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Placuit apostolicae (Ep. 1) of Zosimus of Rome and the Ecclesiastical Reorganization of Gaul

Arles, Roman and Romanesque Monuments — 2015 — WHE3F83F1342A

A new analysis challenges the notion that Zosimus of Rome initiated the ecclesiastical reorganization of Gaul, suggesting instead that it was driven by the bishop of Arles. The study examines Zosimus's Epistula 1 (Ep. 1), which in 417 AD asserted Arles as metropolitan over multiple provinces, sparking significant religious conflict. While previous research attributed this reorganization to Zosimus's authority, this paper argues that it was the bishop of Arles who sought to expand his influence, potentially anticipating the resultant backlash. The analysis relies on historical records, including seven additional letters and a synod in Rome, to reassess the motives and consequences of this ecclesiastical shift.

Planning and Managing the Preservation of Historical Buildings in the Old City of Hebron Palestine

Hebron/Al-Khalil Old Town — 2015 — WHE4FBC2333D6

A critical approach to preserving historical buildings in Hebron's Old Town demonstrates that detailed architectural documentation—including plans, elevations, and sections—is essential for addressing complex challenges during the planning and management of preservation projects. These challenges encompass architectural significance, future use, environmental integration, cost analysis, time constraints, and quality assurance. By leveraging expert-generated documentation, many of these issues can be systematically resolved, ensuring the sustainable transfer of heritage to future generations.

Plant diversity and ecology of ultramafic outcrops in Sabah (Malaysia)

Kinabalu Park — 2015 — WHED27DBB82C4

Kinabalu Park, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, harbors one of the most species-rich ultramafic outcrops globally, with over 2542 plant species recorded, many of which are endemic to the park or Borneo. This study highlights the significant but understudied biodiversity and ecological importance of these outcrops, which occupy less than 1% of Earth's land surface yet support a high diversity of plants adapted to ultramafic soils. The research documents the flora, emphasizing the threat posed by land-use conversion, which could lead to localized extinctions due to the narrow distribution ranges of many species. The study combines field surveys and taxonomic documentation, providing a critical baseline for understanding and conserving this unique ecosystem.

Plant selection for ethnobotanical uses on the Amalfi Coast (Southern Italy)

Costiera Amalfitana — 2015 — WHE11EAC2F97F

Plant selection for ethnobotanical uses on the Amalfi Coast is not primarily driven by phylogeny, according to a study that compared statistical methods using medicinal and non-medicinal plant datasets. The research found that while Lamiaceae was consistently over-used in medicinal contexts across both floras studied, other families like Malvaceae and Poaceae showed inconsistencies depending on the dataset and method used. Regression analysis emerged as the most conservative approach for interpreting results. Additionally, the study revealed a non-random selection of woody species for non-medicinal uses and an under-use of temperate forest plants for medicinal purposes.

Plant–soil interactions in lower–upper montane systems and their implications in a warming world: a case study from the Maloti-Drakensberg Park, southern Africa

Maloti-Drakensberg Park — 2015 — WHEE089902353

Research in the Maloti-Drakensberg Park reveals that soil nutrient availability, particularly phosphorus and nitrogen, is more constrained than previously understood due to factors like nutrient leaching, low pH, and high rainfall. Despite the presence of nutrient-rich flood basalts, these soils share strong links with the nutrient-poor Cape Floristic Region, suggesting a fragile nutrient economy vulnerable to climate change. The study highlights the treeline ecotone as a critical temperature threshold area where vegetation shifts could be readily detected, providing insights into how mountain plant communities may respond to warming conditions. This work proposes key research areas to investigate potential ecological impacts on nutrient-poor-adapted biota under future climate scenarios.

Plants and Vegetation in the Archaeological Park of Neapolis of Syracuse (Sicily, Italy): A Management Effort and also an Opportunity for Better Enjoyment of the Site

Syracuse and the Rocky Necropolis of Pantalica — 2015 — WHE93D49C05CB

Maintenance interventions in the Neapolis Archaeological Park of Syracuse, Italy, have not only preserved significant flora but also uncovered potential classical-period introductions. An interdisciplinary project following 2013's green area restoration developed management guidelines for the site's vegetation, enhancing both monument preservation and visitor engagement through thematic routes. The study highlights how integrated conservation efforts can dual-purpose: safeguarding heritage while enriching interpretive experiences.

Pliocene Alluvial to Marine Deposits of the Val D’Orcia Basin (Northern Apennines, Italy): Sequence Stratigraphy and Basin Analysis

Val d'Orcia — 2015 — WHE9C456AEC75

The Val d'Orcia Basin, located in the Northern Apennines of Italy, was identified as an inherited depression formed by erosion during the Late Miocene-Early Pliocene transition. This study reveals that its Pliocene depositional history was primarily controlled by relative sea-level changes, leading to the recognition of three distinct depositional sequences (Vd3a-c). The Vd3a sequence records marine ingression and subsequent highstand, while Vd3b and Vd3c sequences reflect progressive basin widening. Notably, bioclastic deposits in the Vd3c sequence suggest potential climatic influence on sedimentation. The research employs a sequence stratigraphic approach to analyze these deposits, providing insights into the basin's geological evolution.

Plutonism in three dimensions: Field and geochemical relations on the southeast face of El Capitan, Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite National Park — 2015 — WHE92B6D4E8CD

A detailed geologic mapping of El Capitan's southeast face in Yosemite National Park reveals a complex intrusive history involving multiple granitic units, with no significant post-emplacement deformation. New U-Pb zircon geochronologic data shows that the El Capitan Granite and associated diorites formed between approximately 106 and 103 million years ago (Ma), overlapping with the intrusion of other plutons like Taft, Leaning Tower, and Bridalveil. These findings suggest a distinct order of emplacement, providing insights into the geological processes shaping this iconic landscape.

Point cloud vs drawing on archaeological site

Saint Hilarion Monastery/ Tell Umm Amer — 2015 — WHE4E7C680711

A comparative analysis of traditional archaeological documentation methods and modern three-dimensional acquisition techniques, such as laser scanning and photogrammetry, reveals that while both approaches are effective, the latter offers significant time-saving benefits without compromising data quality. The study, conducted at Saint Hilarion Monastery in the Gaza Strip, demonstrates that systematic photogrammetric documentation of stratigraphic layers can replace conventional drawing methods during excavations, particularly in preventive archaeology where time constraints are critical. However, it also highlights potential risks associated with incorrect photogrammetry practices and underscores the need for standardized monitoring protocols to ensure accurate data collection. This research suggests a shift towards integrating advanced acquisition techniques into mainstream archaeological practice, balancing efficiency with scientific rigor.

Policy dimensions of land-use change in peri-urban floodplains: the case of Paraty

Paraty and Ilha Grande – Culture and Biodiversity — 2015 — WHE9FADFD9839

A study on the peri-urban floodplains of Paraty, Brazil, reveals that land-use policies significantly influence ecological outcomes and community resilience. The research highlights how urban expansion, agricultural encroachment, and conservation efforts interact to shape biodiversity and floodplain dynamics. By analyzing policy impacts over time, the authors demonstrate that effective governance can mitigate negative environmental effects while supporting sustainable development. This case study provides critical insights for balancing urban growth with ecological preservation in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Political Interactions among Social Actors: Spatial Organization at the Classic Maya Polity of El Palmar, Campeche, Mexicó

Maya Site of Copan — 2015 — WHE1551E6BAFA

Research at the outlying Guzmán Group of El Palmar, Campeche, Mexico, reveals that these peripheral settlements played a crucial role in negotiating power and ideology during the Late and Terminal Classic Maya period (ca. A.D. 600-900). The discovery of a hieroglyphic stairway provides unprecedented epigraphic evidence linking a prominent individual to lakam (banner-bearer) officials and foreign rulers, including those from Copán and Calakmul. This finding challenges the traditional focus on central sites by demonstrating that outlying groups were active participants in political interactions, shaping the spatial organization of Maya polities through complex social dynamics.

Polygenetic (Polyphase) Karsted Hardground Omission Surfaces In Lower Silurian Neritic Limestones: Anticosti Island, Eastern Canada

Anticosti — 2015 — WHECA5B0BDB35

Research on Anticosti Island, Québec, reveals the existence of polygenetic (polyphase) karsted hardground omission surfaces in Lower Silurian Chicotte Formation limestones. These surfaces, formed through combined marine and meteoric diagenesis, include planar erosional bedding tops, scalloped erosional surfaces, knobs, ridges, swales at bedding contacts, and paleoscarps. The study proposes that these features are linked to specific diagenetic–depositional processes in terrestrial–peritidal–shallow neritic zones, influenced by fluctuations in relative sea level. These processes include karst corrosion, peritidal–shallow subtidal erosion, subtidal seawater flushing and cementation, and shallow subtidal deposition. The surfaces are interpreted to have been the result of initial extensive shallow-water synsedimentary lithification forming hardgrounds, which were planed by inner-neritic abrasion, altered by exposure and subaerial corrosion, and buried by sediments as sea level rose again. This succession was repeated several times, resulting in a suite of recurring polyphase omission surfaces through many meters of stratigraphic section. The study also notes that these Silurian inner-neritic–strandline omission surfaces are temporally unique, part of a suite of marine omission surfaces mostly found in early to middle Paleozoic neritic carbonate sedimentary rocks.

Population Ecology of American Crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) in Coiba National Park, Panama

Coiba National Park and its Special Zone of Marine Protection — 2015 — WHE5A0928C270

A balanced sex ratio with slight female dominance and dispersed population distribution were observed for the American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) in Coiba National Park, Panama. Females were marginally larger than males (115.1 ± 56.9 cm vs. 105.4 ± 71.8 cm). Encounter rates varied annually, peaking at 1.8 ind/km in 2009 and showing a correlation with protected areas. The study, conducted through nocturnal surveys covering 147.2 km over 99 nights from 2009–2012, captured 185 crocodiles across 581.12 km² of habitat—78% natural (mangroves, beaches) and 22% disturbed. Spatial analysis revealed habitat loss due to agricultural conversion but no significant population decline. The findings underscore the need for long-term monitoring to differentiate natural fluctuations from anthropogenic impacts on crocodile ecology.

Population ecology, conservation status and genetics of the spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta) in the Odzala-Kokoua National Park, Republic of Congo, including an assessment of the status of spotted hyenas in southeast Gabon

Forest Massif of Odzala-Kokoua — 2015 — WHE80DF2A2771

A critical decline of the last remaining spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta) population in Central Africa, confined to Odzala-Kokoua National Park (OKNP), Republic of Congo, is imminent due to poaching with illegal wire snares. This study reveals that the population—comprising five clans and eight transient individuals—has shrunk by nearly 50% within two years, with 11 likely deaths recorded. The hyenas' survival hinges on the abundance of key prey species like forest buffalo (Syncerus caffer nanus), red river hog (Potamocherus porcus), and bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus), which dominate their diet but show minimal activity overlap, indicating high energy investment for foraging. The study also highlights the vulnerability of this isolated population to stochastic threats like disease and inbreeding. Camera trapping and acoustic monitoring of communal den sites—critical for clan survival—reveal human infrastructure disturbances as additional risks. Immediate intervention is required to prevent extinction.

Population genetic insights into the social organization of Guinea baboons (Papio papio): Evidence for female‐biased dispersal

Niokolo-Koba National Park — 2015 — WHEA7E5CFB209

A groundbreaking study on Guinea baboons (Papio papio) in Niokolo-Koba National Park, Senegal, reveals female-biased dispersal—a rare pattern among baboon species. Contrary to the typical male dispersal observed in closely related baboons, this research demonstrates that female Guinea baboons disperse while males remain philopatric, mirroring the social structure of hamadryas baboons and human hunter-gatherers. The study analyzed 165 individuals using microsatellite markers and mitochondrial DNA sequencing, uncovering higher genetic structuring in males, which aligns with their philopatric behavior. This finding challenges long-held assumptions about baboon social dynamics and underscores the species' unique cooperative social organization, offering new insights into the evolutionary processes shaping complex societies.

Population genetic structure and distribution patterns of sexual and asexual gecko species in the Ogasawara Islands

Ogasawara Islands — 2015 — WHE18A1270FD5

Asexual reproduction, typically associated with low genetic diversity, appears to confer advantages in dispersal and abundance for the all-female gecko Lepidodactylus lugubris in the Ogasawara Islands. Unlike its sexual counterpart, Hemidactylus frenatus, which shows limited distribution and genetic variation across four islands, L. lugubris dominates nine islands with two widely distributed clones (diploid and triploid). This suggests that asexual reproduction may enhance dispersal success in oceanic environments. However, H. frenatus's absence from non-human-inhabited islands could stem from microhabitat preferences, as it is more confined to artificial substrates like towns and roadways compared to L. lugubris. The study used microsatellite markers on 445 geckos to assess genetic structure but notes that colonization histories remain unconfirmed, warranting further research.

Population Genetics of Jaguars ( Panthera onca ) in the Brazilian Pantanal: Molecular Evidence for Demographic Connectivity on a Regional Scale

Pantanal Conservation Area — 2015 — WHEA6786C44EE

A study analyzing 12 microsatellite loci of 52 jaguars from four localities in the southern Pantanal reveals that this region supports a single, genetically diverse jaguar population with high connectivity. Unlike heavily fragmented populations like those in the Atlantic Forest, the Pantanal's intact habitat maintains strong demographic stability and low genetic differentiation. Comparative analyses suggest recent human-induced fragmentation in the Atlantic Forest, while evidence of admixture between the Pantanal and western Atlantic Forest populations highlights a transitional zone where jaguars have already been extirpated. This research underscores the importance of preserving natural connectivity to support jaguar population resilience and informs conservation strategies for less disturbed regions like the Pantanal.

Population Structure of Araucaria angustifolia in the Iguaçu National Park

Iguaçu National Park — 2015 — WHEFCF1A52BFA

Iguaçu National Park serves as a critical conservation remnant for Araucaria angustifolia, with its population structure exhibiting a standard inverted-J pattern, indicative of healthy regeneration. The study found that regenerating individuals predominantly display an aggregated distribution, while juveniles, males, and females show a uniform pattern. Regeneration is more effective in shaded environments, as higher frequencies were observed at greater canopy densities. Researchers analyzed 479 individuals across 200 plots, revealing the park's importance for the species' survival amid agricultural encroachment.

Population, Basking and Hatching Success of Gavialis gangeticus in Narayani River, Chitwan National Park, Nepal

Chitwan National Park — 2015 — WHE1F6A6AE088

A critical population assessment of the endangered gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) in Chitwan National Park, Nepal, reveals a severely limited breeding capacity with only one breeding male observed among 38 individuals over two years. The study, conducted from 2012 to 2013 along the Narayani River, identified two key habitats—Khoria muhan and Velaunji—as critical for gharial survival due to favorable conditions and minimal human disturbance. Gharials exhibited distinct basking preferences: those in Khoria muhan favored shallow to moderate depths with braided channels, while those in Velaunji selected deeper main-channel waters. The research underscores the urgent need for conservation measures, such as fishing bans and habitat monitoring, to ensure long-term survival of this critically endangered species.

Port adaptation for climate change: The roles of stakeholders and the planning process

Port, Fortresses and Group of Monuments, Cartagena — 2015 — WHE661DDFE388

A comprehensive analysis of climate change adaptation for ports, particularly focusing on Terminal Maritimo Muelles El Bosque (MEB) in Cartagena, Colombia, reveals significant risks and opportunities. The study identifies that MEB's strategic location in a secure natural harbor shields it from tropical storms but highlights the vulnerability of road infrastructure to sea-level rise due to limited elevation data availability. It also underscores the sensitivity of port operations to global economic fluctuations, with climate change potentially altering market conditions for trade. The research employs a stakeholder engagement and planning process framework to assess these dynamics, providing actionable insights for ports facing similar challenges.