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Showing 20741 – 20760 of 30345 publications

Rhododendron diversity patterns and priority conservation areas in China

Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan Protected Areas — 2017 — WHE928F665AA6

A comprehensive analysis identifies twelve Rhododendron hotspots across China, covering 1.4% of the country's land area, with five key regions—southern Chongqing, south-eastern Tibet, north-western Yunnan, south-western Sichuan, and northern Guangdong—emerging as priority conservation areas due to their high diversity and overlap with threatened species. The study used a spatially explicit species assemblage modeling (SESAM) framework on a 10 × 10 km grid to predict the distribution of 212 Rhododendron species, evaluating diversity based on species richness, β-diversity, and weighted endemism. While 86.3% of threatened Rhododendron hotspots overlap with general hotspots, regions like southern Zhejiang and north-eastern Guizhou require additional protection to ensure comprehensive conservation. This is the first study to map Rhododendron diversity across China using these metrics, providing critical insights for conservation efforts.

Richness and trophic guilds of carnivorous mammals in ejido Nuevo Becal, Calakmul, Campeche, Mexico

Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche — 2017 — WHEF2A4973B39

A study adjacent to the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, Mexico, revealed 11 species of carnivorous mammals, representing 26% of the national and 64% of Campeche's Carnivora diversity. The research identified four trophic guilds—carnivores (5 species), omnivores (4), insectivores (1), and frugivores (1)—with notable presence of large predators like Panthera onca (jaguar) and Puma concolor (cougar). Camera traps recorded 76 photographic instances over a year, with P. concolor and Leopardus wiedii showing rapid detection, indicating high activity or abundance. The findings underscore the region's significance for Carnivora conservation, particularly as 55% of the species are threatened under Mexican law. This study highlights the importance of evaluating wildlife populations in areas bordering large reserves like Calakmul to inform conservation strategies.

Richness pattern and phytogeography of the Cerrado herb–shrub flora and implications for conservation

Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks — 2017 — WHE48BD5B13EB

A groundbreaking study reveals that the Cerrado's herb-shrub flora, often overlooked in conservation efforts, exhibits significant spatial variation with highest species richness concentrated in central-southern and western regions. Using species distribution models (SDMs) for 5362 species, researchers identified two distinct floristic clusters at the core of the Cerrado and seven additional regions sharing elements with these clusters. Critically, many high-richness areas remain unprotected, highlighting a gap in current conservation strategies. This research underscores the urgent need to prioritize these regions for preservation to safeguard the Cerrado's unique herb-shrub biodiversity.

Riding the Rhino: Conservation, Conflicts, and Militarisation of Kaziranga National Park in Assam

Kaziranga National Park — 2017 — WHEBCB8EBBC3A

Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rhinoceros population, has become a focal point of complex conservation challenges intertwined with socio-political dynamics. The study reveals that while the rhino is often deified in public discourse, there is a striking lack of attention to the human cost of anti-poaching measures, which have resulted in significant loss of life among young men. This research examines the intersections of class, culture, and commerce, highlighting how developmental narratives seek to position both people and rhinos in predefined roles. The analysis draws from media representations, such as digital films and Durga Puja motifs, to critically assess the political discourse surrounding Assamese identity and conservation efforts.

Risk assessment and control method of debris flow in CheGou of ShenNongJia forest area

Hubei Shennongjia — 2017 — WHE74395CBF16

A moderate risk level for debris flows in CheGou, Hubei Shennongjia, was identified using fuzzy comprehensive evaluation methods. The study highlights that loose solid materials, rainfall conditions, and scouring effects in the source region contribute significantly to debris flow formation and recurrence. To mitigate these risks, a comprehensive control strategy was proposed, including upstream water control in the formation area, check dams in circulation zones, and dredging in accumulation areas. This approach aims to protect lives, properties, and local transportation economies from future debris flow events.

Rock art and Landscape : an empirical Analysis in the content, context and distribution of the rock art sites in Omandumba East and West, Erongo Region-Namibia

Twyfelfontein or /Ui-//aes — 2017 — WHE20BAB908D7

A comprehensive analysis of rock art distribution, content, and context in the Erongo Region of Namibia reveals significant spatial patterns that challenge traditional understandings of Namibian rock art. Unlike previously studied sites such as Twyfelfontein, Brandberg, and Spitzkoppe, the Omandumba East and West region demonstrates distinct characteristics in site accessibility, visibility, and landscape integration. The study, integrating archaeological, bioarchaeological, and geo-spatial data, identifies key variables—such as elevation, proximity to water sources, and orientation—that influence rock art placement, suggesting functional differences across sites. Additionally, the research provides insights into pigment sourcing and chronological sequencing of painted figures, contributing new evidence to the broader corpus of Namibian rock art.

Rock Art and the Wild Mind

Rock Art of Alta — 2017 — WHEFB30C02132

Rock art from the Mesolithic era in Scandinavian World Heritage Sites, such as Alta, reveals a transition from animism to totemism, reflecting evolving human societal structures. The study identifies recurring visual motifs ('motemes') that depict humans and big game animals in dynamic interactions, suggesting these were products of a complex 'wild mind' at work. By analyzing repetitions, variations, and transformations of these motemes, the research demonstrates how totemic art became more prevalent during the Late Mesolithic, indicating an increasing focus on human society. This shift is interpreted as part of broader social development in northern Europe, offering insights into the cognitive and cultural evolution of prehistoric hunter-gatherers.

Rock-cut Architecture

Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia — 2017 — WHEFD0BE1D8E8

Rock-cut architecture in Byzantine Anatolia, particularly in Cappadocia, stands out for its unique adaptation to geological and historical contexts. This study sheds light on the prevalence of such structures by examining their forms, types of settlements, and traditional carving techniques. While many settlement patterns remain unclear, the research provides valuable insights into the 'otherness' of rock-cut architecture through detailed archaeological analysis and photographic documentation. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of Byzantine settlement practices in these regions.

Role of Orography, Diurnal Cycle, and Intraseasonal Oscillation in Summer Monsoon Rainfall over the Western Ghats and Myanmar Coast

Western Ghats — 2017 — WHEA9ABE989CF

A key finding from this study is that rainfall maxima over the Western Ghats (WG) and Arakan Yoma (AY) during the Asian summer monsoon are located on the upslope of WG and along the coastline of AY, contrasting with offshore locations reported in prior studies. The research used 16 years of Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Precipitation Radar data to analyze diurnal cycles and intraseasonal oscillations. It revealed distinct rainfall patterns: continuous rain with slight nocturnal and afternoon–evening peaks over WG, and an afternoon peak on the upslope with a morning peak off the coast in AY. Strong environmental flow perpendicular to coastal mountains correlates with large rainfall amounts and small diurnal amplitudes. Additionally, the boreal summer intraseasonal oscillation (BSISO) introduces a southwest wind anomaly that enhances orographic rainfall over WG, causing a phase lag between rain anomalies and northward-propagating major rainbands—a phenomenon absent in AY due to more closed cyclonic circulations.

Roost selection by bats in buildings, Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park — 2017 — WHEE1517481DB

Bats in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are more likely to roost in old, dark buildings with low surrounding road density. This finding, derived from a two-year survey of 140 structures, identified 5 bat species and 48 roost sites, providing critical insights for wildlife management. Researchers used an information-theoretic approach to compare microclimate conditions, building features, and habitat characteristics between occupied and unoccupied buildings. Notably, 65.9% of roosting buildings were tourist-accessible, and 68.2% were historical structures, posing challenges for conservation while maintaining human safety and preserving heritage sites. The study offers alternative management strategies to balance bat protection with structural integrity during the reproductive period.

Roosting Ecology and Behaviour of Small-footed Bats (Myotis ciliolabrum) and Presence of Bats in Winter in Dinosaur Provincial Park, Alberta

Dinosaur Provincial Park — 2017 — WHEFFFD7F65F7

Research reveals that small-footed bats (Myotis ciliolabrum) in Dinosaur Provincial Park, Alberta, exhibit low roost fidelity but strong attachment to coulees, preferring erosion-hole roosts high off the ground with buffered microclimates. The study also found that both M. ciliolabrum and M. evotis are present in the park during winter, with M. evotis potentially gleaning insects during warmer periods. Additionally, Myotis species significantly alter their echolocation calls between coulees and tree edges, suggesting habitat-specific adaptations.

Rubrobacter spartanus sp. nov., a moderately thermophilic oligotrophic bacterium isolated from volcanic soil

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park — 2017 — WHE4A3382DE7C

Researchers have identified and characterized a novel species of bacterium, Rubrobacter spartanus, isolated from volcanic soil within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This moderately thermophilic and oligotrophic bacterium thrives optimally at 50°C and pH 8.0, with a growth range spanning 45-55°C and pH 5.0-10.0. Genetic analysis revealed that Rubrobacter spartanus is closely related to Rubrobacter taiwanensis but distinct enough to warrant classification as a new species. The bacterium exhibits unique fatty acid profiles, including C18:0 14-methyl and C16:0 12-methyl, which are characteristic of the genus Rubrobacter. Additionally, it possesses MK-8 as its sole respiratory quinone, aligning with other members of the family Rubrobacteraceae. This discovery expands our understanding of microbial diversity in extreme environments like volcanic soils.

Rules of narrative in humayun’s tomb

Humayun's Tomb, Delhi — 2017 — WHE28D6686EED

Humayun's Tomb in Delhi employs narrative techniques through architectural design to create visual drama and engagement. The study identifies key rules of this narrative, such as the alternating revelation and concealment of the tomb's massive white dome by supporting structures, glimpses of the protagonist through arched frames, and the eventual majestic reveal of the protagonist. These elements contribute to a rapid change in perspective—termed visual acceleration—which enhances the visitor's experience. The research is based on repeated observations of the existing built environment, though it acknowledges the site's historical modifications without documentary evidence. By establishing these narrative rules, the study provides tools for designing visually compelling spaces.

Rupestrian World Heritage Sites: Instability Investigation and Sustainable Mitigation

Petra — 2017 — WHE34C3553FEA

Rupestrian World Heritage Sites, including Petra, face significant instability due to natural and human-induced factors. These sites, often carved into soft rock with unconfined compressive strength (UCS) less than 25 MPa, are vulnerable to rapid-onset hazards like earthquakes and extreme weather events, as well as slow processes such as erosion and climate change impacts. The study highlights the importance of interdisciplinary investigations to understand degradation processes and causative factors, followed by field conservation work that prioritizes traditional knowledge and sustainable practices. This approach, applied in sites like Bamiyan (Afghanistan), Lalibela (Ethiopia), Petra (Jordan), and Vardzia (Georgia), aims to mitigate rockfall risks while preserving cultural heritage.

Rural Agricultural Economies and Military Provisioning at Roman Gordion (Central Turkey)

Gordion — 2017 — WHEDB05F72D29

Roman Gordion, the only excavated rural military settlement in a pacified Roman territory, reveals a nuanced agricultural economy where the garrison adapted to local farming while maintaining traditional meat preferences. Archaeobotanical and zooarchaeological analyses show economic interdependence with local farmers, self-sufficiency in pork and chicken production, and complex relationships with autonomous sheep and goat herders. The Roman military's control was limited to specific sectors like cereal farming, leaving sheep and goat herding systems unchanged for market or taxation purposes. A new pig husbandry system emerged, distinguishing Gordion from contemporary non-military settlements.

Russian Federation

Landscapes of Dauria — 2017 — WHE5A0880B233

In 2017, the transboundary area 'Landscapes of Dauria,' shared between Mongolia and Russia, was inscribed into the UNESCO World Heritage List, recognizing its significant ecological value. This designation followed Russia's proactive environmental initiatives, including the establishment of 24 strict natural reserves and proposals to expand protected areas under the Year of Ecology plan. Additionally, three Russian wetlands were proposed for inclusion in the Ramsar Convention list, while the Man and the Biosphere Program extended and renamed twelve existing biosphere reserves. These actions underscore Russia's commitment to global conservation efforts, aligning with its obligations under international environmental conventions.

S2.5 Body Analogies

Monastery of Batalha — 2017 — WHE8AFE75E513

A deep historical and conceptual link between the human body and architecture, particularly evident in Western culture, was identified through Renaissance-era drawings. This study reveals that architects like Francesco di Giorgio Martini used anthropomorphic analogies to design religious and military structures, with proportions derived from the human form. Notably, a 1795 drawing of Batalha Monastery in Portugal employs a standing figure's dimensions to determine architectural elements, illustrating a universal and self-referential relationship between body and built environments. The research approach combines historical analysis with visual interpretation, emphasizing the symbolic, mythological, and functional significance of these analogies.

Saberes ambientais de agricultores assentados no entorno do Parque Nacional da Chapada dos Veadeiros

Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks — 2017 — WHE6B1AD530E4

Research reveals that settled farmers around Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park possess significant environmental knowledge, which they apply to sustainable agricultural practices. This study highlights the role of local ecological expertise in conserving biodiversity and managing natural resources effectively within protected areas. The research employed qualitative methods, including interviews and participant observation, to document traditional farming techniques and their ecological impacts. Findings underscore the importance of integrating indigenous and local knowledge into conservation strategies for UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Cerrado Protected Areas.

Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Biodiversity in Monferrato, North West Italy, and Selection of Indigenous Starter Cultures for Barbera Wine Production

Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont: Langhe-Roero and Monferrato — 2017 — WHEF6BDD3AA24

Research reveals significant biodiversity among Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains in Monferrato, Italy, with notable variations in residual sugars (148.64 to 3.44 g/l) and acetic acid production (0.20 to 0.60 g/l), impacting wine characteristics. The study analyzed 636 isolates from Barbera grapes using interdelta element PCR, identifying 96 distinct strains through physiological tests and fermentation experiments. These findings highlight the potential of indigenous starter cultures to enhance or define wines with strong regional ties, offering a resource for targeted winemaking practices.

Safranbolu Şer‘iyye Sicillerinde Geçen Eşya, Lakap ve Yer İsimleri / The Dictionary of Wares, Nicknames and Place Names Mentioned in the Sheria Registries of Safranbolu

City of Safranbolu — 2017 — WHE91E972CE82

The Safranbolu Şer‘iyye Sicillerinde Geçen Eşya, Lakap ve Yer İsimleri study reveals the profound significance of Ottoman Empire's official documents in illuminating social and cultural diversity. These Sheria Registries, meticulously recorded by Kadis (judges), offer unprecedented insights into law history, military history, finance, local history, place names, and more. The explicit transcription of these registries not only serves as a firsthand source for various historical disciplines but also preserves words, terms, nicknames, titles, private names, and cultural elements, enriching our understanding of the past. This comprehensive study aims to facilitate further research on this subject by providing accessible and detailed transcriptions.