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Indoapseudes bamberi sp. nov. (Crustacea: Tanaidacea: Pagurapseudidae: Hodometricinae) from Iriomote Island, Ryukyu Islands, southwestern Japan

Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island — 2015 — WHEB0E5270711

A new species of crustacean, Indoapseudes bamberi sp. nov., has been discovered from Funaura Bay on Iriomote Island, part of the Ryukyu Islands in southwestern Japan. This tiny tanaidacean stands out among its five congeners due to distinctive morphological traits: an antenna with a squama and pereopods 1 and 2 featuring one dorsal spine on the basis. Researchers also sequenced part of the COI gene for this species, providing genetic insights that contribute to taxonomic identification. The discovery enriches biodiversity records in the region and offers a key tool for distinguishing Indoapseudes species.

Indoor/outdoor particulate matter concentrations and microbial load in cultural heritage collections

Zagori Cultural Landscape — 2015 — WHEF657B1E3A3

A two-year study on UNESCO World Heritage Sites revealed that indoor particulate matter (PM) and microbial concentrations in cultural heritage collections often exceed outdoor levels, posing risks to organic materials. The research, conducted at coastal, urban, and mountainous locations—including the Historical Museum of Crete and the Neophytos Doukas Library—found that while closed showcases mitigated fungal exposure, specific bacteria, such as acid-producing and cellulose-metabolizing types, still penetrated these enclosures. Urban environments, like Athens, showed higher levels of heterotrophic bacteria, particularly in exhibits with mummified tissues. The study highlights the influence of indoor activities, anthropogenic emissions, and natural factors on air quality, emphasizing the need for targeted conservation strategies to protect vulnerable heritage collections.

Influence of anthropogenous factors on the genetic variety of the sable (Martes zibellina L.)

Central Sikhote-Alin — 2015 — WHEF0BC12E2E9

Sable populations across its range from the Urals to the Far East maintain distinct genetic traits despite human impacts such as overhunting and introduction. A study using eight nuclear microsatellite markers revealed significant genetic similarity among Central Siberian populations, attributed to natural migrations reducing differentiation, while maximum divergence (0.361) was observed between peripheral populations. The Kamchatka Peninsula population stands out as an isolated phylogenetic group, closely related to the ancestral form alongside Sikhote-Alin populations. Despite interspecific hybridization with martens, genetic differentiation remains high.

Influence of current land use and edaphic factors on arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) hyphal abundance and soil organic matter in and near Serengeti National Park

Serengeti National Park — 2015 — WHE4795FC3D3A

A study on the Serengeti National Park reveals that arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) hyphal abundance is significantly influenced by land use and soil nutrient levels. Research found that wildlife-grazed systems exhibited the highest AM hyphal densities, followed by livestock-grazed systems and croplands, with mean densities of 61.03±22.02 m/cm³, 52.89±16.41 m/cm³, and 47.9±22.65 m/cm³ respectively. The findings align with the functional equilibrium hypothesis, suggesting that plants allocate more resources to belowground structures when limited by soil nutrients like phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N). The study analyzed soil samples from the upper 15 cm beneath dominant plant species across different land uses, providing insights into the distribution of AM hyphae in tropical soils and their response to varying edaphic conditions.

Influence of Hemlock Woolly Adelgid Infestation Levels on Water Stress in Eastern Hemlocks within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, U.S.A.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park — 2015 — WHE1B0F947681

Trees with severe hemlock woolly adelgid infestation (>75%) experience significantly higher water stress compared to those with low infestation (<25%), according to a 13-month study in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This finding suggests that adelgid-induced water stress may reduce the effectiveness of imidacloprid treatments, complicating chemical management strategies for this invasive pest. Researchers measured monthly water stress in eastern hemlocks across three infestation severity levels, providing critical insights to improve conservation efforts.

Influence of increasing dryness, animal feeding strategy and human hunting on large ungulates abundance: A first approach in West Africa

Niokolo-Koba National Park — 2015 — WHE8B26A5CA20

A drier climate in West Africa, coupled with human hunting preferences, is significantly reducing the population of grazing ungulates while benefiting browsing species. Research in Niokolo-Koba National Park, Senegal, found that from 1989 to 1997, all but one year were drier than the long-term average, leading to a cumulative water deficit that favored woody plant growth over herbaceous plants. This shift disadvantages grazers, which are also preferred targets for local hunters. The study analyzed ungulate population densities from two census periods (1990–1993 and 1994–1998) alongside precipitation data and hunter preferences, revealing a dual threat to grazing species. Management efforts in the park should prioritize controlling bush encroachment and promoting herbaceous plant growth to mitigate these impacts.

Influence of park governance on tourism development in Kinabalu Park, Malaysia Borneo

Kinabalu Park — 2015 — WHEABDBF0E98E

Kinabalu Park, Malaysia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site for natural heritage, demonstrates how evolving governance models can support sustainable tourism while addressing emerging challenges. A time-series study (2005–2014) reveals that integrating private sector involvement and local community participation enhances long-term sustainability by fostering capacity building and multi-stakeholder collaboration. However, profit-driven private sector motivations and growing visitor expectations for educational experiences pose new issues requiring closer attention. The research employed a pragmatic mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews involving park visitors, guides, porters, and staff, offering insights into balancing economic benefits, conservation, and visitor satisfaction in protected areas.

Influence of submonthly air–sea coupling on heavy precipitation events in the Western Mediterranean basin

The Causses and the Cévennes, Mediterranean agro-pastoral Cultural Landscape — 2015 — WHE5403E61913

Submonthly air–sea coupling significantly influences heavy precipitation events (HPEs) in the Western Mediterranean, particularly in Valencia (Spain), the Cévennes (France), and Calabria (Italy). Using 24 years of simulations from two atmosphere–ocean coupled regional climate models (AORCMs), researchers identified a statistical link between HPE intensity and sea-surface temperature (SST) variations in these regions. The study found that low-level wind changes, driven by surface heat flux adjustments, enhance precipitation sensitivity to SST shifts. Notably, specific HPEs on 28 September 2012 (Valencia), 12 October 2012 (Valencia), and 25–26 October 2012 (Cévennes) were likely affected by this coupling mechanism. The findings underscore the importance of submonthly air–sea interactions in predicting extreme weather events, with implications for climate modeling and risk assessment.

Innovative Local Community Partnership and Sustainable Urban Tourism – The Old Town In Warsaw

Historic Centre of Warsaw — 2015 — WHEBB5EFC296F

A significant surge in heritage tourism, particularly urban tourism, has been observed in Poland's historic cities over the past decades. This growth is attributed to socio-economic transformation, increased income and education levels, greater national awareness, globalization, and improved tourist infrastructure. Warsaw's Old Town stands out as a primary attraction, drawing millions of visitors annually alongside Cracow's Old Town. The study highlights the importance of innovative local community partnerships in fostering sustainable urban tourism, ensuring that these historic sites remain both economically viable and culturally preserved.

Innovative structural health monitoring of bridges in Portugal

Historic Centre of Oporto, Luiz I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar — 2015 — WHE6F056CEE0E

A pioneering optic-based monitoring system has been successfully implemented on the historic Luiz I Bridge in Oporto, Portugal, marking a significant advancement in structural health monitoring of bridges. This innovative approach leverages new sensing, processing, and modeling techniques to provide continuous, structured data on bridge behavior, offering deeper insights into their performance over time. The study highlights the potential for such systems to revolutionize the assessment of design, construction, and maintenance practices for civil engineering structures. By focusing on short-term monitoring examples, the research demonstrates the practical benefits and feasibility of integrating advanced monitoring technologies in existing infrastructures.

Inselbergs and monoliths: a comparative review of two iconic Australian landforms, Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Burringurrah (Mount Augustus)

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park — 2015 — WHEE92F6E7CFF

A comparative review of Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Burringurrah (Mount Augustus), two iconic Australian inselbergs, challenges the use of 'monolith' as a geomorphic term due to their significant differences in dimensions, lithological variations, geological evolution, tectonics, rock structures, operating processes, and ages. Despite both consisting of sedimentary rock, they differ in almost all other aspects, rendering direct comparisons unhelpful. The study outlines the distinct geology and morphology of each landform, emphasizing that their uniqueness undermines the utility of the 'monolith' label for such diverse features.

Insight into the Transmission of Ancient Magical Signs: Three Textual Artefacts from Pergamon

Pergamon and its Multi-Layered Cultural Landscape — 2015 — WHE38C61C938D

A recent analysis of three stone artefacts from Pergamon reveals a previously unrecognized repetitive sequence of ancient magical signs, offering new insights into late antique ritual practices. The study challenges existing interpretations by re-evaluating the inscriptions' structure and transmission process, enriching our understanding of how magical texts were inscribed on ritual objects. By examining the sequences in detail, researchers propose an alternative reconstruction of the inscription process, shedding light on both the practical application and theoretical significance of these signs within their historical context.

Inspirations and Antecedents of Tactical Urbanism

Paris, Banks of the Seine — 2015 — WHE3BF524C551

Tactical urbanism, often perceived as a modern innovation, has deep historical roots. This study reveals that its core principles—temporary, low-cost, flexible, iterative, and participatory approaches to urban planning—have been employed throughout history, from Roman military encampments to the illicit bookstalls of 16th-century Paris (les bouquinistes) along the Seine and the ephemeral White City at the 1892 Chicago World’s Fair. By reframing these historical precedents for the digital age, Lydon and Garcia demonstrate that tactical urbanism is not a novel concept but an evolution of long-standing placemaking strategies. The research employs a comparative approach to trace the continuity and adaptation of these principles across eras, offering insights into their enduring relevance in addressing contemporary urban challenges.

Integrated metagenomics and network analysis of soil microbial community of the forest timberline

Hubei Shennongjia — 2015 — WHE34B727CF58

Temperature is the primary driver of microbial community variations at forest timberlines, significantly influencing microbial biomass, diversity, and composition. This study, conducted at Shennongjia Mountain—a UNESCO World Heritage Site in China—analyzed soil microbial communities using 16S rRNA sequencing, GeoChip 4.0, and network analysis across 24 sampling sites. Findings revealed strong linkages between temperature and both taxonomic and functional gene levels, with nitrogen and phosphorus cycle genes correlating to nutrient availability. The research provides critical insights into the belowground impacts of timberline upshift due to climate warming, offering a predictive framework for future ecological consequences.

Integrating Conservation and Complexity through the Perspective of Place

Kilimanjaro National Park — 2015 — WHED13A853867

Aerial surveys of Kilimanjaro National Park reveal the intricate interplay between conservation efforts and ecological complexity, highlighting the unintended consequences of geometric fencing on wildlife movement and habitat dynamics. The study employs a case study approach, combining field observations with expert-led aerial reconnaissance to document how artificial barriers—designed to exclude large herbivores like elephants—create isolated 'islands' of savanna within dusty plains. These findings underscore the need for adaptive conservation strategies that account for the spatial complexity and interconnectedness of ecosystems, particularly in regions where human-wildlife conflicts and climate-induced habitat shifts pose significant challenges.

Integrative taxonomy of New World Euplectrus Westwood (Hymenoptera, Eulophidae), with focus on 55 new species from Area de Conservación Guanacaste, northwestern Costa Rica

Area de Conservación Guanacaste — 2015 — WHE1794A33183

A groundbreaking integrative taxonomy study identifies 55 new species of Euplectrus wasps (Hymenoptera, Eulophidae) from the Area de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG), Costa Rica, bringing the total treated to 90 species. This research, led by C. Hansson, provides detailed descriptions and illustrations for all species, including 20 previously known ones found in ACG. The study also establishes one new synonym and designates lectotypes for eight species with uncertain status due to damaged type material. Host records are available for 74 Euplectrus species, contributing significantly to the understanding of their natural history. Two identification keys—one for females and one for males—facilitate species differentiation, enhancing taxonomic precision in this region.

Internal Structure of Sand Dunes in the Badain Jaran Desert Revealed by GPR

Badain Jaran Desert - Towers of Sand and Lakes — 2015 — WHEA26201608E

Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) surveys of mega dunes in the Badain Jaran Desert, China, revealed a hidden moisture layer beneath their arid surface, challenging assumptions about desert hydrology. The study identified quasi-evenly spaced bedding features on the windward side of dunes, oriented parallel to the leeward slope and aligned with the angle of repose for dry sands. These beddings form due to periodic cementation by moisture and calcareous deposits, which enhance sand strength and facilitate the growth of these towering structures. The findings suggest that groundwater from local sources may partially recharge nearby salt lakes, offering a mechanism for their persistence in an otherwise hyper-arid environment. Numerical simulations validated the observed radar profiles, supporting the proposed internal structure model.

Interrogating the ‘implementation’ of international policies of urban conservation in the medina of Tunis

Medina of Tunis — 2015 — WHE0E31E68EE9

Urban conservation policies in the Medina of Tunis reveal a complex interplay between international standards and local practices. The study highlights how French colonial-era interventions, particularly through the Mission de Tunisie (1881), shaped Tunisia's heritage legislation and institutions, blending imported knowledge with indigenous traditions like the Habous charitable trust. This dual approach has influenced the preservation and valuation of cultural heritage in Tunis, reflecting a long history from Punic and Roman times to modern conservation efforts. The research examines how these policies were implemented, offering insights into the challenges and synergies between global conservation frameworks and local governance.

Intrinsic and utilitarian valuing on K'gari-Fraser Island: a philosophical exploration of the modern disjunction between ecological and cultural valuing

K’gari (Fraser Island) — 2015 — WHE5EA3207AC8

A critical disjunction between ecological and cultural valuing hinders effective environmental advocacy for K’gari (Fraser Island), despite growing recognition of nature’s intrinsic value in ecological discourse. The study applies an adapted Principle of Double Effect to analyze the destructive impact of motor vehicles on the island, revealing how modern cultural frameworks fail to integrate geocentric ecological values. This philosophical exploration identifies underlying cultural causes of the disjunction, offering a pathway to bridge ecological advocacy with broader cultural recognition. The research combines ecological and philosophical perspectives to propose strategies for more successful environmental protection efforts.

Introduced semiaquatic mammals in the Uvs Nuur Hollow (Current distribution and ecological vectors of naturalization)

Uvs Nuur Basin — 2015 — WHE54467E83DD

Research reveals that the success of introduced semiaquatic mammals—muskrat, American mink, and Eurasian beaver—in the Uvs Nuur Basin hinges on trophic niche availability rather than postintroduction history or abiotic factors. Herbivorous species like the beaver, with access to stable food resources, exhibit greater adaptive success in this harsh, continental climate compared to carnivorous counterparts. The study highlights behavioral adaptations, such as the evolutionary stability of the beaver's building instinct, which facilitates colonization. While all three species occupy similar geographic ranges, their population trends and ecological impacts vary significantly, underscoring the critical role of trophic niche diversity in naturalization processes.