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Publications

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A Case of Foot Amputation from the Wari Imperial Tomb at Castillo de Huarmey, Peru

Tiwanaku: Spiritual and Political Centre of the Tiwanaku Culture — 2016 — WHEED6BA472F7

Archaeological evidence of surgical interventions, such as amputations, is rare but significant. A groundbreaking discovery from the Wari imperial mausoleum at Castillo de Huarmey, Peru, reveals two individuals—one male and one female—with left foot amputations, disarticulated at the ankle joints, predating their deaths. This finding challenges previous associations with the Moche culture by linking such procedures to the Wari and Tiwanaku cultures. The study examines the form of amputation and its possible motivations, suggesting a ritual or religious significance supported by ceremonial artefacts resembling human feet. The research combines osteological analysis with cultural interpretation, providing insight into ancient Andean surgical practices and their societal implications.

A case study of Taj Mahals visitor satisfaction and carrying capacity

Taj Mahal — 2016 — WHE0314A774AD

Research identifies the maximum sustainable number of tourists for the Taj Mahal to preserve its environmental conditions, addressing growing concerns over visitor influx. The study, conducted through 503 surveys and questionnaires, reveals critical insights into visitor satisfaction while assessing the site's carrying capacity. Findings highlight adverse environmental impacts linked to increased tourism, emphasizing the need for balanced visitor management to safeguard this UNESCO World Heritage Site. This work fills a gap in international and domestic visitor experience research, offering actionable data for policymakers to mitigate ecological stress.

A centennial reappraisal of the Vredefort pseudotachylytes: shaken, not stirred by meteorite impact

Vredefort Dome — 2016 — WHE947134FA0C

A centennial reappraisal of the Vredefort pseudotachylytes reveals that these enigmatic features, long attributed to meteorite impact, were not formed by faulting but rather through intense seismic shaking initiated by the impact itself. The study demonstrates that pseudotachylyte zones in the 2.023-billion-year-old Vredefort Dome, South Africa, resulted from cataclasis and frictional heating of temporarily loosened rock blocks within dendritic fracture systems, caused by high-frequency oscillations during cratering. This process, well-documented in lunar impacts, terrestrial earthquakes, and nuclear tests, was overlooked in terrestrial cratering studies until now. The findings challenge traditional interpretations and highlight the role of acoustic fluidization in pseudotachylyte formation.

A critical view of Marshall’s Mother Goddess at Mohenjo-Daro

Archaeological Ruins at Moenjodaro — 2016 — WHEB012E5B2A3

A critical reassessment of the 'Mother Goddess' interpretation at Mohenjo-Daro challenges long-standing assumptions about Harappan religious practices. The study argues that female clay figurines, previously considered idols of a universal Mother Goddess, were more likely home-made representations used to ward off evil forces or spirits, reflecting diverse Bronze Age ritual practices rather than a singular deity worship. This interpretation shifts the understanding of Harappan religion from a monolithic 'Mother Goddess' narrative to one embracing varied shamanistic and domestic rituals, supported by a contextual analysis of archaeological findings.

A cryptic palm-pitviper species (Squamata: Viperidae: Bothriechis) from the Costa Rican highlands, with notes on the variation within B. nigroviridis

Talamanca Range-La Amistad Reserves / La Amistad National Park — 2016 — WHE8E4736B88A

A new cryptic species of palm-pitviper, Bothriechis nubestris, has been identified within the previously recognized B. nigroviridis complex in the Talamanca Range-La Amistad Reserves/La Amistad National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Genetic and morphological analyses revealed two deeply divergent lineages: one restricted to the northern and central Cordillera Talamanca, and another widespread across the Central, Tilarán, and Talamanca Cordilleras. These lineages exhibit distinct morphological traits, including previously unrecognized differences in scale characters. The study sheds light on the biogeographic history of Bothriechis, contributing to our understanding of speciation in Middle American cloud forests—a region renowned for its biodiversity and endemic species.

A design of ecological restoration and eco-revetment construction for the riparian zone of Xianghe Segment of China’s Grand Canal

The Grand Canal — 2016 — WHE03B91B5EBF

A novel approach to riparian zone restoration for the Xianghe Segment of China’s Grand Canal (XSCGC) integrates ecological principles, sensory design, and flood control functionality. The study identifies three eco-revetment models—original natural, natural, and hybrid—that balance aesthetic appeal with practical benefits like erosion prevention and biodiversity support. By dividing the riparian zone into five functional sections tailored to specific ecological or recreational needs, the research demonstrates how targeted restoration can enhance both ecological resilience and human engagement. This model serves as a scalable reference for sustainable management of similar heritage sites.

A digital analysis of the experimental accelerometers data used for buildings dynamical identification

Old Town of Corfu — 2016 — WHED0E6B0157F

A digital analysis of accelerometer data has provided new insights into the structural dynamics of historical buildings, specifically the Renaissance-style 'San Giacomo' structure in Corfu's Old Town. The study employed advanced signal processing techniques to analyze data collected from strategically placed accelerometers on the building's walls, aiming to identify its dynamic behavior. This approach offers a non-invasive method for monitoring the integrity and response of artistic and historical structures to environmental factors, which is crucial for their preservation. By examining a database of signals acquired through these sensors, researchers have demonstrated the potential of digital signal processing in structural health monitoring, contributing valuable data for the conservation efforts of UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Corfu's Old Town.

A dragonfly and a damselfly on Robben Island: preliminary results from OdonataMAP

Robben Island — 2016 — WHE16E243E179

Robben Island harbors at least two odonata species: the Tropical Bluetail damselfly (Ischnura senegalensis) and the Blue Emperor dragonfly (Anax imperator). These findings stem from an analysis of 144,033 records in OdonataMAP and the Odonata Database of Africa, revealing that Robben Island is home to only two odonata species. The study highlights the limited odonata diversity on this significant site, offering preliminary insights into its biodiversity. By leveraging existing databases, researchers aimed to document the presence of dragonflies and damselflies, contributing valuable data to global biodiversity studies.

A European perspective on GIS-based walkability and active modes of transport

City of Graz – Historic Centre and Schloss Eggenberg — 2016 — WHEADE5037C85

Research reveals that walkability measures, particularly household unit density, mixed land use proportions, and intersection densities, significantly correlate with walking for transport in European cities like Graz. While established walkability indices (e.g., IPEN) also show positive associations, alternative measures perform comparably well, suggesting their potential applicability in European contexts. The study highlights that cycling for transport is universally linked to higher walkability across all measured indices. Conducted using a representative survey of 843 adults and GIS-based analyses, the findings underscore the need for further investigation into measurement nuances affecting walking outcomes.

A fine start

Sacred City of Kandy — 2016 — WHE4D23DFD2DD

George Keyt, a renowned painter celebrated for his sensual and spiritual works, was born in Kandy, Sri Lanka's historic hill station. His life, spanning the 20th century, paralleled the region's colonial history, culminating in its British conquest in 1815. Kandy, known for its scenic beauty and cultural heritage, stands out with its colonial architecture and proximity to tea plantations. The Temple of the Sacred Tooth, housing a relic of Lord Buddha, remains a significant draw, marked by an annual festival. This study explores Keyt's artistic journey and Kandy's historical significance, offering insights into the interplay between personal narrative and regional history.

A geochemical contribution to the discussion about the genesis of impact-related pseudotachylitic breccias: Studies of PTB in the Otavi and Kudu Quarries of the Vredefort Dome support the“In Situ Formation”hypothesis

Vredefort Dome — 2016 — WHE264C1336FD

Geochemical analysis of pseudotachylitic breccias (PTB) from the Otavi and Kudu quarries at the Vredefort Dome, South Africa, supports the 'In Situ Formation' hypothesis. This study demonstrates that PTB formed from local country rocks without significant contribution from impact melt or fault-related friction melting. The research employed petrographic examination and chemical systematics to show that PTB chemistry aligns with adjacent granitic gneiss, amphibolite, and granitoids, ruling out external components like Vredefort Granophyre. Harmonic least-squares mixing calculations further excluded additional material sources, reinforcing the conclusion that rapid decompression during central uplift formation led to local melting and melt pooling in dilation sites.

A Geoheritage Interpretation Case Study: The Antrim Coast of Northern Ireland (Chapter 11)

Giant's Causeway and Causeway Coast — 2016 — WHE53DA6DB9EF

A survey of visitors to the Giant's Causeway and Causeway Coast World Heritage Site revealed key insights into how on-site interpretation could be improved to better meet visitor expectations while ensuring site conservation. The study found that enhancing interpretive materials—particularly those addressing geological heritage—could significantly improve visitor engagement without compromising the integrity of this globally significant geological landmark. This research provides actionable recommendations for managing the site, balancing high-quality visitor experiences with preservation challenges in one of Northern Ireland's most iconic natural attractions.

A high-precision chronological model for the decorated Upper Paleolithic cave of Chauvet-Pont d’Arc, Ardèche, France

Decorated Cave of Pont d’Arc, known as Grotte Chauvet-Pont d’Arc, Ardèche — 2016 — WHE4D62AC9577

A high-precision chronological model for the Chauvet-Pont d'Arc Cave reveals that its rock art and human activities date back to approximately 36,000 years ago, making it one of the oldest known decorated caves in Europe. This finding challenges previous assumptions about the timing of early human artistic expression. The study compiled over 250 radiocarbon dates from rock art, human activities, and bone remains, providing a detailed calendar-year timeline for both human and cave bear occupations during the Paleolithic period. By integrating multiple dating techniques and statistical modeling, researchers reconstructed the sequence of events that occurred in the cave, offering unprecedented insights into early human behavior and cultural practices.

A high-resolution, continuous δ13C record spanning the Ordovician–Silurian boundary on Anticosti Island, eastern Canada

Anticosti — 2016 — WHE31651FAD2C

A high-resolution, continuous δ13C record from Anticosti Island reveals distinct isotopic excursions at the Ordovician–Silurian boundary, offering a more precise and complete stratigraphic framework than previous studies. The record identifies two positive Hirnantian Isotope Carbon Excursions (HICE), with peak values of +2.5‰ in the lower part of the Ellis Bay Formation and +4.5‰ in its upper section, suggesting the O–S boundary may be stratigraphically higher than previously thought. This study rectifies gaps in earlier δ13C curves by sampling a nearly complete 300-meter interval at high resolution (∼0.5 m), providing a more accurate depiction of global isotopic trends. The findings highlight the significance of active subsidence and moderate water depths in preserving this sedimentary succession, which captures a comprehensive and reliable δ13C record across the critical O–S transition.

A History of the Jewish War

Masada — 2016 — WHEBDC4C388D5

A re-examination of the Jewish War (AD 66) challenges conventional narratives, revealing it as a complex conflict with profound implications for Rome's governance, ancient Jewish society, and early Christianity. Steven Mason's work casts doubt on long-held assumptions by rigorously analyzing evidence across phases—from the Hasmoneans to the fall of Masada—and contextualizing Judaea within broader Roman Syria and Parthian dynamics. This approach humanizes the conflict while dismantling oversimplified interpretations, offering a more nuanced understanding of its causes and consequences.

A Influência dos Microrganismos na Degradação da Rocha de Bens Tombados do Parque Nacional da Tijuca

Rio de Janeiro: Carioca Landscapes between the Mountain and the Sea — 2016 — WHE052D3F5308

Research identifies the significant role of microorganisms, particularly fungi from the genera Penicillium and Trichoderma, in accelerating the degradation of marble structures within Tijuca National Park. These fungi, thriving in the park's high humidity, secrete acids that contribute to the deterioration of the historic marble bathtubs, altering their aesthetics and physical integrity. The study employed chemical analysis, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to characterize the marble as calcitic and assess microbial impact on its degradation. Findings highlight the need for targeted conservation strategies to mitigate biological weathering in such culturally significant sites.

A juvenile chasmosaurine ceratopsid (Dinosauria, Ornithischia) from the Dinosaur Park Formation, Alberta, Canada

Dinosaur Provincial Park — 2016 — WHE231A26D8F3

A juvenile Chasmosaurus, representing one of the smallest specimens of its kind, was discovered in Dinosaur Provincial Park, Alberta. This 1.5-meter-long skeleton, missing only the front limbs and tail tip, provides critical insights into the growth and development of ceratopsid dinosaurs. Notably, the specimen exhibits unique cranial features such as a narrow frill without a posterior embayment, co-ossified bones despite its small size, and an incipient horncore on the nasals. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that when age-dependent characters are excluded, this juvenile clusters with other Chasmosaurus species, indicating that such traits should be treated cautiously in evolutionary studies to avoid misclassification.

A Microhistory of Human and Gastropod Bodies and Souls During Cahokia's Emergence

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site — 2016 — WHEFF8C58C8B6

Research at Cahokia Mounds reveals that the inclusion of gastropod shells in human burials during the site's emergence (c. ad 1050–1100) may have symbolized a connection between the living and the watery underworld, playing a pivotal role in the city's development as a complex polity. Analysis of shell materials from six previously excavated ridge-top mounds, combined with new data from Wilson Mound, suggests that the deliberate partitioning of human and gastropod bodies was part of a broader mortuary practice that facilitated social and spiritual relationships. This microhistorical approach highlights how the disarticulation and burial of the dead, mediated by mollusc shells, could have contributed to Cahokia's rise as a significant pre-Columbian center.

A Monitoring Network to Map and Assess Landslide Activity in a Highly Anthropized Area

The Dolomites — 2016 — WHEF15676175B

A comprehensive hazard map of the Mortisa landslide, located within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Dolomites, was successfully created using integrated monitoring techniques. This approach combined multitemporal aerial photo interpretation, A-DInSAR analysis, GNSS surveys, and inclinometric measurements to precisely measure displacement rates in a highly anthropized area. The study highlights the critical importance of such mapping for informing urban development plans, particularly in regions facing significant landslide risks that threaten infrastructure and future events like the 2021 Alpine Skiing World Championship. The research demonstrates the effectiveness of multi-technique integration in assessing landslide activity and supporting evidence-based decision-making for local authorities.

A multi-model approach for analyzing water balance dynamics in Kathmandu Valley, Nepal

Kathmandu Valley — 2016 — WHECB318AB650

A multi-model hydrological analysis of the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal, reveals consistent water balance dynamics across three distinct models (SWAT, HBV, and BTOPMC), with annual runoff accounting for 55–59% of precipitation and evapotranspiration showing minimal inter-annual variation. While estimates of total water storage varied, all models agreed on long-term averages, providing a robust range for future water resource planning. The study demonstrates that multi-model approaches can effectively capture seasonal and temporal variations in water balance components, offering valuable insights for sustainable water management in the region.