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Publications

Showing 28401 – 28420 of 30315 publications

Análise do desenvolvimento de Arranjos Produtivos Locais (APLs): um estudo de caso do município de Paraty (RJ)

Paraty and Ilha Grande – Culture and Biodiversity — 2011 — WHE38F758F419

Paraty, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its culture and biodiversity, faces significant challenges in leveraging its tourism potential to become more competitive. A study reveals that while there is an emerging network of small and medium enterprises focused on sustainable tourism, this arrangement lacks formal leadership, internal trust, and effective integration between businesses, the community, and local government. The research, based on documentary analysis and interviews, highlights critical gaps in infrastructure—such as sanitation and workforce training—that hinder Paraty's development. Despite its natural, historical, and cultural appeal, the region struggles to fully capitalize on these assets due to an informal and disjointed approach to collaboration. Addressing these obstacles could pave the way for a more cohesive and competitive tourism sector, benefiting both local development and global recognition.

Análisis iconográfico preliminar de fragmentos de las vasijas estilo códice procedentes de Calakmul

Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche — 2011 — WHE6BDBDA1C95

A preliminary iconographic analysis of codex-style pottery fragments from Calakmul, Mexico, reveals intricate depictions linked to the myth of the Maize God and other significant episodes involving the Old God. These fragments, numbering over 700, exhibit striking stylistic similarities to pieces found in private collections and museums, many of which were looted during the 1970s. The study identifies recurring themes, including the 'Babé Jaguar' ritual and references to a powerful group known as chatan winik, providing valuable insights into Maya iconography and symbolism from the late 7th to early 8th century AD.

Analogue modeling of flank instability at Mount Etna: Understanding the driving factors

Mount Etna — 2011 — WHE5C9D2BF062

Magmatic activity—such as reservoir pressurization and dike intrusion—is the dominant driver of flank instability at Mount Etna, amplifying seaward deformation by up to 10 times compared to other volcanic flanks. This finding emerges from analogue modeling using granular materials to simulate the volcano's structure and silicone/vegetable oil injections to mimic magmatic processes. The study also reveals that regional extensional tectonics and crustal layering contribute significantly less, with effects less than one-tenth as strong. Differential buttressing at the volcano's base, particularly on the seaside, further exacerbates instability. These insights highlight the asymmetric nature of volcanic activity, offering critical implications for predicting flank eruptions and deformation in similar volcanic systems.

Analysing Evolution of Urban Spatial Structure: A Case Study of Ahmedabad, India

Historic City of Ahmadabad — 2011 — WHED658FFC27B

Ahmedabad, India's historic city, exhibits a relatively compact urban spatial structure with a gradual tendency toward dispersal, unlike some other mid-sized global metropolises. This study quantifies the evolution of Ahmedabad's urban form over three decades using time-series population data from the Census of India, providing insights that could inform future planning policies. While the research focuses on Ahmedabad, it suggests potential for broader applications in cataloging similar cities in developing regions. The analysis bridges quantitative understanding with practical urban planning, offering a framework for alternative policy formulations.

Analysis of ALOS PALSAR and TerraSAR-X data for protected area mapping: A case of the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park-Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park — 2011 — WHE8307C1EBEB

High-polarization synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data significantly improves land cover mapping accuracy, particularly in tropical protected areas. A study analyzing Quad-pol L-band ALOS PALSAR and Dual-pol X-band TerraSAR-X (TSX) data for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park found that incorporating multiple polarimetric bands—such as HH/HV, VV/HV, or all four polarizations (HH/HV/VH/VV)—enhanced classification accuracy by up to 73%, compared to single-band analyses. Additionally, derived SAR textures from TSX data further improved mapping precision, with kappa indices reaching 0.7166 when using histogram-based textures. These findings underscore the potential of advanced polarimetric and textural analysis in SAR data to refine land cover classification, offering critical insights for conservation efforts in complex tropical ecosystems.

Analysis of land-use scenarios for urban sustainable development: a case study of Lijiang City

Old Town of Lijiang — 2011 — WHEC5EADC6BD5

Urban growth in Lijiang's Old Town, driven by tourism and economic shifts, can be modeled through distinct land-use scenarios that offer critical insights for sustainable development. This study developed three future urban planning scenarios using GIS analysis and questionnaire data, revealing divergent spatial patterns based on varying assumptions about development processes. The findings highlight the potential impacts of population growth on urban expansion while providing a framework to guide discussions on long-term urban planning strategies. These scenarios serve as practical tools for balancing economic demands with ecological sustainability in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Analysis of the hydrogenotrophic microbiota of wild and captive black howler monkeys (Alouatta pigra) in palenque national park, Mexico

Pre-Hispanic City and National Park of Palenque — 2011 — WHE8C0BB4F28E

Captive environments significantly alter the composition of intestinal hydrogenotrophic microbiota in black howler monkeys (Alouatta pigra), potentially impacting their energy metabolism. Research comparing wild and captive populations in Palenque National Park, Mexico, revealed that while sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) dominated over methanogens in both groups, captive monkeys exhibited reduced microbial diversity—particularly among Desulfovibrionales—likely due to dietary shifts from high-fiber leaves to more digestible fruits, vegetables, and commercial chow. The study employed PCR-DGGE fingerprinting, clone libraries, and quantitative real-time PCR to analyze fecal samples, demonstrating that captivity-induced environmental or dietary changes reshape the gut microbiota of these primates.

Ancestors and the sun: astronomy, architecture and culture at Chaco Canyon

Chaco Culture — 2011 — WHEA40C941194

Astronomical alignments in Chaco Canyon's Great Houses and Kivas reveal three distinct architectural traditions tied to migration, ancestor veneration, and solstice observations. The study confirms that Bonito Phase structures (AD 1020–1100) predominantly face south-southeast (SSE), likely linking them to ancestral practices, while later Great Houses exhibit cardinal north-south or east-west alignments, possibly serving as solstice calendrical stations for public ceremonies. Ethnographic evidence supports the SSE orientation's connection to migration traditions. One outlier, Bis sa'ani, combines all three traditions. The findings suggest that Chacoan elites used astronomical knowledge to assert ritual power and reinvigorate a declining system, offering insights into ancestral Pueblo social dynamics and power shifts.

Annotated checklist and distribution of the Socotran Archipelago Herpetofauna (Reptilia)

Socotra Archipelago — 2011 — WHE5A73DF7C8A

A comprehensive update reveals that Socotra Archipelago, renowned for its unique biodiversity, hosts 30 terrestrial reptile species, with significant new findings. Notably, Hemidactylus robustus is recorded for the first time on Samha Island, while H. homoeolepis is excluded from Abd al-Kuri Island's herpetofauna. This study synthesizes data from extensive surveys across all islands (2007–2010) alongside historical records, providing a detailed annotated checklist and distribution map for Socotra's reptiles. The research clarifies taxonomic presence and absence, deepening understanding of this globally significant site's herpetological diversity.

Ant-Plant Mutualism in Hawai‘i? Invasive Ants Reduce Flower Parasitism but also Exploit Floral Nectar of the Endemic Shrub Vaccinium reticulatum (Ericaceae)

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park — 2011 — WHEF43E8AC044

Invasive ants in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park exhibit a previously undocumented mutualistic relationship with the endemic shrub Vaccinium reticulatum, reducing flower parasitism by introduced plume moth caterpillars while simultaneously exploiting floral nectar. This dual effect—protection from herbivory and resource exploitation—highlights a complex interaction that may alter plant reproduction dynamics. Researchers experimentally manipulated ant presence to assess impacts on flower parasitism and seed viability, finding that while ants mitigated caterpillar damage, they did not appear to act as effective pollinators, suggesting limited or absent primary pollinators like Hylaeus bees. The study underscores the unintended ecological consequences of invasive species, particularly their role in shaping plant reproductive success.

Application Study of CFRP in Longmen Grottoes Plank Way Cantilever Beam Reinforcement Project

Longmen Grottoes — 2011 — WHE7335CD22C7

A reinforcement project at the Longmen Grottoes, a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site, successfully employed carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) sheets to strengthen cantilever beams in the plank way. This method significantly reduced the weight of structural members while maintaining visual harmony with the surrounding environment, addressing both functional and aesthetic concerns. The study highlights CFRP's suitability for heritage conservation projects where minimal intrusion is required, offering a lightweight yet effective solution for preserving cultural landmarks.

Approche paléopédologique de l’environnement des hominidés fossiles du dôme de Sangiran (Java central, Indonésie)

Sangiran Early Man Site — 2011 — WHE0CF46D1F31

A detailed paleopedological study of the Sangiran Early Man Site in central Java, Indonesia, reveals that the region's thick fossiliferous volcano-sedimentary series experienced a transition from marine and coastal to terrestrial environments during the Quaternary period. The study identified six orders of paleosols (histosol, gleysol, vertisol, argillisol, protosol, oxisol) with 19 distinct pedotypes across seven localities within the Sangiran dome. Notably, the first fully terrestrial levels were found at the base of the upper Pucangan unit, indicating a shift from vast coastal swamps to an open landscape. The study also highlights recurrent aridity proxies in the Grenzbank and Kabuh series, which correspond with periods of abundant hominid fossils, suggesting a seasonal climate with a long dry season and open vegetation. This research provides crucial insights into the paleogeography and climatic conditions that prevailed during the Lower and early Middle Pleistocene, influenced by the south-eastern Asia monsoon cycles.

Archaeological excavations at the church of Arbaetu Ensesa Aksum, Ethiopia, 2006-2007

Aksum — 2011 — WHEAE1094761F

Archaeological excavations at the church of Arbaetu Ensesa (Gangua Edaga) in Aksum, Ethiopia, revealed two distinct phases of construction. The earlier phase dates to between the 6th and 7th centuries AD, characterized as a late Aksumite three-aisle basilica with an apsidal sanctuary, while the second phase appears to originate from the 19th century AD. A significant discovery was a thick ash layer containing burned bricks, indicating that the original Aksumite church was destroyed by fire. Excavations also uncovered Aksumite coins, crosses, glass artifacts, pottery, and evidence of an Aksumite glass industry, all dating to the same period as the basilica. This study sheds light on the architectural evolution and historical timeline of Aksum's religious structures.

Archaeological Survey in Gunung Mulu National Park, Miri, Sarawak

Gunung Mulu National Park — 2011 — WHE5C6709179F

An archaeological survey in Gunung Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its Paleocene-Eocene limestone formations and extensive cave systems, revealed that certain rockshelters within the park's Melinau and Gunung Api regions served as burial sites for the Tring community. Conducted by a collaborative team from Universiti Sains Malaysia, the Sarawak Museum Department, and the Department of Minerals and Geoscience Malaysia in 2010, the survey focused on limestone formations dating back to the Late Eocene-Early Miocene Period (Melinau Limestone) and the Miocene Period (Setap Shale Formation). The findings contribute to the understanding of prehistoric human activity and cultural practices in this ecologically significant region.

Archipelago-Wide Island Restoration in the Galápagos Islands: Reducing Costs of Invasive Mammal Eradication Programs and Reinvasion Risk

Galápagos Islands — 2011 — WHE055D026209

Eradicating invasive species from entire archipelagos, not just individual islands, significantly reduces the risk of reinvasion and lowers costs. This approach is demonstrated by the Galápagos Islands' efforts to remove feral goats, which involved removing over 140,000 goats from more than 500,000 hectares at a cost of US$10.5 million. The study highlights that bureaucratic processes, financing, political will, and stakeholder approval are now the primary challenges rather than island size. Complementing this technical approach with long-term social strategies focused on education and governance can further mitigate reinvasion risks and enhance biodiversity benefits.

Architectures of Inequality: Evaluating Houses, Kinship and Cosmology in Chaco Canyon, New Mexico, A.D. 800-1200

Chaco Culture — 2011 — WHE7069E5A958

The study reveals that social hierarchies in Chaco Canyon during the Chacoan fluorescence (A.D. 800-1200) were constructed and demonstrated through architectural investments, particularly in great houses like Pueblo Bonito. It identifies shared cosmological practices among both great houses and small house occupants, while also highlighting the unique, ritualized investments in Pueblo Bonito that underscored its precedence as an origin house. The research employs a comparative approach, integrating archaeological data with ethnographic patterns to analyze house construction materials, forms, and features, providing new insights into the cultural practices inscribed within these structures.

Arles (Bouches-du-Rhône). Saint-Trophime

Arles, Roman and Romanesque Monuments — 2011 — WHE18B06B20CF

Archaeological monitoring during essential conservation works at Arles' Saint-Trophime cathedral revealed significant insights into the site's Romanesque and Gothic structures. The study, conducted as part of drainage and waterproofing efforts in 2007-2008, focused on the northern gallery, preau, and adjacent courtyard. Researchers documented changes to the cloister's layout and water flow, providing critical data for preserving this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The findings highlight the importance of integrating archaeological surveillance with modern conservation techniques to safeguard historic monuments while addressing practical challenges like water management.

Arquitectura Arbórea y Desarrollo del Bosque de Guaiacum Sanctum L. en Balam-Kin, Campeche, México

Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche — 2011 — WHEFF016EA836

Research in Balam-Kin, Campeche, Mexico, reveals that Guaiacum sanctum (guayacan), a threatened tree species with valuable wood properties, thrives in distinct 'guayacan forests' within the Calakmul region. The study identifies two dominant architectural phases—aggradation and biostasis—in semi-deciduous tropical forests where G. sanctum occurs, providing critical insights into its ecological dynamics. By analyzing 40 systematically located plots, scientists found that while G. sanctum persists across all developmental stages, eco-units in the biostasis phase are characterized by high abundances of this species alongside Thouinia paucidentata, whereas aggradation phases are dominated by Gymnopodium floribundum. This architectural analysis offers a new framework for understanding post-harvesting forest dynamics, which could inform sustainable management practices for this endangered species and its habitat.

Arthropod Vectors and Vector-Borne Bacterial Pathogens in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park — 2011 — WHE5A894AFF58

A study of arthropod vectors and vector-borne bacterial pathogens in Yosemite National Park from 2005 to 2007 identified exposure to multiple pathogens in diverse small mammal species. Notably, 12.1% of tested animals showed exposure to Anaplasma phagocytophilum across 10 species, while 13.9% exhibited exposure to spotted fever group Rickettsia spp., and 37.0% of rodents in five species were seropositive for Borrelia burgdorferi. No individuals tested positive for Yersinia pestis or any pathogen via PCR. The research collected 450 unique small mammal captures, identifying 16 flea and 10 tick species, including known vectors for these pathogens. This study provides critical baseline data for predicting emerging vector-borne diseases in the park and expands knowledge of arthropod host ranges in California.

Ashes2Art Now and Tomorrow: Delphi, Alexandria and the Red Sea

Archaeological Site of Delphi — 2011 — WHE158A91EE0E

A collaborative undergraduate research initiative, Ashes2Art, has successfully applied digital tools to advance cultural heritage projects at UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Launched in 2005, the program initially focused on Delphi, Greece, where students and faculty from Coastal Carolina University and Arkansas State University developed digital resources between 2007 and 2009. Expanding its scope, Ashes2Art partnered with Alexandria University's Center for Maritime Archaeology in 2011 to study Lake Mareotis and Red Sea sites using innovative digital methodologies. This interdisciplinary approach bridges archaeology, technology, and education, demonstrating the potential of digital tools to preserve and analyze cultural heritage globally.