Cathedral, Alcázar and Archivo de Indias in Seville
—
2010 —
WHE7E94982328
Recent research highlights the remarkable collaborative effort behind the 1671 fiestas celebrating the canonization of King Ferdinand III in Seville, revealing a fusion of artistic brilliance and ecclesiastical ingenuity. The event, described in detail by Fernando de la Torre Farfán with stunning etchings, showcased ephemeral architecture and decoration that united Seville's leading artists—including Juan de Valdés Leal, Bernardo Simón de Pineda, Bartolomé Murillo, Pedro Roldán, and Matías de Arteaga—with the cathedral canons. This study underscores the significance of the occasion as a cultural and artistic milestone in 17th-century Spain, offering insights into the creative synergy between religious authority and artistic innovation.
Historic Centre of Rome, the Properties of the Holy See in that City Enjoying Extraterritorial Rights and San Paolo Fuori le Mura
—
2010 —
WHE8BAD68ECCB
Italian town planning after 1945 reflects significant shifts in social and economic contexts, marked by post-war reconstruction, urbanization pressures, and evolving political ideologies. The study highlights how planners from the left grappled with land speculation and real estate markets, particularly in cities like Assisi, Rome, and Bologna. The 1970s saw a center-left realignment and innovation in planning practices, though challenges arose with industrial growth and development pressures on historic urban fabric. From the 1990s onward, EU-linked programs and administrative reforms began to reshape traditional master plan concepts, introducing complexity that tested local governance. The research approach combines historical analysis with case studies, offering insights into how Italian town planning adapted to these dynamic forces.
Venice and its Lagoon
—
2010 —
WHE604108F100
The construction of mobile barriers (MoSE project) in the Venice Lagoon has significantly altered its hydrodynamics, with notable shifts in sub-basin dynamics. The Lido sub-basin expanded southward at the expense of the Chioggia sub-basin, while the Malamocco sub-basin's relative position changed without altering its size. These changes were driven by modifications to current velocities and sea-lagoon interactions, including increased outflow jet speeds (up to 1 m/s) and altered micro-circulation patterns near breakwaters. While the Lido sub-basin may benefit from improved water renewal times, these changes pose risks to habitat conservation and infrastructure due to intensified currents. Additionally, the new structures could trap pollutants or suspended sediment in Chioggia and Malamocco inlets.
Colonial City of Santo Domingo
—
2010 —
WHE5145A507C2
Colonial mintage in Spanish America, including Santo Domingo, followed a structured process from ore extraction to coin production. Research reveals that while Mexico City and Lima mints typically produced more coins than the silver output they processed, Potosí's mintage pattern differed significantly, often lagging behind its silver output. The study highlights the role of private empresarios and royal supervision in colonial mint operations, with Santo Domingo's mint established in 1535 under Charles V. The approach combines historical analysis of mint records with comparative examination of silver production and coinage across key colonial mints.
Abbey of St Gall
—
2010 —
WHE5236A77BD5
This publication provides a detailed bibliographical and textual analysis of two chapters by John Ruskin, originally intended for the Sixth Part of 'Our Fathers have Told Us.' The first chapter, 'Candida Casa,' was set in type years before its 1893 publication in 'Verona and other Lectures,' while the second, 'Mending the Sieve,' stemmed from a lecture on Cistercian architecture delivered in 1882. The text also includes an appendix on Saxon money, later published separately. Key insights include Ruskin's early composition of these works, their subsequent publication history, and the inclusion of previously unpublished fragments from his 1883 lecture in footnotes. The study offers a comprehensive examination of Ruskin's literary process, blending archival research with textual analysis to reconstruct the evolution of these chapters.
Kathmandu Valley
—
2010 —
WHE3F0C0B3C85
Aerosol pollution in Kathmandu Valley during winter is dominated by local emissions, with secondary organic carbon (SOC) contributing 31% to organic carbon (OC). The study, using bulk aerosol samples collected from 2007–2008, found that elemental carbon (EC) and OC were correlated, suggesting common sources. Water-soluble organic carbon (WSOC) accounted for half of OC, with SOC strongly correlating with WSOC, indicating water solubility in both primary and secondary forms. Carbon isotope analysis confirmed anthropogenic fossil fuel combustion as a consistent source, while nitrogen isotopes suggested limited biomass burning influence. Principal component analysis identified four major particle sources: local/vehicular emissions (39%), secondary gas-to-particle conversion (23%), aqueous processing (11%), and dust transport (9%).
Archaeological Site of Atapuerca
—
2010 —
WHED64E99E1E6
A combination of rock magnetism and magnetic polarity analysis reveals that cave deposits at the Atapuerca archaeological site exhibit a primary, depositional sedimentary fabric. The study found that autochthonous deposits show a higher degree of anisotropy compared to allochthonous deposits, suggesting a more dynamic hydrodynamic regime in the former. Furthermore, magnetic lineation (Kmax) defines clusters antipodal to palaeocurrent direction at two localities, enabling the retrieval of palaeoflow directions even in deposits lacking other sedimentary structures. These findings highlight the potential of anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) as a powerful tool for understanding the hydrodynamic character of depositional environments in cave sediments, contributing to the reconstruction of karst evolution and human-environment interaction.
Aphrodisias
—
2010 —
WHE66203702CA
Chariton of Aphrodisias, a pivotal figure in the invention of the Greek love novel, is dated to the Julio-Claudian era (19 BC–AD 62) through literary and epigraphic evidence. His work, influenced by Virgil's <em>Aeneid</em> and local cults of Aphrodite, reflects Aphrodisias' urban development under Augustus and its connections to Miletus. The study identifies Athenagoras as Chariton's employer via Aphrodisian inscriptions, reinforcing his significance as a paradigmatic author whose impact extended beyond novelistic traditions.
Djerba: Testimony to a settlement pattern in an island territory
—
2010 —
WHE980891D8FA
A novel chemotype of essential oil from Rosmarinus officinalis, characterized by the presence of 1,8-cineole/camphor/α-pinene/verbenone/borneol, was identified in Djerba, Tunisia. This discovery expands the known chemical diversity of Tunisian rosemary oils and demonstrates that cultivated plants exhibit similar antioxidant and antibacterial properties to wild-growing species. The study employed GC-MS analysis for chemical profiling, DPPH assay for antioxidant activity assessment, and agar-well diffusion method for antibacterial testing against six bacterial strains. Results revealed moderate antioxidant activity (IC50: 4.186–7.298 mg/mL) and strong to moderate antibacterial efficacy (MIC: 0.156–5 mg/mL), underscoring the potential of Djerba's rosemary oils for therapeutic applications.
Temple and Cemetery of Confucius and the Kong Family Mansion in Qufu
—
2010 —
WHE836327FAD2
Qufu and Zoucheng, two neighboring cities in Shandong Province's Jining Municipality, are home to significant cultural heritage assets, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Temple and Cemetery of Confucius and the Kong Family Mansion. This region, part of China's early civilizations, boasts over 100 national-level cultural heritage sites. The review highlights the area's rich historical and cultural significance, emphasizing its role in preserving and promoting Confucian traditions and heritage. The study likely employed a comprehensive assessment approach to catalog and analyze these assets, providing insights into their conservation challenges and potential for sustainable development.
Anticosti
—
2010 —
WHE54D8E05358
A new Upper Ordovician stratigraphic framework for Anticosti Island, Canada, reveals significant east-west correlations between the Ellis Bay and Vauréal formations, resolving long-standing discrepancies. Chitinozoan biostratigraphy demonstrates that most strata of the Ellis Bay Formation at the eastern end correlate with the mid-upper Vauréal Formation in the west, while the Schmitt Creek and Mill Bay members of the Vauréal are older than the uppermost Vauréal eponym members. The study also identifies a Hirnantian age for the gamachiana Zone and provides insights into the timing and magnitude of the Hirnantian Isotopic Carbon Excursion (HICE), aligning with global stratigraphic data from China and Scotland. This research integrates chitinozoan, geochemical, sedimentological, and sequence stratigraphic data to refine understanding of Upper Ordovician stratigraphy.
Qhapaq Ñan, Andean Road System
—
2010 —
WHE1F3C41DAE9
Research confirms the existence of an Inca visual signaling system, linking Choquequirao and Machu Picchu through inter-visible stations. This system used smoke by day and fire at night to rapidly relay alarms over long distances, staffed by young 'chasqui' runners. The study validates a historical account by Garcilaso de la Vega, suggesting this was part of a broader empire-wide network for communication during insurrections or invasions.
City of Potosí
—
2010 —
WHEB344DFDF79
Bartolomé Arzáns de Orsúa y Vela's <em>Historia de la Villa Imperial de Potosí</em> (1705–1736) offers a unique lens on the precarious social status of women in colonial Potosí, revealing how societal anxieties about honor and reputation shaped their lives. The chronicle contrasts 'good' women—dutiful wives, nuns, or daughters—with 'bad' women—adulteresses, sorceresses, or prostitutes—reflecting broader humanist and Counter-Reformation influences. Arzáns' focus on female deviance mirrors Spain's efforts to contain wayward women through legal and institutional means, such as workhouses and prisons, while also reflecting the heightened control over African, indigenous, and mixed-race populations in colonial Latin America. The study highlights how these binary categorizations reveal the lived experiences of women during the colonial period, offering insights into gender dynamics and social order.
Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape
—
2010 —
WHEE523E7F498
A tripartite chronological framework for the Mongolian Upper Paleolithic is proposed, based on stratified site materials and new radiocarbon dates from Tolbor-4 and 15 localities. The Early Upper Paleolithic (40–26 ka BP) spans both Khangai Mountains and Gobi Altai regions, while the second period, beginning around 25 ka BP, is uniquely associated with sites in the Orkhon Valley. The third period coincides with the end of the Upper Paleolithic, represented by Horizons 3 and 4 at Tolbor-15 in the middle Selenge Valley. This study refines our understanding of temporal and spatial patterns in Mongolian Paleolithic cultures, leveraging archaeological stratigraphy and radiocarbon dating to define distinct phases.
Angkor
—
2010 —
WHEEBA8C7EBBC
Decades-long droughts followed by intense monsoons, likely driven by tropical Pacific sea surface temperature variations including El Niño events, contributed to the decline of Angkor, Cambodia's ancient Khmer Empire capital. A 750-year hydroclimate reconstruction from Vietnamese tree rings revealed that these extreme climatic conditions strained Angkor's water supply and agricultural productivity while damaging its sophisticated water control infrastructure. The study highlights how low-frequency tropical Pacific climate variations can significantly impact Southeast Asian societies, offering insights into the vulnerability of hydraulic civilizations to climate change.
Alto Douro Wine Region
—
2010 —
WHEA4EF5CE1CC
Climate change is projected to significantly alter European viticultural zoning, with detrimental effects on winegrowing in southern Europe due to increased dryness and thermal stress during the growing season. Conversely, western and central Europe may see benefits in wine quality and expansion of potential viticultural areas, though disease risks could pose challenges. The study used regional climate model simulations (COSMO-CLM) under IPCC-SRES scenarios (B1 and A1B) to assess shifts in seven bioclimatic indices that describe viticultural suitability. By comparing index maps from 1960–2000 with projections for the 21st century, researchers highlighted the need for adaptation strategies, such as changing grape varieties or implementing irrigation, to mitigate adverse impacts and capitalize on new opportunities.
Mount Etna
—
2010 —
WHE228BE81D3F
A catastrophic lateral collapse of Mount Etna, Sicily, occurred around 7.5 thousand years ago (ka BP), reshaping its eastern flank and forming the Valle del Bove—a 5 x 8 km cliff-bounded amphitheatre. Cosmogenic (3)He exposure dating of eroded surfaces in an abandoned watershed adjacent to the amphitheatre provides definitive evidence for this prehistoric collapse, linked to early Holocene climatic conditions. The study suggests that increased precipitation during this period saturated the volcanic edifice, leading to excess pore pressures and reduced sliding resistance, which, combined with magma emplacement in rift zones, triggered the collapse. This mechanism highlights a potential driver for future lateral collapses in volcanic landscapes facing climate change-induced increases in precipitation or ice melt.
Yosemite National Park
—
2010 —
WHEAF3C846629
Research on Yosemite National Park reveals that projected increases in climatic water deficit (Deficit) due to climate change may significantly alter forest structure and composition. The study found a 23% increase in Deficit from present (1971–2000) to future projections (2020–49), with species like <em>Pinus monticola</em> and <em>Tsuga mertensiana</em> potentially facing disproportionate impacts. Using high-resolution spatial data, the study correlated tree species distributions with actual evapotranspiration (AET) and Deficit across a 2300-meter elevation gradient, showing that species differentiation intensifies under higher Deficit conditions. The research also highlights the importance of fine-scale soil and topographical data in improving vegetation-change projections in heterogeneous mountainous landscapes.
Pre-Hispanic City of Chichen-Itza
—
2010 —
WHE16F00B2CAF
Archaeological evidence from Xuenkal, north of Chichén Itzá, reveals that inhabitants intensified cloth production during the Terminal Classic Period (A.D. 900–1000), likely in response to increased tribute demands from the dominant regional power. Analysis of spindle whorls suggests a rapid adaptation to economic pressures, with spinning and weaving—traditionally associated with women—reinforcing both material output for the state and its gender ideology. This study enhances understanding of Maya cloth production and Chichén Itzá's influence on surrounding sites during its peak political dominance.
Sewell Mining Town
—
2010 —
WHE85BC1595BB
A comprehensive photographic collection of Sewell, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former copper mining town in Chile, showcases its architectural and historical significance. The collection, compiled by CODELCO - Chile's División El Teniente, provides a visual documentation of Sewell's unique urban development, influenced by its industrial heritage. The photographs capture the town's distinctive features, including its grid-like layout, social housing, and cultural landmarks, offering valuable insights into its preservation challenges and adaptive reuse strategies. This visual record serves as a critical resource for understanding Sewell's evolution and its potential to inspire sustainable urban planning in similar contexts.
Olympic National Park
—
2010 —
WHEC236F26E46
A novel approach combining local and large-scale models reveals significant long-term invasion risk for three invasive plant species within Olympic National Park (ONP). While less than 4% of the park faces high near-term risk, a staggering 67-99% is at moderate or high long-term risk. The study compared logistic regression with presence-only methods and ensemble models to predict distributions, finding that larger-scale climate envelope models, derived from native and invaded ranges, provided more accurate long-term predictions despite lacking finer resolution. This research introduces an index of near- and long-term invasion risk, offering a strategic framework for monitoring and management in ONP. By integrating multi-scale modeling with real-time data, the study proposes a dynamic approach to overcome the limitations of static habitat distribution models.
Vilnius Historic Centre
—
2010 —
WHE80E4ED18E9
The 1910 commemoration of the Grunwald Battle, marking its 500th anniversary, revealed both cultural unity and political tensions among former Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth territories. While the event in Krakow drew 150,000 attendees from across partitioned lands—including delegations from the UK, US, France, and Russia—it also highlighted growing Lithuanian-Polish divisions. Lithuanian representatives boycotted Krakow’s celebrations but participated in Vilnius, emphasizing their national aspirations. The study examines how this commemoration showcased Polish cultural resilience while exposing political fractures, using historical records of events, exhibitions, and participant accounts to analyze its broader implications for identity and independence movements.
Tajik National Park (Mountains of the Pamirs)
—
2010 —
WHEE3D85AD21D
Mountain ungulate populations in Tajikistan, including Marco Polo argali, Tajik markhor, and Bukhara urial, face significant threats from poaching and habitat degradation despite state-imposed hunting restrictions. A community-based conservation project initiated in 2008 has shown promise in reversing these declines by engaging former poachers and local communities to manage wildlife sustainably. This approach, supported by NGOs and international organizations, has led to the creation of private conservancies and community initiatives that focus on protection, monitoring, and sustainable use while fostering policy dialogue for long-term conservation. The project highlights the potential for collaborative management to mitigate unsustainable practices and support both biodiversity conservation and local development.
Galápagos Islands
—
2010 —
WHEF4D930D8F8
Urban expansion and infrastructure development in Puerto Villamil, Isabela Island, Galápagos, pose significant risks to human health and environmental quality. The study reveals that the rapid growth of the community has outpaced the development of essential services like water and sanitation, leading to potential contamination and waterborne diseases. Researchers used a combination of geospatial analysis—including time-series aerial photographs and satellite images—to map infrastructure and assess its proximity to natural environments. Complementing this with qualitative data from interviews with health officials and residents, the study highlights the critical need for sustainable urban planning to mitigate adverse impacts on both public health and ecosystem integrity.
The Historic Town and Archaeological Site of Gedi
—
2010 —
WHED6628D79D2
A critical reassessment of ritual behavior and its socio-economic implications during the Chalcolithic period in the Southern Levant reveals that while archaeological evidence of cultic activities has grown significantly, existing interpretations remain largely unchallenged. This study addresses the 'mid-level theory gap' by synthesizing data from key sites—Gilat, En Gedi, and Teleilat Ghassul—to propose new frameworks for understanding how communities experienced and participated in ritual practices. It challenges traditional assumptions about material culture and cultural theory, urging a more nuanced approach to interpreting Chalcolithic socio-economic complexity.
The Sundarbans
—
2010 —
WHEDB7A7E4F99
Community-based tourism (CBT) and ecotourism hold significant potential to facilitate the conservation of natural resources in the Sundarbans Reserved Forest (SRF), offering multiple benefits while addressing key challenges. These alternative tourism models can generate employment, support local enterprises, and promote environmental awareness through principles like eco-development, moderate development, and informative education. However, their implementation is hindered by gaps in government policy, limited knowledge among locals, poverty, and insufficient institutional support. The study identifies critical factors for success, including community participation, market engagement, capacity building, and collaborative partnerships. It underscores the need for scientific research and coordinated efforts from governments, NGOs, and private sector stakeholders to unlock the full potential of CBT and ecotourism in the Sundarbans, thereby enhancing both conservation efforts and local livelihoods.
Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape
—
2010 —
WHEF04121AE29
A comparative analysis reveals that communal land tenure models, despite challenges, offer sustainable governance for Indigenous communities. The study examines case studies from Australia, New Zealand, Peru, South Africa, and the Pacific Islands to assess the implications of shifting from communal to individual ownership. It highlights that while individual titles may drive economic development, they often undermine social justice and environmental sustainability. The research employs qualitative methods, including legal analysis, historical context, and empirical data, to evaluate the long-term viability of communal land management. Key findings suggest that recognizing and preserving communal land rights is crucial for equitable access to resources and sustainable community development.
Wood Buffalo National Park
—
2010 —
WHE455C8FA9E5
A study comparing tuberculosis diagnostic tests in a captive herd of wood bison revealed significant variability in test performance, with sensitivities ranging from 50% to 92% and specificities from 34% to 100%. While the multiantigen print immunoassay (MAPIA) showed high sensitivity and agreed significantly with the rapid test (RT), no single test consistently detected all infected individuals. The research suggests that using multiple tests, particularly those incorporating multiple antigens, can optimize detection of bovine tuberculosis in bison, though even comprehensive testing may fail to identify all infected animals.
Waterton Glacier International Peace Park
—
2010 —
WHE479A728B66
A comprehensive environmental assessment demonstrated that the Flathead River, a pristine waterway flowing through Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), maintains significantly better water quality and biodiversity compared to the nearby Elk River, which has been affected by decades of coal mining. The study revealed that the Elk basin had over 1000 times higher nitrate levels, 100 times more sulfates, and 10 times greater selenium concentrations than the Flathead, with corresponding losses in aquatic biodiversity. This scientific evidence, combined with a UNESCO fact-finding mission and diplomatic efforts, led to a landmark accord prohibiting coal mining and gas extraction in the transboundary North Fork of the Flathead River Basin, setting an international precedent for valuing ecosystem protection over resource extraction.
Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls
—
2010 —
WHE54B90B7081
A long-standing transnational struggle over tourism development at Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls has been shaped by competing government policies, revealing the complex interplay between commercial and spiritual interests. This historical analysis demonstrates how colonial and post-colonial governments in Zambia and Zimbabwe have alternately promoted and stifled tourism, influencing the site's status as one of southern Africa's earliest tourist destinations. The study employs a historical perspective to trace these dynamics, highlighting the border dispute's impact on tourism policies and outcomes.
Memorial sites of the Genocide: Nyamata, Murambi, Gisozi and Bisesero
—
2010 —
WHE0AA8B62EA5
Kofi Setordji's travelling memorial, a mobile art installation, serves as a poignant and innovative response to the Rwanda Genocide, aiming to make the incomprehensible comprehensible. This study explores how Setordji's work, through its mobility and interactive elements, challenges traditional memorialization practices by engaging communities in multiple locations across Africa and Europe. The research employs qualitative methods, including interviews with artists, curators, and visitors, to analyze the installation's impact on collective memory and remembrance. By focusing on the interplay between art, memory, and globalization, this study highlights the potential of mobile memorials to transcend geographical and cultural boundaries, fostering a more inclusive and dynamic approach to commemorating historical trauma.
Lower Valley of the Awash
—
2010 —
WHE1362DDC591
A re-evaluation of fossil evidence from the Dikika site in Ethiopia's Lower Awash Valley challenges claims that Australopithecus afarensis, a species previously unlinked to butchering, engaged in tool-assisted meat-eating approximately 3.4 million years ago. Using a taphonomic configurational approach, researchers argue that the purported butchery marks on two fossils are likely random striae caused by sediment abrasion, not hominin activity. This conclusion undermines earlier suggestions of significantly earlier butchering behavior and reaffirms that the best evidence for hominin butchery remains from 2.6 to 2.5 million years ago, associated with more derived species.
Brasilia
—
2010 —
WHE8EEEF5BDC5
A significant increase in conflicts between capuchin monkeys and visitors at the swimming pools of Brasília National Park (PNB) has been linked to food brought by tourists, which attracts the monkeys. Research conducted on-site reveals that these interactions often lead to aggressive behavior from the monkeys, posing risks to visitors' safety and health. The study proposes practical solutions for park management to mitigate these conflicts, including better waste management, visitor education, and environmental enrichment strategies for the monkeys. These recommendations aim to reduce human-monkey interactions while preserving the ecological balance of the park.
Salonga National Park
—
2010 —
WHEABE756ADD1
A study on the Congo Peafowl (Afropavo congensis) reveals that this endangered species, endemic to the Democratic Republic of Congo, significantly favors regenerating secondary forest over primary forest for habitat use. Researchers analyzed two contiguous forest blocks in Salonga National Park—one primary and one secondary, with regeneration exceeding 30 years—using systematic transect surveys and exhaustive searches for secondary signs like feathers and droppings. Results showed a higher frequency of peafowl presence in secondary forest, with 19 out of 31 bird sightings occurring there. Microhabitat preferences also differed: birds in secondary forest were closer to watercourses, had fewer large trees, and exhibited lower plant species richness. Additionally, droppings from secondary forest contained fewer taxonomic groups, suggesting dietary or ecological differences. This finding underscores the critical role of old regenerating forests in peafowl conservation, emphasizing their inclusion in habitat connectivity planning to support this vulnerable species.
Singapore Botanic Gardens
—
2010 —
WHEA28B348486
A landmark celebration of the Singapore Botanic Gardens' 150th anniversary (2009) highlights its significance as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a global center for botanical research. The publication emphasizes the gardens' historical importance, scientific contributions, and conservation efforts over a century and a half. It underscores the site's role in biodiversity preservation, horticultural innovation, and educational outreach, while also acknowledging challenges in maintaining its legacy amid urban development. The document reflects on the gardens' evolution from colonial-era beginnings to its present status as a symbol of Singapore's natural heritage.
Białowieża Forest
—
2010 —
WHE1B6E4F380B
Neither opposing groups in the Białowieża Forest debate advocate for long-term biodiversity conservation strategies. Persistent tensions stem from mutual distrust, conflicting data interpretations, local vested interests, and economic insecurity among stakeholders. The study suggests a shift toward restoration-oriented management that integrates bottom-up social processes addressing local needs with clear communication of conservation values. Incorporating incentives into legislation and funding is crucial for successful governance and management of this irreplaceable ecosystem.
Mount Athos
—
2010 —
WHE282475C84B
A rare, fifteenth-century gold-embroidered ecclesiastical textile from the St Paul Monastery on Mount Athos revealed hidden historical and artistic details during conservation. The study uncovered extensive overpainting and previously unknown reverse-side inscriptions, providing new insights into the textile's significance and craftsmanship. Despite logistical challenges—including transporting a restricted-access object to a female-operated conservation studio—the team developed specialized treatments to stabilize the fragile textile for future display. This research highlights both the scientific and cultural value of Mount Athos' World Heritage Site, offering a deeper understanding of its ecclesiastical textiles.
Colonial City of Santo Domingo
—
2010 —
WHE13B8E5956A
Santo Domingo, the first European city founded in the Americas with a grid layout during Spanish colonial rule, exhibits unique urban formation characteristics that have persisted to the present day. A study analyzing 916 historical maps from the Archive of the Indies in Seville reveals how the city's spatial development evolved over centuries, providing insights into its transformation and conservation challenges. This research combines cartographic analysis with fieldwork to clarify the enduring patterns of Santo Domingo's urban structure, offering a model for understanding colonial urbanism in America.
Roman Monuments, Cathedral of St Peter and Church of Our Lady in Trier
—
2010 —
WHEA6D031906B
Archaeological excavations at Trier's cathedral have confirmed the existence of Constantine’s twin basilica, a monumental complex built between 326 and 348 AD on the ruins of an imperial palace. This discovery challenges earlier assumptions about the site's structure, revealing two longitudinal halls—each capable of holding 6000 people—connected by a three-aisled hall in the east and a square baptistery in the west. The north basilica, slightly larger with a monumental entrance, featured a polygonal structure interpreted as a memoria, while the south basilica retained its original form. Excavations also uncovered ceiling frescoes from an earlier palace, dating before 326 AD, which depict members of Constantine’s family, further validating the legend linking Helena, Constantine's mother, to the basilica's foundation. Unlike other fourth-century twin basilicas, the Trier complex stands out for its scale and significance, offering unique insights into Constantinian church architecture.
Lines and Geoglyphs of Nasca and Palpa
—
2010 —
WHE3C6BB289AC
A comprehensive analysis of the Nasca Lines, utilizing high-resolution satellite imagery, reveals a previously unrecognized network spanning the entire Pampa de Nasca. This network includes multiple 'line centers' and connecting lines that extend north-south across the plateau, challenging earlier assumptions about their distribution and connectivity. The study suggests that these lines may have served as pathways or information transmission routes, though their exact purpose remains unclear.
Hebron/Al-Khalil Old Town
—
2010 —
WHEE1DF15A7F5
Palestinian archaeological sites, particularly in the Hebron district, face severe threats due to contested management under dual administrations since the Oslo Accords. The study reveals that while the Palestinian Authority assumed responsibility for Areas A and B (40% of the Occupied Territories), Israeli authorities continued to oversee Area C, leading to a fragmented approach to heritage protection. This dual management has exacerbated illegal excavations, illicit trafficking, and conservation challenges, compounded by the destructive impact of the separation wall on cultural landscapes. The research highlights the urgent need for unified governance to safeguard this intensively disturbed heritage, one of the most affected globally.
St Kilda
—
2010 —
WHE573DDF7A09
Research on St Kilda, Scotland, reveals that bryophyte and vascular plant species richness exhibit contrasting patterns in response to elevation, biomass, and sheep grazing pressure. Bryophytes peak in mid-to-high elevations, showing a negative relationship with sheep preference and standing litter, while their richness follows a curvilinear trend with biomass. In contrast, vascular plant richness decreases with elevation and displays a negative or unimodal association with sheep preference and biomass. These findings suggest that bryophyte and vascular plant richness cannot serve as adequate surrogates for each other in ecological models, highlighting the need for organism-specific adjustments to improve general species richness predictions.
The Sundarbans
—
2010 —
WHE31DB496C68
Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) contribute significantly to the livelihoods of Sundarbans' mangrove forest dwellers, accounting for nearly 79% of their annual income. The study, conducted across four communities in Bally II, Bijoynagar, Dulki, and Hamiltanabad, identified key NTFPs such as firewood, prawn, fish, crab, honey, and bee wax, collected under high-risk conditions from man-eating tigers. It also revealed substantial livelihood vulnerability among the local population, with limited government support. The research highlights the need for sustainable livelihood frameworks that integrate NTFP collection to balance biodiversity conservation and community needs.
Everglades National Park
—
2010 —
WHE3C94021E36
A mangrove forest in the western Everglades National Park acts as a significant carbon sink, with an annual net ecosystem production (NEP) of 1170 ± 127 g C m⁻², attributed to year-round productivity and low ecosystem respiration. The study, conducted using an eddy covariance system from January 2004 to August 2005, revealed that environmental factors such as diffuse solar irradiance, surface water salinity, and tidal activity play critical roles in controlling carbon dioxide (CO₂) exchange between the forest and atmosphere. High salinity (>34 ppt) reduced daily light use efficiency by 46%, while tidal inundation lowered daytime respiration by ∼0.9 μmol CO₂ m⁻² s⁻¹ and nighttime respiration by ∼0.5 μmol CO₂ m⁻² s⁻¹. These findings suggest that mangrove carbon balance may shift in response to changes in salinity and inundation patterns, potentially due to sea level rise and climate change.
Chaco Culture
—
2010 —
WHE2AB14B94FF
Biological anthropology faces ongoing challenges in interpreting cultural affiliation under NAGPRA, as demonstrated by the Chaco Culture case. The study reveals that while the law mandates repatriation of human remains and funerary objects, the field's reliance on typological perspectives limits its ability to accurately assess cultural identity. This tension highlights discrepancies in NAGPRA implementation, including varying interpretations of cultural affiliation and administrative complexities. The research combines an administrative history review with a critical analysis of biological evidence from Chaco Culture National Historical Park, underscoring the need for more nuanced approaches to studying past and present cultural identities.
Wet Tropics of Queensland
—
2010 —
WHECAC5E9E389
Cooperative research integrating Indigenous and scientific knowledge can effectively guide natural resource management (NRM) strategies, particularly in the Wet Tropics of Queensland. The study demonstrates that multi-directional learning and mutual benefit—achieved through trust-based partnerships and genuine action research outcomes—strengthen both Indigenous knowledge systems and traditional scientific approaches. This approach ensures that Indigenous perspectives on symbolic significance and resource values are equally recognized alongside established scientific methods, fostering cross-transfer of skills and more holistic NRM solutions.
Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis
—
2010 —
WHE1C8E0D2B74
Excavations at Western Thebes, following the relinquishment of the Da'yr al-Bahari concession by the Egypt Exploration Fund, uncovered over a thousand inscribed pieces under the direction of Herbert E. Winlock. These texts, though poorly preserved compared to those salvaged by Naville, suggest they were previously discarded due to their condition. Subsequent excavations revealed Christian settlements and monasteries, including Coptic ostraca from the University of Pennsylvania's digs, which remain unpublished. The study highlights the historical significance of Western Thebes as a center for Christian monasticism in Upper Egypt, providing insights into its cultural and religious landscape during this period.
Ningaloo Coast
—
2010 —
WHE80CFF87FC8
Coral-associated microbial communities on Ningaloo Reef exhibit high diversity and are influenced more by environmental factors such as oceanographic conditions, benthic community structure, and temperature than by coral host specificity. A year-long study sampling three coral species (Pocillopora damicornis, Acropora tenuis, and Favites abdita) every three months revealed that microbial profiles varied significantly over time rather than by species. Comparative analysis of P. damicornis from Ningaloo Reef and Rottnest Island further demonstrated that these associations are not geographically isolated. The research used 16S rRNA gene clone libraries and principal component analysis to uncover these patterns, highlighting the dynamic nature of coral-microbial interactions.
Monasteries of Daphni, Hosios Loukas and Nea Moni of Chios
—
2010 —
WHED7620E860A
A comprehensive analysis of the Monasteries of Daphni, Hosios Loukas, and Nea Moni of Chios reveals new insights into Byzantine architectural, literary, and historical traditions. The study explores the evolution of the 'Turk' identity in Byzantine texts, the dating of monastic typikons, and the division of booty in late Byzantium (1204-1453). It also examines the natural light design in the Church of the Holy Apostles in Thessalonike and the relationship between the Codex Marcianus Graecus 524 and George Skylitzes' dedicatory verses. Additionally, it investigates the chronology of Byzantine-Norman conflicts (1081-1085) and the influence of classical heritage on Byzantine oratorical rhythm. The research employs a multidisciplinary approach, combining epigraphic analysis, literary criticism, historical documentation, and architectural study to reconstruct Byzantine cultural and political landscapes.
Amiens Cathedral
—
2010 —
WHE7619E2B905
Researchers propose two degradation indices to assess rust reactivity on heritage ferrous artefacts, particularly those in indoor environments like Amiens Cathedral. These indices are based on the composition and electrochemical reactivity of corrosion layers, primarily goethite with ferrihydrite marblings, alongside trace phases such as lepidocrocite and akaganeite. Electrochemical measurements identified reduction-reactive phases, enabling a correlation between rust composition and reactivity. This approach offers a preliminary framework for diagnosing corrosion in historic structures, linking rust layer characteristics to degradation risk.
