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Showing 14421 – 14440 of 15962 publications

From Chauvet to Lascaux: 15,000 Years of Cave Art

Cave of Altamira and Paleolithic Cave Art of Northern Spain — 2017 — WHECC51E464DD

Paleolithic cave art in Western Europe, spanning from Chauvet (36 ka BP) to Lascaux (21 ka BP), reveals significant evolution in symbolic language, animal representation, and spatial layout over 15,000 years. Chauvet's Aurignacian phase (37–33.5 ka BP) showcases early black zoomorphic paintings, while Lascaux, though closed to the public due to tourist-induced microclimate disruption, preserves later artistic expressions. This study identifies key changes in artistic expression during the Upper Paleolithic, linking them to the socio-cultural behavior of anatomically modern humans in glacial environments.

From Cognitive Maps to Transparent Static Web Maps: Tools for Indigenous Territorial Control in La Muskitia, Honduras

Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve — 2017 — WHE711137A647

Indigenous Miskitu, Tawahka, and Pech communities in Honduras, in collaboration with university geographers, have developed transparent static web maps as a tool for maintaining indigenous territorial control. This approach allows them to share their cognitive maps publicly while retaining the original design and intended representation of their lands. The project began with large-scale paper maps created in 1998–1999 during the Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve participatory research mapping (PRM) initiative, which were later digitized into GIS vector files by 2012 and converted to web-based transparent static maps between 2013–2014. This method addresses the challenge of public access to map data without losing control over its representation, offering a solution for long-term indigenous land management while reflecting distinct indigenous concepts and practices.

From state agencies to ordinary citizens: reframing risk-mitigation investments and their impact to disrupt urban risk traps in Lima, Peru

Historic Centre of Lima — 2017 — WHE02F6AEDD02

Urban risk traps, characterized by cycles of everyday risks and small-scale disasters, disproportionately affect impoverished urban dwellers. A study on Lima, Peru, reveals that such traps persist not due to a lack of risk-mitigation investments but because these investments often have unintended consequences that erode the capacity of at-risk communities to act, thereby perpetuating risk accumulation cycles. The research, based on the action-research project cLIMA sin Riesgo, analyzed state agency and community-led investment actions in Barrios Altos (historic center) and José Carlos Mariátegui (periphery). It argues for a re-evaluation of risk-mitigation strategies to disrupt these cycles effectively.

From the Summer Palace 1860

Summer Palace, an Imperial Garden in Beijing — 2017 — WHE6D84F760E5

A significant portion of objects labeled as originating from the Summer Palace, Beijing, lack verifiable provenance, despite some having clear ties to the 1860 sacking. The study highlights how Western markets in the 19th century often used vague descriptions like 'From the Imperial Summer Palace' for newly acquired items, obscuring their true origins. This practice exacerbated China's political humiliation and cultural loss during colonial-era conflicts. The research examines historical records, sales data, and government responses to trace the movement of artworks, architectural fragments, and manuscripts from Yuanmingyuan (the Old Summer Palace) to Western collections.

Frontiers and Mobilities: The Frontiers of the Roman Empire and Europe

Frontiers of the Roman Empire — 2017 — WHE0148274542

Roman frontiers, recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, offer valuable insights for contemporary Europe by serving as sites of encounter and transformation. This study bridges the fields of border studies and Roman Frontier Studies to explore how ancient frontiers can inform modern debates on integration and border dissolution. By analyzing the relationship between the Roman Frontiers initiative and the European Union's goals, it advocates for interdisciplinary collaboration to reflect on current challenges facing Europe. The research emphasizes frontiers as dynamic spaces where cultural exchange and transformation occurred, providing a lens through which to examine present-day border dynamics.

Functional flows: an environmental flow regime benefits riparian cottonwoods along the Waterton River, Alberta

Waterton Glacier International Peace Park — 2017 — WHE2F490D336D

An environmental flow regime implemented in the Waterton River, Alberta, significantly benefited riparian cottonwoods (Populus trichocarpa and P. angustifolia) by increasing minimum flows and introducing gradual recession after spring peaks. The study found that these 'functional flows' enhanced tree growth and colonization, particularly by raising the minimum discharge from 0.93 to 2.27 m³/s. Tree ring analyses revealed improved growth patterns in established trees, while spatial distributions indicated that cottonwood colonization elevated with increased flow. Historical comparisons across four dam operation intervals—pre-dam, early post-dam, drought period, and environmental flow regime—highlighted the ecological benefits of regulated flows for riparian ecosystems.

Gamzigrad, Serbien: Der spätantike Kaiserpalast Felix Romuliana und sein Umfeld

Gamzigrad-Romuliana, Palace of Galerius — 2017 — WHE8BC67C9E0B

A comprehensive analysis of the late antique palace complex Felix Romuliana, associated with Emperor Galerius (283–311 AD), reveals significant insights into the diachronic development and historical framework of its micro-region. This study, part of the TOPOI Excellence Cluster in Berlin, goes beyond previous research by examining not only the palace itself but also its immediate and wider hinterland from prehistoric to medieval times. The findings provide a new understanding of settlement patterns, offering valuable context for the palace's role within its historic and topographic landscape.

Gaps and opportunities for the World Heritage Convention to contribute to global wilderness conservation

Central Suriname Nature Reserve — 2017 — WHECE0787A47F

Only about 1.8% of the world's wilderness is protected under UNESCO World Heritage Sites (WHS), with notable exceptions like the Okavango Delta and Central Suriname Nature Reserve. A global analysis identified significant gaps in wilderness representation across 22 terrestrial biorealms, despite WHS containing some excellent examples. The study used a 'last-of-the-wild' method to map remaining wilderness areas and assessed their coverage under existing protected designations. It also pinpointed 840 large protected areas—predominantly wilderness—that could serve as candidates for future WHS designation, addressing critical biodiversity gaps. The research underscores the urgent need for the World Heritage Convention to prioritize ecological integrity in preserving these irreplaceable landscapes.

Genetic diversity of Castanea sativa an endangered species in the Hyrcanian forest

Hyrcanian Forests — 2017 — WHE4A4DB3560F

A study on the genetic diversity of Castanea sativa, an endangered tree species in Iran's Hyrcanian Forest, reveals significant genetic erosion and population differentiation. Using 18 simple sequence repeat (SSR) loci—10 nuclear and 8 chloroplastic—the research found low nuclear genetic diversity with observed heterozygosity ranging from 0.125 to 1.000, while chloroplast SSRs showed no polymorphism. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) indicated high within-population variation (84%) but notable between-population differentiation (16%). Structure and UPGMA analyses separated the Shafaroud population from others, suggesting a genetic extinction vortex due to limited gene flow over short distances. The findings underscore the urgent need for stricter protection measures across all four known populations of this species in Iran.

Geological evolution of Central Asian Basins and the western Tien Shan Range

Western Tien-Shan — 2017 — WHE5D1F8295AB

The geological evolution of the western Tien Shan Range and adjacent Central Asian basins reveals a dynamic history shaped by multiple tectonic events, from Precambrian-Palaeozoic orogenesis to Cenozoic continental collisions. This study highlights how the accretion of Cimmerian blocks during the Mesozoic and subsequent collisions involving the Indian and Arabian plates led to structural reactivation, intracontinental deformation, and the formation of sedimentary basins. The research integrates multidisciplinary approaches to elucidate the Late Palaeozoic–Cenozoic tectono-sedimentary evolution, emphasizing fault reactivation patterns and the climatic influence on sedimentation. These findings provide a comprehensive framework for understanding the complex interplay between tectonic processes and basin development in this UNESCO-listed region.

Geometridae Stephens, 1829 from different altitudes in Western Himalayan Protected Areas of Uttarakhand, India (Lepidoptera: Geometridae)

Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks — 2017 — WHECD7B478FAC

A comprehensive survey of Geometridae moths (Lepidoptera) across Western Himalayan Protected Areas in Uttarakhand, India, reveals 168 species, including 36 newly recorded for the region and significant altitudinal range expansions for at least 15 species. The study, spanning elevations from 600 to 3600 meters, identified Ennominae as the dominant subfamily while Larentiinae were more restricted to higher elevations. Western Mixed Coniferous forests hosted the greatest species diversity, whereas Subalpine forests exhibited the highest number of indicator species. The assemblage was dominated by Indo-Malayan species but also included a notable number of Himalayan endemics, suggesting long-term adaptation to the region's climatic gradient. Ongoing climate-mediated perturbations pose potential threats to these endemic species.

Grasshoppers of the genus Podismopsis (Orthoptera, Acrididae) in Altay and description of acoustic signals of Podismopsis altaica from cluster Mongun-Taiga of the State Nature Biosphere Reserve «Uvs Nuur Basin»

Uvs Nuur Basin — 2017 — WHEBB80C1CBA9

Research reveals distinct acoustic signals and habitat preferences between two grasshopper species, Podismopsis altaica and P. poppiusi, in the Altai Mountains of Russia's Uvs Nuur Basin UNESCO World Heritage Site. The study describes for the first time the calling signal of P. altaica, highlighting that its repetition period shortens under lower temperatures compared to P. poppiusi. Additionally, the species inhabit different elevations: P. altaica thrives in alpine zones, while P. poppiusi favors meadows and meadow-steppes. These differences prevent close contact between their populations, suggesting ecological segregation. The findings were derived from field observations within the Mongun-Taiga cluster of the Uvs Nuur Basin Biosphere Reserve.

Great Canadian Lagerstätten 6. Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve, Southeast Newfoundland

Mistaken Point — 2017 — WHE67234B1467

Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve (MPER) on Newfoundland's southeastern coast is a pivotal global site for Ediacaran fossil research, hosting some of the oldest known soft-bodied macrobiota assemblages. Since their discovery in 1967, MPER's fossils have significantly advanced understanding of Ediacaran paleobiology by preserving in situ benthic paleocommunities with thousands of specimens, enabling detailed studies on ecology, development, preservation processes, taxonomy, and morphology. These insights provide clues about the phylogenetic positions of Ediacaran taxa within the tree of life. A continuous geological record spanning at least 10 million years further contextualizes these fossils temporally and environmentally.

Green Architecture as a Concept of Historic Cairo

Historic Cairo — 2017 — WHEE6B39438F8

Traditional architecture of Historic Cairo demonstrates significant potential for enhancing thermal comfort in hot arid climates through passive design methods. This study highlights that the El-Suhaimi house, a historic structure, offers sustainable solutions applicable to modern green architecture. By analyzing this case study using Design Builder simulation software, researchers confirmed its environmental adaptability and local identity. The findings suggest that integrating elements from historic Cairo's architectural style can inform contemporary green building practices, providing a model for environmentally conscious urban development in similar climates.

Green Urbanism in Medieval India, Agra Fort: A Sustainable Eco-City

Agra Fort — 2017 — WHE0DDB639916

Medieval Indian cities, including Agra Fort, demonstrated advanced green urbanism principles that outpaced modern urban settlements in sustainability and density. This study reveals how pre-modern technology cities thrived with efficient resource use, providing insights into historical eco-city design. By analyzing Agra Fort's development, the research reconstructs its sustainable practices—such as water management, vegetation integration, and spatial organization—that ensured long-term functionality without modern infrastructure. The approach combines archival analysis, spatial mapping, and comparative urban studies to uncover these adaptive strategies, offering lessons for contemporary urban planning in developing nations.

Groundwater sources assessment for sustainable supply through photovoltaic water pumping system, in M’zab valley, Ghardaia

M'Zab Valley — 2017 — WHEADD8BE7E22

A study identifies the M'Zab Valley, Ghardaia, as a promising region for sustainable water supply using photovoltaic water pumping systems (PVWPS). The research reveals that the valley's groundwater table is abundant, with static averages ranging from 50 to 150 meters depending on location. Key zones—Ben-Isguen, Bounoura, and AL-Atteuf—are deemed optimal for PVWPS installations due to their favorable hydraulic structures. The study combines field investigations with statistical data analysis to assess groundwater behavior, aiming to optimize system performance amid dynamic variables like solar radiation and temperature. This approach addresses the need for reliable water supply in remote desert areas, offering a sustainable solution for domestic usage.

Heritage Management: The Case of Two Baroque Churches in Ilocos Region, Philippines

Baroque Churches of the Philippines — 2017 — WHE042ED6E1D4

While adequate laws exist to protect the UNESCO-listed Baroque churches of Paoay and Sta. Maria in the Philippines, enforcement remains inconsistent, particularly due to local government funding constraints. The study reveals that parish priests play a pivotal role in preservation success, underscoring their need for conservation expertise. Management is shared among task forces, municipal governments, homeowners associations, NGOs (Paoay), or heritage district councils (Sta. Maria). Though local governments are supportive, financial limitations hinder Sta. Maria's compliance with protection requirements.

High mortality associated with tapeworm parasitism in geladas (Theropithecus gelada) in the Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia

Simien National Park — 2017 — WHE3586DEEAA2

Research reveals that tapeworm parasitism significantly impacts gelada survival and reproduction in Simien National Park, Ethiopia. A decade-long study found high mortality rates among adult females with Taenia serialis cysts, particularly younger adults, while male mortality showed a similar but non-significant trend due to smaller sample sizes. Offspring of infected mothers also experienced increased mortality, primarily due to maternal death. Comparisons with another gelada population suggested that T. serialis may kill hosts more rapidly in Simien National Park. The study highlights the need for further research into individual and population-level heterogeneity in parasite-associated mortality.

Historical perspectives on the mangroves of Kakadu National Park

Kakadu National Park — 2017 — WHEE47B2F4423

Recent research reveals significant redistribution and dieback of mangroves in Kakadu National Park. While net area changes have been minor, lower-stature mangrove species like Avicennia marina and Sonneratia alba have shown substantial shifts due to inland intrusion and seaward colonization. Aerial surveys conducted in 2016 confirmed widespread dieback, with RapidEye data indicating this occurred between late 2015 and 2016, coinciding with broader mangrove losses in the Gulf of Carpentaria. The study, utilizing historical aerial photography, CASI imagery, LIDAR, and RapidEye data, underscores the need for enhanced long-term monitoring to protect these critical coastal ecosystems.

Hotspot elephant-poaching areas in the Eastern Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania

Selous Game Reserve — 2017 — WHE9E5A9F243B

Elephant poaching hotspots in the Eastern Selous Game Reserve (ESGR), Tanzania, are concentrated along its edges, particularly during the wet season. This pattern is linked to local involvement driven by economic deprivation. Researchers analyzed elephant mortality data from 2008–2013, revealing higher poaching incidences on reserve peripheries due to proximity to human settlements lacking alternative livelihoods. The study underscores the need for targeted conservation strategies, including economic empowerment, strengthened law enforcement, and community-based anti-poaching initiatives, to mitigate illegal ivory trade in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.