Vredefort Dome
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2015 —
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A geobotanical investigation of the Koedoesfontein Complex within the Vredefort Dome, South Africa, reveals that the mineralogical gradient formed by peralkaline to ultramafic intrusions significantly influences soil chemistry and woody vegetation composition. The study found that weathering of these lithologies leads to marked variations in soil chemical properties, particularly chromium and nickel content, which correlate with the abundance of sodium-, calcium-, iron-, and magnesium-rich silicate minerals. Notably, significant differences in woody species composition, especially within the Senegalia and Vachellia genera, were observed across soils derived from ultramafic–mafic, intermediate, and felsic rock types. These variations can serve as indicators for different geological substrates within the dome, providing valuable insights into the relationship between geology and vegetation in this unique impact structure.
Messel Pit Fossil Site
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A global phylogenetic analysis reveals that <em>Neochelys franzeni</em>, a pleurodire turtle from the middle Eocene Messel Pit (Germany), is closely related to the <em>Erymnochelys madagascariensis</em>-<em>Peltocephalus dumerilianus</em> clade within the Podocnemididae family. This study expands the known fossil record of <em>Neochelys franzeni</em> by describing five new specimens, including individuals at various ontogenetic stages, alongside a redescription of previously documented specimens. The exceptional preservation of these fossils provides critical insights into the evolution and morphology of this genus, shedding light on its relationships with South American and African-Madagascar podocnemidids.
The Great Wall
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2015 —
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The Great Wall of China stands as the world's largest military defense structure, its enduring legacy rooted in over 2,000 years of architectural brilliance and historical significance. This comprehensive work traces its evolution through four key periods: initial construction of defensive walls, overall transformation, partial expansion, and maintenance. The Great Wall's value lies not only in its physical components—walls, gates, towns, garrisons, and signal towers—but also in the rich cultural heritage it embodies, inspiring countless classical works across poetry, literature, theater, and storytelling. Published by SCPG Publishing Corporation and distributed globally (except China) by World Scientific, this book offers a systematic and accessible exploration of the Great Wall's history, providing readers with a clear and thorough understanding of its development and impact on imperial China.
Pasargadae
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2015 —
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A significant archaeological discovery from Erebuni, dating to around 330 BCE, sheds light on the final days of the Achaemenid Empire. The hoard, found in a large jug during construction work in 1968, includes three silver rhyta (drinking vessels), a silver goblet, and an unidentified fifth object that is now missing. The vessels were preserved in a flattened condition within the jug, suggesting they were deliberately hidden, possibly coinciding with the fall of the Achaemenid Empire. This parallels another hoard from Pasargadae, also concealed in a clay vessel around the same time. The study provides detailed descriptions and analysis of each piece, reinforcing the connection between the Erebuni and Pasargadae treasures.
Ulu<U>r</U>u-Kata Tju<U>t</U>a National Park
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2015 —
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Interpretive signage in Ulu r u-Kata Tju t a National Park reflects a hierarchical valuation of places, often prioritizing colonial/settler and natural heritage narratives over Indigenous perspectives. This study reveals that such signage may alienate contemporary communities by adopting a detached, scientific tone that distances visitors from lived cultural experiences. Through textual analysis, the research demonstrates how affective engagement—emotional connection to country and history—can be both constrained or fostered depending on interpretive strategies. The findings highlight the need for more inclusive storytelling in protected areas to bridge the gap between Indigenous heritage and public interpretation.
Aphrodisias
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2015 —
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A late-antique fountain at Aphrodisias, constructed entirely of spolia from other monuments, offers significant insights into late-antique practices of spoliation and re-use. The structure, initially excavated by Paul Gaudin in 1904–5 and later studied by K. Görkay in 1989, features a tetrastyle façade adorned with re-used relief panels now displayed in the Istanbul Archaeological Museum. This fountain, misidentified as a 'gymnasium' by Gaudin, illustrates the city's late-antique renovations during its final Christian phase. The study highlights the importance of this underpublished structure in understanding material reuse and architectural practices in ancient Aphrodisias.
Stevns Klint
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A novel mechanistic model demonstrates that chemically tuned waterflooding can enhance oil recovery by up to 40% original oil in place (OOIP) in carbonate reservoirs, such as Stevns Klint chalk. The model reveals that sulfate ions (SO₄²⁻) play a pivotal role in altering rock wettability from oil-wet or mixed-wet to more water-wet conditions by replacing adsorbed carboxylic groups on the rock surface, while cations like Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺ have a minor effect. The study integrates multiphase flow, multicomponent surface complexation, and wettability alteration, showing that optimal brine formulations for chalk contain abundant sulfate (0.096 mol/kg water), moderate cation concentrations, and low salinity (<0.2 mol/kg water). This work provides the first mechanistic coupling of these processes to predict improved oil recovery under varying conditions, offering a powerful tool for optimizing chemically tuned waterflooding in carbonate reservoirs.
Sardis and the Lydian Tumuli of Bin Tepe
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2015 —
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A recently discovered marble relief plaque depicting a menorah and other symbols near the center of Sardis provides significant new evidence of Jewish life and culture in ancient Asia Minor. The discovery, along with previously found artifacts such as inscriptions and menorahs from a 4th-6th century synagogue in the city's NW region, underscores the prominence of the Jewish community in Roman Sardis. Historical records suggest that diaspora Jews were relocated to Lydia by Antiochus III in the late 3rd century B.C., and their descendants integrated into civic life, acquiring privileges and rights. The plaque, found through excavation near the city center, adds to the growing body of material culture associated with ancient Judaism in this region.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
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2015 —
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A discrete-time, space model reveals that feral hog population growth in Great Smoky Mountains National Park has been effectively limited by management efforts. The study leveraged historical data on vegetation, mast (seed production), and harvest to simulate population dynamics, demonstrating the impact of natural resource variability on invasive species control. Key findings suggest that targeted interventions have curbed expansion, offering insights for sustainable management strategies.
Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park with the Archeological Sites of Paestum and Velia, and the Certosa di Padula
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2015 —
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A novel methodology for evaluating smart multifunctional landscapes has been developed, offering a collaborative and spatially integrated approach to guide sustainable territorial transformations. This research introduces a Collaborative Multicriteria Spatial Decision Support System (SSDCS) tailored for the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park in Southern Italy. The SSDCS combines structured data with social preferences to create a shared knowledge base, enhancing democratic and transparent decision-making processes. It aims to align territorial changes with principles of self-sustainable development, resilience, and stakeholder inclusion, providing a dynamic tool for complex social decisions. This approach represents a significant advancement in landscape policy activation, positively influencing the quality of life associated with these UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Archaeological Site of Leptis Magna
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2015 —
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A multidisciplinary approach integrating multi-beam technology, satellite imagery, and bathymetric surveys has been successfully employed to design coastal protection measures for the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Leptis Magna in Libya. This method addressed logistic challenges and time constraints while providing detailed morphological reconstructions essential for safeguarding the archaeological site from flooding risks posed by the Wadi Lebda. The study, part of a broader project initiated in 2009, demonstrates the effectiveness of combining advanced remote sensing techniques with ground investigations to support large-scale heritage conservation interventions.
Curonian Spit
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The Curonian Spit, a historic and culturally significant landscape divided between Lithuania and the Kaliningrad Oblast (Russia), has been transformed from a symbol of national discovery to one of loss in collective memory. This shift is evident through photographic representations in popular Bildbände (photographic books) from 1930s to 1960s, which captured the landscape's iconic status during its heyday as part of East Prussia. The study reveals how these visual and textual depictions shaped perceptions, ultimately framing the region as a lost territory in post-World War II narratives. By analyzing archival photographic materials, the research explores the evolution of this landscape's imagery, highlighting its enduring cultural significance despite geopolitical changes.
Nan Madol: Ceremonial Centre of Eastern Micronesia
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A high-precision GPS survey of Nan Madol, Pohnpei, reveals the full extent and layout of its artificial islets, providing the first comprehensive digital map of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The study updates century-old cartography by Paul Hambruch, offering a detailed GIS dataset available via tDAR for future research. Additionally, it compiles variant place names from historical literature and incorporates oral traditions to clarify the site's ceremonial and administrative functions. This baseline database aims to standardize nomenclature and deepen understanding of ancient Pohnpeian society.
Melka Kunture and Balchit: Archaeological and Palaeontological Sites in the Highland Area of Ethiopia
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2015 —
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A new cercopithecoid dentognathic specimen from the late Early Pleistocene deposits of Simbiro, Melka Kunture, Ethiopia, has been identified as belonging to the genus Theropithecus, likely Theropithecus sp. cf. oswaldi. This discovery adds to the rich mammalian assemblages found at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, providing further insights into the palaeontological history of the region. The specimen, catalogued SIM III-13-1 and collected in 2013, was analyzed using classical descriptions, measurements, X-ray computed tomography (CT), and 2D/3D quantitative analyses to propose its taxonomic attribution. This study contributes to our understanding of the evolutionary history and biodiversity of primates during this critical period.
Ban Chiang Archaeological Site
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2015 —
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A new chronology for the Bronze Age in Northeastern Thailand, supported by 105 radiocarbon determinations, challenges the traditional model of its origins. The study, using Bayesian statistical analysis, finds that bronze technology likely arrived in Southeast Asia around the 11th century B.C., originating from a southward expansion of expertise from early states in China's Yellow and Yangtze valleys, rather than direct contact with Central Eurasian specialists. This redates key sites like Ban Chiang and Non Nok Tha, providing a more accurate regional timeline for copper-based technology and its social impact.
Monte San Giorgio
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2015 —
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A new genus of early Semionotidae, Sangiorgioichthys aldae, was discovered from the Upper Ladinian Kalkschieferzone of Monte San Giorgio, a UNESCO World Heritage Site spanning southern Switzerland and northern Italy. This fossil provides critical insights into the poorly understood early history of Semionotiformes, with distinct morphological features such as ganoine-covered dermal skull bones, an unusually large ventral infraorbital, and specialized dentition. The study employed detailed anatomical analysis to classify the specimen within the Semionotidae family, noting shared diagnostic traits while highlighting unique characteristics that differentiate it from other known taxa. This discovery contributes significantly to understanding the evolutionary trajectory of this ancient fish group during the Triassic period.
Aphrodisias
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2015 —
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A newly discovered inscription fragment from Aphrodisias, unearthed in 2014, offers critical insights into Diocletian's currency regulation. This fragment, part of a letter accompanying two edicts inscribed on the civic basilica wall, provides fresh possibilities for reconstructing the upper block of the dossier. The reference to the diocese of Asia suggests the letter was addressed to its rationalis, offering valuable context for understanding Diocletian's economic policies in the region. This discovery enhances our knowledge of late Roman administrative practices and the role of Aphrodisias as a hub for imperial decrees.
Monte San Giorgio
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A new genus and species of the extinct beetle family Trachypachidae, Praedodromeus sangiorgiensis, has been discovered in the Upper Ladinian (Middle Triassic) strata of Monte San Giorgio. This fossil, characterized by its asymmetrical mandibles, subrectangular pronotum, and slender tibiae, contributes to the understanding of the paleoenvironment during this period. The discovery is part of a diverse insect assemblage that includes both terrestrial and aquatic taxa, providing evidence for emerged land and stable freshwater basins in the Monte San Giorgio area. This finding enriches the fossil record of Trachypachidae, with over 33 species now described, and offers insights into the ecological dynamics of the region during the Middle Triassic.
Western Caucasus
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2015 —
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Scientists have identified two new species of blind, cave-dwelling amphipods in the Western Caucasus, including a deep-dweller genus, Adaugammarus pilosus, found at unprecedented depths (1270-1700 m) in Sarma Cave. This discovery expands the known diversity of typhlogammarid amphipods and challenges existing taxonomic groupings within the family. The study also reclassified Anopogammarus birsteini and proposed two new species groups for Zenkevitchia, supported by molecular phylogeny (mt-cox1). Speleological expeditions between 2011-12 in Arabika massif caves enabled these findings, contributing to our understanding of subterranean biodiversity and cave adaptation.
China Danxia
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Scientists have identified a new species of Viola, named Viola hybanthoides, and established a new section, Danxiaviola, within the genus. This discovery was made from specimens collected at Mount Danxia in Guangdong, China, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its diverse flora. Viola hybanthoides is distinguished by its subshrub habit, an anterior petal with a uniquely long stalk-like claw (up to 3.5 mm), and exceptionally short upper petals (2.5–3 mm). These traits set it apart from other Viola species, which typically feature longer upper petals and lack such elongated claws. The research also provides an identification key to differentiate Viola sections in China, contributing valuable insights for botanical taxonomy.
Mount Sanqingshan National Park
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Researchers have identified <em>Lophodermium heterocladum</em>, a new fungal species characterized by its distinctively branched paraphyses, found on the leaves of <em>Rhododendron cavaleriei</em> in Mount Sanqingshan National Park, China. This discovery contributes to the understanding of fungal biodiversity in the region. The study provides detailed morphological descriptions and illustrations, with the type collection preserved at Anhui Agricultural University. The research highlights the importance of systematic mycological surveys in UNESCO World Heritage Sites for uncovering novel taxa.
Manú National Park
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Researchers have identified a new species of Andean frog, <em>Bryophryne</em> sp., within the wet puna and elfin forests of Manu National Park, Peru. This discovery expands the genus Bryophryne to nine species, all endemic to the Cordillera Oriental of the Peruvian Andes. The new species is distinguished by its lack of vomerine processes, inconspicuous tympanic features, smooth dorsal skin with warts, and bright, variable coloration ranging from olive-green to red. Phylogenetic analysis using mitochondrial and nuclear DNA places this frog as a sister group to <em>Bryophryne cophites</em>, contributing to the understanding of the genus' evolutionary relationships. The study also notes the species' restriction to high-altitude environments (3506–3651 m) within protected areas, highlighting its potential conservation significance.
Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu
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2015 —
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Researchers have identified a new species of Andean lizard, <em>Proctoporus</em>, within the montane forests of Peru's Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. This discovery, published in 2015, distinguishes the species through unique morphological traits, including scalation and color patterns, setting it apart from other known <em>Proctoporus</em> species. The lizard inhabits elevations between 2,760–2,800 meters, contributing to the biodiversity of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The study employed a combination of morphometric analysis and detailed examination of physical characteristics to validate the new species. This finding underscores the importance of high-altitude montane forests as critical habitats for endemic reptile diversity.
City of Cuzco
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Researchers have identified a new species of Noblella frog in the humid montane forests of Cusco, Peru. This discovery was made through specimen collection at elevations between 2330-2370 meters near Santa Ana, in the province of La Convención. The new species is distinguished by its broad, irregular white mark on a black chest and belly, along with unique morphological traits such as an absent tympanic membrane, small tubercles on the upper eyelid and dorsum, absence of tarsal tubercles or folds, non-expanded digit tips, no circumferential grooves on digits, and distinct dark brown facial mask and lateral band extending from the snout to the inguinal region. The species exhibits a snout-to-vent length of 15.6 mm (male) and 17.6 mm (female), similar to other high-elevation Noblella species, which likely have restricted geographic distributions.
Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island
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Researchers have identified a new species of bat fly, Phthiridium sawadai, from Iriomote Island in the Ryukyu Islands, Japan. This discovery adds to the diversity of Nycteribiidae flies, which are parasitic on bats. The species is closely related to P. ornatum and P. szechuanum but can be distinguished by unique morphological features in both male and female specimens. The study also provides identification keys for three Phthiridium species and all eleven Nycteribiidae species known from Japan, aiding in the taxonomic classification of these insects. This contribution enhances our understanding of bat-associated parasites in the region.
Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks
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Researchers have identified a new species of rock-dwelling frog, belonging to the Scinax ruber clade, in the Chapada dos Veadeiros region of Central Brazil. This discovery is notable for its unique physical and behavioral traits, including a distinctive advertisement call composed of 8-14 notes with 4-18 pulses per note, and a duration of 290-420 milliseconds. The frog's dorsal color pattern also aids in camouflage on rocky surfaces. The study used morphological and bioacoustic analyses to differentiate this species from others in the clade. The new species inhabits temporary creeks in rock meadows above 1,000 meters above sea level, with males calling from rock outcrops.
Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape
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Researchers have identified a new species of flat lizard, <em>Platysaurus attenboroughi</em>, from the Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape in South Africa and Namibia. This discovery was made through genetic analysis, which revealed significant divergence between this species and its previously confused counterpart, <em>P. capensis</em>. The study used one mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and two nuclear DNA (nDNA) loci to confirm the distinction, supported by differences in scalation, coloration, and geographic distribution. To clarify taxonomy, the type locality of <em>P. capensis</em> was restricted to the Kamiesberg region in Namaqualand, South Africa.
Mount Sanqingshan National Park
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Scientists have identified and described a new species of Terriera, T. aequabilis, found on the fallen leaves of Photinia villosa in Mount Sanqingshan National Park, China. This discovery distinguishes itself from related species like T. cladophila through key morphological features such as smaller ascomata without associated conidiomata, black thin zone lines, a well-developed excipulum, and unbranched paraphyses. The research provides detailed illustrations and discussions to support the characterization of this new taxon, with the type specimen preserved in Anhui Agricultural University's Reference Collection. This finding enriches the understanding of fungal biodiversity within UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Ogasawara Islands
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Researchers have identified and described a new species of jumping spider, Icius rugosus, from the Ogasawara Islands, Japan. This discovery, published in <em>Acta Arachnologica</em>, distinguishes the species through unique genital morphologies and male chelicera with ventral wrinkles, setting it apart from the closely related I. hamatus. Additionally, the study synonymizes I. daisetsuzanus with Sitticus ranieri, clarifying the taxonomic status of Japanese species in this genus. The Ogasawara Islands serve as a critical biodiversity hotspot, underscoring the significance of this finding for understanding regional arachnid diversity.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and Hin Nam No National Park
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Researchers have discovered a new species of troglobiotic freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium phongnhaense, in the caves of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam. This species is characterized by its transparent body, highly degenerated eyes, smooth and slender second pereiopods, elongated telson, and unarmed preanal region. The discovery was made through morphological comparisons with allied troglobiotic congeners, revealing unique traits that distinguish it from other known species, such as M. lingyunense and M. elegantum. This new species inhabits lightless cave streams and standing waters, typically found in substrates like silt or sandy mud. The findings contribute to the understanding of biodiversity within UNESCO-listed Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, highlighting its unique subterranean ecosystems.
Monte San Giorgio
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A new specimen of Nothosaurus, a small nothosaur, has been discovered from the latest Anisian (Middle Triassic) Besano Formation at Monte San Giorgio, Italy. This nearly complete but disarticulated skeleton provides significant insights into the osteology of N. juvenilis and suggests the coexistence of sympatric Nothosaurus species characterized by size and potentially trophic differentiation in the Monte San Giorgio area, similar to patterns observed in the coeval Germanic Basin. The specimen's postcranial skeleton supports its assignment to the genus Nothosaurus while excluding it from N. giganteus/Paranothosaurus amsleri, known from nearby Swiss localities. Although the skull is largely absent, preserved cranial elements hint at similarities with N. juvenilis, further enhancing our understanding of this species.
Birthplace of Jesus: Church of the Nativity and the Pilgrimage Route, Bethlehem
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Advanced numerical simulations reveal that the narthex of Bethlehem's Church of the Nativity, characterized by five decaying cross vaults and significant structural damage, likely experienced progressive deformation due to complex internal stresses. Using a non-linear finite element approach with tetrahedron elements obeying damage plasticity laws, researchers reconstructed the evolution of damage in the narthex, achieving a deformed configuration closely matching observed conditions. This model validated hypotheses about the causes of damage, providing critical insights for ongoing restoration efforts. The study integrates archival research, subsoil inspections, and laser scanning data to offer a precise understanding of the structural behavior under historical and environmental loads.
Getbol, Korean Tidal Flats
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Researchers have identified and characterized a novel psychrophilic alkaline phosphatase (mAP) from the metagenome of tidal flat sediments in Getbol, Korea. This enzyme, distinct from classical PhoA family members, exhibits high catalytic activity at low temperatures and remarkable thermal instability, with optimal activity at 37°C and complete inactivation by 65°C within 15 minutes. mAP demonstrates broad substrate specificity, efficiently removing terminal phosphates from linearized plasmid DNA, a capability comparable to commercially available alkaline phosphatases. This discovery marks the first thermolabile AP found in cold-adapted marine metagenomes, offering potential applications in molecular biology for dephosphorylation processes.
Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple
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2015 —
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A petrological analysis of the stones used in Bulguksa Temple's Three-Storied Stone Pagoda reveals that most components match the characteristics of Namsan granite, a local stone found around Gyeongju, while the finial (jeweled cover) aligns with Tohamsan granite. This distinction was confirmed through non-destructive testing using magnetic susceptibility and gamma-ray spectrometry. The study identifies Namsan granite as the optimal replacement material for weathered stones due to its petrological similarity, while also pinpointing potential quarry sites in Dongcheon-dong (Gyeongju) and Huenggok-ri (Pohang), areas separated by the Yangsan Fault. This research provides critical insights for conservation efforts, ensuring authenticity in restoration using geologically compatible materials.
Robben Island
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A survey of gastropod molluscs on Robben Island revealed unexpected absences of invasive species that are widespread elsewhere in South Africa. Unlike the Cape peninsula, where the South American bisexual mussel (Semimytilusalgosus) and beaded topshells (Oxysteleimpervia) thrive, these species were not found on Robben Island. The study used morphology and DNA barcoding to identify 19 gastropod species, including introduced dune snails and European brown garden snails, challenging assumptions about the island's biodiversity. This finding suggests that factors such as environmental conditions or historical introductions may influence the presence of invasive species in this unique marine environment.
Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park with the Archeological Sites of Paestum and Velia, and the Certosa di Padula
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A proposed project aims to create underwater archaeological nature routes within the Protected Marine Area of Santa Maria di Castellabate, part of Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park. This initiative seeks to promote innovative use of archaeological heritage by integrating natural landscapes with submerged sites, including Roman-era shipwrecks and World War II remnants, while preserving seagrass meadows. The proposal highlights the potential for sustainable tourism that balances environmental conservation with cultural exploration, offering new perspectives on the region's rich maritime history.
City of Bath
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A unique anthropological study of the City of Bath reveals how local communities expressed grief and respect during the national mourning period for Diana, Princess of Wales. The research highlights regional variations in mourning practices, particularly through the creation of impromptu shop window shrines dedicated to Diana, which were documented on the morning of her funeral—a time when public displays were expected to peak but many people were indoors watching television. A follow-up interview a year later captured the enduring impact of these spontaneous tributes and their role in shaping communal mourning rituals. The study provides insight into local aesthetics, appropriateness norms, and the lasting social changes triggered by collective grief.
Manas Wildlife Sanctuary
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Human-elephant conflict in Manas Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam, India, is less severe than previously thought, with ample opportunity for coexistence. A study from 2007 to 2009 found that while overall economic losses due to crop raiding by Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) were negligible, individual farmers faced significant financial impacts. Autumn paddy suffered the highest raiding incidence, whereas pulses saw the least damage. Crop fields near the park's boundary were particularly vulnerable, highlighting the need for buffer zones. Traditional farmer-led guarding practices effectively reduced raiding frequency and damage, suggesting that strengthening these methods could substantially mitigate human-elephant conflict.
Brú na Bóinne - Archaeological Ensemble of the Bend of the Boyne
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New research reclassifies several sites in Dowth townland as probable or possible passage tombs, expanding the known archaeological landscape of Brú na Bóinne. The study reveals that these monuments were deliberately integrated into a larger numinous precinct alongside Newgrange and Knowth, suggesting continuity in ritual traditions spanning over a thousand years. Fieldwork also identified previously unrecorded archaeological features, providing insights into the deliberate siting of passage tombs and its influence on the development of the Late Neolithic/Early Bronze Age monumental landscape. This challenges the notion that later monuments were built without regard to pre-existing structures, instead indicating a conscious integration into an evolving ritual landscape.
Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple
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A comprehensive investigation of the Seokgatap, a three-storied stone pagoda at Bulguksa Temple, reveals that its foundation, constructed with stones 1.5 to 2.0 meters wide and approximately 2.0 meters deep, is structurally sound and capable of supporting the pagoda's weight. The study, employing advanced geophysical techniques such as electrical resistivity, refraction seismic, surface wave exploration, GPR (Ground-Penetrating Radar), and plate loading tests, found that the foundation depth decreases from the base outward. These findings provide critical data for future repair work, ensuring the preservation of this UNESCO World Heritage Site's architectural integrity.
Samarra Archaeological City
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Research reveals that the architectural ornamentation of Samarra’s Main Caliphal Palace, particularly in its Audience Hall Complex, was strategically designed to reinforce hierarchical power structures. By using unpublished documentation from Ernst Herzfeld’s 1912–13 excavations, the study demonstrates how ornamentation was intentionally placed to encourage a restricted gaze—visible only partially or not at all to most palace guests. This design choice aligns with the ideological goals of the Abbasid caliphs, enhancing their aura of exclusivity and authority. The analysis suggests that ornamentation in this section of the palace was meticulously planned in conjunction with its architectural frame, serving as a visual tool to maintain the mystique and control over public perception of the caliphate.
Historic Villages of Korea: Hahoe and Yangdong
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South Korea's historic villages, such as Hahoe and Yangdong, face a disconnect between conservation incentives and local community needs. A study analyzing residents' perceptions using Bennett’s program evaluation method found that current policies prioritize heritage tourism over addressing the aspirations of local communities. This research highlights the importance of aligning conservation efforts with economic development goals to better serve the needs of residents in these UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Kinabalu Park
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A comprehensive revision of the genus <em>Timonius</em> (Rubiaceae) in Kinabalu Park, Borneo, identifies 13 species, including seven likely endemic to the Kinabalu massif—four of which are restricted to ultramafic substrates. The study designates two lectotypes and proposes two new synonyms, addressing long-standing taxonomic ambiguities. Researchers examined specimens from multiple herbaria (BO, BRUN, K, L, SAN, SING, SNP) using traditional herbarium taxonomy methods, providing critical clarity for this understudied genus in West Malesia.
Ancient City of Damascus
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Archaeological excavations in south-east Damascus uncovered walls of a monumental building, likely dating to the Roman period. The discovery, made during the renovation of an Ottoman house into a hotel between 2004 and 2011, sheds light on the poorly understood topography of this part of ancient Damascus. The walls, notable for their size and orientation to the Roman grid, raise questions about their possible function and date. While the authors suggest they could be part of a gymnasium constructed by Herod the Great, further research is needed to confirm this hypothesis.
Göbekli Tepe
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Göbekli Tepe, a Pre-Pottery Neolithic site in southeastern Turkey, challenges conventional notions of early religious architecture. This study defends the interpretation of Göbekli Tepe as a cultic sanctuary, countering arguments that dismiss it as merely a 'fair house.' Through meticulous archaeological analysis, including spatial organization, artifact distribution, and symbolic motifs, researchers argue for its role in ritual practices. The approach combines stratigraphic data with contextual evidence to support the site's function as a place of worship, offering new insights into the origins of religious behavior during the Neolithic period.
Neolithic Site of Çatalhöyük
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At the Neolithic site of Çatalhöyük, animal figurines—comprising over half of the figurine assemblage (741 horns and 449 quadrupeds)—served as active conduits between humans and wild animals, facilitating intimate, embodied interactions that were not possible with large-scale art or plaster installations. These meticulously crafted, small-scale figures, often depicting cattle, boar, or deer with anatomical precision, enabled democratized engagement across species divides through their portability and immediacy. The study highlights how figurines bridged material scales, embodying social and symbolic roles that transcended the limitations of narrative paintings or hunting trophies, offering a unique lens into Neolithic material culture.
Pre-Hispanic City of Chichen-Itza
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2015 —
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Researchers identified a low-resistivity body beneath the Pyramid El Castillo at Chichen Itza, Mexico, suggesting the presence of a sinkhole filled with sweet water. This finding builds on previous ground-penetrating radar (GPR) studies that hinted at man-made tunnels in the limestone subsoil. To investigate this further, scientists employed a specialized 3D electrical resistivity tomography (ERT-3D) array, using 96 flat-surface electrodes arranged in a square geometry around the pyramid. This method allowed for 8,500 apparent resistivity observations across a depth of 25 meters, providing a detailed subsurface profile. The study highlights the potential of ERT-3D arrays to overcome challenges posed by traditional geophysical methods when applied to ancient structures, offering new insights into the hidden complexities of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
iSimangaliso Wetland Park – Maputo National Park
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2015 —
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A stable isotopic analysis of the diet of <em>Potamonautes sidneyi</em>, a dominant freshwater crab in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, reveals its complex trophic role and dietary flexibility across seasons. The study found that juveniles from Mpophomeni Stream exhibit a more carnivorous diet and higher trophic position compared to adults, while both sites showed seasonal shifts—consuming aquatic invertebrates and sedimentary organic matter in wet summer months but shifting to detritus and microphytobenthos in autumn/winter. Despite abiotic variations between Lake Sibaya and Mpophomeni Stream, adult crab diets remained consistent, suggesting resilience to environmental changes. The species acts as an intermediate consumer, facilitating nutrient cycling by breaking down decomposing organic matter, highlighting its ecological significance in coastal wetland ecosystems.
Cathedral, Torre Civica and Piazza Grande, Modena
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2015 —
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A multi-disciplinary analysis reveals key vulnerabilities in the structural integrity of Modena Cathedral, Italy. The study combines simple yet reliable limit schematizations with complex computer-based models to assess the monument's static conditions and potential safety evolution. By integrating insights from various fields, researchers identified critical weaknesses in the masonry fabric and other significant structural elements, offering a comprehensive understanding that could guide preservation efforts for future generations.
Baekje Historic Areas
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2015 —
WHE2E94D99238
A study identifies the need for integrated design development of souvenirs from Baekje Historic Areas to better reflect the region's cultural identity and historical significance. The research highlights that current souvenirs lack depth in representing Baekje’s unique traditions and heritage, despite their role as key elements in tourism. Using KJ method analysis—an approach combining qualitative data collection with visual clustering—the study examined consumer perceptions of domestic and international souvenir designs, focusing on functionality, aesthetics, sensory appeal, and economic viability. Findings underscore the necessity for souvenirs that blend historical authenticity with contemporary trends while addressing practical usability and market appeal. Future work should prioritize ongoing user feedback to refine and innovate souvenir design, ensuring it aligns with both cultural heritage preservation and modern consumer expectations.
