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Inner structural organization of the distal humerus in Paranthropus and Homo

Melka Kunture and Balchit: Archaeological and Palaeontological Sites in the Highland Area of Ethiopia — 2017 — WHEA1FC6188D0

A distinct inner structural organization of the distal humerus differentiates Paranthropus from Homo, challenging previous classifications based solely on external morphology. Using non-invasive imaging techniques, researchers analyzed five fossil specimens—four from South Africa (TM 1517g, SK 24600, SKX 10924, SKX 34805) and one from Ethiopia (Gombore IB)—previously attributed to either Paranthropus or Homo. The study revealed two primary endostructural patterns: three specimens clustered together (TM 1517g, SKX 10924, SKX 34805), while Gombore IB, a robust Homo aff. erectus from Melka Kunture, aligned with modern human samples in cortical thickness distribution and trabecular organization. These findings highlight the heterogeneity between external morphology and internal structure, suggesting that SKX 34805's taxonomic status warrants further investigation.

Inputs of humic fluorescent dissolved organic matter via submarine groundwater discharge to coastal waters off a volcanic island (Jeju, Korea)

Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes — 2017 — WHEC43AE9CD3C

Submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) significantly enhances the inventory of humic-like fluorescent dissolved organic matter (FDOMH) in coastal waters off Jeju Volcanic Island, Korea, increasing its concentration by 2–3 times over all seasons. This finding challenges the conventional understanding that rivers are the primary source of FDOM in surface ocean waters. Researchers used a correlation between radon-222 and salinity to identify fresh groundwater as the main contributor to SGD, while dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and protein-like FDOM inputs were negligible or negative. The conservative behavior of FDOMH suggests that SGD-driven fluxes regulate its inventory, influencing the optical properties of coastal waters and potentially impacting marine ecosystems, including corals.

Insect biodiversity of the Socotra Archipelago – underlined and counted

Socotra Archipelago — 2017 — WHE7FDF52224A

A comprehensive survey of the Socotra Archipelago's insect biodiversity reveals 1,564 species taxa from 25 hexapod orders, with beetles (Coleoptera) being the most diverse at 540 species. Strikingly, 42% of these species are endemic to the archipelago, underscoring its unique ecological significance. The majority of recorded diversity (1,520 species, 635 endemics) is found on Socotra Island, highlighting it as a critical hotspot for conservation. This study provides the first detailed count and taxonomic breakdown of Socotra's insect fauna, offering valuable insights for comparative analyses with neighboring archipelagos like the Seychelles.

Intensity of geodynamic processes in the Lithuanian part of the Curonian Spit

Curonian Spit — 2017 — WHE89ECD7F5C0

Aeolian processes on the Lithuanian part of the Curonian Spit exhibit significant variability, with wind-blown sand movements initiating when surface moisture drops by 2% and subsurface moisture by up to 5%. Over 12 years (2004–2016), these processes dramatically reshaped deflation relief forms, reducing scarp dimensions by up to 35%, pothole lengths by 80%, and hollow widths by 39%. Micro-terraces on eastern dune slopes, particularly the Parnidis Dune, showed rapid changes (up to 0.64 cm in height) linked to precipitation fluctuations, with a 21% shift in terrace ledges observed during a period of increased rainfall (July–August 2016). The study combined climatic analysis, geodetic measurements, and aerial photograph comparisons to quantify these transformations.

Interior Imaging of El Castillo Pyramid, Chichen Itza, Mexico, Using ERT-3D Methods: Preliminary Results

Pre-Hispanic City of Chichen-Itza — 2017 — WHE4425BCEAEE

Preliminary results from a study using Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) reveal the existence of at least two substructures within El Castillo pyramid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The first substructure was discovered during restoration in the 1930s, while a second, previously unknown structure has been inferred from resistivity data. This inner chamber is estimated to be around 10 meters high with a base measuring approximately 23 meters per side and may contain an intact rectangular room 3 meters tall. The study employed a novel ERT-3D method, deploying electrodes across the pyramid's nine levels and its base to generate 37,520 observations, with five of ten observation levels processed so far. These findings suggest a more complex architectural history for El Castillo than previously understood.

International Cultural Heritage Law and World Heritage Listing: A Vehicle for “White Control of Indigenous Heritage”?

Tongariro National Park — 2017 — WHE9C02514719

The current international cultural heritage protection framework, particularly the World Heritage List, fails to adequately protect Indigenous heritage due to its bureaucratized and European colonial State-centric perspective. An analysis of two dual-listed sites—Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and Tongariro National Park—reveals that this approach is incompatible with Indigenous understandings of cultural heritage and inconsistent with international human rights standards. The study highlights the need for a paradigm shift to ensure meaningful protection of Indigenous heritage, addressing its tangible and intangible aspects while respecting Indigenous perspectives.

International norms and the preservation of culture and heritage in the Old City of Jerusalem

Old City of Jerusalem and its Walls — 2017 — WHE2ACA578794

UNESCO plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the diverse cultural heritage of the Old City of Jerusalem, a site steeped in historical and symbolic significance for both Palestinians and Israelis. The study highlights that mutual agreement on international norms is crucial for preserving cultural artefacts and monuments, as well as regulating archaeological excavations. Israel's Antiquities Law of 1978 further influences heritage development and ownership of antiquity sites within the region. UNESCO's expanding operations in post-conflict scenarios emphasize educational values, aiming to protect heritage at risk while fostering international cooperation.

Interpretation of sustainable desert architecture in Ghadames city, Libya

Old Town of Ghadamès — 2017 — WHE421F38C5D6

Ghadames exemplifies sustainable desert architecture by harmonizing vernacular and modern design principles. The study reveals that the old town's house designs effectively mitigate adverse climatic conditions while leveraging favorable elements, showcasing adaptive strategies for extreme environments. These insights offer valuable lessons for contemporary architecture, emphasizing the potential of traditional techniques in sustainable urban development.

Interpreting Sustainability through Co-Evolution: Evidence from Religious Accommodations in Rome

Historic Centre of Rome, the Properties of the Holy See in that City Enjoying Extraterritorial Rights and San Paolo Fuori le Mura — 2017 — WHE05C66DDAF9

Religious accommodations in Rome's historic center represent a novel sustainability-oriented hospitality model that fosters multi-level co-evolutionary adaptations with both territory and tourists, significantly contributing to sustainable development and value co-creation processes. This study highlights how these accommodations, through their unique dynamics, positively impact tourism while addressing the need for theoretical and empirical research in this emerging field. The findings provide valuable insights into sustainability literature and new hospitality models, offering both theoretical and managerial implications.

Intricatonura fjellbergi, a New Peculiar Genus and Species of Neanurini (Collembola: Neanuridae: Neanurinae) from Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park — 2017 — WHEF57C9E8B7B

A new genus and species of springtail, Intricatonura fjellbergi, has been discovered in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This tiny, unique organism exhibits a distinctive set of morphological traits, including a reduced number of labial setae, divided DL tubercles on thoracic segments, rectangular Di tubercles on abdominal segments I–IV, and an absence of tubercles and De setae on the abdomen. Morphologically, Intricatonura resembles Vietnura, a genus known from Vietnam, suggesting potential evolutionary or ecological connections between temperate North American and Southeast Asian springtails. The discovery highlights the biodiversity of UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Great Smoky Mountains National Park and contributes to our understanding of Collembola taxonomy.

Introduction aux travaux des étudiants à Santiniketan

Santiniketan — 2017 — WHE1A3AD0F5E7

A collaborative research initiative at Santiniketan involved six students from Lausanne, who conducted two projects focused on community health. The study highlighted the potential of student-led research to contribute meaningfully to local healthcare challenges. By integrating academic knowledge with fieldwork, the projects demonstrated innovative approaches to addressing community health needs. This work underscores the value of cross-disciplinary and international collaboration in advancing public health solutions.

Introduction: Toward a Transcolonial History of Victoria Falls

Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls — 2017 — WHEF52A7FFC5E

Victoria Falls emerges as a pivotal site for understanding British colonial expansion, challenging the conventional colony-by-colony historical approach. This study reveals that the Falls served as a contested terrain and a natural border between North Western Rhodesia and Southern Rhodesia, reflecting the complex interplay of interests among various colonial actors. The analysis demonstrates how the exploitation of African resources and competing visions shaped the development around Victoria Falls, offering a transcolonial perspective on British Southern Africa's history.

Introduction. Durability of Concrete

Pont du Gard (Roman Aqueduct) — 2017 — WHEBA3AEA6F27

Concrete remains the most efficient and durable construction material, with structures like the Pont du Gard and the Pantheon demonstrating its potential longevity. Research highlights that concrete's durability is threatened by chemical, physical, or mechanical factors, while current sustainability efforts focus on incorporating supplementary cementing materials (SCMs) alongside appropriate admixtures to enhance performance without compromising environmental impact.

Introduction. Performance, Poetry and Politics on the Queen’s Day

Palace and Park of Fontainebleau — 2017 — WHE2F80DDAC01

A significant cultural event at the Palace of Fontainebleau, organized by Catherine de Médicis on 13 February 1564, featured performances of two plays—'Bergerie' by Pierre de Ronsard and an adaptation of Ludovico Ariosto’s tale 'Ginevra.' This day, part of a Carnival festival spanning from 6 to 15 February, showcased the intersection of poetry, politics, and courtly entertainment. The study relies on historical accounts, notably those of Pierre de Brantôme, to reconstruct and analyze these performances, offering insights into Renaissance courtly culture and the role of art in political contexts.

Invasion trajectory of Pacific oysters in the northern Wadden Sea

Wadden Sea — 2017 — WHEB8C7D7FA99

Feral populations of Pacific oysters (Crassostrea gigas) in the northern Wadden Sea exhibit dynamic invasion trajectories characterized by phases of establishment, exponential expansion, and adjustment, driven by environmental conditions. The study reveals that sea-based oyster farming facilitated the inevitable establishment of feral oysters, while mussel beds provided ideal attachment substrates and growth conditions around low tide levels. Cold summers in the 1990s limited recruitment but ensured persistence due to oyster longevity. Since the 2000s, warmer summers have led to regular recruitment and peak abundances exceeding 1000 individuals per square meter, though these were followed by recruitment failures and ice-related mortalities. The population is expected to stabilize around 1000 m−2 but remains susceptible to density-dependent (e.g., diseases) and density-independent (e.g., weather anomalies) fluctuations. This pattern may repeat in other marine introductions with continued global warming.

Invasive lionfish had no measurable effect on prey fish community structure across the Belizean Barrier Reef

Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System — 2017 — WHEEE93891B25

A four-year longitudinal study along the Belize Barrier Reef found no measurable effect of invasive lionfish on the density, richness, or composition of native prey fish communities. Despite the assumption that lionfish significantly impact Caribbean reef ecosystems, this research—using a modified before-after control-impact (BACI) design across 16 reefs—detected no substantial changes in prey fish populations following lionfish invasion. The study suggests that either higher lionfish densities or other ecological factors (such as reef complexity and predation) may overshadow any potential effects of lionfish on prey populations at this large spatial scale.

Invasive Prosopis juliflora replacing the Native Floral Community over three decades: a case study of a World Heritage Site, Keoladeo National Park, India

Keoladeo National Park — 2017 — WHE5142BD101C

Over three decades, the invasive species Prosopis juliflora has significantly altered the native floral community at Keoladeo National Park. This study highlights how P. juliflora, introduced for afforestation, has outcompeted indigenous flora, leading to ecological shifts that threaten biodiversity. Researchers analyzed long-term vegetation data to assess the extent of this replacement, using field surveys and historical records to document changes in species composition, abundance, and habitat structure. The findings underscore the need for targeted management strategies to mitigate the impact of invasive species on protected areas.

Investigación del Patrimonio Cultural de la Humanidad desde la Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Honduras

Maya Site of Copan — 2017 — WHEB67F10DC7D

The establishment of the Institute of Archaeoastronomy and Cultural and Natural Heritage (IARPACUNA) at the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Honduras (UNAH) marks a significant advancement in the conservation and research of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, particularly the Maya Site of Copan. This institute serves as an extraordinary laboratory within the national monument, fostering interdisciplinary research that strengthens UNAH's role as a leader in heritage conservation. By adopting a holistic and innovative approach, IARPACUNA aims to ensure the preservation of outstanding universal value for present and future generations through collaborative scientific projects at both national and international levels.

Investigation of the mixing layer height derived from ceilometer measurements in the Kathmandu Valley and implications for local air quality

Kathmandu Valley — 2017 — WHE9EA3863AA5

Black carbon emissions in the Kathmandu Valley have likely been significantly underestimated in previous modeling studies, according to a new analysis of ceilometer data. The study found that estimated black carbon emission fluxes during morning hours show a clear seasonal cycle, peaking from December to April, and are considerably higher than values reported in existing emission databases. Researchers analyzed one year of ceilometer measurements to investigate the diurnal variation of mixing layer height (MLH) and its impact on black carbon concentrations across seasons. The data revealed distinct seasonal patterns in MLH, with monsoon season characterized by the lowest daytime MLH and highest night-time MLH due to frequent cloud cover. These findings provide strong evidence that black carbon emissions in this region have been systematically underestimated, which has implications for air quality management and climate modeling.

Investigations into the improvement of the weather protection of unburnt brick masonry, part 1

Bam and its Cultural Landscape — 2017 — WHE18CE52807D

Research demonstrates that additives to loam render can significantly enhance the weather protection and seismic resistance of unburnt brick masonry, a critical material for preserving heritage structures like Bam's historic citadel. The study, conducted by the Technical University of Dresden in collaboration with Iranian cultural authorities and UNESCO, involved extensive fieldwork, including surveying, documentation, and rebuilding efforts after the 2003 earthquake that devastated Arg-e-Bam. The investigation focused on improving the shear strength and durability of unburnt brick masonry through innovative surface treatments and climatic chamber tests. Findings from this first part of the study highlight the potential of specific additives to mitigate weather-related degradation, offering a practical solution for conserving UNESCO World Heritage Sites with similar structural challenges.