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Agrigento dal Tardo Antico al Medioevo. Campagne di scavo nell'area della necropoli paleocristiana. Anni 1986-1999 (review)

Archaeological Area of Agrigento — 2010 — WHE936E720205

A comprehensive excavation of the paleochristian necropolis at Agrigento, Sicily, has revealed significant insights into early Christian burial practices and medieval archaeology. The study, conducted between 1986 and 1999, identified six distinct phases of use, with the most notable being Periods 4 and 5 (11th–12th centuries AD), which documented the construction, use, and destruction of two large pottery kilns. This finding is crucial for understanding medieval Sicily's economic and cultural landscape. The necropolis, dating to the 4th–5th centuries AD, was found to extend at least 175 meters east of the Temple of Hercules, with graves arranged along a cemetery road and including both open-air burials and family hypogea. The research employed systematic excavation and synthesis across adjacent sectors, though its disjointed presentation could hinder comprehensive analysis.

Aid to a Declining Matriarch in the Giant Otter (Pteronura brasiliensis)

Manú National Park — 2010 — WHE4012EC7AC3

A groundbreaking study reveals that giant otters (Pteronura brasiliensis) exhibit role-reversed social behavior, where younger family members provide assistance and food to their declining matriarch. Observations of a habituated group in Manu National Park, Peru, documented 43 instances of begging and 11 instances of prey transfer over 41 contact hours in 2007, marking a shift from the typical old-to-young care dynamic seen in previous years (2004-2006). This behavior suggests adaptive benefits, potentially aligning with the 'Grandmother Hypothesis,' where elderly matriarchs contribute critical knowledge and experience to their families. The study highlights complex social structures and emotional capacities in giant otters, offering parallels to human societies.

Aiolosite, Na2(Na2Bi)(SO4)3Cl, a new sulfate isotypic to apatite from La Fossa Crater, Vulcano, Aeolian Islands, Italy

Isole Eolie (Aeolian Islands) — 2010 — WHEC6D614640F

Researchers have discovered aiolosite, a new sulfate mineral isotypic to apatite, in the active medium-temperature intracrater fumarole of La Fossa crater on Vulcano Island, part of Italy's Aeolian Islands. Aiolosite, with the ideal formula Na2(Na2Bi)(SO4)3Cl, occurs as acicular to slender prismatic crystals up to 0.5 mm long, often found alongside alunite, anhydrite, and other minerals in altered pyroclastic breccia. The mineral exhibits hexagonal symmetry, a vitreous luster, and is non-fluorescent with a calculated density of 3.589 g/cm³. Its crystal structure reveals that one Ca site in apatite is exclusively occupied by Na, while the other is statistically distributed between Na and Bi. The SO4²⁻ anion replaces PO4³⁻ in apatite, and chloride or water occupies a partially filled position. The discovery was approved by the IMA CNMNC (No. 2008-015) and represents a significant contribution to mineralogical research.

Alhambra y el Generalife de Granada

Alhambra, Generalife and Albayzín, Granada — 2010 — WHEFB6A547842

A comprehensive analysis of the Alhambra and Generalife, Granada, reveals their architectural, historical, and cultural significance as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The study, led by Leopoldo Torres Balbás with a preliminary analysis by Antonio Malpica Cuello, delves into the intricate designs, symbolism, and conservation challenges faced by these iconic structures. Published in 2009, this work combines historical documentation with modern scholarly insights, offering a nuanced understanding of the site's evolution over centuries. The research approach integrates archival records, architectural studies, and interdisciplinary perspectives to highlight the Alhambra's enduring legacy as a masterpiece of Nasrid architecture and its role in shaping Granada's cultural identity.

Altitudinal Movements of Guizhou Snub-Nosed Monkeys (Rhinopithecus brelichi) in Fanjingshan National Nature Reserve, China: Implications for Conservation Management of a Flagship Species

Fanjingshan — 2010 — WHE557EA07185

Guizhou snub-nosed monkeys (Rhinopithecus brelichi) at Fanjingshan National Nature Reserve exhibit a distinct daily altitudinal movement pattern, ascending to higher elevations in the morning and descending in the afternoon. This behavior, observed between 1,350 and 1,870 meters with an average of 1,660 meters, suggests a trade-off between foraging efficiency and predation avoidance within the mixed evergreen and deciduous broadleaf vegetation zone. No seasonal migration to lower elevations was detected, indicating that this habitat may be crucial for the species' survival. The study used observational data to analyze movement patterns and their implications for conservation management.

Aluka: digitization from Maputo to Timbuktu

Timbuktu — 2010 — WHE8F797D2657

Collaborative international digitization efforts, exemplified by the Aluka project, demonstrate that successful preservation and accessibility of scholarly materials from Africa hinge on close cooperation between institutions. The project, which involved capacity-building initiatives in Maputo and Timbuktu, underscores the importance of such partnerships in achieving meaningful outcomes in digital library development. By highlighting unique digitization projects across African holding institutions, Aluka sets a precedent for international collaboration in preserving and making accessible critical scholarly resources.

An analysis of long-term trends in the abundance of domestic livestock and free-roaming dogs in the Bale Mountains National Park, Ethiopia

Bale Mountains National Park — 2010 — WHEAFEDA93008

Livestock and free-roaming dogs in the Bale Mountains National Park, Ethiopia, pose significant threats to the survival of the Ethiopian wolf (Canis simensis) by degrading its habitat and transmitting diseases. A 21-year study revealed no significant change in livestock numbers in the Web valley, where grazing is seasonal but intense, while numbers have risen on the Sanetti plateau, with year-round grazing at lower intensity. Livestock use in the Web valley correlated positively with vegetation productivity, as measured by NDVI, suggesting a link between primary productivity and grazing patterns. However, no strong seasonality was observed on the Sanetti plateau. The study highlights the potential for livestock to degrade wolf habitat and increase disease risks, emphasizing the need for sustainable management strategies.

An analysis of modern pollen representation and climatic conditions on the Galápagos Islands

Galápagos Islands — 2010 — WHEB8CD6B12B4

A groundbreaking pollen trapping study on the Galápagos Islands reveals significant long-distance dispersal of pollen, particularly from mainland and neighboring islands, especially in areas with low local pollen production. The research identified distinct habitat types through pollen analysis and documented the over- and under-representation of ecological dominants, including invasive exotic species. Climate data highlighted the cooling effect of ground-level clouds (garúa) on highland temperatures, emphasizing its crucial role in the conservation of the islands' endemic flora. Conducted across four islands—Genovesa, Rocas Bainbridge, Santa Cruz, and San Cristobal—the study used HOBO data loggers to collect temperature, humidity, and dew point data every 30 minutes for a year, providing insights into modern pollen representation and climatic conditions.

An annotated list of fish parasites (Copepoda, Monogenea, Digenea, Cestoda and Nematoda) collected from Emperors and Emperor Bream (Lethrinidae) in New Caledonia further highlights parasite biodiversity estimates on coral reef fish

Lagoons of New Caledonia: Reef Diversity and Associated Ecosystems — 2010 — WHEAE039BFA74

A comprehensive study of parasites from 17 species of emperors and emperor bream (Lethrinidae) in New Caledonia's lagoons reveals a rich biodiversity, with an estimated 340 metazoan parasite species associated with lethrinids—averaging 13 per fish species. The research identified 52 parasite species at the species level, including 40 new host records, and highlighted significant biogeographical differences when compared to Heron Island on Australia's Great Barrier Reef. Notably, only five parasite taxa were shared between New Caledonia and Heron Island for a single fish species, Lethrinus miniatus. The study also confirmed that parasite biodiversity in lethrinids is comparable to that in groupers (Serranidae Epinephelinae) in the same region, supporting earlier predictions of 10 parasite species per coral reef fish species. Despite extensive sampling and identification efforts, only 13% of lethrinid parasites are currently known in New Caledonia, underscoring the need for further exploration.

An application of multicriteria decision making to built heritage. The redevelopment of Venice Arsenale

Venice and its Lagoon — 2010 — WHE6335CE6D49

A novel multicriteria decision-making model has been developed to assess the sustainability of economic reuse projects for historical buildings, specifically applied to Venice's Old Arsenal. This approach integrates three macro-indicators—intrinsic sustainability, context sustainability, and economic-financial feasibility—to evaluate the viability of redevelopment strategies. The model was validated by a panel of experts and tested on two hypothetical scenarios, offering a structured framework for balancing heritage preservation with modern economic needs in UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Venice.

An Archaeological Model of the Construction of Monks Mound and Implications for the Development of the Cahokian Society (800 - 1400 A.D.)

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site — 2010 — WHE76D3F17ED0

Monks Mound at Cahokia, constructed as a discrete and definable event, served as a ritual vehicle to integrate a large population within the Cahokian society. This study challenges prior models that emphasized individual power accumulation and domination, instead proposing a system with both achieved and ascribed statuses mediated by a worldview of balance and integration. By analyzing stratigraphic and chronometric data, the research suggests that this structural organization may have precluded class conflict while enabling the development of large-scale societies in response to population growth.

An Evaluation of Space Planning Design of House Layout to the Traditional Houses in Shibam, Yemen

Old Walled City of Shibam — 2010 — WHEA20867BBC4

Traditional house designs in Shibam, Yemen, exhibit remarkable residential satisfaction and habitability, serving as a globally relevant architectural reference. The study evaluates the efficiency of space-function design in mid- and high-rise mud-brick houses—among the world's earliest high-rise structures—and their cultural significance within UNESCO-listed heritage sites. Key measurable factors, including diwan (dining), bedrooms, bathrooms, corridors, storage, courtyards, and balconies, were analyzed through qualitative observations and quantitative surveys of 300 respondents. Both analyses yielded high satisfaction levels (94% and 90%, respectively), confirming the design's effectiveness. This research underscores Shibam’s traditional architecture as a model for sustainable residential planning, balancing cultural heritage with functional needs.

An ounce of prevention: cost‐effectiveness of coral reef rehabilitation relative to enforcement

Komodo National Park — 2010 — WHE531E4260AD

Investing in enforcement of blast fishing bans is far more cost-effective than coral reef rehabilitation for protecting biodiversity and fisheries benefits in Komodo National Park, Indonesia. A study comparing the economic viability of reef rehabilitation—installing locally quarried rocks on blasted rubble fields at a cost of approximately US$4.80 per square meter—with marine patrol enforcement found that patrols are up to 70 times more economical over seven years. While rehabilitation alone is unlikely to succeed without concurrent enforcement, the research highlights that prioritizing compliance with regulations ensures sustained ecological and economic benefits for UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Komodo National Park.

An overview of fish species introductions to the English Lake District, UK, an area of outstanding conservation and fisheries importance

The English Lake District — 2010 — WHE52A9C96906

Introduced fish species, particularly roach (Rutilus rutilus), dace (Leuciscus leuciscus), and ruffe (Gymnocephalus cernuus), are reshaping the native salmonid–percid communities of the English Lake District. These introductions, often linked to fisheries management practices, threaten protected species like vendace (Coregonus albula) and Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus). Long-term datasets reveal that cultural eutrophication and rising lake temperatures favor introduced cyprinids over native salmonids, altering fish community dynamics and impacting local fisheries. While some recreational fisheries benefit, the ecological consequences pose significant conservation challenges.

Analysis of Landscape Spatial Pattern Changes Using Remote Sensing in Jiuzhaigou Valley, Northwestern Sichuan Province, China

Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic and Historic Interest Area — 2010 — WHE595E10E11F

Jiuzhaigou Valley exhibits significant landscape fragmentation, uneven patch distribution, and low diversity indices, which are primary contributors to biodiversity loss. These findings were derived from a remote sensing and GIS-based analysis employing dynamic landscape metrics such as patch size, largest patch index, and shape index. The study highlights the importance of monitoring structural changes in protected areas using advanced spatial analysis techniques.

Analysis of Public Choice on Environmental Health Management: The Case of Dengue Fever Control in Kandy District

Sacred City of Kandy — 2010 — WHED3EC27F8A5

A preference for improved cleaning and efficient water supply emerged as the most effective strategies for dengue control among residents of Kandy Municipality, Sri Lanka. This insight was derived from a choice experiment involving 4 environmental management attributes with varying levels, including public motivation through spot fines and willingness to pay. The study employed a multinomial logit model (MNL) to analyze public choices, revealing that while infrastructure provision is crucial, community-driven cleaning efforts and motivational strategies like larger fines significantly influence dengue control outcomes. Conducted in the high-risk Kandy District, this research highlights the importance of combining behavioral incentives with structural improvements to enhance public cooperation in environmental health management.

Analysis of the floristic composition of the Brazilian cerrado vegetation II: Comparison of the woody vegetation of 98 areas

Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks — 2010 — WHEC646350127

A comprehensive analysis of the floristic composition of 98 areas of Brazilian cerrados and Amazonian savannas revealed significant geographic patterns in woody vegetation distribution. The study identified five distinct regional groups—southern, southeastern, central, central-western, and northern—as well as a disjunct group of Amazonian savannas, demonstrating the biome's extreme heterogeneity. Only 28 species were present across at least half of the sites, while 158 species were unique to single locations. Multivariate analyses, including TWINSPAN, UPGMA, and DCA, consistently showed that soil type (mesotrophic or dystrophic) plays a crucial role in shaping floristic composition. This research underscores the cerrados' complex structure and the importance of regional factors in determining plant diversity.

Analysis on the Village-Centered Masked Dance based on Rituals -On the Rituals Transitions-

Historic Villages of Korea: Hahoe and Yangdong — 2010 — WHE8AE7010CA6

A comparative analysis of masked dances in Hahoe and Yangdong villages reveals distinct ritualistic implications rooted in local beliefs. While Hahoe's Byulsin exorcism dance retains religious significance, focusing on village protection and prosperity, its choreography lacks ritualistic elements. In contrast, Gangneung's masquerade incorporates ritualistic roles such as Yangbankwangdae and Somaekaksi, symbolizing evil repulsion, though its movements have evolved to align with regional folk traditions. The study highlights that Gangneung's dance, linked to the Dano festival and tutelary rituals, preserves deeper ritualistic connections compared to Hahoe's performance.

Anatolian Crossroads: Achaemenid Seals from Sardis and Gordion

Gordion — 2010 — WHE1BC29979F0

Achaemenid seals from Sardis and Gordion reveal contrasting patterns of imperial influence. While Sardis, the satrapal capital, shows high-prestige materials like gold and chalcedony with uniform Achaemenid iconography, Gordion exhibits diverse shapes, materials (including glass), and styles, often imported from distant regions. Most Sardis seals were found in elite tombs, reflecting imperial cohesion and ideology, whereas Gordion's seals, reused in post-Achaemenid contexts, suggest shifts in administrative practices. The study highlights how Achaemenid hegemony manifested differently across sites of varying significance.

Ancient water supply system of the old town of Lijiang, Yunnan Province, China

Old Town of Lijiang — 2010 — WHE01AA8B5D9F

The ancient water supply system of Lijiang's Old Town, recognized by UNESCO for its complexity and functionality, remains effective despite modern challenges. This study evaluates the system's resilience, highlighting its ingenious design that has sustained 25,000 inhabitants across 3.8 km² at an altitude of 2,400 meters. Researchers analyzed the system's structure and performance, contrasting it with contemporary urban developments to assess its adaptability. The findings underscore the system's historical significance while addressing its vulnerability to modernization.