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Showing 15741 – 15760 of 15962 publications

Lytopylus Förster (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Agathidinae) species from Costa Rica, with an emphasis on specimens reared from caterpillars in Area de Conservación Guanacaste

Area de Conservación Guanacaste — 2011 — WHE2DAA879624

A comprehensive taxonomic study identifies twelve species of Lytopylus wasps from Costa Rica, including ten newly described species and two reclassified from other genera. Over 32 years of caterpillar inventory in Area de Conservación Guanacaste yielded critical specimens, revealing the diversity and ecological significance of these parasitoids. The research transfers nine species to the Lytopylus genus, providing updated taxonomic keys—one interactive and one static—to facilitate identification. This work advances our understanding of wasp biodiversity and their role in tropical ecosystems.

Mathematical-geographical analysis of the orientation of St John’s church of the Studenica monastery

Studenica Monastery — 2011 — WHE9B0536932F

A mathematical-geographical analysis of St. John’s Church at Studenica Monastery reveals that its orientation aligns with the sunrise on May 7th (Gregorian calendar) or April 30th (Julian calendar), dating back to the 13th century. This finding suggests a deliberate connection between the church's geometry and solar events, despite ecclesiastical rules not mandating such precision. The study employed a novel method combining gnomon measurements of the church’s longitudinal axis with cartometric determination of sunrise altitudes, enabling the identification of probable founding dates and the assessment of whether the structure was built on older foundations. This approach offers a template for analyzing medieval church orientations globally.

Mesopotamian ceramics from the burial mounds of Bahrain, c.2250-1750 BC

Dilmun Burial Mounds — 2011 — WHE05D96543DC

A distinct two-phase pattern of Mesopotamian ceramic imports and local emulations, spanning c.2250–1750 BC, has been identified at the Dilmun burial mounds of Bahrain. The first phase, characterized by a specific vessel type exclusive to pre-Dilmun 'state' Early Type mounds, is linked to Mesopotamia's late third-millennium Magan trade network, serving as a key fossil directeur for this period. The second phase, found in compact cemeteries coinciding with Dilmun's peak, reflects the contracted Isin-Larsa network of Dilmun trade. This study reconstructs trade dynamics and political interactions between Mesopotamia and the 'Lower Sea' populations through ceramic distribution analysis.

Modern and early Holocene mollusc fauna of the Ounianga lakes (northern Chad): implications for the palaeohydrology of the central Sahara

Lakes of Ounianga — 2011 — WHE8BE07FE4BD

A rich early Holocene mollusc fauna, including a new species (Gabbiella ouniangaensis), was discovered at the Ounianga lakes in northern Chad, suggesting these lakes were hydrologically isolated during that period. The modern mollusc community is impoverished and likely resulted from recent colonization events after the eradication of the early Holocene fauna due to high salinity or desiccation. The study analyzed fossil molluscs from diatomaceous limestone outcrops at Ounianga Serir, comparing them with other Saharan lake sites to infer past hydrological conditions in the central Sahara.

Molecular characterization of airborne fungi in caves of the Mogao Grottoes, Dunhuang, China

Mogao Caves — 2011 — WHEC9C8B24BFB

A year-long study of the Mogao Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Dunhuang, China, revealed significant seasonal and spatial variations in airborne fungal communities. The research identified 11 dominant fungal genera, with Cladosporium being the most prevalent, followed by Fusarium, Penicillium, Alternaria, and Aspergillus. Fungal abundance and diversity were strongly influenced by environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and visitor activity. The study used molecular techniques—specifically ITS sequencing—to analyze samples collected monthly from four distinct cave environments (open, semi-open, closed, and entrance) between 2008 and 2009. Findings highlight the dynamic interplay between microclimate, human presence, and fungal ecology in this culturally significant but ecologically sensitive site.

Morphology and taxonomy of a new species of Leptogorgia (Cnidaria: Octocorallia: Gorgoniidae) in Cocos Island National Park, Pacific Costa Rica

Cocos Island National Park — 2011 — WHE2DF731A776

A new species of shallow-water gorgonian coral, Leptogorgia tricorata, has been discovered at Cocos Island National Park, Costa Rica. This species is distinguished by its unique branching pattern, small size, bright yellow coloration, elongated spindles (up to 0.2 mm), and the presence of tentacular rods. Found at depths of 14–22 meters on rocky islets, L. tricorata represents a rare addition to the shallow-water gorgoniid diversity in the region, with only three species currently documented in the area. The discovery was made through morphological and taxonomic analysis, comparing the new species with other Leptogorgia species reported from the eastern Pacific. This finding contributes to our understanding of marine biodiversity in Cocos Island National Park.

Morphometric analysis of aeolian bedforms in the Namib Sand Sea using ASTER data

Namib Sand Sea — 2011 — WHE69CDB32674

A morphometric analysis of aeolian bedforms in the Namib Sand Sea, leveraging the ASTER Global Digital Elevation Model (GDEM), reveals that relationships between dune height, spacing, and equivalent sand thickness are broadly consistent with prior field-based studies. Despite the 30-meter spatial resolution of GDEM data, which underestimates dune height due to crest smoothing and omits smaller dunes, the study confirms established patterns while adding finer details. The research highlights the utility of GDEM for large-scale morphometric analysis, offering new insights into the dynamics of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Mountain Last Judgment and Rural Apocalypse: Patterns of Imagery

Wooden Churches of the Slovak part of the Carpathian Mountain Area — 2011 — WHED5F010DD3C

This study reveals that the Last Judgment iconography in the Carpathian Mountains and the illuminated Apocalypses of the Russian North represent unique cultural and religious expressions shaped by eschatological imagery. The research demonstrates that these traditions, while influenced by multiple cultural and religious sources, developed distinct characteristics that cannot be reduced to borrowed motifs. The study employs a comparative analysis of visual and textual sources from the 15th–19th centuries, tracing the evolution of Last Judgment themes in the Carpathians and the enduring eschatological beliefs among Old Believers in the Russian North. It highlights the significance of these visual materials as keys to understanding medieval religious culture, including political theology and popular demonology.

New14C Dates of Neolithic and Early Metal Period Ceramics in Lithuania

Kernavė Archaeological Site (Cultural Reserve of Kernavė) — 2011 — WHEFD68087533

New radiocarbon dating of Neolithic and Early Metal Period ceramics in Lithuania has significantly revised the chronology of prehistoric pottery styles, shifting some by hundreds to a thousand years. The study, involving 23 samples from 14 sites, identified Textile Ware sherds as the oldest known in the East Baltic (4230–2920 cal BC) and dated Narva and Combed-like Wares to 3970–3370 cal BC. Bay Coast Ware, including cord-impressed vessels, was found to predate the Corded Ware/Battle Axe horizon in Europe (3940–3540 cal BC). Additionally, Globular Amphorae Ware was placed beyond the Bay Coast chronology (3450–2920 cal BC), while Žalioji type coarse ware was dated to 760–515 cal BC instead of the previously assumed 2nd millennium. Cremated human bones from urns were dated to 790–380 cal BC. The study used accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) but noted potential freshwater reservoir effects in dates derived from charred food remains.

Non‐destructive Electrical Resistivity Tomography Survey at the South Walls of the Acropolis of Athens

Acropolis, Athens — 2011 — WHEDE2A4F9FC4

A non-destructive electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) survey at the Acropolis of Athens revealed areas of increased moisture behind its south walls, offering new insights into the structure's internal composition. Unlike traditional methods, this study used bentonite mud electrodes to avoid damaging the site, adapting existing ERT processing algorithms for this unique application. The findings not only assessed the wall's thickness in specific locations but also demonstrated the feasibility and utility of ERT surveys for archaeologists and restoration scientists, providing valuable data without compromising the integrity of the historic site.

Olomouc - Possibilities of Geovisualization of the Historical City

Holy Trinity Column in Olomouc — 2011 — WHE58D881FA93

Researchers have identified four effective geovisualization methods for depicting spatial-temporal changes in historical urban areas, with a focus on Olomouc's UNESCO-listed Holy Trinity Column. These methods—comparing historical and recent images, overlaying historical maps over orthophotos, enhanced 3D visualization of historical maps, and photorealistic 3D models across different eras—were evaluated for their potential in tourism, urban planning, and public education. The study confirmed the accuracy of 17th-century fortress plans using cartometric methods and implemented these visualizations in Google Earth with multimedia features to enhance perception. This approach offers valuable insights for preserving and promoting Olomouc's historical heritage while aiding reconstruction efforts.

Origins of Groundwater Inferred from Isotopic Patterns of the Badain Jaran Desert, Northwestern China

Badain Jaran Desert - Towers of Sand and Lakes — 2011 — WHE68E0BFC1FF

Groundwater in the Badain Jaran Desert (BJD) originates from ancient climatic conditions with higher humidity and lower temperatures, distinct from modern precipitation. Isotopic analysis of δ D, δ 18 O, and d-excess reveals strong evaporation effects and no hydraulic connection to distant regions except Outer Mongolia. The study found that BJD groundwater has abnormally negative d-excess values (-17.5‰), differing significantly from local precipitation (5.7‰) and nearby water bodies, indicating limited modern recharge. Research involved comparing isotopic patterns across the BJD, Heihe River Basin, and surrounding areas to reconstruct past climatic conditions.

Osteological and molecular identification of brucellosis in ancient Butrint, Albania

Butrint — 2011 — WHEFB66DECA7E

A groundbreaking study confirms the presence of brucellosis, a zoonotic disease caused by Brucella bacteria, in human remains from ancient Butrint, Albania. Researchers identified severe vertebral lesions in two adolescent males dating to the 10th–13th centuries AD and ruled out tuberculosis through genetic screening. Positive amplification of Brucella DNA markers—IS6501 insertion element and Bcsp31 gene—in affected bones provided definitive evidence. This discovery suggests brucellosis was endemic in the region during the Middle Ages, offering new insights into past disease dynamics and human-animal interactions at a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Paisaje Cultural de Aranjuez y Patrimonio Mundial : Seducción, Declaración y Compromiso

Aranjuez Cultural Landscape — 2011 — WHE5DDCE77014

Aranjuez Cultural Landscape, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, stands as a testament to the intersection of natural beauty and human ingenuity. This study reveals that its recognition was not merely an acknowledgment of its aesthetic appeal but also a commitment to preserving its cultural significance through structured management, conservation, and protection frameworks. The research meticulously analyzes the nomination process and the definition of cultural landscapes, providing insights into how such sites are safeguarded for future generations. By examining the lines established for the management of Aranjuez, this work offers a model for other cultural landscapes seeking World Heritage status, emphasizing the importance of balancing development with heritage preservation.

Photography-based analysis of tourists’ temporal–spatial behaviour in the Old Town of Lijiang

Old Town of Lijiang — 2011 — WHE04669D468A

A novel photography-based approach reveals key temporal and spatial patterns of tourist behavior in the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Lijiang, offering new insights for sustainable tourism management. Analyzing 1308 publicly shared photos, researchers estimated tourists' daily visit frequencies, movement traces, and hotspots, demonstrating the potential of photo-sharing data to track visitor distribution with high accuracy. This method provides a non-intrusive alternative to traditional surveys, enabling more precise planning of resources and conservation efforts in historically significant areas.

Phylogenetic analysis of the fecal microbial community in herbivorous land and marine iguanas of the Galápagos Islands using 16S rRNA-based pyrosequencing

Galápagos Islands — 2011 — WHE47FB2D0165

Diet significantly shapes the gut microbial communities of herbivorous iguanas in the Galápagos Islands, with marine and land iguanas exhibiting distinct bacterial compositions. Marine iguanas, which consume algae, show higher abundances of Bacteroides spp., Lachnospiraceae, and Clostridiaceae, while land iguanas, feeding on terrestrial vegetation, harbor a greater diversity of operational taxonomic units (OTUs) and a fivefold increase in Ruminococcaceae. Archaea were uniquely detected in land iguanas, suggesting their role in breaking down recalcitrant polysaccharides. The study used 16S rRNA-based pyrosequencing to analyze fecal samples from both species across the archipelago, revealing novel microbial diversity that could lead to discoveries of enzymes capable of degrading complex polysaccharides.

Population densities of understorey birds across a habitat gradient in Palawan, Philippines: implications for conservation

Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park — 2011 — WHEA066BF6A1F

A study of understorey bird populations in Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, Philippines, reveals that old-growth forests are critical for conserving Palawan's endemic and threatened birds. While some species thrive in disturbed habitats like cultivation, the highest densities of 11 species—including five endemics and three threatened ones—were found in undisturbed forests. The research highlights the importance of retaining large trees to sustain suitable microhabitats, cautioning against expanding cultivated areas within protected zones. Though population estimates for threatened species may be higher than previously thought, the study underscores the need for stronger conservation management across Palawan's protected areas.

Population dynamics of Walia ibex (Capra walie) at Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia

Simien National Park — 2011 — WHEBBE4DE3BB0

A population of 745 Walia ibexes (Capra walie) was estimated in Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia, using intensive direct counts in 2009. The study revealed significant variability in growth rates, with the population growing by 2.5% under ideal conditions and slightly declining by 0.13% under random environmental conditions. Growth rate metrics, including instantaneous growth rate (r = 2.6 ± 2.6) and per capita growth rate (λ = 0.03 ± 0.18), showed strong positive correlations, indicating resilience in population dynamics. Historical data and literature reviews were integrated with the 2009 counts to model these trends, providing insights into the species' vulnerability and conservation needs within this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Potential lantana invasion of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area under climate change.

Greater Blue Mountains Area — 2011 — WHEA643F119AF

A 2°C rise in temperature could make 94% of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area suitable for lantana invasion, up from just 8% under current conditions. Minimum temperature emerged as the dominant predictor, accounting for over 88% of the variation in potential lantana establishment, underscoring its critical role in the weed's expansion. The study used habitat suitability modeling to simulate future conditions, revealing that low-lying riparian areas pose significant risks as invasion pathways. These findings highlight the urgent need for proactive management to curb lantana's spread and protect the region's biodiversity.

Preservation of industrial heritage

Völklingen Ironworks — 2011 — WHE564D4B2F47

Industrial heritage preservation, exemplified by the UNESCO-listed Völklingen Ironworks, differs significantly from traditional monument care due to its unique characteristics. This study highlights that while industrial monument preservation is widely accepted in Germany since 1994, regional perceptions vary greatly. It outlines key differences in rehabilitation and conservation requirements for industrial sites compared to classic monuments, providing a concise overview of these special cases of human heritage.