World Heritage Research: Search

Publications

Showing 25701 – 25720 of 30315 publications

Trends and spatial patterns of drought incidence in the omo‐ghibe river basin, ethiopia

Lower Valley of the Omo — 2014 — WHEE19C38B4CD

Research reveals complex spatial patterns of drought incidence in the Omo-Ghibe River Basin, Ethiopia, with southern lowlands experiencing significantly more frequent and intense droughts compared to northeastern regions like Wolaita Sodo. Over a 100-year period, the basin is projected to face 57–69 short-term (3-month) drought events, tapering to 5–9 long-term (24-month) events. While drought frequency peaked in the 1980s, rainfall anomalies shifted positively in subsequent decades, suggesting a trend toward fewer extreme droughts. The study employed the Standard Precipitation Index (SPI) at multiple timescales and applied statistical tests like Mann-Kendall’s to analyze temporal changes, providing critical insights for water resource management in rain-fed pastoral systems.

Trends in water balance components across the Brazilian Cerrado

Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks — 2014 — WHEB3A1DB7290

Significant increases in evapotranspiration, terrestrial water storage, and runoff decreases have been observed across the Brazilian Cerrado from 2003 to 2010. The study leverages remotely sensed data—precipitation (TRMM), evapotranspiration (MOD16), and terrestrial water storage (GRACE)—to assess trends in the region's water balance. By evaluating budget closure with measured discharge data and applying the Mann-Kendall test, researchers identified a 51 ± 15 mm/year rise in annual evapotranspiration, a 11 ± 6 mm/year increase in terrestrial water storage in the northeast Cerrado, and a 72 ± 11 mm/year decline in runoff in isolated areas of Mato Grosso. While uncertainties persist due to data limitations, this approach offers valuable insights into large-scale water balance dynamics, dry periods, and land-use impacts on hydrology.

Triggering and modulation of geyser eruptions in Yellowstone National Park by earthquakes, earth tides, and weather

Yellowstone National Park — 2014 — WHE5538120CA7

Geyser eruptions in Yellowstone National Park, particularly those of Daisy and Old Faithful, exhibit distinct responses to external stress perturbations. While periodic stresses from earth tides and barometric pressure variations do not significantly affect eruption intervals (IBEs), dynamic stress changes from large earthquakes can modulate these intervals. Specifically, the 2002 M-7.9 Denali earthquake shortened Daisy geyser's IBEs due to surface wave-induced stresses of 0.1–0.2 MPa, whereas larger regional earthquakes in 1959, 1975, and 1983 lengthened Old Faithful's IBEs at stress levels above 0.5 MPa. Additionally, Daisy geyser's IBEs are prolonged by evaporation and heat loss during cold weather or strong wind storms, while Old Faithful remains largely unaffected by atmospheric conditions, suggesting a decoupled subsurface water column. This study provides quantitative insights into the sensitivity of hydrothermal systems to external forces, offering implications for understanding volcanic eruption triggers.

Trigonid crests expression in Atapuerca-Sima de los Huesos lower molars: Internal and external morphological expression and evolutionary inferences

Archaeological Site of Atapuerca — 2014 — WHED63BD124B2

The study reveals that the expression of trigonid crests on lower molars from the Atapuerca-Sima de los Huesos site, attributed to Homo heidelbergensis, shows greater variability internally (at the enamel-dentine junction) compared to externally (occlusal surface). This internal-external concordance allows for reconstructing occlusal morphology in partially worn teeth. The variation observed aligns more closely with Neanderthals than modern humans, particularly in the consistent presence of a continuous intermediate trigonid crest internally. However, unique configurations not seen in Homo neanderthalensis or Homo sapiens were also identified. The research used 3D microCT modeling to analyze 62 molars, providing insights into evolutionary patterns and morphological expression in this hominin population.

Trophic cascades in bell miner‐associated dieback forests: Quantifying relationships between leaf quality, psyllids and P syllaephagus parasitoids

Gondwana Rainforests of Australia — 2014 — WHEAA90B0F56F

A significant negative correlation was found between leaf toughness and foliar nitrogen content, indicating that younger leaves with higher nitrogen levels support greater psyllid abundances. This relationship is further influenced by the presence of bell miners (Manorina melanophrys), which protect psyllids from predation, thereby promoting lerp-forming psyllids—some of which reduce leaf lifespan. The study, conducted in the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, identified 14 Psyllaephagus species, including primary parasitoids and hyperparasitoids, with their abundances positively linked to lerp availability but not directly to psyllid parasitism rates. Epicormic foliage, produced post-defoliation, may enhance Glycaspis psyllid populations, creating 'lerp hotspots' that attract bell miners. These findings suggest complex trophic interactions and feedback mechanisms in bell miner-associated dieback (BMAD) forests, warranting further longitudinal study.

Trophic Dynamics of the Boreal Forests of the Kluane Region

Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek — 2014 — WHE03D05E5544

Predator-driven population cycles, not food availability or habitat quality, primarily regulate the 9–10-year snowshoe hare cycle in Kluane’s boreal forests. This was revealed through decades of large-scale experiments manipulating predator pressure, food supplies, and soil nutrients at the Kluane Lake Research Station since 1973. Predators not only limit hare numbers but also induce stress in females, reducing reproductive potential during population declines. While some species, like Arctic ground squirrels, align with the hare cycle, others—such as red squirrels (linked to white spruce seed masting) and deer mice (showing erratic fluctuations)—respond differently. Small rodents exhibit distinct 3–4-year cycles tied to food and social behavior. Climate change, including warming and reduced hare browsing, has also altered shrub abundance. The study underscores the complexity of trophic interactions in boreal ecosystems, highlighting the need for continued monitoring to predict future changes under shifting climates.

Trophic interactions and ecosystem management at the New Zealand Subantarctic Islands

New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands — 2014 — WHE928E484A48

A study of the New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands revealed strong trophic linkages between marine and terrestrial ecosystems, extending beyond local scales. Using stable isotope analysis (δ¹⁵N and δ¹³C), researchers found that both Antipodes and Bounty Islands exhibit complex food webs with omnivory across multiple trophic levels. While Antipodes Island demonstrated a more intricate marine community influenced by phytoplankton and kelp, the Bounty Islands relied solely on phytoplankton-derived carbon. Terrestrial species at both sites incorporated marine-derived nutrients, with Antipodes showing mixed sources while Bounty was entirely dependent on marine inputs linked to phytoplankton. Nutrient sampling further indicated distinct oceanographic patterns around each island. This research underscores the need for integrated ecosystem-based management (EBM) to preserve these critical biodiversity hubs, advocating for cross-sectoral collaboration in policy and legislation.

Trophic interactions between the native guanaco (Lama guanicoe) and the exotic donkey (Equus asinus) in the hyper-arid Monte desert (Ischigualasto Park, Argentina)

Ischigualasto / Talampaya Natural Parks — 2014 — WHEA75F29424B

A high overlap in diets between the native guanaco and exotic feral donkey during the dry season suggests potential competition, which could intensify with increasing donkey populations. The study quantified food availability, analyzed diet composition through microhistological fecal analysis, and assessed seasonal dietary shifts. While donkeys consistently relied on grasses, guanacos primarily consumed shrubs, especially during the wet season when grass cover was minimal or absent. This research highlights the ecological impact of invasive species on native fauna in hyper-arid ecosystems like Ischigualasto Provincial Park.

True mangrove species of Sundarbans Delta, West Bengal, eastern India

The Sundarbans — 2014 — WHE8276F195C0

A comprehensive revision of the Sundarbans mangrove species list identifies 24 true mangrove species, belonging to nine families, with Rhizophoraceae exhibiting the highest generic and specific richness. This study resolves long-standing debates about distinguishing true mangroves from minor or associate species by analyzing adaptive morpho-physiological traits suited for tidal-saline environments. The findings highlight the taxonomic diversity and ecological significance of the Sundarbans' mangrove flora, providing a critical framework for understanding its unique biodiversity.

Turf algae-mediated coral damage in coastal reefs of Belize, Central America

Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System — 2014 — WHEA8C6351357

A significant portion of coral-algae contacts on Belizean reefs, particularly those involving filamentous turf algae, result in harmful effects such as tissue damage or overgrowth. This finding supports the hypothesis that turf algae-mediated coral damage is prevalent in coastal and near-shore coral reefs of Belize. The study assessed benthic community composition, abundance of algae grazers, and coral-algae contacts at 13 reef sites along a distance gradient from the mainland (12-70 km). It revealed higher scleractinian coral cover at remote offshore sites like Lighthouse Reef (26-29%) compared to inshore or midshore sites (4-19%). Abundance of herbivorous fish and sea urchins increased towards offshore reefs, while harmful coral-algae contacts were more frequent closer to shore. The study highlights the negative impact of turf algae on corals, particularly genera Orbicella and Agaricia.

Turismo comunitário, tradicionalidade e reserva de desenvolvimento sustentável na defesa do território nativo: aventureiro-Ilha Grande/RJ

Paraty and Ilha Grande – Culture and Biodiversity — 2014 — WHEF273F2BA5B

Community-based tourism in Vila do Aventureiro, Ilha Grande, Brazil, serves as a model for sustaining local livelihoods and culture while defending indigenous territories. This study reveals that such tourism, driven exclusively by native populations, interacts synergistically with the recent recategorization of the area as a Sustainable Development Reserve (RDS), mutually reinforcing each other's goals. Through qualitative ethnographic research conducted in 2003/2004 and 2008–2010, the study captures local perceptions, emerging social dynamics, and innovative strategies for economic sustainability and cultural preservation amid the challenges of restrictive conservation policies. This approach offers a reflective framework for balancing development with biodiversity protection in UNESCO-listed sites.

Twenty Years After Genocide: The Role of Psychology in the Reconciliation and Reconstruction Process in Rwanda

Memorial sites of the Genocide: Nyamata, Murambi, Gisozi and Bisesero — 2014 — WHEF8D28275A9

Rwanda's path to recovery after the 1994 genocide demonstrates that societal interventions can serve as large-scale social psychological experiments, offering insights into reconciliation and reconstruction. The study highlights six key observations: the genocide's unprecedented intensity; bystander inaction and challenges for outsiders; the coexistence of perpetrators and survivors; the dual role of media in violence and peacebuilding; Rwanda's unique political and social interventions; and the need to further explore memorialization's impact on harm repair. These findings underscore that genocides, including Rwanda's, ultimately fail to achieve their destructive aims, as evidenced by the country's remarkable recovery efforts.

Two new chironomid species (Diptera, Chironomidae) from Wrangel Island

Natural System of Wrangel Island Reserve — 2014 — WHE65E94CAB86

Researchers have identified two new species of chironomid midges (Diptera, Chironomidae) from Wrangel Island. Orthocladius (Eudactylocladius) tschernovi and O. ushakovskiensis are distinguished by unique morphological traits in male adults, including differences in sternapodema shape, volsella structure, gonostylus features, and anal point morphology. The discovery expands the known biodiversity of the region and contributes to taxonomic knowledge of Orthocladiinae subgenus. The study employed detailed morphological analysis to differentiate these species from related taxa, highlighting their distinct characteristics.

Two new fringe-limbed frogs of the genus Ecnomiohyla (Anura: Hylidae) from Panama

Darien National Park — 2014 — WHE2E01199D9F

Researchers have identified two new species of fringe-limbed frogs, Ecnomiohyla bailarina and E. veraguensis, from Panama's Darien National Park and Santa Fe National Park, respectively. These discoveries were made through field explorations that employed non-standard search methods to detect canopy-dwelling anurans, often overlooked in traditional herpetological surveys. The new species exhibit significant genetic divergence (16S mtDNA gene) and distinct morphological traits compared to known Ecnomiohyla species. The study provides comprehensive descriptions of these frogs, including comparisons with other members of the genus in lower Central America, along with an identification key for the entire genus.

Un chien couché au pied du roi d’Angleterre ? Robert Jolivet, abbé du Mont Saint-Michel (1411-1444)

Mont-Saint-Michel and its Bay — 2014 — WHE5885183AF9

A reassessment of historical sources reveals that Robert Jolivet, the abbot of Mont-Saint-Michel (1411–1444), was not a traitor but rather a strategic political figure whose allegiance to King Henry V of England reflected complex choices shaped by the turbulent politics of France. Contrary to traditional historiography, Jolivet’s shift in loyalty—despite leaving his abbey before the Treaty of Troyes (1420)—was neither purely opportunistic nor a betrayal but the culmination of a coherent political trajectory. His leadership as a military captain under Charles VI underscores his deep investment in Mont-Saint-Michel, challenging long-held narratives about his motives and actions during England’s regency in France.

Uncomparable Buildings? The Synagogues in Priene and Sardis

Sardis and the Lydian Tumuli of Bin Tepe — 2014 — WHEAD01EDB287

Research on the synagogues of Priene and Sardis reveals that despite their stark differences in size and architectural richness, both share fundamental structural similarities. While Sardis' synagogue stands out due to its prominent status, the smaller synagogue in Priene, integrated into a Hellenistic residential complex, offers new insights into its building phases and interior design. This comparative study, conducted through multiple field campaigns, highlights the synagogues' shared architectural elements while underscoring Sardis' unique significance.

Understanding Cultural Heritage Visitor Behavior: The Case of Melaka as World Heritage City

Melaka and George Town, Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca — 2014 — WHEF385759830

A study of visitor behavior at Melaka, a UNESCO World Heritage City, reveals that tourists exhibit responsible tourism practices, cultural significance, and environmental concerns. They seek memorable experiences and are willing to pay for heritage preservation. The research, based on surveys of 505 local and foreign tourists using the Responsible Heritage Tourism Scale, identified five distinct visitor profiles: memorable experience seekers, culturally significant tourists, responsible travelers, those willing to pay for heritage, and green tourists. These findings provide practical insights for marketing heritage sites and promoting sustainable tourism.

Understanding of Tourists Preferences Pattern: a Study in Melaka, Malaysia

Melaka and George Town, Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca — 2014 — WHE57EB28F5F5

A study of tourist preferences in Melaka, Malaysiareveals that heritage and conservation are the primary motivators for visitors, while business-related travel is the least influential factor. The research, based on surveys of 1,000 tourists using diary records, identifies young, single professionals as a key emerging market segment. This insight highlights the importance of preserving cultural heritage to attract tourism, particularly in historically significant destinations like Melaka.

Une chronique de Zabid et du Yémen jusqu’en 1562: le manuscrit OR. 2545 de Sofia (Bulgarie)

Historic Town of Zabid — 2014 — WHE026A2533C4

A previously unknown manuscript, OR. 2545, preserved at the Bulgarian National Library, offers invaluable insights into the chronological history of Zabid and Yemen up to 1562. The manuscript contains three works by the Yemeni scholar Ibn al-Daybaʿ (d. 1537), detailing the governance and historical events of Zabid during the Ottoman period. Notably, it includes two previously unknown urǧūza-s, which were added by the scribe in 969/1561–1562. This discovery enriches our understanding of Yemeni history and provides a rare glimpse into the cultural and political landscape of the region during this period.

Une clarification partielle : l’arrêt sur la demande en interprétation de l’arrêt du 15 juin 1962 en l’affaire du Temple de Preah Vihear

Temple of Preah Vihear — 2014 — WHEBD89236257

A partial clarification of the 1962 ICJ ruling on the Temple of Preah Vihear case emerged from a recent interpretation demand, addressing geographical boundaries but avoiding deeper legal implications. The study focuses on the Court's delineation of 'the environs of the temple,' specifying areas where Thailand was obligated to withdraw military or police forces. However, it refrained from resolving disputes over the extent of res judicata regarding frontier demarcations in the region, leaving some legal ambiguities unresolved. This analysis provides a nuanced understanding of the ICJ's interpretive approach amid ongoing tensions between Cambodia and Thailand.