Venice and its Lagoon
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2016 —
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High suspended sediment concentration (SSC) events in the Venice lagoon can be modeled as a marked Poisson process, with exponentially distributed interarrival times, peak intensities, and durations. The study reveals that while intensity and duration of these events are temporally correlated, interarrival times show little correlation with other factors. Benthic vegetation plays a significant role by reducing resuspension events in the central southern lagoon, affecting adjacent areas. Additionally, advection and dispersion processes contribute to mixing suspended sediments, leading to more homogeneous spatial patterns of mean interarrival times for SSC events compared to bottom shear stress events.
Kakadu National Park
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2016 —
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A significant decline in the population of the Endangered Yellow Chat (Epthianura crocea tunneyi) subspecies on the western South Alligator River floodplain, Kakadu National Park, was observed between 2004 and 2014. While the 2004 survey recorded 65 individuals across five areas over two days, the 2014 survey, conducted over four days and nearly 40 hours, detected only 27 Yellow Chats in a single area, suggesting a potential long-term population decrease. The study employed intensive field surveys during the late dry season (September–October) to compare habitat use and feral animal impacts between the two periods. Feral pigs (Sus scrofa) were noted as a significant threat, causing damage to wet floodplain areas. The findings underscore the need for comprehensive monitoring across all floodplains within the subspecies' range to assess overall population status and inform conservation strategies.
Redwood National and State Parks
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2016 —
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Steller's Jays (Cyanocitta stelleri) in Redwood National and State Parks exhibit altered space use and behavior near campgrounds, likely due to anthropogenic food sources. Despite similar home range sizes between campground and non-campground jays, campground jays showed extensive overlap, suggesting higher local densities. They commuted daily between campgrounds and nocturnal roosts in old-growth forests, with longer commutes correlating with larger home ranges. Campground jays were more ground-oriented and perched frequently, possibly adapting to predictable human-provided food. These findings highlight the direct influence of campgrounds on Steller's Jay behavior, raising concerns about increased nest predation risks for threatened species like Marbled Murrelets.
Deer Stone Monuments and Related Bronze Age Sites
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2016 —
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Kazakhstan's deer stones, ancient stelae with engraved images, remain among the least studied monuments in the region. This study compiles a comprehensive dataset of all known deer stones discovered since the mid-19th century, detailing their characteristics and locations. Through analysis of image features, researchers attempt to trace the origin of these stelae, which include anthropomorphic figures and various signs. The research highlights the ongoing discovery of new stelae, often replaced in their original sites, underscoring the importance of thorough documentation for accurate reconstructions. This work contributes significantly to the understanding of Bronze Age cultural expressions in Kazakhstan.
Stonehenge, Avebury and Associated Sites
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2016 —
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A re-examination of the Avebury megalithic complex reveals that clay deposits, previously overlooked, play a dynamic role in Neolithic assemblages. Unlike static material types, these clays exhibit fluid properties shaped by context, challenging traditional understandings of their function and significance. This approach underscores the importance of integrating both surface and subsurface elements to uncover new insights into megalithic structures.
China Danxia
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2016 —
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A significant rockfall event at the UNESCO World Heritage site of China Danxia, specifically at Mt. Langshan, was triggered by the rapid weathering and retreat of soft, intercalated rock layers within the Lanlong Formation. This process altered the stress state within the rock body, leading to compressive or tensile stresses exceeding the rock's strength limits, resulting in partial or complete collapse. The study analyzed 44 sandstone and conglomerate cores from the formation, assessing their mechanical properties, resistance to sulfuric acid, and freezing-thawing effects, while also examining rock slices under a polarizing microscope. A 3D finite-element model was used to reconstruct the pre-collapse geometry and restraint conditions of the stone pillar, providing insights into the stress dynamics that led to its failure.
Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis
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2016 —
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The walls of Thebes, a symbol of myth and history, are analyzed through four interconnected dimensions: the stones used in their construction, the names of their gates, the stories tied to them, and the bodies of heroes associated with their defense. This study reveals that these elements form an intricate, interdependent corpus of knowledge, where each aspect both influences and is shaped by the others in complex, non-linear ways. By examining ancient texts like Pausanias' descriptions, the research demonstrates how the walls of Thebes serve as a dynamic framework for understanding cultural narratives, architectural practices, and historical memory. The approach combines literary analysis with archaeological insights to uncover the layered significance of this iconic structure.
Venice and its Lagoon
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2016 —
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A high-accuracy storm surge model for Venice, operational since 2016, demonstrates remarkable predictive precision under normal weather conditions. Using the Shallow Water Hydrodynamic Model (SHYFEM), researchers at CNR and ICPSM forecast sea levels in the Mediterranean Sea and Venice Lagoon with mean errors (Ē) and standard deviations (σ) of approximately 1 cm and 5 cm, respectively, within the first 24 hours. The model integrates atmospheric data from ECMWF and a neural-network correction module to refine predictions based on observed Adriatic sea levels. While accuracy slightly declines during storm surge events, this operational system provides critical support for safeguarding Venice's cultural heritage and natural environment by delivering reliable six-day forecasts every six hours.
The Grand Canal
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2016 —
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A strategic framework for the rapid restoration of the Xianghe Segment of China’s Grand Canal (XSCGC) has been proposed, addressing critical environmental and ecological challenges. This UNESCO-listed waterway, crucial for connecting Beijing and Tianjin, faces severe degradation due to pollution and ecological deterioration. The study identifies key issues such as aquatic environment decline, riparian ecosystem damage, and biodiversity loss, while leveraging landsenses ecology methods and Environmental Internet of Things (EIoT) technology. Strategic measures include optimizing ecological patterns, constructing ecological corridors, improving aquatic environments, restoring riparian and wetland ecosystems, enhancing acoustic conditions, regulating microclimates, and implementing modern environmental management frameworks. These interventions aim to revitalize XSCGC's socio-economic functions while ensuring national ecological security and regional development.
Kathmandu Valley
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2016 —
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The 2015 Gorkha earthquake (Mw 7.8) in Nepal revealed significant ground motion variations in the Kathmandu Valley, with sediment-filled sites experiencing prolonged, large-amplitude oscillations—up to 10 times greater than rock sites—due to basin response. While peak ground accelerations were lower than predicted, peak velocities exceeded predictions, particularly at sedimentary sites. These long-period oscillations (3–5 s) posed a destructive risk to high-rise buildings, highlighting the valley's complex structure and its role in amplifying seismic energy. The study analyzed strong ground motions from four observation sites, combining tectonic offset data with sediment-specific responses to assess earthquake hazards in urban areas.
Villa d'Este, Tivoli
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2016 —
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A comprehensive structural and seismic assessment of the Villa d'Este Palace in Tivoli, Italy, reveals critical insights into the preservation challenges faced by this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The study highlights significant uncertainties in material properties and structural details, complicating accurate modeling and analysis. Notably, the palace's North-East side, which collapsed during World War II, required substantial post-war restoration efforts. The research also uncovered remnants of a monastery that predated the villa, adding historical depth to the site's significance. This assessment underscores the importance of advanced techniques in safeguarding architectural heritage in seismically active regions.
Old City of Jerusalem and its Walls
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2016 —
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A Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) system installed on the Tower of David in Jerusalem's Old City has successfully identified seven fundamental modes of vibration, ranging from 3 Hz to 9 Hz. This breakthrough enables precise assessment of structural response to static, dynamic, and seismic loads, facilitating early detection and classification of damage severity. The system not only helps mitigate collapse risks but also guides strengthening interventions to enhance the structure's resilience. By extracting modal parameters—natural frequencies, mode shapes, and damping coefficients—the research provides critical insights for preserving this UNESCO World Heritage Site while ensuring its structural integrity under environmental stresses.
Acropolis, Athens
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2016 —
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A novel structural health monitoring approach using optical fibre sensors and accelerographs on the Athenian Acropolis' South Wall has revealed critical insights into the stability of this ancient gravity wall. The study, conducted over several years, identified characteristic strain and acceleration patterns that provide a deeper understanding of the wall's response to environmental factors. This methodology, developed in collaboration with the Acropolis Restoration Service, offers a non-invasive way to assess the structural integrity of historical monuments, contributing valuable data for their preservation. The findings highlight the potential of optical fibre sensors in long-term monitoring of heritage sites.
Melka Kunture and Balchit: Archaeological and Palaeontological Sites in the Highland Area of Ethiopia
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2016 —
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A 1.7-million-year-old juvenile mandible from Garba IV, Melka Kunture (Ethiopia), reveals robust mandibular morphology and a tooth developmental pattern consistent with <em>Homo aff. erectus</em>, suggesting the specimen was approximately 2.5 to 3.5 years old at death. The study, based on medical CT imaging, provides novel insights into early Homo dental maturation, crown size, and tissue proportions, comparing these features with extant humans and other fossil hominins. Findings indicate that while permanent incisor and canine crown sizes align with <em>H. erectus</em> estimates, molar dimensions are closer to those of <em>H. habilis-rudolfensis</em>, with lower pulp volumes than in modern humans or other fossils.
The Porticoes of Bologna
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2016 —
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A critical analysis of the Portico of Santa Maria Dei Servi in Bologna reveals that traffic-induced vibrations significantly contribute to its structural deterioration, necessitating urgent strengthening interventions. The study identifies key vulnerabilities and prioritizes conservation strategies while emphasizing the importance of compatibility with historical structures. To quantify this impact, researchers from the Italian National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) conducted noise measurements to assess stress levels on the portico's columns. This approach underscores the need for targeted interventions that balance preservation integrity with modern engineering solutions, ensuring the long-term stability of one of Bologna's most culturally significant architectural elements.
Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis
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2016 —
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A significant discovery sheds light on the obscured contents of ancient Egyptian blocks reused in the Nilometer substructure at Roda Island, revealing scenes and texts from six tomb-chapels. The study reconstructs these fragments, providing new insights into their original context and significance. Additionally, a limestone stela attributed to Hori-Sheri, a royal scribe during Ramesses III's reign, was analyzed, confirming his role in the necropolis of Thebes through cross-referencing with historical records like Papyrus Abbott 5 and rock engravings at Medinet Habu. The research employs detailed textual analysis and stylistic comparison to date artifacts and reconstruct lost elements, contributing to a deeper understanding of ancient Egyptian administrative roles and funerary practices.
Deer Stone Monuments and Related Bronze Age Sites
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2016 —
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A 2015 archaeological expedition in Mongolia's Bayan-Ulgii and Hovd regions uncovered significant new insights into the cultural and chronological framework of the Mongolian Altai, particularly regarding Bronze Age monuments. The study documented previously unknown petroglyphs, 'deer' stones, Turkic fences, and medieval sculptures, while also revisiting well-known sites like Chandman Har uzuur and Yamany-us. Additionally, it focused on highland settlement residues and runic inscriptions, contributing to a broader understanding of the region's history from antiquity to the ethnographic present. This work highlights the importance of integrating scattered scientific data into comprehensive monographs for future research.
Rabat, Modern Capital and Historic City: a Shared Heritage
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2016 —
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Moroccan monumental heritage, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site Kasbah Chellah in Rabat, faces significant chemical and physical degradation due to natural factors such as rainwater, temperature fluctuations, humidity, ground movement, bacteria, and air pollution. Traditional conservation efforts have proven superficial and temporary, offering little lasting remedy. This study identifies key degrading factors to inform more effective inventory and conservation strategies for Chellah, aiming to preserve collective memory while supporting sustainable socio-eco-tourism development.
Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes
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2016 —
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A new interpretation of historical volcanic records on Jeju Island suggests that two eruptions documented in 1002 and 1007 CE may have originated from a single monogenetic volcano, challenging previous assumptions about the timing and nature of these events. Radiocarbon and optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating of three young volcanoes revealed their ages as <3.8 ka for Songaksan, >4.5 ka for Biyangdo, and <6–7 ka for Ilchulbong, with Songaksan identified as the most likely candidate for the historically recorded eruption due to its phreatomagmatic and magmatic activity. The study also highlights potential discrepancies between actual eruption timelines and ancient records, influenced by geopolitical dynamics and cultural contexts of the Goryeo Dynasty and Tamna Kingdom.
Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple
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2016 —
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A novel approach to contemporary character design was developed by visualizing 'The Golden Pig' from Geuknakjeon of Bulguksa Temple. This study bridges traditional Korean culture with modern applications, focusing on the pig's symbolic significance in the 12 Chinese zodiac animals and its role in controlling Haeshinjang. By combining a pig's face with a human body, researchers created an SD character that serves as both a cultural artifact and an educational tool. The visualization process aimed to enhance understanding of Korean traditional culture while proposing future directions for animation content targeting infants and children.
South China Karst
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2016 —
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South China Karst, a UNESCO World Heritage site, faces significant monitoring challenges that threaten its ecological integrity and sustainable development. The study identifies critical issues such as the lack of a unified monitoring system, inadequate or non-targeted indicators, and insufficient professional resources and equipment. To address these, researchers recommend establishing a collaborative monitoring framework with standardized indicators, targeted plans, and improved surveillance networks. These measures aim to preserve the site's outstanding universal value by ensuring systematic, effective, and sustainable monitoring practices.
Old Town of Lijiang
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2016 —
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Linguistic landscape research reveals significant differences between the language use patterns on Fuhui Street and Xinhua Street in Lijiang Old Town. The study highlights variations in bilingual and multilingual signage, particularly involving Chinese, Dongba scripts, and English, alongside differing attitudes among local stakeholders and tourists towards these languages. Employing both quantitative and qualitative methods—digital photography for data collection, supplemented by questionnaires and interviews—the research provides insights into the complex interplay of language use in a culturally rich urban setting.
Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island
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2016 —
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Okinawa's colonial history under US rule has fostered subaltern knowledge, challenging the dominant narratives of American studies. This research highlights Okinawa's unique position as a subject of postcolonial studies, emphasizing its intense cross-cultural and political encounters with the United States. The study examines local Okinawan experiences, particularly in relation to the construction of new US military bases, to redefine American identity from the perspective of the colonized. It employs historical analysis and archival research to uncover the lived experiences of Okinawans, aiming to reshape the intellectual configuration of American studies by incorporating subaltern voices.
Kremlin and Red Square, Moscow
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2016 —
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A rare black-and-white photograph from 1920 captures the Kremlin during a 'subbotnik,' an organized mass labor initiative in Soviet Russia. This image provides visual evidence of the movement's expansion into high-profile urban spaces, reflecting its evolution from local, spontaneous efforts to a structured phenomenon. Initially focused on logistical tasks like freight handling and railway repairs, subbotniks embodied revolutionary enthusiasm and economic pragmatism. The photograph offers a glimpse into the material culture of early Soviet labor mobilization, complementing historical records. Analyzing such visual artifacts helps reconstruct the social dynamics and ideological underpinnings of post-revolutionary Russia.
Neolithic Site of Çatalhöyük
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2016 —
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Aurochs and leopards, along with other wild animals, dominated the symbolism at Çatalhöyük, suggesting a deep cultural connection to these species during the Neolithic period (7400–6200 cal BCE). Archaeobotanical research indicates that crop husbandry played a significant role in subsistence, implying complex social relationships and careful manipulation of resources for communal feasting. The site's unique architecture—comprising superimposed mudbrick buildings without public spaces—highlights its distinct settlement pattern, contrasting with later Near Eastern urban forms.
Dazu Rock Carvings
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2016 —
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A novel signal subspace method using Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) B-scan imaging successfully identified subsurface fine structures, including fractures leading to water intrusion, at the Dazu Rock Carvings UNESCO World Heritage Site. This approach effectively discriminates between geological features by leveraging sparse representation and fracture signatures, overcoming challenges posed by interferences, clutters, and noise in radar signals. The method was validated with field survey data, demonstrating its potential for precise subsurface analysis in heritage conservation. By addressing energy attenuation and random noise during signal propagation, this technique offers a robust tool for detecting subtle geological anomalies that could impact cultural sites.
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 that nitrogen fixation, driven by diazotrophs, significantly boosts primary production in oligotrophic coastal ecosystems. The VAHINE experiment used large-volume mesocosms to track the impact of phosphorus fertilization on microbial communities and biogeochemical processes over 23 days. While enclosure effects were observed, no pronounced 'bottle effect' occurred, and phosphorus addition did not immediately alter community structure but influenced later population dynamics. Notably, UCYN-C-type cyanobacteria exhibited among the highest nitrogen-fixation rates recorded in the region, stimulating growth of heterotrophic groups like Rhodobacteraceae. Temporal changes were more influential than enclosure location, with prokaryotic diversity remaining relatively stable, underscoring the resilience and complexity of lagoon ecosystems.
Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek
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2016 —
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A landscape-scale analysis of Dall’s sheep (Ovis dalli dalli) in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, Alaska, reveals minimal sex-specific habitat specialization during summer months. Despite social segregation between males, females, and females with young, resource selection function models indicate that both sexes and reproductive classes share similar preferences for rugged terrain, intermediate vegetation density (NDVI), and open landcover types. This suggests that a single predictive model can effectively estimate habitat selection probabilities across all sheep populations, regardless of sex or reproductive status, streamlining management and monitoring efforts in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
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2016 —
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A study on plethodontid salamanders in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park revealed that these terrestrial salamanders prefer larger woody retreats, such as logs and bark piles, more than expected. The research found a positive correlation between retreat area or mass and the presence, number, and size of salamanders, though this relationship explained only a small portion of the variation observed. Elevation played a significant role, with stronger associations at low and mid elevations. Additionally, when multiple salamanders shared retreats, they tended to be similar in size and species pairings matched expectations based on site diversity. This study provides insights into retreat use patterns for terrestrial salamanders and suggests avenues for further research to clarify these relationships.
Qinghai Hoh Xil
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2016 —
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Researchers have confirmed that coarse-grained layers in the varved sediments of Lake Kusai, located in Qinghai Hoh Xil on the Tibetan Plateau, are primarily formed by aeolian (wind-driven) processes. This discovery was made through a detailed surface textural analysis of quartz grains using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The study compared quartz grain microtextures from Lake Kusai's sediments with those from typical aeolian dune deposits, fluvial sediments, and lacustrine deposits in the region. Key indicators such as rounded outlines, low to medium relief, acuate steps, crescent percussion marks, upturned plates, bulbous edges, and dish-shaped depressions were identified in Lake Kusai's coarse-grained layers, aligning closely with aeolian sediment characteristics rather than fluvial ones. This finding provides critical insights into the sedimentary history and depositional environment of this remote, frequently dust-storm-affected region on the northern Tibetan Plateau.
Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City
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2016 —
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A comprehensive survey of the water control system on the periphery of Liangzhu Ancient City, conducted between 1987 and 2013, revealed a sophisticated network of artificial dams and natural hill bodies. This system was found to consist of high and low dam structures, demonstrating advanced engineering capabilities in ancient China. The study mapped the entire water control infrastructure, providing insights into how Liangzhu's inhabitants managed water resources for agricultural, defensive, or ceremonial purposes. The research employed a combination of archaeological surveys and historical analysis to reconstruct this complex system, contributing significantly to our understanding of ancient urban planning and hydraulic engineering.
Selous Game Reserve
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2016 —
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Research on lion trophy hunting in Tanzania's Selous Game Reserve reveals that short-term leases lead to higher but unsustainable offtake levels, while long-term tenure aligns more closely with sustainable hunting quotas. The study found that blocks under short-term tenure experienced steeper declines in lion populations and generated higher government revenue ($133 per km²) compared to long-term tenure blocks ($62 per km²), which better matched the recommended sustainable offtake (0.92 lions per 1000 km²). The findings underscore the importance of property rights and tenure systems in balancing conservation and financial goals, advocating for a shift toward competitive market-based approaches with long-term leases to ensure sustainability.
Archaeological Heritage of the Lenggong Valley
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2016 —
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Residents' perceptions of sustainable tourism development vary significantly based on age, education level, and economic involvement, with negative views more prevalent among certain groups. Conversely, positive perceptions correlate with greater support for and participation in tourism initiatives. This study, conducted at Malaysia's Lenggong Valley World Heritage Site (WHS), applies stakeholder theory to analyze these heterogeneous attitudes, revealing that fostering positive perceptions could enhance local engagement in tourism planning. The findings offer actionable insights for authorities aiming to balance development with resident satisfaction in rural WHS destinations.
Wadden Sea
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2016 —
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A significant majority of tourists visiting Terschelling, a Dutch Wadden island, do not consider the UNESCO World Heritage status as a reason for their visit during the off-season. While 93.5% of respondents were not motivated by this designation and 23.7% were unaware of it, the Wadden Sea itself remains one of the most attractive elements on the island, alongside its North Sea beaches, dunes, and forests. The study highlights that domestic tourists, who dominate off-season visits, are more drawn to the natural beauty rather than the heritage recognition. However, international or first-time tourists, potentially more influenced by World Heritage status, were notably absent during this period. The research suggests targeted promotional efforts could enhance awareness and support for nature conservation among these groups, thereby strengthening the preservation of this unique region.
Natural and Cultural Heritage of the Ohrid region
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2016 —
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A groundbreaking project, 'School for Cultural Heritage through Map Exploitation' (SCHEME), demonstrates how interactive multimedia mapping and crowdfunding can revolutionize heritage preservation in Albania. By leveraging existing technologies like the Ljubljana Process, SCHEME creates a dynamic platform that collects multifaceted data from schools, enriching the database with student-collected memories. This approach shifts heritage governance from traditional top-down models to an inclusive, participatory framework where stakeholders actively contribute. The project also includes small-scale rehabilitation initiatives for winning cultural assets, funded through crowdfunding campaigns. By focusing on Albania's Lake Ohrid Region as a pilot area, SCHEME not only preserves neglected inland sites but also reduces pressure on more famous coastal heritage locations. This innovative method offers a sustainable model for cultural tourism and heritage valorization.
City of Cuzco
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2016 —
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A study on the sustainability of coffee farms in La Convención, Cusco, Peru, found that organic certification significantly improved environmental and economic sustainability compared to conventional production. The research, involving 61 farms over seven years, used a multi-criteria analysis method to assess sustainability indicators. Organic farming increased the General Environmental Indicator (IA) from 2.08 to 2.71, with 91.1% of farms becoming environmentally sustainable post-certification, up from 66.6%. Productivity rose by 29.04%, and coffee quality improved from 80.64 to 82.56 points. The Economic Sustainability Indicator (IK) also increased from 1.61 to 2.06, highlighting the benefits of organic certification for both environmental and economic outcomes.
City of Safranbolu
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2016 —
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Safranbolu, a UNESCO-listed Ottoman city renowned for its classical wooden architecture and streets, holds significant untapped potential to enhance its tourism sector. A SWOT analysis reveals that while Safranbolu attracts visitors, it does not fully leverage its strengths—such as its unique heritage—to compete effectively with rivals. The study, based on surveys of touristic enterprise owners and administrators, identifies key opportunities for growth, including better utilization of its cultural assets to attract more tourists and generate higher revenue. Addressing weaknesses and threats, such as underdeveloped infrastructure or seasonal tourism fluctuations, could further boost Safranbolu's economic benefits from tourism.
Angkor
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2016 —
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A study on Angkor World Heritage Site, Cambodia, reveals that symbolic and experiential consumptions of heritage tourism destinations significantly enhance tourists' attachment to the site, their satisfaction, and ultimately their loyalty. These effects surpass those of functional consumption, highlighting the importance of emotional and experiential engagement in fostering long-term tourist commitment. The research, based on a sample of 512 international tourists, also underscores the pivotal role of destination attachment in mediating the relationship between quality, satisfaction, and loyalty.
Imperial Palaces of the Ming and Qing Dynasties in Beijing and Shenyang
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2016 —
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The Forbidden City, China's Imperial Palace complex, embodies profound symbolism through its architectural design, color schemes, and the incorporation of lucky numbers, reflecting the cultural and political significance of Beijing as a national capital. Constructed between 1406 and 1420 under the Yongle Emperor, this monumental project involved one million laborers and 100,000 craftsmen, showcasing premodern China's architectural prowess. The complex, covering 72 hectares, was designed with meticulous attention to symbolism, such as the use of distinct colors and numbers believed to bring luck or power, while its layout mirrored cosmic principles. The study highlights how these elements served both practical and symbolic purposes, reinforcing the emperor's divine mandate and authority. The Forbidden City's evolution from a royal residence to a public museum also reflects China's transition during the 20th century.
Historic Mosque City of Bagerhat
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2016 —
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A novel approach to enhancing tourist engagement with UNESCO World Heritage Sites is demonstrated through the development of the SMART framework, which integrates synchronous location-aware media and augmented visualization. This study presents a four-step conceptual model designed to provide real-time, contextually relevant information about Khalifatabad in Bagerhat, Bangladesh, addressing gaps in accessibility and understanding for visitors. By leveraging location-based services (LBS) and interactive data structures, the framework aims to create an immersive and memorable experience that deepens appreciation of the site's cultural significance. The prototype application, tailored specifically for handheld devices, offers seamless access to authentic historical details, setting a precedent for future heritage preservation efforts in Bangladesh.
Mount Etna
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2016 —
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A relatively weak volcanic eruption at Mount Etna on 25–27 October 2013 had significant regional effects on aerosol properties, with sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and ash reaching altitudes of 10–12 km and influencing aerosol size distribution over 350 km downwind. The study combined Lagrangian dispersion modeling (FLEXPART), satellite data from MODIS and SEVIRI, and surface remote sensing measurements at the ENEA Station on Lampedusa to track plume evolution and assess its impact. Secondary sulfate particles were found to dominate the plume composition and radiative forcing, contributing substantially more than ash. Radiative forcing efficiencies ranged from −39 to −48 W m⁻² AOD⁻¹ at the top of the atmosphere and −66 to −49 W m⁻² AOD⁻¹ at the surface, highlighting the role of sulfate in volcanic plume radiative effects.
Danube Delta
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2016 —
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A study combining LiDAR, RADARSAT-2 radar, and SPOT-5 optical data achieved a mean accuracy of 90.60% in mapping wetland vegetation in the Danube Delta, one of the world's largest reed beds. The synergy of these datasets—LiDAR for centimeter-level vegetation height characterization (10 cm), RADARSAT-2's C-band polarimetric signatures, and SPOT-5 multispectral reflectance—enhanced discrimination between vegetation types by integrating structural and backscattering information. Field-recorded vegetation data validated the classification results, demonstrating the potential of integrated remote sensing for high-accuracy wetland mapping.
Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks
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2016 —
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Researchers have identified <em>Syngonanthus hensoldiae</em>, a new species of the Eriocaulaceae family, endemic to Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park in Brazil. This discovery underscores the region's biodiversity richness and its role as a hotspot for threatened flora. The species, known only from small populations on private lands, is classified as endangered, highlighting urgent conservation concerns. The study contributes to the understanding of <em>Syngonanthus</em> sect. <em>Syngonanthus</em> diversity in the Cerrado biome, emphasizing the need for protection efforts to preserve this unique and vulnerable flora.
Lord Howe Island Group
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2016 —
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A systematic and biogeographic review of the Staphylinini rove beetles on Lord Howe Island reveals that the fauna is predominantly derived from lineages on mainland Australia, despite the island's oceanic and young geological origins. This study advances taxonomic knowledge by describing two new species—<em>Cheilocolpus olliffi</em> and <em>Quediopsis howensis</em>—and proposing several new combinations for existing species, including <em>Cheilocolpus castaneus</em>, <em>Cheilocolpus kentiae</em>, <em>Ctenandropus mirus</em>, and <em>Hesperus dolichoderes</em>. The research leverages recent global advancements in rove beetle systematics to refine biogeographic conclusions, providing a foundation for deeper exploration of this unique island's biodiversity. These findings highlight the interconnectedness of Lord Howe Island's ecosystems with mainland Australia, offering insights into its complex biogeographical history.
Heart of Neolithic Orkney
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2016 —
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Researchers provide the first evidence that Neolithic inhabitants of Orkney exploited or controlled rodents, not just as pests but also as a nutritional resource. Analyzing skeletal remains from four locations within and near Skara Brae, a renowned Neolithic site in Orkney, they found that rodent bones accumulated due to deliberate human activity. The presence of burnt bones in household waste deposits suggests prolonged exploitation over time, indicating early pest management practices. This study challenges the assumption that rodents were solely pests or disease vectors in ancient societies and highlights their potential role in Neolithic diets.
Heart of Neolithic Orkney
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2016 —
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Researchers have uncovered the first evidence that Neolithic inhabitants of Europe exploited or controlled rodents, challenging assumptions about their role in ancient societies. Analyzing skeletal remains from four locations within and around Skara Brae—a renowned Neolithic site in Orkney—the study found that rodent bones accumulated due to deliberate human activity, not natural causes. The presence of burnt bones in household waste deposits suggests rodents were a nutritional resource and possibly targeted for pest control over an extended period. This groundbreaking finding, published by <em>The Royal Society</em>, sheds light on early human-rodent interactions, revealing a more complex relationship than previously thought.
Skogskyrkogården
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2016 —
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Skogskyrkogården, designed by Sigurd Lewerentz and Erik Gunnar Asplund, exemplifies how syncretic topography can bridge the living and the dead. This study reveals that the cemetery's design, rooted in a profound preoccupation with the site's actual ground, was not merely stylistic but a deliberate attempt to re-establish meaningful linkages between life and death within a modern socio-cultural context. By examining the architects' alignment of the site's topography with contemporary efforts to create more authentic realities, this research sheds light on how physical spaces can facilitate existential renewal. The approach involved analyzing the site's ground as a dynamic element rather than a static backdrop, offering insights into its role in shaping human experience and memory.
Pasargadae
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2016 —
WHE0C343F3529
Archaeological rescue excavations at Tang-e Bolaghi, Fars, Iran, revealed the first documented rural settlements from the Achaemenid and Post-Achaemenid periods (6th to 1st centuries BC), offering unprecedented insights into the lives of commoners in this era. The findings, unearthed by a joint Iranian-Italian mission between 2005 and 2006, included stratigraphic evidence consistent with Elamite administrative documents from Persepolis, providing a rare glimpse into rural life beyond imperial monuments like Pasargadae and Susa. The study employed surface surveys and stratigraphic excavations to document two sites (TB76 and TB77), supplemented by ceramic and archaeometric analyses, enriching our understanding of Achaemenid-period rural settlements.
Te Henua Enata – The Marquesas Islands
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2016 —
WHEC246666821
Research on the Marquesas Islands reveals that the concept of 'tapu,' traditionally governing behavior toward material and immaterial elements, social relationships, and places, persists despite its perceived obsolescence. Father Chaulet's 19th-century observations noted that tapu still influences perceptions, such as considering women impure during menstruation, challenging the notion that it is entirely a relic of the past. The study, based on historical missionary documents and exchanges with researchers, highlights tapu's enduring social and cultural significance in Marquesan society.
Hortobágy National Park - the Puszta
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2016 —
WHE595931D52F
Research in Hortobágy National Park reveals that European water frogs (Pelophylax) exhibit complex taxonomic and genetic diversity, with all three members of the Pelophylax esculentus complex—Pelophylax ridibundus, Pelophylax lessonae, and their hybrid, Pelophylax esculentus—coexisting in certain wetlands. Notably, hybrid frogs produce diploid offspring, suggesting a breeding system where hybrids transmit the P. ridibundus genome clonally to mate with P. lessonae, thereby generating new hybrid generations. The study used serum albumin intron 1 (SAI-1) and microsatellite markers to analyze 63 specimens, uncovering syntopic occurrences of these taxa in some localities while others hosted only P. ridibundus and P. esculentus. Population genetic analyses further supported the hybrid's role in maintaining genomic diversity within these ecosystems.
