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Organic Matter Fractions Controlling Soil Water Repellency in Sandy Soils From the Doñana National Park (Southwestern Spain)

Doñana National Park — 2014 — WHED4CCA7DFA0

Soil water repellency (WR) in sandy soils of Doñana National Park is strongly influenced by organic matter fractions, with Quercus suber (QS) exhibiting the most severe WR across all particle sizes. Research reveals that finer soil fractions (<0.05 mm) contain higher organic matter content and correlate positively with WR severity, while coarser fractions (1–2 mm) under Pteridium aquilinum (PA), Pinus pinea (PP), and Halimium halimifolium (HH) show high WR despite lower SOM levels, suggesting less decomposed organic residues. The study used water drop penetration time (WDPT) tests and molecular analysis of n-alkane/alkenes pairs and fatty acids to assess WR severity and organic matter composition across vegetation types.

Orthotrichum pamiricum (Bryophyta), a new epiphytic moss species from Pamir Mountains in Central Asia

Tajik National Park (Mountains of the Pamirs) — 2014 — WHEB4E902AB63

Scientists have identified Orthotrichum pamiricum, a new moss species from the Pamir Mountains in Central Asia. This epiphytic moss, belonging to the subgenus Pulchella, is distinguished by its obtuse leaf apices, cryptoporous stomata, and unique exostome and endostome structures. The discovery was supported by molecular data that placed O. pamiricum within its phylogenetic context. The species' recurved dry exostome teeth and incurved endostome segments set it apart from other Orthotrichum mosses.

Osteology of Pseudochampsa ischigualastensis gen. et comb. nov. (Archosauriformes: Proterochampsidae) from the Early Late Triassic Ischigualasto Formation of Northwestern Argentina

Ischigualasto / Talampaya Natural Parks — 2014 — WHE2641BD5CF9

A new genus, Pseudochampsa ischigualastensis, is proposed for the previously described 'Chanaresuchus ischiguaastensis', a proterochampsid archosauriform from the Early Late Triassic Ischigualasto Formation in northwestern Argentina. Detailed osteological analysis and phylogenetic reassessment reveal that 'Chanaresuchus ischiguaastensis' does not belong to the genus Chanaresuchus, as previously thought. Instead, it forms part of a trichotomy with Gualosuchus reigi and Rhadinosuchus gracilis, challenging the monophyly of Chanaresuchus. This discovery provides critical insights into the taxonomy and evolutionary relationships of proterochampsids, a group of crocodile-like, semi-aquatic archosauriforms endemic to South America during the Middle-Late Triassic period.

Outdoor testing of photovoltaic modules during summer in Taxila, Pakistan

Taxila — 2014 — WHEB54018E154

A comparative analysis of photovoltaic (PV) module performance in Taxila, Pakistan, during summer revealed that monocrystalline silicon (c-Si) modules exhibited the highest average efficiency, while amorphous silicon (a-Si) modules outperformed others in terms of performance ratio. The study found a significant decrease in both efficiency and performance ratio with rising module temperatures, which were approximately 20°C higher in summer compared to winter months. This decline correlated with ambient temperature fluctuations ranging from 18.1°C to 38.6°C. The research utilized outdoor monitoring to assess actual operating conditions of c-Si, polycrystalline silicon (p-Si), and a-Si modules, offering critical insights into PV performance under Taxila's climate.

Outward-growth of the Tibetan Plateau during the Cenozoic: A review

Qinghai Hoh Xil — 2014 — WHE16AF644011

The Tibetan Plateau (TP) exhibits an 'inside-out' growth pattern, expanding outward from a nucleus of high topography during the Cenozoic era. This finding challenges conventional models by demonstrating that the plateau's uplift began in its central regions, particularly the Lhasa and Qiangtang terranes, which reached their current elevations as early as the Eocene due to the India-Lhasa collision. Peripheral areas like the Hoh Xil basin and Himalayas remained low or even below sea level until later periods. The study synthesizes data from sedimentology, stratigraphy, structural geology, magmatism, exhumation, and paleoaltimetry to support this model, revealing that thrust belts accommodated India-Asia convergence, driving crustal shortening and thickening in the central TP. Future expansion along major fault lines is predicted if tectonic forces persist.

Paleomobility in the Tiwanaku Diaspora: Biogeochemical analyses at R io M uerto, M oquegua, P eru

Tiwanaku: Spiritual and Political Centre of the Tiwanaku Culture — 2014 — WHE176CEA4D94

A study of the Tiwanaku culture's expansion reveals that while most individuals at the Rio Muerto site in southern Peru were likely second-generation or later immigrants from the Tiwanaku heartland, a smaller subset originated from various regions within the Tiwanaku polity. Using radiogenic strontium and oxygen isotope analyses on human burials, researchers identified a range of geographic origins among the population, suggesting diversity in migration patterns rather than solely colonization from the Lake Titicaca Basin. The findings indicate that some individuals may have been first-generation migrants, marriage exchange partners, or occupationally mobile herders and traders, contributing to our understanding of state integration and expansion in ancient societies.

Paleopathological analysis of changes on animal bones originating from archaeological sites Caricin Grad and Studenica Monastery

Studenica Monastery — 2014 — WHE1B3AA19B80

A paleopathological analysis of animal bones from the UNESCO World Heritage Site Studenica Monastery and Caricin Grad reveals insights into past animal health, use, and management. The study identified proliferative, hypertrophic, and chronic skeletal changes in 22 specimens across seven species—cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, horses, donkeys, and camels—suggesting these animals were likely used for towing or load-carrying. Oral cavity diseases in small ruminants further indicate inadequate nutrition. Researchers examined 2595 bones, assessing skeletal elements, taxonomy, and age while documenting pathological changes on teeth, mandibles, joints, and phalanxes through macroscopic analysis.

Parallel Challenges Building the New York and Rideau Canals

Rideau Canal — 2014 — WHEE31071E055

Comparative analysis of the New York (Erie) Canal and Rideau Canal construction reveals striking parallels in challenges faced by engineers, including natural, technical, social, and managerial hurdles. Despite differing political contexts—New York State's internal improvement project versus Upper Canada's British colonial endeavor—the solutions employed were remarkably similar. This study leverages archival reports from both canal commissions to highlight shared engineering strategies, offering a unique lens on North American canal-building history.

Parametric Modeling of Urban Landscape: Decoding the Brasilia of Lucio Costa from Modernism to Present Days

Brasilia — 2014 — WHE283CC927D1

A novel parametric modeling approach enables the visualization and analysis of urban volume envelopes, offering a tool to decode modernist urban design principles while addressing contemporary land-use challenges. This methodology, applied to Brasilia's Pilot-Plan—a UNESCO-protected modernist masterpiece—uses City Engine software to simulate maximum authorized construction volumes based on planning legislation. It shifts from rigid authorial design to a dynamic framework that captures collective values and supports adaptive decision-making in urban transformation. The technique is scalable, providing a reusable model for other heritage sites facing urban pressure and cultural preservation needs.

Parchmarks at Stonehenge, July 2013

Stonehenge, Avebury and Associated Sites — 2014 — WHE3939A52D2E

A chance observation of parchmarks at Stonehenge in July 2013 provides new evidence that the iconic sarsen circle, a key element of the monument, was likely intended to be fully completed. Despite extensive archaeological exploration, some stones expected in the circle are missing, leading to speculation about its completeness. The discovery challenges assumptions that the north-eastern side alone represented the finished phase of Stonehenge, suggesting instead that the full circle may have been part of the original design. This finding builds on recent refinements to our understanding of Stonehenge's complex construction sequence.

Paris to the Pyrenees: A Skeptic Pilgrim Walks the Way of Saint James par David Downie

Routes of Santiago de Compostela: Camino Francés and Routes of Northern Spain — 2014 — WHE282C0C1B5B

David Downie's account of his pilgrimage along the French portion of the Way of Saint James from Paris to Roncesvalles, Spain, offers a vivid exploration of rural Burgundy and its historical layers. The journey, initially intended to span 750 miles but cut short due to injury, provides a detailed visit to a region marked by traces of Gallo-Roman history, Resistance legacy, and modern abandonment. Downie's musings on the area's past, stimulated by readings of Julius Caesar’s Conquest of Gaul, contrast with his experiences of reclusive locals and colorful innkeepers. The work, enhanced by Alison Harris's photography, appeals to general readers interested in French travel and historical evocation, particularly its solitary northern route preference over crowded southern stretches.

Park Rangers’ Behaviors and Their Effects on Tourists and Tibetan Macaques (Macaca thibetana) at Mt. Huangshan, China

Mount Huangshan — 2014 — WHE1129EF2EDB

A study at Mount Huangshan found that park rangers' behaviors, including provisioning and managing Tibetan macaques (Macaca thibetana), did not significantly reduce macaque aggression or self-directed behaviors. Despite alternating management by two ranger teams, interventions in tourist-macaque interactions were minimal, with tourists often continuing undesirable behaviors even when discouraged. Rangers typically managed the monkeys alone, establishing dominance to control them. The research suggests that more effective management could involve prohibiting feeding, increasing ranger movement around viewing platforms, and limiting tourist numbers per session.

Parliamentarians and Bankruptcy: The Disqualification of MPs and Peers from Sitting in the Palace of Westminster

Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey including Saint Margaret’s Church — 2014 — WHE493A67D415

A significant legal shift has occurred regarding the disqualification of bankrupt parliamentarians from sitting in the Palace of Westminster. Previously, simply being declared bankrupt was sufficient to trigger parliamentary exclusion under English and Welsh law. However, recent amendments—particularly the introduction of section 426A of the Insolvency Act 1986 (IA86) and changes via the Enterprise Act 2002 (EA2002)—now require additional conditions such as a Bankruptcy Restrictions Order (BRO), Bankruptcy Restrictions Undertaking (BRU), or Debt Relief Restriction Order (DRO) for disqualification. This reform, driven by policy aims to reduce automatic restrictions on bankrupt individuals, narrows the scope of parliamentary exclusion while maintaining its application in cases involving more stringent financial oversight measures.

Particle Tracking Analysis of Larvae of Land Hermit Crab Coenobita brevimanus in Amitori Bay, Iriomote Island, Japan

Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island — 2014 — WHE3E9F38530E

Research reveals that the land hermit crab Coenobita brevimanus employs a strategic approach to maintain larval groups near their release sites, likely enhancing reproductive success. Using particle tracking analysis combined with ecological data and coastal ocean current modeling (CCM), scientists simulated larval dispersal in Amitori Bay, Iriomote Island. Findings suggest that larvae predominantly remain close to their origins, potentially due to localized currents or behavioral adaptations. This study provides insights into the population dynamics of this species within its UNESCO-listed habitat.

Partnership between a private sector ecotourism operator and a local community in the Okavango Delta, Botswana: the case of the Okavango Community Trust and Wilderness Safaris

Okavango Delta — 2014 — WHE8E736A6BCD

A partnership between private-sector ecotourism and local communities in Botswana's Okavango Delta yields substantial socio-economic benefits to individual households, though broader community distribution remains uneven. The study, based on interviews with ecotourism staff and non-staff, highlights the potential of such collaborations but suggests that overall impact could be enhanced through better benefit distribution strategies.

Passalidae (Coleoptera: Scarabaeoidea) from Ilha Grande (Angra dos Reis, RJ) with new diagnosis and distributional records in Brazil

Paraty and Ilha Grande – Culture and Biodiversity — 2014 — WHEC04C289F8E

A survey of Passalidae beetles on Ilha Grande, Brazil, reveals 13 species across four genera and two tribes, with Passalus (P.) denticollis and Veturius (V.) transversus dominating in abundance. Notably, 12 species are recorded for the first time from this site, including Spasalus cristinae, whose distribution is extended to Rio de Janeiro state. The study, based on collections from 2008, provides diagnostic illustrations and a key for genera, contributing new distributional data to Brazilian biodiversity records.

Passions for Learning: the Codex Sangallensis 548

Abbey of St Gall — 2014 — WHE222E4C029A

The Codex Sangallensis 548, preserved in the Abbey Library of St. Gall, serves as a dual-purpose manuscript: it is both a pedagogical tool for developing writing skills and a vehicle for educating readers about religious and political matters during the Carolingian period. Through narratological analysis, this study reveals that the Codex functions as a role model for Christian living while also reflecting political dynamics, such as the Merovingian dynasty's efforts to maintain support through literary productions. The manuscript's structure and content highlight its dual purpose—religious instruction and political symbolism—providing insights into the intellectual and cultural preoccupations of its time.

Past in the Present: A Living Heritage Approach - Meteora, Greece

Meteora — 2014 — WHEF14848C365

A groundbreaking approach to heritage conservation, the Living Heritage Approach, challenges traditional paradigms by integrating communities and sites as inseparable entities. This innovative framework shifts focus from static preservation to a dynamic process of creation, emphasizing continuity rather than discontinuity between past and present. Using Meteora's monastic site in Greece as a case study, the research redefines authenticity and sustainable development, advocating for heritage that evolves organically with contemporary life. By doing so, it offers a new lens through which to perceive, protect, and further create living heritage sites.

Pathogenic microorganisms related to human visits in Altamira Cave, Spain

Cave of Altamira and Paleolithic Cave Art of Northern Spain — 2014 — WHE4BE2F52B2B

Research in Altamira Cave, Spain, reveals a rich diversity of cultivable microscopic fungi linked to human visits, including 16 species of Aspergillus from cave sediments and six from cave air, with one novel species identified. Unlike previous studies that relied on atmospheric spore capture without cultivation, this study used gravity settling for airborne fungi and dilution plate methods for sediment samples, yielding lower but more precise CFU counts. Comparisons with outdoor soil and air samples highlighted the unique fungal spectrum influenced by human activity in the cave environment, providing critical insights into microbial dynamics in UNESCO-listed paleolithic sites.

Pathways of formation of the fauna of the Solovetsky Archipelago, the White Sea, Northwest Russia

Cultural and Historic Ensemble of the Solovetsky Islands — 2014 — WHEBE30495AD8

The fauna of the Solovetsky Archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Russia's White Sea, exhibits significant depletion and reduction compared to continental northern boreal regions. This depleted fauna is comparable to that of mainland forested or hypoarctic tundra biomes, with limited arctic species and few southern elements. The study identifies three key factors shaping the archipelago's fauna: the prevalence of intrazonal ecosystems (coastal wastelands, grasslands, birch sparse forests, and peat bogs), limited living space, and extreme climatic conditions. Dominant species include eurytopic polyzonal and hypoarctic ones, while isolation does not pose a significant barrier to dispersal but creates a highly specific environment that restricts new species without relevant preadaptations. The fauna's continental origin dates back to the Late Pleistocene and Early Holocene (approximately 9–10 thousand years ago), with taxonomic diversity showing 'density compensation' effects influenced by climatic conditions.