Browsing by Issue Date, starting with "2024-03"
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- Circles of coastal sustainability and emerald growth perspectives for transitional waters under human stressPublication . Povilanskas, Ramūnas; Jurkienė, Aistė; Dailidienė, Inga; Ernšteins, Raimonds; Newton, Alice; Leyva Ollivier, María EstherEmerald Growth is an overarching sustainable development framework for transitional waters situated between rivers and open sea. The emphasis on connectivity and ecosystem-based management as the underlying principles differentiates Emerald Growth from conventional approaches to managing transitional waters. The study's primary objective was to conjoin the Emerald Growth concept with the Coastal Circles of Sustainability methodology, an analytical framework to assess indicators of critical processes determining the sustainability of the coastal zone. We hypothesized that applying the CCS is an apt approach to categorizing the Emerald Growth's aspects using Lake Liepaja, a fresh-to-brackish water lagoon on Latvia's Baltic Sea coast, as a case study. Based on the document scoping findings on Lake Liepaja's hydrology, ecology, biodiversity, nature conservation, and management, we addressed the knowledge gaps through the field survey, 4 workshops, and 18 in-depth semi-structured interviews with local stakeholders. The research results show that the challenging socio-economic situation is a crucial obstacle to Emerald Growth in the Lake Liepaja area. Subsistence salary and Housing affordability (Economic Welfare aspect), Population growth and Aging population (Demographic aspect), and Traditional practices (Identity aspect) received the lowest sustainability score (Bad). The results imply that considering the Emerald Growth conditions and drivers for transitional waters worldwide, finding a 'one-fits-all' recipe to ensure their sustainability is impossible. The decision-makers, stakeholders, and external experts agreed that for Lake Liepaja, the priority was to bring back to nature part of the polder system, clean the bottom sediments from Soviet-era pollutants, and enhance the transboundary cooperation with Lithuania. These measures would set the right conditions for future Emerald Growth in the area.
- Toxicity and hepatoprotective effects of ZnO nanoparticles on normal and high-fat diet-fed rat livers: mechanism of actionPublication . Mirzaei, Fatemeh; Abbasi, Ebrahim; Mirzaei, Amir; Hosseini, Nashmin Fayazi; Naseri, Nima; Khodadadi, Iraj; Jalili, Cyrus; MAJDOUB, NesrineThis experiment aimed to evaluate the beneficial and toxic properties of synthetic zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) on the liver of normal and high-fat diet (HFD) fed-rats. The ZnO NPs were synthesized and, its characterizations were determined by different techniques. Effect of ZnO NP on cell viability, liver enzymes and lipid accumulation were measured in HepG2 cells after 24 h. After that, rats orally received various dosages of ZnO NPs for period of 4 weeks. Toxicity tests were done to determine the appropriate dose. In the subsequent step, the hepatoprotective effects of 5 mg/kg ZnO NPs were determined in HFD-fed rats (experiment 2). The oxidative stress, NLRP3 inflammasome, inflammatory, and apoptosis pathways were measured. Additionally, the activity of caspase 3, nitric oxide levels, antioxidant capacity, and various biochemical factors were measured. Morphological changes in the rat livers were also evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin (H & E) and Masson trichrome. Liver apoptosis rate was also approved by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay. Treatment of animals with 5 mg/ZnO NPs revealed potential hepatoprotective properties, while ZnO NPs at the doses of above 10 mg/kg showed toxic effects. Antioxidant enzyme gene expression and activity were significantly augmented, while apoptosis, NLRP3 inflammasome, and inflammation pathways were significantly reduced by 5 mg/kg ZnO NPs. Liver histopathological alterations were restored by 5 mg/kg ZnO NPs in HFD. Our study highlights the hepatoprotective effects of ZnO NPs against the HFD-induced liver damage, involving antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic pathways, indicating their promising therapeutic potential.
- Inclusion complexes of cucurbit[n]urils (n = 7, 8) with η5 -cyclopentadienyl methyl tricarbonyl molybdenum(II) and their use in epoxidation catalysisPublication . Neves, Patrícia; Gomes, Ana C.; Monteiro, Rodrigo P.; Santos, Mirela J.; Valente, Anabela A.; D. Lopes, André; Gonçalves, Isabel S.; Pillinger, MartynThere are very few known examples of supramolecular compounds comprising molybdenum species hosted inside the portals/cavities of cucurbit[n]urils (CBn). In this work, CB7 and CB8 macrocycles have been studied as hosts for the carbonyl complex [CpMo(CO)(3)Me] (1) (Cp = eta(5)-C5H5). Compounds were isolated in the solid state and characterized as genuine 1:1 inclusion complexes (1@CBn) by elemental and thermogravimetric analyses, powder X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, C-13{H-1} cross-polarization magic-angle spinning NMR, FT-IR, Raman, and diffuse reflectance UV-Vis spectroscopies. The host-guest structures can act as supramolecular precatalysts for olefin epoxidation. Based on the model reaction of cis-cyclooctene with hydroperoxide oxidants (tert-butylhydroperoxide or hydrogen peroxide), the structural features of 1@CBn as well as the operating conditions influence the catalytic process. The metal species in 1@CBn undergo oxidative decarbonylation in situ, giving oxidized metal species that are catalytically active for olefin epoxidation. The type of oxidant and solvent influences the catalytic activity and stability. 1@CB8 was more stable than 1@CB7 with regard to catalyst recycling and reuse. Based on the substrate scope investigation, for relatively large olefins, such as the fatty acid methyl ester methyl oleate, the size of the macrocyclic host may be a determining factor for catalytic activity.
- The biogeography of our evolutionary history Jonathan Kingdon origin Africa: safaris in deep time London: William Collins. 2023Publication . Bobe, RenéAs a species, Homo sapiens is a palimpsest of adaptations that evolved in our ancestors in response to specific challenges in ancient environments. In this view, those ancient environments are written in our anatomy, physiology, behavior, and genes. For many millions of years, the environments of our evolution have been primarily African, and thus the environments of our African ancestors have become part of us. In his latest book, Origin Africa, Jonathan Kingdon takes us through safaris in deep time that explore and illustrate the environments, geology, and evolution of Africa over many millions of years.
- Development of a management-based ranking of beachesPublication . Oliveira, Elaine; Newton, Alice; Botero, Camilo M.Beach rankings are very frequent on the internet; however, the information provided on how these rankings are made is often unclear and their content is mostly subjective. In addition, the vast majority of these rankings do not take into account the fact that beaches are coastal eco-systems. The aim of the research was to develop an objective framework to rank the quality of beaches worldwide. The framework integrates indicators to assess the socio-ecological system quality and can be used as a basis for effective beach management. The methodology involved the collection, evaluation and grouping of indicators into domains and categories. Moreover, a measurement technique and a 5-point rating score for each indicator was used. Weights were calculated for different beach types using an analytical hierarchical process and the methodology was validated by a focus group of beach management experts. The quality value of each beach was calculated through equations and the results were presented in graphs inspired by the Circles of Sustainability and the Ocean Health Index. The theoretical application was tested on Portuguese beaches. The framework presents a holistic assessment of four domains: Recreation, Protection, Conservation and Sanitary. The resulting Beach Ranking Framework (BRF) is an objective, holistic framework designed to communicate with society, unlike the existing beach quality assessments.
- Microplastic leachates inhibit small-scale self-organization in mussel bedsPublication . Zardi, Gerardo I; Nicastro, Katy R; Truong, Stéphanie Lau; Decorse, Philippe; Nozak, Sophie; Chevillot-Biraud, Alexandre; Froneman, Pierre William; Akoueson, Fleurine; Duflos, Guillaume; Seuront, LaurentSelf-organized spatial patterns are increasingly recognized for their contribution to ecosystem functioning. They can improve the ecosystem's ability to respond to perturbation and thus increase its resilience to environmental stress. Plastic pollution has now emerged as major threat to aquatic and terrestrial biota. Under laboratory conditions, we tested whether plastic leachates from pellets collected in the intertidal can impair small-scale, spatial self-organization and byssal threads production of intertidal mussels and whether the effect varied depending on where the pellets come from. Specifically, leachates originating from plastic pellets collected from relatively pristine and polluted areas respectively impaired and inhibited the ability of mussels to self-organize at small-scale and to produce byssal threads compared to control conditions (i.e., seawater without leaching solution). Limitations to natural self-organizing processes and threads formation may translate to a declined capacity of natural ecosystems to avoid tipping points and to a reduced restoration success of disturbed ecosystems.
- Lessons learned from reconstructing advanced osteoradionecrosis with free vascularized flaps: a retrospective studyPublication . Lanzaro, Larissa; Caixeiro, Leonor; Chaves, Carolina; Morgado, Bruno; Pinto, Cristina; Zenha, Horácio; Costa, HorácioBackgroundAt present, there is no universally accepted standard of care for osteoradionecrosis (ORN), and comprehensive clinical guidelines remain absent. The primary objective of this study is to offer insights into the effectiveness and safety of microvascular reconstruction approach in patients with ORN.MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on all patients who underwent free flap reconstruction following a diagnosis of ORN by the senior author, from 2005 to 2022. Data regarding the patient's demographics, comorbidities, previous treatments, ORN classification, postoperative complications, and therapeutic outcome were collected.ResultsFifty-three free flaps were carried out in a cohort of 48 patients. One maxilla ORN and 42 mandible ORN were treated. The most common flap chosen was free fibula flap. The only risk factor that was statistically significant for major complications was previous neck dissection. Concerning complications after discharge, 41 patients had follow-up with an average follow-up duration of 60 months. Exposure of osteosynthesis material and fistula were the most common long-term complications that required return to the OR. Only 11.36% had recurrence of ORN.ConclusionsThe iliac crest flap represents a valuable option for mandible reconstruction. However, this preference does not extend to ORN; fibula flap remains the optimal choice. It is worth noting that flap and complication rates are notably higher in ORN. Patients with a history of neck dissection are at a heightened risk of complications. Our study demonstrates a reassuring outcome as ORN recurrence occurred approximately in only one out of eight patients.Level of evidence: Level IV, risk/prognostic.ConclusionsThe iliac crest flap represents a valuable option for mandible reconstruction. However, this preference does not extend to ORN; fibula flap remains the optimal choice. It is worth noting that flap and complication rates are notably higher in ORN. Patients with a history of neck dissection are at a heightened risk of complications. Our study demonstrates a reassuring outcome as ORN recurrence occurred approximately in only one out of eight patients.Level of evidence: Level IV, risk/prognostic.
- Worldwide forest surveys reveal forty-three new species in Phytophthora major Clade 2 with fundamental implications for the evolution and biogeography of the genus and global plant biosecurityPublication . Jung, T.; Milenković, I.; Balci, Y.; Janoušek, J.; Kudláček, T.; Nagy, Z. Á.; Baharuddin, B.; Bakonyi, J.; Broders, K. D.; Cacciola, S. O.; Chang, T.-T.; Chi, N. M.; Corcobado, T.; Cravador, Alfredo; Đorđević, B.; Durán, A.; Ferreira, M.; Fu, C.- H.; Garcia, L.; Hieno, A.; Ho, H.- H.; Hong, C.; Junaid, M.; Kageyama, K.; Kuswinanti, T.; Maia, Cristiana; Májek, T.; Masuya, H.; Magnano di San Lio, G.; Mendieta-Araica, B.; Nasri, N.; Oliveira, L. S. S.; Pane, A.; Pérez-Sierra, A.; Rosmana, A.; Sanfuentes von Stowasser, E.; Scanu, B.; Singh, R.; Stanivuković, Z.; Tarigan, M.; Thu, P. Q.; Tomić, Z.; Tomšovský, M.; Uematsu, S.; Webber, J. F.; Zheng, H.- C.; Zheng, F.- C.; Brasier, C. M.; Horta Jung, M.During 25 surveys of global Phytophthora diversity, conducted between 1998 and 2020, 43 new species were detected in natural ecosystems and, occasionally, in nurseries and outplantings in Europe, Southeast and East Asia and the Americas. Based on a multigene phylogeny of nine nuclear and four mitochondrial gene regions they were assigned to five of the six known subclades, 2a-c, e and f, of Phytophthora major Clade 2 and the new subclade 2g. The evolutionary history of the Clade appears to have involved the pre-Gondwanan divergence of three extant subclades, 2c, 2e and 2f, all having disjunct natural distributions on separate continents and comprising species with a soilborne and aquatic lifestyle and, in addition, a few partially aerial species in Clade 2c; and the post-Gondwanan evolution of subclades 2a and 2g in Southeast/East Asia and 2b in South America, respectively, from their common ancestor. Species in Clade 2g are soilborne whereas Clade 2b comprises both soil-inhabiting and aerial species. Clade 2a has evolved further towards an aerial lifestyle comprising only species which are predominantly or partially airborne. Based on high nuclear heterozygosity levels ca. 38 % of the taxa in Clades 2a and 2b could be some form of hybrid, and the hybridity may be favoured by an A1/A2 breeding system and an aerial life style. Circumstantial evidence suggests the now 93 described species and informally designated taxa in Clade 2 result from both allopatric non-adaptive and sympatric adaptive radiations. They represent most morphological and physiological characters, breeding systems, lifestyles and forms of host specialism found across the Phytophthora clades as a whole, demonstrating the strong biological cohesiveness of the genus. The finding of 43 previously unknown species from a single Phytophthora clade highlight a critical lack of information on the scale of the unknown pathogen threats to forests and natural ecosystems, underlining the risk of basing plant biosecurity protocols mainly on lists of named organisms. More surveys in natural ecosystems of yet unsurveyed regions in Africa, Asia, Central and South America are needed to unveil the full diversity of the clade and the factors driving diversity, speciation and adaptation in Phytophthora.
- “Milhos aferventados” from the Algarve (Portugal): An historical, culinary, and biochemical interdisciplinary approach on a regional dishPublication . Cabral, Óscar; Galego, LudovinaThis article is a result of an interdisciplinary, mixed-methods effort to understand the context of "milhos aferventados" dish (nixtamalized maize meal stew), found in the "barrocal" and mountains area, from the Algarve, the most southern continental region of Portugal. "Milhos aferventados", a two-stepped preparation dish, makes use of a nixtamalization technique, singular in the overall context of the Continental Portuguese gastronomic scene: maize is firstly nixtamalized and then it would be stewed with salt-cured/smoked pork meats and vegetable products. Nixtamalization, a classic Mesoamerican technique used to increase the bioavailability of maize nutrients and to soften maize's kernel pericarp, is popularly used in the region to remove kernel's tip cap ("olho preto" [black eye]) avoiding culinary unpleasant texture on the final dish. This work is a result of an historical, culinary, and biochemical structured, triangulated approach to the dish, exploring the introduction of Zea mays L., the culinary aspects, and the cultural/biochemical reasons behind the use of this technique. Regarding the reasons that justify the culinary use of nixtamalization, hypothesis for further research are raised. However, evidence of non-dissemination of pellagra disease was found in the region in the early 20th century, unlike what was happening in other regions of Portugal where maize was eaten without nixtamalization, and pellagra was disseminating. Besides, the popular preference for fig tree ashes in this specific nixtamalization process was also studied. We found that pH of fig tree ash (12.63 +/- 0.02) and the ion calcium content (75.19 +/- 0.06ppm) were higher than, e.g., the carob tree ash (12.35 +/- 0.03 and 55.31 +/- 0.04ppm respectively), an alike available wood in the region, but only calcium ion present a significant difference, allowing the destruction of the maize pericarp, being the reason behind the usage of this technique.
- Does heat tolerance actually predict animals' geographic thermal limits?Publication . Camacho, Agustín; Rodrigues, Miguel Trefaut; Jayyusi, Refat; Harun, Mohamed; Geraci, Marco; Carretero, Miguel A.; Vinagre, Catarina; Tejedo, MiguelThe "climate extremes hypothesis" is a major assumption of geographic studies of heat tolerance and climatic vulnerability. However, this assumption remains vastly untested across taxa, and multiple factors may contribute to uncoupling heat tolerance estimates and geographic limits. Our dataset includes 1000 entries of heat tolerance data and maximum temperatures for each species' known geographic limits (hereafter, Tmax). We gathered this information across major animal taxa, including marine fish, terrestrial arthropods, amphibians, non-avian reptiles, birds, and mammals. We first tested if heat tolerance constrains the Tmax of sites where species could be observed. Secondly, we tested if the strength of such restrictions depends on how high Tmax is relative to heat tolerance. Thirdly, we correlated the different estimates of Tmax among them and across species. Restrictions are strong for amphibians, arthropods, and birds but often weak or inconsistent for reptiles and mammals. Marine fish describe a non-linear relationship that contrasts with terrestrial groups. Traditional heat tolerance measures in thermal vulnerability studies, like panting temperatures and the upper set point of preferred temperatures, do not predict Tmax or are inversely correlated to it, respectively. Heat tolerance restricts the geographic warm edges more strongly for species that reach sites with higher Tmax for their heat tolerance. These emerging patterns underline the importance of reliable species' heat tolerance indexes to identify their thermal vulnerability at their warm range edges. Besides, the tight correlations of Tmax estimates across on -land microhabitats support a view of multiple types of thermal challenges simultaneously shaping ranges' warm edges for on -land species. The heterogeneous correlation of Tmax estimates in the ocean supports the view that fish thermoregulation is generally limited, too. We propose new hypotheses to understand thermal restrictions on animal distribution.