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Diagnosis for the Conservation of Wooden Ceilings inside the Ducal Palace in Sabbioneta (Mantua, Italy)

Mantua and Sabbioneta — 2013 — WHE6AB3562F64

A comprehensive diagnostic assessment of the wooden ceilings within Sabbioneta's Ducal Palace, commissioned by Vespasiano Gonzaga in the late 16th century, reveals critical insights into their structural integrity and conservation needs. The study identifies that the ceilings, composed of rough wooden planks nailed to a skeletal framework supporting intricate decorative elements, exhibit signs of deterioration requiring urgent conservation measures. Employing a multi-faceted approach—including non-invasive observations, controlled drilling tests, and laboratory analyses—the research provides a detailed understanding of the ceilings' condition, offering actionable data for preservation strategies. This work underscores the importance of systematic diagnostics in safeguarding historic wooden structures against long-term decay.

Diagnostic clues for identification of selected species of the Micropsectra atrofasciata group, with description of M. uva sp. nov. from Croatia (Diptera: Chironomidae: Tanytarsini)

Plitvice Lakes National Park — 2013 — WHE76B6E2DA80

Researchers have identified and described a new species of midge, Micropsectra uva, within the Micropsectra atrofasciata group, found exclusively in Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia. This discovery contributes to the understanding of biodiversity in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its unique aquatic ecosystems. The study provides detailed morphological keys and diagnostic characters for adult males of M. uva and closely related species, aiding in accurate identification. By analyzing key structural traits, the researchers distinguish this new species from others in the group, offering valuable insights into the taxonomic complexity of Tanytarsini midges (Diptera: Chironomidae).

Diagnóstico y evaluación de una planta de tratamiento de agua potable: estudio de caso

Historic Centre of Santa Cruz de Mompox — 2013 — WHED581963326

A comprehensive evaluation of the potable water treatment system in Santa Cruz de Mompox, Colombia, revealed critical operational and infrastructural challenges. The study identified deficiencies in the system's components, including outdated equipment and inefficiencies in water treatment processes, which could impact the quality and reliability of drinking water supply for the municipality. Researchers analyzed the system's technical and operational performance, assessed its infrastructure, and provided detailed recommendations for improvement. These findings highlight the need for urgent upgrades to ensure sustainable water management in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Diatoms (Bacillariophyceae) of Iguaçu National Park, Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil

Iguaçu National Park — 2013 — WHEC8C8C05381

A comprehensive inventory of diatom species (Bacillariophyceae) in Iguaçu National Park, Brazil, revealed 120 taxa, including 36 new records for the region. This study significantly expands the known diversity of freshwater diatoms in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting the ecological richness of its aquatic ecosystems. Researchers employed a combination of light and scanning electron microscopy to analyze samples collected from various water bodies within the park. The findings underscore the importance of Iguaçu National Park as a biodiversity hotspot and provide crucial baseline data for future conservation efforts.

Die An- und Abwesenheit der Villa Tugendhat im Kontext der tschechischen Architektur

Tugendhat Villa in Brno — 2013 — WHE899149358F

Villa Tugendhat, designed by Mies van der Rohe, stands out as both an architectural landmark and a point of contention within the context of Czech architecture. This study reveals that while the villa is celebrated for its modernist design, it has also been criticized for its perceived detachment from local architectural traditions. The research employs a comparative analysis to position Villa Tugendhat within the broader landscape of Czech architectural history, examining its influence and reception over time.

Die aramäischen Inschriften aus Assur, Hatra und dem übrigen Ostmesopotamien

Hatra — 2013 — WHEB952FE65E4

A comprehensive update to the study of Aramaic inscriptions from Assur, Hatra, and eastern Mesopotamia reveals new linguistic insights and expands the known corpus. The research incorporates previously overlooked inscriptions from Kifrin and Se h H., while refining numerical representations and eliminating redundant grammatical analyses. Published originally in 1998, this revised edition extends the chronological scope to include inscriptions dating from 44 BCE to 238 CE, offering a more complete linguistic and historical framework for understanding Aramaic usage in these regions. The approach combines epigraphic analysis with philological rigor, providing both academic and general audiences with deeper access to the linguistic heritage of Hatraand its broader cultural context.

Die Privatgräber von Amarna – Zum Wandel des Grabgedankens in Zeiten eines religiösen Umbruchs

Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis — 2013 — WHEAF6B7AD165

Private tomb architecture at Amarna, used briefly during a period of religious upheaval, exhibited significant variation and development despite its short lifespan. This study analyzed archaeological material from Amarna's private tombs, comparing them to contemporary Theban tombs through wall decoration examinations. Findings revealed both similarities and differences, highlighting how tomb architecture adapted to new religious ideas while maintaining diversity in form. The research provides a unique 'snapshot' of this transitional phase, offering insights into the evolution of funerary practices during a transformative period in ancient Egyptian history.

Die Siedlungs- und Ruderalvegetation der Wachau (Österreich)

Wachau Cultural Landscape — 2013 — WHE7BBC9A6699

The Wachau Cultural Landscape in Austria exhibits unique plant communities shaped by human settlement and land use. Research reveals that while classical nitrophilic weed communities are rare due to high sealing, the region's small towns feature rich wall vegetation and thermophilic species like Chenopodietum vulvariae. Dry stone walls and road verges host diverse plant associations such as Agropyretea, Dauco-Melilotion, and Sedo-Scleranthetea. Mown road edges are dominated by Arrhenatheretum elatioris, while unmowed slopes support Seseli libanotis stands. Notable nitrophilic edge communities include Chelidonio-Parietarietum officinalis and Heracleo-Sambucetum ebuli. Adjacent loess areas contrast sharply with their extensive ruderal floras, particularly Sisymbrium orientale in hollow paths. The study combines floristic and phytosociological methods to characterize these plant communities.

Dieta del Chorlito Doble Collar (Charadrius falklandicus) en Península Valdés, Patagonia, Argentina

Península Valdés — 2013 — WHECE8D5FDC7D

Research on the Two-banded Plover (Charadrius falklandicus) in Península Valdés, Argentina, reveals that these birds predominantly feed on the polychaete Travisia olens, followed by the clam Darina solenoides and insects. A comparative analysis between Playa Colombo (Golfo Nuevo) and Playa Fracasso (Golfo San José), two sites with similar characteristics 21 km apart, found that while both locations share a similar diet composition, plovers in Playa Colombo consume fewer but larger clams, resulting in higher biomass intake. The study, conducted in February and March 2003, analyzed 49 fecal samples to reconstruct the diet based on identifiable prey structures. This research contributes to understanding the feeding ecology of this species in Patagonia's coastal ecosystems.

Differences in insect resistance between tomato species endemic to the Galapagos Islands

Galápagos Islands — 2013 — WHEEC3789C3A4

Research on tomato species endemic to the Galápagos Islands reveals that Solanum galapagense exhibits resistance to the phloem-feeding whitefly Bemisia tabaci, likely due to high levels of acyl sugars and specific glandular trichomes. This resistance was not observed in S. cheesmaniae, suggesting that these two species may represent morphotypes rather than distinct biological species. Genetic analysis using SNP markers failed to differentiate between the two, further supporting their potential classification as a single species shaped by selective pressures. The study used no-choice experiments with 35 tomato accessions and analyzed climatic, geographical, and molecular data to explore this hypothesis.

Differences in the Importance of Shifting Cultivation among Villages in Northern Laos: A Case Study of 14 Villages in Xieng Ngeun District, Luang Prabang Province

Town of Luang Prabang — 2013 — WHE84128CD585

A comparative analysis of 14 adjacent villages in Xieng Ngeun District, Luang Prabang Province, Northern Laos, reveals significant variations in the reliance on shifting cultivation for dry rice production. The study highlights that village boundaries play a crucial role in shaping these differences, influencing land use patterns and livelihood strategies. By examining land use and subsistence practices across the villages, researchers identified distinct patterns of agricultural intensity and resource management, providing insights into the socio-ecological dynamics of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. This work underscores the importance of local governance structures in sustaining traditional farming systems amidst environmental and economic pressures.

Digital survey and interpretation of a fortification fragment: The Cadi bridge at the feet of the Alhambra hill, Granada, Spain

Alhambra, Generalife and Albayzín, Granada — 2013 — WHE43E0B4793E

A digital survey of the Cadi Bridge, an 11th-century Moorish arch fragment near Granada's Alhambra, reveals new insights into the structure's original design and the urban landscape of medieval Granada. Researchers used geometric analysis of surviving remains combined with architectural references to propose a reconstructive hypothesis, culminating in a 3D digital reconstruction. This approach clarifies the bridge's role as part of a broader fortification system while addressing its current ambiguous state. The study highlights how digital tools can enhance understanding of historic sites, bridging gaps left by incomplete or degraded ruins.

Dinamiche insediative nel comprensorio di Cignana. Continuità e discontinuità tra l'età imperiale e l'età bizantina

Archaeological Area of Agrigento — 2013 — WHE66ABC29677

A study of the rural settlement dynamics in the hinterland of Cignana, near Agrigento, Sicily, reveals a complex network of settlements that persisted from the late Hellenistic to Late Roman/Byzantine periods. Through intensive archaeological surveys conducted since 2007, researchers identified approximately 200 sites, including farms and possibly villas, many of which were strategically located along major rivers (Naro and Palma) and streams (Grancifone, Montechiaro). These settlements likely formed a functional network, with some evolving into large villages. Archaeological findings, such as amphoras and fine/coarse wares, indicate that North Africa (Byzacena, Zeugitana) and Pantelleria island were primary supply regions, alongside Eastern Mediterranean influences. Additionally, some sites appear to be connected to secondary routes diverging from main roads in South Central Sicily, suggesting integrated regional connectivity.

Direct 14 C Dating of Early and Mid-Holocene Saharan Pottery

Tassili n'Ajjer — 2013 — WHE9FDC76B571

A groundbreaking study directly radiocarbon-dated pottery from Tassili n'Ajjer, revealing ages spanning 5270 ± 35 BP to 8160 ± 45 BP (6276–9190 cal BP), marking the transition from pre-Pastoral to Pastoral contexts during the early-mid Holocene. The research employed a combined geochemical and microscopic approach to isolate plant material in pottery, providing reliable 14C ages that align with typological chronologies. This method not only confirms the potential of vegetal temper in pottery for dating Saharan archaeological sites but also sheds light on the cultural shifts during the Holocene transition.

Direct 14C Dating of Early and Mid-Holocene Saharan Pottery

Tassili n'Ajjer — 2013 — WHED05B2EFFA5

Radiocarbon dating of pottery from Tassili n'Ajjer, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the central Sahara, reveals ages spanning 8160 ± 45 BP to 5270 ± 35 BP, providing critical insights into the early-mid Holocene transition. This study demonstrates that plant material used as temper in pottery can yield reliable 14C dates, correlating with typological chronologies and confirming a shift from pre-Pastoral to Pastoral contexts during this period. The research combines geochemical and microscopic analysis to isolate plant material for dating, offering a novel approach to understanding Saharan prehistoric cultures.

Disequilibrium and hyperdynamic tree turnover at the forest–cerrado transition zone in southern Amazonia

Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks — 2013 — WHEB7D5D6577C

The transition zone (ZOT) between the Cerrado and Amazon forest in southern Amazonia exhibits significantly higher tree turnover rates compared to core Amazonian forests, with mortality and recruitment rates of 2.8% and 6.5% per year for trees with diameters ≥10 cm, respectively. This hyperdynamic behavior contrasts sharply with the more stable dynamics (1–2% per year) observed in core Amazonian forests. The study, spanning from 1996 to 2010 across seven vegetation types—including monodominant forest, semi-deciduous seasonal forest, gallery forest, and cerradão—revealed that smaller trees (5 ≤ d < 10 cm) contributed minimally to biomass but had even higher mortality rates (7.4% per year). The findings underscore the unique ecological dynamics of this rapidly shrinking region, necessitating long-term monitoring to assess its response to climate change.

Displacing place: ‘translating’ Pele in cyberspace

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park — 2013 — WHECF207E7995

This study reveals how the spiritual symbolism of Pele, the Hawaiian volcano goddess, has been misappropriated by non-Indigenous groups through cyberspace, particularly for New Age spiritual practices and tourism. The research demonstrates that online platforms, often tied to settler colonialism, displace traditional Kanaka Maoli (Native Hawaiian) spiritual practices, contributing to Indigenous erasure while reinforcing colonial agendas. The study examines how this digital appropriation of Pele supports broader settler colonial projects on the ground, raising ethical concerns about cultural displacement and the ethics of place. It highlights the tension between Indigenous reverence for sacred sites like Kīlauea and their commodification as global tourist attractions.

Disproportionate predation on endemic marmots by invasive coyotes

Olympic National Park — 2013 — WHE81A11B431B

Invasive coyotes (Canis latrans) are the primary terrestrial predators of the endangered Olympic marmot (Marmota olympus) in Olympic National Park, Washington. Analysis of carnivore scat revealed that coyotes accounted for 71% of verified samples and were responsible for 85% of marmot predation events, with only bobcats (13%) and cougars (2%) contributing to the remainder. Genetic markers confirmed that nearly all identified coyote individuals preyed on marmots, indicating widespread and substantial predation pressure. Coyotes ranked fifth in their diet composition but were the dominant predator across seasons and regions, likely driving observed declines and local extirpations of this endemic species. The study used mitochondrial DNA analysis for carnivore identification and microsatellite markers to track individual coyotes, providing critical insights into the impact of invasive predators on native wildlife.

Dissolved Organic Carbon in Headwater Streams and Riparian Soil Organic Carbon along an Altitudinal Gradient in the Wuyi Mountains, China

Mount Wuyi — 2013 — WHE0F57D14E12

Researchers found that dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentrations in headwater streams of the Wuyi Mountains, China, decrease with altitude, contrary to typical global trends. Unlike other biomes where stream DOC correlates positively with soil organic carbon (SOC), this study revealed a negative relationship along an altitudinal gradient spanning subtropical evergreen broadleaf forests to alpine meadows. The findings suggest that higher precipitation and increased clay plus silt content at higher elevations contribute to lower DOC concentrations, likely through dilution effects or adsorption processes. These results highlight the need for cautious upscaling and downscaling when modeling carbon flux responses to climate change in forested watersheds.

Distinctly variable mudscapes: Distribution gradients of intertidal macrofauna across the Dutch Wadden Sea

Wadden Sea — 2013 — WHE78043DB5B1

The Dutch Wadden Sea exhibits distinct spatial gradients in intertidal macrofauna assemblage composition. Research reveals that biomass distribution varies significantly from west to east, with bivalves like Mya arenaria, Cerastoderma edule, and Ensis directus dominating the western region, while C. edule dominates towards the east. The polychaete Alitta succinea becomes prominent in the upper Ems and Dollard estuary but is negligible elsewhere. Generalized dissimilarity modeling (GDM) identified median grain size, microphytobenthic biomass, and exposure time as key drivers of these variations, highlighting the Wadden Sea's heterogeneous landscape. These findings underscore the importance of spatial gradients in ecosystem functioning and have implications for management and monitoring strategies.