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Showing 24681 – 24700 of 30345 publications

Confirming the Metazoan Character of a 565 Ma Trace-Fossil Assemblage from Mistaken Point, Newfoundland

Mistaken Point — 2014 — WHEB09BA7A66E

A 565-million-year-old trace-fossil assemblage from Mistaken Point, Newfoundland, provides evidence of muscular metazoans in late Ediacaran deep-marine ecosystems. Analysis of the fossils, preserved within a turbidite succession, rules out abiogenic origins and links their formation to organisms capable of controlled locomotion, akin to modern mollusks and actinians. While not attributable to known ichnotaxa, the traces exhibit morphological characteristics consistent with muscular movement, suggesting the presence of complex organisms predating the Cambrian explosion.

Connectivity networks reveal the risks of crown‐of‐thorns starfish outbreaks on the Great Barrier Reef

Great Barrier Reef — 2014 — WHE3918929A4C

Crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS) outbreaks on the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) can spread systemwide due to high larval connectivity between reefs, particularly in the Cooktown–Cairns region. This study used network analysis of simulated COTS larval dispersal to identify areas with elevated local and long-range connectivity, which act as high-risk sources for large-scale epidemics. The findings reveal that these regions not only amplify outbreaks locally but also have the potential to propagate them across the entire GBR, increasing ecosystem-wide impacts. By mapping per-reef risks, this approach provides actionable insights for targeting surveillance and control measures to mitigate COTS outbreaks, offering a scalable method applicable to other interconnected ecological systems.

Consequence of the transformation of a primeval forest into a managed forest for carabid beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) - a case study from Białowieża (Poland)

Białowieża Forest — 2014 — WHE20E4274F56

A study comparing carabid beetle assemblages in Białowieża Primeval Forest and adjacent managed forest reveals that while species richness does not significantly differ between the two, primeval stands exhibit higher diversity (Shannon index) than managed ones. The research found that mesic (moderately moist) stands support more species regardless of forest type, with boggy primeval forests hosting greater carabid diversity than boggy managed forests. Soil fertility also plays a role, as highly fertile stands harbor more species. These findings suggest that the 80-year-old managed forest retains good habitat quality for carabid beetles, providing a strong argument for its conservation. The study used pitfall traps in plots differing in humidity and soil fertility to test hypotheses about the influence of stand type, humidity, and soil fertility on carabid assemblages.

Conservation and Ethnobotanical Knowledge of a Hmong Community in Long Lan, Luang Prabang, Lao People's Democratic Republic

Town of Luang Prabang — 2014 — WHE9305EFB870

A study of the Hmong community in Long Lan, Luang Prabang, reveals that traditional ethnobotanical practices may serve as a mechanism for biodiversity conservation in the region's rapidly deteriorating forests. Researchers identified 74 plant species used culturally and for livelihood purposes, with positive correlations found between their usage and conservation status. The findings suggest that integrating indigenous knowledge into conservation strategies could mitigate forest loss in Laos.

Conservation Strategy of Kahuzi-Biega National Park (KBNP) by the use of Biogas among the Surrounding Population

Kahuzi-Biega National Park — 2014 — WHEC0389365C7

A conservation strategy using biogas technology significantly reduced the destruction of Kahuzi-Biega National Park (KBNP) by decreasing wood and charcoal consumption among surrounding households. The study found that installing 1,000 digesters could save over 20.3 tons of embers and wood annually, while also improving agricultural productivity through fertilizer derived from digesters. However, only a small percentage (6.5%) of households agreed to plant trees, indicating limited engagement in broader conservation practices. The research analyzed data from 100 households in two villages using analytical methods and observations, demonstrating the potential but also the challenges of biogas adoption for park conservation.

Constructing a Narrative for the Neolithic of Britain and Ireland

Heart of Neolithic Orkney — 2014 — WHEA815989038

A genetic and morphometric analysis of the Orkney vole challenges existing archaeological narratives about Neolithic arrival in Orkney, highlighting discrepancies between radiocarbon dating, dietary evidence, and biological data. The study also evaluates the success of Projet JADE, an international research program investigating jadeitite axeheads, to demonstrate how 'hard science' can both inform and be informed by archaeological narratives. By integrating multiple scientific approaches—radiocarbon dating, genetic analysis, and morphometric studies—the research provides a nuanced understanding of Neolithisation in Britain and Ireland while cautioning against oversimplified interpretations.

Construction sequence of the Koh Ker monuments in Cambodia deduced from the chemical composition and magnetic susceptibility of its laterites

Koh Ker: Archaeological Site of Ancient Lingapura or Chok Gargyar — 2014 — WHE36DB3EF1BD

Researchers have identified five distinct construction stages of the Koh Ker monuments in Cambodia using chemical analysis and magnetic susceptibility of laterite blocks. The study found that laterites with low strontium (Sr) content (<300 ppm) and high quartz content, as well as those with high Sr content (>400 ppm) and low quartz content, were used at different stages. By analyzing these properties alongside the assumption of outward construction progression, the team determined that brick sanctuaries are the oldest structures, followed by sandstone sanctuaries, while laterite sanctuaries were built last. High Sr-content laterites likely originated from quarries near Srayang village, though the provenance of low Sr-content laterites remains undetermined.

Contemporary Glacier Processes and Global Change: Recent Observations from Kaskawulsh Glacier and the Donjek Range, St. Elias Mountains

Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek — 2014 — WHE9231D97652

Recent research in the St. Elias Mountains, including Kaskawulsh Glacier, reveals significant glacier changes that have measurable impacts on global sea levels. The study quantifies area and volume losses of Kaskawulsh Glacier, placing these changes in historical context, and explores regional variability in glacier response to climate, influenced by ice dynamics. It also investigates hydromechanical controls on glacier sliding, using a combination of ground-based manual measurements and space-based remote sensing. The findings indicate that glaciers in this region are out of equilibrium, with ongoing substantial changes to their area, volume, and dynamics. These observations, supported by computer models, highlight critical processes in the coupled glacier-climate system.

Contemporary Perspectives on China Tourism

Ancient Villages in Southern Anhui – Xidi and Hongcun — 2014 — WHE679DF55872

A comprehensive analysis of tourism impacts on rural communities, such as Hongcun in China, reveals nuanced perceptions among residents regarding the benefits and challenges posed by tourism development. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews to assess how tourism influences local quality of life, cultural preservation, and economic growth. Findings highlight the complex interplay between tourism-driven progress and traditional community values, offering insights that can inform sustainable tourism strategies for UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Xidi and Hongcun.

Contemporary Uses of Archaeological Sites: A Case Study of Ancient Stadiums in Modern Greece

Archaeological Site of Olympia — 2014 — WHE8BBB323A9A

Contemporary uses of archaeological sites, such as the Stadium of Olympia and the Stadium of Nemea, enhance their social and symbolic value but can also pose risks to their integrity. The study found that while events like the modern Olympic Games and the Nemean Games add cultural significance, they require meticulous organization and regular monitoring to prevent damage. A holistic management approach is essential to balance the sites' functional and aesthetic aspects, ensuring their long-term preservation.

Contextual Classification of Full Waveform Lidar Data in the Wadden Sea

Wadden Sea — 2014 — WHE7C4B7E1C7F

A novel approach combining conditional random fields with random forest algorithms has demonstrated significant potential for accurately classifying airborne lidar data, particularly in challenging coastal environments like the Wadden Sea. This method leverages both geometric and full waveform information to distinguish between different land cover types, even in flat areas where traditional classification techniques struggle. The study highlights the importance of contextual analysis and the use of a high number of classification features, showing promise for improving scientific monitoring of coastal morphology and habitats. By investigating the relevance of various features for lidar points and their interactions with neighboring points, this research offers a robust framework for future applications in remote sensing.

Contrasting effects of nutrients and climate on algal communities in two lakes in the Windermere catchment since the late 19th century

The English Lake District — 2014 — WHEFADE01BB2F

A centennial-scale analysis of two lakes in the English Lake District reveals that nutrient pollution and climate change have contrasting effects on algal communities, with local land-use practices acting as a filter to regional climate impacts. The study found that rising densities of livestock in Blelham Tarn's catchment correlated strongly with increases in cyanobacterial pigments and stable isotopes post-1970s, while seasonal changes in hydraulic flushing influenced siliceous algae abundance after 1990. In contrast, Lake Windermere's North Basin showed synchronous vernal algal blooms following mid-19th century agricultural intensification but asynchronous summer taxa changes due to differences in wastewater management. This research underscores the importance of palaeolimnology in identifying significant nutrient sources for effective catchment water management.

Contrasting rates of coral recovery and reassembly in coral communities on the Great Barrier Reef

Great Barrier Reef — 2014 — WHE455EFD1D76

Coral communities on the Great Barrier Reef exhibit contrasting rates of recovery and reassembly following disturbances, with coral cover often returning to pre-disturbance levels (recovery) without restoring the original species composition (reassembly). A study analyzing six reefs found that four regained both coral cover and composition within 8–13 years, while two showed no signs of reassembly. Communities that recovered and reassembled were dominated by tabulate Acropora spp., suggesting resilience to pulse disturbances every decade or more. In contrast, near-shore communities with high Porites spp. and soft corals struggled to recover under current disturbance regimes. This research highlights the importance of taxonomic diversity in coral resilience, using long-term monitoring data to model recovery trajectories.

Contribution of culture-independent methods to cave aerobiology: The case of Lascaux Cave

Cave of Altamira and Paleolithic Cave Art of Northern Spain — 2014 — WHE5C7A3C37C5

A comprehensive inventory of fungi within the Altamira Cave, conducted between 2007 and 2009, revealed four primary groups based on their origin: plant saprotrophs introduced via airborne spores, entomopathogenic fungi brought in by arthropods, coprophilous fungi thriving on rodent feces, and soilborne fungi. This study highlights the diverse fungal populations posing potential threats to cave conservation, emphasizing the need for targeted control measures to mitigate outbreaks. The research utilized culture-independent methods to assess the aerobiology of the cave, providing critical insights into the ecological dynamics that could impact the preservation of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Contributions to the study of the images of hierarchs in the catholicon of Studenica Monastery

Studenica Monastery — 2014 — WHEDB9745CDBE

A detailed analysis of the images of saint hierarchs in Studenica Monastery's Church of the Virgin reveals new insights into their representation and historical significance. The study, focusing on figures partially obscured by a 19th-century iconostasis, includes standing depictions of St. Achillius and an unidentified saint, as well as busts of St. Parthenius and St. Charalambos. Additionally, it examines other notable figures such as three saints named Gregory in the prothesis, St. Cyril of Alexandria in the apse, and busts of St. Clement of Rome on the west wall and a potential eponymous saint below the dome. The research employs iconographic analysis to uncover the layers of meaning embedded in these images, contributing to a deeper understanding of Byzantine religious art and its evolution.

Controversial Negative Perspective into the Enlargement of 『Jodang Collection』: With focus on Internal Criticism over Dongkukseonsajang

Haeinsa Temple Janggyeong Panjeon, the Depositories for the Tripitaka Koreana Woodblocks — 2014 — WHE87212C4AC6

A critical reassessment challenges the long-held assumption that the 'Dongkukseonsajang' section of the Jodang Collection was enlarged during its Goryeo-era woodblock renewal. Using 15 years of field surveys and textual analysis, including a rediscovered temple site at Chokyeongwon, the study argues against the enlargement theory prevalent in East Asian scholarship since Japan's Ohya Dokujo first proposed it. The research highlights discrepancies in the modified woodblocks—such as misprinted or omitted characters—and emphasizes the need for further logical validation to refute the enlargement claim. Beyond this controversy, the Jodang Collection remains a significant historical artifact, bridging Korean Seon Buddhism and Chinese Zen traditions through its compilation by monks Jeong and Kyun.

Coordination and Combination of Colors in Painting (with Reference to Prehistoric Period and Modern Period)

Ellora Caves — 2014 — WHE2201504390

The coordination and combination of colors in painting, spanning prehistoric to modern periods, reveal a rich evolution of artistic expression in India. This study highlights the aesthetic sensibilities of early humans, evident through motifs found in textiles, stone paintings, and clay artifacts from regions like Mohenjodaro and Hadappa. It also explores the use of color in Buddhist art, particularly in caves like Ajanta and Ellora, where calligraphic lines and color conventions reflect Gupta-era artistic development. The research underscores the continuity and innovation in Indian painting, from ancient graffiti traditions to the distinct Rajput style and the emergence of new directions post-Mughal period. Additionally, it notes the significant contributions of South India and the hill painting styles of Himachal Pradesh to the broader narrative of Indian art history.

Copper Mining, the McCarthy Road, and America's Largest National Park

Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek — 2014 — WHEDD00B0F3D9

The McCarthy Road, connecting to former copper mining settlements within Alaska's Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, exemplifies the intersection of public-private accommodation and historical commemoration in a remote UNESCO World Heritage Site. This study highlights how the road serves as both a practical link for park visitors and a tangible record of industrial history amidst one of America's most isolated and expansive protected areas. The research approach combines geographic analysis with historical context, illustrating the enduring legacy of copper mining on landscape and heritage preservation in this unique region.

Coral Reefs on the Edge? Carbon Chemistry on Inshore Reefs of the Great Barrier Reef

Great Barrier Reef — 2014 — WHE74F92774D4

Inshore coral reefs of the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) exhibit disproportionately higher rates of ocean acidification (OA) compared to atmospheric CO₂ increases, with partial pressure of CO₂ (pCO₂) rising 2.5 to 3 times faster than offshore reefs. Over two years, researchers measured total alkalinity and dissolved inorganic carbon at 14 inshore sites, revealing pCO₂ levels consistently higher than atmospheric values, particularly during wet seasons. Despite thermodynamic effects mitigating aragonite saturation (Ωar) reduction in warm months, inshore reefs showed lower Ωar and greater vulnerability to OA due to anthropogenic runoff altering productivity and respiration dynamics. Compared to historical data, inshore pCO₂ increases outpace atmospheric trends, suggesting reduced buffering capacity and heightened susceptibility to environmental stressors.

Corals record long-term Leeuwin current variability including Ningaloo Niño/Niña since 1795

Ningaloo Coast — 2014 — WHEB6D7B90843

Recent extreme sea level and temperature anomalies off Western Australia, including Ningaloo Niño events, are unprecedented in severity since 1795. Coral records reveal strong interannual and decadal variability in the Leeuwin Current (LC) and sea surface temperatures (SSTs), with post-1980 events likely exacerbated by global ocean warming and sea-level rise. The study links La Niña and El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events to LC strength, providing a 215-year reconstruction of historical SSTs and current dynamics using coral SST data and ENSO reconstructions.