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Publications

Showing 28381 – 28400 of 30315 publications

A vegetation-based hierarchical classification for seasonally pulsed floodplains in the Okavango Delta, Botswana

Okavango Delta — 2011 — WHEDDCA5EDA6D

Researchers developed a vegetation-based hierarchical classification system for seasonally pulsed floodplains in the Boro-Xudum distributary of the Okavango Delta, Botswana. This system categorizes floodplains into four main classes—Dry Floodplain Grassland, Seasonally Flooded Grassland, Seasonally Flooded Sedgeland, and Seasonal Aquatic Communities—based on indicator species analysis and ordination. The classification provides an ecologically meaningful framework for monitoring vegetation changes due to hydrological shifts. The study surveyed 30 sites between March and June 2007, using stratified random sampling and multiple quadrats along transects orthogonal to the floodplain long axis. This objective routine aids in assessing the impacts of environmental changes on this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Abandoned villages and related geographic and landscape context: guidelines to natural and cultural heritage conservation and multifunctional valorization

Cultural Landscape of Sintra — 2011 — WHE12053C8F1D

Abandoned villages, particularly those with cultural and natural heritage value, pose significant challenges for conservation and revitalization. This study identifies key factors contributing to rural abandonment in Portugal, such as economic shifts and declining quality of life, while highlighting the potential for multifunctional valorization through agro-reconversion and tourism. The research focuses on Broas, a deserted village near Sintra, analyzing its geographic and landscape context to propose sustainable strategies for heritage conservation. These include developing interpretation centers, eco-museums, or repurposing buildings for tourism, with an emphasis on creating economic opportunities that support new inhabitants while preserving both cultural and natural assets.

Abiotic & Biotic Responses of the Colorado River to Controlled Floods at Glen Canyon Dam, Arizona, USA

Grand Canyon National Park — 2011 — WHE57F1004708

Controlled floods from Glen Canyon Dam can rebuild and maintain sandbars in Grand Canyon National Park, but only if timed with tributary sand deliveries. Monitoring data reveal that sandbar erosion after flooding is influenced by discharge levels and tributary sand production. The 2008 flood significantly increased early survival rates of non-native rainbow trout, more than fourfold compared to prior years, due to improved food availability from midges and black flies. While this boosted the tailwater fishery, it also posed a risk to endangered humpback chub through competitive interactions and predation. The study suggests that repeated, strategically timed floods could sustainably restore sandbars while balancing ecological trade-offs for both native and non-native species.

Accelerated construction of a regional DNA-barcode reference library: caddisflies (Trichoptera) in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park — 2011 — WHE6383129E18

A regional DNA-barcode reference library for caddisflies (Trichoptera) in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP) was successfully constructed using a combination of global and local sampling, achieving 91% coverage of the GSMNP fauna. The study leveraged nearly 1000 COI sequences from the global Trichoptera Barcode of Life campaign, supplemented by 645 sequences obtained during a 3-day bioblitz in GSMNP. This approach expedited library construction while maintaining high species differentiation accuracy (93%). The findings highlight the importance of integrating global barcoding projects with local surveys to capture rare or endemic species and ensure barcode quality, offering new insights into caddisfly biodiversity patterns and taxonomic revisions.

Account of the Fables and Rites of the Incas

City of Cuzco — 2011 — WHEA1E209EBE2

Cristóbal de Molina's 'Account of the Fables and Rites of the Incas' provides an invaluable firsthand account of Inca religious beliefs, practices, and rituals, compiled shortly after the Spanish conquest. Leveraging his proficiency in Quechua, Molina interviewed elderly indigenous men in Cuzco, capturing detailed descriptions of creation myths, deities (huacas), and significant ceremonies, including monthly rites, birth rituals, female initiations, marriages, the Capacocha ritual, and the Taqui Ongoy millennial movement—a response to Spanish domination. This English translation, accompanied by scholarly commentary, offers a rare glimpse into pre-Columbian Andean spirituality and resistance, preserving cultural knowledge from the late Inca period.

Actors and the multiple imaginaries on the tourist sites: a case study of the Mogao Caves, Dunhuang, China

Mogao Caves — 2011 — WHE74A8F15749

Tourism imaginaries at UNESCO World Heritage Sites are not merely individual constructs but are shaped by actors' practices and socially negotiated. A study of the Mogao Caves, Dunhuang, China, reveals three dominant symbolic spaces—art, national, and religious—that each engage distinct tourism imaginaries and practices. The research extends Tim Edensor's framework by integrating 'actors' into the analysis, demonstrating how these imaginaries coexist, compete, or align within a single site. The Dunhuang Academy emerges as an institutional actor whose practices reflect a network of meaning composed of diverse imaginaries, often referencing different imagined geographies. This approach highlights the complexity and dynamism of tourism imaginaries in heritage sites.

Adapting to climate change at Olympic National Forest and Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park — 2011 — WHEF01E487C0C

A collaborative climate change adaptation case study at Olympic National Forest (ONF) and Olympic National Park (ONP), spanning 1.5 years, demonstrated effective strategies for integrating climate resilience into federal land management. The study identified actionable adaptation options across four key focus areas—hydrology and roads, fish, vegetation, and wildlife—by combining science-based vulnerability assessments with stakeholder workshops. This approach highlighted the potential of place-based methods to mitigate climate impacts while providing a replicable model for other protected areas. Key insights include the feasibility of cross-agency collaboration in early-stage adaptation planning, offering scalable solutions for agencies managing diverse ecosystems.

Addressing Sustainability of Clam Farming in the Venice Lagoon

Venice and its Lagoon — 2011 — WHEF2FB7D88EC

Clam farming in the Venice Lagoon, while economically significant, poses sustainability challenges due to environmental pressures. The study identifies critical factors threatening its viability, including water quality degradation and ecological imbalances. Researchers employed a multi-disciplinary approach, integrating ecological modeling with socio-economic analysis to assess the long-term impacts of clam aquaculture on lagoon ecosystems. Key findings highlight the need for adaptive management strategies that balance biodiversity conservation with sustainable resource use, emphasizing the importance of stakeholder collaboration in preserving this UNESCO World Heritage Site's unique marine environment.

Administrating The Non-Muslims And The ‛Question Of Jerusalem’ After The Young Turk Revolution

Old City of Jerusalem and its Walls — 2011 — WHEA11F6B20D3

The Young Turk Revolution of 1908 significantly altered the dynamics of power and relations among non-Muslim communities in the Ottoman Empire, particularly in Jerusalem. While existing historiography often focuses on the impact on Ottoman Turkish society, this study uniquely examines how different ethno-religious groups perceived the Revolution and how it influenced their internal power structures. It also explores the relationships between these groups and the religious dynamics within the Empire, as well as the central government's perspective on the transformations occurring in non-Muslim communities. Through a comparative approach, the research sheds light on the complex interplay of political, ethnic, and religious factors that shaped the post-Revolutionary landscape in one of the most contentious cities of the Ottoman Empire.

Ahmedabad

Historic City of Ahmadabad — 2011 — WHEE6FDD394D2

Ahmedabad, the 'Manchester of India,' is characterized by its rapid urbanization and enduring social, economic, and political dynamics. This study, led by historian Henry Spodek, reveals how the city's textile-based economy and leadership under figures like Gandhi, Patel, and Sarabhia shaped its trajectory from 1915 to the late 20th century. The research divides Ahmedabad's history into three eras: 'The Gandhian Era' (1915–1950), 'The Westernizing City' (1950–1980), and 'Creativity and Chaos' (1969–present). Spodek's deep archival research, personal familiarity with the city, and analysis of key events provide a nuanced understanding of Ahmedabad's role as a 'shock city,' mirroring global urban challenges. The study is highly recommended for its rich source material and illustrative depth.

Alhambra Palace Architecture: An Environmental Consideration Of Its Inhabitation

Alhambra, Generalife and Albayzín, Granada — 2011 — WHE8EFB377001

The Alhambra's Nasrid palaces, including the Comares and Lions, demonstrate remarkable passive environmental strategies to mitigate Granada's extreme climate fluctuations, ranging from -13°C to +43°C. These designs reflect sophisticated adaptations for habitation, contrasting with Charles V's Renaissance palace, which was deemed lacking in comparison. The study highlights how Nasrid architecture integrated natural ventilation, shading, and thermal comfort, offering insights into occupation patterns and lifestyle during the 14th century. By analyzing these structures, the research deepens the understanding of Nasrid architectural innovation and its response to environmental challenges.

An Analysis on the Meaning of the Elderly People`s Leisure and Culture through Male Senior Citizens Using Jongro Pagoda Park and Jongmyo Park

Jongmyo Shrine — 2011 — WHE83559058FE

Parks serve as multifaceted spaces for the elderly, fulfilling roles such as 'space for satisfying desires,' 'space of order and rules,' 'space of sharing,' and 'secret space to family.' This study analyzed the leisure and cultural activities of male senior citizens in Jongro Pagoda Park and Jongmyo Park, revealing that their park use stems from historical contexts like war, poverty, industrialization, and familial changes. Key findings include parks as remedies for solitude, avenues for intergenerational relationships with grandchildren, and structured environments that cater to the elderly's desires. The research employed life history analysis and ethnography over four months in 2010, involving six informants through in-depth interviews. These insights underscore the need for tailored leisure programs and policies to enhance social integration and satisfaction among the elderly.

An Analysis on Tourist Bus Operation Plan of Mount Emei Scenic

Mount Emei Scenic Area, including Leshan Giant Buddha Scenic Area — 2011 — WHE039F2947CC

A linear optimization model for tourist bus operations at Mount Emei Scenic Area, including Leshan Giant Buddha, was developed to minimize total travel time for visitors. Using the simplex search method and practical survey data, the study identified an optimal bus operation plan that efficiently addresses traffic congestion—a critical bottleneck hindering tourism growth in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The approach combines transportation planning theory with operations research to propose solutions for rapid passenger movement amid increasing tourist numbers.

An ancient icon reveals new mysteries: mummy DNA resurrects a cryptic species within the Nile crocodile

Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis — 2011 — WHE9132319CED

A cryptic species within the Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) has been identified through advanced genetic and karyotype analysis, reshaping our understanding of the genus Crocodylus' biogeographic history. This discovery resolves long-standing taxonomic disputes and reveals that two distinct lineages—including one previously described as Crocodylus suchus—coexisted in ancient Nile populations. Museum specimens, including mummified crocodiles from UNESCO World Heritage Site Ancient Thebes, were pivotal in reconstructing extinct genetic profiles. Current conservation efforts for the Nile crocodile may inadvertently harm the declining cryptic species, underscoring the need for refined management strategies based on accurate taxonomic recognition.

An annotated list of the avifauna of Palenque, Chiapas

Pre-Hispanic City and National Park of Palenque — 2011 — WHE955B0D96E4

Researchers have compiled the first comprehensive avifaunal list for Palenque, Chiapas, Mexico, identifying 353 reliably recorded bird species—significantly more than previously documented. This includes 202 regular breeders and 87 migrants, with understorey birds like Phaethornis longirostris and Henicorhina leucosticta being most frequently captured. The study also challenges prior assumptions about the rarity of certain species, such as Geotrygon montana. Conducted in a region facing rapid habitat destruction, this baseline data is critical for understanding anthropogenic impacts on forests, particularly in Palenque National Park, which has become an increasingly isolated forested island amid agricultural expansion.

An assessment of seabird–fishery interactions in the Atlantic Ocean

Gough and Inaccessible Islands — 2011 — WHE5233F065FB

A significant threat to seabird populations, particularly albatrosses, stems from incidental mortality in fisheries, with the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) longline fisheries catching substantial numbers of seabirds. This study assessed the impact of ICCAT fisheries on over 60 seabird populations, identifying at-risk species and estimating bycatch. The research revealed that unmitigated mortality could lead to declines in breeding bird numbers, endangering the long-term viability of key populations such as wandering and black-browed albatrosses from South Georgia and Atlantic yellow-nosed and Tristan albatrosses from Gough Island. The assessment framework combined population identification, overlap analyses, bycatch estimation, and demographic evaluations, highlighting the urgent need for conservation measures to protect these vulnerable species.

An assessment of the management of Osun Osogbo world heritage site.

Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove — 2011 — WHE90B1542819

A critical assessment of Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove reveals significant management weaknesses primarily driven by funding (94.4% of respondents), transportation challenges (82.4%), and inadequate infrastructure (83.3%). Threats such as bush burning, fishing, poaching, encroachment, and road construction pose persistent risks to the site's integrity. The study employed the RAPPAM methodology, using a rapid assessment questionnaire based on WCPA's international framework to evaluate legal status, monitoring, planning, resource utilization, and management effectiveness. Respondents rated elements like biological importance and management processes, identifying strengths (60% or more 'yes'/'mostly yes') and weaknesses (60% or more 'no'/'mostly no'). Addressing these pervasive threats through concerted policy efforts could substantially improve the grove's conservation status.

An Authentic Account of the Embassy of the Dutch East-India Company, to the Court of the Emperor of China, in the Years 1794 and 1795

Summer Palace, an Imperial Garden in Beijing — 2011 — WHE555F964DE7

A rare and vivid account of the Dutch East India Company's embassy to China in 1794–1795, this travelogue offers a unique glimpse into the Summer Palace and Chinese imperial court shortly after the British Macartney embassy. André Everard van Braam Houckgeest's meticulous observations, including detailed notes on cultural concepts, a 'correct chart' of the journey from Canton to Beijing, and a full itinerary, provide an authentic and immersive portrayal of late 18th-century China. First published in French (1797) and later in English (1798), the work captivated readers with its exotic descriptions, blending historical significance with vivid storytelling.

An Eastern Perspective: the Society of Antiquaries and Indian Antiquities in the 1780s

Elephanta Caves — 2011 — WHE46C9127711

British scholars initially lagged behind European contemporaries in studying Indian antiquities, but the Society of Antiquaries of London made significant strides by publishing early accounts of cave temples at Kanheri and Elephanta in its journal Archaeologia (1785). This effort was driven by Director Richard Gough, who had a personal interest in India. However, the Society's role diminished when Sir William Jones founded the Asiatick Society of Bengal, marking a shift in antiquities research focus.

An experimental test of the toxicity of cereal pellets containing brodifacoum to the snails of Henderson Island, South Pacific

Henderson Island — 2011 — WHEDBDD57D66D

An experimental test on Henderson Island found no significant toxicity of brodifacoum-laced cereal pellets to endemic snails. The study, conducted by Brooke et al. (2011), involved housing snails in captivity for up to 10 days with and without access to the poisoned pellets. Results showed no detectable differences in survival rates between the two groups, nor were there significant differences in brodifacoum concentrations among those that died or survived, with the toxin detected in only a few samples. This suggests that brodifacoum, commonly used for invasive rodent eradication on islands, does not pose a risk to Henderson Island's snails. While caution is advised before applying these findings to other sites due to potential variability, the study provides valuable insights into the ecological impacts of this anti-coagulant poison.