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Figürliche Terrakotten aus zwei dionysischen Kultgebäuden in Pergamon

Pergamon and its Multi-Layered Cultural Landscape — 2015 — WHED73FBE96C5

Terracotta figurines from two Dionysian cult buildings in Pergamon reveal complex, syncretic religious practices. The study identifies these figurines, primarily dating from the Hellenistic and early Roman periods, as valued offerings. Analysis suggests that one building likely served as the official residence of the priest of Dionysos rather than a prytaneum or association local, while another, the 'Podiensaalgebäude,' functioned as a meeting place for the Boukoloi cult association. The figurines' iconographic repertoire extends beyond Dionysian themes, indicating diverse cult practices. Preliminary analysis suggests local production using low-mica clay, occasionally tempered with limestone.

Finance of the Royal Architectural Bureau in Yiwangjik and Characteristics of its Architectural Activities during the Period of Japanese Occupation

Changdeokgung Palace Complex — 2015 — WHEC3E062C2AE

During Japan's occupation of Korea, the royal architectural bureau Yiwangjik prioritized maintenance and reconstruction efforts, with significant funding allocated to shrines and housing facilities. Key projects included the 1918-1920 reconstruction of Changdeokgung Naejeon, a historic palace complex, and the construction of Tokyo Residence (1927-1930) and Deoksugung Palace Art Museum (1936-1937). This study reveals how financial allocations reflected shifting priorities under colonial rule, with a focus on preserving cultural heritage while adapting to occupation-era demands. The analysis examines budgetary data and architectural records to highlight the bureau's dual role in conservation and modernization.

Finding the “Conservation” in Conservation Genetics—Progress in Latin America: Table 1.

Coro and its Port — 2015 — WHEFD86421F0D

Conservation genetics in Latin America has advanced significantly, particularly in the context of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. A notable finding is the identification of genetic diversity hotspots and conservation priorities for endangered species, such as those in Coro and its Port. This study leverages molecular techniques to assess population structure, gene flow, and adaptive traits, providing critical data for informed conservation strategies. Researchers utilized a combination of microsatellite markers, mitochondrial DNA analysis, and landscape genetics approaches to map genetic connectivity across fragmented habitats. The findings underscore the importance of integrating genetic insights with ecological data to guide effective biodiversity management in Latin America's unique ecosystems.

Fire and climate: contrasting pressures on tropical Andean timberline species

Manú National Park — 2015 — WHED2798CE7EC

Ongoing warming is driving the upslope migration of species in tropical Andean timberline ecosystems, but fire introduced for grazing outside protected areas is also reshaping these habitats. A study analyzing pollen and charcoal from 51 soil profiles in Manu National Park, Peru, found that fire has become significantly more abundant in modern times compared to historical periods (600–2000 years ago). While warming appears to soften the boundary between forest and puna grassland by promoting weedy, fire-tolerant species, human-induced fires are altering timberline composition toward more fire-adapted vegetation. This dual pressure—climate change and anthropogenic fire—is creating a shifting baseline for what is considered natural in these ecosystems.

First Direct Dating for the Construction and Modification of the Baphuon Temple Mountain in Angkor, Cambodia

Angkor — 2015 — WHE499DF935A3

A groundbreaking study provides the first direct evidence for the construction and modification of the Baphuon temple in Angkor, Cambodia, challenging long-held assumptions about its chronology. Using advanced AMS radiocarbon dating on iron crampons integrated into the structure, researchers determined that both the temple's construction under Suryavarman I (1010-1050 AD) and its later modification into a gigantic Reclining Buddha occurred significantly earlier than previously believed. This revision predates the Theravada Buddhist transformation by a century, linking it to Ayutthayan occupation during a period of climatic instability rather than Angkor's decline in the 16th century. The study also introduces a novel method for dating iron with low carbon content, offering potential to reshape chronologies related to ferrous metallurgy and architectural histories worldwide.

First record of hybridization between subspecies of the Japanese Wood Pigeon Columba janthina on the Ogasawara Islands

Ogasawara Islands — 2015 — WHE19C3AE4CB2

Scientists document the first recorded instance of hybridization between subspecies of the Japanese Wood Pigeon (Columba janthina) on the Ogasawara Islands. This discovery challenges previous assumptions about the species' reproductive behavior in this remote Pacific archipelago. Researchers employed morphological analysis and genetic sequencing to confirm hybrid individuals exhibiting traits from both C. j. janthina (the nominate subspecies) and C. j. inframaculata. The findings suggest potential gene flow between subspecies, with implications for understanding speciation processes in isolated island ecosystems.

First record of the myxomycete genus Colloderma in Central America

Talamanca Range-La Amistad Reserves / La Amistad National Park — 2015 — WHEBBE5CAE93C

A groundbreaking discovery has been made in the Talamanca Range-La Amistad Reserves, with the first recorded presence of the myxomycete genus Colloderma and its species, Colloderma oculatum, in Central America. This finding, documented during a 2014 expedition in Costa Rica's high elevations, challenges traditional ecological classifications by identifying a temperate-associated species in what is typically considered a tropical environment. The discovery expands the known biodiversity of Costa Rican myxomycetes to 213 species, according to the latest checklist. Researchers analyzed the geographical distribution and ecology of this unique species, providing insights into its habitat preferences and potential implications for conservation efforts in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

First Survey of Collembola (Hexapoda: Entognatha) Fauna in Soil of Archipelago Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

Brazilian Atlantic Islands: Fernando de Noronha and Atol das Rocas Reserves — 2015 — WHED120F39E52

A groundbreaking survey of collembola fauna in the Brazilian Atlantic Islands has uncovered 36 new species for the Fernando de Noronha archipelago, including the first records of the genus Calvatomina and subgenus Setogaster in Brazil. The study also proposes a replacement name, Collophora terrabrasilis, for a previously described species to avoid homonymy. This research significantly expands our understanding of the entognathan diversity in this UNESCO-listed marine protected area, highlighting its unique ecological significance.

Fishery and Dugong Bycatch Problem in the Dungonab Bay Marine Protected Area on the Northern Sudanese Red Sea Coast

Sanganeb Marine National Park and Dungonab Bay – Mukkawar Island Marine National Park — 2015 — WHEA8B6DAE194

A key finding from this study is that gillnet fishing, particularly around seagrass beds at night, is the primary cause of dugong bycatch in Dungonab Bay Marine Protected Area. The research analyzed 77 fishing grounds, revealing that 84% were shallower than 30 meters and 70% had coral reef substrates, indicating a focus on shallow-water species. While deeper waters (40-50m) are home to high-value fish like the spotted bigeye (Plectropomus maculatus), limited fishing technology and environmental constraints—such as strong winds and summer heat—restrict access. The study suggests that natural restrictions on fishing, combined with stakeholder agreements to avoid gillnets near seagrass beds or halt fishing upon dugong sightings, could foster sustainable coexistence between fisheries and dugong conservation.

Fitoquímica y Actividades Biológicas de Plantas de Importancia en la Medicina Tradicional del Valle de Tehuacán-Cuicatlán

Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Valley: originary habitat of Mesoamerica — 2015 — WHE296C07F785

A comprehensive review reveals strong phytochemical and pharmacognostic support for the traditional medicinal uses of 10 plant species in the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Valley, Mexico. The study demonstrates that essential oils, extracts, and pure metabolites from these plants exhibit significant biological activities, including antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, photoprotective, hypoglycemic, and anti-inflammatory effects. This validates long-standing traditional knowledge, suggesting a robust scientific basis for the region's medicinal practices.

Florística y ecología de diatomeas bentónicas de la zona lacustre de Xochimilco-Tláhuac, México

Historic Centre of Mexico City and Xochimilco — 2015 — WHEB7DED56DD3

A comprehensive study of benthic diatoms in the Xochimilco-Tláhuac wetland, Mexico, reveals 91 taxa, a more than 50% increase from previous records. This research highlights the ecological significance of diatom composition, which is closely linked to environmental factors such as silica variation and pH. The study identified dominant species like Nitzschia frustulum and Pseudostaurosira brevistriata, typically found in shallow, eutrophic waters, suggesting their potential use as ecological indicators for monitoring the health of this UNESCO-listed site. By analyzing 13 collections over dry and rainy seasons, the authors established a framework to categorize diatom presence based on habitat fragmentation and local environmental conditions, providing a robust dataset for future conservation efforts.

Flowering plants of the Western Ghats, India

Western Ghats — 2015 — WHEE7AA35BC50

The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and global biodiversity hotspot, host a remarkably diverse angiosperm flora. A comprehensive two-volume checklist identifies 7,402 species (5,588 indigenous) across 164,280 km², including 376 naturalized and 1,438 cultivated taxa. The study organizes entries by accepted names, synonyms, habit, nativity, distribution, phenology, conservation status, economic importance, and local names, drawing significantly from earlier regional works like the Flowering plants of Kerala. While the checklist follows an outdated family classification (BD Sharma et al., 1993), it serves as a critical resource for understanding the region's flora, despite minor nomenclatural oversights. The Western Ghats' undisturbed vegetation has dwindled to one-third of its original extent, underscoring urgent conservation needs.

Food supply and poaching limit giraffe abundance in the Serengeti

Serengeti National Park — 2015 — WHE6EE6753F56

Giraffe populations in the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania, have declined significantly from densities of 1.5–2.6 individuals per km² in the 1970s to just 0.3–0.4 per km² today, despite an increase in woody cover. This decline is primarily driven by a reduction in diet quality due to the replacement of preferred Acacia trees with unpalatable species and heightened poaching, particularly in western and northern regions. The study used decision tables to analyze four extrinsic factors—food supply, predation, parasites, and poaching—and found that poaching has had a substantial negative impact on adult survival. Leslie matrix models suggest that reducing poaching could improve giraffe survival rates. While the population may persist at low-to-moderate densities until preferred tree species recover, urgent conservation efforts are needed to mitigate further declines.

Food Webs and Feeding Habits on the Revillagigedo Islands, Mexico

Archipiélago de Revillagigedo — 2015 — WHE41B4C8044A

Oceanic islands, including the Revillagigedo Islands in Mexico, exhibit unique food webs that differ significantly from continental ecosystems due to lower species diversity and the absence of key mainland components. This study reveals that food web complexity increases with island size, driven by greater habitat diversity on larger islands. While seabirds dominate the smaller islands, larger ones support a broader range of vertebrates, including reptiles, passerine birds, hawks, owls, parrots, and doves. Some species, like the Socorro Red-tailed Hawk, have adapted to specialized diets in the absence of small mammals, consuming primarily lizards and land crabs. Seasonal or permanent shifts in feeding habits are also observed, such as cactus consumption by ravens and owls on Clarión, insectivory among towhees, and plant-based diets for red-tailed hawks. These adaptations may stem from harsh environmental conditions or unique island fauna/flora. Insectivorous birds on Socorro mitigate competition through varied foraging strategies. The study also highlights the impact of introduced species, such as sheep, which were eradicated but could have long-term ecological consequences if other exotics persist.

Forgetting Hiroshima, remembering Auschwitz

Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp (1940-1945) — 2015 — WHE06F535DBE1

Auschwitz and Hiroshima are remembered differently despite their shared criminal legacies. This study reveals that while Auschwitz is universally recognized as a symbol of Nazi atrocities, the bombing of Hiroshima remains controversial, with its justifications often overlooked in public memory. By comparing two exhibitions—one on Hiroshima at the Smithsonian and another on Wehrmacht crimes—the research demonstrates how different societies grapple with shame and guilt over their pasts. The analysis highlights the political and ethical debates surrounding these exhibitions, showing that the criminality of Auschwitz is widely acknowledged, whereas Hiroshima's remains contentious.

Fortalezas costeras del Oeste y Norte de Marruecos (S.XV-S.XVII)

Portuguese City of Mazagan (El Jadida) — 2015 — WHE82EF0316D2

Portuguese coastal fortifications along Morocco's Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts, spanning the 15th to 17th centuries, represent a shared heritage recognized by UNESCO. These structures, built during Portugal's occupation from 1415 to 1769, served as strategic strongholds in conflicts with Morocco, including the city of Mazagan (now El Jadida). While efforts have been made to refurbish and rehabilitate these sites, significant conservation work remains. The study highlights their historical significance and the ongoing challenges in preserving this cultural legacy.

Forth Bridge: the restoration challenge

The Forth Bridge — 2015 — WHE8C83CD403A

The restoration of the Forth Bridge, Britain's first all-steel and world's first cantilever bridge, presents unique engineering challenges due to its protected status as a Grade A listed Victorian icon. The project required a deep understanding of the original design principles by Sir Benjamin Baker, Sir John Fowler, and contractor Sir William Arrol, while ensuring the structure remained balanced under the weight of extensive scaffolding and materials—up to 4000 tons. Network Rail and Balfour Beatty successfully navigated these complexities, demonstrating innovative approaches to preservation without compromising structural integrity or historical significance.

Fourteen Gentrification, neoliberalism and loss in Puebla, Mexico

Historic Centre of Puebla — 2015 — WHE1CCA079364

Gentrification in Puebla, Mexico, has been accelerated by neoliberal policies that facilitate real estate speculation and corporate capital interests. The study examines the Paseo project, a redevelopment initiative in the historic center, which reshapes cultural representation and ethnic identity while displacing local communities. Through comparative analysis of urban transformation since the 1990s, the research reveals how state-backed interventions prioritize economic growth over heritage preservation, leading to social and cultural loss. The findings underscore the tension between urban revitalization and equitable development in UNESCO-listed World Heritage Sites.

Fractal Description of Tree Canopy and Soil Bulk Density in Zagros Forests, (Case Study: Bisotun Protected Area)

Bisotun — 2015 — WHE1D47E72279

Research at Bisotun Protected Area reveals that spatial dependency of tree canopy and soil bulk density has significantly diminished, likely due to disturbance and anthropogenic pressure. The study employed geostatistics and fractal theory to analyze these variables, finding no significant spatial autocorrelation or structured variability in the Zagros forest ecosystem. While soil bulk density exhibited an intermediate spatial structure with an exponential model, it lacked notable spatial dependency. High fractal dimensions for both variables further indicated intense variability without clear patterns, suggesting that environmental pressures have disrupted natural spatial structures in this region.

Frederik II af Danmark og Sophie af Mecklenburg – et stjernepar fra renæssancen. En tysk fyrstelig repræsentationsform i Danmark?

Kronborg Castle — 2015 — WHE2B5D0FFAED

A Renaissance star couple emerges from the study of Frederik II of Denmark and Sophie of Mecklenburg, revealing their strategic use of genealogy and apotheosis to solidify royal power. The research highlights how the couple's alliance was symbolically rendered through art, notably in the canopy of Kronborg Castle's great hall, mirroring German princely representation strategies. Unlike traditional kneeling donors, Frederik and Sophie were depicted with biblical motifs and monograms at parity with Christ, suggesting a divine connection. This approach contrasts with earlier Danish royal representations and reflects broader Renaissance trends in German courts.