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The ultimate summit eruption of Puy de Dôme volcano (Chaîne des Puys, French Massif Central) about 10,700 years ago

Chaîne des Puys - Limagne fault tectonic arena — 2010 — WHEBED3AC9607

A recent study challenges the long-held belief that the Puy de Dôme volcano's eruption was non-explosive, instead revealing evidence of a significant explosive summit eruption approximately 10,700 years ago. Researchers discovered pyroclastic layers on the volcano's summit and flanks, containing fresh trachytic lapilli, basement lithics, basaltic lava, and clinker fragments, indicative of an open vent eruption. Radiocarbon dating of carbonized plant fragments suggests a prolonged period of volcanic rest, allowing vegetation to develop before the final eruption. This finding reshapes our understanding of the volcano's eruptive history within the Chaîne des Puys - Limagne fault tectonic arena.

The Verses Formerly Inscribed on Twelve Windows in the Choir of Canterbury Cathedral

Canterbury Cathedral, St Augustine's Abbey, and St Martin's Church — 2010 — WHEA0AA6BAED0

A rare glimpse into the medieval inscriptions of Canterbury Cathedral's stained-glass windows, now lost to time, has been preserved through M. R. James' 1901 scholarly work. This publication, paired with an anonymous guide from 1897 believed to be authored by Emily Williams, documents the verses inscribed on twelve windows in the cathedral's choir during a significant restoration period. The texts, which have since disappeared, offer valuable insights into medieval palaeography and literary practices. James' meticulous scholarship, complemented by Williams' account of the changes wrought by 19th-century restoration efforts, provides a unique historical record. The preface by Dean Farrar adds context to the publication's purpose, with proceeds supporting the Cathedral Restoration Fund.

The Villa of the Papyri at Herculaneum

Archaeological Areas of Pompei, Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata — 2010 — WHE7DCAB793AD

The Villa of the Papyri at Herculaneum stands as a singular archaeological marvel, housing the only intact library from Greco-Roman antiquity and offering unparalleled insights into Roman luxury villa culture. This volume synthesizes expert contributions that dissect the villa's cultural significance, from its architectural and decorative elements to the preserved papyri and sculptures, while also tracing its reception since its 18th-century discovery. Groundbreaking in its approach, it pioneers the integration of digital archaeology, leveraging advanced models to incorporate recent excavation data for both educational and research purposes. These digital reconstructions provide a dynamic tool for understanding ancient sites, marking a significant advancement in the field.

The Γενικὸς Ἀλφαβητικὸς Κατάλογος: the handwritten catalogue of the collection of Byzantine manuscripts of Hiera Mone Karakallou (Mount Athos)

Mount Athos — 2010 — WHE9297BDC000

A previously unpublished handwritten catalogue, the Γενικὸς Ἀλφαβητικὸς Κατάλογος, from Hiera Mone Karakallou on Mount Athos, reveals insights into the preservation and cataloguing of Byzantine manuscripts in a Greek Orthodox monastic context. This 20th-century document sheds light on 66 previously unfamiliar codices and identifies those that have disappeared since earlier inventories, such as Lampros' catalogue. The study provides an edition of the manuscripts section of this catalogue, offering a unique snapshot of the dynamics of manuscript collection growth and decline within the monastery's liturgical framework.

Theatres, Hippodromes, Amphitheatres, and Performances

Ancient Jericho/Tell es-Sultan — 2010 — WHE4871EEACE6

Roman Palestine's public spectacles, including theatres and amphitheatres, were strategically distributed and financed, with their origins traced back to Herod's constructions in Jericho, Jerusalem, and Caesarea. These structures served multiple purposes: theatres hosted performances, while hippodromes and stadiums accommodated athletic contests and chariot races, and amphitheatres staged gladiatorial combats. The study also delves into the societal attitudes of Jewish communities towards these Roman spectacles. By analyzing architectural patterns, financing models, and historical records, the research provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution, function, and cultural impact of these public spaces in ancient Palestine.

Thelotrema hnatiukii, a new lichen species and other interesting Thelotremataceae from Aldabra, Indian Ocean

Aldabra Atoll — 2010 — WHE2D6B68D4B7

A new lichen species, Thelotrema hnatiukii, has been discovered on Aldabra Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Indian Ocean. This species belongs to the Thelotremataceae family and is closely related to T. euphorbiae, known only from Aldabra so far. The study, conducted by H.J.M. Sipman, identifies three species of Thelotremataceae on the atoll: Leucodecton compunctum, Thelotrema euphorbiae, and T. hnatiukii. The research highlights the unique biodiversity of Aldabra, contributing to our understanding of lichen diversity in this remote marine environment.

Three new species ofAcanthostigma(Tubeufiaceae, Dothideomycetes) from Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park — 2010 — WHE4D14B6CA46

Researchers have identified three new species of the fungal genus Acanthostigma within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, USA. These discoveries, confirmed through phylogenetic analyses of genetic markers (28S large subunit and internal transcribed spacer region), highlight distinct morphological traits such as longer ascospores with increased septa in Acanthostigma filiforme and multiseptatum, and broader, asymmetrical ascospores constricted at septa in A. septoconstrictum. The study also solidified the placement of Acanthostigma within the Tubeufiaceae family through comprehensive phylogenetic analyses. This research contributes to the understanding of fungal diversity in terrestrial ecosystems, particularly decomposing wood habitats.

Thrips (Insecta, Thysanoptera) of Lena Pillars Nature Park

Lena Pillars Nature Park — 2010 — WHE584B3B5BBE

A pioneering study identifies ten species of thrips (Thysanoptera) from the Lena Pillars Nature Park, marking the first documentation of these insects in this UNESCO-listed region. Collected at the Buotama River mouth in 2005 by S.N. Nogovitsyna, the findings belong to three distinct families and contribute critical baseline data for biodiversity research in Sakha Republic, Russia. The study highlights the ecological significance of the Lena Pillars' unique landscape while underscoring gaps in insect diversity studies within Arctic and sub-Arctic protected areas.

Timber Structure in the Mission Churches of Chiquitos (Bolivia): Origins, Evolution and Restoration

Jesuit Missions of the Chiquitos — 2010 — WHE3BED3F3E20

A unique timber skeleton frame structure characterizes the 18th-century Jesuit mission churches of Chiquitos, Bolivia, blending pre-Columbian indigenous techniques with European construction methods and Baroque stylistic influences. These six UNESCO World Heritage-listed churches feature free-standing carved wooden columns anchored in the ground, supporting massive gable roofs. A four-decade restoration project has preserved these structures using diverse approaches, ensuring their longevity while maintaining cultural significance as spiritual centers for the Chiquitano people.

Timing young pulsars: challenges to standard pulsar spin-down models

Jodrell Bank Observatory — 2010 — WHE002A4DD409

Research at Jodrell Bank Observatory challenges standard pulsar spin-down models by revealing that young pulsars exhibit complex spin behaviors, including glitches and timing noise. A decade-long study of PSR J1846-0258 measured its braking index (n=2.65±0.01), the sixth such measurement ever recorded, while also documenting a small glitch in 2001 and a dramatic magnetar-like transformation in 2006. Additionally, observations of PSR J0205+6449, using multiple telescopes, identified timing noise and two spin-up glitches, along with a stable X-ray pulse profile up to 40 keV. The study also found no correlation between pulse period and phase offset in X-ray and gamma-ray pulsars. These findings provide new insights into pulsar physics, particularly the braking mechanism and magnetar behavior.

To Wake the Dead: A Renaissance Merchant and the Birth of Archaeology (review)

Archaeological Site of Delphi — 2010 — WHE76CB46BA77

Cyriacus of Ancona, a Renaissance merchant, is recognized as the father of classical archaeology for his meticulous documentation of ancient sites, including those no longer intact. His detailed topographic information and transcribed inscriptions, such as Hadrian's temple at Cyzicus and the Olympeion in Athens, remain valuable to modern archaeologists. Cyriacus' method involved consulting ancient texts and triangulating locations based on distances from nearby towns, which has been instrumental in dating structures like the Little Metropolis in Athens. His contributions extended beyond documentation; he influenced Renaissance artists such as Donatello, Leonardo da Vinci, Mantegna, and Raphael by introducing classical imagery into European culture. Despite his advocacy for preserving antiquities, some were relocated far from their original sites.

Topographically controlled grassland soils in the Boreal Cordillera ecozone, northwestern Canada

Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek — 2010 — WHECE86234436

Grassland soils in the Boreal Cordillera ecozone of northwestern Canada exhibit unique properties that align with Chernozemic order criteria, despite their high-latitude (58 to 62°N) and topographically controlled distribution. These soils, found on south-facing aspects within boreal forests, display a range of microstructures from spongy to well-developed crumb, similar to those in southern regions. With a mean organic carbon concentration of 19.5 g kg⁻¹, these base-rich Ah horizons suggest they meet the morphological and chemical requirements for Dark Brown or Brown great groups. The study highlights the ecological significance of these grassland soils, which are typically isolated within forested landscapes.

Tourist Behavior and Decibel Levels Correlate with Threat Frequency in Tibetan Macaques ( Macaca thibetana ) at Mt. Huangshan, China

Mount Huangshan — 2010 — WHE8570BC3299

Tourist behavior and noise levels significantly correlate with increased threat displays in Tibetan macaques (Macaca thibetana) at Mount Huangshan's Valley of the Wild Monkeys. While tourist density did not directly impact monkey threats, collective tourist behaviors—such as hand or mouth noises, mimicking monkeys, and throwing objects or food—and elevated decibel levels on the viewing platform were linked to higher threat frequencies (Pearson’s r=0.391, p=0.014 for behavior; r=0.334, p=0.038 for noise). The study, conducted in August 2005, suggests that enforcing park rules—particularly restricting feeding and noise-making—and developing tourist education materials could mitigate harmful interactions, preventing escalations seen at other macaque tourism sites.

Towards sustainable energy: are there lessons from the history of the early factory system?

Derwent Valley Mills — 2010 — WHE4448B5B321

Historical analysis of the Derwent Valley Mills suggests that sustainable energy innovation could benefit from bottom-up, context-driven approaches rather than top-down strategies. The study found that rapid technological advancement in 18th-century England—despite limited resources and remote location—was driven by local expertise and market demand, not capital or cutting-edge technology like steam engines. This challenges current assumptions about sustainable energy development, proposing that regions with skilled labor, growing markets, and supportive institutions may outperform those relying solely on financial investment. The findings imply that state and international cooperation could play a pivotal role in fostering such grassroots innovation.

Towards the Creation of a New Sustainable Urban Environment: Improvement and Revitalization of Public Spaces in the Historical Centre of Macao

Historic Centre of Macao — 2010 — WHE11E27A7F54

Research on the Historic Centre of Macao highlights its pivotal role in urban sustainability, cultural preservation, and social significance. The study proposes strategies to revitalize public spaces within dilapidated or misused historical areas, aiming to enhance their functionality while maintaining heritage integrity. By analyzing political, economic, technological, societal, and cultural factors influencing urban environments, the paper offers a holistic approach to sustainable urban development in China. This involves reconnecting scattered historical buildings and restoring urban fabric to foster long-term sustainability and social cohesion.

Town of Evening Calm, Country of Cherry Blossoms: The Renarrativation of Hiroshima Memories

Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome) — 2010 — WHE0A6C6B421D

Hiroshima's transformation from a military center to the 'Peace Memorial City' reflects a strategic renarrativation of its atomic bombing history, where memories of destruction are deliberately conflated with peace symbolism. Research reveals that this shift was not merely psychological but a politically motivated act, driven by city planners and Allied forces during the post-war era. The study highlights how Hiroshima's commemorative spaces, such as the Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome, were designed to spatially represent a global narrative of peace rooted in Cold War military supremacy. By analyzing discourses emerging around Hiroshima's 60th anniversary, the research underscores the ideological power shaping collective memory, demonstrating how historical trauma is repurposed to serve contemporary geopolitical agendas.

Trace Metals Analysis in Brown Booby (Sula leucogaster) Collected from Ilha Grande Bay, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Paraty and Ilha Grande – Culture and Biodiversity — 2010 — WHEED4A25FF33

A study analyzing trace metal concentrations in the brown booby (Sula leucogaster) from Ilha Grande Bay, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, revealed relatively high levels of contamination with metals such as cadmium, zinc, copper, lead, chromium, and nickel. The average concentrations (μg.g-1 dry weight) in liver and kidney tissues were 6.32955 and 6.57136 for cadmium; 78.17409 and 96.89409 for zinc; 44.01727 and 65.20864 for copper; 41.15091 and 39.62318 for lead; 2.80091 and 4.16455 for chromium; and 9.27182 and 9.91091 for nickel. These findings are concerning due to the potential ecological impact on marine fauna in the region, highlighting the need for further investigation into the sources and effects of metal contamination.

Tracing Sources and Bioaccumulation of Mercury in Fish of Lake Baikal− Angara River Using Hg Isotopic Composition

Lake Baikal — 2010 — WHE4ED79DCD16

Mercury isotopic analysis reveals distinct anthropogenic signatures in fish from the contaminated Bratsk Water Reservoir, linked to Hg deposits from a chlor-alkali factory. The study demonstrates that mass-independent fractionation (MIF) patterns in fish muscle align with sediment isotopic compositions, confirming bioaccumulation of industrial Hg. In contrast, less contaminated fish exhibit lower Hg levels without this anthropogenic signature. Mass-dependent fractionation (MDF) and stable isotope ratios (δ(15)N, δ(13)C) further indicate biomagnification through food webs in both Bratsk and pristine Lake Baikal. This approach provides a novel method to trace human impacts on aquatic ecosystems using isotopic fingerprints.

Transboundary governance of the Curonian Spit World Heritage Site

Curonian Spit — 2010 — WHE32C2B8F936

Effective transboundary governance of the Curonian Spit World Heritage Site is hindered by divergent national priorities and insufficient stakeholder inclusion, despite its shared management between Lithuania and Russia. The study reveals that strong state-level influence and lack of local community engagement create challenges to cooperative efforts. To overcome these obstacles, the research advocates for stronger state-level coordination and full integration of local stakeholders, suggesting that adherence to environmental governance principles could mitigate conflicts and enhance collaborative outcomes.

Transformación de los espacios públicos de la ciudad patrimonial: el zócalo de la ciudad de Oaxaca

Historic Centre of Oaxaca and Archaeological Site of Monte Albán — 2010 — WHE1E675EAB95

Public spaces within UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Historic Centre of Oaxaca and Monte Albán, undergo transformations driven by tourism, commerce, and public policy, often at the expense of their cultural significance. This study reveals that while these changes respond to community needs, they also introduce challenges like spatial fragmentation, social exclusion, and altered socio-spatial relations. Using the Zócalo in Oaxaca as a case study, the research highlights how such spaces evolve over time while remaining central to local identity and tourism appeal. The analysis draws from multiple investigations to propose potential lines of inquiry for future monitoring.