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A new Gis-based map of villa Adriana, a multimedia guide for ancient paths

Villa Adriana (Tivoli) — 2014 — WHEA180B6EA35

Researchers from the University of Roma Tre have developed a comprehensive GIS-based map and multimedia guide for Villa Adriana, revealing the villa's original layout and ancient pathways. This innovative approach integrates georeferenced plans, 3D reconstructions, photogrammetry, and augmented reality to provide real-time information about the villa's structure, functions, and historical users. The study combines extensive surveys, including orthophotos and recent excavations, with a detailed database that maps original functions, paving, user paths, and underground tunnels. A mobile app serves as an interactive guide, offering insights into Villa Adriana's past through 3D models and historical data, enhancing cultural heritage evaluation and public engagement.

A New Noncalcified Thallophytic Alga from the Lower Silurian of Anticosti Island, Eastern Canada

Anticosti — 2014 — WHED2DDEA5F2D

A newly discovered noncalcified thallophytic alga, Menieria minuta, from the Lower Silurian of Anticosti Island, provides rare fossil evidence of soft algal meadows that may have been widespread in Early Paleozoic deepwater subtidal environments. This delicate alga, characterized by a central axis with lateral branches and helically arranged appendages, formed significant biomass alongside brachiopods, suggesting parallels to modern sea grass meadows. The discovery sheds light on the ecological dynamics of photic-zone paleocommunities during this geological period.

A new species in theRhyacophila vagritagroup (Trichoptera: Rhyacophilidae) from Olympic National Park, Washington, USA

Olympic National Park — 2014 — WHE38467634D6

Researchers have identified and described Rhyacophila bifurcata, a new species of caddisfly within the R. vagrita group, discovered in Olympic National Park, Washington. This discovery contributes to the understanding of biodiversity in UNESCO World Heritage Sites by distinguishing it from its closest relative, R. milnei. The study provides a detailed diagnosis and comparative analysis of morphological traits, focusing on male specimens. By examining samples collected from the park, the research highlights the importance of thorough taxonomic studies in uncovering hidden species diversity within protected natural areas.

A new species of Dystacta Saussure, 1871 from Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda (Insecta, Mantodea, Dystactinae)

Nyungwe National Park — 2014 — WHEC0D8D8DDB2

A new species of praying mantis, Dystacta tigrifrutex, has been discovered in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda. This finding expands the known biodiversity of the region and provides insights into the morphological diversity within the genus Dystacta. The discovery was made through a targeted entomological survey conducted in 2013, which yielded two conspecific specimens—a male and female—along with first-instar nymphs and an ootheca (egg case). Researchers also re-described the previously monotypic genus Dystacta to broaden its definition. The study includes detailed morphological descriptions, measurement data, a key for species identification, natural history information, and locality data, contributing valuable resources for taxonomic studies and biodiversity documentation in Rwanda.

A New Species of Freshwater Eel-tailed Catfish of the GenusTandanus(Teleostei: Plotosidae) from the Wet Tropics Region of Eastern Australia

Wet Tropics of Queensland — 2014 — WHEDDB2A72453

Researchers have identified a new species of freshwater eel-tailed catfish, Tandanus tropicanus, from the Wet Tropics region of northeast Queensland. This discovery brings the total recognized species in the genus Tandanus to three, distinct from the previously known T. tandanus (eastern Australia) and T. bostocki (Western Australia). The new species is distinguished by a combination of meristic and morphometric traits, further supported by genetic analyses that confirm its taxonomic distinctness. The study employed a comprehensive approach, integrating morphological examination with genetic data to validate the discovery.

A new species of the genus Calotes (Squamata: Agamidae) from high elevations of the Knuckles Massif of Sri Lanka

Central Highlands of Sri Lanka — 2014 — WHE606207A99D

Researchers have identified a new species of agamid lizard, belonging to the genus Calotes, from the high elevations of Sri Lanka's Knuckles Massif. This discovery, based on morphological evidence, contributes to the understanding of endemic biodiversity in the region. The new species diverges significantly from its closest relative, C. liocephalus, due to distinct morphological traits such as the absence of a gular pouch in males, differences in scale size and structure, and variations in subcaudal scales. Additionally, the study redescribes C. liocephalus and provides a key for identifying Sri Lankan species within this genus. The findings highlight the unique evolutionary radiation of agamid lizards in Sri Lanka's central highlands, with five out of seven species appearing to be endemic.

A new species of the genus Chamaecrista (Leguminosae, Caesalpinioideae) from Chapada dos Veadeiros, Goiás, Brazil

Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks — 2014 — WHEC31D7581F7

Researchers have identified and described a new species of the genus Chamaecrista, named Chamaecrista frondosa, from the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park in Brazil. This discovery contributes to the understanding of biodiversity within the Cerrado Protected Areas, specifically highlighting its restriction to Cerrado sensu stricto and rocky fields. The species is morphologically similar to C. psoraleopsis but distinct due to unique traits such as caespitose, subshrubby habit, glandular trichomes on young branches and inflorescence axis, resin-dotted leaflets, and flowers with 10 fertile stamens. A key to the species of Chamaecrista sect. Absus series Microphyllae in the region is also provided, aiding future taxonomic studies. The study underscores the notable endemism and ecological significance of this area within UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

A New Take on the Field Trip: A Low-Tech, Inquiry-Based Virtual Field Experience

Mount Etna — 2014 — WHE5DA1C420A4

A novel, low-tech virtual field experience (VFE) model enables inquiry-based geoscience education without relying on internet access or specialized software. This approach, developed by a former geologist-turned-educator, uses hyperlinked PowerPoint slides saved as PDFs to simulate field trips, addressing logistical challenges like budget constraints and technical limitations in schools. The VFE is designed with clear learning goals, curated photo resources (either pre-existing or collected), and structured navigation to guide students through geologic sites—such as Mount Etna, Italy—focusing on hazards, mythology connections, or risk assessment. By emphasizing advance planning (1.5–2.5 hours) and aligning content with curriculum standards, the VFE fosters critical observation skills and argumentation while remaining adaptable to diverse educational contexts.

A PCR-RFLP method to detect hybridization between the invasive Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum) and the native northern watermilfoil (Myriophyllum sibiricum), and its application in Ontario lakes

Rideau Canal — 2014 — WHE7FD0DCC90B

Researchers have identified hybridization between the invasive Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum) and the native northern watermilfoil (Myriophyllum sibiricum), with four hybrid samples detected in three adjacent lakes linked to the Rideau Canal Waterway. This discovery, confirmed using a novel PCR-RFLP screening method, addresses challenges in morphological identification due to overlapping traits. The study validated this approach against traditional sequencing, demonstrating its efficiency for large-scale sampling. Findings suggest the hybrid's potential invasiveness and distribution along connected waterways, offering insights for managing aquatic ecosystems. This work provides a critical tool for monitoring hybridization in Ontario lakes.

A Place in Town in Medieval and Early Modern Westminster: The Origins and History of the Palaces in the Strand

Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey including Saint Margaret’s Church — 2014 — WHE66F3EB5461

Research reveals that the medieval bishops' palaces in Westminster's Strand were not primarily episcopal properties but rather products of royal government initiatives, driven by royal ministers. These structures, distinguished by their grouping and antiquity, served governmental functions linked to the establishment of royal and national administration in Westminster during the medieval and early modern periods. The study demonstrates that the necessities of royal governance continued to shape their history through the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, including their eventual transfer to lay ownership. This challenges traditional perceptions of their origin and purpose.

A Presença do Blastocerus Dichotomus nas Pinturas Rupestres do Parque Nacional Serra da Capivara e Seus Indicadores Paleoambientais

Serra da Capivara National Park — 2014 — WHEE0E640BB58

Rock art from Serra da Capivara National Park, Brazil, provides critical insights into paleoenvironmental conditions during the period of human occupation. The study identifies extinct and regionally absent species—such as Blastocerus dichotomus—depicted with remarkable detail, allowing for gender differentiation through morphological traits like antlers. By analyzing these zoomorphic representations alongside existing literature, researchers reconstruct probable environmental conditions, offering a reliable paleoambiental indicator. The approach combines art analysis, faunal identification, and ecological interpretation to bridge gaps in understanding past ecosystems.

A procedure for the identification of the seismic vulnerability at territorial scale. Application to the Casbah of Algiers

Kasbah of Algiers — 2014 — WHE743F0F67CD

A systematic approach to quantifying seismic vulnerability at territorial scale has been developed and successfully applied to the UNESCO-listed Kasbah of Algiers. This method, rooted in mechanical engineering principles, identifies collapse mechanisms and evaluates strengthening interventions to improve seismic performance across entire districts. The study leverages the Failure Mechanism Identification and Vulnerability Evaluation (FaMIVE) framework, which combines limit state analysis and kinematics to compute collapse load factors and derive capacity curves. Applied to 150 representative buildings in Algiers—challenged by pre-existing damage, poor maintenance, and complex urban layout—the procedure demonstrates its effectiveness in assessing and mitigating seismic fragility in historic centers. This work provides a robust tool for heritage conservation under seismic risks.

A prominent figure in Tatar archaeology: A. Kh. Khalikov’s 85th birthday anniversary

Historic and Architectural Complex of the Kazan Kremlin — 2014 — WHE3011A248D9

Alfred Khasanovich Khalikov, a pioneering archaeologist and historian, significantly advanced the understanding of the medieval archaeology and ethnogenesis of the Volga-Ural region. Over four decades, he led major archaeological expeditions, including those focused on the Kazan Kremlin, uncovering hundreds of monuments spanning from the Paleolithic to modern times. His work culminated in an extensive cultural-chronological framework for the Stone, Chalcolithic, Bronze, and Early Iron ages, along with a novel concept explaining the ethnogenesis of Finno-Ugric and Turkic peoples. Khalikov authored over 400 articles and 20 books, initiated a comprehensive inventory of Tatarstan's archaeological monuments, and championed cultural preservation efforts. His contributions at Kazan State University further solidified his legacy as a foundational figure in Tatar archaeology.

A prospectus for future geomorphological investigation of the Namib Sand Sea

Namib Sand Sea — 2014 — WHE3BF937C39F

The Namib Sand Sea provides a unique opportunity to study the evolution and dynamics of sand seas. This study outlines advanced approaches and techniques for investigating wind climate, dune morphometry, sediment structure, dune age, and modeling dune development. By integrating these methods, researchers aim to deepen our understanding of sand sea formation, sand flux, and dune patterns. The prospectus highlights the potential for future geomorphological research in this dynamic and ecologically significant landscape.

A Quality Assessment of Tourist Information: the Case of Nautical Tourism at Shiretoko Peninsula

Shiretoko — 2014 — WHE70F0767120

A mismatch between visitor expectations and actual experiences at Shiretoko Peninsula significantly impacts satisfaction and loyalty. The study found that information from online sources and guidebooks often leads to dissatisfaction with certain routes and elements, while local information from tourist offices, hotels, and shops is less problematic. Researchers employed a multi-group structural model to analyze the effects of different information sources on booking cruise tours in Shiretoko. This approach highlights the importance of accurate and locally grounded information in enhancing visitor satisfaction and fostering positive recommendations.

A record of sustained prehistoric and historic land use from the Cahokia region, Illinois, USA

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site — 2014 — WHE5BF7D4ACAA

A high-resolution paleoecological study of Horseshoe Lake, adjacent to Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, reveals that sustained prehistoric land use began abruptly around 450 CE and intensified over centuries before the rise of Cahokia. The research, combining palynological and carbon isotope data, documents rapid forest clearance followed by the proliferation of indigenous seed crops, peaking between 900 and 1200 CE. A major flood event around 1200 CE coincides with agricultural contraction and Cahokia's decline, suggesting environmental factors may have played a role in its downfall.

A Record of the Athenian Administration of Delos: Agora I 5162

Delos — 2014 — WHE8484DB4CCA

A newly analyzed inscription from the Athenian Agora, dated to 330/29–329/8 BCE, extends our understanding of the Athenian administration on Delos by four years. The damaged text, Agora I 5162, reveals details about land and building leases on Delos and Rheneia, as well as the roles of lesser-known officials. This record, the latest securely dated from this period, provides critical insights into administrative practices during the Athenian hegemony over these islands.

A relapsing fever group Borrelia sp. similar to Borrelia lonestari found among wild sika deer (Cervus nippon yesoensis) and Haemaphysalis spp. ticks in Hokkaido, Japan

Shiretoko — 2014 — WHE49FAAC4A24

Researchers have identified a relapsing fever Borrelia species, similar to Borrelia lonestari (B. lonestari-like), in wild sika deer and Haemaphysalis ticks in Hokkaido, Japan. The study found significant regional variation in prevalence, with 17% of deer in Shiretoko testing positive compared to just 2.8% in Shibetsu. Fawns exhibited a higher infection rate (21.9%) than adults (9.4%). Notably, B. lonestari-like was detected in Haemaphysalis ticks for the first time, suggesting these ticks may serve as vectors. The study also conducted the first phylogenetic analysis of this organism in Asia, providing insights into its distribution and potential public health implications.

A review ofRinodina(Physciaceae) in Great Smoky Mountains National Park highlights the growing significance of this “island of biodiversity” in eastern North America

Great Smoky Mountains National Park — 2014 — WHE79ACF07E2C

A comprehensive review of the crustose lichen genus Rinodina in Great Smoky Mountains National Park identifies 17 species, including three newly reported (R. bullata, R. excrescens, and R. oxydata) and one described as new to science (R. brodoana). The latter is restricted to old-growth hardwoods at middle to low elevations, with two species (R. brodoana and R. chrysomelaena) proposed for critically endangered IUCN Red List status. The study underscores the biodiversity significance of mid-to-low elevation habitats in this Appalachian hotspot, providing revised North American distributions, ecological insights, and a key to 21 Rinodina species in the southern Appalachians.

A Short and Somewhat Personal History of Yukon Glacier Studies in the Twentieth Century

Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek — 2014 — WHE0C3E5A6A6C

Yukon glacier studies have evolved significantly since their inception, with the establishment of the Kluane Lake Research Station by the Arctic Institute of North America (AINA) in 1961 marking a pivotal moment. This station became the hub for numerous glaciological programs, including those focused on Hubbard Glacier and Kaskawulsh Glacier. A notable event was the 1965–67 surge of Steele Glacier, which significantly influenced research directions. The study also highlights the long-term Trapridge Glacier project, providing a comprehensive overview of Yukon glacier studies from 1935 to the end of the 20th century. This historical account emphasizes the trajectory and key milestones in glacier science within this region.