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Showing 3461 – 3480 of 15962 publications

A new technique based on the eigenvalue of the curvature tensor for enhancing gravity data

Vredefort Dome — 2024 — WHEE4235F779E

A novel technique for enhancing gravity data, based on the eigenvalue of the curvature tensor, has been developed to more accurately identify geological structures. This method addresses limitations of existing algorithms by providing clearer and artifact-free representations of subsurface features. Model studies demonstrated its superior performance, while real-world application to the Vredefort Dome in South Africa revealed strong correlations between enhanced gravity data and known ring structures within the dome. The approach offers a robust tool for geoscientists analyzing gravity anomalies, improving the interpretation of geological boundaries.

A new, highly endangered and restricted-range species of Parrya sect. Pseudoclausia, comb. nov. (Brassicaceae) from Western Tian Shan, Uzbekistan

Western Tien-Shan — 2024 — WHE1126F519B0

Researchers have identified Parrya tojibaevii, a new species of flowering plant in the Brassicaceae family, endemic to a highly disturbed area around the confluence of the Chatkal River and Charvak Reservoir in Western Tian Shan, Uzbekistan. This species is morphologically distinct from related taxa, such as P. gracillima and P. mollissima, and belongs to the newly recognized Parrya sect. Pseudoclausia. The discovery highlights the species' critically endangered status due to its restricted range, which is under growing threat from infrastructure development, recreation, and grazing. The study combines morphological analysis with field observations to document this novel taxon, emphasizing the urgency of conservation efforts for this unique and vulnerable plant.

A novel approach for quantitatively distinguishing between anthropogenic and natural effects on paleovegetation

Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City — 2024 — WHE591B07AD4A

A novel method, the error inflection point-discriminant technique, has been developed to quantitatively distinguish between anthropogenic and natural effects on paleovegetation. This approach identifies inflection points (IPs) in regression errors of pollen-climate transfer functions using modern pollen spectra with varying Human Influence Index (HII) values. Research reveals that the HII threshold for native/secondary vegetation is approximately 22 and globally uniform, while it varies regionally for secondary/artificial vegetation. Applied to the Liangzhu archaeological site in the lower Yangtze River, this method enabled the reconstruction of paleovegetation and paleoclimate over the past 6,600 years, demonstrating its potential for assessing human impacts on ancient ecosystems and improving quantitative paleoclimate reconstructions using pollen data.

A pantera: dos bestiários ao Orto do Esposo

Monastery of Alcobaça — 2024 — WHE006D302E05

A comparative analysis of the panther's symbolic representation in medieval texts reveals its evolution from bestiaries to the late-fourteenth or early-fifteenth century Portuguese work Orto do Esposo. The study identifies Bartholomew the Englishman’s De proprietatibus rerum (1240 AD) as a key intermediary, bridging the gap between earlier bestiary traditions and later literary depictions. By transcribing and translating passages from an Alcobaça Monastery manuscript (Alc. 383), this research clarifies how the panther’s imagery shifts across these works, contributing to ongoing PhD research on medieval symbolism.

A Pilgrim's Deliberation

Routes of Santiago de Compostela in France — 2024 — WHE208FCDEC5B

A unique fictionalized account provides insight into the motivations and experiences of Johaneta Aymara, a 15th-century brothel manager from Marseille who embarked on a pilgrimage to Le Puy-en-Velay—a key starting point for one of France's main routes to Santiago de Compostela. Drawing from historical records, including notarial inventories and municipal archives, the narrative reconstructs her journey, offering a glimpse into the lives of sex workers in medieval Europe and their participation in penitent pilgrimages. This approach combines historical documentation with speculative storytelling to explore the social and spiritual dimensions of pilgrimage during this period.

A plastron fragment reveals a previously unrecorded turtle species in the Eocene of Messel Pit, Germany

Messel Pit Fossil Site — 2024 — WHED9BFB620EF

Researchers have identified a previously unrecorded turtle species from the Middle Eocene Messel Pit formation in Germany, based on a partial plastron fragment. The specimen, SMF ME-3495, exhibits unique morphological features such as gular tubercles, an extensive epiplastral lip, narrow gulars that overlap the entoplastron, and a sinuous gulo-humeral sulcus. These characteristics distinguish it from other known Messel turtle taxa. While insufficient to diagnose contemporary European species, its morphology suggests affinities with "ptychogasterid" geoemydids (Cryptodira). The study also notes bone corrosion indicative of 'shell disease' and distinctive coloration, providing additional insights into this fossil's biological context.

A Post-Evaluation Study on the Renewal of Public Space in Qianmen Street of Beijing’s Central Axis Based on Grounded Theory

Beijing Central Axis: A Building Ensemble Exhibiting the Ideal Order of the Chinese Capital — 2024 — WHE5171E27271

Renewal efforts for Qianmen Street, part of Beijing's Central Axis, should prioritize historicity and cultural uniqueness while adopting sustainable, small-scale approaches to enhance tourist satisfaction. This finding emerges from a study that analyzed both spatial significance and subjective perceptions using space syntax and kernel density analysis, revealing the street's underutilized potential as a tourist attraction. The research developed an evaluation system based on grounded theory, identifying four primary indicators—space creation, architectural style conservation, locality, and business management—and 15 secondary factors. Importance-performance analysis (IPA) highlighted that tourists prioritize locality and business management but remain dissatisfied with current levels. These insights underscore the need for targeted, gradual renewal strategies to preserve historical integrity while improving visitor experience.

A preliminary assessment of mercury, methylmercury and other potentially toxic elements in largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) from the Almadén mining district

Heritage of Mercury. Almadén and Idrija — 2024 — WHE7DDF447A18

A preliminary assessment of mercury and methylmercury concentrations in largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) from the Almadén mining district reveals alarmingly high levels, with total mercury ranging between 0.47 and 7.61 mg/kg wet weight, and methylmercury constituting 79.7 to 92.1% of total mercury—among the highest ever recorded in this species. The study, conducted along a 34 km transect of the Valdeazogues River, found that mercury concentrations peak at a decommissioned open pit lake (El Entredicho) and decrease steadily downstream. While selenium levels are also elevated, the Se/Hg molar ratio and HBV Se index suggest low risk for most specimens, except for smaller, younger fish from highly contaminated sites. Other potentially toxic elements (As, Pb, Zn, Sb, Cu) showed no concerning values despite the area's history of polymetallic mining.

A Presença de Emílio Biel no Santuário do Bom Jesus do Monte

Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga — 2024 — WHEFA6B3FED14

Historical analysis reveals the significant role of Emílio Biel as a photographer at the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga between 1879 and 1880. Through meticulous examination of archival records, including contracts, payment orders, bills of exchange, prints, and photographic views from the Inventory of the Confraternity of Bom Jesus do Monte, researchers uncovered primary sources that illuminate the cultural and artistic context of this period. The study highlights the strict contractual terms imposed on Biel by the Brotherhood's Bureau and provides valuable iconographic evidence for the history of art, offering insights into the unique features and cultural significance of the Sanctuary during this time.

A probable case of a non-union condylar fracture in an individual from Hegra (Madâ’in Sâlih), AlUla, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Hegra Archaeological Site (al-Hijr / Madā ͐ in Ṣāliḥ) — 2024 — WHE10DCC5DCA4

A probable case of non-union condylar fracture, characterized by exuberant bone formation and significant morphological remodelling, has been identified in a young adult male from Hegra (Madâ’in Sâlih), dating to the 1st Century CE. This rare finding suggests compensatory biomechanical adaptations due to impaired mandibular function, potentially indicating high-status care during convalescence. The study employed morphoscopic, microscopic, and x-ray examinations to assess trauma, pathology, and oral health, revealing excellent dental condition except for a periapical lesion with an associated odontogenic sinus tract. This case highlights the diagnostic potential of incomplete skeletal remains from UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

A Quantitative and Qualitative Experimental Framework for the Evaluation of Urban Soundscapes: Application to the City of Sidi Bou Saïd

Village of Sidi Bou Saïd — 2024 — WHE279253EDEA

A novel experimental framework combining 3D acoustic and psycho-acoustic sensors, ambisonics, and sound morphological analysis offers a comprehensive approach to evaluating urban soundscapes. This method, applied to the historic center of Sidi Bou Saïd in Tunisia, reveals significant discrepancies between measured acoustic data and human perception, as captured through questionnaires. The framework provides a holistic understanding of soundscape environments, bridging quantitative measurements with qualitative evaluations. It introduces an additional dimension to urban planning studies by offering insights into how soundscapes are perceived, highlighting the importance of integrating perceptual data into spatial design.

A Ranking Analysis of Geological and Engineering Factors of Historical Monuments’ Stability Response: A Case Study of Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, Ukraine

Kyiv: Saint-Sophia Cathedral and Related Monastic Buildings, Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra — 2024 — WHE8CA518DA23

A significant portion of Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra is at risk from geological and engineering hazards. Research reveals that 37% (8.7 ha) of the site lies in moderate hazard zones, while 23% (5.4 ha) faces potential hazards due to intersecting dangerous processes. Only 40% (9.4 ha) remains relatively safe. Using a point-based integral assessment and ArcGIS modeling with 17 stability factors, the study ranked 10 representative structures in each zone based on nine criteria, identifying areas most vulnerable to seasonal fluctuations and military impacts. This analysis provides a scientific basis for prioritizing repair and restoration efforts, planning management measures, and enhancing geological environment monitoring at the site.

A Rapid Assessment of Pronophilina Reuter, 1896 community structure and diversity in the uppermost cloud forests near timberline in Manu National Park, Peru (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae, Satyrinae)

Manú National Park — 2024 — WHE980B5C61A5

A rapid assessment of Pronophilina butterflies (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae, Satyrinae) in Manu National Park, Peru, revealed high species richness and diversity in the uppermost cloud forests near timberline. The study recorded 45 species, with Pedaliodes dominating at 70% of specimens. Despite proximity (30 km apart), the two sites showed low Sørensen similarity, suggesting microhabitat or elevation-driven differences. Community structure aligned with log-normal and Zipf-Mandelbrot models, indicating well-preserved ecosystems. Sampling via Van Someren-Rydon traps proved effective for biodiversity studies in cloud forests, offering insights for conservation policies.

A Rare and Extraordinary New Species of Trichopilia from Costa Rica

Talamanca Range-La Amistad Reserves / La Amistad National Park — 2024 — WHE4A05A9A0F5

Researchers have discovered Trichopilia gustavoi, a rare and extraordinary new species of orchid within the globally significant UNESCO World Heritage Site, Talamanca Range-La Amistad Reserves. Known only from its type locality—a pristine forest in Finca Las Alturas de Cotón near La Amistad National Park—this species is distinguished by its falcate petals, boat-shaped lip with scattered verrucae, and a sigmoid column. Morphologically similar to T. marginata, T. gustavoi represents an exceptional addition to the orchid genus, honoring University of Costa Rica Rector Gustavo Gutiérrez Espeleta for his contributions to biodiversity research and conservation.

A record of Late Cretaceous to early Paleogene Insular terrane accretion within the northern Cordillera: Insights from monazite petrochronology across the Kluane Schist, southwest Yukon, Canada

Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek — 2024 — WHE50AC4B1DC6

Research reveals that the Kluane Schist, located between the Intermontane and Insular terranes in Yukon, Canada, preserves evidence of Late Cretaceous to early Paleogene Insular terrane accretion. Using monazite petrochronology, scientists determined that peak metamorphic conditions occurred progressively younger with decreasing structural depth, ranging from ca. 70 Ma to 55 Ma. This finding aligns with Buchan-style metamorphism and supports the terminal accretion of outboard Insular terranes, facilitated by east-dipping subduction beneath a westward-migrating North American continent. The study combines in situ laser ablation–inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) U-Th-Pb monazite dating with phase equilibria modeling and thin section analysis to reconstruct the tectono-thermal evolution of this region.

A Reliability Check of Privilege Summaries Printed by Balthasar Moretus I (1610-1641)

Plantin-Moretus House-Workshops-Museum Complex — 2024 — WHEFD6FCDEF07

Balthasar Moretus I's printed privilege summaries, intended to inform competitors and modern scholars about his publishing privileges, were found to be unreliable. These summaries often misrepresented the original privileges by expanding their territorial scope and even falsely including family members as grantees, aligning with the Officina Plantiniana's branding policy. Additionally, errors in copy-pasting earlier summaries introduced further inaccuracies. The study systematically compared printed summaries against handwritten originals from the Plantin-Moretus archives, revealing a pattern of intentional manipulation combined with sloppiness, which undermined the credibility of these historical documents.

A report of sea cucumbers collected on the first dedicated deep-sea biological survey of Australia’s Indian Ocean Territories around Christmas and Cocos (Keeling) Islands (Echinodermata: Holothuroidea)

Cocos Island National Park — 2024 — WHE36F0E5BBE6

A new species of sea cucumber, Deima oloughlini, was discovered during the first dedicated deep-sea biological survey of Australia’s Indian Ocean Territories around Christmas and Cocos (Keeling) Islands. The survey, conducted in 2021 and 2022 aboard the RV Investigator, used beam trawls to collect sea cucumbers from seamounts and the seafloor, revealing previously unknown biodiversity. The study also documented range extensions for several species and provided genetic data for taxonomic identification. Samples are now housed at Museums Victoria, with findings to be integrated into the Australian Faunal Directory and Atlas of Living Australia. Funded by multiple institutions including Parks Australia and Ocean Census, this research highlights the ecological significance of deep-sea environments in these remote territories.

A Scottish provenance for the Altar Stone of Stonehenge

Stonehenge, Avebury and Associated Sites — 2024 — WHEFB5C48A1E1

A Scottish provenance for the Altar Stone of Stonehenge has been identified, revealing that this 6-tonne megalith was transported at least 750 km from northeast Scotland to its current location. The study analyzed detrital zircon, apatite, and rutile grains within fragments of the Altar Stone, finding a dominance of mid-Ordovician sources overprinted by Grampian magmatism, which closely matches the Old Red Sandstone of the Orcadian Basin in Scotland. This suggests complex long-distance transport, likely via sea, indicating advanced societal organization during the Neolithic period and challenging previous assumptions about the stone's origin.

A Short History of the Weimar Republic

Bauhaus and its Sites in Weimar, Dessau and Bernau — 2024 — WHE4EFD182D3F

A pivotal period in modern European history, the Weimar Republic (1919–1933), is characterized by its dual nature: political and economic instability contrasted with a flourishing cultural renaissance. This revised edition synthesizes original research and existing historiography to highlight the Republic's profound influence on international art, architecture, and science, particularly through Expressionism and the Bauhaus movement. It offers a concise yet comprehensive introduction, addressing key questions about this transformative era while examining its lasting impact on global culture and politics. The study employs a multidisciplinary approach, blending historical analysis with cultural and political context to provide insights into both the challenges and achievements of the Weimar Republic.

A splinter of charred oleaceous wood from late early Eocene volcanoclastic deposits of Germany

Messel Pit Fossil Site — 2024 — WHEEBE9FE1ED4

A charred wood splinter from the Messel Pit fossil site, Germany, provides rare insight into the region's Early Eocene flora. The specimen, dated to 48.27–48.11 million years ago, belongs to the Oleaceae family and shares anatomical features with modern genera like Olea, Chionanthus, and Noronhia. Despite its small size, the splinter's well-preserved structure allows for taxonomic placement within the drupaceous subtribe Oleinae. The wood likely originated from a local tree that was charred during a low-intensity phreatomagmatic eruption, offering direct evidence of vegetation in this UNESCO-listed site.