Search Results (525)

Background/Objectives: Military Service Members (SMs) require optimal nutrition to support health, readiness, and job performance. However, they often fall short of meeting nutrition guidelines. This study aimed to determine the impact and feasibility of implementing the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) “Fueled to Fight^®” (F2F) nutrition program in non-appropriated fund (NAF) food venues. Objectives included evaluating changes in Military Nutrition Environment Assessment Tool (mNEAT) scores, feasibility of implementing and maintaining F2F strategies, and influence on customer purchasing patterns. Methods: Researchers conducted a pre-post interventional study from January to December 2024 at three NAF food venues across two USMC bases. F2F strategies, including identifying items using a stoplight color coding system (Green = healthy, Yellow = less healthy, Red = least healthy), menu revisions, food placement, promotion, and marketing, were implemented. Data included mNEAT assessments, sales reports, and stakeholder focus groups. Generalized Estimating Equations models were used to analyze sales data. Results: mNEAT scores increased across all venues post-intervention. Availability and sales of Green items increased, while sales of Red items decreased in some venues. Profit increased at all three food venues. Focus groups revealed feasibility and provided insights for future interventions. Conclusions: F2F interventions in NAF food venues are feasible and can positively impact the food environment and customer purchasing patterns without negatively affecting profit. This study highlights the importance of integrating nutrition programs into all military food venues, not just government-funded dining facilities, to support the nutritional fitness and readiness of SMs. Full article

As the generation of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) has exponentially increased, this poses a challenge for waste managers, such as municipalities, to effectively control waste streams. If waste streams are not managed correctly, they negatively contribute to climate change, marine plastic pollution and human health effects. Therefore, waste streams need to be identified, categorised and valorised to ensure that the most effective waste management strategy is employed. Research suggests that a more efficient process of identifying and categorising waste at the source can achieve this. Therefore, the aim of the paper is to identify the state of research of AI-powered drones in identifying and categorising waste. This paper will conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis on the application of drone technology integrated with image sensing technology and deep learning methods for waste management. Different systems are explored, and a quantitative meta-analysis of their performance metrics (such as the F1 score) is conducted to determine the best integration of technology. Therefore, the research proposes designing and developing a hybrid deep learning model with integrated architecture (YOLO-Transformer model) that can capture Multispectral imagery data from drones for waste stream identification, categorisation and potential valorisation for waste managers in small-scale environments. Full article

This paper presents the design, fabrication, and experimental evaluation of a capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducer (CMUT) linear array for non-contact thickness measurement of marine engineering structures. A 16-element CMUT array was fabricated using a silicon–silicon wafer bonding process, and encapsulated in polyurethane to ensure acoustic impedance matching and environmental protection in underwater conditions. The acoustic performance of the encapsulated CMUT was characterized using standard piezoelectric transducers as reference. The array achieved a transmitting sensitivity of 146.82 dB and a receiving sensitivity of −229.55 dB at 1 MHz. A complete thickness detection system was developed by integrating the CMUT array with a custom transceiver circuit and implementing a time-of-flight (ToF) measurement algorithm. To evaluate environmental robustness, systematic experiments were conducted under varying water temperatures and salinity levels. The results demonstrate that the absolute thickness measurement error remains within ±0.1 mm under all tested conditions, satisfying the accuracy requirements for marine structural health monitoring. The results validate the feasibility of CMUT-based systems for precise and stable thickness measurement in underwater environments, and support their application in non-destructive evaluation of marine infrastructure. Full article

Marine pollution from plastic pellets, small granules used as a raw material for plastic production, is a growing environmental problem with grave consequences for marine ecosystems, biodiversity, and human health. This form of primary microplastic is increasingly becoming the focus of environmental policies, owing to its frequent release into the marine environment during handling, storage, and marine transportation, all of which play a crucial role in global trade. The aim of this paper is to contribute to the ongoing discussions by highlighting the environmental risks associated with plastic pellets, which are recognized as a significant source of microplastics in the marine environment. It will also explore how targeted education and awareness-raising within the maritime sector can serve as key tools to address this environmental challenge. The study is based on a survey conducted among seafarers and maritime students to raise their awareness and assess their knowledge of the issue. Given their operational role in ensuring safe and responsible shipping, seafarers and maritime students are in a key position to prevent the release of plastic pellets into the marine environment through increased awareness and initiative-taking practices. The results show that awareness is moderate, but there is a significant lack of knowledge, particularly in relation to the environmental impact and regulatory aspects of plastic pellet pollution. These results underline the need for improved education and training in this area, especially among future and active maritime professionals. Full article

Skipjack tuna constitutes a crucial fishery resource in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean (WCPO) purse seine fishery, with high economic value and exploitation potential. It also serves as an essential subject for studying the interaction between fishery resource dynamics and marine ecosystems, as its resource abundance is significantly influenced by marine environmental factors. Skipjack tuna can be categorized into unassociated schools and associated schools, with the latter being predominant. Overfishing of the associated schools can adversely affect population health and the ecological environment. In-depth exploration of the spatial distribution responses of these two fish schools to environmental variables is significant for the rational development and utilization of tuna resources and for enhancing the sustainability of fishery resources. In sparsely sampled and complex marine environments, geographic similarity methods effectively predict tuna resources by quantifying local fishing ground environmental similarities. This study introduces geographical similarity theory. This study focused on 1° × 1° fishery data (2004–2021) released by the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) combined with relevant marine environmental data. We employed Geographical Convergent Cross Mapping (GCCM) to explore significant environmental factors influencing catch and variations in causal intensity and employed a Geographically Optimal Similarity (GOS) model to predict the spatial distribution of catch for the two types of tuna schools. The research findings indicate that the following: (1) Sea surface temperature (SST), sea surface salinity (SSS), and net primary productivity (NPP) are key factors in GCCM model analysis, significantly influencing the catch of two fish schools. (2) The GOS model exhibits higher prediction accuracy and stability compared to the Generalized Additive Model (GAM) and the Basic Configuration Similarity (BCS) model. R² values reaching 0.656 and 0.649 for the two types of schools, respectively, suggest that the geographical similarity method has certain applicability and application potential in the spatial prediction of fishery resources. (3) Uncertainty analysis revealed more stable predictions for unassociated schools, with 72.65% of the results falling within the low-uncertainty range (0.00–0.25), compared to 52.65% for associated schools. This study, based on geographical similarity theory, elucidates differential spatial responses of distinct schools to environmental factors and provides a novel approach for fishing ground prediction. It also provides a scientific basis for the dynamic assessment and rational exploitation and utilization of skipjack tuna resources in the Pacific Ocean. Full article

This study investigates the implications of sewage contamination in the coastal and riverine environments of Hout Bay, Cape Town, South Africa. Chemical analyses were applied to quantify the presence of pollutants such as pharmaceutical and personal care products (PPCPs) in sentinel marine organisms such as mussels, as well as microbial indicators of faecal contamination in river water and seawater, for estimating the extent of impact zones in the coastal environment of Hout Bay. This research investigated the persistent pharmaceuticals found in marine outfall wastewater effluent samples in Hout Bay, examining whether these substances were also detectable in marine biota, specifically focusing on Mytilus galloprovincialis mussels. The findings reveal significant levels of sewage-related pollutants in the sampled environments, with concentrations ranging from 32.74 to 43.02 ng/g dry weight (dw) for acetaminophen, up to 384.96 ng/g for bezafibrate, and as high as 338.56 ng/g for triclosan. These results highlight persistent PPCP contamination in marine organisms, with increasing concentrations observed over time, suggesting a rise in population and pharmaceutical use. Additionally, microbial analysis revealed high levels of E. coli in the Hout Bay River, particularly near stormwater from the Imizamo Yethu settlement, with counts exceeding 8.3 million cfu/100 mL. These findings underscore the significant impact of untreated sewage on the environment. This study concludes that current sewage treatment is insufficient to mitigate pollution, urging the implementation of more effective wastewater management practices and long-term monitoring of pharmaceutical levels in marine biota to protect both the environment and public health. Full article

Vibrio parahaemolyticus is a pathogenic bacterium widely distributed in marine environments, posing significant threats to aquatic organisms and human health. The overuse and misuse of antibiotics has led to the development of multidrug- and pan-resistant V. parahaemolyticus strains. There is an urgent need for novel antibacterial therapies with innovative mechanisms of action. In this work, a genome-scale metabolic network model (GMSN) of V. parahaemolyticus, named VPA2061, was reconstructed to predict the metabolites that can be explored as potential drug targets for eliminating V. parahaemolyticus infections. The model comprises 2061 reactions and 1812 metabolites. Through essential metabolite analysis and pathogen–host association screening with VPA2061, 10 essential metabolites critical for the survival of V. parahaemolyticus were identified, which may serve as key candidates for developing new antimicrobial strategies. Additionally, 39 structural analogs were found for these essential metabolites. The molecular docking analysis of the essential metabolites and structural analogs further investigated the potential value of these metabolites for drug design. The GSMN reconstructed in this work provides a new tool for understanding the pathogenic mechanisms of V. parahaemolyticus. Furthermore, the analysis results regarding the essential metabolites hold profound implications for the development of novel antibacterial therapies for V. parahaemolyticus-related disease. Full article

Algal and cyanobacterial blooms are anticipated to increase in frequency, duration, and geographic extent as a result of environmental changes, including climate warming, elevated nutrient concentrations, and increased runoff in both marine and freshwater ecosystems. The eutrophication of aquatic environments represents a substantial threat to human health. As eutrophication progresses, airborne algae and cyanobacteria, particularly harmful genera originating from aquatic environments, are released into the atmosphere and may pose potential risks to human health. Furthermore, respiratory distress has been documented in individuals exposed to aerosols containing harmful algal bloom (HAB) toxins. This review investigates the generation of aerosolised harmful algal blooms, their responses to environmental factors, and their associated health risks. Evidence suggests that airborne algae, cyanobacteria, and their toxins are widespread. When these are aerosolised into micrometre-sized particles, they become susceptible to atmospheric processing, which may degrade the HAB toxins and produce byproducts with differing potencies compared to the parent compounds. Inhalation of aerosolised HAB toxins, especially when combined with co-morbid factors such as exposure to air pollutants, could present a significant health risk to a considerable proportion of the global population. A more comprehensive understanding of the chemical transformations of these toxins and the composition of harmful algal and cyanobacterial communities can improve public safety. Full article

7,12-Dimethylbenzo[a]anthracene (DMBA-7,12), a highly toxic and environmentally persistent polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH), poses significant threats to marine biodiversity and human health due to its bioaccumulation through the food chain. Conventional chromatographic methods, while achieving comparable detection limits, are hindered by the need for expensive instrumentation and prolonged analysis times, rendering them unsuitable for rapid on-site monitoring of DMBA-7,12 in marine environments. Therefore, the development of novel, efficient detection techniques is imperative. In this study, we have successfully developed an electrochemical immunosensor based on a polydopamine (PDA)–chitosan (CTs) composite interface to overcome existing technical limitations. PDA provides a robust scaffold for antibody immobilization due to its strong adhesive properties, while CTs enhances signal amplification and biocompatibility. The synergistic integration of these materials combines the high efficiency of electrochemical detection with the specificity of antigen–antibody recognition, enabling precise qualitative and quantitative analysis of the target analyte through monitoring changes in the electrochemical properties at the electrode surface. By systematically optimizing key experimental parameters, including buffer pH, probe concentration, and antibody loading, we have constructed the first electrochemical immunosensor for detecting DMBA-7,12 in seawater. The sensor achieved a detection limit as low as 0.42 ng/mL. In spiked seawater samples, the recovery rates ranged from 95.53% to 99.44%, with relative standard deviations (RSDs) ≤ 4.6%, demonstrating excellent accuracy and reliability. This innovative approach offers a cost-effective and efficient solution for the in situ rapid monitoring of trace carcinogens in marine environments, potentially advancing the field of marine pollutant detection technologies. Full article

Copper pyrithione (CuPT), an emerging biocide used in ship antifouling coatings, may accumulate in marine sediments and pose risks to non-target organisms. However, current research on CuPT toxicity remains limited. Litopenaeus vannamei, one of the world’s most important aquaculture shrimp species, relies heavily on its hepatopancreas for energy metabolism, detoxification, and immune responses. Due to their benthic habitat, these shrimps are highly vulnerable to contamination in sediment environments. This study investigated the toxicological response in the hepatopancreas of L. vannamei exposed to CuPT (128 μg/L) for 3 and 48 h. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP Nick-End Labeling (TUNEL) fluorescence staining revealed increased apoptosis, deformation of hepatic tubule lumens, and the loss of stellate structures in the hepatopancreas after CuPT 48 h exposure. A large number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified by transcriptomics analysis at 3 and 48 h, respectively. Most of these DEGs were related to detoxification, glucose transport, and immunity. Metabolomic analysis identified numerous significantly different metabolites (SDMs) at both 3 and 48 h post-exposure, with most SDMs associated with energy metabolism, fatty acid metabolism, and related pathways. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis of metabolomics and transcriptome revealed that both DEGs and SDMs were enriched in arachidonic acid metabolism, fatty acid biosynthesis, and glycolysis/gluconeogenesis pathways at 3 h, while at 48 h they were enriched in the starch and sucrose metabolism, amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism, and galactose metabolism pathways. These results suggested that CuPT disrupts the energy and lipid homeostasis of L. vannamei. This disruption compelled L. vannamei to allocate additional energy toward sustaining basal physiological functions and consequently caused the accumulation of large amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the body, leading to apoptosis and subsequent tissue damage, and ultimately suppressed the immune system and impaired the health of L. vannamei. Our study elucidates the molecular mechanisms of CuPT-induced metabolic disruption and immunotoxicity in L. vannamei through integrated multi-omics analyses, providing new insights for ecological risk assessment of this emerging antifoulant. Full article

Excessive levels of Pb²⁺ and Cd²⁺ in seawater pose significant combined toxicity to marine organisms, resulting in harmful effects and further threatening human health through biomagnification in the food chain. Traditional methods for detecting marine Pb²⁺ and Cd²⁺ rely on laboratory analyses, which are hindered by limitations such as sample degradation during transport and complex operational procedures. In this study, we present an electrochemical sensor based on intelligent mobile detection devices. By combining G-COOH-MWCNTs/ZnO with differential pulse voltammetry, the sensor enables the efficient, simultaneous detection of Pb²⁺ and Cd²⁺ in seawater. The G-COOH-MWCNTs/ZnO composite film is prepared via drop-coating and is applied to a glassy carbon electrode. The film is characterized using cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy, while Pb²⁺ and Cd²⁺ are quantified using differential pulse voltammetry. Using a 0.1 mol/L sodium acetate buffer (pH 5.5), a deposition potential of −1.1 V, and an accumulation time of 300 s, a strong linear correlation was observed between the peak response currents of Pb²⁺ and Cd²⁺ and their concentrations in the range of 25–450 µg/L. The detection limits were 0.535 µg/L for Pb²⁺ and 0.354 µg/L for Cd²⁺. The sensor was applied for the analysis of seawater samples from Maowei Sea, achieving recovery rates for Pb²⁺ ranging from 97.7% to 103%, and for Cd²⁺ from 97% to 106.1%. These results demonstrate that the sensor exhibits high sensitivity and stability, offering a reliable solution for the on-site monitoring of heavy metal contamination in marine environments. Full article

Microbial infections are an escalating global health threat, driven by the alarming rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which has made many conventional antibiotics increasingly ineffective and threatens to reverse decades of medical progress. The rapid emergence and spread of multidrug-resistant bacteria have severely limited treatment options, resulting in increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare burden worldwide. In response to these challenges, phage therapy is regaining interest as a promising alternative. Bacteriophages, the most abundant biological entities, have remarkable specificity toward their bacterial hosts, enabling them to selectively eliminate pathogenic strains. Phage therapy presents several advantages over conventional antibiotics, which include minimal disruption to the microbiome and a slower rate of resistance development. Among the various sources of phages, the marine environment remains one of the least explored. Given their adaptation to saline conditions, high pressure, and variable nutrient levels, marine bacteriophages mostly exhibit enhanced environmental stability, broader host ranges, and distinct infection mechanisms, thus making them highly promising for therapeutic purposes. This review explores the growing therapeutic potential of marine bacteriophages by examining their ecological diversity, biological characteristics, infection dynamics, and practical applications in microbial disease control. It also deals with emerging strategies such as phage–antibiotic synergy, genetic engineering, and the use of phage-derived enzymes, alongside several challenges that must be addressed to enable clinical translation and regulatory approval. Advancing our understanding and application of marine phages presents a promising path in the global fight against AMR and the development of next-generation antimicrobial therapies. Full article

The Arabian Gulf, bordered by major energy-producing nations, harbors diverse microalgal communities with strong potential for the bioremediation of environmental pollutants, particularly petroleum hydrocarbons. This review evaluates two key microalgal groups—micro-green algae and dinoflagellates—highlighting their distinct physiological traits and ecological roles in pollution mitigation. Dinoflagellates, including Prorocentrum and Protoperidinium, have demonstrated hydrocarbon-degrading abilities but are frequently linked to harmful algal blooms (HABs), marine toxins, and bioluminescence, posing ecological and health risks. The toxins produced by these algae can be hemolytic or neurotoxic and include compounds such as azaspiracids, brevetoxins, ciguatoxins, okadaic acid, saxitoxins, and yessotoxins. In contrast, micro-green algae such as Oedogonium and Pandorina are generally non-toxic, seldom associated with HABs, and typically found in clean freshwater and brackish environments. Some species, like Chlorogonium, indicate pollution tolerance, while Dunaliella has shown promise in remediating contaminated seawater. Both groups exhibit unique enzymatic pathways and metabolic mechanisms for degrading hydrocarbons and remediating heavy metals. Due to their respective phycoremediation capacities and environmental adaptability, these algae offer sustainable, nature-based solutions for pollution control in coastal, estuarine, and inland freshwater systems, particularly in mainland Qatar. This review compares their remediation efficacy, ecological impacts, and practical limitations to support the selection of effective algal candidates for eco-friendly strategies targeting petroleum-contaminated marine environments. Full article

Aquatic resistomes are important reservoirs of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and their precursors, which can proliferate and dissipate in pathogenic microorganisms that affect humans and animals, especially due to anthropogenic pressures such as the intensive use of antibiotics in aquaculture, often without effective regulation. This review addresses the mechanisms of horizontal gene transfer (HGT) in the dissemination of ARGs through mobile genetic elements (MGEs). In freshwater, genera such as Aeromonas, Pseudomonas and Microcystis stand out as vectors of ARGs. In the context of One Health, it is essential to implement sound public policies and strict regulations on the use of antibiotics in aquaculture, and the use of monitoring tools such as environmental DNA (eDNA) and metagenomics allows for the early detection of ARGs, contributing to the protection of human, animal and environmental health. Full article

Microplastics (MPs) have emerged as a critical environmental challenge in China’s aquatic ecosystems, driven by rapid industrialization and population growth. This review synthesizes recent findings on the abundance, morphology, and polymer types of MPs in China’s freshwater systems (rivers, lakes, reservoirs) and coastal marine environments. Spatial analysis reveals significant variability in MP abundance, ranging from 0.1 items/L in Tibet’s Lalu Wetland to 30.8 items/L in Beijing’s Qinghe River, with polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) dominating polymer profiles. Coastal regions exhibit distinct contamination patterns, with the Yellow Sea (5.3 ± 2.0 items/L) and the South China Sea (180 ± 80 items/m³) showing the highest MP loads, primarily as fibers and fragments. Fluvial transport, atmospheric deposition, and coastal anthropogenic activities (e.g., fisheries, tourism) are identified as major pathways for marine MP influx. Secondary MPs from degraded plastics and primary MPs from industrial/domestic effluents pose synergistic risks through the adsorption of heavy metals and organic pollutants. Human exposure routes—ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact—are linked to inflammatory, metabolic, and carcinogenic health outcomes. Policy interventions, including bans on microbeads and non-degradable plastics, demonstrate progress in pollution mitigation. This work underscores the urgency of integrated source control, advanced wastewater treatment, and transboundary monitoring to address MP contamination in aquatic ecosystems. Full article