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From Naumburg to Burgos. European Sculpture and Dynastic Politics in the Thirteenth Century

Burgos Cathedral — 2012 — WHE246B8EF83A

A new perspective on European Gothic sculpture challenges the traditional view that its development was solely driven by French cathedral workshops. Instead, research shows that sculptures in Burgos Cathedral, erected in the 1260s, share closer parallels with German works from Naumburg and Meissen. These connections suggest a significant influence of German sculptors during a period of cultural exchange between Germany and Castile, particularly under the reign of Alfonso X the Learned. The study identifies specific sculptural details linking Burgos to Magdeburgian origins, with the Holy Sepulchre sculptures of Constance Cathedral serving as the missing link. This finding sheds light on the complex interplay of dynastic politics and artistic tradition in medieval Europe.

From one shore to the other: Baume & Marpent’s Egyptian bridges

The Four Lifts on the Canal du Centre and their Environs, La Louvière and Le Roeulx (Hainaut) — 2012 — WHE81DBE8D5CB

Baume & Marpent's Egyptian bridges, constructed between 1894 and 1909, represent a significant advancement in bridge engineering, particularly for railway infrastructure. These structures showcased innovative techniques such as the use of compressed air for piling sinking and metal deck designs that were later replicated globally, including in China and Brazil. The research highlights their technical prowess, demonstrated through detailed plans and elevations, which were ahead of their time. By analyzing historical documents and engineering drawings from the Baume & Marpent collection, the study underscores their contribution to global bridge construction, bridging gaps not just physically but also in technological exchange between regions.

From Sea to Shining Sea: 17th Century French Canal du Midi

Canal du Midi — 2012 — WHEDCE9911D48

The Canal du Midi, completed in 1681, stands as a monumental 17th-century engineering achievement that connected the Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts of France. This 240 km canal overcame significant technical challenges, including the construction of locks to elevate water more than 183 meters across a watershed divide and developing a sustainable water supply system. Initiated by Pierre-Paul Riquet in 1666 with King Louis XIV's support, it provided a secure trade route, bypassing threats from pirates and Spanish-controlled passages like the Strait of Gibraltar. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, its innovative design and historical significance continue to captivate scholars.

Fruit Dispersal Ecology of Woody Taxa in Temperate to Tropical Forests of China and Japan

Shirakami-Sanchi — 2012 — WHECAD7536CF1

A significant variation in fruit dispersal modes and seed size distributions exists among different forest types, with animal dispersal predominant in broad-leaved evergreen and tropical moist forests, while wind dispersal is more common in subhumid sclerophyllous, tropical monsoon, and deciduous forests. Large seeds (>15 mm) of fleshy-fruited taxa are predominantly found in tropical moist forests but are nearly absent in other forest types. The study analyzed seed dispersal spectra and seed size distribution across various forest types in Japan (including Shirakami-Sanchi) and China, providing insights into ecosystem evolution and dynamics along latitudinal and altitudinal gradients.

Fungi in Water-Damaged Buildings of Vilnius Old City and Their Susceptibility Towards Disinfectants and Essential Oils

Vilnius Historic Centre — 2012 — WHE800C9139B3

A study on fungal contamination in water-damaged buildings within Vilnius' historic center revealed that certain essential oils, particularly those derived from the clove tree, Siberian fir, and common caraway, exhibit significant antifungal activity comparable to or even surpassing traditional chemical biocides like Biosheen and Boramon. The research identified Penicillium chrysogenum and Aspergillus versicolor as predominant fungi on walls and in indoor air, with notable susceptibility to clove tree essential oil. Fungal contamination was also found to be higher on wallpaper-covered surfaces compared to painted or rough porous materials. This insight underscores the potential of natural antimicrobial agents for effective mold control in heritage buildings.

Further constraints on the Chauvet cave artwork elaboration

Decorated Cave of Pont d’Arc, known as Grotte Chauvet-Pont d’Arc, Ardèche — 2012 — WHE58DB30CC14

A groundbreaking study using 36 Cl Cosmic Ray Exposure dating reveals that the Chauvet cave, home to some of the oldest and most elaborate Palaeolithic artworks, underwent multiple cliff collapses between 29,000 and 21,000 years ago. These findings confirm that the cave's artwork predates previously established chronological benchmarks, challenging our understanding of human cognitive evolution during the Aurignacian and Gravettian periods. By integrating geological evidence with radiocarbon dates, researchers provide a robust timeline for human occupation and artistic expression in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Gangue mineral textures and fluid inclusion characteristics of the Santa Margarita Vein in the Guanajuato Mining District, Mexico

Historic Town of Guanajuato and Adjacent Mines — 2012 — WHE4A5E7FA14E

A newly discovered gold-silver vein, the Santa Margarita, parallel to the Veta Madre in Guanajuato's historic mining district, contains exceptionally high grades of up to 249 g/t Au and 2,280 g/t Ag. This study identifies distinct gangue mineral textures and fluid inclusion characteristics that correlate with high mineralization potential. Fluid inclusions in rich samples exhibit temperatures between 184–300°C and salinities up to 5 wt.% NaCl, while barren samples show lower salinity (≤3 wt.%). Evidence of boiling, particularly vapor-rich inclusions linked to intense 'flashing,' strongly correlates with high gold grades, offering a robust exploration tool for identifying economically viable targets in epithermal deposits.

Gaudí and Reinforced Concrete in Construction

Works of Antoni Gaudí — 2012 — WHE94DC64AD39

This study reveals that Antoni Gaudí, one of Spain's most renowned architects, integrated reinforced concrete into his architectural designs during the early 20th century, marking a significant transition from traditional construction methods. The research traces Gaudí's exposure to this innovative material through his professional relationship with industrialists like Eusebi Güell and examines patents he accessed in Catalonia. By analyzing the characteristics of his works featuring reinforced structures, the study highlights how Gaudí adapted to the rapid adoption of reinforced concrete, a process that paralleled its scientific dissemination in Spain.

Gaze Direction of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony in the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park planed by Kenzo Tange

Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome) — 2012 — WHE37C8935899

A study of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony reveals that while Kenzo Tange's original south-north axis design for the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park has been increasingly disrupted by media coverage, the gaze direction of attendees remains aligned with his intended vision. This persistence in visual alignment suggests a stable method for spatial design to sustain collective memory, despite external influences altering the perceived landscape. The research analyzed historical and contemporary media photographs to trace changes in the ceremony's visual narrative over time.

Gendered livelihoods and the politics of socio-environmental identity: women's participation in conservation projects in Calakmul, Mexico

Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche — 2012 — WHE16CCEBC9D9

Women's participation in conservation projects within the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, Mexico, reveals that gendered livelihood strategies are shaped by household and community negotiations, responding to specific opportunities and constraints. These strategies encompass both material and ideological dimensions, highlighting the complex interplay between socio-environmental identity and sustainable livelihoods. The study employs participatory rural appraisal (PRA) methodologies, including group histories and visual evidence from women's agricultural organizations, to illustrate these dynamics. This research underscores the importance of recognizing gendered perspectives in conservation efforts to foster more inclusive and effective sustainable development practices.

Genetic Diversity among Bacillus anthracis Soil Isolates at Fine Geographic Scales

Wood Buffalo National Park — 2012 — WHE1DEA2EB019

A study of Bacillus anthracis isolates from carcass sites in Wood Buffalo National Park and the Hook Lake Region revealed significant genetic diversity at fine geographic scales, challenging assumptions about hierarchical typing methods. While multiple-locus variable-number tandem repeat analysis (MLVA15) grouped isolates into two clades, single-nucleotide-repeat analysis (SNRA) distinguished isolates even within a single carcass site, indicating finer-scale genetic variation than previously recognized. The findings suggest that SNRA may be more sensitive for detecting subtle genetic differences in B. anthracis populations, raising questions about the robustness of current typing approaches.

Genetic Population Substructure in Bison at Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park — 2012 — WHE7AE0CBD649

Yellowstone National Park's bison herd, one of the few populations continuously existing on its current landscape since pre-Columbian times, exhibits significant genetic substructure. Research using multilocus Bayesian clustering analysis revealed two distinct and clearly defined subpopulations with differentiation levels nearing those seen in geographically isolated populations for over 40 years. These clusters correlated strongly with sampling locations and displayed critical differences in migration patterns across years, particularly around winter cull sites. The study highlights the importance of understanding cryptic population subdivision for effective wildlife management.

Genetic Structure and Kinship Patterns in a Population of Black Howler Monkeys, A louatta pigra, at P alenque N ational P ark, M exico

Pre-Hispanic City and National Park of Palenque — 2012 — WHE0527725D76

A population of black howler monkeys (Alouatta pigra) at Palenque National Park, Mexico, exhibits low genetic diversity but significant intergroup variation, with one group notably diverging from others. Intragroup kinship analysis reveals that both males and females often reside with same-sexed adult kin, suggesting limited dispersal or movement with related individuals. Among immigrant males, some formed closely related coalitions to take over social groups, while solitary immigrants showed no close genetic ties to resident males. The study used 19 microsatellite markers on fecal samples from 49 individuals across eight groups to assess genetic structure and kinship patterns.

Genetic testing reveals some mislabeling but general compliance with a ban on herbivorous fish harvesting in Belize

Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System — 2012 — WHEC6EF34155E

Genetic testing of fish fillets sold in Belizean markets between 2009 and 2011 revealed that while there was some mislabeling, the ban on herbivorous fish harvesting implemented in 2009 appears to have largely succeeded. Researchers found that only 5–7% of the sampled fillets were actually herbivorous fish, indicating a significant reduction from pre-ban levels (28% from 2005 to 2008). However, mislabeling rates reached 32–51%, suggesting potential loopholes or evasion. This study highlights the effectiveness of targeted fishing bans in reducing overfishing pressures on coral reef ecosystems, though enforcement challenges persist.

Geoarchaeological Investigations of Midden‐Formation Processes in the Early to Late Ceramic Neolithic Levels at Çatalhöyük, Turkey ca. 8550–8370 cal BP

Neolithic Site of Çatalhöyük — 2012 — WHE1780BB5970

Midden deposits at Çatalhöyük, dating from the early to late ceramic Neolithic (ca. 8550–8370 cal BP), reveal a complex and diverse range of activities through detailed geoarchaeological analysis. These deposits, composed of ashes, charred plant materials, decayed organic matter, fecal waste, and sedimentary aggregates, demonstrate varied depositional pathways linked to in situ burning with different fuel types. The study highlights the necessity of an integrated microstratigraphic approach, combining thin-section micromorphology, phytolith analysis, and geochemical techniques, to accurately reconstruct cultural and palaeoenvironmental histories at the site.

Geoarchaeological study of the Achaemenid dam of Sad-i Didegan (Fars, Iran)

Pasargadae — 2012 — WHED34F238262

A geoarchaeological study of the Achaemenid dam at Sad-i Didegan, Iran, reveals that this ancient water control system was part of a broader regional effort to manage catchment discharge for downstream agricultural lands. The dam's strategic placement and construction suggest it required significant labor over an extended period, with its scale and capacity exceeding local needs. The study combines archaeological and geoarchaeological data to demonstrate the dam's role in conjunction with other nearby dams, such as Sad-i Shahidabad, highlighting the Achaemenid Empire's sophisticated approach to water management and its economic importance for the wider Pasargadae countryside.

Geoarchaeota: a new candidate phylum in the Archaea from high-temperature acidic iron mats in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park — 2012 — WHE23A24879FC

Researchers have identified 'Geoarchaeota' (or novel archaeal group 1, NAG1), a new candidate phylum within the Archaea domain, thriving in high-temperature acidic iron mats of Yellowstone National Park. This discovery sheds light on microbial diversity and metabolic adaptations in extreme environments, including those with low pH, high temperatures, and reduced oxygen. The study employed replicate de novo genome assemblies to analyze conserved ribosomal and informational processing genes, revealing unique pathways for peptide and carbohydrate catabolism, energy conservation via a bacterial-like carbon monoxide dehydrogenase complex, and oxygen metabolism involving heme copper oxidase and terminal oxidase systems. NAG1 also exhibits distinct cofactor biosynthesis, transport genes, and a Type3-like CRISPR system, offering insights into the evolution of Archaea in early Earth environments and their potential analogs in Yellowstone's geothermal systems.

Geología de la región de Salamanca, Guanajuato, México

Historic Town of Guanajuato and Adjacent Mines — 2012 — WHE74AEE353E4

A detailed geological mapping of the Salamanca-Aldama region, Guanajuato, Mexico, reveals the complex stratigraphy and tectonic history of the area. The study identified sixteen mappable units, with the oldest exposed unit being a polymictic conglomerate correlated to the Rojo de Guanajuato Formation. Overlying this are andesites and rhyolitic domes and lavas, part of the Oligocene volcanism in the Mesa Central region, though topaz-bearing rocks were not found within the studied area. Three ignimbrite units from the late Oligocene to early Miocene, with intercalated andesites, were also mapped, covering much of the region. The study further identified two andesite-basalt units, one associated with the La Ordeña caldera and another forming widespread lava plateaus. Monogenetic volcanic apparatuses and lava flows were linked to the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt (FVTM). Tectonic structures include older NW-SE faults in the northeast that affect Oligocene rhyolitic rocks, NE-ENE trending faults cutting through ignimbrites, and the significant El Bajío fault, which has a NW-SE strike, ~500 m displacement, and formed the El Bajío tectonic depression—a key boundary between the FVTM and Mesa Central. Additional N-S normal faults in the south affect Pliocene-Quaternary rocks of the FVTM.

Geologic map of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park region, Tennessee and North Carolina

Great Smoky Mountains National Park — 2012 — WHE917C3963FE

A comprehensive geologic map of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park region, spanning Tennessee and North Carolina, reveals critical geological structures that support biodiversity research and land management. Conducted between 1993 and 2003 by the U.S. Geological Survey in collaboration with the National Park Service (NPS), this 1:100,000-scale map was derived from detailed fieldwork at scales of 1:24,000 and 1:62,500. The study addressed gaps in existing knowledge, revised problematic areas, and created a digital database to aid interdisciplinary research, soil mapping by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, and the All Taxa Biodiversity Inventory. This map serves as an essential tool for park management and visitor education, providing foundational data for understanding the region's complex geology.

Geological Protection Project of the Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang

Longmen Grottoes — 2012 — WHECFE20D89FB

A comprehensive geological protection strategy for the Longmen Grottoes has been developed to mitigate damage from mechanical, chemical, and biological weathering. The study analyzed the current state of erosion in three key caverns—Qianxi Temple, HuangPuGong Cave, and Lu Hole—and proposed targeted solutions based on geological conditions. By categorizing deterioration mechanisms, researchers aim to preserve these ancient stone carvings, offering a model for safeguarding similar cultural relics worldwide.