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Psidium guajava in the Galapagos Islands: Population genetics and history of an invasive species

Galápagos Islands — 2019 — WHEDA30802A3C

A genetic analysis of guava (Psidium guajava) populations in the Galápagos Islands reveals distinct genetic structures and historical introduction patterns. The study found that San Cristóbal and Isabela populations are genetically distinct, while Santa Cruz shows a mixture of both, suggesting multiple introductions or secondary spread from San Cristóbal to Isabela. Genetic bottlenecks indicate a likely initial introduction in San Cristóbal, with subsequent movements to other islands. This contrasts with historical records, providing new insights into the invasive species' dynamics and its impact on local biodiversity.

Public Art in South Africa: Bronze Warriors and Plastic Presidents

Human Rights, Liberation and Reconciliation: Nelson Mandela Legacy Sites — 2019 — WHEDC62C13477

Public art in post-apartheid South Africa reflects shifting political landscapes and contested histories, as demonstrated by the edited volume 'Public Art in South Africa: Bronze Warriors and Plastic Presidents.' The book reveals how public art serves as a battleground for memory, identity, and nation-building, with traditional monuments giving way to experimental, often ephemeral forms of visual culture. It explores strategies for recontextualizing outdated or ideologically problematic artworks, such as reinvention or creation of new works, while also examining the role of vandalism, ruination, and visual activism in shaping public discourse. The study highlights the tension between inclusive and exclusionary narratives in commemorative art, particularly through the lens of South Africa's complex history of colonialism, apartheid, and liberation politics.

Pup mortality in New Zealand sea lions (Phocarctos hookeri) at Enderby Island, Auckland Islands, 2013-18

New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands — 2019 — WHEBB1D7A89DA

A hypervirulent strain of Klebsiella pneumoniae, causing septicaemia and associated meningitis and polyarthritis, is identified as the leading cause of pup mortality in New Zealand sea lions (Phocarctos hookeri) at Enderby Island, accounting for approximately 60.2% of deaths annually between 2013 and 2018. This finding, derived from advanced diagnostic methods including histopathology, microbiology, and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation-time of flight mass spectrometry, challenges previous underrepresentation of this pathogen due to its often cryptic presentation. The study highlights the significant threat posed by hypermucoviscous K. pneumoniae to pup survival, with additional mortality likely occurring post-dispersal beyond summer monitoring periods. Less common causes of death included starvation (14.8%), trauma/asphyxiation (9.9%), and other infections (7%). This research provides a foundation for evaluating risk factors and developing mitigation strategies to address this critical conservation issue.

Purple dye production under royal management: Evidence from the Cypro-Classical citadel of Ancient Paphos

Paphos — 2019 — WHEFBA4CFCF4D

A remarkable discovery of 430 kg of murex shells, concentrated in the West Complex of Ancient Paphos' citadel, provides unprecedented evidence for large-scale purple dye production under royal management during the Cypro-Classical period. This finding challenges previous assumptions about the scale and organization of this industrially significant process on Cyprus. The research, conducted by the University of Cyprus in collaboration with INSTAP, involved a detailed analysis of shell concentrations within an industrial complex adjacent to a 'palace' structure, suggesting centralized control and sophisticated production techniques. The study highlights the strategic importance of purple dye, a luxury commodity, in ancient Cypriot society and its broader implications for understanding economic and political structures during this era.

Pursuit of a sustainable tourism policy by connecting historical sites and ancient conventions in Seoul

Jongmyo Shrine — 2019 — WHE14A00CFC41

A sustainable tourism model for Seoul's historical sites, particularly Gyeongbokgung Palace, Jongmyo Shrine, and Sajikdan Altar, was proposed by integrating the king of Joseon's ceremonial walk with jikso activities—a direct appeal system. This approach aims to bridge gaps in historical narrative, enhancing visitor engagement while preserving cultural heritage. The study utilized the Smart Seoul Map to analyze site distribution and influence, identifying key areas for recreating historical scenes that link the palace, shrine, altar, and Cheonggyecheon Stream. By connecting these elements, the research suggests a framework for developing large-scale historical content that fosters urban culture while sustaining Seoul's historical integrity.

Pyrogenic carbon erosion after the Rim Fire, Yosemite National Park: The Role of Burn Severity and Slope

Yosemite National Park — 2019 — WHE9DF6981932

A study on the Rim Fire in Yosemite National Park reveals that burn severity is the primary factor controlling pyrogenic carbon (PyC) erosion post-fire, with slope angle playing a secondary role. PyC, which has longer soil residence times than nonpyrogenic carbon, was preferentially eroded from high-severity burn areas, while moderate-severity sites transported more fresh organic matter less affected by fire. Researchers used sediment fences to measure transport rates of total and fractionated sediments, along with stable isotope compositions (δ13C and δ15N) and 13C-nuclear magnetic resonance spectra, following major precipitation events post-fire. This finding underscores the significant impact of burn severity on PyC persistence in soil systems, with implications for long-term carbon dynamics in fire-affected landscapes.

Qhapaq Ñan: Indigenous Peoples’ Heritage as an Instrument of Inter-American Integration Policy

Qhapaq Ñan, Andean Road System — 2019 — WHEAD5801042D

Qhapaq Ñan, the Andean Road System, stands as a testament to indigenous heritage and inter-American integration. This study reveals how its recognition by UNESCO (2014) was not merely an acknowledgment of cultural significance but also a strategic move to foster regional cooperation among Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina. The research delves into the system's historical importance from pre-Columbian times to modernity, highlighting its role in connecting diverse Andean societies. It further examines the political process behind its nomination, emphasizing the collaboration through regional bodies like the Community of Andean Nations (CAN), OAS, and CONSUR. The study also reflects on contemporary challenges, particularly regarding indigenous rights to participation and heritage management, underscoring the system's potential as a symbol of unity and cultural preservation in South America.

Quality Features for the Integration of Terrestrial and UAV Images

Cathedral, Torre Civica and Piazza Grande, Modena — 2019 — WHEB0946FCD50

A novel photogrammetric pipeline enhances the accuracy of 3D reconstructions by integrating terrestrial and UAV images, addressing challenges posed by differing sensor properties. The approach filters and removes low-quality tie points using quality feature indicators, improving orientation results before dense point cloud computation. Testing on a dataset of approximately 140 images from Modena Cathedral, Italy, demonstrated the method's effectiveness through internal quality checks, ground truth comparisons, and visual analyses. This study advances the integration of multi-platform imagery, offering a robust solution for high-precision cultural heritage documentation.

Quarters in the Municipal Authority System in Late Medieval Prussian Towns

Medieval Town of Toruń — 2019 — WHEAC7CC25F3A

Late medieval Prussian towns, including the Medieval Town of Toruń (Thorn), developed a system of quarters that reinforced municipal authority and centralized control over inhabitants. These quarters, established from the 15th century onward, served multiple purposes: fiscal management, fire safety, military organization, and governance. Unlike East Central European counterparts, Prussian towns delayed their quarter systems due to city revolts in the early 15th and 16th centuries, which prompted councils to bypass guild intermediaries for better mobilization and communication. The study highlights how this system integrated towns into a cohesive structure under council rule, ensuring unity during internal or external threats.

Quercus banatus grows in Slovenia

Škocjan Caves — 2019 — WHE2C724469F7

A rare oak species, Quercus banatus, has been confirmed to grow in Slovenia, specifically within the Škocjan Caves Regional Park. This discovery is notable as the species was not previously recognized in the national Slovenian flora, despite its documentation in the Atlas Florae Europaeae under a different name (Q. dalechampii). Q. banatus individuals were identified during a brief field trip in two distinct locations: on the slope of a natural bridge between collapse dolines and near the Park’s Information Centre. The study highlights the importance of revisiting established botanical records, as this species evaded detection in Slovenia's comprehensive flora guide, Mala flora Slovenije.

Quilombo Campinho da Independência, Paraty (RJ): território étnico e a luta por uma educação diferenciada

Paraty and Ilha Grande – Culture and Biodiversity — 2019 — WHE2EE6F6A92A

A groundbreaking study from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Paraty and Ilha Grande, Brazil, highlights the transformative potential of differentiated education within Quilombo communities. The research, conducted between 2012 and 2019, reveals how the Campinho da Independência community in Paraty has successfully implemented an education model rooted in its territory's pedagogy, reflecting counter-hegemonic and decolonial struggles. Through ethnographic methods, interviews with political leaders, and analysis of official documents, the study demonstrates that such experiences can serve as a blueprint for inclusive educational practices, even amid political challenges. This work underscores the importance of recognizing and supporting community-driven educational initiatives in marginalized territories.

Radiometric evaluation of the prehistoric mortuary practices of the Chinchorro culture in northern Chile

Settlement and Artificial Mummification of the Chinchorro Culture in the Arica and Parinacota Region — 2019 — WHEDCB95DAF30

Radiometric dating of Chinchorro mummies reveals that the culture's mortuary practices, including four distinct mummification techniques (red, black, natural, and mud-coated), align with a proposed chronological classification scheme. This supports the notion that Chinchorro cemeteries were reused over time. However, one exception suggests possible social stratification, challenging the idea of an egalitarian society. The study analyzed 16 samples from 15 mummies in Arica, Chile, and compared these with previously published dates to refine our understanding of this pre-ceramic coastal culture's mortuary traditions.

Rank changes in female chimpanzees in Taï National Park

Taï National Park — 2019 — WHE1EDA9A96E3

Female chimpanzees in Taï National Park exhibit dynamic dominance hierarchies, with at least six documented rank changes in two communities. Unlike their East African counterparts, who typically avoid competition and queue for rank, Taï females actively challenge dominant group members, possibly due to increased resource competition and predation risks. This study highlights a previously unrecognized flexibility in female chimpanzee social structures, adding complexity to our understanding of their dominance behaviors.

Rapid increase in seabird breeding population after feral goat eradication on Mukojima, Ogasawara Islands, Japan

Ogasawara Islands — 2019 — WHEC4416A1AD1

A rapid rebound in seabird breeding populations on Mukojima, Ogasawara Islands, Japan, followed the eradication of feral goats between 1999 and 2003. The study found that ground-nesting species like the large-scale masked booby (Sula dactylatra) and black-footed albatross (Phoebastria nigripes) showed significant increases in nesting numbers, particularly where breeding colonies had survived initial disturbances. Meanwhile, burrow-nesting species such as the long-billed too (Puffinus pacificus) saw substantial growth across all islands, while the bullethead (Bulweria bulwerii) established new nesting grounds on Mukojima and Aogashima, though at limited scales, likely due to predation pressure from remaining invasive rats. The research suggests that direct disturbances—such as goat trampling—had a more pronounced impact than indirect environmental changes like habitat alteration or soil erosion. Notably, the recovery primarily benefited open-habitat species, indicating a skewed seabird community structure. Restoring native forest habitats and further controlling invasive rodents could help recover forest-nesting seabird populations, aligning the ecosystem closer to its pre-disturbance state.

Rapid loss of flight in the Aldabra white-throated rail

Aldabra Atoll — 2019 — WHEC392EBBAF2

Research on the Aldabra white-throated rail (Dryolimnas [cuvieri] aldabranus) reveals one of the most rapid cases of avian flight loss, occurring within 80,000 to 130,000 years. This unique subspecies is the sole surviving flightless bird in the western Indian Ocean and the only flightless member of its otherwise volant species, Dryolimnas cuvieri. Genetic and morphological analyses indicate that this rapid evolution of flightlessness is accompanied by significant genetic divergence from its flying relatives, surpassing typical levels seen between close relatives with full species status. The study suggests that D. [c.] aldabranus should be recognized as an evolutionary significant unit for conservation purposes, highlighting the importance of considering trait variability—such as flightlessness—in assessing extinction risk.

Rapid wound healing in a reef manta ray masks the extent of vessel strike

Ningaloo Coast — 2019 — WHEDFBC809E6A

A reef manta ray's rapid wound healing, documented over nearly three years, reveals that lacerations from vessel strikes can close to 95% within 295 days, leaving distinctive scars. This finding challenges prior assumptions about the cause of such scars, which were often attributed to failed predation attempts. Researchers analyzed an extensive photo-identification catalogue from the Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area, demonstrating that propeller-induced scarring is more common than previously recognized. The study provides critical baseline data on wound healing rates in manta rays and suggests increased vessel strikes in this region, with implications for spatial and behavioral management strategies to mitigate future conflicts.

Re-conociendo el patrimonio religioso asturiano.

Monuments of Oviedo and the Kingdom of the Asturias — 2019 — WHE661404D4E5

A comprehensive analysis of religious Francoist architecture in Asturias reveals significant gaps in historiography, particularly regarding restoration and rebuilding efforts during the 1940s. This study addresses these gaps by examining over 230 projects from the Archivo General de la Administración, providing critical data for assessing monument authenticity and guiding heritage conservation practices. The research is part of a broader project investigating the role of restorer architects in Francoist Spain, offering insights into the historical context and theoretical foundations of these efforts.

Re‐animating Gros Morne's storyless space: From natural heritage to ecological heritage

Gros Morne National Park — 2019 — WHEF6D5E97873

Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO Natural World Heritage site, is often perceived as a 'storyless space' due to the dualistic separation of nature and culture in heritage classifications. However, new research challenges this narrative by highlighting the deep relational connections between Gros Morne's landscapes and its human inhabitants. Through ethnographic fieldwork and resident narratives—captured in both written and video formats—the study reveals how Indigenous and non-Indigenous perspectives intertwine with the park's ecological processes, arguing for a shift from 'natural heritage' to 'ecological heritage.' This approach recognizes the dynamic, ever-evolving nature of these spaces, rooted in human experiences and social life.

Reading The Diary of Anne Frank on Robben Island: On the Role of Holocaust Memory in Ahmed Kathrada’s Struggle Against Apartheid

Robben Island — 2019 — WHEF538CC4148

Ahmed Kathrada, a prominent anti-apartheid activist, found profound inspiration in Anne Frank's diary during his 18-year imprisonment on Robben Island. Unlike popular Western adaptations that universalized suffering to fit Cold War-era narratives, Kathrada and other political prisoners engaged with the original text, drawing parallels between Frank's experiences under Nazi persecution and their own struggle against apartheid. This study reveals how the unadapted diary served as a catalyst for resistance, offering solace and solidarity in conditions of extreme oppression. Research involved analyzing Kathrada's annotated notebooks, comparing them to broader post-war readings of the diary, and examining the role of the text in shaping consensual memory during South Africa's transition to democracy.

Rebrote arbóreo en la regeneración del bosque tropical de Calakmul, Campeche, México

Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche — 2019 — WHEE57556F448

A significant majority of tree species in Calakmul's tropical forests exhibit the ability to resprout, a key mechanism that accelerates forest recovery after traditional agricultural practices like slash-and-burn. This study identified and quantified 168 species (79% with resprouting capacity) across different stages of secondary succession, revealing that resprouting individuals decrease as succession progresses but remain crucial for restoring canopy cover, ecosystem structure, and original species composition. The research compared post-agricultural fallow plots to mature forest communities within Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, demonstrating that resprouting plays a dominant role in rapid ecological restoration after disturbances.