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Cave-dwelling calcareous sponges (Porifera: Calcarea) from the Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia

Te Henua Enata – The Marquesas Islands — 2024 — WHE1FB6F8A0A1

A recent study reveals that the Marquesas Islands, part of French Polynesia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, harbor a unique diversity of cave-dwelling calcareous sponges. Researchers identified five species, four of which are new to science: Borojevia moana, Bidderia watremezi, Leucascus polynesiensis, and Leucandra cavernicola, alongside the previously known Murrayona phanolepis. Unlike adjacent rocky shores, these sponge assemblages exhibit distinct characteristics, with Leucascus polynesiensis being the sole species found both inside and outside caves in French Polynesia. The study employed morphological and molecular tools (ITS and C-LSU) to analyze sponges collected from semi-dark or dark lava tubes. Notably, M. phanolepis appears to be a widespread cave-dwelling species, potentially representing cryptic diversity. Additionally, aliactine spicules may serve as a synapomorphy in the subclass Calcaronea. The findings suggest that Marquesan caves harbor an underestimated and unique biodiversity of calcareous sponges.

Central parks as air quality oases in the tropical Andean city of Quito

City of Quito — 2024 — WHEB3725D3EB2

Central parks in Quito, Ecuador, serve as temporary air quality oases amid high levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), but their protective effect is limited to the park's interior. Research found hazardous PM2.5 concentrations on the edges of parks along busy avenues—frequented by pedestrians—highlighting short- and long-term health risks from traffic pollution in urban recreational spaces, particularly in cities of the global south. The study used the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) to model PM2.5 spatial distribution, successfully predicting concentrations in a smaller park, suggesting potential for broader urban applications. While promising, further validation is needed to ensure its effectiveness across diverse cityscapes.

Centros históricos y gentrificación: claves analíticas desde el discurso crítico

Historic Centre of Mexico City and Xochimilco — 2024 — WHE93DD8E3AB9

Gentrification in historic centers, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Mexico City's Historic Centre and Xochimilco, is driven by capital accumulation processes that reshape urban spaces. This study identifies ten analytical guidelines derived from critical discourse theory to better understand these transformations. By examining case studies from Quito, Salvador de Bahía, and Mexico City, researchers highlight the structural logic behind gentrification, emphasizing its role in contemporary urban development. The approach integrates spatial production theory with critical discourse analysis to provide a nuanced framework for studying socio-spatial changes in historic centers.

Century‐Long Records of Sedimentary Input on a Caribbean Reef From Coral Ba/Ca Ratios

Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System — 2024 — WHE7265CFC558

Increasing sediment flux from land-use changes in Honduras is linked to the decline of coral skeletal extension in the southern Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System (MBRS). This finding emerges from a century-long analysis of barium/calcium (Ba/Ca) ratios in two Siderastrea siderea coral colonies, which serve as proxies for riverine discharge and sediment input. One colony, located on the forereef and influenced by Honduras' river systems, showed a 70% increase in Ba/Ca over time, correlating with a decline in linear extension—a key indicator of coral health. In contrast, a backreef colony, primarily affected by less populated regions of Belize, exhibited stable Ba/Ca levels and no decline in growth. The study suggests that sediment-related stressors, likely exacerbated by agricultural or deforestation activities, may be contributing to reef degradation in the southern MBRS.

Chaco Culture National Historical Park: Paleontological site monitoring protocol

Chaco Culture — 2024 — WHE5EE3ED4BDB

Chaco Culture National Historical Park (CHCU) is home to a rich array of Upper Cretaceous paleontological resources, with over 100 sites documented since 2005. A new monitoring protocol has been developed to effectively manage and track these valuable fossils, which are divided into twelve Paleontological Management Areas (PMAs). Each PMA includes multiple localities, prioritized based on factors such as stratigraphy, accessibility, and management needs. The protocol provides detailed guidance for field methods, site discovery protocols, and monitoring frequencies, with appendices offering editable forms for documentation. This structured approach aims to preserve and study CHCU's significant paleontological heritage while balancing conservation with scientific inquiry.

Challenges and new approaches for the inspection of railway tunnels – Asset safety management

Semmering Railway — 2024 — WHECCFB81A1CD

ÖBB-Infrastruktur AG manages 259 railway tunnels and tunnel-like structures spanning approximately 250 km, with a diverse portfolio including old natural stone-lined tunnels like the Gumpoldskirchner Tunnel (1841) and modern double-shell concrete tunnels such as the 15,990 m long Münster Tunnel. The study highlights significant challenges in inspecting these structures due to their varied construction methods, ages, geotechnical conditions, and operational stresses, particularly in high-risk zones like fault lines with anhydrite or heavy overburden. To address these complexities, ÖBB has developed innovative tools under 'Asset Safety Management' to aid structural inspectors, ensuring periodic monitoring of concrete surfaces and mitigating risks during both construction and operation phases.

Challenging trophic position assessments in complex ecosystems: Calculation method, choice of baseline, trophic enrichment factors, season and feeding guild do matter: A case study from Marquesas Islands coral reefs

Te Henua Enata – The Marquesas Islands — 2024 — WHEACC4902659

Trophic position (TP) estimates for coral reef species in the Marquesas Islands vary significantly depending on the method used, the baseline organic matter source, and seasonal factors. This study found that TP estimates can differ by up to 1.7 levels for the same species when using different methods or baselines, such as macroalgae versus phytoplankton. The use of a conventional enrichment factor (3.4‰) or a variable one based on feeding guilds also led to discrepancies in TP values. Compound-specific isotope analysis using source amino acids produced TPs similar to those derived from macroalgae, while seasonal variations showed lower TPs in winter compared to summer, particularly for species with lower baseline TPs. These findings highlight the critical role of methodological choices and ecological context in accurately assessing trophic dynamics, which are essential for ecosystem-based management.

Changes in sand storage in the Colorado River in Grand Canyon National Park from July 2017 through June 2020

Grand Canyon National Park — 2024 — WHE808587AAA4

Between July 2017 and June 2020, the Colorado River in Grand Canyon National Park experienced significant fluctuations in sand storage. Notably, Marble Canyon saw a decrease in sand mass during sediment years 2018 and 2020, coinciding with below-average Paria River sand inputs. Conversely, Grand Canyon exhibited indeterminate sand mass balance in 2020 but accumulated sand in 2019, a period marked by high sand contributions from both the Paria and Little Colorado Rivers alongside reduced Glen Canyon Dam discharge. The study utilized gaging stations to measure sand transport, enabling calculations of sand storage changes across six river segments. These findings underscore the dynamic relationship between tributary sand inputs, dam operations, and sediment dynamics in the Grand Canyon ecosystem.

Changes in tropical leafing behaviour with climate change over nine decades: A case study from the Singapore Botanic Gardens

Singapore Botanic Gardens — 2024 — WHE7DFA00D58F

Over nine decades, leaf flush intervals for tropical tree species at the Singapore Botanic Gardens have significantly shortened, coinciding with changes in rainfall patterns. The study, leveraging historical records from 1927–1939 and ongoing phenological monitoring since 2016, found that mean daily rainfall over 1–4 months prior to leaf flushing either negatively or positively influenced the probability of flushing for nine out of 23 species analyzed. Long-term rainfall data revealed February has become drier while May has grown wetter since the 1960s, suggesting more distinct dry and wet periods today. These shifts may impact plant-herbivore interactions, nutrient cycling, and ecosystem resilience. The research underscores the value of botanical gardens as sentinels for environmental change in tropical regions.

Chapter 5. Switzerland

Abbey of St Gall — 2024 — WHEB296710879

Switzerland's medieval literary landscape was shaped by diverse cultural influences, with no unified Swiss identity emerging until the late Middle Ages. The region served as a contact zone for Gaulish/French, Rhaeto-Romance, and Alemannic traditions, with significant literary production centered in monasteries like St. Gall and Reichenau. Hagiography and regional historiography dominated early genres, later supplemented by spiritual poetry, theological works, and didactic verse. The study reveals that Swiss literary development was gradual, influenced by external cultural forces rather than indigenous state formation.

Chapter 5. University of Würzburg (1965–1973)

Würzburg Residence with the Court Gardens and Residence Square — 2024 — WHE3EE3EC5BDC

Würzburg, a historic town situated at a strategic river crossing and commercial hub between Nuremberg and Frankfurt, has been recognized for its mild climate conducive to wine production and its rich architectural heritage. The city's significance as a former prince-bishopric seat spans over 1,000 years, with notable Romanesque, Baroque, and Rococo structures that have been rebuilt after severe destruction during World War II. Despite the devastating air-raid in 1945, which caused an 80% destruction rate due to a firestorm, Würzburg's cultural landmarks, including its cathedral and residence, have been restored and now stand as prominent UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The study highlights the resilience of the city's architectural heritage, drawing parallels with Dresden, another city that suffered similarly but has also undergone extensive restoration efforts.

Chapter Three. Strangers and Neighbors

Aachen Cathedral — 2024 — WHE59F0E10D20

Aachen Cathedral experienced a period of social integration between Dutch Reformed Protestants and local communities during the 16th century without significant cultural or economic tensions. The study reveals that migrants from the Low Countries, primarily artisans and craftsmen, spoke a dialect closely related to local languages, facilitating seamless communication. Unlike other regions, these immigrants did not dominate specific industries like cloth weaving but were diverse in professions such as baking, carpentry, and tailoring. Confessional differences existed but were not exacerbated by linguistic or ethnic divides, leading to a triconfessional coexistence managed by the city council. The research challenges the notion that Dutch immigrants introduced Reformed ideas to Aachen, instead highlighting their integration into local society and the absence of notable conflicts.

Chapter XV. Women’s Travel Writings in Italy

Via Appia. Regina Viarum — 2024 — WHE5237AE168B

A detailed exploration of the historical and cultural significance of Via Appia, Regina Viarum, reveals its layered past as a site of ancient tombs, early Christian catacombs, and later Protestant influences. The study highlights the transformation of this route from a Roman burial ground to a symbol of religious and architectural heritage, including notable landmarks such as the Monastery of St. Francis and Guido Roni's Archangel. By analyzing historical records and travel narratives, the research reconstructs the evolution of Via Appia, emphasizing its role in connecting Rome's past with its present. The approach combines archival analysis with literary interpretation to uncover the site's multifaceted identity.

Chapter XXIX

The Maison Carrée of Nîmes — 2024 — WHEF4E639755E

A detailed exploration of the Maison Carrée, a well-preserved Roman temple located in Nîmes, France, reveals its architectural significance and historical context. The study contrasts its ancient dimensions with modern measurements, highlighting its enduring structure despite centuries of change. It also examines other notable Roman sites in the region, including the Pont-du-Gard aqueduct and the Roman Amphitheatre, providing insights into their design and preservation. The research draws from women's travel writings from Revolutionary France, offering a unique perspective on how these ancient monuments were documented and perceived during a pivotal period in European history.

Characterisation of Human-Wildlife Conflicts around the Kahuzi-Biega National Park, Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo

Kahuzi-Biega National Park — 2024 — WHE60E1077AED

Human-wildlife conflicts around Kahuzi-Biega National Park (KBNP) in the Democratic Republic of Congo are marked by significant crop destruction, physical attacks on humans, and zoonotic disease transmission, primarily involving primates such as monkeys, chimpanzees, and gorillas. Despite conservation efforts, these conflicts persist due to limited community management strategies and local resentment over restricted access to natural resources. Surveys of 260 households revealed that wildlife encroachment into villages also leads to poaching near park boundaries. Sustainable conflict resolution requires integrating community-based conservation approaches to address these challenges effectively.

Characterisation of Short-term Rentals in Granada, Spain: Spatial Analysis

Alhambra, Generalife and Albayzín, Granada — 2024 — WHE40B5D1B44E

Short-term rentals (STRs) in Granada, Spain, exhibit spatial distribution patterns that mirror traditional accommodations, leading to heightened tourist pressure in densely populated areas. A study analyzing data from 2023 and early 2024 revealed the highest concentrations of STRs around the historic center and adjacent to the Alhambra-Generalife complex, particularly in the Albaicín and San Matías-Realejo neighborhoods. These areas show rising occupancy rates, underscoring the need for regulatory measures. The research employed a detailed census section analysis, integrating data from the Andalusia Tourism Registry and AirDNA platform, to assess STR supply, occupancy levels, pricing, and length of stay at a granular spatial scale.

Characterization and Proposal of Technologies for The Treatment of Domestic Sewage in Ilha Grande Bay – RJ

Paraty and Ilha Grande – Culture and Biodiversity — 2024 — WHE746EA65DD4

A sanitation deficit in Ilha Grande Bay (BIG) is addressed through the identification of five promising decentralized wastewater treatment technologies: Septic Tanks, Compact UASB, Biodigesters, Compartmentalized Anaerobic Reactors, and Integrated Biosystems. These solutions, currently underutilized compared to national averages (18-54% coverage), offer potential for improving environmental conditions in BIG, which has suffered from irregular domestic wastewater discharge due to urbanization. The study analyzed data from the 2017 Wastewater Atlas and evaluated fifteen treatment options to propose strategies that align with Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6). This research provides a model for implementing decentralized sanitation solutions in developing countries, contributing to universal household wastewater treatment.

Characterizing the chemical composition of red coloring matter samples from the Altamira cave using synchrotron µXRF imaging

Cave of Altamira and Paleolithic Cave Art of Northern Spain — 2024 — WHE5D1A7592B3

Researchers have identified distinct trace element patterns in red iron oxide pigments used in Paleolithic cave art within the Altamira cave, Spain. These findings, derived from highly sensitive synchrotron-induced micro-X-ray fluorescence (SR-µXRF) imaging, provide new criteria to differentiate between the chemical composition of the calcitic walls and the red coloring matter. This advancement enhances the characterization of ancient pigments and offers a non-invasive method for future analyses, enabling more precise comparisons across different representations within the cave.

Chartres, its cathedral, its treasures, and its millenium Le trésor de la cathédrale de Chartres (The Treasures of Chartres Cathedral), permanent exhibition, Musée des Beaux-Arts (www.chartres.fr/musee-beaux-arts/), 29 cloître Notre-Dame, 28000 Chartres. Le feu sacré, manuscripts enluminés chartrains du XIIe au XIIIe siècle (The Holy Fire, Illuminated Chartran Manuscripts from the Twelfth to the Thirteenth Centuries), temporary exhibition, until January 12, 2025. Mille ans de sculptures à Chartres (A Thousand Years of Sculpture in Chartres), temporary exhibition, until February 16, 2025.

Chartres Cathedral — 2024 — WHEC4345EF2CE

Chartres Cathedral, the first French cathedral inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated its millennium in 2024 with a series of exhibitions showcasing its restored treasures. The Musée des Beaux-Arts hosted permanent and temporary displays, including 'The Treasures of Chartres Cathedral,' featuring illuminated manuscripts from the 12th to 13th centuries, such as those related to the legendary Holy Fire. Another exhibition, 'A Thousand Years of Sculpture in Chartres,' highlighted the cathedral's rich sculptural heritage. These exhibitions provided a comprehensive look at the cathedral's artistic and historical significance, blending permanent and temporary displays to mark this milestone.

Chartres, sa cathédrale, son trésor, son millénaire « Le trésor de la cathédrale de Chartres » , exposition permanente, musée des Beaux-Arts ( www.chartres.fr/musee-beaux-arts/ ), 29 cloître Notre-Dame, 28000 Chartres. « Le feu sacré, manuscrits enluminés chartrains du XII e au XIII e siècle » , exposition temporaire, jusqu’au 12 janvier 2025. « Mille ans de sculptures à Chartres » , exposition temporaire, jusqu’au 16 février 2025.

Chartres Cathedral — 2024 — WHEC774515C43

Chartres Cathedral, France's first cathedral inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrates its millennial anniversary with restored treasures and groundbreaking exhibitions. The permanent display at the Musée des Beaux-Arts showcases meticulously preserved artifacts, while temporary exhibits—'Le feu sacré' (until January 12, 2025) and 'Mille ans de sculptures à Chartres' (until February 16, 2025)—reveal 12th to 13th-century illuminated manuscripts and a millennium of sculptural artistry. These exhibitions offer unprecedented insights into medieval craftsmanship, religious iconography, and the cathedral's enduring cultural significance.