World Heritage Research: Search

Publications

Showing 22321 – 22340 of 30345 publications

Recombination rate variation in mice from an isolated island

Gough and Inaccessible Islands — 2016 — WHE8A1DC99137

A study on wild house mice from Gough Island reveals significant variation in recombination rates, with some genomic intervals showing up to 28% divergence. Despite this high level of polymorphism, the genomewide recombination rate remains stable. Researchers analyzed genetic maps from 1212 meioses and compared them to a mainland reference strain, uncovering that recombination rate variation is more pronounced at smaller genomic scales. The findings suggest that most evolutionary changes occurred in one line of Gough Island mice, highlighting the complex nature of recombination rate evolution across different genomic regions.

Reconsidering Heritage and Memory

Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove — 2016 — WHE5036BCD3BF

A critical reappraisal of African heritage traditions challenges Western-centric narratives, demonstrating how the revitalization of sacred sites like Osun-Osogbo Grove in Nigeria reshapes collective memory and future imaginaries. The study explores how colonialism marginalized indigenous religious practices, while contemporary conservation efforts under UNESCO's World Heritage policy reflect broader ideological shifts. By analyzing performative moments within African heritage traditions, it highlights alternative intellectual frameworks that diverge from Greco-European genealogies, offering a nuanced perspective on global heritage discourse.

Reconsidering Precolumbian Human Colonization in the Galápagos Islands, Republic of Ecuador

Galápagos Islands — 2016 — WHEE075B20E6C

A comprehensive re-evaluation of archaeological evidence from the Galápagos Islands challenges the long-held belief that precolumbian humans occupied the archipelago. By re-excavating five sites initially studied by Heyerdahl and Skjølsvold in 1956, researchers found that all artifacts—regardless of age or origin—were distributed uniformly, contradicting the assumption of multiple, unrelated occupations. Optically-stimulated luminescence dating of putatively precolumbian pottery revealed most were of historical age, while radiocarbon dating confirmed that the sites postdate the 16th century. Sedimentary core analysis further indicated anthropogenic impacts limited to the last 500 years. The study concludes that there was no human occupation in the Galápagos Islands before the historical era.

Reconstructing concealed cultural remains through integrated geophysical tomographic methods.

Archaeological Site of Delphi — 2016 — WHE756D1BF51B

Integrated geophysical tomographic methods, including Seismic Refraction Tomography (SRT), Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT), and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), successfully reconstructed buried archaeological structures at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Delphi. The study demonstrated that these non-invasive techniques can accurately map subsurface cultural remains up to 5 meters deep, providing high-resolution 3-D models of walls and other features within a relatively uniform soil matrix. By employing advanced tomographic inversion algorithms for SRT and ERT data, along with signal enhancement filters for GPR, researchers validated the existence of concealed archaeological elements, offering a robust tool for cultural resource management and preservation efforts.

Reconstruction of a Façade of the House of Aion, Nea Paphos, Cyprus

Paphos — 2016 — WHE582CC9EEBB

A reconstruction of the façade of the House of Aion in Nea Paphos, Cyprus, reveals a cantilevered blind arcade with five spans, each featuring engaged columns supporting arches and shallow niches. This architectural design, inferred from excavated fragments including an arch, lintel, and consoles, draws parallels to similar structures such as the Porta Aurea at Diocletian's Palace in Split and the western façade of the Felix Romuliana Palace in Gamzigrad. The reconstruction provides insight into the decorative and structural sophistication of Roman architecture in Cyprus during the 1st century AD.

Reconstruction of the Development History of Karstic Water Networks on the Southern Part of the Gömör-Torna Karst on the Basis of Ruined Caves and Landforms

Caves of Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst — 2016 — WHED938CFE762

Research reconstructs the development history of karstic water networks in the southern Gömör-Torna Karst, revealing a transition from covered to open karst conditions over time. The study identifies regular patterns in underground river movements and ancient surface outflow directions by analyzing ruined caves, epigenetic valleys, and abandoned water conduits. This reconstruction provides insights into the evolution of landforms and the influence of karstification processes on both surface and subsurface hydrology. The findings are based on morphological analysis and water tracing techniques applied to scarce remnants of past geological phases.

Redefinition of Pedestrian Route-Finding Networks as a Tool to Return Vitality and Responsiveness to Yazd Khan Plaza

Historic City of Yazd — 2016 — WHECE935C4B2D

A strategic redefinition of pedestrian route-finding networks can effectively restore vitality and responsiveness to historic urban spaces, as demonstrated by the case study of Yazd Khan Plaza in Iran. The research proposes that balancing social life in historic contexts—often disrupted by modern urban elements—can be achieved by leveraging existing communication networks while strategically redefining historic pathways. This approach addresses imbalances caused by Pahlavi-era street lines, offering a solution to reclaim dynamic public spaces without altering the core structure of heritage sites. The study provides executable strategies to enhance pedestrian connectivity, ensuring comprehensive dynamism in historically significant areas.

Redescription of two troglobiotic species of Deuteraphorura Absolon, 1901 (Collembola, Onychiuridae) from the Western Carpathians

Caves of Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst — 2016 — WHEF9A465C885

A detailed redescription of two troglobiotic species, Deuteraphorura kratochvili and D. schoenviszkyi, from the Western Carpathian caves reveals their unique morphological traits, including the absence of pseudocelli on thoracic tergum I and the presence of a male ventral organ on abdominal terga II–III. Both species are obligate cave-dwelling forms (troglobionts), restricted to subterranean environments. The study examines intraspecific variability in D. kratochvili from its type locality, Demänovská Cave System, while D. schoenviszkyi is redescribed based on specimens from both Slovak and Aggtelek Karst, where the type locality is situated. An identification key for Deuteraphorura species lacking pseudocelli on thoracic segment I is also provided, aiding in their taxonomic differentiation.

Redeveloping Old Havana: The Challenge of Maintaining Social Equity in the Face of Rapid Change

Old Havana and its Fortification System — 2016 — WHE1717AC710B

Rapid redevelopment in Old Havana poses significant challenges to maintaining social equity. Research by Dujon et al. (2016) reveals that while urban regeneration efforts aim to preserve the site's historical integrity and boost economic growth, they often exacerbate inequalities among residents. The study highlights how gentrification displaces long-standing communities, particularly those with lower incomes, undermining social sustainability. To address this, the authors propose integrating equity-focused policies into urban planning, such as affordable housing initiatives and community engagement strategies. Their approach combines qualitative data from interviews with stakeholders—including local residents, policymakers, and developers—and quantitative analysis of demographic shifts to assess the impact of redevelopment on social cohesion.

Rediscovering The Maltese Temple Of Borġ In-Nadur: An Archaeoastronomical Perspective

Megalithic Temples of Malta — 2016 — WHEA0DF0513C5

A pioneering archaeoastronomical study of the Borġ in-Nadur temple, a 3rd millennium BC megalithic structure on Malta's Marsaxlokk Bay, reveals its potential alignment with astronomical phenomena. Unlike other Maltese temples, this site was initially explored in the 1920s but remained understudied until recent reassessments reignited scholarly interest. The research, leveraging historical artefacts and architectural remnants, suggests the temple's design may have been influenced by celestial observations, though its full plan remains unclear. Preliminary findings highlight the need for further investigation into its possible astronomical significance, marking a significant step in understanding Malta's megalithic culture.

Reducing the primary exposure risk of Henderson crakes (Zapornia atra) during aerial broadcast eradication by selecting appropriate bait colour

Henderson Island — 2016 — WHEA88C88E44F

Research indicates that Henderson crakes (Zapornia atra), a globally threatened island endemic, are significantly less likely to consume blue bait pellets compared to green ones. This finding suggests a potential strategy to reduce non-target mortality during rat eradication efforts on Henderson Island. The study involved 22 captive Henderson crakes, which were observed over five days in 2015, with consumption measured and analyzed using linear mixed models. Results showed that females consumed 24% less blue bait than green, while males consumed 77% less. Notably, the crakes did not consume dry pellets, highlighting the importance of wet bait conditions. The study recommends using blue baits during future rat eradication to minimize exposure risk for Henderson crakes.

Refining 2 km of Ordovician chronostratigraphy beneath Anticosti Island utilizing integrated chemostratigraphy

Anticosti — 2016 — WHE51420834FB

A groundbreaking refinement of the Ordovician chronostratigraphy beneath Anticosti Island, Canada, reveals a detailed 2 km-thick sedimentary record spanning from Floian to Hirnantian stages. This study combines high-resolution chemostratigraphy with updated biostratigraphy, identifying precise ages for six formations: Romaine (Floian to early Darriwilian), Mingan (middle Darriwilian to Sandbian), Macasty (lower to mid-Katian), lower Vauréal (upper Katian), upper Vauréal (uppermost Katian), and Ellis Bay (Hirnantian). The research utilized portable X-ray fluorescence analysis on 1414 core samples, alongside carbon isotope and strontium ratio analyses, to establish the duration of depositional sequences and sedimentation rates. This integrated approach significantly enhances the understanding of Anticosti Island's geological history.

Reflectometry With an Open-Source Software GNSS Receiver: Use Case With Carrier Phase Altimetry

Cordouan Lighthouse — 2016 — WHEAF3AE2A71B

A novel approach using open-source GNSS software demonstrates centimeter-level precision in carrier phase altimetry by extending coherent integration time (CIT) beyond the standard 20-ms limit. This method, tested at the Cordouan Lighthouse and during a high-altitude flight over a lake, enables robust measurements of amplitude ratio and differential carrier phase between direct and reflected signals. The findings highlight the potential for precise altimetry applications, including ocean surface wind and wave height retrieval, as well as environmental monitoring such as soil roughness and snow/ice characteristics. By leveraging signal processing techniques like bit sign wiping, this research advances GNSS reflectometry as a versatile tool for remote sensing.

Relation Between Coral Distributions and Physical Variables in Sakiyama Bay, Iriomote Island, Japan

Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island — 2016 — WHEA5229FB033

A study on Saki-yama Bay, Iriomote Island, reveals critical insights into the relationship between coral distributions and physical variables. Researchers identified that specific environmental factors significantly influence coral community structure, with temperature, salinity, and water clarity emerging as key determinants of coral health and diversity. The study employed a combination of field surveys, including underwater visual census and environmental monitoring, to assess coral distribution patterns across different zones within the bay. By analyzing these data, the team established correlations between physical oceanographic conditions and coral species composition, providing valuable implications for marine conservation efforts in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Religious Landscape of the Ancient Merv Oasis

State Historical and Cultural Park “Ancient Merv” — 2016 — WHEDBD782238F

The religious landscape of the Ancient Merv Oasis, spanning from the mid-second century BC to the mid-seventh century AD, reveals a dynamic and diverse tapestry of faiths. This study demonstrates that Merv served as a significant crossroads for multiple religions, including Zoroastrianism, Christianity, Judaism, Manichaeism, and Buddhism, attracting adherents and missionaries from various parts of the ancient world. The research synthesizes extensive historical and archaeological evidence to illustrate how Merv's strategic location within the Iranian oecumene facilitated its role as a melting pot of cultural and religious influences during the Parthian and Sasanian periods. By analyzing textual sources alongside material culture, the study reconstructs the complex interplay between these faiths, shedding light on their coexistence and competition in one of history's most pivotal regions.

Relikty przebiegu sieci drożnej bliskich przedmieść Torunia z końca XVIII wieku we współczesnej topografii miasta na podstawie analizy GIS

Medieval Town of Toruń — 2016 — WHE3A83675408

Approximately 40% of the contemporary street network in Toruń’s close suburbs corresponds to roadways from the late 18th century, with some sections likely tracing back even further to medieval times. This finding emerges from a GIS-based analysis comparing historical plans—lacking cartometric precision—to modern geodetic data. Researchers applied rubber sheeting transformation to align the outdated maps, enabling quantitative and qualitative extraction of road data while accounting for potential errors in alignment. The study highlights the resilience of Toruń’s suburban road network despite significant urban transformations, including 17th–19th century fortifications. This approach demonstrates the utility of GIS in reconstructing historical urban landscapes with high probability, bridging gaps between past and present topography.

Remembering the Slave Rebellion of Coro: Historical Memory and Politics in Venezuela

Coro and its Port — 2016 — WHE0DA6100784

Historical memories of the Coro slave rebellion (1795–2014) in Venezuela have evolved to reflect shifting political ideologies, from colonial fears of racial violence to modern anti-imperialist narratives. The study reveals how this rebellion was initially erased by 19th-century republican leaders but later reclaimed by historians and activists, linking it to ethnoracial struggle, cultural syncretism, and social exclusion. Recent communal organizations connect the rebellion to contemporary socialist projects, demonstrating its enduring role in shaping regional political identities.

Remodelling shared heritage and collections access: The Museum Island constellation and Humboldt Forum project in Berlin

Museumsinsel (Museum Island), Berlin — 2016 — WHE120C6D8818

A critical gap in archaeological provenance research within public collections, particularly those originating from colonial contexts, has been highlighted. While significant attention has been given to the provenance of artworks looted during the Nazi era, systematic inquiries into archaeological objects remain largely overlooked. This study argues that such research is essential for fostering equality and transparency in international relations, as well as aligning with contemporary cultural theory. It outlines a political and institutional agenda to address this lacuna, emphasizing the need for comprehensive provenance studies in archaeological museums. The approach combines foreign and cultural policy considerations with theoretical perspectives from recent cultural theory.

Repair and retrofit of Ketchaoua Mosque in Algeria

Kasbah of Algiers — 2016 — WHEC9A79F75B8

A comparative numerical analysis of Ketchaoua Mosque, a 17th-century masonry structure in Algiers, Algeria, reveals that its minarets are the most vulnerable components due to their slender design. The study, conducted using finite element method and system identification techniques, highlights the structural challenges posed by seismic events, which have caused damage to the minarets and vaults. Located at the foot of the Casbah Ketchaoua Mosque's rectangular plan with cross-shaped cathedral features presents unique architectural and engineering complexities. The research aims to inform repair and retrofit strategies to enhance the mosque's seismic resilience.

Repartition Des Glossines Dans La Province De L’ogooue Ivindo Ancien Foyer De Trypanosomose Humaine Africaine

Ivindo National Park — 2016 — WHE83F3BBF331

A recent study reveals that the Ogooué Ivindo province in Gabon, historically a focal region for Human African Trypanosomosis (HAT), remains infested with tsetse flies, major vectors of the disease. The research identified seven species of Glossina, with Glossina palpalis palpalis being the most abundant at 46%, followed by Glossina fusca congolensis and Glossina nashi. The study employed Vavoua and Nzi traps across four distinct habitats: Ivindo National Park, Zadié Village, Forest of Zadié, and Momba clearing, capturing a total of 2383 flies. These findings underscore the ongoing risk of HAT transmission in the region, emphasizing the need for further monitoring to assess its epidemiological significance on human health.