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Publications

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How “Natives” Drink. Bravo Shots, For Example: Mourning and Nuclear Kitsch

Bikini Atoll Nuclear Test Site — 2015 — WHE16E879886C

A study reveals the complex interplay between nuclear kitsch and collective mourning in the Marshall Islands, particularly concerning the legacy of the Bravo Shot, a devastating 1954 nuclear test. The research highlights how contemporary Marshallese society, influenced by American expatriates, trivializes historical trauma through commercialized references to nuclear testing, such as the 'Bravo Shot' cocktail served at Majuro's airport bar. This phenomenon undermines ethical mourning and perpetuates a distorted social imaginary that rationalizes or ignores the violence inflicted on the Marshallese people. The study critiques the appropriation of terms like 'bravo,' originally used in Barker's work to honor Marshallese resistance, now repurposed in ways that may diminish the gravity of colonization and nuclear weapons' impact.

Human Activities and Sustainability of Tourist Sites

Kilimanjaro National Park — 2015 — WHEE8FFC15787

Human activities are significantly degrading the sustainability of Kenya's major tourist sites, including Kilimanjaro National Park and Mount Kenya West. The study highlights severe environmental impacts such as illegal poaching, logging, charcoal burning, forest clearing for farming and settlement, and litter dumping along tourist routes. These activities threaten the ecological integrity and wildlife conservation efforts in these protected areas. The research recommends collaborative conservation efforts involving local communities, government agencies, hotel owners, and tour guides, alongside stricter regulations on plastic use with harsh penalties to mitigate environmental damage.

Human Impact on Protected Areas of the Peruvian Amazon

Manú National Park — 2015 — WHE12EE70CC7A

Peru protects approximately 23.4% of its Amazon biome, totaling over 18.1 million hectares, through various categories of protected areas. However, only about 44.7% of this land is fully protected (indirect-use), with the remaining 55.3% allowing human presence and restricted economic activities (direct-use). This study highlights the complexity of managing human impact in these protected regions, where national parks, reserves, and sanctuaries coexist with areas permitting limited human activity, such as communal reserves and protection forests.

Human seroprevalence indicating hantavirus infections in tropical rainforests of Côte d’Ivoire and Democratic Republic of Congo

Salonga National Park — 2015 — WHE97907A11E3

A seroprevalence study reveals human exposure to hantaviruses in tropical rainforests of Côte d’Ivoire and the Democratic Republic of Congo, with rates of 3.9% and 2.4%, respectively. These findings suggest a higher prevalence than previously reported in neighboring regions like Guinea and South Africa, indicating potential public health significance. The study used enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), confirmed by Western blotting and immunofluorescence testing, to detect antibodies against hantavirus nucleoproteins in serum samples. This research underscores the need for further investigations into clinical hantavirus disease in West and Central African rainforest areas, particularly among patients exhibiting fever or renal/respiratory symptoms.

Human-Assisted Invasions of Pacific Islands by Litoria Frogs: A Case Study of the Bleating Tree Frog on Lord Howe Island

Lord Howe Island Group — 2015 — WHEB4838EA20B

The bleating tree frog (Litoria dentata), native to mainland Australia, was accidentally introduced to Lord Howe Island (LHI) in the 1990s. This study reveals that the founding population originated from the Ballina region in northeastern New South Wales and identifies the species' widespread distribution across LHI, including human habitats, cattle pastures, and undisturbed forests. Using a mitochondrial phylogeographical approach, researchers traced the introduction route and assessed its ecological impact. The findings highlight the risks posed by human-assisted amphibian invasions to ecologically sensitive oceanic islands and propose biosecurity measures to prevent future introductions.

Human-Environment System Boundaries: A Case Study of the Honghe Hani Rice Terraces as a World Heritage Cultural Landscape

Cultural Landscape of Honghe Hani Rice Terraces — 2015 — WHE00CD66F7AB

A new methodology framework for demarcating boundaries of UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Landscapes was developed, using the Honghe Hani Rice Terraces (HHRT) as a case study. The research identified four types of boundaries—river basin, water-allocation organization, economic network, and perceptual—and integrated them to assess sustainability. Findings revealed that parts of HHRT's core boundary do not meet criteria for environmental sustainability, social justice, or the creation of new human-environment systems. This approach provides a holistic perspective for future administrative decisions in similar landscapes.

Hybrid Energy Scenarios for Fernando de Noronha archipelago

Brazilian Atlantic Islands: Fernando de Noronha and Atol das Rocas Reserves — 2015 — WHE43782864E8

A hybrid energy solution with 67% renewable energy participation was found feasible for Fernando de Noronha Archipelago, demonstrating the potential of integrating wind and solar power into local electricity supply. The study evaluated various scenarios using HOMER Software, considering different sizes and quantities of energy components while accounting for resource availability variations. Additionally, it assessed the impact of transitioning from combustion to electric vehicle fleets on the island's energy system.

Hydraulic bureaucracies and Irrigation Management Transfer in Uzbekistan: the case of Samarkand Province

Samarkand – Crossroad of Cultures — 2015 — WHE4AFCAD7EFF

In Samarkand Province, Uzbekistan, Water Users' Associations (WUAs) were established not as decentralized entities for water management but as tools for state control, contradicting the global neo-liberal approach of Irrigation Management Transfer (IMT). This study reveals that WUAs in Samarkand emerged from a local initiative driven by the hydraulic bureaucracy and supported by national authorities due to influential power dynamics. The research, based on decade-long fieldwork across three districts, demonstrates how IMT implementation was shaped by bureaucratic logic rather than genuine decentralization efforts. The findings challenge the assumption that WUAs inherently promote local autonomy in water governance.

Hydro-Chemistry of Gokyo Valley, Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park, Nepal

Sagarmatha National Park — 2015 — WHEB6A2A42B80

A study of the hydro-chemistry of Gokyo Valley, Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park, Nepal, reveals that ion concentrations in running waters—particularly calcium (Ca²⁺), magnesium (Mg²⁺), and total silica—are primarily influenced by weathering processes, glacier characteristics, and snow cover dynamics rather than elevation alone. The research found weak correlations between these ions' concentrations and elevation gradient, suggesting complex interactions shaping water chemistry in the valley. Sampling during a drier period with low atmospheric acid input likely contributed to lower-than-expected ion levels compared to previous studies. This baseline inventory provides critical insights into the hydro-chemical dynamics of this pristine high-altitude environment.

Hydrological Niche of Restionaceae Species in Silvermine South Africa

Cape Floral Region Protected Areas — 2015 — WHEB9C4389417

A unique hydrological niche model for Restionaceae species in the Cape Floral Region's fynbos biome reveals critical microclimate dependencies, offering new insights into their survival in semi-arid environments. The study demonstrates that hydrological variables—such as soil moisture and groundwater availability—are pivotal in determining species distribution at Silvermine, South Africa. By generating high-resolution microclimate datasets, researchers assessed the effectiveness of these variables in predicting plant niche dynamics, providing actionable data for conservation strategies. This work highlights the vulnerability of Restionaceae to urbanization, agriculture, and climate change, underscoring the need for targeted monitoring to preserve biodiversity in one of the world's six floristic kingdoms.

Identification of human-made physical barriers to fish passage in the Wet Tropics region, Australia

Wet Tropics of Queensland — 2015 — WHE950EF0B977

Researchers identified 3,748 human-made physical barriers to fish passage—including bridges, culverts, and causeways—in the Wet Tropics of Queensland, Australia. Using a desktop GIS analysis of stream networks (18,363 km at 1:100,000 scale), this study provides the first comprehensive inventory of such obstacles in the region. The findings highlight critical barriers that disrupt native fish movement and fisheries productivity, offering a foundation for prioritizing remediation efforts to restore ecological connectivity.

Identification, molecular and phylogenetic analysis of poxvirus in skin lesions of southern right whale

Península Valdés — 2015 — WHE54030B0644

Researchers have identified and characterized a poxvirus associated with skin lesions in southern right whales (Eubalaena australis) off the coast of Península Valdés, Argentina. The study, conducted on samples from dead whales, revealed ring-type lesions histologically marked by microvesicles, vacuolated cells, and eosinophilic inclusion bodies. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed the presence of poxvirus-like virions, while PCR and phylogenetic analysis confirmed the virus as belonging to the cetacean poxvirus group (CPV-2). This marks the first documented case of poxvirus in southern right whales, contributing to our understanding of cetacean health and disease dynamics.

Ideological Background of Paving Patterns of Classical Gardens in Suzhou, China

Classical Gardens of Suzhou — 2015 — WHEA7D5C50095

Classical Gardens of Suzhou, China, exhibit a rich diversity of paving patterns influenced by Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism, and folk culture. Unlike the more uniform designs found in Chinese palace gardens, these private gardens reflect a blend of ideologies, including nature worship (e.g., sun patterns) and totemistic beliefs (e.g., phoenix motifs). Confucian patterns like Eight Square and Six Square dominate large areas, while Taoist symbols such as 'Wufu holding life' and Buddhist designs like the Endless knot symbolize reincarnation. Folk motifs—including bats, butterflies, and coins—represent prosperity and social status. The study analyzed nine UNESCO-listed gardens to uncover these ideological underpinnings, revealing how cultural beliefs shaped Suzhou's garden aesthetics over time.

If a frog calls in the forest: Bioacoustic monitoring reveals the breeding phenology of the endangered R ichmond R ange mountain frog ( P hiloria richmondensis)

Gondwana Rainforests of Australia — 2015 — WHE02DCCA5BEF

Bioacoustic monitoring of the endangered Richmond Range mountain frog (Philoria richmondensis) in Australia's Gondwana Rainforests reveals that peak calling activity occurs during austral spring mornings and evenings, with ambient temperature (15–16°C) significantly influencing call frequency. A negative relationship between precipitation and calling activity was also observed. These findings provide a benchmark for detecting phenological shifts due to climate change and optimize future survey efforts by targeting periods of high acoustic detectability.

Il paesaggio storico urbano delle città costiere: sfide e opportunità. Il caso Torre Annunziata

Archaeological Areas of Pompei, Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata — 2015 — WHEF7267D4254

This research demonstrates that the preservation and regeneration of coastal urban landscapes, particularly those with UNESCO World Heritage status, can drive sustainable development by integrating cultural, ecological, and economic values. The study highlights that leveraging the ICOMOS Guidance on Impact Assessments for Cultural World Properties (2011) as a tool for evaluating large-scale urban waterfront revitalization projects—such as the 'Grande Progetto Pompei' in Torre Annunziata, Italy—can mitigate negative impacts while enhancing local attractiveness and economic benefits. Through participatory methods, the research identifies key attributes of cultural heritage that resonate with stakeholders, offering a framework to prioritize public investments in degraded areas. It further advocates for combining Heritage Impact Assessment with cost-benefit analysis and contingent valuation to quantify both economic and socio-environmental outcomes, proposing a Social Economic Impact Assessment (SEHIA) approach.

Il volto di Ambrogio

Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalú and Monreale — 2015 — WHEAE9340202A

A persistent early Christian portrait of St. Ambrose—a middle-aged man with a brown beard and mustache—remained influential from the 5th century through the Renaissance, as demonstrated by a study analyzing figurative evidence across Europe. This prototype endured in significant works such as the 10th-century stucco ciborium in Milan’s Basilica of St. Ambrose and the 9th-century apse mosaic of St. Ambrose. The research also identified two additional physiognomic types emerging during the Carolingian period: a young, beardless figure and an elderly man with gray hair, both of which gained prominence in Byzantine regions by the 12th century and later dominated Western depictions post-15th century. By examining artifacts like the Egino codex (8th century) and the mosaics in Palermo’s Cappella Palatina and Monreale Cathedral (12th century), the study traces the evolution of Ambrose’s portrayal, revealing its cultural and artistic significance across medieval Europe.

Illustrations

Amiens Cathedral — 2015 — WHEF031775592

A comparative architectural analysis reveals the distinct design evolution of four significant European cathedrals—Toledo, Amiens, Salisbury, and Burgos—all initiated between 1218 and 1222. The study highlights the unique structural innovations in Amiens Cathedral, particularly its ambitious east end and cloisters, which set it apart from contemporary designs. Using detailed plans and sections, the research provides insight into the transitional phase of Gothic architecture during this period. The approach combines historical documentation with architectural drawing, offering a visual and analytical framework to understand the development of these monumental structures.

Images-within-Images in Italian Painting (1250–1350): Reality and Reflexivity by Péter Bokody (review)

Assisi, the Basilica of San Francesco and Other Franciscan Sites — 2015 — WHE0372A12FEE

Italian painting between 1250 and 1350 underwent a transformative shift, moving from Byzantine influence to developing its own identity and embracing spatial realism. Péter Bokody's study, rooted in his doctoral research, highlights this period's significance as the precursor to Renaissance art, focusing on artists like Giotto, Duccio, Simone Martini, and the Lorenzettis. The book explores how images-within-images, or 'parargon,' contributed to realism through trompe l’oeil, architectural illusionism, and meta-painting, while also examining Barthes’s 'reality effect.' Bokody's chronological analysis, centered on Assisi's frescoes, reveals the layered meanings in these works and their influence on later Netherlandish painting. The study avoids attributional debates but offers a fresh perspective on this pivotal era in Italian art history.

Imaging the Waters of Angkor: A Method for Semi‐Automated Pond Extraction from LiDAR Data

Angkor — 2015 — WHEB6D7EC2336

A groundbreaking study reveals that medieval Angkor, home to successive capitals of the Khmer Empire, featured over 3,000 small-scale household or community ponds within its urban core. This discovery, derived from semi-automated analysis of LiDAR data, challenges the perception of Angkor's hydraulic infrastructure as solely large-scale and state-level, instead highlighting a dense network of smaller water management systems. These findings, validated against historical accounts by Zhou Daguan in the 13th century, offer new insights into the demography and social organization of pre-industrial urban landscapes.

Imagining the past visitor specific applications for Al Zubarah Archaeological Site, Qatar

Al Zubarah Archaeological Site — 2015 — WHE21C7E953FE

Mobile applications with augmented reality (AR) elements and interactive components have been successfully developed to enhance the visitor experience at Al Zubarah Archaeological Site, Qatar. Since its inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List, visitor numbers have nearly tripled, necessitating innovative solutions to protect fragile remains while engaging audiences, particularly younger visitors. The applications, created in collaboration between the Qatar Islamic Archaeology and Heritage Project and DNP, aim to support the dissemination of ongoing excavation findings by providing immersive, educational experiences that encourage reflection on the site's historical significance.