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Publications

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Communication at the Abbey of St. Gall

Abbey of St Gall — 2011 — WHECFC2CE9C24

Monastic culture at the Abbey of St. Gall, traditionally viewed as highly literate, relied on a diverse and sophisticated range of communicative practices that went beyond written media. This volume challenges the perception that oral communication was secondary to literacy in medieval monastic settings, demonstrating instead that monks and nuns frequently used spoken word as a vital complement to other forms of communication for exchanging information. The research compiles five thematic chapters that explore the contexts in which oral communication played a crucial role, revealing its complexity and significance in monastic practices during the central Middle Ages.

Contribución de los cafetales bajo sombra en la conservación de murciélagos en la Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala

Antigua Guatemala — 2011 — WHE93196E7A3F

A study in Antigua Guatemala revealed that shaded coffee plantations, while supporting a diverse array of bat species, may not fully function as ecological corridors for forest-dwelling bats. Researchers found that while both shaded coffee plantations and remaining forest habitats hosted 12 bat species, the composition differed significantly: plantations favored generalist frugivorous species like Artibeus, Dermanura, and Sturnira, whereas forests harbored more specialized and landscape-sensitive species such as Phyllostomus discolor and Myotis keaysi. Despite no significant difference in overall diversity between habitats, the study estimated a 42% complementarity index, suggesting limited overlap in bat communities. This indicates that while shaded coffee plantations contribute to bat conservation, they may not effectively connect forest patches for certain species.

Crossing trails in the marshes: rigidity and flexibility in the governance of the Danube Delta

Danube Delta — 2011 — WHE8C53844AC6

Environmental governance in the Danube Delta is shaped by rigid path dependencies and flexible interdependencies, with direct citizen participation alone risking reinforcement of informal institutions. The study combines path dependence theory and social systems theory to analyze governance evolution, revealing that effective reforms require collaboration across multiple institutions rather than isolated citizen engagement. This insight challenges conventional approaches to participatory governance in UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Danube Delta.

Deforestation and forest degradation in the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, Mexico, 2003–2009

Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve — 2011 — WHE24E2A167B6

Between 2003 and 2009, the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve in Mexico experienced significant forest degradation and deforestation, with 2152 hectares affected, primarily due to illegal logging by organized gangs. These changes were concentrated in four specific areas outside the Payment for Environmental Services (PES) program and zones of land conflicts. Notably, degradation decreased where logging declined, particularly on properties included in the PES program or where exploitation permits had expired. The study used digital aerial photographs and satellite images to analyze biennial changes, revealing a trend of decreasing disturbances by 2011, attributed to the PES program, promotion of productive activities, and social work in the area.

Degradation of stone materials in the Greek–Roman Hadrianic Baths in Leptis Magna (Libya)

Archaeological Site of Leptis Magna — 2011 — WHE4766BB58C6

Severe weathering, including honeycomb formation and biological damage, is significantly degrading the limestone and marble structures of Leptis Magna's Hadrianic Baths. This study identifies multiple deterioration factors—such as salt weathering, moisture, temperature fluctuations, and microbial activity—that contribute to structural degradation in this marine climate. The research characterizes the building materials affected by these processes, providing insights into their vulnerability and potential conservation strategies.

Delineating Locals: Transformations of Knowledge/Power and the Governance of the Danube Delta

Danube Delta — 2011 — WHE7A6F5261D4

Governance policies for the Danube Delta co-create a marginalized 'local' identity, shaped by power/knowledge dynamics that silence and exoticize communities. This study reveals how policies, emerging from multiple government levels, evolve through constant interaction with other power structures, leading to the subjugation of local actors. Using a Foucauldian framework, it analyzes policy emergence, enactment, and implementation to highlight the implications for participatory natural resource governance. The findings underscore the need to recognize and address these processes in environmental management strategies.

Detection of Delamination in Wall Paintings by Ground Penetrating Radar

Historic Ensemble of the Potala Palace, Lhasa — 2011 — WHED846D65D84

Ground penetrating radar (GPR) emerges as a powerful tool for detecting delamination in wall paintings, particularly in culturally significant sites like the Potala Palace. Delamination, a prevalent issue causing separation between plaster and support surfaces, poses severe threats to the integrity of ancient murals, often leading to surface cracks or complete paint loss. This study highlights GPR's effectiveness in identifying such structural weaknesses, which affect over 75% of wall paintings in Tibetan heritage sites due to environmental degradation, biological factors, and material aging. By analyzing electromagnetic wave behavior through different media, the research provides a non-invasive method for conservationists to assess and monitor delamination risks without physical damage.

East Rennell World Heritage Site: misunderstandings, inconsistencies and opportunities in the implementation of the World Heritage Convention in the Pacific Islands

East Rennell — 2011 — WHEF1EC9FCCE7

East Rennell World Heritage Site, the first inscribed under natural criteria with customary ownership and management, reveals tensions between conservation goals and the 'beauty pageant' aspects of UNESCO's World Heritage Convention. Community dissatisfaction stems from inconsistencies in inscription requirements, highlighting a disconnect between international heritage standards and local customary practices in Pacific Island states. The study explores these dynamics through a case analysis, emphasizing the need for alignment between global conservation frameworks and traditional land tenure systems.

Ecotourism Opportunities and Challenges in Butrint, Albania, a Unique UNESCO and Ramsar Site

Butrint — 2011 — WHEFA87834301

Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1992 and a Ramsar site since 2003, presents significant ecotourism potential due to its unique combination of geographical position, landscape, biodiversity, and rich cultural heritage. The park is the most visited by foreign tourists in Albania, with opportunities for year-round visitation through activities like birdwatching, walking trails, biking, and scuba-diving. However, uncontrolled human activities such as illegal urbanization, wetland reclamation, mining, irrational marine aquaculture, hunting, excessive grazing, and fires pose substantial threats to these ecotourism opportunities. The study recommends strategies to mitigate these challenges and maximize the park's potential for sustainable ecotourism development.

Egyptianizing Figurines from Delos

Delos — 2011 — WHED00407CB24

Hellenistic reinterpretations of Egyptian religion are illuminated through the study of terracotta figurines depicting Egyptian deities, primarily found in domestic contexts on Delos. Analysis reveals that many figurines represent deities or rituals linked to Egyptian festivals, as indicated by comparisons with religious texts, temple reliefs, and ritual objects. Most figurines were locally produced on Delos, as shown by clay fabric analysis and manufacturing techniques. Additionally, archival research on early excavation notes provides new insights into the archaeological contexts of these figurines, highlighting their roles in both domestic and temple cults. This study offers a novel perspective on the dynamic interaction between 'popular' and 'official' cults during the Hellenistic period.

Enlightening the World: The Creation of the Statue of Liberty

Statue of Liberty — 2011 — WHE523394CAF5

A dual-track analysis reveals the Statue of Liberty's creation as both a product of cosmopolitan elites and a symbol of American political modernity. The study reconciles social history with intellectual history, highlighting key figures—including Emma Lazarus—and the statue's ideological significance: constitutional government, participatory politics, individual liberty, and enlightenment. This approach merges personal narratives with national symbolism, tracing the 21-year journey from conception to unveiling in October 1886 on Liberty Island.

Estimating the population structure of Javan rhinos (Rhinoceros sondaicus) in Ujung Kulon National Park using the mark- recapture method based on video and camera trap identification

Ujung Kulon National Park — 2011 — WHEFD0A7CB3E7

A population estimate of 32 Javan rhinos (Rhinoceros sondaicus), ranging from 29 to 47 individuals, was derived for Ujung Kulon National Park using the mark-recapture method based on video and camera trap identifications. The study, conducted between April 2008 and September 2009, applied the CAPTURE software to select the best-fit estimator (M(th)), yielding a 95% confidence interval. Visual identification further revealed a male-biased sex ratio of approximately 3:2 (males to females) and indicated a slow annual population growth rate of about 1%. The findings highlight the park's role as a critical stronghold for this critically endangered species, emphasizing the need for targeted conservation efforts to address demographic imbalances and support sustainable growth.

Estudo da Amenidade Térmica Proporcionada Pela Reserva Ecológica de Dois Irmãos, Recife - PE (Study of Thermal Amenity Provided by the Ecological Reserve of Dois Irmãos, Recife - PE)

Atlantic Forest South-East Reserves — 2011 — WHE6E80C9C29E

Urbanization significantly impacts thermal comfort, with green spaces offering substantial climate regulation. A study of the Ecological Reserve of Dois Irmãos in Recife, Brazil, found a 5°C difference in temperature between urbanized areas and the forest reserve, alongside a 20% increase in humidity within the green space. The research compared microclimatic conditions—temperature, humidity, and wind speed—across urban, edge, and interior zones of the reserve using strategically positioned measurement points. Results underscored the critical role of urban forests in mitigating heat stress, improving air quality, and enhancing thermal comfort for city dwellers. Preservation of such green areas is highlighted as essential for both climate adaptation and public well-being.

Ethiopian Art

Rock-Hewn Churches, Lalibela — 2011 — WHE0C5EE6B266

Ethiopian art, particularly the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, showcases a unique blend of architectural and artistic influences. These churches, carved from solid rock during the Zagwe dynasty (1137–1270), exhibit distinct features such as cruciform designs, arcades on pillars, and intricate sculptures like those in Golgotha church, depicting saints and evangelical symbols. The study highlights a transition in architectural styles and artistic influences over time, from Axumite structures to more complex forms with Syrian and Egyptian iconography. Additionally, it notes the emergence of Western influences by the 15th century and the prevalence of illustrated magic scrolls (asmat or talsam) adorned with protective prayers and geometric designs. The research underscores Lalibela's significance as a testament to Ethiopia's rich cultural and religious heritage.

Evaluation of nutrient flux from Shiretoko into the ocean using MRI-GCM

Shiretoko — 2011 — WHEBAAE279577

Researchers found that rainfall intensity, particularly its standard deviation, significantly controls nutrient flux from Shiretoko's inland areas to the coast. This discovery highlights a key factor influencing coastal ecological systems. To estimate future nutrient supply, the study used bias-corrected data from the Meteorological Research Institute Global Climate Model (MRI-GCM), which aligns well with observed rainfall data. A synthetic generation technique produced hourly rainfall data, crucial for assessing nutrient dynamics in Shiretoko's river basins. The findings suggest that nonlinearity in rainfall intensity strengthens its impact on nutrient flux, providing critical insights for understanding coastal nutrient cycles.

Evolution and biogeography of the flora of the Socotra archipelago (Yemen)

Socotra Archipelago — 2011 — WHE2175C5551A

The Socotra Archipelago, an isolated continental fragment in the Western Indian Ocean, exhibits remarkable floristic diversity and endemism shaped by at least 18 million years of isolation. Despite its significance as a unique biogeographical system—often likened to the Galapagos of the Indian Ocean—it remains understudied. This research reveals that Socotra's flora has undergone significant local adaptations and radiations, providing key insights into island biogeography. By analyzing origins, affinities, disjunctions, and environmental influences, the study elucidates the evolutionary processes contributing to its distinct biodiversity. The findings highlight Socotra as a critical case study for understanding long-term isolation and ecological specialization in island ecosystems.

Extinction Risk Assessments at the Species Level: National Red List Status of Endemic Wild Cinnamon Species in Sri Lanka

Sinharaja Forest Reserve — 2011 — WHE6AA2958E42

Among the seven endemic wild cinnamon species in Sri Lanka, three are classified as Threatened (Cinnamomum litseaefolium, C. rivulorum, and C. sinharajaense), two as Highly Threatened (C. capparucoronde and C. citriodorum), one as Indeterminate (C. ovalifolium), and only C. dubium as Not Threatened. This assessment, based on eco-geographical surveys, herbarium data, and potential distribution modeling using DIVA-GIS, highlights critical threats including habitat destruction, urbanization, and unsustainable agriculture. The study underscores the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect these ecologically and economically valuable species, particularly those endemic to Sinharaja Forest Reserve.

Firescape ecology: how topography determines the contrasting distribution of fire and rain forest in the south-west of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area

Tasmanian Wilderness — 2011 — WHE88AF698D95

Rain forest distribution in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area is strongly influenced by topography, with these ecosystems predominantly found in valleys and steep south-facing slopes—areas less prone to fire. This study reveals that rain forests occupy topographic 'fire refugia,' where fires are least likely to burn, while highly flammable moorlands dominate flats, ridges, and north-facing slopes. Using geospatial statistics and satellite imagery, researchers mapped large-scale fires (>40,000 ha) to demonstrate how vegetation types interact with topography to shape fire patterns. The findings support a hierarchy of fire frequency (moorland > scrub > wet sclerophyll > rain forest), suggesting that fire-topography interactions play a critical role in maintaining vegetation mosaics in fire-prone landscapes. This insight challenges traditional models by emphasizing the antagonism between fire and rain forest, offering implications for understanding stable vegetation states in similar ecosystems.

First to third nature: the rise of capitalist conservation on Palawan Island, the Philippines

Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park — 2011 — WHED88A19E21D

Capitalist conservation is accelerating agrarian change and commodifying nature at the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. The study reveals how translocal capitalist pressures revalue rural lands and ecosystems as marketable assets to finance development, transforming shared resources into capital under the guise of conservation. Using the concepts of 'first' and 'third nature,' it demonstrates that resource partitioning, objectification, and commodification have intensified differentiation among rural communities, driven by private investments that align with modern Philippine ideals. While this process revalues nature in market terms, its effects remain recursive and context-dependent, blending conservation and development in partial ways.

Floristic composition and structure of the dry Afromontane forest at Bale Mountains National Park, Ethiopia

Bale Mountains National Park — 2011 — WHE42F1105947

Excessive cutting of ecologically, economically, and medically important tree species has been identified as a significant threat to the Dry Afromontane Forest in Bale Mountains National Park, Ethiopia. The study, conducted between July 2003 and June 2004 across three sites (Adelle, Boditi, and Gaysay) at altitudes ranging from 3010 to 3410 meters, documented 230 species belonging to 58 families. Analysis revealed five homogeneous vegetation clusters, with tree densities of 766 and 458 individuals per hectare in Adelle and Boditi forests, respectively. Juniperus procera and Hagenia abyssinica contributed significantly to the basal area, accounting for 43% and 57%, respectively. The study highlighted that both Adelle and Boditi forests are at an early secondary stage of development, with clear evidence of selective logging impacting population structures.