Monastery of Alcobaça
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2015 —
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A systematic analysis of medieval illuminated manuscripts from Portuguese monasteries, including the Monastery of Alcobaça, reveals that monks employed a structured color system, predominantly featuring red, green, and blue pigments. These hues were not only chosen for their beauty and stability but also held contextual significance within the manuscripts. The study, which utilized color mapping and material analysis, identified distinct palettes in the scriptoria of Alcobaça and Santa Cruz de Coimbra, while the limited and heterogeneous surviving manuscripts from Lorvão prevented definitive conclusions. Notably, the De avibus and Commentary on the Apocalypse manuscripts from Lorvão emerged as particularly rich in meaning.
Lut Desert
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2015 —
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A morphotectonic design suggests that three semi-connected artificial lakes could transform the sedimentary basins of Dasht-e Kavir, Dasht-e Lut, and Jazmourian plains on the Iranian Plateau into extensive artificial bays. This proposal leverages geologic and geotechnical parameters to create a triple artificial bay system fed by pumped water from the Oman Sea, connected by gated straits. The study highlights significant environmental impacts, potentially converting desert sedimentary basins into lake environments. The research integrates geological evidence of past marine-to-land transitions in these basins with modern engineering feasibility, presenting a novel geotechnologic approach with international implications.
Lagoons of New Caledonia: Reef Diversity and Associated Ecosystems
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2015 —
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Recent sediments from New Caledonia's lagoons reveal distinct magnetic susceptibility (MS) patterns linked to sediment composition and environmental conditions. Key findings indicate that carbonate sediments exhibit lower MS compared to detrital sediments, with mixed sediments showing MS influenced predominantly by the proportion of detrital material. Strong correlations between MS and manganese/iron content were observed, while beachrocks displayed lower MS than equivalent loose sediments. Additionally, reducing subsurface sediments exhibited higher MS than surface counterparts, suggesting environmental factors play a significant role in magnetic signal variability. The study analyzed over 300 samples for grain size, sediment nature, MS, and geochemistry, providing new insights into the primary origin of minerals carrying the MS signal in tropical coastal environments.
Joggins Fossil Cliffs
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2015 —
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A comprehensive sedimentological and stratigraphic analysis of the Boss Point Formation, spanning nearly one-third of the Joggins Fossil Cliffs UNESCO World Heritage Site, reveals new insights into Pennsylvanian paleoenvironments. The study identifies three distinct members—Chignecto Bay, Ward Point, and North Reef—each characterized by unique sedimentary features reflecting varying climatic and tectonic conditions. Contrary to regional assumptions, fine-grained deposits in the Ward Point Member are primarily floodplain sediments rather than lacustrine, indicating poorly drained to well-drained environments influenced by modest uplift from the Minudie Anticline. The North Reef Member marks a transition to arid, oxidizing conditions and precedes significant salt withdrawal, linking it to the overlying Little River Formation. This revised stratigraphic framework provides a foundational reference for future research on this globally significant fossil exposure.
Saint Catherine Area
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2015 —
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A study on the seed ecology of Hypericum sinaicum, an endemic medicinal plant in South Sinai's Saint Catherine Area, revealed that calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and hot water treatments significantly enhanced its germination rates. The research identified seven endemic species within the soil seed bank, highlighting their ecological significance and vulnerability to unmanaged human activities. By examining both the soil seed bank and germination responses under various conditions, the study provides critical insights for long-term conservation strategies. These findings underscore the varying behaviors of endemic species along environmental gradients and their adaptive strategies for survival in disturbed habitats.
Lagoons of New Caledonia: Reef Diversity and Associated Ecosystems
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2015 —
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Research on the Lagoons of New Caledonia reveals distinct dietary segregation between Black Noddy (Anous minutus) and Brown Noddy (A. stolidus), indicating spatial separation in foraging zones. While both species primarily consume fish, Black Noddies target small pelagic fishes like round herrings (Spratelloides spp.) closer to shore, whereas Brown Noddies prey on larger offshore species such as buccaneer anchovy (Encrasicholina punctifer) and squid. This segregation is more pronounced than observed in other sympatric populations, suggesting niche partitioning driven by body size and foraging distance. The study analyzed regurgitations from birds nesting at Kouaré Islet over two breeding seasons (2002/2003 and 2003/2004), providing insights into the ecological dynamics of these seabirds in a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Pitons Management Area
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2015 —
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Research at Piton de la Fournaise volcano, La Réunion, reveals that seismic anisotropy—measured through shear wave splitting—can serve as a precursor to eruptions. Fast directions of seismic waves align radially with the central cone and parallel to surface cracks, indicating stress-controlled crack formation. The study found that delay times in split shear waves tend to increase while surface wave velocities decrease before eruptions, correlating with GPS baseline changes. These variations suggest dynamic changes in crack density and fluid pressure. High Vp/Vs ratios under the summit compared to the flanks imply spatial differences in fluid-filled versus gas-filled cracks. The findings, derived from a combination of permanent and portable seismic networks, geodetic data, and ambient noise correlation analysis, offer a novel approach to monitoring volcanic activity with high temporal resolution.
Kathmandu Valley
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2015 —
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Most existing reinforced concrete (RC) buildings in the earthquake-prone Kathmandu Valley exhibit inadequate seismic performance, with non-engineered structures showing significantly higher inter-storey drift demands and lower lateral resistance compared to engineered ones. The study analyzed four representative RC buildings using non-linear dynamic analysis under synthetic earthquakes applied at 0°, 45°, and 90° directions, revealing that geometric non-linearities (P-delta effects) reduce global lateral stiffness and structural strength. Engineered buildings demonstrated better performance but still faced challenges due to plan and vertical irregularities. The findings highlight the urgent need for seismic safety assessments and retrofitting of existing structures in Nepal.
The Porticoes of Bologna
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2015 —
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A novel method for the semantic cataloguing of Bologna's porticoes has been developed, integrating historical, material, formal, dimensional, and theoretical data into 3D models. This approach allows for detailed segmentation and visualization of the arcades' architecture, supporting their potential nomination as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The study addresses challenges in surveying, numerical modeling, and semantic analysis, providing a structured framework to make complex architectural information accessible and communicable.
Caves of Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst
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2015 —
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Researchers identified the r.geomorphon module as the most effective method for semi-automated recognition of planation surfaces and other flat landforms in the Aggtelek Karst, Hungary. These surfaces serve as morphological indicators of different evolutionary stages, correlating with cave levels formed under stagnant erosion base conditions. The study tested multiple methods, including slope gradient thresholding and r.param.scale modules, but found that r.geomorphon best delineated relatively flat surfaces corresponding to phases of the Jósva River incision. This approach offers a new tool for reconstructing the comprehensive evolution of karst landscapes, with implications for understanding similar geological formations in UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst.
Historic Centre of Santa Ana de los Ríos de Cuenca
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2015 —
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Cuenca, Ecuador, holds three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Historic Centre of Santa Ana de los Ríos de Cuenca, the Traditional Hat Weaving Technique of the Toquilla Straw, and a section of the Qhapac ñan (Paredones de Molleturo). A recent seminar highlighted that conservation efforts in Cuenca began as early as the late 1960s, long before its inclusion on the World Heritage List in 2010. The event emphasized the need for coordinated strategies to protect not only the material heritage but also the intangible cultural elements that define the city's identity. This approach ensures a comprehensive safeguarding of Cuenca's diverse patrimony, fostering sustainable development and preserving its unique cultural landscape.
Tajik National Park (Mountains of the Pamirs)
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2015 —
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Researchers have uncovered critical insights into the hydrological dynamics of the Gunt catchment in Tajik National Park, revealing that discharge is primarily driven by snow and glacier melt rather than precipitation. This contrasts with neighboring regions like the Himalayas or Hindu Kush, where monsoon-driven rainfall dominates. The study identified two subsurface reservoirs: a groundwater reservoir that recharges in spring and summer, providing 40% of annual discharge, and a shallow, rapid-retention reservoir buffering meltwaters during warmer months. Notably, precipitation and discharge exhibit negative correlation with complex hysteresis effects, allowing inference of interannual climatic variability on river flow. The findings were derived from a remote-sensing-based hydrological model (J2000g), validated against sparse in situ data, which showed that MODIS surface temperatures effectively proxy air temperatures, while precipitation products exhibited substantial discrepancies with local measurements.
Temple of Preah Vihear
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2015 —
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Judge Antônio A. Cançado Trindade's separate opinion in the 2013 case regarding the Temple of Preah Vihear offers a nuanced interpretation of international legal principles, particularly focusing on the application and evolution of treaties over time. His analysis emphasizes the importance of historical context and the dynamic nature of international law, arguing for a humanized approach that balances legal rigor with practical considerations. This opinion provides a critical perspective on the 1962 judgment, advocating for a more inclusive and adaptive interpretation of treaty obligations to address contemporary challenges in disputes over World Heritage Sites.
Temple of Preah Vihear
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2015 —
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Judge Antônio A. Cançado Trindade's separate opinion in the 2011 provisional measures order for the Temple of Preah Vihear case highlights a pivotal interpretation of international law, emphasizing its humanized and contextual application to resolve disputes over UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The opinion argues for a nuanced approach that balances legal rigor with humanitarian considerations, particularly in cases involving cultural heritage and national sovereignty. This perspective challenges traditional interpretations by advocating for a more inclusive and adaptive framework within international judicial processes. The analysis draws on the 1962 judgment's legacy while addressing contemporary geopolitical tensions, offering a forward-looking strategy to mitigate conflicts over shared historical monuments.
Lake Baikal
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2015 —
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Researchers successfully sequenced the complete genome of <em>Synedra acus subsp. radians</em>, an araphid pennate diatom native to Lake Baikal, revealing a genome spanning 98 million base pairs with an average coverage of 33x. This achievement provides critical insights into the genetic structure and functional annotation of this unique freshwater microalga, contributing to our understanding of diatom biology in extreme aquatic environments like Lake Baikal. The study employed high-throughput sequencing techniques to assemble the genome, offering a foundational resource for further ecological and evolutionary research on this species.
Area de Conservación Guanacaste
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2015 —
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Researchers have identified seven new species of Spathidexia, a genus of tachinid flies, from the Area de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG) in Costa Rica. These discoveries were made through an extensive study combining morphological analysis, photographic documentation, life history data, and molecular evidence. The new species—Spathidexia atripalpus, Spathidexia juanvialesi, Spathidexia marioburgosi, Spathidexia luisrobertogallegosi, Spathidexia luteola, Spathidexia hernanrodriguezi, and Spathidexia aurantiaca—were reared from various caterpillar species within the ACG. Additionally, Minthodexiopsis Townsend was proposed as a new synonym of Spathidexia, with a revised combination for S.flavicornis (Brauer & Bergenstamm). This study contributes significantly to the understanding of biodiversity in the ACG and the taxonomy of tachinid flies.
Fossil Hominid Sites of South Africa
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2015 —
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Southern Africa's modern biomes, including the Fynbos and Succulent Karoo, were shaped by Neogene climate and hydrological shifts. Initially characterized by humid subtropical forests and a proto-savanna, the region transitioned to aridity due to tectonic uplift, river capture, and strengthening of the Benguela current. The Great Escarpment's evolution further influenced rainfall patterns, with eastern areas receiving higher precipitation than the west. By the Pliocene, drought-adapted plant families like Asteraceae and Aizoaceae flourished, while regions important for hominid evolution, such as Sterkfontein, shifted to more xeric conditions. This study synthesizes fossil evidence—pollen, wood, charcoal, leaves, and biomarkers—to reconstruct these environmental changes, offering insights into the complex interplay between geomorphology, climate, and biome development.
Cocos Island National Park
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2015 —
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A significant decline in the relative abundance of eight elasmobranch species, including iconic sharks and rays such as scalloped hammerhead sharks (−45%), whitetip reef sharks (−77%), mobula rays (−78%), and manta rays (−89%), has been documented over 21 years at Cocos Island National Park. Conversely, the probability of occurrence for tiger, Galapagos, blacktip, and whale sharks increased significantly during this period. The study used mixed effects models to analyze data collected by divers, accounting for observer variation and abiotic factors. These findings highlight that marine protected areas (MPAs) may not effectively protect elasmobranch species unless enforcement efforts against fishing are strengthened. The research underscores the importance of tailored conservation strategies that consider life history traits and vulnerability to fishing pressure.
Vilnius Historic Centre
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2015 —
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A significant cultural shift in Vilnius's traditional urban culture, particularly in its folksong traditions, occurred during the 20th and early 21st centuries. The study identifies key periods of transformation—most notably in the 1960s and post-1990 after Lithuania regained independence—when radical changes reshaped musical expression, blending folk elements with modern styles like rock, jazz, and hip-hop. The research compares urban, social, and cultural shifts to pinpoint when new phenomena emerged, revealing how state-supported academic music and folklore evolved alongside global influences. Notably, the Lithuanian Folklore Theater exemplified this fusion, while post-Soviet exposure to Western culture led to a postmodern era of hybrid musical styles. Today, urban folklore thrives through diverse collaborations, from IT specialists to young underground artists, ensuring tradition persists without erasure.
Te Henua Enata – The Marquesas Islands
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2015 —
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A comprehensive survey of shore fishes in the Marquesas Islands, part of Te Henua Enata – The Marquesas Islands UNESCO World Heritage Site, reveals a significant increase in species diversity and endemism. The study, conducted during Expedition Pakaihi I Te Moana in 2011, identified 74 new fish species for the region, bringing the total coastal fish fauna to 495 species. This marks a substantial rise from previous records, with endemic species increasing from 48 to 68, elevating the percentage of species-level endemism to 13.7%. This figure ranks the Marquesas Islands as the third highest region for coral reef fish endemism in the Indo-Pacific, surpassed only by the Hawaiian Islands and Easter Island. The research combined extensive collections with visual censuses, providing a robust dataset that underscores the unique biodiversity of this remote Polynesian archipelago.
Baekje Historic Areas
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2015 —
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South Korea's opposition to Japan's nomination of Meiji industrial sites for UNESCO World Heritage status, particularly due to the use of Korean forced labor at seven locations, highlighted a contentious chapter in history. The International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) initially approved the inscription, but South Korea's objections drew global attention to these 'forgotten scars.' Despite diplomatic efforts, including bilateral talks and international advocacy by South Korea, no resolution was reached before the 39th session of the World Heritage Committee in Bonn. The study underscores the ethical and historical complexities surrounding heritage recognition, where economic progress narratives often obscure human rights violations.
Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi
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2015 —
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A comparative analysis of Indo-Achamenid art reveals striking similarities in architectural and symbolic designs between the Mauryan period in India and the Achamenid era in Iran, suggesting a shared cultural origin. Key symbols such as the lotus, swastika, Buddha wheel (Dharmacakra), and griffin were prevalent in both civilizations, with the earliest evidence of some patterns, like the swastika, dating back to the 6th millennium BC in southern Iran. The study, based on archaeological excavations and historical records, highlights the enduring influence of these symbols across millennia and diverse cultures, including Celtic, Egyptian, and Persian traditions.
Decorated Cave of Pont d’Arc, known as Grotte Chauvet-Pont d’Arc, Ardèche
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2015 —
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A computational simulation reveals that ancient humans likely used fire strategically within the Decorated Cave of Pont d’Arc (Chauvet-Pont d'Arc, France). The study demonstrates how controlled fires could have illuminated deep cave passages while minimizing smoke accumulation and heat damage to fragile rock art and stalactites. Researchers employed advanced computational fluid dynamics models to replicate air flow, temperature distribution, and combustion processes within the cave's narrow galleries. Findings suggest that fire was not only a light source but also a tool for thermal management, supporting hypotheses about Neanderthal or early Homo sapiens' behavioral complexity in this prehistoric setting.
Cathedral, Alcázar and Archivo de Indias in Seville
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2015 —
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A Geographic Information System (GIS) has been successfully implemented to manage, organize, and disseminate archaeological data from extensive research conducted at the Alcázar of Seville since 1997. This innovative approach links graphic representations with written documentation, translating complex scientific findings into an intuitive tool accessible to researchers and the general public alike. By integrating data from multiple archaeological campaigns with the building's structure, the system enables users to explore results through a range of attributes, from broad overviews to highly specific details, thereby enhancing both scientific outreach and interdisciplinary understanding.
Wadi Wurayah
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2015 —
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A land suitability map for ecotourism potential areas was developed using GIS techniques, identifying highly suitable regions primarily within protected zones of Wadi Wurayah, UAE. The study prioritized sites based on landscape characteristics, visibility, topography, accessibility, and community factors, providing a systematic approach to ecotourism resource utilization. This methodology offers a framework for optimal land use planning in tourism development while ensuring sustainable conservation practices.
Okavango Delta
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2015 —
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A significant proportion (50.5%) of small farmers in the Okavango Delta, Botswana, favor using chilli pepper as an effective elephant crop-raiding deterrent innovation (ECDI). This finding highlights the potential for ECDIs to mitigate human-elephant conflict while underscoring the importance of participatory approaches and strong linkages between farmers, scientists, and extension agencies. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, including structured questionnaires, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions, to examine adoption behavior across two communities (Gudigwa and Eretsha). Key determinants of adoption included farmers' perceptions, innovation trial-ability, complexity, and effectiveness.
Kakadu National Park
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2015 —
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A decade-long study in Kakadu National Park, Australia, reveals that small mammal populations decline significantly with increasing fire extent, rather than just fire frequency or patchiness. Fire extent—a measure combining fire size and frequency—was the strongest predictor of mammal declines, surpassing other metrics like the proportion of surrounding area burnt. Large, less patchy fires, which exceed the home range scales of small mammals, are particularly detrimental, suggesting limited escape options for these species. Despite ongoing management efforts, current fire regimes remain harmful to native mammals, underscoring the need for more targeted strategies to reduce fire size and mitigate biodiversity loss.
Samarra Archaeological City
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2015 —
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Social media has emerged as a powerful tool in heritage discourse, particularly in documenting and critiquing the deliberate destruction of cultural heritage during armed conflicts. The study highlights how social media platforms have been used to record and discuss the tragic loss of heritage, such as the destruction of UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Ashur (Qal’at Shergat) and Samarra Archaeological City by militant groups like ISIS. This research also explores the role of international organizations, including UNESCO, in condemning these actions as war crimes and leveraging social media to raise global awareness and organize action against heritage destruction.
Bale Mountains National Park
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2015 —
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Mountain nyala populations in the Bale Mountains National Park, Ethiopia, exhibit complex social structures with five distinct group types: all-male, all-female, male-female, female-juvenile, and male-female-juvenile. The study, conducted in 2009 and 2011, identified male-female-juvenile groups as the most frequent (31% of records) and largest (mean size: 18.5 individuals), containing over half (64%) of all recorded animals. Lone adults, predominantly males, accounted for 16.3% of groups but only ~2% of individuals. Group sizes ranged from 1 to 107, with a mean of 9.1 and typical size of 24. The findings reveal significant social flexibility, as group associations increased both the mean number and proportion of individuals per age/sex category. This research provides the first detailed baseline on mountain nyala social behavior, critical for conservation efforts in this endangered species.
Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche
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2015 —
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In the Zoh-Laguna landscape of Calakmul, Mexico, structural factors such as gender-related knowledge gaps and public health neglect contribute to vulnerability to vector-borne transmission of Trypanosoma cruzi (VBTTc), a condition causing Chagas disease. The study reveals that while men possess detailed ethno-ecological knowledge about triatomines (vectors for T. cruzi) and their association with mammals, women primarily focus on the dermal effects of bites, lacking awareness about the broader implications of Chagas disease. Triatomine bites are often normalized and treated with home remedies, if at all, highlighting a critical gap in disease prevention. The research employs qualitative ethnographic methods, including in-depth interviews and participatory observation, to analyze health-disease-care-seeking practices and territorial land use. It underscores the need for culturally relevant, community-based intervention strategies that address these structural vulnerabilities, particularly given the continuous movement of vectors across diverse habitats.
Hortobágy National Park - the Puszta
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2015 —
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Abandoned prehistoric mounds in Hungary's Hortobágy National Park show significant soil regeneration potential after decades of cultivation. Research reveals that these sites, once plowed for agriculture, exhibit improved soil aggregate stability and organic carbon content following spontaneous vegetation recovery. The study highlights a 15-20% increase in aggregate stability compared to cultivated soils, alongside elevated plant-available nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) levels—critical nutrients for ecosystem restoration. These findings suggest that legal protection of such mounds can accelerate soil rehabilitation, offering insights for conservation strategies in similar lowland landscapes.
Pantanal Conservation Area
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2015 —
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No-tillage systems significantly reduce soil and water loss compared to conventional tillage, with crop residue deposition playing a crucial role in erosion mitigation. A study on the Cerrado-Pantanal Ecotone demonstrated that no-tillage (NT) with high crop densities (9 Mg ha⁻¹) minimized soil losses by up to 350 g m⁻² and water losses by up to 27 L m⁻² under simulated rainfall. In contrast, conventional tillage (CT) exhibited the highest erosion rates, highlighting its vulnerability to water erosion. Minimum tillage (MT) also performed better than CT but less effectively than NT. The research used a portable rainfall simulator to assess soil and water loss across four management systems—CT, MT, and NT with varying crop densities—revealing that residue cover is more effective in mitigating soil loss than water loss. These findings underscore the importance of sustainable agricultural practices in preserving Ultisols, critical soils in ecologically sensitive regions like the Pantanal.
Kairouan
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2015 —
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A study demonstrates that soil clay content can be effectively mapped using a time series of Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM) images, achieving reasonable accuracy (R² = 0.65, RMSE = 100 g/kg). This method offers a fine spatial resolution alternative to existing soil maps in semi-arid regions like the Kairouan plain in Tunisia, which are often insufficiently precise for water balance modeling or thematic mapping. Researchers analyzed relationships between textural indices from four Landsat TM images and topsoil clay content using 100 soil samples, producing a 30-meter resolution map that was further refined with cokriging to address gaps caused by vegetation. The resulting map aligns well with existing soil maps but shows notable differences when compared to TerraSAR-X radar-derived clay content, with in-situ observations supporting the Landsat TM approach's accuracy.
Umm Al-Jimāl
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2015 —
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Research at Umm Al-Jimāl, northern Jordan, reveals a correlation between historical human activity and soil properties, offering new insights into ancient landscape dynamics. By surveying material culture scatters on agricultural fields alongside plant-available phosphate levels near the sites of Abila and Umm el-Jimal, scientists found evidence linking past activities to periods of landscape change. Initial findings suggest that level plateaus in the region may be old and stable, while soil creep appears to occur at their edges. This approach holds promise for reconstructing ancient agricultural practices and understanding long-term environmental transformations.
Surtsey
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2015 —
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Soil nematode communities on the volcanic island of Surtsey, 50 years after its formation, exhibit distinct patterns influenced by nutrient availability and soil conditions. The study identified 25 nematode genera, with 14 reported for the first time on Surtsey, revealing higher abundance in areas with strong allochthonous nutrient inputs (S2) compared to those with minimal external nutrients (S1). Nematode trophic structure varied significantly between the two sites, with bacterial- and plant-feeders dominating in S2, while hyphal-feeders were more prevalent in S1. Despite stable vegetation cover at S1 over 17 years, nematode communities continued to change, suggesting gradual shifts in soil environment. Resource availability emerged as a critical driver for nematode colonization during primary succession, though nematode community succession differed from that of plant communities.
Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove
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2015 —
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A study of the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove reveals that tourists perceive significantly higher emotional solidarity with local residents compared to how residents view tourists. This finding was derived using the Emotional Solidarity Scale (ESS), which demonstrated strong psychometric properties and consistent factor structure in this context outside the USA. The research highlights the nuanced relationship between visitors and locals during events like the annual Osun-Osogbo Festival, offering insights into emotional dynamics in tourism development, particularly in Global South settings.
Galápagos Islands
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2015 —
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A study of Galápagos green turtles (Chelonia mydas) and hawksbills (Eretmochelys imbricata) reveals persistently slow growth rates, with estimates suggesting 133–200 years for green turtles to reach sexual maturity from a carapace length of 40 cm. This research, conducted between 2003 and 2008 at four key foraging sites in the Galápagos Islands, confirms that growth is significantly influenced by color morph, body size, and spatial variation, mirroring findings from a late-1970s study. The study also provides novel data on hawksbill growth rates, marking the first such information for this species in the archipelago. By analyzing recapture intervals, body measurements, and site-specific factors, researchers established a baseline to assess habitat quality changes over time.
Gelati Monastery
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2015 —
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A novel interpretation of mountain imagery in Georgian medieval art reveals deeper cosmological and philosophical meanings. The study identifies two distinct representations: mountains with immense roots, symbolizing cosmological elements, and anthropomorphic mountains, potentially linked to Neo-Platonic thought. These interpretations are drawn from murals at Gelati Monastery (13th century) and other Georgian churches, challenging conventional stylistic analyses. The research employs a comparative approach, examining visual motifs alongside historical and philosophical contexts, particularly the influence of Ioanne Petritsi's Neo-Platonic studies at Gelati.
Paphos
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2015 —
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Recent excavations on Fabrika hill in Nea Paphos, Cyprus, reveal a substantial post-medieval stone building constructed from materials repurposed from the ancient theatre's ruins. This structure suggests industrial activity, potentially linked to the hill's name, and underscores the need for further investigation into its function and the urban dynamics between Fabrika and the theatrical precinct during Hellenistic and Roman periods. The study highlights gaps in understanding Nea Paphos' recent history and calls for a reassessment of this area's significance.
Canterbury Cathedral, St Augustine's Abbey, and St Martin's Church
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Medieval monks at St. Augustine's Abbey, Canterbury, were not the demon-worshipping figures often depicted but instead engaged with natural and theurgic magic, as revealed by a reconstructed 14th-century manuscript collection. This study challenges historical narratives by demonstrating that the abbey's library contained no explicitly demonic texts, but rather works focused on astrology, alchemy, and spiritual revelation—practices justified within a scholarly-monastic framework. While evidence of actual usage is limited, the research suggests that such texts were likely employed for private rituals or practical purposes like locating lost property. The study also hints at St. Augustine's as a potential haven for occult experimentation, though this aspect remains underexplored.
Villa d'Este, Tivoli
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2015 —
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A comparative iconological analysis of Sosaewon (Korea) and Villa d'Este (Italy) reveals interconnected philosophical, mythological, and cultural meanings despite their geographical separation. Both gardens, constructed in the mid-16th century, reflect the socio-political influences of their eras through spatial design and symbolic elements. Sosaewon's layout adheres to Taoist principles, particularly Mu-yi-gu-gok, emphasizing natural integration and poetic beauty, while Villa d'Este incorporates mythological references like 'The Choice of Hercules' to symbolize the builder's status and philosophical intent. The study highlights how both gardens manipulate natural features—such as terraces, axes, and water—to serve aesthetic and symbolic purposes, offering insights into postmodern interpretations of garden iconography.
The Grand Canal
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2015 —
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A soundscape planning approach for the Xianghe Segment of China’s Grand Canal (XSCGC) was developed, integrating acoustic and visual landscapes to enhance human sensory experience. The study identified key characteristics of the acoustic environment using noise monitoring data from EIoT sensors, revealing critical areas such as university campuses and residential zones with high sensitivity to traffic noise. A traffic noise control model was proposed to mitigate these issues, alongside a comprehensive soundscape plan based on landsenses ecology, aiming to elevate the overall quality of the XSCGC’s auditory environment. This work offers a novel framework for urban landscape design by prioritizing both visual and acoustic dimensions, addressing gaps in traditional planning approaches.
Península Valdés
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2015 —
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A concerning increase in southern right whale calf mortality at Península Valdés, Argentina—with 90% of deaths occurring in calves under three months old since 2005—may be linked to harmful algal blooms (HABs). Research identifies a statistically significant correlation between the density of the diatom <em>Pseudo-nitzschia</em> spp. and calf deaths, though no such link was found with the dinoflagellate <em>Alexandrium tamarense</em>. Evidence of whale exposure to HAB toxins includes trace levels of paralytic shellfish toxins (PSTs) and domoic acid (DA) in tissue samples, as well as <em>Pseudo-nitzschia</em> frustules in fecal matter. The study analyzed multiple datasets, including biotoxin levels, algal abundances, shellfish harvesting closures, prey availability, and satellite chlorophyll data, to assess the potential role of HABs in these mortalities.
Saloum Delta
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2015 —
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A study on the Saloum Delta, Senegal, reveals that two sympatric mullet species, Mugil cephalus and Mugil curema, exhibit isotopic niche segregation despite occupying similar trophic levels. Analysis of δ13C and δ15N signatures in muscle tissues showed that while both species share comparable nitrogen isotopic compositions—indicating a shared trophic level—their distinct carbon isotopic compositions suggest they do not rely on the same basal production sources or, if they do, not in equal proportions. This finding provides the first evidence of such segregation within the Mugilidae family, offering insights into potential resource partitioning among limno-benthophageous species in hypersaline estuaries.
The Persian Garden
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2015 —
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Persian gardens, renowned for their cultural and aesthetic significance, demonstrate remarkable water efficiency despite Iran's arid climate. This study highlights the multifaceted role of water in these gardens, where it serves not only as a life-sustaining element but also as a source of mental comfort and technical functionality. Water structures such as basins, streams, creeks, and fountains contribute to the garden's aesthetic appeal while providing practical benefits like humidity regulation. The research employs qualitative analysis to explore how water's various attributes—life, brightness, cleanliness, light, inertia, and motion—enhance human emotional well-being and mental comfort. By examining traditional Persian garden designs, the study underscores their ingenious adaptation to water scarcity, offering insights into sustainable landscape practices.
Site of Palmyra
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2015 —
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Palmyra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's most significant archaeological sites, faces severe threats from conflict. The report highlights its cultural importance while documenting recent destruction during ISIL control (May 2015). Combat-related damage was confirmed at key structures like the Citadel and Temple of Bel, with unconfirmed reports suggesting airstrikes also impacted the site. Despite limited verified damage, the study underscores Palmyra's vulnerability to both deliberate destruction by extremist groups and collateral harm from military operations. The research relies on video documentation, eyewitness accounts, and official reports (DGAM) to assess the extent of losses.
Gondwana Rainforests of Australia
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2015 —
WHE6EF6588A7F
A 15-year study of corticolous bryophyte assemblages in the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area reveals significant species turnover, particularly among liverworts (43–62%), despite limited changes in overall species richness. Liverwort communities exhibit strong spatial patterns linked to orographic moisture exposure from south-easterly winds, suggesting microclimatic factors drive their assemblages more than mosses. The study posits that temporal fluctuations in moisture inputs from orographic clouds—undetectable via precipitation records—are likely responsible for the observed directional changes in liverwort communities. This research highlights the vulnerability of subtropical cloud forests to climatic shifts and underscores the need for long-term ecological monitoring.
Rila Monastery
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2015 —
WHEEB70CC7E78
A study of the spontaneous flora at Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Bulgaria, identified 110 vascular plant species across 43 families and 94 genera. The research, conducted between 2008 and 2012, revealed that most species were native perennials (hemicryptophytes), with notable species like <em>Sclerochloa dura</em> and <em>Plantago major</em>. The distribution of these plants was influenced by ecological factors such as soil moisture, light exposure, and human activity. Additionally, anemochoric woody species (<em>Acer pseudoplatanus</em>, <em>Fraxinus excelsior</em>, etc.) were found colonizing the monastery's structures, posing risks to its conservation.
Cathedral, Torre Civica and Piazza Grande, Modena
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2015 —
WHEAF1E980C54
A standardized approach for interpreting structural monitoring data of historical buildings has been developed, enabling better risk assessment and preservation. This method defines specific reference quantities from recorded time series to characterize structural responses, which can be compared across similar monuments. Applied to the Cathedral of Modena and the Two Towers in Bologna, the study demonstrates how Static Structural Health Monitoring (SSHM) and Dynamic Structural Health Monitoring (DSHM) provide critical insights for cultural heritage safeguarding. Preliminary DSHM results from the Asinelli Tower further highlight the potential of this approach for dynamic analysis.
Neolithic Site of Çatalhöyük
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2015 —
WHEA4CB2D78B9
Dietary practices at Neolithic Çatalhöyük varied significantly across the life course, with distinct dietary transitions marking key developmental stages. Stable carbon and nitrogen isotope analysis revealed that neonates reflected maternal diets during pregnancy, infants were breastfed until around 18 months of age, and weaning occurred by three years. Older children consumed different foods compared to adolescents and young adults, who in turn differed from middle-aged and older adults. Notably, no sex-related dietary differences were observed, suggesting that life-course transitions rather than gender influenced food consumption patterns at Çatalhöyük.
