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Showing 23501 – 23520 of 30345 publications

Impact of Albanian Agricultural Reforms in Gjirokastra Region

Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastra — 2015 — WHEB275D5F28B

Albanian agricultural reforms in the Gjirokastra region have led to significant fragmentation of land parcels, with an average size of 1.26 hectares per family, hindering economic activity and income generation. The study highlights that the distribution of land in 1990 resulted in small, often distant or low-quality plots, further exacerbated by rural emigration. While consolidation efforts are underway, progress is slow, and incomplete land registration remains a barrier to land renting and agricultural expansion. These findings underscore the need for targeted policies to consolidate parcels, streamline land registration, and stimulate economic activity in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Impact of Conservation and Development on the Vicinity of Nanda Devi National Park in the North India

Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks — 2015 — WHEF975F3BF0E

A study on the vicinity of Nanda Devi National Park, India, reveals significant gender-specific differences in the impact of displacement due to conservation and development efforts. Despite early recommendations for pre-notification impact assessments, none were conducted before the area was declared a national park. The research also highlights a lack of systematic linkage between compensatory schemes and the grievances of affected communities, underscoring critical gaps in policy implementation.

Impact of learning content on World Heritage Site preservation awareness in town of Luang Prabang, Lao PDR: Application of Protection Motivation Theory

Town of Luang Prabang — 2015 — WHEE0230054BF

Learning content designed using Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) significantly enhances threat and coping appraisals related to World Heritage Site preservation, as demonstrated in a study involving 212 participants from Luang Prabang, Lao PDR. The research employed a repeated-measures t-test to evaluate the impact of PMT-based learning content on respondents' perceptions and behaviors toward heritage site protection. Findings indicate that structured educational interventions can effectively influence awareness and proactive measures for preservation.

Impact of Mikania micrantha H.B.K. Invasion on Diversity and Abundance of Plant Species of Chitwan National Park, Nepal

Chitwan National Park — 2015 — WHEEB2F5797BE

Mikania micrantha H.B.K., an invasive alien plant, significantly reduces plant species richness and abundance in Chitwan National Park (CNP), Nepal. Research found that as Mikania cover exceeds 35%, native plant diversity declines sharply, with invasion intensity inversely related to tree crown cover. The study used stratified sampling and nested quadrats to compare invaded and non-invaded sites in July 2011, revealing that higher tree canopy coverage inhibits Mikania dominance while its biomass does not necessarily correlate with reduced species richness.

Impact of modern evolution of Paphos town to its ancient necropoleis: a multi-temporal GIS and earth observation analysis

Paphos — 2015 — WHE1BABBF83E1

Modern urban development in Paphos, Cyprus, poses significant risks to ancient Hellenistic and Roman necropoleis, which are primarily underground rock-hewn tombs. These sites, often discovered accidentally during infrastructure projects, suffer damage due to tight time constraints and lack of systematic excavation. To address this, the study employs multi-temporal GIS and earth observation techniques to monitor and sustainably plan for the preservation of these funerary landscapes. By leveraging remote sensing, researchers aim to mitigate the impact of modern urbanization on archaeological heritage, offering a proactive approach to conservation.

Impact of Offshore Sand Mining on Sandy Beach in Coral Reef Environment - Case Study in Kinenhama Beach, Tokunoshima Island, Japan

Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island — 2015 — WHEAD115B6C79

Offshore sand mining in coral reef environments, particularly in the southwestern islands of Japan such as Tokunoshima Island, poses risks to coastal stability and ecosystems. A study focusing on Kinenhama Beach revealed that while direct harm to sandy beaches or dunes from sand extraction is currently absent, offshore mining for construction materials may contribute to shoreline erosion within coral reefs. Researchers conducted field surveys and numerical simulations to assess the impact of sand mining in the Kinenhama region, emphasizing the need for quantitative analysis to ensure sustainable practices that do not compromise coastal resilience or biodiversity.

Impact of Population Growth and Climate Change on the Freshwater Resources of Lamu Island, Kenya

Lamu Old Town — 2015 — WHE07F2BC6810

Population growth driven by industrial development, particularly the construction of Lamu Port, poses a significant threat to freshwater resources on Lamu Island, Kenya. Projections indicate that while the island's population may reach around 50,000 without industrial development by 2050, it could surge to 1.25 million with full-scale port operations, straining groundwater supplies. The Shela aquifer, the primary water source, is expected to face stress as early as 2020-2028 under the LAPSSET development scenario, whereas it may remain stable until 2065 without industrial growth. Climate change impacts are less severe compared to population-driven land use changes, suggesting that mitigating industrial expansion could be more effective in preserving freshwater availability.

Impacts and Recovery from Severe Tropical Cyclone Yasi on the Great Barrier Reef

Great Barrier Reef — 2015 — WHE40057098E9

Tropical Cyclone Yasi (2011) caused unprecedented coral damage on the Great Barrier Reef, with structural impacts affecting approximately 949 km² of reefs—nearly four percent of the total area. This was the largest single-day loss of coral cover since systematic monitoring began in 1985, surpassing previous intense cyclones due to its extensive circulation. Researchers assessed damage using a novel five-level severity scale at 70 reefs within 400 km of Yasi’s track, revealing that outer-shelf and mid-shelf reefs experienced distinct patterns of destruction, with structural damage more widespread in the latter. Patchy recovery was observed between 2011 and 2013, highlighting the slow pace of rehabilitation for severely impacted ecosystems. This study provides the most comprehensive post-cyclone assessment ever conducted on the reef, offering critical insights into resilience and vulnerability under extreme weather events.

Impacts of Cruise-Ship Entry Quotas on Visibility and Air Quality in Glacier Bay

Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek — 2015 — WHE9875E11D0E

Increasing cruise-ship entry quotas in Glacier Bay National Park by 35% marginally impacts air quality and visibility, with minimal changes to haze indices despite shifts in aerosol composition. The study used the Weather Research and Forecasting model coupled with chemistry to simulate scenarios under different ship quotas (2008 baseline vs. increased entries). While sulfur-dioxide concentrations decreased and ammonium-sulfate aerosols increased under higher emissions, visibility remained largely unchanged, except on days with high relative humidity or calm winds. Best and worst visibility days aligned between scenarios, but relative humidity alone governed visibility in the absence of ship emissions. Even small changes require careful consideration for conservation efforts.

Impediments to a human rights-based approach to heritage conservation: the case of Bagan, Myanmar

Bagan — 2015 — WHE00A3B3F308

A human rights-based approach to heritage conservation, while promising for addressing social justice and sustainability, faces significant conceptual, practical, and political challenges when applied to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Bagan, Myanmar. This study identifies key impediments at local, national, and regional levels, including the ambiguous interpretation of cultural rights, conflicts between rights, resistance to human rights language, and insufficient capacity to hold violators accountable. These findings underscore that the effectiveness of such an approach is highly context-dependent, limiting its broader applicability despite its potential benefits.

Implementation of a B-WIM system in a centenary steel truss bridge

Historic Centre of Oporto, Luiz I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar — 2015 — WHEC405D86BB6

A novel, minimalistic approach to monitoring traffic on historic bridges has been successfully demonstrated using the Luiz I Bridge in Porto. By installing just two strain gauges on cross beams, researchers achieved accurate identification of vehicle direction, speed, and load—key parameters for structural health assessment. This lightweight 'B-WIM' system (Bridge-Weight-In-Motion) not only characterizes tram-train traffic on the upper deck but also generates precise influence lines for damage detection methods. The findings highlight the potential for low-cost, non-intrusive monitoring in centenary steel structures, offering a scalable solution for UNESCO World Heritage Sites with similar challenges.

Implementation of a fiber Bragg grating sensor network for structural monitoring of a rehabilitated metallic bridge

Historic Centre of Oporto, Luiz I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar — 2015 — WHE1C8D927132

A fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensor network was successfully implemented to monitor the structural health of the rehabilitated upper deck of Luiz I Bridge. The study demonstrated that FBG sensors can provide real-time, precise measurements of strain and deformation in metallic structures, offering a robust solution for long-term structural monitoring. This approach is particularly valuable for bridges undergoing significant modifications, such as the integration of metro lines, which introduces complex loading conditions. The findings highlight the potential of FBG sensor networks to enhance safety and maintenance strategies for critical infrastructure, ensuring their longevity and performance.

Implementing Natural Resources Cadastral Plan in Pasargadae District of Iran by Using Quick Bird Images

Pasargadae — 2015 — WHEE6150441CF

A natural resources cadastral plan implemented in Pasargadae, Iran, successfully differentiated between private and national lands using high-resolution QuickBird satellite imagery. The study utilized georeferenced images (50-60 cm resolution) combined with digitized historical maps (1:10,000 to 1:50,000 scales) and Google Earth data to generate accurate cadastral maps. These maps clarified land ownership boundaries, preventing illegal encroachment on natural lands such as forests, rangelands, and desertification areas. The approach demonstrated the potential of remote sensing in supporting sustainable land management and conservation efforts.

Implications of genetics and current protected areas for conservation of 5 endangered primates in China

Fanjingshan — 2015 — WHE17D16C954F

China's endangered primates face severe threats from habitat fragmentation, with genetic studies revealing distinct subpopulations of five species (Rhinopithecus roxellana, R. bieti, R. brelichi, Trachypithecus francoisi, and T. leucocephalus) that are isolated by agricultural land, grazing meadows, highways, and human settlements. These subpopulations exhibit strong genetic divergence and limited mobility, making them vulnerable to local extinction and loss of diversity. Current protected areas are unevenly distributed, leaving some fragmented subpopulations at higher risk. To preserve genetic diversity, the study prioritizes protection for specific subpopulations, including R. roxellana in Shennongjia National Reserve, certain subpopulations of R. bieti and R. brelichi in Fanjingshan National Reserve, and all three T. leucocephalus subpopulations in central Guangxi Province.

Impossible Engineering: Technology and Territoriality on the Canal du Midi

Canal du Midi — 2015 — WHE01D6F2527C

The Canal du Midi stands as a monumental achievement of 17th-century engineering, defying the technological and territorial constraints of its time. This study reveals how its construction was not merely an exercise in technical innovation but also a strategic tool for asserting political power and reshaping Gaul's landscape. By analyzing archival records, the research demonstrates the canal's role in transforming local governance and epistemic credibility, challenging traditional narratives of French territorial expansion. The approach combines historical analysis with critical examination of engineering practices, offering new insights into the intersection of technology, politics, and territorial identity during this pivotal period.

Improved detection of preeruptive seismic velocity drops at the Piton de La Fournaise volcano

Pitons, cirques and remparts of Reunion Island — 2015 — WHEAA32F3328C

Researchers have identified a previously undetected preeruptive seismic velocity drop of 0.15% associated with the June 21, 2014 eruption at Piton de La Fournaise volcano on Réunion Island. This discovery was made possible by correcting seismic velocity data for pore pressure changes caused by rainfall, which had previously obscured the signal. The study used a transfer function to model the relationship between fluid pressure and seismic velocity variations, allowing for the isolation of true preeruptive signals during a period of low eruptive activity (2011–2013). This advancement improves the potential for more reliable volcanic eruption prediction by mitigating interference from environmental factors.

In situ orientation of fish larvae can vary among regions

Lagoons of New Caledonia: Reef Diversity and Associated Ecosystems — 2015 — WHEC4C5D8A3E1

Larval coral-reef fishes exhibit location-dependent orientation at regional scales, a discovery that challenges assumptions about their dispersal behavior. Research on the damselfish Chromis atripectoralis revealed significant differences in through-water swimming direction across three regions: the northern Great Barrier Reef (NGBR), central Great Barrier Reef (CGBR), and New Caledonia reef lagoon (NCRL). While larvae swam southerly at NGBR, they oriented easterly at CGBR and NCRL. Over-bottom orientation varied similarly, with strong westerly currents observed in NCRL. This regional variation suggests an evolutionary adaptation to local hydrodynamic conditions, limiting downstream dispersal. The study used in situ diver observations and GPS tracking over 20 years, providing the first evidence of such behavior at a regional scale.

In the name of the tourist : landscape, heritage, and social change in Chinchero

City of Cuzco — 2015 — WHEB8EF421C36

Tourism-driven development in Chinchero, Peru, has triggered significant social and cultural transformations, particularly concerning landscape heritage and indigenous identity. The study reveals how the reconversion of Inca ruins into an archaeological park and the commercialization of textile production have led to processes of re-territorialization and social exclusion. Additionally, the proposed New International Airport of Cuzco project, aimed at boosting tourism, has deepened community divisions and raised unrealistic expectations for progress. This ethnographic research highlights the complex interplay between modernization, indigenous traditions, and environmental conflict, underscoring the need to address the broader implications of rapid tourist development on local communities.

In the south seas : being an account of experiences and observations in the Marquesas, Paumotus, and Gilbert islands in the course of two cruises on the yacht 'Casco' (1888), and the schooner 'Equator' (1889)

Te Henua Enata – The Marquesas Islands — 2015 — WHE19A3DBC69B

Robert Louis Stevenson's 'In the South Seas' offers a unique ethnographic account of Polynesian culture, particularly focusing on the Marquesas Islands. Stevenson, motivated by personal health concerns and a desire to observe without vested interests, provides vivid, compassionate descriptions of island life, capturing the essence of traditional Polynesian society before its decline. His observations, enriched with literary detail, highlight the resilience of human spirit amidst environmental fragility. The work stands out for its lack of missionary or commercial bias, presenting an unbiased, perceptive portrayal of indigenous customs, social structures, and daily life. Stevenson's narrative, though not a formal scientific study, contributes significantly to the understanding of Polynesian culture through his sensitive and detailed documentation.

Increased Wounding of Southern Right Whale (Eubalaena australis) Calves by Kelp Gulls (Larus dominicanus) at Península Valdés, Argentina

Península Valdés — 2015 — WHED04F334B5D

A dramatic increase in the wounding of southern right whale (Eubalaena australis) calves by Kelp Gulls (Larus dominicanus) at Península Valdés, Argentina, has been documented over the past four decades. The study found that while only 2% of mother-calf pairs showed gull lesions in the 1970s, this figure rose to 99% by the 2000s. Calves, particularly those older during the calving season, suffered more extensive and numerous lesions compared to their mothers, with some bearing nine or more wounds covering a significant area of their backs. The research analyzed aerial survey photographs of living pairs (1974-2011) and stranding photographs of dead calves (2003-2011), revealing that intensified gull harassment could potentially compromise calf health by leading to dehydration, impaired thermoregulation, and energy loss due to wound healing. However, this trend does not fully explain the large year-to-year variance in calf mortality rates observed since 2000.