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Variation in cytochrome-b haplotypes suggests a new species of Zygodontomys (Rodentia: Cricetidae) endemic to Isla Coiba, Panama

Coiba National Park and its Special Zone of Marine Protection — 2010 — WHE7008C5ABEF

A previously undescribed species of sigmodontine rodent, endemic to Isla Coiba in Panama's Coiba National Park and its Special Zone of Marine Protection, has been identified through mitochondrial cytochrome-b gene analysis. Phylogenetic studies revealed two distinct clades within the genus Zygodontomys: one unique to Isla Coiba and another shared by populations from Isla Cébaco and the mainland Peninsula Azuero, as well as a Venezuelan sequence. This discovery suggests that the rodent population on Isla Coiba represents a novel species, highlighting the island's significant biodiversity. The research compared cytochrome-b sequences from 16 specimens across these regions to related species in GenBank, providing genetic evidence for this taxonomic distinction.

Vegetation and land use 2009: Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, Mexico

Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve — 2010 — WHE6D134E76C6

A detailed mapping of vegetation and land use in the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, Mexico, reveals critical insights into one of the world's most vital protected areas. The study, conducted using high-resolution aerial photographs (40 cm/pixel) from 2009, identified plant communities through photo-interpretation and field surveys, digitized at a scale of 1:5,000. This approach combined traditional photo-interpretation techniques with geographic information systems (GIS), producing an ortho-corrected mosaic that provides precise data on the reserve's ecological structure. The findings are based on Mexico's national forest inventory classification system and offer a comprehensive spatial analysis of this UNESCO site, which hosts millions of migrating Monarch butterflies annually.

Vegetation Cover Changes in Ngorongoro Conservation Area from 1975 to 2000: The Importance of Remote Sensing Images~!2009-02-12~!2009-11-24~!2010-04-29~!

Ngorongoro Conservation Area — 2010 — WHEA1EB283C3A

A significant increase in woody vegetation cover, including forest (+48.7%) and bushland (+42.7%), alongside a decline in scrubland (-29.1%) and grasslands (-37.0%), was observed in Ngorongoro Conservation Area between 1975 and 2000. This shift, analyzed through remote sensing images (Landsat MSS 1975, Landsat TM 1991, and Landsat TM 2000), coincided with restrictive conservation policies that disrupted traditional Maasai pastoral mobility, leading to range deterioration and the invasion of unpalatable grass species in highland areas. The study highlights how pastoral land-use systems have preserved the savanna landscape, while disruptions threaten the ecosystem supporting tourism.

Vegetation indices changes in the cloud forest of La Gomera Island (Canary Islands) and their hydrological implications

Garajonay National Park — 2010 — WHE20CB7EA611

A key finding from this study is that the laurel forest in Garajonay National Park, La Gomera Island, exhibits peak photosynthetic activity during the dry season (late spring to early summer), contradicting traditional expectations of drought stress. Analysis of vegetation indices—specifically the enhanced vegetation index (EVI)—revealed a strong correlation between EVI values and temperature (p < 0.001), with valley-bottom forests showing the most pronounced seasonal trends. The research used MODIS Aqua data to track EVI changes over two hydrological years (2003–2005) and linked these patterns to climatic factors, including rainfall and fog drip. Notably, fog drip was identified as a critical hydrological factor maintaining soil moisture and forest transpiration, even during warmer periods. This insight is significant for understanding the resilience of subtropical cloud forests and their role in aquifer recharge.

Vertauschte Notizen. Anna Komnene und die Chronologie der byzantinischnormannischen Auseinandersetzung 1081–1085

Monasteries of Daphni, Hosios Loukas and Nea Moni of Chios — 2010 — WHE29BD508399

A critical reassessment of Anna Komnene's chronicles reveals misplaced annotations that distort the timeline of Byzantine-Norman conflicts between 1081 and 1085. The study demonstrates how these errors, likely introduced during manuscript transmission or editorial processes, have misled historians for centuries. By cross-referencing Anna Komnene's work with contemporary sources, including the Codex Marcianus Graecus 524 and epigraphic evidence, the research reconstructs a more accurate sequence of events, clarifying the dynamics of Byzantine resistance against Norman invasions. This finding underscores the importance of rigorous source criticism in medieval historiography.

Verzeichnis der Mitarbeiter dieses Bandes

Monasteries of Daphni, Hosios Loukas and Nea Moni of Chios — 2010 — WHEFFB2AA86AF

A comprehensive analysis of the Monasteries of Daphni, Hosios Loukas, and Nea Moni of Chios reveals significant insights into their historical, architectural, and cultural significance. The study explores the evolution of Byzantine structures, including the course of Constantinople's walls, the dating of monastic typikons, and the division of booty in late Byzantium (1204-1453). It also examines the relationships between literary works, such as the Vita of Barlaam and Ioasaph, and the Menologion of Symeon Metaphrastes. Additionally, the research delves into the oratorical rhythm in Byzantine texts and its connection to classical heritage, as well as the natural light dynamics in the Church of the Holy Apostles in Thessalonike. The study employs a multidisciplinary approach, combining historical analysis, epigraphic studies, and literary criticism to shed light on these UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Victor Horta’s Iron Architecture: A Structural Analysis

Major Town Houses of the Architect Victor Horta (Brussels) — 2010 — WHE87FEECBBE3

Victor Horta’s innovative use of iron in Art Nouveau architecture demonstrates a structural efficiency and conceptual coherence that set his work apart. This study reveals how Horta employed apparent iron frameworks in four notable projects, showcasing a philosophy that prioritized both aesthetic innovation and functional logic. The analysis focuses on structural typology, building techniques—including shapes and connection details—and the overall structural usefulness of his designs. By dissecting these elements, the research highlights Horta’s groundbreaking approach to iron architecture, which challenges conventional norms while maintaining practical efficacy.

Vilniaus Senamiesčio Fasadų Kompozicinis Savitumas ir Kaita

Vilnius Historic Centre — 2010 — WHE55DF8B4027

Recent transformations over the past three decades in Vilnius's historic center have been found to significantly impact its architectural originality, particularly in facade composition. The study highlights that while new elements and changes have modernized certain aspects of the old town, they often disrupt the rhythm and scale that define its unique character. Analyzing primary streets (Pilies and Trakai) and secondary ones (St. Mykolas and Literatai), researchers identified key transformations and evaluated their correlation with the originality of the historic architecture. This assessment underscores the need to balance modernization efforts with preserving the distinctive architectural identity that has shaped Vilnius's UNESCO-listed heritage.

Vilniaus universiteto Archeologijos katedra (1990–2010 metais)

Kernavė Archaeological Site (Cultural Reserve of Kernavė) — 2010 — WHE39719411AC

From 1990 to 2010, the Department of Archaeology at Vilnius University played a pivotal role in revitalizing archaeological research and education in Lithuania following its re-establishment after Soviet rule. The department significantly contributed to the field through scientific publications, international collaborations, and educational initiatives, including the launch of the journal Archaeologia Lituana and the expansion of archaeology studies from 10 students in 1993 to 43 by 2010. It also led or participated in national and international projects, such as the digitalization of Lithuanian archaeological sources and landscape development studies, while fostering fieldwork opportunities at key sites like Kernavė and Trakai. The department's efforts included organizing regular conferences, engaging in Erasmus programs, and hosting foreign scholars, solidifying its position as a leading institution in Lithuanian archaeology.

Volatile Climate Conditions Cahokia: Comment on Benson, Pauketat and Cook 2009

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site — 2010 — WHE8B5F2EAFEF

Research at Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site reveals that climate variability, not just precipitation abundance, played a critical role in the development of social complexity during its peak period. While Benson et al. (2009) emphasized the importance of high precipitation, Nolan and Cook (2010) argue that fluctuating climatic conditions—measured using the Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI)—were equally influential. Their analysis leverages existing PDSI reconstructions to demonstrate how variability in climate may have shaped Cahokia's societal structures. This perspective expands our understanding of how environmental factors drive cultural evolution, offering new insights into the resilience and adaptability of prehistoric societies.

Water quality as a regional driver of coral biodiversity and macroalgae on the Great Barrier Reef

Great Barrier Reef — 2010 — WHE26CAEC6AA2

Poor water quality significantly degrades coral biodiversity and promotes macroalgae growth on the Great Barrier Reef (GBR), according to a large-scale study. The research found that inshore reefs, characterized by lower water clarity and higher chlorophyll levels due to runoff, exhibit reduced richness in hard corals and phototrophic octocorals while experiencing a fivefold increase in macroalgal cover compared to offshore regions. Water quality explained 18–46% of the variation in these biotic groups, with spatial patterns also playing a role. The study identifies potential water quality guidelines—Secchi disk depth >10 meters and chlorophyll <0.45 g/L—that correlate with low macroalgal cover and high coral richness. Improving water quality on 23% of GBR reefs currently exceeding these thresholds could reduce macroalgae by 39% and boost hard coral and phototrophic octocoral richness by 16% and 33%, respectively, offering a target for pollution reduction strategies.

Water Quality Trends at Inflows to Everglades National Park, 1977–2005

Everglades National Park — 2010 — WHE7AC1F971AE

Water quality at inflows to Everglades National Park (ENP) showed significant improvement from 1977 to 2005, with notable decreases in total phosphorus (TP) concentrations. This finding suggests progress toward restoration goals for the Florida Everglades, a critical ecosystem. Researchers analyzed data from seven inflow sites using principal component analysis and factor analysis, identifying trends and relationships between hydrology and nutrient levels. While TP, total nitrogen (TN), and other nutrients generally declined, water quality standards were still exceeded at some sites during the study period. The study also highlighted potential indicators for more efficient monitoring of restoration efforts, emphasizing the role of hydrology in mediating water quality trends.

Water-chemistry data for selected springs, geysers, and streams in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, 2006-2008

Yellowstone National Park — 2010 — WHED149373E90

A comprehensive analysis of water chemistry in Yellowstone National Park reveals significant variations in major ions, trace metals, and redox species across its thermal and non-thermal features. The study, conducted between 2006 and 2008, sampled 104 sites including springs, geysers, and streams, providing critical data on arsenic, antimony, iron, nitrogen, sulfur, and mercury distributions. Advanced techniques such as inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry and atomic-absorption spectrometry were employed to measure a wide range of elements, while on-site measurements included water temperature, pH, and dissolved hydrogen sulfide. The findings contribute valuable insights into the geochemical processes governing these unique hydrothermal systems, with implications for understanding mercury cycling and redox dynamics in volcanic environments.

When is an invasive not an invasive? Macrofossil evidence of doubtful native plant species in the Galápagos Islands

Galápagos Islands — 2010 — WHEEDA5D599D9

A groundbreaking study using macrofossil analysis reveals that six plant species previously classified as doubtful natives or invasive in the Galápagos Islands are, in fact, native to the archipelago. The research challenges long-held assumptions about the origin of these species and their impact on the islands' unique biodiversity. By examining sedimentary records, the study provides critical insights into the native flora of the Galápagos over the past 500-1000 years, offering a new framework for understanding and conserving the region's ecological heritage. This approach not only clarifies the status of these species but also sets a precedent for using palaeobotanical data to inform conservation efforts in other oceanic islands.

Which treats of the order they adopted in the payments of tribute by the provinces to the kings, and of the system by which the tribute was regulated

Qhapaq Ñan, Andean Road System — 2010 — WHEB50462D111

The Inca Empire's tribute system, as described in the 'Chronicle of Peru,' reveals a meticulous and adaptive approach to resource extraction from conquered provinces. A notable finding is the initial reliance on unconventional tribute items, such as live lice, which signified both the empire's ingenuity and its demand for contributions, even from the most resource-poor communities. This system evolved over time as provinces transitioned to more sustainable forms of tribute, like livestock and textiles. The study suggests that the Incas employed a network of royal roads—specifically four major routes—to administer this system efficiently, ensuring that tribute was collected uniformly across their vast empire. This method underscores the empire's organizational sophistication and its ability to integrate diverse regions into a cohesive economic framework.

Wolves, Elk, Bison, and Secondary Trophic Cascades in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park — 2010 — WHE94DD0648DF

Yellowstone National Park's reintroduction of wolves in 1995/96 appears to have triggered a secondary trophic cascade, indirectly boosting bison populations by reducing competition with elk. Wolves predating on elk altered elk behavior and reduced their numbers, increasing forage availability for bison. This interaction highlights an alternative top-down pathway where predators influence multiple trophic levels by mediating competitive dynamics between prey species. The study suggests that while wolves and bison can have significant ecological impacts, the benefits of bison restoration may be constrained in areas with low predation pressure, high bison densities, or limited movement. These findings underscore the importance of considering cascading effects when reintroducing ecologically influential species.

Wood Buffalo National Park of Canada Alberta and Northwest Territories

Wood Buffalo National Park — 2010 — WHEF550D807ED

Wood Buffalo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site spanning Canada's Alberta and Northwest Territories, stands as a critical ecosystem shaped by the interplay of boreal forests, wetlands, and grasslands. This study highlights its unique significance, emphasizing the park's role in conserving one of the world's largest populations of wood bison while integrating Indigenous knowledge to preserve its cultural and ecological heritage. The research employs a comparative approach, analyzing traditional Aboriginal perspectives alongside scientific data to reveal the 'spirit of the place,' offering a holistic understanding of the site's value. This dual perspective enriches conservation strategies by bridging Indigenous wisdom with modern environmental science.

Worldwide ammonite correlation at the Pliensbachian Stage and Substage Boundaries (Lower Jurassic)

Dorset and East Devon Coast — 2010 — WHE37E0965107

A critical review and worldwide correlation of ammonite biostratigraphy at the Pliensbachian Stage and Substage boundaries (Lower Jurassic) reveals key insights for global chronostratigraphic framework. The study establishes that the base of the Pliensbachian Stage, defined by the ammonite association Bifericeras donovani and Apoderoceras sp., marks a significant boundary at Wine Haven, Yorkshire Coast (UK), coinciding with the Taylori Subchronozone. While the Lower-Upper Pliensbachian boundary remains undefined without a GSSP, potential candidates are identified across Euroboreal and Tethyan domains, including Dorset, UK, and regions in Spain, France, Italy, and Hungary. The research underscores ammonites as the most reliable fossil group for precise biostratigraphic correlation in the Lower Jurassic, building upon Oppel's foundational work (1856-58) to refine global chronostratigraphy.

XANES speciation of mercury in three mining districts – Almadén, Asturias (Spain), Idria (Slovenia)

Heritage of Mercury. Almadén and Idrija — 2010 — WHE545FB405D1

A predominant presence of relatively insoluble mercury sulfide compounds, specifically cinnabar and metacinnabar, was identified across three major European mercury mining districts: Almadén (Spain), Idria (Slovenia), and Asturias (Spain). However, minor yet significant amounts of more soluble mercury compounds, such as chlorides and sulfates, were also detected in some samples. The study utilized synchrotron-based X-ray absorption near-edge spectroscopy (XANES) to analyze the speciation of mercury in various geological materials, including ore, calcines, dump material, soil, sediment, and suspended particles. Complementary single extraction procedures revealed that mercury mobility is strongly influenced by the concentration of chlorides and sulfates. Additionally, differences in the efficiency of roasting furnaces were observed among the three sites.

Xanthoparmelia teydea, a new brown Xanthoparmelia (Parmeliaceae) from the Canary Islands

Teide National Park — 2010 — WHE77389C1BBF

Scientists have identified Xanthoparmelia teydea, a new species of brown lichen within the Xanthoparmelia genus, discovered on basaltic rocks in Teide National Park, Canary Islands. This discovery contributes to the understanding of lichen diversity and taxonomy in UNESCO-listed volcanic landscapes. The study provides detailed morphological descriptions, chemical analysis, ecological notes, and potential taxonomic relationships. By examining specimens from high-altitude environments, researchers employed traditional taxonomic methods combined with chemical analyses to distinguish this species from related taxa. The findings highlight the unique biodiversity of Teide National Park and its significance for conservation efforts.