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Publications

Showing 21741 – 21760 of 30345 publications

Estimating long-term trends in abundance and survival for nesting flatback turtles in Kakadu National Park, Australia

Kakadu National Park — 2016 — WHE3D3602FD17

A long-term study on nesting flatback turtles (Natator depressus) in Kakadu National Park, Australia, revealed stable population trends from 2002 to 2013. The research used capture-mark-recapture techniques and modeling (CJS and Horvitz-Thompson estimators) to estimate apparent survival at 97% annually, influenced by body size, and recapture probability at 38%, affected by climatic variability. The population size on Field Island ranged from 97 to 183 individuals, with no significant long-term decline observed. This study highlights the importance of understanding population dynamics for the conservation of at-risk marine turtle species in World Heritage Areas.

Estimation of the Enhalus Acoroides Distribution Using Monthly Condition of External Forces by Wave Model in Northwest Coast of the Iriomote Island

Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island — 2016 — WHE035848C48C

A study reveals that the distribution of the endangered seagrass Enhalus acroides, known as Umishoubu, is significantly influenced by external forces such as wave conditions and currents. By analyzing data from 2013 and comparing it with wave models from 2015, researchers found that while calm conditions in June overestimated potential distribution areas, incorporating data from typhoon events or high-wave periods during winter reduced errors in distribution predictions. Longitudinal comparisons between 1989 and 2013 showed that seagrass beds had disappeared at the outer edges of these external force influences.

Estrazione e raffinazione dello zolfo e paesaggio nella Sicilia romana tra IV e VI d.C.

Archaeological Area of Agrigento — 2016 — WHE872D765285

Recent archaeological and historical evidence has redefined the chronology of sulphur extraction and refinement in the Agrigento region, Sicily, dating its peak activity between the late 4th and 6th centuries AD. This period saw significant sulphur production, primarily for agricultural use, particularly in viticulture to combat fungal diseases, which strengthened economic ties with Rome and other Mediterranean regions. The study highlights the transformation of mining landscapes during Late Antiquity and the Byzantine era, suggesting that Agrigento's role as a fiscal center may have diminished due to the rise of other centers. By analyzing historical sources like the Tabulae sulphuris and archaeological remains, researchers provide new insights into the commercial and cultural exchanges linked to Sicily's 'solfifera' area, emphasizing its broader significance in ancient trade networks.

Ethno-ecological contexts of the Skhalta Gorge and the Upper Svaneti (Georgia, the Caucasus)

Upper Svaneti — 2016 — WHE0B5A5B7617

A comparative analysis of the Skhalta Gorge and Upper Svaneti, two high mountain regions in Georgia, reveals that rapid depopulation can lead to ecological degradation if local culture and traditions are not actively preserved. The study demonstrates that sustainable development requires intervention rather than abstention, with tourism emerging as a key mechanism for restoring ethno-ecological balance by supporting traditional agriculture. This research leverages political ecology and the concept of socio-ecological systems (SES) to highlight the interplay between social and ecological dynamics under varying historical, political, and climatic conditions.

Ethnobotanical survey of cosmetic plants used in Marquesas Islands (French Polynesia)

Te Henua Enata – The Marquesas Islands — 2016 — WHE9C8453F0C1

A comprehensive ethnobotanical survey of the Marquesas Islands (French Polynesia) reveals a rich cosmetopoeia comprising 79 plant taxa, with introduced species dominating but endemic plants requiring conservation attention. The study identified over 500 cosmetic recipes, highlighting Calophyllum inophyllum and Cocos nucifera as key ingredients, particularly for perfumed coconut oil (monoi). Semi-directive interviews with 28 informants across five islands uncovered diverse uses, including skin hydration, medicinal care, and perfume, with fidelity levels pinpointing the most culturally significant plants. The findings underscore the importance of managing rare endemic species while acknowledging the prevalence of introduced, often weedy, plants in traditional cosmetic practices.

Ethnomedicinal assessment of Irula tribes of Walayar valley of Southern Western Ghats, India

Western Ghats — 2016 — WHEFCF3B10D2C

A comprehensive ethnomedicinal assessment of the Irula tribes in the Walayar valley, Southern Western Ghats, India, reveals 146 plant species with medicinal properties, including 26 new claims. The study highlights that Acorus calamus is predominantly used for treating coughs, while Canarium strictum and Melia dubia show high consensus (factor of 1.0) as insecticides. Leaves are the most utilized plant part (38%), followed by multiple parts (12%). Decoctions (63%) are the primary method of preparation. The findings underscore the need for further pharmacological and phytochemical studies to validate traditional knowledge, emphasizing the rich ethnobotanical heritage of this region.

Etude pédologique et phytosociologique de deux mares dans le Parc National du Niokolo Koba dans un contexte d’invasion biologique par Mimosa pigra

Niokolo-Koba National Park — 2016 — WHE5DAFA9EC97

A soil and phytosociological study of two ponds, Nianaka and Dalafourounté, in Niokolo-Koba National Park reveals that the invasive species Mimosa pigra thrives on heavy clay soils with adequate mineral nutrition. The research finds that while Mimosa pigra is exclusively invasive at Nianaka, its presence varies around Dalafourounté. The flora analysis shows a higher diversity of dicotyledons (91.4%) compared to monocotyledons (8.6%) at Dalafourounté, with both ponds dominated by Combretaceae and Mimosaceae families. The study suggests that the relief and water levels of the ponds may contribute to the invasive behavior of Mimosa pigra. This research provides insights into the ecological factors influencing biological invasions in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

European Bee-eater Merops apiaster on Robben Island

Robben Island — 2016 — WHE9A81B66BB5

A rare sighting of six European Bee-eaters (Merops apiaster) on Robben Island, South Africa, was documented on December 29, 2016. This observation marks the first recorded instance of this species on the island in the 21st century, contributing to a total of 133 bird species identified there during this period. The study, published in Biodiversity Observations, highlights the significance of Robben Island as a biodiversity hotspot within Table Bay. While the research primarily focuses on documenting the occurrence, it underscores the importance of monitoring and conserving such unique avian records for ecological insights.

Evaluación de la Fauna de Coleoptera Scarabaeoidea en la Reserva de la Biósfera de Calakmul, Campeche, México

Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche — 2016 — WHEB21E7F15C5

A study of the beetle fauna (Scarabaeoidea) in Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, Campeche, Mexico, identified 62 species across eight subfamilies, with 30 recorded for the first time in the state. The most abundant species included Canthon vazquezae and Phyllophaga pallidicornis, while seasonal abundance peaked between May and August. The study found strong ecological similarities between Calakmul's fauna and those of Tzucacab-Conkal (Yucatán) and Los Tuxtlas (Veracruz), suggesting regional patterns in tropical beetle communities. Researchers collected 1,212 specimens over 18 months to assess biodiversity, abundance, and seasonal distribution.

Evaluating impacts of imaging spectrometer calibration on mineral identification and mapping using airborne data collections in Alaska, USA, and Khandahar, Afghanistan

Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek — 2016 — WHED1E7011245

Accurate mineral identification and mapping using airborne imaging spectrometer data are significantly hindered by calibration inaccuracies, particularly in variables such as wavelength position, bandpass, radiometric accuracy, and atmospheric correction. A study using HyMap data from Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Alaska, demonstrated that even minor discrepancies in these parameters can reduce the ability to distinguish between critical minerals like carbonates, serpentines, chlorites, and amphiboles. The research also highlighted challenges in atmospherically correcting data over steep terrains at high latitudes, comparing a simple correction method with one accounting for pixel-by-pixel variations in elevation and sensor geometry. This work underscores the importance of precise calibration to ensure reliable mineral mapping, particularly in complex geological environments like those found in Alaska's UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Evaluation and mapping of cultural services in terraced landscapes. The case study of the Amalfi Coast

Costiera Amalfitana — 2016 — WHEEC1EE038F9

A novel approach to evaluating and mapping cultural services in terraced landscapes, using the Amalfi Coast as a case study, reveals that these landscapes provide significant socio-economic and ecological benefits. The research identifies complex values and services through ecosystem service theory, integrating multi-criteria evaluation with spatial analysis in GIS. Community engagement via semi-structured questionnaires and collaborative mapping tools (VGI) highlights the interrelationship between local communities and their terraced environments. This method offers a practical framework for conserving and managing these evolving landscapes, which are at risk due to changing socio-economic conditions.

Evaluation of groundwater quality for irrigation in Malwathu Oya cascade-I in Anuradhapura District of Sri Lanka

Sacred City of Anuradhapura — 2016 — WHE0B01BF4EBB

A significant portion of agro-wells in Malwathu Oya Cascade-I, Anuradhapura District, Sri Lanka, exhibit high salinity with low sodium hazard, rendering them suitable for irrigation with adequate drainage and special measures. The study, conducted from June 2012 to May 2013, assessed groundwater quality using vital parameters such as electrical conductivity, pH, and concentrations of various ions and metals. It found that 60% of the wells had high salinity but low sodium hazard (C3S1), while 5% had low salinity and low sodium (C1S1). The research also revealed that almost all chemical parameters tend to concentrate towards the lower part of the cascade during the pre-monsoon period. Spatial distribution maps were generated using GIS, providing insights into groundwater potential for agriculture.

Everyday Heritage – The Ordinary of the Extraordinary ‘Down Tradition’ in the Vega Archipelago World Heritage Area, Norway

Vegaøyan – The Vega Archipelago — 2016 — WHE29CDBCD149

UNESCO's designation of the Vega Archipelago as a World Heritage Site in 2004 has significantly transformed local heritage perception and land-use practices. The recognition, primarily for its nearly extinct eider down production tradition—rooted in sustainable fisher-farmer lifestyles spanning 1,500 years—has spurred renewed interest in this 'living tradition,' despite limited prior knowledge among locals. This shift has not only fostered tourist initiatives but also reshaped cultural preservation policies and land management regimes, illustrating the profound impact of heritage status on both local communities and broader conservation efforts.

Evicting heritage: spatial cleansing and cultural legacy at the Hampi UNESCO site in India

Group of Monuments at Hampi — 2016 — WHE2933DDC7F4

A study reveals that the Hampi UNESCO World Heritage Site, once home to a thriving community of farmers-turned-entrepreneurs, has undergone significant spatial cleansing since 2011. This process, driven by postcolonial authorities' hegemonic approach to material heritage, has led to the eviction of residents and demolition of their homes and businesses, portraying them as 'illegal encroachers.' The research employs an anthropological framework to analyze these events through the lens of colonial legacies and mimicry. It also highlights how villagers countered the state's view of Hampi as an outdoor museum by advocating for a concept of living heritage. However, their claims were largely unsuccessful due to perceptions that they were neither native nor traditional enough.

Evolution in karst massifs: Cryptic diversity among bent-toed geckos along the Truong Son Range with descriptions of three new species and one new country record from Laos

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and Hin Nam No National Park — 2016 — WHE2E5A3D32BF

A groundbreaking study reveals the existence of three previously undescribed species of bent-toed geckos (Cyrtodactylus) within the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and Hin Nam No National Park in Laos, alongside a new country record for Laos. These cryptic species, identified through an integrative approach combining morphological, molecular, and ecological data, highlight the significant biodiversity harbored by the Truong Son Range's karst massifs. The research underscores the importance of such methods in resolving complex species groups and contributes to our understanding of the region's evolutionary history.

Evolution of the biome of the Middle Siberian Trappean Plateau

Putorana Plateau — 2016 — WHE56E924E744

A comprehensive analysis of the Putorana Plateau reveals no evidence of biotic crisis despite its complex volcanic history. The study, focusing on the Middle Siberian Trappan Plateau, examines its paleoecological environments, which span from the Severodvinian (Vishkilian) Age to the Triassic period. The research correlates sedimentary units with global stratigraphic markers, such as the Goudikeng Formation in China, and identifies distinct ecological zones, including the Quadrocladus pachyphyllus ... Echinolimnadia mattoxi Zone and the Elatocladus linearis ... Cornia vosini Ecozone. These findings challenge the assumption of a biotic crisis during this period, providing new insights into the resilience of ecosystems during significant volcanic events.

Experiencing Durham Cathedral

Durham Castle and Cathedral — 2016 — WHE760D897944

Durham Cathedral, a masterpiece of sacred architecture, continues to evoke profound experiences even in a secular age. This study shifts focus from traditional art historical analysis to explore the emotional and psychological impact the cathedral has on visitors. By examining personal accounts and architectural elements—such as its leonine walls and setting—it reveals how the building's design and history shape human perception. The research avoids conventional hermeneutic or positivist frameworks, instead prioritizing subjective experiences over objective analysis. This approach offers a unique lens to understand how monumental architecture influences individuals in modern society.

Experimental Study on Conservation and Preservation for Historical Architecture Using Plaster Finishing Material

Himeji-jo — 2016 — WHE3BD2A32ACD

A key finding from this study is that the mechanical strength of ceilings in historical architectures, such as Himeji Castleis influenced by plaster density and carbonation conditions when natural plant fibers are incorporated. The research investigated how varying mix proportions of water, plaster, sand, and plant fiber affect the fundamental properties of plaster finishing materials (Shikkui), which are commonly used in Japanese historical structures. By conducting detailed experiments on plaster specimens, the study revealed that optimizing the use ratio of these materials can enhance durability while preserving authenticity. This insight is critical for conservation efforts, particularly in harsh environments or disaster-prone areas where such structures face significant risks.

Exploiting excavation archives: Herculaneum from 1927 to 1961 as a case-study

Archaeological Areas of Pompei, Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata — 2016 — WHED105671C72

A critical reassessment of Herculaneum's excavation archives reveals that the site's historical documentation, long dominated by A. Maiuri's synthesis, is fragmentary and subjective. By analyzing daybooks (Giornale degli scavi di Ercolano) from 1927 to 1961, researchers S. Mols and others uncovered a more nuanced understanding of the site, moving beyond Maiuri's narrative. This approach highlights the challenges and potential of using archival materials to reconstruct archaeological contexts, offering a method for reinterpreting previously excavated sites with greater objectivity.

Exploring Contextual Characteristics of Traditional Medinas in North Africa

Medina of Tunis — 2016 — WHE23D0A1E4DF

Traditional medinas in North Africa, such as Tripoli, Tunis, and Fez, retain unique urban characteristics that offer valuable lessons for contemporary urban planning. These historical cities, shaped by distinct visual forms, urban patterns, and land-use practices, provide principles for preserving cultural identity amid globalization-driven transformations. The study compares these medinas to derive key contextual insights that could enhance modern built environments while safeguarding their essence. Challenges for decision-makers and designers in integrating traditional elements into contemporary urban forms are also highlighted.