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Monuments to Enemies? ‘Rajput’ Statues in Mughal Capitals

Agra Fort — 2019 — WHE5D64105072

A long-standing narrative attributes the 'Rajput' statues at Agra Fort's gates to Mughal emperor Akbar, who allegedly immortalized Rajput warriors for their valour despite being his enemies. However, a recent analysis challenges this popular tale by investigating historical records and narratives from Indian writers, European travellers, and scholars. The study reveals that the origin of these statues is more complex than previously thought, suggesting that the narrative may have been shaped by later interpretations rather than historical fact.

Monuments to Rome

City of Vicenza and the Palladian Villas of the Veneto — 2019 — WHE5CA906E39A

The Sack of Rome in 1527, driven by the mutinous army of Emperor Charles V and exacerbated by Protestant mercenaries, triggered a significant migration of artists and architects northward, including to Vicenza. This event reshaped Vicenza's architectural landscape, as wealthy scholar Gian Giorgio Trissino sought to model his hometown on classical Rome. In a pivotal moment, Trissino encountered Andrea Palladio, a Paduan stonemason, and nurtured his talent through humanist education at the Accademia Trissiniana in Cricoli. This serendipitous collaboration laid the foundation for Palladio's influential architectural style, blending Roman classical elements with Renaissance innovation.

Morphological and cytogenetic characteristics of Neobisium (Blothrus) slovacum Gulička, 1977 (Pseudoscorpiones, Neobisiidae), the northernmost troglobitic species of the subgenus Blothrus in Europe

Caves of Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst — 2019 — WHE7C99EBF714

A groundbreaking study reveals that Neobisium (Blothrus) slovacum, a troglobiotic pseudoscorpion, holds the northernmost record for its subgenus within Europe. This species, endemic to the Aggtelek and Slovak Karst regions, exhibits unique morphological traits across its life stages, including adult, tritonymph, and deutonymph forms. The research also provides the first cytogenetic insights into this species, identifying a male karyotype of 69 chromosomes with an X0 sex chromosome system and two distinct pairs of 18S rDNA clusters on biarmed chromosomes. These findings were derived from an analysis of 50 specimens, combining traditional morphological examination with advanced fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) techniques. The study further maps the species' distribution across 16 caves, underscoring its ecological significance within these UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Morphological and Genetic Characterization of Nematodes of the Opossum Didelphis albiventris and the Armadillo Dasypus novemcinctus from Serra da Capivara National Park

Serra da Capivara National Park — 2019 — WHECC37BF663D

Researchers have identified four species of nematodes belonging to the Aspidoderidae family and one from Trichostrongylidae, associated with the opossum Didelphis albiventris and the armadillo Dasypus novemcinctus, in Serra da Capivara National Park (SCNP), Brazil. This marks a new geographic record for these species, expanding their known distribution. The study employed integrative taxonomic analysis, combining morphological, ultrastructural (via scanning electron microscopy), and genetic approaches to characterize the nematodes. Notably, it provides the first partial sequences of 18S rRNA (SSU) and 28S rRNA (LSU) genes for Aspidoderidae species, along with additional genetic data, including mitochondrial DNA sequences. These findings contribute to our understanding of parasitic fauna in SCNP, a region significant for its prehistoric sites.

Morphological and molecular characterisation of Hoplolaimus smokyensis n. sp. (Nematoda: Hoplolaimidae), a lance nematode from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, USA

Great Smoky Mountains National Park — 2019 — WHE0BCD55F1F0

Researchers have identified and characterized Hoplolaimus smokyensis n. sp., a new species of lance nematode found in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, USA. This discovery was made through detailed morphological and molecular analysis, revealing distinct features such as six (occasionally five) labial annules with 24 longitudinal striae on the basal lip, robust tulip-shaped stylet knobs, and a unique lateral field structure. Genetic comparisons of ribosomal and mitochondrial DNA confirmed its distinction from related species, while phylogenetic analyses placed it in a separate lineage within the Hoplolaimus genus. The study highlights the biodiversity of nematodes in protected areas and provides new insights into their taxonomic diversity.

Morphological Features and Endoparasite Fauna of Some Whitefishes and Grayling Fishes from the Eastern Part of Lake Sobachye (the Putorana Plateau)

Putorana Plateau — 2019 — WHE673CE3E1A0

Research on Lake Sobachye, part of the UNESCO-listed Putorana Plateau, reveals significant insights into the morphological features and endoparasite fauna of cisco, round whitefish, and Siberian grayling. The study found that the local cisco population exhibits a low average number of vertebrae, distinguishing it from other cisco species, and shows strong genetic similarity to European vendace populations. Additionally, the round whitefish in this region is confirmed as a single population with no basis for distinguishing between 'Arctic' and 'Boreal' groups. Notably, the study identified Lake Sobachye as a site of diphyllobothriasis, with cisco and whitefish acting as carriers of the cestode Diphyllobothrium dendriticum. The prevalence of this parasite in cisco has increased dramatically from 73% to 96%, along with a doubling in infestation intensity since previous studies.

Morphology and Morphometry of prehistoric skeletal remains found in Potana, Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

Ancient City of Sigiriya — 2019 — WHEED039E985F

A study of prehistoric skeletal remains from Potana, Sigiriya, Sri Lanka, reveals insights into the morphology and morphometry of a 4,000-year-old hunter-gatherer population. Analysis indicates that this group shared biometric and socioeconomic traits with contemporary prehistoric populations across Sri Lanka, such as Bellan bandi Palassa and Batadomba lena. The remains include two individuals from context no 10—one female (25-35 years, stature 170 cm) and one male (25-30 years, stature 173.61 cm)—alongside a third female (35-40 years) from context no 03. The research employed standardized methods to assess gender, age, stature, cause of death, health status, diet, and lifestyle, contributing to a broader understanding of prehistoric human populations in the region.

Mosquitoes and frog-biting midges (Diptera: Culicidae and Corethrellidae) attracted to traps with natural frog calls and synthesized sounds at Iriomote Island, Ryukyu Archipelago, Japan

Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island — 2019 — WHEADECAB8821

Research on Iriomote Island, Japan, reveals that frog calls, particularly those with dominant frequencies around 1,000 Hz, are highly attractive to Uranotaenia macfarlanei mosquitoes and Corethrella nippon midges. The study found that synthesized sounds mimicking natural frog calls—especially burst and sinusoidal types—were more effective in attracting these insects compared to noise sounds. Loudness also played a crucial role, with higher levels (above 75 dB SPL) significantly increasing attractiveness. This discovery suggests that specific acoustic properties of frog calls can be leveraged for targeted mosquito and midge control, offering potential applications in medical entomology.

Mount Taishan Forest Ecosystem Health Assessment Based on Forest Inventory Data

Mount Taishan — 2019 — WHE583A2A684A

A significant portion of Mount Taishan's forest ecosystem is in sub-health or unhealthy conditions, with 60.5% classified as sub-healthy and 16% as unhealthy, including 98 hectares in extremely poor health. This assessment, conducted using GIS spatial analysis and a comprehensive indicator system based on local forest inventory data, reveals that only 23.5% of the total forest area is of high or healthy quality. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted measures to improve forest health and support sustainable development in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Mountain of Transfiguration & New Discoveries in Site of Jesus Baptism / Jordan River

Baptism Site “Bethany Beyond the Jordan” (Al-Maghtas) — 2019 — WHE80E2F8D157

Recent archaeological discoveries at the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Baptism Site “Bethany Beyond the Jordan” (Al-Maghtas)' have shed new light on the potential location of the Transfiguration of Christ. Systematic surveys and excavations, conducted since 1997 on the eastern bank of the Jordan River, have uncovered monasteries, churches, water installations, caves, and footpaths. These findings provide compelling evidence for the proposed or actual site of this significant biblical event, marking a pivotal moment in Gospel narratives as Jesus prepared for his journey to Jerusalem. The research highlights the importance of these discoveries in understanding the historical and religious context of the region.

Movement patterns of forest elephants (Loxodonta cyclotis Matschie, 1900) in the Odzala‐Kokoua National Park, Republic of Congo

Forest Massif of Odzala-Kokoua — 2019 — WHEBE3DCE5BF3

Forest elephants (Loxodonta cyclotis) exhibit distinct movement patterns influenced by environmental and anthropogenic factors, with females traveling farther than males. The study, conducted in Odzala-Kokoua National Park using GPS-collared individuals tracked over 16 months, found that roads and human settlements disrupt elephant behavior, leading to faster displacements. Elephants moved more rapidly along watercourses and in Marantaceae-dominated forests but slowed in savannahs. Flood-prone areas and higher temperatures also hindered longer movements. These findings provide critical insights into the species' habitat use, aiding conservation efforts.

Movement, Warfare and Ethnicity in the Lower Omo Valley

Lower Valley of the Omo — 2019 — WHE77B59DDDC2

Prolonged periods of military activity among the Dassanetch, Nyangatom, and Mursi ethnic groups in the Lower Omo Valley serve as a mechanism to maintain geographical distance and respectful relations despite underlying competition for resources. While cattle remain a highly valued asset across these groups, the Mursi are less pastoral compared to the Dassanetch and Nyangatom. The study suggests that long-term population movements between sections like Inkabelo and Inkoria may occur indirectly through intermediary groups such as the Narich, though this is not directly documented. Military conflicts, lasting years rather than months, disrupt the 'normal' state of intergroup relations but are essential in managing potential resource competition in a context of permanent hostility.

Mughal Tilework: Derivative or Original?

Fort and Shalamar Gardens in Lahore — 2019 — WHE1A107362A9

Mughal tilework, particularly at the Lahore Fort and Shalamar Gardens, exhibits distinctive characteristics that set it apart from its predecessors in the Islamic world, including Iran, Central Asia, and Sultanate India. While earlier traditions employed techniques like monochrome-glazed tiles, sgraffito, underglaze-painted, and cuerda seca, Mughal tilework predominantly utilized tile mosaic, marked by a shift in color palette and the introduction of intricate figural imagery alongside naturalistic vegetal panels. This evolution suggests that while Mughal tilework drew initial inspiration from Sultanate techniques, it developed unique stylistic innovations. The study also highlights less common Mughal uses of underglaze-painted and cuerda seca tiles, emphasizing their role in broader decorative practices.

Multi-isotope analysis reveals that feasts in the Stonehenge environs and across Wessex drew people and animals from throughout Britain

Stonehenge, Avebury and Associated Sites — 2019 — WHEC903CE9B1F

A multi-isotope analysis of 131 pigs from four Late Neolithic complexes (2800–2400 BCE) reveals that feasts in the Stonehenge environs and across Wessex drew animals from throughout Britain, with few pigs raised locally. This finding demonstrates significant investment in transporting pigs over vast distances, providing evidence for the earliest phase of pan-British connectivity. The study excluded continental sources, focusing solely on British Isles origins to explore these networks without external influences.

Multi-phased hypogene speleogenesis in a marginal horst structure of the Malé Karpaty Mountains, Slovakia

Caves of Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst — 2019 — WHE702FC6F4D1

Research on the Plavecká jaskyňa Cave in Slovakia reveals multi-phased hypogene speleogenesis driven by ascending, sulfuric low-thermal waters along fault structures. The cave's morphology, characterized by phreatic chimneys, cupolas, and upward-oriented scallops, indicates complex interactions between deep-seated waters and Triassic carbonates. Isotopic analysis (O and C) of limestone bedrock confirms its interaction with hypogene water, while gypsum deposits and associated minerals (e.g., kaolinite, illite) further support sulfuric acid speleogenesis linked to hydrocarbon reservoirs in the adjacent Vienna Basin. Four subhorizontal passages reflect phases of erosion base level stabilization during the basin's subsidence. The study integrates morphological indicators, isotopic data, and mineralogical analysis to elucidate the cave's formation, offering insights into hypogene karst processes in marginal horst structures.

Multi-scale mapping of cultural ecosystem services in a socio-ecological landscape: A case study of the international Wadden Sea Region

Wadden Sea — 2019 — WHEE26F3DDF5D

A study reveals that only 37% of the areas marked by fans of the Wadden Sea coastal region fall within its UNESCO World Heritage boundaries, suggesting potential for broader protection demarcation. The research, involving 7650 respondents from Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands, identified a community of 14 million citizens with place attachment to this international site. It employed a tri-lateral web survey (Greenmapper) to map cultural ecosystem services at multiple scales, examining spatial distribution, community size, and appreciation patterns relative to formal protection status. Findings indicate varied correlations between landscape attachment and distance among the three countries, highlighting the need for inclusive governance strategies that engage both locals and international fans.

Multi-temporal Land-Cover Classification of Kinabalu Eco-Linc Site and the Protected Park Areas

Kinabalu Park — 2019 — WHEC1F9FA2BCE

A significant decline in primary forest and increase in secondary forest and agricultural land were observed in Kinabalu Park and Crocker Range Park, Sabah, over a 28-year period (1991–2018). This study used Landsat imagery and maximum likelihood classification to map land cover changes, revealing spatial transformations driven by both natural and human activities. The findings highlight the vulnerability of protected areas to threats from population growth and resource demands, emphasizing the potential of remote sensing for targeted conservation management.

Multi-tool diagnosis of an outbreak of ranavirosis in amphibian tadpoles in the Canadian boreal forest

Wood Buffalo National Park — 2019 — WHE73F54DF036

A definitive diagnosis of ranavirosis was established in wild amphibian tadpoles from Wood Buffalo National Park, Canada, using a multi-tool approach combining histopathology, immunohistochemistry (IHC), in situ hybridization (ISH), and quantitative PCR. The outbreak affected wood frog (Rana sylvatica) and boreal chorus frog (Pseudacris maculata) tadpoles, while sympatric Canadian toad (Bufo hemiophrys) tadpoles showed no mortality, suggesting species-specific susceptibility. Key histopathologic lesions included necrosis of the skin, oral mucosa, renal tissues, and branchial epithelium, with skeletal and connective tissues in budding limbs showing intense ranavirus presence even without obvious necrosis. The study highlights the effectiveness of integrating multiple diagnostic techniques to unravel pathogenesis in wild amphibians, providing critical insights into disease emergence linked to developmental stages.

Multi-trace-element sea surface temperature coral reconstruction for the southern Mozambique Channel reveals teleconnections with the tropical Atlantic

Island of Mozambique — 2019 — WHE58FD50C7CF

A coral-based sea surface temperature (SST) reconstruction for the southern Mozambique Channel reveals significant warming trends and teleconnections with distant ocean regions. Using Sr/Ca ratios from Porites sp. corals, researchers documented a 0.58°C warming trend from 1970 to 2013, aligning closely with instrumental data. While Li/Mg proxies showed unrealistic warming due to calibration uncertainties, combined Sr/Ca and Li/Mg records correlated strongly with local climate variability in the Mozambique Channel and distant regions like the tropical Atlantic, where surface wind patterns dominated SST variability. The study identifies the Pacific–North American (PNA) atmospheric pattern and tropical North Atlantic SST as key drivers of these teleconnections, offering insights into large-scale climate dynamics.

Multidecadal climate variability in the north of the Eastern European Plain and the tree-ring growth response

Cultural and Historic Ensemble of the Solovetsky Islands — 2019 — WHE8E473991E9

A significant increase in annual precipitation and cyclonic activity has been observed in the north of the Eastern European Plain over the 20th to early 21st centuries, with a rate of 0.7 mm per year. This trend is not solely attributed to global warming but also reflects long-term variability in cyclonic activity. Humidification trends vary spatially, with positive trends noted in the west and east, while the central region, including the Solovki Islands, experiences a decline. The study leverages spruce tree-ring growth data from Bolshoy Solovetsky Island to corroborate these findings, highlighting the coherent response of tree growth to changing climate conditions.