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Showing 17061 – 17080 of 30345 publications

Nature Tourism and Its Development in Guatemala: Assessing Current Trends and Future Potential

Tikal National Park — 2019 — WHE5EC906E463

A study on nature tourism at Tikal National Park, Guatemala, reveals that most tourists—primarily well-educated Americans around 30 years old with low incomes—are willing to pay approximately $20 for park entrance. The research found no significant increase in willingness-to-pay when tourists were informed that a portion of revenue would support park management, though many expressed interest in multi-day passes. This insight suggests that economic incentives tied to conservation may not always drive higher tourist contributions but highlights the potential for sustainable tourism models in developing countries.

Nature tourism, wildlife resources and community-based conservation

Lake Malawi National Park — 2019 — WHED86606545B

A critical barrier to sustainable tourism and wildlife conservation in Malawi is poverty-driven poaching and deforestation, exacerbated by minimal community involvement and weak enforcement of regulations. Qualitative interviews with senior officials revealed that economic hardship prioritizes food security over conservation, while regulatory gaps undermine protection efforts. Despite challenges, Lake Malawi National Park stands out as a vital hub connecting natural resources, history, and local livelihoods, underscoring the need for collaborative conservation strategies to balance tourism development with community needs.

Nearshore coral growth declining on the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System

Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System — 2019 — WHECCC6A7BD4E

Nearshore coral growth rates have significantly declined over the past century on the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System, part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System (MBRS), while offshore corals remained relatively stable. This decline has caused nearshore coral extension rates to converge with those of slower-growing offshore species. The study, conducted by Baumann et al. (2019), analyzed skeletal extension rates of two common Caribbean corals, Siderastrea siderea and Pseudodiploria strigosa, using historical data. The decline is attributed primarily to long-term ocean warming and increased exposure to land-based anthropogenic stressors, with acute bleaching events playing a lesser role. If this trend continues, the structure and function of critical nearshore coral reef systems in the MBRS could be severely impaired.

Neoliberal Globalization in Post-Soviet Georgia: Protests Against the Nenskra Dam in Svaneti

Upper Svaneti — 2019 — WHE8F024A82F5

Protests against the Nenskra Dam in Upper Svaneti, Georgia, represent a significant rejection of neoliberal development models imposed during post-Soviet globalization. This case study highlights how hydropower projects, driven by private capital interests, often marginalize local communities, particularly in developing nations. Analyzing anti-dam activism through the lens of postsocialism, the research situates the conflict within Georgia's broader economic and historical context, demonstrating that such protests symbolize resistance to exploitative development paradigms. The study employs qualitative methods to explore systemic and cultural dimensions of the activism, offering insights into the tensions between global economic forces and local agency in shaping sustainable futures.

Nested groundwater flow systems in Wood Buffalo National Park, Alberta-Northwest Territories, Canada

Wood Buffalo National Park — 2019 — WHE4B128280C8

Wood Buffalo National Park (WBNP) features hierarchically nested groundwater flow systems—regional, intermediate, and local—that are isolated by the Caribou Mountains, preventing basin-scale fluid intrusion. This study integrated water chemistry, numerical simulation, and surface phenomena to reveal distinct hydrochemical facies with Total Dissolved Solid (TDS) concentrations ranging from <1,000 mg/L to >300,000 mg/L, originating primarily from meteoric water rather than formation fluids. Key interactions—halite dissolution, sulphate mineral dissolution, and carbonate dissolution—shape these waters, reflecting varied flow system scales. Wetlands, springs, saline soils, and geothermal anomalies serve as indicators of discharge from different flow systems, with the Salt Plains exhibiting regional-scale ascent. These findings advance understanding of hydrogeological processes in WBNP, offering critical insights for protecting its unique ecological values.

Neue Fassaden im Bestand

Fagus Factory in Alfeld — 2019 — WHE6D7977C4A1

A comprehensive analysis of the preservation challenges faced by iconic steel and glass buildings, including UNESCO-recognized sites like the Fagus Factory in Alfeld, reveals that restoration, rehabilitation, and replacement are the three most effective strategies for maintaining their structural integrity and historical authenticity. The study documents 20 European and American buildings, showcasing advanced technological solutions to address severe defects in building fabric while balancing architectural design, building physics, and heritage conservation principles. By examining landmark structures such as Fallingwater House by Frank Lloyd Wright and the Farnsworth House by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, alongside the Fagus Factory and Bauhaus Building by Walter Gropius, this research provides a critical framework for preserving modernist architecture without compromising its original character.

Neues Museum

Museumsinsel (Museum Island), Berlin — 2019 — WHE12DDEDF420

The Neues Museum on Berlin's Museumsinsel exemplifies adaptive reuse of historic architecture, blending aesthetic coherence with functional evolution. Originally built between 1843 and 1855 to house ancient and classical art, its design reflected historicized styles aligned with educational goals. A 1920s renovation introduced neutral exhibition spaces by covering decorative elements, with conservation approaches varying—from strict scientific restoration to recreating original layouts or designing new areas based on structural needs. This case study highlights how heritage buildings can balance preservation with contemporary use while maintaining their historical character and pedagogical purpose.

Neuropterida and Mecoptera from the North-Western Caucasus

Western Caucasus — 2019 — WHED2D4DA7BE0

A groundbreaking study of Neuropterida and Mecoptera in the North-Western Caucasus, including Krasnodar Region and Adygea, has uncovered nine new species for the region and two for Russia. Notably, the thermophilic species Chrysoperla mutata was found at its northernmost known occurrence in Krasnodar, while Peyerimhoffina gracilis had its presence in Russia confirmed for the first time. The research also revealed an unusual habitat preference for Dendroleon pantherinus larvae, which were discovered in tinder fungus fruiting bodies—a previously unknown ecological niche. Additionally, the study updated distribution and altitudinal data for three species of Panorpidae (Mecoptera) and confirmed the occurrence of Sialis zhiltzovae from Krasnodar Region and Adygea for the first time. This comprehensive survey, based on extensive field collections in 2018, significantly advances our understanding of the biodiversity and ecology of these insect orders in the region.

New combinations in the genus Didymoplexis (Orchidaceae; Epidendroideae; Gastrodieae), with a new variety of D. siamensis from Amami-Oshima Island, Japan

Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island — 2019 — WHE6D62AE5FAD

A new variety of the mycoheterotrophic orchid Didymoplexis siamensis, distinct from its mainland Asian relatives, has been identified on Amami-Oshima Island, Japan. This discovery challenges previous taxonomic classifications by distinguishing it based on morphological traits such as long recurved stelidia and the absence of a column foot, which had previously been used to separate Didymoplexis from the closely related genus Didymoplexiella. The study synthesizes historical and modern taxonomic research to reclassify species within these genera, providing a refined framework for their identification. The findings contribute to the understanding of orchid diversity in UNESCO-listed islands, including Amami-Oshima, Tokunoshima, Iriomote, and northern Okinawa.

New Constraints on the Origin of the EM‐1 Component Revealed by the Measurement of the La‐Ce Isotope Systematics in Gough Island Lavas

Gough and Inaccessible Islands — 2019 — WHE820521E5C5

A new study challenges the long-held hypothesis that recycled pelagic sediments contribute to the enriched mantle (EM‐1) component. By analyzing 12 lavas from Gough Island using La–Ce, Sm–Nd, and Lu–Hf isotope systems, researchers found no evidence of a negative cerium anomaly or high La/Ce ratios typical of old sedimentary material. Instead, the data support a model where subcontinental lithospheric material is incorporated at shallow depths during plume ascent, explaining the isotopic signatures observed in Gough Island lavas. This finding provides fresh insights into the origin of EM‐1 and its role in mantle heterogeneity.

New data on non‐human primates from the ancient Near East: The recent discovery of a rhesus macaque burial at Shahr‐i Sokhta (Iran)

Shahr-i Sokhta — 2019 — WHE862498EA0B

A rare and significant archaeological discovery at Shahr-i Sokhta, Iran—a rhesus macaque burial dating to the fourth-to-second millennium BC—reveals new insights into the exploitation of non-human primates in antiquity. The young macaque, approximately 5 years old, was interred using funerary practices similar to those for human infants, accompanied by an unpainted beaker. Pathological analysis of its femurs suggests it was likely kept in captivity, experiencing physical stress prior to death. Native to Central Asia but not Iran, the macaque's provenance may trace back to the Indus valley, hinting at long-distance trade and cultural exchange during this period. This finding underscores the symbolic and luxury value of monkeys in ancient Near Eastern societies, representing one of the earliest documented instances of primates being kept as pets.

New Drawings of the Alhambra: Deformations of Muqarnas in the Pendentives of the Sala de la Barca

Alhambra, Generalife and Albayzín, Granada — 2019 — WHEA788CCEAAA

A groundbreaking analysis of the Alhambra’s Nasrid architecture reveals previously undocumented deformations in the muqarnas pendentives of the Sala de la Barca, a key feature of 14th-century Islamic design. Using advanced laser scanner technology, researchers produced new drawings that challenge the geometric simplicity long assumed for these intricate plaster elements. These findings, derived from comparisons with historical plans by Jones and Goury (1842–1845), highlight structural complexities that could inform preservation efforts and sustainability studies of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

New electron spin resonance (ESR) ages from Geißenklösterle Cave: A chronological study of the Middle and early Upper Paleolithic layers

Caves and Ice Age Art in the Swabian Jura — 2019 — WHEB27DBB6529

New electron spin resonance (ESR) dating of fossil tooth enamel from Geißenklösterle Cave, Germany, reveals that Neanderthals occupied the site during Marine Isotope Stage 5 to the second half of MIS 3, approximately between 94 ± 10 ka and 55 ± 6 ka. This study also confirms the antiquity of early Aurignacian deposits, dating them to around 37 ± 3 ka, aligning with previous radiocarbon, thermoluminescence, and ESR results. The presence of a nearly sterile geological horizon (GH 17) suggests a possible abandonment by Neanderthals during Heinrich Stadial 5 (ca. 49-47 ka), preceding the arrival of Homo sapiens around 42 ka cal BP. These findings significantly contribute to understanding the chronological framework of human occupation in the Swabian Jura, providing critical insights into the transition between Neanderthals and modern humans.

New horizons at L’Anse aux Meadows

L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site — 2019 — WHE93F21AB3EB

A new cultural horizon, distinct from the known Norse ruins at L'Anse aux Meadows (LAM), suggests that European presence in North America may have lasted significantly longer than previously thought. Fieldwork in 2018 revealed nonnative ecofacts in a peat bog adjacent to the site, hinting at prolonged Norse activity or interactions with Indigenous peoples. Bayesian analysis of radiocarbon data supports the possibility that Norse settlement endured for nearly a century, challenging earlier interpretations. This discovery reshapes our understanding of pre-1492 transatlantic contact and raises intriguing questions about cultural exchange in the region.

New particle formation in the volcanic eruption plume of the Piton de la Fournaise: specific features from a long-term dataset

Pitons Management Area — 2019 — WHED9979A879D

Volcanic eruption plumes significantly enhance new particle formation (NPF), a key atmospheric process influencing cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) concentrations. A long-term dataset from the Piton de la Fournaise volcano on La Réunion Island revealed NPF occurred on 90% of plume days compared to 71% of non-plume days, with higher particle formation rates and secondary particle dominance (93%) in volcanic conditions. The study also demonstrated that SO₂ mixing ratios alone can estimate nucleation rates, suggesting a critical role for H₂SO₄ in NPF. This research provides unprecedented insights into volcanic aerosol dynamics, offering valuable data for climate models to better define pre-industrial atmospheric conditions.

New Perspectives on the Political Economy of Great Zimbabwe

Great Zimbabwe National Monument — 2019 — WHE649BE3DA6A

Great Zimbabwe's political economy was fundamentally rooted in seasonal, household-based production and circulation strategies, rather than the redistribution of rare exotic goods from the Indian Ocean. This finding challenges traditional narratives by integrating indigenous African concepts with archaeological data to reveal a complex system where households and communities actively participated in economic activities, both within and outside state control. The study highlights the hierarchical ideology centered on land, ancestors, and belief in God, which underpinned custodial rights and extractive powers of rulers, enabling them to influence productive, allocative, and circulative activities. The research approach combines old and new archaeological data with interpretive frameworks that emphasize the individual, collective, mixed, embedded, and capillary nature of the political economy.

New records of marine decapods and stomatopods in Área de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG): four years of marine biodiversity inventorying

Area de Conservación Guanacaste — 2019 — WHED89B484E7C

A four-year marine biodiversity inventory in Área de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG), Costa Rica, has uncovered 99 new species of decapod crustaceans and stomatopods, including four potential new species and nine new records for the country. The study, part of the BioMar-ACG Project, identified a total of 271 species—more than half of those reported for Costa Rica and over a quarter of those in the eastern tropical Pacific. This significant increase (37% more species than previously recorded) highlights ACG's rich biodiversity, likely driven by its diverse habitats, seasonal upwelling, and recent sampling efforts. The project, funded by the Guanacaste Dry Forest Conservation Fund and conducted by UCR institutions, underscores the importance of targeted inventorying in marine conservation.

New researches on Pottery workshops in Akragas. Excavations in the artisanal area outside Gate 5 (excavation 2019)

Archaeological Area of Agrigento — 2019 — WHE29CEE14380

Recent excavations at the Archaeological Area of Agrigento have uncovered significant insights into the pottery production of ancient Akragas, particularly outside Gate 5. Researchers from the University of Bologna, in collaboration with the Archaeological and Landscape Park of the Valley of the Temples, identified two previously unknown kilns (D and E) within a sector of the city's kerameikos quarter. This area, located near the Hypsas river and the sanctuary dedicated to the Chtonian Deities, was known for its three kilns (A-C), but this study expanded the understanding of its craft activities. The workshop produced Greek-Western amphoras, banded pottery, plain ware, tiles, and terracotta figurines, offering a glimpse into the colony's dynamic production during a period of growth. Non-invasive surveys (2017-2018) and excavations (2019) were employed to systematically investigate this artisanal zone, providing valuable data on the organization and output of Akragas' pottery workshops.

New sites from the Scythian Period on the right bank of the Danube : Data to the Connections of the Vekerzug and Hallstatt Cultures from the Territory of Budapest

Budapest, including the Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter and Andrássy Avenue — 2019 — WHEAF6F038B76

Recent archaeological research in Budapest has uncovered new sites from the Scythian Period, providing significant evidence of cultural connections between the Vekerzug and Hallstatt cultures along the right bank of the Danube. The study, conducted by Farkas Márton Tóth, reveals insights into the material culture and societal interactions of these periods, contributing to a better understanding of the region's prehistory. Through systematic excavations and analysis of artifacts, the research highlights the dynamic exchange of cultural elements between these two distinct but interconnected groups during the late Bronze Age and early Iron Age.

New species of caddisflies (Insecta: Trichoptera) from emergence traps at streams in central Palawan, Philippines

Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park — 2019 — WHE59A5640FF8

A groundbreaking study has revealed the presence of 17 new species of caddisflies (Trichoptera) in the streams of Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, Palawan, Philippines. These discoveries, including Orthotrichia ligula and Tinodes sanctipauli among others, were made through emergence traps deployed between 2000 and 2001 along the Cabayugan and Panaguman Rivers. The research not only expands the known biodiversity of the region but also records new subfamilies (Hyalopsychinae, Pseudoneureclipsinae) and a genus (Pahamunyana) for the first time in Palawan. Detailed illustrations of male genitalia, supplemented by female genitalia where available, provide critical taxonomic insights. This study underscores the ecological significance of UNESCO-listed Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park as a hotspot for insect diversity.