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Climatological Characterization and Observed Trends in Climatic Extremes in the State of Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro: Carioca Landscapes between the Mountain and the Sea — 2014 — WHE9E943FBA9A

A significant increase in climatic extremes has been observed in the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, between 1961 and 2012. Research indicates statistically significant rises in mean maximum temperatures, particularly in the Metropolitan Region and North/Northwest areas, with rates ranging from +0.01 to +0.08°C per year. Additionally, there is a notable increase in warm nights and days across almost the entire state, at a rate of +0.1 to +0.6% days per year. Rainfall trends show significant increases in annual totals in the Baixadas Litorâneas, with rates between +4.0 and +32.0 mm per year, as well as more frequent heavy rain events in this region and parts of the Metropolitan Region, ranging from +2.0 to +20 mm per year. The study analyzed observational data to characterize temperature and precipitation patterns, providing critical insights into climate change impacts on this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Climber's Paradise

Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks — 2014 — WHE01A7559FB4

A century of advocacy and adventure by the Alpine Club of Canada (ACC) has shaped the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks into a 'climber's paradise,' blending human activity with wild spaces. PearlAnn Reichwein's research, rooted in mountaineering experience and mountain culture studies, presents a novel framework for understanding these landscapes as interconnected systems. By integrating environmental history, public policy, sport studies, recreation, and tourism, the study offers a multidisciplinary perspective that challenges conventional narratives of development versus preservation. This work not only contributes to academic fields but also resonates with mountaineers, environmentalists, and travelers, providing a nuanced lens through which to view Canada's natural heritage.

Closure to “Hydraulic Principles of the 2,268-Year-Old Dujiangyan Project in China” by Shanghong Zhang, Yujun Yi, Yan Liu, and Xingkui Wang

Mount Qingcheng and the Dujiangyan Irrigation System — 2014 — WHE8E322AA9DD

A critical analysis of the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, a 2,268-year-old UNESCO-listed marvel, reveals that its Baizhang dike and Renzi dike play pivotal roles in flood control and sediment management. Contrary to earlier assumptions, the Fish Mouth does not automatically regulate water diversion; instead, upstream reaches govern flow patterns during floods and dry seasons. The Baizhang dike stabilizes the Min River's bed, preventing flooding while allowing driftwood entry into the Inner River during non-flood periods. Annual maintenance, traditionally performed by farmers in winter, ensures system stability by clearing sediment and adjusting weir structures like Feishayan to balance flood discharge and irrigation demands. Post-1992, maintenance intervals extended to every 10 years due to reduced upstream sediment influx and modern gate installations controlling Inner River flow.

Collectif Maghreb-Égalité 95: Towards a North African feminist movement

Medina of Tunis — 2014 — WHECBCDD5DCCA

A North African feminist movement, rooted in Tunisia's Medina of Tunis, has emerged as a response to systemic gender inequality and the neglect of vulnerable women. Sana Ben Achour, a prominent activist and legal scholar, spearheaded efforts to amend Tunisia's Code of Personal Status, addressing issues like inheritance inequality and male-dominated parental authority. Her work extended beyond legislation, establishing the first support center for victims of violence and later founding a non-profit organization to aid homeless women, a marginalized group with no social safety net. The movement also confronts growing threats to reproductive rights, as religious influences deter healthcare professionals from providing abortion services, particularly to single women. This case study highlights the intersection of legal advocacy, grassroots activism, and urban space repurposing in advancing gender equality within a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Colors of thermal pools at Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park — 2014 — WHEF953A0CF9B

The vibrant colors observed in Yellowstone National Park's thermal pools are primarily shaped by microbial mats at the pool bottoms, with their spectral properties linked to water temperature. Deeper pools, however, derive their hues mainly from wavelength-dependent absorption and scattering within the water itself. Researchers used a 1D radiative transfer model to simulate these colors, incorporating data on water attenuation, microbial mat reflection, and surface reflection. The study also utilized thermal imaging to map water skin temperatures, confirming that shallow-water features' colors are dominated by microbial activity, while deeper pools exhibit color variations due to light interaction with the water column.

Combining EMI and GPR for non‐invasive soil sensing at the Stonehenge World Heritage Site: the reconstruction of a WW1 practice trench

Stonehenge, Avebury and Associated Sites — 2014 — WHE14FE6D308A

Integrating electromagnetic induction (EMI) and ground-penetrating radar (GPR) enables the non-invasive reconstruction of buried features at UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Stonehenge. This study successfully mapped a WW1 practice trench using combined EMI apparent magnetic susceptibility (κa) and GPR data, overcoming limitations in traditional soil sampling methods. While EMI alone failed to detect the trench, its κa measurements, paired with GPR reflections, allowed for precise depth estimation by modeling relative permittivity (εr). The approach provides a scalable method for investigating protected archaeological landscapes without destructive sampling, offering new insights into buried heritage.

Combining SERS and microspectrofluorimetry with historically accurate reconstructions for the characterization of lac dye paints in medieval manuscript illuminations

Monastery of Alcobaça — 2014 — WHE611E168270

Researchers successfully identified lac dye paints in medieval manuscript illuminations using innovative spectroscopic techniques, revealing their molecular composition and formulation. By combining surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) with microspectrofluorimetry, the study provided a conclusive fingerprint of lac dye while offering insights into additional paint components like binders and fillers. Historically accurate reconstructions of lac dye paints, prepared according to medieval recipes, served as reference materials to enhance the interpretation of spectroscopic results. This multi-analytical approach, including Raman microscopy and micro-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, established a robust database for studying complex medieval dyes, advancing our understanding of their use in art and conservation.

Commentary

Kremlin and Red Square, Moscow — 2014 — WHE32C13E82A7

Catastrophic heat waves, such as those in Chicago (1995), France (2003), and Russia (2010), often share similar patterns of public health impact despite unique local characteristics. A study by Shaposhnikov et al. updates mortality estimates for the 2010 Russian heat wave, highlighting the interaction between extreme temperatures and wildfire-related air pollution, which contributed to unprecedented excess deaths and severe air quality degradation in Moscow. The research reveals that such events frequently involve out-of-town officials, infrastructure failures (e.g., power outages), overwhelmed medical services, and heightened air pollution—factors that exacerbate health risks. These patterns suggest that while heat waves may appear distinct, their catastrophic outcomes often stem from shared vulnerabilities, necessitating urgent public health preparedness.

Communicating the World Heritage brand: visitor awareness of UNESCO's World Heritage symbol and the implications for sites, stakeholders and sustainable management

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park — 2014 — WHE4AED900B7A

A significant disconnect exists between UNESCO's World Heritage (WH) branding efforts and visitor awareness, with only 19% of visitors to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park recognizing its WH status. Despite the WH symbol's intended purpose to prompt positive emotions and behaviors, a survey of 2539 visitors across six sites revealed that nearly all—96% in Queensland and 99% in Hawaii—could not recall what the symbol represented. This suggests park agencies may undervalue or strategically restrict WH branding, limiting opportunities to educate visitors about the importance of preserving these irreplaceable properties. The findings underscore the need for stronger branding strategies to support sustainable management and long-term conservation efforts.

Community involvement and joint operations aid effective anti-poaching in Tanzania

Selous Game Reserve — 2014 — WHE4465EADED4

Effective anti-poaching strategies in the Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania, are significantly enhanced by community involvement and joint operations. The study highlights that collaborative efforts between local communities and authorities can mitigate poaching activities, including illegal elephant killings for ivory and timber trade. The Selous Game Reserve, characterized by a complex mosaic of wildlife habitats, human settlements, subsistence agriculture, and livestock, faces severe poaching pressures due to its accessibility and proximity to international borders. Poaching groups have been reported to remain in the reserve for extended periods, exacerbating the challenge. The research underscores the importance of integrated management approaches that engage local communities and leverage joint operations to address these threats effectively.

Community Involvement in Tourism Development: A Case Study of Lenggong Valley World Heritage Site

Archaeological Heritage of the Lenggong Valley — 2014 — WHEBDC482D591

A positive correlation between community involvement and economic growth was identified at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lenggong Valley, Malaysia. The study found that heritage tourism development, which leverages cultural and archaeological attractions, significantly contributes to local prosperity in Hulu Perak. Recommendations for a community-driven approach include establishing a central hub for economic and social activities, with an emphasis on engaging local stakeholders in tourism-related initiatives. This research highlights the potential of community-centered development strategies to enhance both economic benefits and long-term sustainability at heritage sites.

Community structure, regeneration potential and future dynamics of natural forest site in part of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, Uttarakhand, India

Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks — 2014 — WHE94108176F6

A study on the Pindari-Sunderdhunga-Kafni (PSK) region within Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve reveals that its forest communities exhibit progressive demographic structures, suggesting long-term persistence. The research analyzed 30 forest stands, identifying 332 plant species across 11 communities and assessing regeneration patterns to predict future compositional dynamics. Differences in species regeneration behavior indicate potential shifts in community structure under varying environmental scenarios. This site is proposed as a candidate for long-term ecological monitoring, offering insights into the resilience and adaptability of Himalayan forests.

Comparative Ectoparasite Loads of Five Seabird Species in the Galapagos Islands

Galápagos Islands — 2014 — WHEBF4B000CCD

A comparative analysis of ectoparasitic lice infesting five seabird species in the Galápagos Islands revealed that inter-island differences were the primary predictors of parasite prevalence and infestation intensity. The study identified nine species of lice, including shared and host-specific varieties across magnificent frigatebirds, great frigatebirds, Nazca boobies, blue-footed boobies, and red-footed boobies. While factors such as host sex, body size, breeding status, and family were examined, island-specific variations emerged as the dominant influence on parasite loads. These findings suggest potential links to host density or environmental conditions, though further research is needed to clarify these relationships.

Comparative Study Between Three Courtyards of Traditional Houses in Islamic Cairo

Historic Cairo — 2014 — WHEB3567E6FAA

A comparative analysis of three historic courtyards in Islamic Cairo—Zaynab Khatun (1468 AD), Gamal Al-Din Al-Dahaby (1637 AD), and Es-Sinnari (1794 AD)—reveals distinct patterns in shaded area distribution and direct solar radiation exposure on walls, floors, and openings during solstice periods. The study demonstrates that traditional Islamic architecture in Cairo effectively mitigates summer heat load while optimizing winter solar gain, a critical adaptation for hot arid climates. By measuring radiation on key dates (21 June and 21 December), the research quantifies how these courtyards leverage shading strategies to regulate thermal comfort, offering insights into sustainable design principles rooted in historic urban landscapes.

Comparative Study on Physical and Mechanical Characteristics of Volcanic Rocks in Jeju Island

Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes — 2014 — WHE6E33FF891D

A comparative analysis of volcanic rocks on Jeju Island reveals distinct linear relationships between absorption (porosity) and apparent specific gravity, which can be represented by two separate linear approximations due to environmental factors. This study also clarifies the relationships between P-wave and S-wave velocities, as well as between absorption (porosity) and uniaxial compressive strength, by considering these dual linear correlations. Unlike previous research that focused on isolated geological or mechanical properties, this comprehensive analysis synthesizes existing data to provide a clearer understanding of the physical and mechanical characteristics of Jeju's volcanic rocks.

Comparison of Different Methods to Rectify IKONOS Imagery without Use of Sensor Viewing Geometry.

Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park with the Archeological Sites of Paestum and Velia, and the Certosa di Padula — 2014 — WHE47C640672B

A comparison of polynomial functions (PFs) and rational polynomial functions (RPFs) for rectifying IKONOS imagery without sensor viewing geometry reveals that RPFs, which incorporate 3D ground control points (GCPs) and a digital elevation model (DEM), achieve higher positional accuracy than PFs. The study, conducted on the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park in Italy, used ortho-photos as GCPs and check points (CPs) to evaluate residuals between real-world coordinates and rectified image values. RPFs demonstrated superior performance, particularly when using a DEM with 20-meter cell size, while PFs relied solely on planimetric GCP data. The findings also highlight the potential of recalculating rational polynomial coefficients (RPCs) for improved accuracy over provider-supplied values.

Complete mitogenome of Chinese shrew moleUropsilus soricipes(Milne-Edwards, 1871) (Mammalia: Talpidae) and genetic structure of the species in the Jiajin Mountains (China)

Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries - Wolong, Mt Siguniang and Jiajin Mountains — 2014 — WHE8EBAA90384

Researchers have uncovered evidence that the Chinese shrew mole (Uropsilus soricipes) experienced significant demographic expansion around 46,600 years ago, with its genetic structure shaped by mountain ranges. Analyzing the complete mitochondrial genome of this species—16,575 base pairs long—the study revealed low nucleotide diversity and high haplotype diversity in populations from the Jiajin Mountains. Phylogenetic analysis further indicated that two distinct clades diverged during the middle Pleistocene, approximately 0.986 million years ago, highlighting the role of geological features in influencing species distribution. This work provides new insights into the evolutionary history and population dynamics of Uropsilus soricipes, contributing to our understanding of biodiversity patterns in UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries.

Comportamiento de las estructuras de madera construidas en la Estancia Jesuítica de Santa Catalina en el siglo XVII

Jesuit Block and Estancias of Córdoba — 2014 — WHE3B7FB09269

Research on the Estancia Jesuítica de Santa Catalina reveals that wooden structures built by Jesuits in the 17th century exhibit remarkable durability after over 360 years. The study, conducted by Gómez et al., identifies structural typologies and analyzes their physical and mechanical properties to assess safety according to Brazilian standards (BR7190). Macroscopic and microscopic examinations, along with deformation tests, were performed in the Universidad Nacional de Santiago del Estero and a specialized laboratory. Findings highlight the resilience of these historical structures while also identifying pathological manifestations that necessitate conservation interventions. The research underscores the importance of preserving such heritage sites, offering insights into long-term structural integrity and restoration strategies.

Concentrations and resorption patterns of 13 nutrients in different plant functional types in the karst region of south-western China

South China Karst — 2014 — WHE724B8915A9

Nutrient resorption patterns in karst ecosystems vary significantly by element and plant functional type, revealing distinct strategies for nutrient retention and cycling. The study found that while phosphorus (P) emerged as the primary limiting nutrient for plant growth, four nutrients—nitrogen (N), P, potassium (K), and magnesium (Mg)—were resorbed during leaf senescence, with resorption efficiencies ranging from 13.2% to 63.2%. Conversely, seven nutrients, including calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn), accumulated in senesced leaves, indicating their retention rather than resorption. These patterns strongly influenced litter quality and were linked to nutrient concentrations in green leaves, with N:P, N:K, and N:Mg ratios predicting resorption proficiency for specific nutrients. The findings underscore the complexity of plant nutrient use strategies in karst regions, providing new insights into biogeochemical cycling.

Concession in tourism services and partnerships in the Marine National Park of Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

Brazilian Atlantic Islands: Fernando de Noronha and Atol das Rocas Reserves — 2014 — WHE56E3EE90D4

A public-private partnership model for tourism services in Brazil's Marine National Park of Fernando de Noronha demonstrates significant potential for sustainable management. The study, the first to analyze such a concession in an insular protected area, found that it improved infrastructure, tourist services, and local employment while maintaining ecological goals. Researchers conducted interviews and field observations between 2012 and 2013, revealing a robust network of government, businesses, and organizations collaborating through formal agreements and the park's Advisory Council. While environmental impact data was limited due to unavailable reports, the model shows promise for balancing tourism development with biodiversity conservation in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.