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Showing 21341 – 21360 of 30345 publications

A theoretical approach for zone‐based management of the deer population on Yakushima Island

Yakushima — 2016 — WHE38ED001FB8

A theoretical approach suggests that prioritizing the central zone of Yakushima Island for deer population management could effectively reduce sika deer numbers and protect threatened plant species, even without increased culling efforts. The study predicts that current management practices would only temporarily decrease deer populations before they rebound. By focusing on zones based on deer density and threatened plant occurrences, there's an 85% probability of achieving the 2022 population target, assuming no inter-zone dispersal. This strategy could help restore the island's biological balance without requiring a threefold increase in control efforts.

A tracer‐based simulation approach to quantify seasonal dynamics of surface‐groundwater interactions in the Pantanal wetland

Pantanal Conservation Area — 2016 — WHE40E751D937

A novel tracer-based simulation model reveals significant seasonal dynamics in surface-groundwater interactions within the Pantanal wetland, one of South America's least explored regions. The study quantifies water balance fluxes with a Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency of 0.61, highlighting how flooding regimes, connectivity, and site-specific characteristics like hydraulic conductivity influence these processes. Using a two-year dataset of water levels, stable isotopes, and chloride concentrations, the model demonstrates that evaporation from this vast floodplain may impact continental climate. This is the first field data-based study to quantify such fluxes in the Pantanal, offering critical insights for validating large-scale climate and land cover models, which currently underrepresent these interactions.

A unique subtidal vermetid reef formation in a nuclear power plant discharge area at Ilha Grande Bay (southwestern Atlantic Ocean)

Paraty and Ilha Grande – Culture and Biodiversity — 2016 — WHE0B198D495D

Researchers have documented a unique subtidal vermetid reef formation dominated by Petaloconchus varians, extending over approximately 1,000 m² within the nuclear power plant discharge area of Ilha Grande Bay in Brazil. This monospecific reef, characterized by dense clusters resembling 'microatolls,' represents an unprecedented finding on the Brazilian coast, thriving under extreme conditions including high temperatures (>36°C), chlorine inputs, and strong waterflow currents (30 cm/s). The study describes the formation, density, and range extension of these reefs, highlighting their adaptation to anthropogenic stressors in a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The findings challenge assumptions about vermetid reef resilience and distribution, offering insights into the ecological impacts of nuclear discharge areas.

A világ természetvédelmének története 1986 és 1990 között (védett területek alapítása)

Tassili n'Ajjer — 2016 — WHEA7BE0EDF63

Between 1986 and 1990, the global establishment of protected areas saw a decline from 6,174 to 4,412 sites, with Germany leading in their creation (846 sites). While the total area remained stable, the diversity of national categories increased by 278. Notably, this period included the designation of significant sites such as La Amistad National Park (Costa Rica), Mantadia National Park (Madagascar), and Tassili n'Ajjer National Park (Algeria)—all now UNESCO World Heritage Sites—highlighting its importance in conservation history. The study, analyzing IUCN categories, reveals that 47.5% of newly established areas fell under Category IV (Protected Landscapes), with most being small (<100 ha). Hungary contributed 37 sites, including the Gödöllői Dombság Landscape Protection Area.

A Well-Run Library in the Early Eighteenth Century: Durham Cathedral Library under Thomas Rud, 1717–25

Durham Castle and Cathedral — 2016 — WHE5821035F3D

Thomas Rud's brief tenure as librarian at Durham Cathedral (1717–25) demonstrated exceptional administrative efficiency and cataloging expertise, particularly in organizing the cathedral’s manuscript collection. This period marked a significant phase of renewal for cathedral libraries post-1660, with Durham standing out for its systematic approach to library management. Rud's work highlighted the importance of meticulous cataloging during this era of rebuilding and reorganization, setting a benchmark for librarianship in early 18th-century ecclesiastical institutions.

Aboriginal Artefacts, Collectors and the Wet Tropics: an introduction

Wet Tropics of Queensland — 2016 — WHEF436EC00BC

A critical examination of transactions involving Aboriginal artefacts from the North Queensland Wet Tropics reveals complex relationships between objects, people, and place. The study underscores the importance of understanding exchange dynamics and concepts of ownership in the creation and collection of these artefacts, providing insight into their cultural significance and historical context. By analyzing these interactions, researchers highlight the need for a nuanced approach to interpreting Aboriginal material culture within UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Wet Tropics.

Acceptability of an A2R Application: Analysis of Correlations between Factors in a TAM

City of Quito — 2016 — WHEA68CD7330A

A study on the acceptability of Adaptive Augmented Reality (A2R) applications, conducted at Quito's historic center, reveals that perceived adaptability, ease of use, usefulness, and enjoyment are critical factors in user acceptance. Unlike prior research focusing solely on AR or recommendation systems, this study uniquely examines A2R—a hybrid mobile technology guiding users to remarkable places based on their preferences. Using an adapted Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), the researchers analyzed correlations among these variables through an experiment involving young adults aged 18–25. The findings underscore the importance of adaptability and user-centered design in shaping positive attitudes toward A2R, offering insights for future heritage tourism applications.

Accounting at Durham Cathedral Priory; Management and Control of a Major Ecclesiastical Corporation 1083–1539

Durham Castle and Cathedral — 2016 — WHE3D27B2B575

Durham Castle and Cathedral reveals sophisticated financial management practices within the Durham Cathedral Priory from 1083 to 1539. The study demonstrates that the priory employed advanced accounting methods, including detailed record-keeping and systematic control mechanisms, to manage its extensive resources and operations as one of Europe's largest ecclesiastical corporations. These practices ensured fiscal transparency and efficiency, even during periods of significant economic and political change. The research draws on surviving financial documents, providing a rare glimpse into the administrative sophistication of medieval institutions.

Accounting for female space sharing in St. Kilda Soay sheep (Ovis aries) results in little change in heritability estimates

St Kilda — 2016 — WHEC20615BD37

Research on the St. Kilda Soay sheep population reveals that accounting for female space sharing has minimal impact on heritability estimates, contrary to previous suggestions of significant bias. The study analyzed five traits—birthweight, birth date, lamb August weight, and female post-mortem jaw and metacarpal length—and found that while spatial factors explained up to 18% of trait variance, heritability estimates decreased by only up to 7%. This challenges the assumption that philopatry (relatives clustering in space) inevitably leads to substantial bias. The findings suggest that modeling shared space may not always be necessary but encourage its consideration when relatives share space to better understand potential biases.

Acoustics of the West Kennet Long Barrow, Avebury, Wiltshire

Stonehenge, Avebury and Associated Sites — 2016 — WHE5F4BA7F598

Research on the West Kennet Long Barrow, part of the Avebury complex in Wiltshire, reveals that its two pairs of transepted chambers resonate at frequencies forming a 'perfect fourth' ratio (4:3), mirroring their 4:3 plan proportions. This acoustic phenomenon, also observed in other Cotswold-Severn tombs, suggests deliberate design for musical or ritual purposes. Additionally, the central passage's low-frequency resonance may have had psychological effects, potentially used in Neolithic rituals. The study builds on a 2011 preliminary investigation, using acoustical analysis to explore these properties.

Acquisition of Flavescence Dorée Phytoplasma by Scaphoideus titanus Ball from Different Grapevine Varieties

Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont: Langhe-Roero and Monferrato — 2016 — WHE4F444FF50B

Flavescence dorée (FD) poses a significant threat to wine production in the UNESCO-listed vineyard landscapes of Piedmont, Italy. Research reveals that the efficiency with which the vector insect Scaphoideus titanus acquires FD phytoplasma varies markedly depending on grapevine variety and phytoplasma load, rather than simply FDP levels alone. While varieties like Arneis support lower phytoplasma multiplication, they remain highly susceptible to vector acquisition, suggesting disease spread is more closely tied to vector behavior than plant infection severity. The study employed laboratory-reared S. titanus nymphs caged on infected plants to quantify acquisition efficiency across six local cultivars, demonstrating a complex interplay between grapevine variety and phytoplasma dynamics that could inform FD management strategies in vulnerable wine regions.

Active fault investigations in the Western Peloponnese and Eastern Crete, Greece

Archaeological Site of Olympia — 2016 — WHEA3B73D59C0

A study of active faults in Greece reveals that the northern Lapithas fault, near the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Olympia, could generate earthquakes with magnitudes up to 6.9 if both its onshore and offshore segments rupture simultaneously. The southern Lapithas fault is estimated to have a maximum potential magnitude of 5.8. Historical records suggest that damage at Ancient Olympia in AD 522 or AD 551 was not caused by earthquakes, contrary to previous reports. Additionally, the Lastros-Sfaka Graben in eastern Crete shows evidence of seismic activity with a recurrence interval of approximately 499 ± 100 years for magnitude 6.42 earthquakes. The study used fault mapping, t-LiDAR, GPR, and palaeoseismological techniques to determine fault lengths, slip rates, and earthquake potential.

Activities of community development for tourism preceding placement of Tomioka Silk Mill by using text mining

Tomioka Silk Mill and Related Sites — 2016 — WHE1EB46CBA4B

Regional community development efforts for tourism, particularly those centered on the Tomioka Silk Mill before its UNESCO World Heritage Site designation, involved significant collaboration among multiple organizations. Text mining of local newspaper articles revealed that activities by groups like the Tomioka Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Tomioka Community Development Promotion Council were characterized by coordination and cooperation. These findings were validated through interviews with key stakeholders, highlighting the importance of multi-organizational efforts in preparing for and responding to heritage recognition.

Activities of Industrial Heritages in Kitakyushu for preservation and utilization

Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution: Iron and Steel, Shipbuilding and Coal Mining — 2016 — WHE64D6F70193

Industrial heritage in Kitakyushu, Japan, particularly at the Yawata Imperial Works—now a UNESCO World Heritage Site—has been successfully repurposed to balance preservation and public engagement. The study highlights how historic machinery, once at risk of neglect, is now leveraged for educational exhibits in areas like Mojiko Retro while also being integrated into industrial tourism tours that showcase operational equipment. This dual approach has not only safeguarded these sites but also fostered broader appreciation for Japan's Meiji Industrial Revolution, demonstrating a model for sustainable heritage utilization.

Activities of Sapienza-University of Rome in Iraqi Kurdistan:

Erbil Citadel — 2016 — WHEA89D82776F

A collaborative project between Sapienza University of Rome and Kurdish institutions successfully strengthened local capacities in managing and enhancing cultural heritage, particularly focusing on the Erbil Citadel. Led by Carlo G. Cereti from 2012 to 2014, this initiative, funded by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, aimed to address a key request for capacity building from Kurdish authorities. Through partnerships with the High Commission for Erbil Citadel Revitalization (HCECR), the General Directorate of Antiquities of the Kurdish Regional Government (KRG), and regional museums, the project integrated expertise in archaeology, conservation, and museum management. This effort not only supported the preservation of significant heritage sites like the Erbil Citadel but also fostered institutional development in Iraqi Kurdistan, setting a model for sustainable cultural heritage protection.

Actualización del inventario de la avifauna de la Reserva de la Biosfera de Calakmul, península de Yucatán, México: abundancia, estacionalidad y categoría de conservación

Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche — 2016 — WHEE47C45FF80

A comprehensive update of the avifauna inventory for Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, Mexico's largest protected tropical forest, reveals 403 bird species—the highest count recorded—challenging prior estimates by up to 19%. The study, combining published records, gray literature, and databases, provides detailed insights into species abundance, seasonality, endemism, conservation status, and vulnerability. This expanded inventory underscores the reserve's critical role in avian biodiversity conservation, offering essential data for resource management and ecosystem preservation strategies.

Adam and Eve at their Labours. Genesis mosaics Cathedral of the Assumption Monreale, Sicily c. 1180

Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalú and Monreale — 2016 — WHE1F09D76644

A detailed analysis of the Genesis mosaics depicting Adam and Eve at their labors, created around 1180 in the Cathedral of Monreale, Sicily, reveals a rich tapestry of symbolic iconography and artistic mastery. The mosaics, part of an extensive series covering approximately 7600 m² of the cathedral's interior, use over 2200 kg of pure gold and are among the most magnificent Byzantine mosaics globally. The scene illustrates God's punishment and subsequent redemption of Adam and Eve, incorporating local references such as Mount Etna and endemic thyroid disease, which serve as visual aids to enhance the moral narrative for the congregation. The composition suggests a single directing artist with predominantly Greek iconography, likely executed by skilled craftsmen from Constantinople. This work not only showcases the artistic prowess and cultural significance of Norman Sicily under King William II but also provides insights into the evolving relationship between man and work, reflecting on facets of workplace health and contemporary issues.

Adapting to Population Growth: The Evolutionary Alternative to Malthus

Tiwanaku: Spiritual and Political Centre of the Tiwanaku Culture — 2016 — WHED51FCE5225

Humans have demonstrated an exceptional ability to adapt to population growth through cultural evolution, challenging traditional Malthusian views that suggest population is limited by environmental and technological constraints. Instead, this study aligns with the Boserupian perspective, which posits that population growth drives social, economic, and technological advancements. By applying evolutionary theory—where culture replaces genes as the primary driver of change—the research argues that humans have successfully accommodated increasing populations through rapid cultural adaptation. This hypothesis is supported by four case studies: the transition to farming at Göbekli Tepe, the agricultural systems of Tiwanaku in South America, the population crisis in Iceland, and the 'collapse' of Rapa Nui (Easter Island). The findings suggest a possible shift from Malthusian to Boserupian dynamics in human history.

Adaptive Re-Use Principles in Historic Hotel Buildings in Melaka And George Town

Melaka and George Town, Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca — 2016 — WHE5517E4EC39

Research on adaptive re-use principles in historic hotel buildings within Melaka and George Town, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, reveals moderate conservation levels in these structures. The study identified 35 hotels employing adaptive re-use strategies but found that current practices may not fully adhere to international conservation guidelines. Through case studies of four heritage hotels, the research highlights the need for stricter controls to preserve the integrity of these buildings while optimizing their functional use. Recommendations are proposed to enhance future adaptive re-use projects in alignment with conservation principles.

Additional file 1: Table S1. of Genetic structure of Mount Huang honey bee (Apis cerana) populations: evidence from microsatellite polymorphism

Mount Huangshan — 2016 — WHEAD3186F36D

Research on Mount Huangshan's honey bee populations (Apis cerana) reveals distinct genetic structures, with 16 microsatellite loci analyzed across seven populations. The study found significant variation in allele frequencies and heterozygosity levels, indicating genetic diversity within the bees inhabiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site. By examining observed (Ho) and expected (He) heterozygosity, the team uncovered nuanced patterns of genetic differentiation, offering insights into the adaptive potential of these bees in their unique ecosystem.