World Heritage Research: Search

Publications

Showing 22761 – 22780 of 30345 publications

Towards protecting the Great Barrier Reef from land‐based pollution

Great Barrier Reef — 2016 — WHE55C29E5512

Current efforts to reduce land-based pollution in the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) World Heritage Area are insufficient to improve water quality within desired time frames. Despite policy initiatives since 2003, ecological decline persists due to ongoing discharges from adjacent catchments. The study evaluates existing strategies and proposes improvements based on international experiences and Australia's agricultural potential. Findings highlight the need for stronger management incentives and land-use changes to protect marine ecosystems globally, offering a model for coastal communities facing similar challenges.

Towards World Heritage

Birthplace of Jesus: Church of the Nativity and the Pilgrimage Route, Bethlehem — 2016 — WHEDCF4D722F5

This edited volume examines the evolution of heritage preservation practices through diverse case studies, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It reveals how cultural and political dynamics have shaped preservation efforts, from early initiatives like those at Niagara Falls and St. Sophia to more recent challenges such as conflict and neglect at the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem. The book explores legal frameworks, community engagement, and transatlantic influences on historic preservation, offering a nuanced understanding of how heritage is both conserved and contested across different contexts.

Traces of Insect Activity at Cooper's D Fossil Site (Cradle of Humankind, South Africa)

Fossil Hominid Sites of South Africa — 2016 — WHEA3DEB7C29D

Research at Cooper's D Fossil Site, part of South Africa's Cradle of Humankind, reveals the first comprehensive evidence of insect trace fossils on bone within a Cenozoic African context. The study identified 53 bone specimens exhibiting distinct traces, including frass and coprolites, as well as nine unique morphological traces. Notably, two new ichnotaxa were described: Munitusichnus pascens, characterized by circular boreholes with crescent-shaped excavations, and Cubiculum cooperi, represented by ellipsoid surface borings (pupation chambers). These findings suggest multiple insect agents acted at different stages of bone taphonomy—whether sub-aerially exposed, during deposition, or post-burial. The discovery underscores the significance of insect activity in shaping fossil assemblages and provides critical insights into paleoecological processes.

Tracing the locality of prisoners and workers at the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang: First Emperor of China (259-210 BC)

Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor — 2016 — WHEE3B28DB511

Isotopic analysis reveals that prisoners forced to construct the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang (259–210 BC) likely originated from southern China, possibly the ancient Chu state. Unlike local workers at Liyi—whose diet was dominated by millet and domestic animals—the Shanren prisoners exhibited a mixed C3/C4 dietary signature, suggesting reduced millet consumption and reliance on wild game, consistent with regional patterns in southern China. This finding aligns with historical accounts and prior genetic evidence, indicating the mausoleum's workforce comprised individuals from diverse origins, including southern Chinese groups.

Tracking ink composition on Herculaneum papyrus scrolls: quantification and speciation of lead by X-ray based techniques and Monte Carlo simulations

Archaeological Areas of Pompei, Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata — 2016 — WHE785D76C311

Researchers have uncovered that lead, present in the ink of Herculaneum papyrus scrolls, enhances the readability of text by increasing the X-ray fluorescence signal. This discovery, made using advanced X-ray phase-contrast tomography and multi-scale X-ray fluorescence micro-imaging, sheds light on the composition of ancient writing materials. The study employed Monte Carlo simulations and X-ray absorption microspectroscopy to quantify and speciate lead within the scrolls, aiming to determine its origin and validate hypotheses about its state in the ink. This non-invasive approach avoids the need for unrolling the delicate scrolls, preserving their integrity while revealing hidden texts from the pyroclastic events of Vesuvius in 79 AD.

Transcriptome‐based phylogeny of endemic Lake Baikal amphipod species flock: fast speciation accompanied by frequent episodes of positive selection

Lake Baikal — 2016 — WHE07A3E3415F

Researchers have uncovered evidence of rapid speciation and frequent positive selection in Lake Baikal's endemic amphipod species flock, suggesting adaptive radiation driven by directional selection. Analyzing partial transcriptomes from 64 amphipod species, the study confirmed two independent invasions into the lake and identified parallel evolution of morphological traits like body armor and reduced appendages. Positive selection was more prevalent during the early phase of the second invasion, particularly in genes related to mitochondrial membrane proteins involved in electron transfer and ATP synthesis, hinting at adaptations to planktonic lifestyles and extreme environmental conditions such as low temperatures and high hydrostatic pressures. Other genes under positive selection included Ca-binding muscle-related proteins, potentially adapting to Baikal's calcium-deficient waters.

Transformation of place identity; a case of heritage and conflict in Iraq

Erbil Citadel — 2016 — WHE13DBDE827D

Post-war urban transformation in Erbil, Iraq, significantly impacts place identity, highlighting the need for resilient urban development approaches. The study, focusing on Erbil's historic core and contemporary urban areas, reveals that intensive reconstruction efforts, driven by political stability post-2003 invasion, have negatively influenced the city's identity rooted in its ancient citadel—a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to 5000 B.C. Key informant interviews with local residents, policymakers, and stakeholders were used alongside morphological analysis to explore these changes. The research underscores the importance of balancing historical preservation with modernization to ensure place identity evolves while remaining resilient to future conflicts.

Translocation and hand‐rearing result in short‐tailed albatrosses returning to breed in the Ogasawara Islands 80 years after extirpation

Ogasawara Islands — 2016 — WHEE9D5FE9E81

A groundbreaking conservation effort has successfully re-established breeding of the short-tailed albatross (STAL) in the Ogasawara Islands, 80 years after their local extinction. Researchers translocated and hand-reared 69 chicks from a source colony to a historic breeding island. Over eight years, 27 birds returned annually, with three pairs establishing breeding at the translocation site or neighboring islands, producing 12 chicks. All successful breeders paired with naturally reared albatrosses, highlighting the importance of social attractants and philopatry in colony formation. While more birds returned to their natal island, the study underscores that translocation and hand-rearing were critical for this reintroduction success.

Treatment Failure after Multiple Courses of Triclabendazole among Patients with Fascioliasis in Cusco, Peru: A Case Series

City of Cuzco — 2016 — WHE103687561F

A concerning trend of triclabendazole treatment failure emerges in the Andes, as documented by seven cases of human fascioliasis in Cusco, Peru. Despite multiple doses (10 mg/kg per dose), patients continued to excrete Fasciola eggs, suggesting potential resistance development. The study employed rapid sedimentation and Kato Katz tests post-treatment to confirm egg persistence. These findings challenge the long-standing efficacy of triclabendazole, a cornerstone in fascioliasis management, and raise alarms for public health interventions in endemic regions like Cusco.

Tree Ring—Dated Glacial History for the First Millennium c.e., Casement Glacier and Adams Inlet, Glacier Bay, Alaska, U.S.A.

Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek — 2016 — WHE9C0B1CEEC1

A study of tree-ring data from Glacier Bay, Alaska, reveals significant glacial advances and lake formations between the mid-sixth and mid-seventh centuries c.e. The research, combining calendar-dated tree-ring series from 16 logs near Casement Glacier with dates from 36 detrital logs in Adams Inlet, shows that ice advance occurred within a few kilometers of the glacier's 2011 margin, blocking off Adams Inlet and forming Lake Adams. This glacial history aligns with broader cooling trends across the Gulf of Alaska during this period, possibly linked to volcanic eruptions. The lake persisted until around 880 c.e., draining by 1170 c.e., coinciding with Medieval warming. Subsequent Little Ice Age readvance filled Glacier Bay to its Holocene maximum by 1750 c.e.

Turismo y patrimonio: un plan integral para La Antigua Guatemala

Antigua Guatemala — 2016 — WHE86908035F7

La Antigua Guatemala faces significant challenges due to population growth, increased tourism, traffic congestion, inadequate monument protection, and environmental pollution. A Master Plan, financed by the Government of Canary Islands (Spain), was developed to address these issues. The study proposes La Antigua as a 'creative city,' aiming to diversify economic activities beyond tourism while mitigating urban speculation on agricultural land. The research reflects on methodological approaches, noting the lack of reliable urban planning information and cartography. It updates previous analyses on La Antigua's role as a tourist destination, highlighting its challenges, opportunities, and risks.

Twenty years of diplomatic relations between Vatican City state and Israel

Vatican City — 2016 — WHE1058B7C16D

A significant milestone in diplomatic relations, the Basic Agreement between Vatican City State and Israel, signed in 1993, marked a pivotal moment for both nations. This study evaluates the impact of the agreement over two decades, highlighting its role in normalizing political ties while also identifying persistent challenges. The analysis reveals that while the agreement facilitated diplomatic progress, it was not solely driven by interreligious or diplomatic considerations but also reflected broader Vatican efforts to establish political relations with various countries. A key challenge for future relations emerged in 2015 with the Vatican's recognition of Palestine's independence, which complicates the bilateral dynamic.

Two new Bent-toed Geckos of the Cyrtodactylus pulchellus complex from Peninsular Malaysia and multiple instances of convergent adaptation to limestone forest ecosystems

Archaeological Heritage of the Lenggong Valley — 2016 — WHE16999A8079

Researchers have identified two new species of bent-toed geckos, Cyrtodactylus hidupselamanya and C. lenggongensis, within the C. pulchellus complex from Peninsular Malaysia. Both species exhibit unique adaptations to limestone ecosystems, with C. hidupselamanya facing imminent extinction due to habitat destruction from quarrying, while C. lenggongensis is protected under UNESCO’s Archaeological Heritage of the Lenggong Valley. The study used molecular evidence (mitochondrial gene ND2) and morphological traits to distinguish these species, revealing at least four independent instances of convergent adaptation to limestone habitats over 26.1–0.78 million years. This discovery underscores the evolutionary significance of limestone forests in driving speciation and highlights critical conservation concerns for C. hidupselamanya.

Two new Ediacaran small fronds from Mistaken Point, Newfoundland

Mistaken Point — 2016 — WHEF9C78F7940

Research at Mistaken Point, Newfoundland, has uncovered two new Ediacaran small fronds, Plumeropriscum hofmanni and Broccoliforma alta, revealing greater diversity in the low epibenthic tier than previously recognized. These taxa, characterized by unique morphologies—one mop-like with a three-dimensional petalodium structure and the other flabellate with lobate features—challenge earlier assumptions about the simplicity of small-frond body plans during this period. The study taxonomically describes these fossils, which were informally referred to as 'dusters,' highlighting convergent evolution in stemmed fronds. This finding expands our understanding of Ediacaran biodiversity and ecological complexity.

Two new species of Erythromelana Townsend, 1919 (Diptera: Tachinidae) from Area de Conservación Guanacaste in northwestern Costa Rica

Area de Conservación Guanacaste — 2016 — WHE1FE4472E3A

Scientists have identified two new species of the fly genus Erythromelana within the Area de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG) in northwestern Costa Rica. These discoveries, Erythromelana jimmychevezi and Erythromelana glenriverai, were made by rearing flies from wild-caught caterpillars of the moth family Geometridae. The research integrates morphological descriptions, life history observations, molecular data, and photographic documentation to characterize these species. This study highlights the biodiversity of ACG and contributes new insights into the taxonomy of Tachinidae flies, which are important predators in ecosystems.

Tylecodon florentii, a new cliff dwelling species from the Kookrivier cliffs, Richtersveld (Northern Cape Province), South Africa

Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape — 2016 — WHE8A7C68C403

A new species of Tylecodon, Tylecodon florentii, has been identified as an obligate cliff-dwelling plant endemic to the upper south-facing reddish sandstone cliffs of Kookrivier in South Africa's Richtersveld. This discovery highlights the unique biodiversity of the region, particularly within the northern Namaqualand area known for its winter rainfall and tuberous-rooted Tylecodon species with extended phyllopodia. The study contributes to the understanding of specialized plant adaptations in extreme environments, emphasizing the importance of preserving such distinct ecosystems within UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape.

U–Pb zircon age constraints for the Ordovician Fishguard Volcanic Group and further evidence for the provenance of the Stonehenge bluestones

Stonehenge, Avebury and Associated Sites — 2016 — WHE8AF24A91CC

New U–Pb zircon dating confirms that the Fishguard Volcanic Group in SW Wales, formed during the Middle Ordovician period (Darriwilian), is the likely source of some Stonehenge bluestones. Analysis of rhyolite samples from Craig Rhos-y-felin, a site previously identified as a potential source based on petrological and geochemical evidence, matches the age of a Stonehenge fragment, strengthening the link between the two. Additionally, another Stonehenge rhyolite fragment, associated with orthostat 48, also aligns with the Fishguard Volcanic Group's age, further supporting its provenance as the origin for these stones. This study provides robust geological evidence to trace the origins of Stonehenge's bluestones, contributing to our understanding of their transportation and use in prehistoric construction.

UAV Monitoring for Enviromental Management in Galapagos Islands

Galápagos Islands — 2016 — WHE2884AE3582

UAV technology proves highly effective for monitoring littoral vegetation degradation in the Galápagos Islands, offering timely and accurate data crucial for environmental management. The study demonstrates that UAV-captured RGB and NIR images can systematically identify vegetation presence through NDVI and characterize plant vigor via object-based classification. This approach provides a robust tool for baseline studies and ongoing monitoring, addressing critical gaps in the region's ability to respond to threats like invasive species spread and habitat degradation. By enabling rapid data collection and thematic information production, UAVs enhance decision-making for protected areas where ecosystem dynamics are particularly vulnerable.

ULICA 29: Międzynarodowy Festiwal Teatrów Ulicznych [Street 29: International Festival of Street Theatres] by Teatr KTO

Historic Centre of Kraków — 2016 — WHEFC3F8556C3

ULICA 29, the 29th annual international street theatre festival in Kraków, Poland, highlighted increasing nationalism and political tensions in Europe despite its theme of carnival. The festival, organized by Teatr KTO, featured a reduced international participation compared to previous years, notably lacking representation from Russia, Belarus, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, which underscored the broader geopolitical climate. While the number of participating theatres increased to 44, with over 200 performers and an estimated 100,000 viewers, the event's focus on Polish theatre reflected growing nationalist sentiments across Europe. Performances, such as Teatr KTO's 'Peregrinus,' challenged spectators' space and explored themes of displacement and managed labor, resonating with Poland's and Central/Eastern Europe's socio-political context.

Ultraviolet radiation at Isla del Coco (Cocos Island) National Park, Costa Rica.

Cocos Island National Park — 2016 — WHE347B01EAFA

Research at Cocos Island National Park, Costa Rica, reveals significant variations in ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure, critical for understanding ecosystem dynamics and protecting coral reefs. The study found that UV index (UVI) averages ranged from 14 to 3 on sunny versus cloudy days in Chatham Bay, and 12 to 4 in Wafer Bay, with the sunniest conditions peaking at UVI 16. High UV exposure occurred between 9:00–15:00 in Chatham and 9:00–14:30 in Wafer during sunny periods. The study used automatic Davis weather stations to measure UV radiation over multiple expeditions (2008–2012), providing valuable data for modeling ecosystem impacts, ranger operations, and tourism planning.