Quebrada de Humahuaca
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2014 —
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The arrival of the Jujuy to La Quiaca railway line fundamentally transformed the landscape and settlement patterns in Argentina's Puna, Quebrada de Humahuaca, and Valles regions. Unlike any other historical event, this infrastructure project introduced a new territorial order centered on extractive economic activities, reshaping local demographics and spatial organization. The study reveals how pre-existing land structures, meticulous railway planning, and subsequent territorial modifications led to the emergence of new settlements. Researchers analyzed field data, census maps, satellite imagery, and historical documents—including the 1867 Moneta Report, the 1902 bidding process for the line's construction, and De Moussy’s 1866 cartography—to reconstruct this pivotal process. This work highlights the railway's enduring legacy in structuring both human populations and economic landscapes.
Alhambra, Generalife and Albayzín, Granada
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2014 —
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A previously unknown chapter from Simón de Argote's <em>Nuevos Paseos</em> (1806–1807), detailing the Generalife and its surrounding Arab ruins, has been recovered. This text, dedicated to King José Bonaparte during his tenure in Granada, offers a rare illustrated response to misconceptions about Granada's Roman past, countering claims by Velázquez de Echeverría. The chapter sheds new light on Argote's overlooked career and his connections with figures like Horace Sebastiani, a Napoleonic diplomat. Through archival research across diverse sources, the study reconstructs this lost manuscript, providing critical insights into 19th-century scholarship on Islamic heritage in Spain.
Cathedral, Alcázar and Archivo de Indias in Seville
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2014 —
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A graphical analysis of the 'Bidaurreta trace,' an unsigned 15th-century drawing, reveals groundbreaking insights into the original Gothic project for Seville Cathedral. This innovative design, characterized by its remarkable orthogonality, was both influential and ahead of its time. The study not only sheds light on the cathedral's early construction phases but also proposes new hypotheses regarding the authorship, dating, and purpose of this significant document.
San Cristóbal de La Laguna
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2014 —
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A significant portion of tourists visiting San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tenerife, are drawn to its cultural attractions despite the island's reputation for mass tourism centered on sun and beach. This study reveals that cultural tourism plays a pivotal role in diversifying the region's offerings, with tourists exhibiting distinct sociodemographic profiles, behaviors, and motivations during their visits. Conducted by the University of La Laguna, the research analyzed survey data collected from tourists at the end of their stay to assess key factors influencing their experience. The findings underscore the potential for cultural tourism to enhance the economic and cultural value of heritage sites in high-traffic tourist destinations.
Serra da Capivara National Park
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2014 —
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A groundbreaking electron spin resonance (ESR) dating study of megafauna fossils from Lagoa dos Porcos, Piaui, Brazil, places the site's fossil assemblage within the Late Pleistocene, approximately 26 ± 4 and 22 ± 3 thousand years ago. This finding is significant as it provides a chronological context for one of the richest paleontological occurrences in the Serra da Capivara National Park. The study utilized ESR dating on teeth samples from Gomphotheriidae and Toxodontinae, employing spectra acquired with a JEOL FA-200 X-Band spectrometer to construct dose-response curves. These dates overlap with a period of abrupt increase in rainfall in northeast Brazil, suggesting a potential link between environmental changes and the formation of this deposit.
City of Potosí
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2014 —
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A rare genealogical and historical record traces the lineage of a Potosí emigrant who settled in Calbuco, Chile, during the 18th century. Spanning nearly two centuries, the study documents approximately thirty descendants linked to this male lineage, offering insights into migration patterns between Spanish colonial territories. By analyzing archival sources, the research reconstructs family branches and provides a unique perspective on transregional connections in Latin America's colonial history.
Maritime Greenwich
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2014 —
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British visual culture underwent significant transformation during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, shifting away from imperial themes towards a focus on maritime identity. Geoff Quilley's analysis reveals that this transition was influenced by the threat of revolutionary France and is evident in the works of artists associated with Captain James Cook's Pacific expeditions, such as William Hodges and John Webber, as well as in notable paintings like John Singleton Copley's 'Watson and the Shark' and J.M.W. Turner's 'Battle of Trafalgar'. Quilley's thematic exploration, structured around Cook's voyages, the Atlantic world, and naval battles, demonstrates how art reflected Britain's evolving national identity during this period.
The Historic Town and Archaeological Site of Gedi
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2014 —
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En-gedi, Israel, is renowned for its biblical significance, particularly the incident involving King Saul and David described in the first book of Samuel. Despite its prominent mention in biblical texts, including the Song of Songs, no archaeological evidence has been found to support the existence of a Hebrew settlement at En-gedi around 1000 B.C., during the late Iron Age I period. This discrepancy highlights the gap between biblical narratives and tangible historical records from this era.
Chaîne des Puys - Limagne fault tectonic arena
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2014 —
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The Lemptégy volcano in France's Chaîne des Puys reveals the complex endogenous and exogenous growth of monogenetic scoria cones, characterized by dynamic changes in shape, structure, and eruptive style. The study, facilitated by decades of controlled quarrying, uncovered a shallow plumbing system and detailed stratigraphy that record two temporally separated eruptions from closely spaced vents. These eruptions involved diverse volcanic activities such as Hawaiian, Strombolian, and Vulcanian explosions, lava effusion, cryptodome formation, partial collapse, satellite vent development, eruptive pauses, and intrusive uplift. The volcano's internal architecture and microtectonic structures provide insights into the local stress field and magmatic flow direction changes, illustrating the intricate evolution of monogenetic volcanoes.
Western Ghats
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2014 —
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A significant variation in endophytic fungal diversity was observed between monsoon and winter seasons in medicinal plants of the Western Ghats, India. The study, conducted from 2007 to 2014, isolated 31 fungal taxa from seven plant species, with Fusarium, Acremonium, Colletotrichum, Chaetomium, Myrothecium, Phomopsis, and Pestalotiopsis being the most prevalent. Coelomycetes dominated (65%), followed by hyphomycetes (32%) and ascomycetes (3%). Stem fragments harbored more endophytes than roots, and species richness was notably higher during the monsoon season. The research also revealed host specificity in some fungal endophytes, with distinct genetic clustering observed through UPGMA analysis. This pioneering study highlights the seasonal dynamics of fungal diversity in semi-evergreen forests of the Talacauvery subcluster, contributing to our understanding of microbial biodiversity in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Delos
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2014 —
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A reinterpretation of the purpose and nature of endowed festivals on Delos challenges long-standing assumptions about their political motivations. Contrary to prevailing views, these funds did not primarily finance grand eponymous celebrations but instead supported recurring, modest rituals tied to significant family events such as marriages and deaths. This interpretation, based on a re-evaluation of the Greek accounts from Delos, suggests that the phenomenon reflects deeper aspects of personal piety rather than state or royal politics. The study highlights a unique Délien practice closely aligned with Hellenistic familial cults, offering new insights into the religious and social dynamics of the period.
Cultural Landscape of the Serra de Tramuntana
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2014 —
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Archaeological heritage can serve as a powerful tool for social and territorial activism, mitigating issues arising from unplanned mass tourism in coastal areas. This study presents a conceptual framework and practical strategies to enhance archaeological heritage, fostering connections between local communities and tourists. Using Mallorca's Serra de Tramuntanaas a case study, the research demonstrates how heritage corridors can link touristic zones with inland cultural landscapes, thereby reducing socioeconomic and territorial disconnections. The approach leverages heritage to develop new dynamics that address challenges posed by sun, sand, and sea tourism, offering a model for sustainable coastal development.
Australian Convict Sites
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2014 —
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Prison graffiti, traditionally seen as markings on institutional architecture, reveals deeper 'hidden transcripts' when defined more broadly. This study uncovers recurring themes in convict graffiti from 19th-century Australian penal colonies, demonstrating that inscriptions—whether on fabric, coins, or stone—create enmeshed human-object relationships that reshape both the inscribed and the inscriber. By analyzing a range of materials beyond conventional surfaces, the research highlights how these acts of inscription serve as mental and physical processes, offering new insights into convict experiences and material culture.
Ancient Ksour of Ouadane, Chinguetti, Tichitt and Oualata
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2014 —
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Neolithic societies in the ancient Ksour of Ouadane, Chinguetti, Tichitt, and Oualata thrived in a Saharan refuge zone due to abundant water resources, leaving behind a rich archaeological record. These communities, spanning from the early 3rd millennium BCE to the Common Era, relied on a mix of foraging, hunting, herding, and agriculture, with their settlements featuring stone walls that reflect sophisticated societal organization. The study reveals how these societies adapted to survive in arid conditions by developing specialized practices for food production, storage, and exchange, including the use of local materials for cooking utensils. Artifacts and architectural remnants suggest vibrant trade networks and knowledge transmission along the cliffs, with certain areas functioning as marketplaces. This research highlights the resilience and ingenuity of Neolithic communities in a challenging environment.
Pre-Hispanic City and National Park of Palenque
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2014 —
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Stream ecosystems bordering Palenque National Park, Chiapas, Mexico, exhibit significant environmental stress despite relatively intact riparian habitats. High concentrations of soluble reactive phosphorus suggest widespread influence from sewage and agricultural runoff. Aquatic macroinvertebrate abundance declines with increasing nitrate levels, while diversity correlates positively with better riparian and aquatic habitat quality. This indicates that while the park's buffer zones may be structurally sound, water quality is compromised by anthropogenic inputs, posing risks to biodiversity.
Wadi Al-Hitan (Whale Valley)
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2014 —
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A groundbreaking analysis of the Eocene stratigraphy at Wadi Al-Hitan (Whale Valley), Egypt, reveals that previously proposed interpretations of restricted marine environments or whale calving grounds lack evidence. The study, conducted over a 300 sq. km area, identified four phases of coastal sand body progradation within the Birket Qarun Formation, separated by transgressive wedges, and discounted episodes of emersion. Key findings include the identification of the Dictyococcites erbae nannofossil acme, suggesting its start as a reliable marker for defining the base of the Priabonian stage. The research employed detailed sediment logging and biostratigraphic analysis to resolve complex facies relationships, providing new insights into the depositional history and paleoenvironmental conditions of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Kinabalu Park
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2014 —
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A new species of Eriobotrya, named Eriobotrya balgooyi (Rosaceae), has been discovered in Kinabalu Park, Malaysian Borneo. This obligate ultramafic endemic is restricted to ultramafic soils on Mount Kinabalu and nearby Mount Tambuyukon, both within the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The discovery highlights the significant but understudied flora of ultramafic outcrops in northern Borneo, emphasizing the need for urgent conservation efforts. Taxonomic analysis using herbarium material from multiple collections confirmed its novelty.
Yellowstone National Park
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2014 —
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Research at Lone Star geyser in Yellowstone National Park reveals that eruptions are triggered by a complex interplay between vapor generation and mass discharge, controlled by subsurface thermo-mechanical processes. The study, utilizing seismic, tilt, lidar, thermal, and gravity data from 32 consecutive eruption cycles, demonstrates that hydrothermal tremor is linked to vapor bubble dynamics. Key findings include the identification of recurring ground surface displacements uncorrelated with eruptions, suggesting periodic filling of a laterally offset reservoir with a compressible two-phase mixture. The research also shows that flow choking in the conduit significantly increases saturated vapor pressure during eruptions, providing new insights into geyser dynamics and subsurface processes.
Butrint
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2014 —
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The Butrint Foundation's archaeological project in post-communist Albania (1993–2012) successfully established a self-governing archaeological park, marking a significant shift in cultural heritage management amid political transition. The initiative, analyzed through four distinct phases, reflects evolving attitudes toward heritage conservation in Albania as it transitioned from communism to democracy. This case study offers insights into capacity-building strategies for archaeology, demonstrating how international collaboration and adaptive governance can address challenges in post-conflict regions.
Archaeological Site of Leptis Magna
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2014 —
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A groundbreaking attempt to reconstruct the lost Roman city of Oea, now buried beneath Tripoli, Libya, sheds light on its material culture and urban space. By analyzing Apuleius of Madaura's <em>Apology</em>—a firsthand account of his public vilification for witchcraft—and comparing it with surviving archaeological and epigraphic artifacts from nearby Leptis Magna and Sabrata, researchers partially visualize the city as it existed in the mid-2nd century AD. This interdisciplinary approach, combining literary, epigraphic, and comparative urban studies, offers a rare glimpse into a Roman city otherwise obscured by modern development.
St Kilda
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2014 —
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A groundbreaking comparison of pedigree and genomic approaches reveals that genomic relatedness provides more precise estimates of quantitative genetic parameters, particularly in distinguishing maternal genetic effects from direct genetic effects. The study, conducted on the Soay sheep population at St Kilda, found that heritability estimates were consistent across methods but had lower standard errors when using SNP-derived relatedness or whole-genome data. Notably, maternal genetic effects became more pronounced with increased accuracy of relatedness information, suggesting these effects are often confounded with direct genetic effects in less precise pedigree analyses. The research also demonstrated that high-density marker panels may not be necessary for unbiased heritability estimates, as precision asymptotes at around half the available SNPs.
iSimangaliso Wetland Park – Maputo National Park
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2014 —
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Research demonstrates that narrow-band vegetation indices, particularly the Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI), combined with random forest regression, can accurately estimate above-ground biomass (AGB) in dense papyrus swamps. The study identified optimal spectral bands—blue, red, red-edge, and near-infrared—as critical for biomass estimation, achieving high predictive accuracy (R² = 0.90; RMSEP = 0.289 kg/m²). This approach outperformed traditional NDVI-based methods, addressing a longstanding challenge in monitoring complex wetland ecosystems like the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and Maputo National Park. The findings highlight the potential of hyperspectral indices for precise biomass assessment in high-density vegetation, offering a robust tool for conservation and management.
Jesuit Block and Estancias of Córdoba
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2014 —
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A structural analysis of the dome and vaults of the Jesuit Santa Catalina Estate in Córdoba, Argentina, reveals critical insights into their stability and preservation needs. The study, conducted using digital surveying, soil analysis, and finite element modeling (via Algor software), identified vulnerabilities such as cracks and foundation depth concerns. Findings underscore the urgency of targeted interventions to safeguard this UNESCO World Heritage Site's structural integrity, balancing historical conservation with modern engineering standards.
Lower Valley of the Omo
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2014 —
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Ethiopia's development plans, particularly along the Omo and Awash Rivers and in Gambela Region, are displacing pastoralist communities despite international criticism. These projects, aimed at hydroelectric power generation and large-scale agriculture, threaten the livelihoods of distinct ethnic groups. The study reviews these developments and highlights alternative resettlement approaches proposed by NGOs and human rights organizations, challenging the government's assertion that such projects will benefit both affected populations and the nation.
Okavango Delta
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2014 —
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A significant increase in annual rainfall and rain days, alongside a reduction in dry spell duration, has been observed in the Okavango Delta over the past decade. However, rising temperatures are concurrently increasing potential evaporation, posing challenges for agricultural production. Farmers' ability to anticipate weather changes through ethno-meteorological knowledge allows them to adjust farming practices effectively. The study analyzed satellite rainfall data and climate services records while surveying 592 households and 19 scientists across eight communities. Findings revealed that farmers' age, education, farming experience, and access to weather information significantly influence their perceptions of both local and scientific weather knowledge. While there is a notable disparity between farmers' and scientists' views on the nature of this knowledge, the integration of ethno-meteorological insights with scientific forecasting emerges as a crucial adaptation strategy for climate variability.
Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System
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2014 —
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Scientists have identified <em>Eubostrichus fertilis</em>, a new species of marine nematode from the Belize Barrier Reef, distinguished by its small size (1.88–3.03 mm), stout body, and extraordinary reproductive potential—females can carry up to 18 eggs simultaneously. The discovery, supported by microscopic imaging and genetic analysis (18S rRNA gene sequencing), reveals unique morphological traits, including crescent-shaped bacteria spirally attached to its cuticle. Phylogenetic studies confirm <em>Eubostrichus</em> as a distinct genus, with <em>E. fertilis</em> closely related to <em>E. parasitiferus</em> and <em>E. hopperi</em>, differing in vulva position, amphid size, and tail shape. Additionally, the study proposes a taxonomic correction for <em>Eubostrichus gerlachi</em>, previously misclassified as <em>E. parasitiferus</em>.
Neolithic Flint Mines at Spiennes (Mons)
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2014 —
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Archaeological evidence suggests Europe, not the Middle East, was the birthplace of organized mining, with flint and metal extraction beginning as early as 7000 BC. The transition to farming during the Neolithic period intensified mining activities, particularly for flint used in tools, at sites like Spiennes (Belgium) and Grimes Graves (England). Europe also pioneered copper mining, with thousands of objects dating back to the Chalcolithic period (6th–3rd millennia BC), facilitating trade networks that spanned the continent. The discovery of copper and tin sources enabled bronze production by 2000 BC, further shaping European societies during the Bronze Age (5500–500 BC).
Wet Tropics of Queensland
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2014 —
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Protected areas in the Wet Tropics of Queensland, Australia, appear to offer better habitat for most endemic bird species compared to unprotected areas, but they do not significantly improve their long-term survival. Using a novel approach called list-length analysis (LLA), researchers estimated population trends of 21 endemic bird species from volunteer-collected data. The study found that while 16 species were more likely to be recorded in protected areas and the prevalence of most species has remained stable since 1998, there was no significant difference in their long-term survival between protected and unprotected areas, provided forests outside protected zones remain intact. This suggests that citizen-collected data can effectively inform conservation decisions when formal data is scarce.
Historic Centre of Oporto, Luiz I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar
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2014 —
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Urban regeneration companies (SRUs) in Portugal, established to revitalize historic city centers, have shown mixed effectiveness. A study evaluating Porto Vivo SRU in Porto found that while these entities facilitate urban renewal, their impact is constrained by limited financial resources and bureaucratic challenges. The research analyzed Porto Vivo's operations from 2004 to 2013, highlighting its role in preserving UNESCO-listed sites like the Historic Centre of Porto, Luiz I Bridge, and Monastery of Serra do Pilar, but also noting inefficiencies in implementation. The study suggests that SRUs require stronger governance and funding to achieve sustainable urban regeneration.
Wadden Sea
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2014 —
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Small undiked marsh islands in the Northfrisian Halligen, part of the UNESCO-listed Wadden Sea, face increasing flood risks due to climate change. A study led by RWTH Aachen University developed and evaluated new coastal protection measures and strategies for these vulnerable islands, where dwelling mounds are the only dry areas during storms. The research combined technical assessments with economic evaluations and included social measures to raise flood awareness and acceptance. By integrating hydraulic modeling and field studies, the team proposed adaptive solutions tailored to the unique morphology of Hallig islands, offering a model for balancing ecological integrity with human safety in low-lying coastal regions.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
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2014 —
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A high level of vegetative compatibility (vc) diversity exists among Cryphonectria parasitica isolates in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, potentially restricting hypovirus spread. Researchers analyzed 159 cankers from 139 American chestnut trees along hiking trails in Tennessee and North Carolina over two years (2010-2011). While C. parasitica was recovered from nearly all samples, only one isolate showed signs of hypovirulence, suggesting naturally-occurring hypoviruses are rare in this region.
Castel del Monte
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2014 —
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Four new rootstock genotypes derived from backcross breeding programs demonstrate superior qualitative performance compared to commercial rootstocks, including enhanced accumulation of soluble sugars and modulation of cultivar vigor. These findings were observed across multiple vineyards in prestigious Italian wine regions, including Castel del Monte (A.O.C.), where the rootstocks were grafted onto Cabernet Sauvignon and local cultivars. The study, conducted from 2007 to 2009, evaluated agronomic parameters such as Ravaz index, bud fertility, and production weight per plant, alongside qualitative metrics like pH, titratable acidity, polyphenols, and anthocyanins in berry skins. Microvinification and sensory evaluations further confirmed the improved performance of the new genotypes, suggesting their potential for both productivity and wine quality.
Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island
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2014 —
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A study on Iriomote Island, part of Japan's Ryukyu Archipelago, reveals significant genetic introgression from domesticated pigs into the Ryukyu wild boar (RWB) population. Analysis of 130 RWB samples using mitochondrial DNA and microsatellite markers identified six distinct haplotypes, with 14% of the population showing European domestic pig lineage traits, particularly in the Panari Islands region. The research also found low genetic diversity and high inbreeding in the Iriomote Main Island (IMI) population, along with substantial genetic distance from Asian domesticated pigs like Meishan. Structure analysis further indicated admixture between RWBs and domestic pigs, suggesting gene flow. These findings highlight the impact of human activities on wild boar genetics and underscore the need for conservation efforts to preserve the unique genetic makeup of these populations.
Heritage of Mercury. Almadén and Idrija
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2014 —
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Plants growing in the Almadén mining district, one of the world's most mercury-contaminated sites, exhibit a strong biochemical response to Hg stress. Research shows that phytochelatins (PCs) and their mercury complexes play a crucial role in capturing and fixing mercury from highly contaminated soils, allowing plants to mitigate heavy metal toxicity. While soil Hg concentrations can reach over 4,000 μg g⁻¹, only a small fraction is bioavailable to plants. The study used HPLC with amperometric detection to analyze PCs, glutathione, and their Hg complexes in <em>Asparagus acutifolius</em>, revealing that root Hg levels are higher than in aerial parts—a protective mechanism for sensitive plant tissues. This highlights the importance of thiol compounds in plant adaptation to extreme mercury pollution.
Western Ghats
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2014 —
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A study evaluating radionuclides in the Western Ghats reveals elevated activity concentrations of thorium-232 and outdoor terrestrial gamma dose rates compared to global averages. These findings suggest significant radiological risks to local populations from naturally occurring radionuclides, despite other hazard indices remaining within permissible limits. The research employed gamma-ray spectrometry to measure soil samples, estimating annual effective dose equivalents and radiation hazard indices to assess potential harm. This study underscores the need for further monitoring of environmental radioactivity in this ecologically sensitive region.
Sinharaja Forest Reserve
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2014 —
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Research on Cyathea sinuata, a unique tree fern endemic to Sri Lanka, reveals evidence of sympatric speciation—a process where new species evolve within the same geographic area. Cluster analysis of 23 individuals identified two distinct subgroups within C. sinuata: one with typical characteristics and another exhibiting morphological differences such as dentate leaf margins, irregular crown shapes, and variations in veinlets and spore arrangement. These findings suggest that Subgroup II may represent an early stage of speciation, potentially a new morphotype or species. The study highlights the significance of Sri Lanka's ecological isolation, which fosters diverse fern morphology. Continuous monitoring is recommended to further elucidate this evolutionary process within Sinharaja Forest Reserve and other protected areas.
Lake Baikal
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2014 —
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Lake Baikal, the deepest and largest freshwater reservoir on Earth, is experiencing rapid warming at nearly twice the global average rate. A study analyzing hydro-climatic trends from 1938 to 2009 in the Selenga River Basin—Lake Baikal's largest sub-basin—reveals significant permafrost degradation, indicated by reduced intra-annual river discharge variability. Projections using CMIP5 models suggest continued warming and permafrost thaw, though future runoff changes remain highly uncertain due to model discrepancies. The research combines long-term monitoring data with historical observations and climate model projections (1961–2099) to assess these trends.
Mount Etna
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2014 —
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Research on Mount Etna reveals three distinct evolutionary dynamics for birch (Betula aetnensis Rafin) coppices following the cessation of silvicultural activities. Stable birch stands persist in high mountain areas, potentially representing an edapho-climax forest. In intermediate zones, birch populations show progressive depletion, replaced by monospecific or mixed stands of Calabrian pine, beech, and oaks. Pure birch stands tend to regress under stress, transitioning to xerophilous grasslands. The study highlights that reintroduction of adapted coppice selection systems could sustain traditional forest landscapes while minimizing environmental impact. Investigations focused on forest structure, natural regeneration, vegetation, and deadwood across different stand types.
Frontiers of the Roman Empire
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Roman military strategy on the Danube frontier incorporated Syrian units, as revealed by historical and archaeological evidence. These units played a crucial role in securing the empire's northern border, blending Eastern tactical innovations with Roman organizational frameworks. The study analyzes their deployment, training, and cultural integration through textual sources, inscriptions, and material culture, offering new insights into the Roman army's adaptability and multicultural dynamics during the 2nd to 4th centuries CE.
Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex
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Brand equity and value proposition significantly influence eco-tourists' loyalty towards Kaeng Krachan National Park, as demonstrated by this study. Key factors such as brand image, brand awareness, functional benefits, and emotional benefits were found to be critical determinants of future revisit intention. Additionally, brand awareness, functional value, and emotional benefits serve as prerequisites for word-of-mouth recommendations. The research employed a questionnaire-based approach with 419 Thai tourists, focusing on two specific destinations within the park: Kaeng Krachan Dam and Praneun Trung Hill. This study highlights the importance of these elements in fostering long-term loyalty among eco-tourists, offering valuable insights for marketing strategies in ecological destinations.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh
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Archaeological excavations at Jeffrey Street, Edinburgh, revealed significant evidence of urban development and transformation in the Old Town from the 16th to the 19th century. The study uncovered medieval burgage plots with terrace walls, indicating substantial investment during a period of decline in Scottish towns. Notably, late 16th- and early 17th-century multi-storey tenement buildings emerged on the site, characterized by cellars that were later demolished and backfilled with refuse between the 1640s and 1740s. These refuse deposits provided valuable insights into changing consumption patterns during this period. The area's status declined in the 18th century, transitioning to an industrial use, culminating in the establishment of a tannery by the 1830s. This research sheds light on the evolution of Edinburgh's urban landscape and its socio-economic shifts over three centuries.
Historic City of Ayutthaya
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Communities within the historic city of Ayutthaya, Thailand, face significant challenges to self-sufficiency due to the area's dense concentration of historical monuments and underdeveloped transportation infrastructure. The study reveals that while communities in this UNESCO World Heritage Site are small and spatially fragmented, they rely on cross-community interactions rather than local resources to sustain their existence. This reliance stems from a lack of systematic connectivity within the town, which limits the spread of community activities and reduces integration value across the area. The research employs spatial analysis and socio-economic assessments to highlight how historical preservation can inadvertently hinder community resilience.
San Antonio Missions
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A linear expansion of San Antonio's bikeshare system into the urban outskirts of San Antonio Missions National Historical Park successfully reduced motorized vehicle reliance and enhanced visitor experiences. By leveraging community partnerships, including the city's Office of Sustainability, San Antonio Bike Share, and the National Park Service, the project expanded the San Antonio B-Cycle system along the San Antonio River and a recreation trail, connecting downtown to the park. Funded by an FTA grant totaling over $600,000, this case study demonstrates how strategic planning and collaboration can integrate bikesharing into national parks, offering a model for future urban park transportation initiatives.
Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park with the Archeological Sites of Paestum and Velia, and the Certosa di Padula
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Prescribed burning in Quercus cerris forests within the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park (Southern Italy) demonstrates long-term sustainability with minimal ecological impact. A controlled burn conducted in 2011 achieved high litter fuel consumption (80–90%) while maintaining low fire intensity, with maximum flame temperatures of 600°C but brief residence times above critical thresholds. Two years post-burn, vegetation analysis revealed no significant changes in species richness or diversity, including endemic plants, and minimal tree mortality, indicating strong resilience. Woody species like Quercus cerris and Acer campestre showed increased abundance in burned plots, suggesting fire may benefit certain species. Soil chemical and microbial properties remained unaffected, ruling out indirect effects on vegetation. These findings support prescribed burning as an effective tool for fire risk reduction without compromising biodiversity or soil health.
Wet Tropics of Queensland
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Integration of Indigenous Knowledge (IK) and Western science in the Wet Tropics of Queensland remains limited despite legal frameworks supporting its inclusion. A study reveals that IK and science are perceived as distinct, with weak governance structures—both internal among Aboriginal communities and external from institutions—hindering their collaboration. The research argues for a reconceptualization of natural resource management (NRM) to holistically incorporate IK, emphasizing its epistemology, values, and ethics. This requires stronger Aboriginal governance and more targeted engagement strategies to fulfill customary obligations and exercise Native Title rights effectively.
Kahuzi-Biega National Park
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Research at Kahuzi-Biega National Park reveals that the mountain bamboo species, <em>Sinarundinaria alpina</em>, plays a critical role as a food source for endangered Grauer’s gorillas (<em>Gorilla beringei graueri</em>), supporting 27% of their daily diet. The study identified 196 plant species in six permanent plots, confirming the bamboo's importance in rainforest recovery dynamics. However, anthropogenic activities—primarily bamboo exploitation by local communities—threaten this habitat, alongside natural factors like beetle attacks and competitive plant expansion. Conservation strategies proposed include expanding bamboo nurseries and distributing seedlings to mitigate conflicts while preserving this vital ecosystem for gorilla survival.
Archaeological Heritage of the Lenggong Valley
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A new dimension of brand equity emerged from the study of Lenggong Valley World Heritage Site, revealing that value encompasses both non-financial and financial aspects. This finding challenges traditional views on brand equity dimensions, which typically focus solely on financial metrics. The research used a survey-based approach, adapting 27 product-related brand equity dimensions to fit heritage destinations. Principal factor analysis of responses from 100 local tourists identified 10 key factors: Trust, Bonding, Service, Acceptability, Value, Heritage, Ambiance, Knowledge, Persistence, and Relevance. The inclusion of a broader 'Value' dimension suggests that heritage sites must consider both tangible and intangible benefits to enhance their brand equity effectively.
Jongmyo Shrine
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A study at Jongmyo Shrine revealed that science field experiences can significantly enhance students' spatial ability and deepen their interest in scientific education. The research found that while students struggled with applying classroom knowledge to real-world contexts, cooperative activities in historically meaningful settings fostered meaningful learning. Additionally, the study highlighted the importance of balanced smart device use in science education, noting that excessive reliance on technology can hinder the development of essential scientific process skills. To explore these insights, researchers developed a science program for elementary students in a gifted education center, employing pre- and post-program surveys, activity sheets, field observations, and interviews to gather data.
Galápagos Islands
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2014 —
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A significant shift in the understanding of biodiversity patterns on the Galápagos Islands has been revealed through high-resolution palaeogeographical models, which demonstrate that rapid changes in relative sea levels—driven by eustasy and thermal subsidence—have dramatically altered island connectivity over the past 700,000 years. These fluctuations, characterized by periods of extreme lowstands (–140 to –210 m) every ~90,000 years, caused large islands to coalesce, providing land-locked vertebrates with access to vast new territories. Analysis of biological data for groups such as racer snakes, lava lizards, and land iguanas suggests that these geographic upheavals left detectable imprints on their biogeographical distributions. The study proposes that oscillating sea levels may serve as a mechanism to explain evolutionary patterns not only in the Galápagos but also in other island chains like the Maldives, Canaries, and Cape Verde.
Purnululu National Park
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2014 —
WHE8793E86BE1
Protected area tourism, while offering intrinsic and tangible benefits to local communities, also presents complex challenges that require multifaceted policy responses. A study examining the impacts of tourism on communities bordering Kruger National Park (South Africa) and Purnululu National Park (Australia) revealed a sense of disconnect between tourists and locals, alongside entrenched poverty and limited economic opportunities. The research, grounded in resilience thinking, highlighted that while intrinsic appreciation for nature conservation exists among local communities, tangible benefits such as employment are crucial but insufficient alone. Negative impacts, including damage from wildlife and visitation difficulties, were also noted. The study underscores the need to develop diverse economic opportunities, build community capacity, and manage expectations to achieve social equity and long-term benefits for local communities.
