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Deadly Intraslab Mexico Earthquake of 19 September 2017 (Mw 7.1): Ground Motion and Damage Pattern in Mexico City

Central University City Campus of the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) — 2018 — WHEAE0DFD2BDA

A 2017 intraslab earthquake (Mw 7.1) near Mexico City exhibited anomalously strong ground motion at critical frequencies (0.4–1 Hz), unlike previous interplate earthquakes, leading to distinct damage patterns. Unlike the 1985 quake (Mw 8.0), this event occurred closer to the city and at greater depth, with higher stress drop, resulting in high-frequency wave enrichment that intensified shaking in vulnerable structures. The study analyzed seismic recordings over 54 years to quantify ground motion differences, highlighting the unique hazards posed by intraslab earthquakes.

Death in the Middle Ages and Early Modern Times: The Material and Spiritual Conditions of the Culture of Death ed. by Albrecht Classen

Abbey Church of Saint-Savin sur Gartempe — 2018 — WHE2B472A20C9

A multidisciplinary exploration of death culture in the Middle Ages and Early Modern period reveals how premodern societies conceptualized mortality through material and spiritual practices. The study, featuring contributions from art history, history, literary studies, and drama, examines diverse representations—from heroic memorialization in Anglo-Saxon texts to the symbolic use of a false arch at Saint-Savin-sur-Gartempe, France, which exemplifies martyrdom. It also analyzes revenant folklore, cosmological iconography, and macabre imagery, including Chaucer’s satirical 'Pardoner’s Tale' and German estates satire, highlighting how death was ritualized, feared, or weaponized across centuries. The research employs chronological ordering to trace evolving attitudes toward mortality, blending textual analysis with material culture, offering a nuanced understanding of death's cultural resonance.

Death on the Dome: Epidemiology of Recreational Deaths on Half Dome in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park — 2018 — WHE14F030C691

A comprehensive analysis of fatalities on Half Dome in Yosemite National Park reveals that over 85 years, 31 deaths occurred, with activities at the time of death including technical climbing (36%), suicide (26%), cable handrail use (16%), hiking (16%), and base jumping (6%). Contrary to expectations, only two cable handrail-related fatalities were due to weather conditions. The study also highlights that a minority of deaths were attributable to unfavorable weather or unskilled hiking participants, with three medically related deaths caused by cardiac disease and altitude. The research suggests the potential for climber registration to provide more reliable accident incidence statistics and emphasizes the need for renewed focus on suicide prevention.

Deceased’s son fishing and fowling in the old kingdom tombs

Memphis and its Necropolis – the Pyramid Fields from Giza to Dahshur — 2018 — WHE52555CEF24

A detailed analysis of Old Kingdom tombs reveals that images of the deceased's son engaged in fishing and fowling were prevalent, with 14 such scenes identified across ten tombs. The study suggests that fishing was more commonly depicted than fowling, possibly due to symbolic or practical reasons. It also examines the attire of the son, including the fillet, streamer, short kilt, and triangular apron, as well as the positioning of the spear, which was typically held at a straight or slightly sloping horizontal angle rather than steeply. The research explores the significance of these scenes, their dating, and the accompanying inscriptions to provide insights into ancient Egyptian burial practices and social customs.

Declining populations in one of the last refuges for threatened mammal species in northern Australia

Kakadu National Park — 2018 — WHE246740BDDA

A recent study reveals alarming declines in populations of threatened mammal species on Melville Island, one of Australia's last strongholds for intact mammal assemblages. Over the period from 2000 to 2015, researchers documented a 62% reduction in small mammal trap success and a 36% decrease in site-level species richness. Notable declines included a 90% drop in the northern brown bandicoot (Isoodon macrourus), 64% for the brush-tailed rabbit-rat (Conilurus penicillatus), and 63% for the black-foot tree-rat (Mesembriomys gouldii). These declines mirror patterns observed two decades earlier in Kakadu National Park and across northern Australia, suggesting widespread threats driven by feral cat predation and altered fire regimes. Without effective management interventions, these species risk extinction from one of their last remaining refuges, further exacerbating Australia's significant contribution to global mammal extinctions.

Découvrir les jardins de l’Hevsel

Diyarbakır Fortress and Hevsel Gardens Cultural Landscape — 2018 — WHEB75ABEB970

Hevsel Gardens, part of the Diyarbakır Fortress and Hevsel Gardens Cultural Landscape, has undergone a significant rediscovery during its UNESCO World Heritage Site inscription process. This transformation has led to a re-evaluation of its historical and cultural value by experts, artists, urban planners, and local inhabitants. The research highlights key events and works that have shaped the Gardens into a recognized heritage site, emphasizing its unique significance in the region's history.

Deep divergence of Red-crowned Ant Tanager ( Habia rubica : Cardinalidae), a multilocus phylogenetic analysis with emphasis in Mesoamerica

Talamanca Range-La Amistad Reserves / La Amistad National Park — 2018 — WHE1769E390AA

A robust phylogenetic analysis reveals that the Red-crowned Ant Tanager (Habia rubica) exhibits deep genetic divergence, with seven distinct phylogroups corresponding to major geographical discontinuities such as the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, Talamanca Cordillera, and Isthmus of Panama. These findings suggest a complex history of diversification in this polytypic species, particularly in its northern distribution, where at least seven well-supported lineages may represent distinct species. The study used multilocus analyses of five molecular markers (ND2, ACOI-I9, MUSK, FGB-I5, and ODC) across the species' range from Central Mexico to South America, providing a detailed hypothesis for its evolutionary trajectory.

Deep reefs of the Great Barrier Reef offer limited thermal refuge during mass coral bleaching

Great Barrier Reef — 2018 — WHEB9D985BCB0

Deep reefs of the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) offer limited thermal refuge during mass coral bleaching events, despite initial assumptions. While summer upwelling provided temporary relief at 40 meters depth, it later subsided, leading to anomalously warm temperatures even in deeper zones. Bleaching impacts were severe but significantly lower than in shallower reefs—40% of colonies bleached and 6% dead at 40 meters compared to 60-69% bleached and 8-12% dead at 5-25 meters. This study highlights the transient nature of deep reef protection, challenging the notion that mesophotic zones can serve as broad ecological refuges from thermal stress.

Defining the importance of ecological processes for monitoring aquatic habitats for conservation and rehabilitation objectives at the Ranger uranium mine, Kakadu Region, Australia

Kakadu National Park — 2018 — WHE5B59BBBEA7

A critical assessment identifies riparian habitats and biotic interactions as the most vulnerable ecological processes to potential mine-derived stressors in Kakadu National Park's Magela Creek catchment. The study prioritizes these processes for monitoring, emphasizing the need for early detection indicators during the rehabilitation phase of the Ranger uranium mine due to significant lags in biological response times. While current assessment endpoints are adequate for operational phases, additional indicators are crucial to prevent undetected impacts on underlying ecological processes that sustain ecosystem structure and function.

Défis et stratégies d’autonomisation foncière en contexte de changement climatique chez les jeunes du delta du Saloum (Sénégal)

Saloum Delta — 2018 — WHE7381ED8DED

In the Saloum Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with high biodiversity but increasing vulnerability to climate change, land scarcity has become a pressing issue. Young people face significant challenges in accessing land due to economic constraints and sociocultural barriers, which exacerbate their exclusion from this critical resource. This study highlights that while young individuals harbor strong aspirations for land ownership, their ability to translate these into practices is hindered by systemic factors. The research contrasts the aspirations and real-world strategies of youth, revealing a gap between potential and actual land access. By employing qualitative methods, including interviews and case studies, the authors provide insights into how social norms, economic pressures, and environmental changes shape land tenure dynamics in this fragile ecosystem.

Del purismo al espacio puro de Le Corbusier a través del color

The Architectural Work of Le Corbusier, an Outstanding Contribution to the Modern Movement — 2018 — WHEC9E28F5FD3

Le Corbusier's architectural work, particularly his use of color, revolutionized the concept of space by transcending traditional materialization. This study reveals how his integration of cubism and purism influenced his designs, enabling him to achieve 'pure space' through color alone. The research focuses on the chapel of Notre Dame du Haut in Ronchamp, highlighting its east light tower (painted vermilion) and west-facing twin (white), as exemplars of this approach. By analyzing color theories from movements like purism and cubism, the study demonstrates how Le Corbusier's work shifted architectural paradigms, drawing inspiration from Rainer Maria Rilke's 'pure space' concept in his Duino Elegies. This innovation redefined spatial perception without relying on physical boundaries.

Delhi’s Qutb Complex: The Minar, Mosque and Mehrauli

Qutb Minar and its Monuments, Delhi — 2018 — WHE9F15734C72

Delhi's Qutb Complex, featuring the iconic Qutb Minar and its monuments, stands as a testament to the architectural and historical significance of the region. This comprehensive study by Catherine B. Asher delves into the intricate details of the complex, offering insights into its construction, evolution, and cultural importance. The research approach combines thorough historical analysis with architectural examination, providing a nuanced understanding of the site's development from its inception in the 12th century to its current status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Asher's work not only highlights the technical prowess behind the monuments but also explores their social and political contexts, enriching our knowledge of India's medieval history.

Demand and Supply of Forest Products in Bandevi Buffer Zone Community Forest, Chitwan National Park, Nepal

Chitwan National Park — 2018 — WHE9D800691AB

A significant imbalance exists between the demand and supply of forest products in Bandevi Buffer Zone Community Forest (BZCF) within Chitwan National Park, Nepal. Despite improvements in forest conditions since community management began, the study estimates annual deficits of 26,173 cubic meters for timber, 3.21 million tonnes for fodder, and 0.12 million tonnes for fuelwood. These shortages are met through agricultural lands outside BZCF and illegal harvesting from nearby forests and national parks, highlighting unsustainable dependencies. The research used stratified random sampling and forest inventory methods to quantify these gaps. While the BZCF program has successfully enhanced forest conditions, its long-term viability depends on addressing livelihood needs and reducing reliance on forest resources through policy interventions and income-generating initiatives.

Density and spatial partitioning of endangered sympatric Javan leopard (Felidae) and dholes (Canidae) in a tropical forest landscape

Ujung Kulon National Park — 2018 — WHEFF4260C6FD

Ujung Kulon National Park (UKNP) is confirmed as a critical biodiversity hotspot for endangered Javan leopards and dholes, with density estimates of 10.91–11.54 individuals per 100 km² for leopards across wet and dry seasons. The study reveals distinct spatial partitioning between the two species, with leopards preferring areas near secondary forest edges and exhibiting crepuscular activity, while dholes avoid leopard territories but overlap with red muntjac, wild boar, and banteng. Using camera-trap data (39,420 night-traps from 108 stations) and maximum entropy modeling, researchers identified seasonal environmental factors influencing habitat use, highlighting UKNP's importance for conserving these sympatric carnivores.

Deposit f (Nos. 15121–15567) in the Obelisk Temple at Byblos: Artefact Mobility in the Middle Bronze Age I–II (1850–1650 BC) between Egypt and the Levant

Byblos — 2018 — WHE9C638665BE

A significant discovery at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Byblos reveals that a large deposit of Middle Bronze Age I–II artefacts (1850–1650 BC), previously overlooked, provides critical insights into the material culture and trade relations between Egypt and the Levant. The deposit, comprising 455 objects—including 294 faience figurines—was likely manufactured in late Middle Kingdom Egypt and imported to the Levant, indicating frequent cultural exchanges during this period. Preliminary analysis suggests these artefacts were part of a structured deposit, although their exact dating and purpose remain unresolved. This finding challenges traditional views on artefact mobility and trade dynamics between Egypt and the Levant, offering new perspectives on the economic and social interactions of the time.

Depth-Dependent Seasonal Variation of Soil Water in a Thick Vadose Zone in the Badain Jaran Desert, China

Badain Jaran Desert - Towers of Sand and Lakes — 2018 — WHE24D367EBE7

Research reveals that seasonal soil moisture variations in the Badain Jaran Desert's thick vadose zone stabilize below 47 meters, leading to consistent groundwater recharge of approximately 30.7 ± 4 mm/yr regardless of season. This finding highlights the depth-dependent dynamics of infiltration and its minimal impact on groundwater recharge due to the significant distance (50–480 m) to the water table in this arid region. The study combined numerical and analytical models to assess these variations, demonstrating how deep vadose zones can buffer seasonal meteorological influences on soil water content.

Des objets en bois remarquables issus d’un puits de la place d’Assas à Nîmes (Gard)

The Maison Carrée of Nîmes — 2018 — WHE2C163DB76B

A rare collection of fifteen wooden objects, including boxes, mirror cases, sigillaria containers, writing tablets, furniture hinges, spinning spindles, and a wicker basket base, was discovered in a well (PT3094) dating to 60-70 AD during archaeological excavations at the Place d’Assas in Nîmes. These artifacts, preserved in a humid environment, provide unprecedented insights into Roman-era woodworking techniques and materials, with identified species and manufacturing processes revealed through analysis of chippings and waste from cutting or sawing. The well’s proximity to the forum suggests that skilled artisans were likely active in the vicinity, contributing to our understanding of commercial and public life in this UNESCO-listed city.

Descola’s Model Of Religion and Nature Examined

Matobo Hills — 2018 — WHE133FF3FFD2

A re-evaluation of Philippe Descola’s ontological framework reveals that his concepts of incarnation and figuration, rather than the proposed fourfold scheme, better explain religious practices and human-environment relationships. This insight emerges from a detailed ethnographic study of the Mwali cult in Matobo Hills, Zimbabweconducted through prolonged participant observation and interviews. The research challenges Descola’s model by demonstrating that incarnation and figuration more effectively capture the nuanced ways in which religious forms shape human engagement with nature.

Description of a New, Probably Introduced Zodarion Species from the Everglades National Park, USA (Araneae: Zodariidae)

Everglades National Park — 2018 — WHE1E6D4BA22D

A new spider species, Zodarion berryi n. sp., has been identified in the Everglades National Park, USA, likely introduced from the Mediterranean region of the Palaearctic. Belonging to the pusio group within the Zodariidae family, this discovery highlights the potential for invasive species to establish themselves in unique ecosystems like the Everglades. The identification was based on morphological analysis, distinguishing it from related species through key characteristics such as body structure and web-building behavior.

Design and Implementation of a New System for Large Bridge Monitoring—GeoSHM

The Forth Bridge — 2018 — WHE09CC64470C

A novel system for monitoring the structural health of long-span bridges, GeoSHM, demonstrates significant potential in enhancing safety and integrity through advanced technologies. Utilizing Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) and Earth Observation (EO), this system was initially tested on the 2.5 km-long Forth Road Bridge in Scotland, with promising results leading to its expansion into a demonstration project involving additional bridges in China. The GeoSHM Demo project, led by UbiPOS UK Ltd., addresses previous limitations and introduces innovative data strategies for processing, storing, and interpreting monitoring data. This study highlights the effectiveness of GNSS and EO technologies in structural health monitoring, offering a robust framework for future infrastructure safety assessments.