Wachau Cultural Landscape
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2011 —
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Researchers have identified five hybrid fern species belonging to the genus <em>Asplenium</em> in the Wachau Cultural Landscape, Austria. These hybrids—<em>A. ×alternifolium</em> subsp. <em>alternifolium</em>, <em>A. ×alternifolium</em> subsp. <em>heufleri</em>, <em>A. ×clermontae</em>, <em>A. ×murbeckii</em>, and <em>A. trichomanes</em> subsp. <em>lusaticum</em>—were observed growing on stone walls in the regions of Spitz an der Donau and Weißenkirchen. The study highlights the genetic diversity within this UNESCO-listed landscape, where natural hybridization between fern species contributes to its ecological richness. By documenting these hybrids, the research provides new insights into the botanical complexity of the Wachau, offering valuable data for conservation efforts and further exploration of hybrid formation in ferns.
Mount Etna
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2011 —
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A groundbreaking study reveals that Mount Etna, Italy's iconic volcano, emits hydrogen (H₂) at concentrations of 1–3 parts per million (ppm) above ambient levels. Using an upgraded MultiGAS system equipped with a specialized electrochemical sensor, researchers measured H₂-SO₂ and H₂-H₂O plume ratios during field surveys on the summit. These findings suggest that Etna's passive gas emissions likely reflect equilibrium conditions in the magma system at temperatures between 750°C and 950°C, near the nickel-nickel oxide (NNO) mineral buffer redox state. The study also estimates a time-averaged H₂ flux of approximately 0.65 gigagrams per year, indicating that volcanogenic hydrogen contributes marginally to the global atmospheric budget. Additionally, the positive correlation between H₂-SO₂, H₂-H₂O, and CO₂-SO₂ ratios implies that H₂ is partially supplied by deeply rising CO₂-rich gas bubbles moving through a CO₂-depleted shallow conduit magma.
Isole Eolie (Aeolian Islands)
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2011 —
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A hydrothermal system beneath Stromboli volcano, Italy, extends farther and deeper than previously thought, posing potential risks to the stability of its eastern flank. Researchers used resistivity tomograms, self-potential measurements, soil temperature, and CO2 concentrations along two profiles spanning 4.8 km and 3.5 km to map shallow aquifers and the hydrothermal system's extent. The study revealed a broad lateral extension of low-resistivity zones (15–60 ohm m) near villages like Scari and San Vincenzo, corroborated by temperature data from shallow wells. Notably, the hydrothermal body reaches the lower third of the Rina Grande sector collapse area, suggesting mechanical instability due to its proximity to an old collapse boundary. Self-potential data further pinpointed an aquifer above these villages, aiding depth estimation.
Wadi Wurayah
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2011 —
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Wadi Wurayah, located within the Hajar Mountain range in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, harbors a unique hydrogeological system that sustains permanent freshwater habitats critical for biodiversity. Annual rainfall of 18.7 hm³ generates 2.24 hm³ of runoff, which recharges the mountain ophiolite complex, creating springs with magnesium bicarbonate water that meets drinking standards but falls short on bacteriological criteria near tourist areas. These springs support rare species, including two amphibians and a fish, along with newly discovered aquatic insects. The study highlights the urgent need for active management to mitigate human pressure on this ecologically significant wadi, blending hydrogeological analysis with biodiversity assessment.
Niokolo-Koba National Park
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2011 —
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Altered hydrologic connectivity due to damming significantly impacts fish assemblage structure, diversity, and ecological traits in the Gambia River, West Africa. The study found that species richness increases with isolation from the main river during the dry season, while the abundance of elongate-bodied fishes rises with isolation in the wet season—patterns that disappear under altered flow regimes. Researchers compared 49 fish species across riverine and floodplain habitats in Niokolo-Koba National Park, revealing seasonal shifts in habitat use and trait distribution tied to natural lateral connectivity. These findings highlight the vulnerability of taxonomic and functional diversity to planned dam construction, emphasizing the ecological importance of unregulated flow dynamics.
Isole Eolie (Aeolian Islands)
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2011 —
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Research on Lisca Bianca Islet, Panarea Volcano, Aeolian Islands, reveals the cyclical formation of hydrothermal breccias through progressive fracturing and sealing by natroalunite. These breccias, characterized by jigsaw-fit clast textures and variable hydrothermal alteration, are distinguished from primary volcanic facies. The study identifies five distinct facies based on grain size, clast fabric, and alteration degree, providing insights into the complex interplay between fluid pressure, fracturing, and permeability in shallow hydrothermal systems. This work advances understanding of hydrothermal processes in submarine to subaerial volcanic complexes.
Yellowstone National Park
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2011 —
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Scientists have identified a novel hydrothermal ecotone—a transitional zone between hot chemosynthetic and cooler photosynthetic environments—in the Lower Geyser Basin of Yellowstone National Park. This ecotone hosts a diverse community of microorganisms, particularly in springs that support streamer biofilm communities (SBCs). While Aquificales bacteria dominate the hottest environments across both SBC and non-SBC sites, Thermotogales-like organisms appear exclusively in SBC locations, suggesting their potential role in biofilm formation. The study used 16S rRNA sequencing to analyze microbial diversity, revealing novel taxa—especially among Crenarchaeota—and demonstrating that geochemical gradients shape community structure. This discovery provides new insights into the dynamics of hydrothermal ecosystems and the conditions favoring SBC development.
Galápagos Islands
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2011 —
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Research demonstrates that hyperspectral remote sensing can effectively monitor salinity stress in red (Rhizophora mangle) and white (Laguncularia racemosa) mangroves on the Galápagos Islands. Using the photochemical reflectance index (PRI) as a proxy for photosynthetic rate, the study found strong correlations between PRI values and salinity gradients, suggesting that this method could be used to track mangrove forest growth on a regional scale. This approach offers a promising tool for large-scale conservation efforts by providing real-time data on how these critical coastal ecosystems respond to environmental stress.
Great Barrier Reef
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2011 —
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A predictive spatial habitat model has identified two core areas within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park (GBRMP) that are highly probable for humpback whale occurrence during their breeding and calving season from June to September. These areas correspond with movements of satellite-tagged whales, with one likely serving as a critical wintering ground while the other appears to be a migration route. The model highlighted specific environmental parameters, such as water depth (30–58 meters, peak at 49 meters) and sea surface temperature (21–23°C, peak at 21.8°C), that define these habitats. This research is crucial for managing human interactions with whales, particularly in light of increasing coastal development and shipping activity in the GBRMP.
Taï National Park
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2011 —
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Researchers identified distinct chimpanzee group activity hotspots within Taï National Park, Côte d'Ivoire, using transect nest surveys. The study revealed a positive density and group-size gradient of nests away from the home range periphery, with clusters corresponding to four habituated social groups successfully located via scan statistics. While additional low-density clusters emerged between groups, this method offers a scalable approach for studying wild animal population structure, applicable beyond direct observations to include camera traps, acoustic, or genetic data.
City of Graz – Historic Centre and Schloss Eggenberg
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2011 —
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Urban nomenclature reflects societal values and historical shifts, with statehood, culture-creators, and religion being the most prominent sources of street names across Central European cities. A study analyzing eight historic city centers—Graz, Kraków, Olomouc, Prague, Maribor, Zagreb, Zadar, and Mostar—revealed that World War II had a more significant impact on toponyms than the fall of the Berlin Wall, though this varied by location. The research examined three time periods (1935, 1985, and 2009) to capture pre-WWII conditions, post-socialist era trends, and contemporary transitions. While statehood, culture-creators, and religion dominated toponyms overall, some cities emphasized local landmarks, crafts, or entrepreneurs more prominently.
Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalú and Monreale
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2011 —
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A comprehensive visual documentation of Norman naval operations in the Mediterranean, spanning the 11th to 13th centuries, reveals strategic maritime dominance and technological advancements. The study presents a curated collection of illustrations, including siege vessels, war galleys, and battle maps, showcasing the Normans' naval prowess during key conflicts such as the blockade of Bari (1068) and the Battle of Corfu (1084). It also highlights cultural exchanges, such as the circular world map by al-Idrisi and the Arsenale della Repubblica di Amalfi, underscoring Sicily's role in Mediterranean trade and naval warfare. The illustrations provide a detailed visual narrative of Norman naval strategies, ship designs, and their impact on regional politics.
Mathildenhöhe Darmstadt
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2011 —
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Peter Behrens’s 1901 house on the Mathildenhöhe in Darmstadt, never occupied by his family, emerged as a symbolic showcase of progressive design, challenging traditional interpretations. While historian Tilmann Buddensieg celebrated it as a harbinger of democratic design, a Marxist perspective reframes this relationship as feudal, suggesting Behrens’s work instead reinforced new forms of domination. The study contrasts these viewpoints to expose the ideological underpinnings of architectural practice in early 20th-century Germany.
Archaeological Site of Sabratha
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2011 —
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Coastal environmental conditions significantly impact the durability of building materials at Sabratha's Roman Theater, leading to structural degradation such as collapsing and disintegration. The study reveals that limestone, marble, and mortars used in the theater's construction undergo alterations due to exposure to coastal elements. Analytical techniques like XRD, XRF, PM, and SEM were employed to identify mineral composition and its changes, alongside evaluating physio-mechanical properties. These findings highlight the vulnerability of monumental structures in harsh coastal environments, offering insights into preservation challenges for UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries - Wolong, Mt Siguniang and Jiajin Mountains
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2011 —
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A first-of-its-kind post-earthquake field survey in Wolong Nature Reserve revealed that the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake caused significant but localized damage to giant panda habitat, with only 36% of damaged areas detected by remote sensing. While tree and shrub diversity declined in affected zones, remnant vegetation persisted in 80% of cases, suggesting potential for forest recovery. Most damage occurred on steep terrain unsuitable for pandas, yet wildlife signs indicated minimal long-term avoidance behavior. The study underscores the need for fine-scale assessments to accurately gauge disaster impacts on biodiversity.
Old Town of Lijiang
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2011 —
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Urbanisation in Lijiang City has significantly reduced the river system length in the Yanggong River watershed, decreasing from 786.9 km in 1995 to 674.2 km in 2009 and projected to further decline by 35.5 km over the next decade. This reduction, driven by urban sprawl, began in the Old Town of Lijiang and spread outward, threatening watershed ecosystem functions. The study used GIS techniques to analyse temporal changes in river systems, revealing that current urban development strategies overlook the impacts on these critical water resources. Protecting the natural river network and leveraging the unique terrain could ensure sustainable urban growth in Lijiang City.
Yellowstone National Park
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2011 —
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Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) communities in Yellowstone National Park are primarily shaped by soil chemistry, particularly pH, rather than dispersal limitations or thermal environments. Despite significant differences in soil temperature and plant composition between geothermal and nonthermal grasslands, AMF distribution correlated strongly with soil pH-driven chemical changes. Experimental evidence further demonstrated that two AMF morphospecies, <em>Paraglomus occultum</em> and <em>Scutellospora pellucida</em>, thrive in acidic conditions, supporting niche theory over dispersal constraints at this scale. Bison feces suggest these fungi may also disperse via wide-ranging herbivores. The study challenges the assumption of ubiquitous microbial distribution, emphasizing environmental filtering as the dominant force structuring AMF communities.
Canal du Midi
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2011 —
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Chandra Mukerji's book, <em>Impossible Engineering: Technology and Territoriality on the Canal du Midi</em>, challenges the traditional narrative of Pierre-Paul Riquet as a solitary genius behind France's iconic 17th-century canal. Instead, it argues that the Canal du Midi was a product of collective intelligence, involving tax farmer Riquet, learned experts, artisans, and Pyrenean peasant women who contributed unique hydraulic techniques. Mukerji introduces the concept of 'distributed cognition' to explain how diverse actors collaborated despite social and cultural divides. However, her assertion that these groups were all 'Romans'—sharing a tacit knowledge of Roman engineering—is critiqued for oversimplifying historical technological evolution. The book offers a nuanced perspective on collective technical action but leaves some arguments unconvincing.
Lagoons of New Caledonia: Reef Diversity and Associated Ecosystems
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2011 —
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A genetic analysis of the coral genus Stylophora reveals that species boundaries do not align with morphological traits, challenging traditional taxonomic classifications. The study, conducted across Madagascar, Okinawa, the Philippines, and New Caledonia, identified three distinct species (A, B, and C) using mitochondrial and nuclear markers. Species A and B are endemic to Madagascar, while species C is widespread in the Indo-Pacific, including New Caledonia's lagoons. Contrary to morphological data suggesting higher diversity in the western Indian Ocean and Red Sea, genetic evidence indicates that species C also occurs in the Coral Triangle, with a distinct fourth species (D) found only in the Red Sea. The research rejects interspecific hybridization as an explanation for morphological incongruence but suggests phenotypic plasticity or morphological stasis may play roles. The findings imply the western Indian Ocean as the likely center of origin for Stylophora, influencing its biodiversity distribution.
Greater Blue Mountains Area
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2011 —
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A novel approach to systematic reserve design effectively incorporates the proximity of new land parcels to existing reserves, addressing a critical gap in biodiversity conservation strategies. This method overcomes limitations of previous models by using reserve boundaries rather than centroids to determine distance costs, reducing bias and improving spatial contiguity. Applied to the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, Australia, this approach demonstrated its ability to select land parcels closer to existing reserves while meeting biodiversity targets. The study highlights the potential for integrating distance costs into reserve planning algorithms, offering more efficient solutions for environmental managers aiming to expand reserve systems.
Old Town of Lijiang
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2011 —
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Urbanisation has significantly intensified pressures on the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Old Town of Lijiang, with a more than doubling increase in stress between 2000 and 2009. The study employed an integrated method combining the analytic network process (ANP), governmental census data, satellite imagery, ecosystem services, and sewage treatment records to quantify 16 indicators over three decades. Findings revealed an exponential relationship between urbanisation rates and pressure, highlighting that even minor increases in urbanisation can drastically escalate challenges for heritage protection. Population growth and tourism emerged as the most critical factors driving this trend, underscoring urgent implications for safeguarding Lijiang's cultural and natural heritage.
Pergamon and its Multi-Layered Cultural Landscape
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2011 —
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Indoor radon levels in the granodiorite area of Bergama (Pergamon), Turkey, exhibit significant variability, with concentrations ranging from 11±1 to 727±1 Bq m⁻³ and a geometric mean of 63 Bq m⁻³. The study, conducted over eight months in 20 rural dwellings using the alpha track etch integrated method, revealed a log-normal distribution of radon concentrations. Estimated annual effective doses from indoor radon exposure varied from 0.27 to 18.34 mSv y⁻¹, with an average of 1.95 mSv y⁻¹—below the recommended action levels (3–10 mSv) set by the International Commission on Radiation Protection. These findings provide critical data for assessing radiation exposure risks in this UNESCO World Heritage Site's cultural landscape.
Gunung Mulu National Park
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2011 —
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The arrival of the invasive yellow crazy ant, Anoplolepis gracilipes, significantly altered the composition and diversity of an ant community in Gunung Mulu National Park, Sarawak, Malaysia. Between 2006 and 2009, researchers monitored the ant community in an artificial clearing using pitfall traps, identifying 42 species overall. After A. gracilipes arrived in 2007, community diversity declined, even before species richness decreased. Ecologically similar native species, such as Dolichoderus affinis, were among the first to disappear. The study suggests that abiotic factors like irregular flooding events may have further influenced community composition, potentially impacting invasive species more than native ones, which may be better adapted to these conditions.
Amiens Cathedral
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2011 —
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Amiens Cathedral's Christmas festivities exemplify the harmonious coexistence of religious and secular celebrations during the late medieval period. Unlike other French cities, where tensions between clergy and townspeople marred the Feast of Innocents or the Feast of Fools, Amiens maintained a peaceful balance between liturgical observances, such as the Feast of Circumcision, and secular traditions, including the prince of fools. The study contrasts this stability with cases from Toul, Tournai, and Clermont, where clerical authority clashed with popular festivities—such as masked parades or court disputes—revealing regional variations in religious practice and social control. By analyzing historical records, Harris highlights how Amiens' unique approach to festive culture reflected broader medieval European dynamics between institutional religion and communal joy.
The English Lake District
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2011 —
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Long-term ecological studies in the Windermere catchment, spanning over 65 years, reveal critical insights into how lakes respond to external stressors and internal interactions. These findings emphasize the need for a 'systems approach' that integrates multiple trophic levels and long-term monitoring to understand lake ecosystems fully. The research, initiated by the Freshwater Biological Association in the 1930s and continued by the Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, demonstrates the value of sustained monitoring in providing mechanistic understanding and data for modeling future responses. This study underscores the importance of preserving such long-term programs, despite economic challenges, to safeguard the ecosystem services lakes provide.
Pre-Hispanic City and National Park of Palenque
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2011 —
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Female black howler monkeys (Alouatta pigra) at Palenque National Park, Mexico, exhibit highly affiliative social relationships with minimal agonistic interactions, challenging previous assumptions about their social dynamics. A 14-month study involving over 900 hours of focal observations and 5,400 scan samples revealed that females in one group maintained stronger bonds than those in another, with relationship strength increasing upon the birth of an infant. The temporary presence of extragroup females suggests a more dynamic social system than previously thought, resembling patterns seen in red howler monkeys (A. seniculus) rather than mantled howlers (A. palliata). This research sheds light on the nuanced social behavior of this endangered species within its UNESCO-listed habitat.
Paris, Banks of the Seine
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2011 —
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This article challenges conventional approaches to cultural preservation by critiquing UNESCO's 2003 intangible heritage framework, which, despite aiming to safeguard global diversity, risks institutionalizing culture as a set of endangered practices. It examines the politics of erasure and renewal in two high-profile museum contexts: Te Papa Tongarewa (New Zealand) and the Quai Branly Museum (Paris), revealing how indigenous identity politics intersect with heritage discourse. The study employs comparative analysis to expose tensions between normative preservation efforts and dynamic cultural identities, offering a nuanced perspective on contemporary museum practice.
Shirakami-Sanchi
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2011 —
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Modern vegetation analysis using the Integrated Plant Record (IPR) technique reveals distinct underrepresentation of zonal herbs in fossil records, challenging traditional classification methods. The study, conducted across South China and Japan—including UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Shirakami-Sanchi—validates key zonal woody angiosperm groups but identifies a need for refined ecotone definitions and broader herb diversity inclusion. Findings suggest higher zonal herb diversity in broad-leaved deciduous forests compared to evergreen counterparts, aligning with Neogene European records. This research enhances understanding of vegetation dynamics by refining IPR analysis, offering new insights into fossil-based reconstructions.
Pantanal Conservation Area
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2011 —
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A novel mapping approach for wetland vegetation in the Pantanal, Brazil, reveals that flooding duration is a critical driver of vegetation zonation. By integrating field sampling, geostatistics (universal kriging), and remote sensing, researchers identified seven distinct vegetation communities with known floral compositions. The method, combining cluster analysis, multiple linear regression models, and Monte Carlo simulations, demonstrated significant spatial variation in classification accuracy but maintained the overall proportion and arrangement of these communities. The study suggests that increasing field observations for scattered or small-patch communities or incorporating more digital images could further refine mapping precision. This innovative methodology offers a robust basis for habitat management, conservation assessment, and long-term ecological monitoring in wetland landscapes.
Fatehpur Sikri
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2011 —
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Fatehpur Sikri, the imperial city of Mughal emperor Akbar, exemplifies a transcultural architectural aesthetic that challenges traditional notions of Hindu-Islamic binaries. Through meticulous photographic documentation and analysis of ornamental elements in three key structures, this study reveals a dynamic integration of diverse visual motifs, serving as a subtle tool for cultural unification. Unlike prevailing interpretations that categorize these elements as distinctly religious, the research demonstrates their fluidity and adaptability, reflecting complex cultural interactions. This approach not only identifies a unique 'Akbari repertoire' but also sheds light on the functional and symbolic purposes of the structures within their broader regional context.
Wadden Sea
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2011 —
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Permeable intertidal sediments of the Wadden Sea act as a significant nitrogen sink, with annual removal rates estimated at 745 ± 109 mmol N m−2 yr−1. This finding highlights their critical role in global nitrogen cycling, particularly since these sediments cover 58–70% of the continental shelf area. The study employed stable nitrogen isotope incubations and modeling to compare diffusive and advective transport conditions, revealing that advective transport enhances nitrogen loss rates by 1–2 orders of magnitude compared to diffusive conditions. Seasonal and spatial variations in nitrogen loss were minimal, with consistent rates of 207 ± 30 µmol m−2 h−1 observed across autumn, spring, and summer. The research underscores the importance of reevaluating the contribution of permeable sediments to global nitrogen budgets.
Macquarie Island
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2011 —
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Rugged bathymetry along slow-spreading mid-ocean ridges significantly influences gravity flows derived from oceanic fault scarps, as demonstrated by sedimentary lithofacies variations on Macquarie Island. The study reveals that pillow-basalt terranes funnel gravity flows into confined bedrock corridors, leading to systematic vertical and lateral changes in sediment deposition. Initial stages of corridor filling suppress flow dilution due to tight confinement, while later stages promote more dilute flows with lateral gradations from coarse-grained axial turbidites to thinly interbedded overbank facies. Partly confined tabular-basalt-floored basins show lateral expansion and dilution of gravity flows, recording multiple reflections off fault barriers and preserving coarsening-upward trends indicative of sediment-starved submarine fans.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus)
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2011 —
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Railways and rail stations, including UNESCO-listed Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus), have historically driven urban development. A photographic study revealed distinct 'train culture' activities at the terminus, contributing to its vibrancy as a Mumbai urban center. The research compares this historic station with a proposed elevated railway station in the International Business and Finance Center (IFBC) to explore their potential as catalysts for urban growth. Findings highlight that both stations—Victoria Terminus with its historical significance and the contemporary IFBC Interchange—can sustain thriving urban areas by preserving train culture while addressing modern urban challenges.
Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek
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2011 —
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Pilfering of cached food by red squirrels (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) occurs at significantly lower rates in Kluane, Yukon, Canada, compared to other regions. A study found that only 14% of individuals pilfered, with stolen cones representing just 0.3% of total larder-hoarded food—a rate far below those reported for scatter-hoarding species or red squirrels elsewhere. The research, conducted across two populations—one with artificial food supplementation and higher density—revealed that younger squirrels with smaller caches were more likely to pilfer when given the opportunity. Using experimental territory removals and mark-recapture studies of spruce cones under natural conditions, the study also highlighted how factors like age, cache size, and population density influence pilfering behavior in highly territorial larder-hoarding species.
Tower of Hercules
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2011 —
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The Torre de Hercules, a prominent landmark in A Coruña, Spain, embodies a cultural and historical connection between Galicia and Ireland. While the tower is renowned for its legend of offering glimpses of Ireland on clear days, this study highlights its significance as a symbol of Galician nationalist aspirations to align with Celtic nations during the 19th century. The research emphasizes shared historical narratives, emigration experiences, myths, symbols, and communal landscapes between Galicia and Ireland, primarily drawing from literary and cultural studies. By analyzing these cross-cultural connections, the study underscores the enduring influence of historical and cultural parallels on regional identities.
Rideau Canal
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2011 —
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The Rideau Canal, spanning 200 kilometers from Ottawa to Kingston, serves as a critical waterway connecting multiple lakes and rivers. A key insight is its role in the convergence of past and present, symbolized by the 'river flowing both ways' phenomenon described in Margaret Laurence's novel <em>The Diviners</em>. This study explores the geographical and historical significance of Kingston, situated at the terminus of the Rideau Canal and the beginning of the St. Lawrence River. It highlights the region's unique ecological and cultural attributes, including its status as a freshwater sailing capital and the presence of Wolfe Island, now adorned with wind turbines. The research approach combines literary analysis with geographical observation, emphasizing the interplay between natural landscapes and human history.
City of Cuzco
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2011 —
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Land invasions in Cuzco, Peru, have significantly shaped urban development through spontaneous occupancy of expropriated hacienda lands. These informal settlements gradually became regulated, demonstrating how administrative planning often reacts to existing land takeovers rather than preempting them. Residents invest substantial effort into building homes and neighborhoods, despite fluctuating policies and bureaucratic challenges. The study reveals that state permissiveness toward illegal occupancy is a precarious yet sought-after outcome, not guaranteed. This approach contrasts with traditional agrarian reform strategies but shares similar dynamics of mobilization and land acquisition.
Pantanal Conservation Area
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2011 —
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In the Brazilian Pantanal, feral pigs serve as a crucial buffer against bushmeat hunting of native wildlife, offering a culturally acceptable and readily available meat source. This study reveals that feral pigs are the primary hunting target in this Neotropical wetland, where human populations rarely hunt native species due to their scarcity or inaccessibility. Researchers used exploratory surveys, semi-structured interviews, skull collections, tooth wear analysis, and hunting registers to assess hunting patterns. While feral pigs mitigate hunting pressure on native wildlife, their ecological impacts remain uncertain, highlighting a complex conservation dilemma in non-protected areas.
Paraty and Ilha Grande – Culture and Biodiversity
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2011 —
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A comprehensive inventory of the beetle family Elateridae (click beetles) on Ilha Grande, Brazil's Atlantic Forest, revealed 28 species from five subfamilies, including 19 genera documented for the first time in this UNESCO-listed site. The study, conducted through seven collections between January and December 2008 using entomological nets and light traps near a research center, identified <em>Pomachilius terminatus</em> as the most abundant species within the dominant Elaterinae subfamily. While Agrypninae and Cardiophorinae accounted for nearly 20% of the total abundance, Lissominae and Denticollinae were rare, with only one representative each. This research significantly expands the known biodiversity of Ilha Grande's Atlantic Forest, a critical ecosystem under global conservation attention.
Dja Faunal Reserve
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2011 —
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Research in the Dja Faunal Reserve, Cameroon, reveals that litter decomposition rates in tropical forests are more influenced by the quality of dominant litter species than by forest diversity itself. The study found that decomposition in mixed-species forests was four times faster than in monodominant forests, primarily due to the prevalence of low-quality <em>Gilbertiodendron dewevrei</em> litter. While high-quality bay leaves decomposed significantly faster than low-quality <em>G. dewevrei</em> leaves, mixing litter types accelerated decomposition for <em>G. dewevrei</em>, suggesting a diversity-dependent effect. The findings challenge the assumption that tree species diversity alone drives decomposition rates, highlighting the critical role of litter quality in ecosystem functioning.
The Persian Qanat
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2011 —
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A groundbreaking study demonstrates the potential of IRSL single aliquot and single grain feldspar dating techniques to directly date ancient Persian qanat irrigation systems, challenging long-held assumptions about their origin. The research, conducted on spoil deposits near the Dasht-e-Bayaz fault in northeastern Iran, provides the first OSL dating evidence for these elaborate tunnel systems, which facilitated water extraction in arid regions and sustained agricultural practices for centuries. While initial single aliquot results posed interpretative challenges, the adoption of single grain dating offered more reliable chronologies. The study not only advances our understanding of the antiquity and development of qanat technology but also sheds light on its potential Iranian origins, contrasting with claims attributed to Roman innovation. Additionally, the research contributes to geological studies by investigating the slip-rate of the Dasht-e-Bayaz fault, highlighting the intersection of archaeological and geophysical inquiries in this historically significant region.
Stevns Klint
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2011 —
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A significant iridium anomaly, indicative of extraterrestrial material, has been identified at the Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary layers in Højerup (Stevns Klint, Denmark) and Woodside Creek (New Zealand). The study estimates that up to 26% and 65% of the carbonaceous chondritic component in these layers may originate from extraterrestrial sources, though this proportion is likely overestimated due to potential iridium influx from nearby marine or continental sites. The research utilizes integrated iridium fluencies to assess the extraterrestrial contribution, providing insights into the composition and origin of the boundary clays.
Brazilian Atlantic Islands: Fernando de Noronha and Atol das Rocas Reserves
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2011 —
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A study on the Brazilian Atlantic Islands, specifically Fernando de Noronha and Atol das Rocas Reserves, reveals significant short-term variations in beach morphology and sediment composition. The research highlights the influence of geological structures, such as hotspots and fracture zones, on the formation and evolution of these oceanic islands. It synthesizes modern knowledge about their geology, including chemical and mineralogical characteristics of their rocks, and suggests that hotspot activity played a crucial role in shaping volcanic chains and island formations. The study also compares Fernando de Noronha with other Brazilian archipelagos like Martin Vaz and São Pedro e São Paulo, emphasizing the unique geological processes at work. The research approach involves detailed analysis of sedimentary and morphological data to understand these dynamic changes over short periods.
Macquarie Island
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2011 —
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Island tourism, particularly on UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Macquarie Island, faces significant ecological, social, and economic challenges that require sustainable solutions. The study highlights the delicate balance between conservation efforts and tourism development, emphasizing the need for ecologically sustainable practices to mitigate environmental impacts such as invasive species (e.g., rabbits and rats) and sand mining. Social sustainability is also critical, with a focus on maintaining positive host-guest interactions while addressing cultural sensitivities and potential conflicts, such as those seen in Trinidad and Tobago or casino-driven tourism in St. Croix. Economically, the research underscores the importance of adaptive strategies to rejuvenate tourism markets, as demonstrated by cases from Mauritius and Okinawa, ensuring long-term viability without compromising ecological integrity or social cohesion. The study employs comparative analyses across diverse island settings to derive actionable insights for policymakers and stakeholders.
Ancient Ksour of Ouadane, Chinguetti, Tichitt and Oualata
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2011 —
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A collaborative project between Italy's Autonomous Region Friuli Venezia Giulia and Mauritania successfully trained 12 local specialists in advanced preservation techniques for ancient manuscripts, now operational across five laboratories. These include the capital Nouakchott and four historic 'villes anciennes'—Ouadane, Chinguetti, Tichitt, and Oualata—critical to preserving Mauritania's endangered desert libraries. The initiative, approved in 2005, demonstrates a sustainable model for safeguarding cultural heritage in arid environments through localized expertise. This approach addresses the urgent need to protect fragile manuscripts from degradation while empowering local communities with specialized skills.
Old City of Jerusalem and its Walls
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2011 —
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On June 7, 1967, during the Six-Day War, Israeli paratroopers captured the Old City of Jerusalem, a pivotal event that reshaped the city's geopolitical landscape. The surprise assault on Egyptian air force bases and Jordan's subsequent attack on West Jerusalem fulfilled long-standing Zionist ambitions, despite the presence of United Nations forces and prior armistice agreements. This strategic capture, marked by the paratroopers' advance from the Mount of Olives to the Lions' Gate, underscored the war's unexpected swiftness and its profound implications for Jerusalem's status as a sacred site. The study provides a historical account of this transformative event, highlighting its significance in the context of regional conflicts.
Old City of Jerusalem and its Walls
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2011 —
WHE7663893D91
A monumental public hall from the Second Temple period, known as the Masonic Hall, was uncovered beneath Wilson's Arch and the Great Causeway in Jerusalem. This discovery, first documented by scholars in the 19th century, was further investigated through excavations and tunnel work conducted by various institutions, including the Ministry of Religious Affairs and the Israel Antiquities Authority. The research involved removing soil, repairing ancient vaults, and exposing street remains dating to the Roman-Byzantine period, including parts of the eastern cardo. Additional findings included a monumental staircase from the Second Temple period above Wilson's Arch. These excavations have significantly contributed to understanding Jerusalem's architectural evolution and its historical layers.
Old City of Jerusalem and its Walls
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2011 —
WHEC7F91A2377
Jerusalem's evolution from a pilgrimage site to a complex administrative, religious, and commercial center during the Ottoman era (16th–19th centuries) underscores its pivotal role in shaping Palestine’s western coasts, highlands, and Jordan River valley. The study highlights how social and cultural transformations, exacerbated by British occupation and rising Zionist immigration, intensified tensions leading to the 1948 War and the city's division between Israeli and Jordanian forces. To facilitate understanding of Jerusalem's layered history—often referred to as the 'three Jerusalems'—the paper proposes pedagogical strategies for U.S. study abroad students, emphasizing its intellectual context and cultural significance.
Masada
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2011 —
WHEDD96D224D1
Josephus' precise topographical descriptions of Masada reveal his strategic use of language as both a stage manager and dramatist, distinguishing the fortress's natural rock from its constructed elements. Unlike other battle sites where his accounts are less detailed, Josephus meticulously delineates Masada's layout, emphasizing its significance in siege operations. This analysis highlights how his narrative choices serve to enhance dramatic effect while maintaining historical accuracy, offering a unique lens through which to view ancient military and literary techniques.
Temple of Preah Vihear
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2011 —
WHEF1CFA337E9
The 2011 ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the case <em>Cambodia v. Thailand</em> introduced a unique 'provisional demilitarized zone' around the Temple of Preah Vihear, redefining the court's role in urgent international disputes. This decision marked the second instance where the ICJ issued provisional measures in an interpretation case, setting a precedent for how such measures are applied and justified. The study analyzes the conditions under which these measures were granted and assesses their implications for the court's responsibilities in contentious scenarios involving heritage sites. By examining this landmark ruling, the research highlights the intersection of legal authority and conservation urgency, offering insights into the balance between judicial action and policymaking.
