shows that later constructions aligned with these literary descriptions, indicating consistent reverence for the site across generations.
Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork
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2016 —
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A comprehensive overview of the history of books, libraries, and press from 2013 to 2015 was presented at the national conference 'The History of Books and Press: The Present State of Research' held in Bydgoszcz on November 27, 2015. The conference highlighted significant contributions of past generations to European and Polish culture through a diverse range of topics, including the early days of European Christian culture, its development during the Middle Ages, and its prosperity in the 16th century. Notably, papers focused on the 19th and 20th centuries, such as those examining the Polish specialist press, provided new insights into contemporary cultural dynamics. Additionally, the conference explored the history of libraries, including notable collections like those at the Jagiellonian Library, Malbork Castle, Dominican and seminary book collections, and the Gdańsk Library of the Polish Academy of Sciences. It also delved into the traditions of Polish bookbinders and the book collections in Pomeranian manor houses, offering a nuanced understanding of historical and cultural practices.
Virunga National Park
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2016 —
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Oil exploitation within Virunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and critical habitat for endangered species like mountain gorillas and okapis, poses significant environmental threats. The study highlights the conflict between economic development, championed by the DRC government through oil drilling permits granted to multinational company Soco, and conservation efforts advocated by international organizations such as UNESCO, WWF, and HRW. While the government argues that oil exploitation could alleviate poverty for riparian populations, the research underscores the risks to biodiversity and ecosystem integrity. Using a descriptive approach grounded in bibliographic surveys, the study employs dialectic analysis to weigh these opposing perspectives, emphasizing the urgent need to balance development with environmental preservation.
Mammoth Cave National Park
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2016 —
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Old fields within Mammoth Cave National Park, USA, have shifted from the desired oak and hickory-dominated ecosystems to conifer-dominated stands due to historical agricultural land use and fire exclusion. This study found that both above-ground species composition and seedbank diversity in these old fields differ significantly from adjacent areas targeted for restoration. The research compared species dominance in old fields with that of desired future condition areas, identifying Juniperus virginiana and Pinus virginiana as dominant conifers. Management strategies proposed to restore the park's ecological balance include thinning treatments and reintroducing historic fire regimes, aiming to shift the composition back toward oak and hickory dominance.
Ferrara, City of the Renaissance, and its Po Delta
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2016 —
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Research reveals that heavy non-structural monolithic objects, such as ancient marble decorative pinnacles, pose significant seismic risks to world heritage structures. The study introduces a method for assessing the safety of underlying masonry structures under seismic excitations and evaluates ground motion amplification due to these objects. Focusing on eleven marble pinnacles atop a three-arched city gate in Ferrara, Italy, the findings highlight the potential danger to human lives and substantial loss to cultural heritage during earthquakes. The approach combines safety assessment techniques with base isolation strategies to mitigate seismic vulnerabilities in historic constructions.
Archaeological Site of Carthage
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2016 —
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A significant archaeological discovery from the seas around Sicily has shed new light on the Battle of the Egadi Islands, a pivotal naval engagement in 241 BC where Rome secured control over the Tyrrhenian Sea from Carthage. The exhibition 'Travelling Europe' showcases key artifacts from this battle, highlighting their historical and strategic importance. This finding underscores the transformative impact of underwater archaeology on our understanding of ancient maritime conflicts and the geopolitical dynamics of the Mediterranean during the Punic Wars.
Mantua and Sabbioneta
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2016 —
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A study on the historic tower in Mantua, Italy, reveals that low-cost vibration-based structural health monitoring can effectively detect abnormal behavior and damage in heritage structures. Following the 2012 Italian seismic sequence, researchers installed a dynamic monitoring system with accelerometers and temperature sensors to assess the tower's condition. Over 15 months of data collection, they identified how changing temperatures influenced modal frequencies and pinpointed potential structural issues, demonstrating the method's utility for preventive conservation and maintenance of historic towers.
Upper Svaneti
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2016 —
WHEFA36528244
Larynx-microphone recordings of body vibrations during singing effectively isolate individual vocal contributions in polyphonic music, capturing pitch, intonation, and intensity while minimizing interference from other singers. This innovative approach, tested in a field study at UNESCO World Heritage Site Upper Svaneti (Georgia), demonstrates its practicality under real-world conditions. Researchers analyzed 20 Svan songs performed by two trios, confirming that larynx-microphone recordings provide unique data not achievable through traditional audio methods. The findings validate the technique as a valuable tool for documenting and analyzing complex vocal traditions, offering new insights into the structure and performance of polyphonic music.
Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek
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2016 —
WHE749E27E6FD
Cruise-ship emissions dominate air quality in Glacier Bay National Park, contributing 60–80% of daily mean SO2 and NO2 concentrations below 1 km height on days with visits and up to 40% even without recent visits. A study using WRF/Chem simulations revealed that while these emissions significantly influence pollutant levels—particularly in stagnant weather conditions—their interaction with other sources, including distant pollutants, varies by altitude and location, with the strongest effects observed in cruise-ship berthing areas. Despite anthropogenic origins for all coarse particulate matter, visibility is primarily limited by meteorological factors. The findings highlight both constraints and opportunities for managing air quality and visibility in this UNESCO-listed region.
