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Publications

Showing 14441 – 14460 of 15962 publications

How did rivers in the wet tropics (NE Queensland, Australia) respond to climate changes over the past 30 000 years?

Wet Tropics of Queensland — 2017 — WHEB4B0FE994C

A complex, non-linear relationship between river behavior and climate change emerges from a 30,000-year analysis of the Wet Tropics of Queensland. The study reveals that periods of fluvial aggradation (sediment deposition) occurred synchronously at 30–13 ka, 8–5 ka, and after 1 ka, while terrace incision (erosion) dominated between 13–8 ka and 5–1 ka. Contrary to expectations, river responses did not consistently align with wetter or drier conditions, suggesting that other continental-scale factors may have played a significant role in shaping fluvial dynamics during the Late Quaternary in Australia. The research integrates multiple palaeoenvironmental proxies to reconstruct these changes, offering insights into the resilience and vulnerability of tropical river systems under climate variability.

How to Found an Islamic City

Samarra Archaeological City — 2017 — WHECA70A8AA6D

A groundbreaking study on the foundation of Islamic cities reveals that urban planning in early Islam was driven by strategic and symbolic considerations, with Samarra Archaeological City serving as a key example. The research combines historical accounts and archaeological evidence to challenge conventional narratives, avoiding value judgments while providing nuanced insights into the motivations behind city foundations. Notably, Sayf b. Umar's detailed description of Kufa's establishment in 638 AD offers the most comprehensive surviving account of an early Islamic urban foundation, shedding light on the rapid post-conquest development of cities like Samarra. This work builds upon earlier scholarship, including Hourani and Stern's seminal volume, to redefine our understanding of Islamic urbanism.

Hungry architecture: spaces of consumption and predation at Göbekli Tepe

Göbekli Tepe — 2017 — WHE35728B461C

Göbekli Tepe's architecture reflects a relational, predatory worldview rooted in consumption and co-production. This study challenges Western ontological frameworks by integrating indigenous theories and anthropology to reinterpret the site's socio-cosmic dynamics. Through iconography, human and animal remains, and architectural analysis, it reveals that Pre-Pottery Neolithic societies engaged with material and non-human entities as agential forces, fundamentally shaping their social realities.

Il breviario di Martino I d’Aragona (1396-1410). Contributo alla storia del ms. Paris, Bibliothèque nationale de France, Rothschild 2529

Poblet Monastery — 2017 — WHED05DD40AC7

A Breviary from the Poblet Monastery, commissioned by King Martin I of Aragon (1396–1410), was not intended for the king himself but for his son, Martin I of Sicily. This revelation emerged from analyzing unpublished and previously unassociated documents linked to the Rothschild manuscript 2529 in Paris. The study traces its ownership through Margaret of Prades before it was acquired by Alfonso the Magnanimous. Additionally, the Lenten ferial lessons in the Breviary deviate from standard Cistercian practices, reflecting Martin I of Aragon's detailed instructions.

In Pursuit of Ancient Cyrenaica: Two Hundred Years of Exploration Set against the History of Archaeology in Europe (1706–1911)

Archaeological Site of Cyrene — 2017 — WHEC1D054C34F

This book provides a detailed diachronic account of the exploration and documentation of UNESCO World Heritage Site Cyrene, revealing significant insights into the formation processes affecting ancient sites over two centuries. By analyzing travelers' accounts from 1706 to 1911, the study compares historical descriptions with current observations, offering valuable evidence for cultural heritage preservation. The research employs a thematic and chronological approach, grouping travelers by their motivations—adventure, survey, or archaeological exploration—and examines how practical factors like road availability influenced site selection. Illustrated with historic and contemporary images, this work underscores Cyrenaica's archaeological potential while highlighting the impact of recent political instability on its heritage.

Incamisana: Engineering an Inca Water Temple

Qhapaq Ñan, Andean Road System — 2017 — WHEC5858B3D41

A masterpiece of Inca civil engineering, the Incamisana water temple at Ollantaytambo, Peru, stands as a high-status sanctuary for worship of water. The temple's architecture and hydraulic works, including fourteen ceremonial fountains with three more under construction, showcase intricate planning and execution. Flooding in 1679 preserved its lower portion, offering a unique glimpse into its design. Reverse engineering field research, paleohydrological studies, and archaeological investigations revealed the temple's sophisticated water supply system, canals, and conduit/distribution network. Cliff carvings parallel to the temple add a mystical dimension, while Inca roads connected Ollantaytambo to the broader empire, underscoring its cultural significance.

Initial Recognition Results of Species Composition and Characteristics of Harmful Organisms at My Son Sanctuary Heritage Area

My Son Sanctuary — 2017 — WHE9315317795

A three-year survey (2012–2014) at My Son Sanctuary identified 50 harmful species, including termites, vertebrates, fungi, and plants, with fungi (Aspergillus, Trichoderma, Penicillium) causing the most significant damage to the heritage towers, particularly in Towers C, B, D, and A. Among plant species, four—Bidens pilosa L., Tectaria zeylanica, Hedyotis diffusa Willd, and Selphinella delicatula—were found invading all towers. While termite damage was minimal, six vertebrate species (66.7%) also posed light harm. The study highlights these pests as priority targets for conservation efforts to mitigate structural risks.

Insect biodiversity of the Socotra Archipelago – underlined and counted

Socotra Archipelago — 2017 — WHE7FDF52224A

A comprehensive survey of the Socotra Archipelago's insect biodiversity reveals 1,564 species taxa from 25 hexapod orders, with beetles (Coleoptera) being the most diverse at 540 species. Strikingly, 42% of these species are endemic to the archipelago, underscoring its unique ecological significance. The majority of recorded diversity (1,520 species, 635 endemics) is found on Socotra Island, highlighting it as a critical hotspot for conservation. This study provides the first detailed count and taxonomic breakdown of Socotra's insect fauna, offering valuable insights for comparative analyses with neighboring archipelagos like the Seychelles.

Isolation of extremely halophilic Archaea from a saline river in the Lut Desert of Iran, moderately resistant to desiccation and gamma radiation

Lut Desert — 2017 — WHEE5D1F2A09A

Researchers isolated extremely halophilic archaea from the Shoor River in Iran's Lut Desert, identifying 59 distinct strains with notable resistance to desiccation and gamma radiation. Three strains (MS2, MS17, MS50) survived up to 8 weeks under desiccating conditions and exhibited moderate radioresistance, with a D10 value of 2–3 kGy. These strains belonged to the family Halobacteriaceae, showing high similarity to known species but demonstrating unique survival patterns distinct from Deinococcus radiodurans. This study represents the first report of such halophilic archaea from this region, highlighting their potential for extreme environmental adaptation.

José Gutiérrez, el arquitecto malagueño del neoclásico en Guadalajara, México (1766-1835)

Hospicio Cabañas, Guadalajara — 2017 — WHE5ECCCD8905

José Gutiérrez, a Spanish architect, significantly transformed Guadalajara's urban landscape through his neoclassical designs, yet remains largely unknown despite his academic and professional achievements. His work on three emblematic buildings—the Casa de la Misericordia (now Hospicio Cabañas), the Sagrario Metropolitano temple, and the pórtico of the ex-templo de Santo Tomás (now Biblioteca Iberoamericana Octavio Paz)—reshaped the city's architectural identity during a period marked by political upheaval. A survey involving over 100 architects, academics, and the general public revealed that 80% had never heard of Gutiérrez, highlighting his underrecognized legacy. His contributions extended beyond architecture, including public works like the Puente Verde and temple renovations in Guadalajara and Zacatecas, as well as supervisory projects in Mexico City. Despite his innovative approach and academic rigor, Gutiérrez's life was characterized by contradictions, from navigating the Independence movement to his relentless perfectionism. This study underscores the tension between his profound impact on neoclassical architecture in colonial New Galicia (modern-day Jalisco) and his obscurity, offering a critical reassessment of his role in architectural history.

K’gari-Fraser Island: towards an immersive, interdisciplinary and inclusive approach to environmental and sustainability education

K’gari (Fraser Island) — 2017 — WHEED5D30EAC4

Immersive, interdisciplinary field-based learning on K’gari (Fraser Island), Australia, demonstrates transformative potential for environmental and sustainability education that surpasses traditional classroom settings. The study highlights how such experiences can foster enduring learning outcomes and student transformation, linking fieldwork to alternate futures. Conducted by the University of the Sunshine Coast at Dilli Village—a key research hub—this case study emphasizes the need for a more inclusive, interdisciplinary approach to leverage K’gari’s unique ecosystems, indigenous history, and ongoing research projects. By integrating diverse courses and programs with real-world field activities, the university aims to enhance educational impact while addressing sustainability challenges.

Kazimierz Pospieszny, Domus Malbork. Zamek krzyżacki w typie regularnym [Domus Malbork. Castle of the Teutonic Order of a regular type] (Monografie Uniwersytetu Mikołaja Kopernika w Toruniu), Wydawnictwo Naukowe Uniwersytetu Mikołaja Kopernika ...

Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork — 2017 — WHE7C4A98D465

The Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork stands as a rare example of medieval architecture characterized by its regular, symmetrical design. This monograph, authored by Kazimierz Pospieszny and published in 2014, delves into the architectural evolution and urban planning of this monumental complex, which served as the administrative center of the Teutonic Knights' state. Through meticulous analysis of historical documents, archaeological data, and comparative study with other medieval castles, the work reconstructs the castle's development from its foundation in 1274 to its later transformations. It highlights the innovative integration of military fortification with residential and administrative functions, setting a precedent for regular-type castles in Europe. The study is enriched by extensive visual documentation, including 283 black-and-white figures and 30 colored illustrations, providing a comprehensive insight into this architectural marvel's design and historical significance.

Kościoły Pokoju w Jaworze i Świdnicy – Prace Konserwatorskie Wnętrza i Wyposażenia, Jako Przykład Ochrony Budowli Wpisanych na Listę Światowego Dziedzictwa

Churches of Peace in Jawor and Świdnica — 2017 — WHE6F26BE3254

Conservation efforts on the Churches of Peace in Jawor and Świdnica, inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, successfully preserved their 17th- to 18th-century interior decorations and furnishings while maintaining their original function. The study highlights that UNESCO recognition was pivotal in prioritizing authenticity preservation during conservation work, ensuring these unique religious monuments endured despite historical challenges. The research focuses on the principles and outcomes of conservation practices applied since the 1990s, demonstrating how systematic restoration can safeguard cultural heritage without compromising historical integrity.

Kurtonitj stone house: Excavation of a mid‐nineteenth century Aboriginal frontier site from Gunditjmara country, south‐west Victoria

Budj Bim Cultural Landscape — 2017 — WHE3C79F2D948

A groundbreaking excavation at the Budj Bim Cultural Landscape in south-west Victoria reveals new insights into Aboriginal stone house construction and occupation during the mid-19th century. The study, published in Archaeology in Oceania, documents the first detailed excavation of such a site, uncovering a cache of 34 iron nails dating to approximately 1840–1870, which suggests occupation during periods of violent and negotiated resistance against European pastoral expansion. Taphonomic analysis indicates that stone artefacts predate contact objects, hinting at earlier use or construction. The findings challenge assumptions about the timeline of stone house development and offer clues about their integration with eel trapping facilities over 6600 years.

Laelapidae mites (Acari: Mesostigmata) infesting small rodents in the Curonian Spit, Lithuania

Curonian Spit — 2017 — WHE5F876878BE

Researchers identified five species of Laelapidae mites—Laelaps agilis, Hyperlaelaps microti, Haemogamassus nidi, Eulaelaps stabularis, and Myonyssus gigas—as parasites infesting small rodents in the Curonian Spit, Lithuania. This marks the first detection of these mites in the region, contributing to the understanding of their ecological diversity and host associations. The study analyzed 236 small rodents, including yellow-necked mice (Apodemus flavicollis), harvest mice (Micromys minutus), bank voles (Myodes glareolus), root voles (Microtus oeconomus), and field voles (Microtus agrestis), collected between 2013 and 2014. Mite species were determined through morphological analysis of adult females and males, providing new insights into their distribution and potential ecological roles in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Lehmbau als Weltkulturerbe

Koutammakou, the Land of the Batammariba — 2017 — WHEB61894E919

UNESCO World Heritage designation significantly alters the preservation and renovation of earthen architecture, with both positive protections and new challenges emerging. A comparative study of three sites—Aït-Ben-Haddou (Morocco), Fujian Tulou (China), and Koutammakou’s Takienta (Togo)—reveals that while heritage status enhances global recognition and funding, it also introduces stricter regulations that can limit traditional building practices and community autonomy. Earthen materials, though sustainable, pose unique conservation hurdles due to their vulnerability to erosion and moisture, requiring specialized techniques for renovation. The research combines on-site analysis, workshops (e.g., in Asslim, Morocco), and cross-case comparisons to assess how heritage designation reshapes usage, threats, and cultural significance across diverse contexts.

Lichens growth on Sun Temple of Konark in Odisha, India- A curse or blessing

Sun Temple, Konârak — 2017 — WHEEF25C2E86F

A survey of lichen growth on the Sun Temple at Konark, Odisha, revealed over 500 distinct spots across the main temple, sculptures, and boundary walls. Fifteen lichen species from 14 genera and 11 families were identified, with crustose lichens dominating—ten species tightly adhering to substrates and producing secondary metabolites—while only four foliose and one quamulose species were recorded. The study suggests that while lichen growth may be perceived as a curse due to potential substrate degradation, it also signifies ecological resilience and biodiversity within this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Lingering radioactivity at the Bikini and Enewetak Atolls

Bikini Atoll Nuclear Test Site — 2017 — WHE0F55E7866E

Decades after nuclear testing, Bikini and Enewetak Atolls remain significant sources of plutonium (Pu) and cesium-137 (Cs) to the North Pacific, though at rates far lower than initial fallout. Research reveals that Pu levels in lagoon seawater and sediments are orders of magnitude higher than global averages, with the Runit Dome—an underground nuclear waste repository—contributing roughly half of the Pu detected in Enewetak’s lagoon water column. Submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) plays a minor role in transporting these radionuclides, suggesting that seafloor sediments are the primary long-term repository and source. While Cs levels are elevated in brackish groundwater, its presence in lagoon waters is only slightly higher than in the broader North Pacific. The study employed radium isotopes to estimate SGD for the first time in this context, providing critical insights into radionuclide fluxes.

Linking well-being with cultural revitalization for greater cognitive justice in conservation: lessons from Venezuela in Canaima National Park

Canaima National Park — 2017 — WHE595AB177A8

A shift toward intercultural fire management in Canaima National Park, Venezuela, has emerged from integrating Pemon indigenous knowledge with scientific research. This counter-narrative challenges conventional views that attribute landscape changes solely to local fire use. The study demonstrates how participatory processes—such as historical reconstructions, territorial self-demarcation, and community reflexivity—linked to the development of Pemon Life Plans, have revived suppressed environmental knowledge. By centering indigenous well-being agendas, conservation efforts have achieved cognitive justice, making hidden local knowledge visible and influencing policy-making toward more inclusive and effective fire management strategies.

Local Perceptions of Interactions Between Elephants and Borassus Aethiopum Mart. (Arecaceae) in the Pendjari National Park in Benin

W-Arly-Pendjari Complex — 2017 — WHEAA8FC643B9

A significant increase in elephant populations within the Pendjari National Park, part of the W-Arly-Pendjari Complex, has been linked to high poaching pressure in transboundary parks. This migration has led to substantial pressure on tree species, including Borassus aethiopum, a dioecious palm. The study, involving 53 respondents from different socio-professional categories, found consensus among administrators, ecoguards, and local professional hunters regarding the relationship between elephants and B. aethiopum. The research suggests that a regional approach to protect elephant populations could mitigate migration and its impacts on vegetation. Semi-structured interviews were used to gather perceptions on causes, damage, consequences, and management options.