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Planning Rural Landscapes: A Participatory Approach to Analyse Future Scenarios in Monferrato Astigiano, Piedmont, Italy

Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont: Langhe-Roero and Monferrato — 2013 — WHEAFBAC01BED

A participatory approach to planning rural landscapes reveals significant differences in expectations, perceptions, and attitudes between institutional stakeholders and civil society stakeholders when evaluating future scenarios. The study, conducted in Monferrato Astigiano, Piedmont, Italy, identified key driving forces affecting local landscape transformations and analyzed their likely impacts through focus group consultations. Findings highlight the complexity of shared decision-making processes in rural landscape planning, emphasizing the need for inclusive strategies that account for diverse stakeholder perspectives to effectively implement the European Landscape Convention.

Plant diversity and foliar elemental profiles in relation to soil chemistry and altitude on ultramafic edaphic islands in Kinabalu Park (Malaysia)

Kinabalu Park — 2013 — WHE0B4B4FBE83

Kinabalu Park, a global biodiversity hotspot, harbors exceptionally high plant diversity on ultramafic outcrops, with 2854 species recorded. These outcrops host distinct vegetation classes linked to soil chemistry, including hypermagnesian and serpentinite soils, which support unique species assemblages despite adverse conditions. Notably, hyperaccumulator plants exhibit extreme Ni concentrations (up to 16.9% in phloem exudate), suggesting an ecophysiological adaptation rather than a random distribution. These findings highlight the park's ultramafic soils as drivers of plant evolution and potential candidates for phytomining, while also revealing the ecological significance of soil chemistry in shaping biodiversity.

Plant Species and Their Uses In Homegardens of Migrant Maya and Mestizo Smallholder Farmers In Calakmul, Campeche, Mexico

Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche — 2013 — WHEC4DF71606E

Homegardens in Calakmul, Campeche, Mexico, host a high diversity of plant species (310 total) with uses predominantly ornamental (41%), followed by food (35%) and medicinal (30%). The study found that the floristic composition of these gardens is strongly influenced by the socioeconomic conditions and cultural background of the farmers, particularly in ornamental plants. However, neither gender nor culture affects the farmers' evaluation of homegarden functions. Conducted in 20 Maya and Mestizo homegardens, this research used interviews, inventories, and a ranking system to assess botanical composition, structure, infrastructure, and farmer knowledge about management and product processing.

Poetics and politics: Bikini Atoll and World Heritage Listing

Bikini Atoll Nuclear Test Site — 2013 — WHEB7ED3FD415

Bikini Atoll Nuclear Test Site, Republic of the Marshall Islands, was inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List in 2010 as a globally significant cultural symbol and icon of the 20th century. This designation reflects its dual nature: a landscape ravaged by nuclear testing (1946–1958) and a remote, exotic paradise. The study examines how the atoll's name, appropriated for the bikini swimsuit, became intertwined with its history of destruction, while also serving as a subversive space co-opted by both global and local actors for heritage recognition. The research employs 'Social Poetics' to explore tensions between official cultural narratives and lived experiences, highlighting Bikini's role in political advocacy for displaced Marshallese communities.

Point defects in calcite used to estimate the date of arrival of first settlers in central region of Brazil

Serra da Capivara National Park — 2013 — WHE443367AFF6

A groundbreaking discovery in the Chapada de Diamantina region, situated between Serra da Capivara National Park and Montalvania, Piauí, Brazil, has pushed back the timeline of human habitation in central Brazil. Researchers analyzed calcite formations on rock-wall paintings using thermoluminescence and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) dating techniques, revealing an age range of 40 to 55 thousand years ago (ka). This finding indicates that humans inhabited the area significantly earlier than previously thought, predating 40 ka. The study leverages point defects in calcite crystals as a novel method for dating archaeological sites, offering a precise and non-destructive approach to understanding human settlement patterns in the region.

Points Clouds Generation Using TLS and Dense-Matching Techniques. a Test on Approachable Accuracies of Different Tools

Archaeological Area and the Patriarchal Basilica of Aquileia — 2013 — WHEFDC9628053

A comparison of point cloud generation techniques reveals that high-accuracy 3D modeling of archaeological assets is achievable using both Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS) and dense-matching software, with results demonstrating precision suitable for detailed cultural heritage documentation. The study tested different tools on late Roman mosaic floorings in Aquileia, Italy, showing that low-cost image-matching techniques can rival traditional TLS methods in terms of detail and scale. This finding underscores the potential for cost-effective, high-resolution digital surveys in heritage conservation, balancing accuracy with accessibility.

Polarimetric Multifrequency and Multi‐incidence SAR Sensors Analysis for Archaeological Purposes

Samarra Archaeological City — 2013 — WHECC69DA249D

A comparative analysis of ALOS PALSAR and RADARSAT-2 satellite sensors reveals distinct advantages for detecting shallow underground archaeological structures, with RADARSAT-2's higher spatial resolution (9 m) offsetting PALSAR's deeper soil penetration (L-band). This study highlights the complementary nature of these sensors in identifying superficial remains at UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Samarra and Djebel Barkal. Polarimetric SAR data analysis, supported by archaeological maps and optical satellite imagery, demonstrates the potential for remote sensing to advance archaeological research, particularly where ground-truth surveys are politically restricted.

Polychlorinated Biphenyl (PCB) congener concentrations in aquatic birds. Case study: Ilha Grande Bay, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Paraty and Ilha Grande – Culture and Biodiversity — 2013 — WHE3C552D9825

A study analyzing livers of aquatic birds from Ilha Grande Bay, Brazil, found relatively low levels of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners but highlighted potential widespread biological and mutagenic risks. The research, conducted between 2005 and 2010, examined 16 PCB congeners in four bird species: Egretta caerulea, Nycticorax nycticorax, Egretta thula, and Ardea cocoi. Statistical analysis using Origin software revealed significant differences in congener concentrations, suggesting environmental contamination could pose risks to trophic levels and human health. The findings underscore the importance of monitoring PCB exposure in aquatic ecosystems.

Pompeii and Herculaneum

Archaeological Areas of Pompei, Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata — 2013 — WHE51FEEB14DB

A comprehensive resource that offers a rich and diverse perspective on urban life in Pompeii and Herculaneum, two ancient Roman cities buried by the eruption of Vesuvius. This updated edition expands beyond its predecessor by incorporating material from Herculaneum, providing a broader understanding of societal structures through inscriptions and ancient texts. It translates and contextualizes a wide range of source materials, from commercial labels to personal poetry, highlighting everyday life, politics, commerce, religion, and family dynamics. The majority of sources originate from the cities themselves, offering authentic insights from ordinary inhabitants, including citizens and slaves. Enhanced with the latest research, photographs, maps, and plans, this sourcebook serves as an invaluable tool for both academic study and site visits.

Pontic Inhabitants at Gordion? Pots, People, and Plans of Houses at Middle Phrygian through Early Hellenistic Gordion (Chapter 15)

Gordion — 2013 — WHE979F6DA3D4

A significant discovery at Gordion, the ancient capital of Phrygia, suggests the presence of Pontic inhabitants during the Middle Phrygian through Early Hellenistic periods. This insight is derived from an analysis of pottery styles and house plans, revealing cultural influences that challenge previous assumptions about the site's demographic composition. The study employs a comparative approach, examining architectural features and ceramic artifacts to trace potential migrations or interactions between the Pontic region and Gordion. Such findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the dynamic social and cultural landscape of this UNESCO World Heritage Site during its later phases.

Population and growth of queen conch (Lobatus gigas Linnaeus, 1758) in the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve of Belize

Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System — 2013 — WHEF05EE5E3C9

Marine protected areas (MPAs) play a crucial role in conserving endangered species and boosting populations of exploited ones, yet their effectiveness remains debated. A study in the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve (SCMR), part of Belize's Barrier Reef, reveals significant differences in queen conch (Lobatus gigas) population densities between conservation zones and general use areas. Juvenile and adult conch densities were substantially higher in conservation zones (20.13 and 2.88 individuals/100 m², respectively) compared to general use zones (5.29 juveniles and 0.58 adults/100 m²). While shell length showed no significant differences between zones, a strong positive correlation was found between shell length and lip thickness in both areas. These findings underscore the importance of MPAs in sustaining spawning stock biomass, vital for the long-term management of environmentally sensitive ecosystems like Belize's Barrier Reef.

Population Dynamics and Demography of Humpback Whales in Glacier Bay and Icy Strait, Alaska

Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek — 2013 — WHE9C04E18CD4

Humpback whale populations in Glacier Bay and Icy Strait, Alaska, have shown significant growth over 25 years, with estimates rising from a low of approximately 50 individuals in 1986 to nearly 181 by 2009. This study, utilizing standardized sight-resight data collected since 1985 and robust capture-recapture models, revealed an annual population growth rate of about 4.4%. Key findings also include a high annual survival rate of 94.8% and notable temporary emigration patterns, with around 10.6% of whales temporarily leaving the study area each year. These insights underscore the resilience and recovery of this endangered species within a marine protected area, highlighting the importance of long-term monitoring efforts.

Population structure of the oldest known macroscopic communities from Mistaken Point, Newfoundland

Mistaken Point — 2013 — WHE23EBF15F43

A groundbreaking analysis of the population structure of Ediacaran organisms from Mistaken Point, Newfoundland, reveals that these ancient communities likely reproduced continuously and aseasonally. By examining size-frequency distributions of four taxa across five fossil surfaces using Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC), researchers found single-cohort models with wide variance best explained the data. This suggests a 'continuous reproduction' model, where Ediacaran organisms lacked seasonal triggers for reproduction, possibly due to deepwater environmental conditions. The study provides critical insights into the life history and ecology of these oldest known macroscopic communities, challenging previous assumptions about their reproductive strategies.

Population trends and breeding success of albatrosses and giant petrels at Gough Island in the face of at-sea and on-land threats

Gough and Inaccessible Islands — 2013 — WHEDD97C4C750

A critical decline of 3% annually in the population of the Critically Endangered Tristan albatross at Gough Island has been linked to chick predation by invasive house mice, highlighting a significant on-land threat. This study monitored three albatross species and southern giant petrels over time, revealing stable populations for the latter but interannual variability for Atlantic yellow-nosed and sooty albatrosses. The research used long-term population tracking to correlate Tristan albatross breeding success (23%) with localized predation rates, underscoring the urgency of addressing introduced mammal threats. While trends for other species remain uncertain due to small sample sizes, the findings reinforce the conservation priority of the Tristan albatross and call for broader data collection to assess global population dynamics.

Portable-XRF Analysis of Archaeological Obsidian from Rebun Island, Japan

Jomon Prehistoric Sites in Northern Japan — 2013 — WHE4F3FC6E249

Archaeological excavations on Rebun Island, Japan, reveal that obsidian—a material not found naturally on the island—was used continuously from the Middle Jomon period (5400–4300 cal. YBP) through to the Okhotsk period (1500–750 YBP). This suggests significant long-distance trade or transportation of raw materials and tools, a pattern consistent with broader prehistoric lithic industries in northeast Asia. To trace the origins of this obsidian, researchers employed portable-XRF analysis on artifacts from three sites: Uedomari 3, Kafukai 1, and Hamanaka 2. The findings promise to illuminate shifts in resource procurement and distribution among hunter-gatherer communities during these periods, offering new insights into the economic and cultural dynamics of prehistoric Northern Japan.

Portland Stone: A nomination for “Global Heritage Stone Resource” from the United Kingdom

Dorset and East Devon Coast — 2013 — WHEFE0ED54773

Portland Stone, a Jurassic ooidal limestone from the United Kingdom, has been nominated as the first 'Global Heritage Stone Resource' (GHSR) based on its significant cultural history, widespread use, and continued availability. The study highlights Portland Stone's extensive application in historic buildings, including St Paul's Cathedral and the British Museum, as well as its association with renowned architect Sir Christopher Wren and international landmarks like the United Nations building. Its ongoing quarrying, environmentally sensitive extraction, and inclusion in the Dorset and East Devon Coast World Heritage area further strengthen its candidacy. The proposal serves as a model for future GHSR nominations, emphasizing criteria such as cultural significance, geographical use, and contemporary availability to safeguard the resource from sterilization.

Portrait Statues of Women on the Island of Delos

Delos — 2013 — WHE3F8C5691CC

Delos reveals significant insights into the portrayal of women through sculpture during its late Hellenistic/late Republican period (after 167/6 BCE). The island's strategic position under Athenian control attracted Italian traders and businessmen, leaving a rich legacy of epigraphic, archaeological, and sculptural evidence. The study focuses on the formats and body types used for female images in freestanding statues and funerary reliefs, with particular attention to an unusual marble portrait head from the House of the Diadoumenos. Through analysis of the portrait's style, date, and find context, the research suggests possible identities for the subject, contributing to our understanding of gender representation and social dynamics in this period.

Possibility to Use Mobile Learning to Promote World Heritage Site Preservation Awareness in Luang Prabang, Lao PDR: a Readiness Study

Town of Luang Prabang — 2013 — WHE4915A497A8

Despite Lao PDR's low ranking on the ICT Index, young adults in higher education institutions demonstrate high readiness for mobile technology adoption. This study identifies significant potential for leveraging mobile learning applications to promote awareness of World Heritage Site preservation in Luang Prabang. The research employed surveys and interviews to assess technological readiness among this demographic. Findings suggest that mobile learning could serve as an effective tool for educating young adults about the importance of preserving cultural heritage, paving the way for future development of targeted educational applications.

Possible Interbreeding in Late Italian Neanderthals? New Data from the Mezzena Jaw (Monti Lessini, Verona, Italy)

City of Verona — 2013 — WHE55A3AE1740

A groundbreaking analysis of the Mezzena jaw from Riparo Mezzena, a Middle Paleolithic rockshelter in Verona, Italy, reveals potential interbreeding between late Neanderthals and anatomically modern humans (AMHs). Mitochondrial DNA sequencing identified this as the only genetically typed Neanderthal in the Italian peninsula, confirming its late Neanderthal status through direct dating. The study employed comparative morphology and geometric morphometrics to compare the Mezzena mandible with mid-Pleistocene fossils, Neanderthals, and AMHs. Notably, the chin region of the Mezzena jaw exhibits a more modern morphology, resembling that of other late Neanderthals such as Spy 1, La Ferrassie, and Saint-Césaire. This anatomical change supports the hypothesis of interbreeding between Neanderthals and AMHs in Europe during this period, suggesting a non-abrupt phylogenetic transition.

Potential Visual Impacts of Utility-Scale Solar Energy Development within Solar Energy Zones on Selected Viewpoints in Death Valley and Joshua Tree National Parks, and El Camino Real De Tierra Adentro National Historic Trail

Camino Real de Tierra Adentro — 2013 — WHEB801A9E4B9

A visual impact analysis of utility-scale solar energy development within Solar Energy Zones (SEZs) on key observation points (KOPs) in Death Valley and Joshua Tree National Parks, and El Camino Real De Tierra Adentro National Historic Trail revealed that certain viewpoints could experience major visual contrasts due to the intense brightness of power tower receivers and their structural height. However, many KOPs were likely to face only moderate, minor, or negligible impacts, primarily because they were distant from SEZs, partially obstructed by terrain, or had low vertical angles toward the SEZs. Power towers emerged as significant contributors to visual contrasts, not only due to the brightness of their receivers but also because of their height and potential night-sky impacts from navigation lighting.