Sardis and the Lydian Tumuli of Bin Tepe
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2011 —
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A comprehensive archaeological exploration of Sardis reveals significant insights into the Lydian and Roman periods. The study, part of the 'Archaeological Exploration of Sardis' series, celebrates the scholarly contributions of Crawford H. Greenewalt Jr. and the 50th anniversary of George Hanfmann's founding of the Sardis Expedition. It compiles extensive data on the Romano-Iberian economy, particularly focusing on oil and wine production, through a meticulous analysis of amphora stamps and other material evidence. The research approach involves chronological arrangement of contributions, starting from the late Lydian period to the late Roman era, providing a dynamic perspective on the site's history. However, the study is noted for its static presentation of data, which, while detailed, may be less accessible to casual readers compared to more narrative-driven works.
Melaka and George Town, Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca
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2011 —
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A novel low-cost method for generating panoramic views on mobile platforms, compatible with iOS devices, has been successfully developed and applied to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of George Town, Malaysia. This approach eliminates the need for intermediate software conversion by storing finite images in an array to create 360° cylindrical panoramic views, offering high-quality visualization at lower computational costs. The study also explores key aspects of iOS User Experience (UX) design using Model-View-Control (MVC) strategies, ensuring standardized interfaces while maintaining visual clarity around historical monuments. This method represents a significant advancement in mobile virtual heritage applications, enhancing accessibility and user engagement without compromising production quality.
Town of Luang Prabang
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2011 —
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Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995, has undergone significant transformation due to tourism, evolving from its traditional image of Buddhist monasteries and colonial architecture into a dual identity. While it remains renowned for its cultural heritage, it is also increasingly recognized as a 'gay paradise,' a label that contrasts with local perceptions of tradition. This study highlights the tension between Luang Prabang's historical and contemporary identities, exploring how UNESCO recognition and tourism have reshaped the town's social dynamics. The research employs qualitative methods to analyze these shifts, revealing the complexities of heritage preservation and cultural identity in the context of globalization.
Area de Conservación Guanacaste
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2011 —
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A comprehensive taxonomic study identifies twelve species of Lytopylus wasps from Costa Rica, including ten newly described species and two reclassified from other genera. Over 32 years of caterpillar inventory in Area de Conservación Guanacaste yielded critical specimens, revealing the diversity and ecological significance of these parasitoids. The research transfers nine species to the Lytopylus genus, providing updated taxonomic keys—one interactive and one static—to facilitate identification. This work advances our understanding of wasp biodiversity and their role in tropical ecosystems.
High Coast / Kvarken Archipelago
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2011 —
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The Kvarken Archipelago, Finland's first UNESCO World Heritage Site based on natural uniqueness, demonstrates that even regions without established tourist 'imaginaries' can become globally recognized destinations. This study challenges Dean MacCannell's Attraction theory by exploring the archipelago's potential as a successful tourist attraction despite its lack of historical tourism focus. Through qualitative analysis, the research examines how the WH status has been strategically integrated into regional development over five years, benefiting the 2500 local inhabitants. The findings suggest that the Kvarken Archipelago possesses key attributes for tourism, leveraging its natural heritage and socio-economic assets to create a unique, globally appealing destination.
Mount Etna
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2011 —
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A numerical model reveals that gravitational loading of Mount Etna's volcanic edifice opposes magmatic intrusions, contributing to up to 10% of the overall deformation pattern during the 2002–2003 eruption. The study also identifies the Pernicana fault as having a very low apparent coefficient of friction (<0.1), influencing the volcano's kinematics. Additionally, medium heterogeneities were found to favor eastern flank movements and summit spreading, playing a crucial role in magma ascent. The model, which accounts for topography, crustal discontinuities, and material properties, aligns with GPS and seismological data but highlights discrepancies suggesting regional-tectonic influences, such as the Acireale–S. Alfio fault system.
City of Cuzco
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2011 —
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Research challenges the traditional notion of the 'lettered city,' revealing indigenous Andean notaries (escribanos de cabildo) as pivotal figures in colonial Cuzco's archival landscape. These native writers, who documented records in Spanish under Viceroy Francisco de Toledo's ordinances, acted as intermediaries between indigenous communities and Spanish colonial bureaucracy, often serving dual roles that could both support or undermine their communities' interests. The study examines the archives created by these notaries, suggesting a possible connection to quipucamayoc, who managed Andean quipu records. By analyzing evidence from the Cuzco region, the research redefines the 'lettered city' as an inclusive urban phenomenon that extends beyond elite Spaniards.
Papahānaumokuākea
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2011 —
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Despite the establishment of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (PMNM) as one of the world's largest no-take marine reserves, the endangered Hawaiian monk seal population within its boundaries is declining towards extinction. This study identifies high juvenile mortality in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands (NWHI) as the primary driver of this decline, contrasting with increasing populations in unprotected areas. While proposed interventions may temporarily stabilize subpopulations and preserve metapopulation structure, the long-term success hinges on understanding the underlying ecological factors causing the decline. The research highlights conflicting conservation objectives, emphasizing the need for adaptive management and ecosystem-level studies to address the paradox of declining monk seal populations within a protected marine reserve.
Ogasawara Islands
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2011 —
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A molecular examination of zoanthids (Anthozoa: Hexacorallia) and their symbiotic algae (Symbiodinium spp.) in the Ogasawara Islands reveals a lower diversity of zoanthid species (n=5) compared to similar latitudes, such as the Okinawa Islands. The study identified five species, including Zoanthus sansibaricus, Z. kuroshio, Palythoa tuberculosa, P. mutuki, and a potentially undescribed Palythoa species. Notably, while most specimens harbored clade C Symbiodinium, one Z. kuroshio specimen was associated with clade A, and no Z. sansibaricus colonies contained the expected C1z type zooxanthellae. The findings suggest that the Ogasawara Islands' marine fauna more closely resembles that of northern Izu Islands than other Indo-Pacific regions. This research combines in situ field observations with DNA sequencing and phylogenetic analyses to provide novel insights into the biodiversity and symbiosis patterns of oceanic islands.
Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes
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2011 —
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Submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) is identified as a significant source of mercury (Hg) and monomethylmercury (MMHg) in coastal embayments, contributing substantially to their mass budgets. In Hwasun Bay, SGD accounts for 34% of Hg and 55% of MMHg, while in Bangdu Bay, it dominates with 67% of Hg and 64% of MMHg. Atmospheric deposition also plays a notable role, particularly in Hwasun Bay (25% of Hg). The study highlights that SGD must be considered alongside atmospheric deposition and sediment diffusion as primary sources for Hg and MMHg mass budgets, despite spatial variations in discharge rates. This research employed preliminary mass balance estimates to quantify these contributions, underscoring the importance of SGD in coastal mercury cycling on volcanic islands.
Studenica Monastery
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2011 —
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A mathematical-geographical analysis of St. John’s Church at Studenica Monastery reveals that its orientation aligns with the sunrise on May 7th (Gregorian calendar) or April 30th (Julian calendar), dating back to the 13th century. This finding suggests a deliberate connection between the church's geometry and solar events, despite ecclesiastical rules not mandating such precision. The study employed a novel method combining gnomon measurements of the church’s longitudinal axis with cartometric determination of sunrise altitudes, enabling the identification of probable founding dates and the assessment of whether the structure was built on older foundations. This approach offers a template for analyzing medieval church orientations globally.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
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2011 —
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Aerosols at Great Smoky Mountains National Park exhibit distinct seasonal hydration behaviors, with summer aerosols overwhelmingly favoring the more hydrated state (12% showing dual states) while winter aerosols display a near-even split between hydrated and less hydrated states (49% with dual states). This discovery challenges assumptions about aerosol stability in climate and visibility models. Researchers used a tandem differential mobility analyzer (TDMA) to measure ambient hydration states, revealing that seasonal variations in particulate matter composition and relative humidity influence these patterns.
Durham Castle and Cathedral
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2011 —
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Medieval mortuary rolls, which document requests for prayers for the dead and responses from religious houses, reveal extensive travel networks in medieval England. Analysis of Durham Cathedral Priory's records shows that roll-bearers visited up to 637 houses during their journeys between the 12th and 15th centuries, providing a detailed snapshot of medieval mobility and religious practices. The study highlights the logistical scale of these pilgrimages and their significance in understanding both mortuary customs and long-distance travel in the late Middle Ages.
Arslantepe Mound
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2011 —
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A significant link between mid-Holocene climatic shifts and cultural transformations is revealed through archaeobotanical evidence from Mediterranean and North African regions. The study identifies three critical dry periods—c. 8200, 6000, and 4200 cal. yr BP—as pivotal moments for both environmental and cultural change. Using pollen and charcoal analyses from five key sites (Wadi Teshuinat in Libya, Benzù cave in Spain, La Vaquera Cave in Spain, Terramara di Montale in Italy, and Arslantepe in Turkey), researchers demonstrate that human activities, such as overexploitation of plant resources, exacerbated aridity during drying phases. These findings suggest that cultural adaptations, including shifts in land-use strategies, were both a response to and an amplifier of climatic stress. The Bronze Age period, in particular, appears to have had a profound impact on the environment, likely due to advancements in knowledge and complex land management practices.
Heritage of Mercury. Almadén and Idrija
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2011 —
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Researchers found that mercury emissions from contaminated soils near decommissioned mining sites vary significantly with distance, temperature, and solar radiation. The study, conducted at the Almadén mercury mining district in Spain, revealed that emissions decrease with distance from point sources but increase with higher soil temperatures and sunlight exposure. Soils with higher proportions of soluble mercury emitted more mercury than those dominated by cinnabar. Using laboratory flux measurements and dispersion models, the team estimated yearly mercury emissions from a former smelter at 16.4 kg per year, with seasonal variations showing larger plumes in warm, dry periods compared to colder, windier seasons. These findings highlight the dynamic nature of mercury emission from contaminated soils and underscore the importance of environmental factors in dispersion modeling.
Dilmun Burial Mounds
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2011 —
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A distinct two-phase pattern of Mesopotamian ceramic imports and local emulations, spanning c.2250–1750 BC, has been identified at the Dilmun burial mounds of Bahrain. The first phase, characterized by a specific vessel type exclusive to pre-Dilmun 'state' Early Type mounds, is linked to Mesopotamia's late third-millennium Magan trade network, serving as a key fossil directeur for this period. The second phase, found in compact cemeteries coinciding with Dilmun's peak, reflects the contracted Isin-Larsa network of Dilmun trade. This study reconstructs trade dynamics and political interactions between Mesopotamia and the 'Lower Sea' populations through ceramic distribution analysis.
Great Barrier Reef
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2011 —
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A metagenomic analysis of the coral holobiont during a natural bleaching event on the Great Barrier Reef revealed significant shifts in microbial communities associated with the hard coral <em>Acropora millepora</em>. These shifts included changes in Bacteria, Archaea, viruses, Fungi, and micro-algae, with the microbial metabolism transitioning from autotrophy to heterotrophy. The study also found an increase in virulence genes in bleached corals, suggesting a higher prevalence of pathogenic microorganisms following thermal stress. This research highlights the complex interplay between coral health and its associated microbial communities during heat stress events.
Lake Baikal
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2011 —
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Methane hydrates, typically found in marine sediments, have been discovered in the freshwater sediments of Lake Baikal, the world's largest freshwater basin. A study by Kadnikov et al. (2011) reveals that these hydrates are biologically formed, with microbial communities playing a significant role. The research used pyrosequencing of 16S rRNA genes to analyze microbial communities in the water column and sediments at a hydrate-bearing site. Aerobic methanotrophic bacteria dominated the lake floor water sample, while shallow sediments were rich in Archaea, particularly methanogens from Methanomicrobiales and Methanosarcinales orders. Deeper sediments near the hydrate were predominantly Bacteria, including Chloroflexi, candidate division JS1, and Caldiserica. The study suggests that methane hydrates in Lake Baikal are formed through methanogenesis rather than anaerobic oxidation of methane.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
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2011 —
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Research reveals that geothermal steam vents, or fumaroles, harbor diverse and novel microbial lineages, including previously unknown ammonia-oxidizing Archaea. The study, conducted across Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Yellowstone National Park, and Lassen Volcanic National Park, developed innovative DNA isolation techniques to analyze microbial communities in these extreme environments. Fumarole deposits were classified as nonsulfur, sulfur, or iron-dominated based on X-ray microanalysis. While sulfur-dominated vents were dominated by Sulfolobus and Acidianus, nonsulfur deposits contained mainly unknown Crenarchaeota, suggesting fumaroles as a potential habitat for ammonia-oxidizing Archaea. The study also successfully enriched and isolated members of the Sulfolobales, providing the first evidence of Archaea in geothermal steam deposits.
Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island
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2011 —
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A microsporidian parasite, likely indigenous to Amami Oshima Island, was identified as the cause of infection in cultured Ryukyu ayu (Plecoglossus altivelis ryukyuensis). The parasite formed cysts on visceral organs and skin, with its prevalence peaking between April and August, correlating with high temperatures. Molecular analysis confirmed the parasite belonged to the genus <em>Glugea</em>, though its specific identity remains unresolved. This finding mirrors glugeosis in other Japanese ayu populations, suggesting a shared but distinct pathogen. The study also detected the parasite in museum specimens from 1991, indicating long-term presence on the island.
Rio de Janeiro: Carioca Landscapes between the Mountain and the Sea
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2011 —
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Mobile phone use in Rio de Janeiro's favelas reveals subversive tactics shaped by cyclic power dynamics between high- and low-income populations. Residents navigate economic barriers through illegal or creative means, highlighting how technology adoption in marginalized communities transcends simple access issues. The study suggests future research should focus on the nuanced relationship between people and technology rather than binary access frameworks.
The Causses and the Cévennes, Mediterranean agro-pastoral Cultural Landscape
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2011 —
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A pioneering interdisciplinary study on the Causse Méjean, part of France's UNESCO-listed Causses and Cévennes landscape, reveals how shrubland vegetation dynamics are shaped by complex interactions between biophysical and social systems. The research demonstrates that vegetation progression can be effectively modeled by harmonizing and analyzing heterogeneous spatio-temporal data—ranging from environmental conditions to historical land use practices and social representations. Using advanced statistical techniques like Principal Component Analysis (PCA) for vegetation description and canonical correlation analysis, the study identified key factors influencing shrubland expansion. This approach not only advances our understanding of agro-pastoral landscapes but also provides a framework for modeling similar systems worldwide, bridging gaps between ecological and socio-economic dimensions.
Alto Douro Wine Region
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2011 —
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Climate change is projected to increase wine production in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Alto Douro Wine Region, Portugal. A study published in 2011 found that future climate scenarios (A2 and B2) for 2071–2100 suggest higher yields due to warmer late spring and early summer conditions combined with reduced winter precipitation. Researchers developed robust linear regression models using climate variables—such as temperature, thermal amplitude, and precipitation—to predict wine production at key stages of the vine vegetative cycle (March and July). These models explained 90% of variance in mid-season predictions, highlighting climate's pivotal role. Notably, production increased between 1956–1985 and 1986–2006 due to shifting precipitation patterns, though CO₂ effects were not accounted for. The early-season model offers timely forecasts post-dormancy, while the mid-season model relies solely on meteorological data, underscoring climate's dominance in wine productivity.
Historic Centre of Mexico City and Xochimilco
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2011 —
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A social and environmental intervention model, tested through surveys in two neighborhoods of Xochimilco between 2007 and 2008, revealed limited effectiveness in addressing pollution from garbage and sewage in the canals. The study found that despite efforts like the 'No More Garbage' program, contamination persisted due to irregular settlements in the chinampa zone. The research proposes an alternative approach centered on environmental education, emphasizing the link between socio-environmental problems and quality of life. This strategy aims to engage communities more effectively by framing pollution as a threat to their well-being, potentially leading to more sustainable solutions.
Lakes of Ounianga
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2011 —
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A rich early Holocene mollusc fauna, including a new species (Gabbiella ouniangaensis), was discovered at the Ounianga lakes in northern Chad, suggesting these lakes were hydrologically isolated during that period. The modern mollusc community is impoverished and likely resulted from recent colonization events after the eradication of the early Holocene fauna due to high salinity or desiccation. The study analyzed fossil molluscs from diatomaceous limestone outcrops at Ounianga Serir, comparing them with other Saharan lake sites to infer past hydrological conditions in the central Sahara.
Mathildenhöhe Darmstadt
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2011 —
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Richard Wagner's influence on European modernism, particularly through his concept of the Gesamtkunstwerk (a comprehensive artwork), is explored in Juliet Koss’s 'Modernism after Wagner.' The study reveals that Wagner's ideas significantly shaped artistic practices and discourses among diverse figures, from renowned architect Peter Behrens to lesser-known critic Georg Fuchs, spanning approximately 40 years post-Wagner's death. Koss’s work analyzes a series of 'episodes' in German aesthetic discourse and practice, including the founding of the Darmstadt Artists’ Colony, early cinema, advertising, and the Bayreuth Festival, among others. While some chapters are previously published and strong, others, particularly those focusing on Wagner and Nietzsche, are weaker. The study provides valuable insights into how Wagner's legacy influenced various artistic movements, though its coherence as a whole is debated.
Mogao Caves
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2011 —
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A year-long study of the Mogao Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Dunhuang, China, revealed significant seasonal and spatial variations in airborne fungal communities. The research identified 11 dominant fungal genera, with <em>Cladosporium</em> being the most prevalent, followed by <em>Fusarium</em>, <em>Penicillium</em>, <em>Alternaria</em>, and <em>Aspergillus</em>. Fungal abundance and diversity were strongly influenced by environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and visitor activity. The study used molecular techniques—specifically ITS sequencing—to analyze samples collected monthly from four distinct cave environments (open, semi-open, closed, and entrance) between 2008 and 2009. Findings highlight the dynamic interplay between microclimate, human presence, and fungal ecology in this culturally significant but ecologically sensitive site.
Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi
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2011 —
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A recently documented hilltop Buddhist complex, Mawasa, located near the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sanchi in Madhya Pradesh, India, offers significant insights into early Buddhist monasticism and architecture. The site, part of the Sanchi Survey Project, includes well-preserved structures such as a stūpa, an early Brahmi donative inscription, and platformed monasteries with detailed internal features, all dating to Phase II (c. 2nd - 1st century BC). These findings challenge existing chronologies and shed light on the nature of patronage during this formative period of Buddhist propagation. Additionally, an enigmatic structure at Mawasa may represent a hitherto unstudied early temple form, potentially redefining our understanding of temple architecture in ancient India.
Jodrell Bank Observatory
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2011 —
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A strong correlation between scattering and dispersion measure variations was observed during the long-term monitoring of giant radio pulses from the Crab Nebula pulsar (PSR B0531+21) at low frequencies (44, 63, and 111 MHz). Three distinct increases in scattering were recorded between 2002 and 2010, with the scattering index γ deviating from expected values (γ = 4.0 for Gaussian and γ = 4.4 for Kolmogorov distributions) during these periods. This anomaly suggests the presence of dense plasma structures with developed Langmuir turbulence along the pulsar’s line of sight. The magnetic field in the Crab Nebula was estimated at 100 µG using rotation measure measurements. Observations were conducted using the LPA and DKR-1000 radio telescopes, with data analyzed via specialized software modeling pulse propagation.
Central Sikhote-Alin
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2011 —
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A new geochronological framework for the monzonitoid rocks of the Kavalerovo ore district (Primorye, Russia) reveals that these intrusions formed between 113 and 98 million years ago, with volcanic facies extending this range to 115–95 Ma. This suggests a single magmatic complex origin, contradicting prior classifications that grouped these rocks as monzonitic or trachyandesite-monzonitic associations. Using amphibole and biotite K-Ar dating alongside Rb-Sr whole-rock and mineral analyses, researchers found no significant age differences between compositionally similar intrusions, implying shared genetic processes. The study also links the region's geodynamic evolution to the initiation of the Sikhote-Alin subduction volcanic belt, with key constraints at 90–92 Ma. Geochemical variations among intrusive bodies are attributed to melt evolution in intermediate or crystallization chambers.
Niokolo-Koba National Park
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2011 —
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Research in Niokolo-Koba National Park, Senegal, reveals that two morphologically uniform bat species, Hipposideros aff. ruber, exhibit high mitochondrial genetic diversity despite their similar appearance. Phylogenetic analysis using cytochrome b gene sequences indicates a paraphyletic relationship between the two forms, with one forming a monophyletic group with bats from Benin. While slight morphological differences were detected through skull measurements, sympatric occurrence and genetic divergence suggest these forms may represent cryptic species. However, further investigation into nuclear gene flow is required to confirm reproductive isolation.
Cocos Island National Park
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2011 —
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A new species of shallow-water gorgonian coral, Leptogorgia tricorata, has been discovered at Cocos Island National Park, Costa Rica. This species is distinguished by its unique branching pattern, small size, bright yellow coloration, elongated spindles (up to 0.2 mm), and the presence of tentacular rods. Found at depths of 14–22 meters on rocky islets, L. tricorata represents a rare addition to the shallow-water gorgoniid diversity in the region, with only three species currently documented in the area. The discovery was made through morphological and taxonomic analysis, comparing the new species with other Leptogorgia species reported from the eastern Pacific. This finding contributes to our understanding of marine biodiversity in Cocos Island National Park.
Namib Sand Sea
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2011 —
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A morphometric analysis of aeolian bedforms in the Namib Sand Sea, leveraging the ASTER Global Digital Elevation Model (GDEM), reveals that relationships between dune height, spacing, and equivalent sand thickness are broadly consistent with prior field-based studies. Despite the 30-meter spatial resolution of GDEM data, which underestimates dune height due to crest smoothing and omits smaller dunes, the study confirms established patterns while adding finer details. The research highlights the utility of GDEM for large-scale morphometric analysis, offering new insights into the dynamics of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Nan Madol: Ceremonial Centre of Eastern Micronesia
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2011 —
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Archaeological research at Nan Madol, Pohnpei, reveals that mortuary practices reflect a stratified hierarchical social structure consistent with traditional histories. The study interprets burial contexts as indicators of ascribed status within a complex society, providing new insights into the organization and dynamics of Eastern Micronesian communities. By analyzing multiple lines of evidence, this work contributes to the understanding of mortuary traditions in Micronesia and establishes a baseline for future research on Pohnpeian burial practices.
Wooden Churches of the Slovak part of the Carpathian Mountain Area
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2011 —
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This study reveals that the Last Judgment iconography in the Carpathian Mountains and the illuminated Apocalypses of the Russian North represent unique cultural and religious expressions shaped by eschatological imagery. The research demonstrates that these traditions, while influenced by multiple cultural and religious sources, developed distinct characteristics that cannot be reduced to borrowed motifs. The study employs a comparative analysis of visual and textual sources from the 15th–19th centuries, tracing the evolution of Last Judgment themes in the Carpathians and the enduring eschatological beliefs among Old Believers in the Russian North. It highlights the significance of these visual materials as keys to understanding medieval religious culture, including political theology and popular demonology.
Timgad
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2011 —
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Carved game boards in Roman public spaces, particularly in the Forum Romanum and Timgad's forum, reveal how users strategically manipulated and redefined these areas through movement and visibility. The study distinguishes between games of skill and chance, analyzing their spatial distribution to highlight their connection with pedestrian traffic and social interaction. By comparing locations across two iconic fora, it underscores gaming as a dynamic element in the negotiation of public space, blending cultural interpretation with spatial analysis.
Melaka and George Town, Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca
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2011 —
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Malaysia's heritage narrative, particularly for its UNESCO-listed historic cities of Melaka and George Town, reflects a strategic blend of multiculturalism, cosmopolitanism, and nationalism. The study reveals how the country's Vision 2020 policy leverages these values to promote modernization while preserving cultural diversity. By analyzing the inscription process in 2008, researchers demonstrate that heritage construction involves tangible and intangible elements from Malaysia's three major ethnic groups—Malays, Chinese, and Indians—reinforcing its 'Rainbow Nation' identity. The study highlights the collaborative agency of civil society, government officials, and international experts in mobilizing these values, illustrating a dynamic interplay between nationalism, multiculturalism, and global cosmopolitan ideals.
Ancient Building Complex in the Wudang Mountains
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2011 —
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A Triassic tectono-metamorphic event in the Qinling Mountains, characterized by high- and ultra-high-pressure conditions, was strongly influenced by syn- and post-tectonic magmatic activity. This event occurred due to the subduction of the Yangtze craton beneath the amalgamated Qinling-Erlangping-Sino-Korean continent, as indicated by thermobarometry and geochronology. The study also refutes the existence of a Late Palaeozoic Mianlüe ocean and its associated suture, based on new U/Pb zircon ages from mafic rocks. Research utilized petrological investigations, thermodynamic modeling, and geochronological techniques to constrain metamorphic conditions and timing across various tectono-metamorphic units in the Qinling orogen.
Kasbah of Algiers
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2011 —
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Muslim Reformist Networks in the City of Algiers, 1931–1940 reveals that the Association of Algerian Muslim ‘Ulamā (AUMA) underwent significant evolution during its early years. Initially focused on promoting an Arab and Islamic Algerian identity through mosques, schools, clubs, and charitable organizations, AUMA shifted its geographical presence from the Kasbah to the European area of Belcourt in the 1930s. This transition was accompanied by a shift in membership, moving away from the old Muslim establishment toward new social classes. Politically, AUMA's religious and cultural reformism gradually gave way to a more radical nationalist agenda. The study highlights the dynamic nature of this network, which constantly adapted while maintaining its influence on Algerian society.
Angkor
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2011 —
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Researchers have discovered that Mycobacterium species isolated from the deteriorating sandstones of Angkor monuments in Cambodia exhibit remarkable metabolic versatility. These bacteria can grow both by oxidizing elemental sulfur (chemolithoautotrophically) and by consuming organic substances (chemoorganoheterotrophically). The study, involving five strains closely related to Mycobacterium cosmeticum and Mycobacterium pallens, focused on strain THI503, which demonstrated a significant decrease in medium pH during sulfur oxidation, confirming its role in energy metabolism. Fluorescence microscopy revealed that these bacteria adhere to and proliferate on sulfur particles, highlighting their adaptability in nutrient-limited sandstone environments. This dual metabolic capability suggests a potential mechanism for microbial contribution to stone deterioration.
Pythagoreion and Heraion of Samos
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2011 —
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A systematic classification of ancient fastening elements, including nails, rivets, pins, and other metal components, reveals that their production methods—casting, forging, or a combination—mirror modern techniques. These elements, found in the Temple of Hera at Samos (Greece), were not only practical but also held significant symbolic value as temple offerings and magical instruments. The study, based on metallurgical analyses of artifacts from the Archaeological Museum in Vathy, provides insights into ancient construction practices while noting challenges in verifying their usage due to the reuse of components over time.
Costiera Amalfitana
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2011 —
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A decade after its implementation, the 'Metrò del Mare' sea transport service in Campania has proven effective in reducing road congestion and environmental pollution while enhancing tourist accessibility to UNESCO-listed coastal sites. This study evaluates the service's impact on traffic mitigation along congested routes like the A3 highway and coastal roads, demonstrating its potential as an alternative to private vehicle use. By analyzing expanded service offerings—including more destinations and route types—the research highlights its role in sustainable tourism, offering insights into integrated public transport solutions for high-traffic coastal regions.
Mont-Saint-Michel and its Bay
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2011 —
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Local management of shellfish farming in Mont-Saint-Michel Bay, France, has successfully prevented overexploitation but fails to align with national policy goals for economic equity and public revenue. The study reveals discrepancies between national objectives—aimed at sustainable marine resource use—and local outcomes, driven by institutional arrangements that overlook conflicting interests, information asymmetries, and unequal bargaining power. While mussel and oyster industries perform well environmentally, socioeconomic results such as rent distribution and job retention fall short of policy expectations. This suggests that the national regulatory framework did not adequately account for these factors, which, combined with opaque transferable use rights, shape local management processes.
Paris, Banks of the Seine
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2011 —
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River bank filtration and artificial recharge significantly reduce the variety of organic contaminants, including drugs, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, pesticides, oestrogenic hormones, and others, found in Seine river water downstream of Paris. However, while these processes decrease the presence of many pollutants, they can inadvertently increase nonylphenols due to the anaerobic degradation of their precursors. Despite treatment, traces of aspirin, nonylphenols, and stimulants were occasionally detected in finished drinking water above 0.1 μg/L. The study monitored over 80 contaminants across five sampling campaigns at various stages of water treatment, including river water, bank filtration, artificial recharge, and post-treatment mixtures.
Wet Tropics of Queensland
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2011 —
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A seven-year field study of the common tree snake, Dendrelaphis punctulatus, in north Queensland's Wet Tropics revealed strong seasonal reproduction tied to the dry-to-wet season transition, with clutch size linked to maternal body size. Unlike previous research relying on museum specimens, this study provided detailed observations of a melanotic population, showing diurnal activity peaking during reproduction and a diet primarily consisting of frogs, lizards, and locusts. Females were significantly larger than males in all measured traits, including mass and head size.
Brasilia
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2011 —
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A long-term equilibrium between eucalypt and native Cerrado species is predicted to emerge after 50 years of natural reforestation in abandoned eucalypt plantations within the Brasilia National Forest, with eucalypts dominating. Field observations indicate that eucalypt species pose no significant threat to adjacent undisturbed Cerrado areas, likely due to the inhibitory effects of native grasses on the dispersal and germination of eucalypt seeds. This conclusion was reached through a discrete event simulation model based on census data from both plantation and native Cerrado areas.
Galápagos Islands
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2011 —
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The Galápagos Islands, renowned as an 'evolutionary Eden' and a symbol of pristine nature, are not inherently natural but are socially constructed concepts that shape tourism and infrastructure development. This study reveals how the perception of pristine nature in the Galápagos has led to uneven social outcomes and environmental impacts, despite its UNESCO World Heritage status. By analyzing the material and political effects of these understandings, researchers demonstrate that the crisis of overdevelopment stems from the idealization of untouched landscapes rather than ecological realities. The paper argues for a rethinking of the islands' nature, emphasizing the need to address the complexity of social-environmental relations to mitigate ongoing challenges.
Galápagos Islands
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2011 —
WHEC58F739ECB
The Galápagos Islands, renowned as an 'evolutionary Eden,' are often perceived as a bastion of pristine nature. However, research reveals that the concept of 'pristine' nature is not innate but socially constructed, reflecting specific understandings of island space. This study demonstrates how such perceptions shape tourism and infrastructure investments, leading to social inequalities and environmental harm. It argues for a reevaluation of the islands' nature, emphasizing the complexity of social-environmental relations. Measures addressing the current crisis would benefit from this critical perspective.
Ningaloo Coast
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2011 —
WHEDBD333A71C
Wave breaking is the dominant force driving circulation in Ningaloo Reef's fringing system, overwhelming tidal and wind influences. A six-week field study revealed that wave-driven currents shape cross-reef and alongshore flows, with flushing times ranging from hours to days depending on wave conditions. Tides modulate high-frequency current variability but play a secondary role compared to waves. The findings suggest Ningaloo Reef's circulation is highly sensitive to sea level rise, with potential impacts on its ecological dynamics.
Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks
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2011 —
WHE51E2627618
A high-intensity crown fire in Kootenay National Park, British Columbia, resulted in negligible soil erosion (10–1 to 100 t ha⁻¹) in the immediate post-wildfire years, contrary to documented trends. The study attributes this to remnant duff—a layer of decomposed organic material—that persisted after the fire. Duff acts as a hydrological buffer, absorbing rainfall and preventing overland flow, while also physically protecting soil from erosion. Using the Green–Ampt model, researchers demonstrated that duff's high porosity and water storage capacity effectively mitigate erosional impacts during rainstorms. This finding challenges assumptions about post-wildfire erosion dynamics in subalpine forests and underscores the role of organic layers in stabilizing watersheds.
