Search Results (86)

Cognitive abilities play a critical role for migratory birds encountering unfamiliar habitats at stop-over sites. We investigated factors (age, sex, fuel reserves, vertical/horizontal activity, and mercury level) affecting cognitive abilities behavior (problem-solving task—escaping from an experimental cage) in a long-distance migratory passerine, the sedge warbler (Acrocephalus schoenobaenus) at an autumn stop-over site. During the experiment, after two minutes of acclimatization, we remotely opened the door of the cage and recorded whether each bird escaped or remained in the cage. A mixed-effects Cox model revealed that the probability of escaping from the cage was significantly affected by variance in horizontal movements along the horizontal axis of the cage during the acclimatization phase (in models for all individuals and immatures) and sex (in immatures). Individuals moving more were more likely to escape from the cage. Immature males, at any given time, were 2.3 times more likely to escape from the cage than females. We interpreted this in the context of risk-partitioning with males adopting a high-risk, high-reward strategy and females using a low-risk, low-reward strategy, which may be associated with a predisposition for sex-specific roles in breeding. The repeatability of escape response was low (7.3%) for the same recaptured individuals. Full article

Irrigation canals are essential for agriculture in semi-arid regions like northern Chile, yet their ecological impacts on wildlife remain underexplored. Here, we assessed the effects of a 900 m transect of a dry, polyethylene-covered irrigation canal in the Coquimbo region on local terrestrial fauna. A total of 121 reptiles, marsupials, and rodents were found in the canal, with 82.64% mortality. Our evidence suggests that the animals drowned when the water flux stopped or perished because of the extreme heat irradiated by the polyethylene geomembrane once the canal became empty. We highlight that these canals act as lethal pitfall traps for terrestrial vertebrates, as seen in other countries. Given the ecological impact that these waterways impose on local fauna, the implementation of mitigation strategies such as physical barriers, escape aids, and connectivity structures to reduce mortality is urgent in the region. Full article

Temporary use of space in degraded areas is gaining significance in spatial planning due to limitations and conflicts stemming from traditional models that overlook social (soft) environmental components. This article addresses the lack of socio-ecological indicators in contextual analyses that precede planning processes in degraded areas. Using a plural case study approach across sites in Portugal and Slovenia, it combines primary data from semi-structured questionnaires and terrain analysis with secondary sources. The findings reveal that only specific types of temporary uses foster dynamic and adaptive social networks among stakeholders. These networks enhance the social and environmental sustainability of urban areas, particularly when socio-ecological indicators are refined to account for informal practices, community engagement and cultural value. Furthermore, the study highlights how these practices contribute to social sustainability by supporting inclusive governance models and stimulating local economies. A key finding of the study is the identification of a strong link between social networks and environmental sustainability, highlighting the need to incorporate updated socio-ecological indicators into spatial planning for degraded areas. Temporary uses are not merely stop-gap solutions but also strategic tools for cultivating sustainable urban areas. Full article

Larch shoot blight, caused by the fungus Neofusicoccum laricinum, threatens larch (Larix spp.) forests across northeastern China, jeopardizing both timber productivity and ecological stability. This study aimed to investigate the genomic diversity, population structure, and potential adaptive mechanisms of N. laricinum across contrasting climatic regions. To achieve this, we conducted whole-genome resequencing of 23 N. laricinum isolates collected from three major provinces—Heilongjiang, Inner Mongolia, and Jilin—that represent distinct climatic zones ranging from cold-temperate to relatively warmer regions. We identified ~219.1 K genetic variants, offering a detailed portrait of the pathogen’s genomic diversity. Population structure analyses, including principal component analysis and phylogenetic tree, revealed clear genetic differentiation aligning with geographic origin and climate. Functional annotation (GO and KEGG) highlighted enrichment in metabolic, stress-response, and membrane transport pathways, suggesting potential adaptation to varied temperature regimes and environmental pressures. Moreover, region-specific variants—particularly missense and stop-gain mutations—were linked to genes involved in ATP binding, oxidoreductase activity, and cell division, underscoring the fungus’s capacity for rapid adaptation. Collectively, these findings fill a critical gap in the population genetics of N. laricinum and lay a foundation for future disease management strategies to larch shoot blight under changing climatic conditions. Full article

This paper analyzes the chemical evolution of Nuntași-Tuzla Lake (Romania) in the context of human intervention. Situated on the shore of the Black Sea, approximately 35 km north of Constanța, Nuntași-Tuzla Lake is part of the Razim–Sinoe Lake complex and a component of the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve. This area has undergone significant transformations over the past 120 years: canalization of the connecting channels with the St. George arm, construction of polders for agriculture, closure of the connections to the Black Sea, and construction of the Razim–Sinoe irrigation system. After the irrigation system stopped working (around 2000), due to the isolation of the lake and the low flow coming from the two rivers that supply the lake with fresh water, it completely dried up in 2020. All these interventions have led to the ecological, hydrological, and chemical deterioration of the lake’s water. The main effects are (i) a decrease in water salinity and (ii) reduction in the production of sapropelic mud as the salinity decreases due to the influx of fresh water. Full article

Yunnan is located on the southwest border of China, with a complex geographical environment and rich biodiversity, which is the first stop for many migratory pests to enter China. In recent years, Ceracris kiangsu has migrated into China through the China–Laos border line. The migratory C. kiangsu has shown typical characteristics of migratory locusts, which has seriously jeopardized the ecological security, biosecurity and food security of China. In order to prevent and control C. kiangsu from the source as soon as possible, this study used hotspot analysis and trajectory analysis to clarify the migration dynamics, source regions and migration corridors of C. kiangsu. The results showed that the migratory C. kiangsu was mainly distributed in the towns of Jiangcheng County, and the source regions were concentrated in Phongsaly, Laos. There are three cross-border migration corridors of C. kiangsu, among which the Laos–Niuluohe border migration corridor running through the entire migration cycle is the most important corridor. The study answered three key questions about the prevention and control of C. kiangsu. Ascertaining when C. kiangsu arrived at Yunnan, where it came from, and where the population then went will greatly improve the efficiency of the prevention and control of C. kiangsu as well as provide a theoretical basis for subsequent monitoring and early warning. Full article

Most research on bicycling and public transportation integration centers around the developed world and inter-modal bicycle–train travel. Similarly, existing research into the factors influencing bicycling to public transport focuses solely on one aspect of the issue, such as physical infrastructure, social environment, user or individual characteristics, etc. On the other hand, interventions to promote bicycling are less likely to be successful when carried out together since there can be multiple levels of barriers and enablers to bicycling. Hence, this study addresses this gap and utilizes a socio-ecological model as a theoretical foundation to understand the potential of using bicycles as a feeder for bus services by analyzing the barriers and enablers. Data were collected through a face-to-face questionnaire survey conducted in public spaces, including bus stops in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Two binary logistics models were developed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) to analyze the key factors influencing bicycle use as a feeder mode to public buses. The findings reveal that individual socio-demographic factors, reported barriers, and enablers are essential in explaining the users’ likelihood of bicycle use in accessing public buses. The barriers model indicates that existing bicycle parking facilities, bicycle theft and safety issues, bus reliability, and distance to bus stops play an essential role. Effective shading, dedicated bicycle tracks, appropriate lighting, and vital public services are explanatory for the enablers model. The findings offer valuable insights and policy recommendations to improve bicycling infrastructure and promote comprehensive accessibility to public transportation. Full article

As a result of the continuous use of persistent per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), e.g., in aviation firefighting foams, contamination with PFAS has been found in soil, groundwater, and surface water around thousands of industrial and military installations. Due to their harmful (environmental) potential, further dispersion in the environment needs to be stopped, which can be achieved by appropriate absorption materials. In this work, the influence of the cross-linking agent epichlorohydrin (ECH) concentration on the perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) adsorption capacity of chitosan gel was investigated. It was found that higher ECH concentration during the cross-linking step decreases the PFOS adsorption capacity of the cross-linked chitosan gel from 0% to 4% ECH solution by about 15%. Using a concentration of 1%, ECH resulted still in an acid-stable material, and a maximum PFOS loading capacity of 4.04 mmol/g was obtained, one of the highest described in the literature. Furthermore, we used a rapid small-scale column test to compare the PFOS adsorption capacity of chitosan and activated carbon, each in both milled and unmilled form. Unmilled chitosan showed the highest PFOS adsorption capacity considering adsorption material dry masses (>0.9 and <0.4 mmol/g for both types of chitosan and activated carbon, respectively). Milled activated carbon proved to be the better adsorption material, considering the fixed volume of the adsorber (>99.9% PFOS adsorbed). Overall, the cross-linking agent concentration in chitosan is a crucial factor influencing its PFOS absorption potential. Our results feature cross-linked chitosan as an effective economic and ecologic alternative for PFOS adsorption in aqueous solutions. Full article

Background: Extra virgin olive oil is a fundamental component of the Mediterranean diet. It contains several molecules that sustain human well-being by modulating cellular metabolism and exerting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-ageing effects to protect normal tissues, and it can exert anti-angiogenic and pro-apoptotic effects on cancer cells. Metabolites found in different parts of the olive tree, including leaves, also possess properties that might help in cancer prevention and promote wellness in aging. Olive mill wastewater (OMWW), a liquid residue produced during olive oil extraction, represents an environmental issue. However, it is rich in phytochemicals with potential beneficial properties. Dietary supplements based on OMWW can be produced for nutritional supplementation with advantages to the ecology. Purpose: This work aims to measure hematochemical, anthropometric, and metabolomic parameters in volunteers taking an OMWW dietary supplement, Oliphenolia^® (OMWW-OL). Methods: The supplementation of OMWW-OL 25 mL twice daily for 30 days was tested on a pilot cohort of volunteers with characteristics close to metabolic syndrome. Hematochemical, anthropometric, serum biomarkers and serum metabolomic parameters were analyzed before the intervention, at 30 days, and 30 days after stopping consumption. Results: A total of 29 volunteers were enrolled, and 23 completed the study. The participants’ parameters at baseline were measured, and then twice daily at 30 days of treatment and 30 days after assumption discontinuation. Although treatment was with an olive derivative, their weight did not increase. Their body mass index, instead of augmenting, slightly decreased, particularly in the women. Also, hydration increased, especially in the women, while blood pressure, glycemia, and insulin decreased. Cholesterol, high-density lipoproteins, and triglycerides were stable, and LDL levels decreased, while vitamin D levels, alongside calcium, perceptibly increased. Albumin also increased. All the values were in support of an equilibrium, with no damaging effects. By mass spectrometry analysis, we also found favorable changes in the vitamin D/histamine and homocysteine/methionine ratios, an increase in a new metabolite of unknown formula, and the vitamin D/unknown metabolite ratio. Conclusions: Supplementation of OMWW-OL has no detrimental effects and might imply the beneficial modulation of several biological parameters. Although this is a small pilot study, with limited potency, it preliminarily suggests that the OMWW extract use could be potentially valuable for people at risk of metabolic syndrome. Some of these parameters could also be relevant in supporting healthy ageing and in cancer prevention. Full article

The conflict between grain production and wetland resource protection in plain wetland is prominent. Understanding the future impacts of current land use policies on wetlands is the key to rationally evaluating and adjusting these policies. Therefore, the objective of the research was to predict the potential distribution of Sanjiang plain wetland under the current land use and protection policy using remote sensing images and CA Markov models. Methodologically, Landsat TM remote sensing images of the Sanjiang Plain (2010–2020) were used to extract wetland distribution based on object-oriented methods, and the characteristics and patterns of wetland change caused by the land use and protection policies during this period were analyzed. A CA–Markov model was used to predict the potential distribution of Sanjiang Plain wetland in 2030, 2040, 2050, and 2060. Then, we summarized the advantages and disadvantages of current land use policies and put forward adjustment measures. The results indicate that during 2010 and 2020, the wetland area of Sanjiang Plain decreased by 22.34%. The conversion ratio of wetland to non-wetland type (mainly farmland) in the first half and the second half of the decade was 46.41% and 15.31%, respectively, and the decrease in wetland showed an obvious slowing trend. The spatial distribution prediction in future showed that the wetland area will continue to decline in 2030, and the decline will basically stop in 2040. Finally, the proportion of wetland area will remain at 8.68% of the total area of Sanjiang Plain, with that of some counties and cities less than 5%. It is concluded that, although the current land use policies in Sanjiang Plain can effectively slow down the wetland area shrinking and stabilize the spatial pattern, a very low proportion of wetland area in some areas will make it difficult for the wetland ecosystem to exert ecological functions and ensure regional ecological security. The wetland conservation managers should adjust the current land use policies according to relevant requirements of farmland protection policies and restore the areal proportion and spatial pattern of wetland in order to help with regional sustainable development. Full article

The expansion of urban centers and peri-urban zones significantly impacts both the natural world and human well-being, leading to issues such as increased air pollution, the formation of urban heat islands, and challenges in water management. The concept of multifunctional greening serves as a cornerstone, emphasizing the interconnectedness of ecological, social, and health-related factors. This study aimed to identify potential locations for three specific types of blue-green infrastructure (BGI): bioswales, infiltration trenches, and green bus stops. Leveraging geospatial datasets, Geographic Information System (GIS) technology, and remote sensing methodologies, this study conducted a comprehensive analysis and modeling of spatial information. Initial cartographic representations were developed to identify specific locations within Olsztyn, a city in Poland, deemed appropriate for the implementation of the designated blue-green infrastructure (BGI) components. Following this, these models were combined with two additional models created by the researchers: a surface urban heat island (SUHI) model and a demographic model that outlined the age structure of the city’s population. This synergistic approach resulted in the development of a detailed map, which identified potential locations for the implementation of blue-green infrastructure. This was achieved by utilizing vector data acquired with a precision of 1 m. The high level of detail on the map allows for an extremely accurate representation of geographical features and infrastructure layouts, which are essential for precise planning and implementation. This infrastructure is identified as a key strategy for strengthening ecosystem resilience, improving urban livability, and promoting public health and well-being. Full article

The rhizosphere of a plant is home to helpful microorganisms called plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), which play a crucial role in promoting plant growth and development. The significance of PGPR for long-term agricultural viability is outlined in this review. Plant growth processes such as nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, and hormone secretion are discussed. Increased plant tolerance to biotic and abiotic stress, reduced use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, and enhanced nutrient availability, soil fertility, and absorption are all mentioned as potential benefits of PGPR. PGPR has multiple ecological and practical functions in the soil’s rhizosphere. One of PGPR’s various roles in agroecosystems is to increase the synthesis of phytohormones and other metabolites, which have a direct impact on plant growth. Phytopathogens can be stopped in their tracks, a plant’s natural defenses can be bolstered, and so on. PGPR also helps clean up the soil through a process called bioremediation. The PGPR’s many functions include indole acetic acid (IAA) production, ammonia (NH₃) production, hydrogen cyanide (HCN) production, catalase production, and more. In addition to aiding in nutrient uptake, PGPR controls the production of a hormone that increases root size and strength. Improving crop yield, decreasing environmental pollution, and guaranteeing food security are only some of the ecological and economic benefits of employing PGPR for sustainable agriculture. Full article

Crinoids, as integral echinoderms, play a crucial ecological role in benthic communities, serving as significant indicators reflecting the health of marine ecosystems. However, the phylogenetic relationships within crinoids are unclear. More molecular data can help to facilitate biodiversity assessment and elucidate evolutionary relationships by the phylogenetic tree. In this study, 13 complete mitochondrial genomes of the Crinoidea class were sequenced, annotated, and compared with other same class species available on NCBI. The results reveal five different gene order patterns among these mitochondrial genomes, indicating that crinoids have undergone gene rearrangements during evolution. The complete mitochondrial genome length of crinoids ranges from 15,772 bp to 16,850 bp. High A + T content, ranging from 64.5% to 74.2%, was observed. Additionally, our analysis of protein-coding genes highlights a preference for A + T nucleotides, along with specific start and stop codon usage, offering insights into codon bias and its implications for protein synthesis and function. The phylogenetic topology shows that the stalkless crinoid and stalked crinoid are distinct, and the phylogenetic trees generated based on maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference are almost identical at the family and order topology levels. The phylogenetic relationships of each family were fully clarified in four orders. A total of eleven positive selection sites were detected within six genes: cytb, nad2, nad3, nad4, nad4L and nad5. This study reveals the phylogenetic relationships of crinoid species, the mitochondrial gene differences, and the selective pressure on the evolution of stalked crinoids. This study significantly enhanced the crinoid mitochondrial genome database and contributed to a better understanding of the phylogenetic relationships among crinoid echinoderms. Full article

Phenological studies have a crucial role in the global change context. The Mediterranean basin constitutes a key study site since strong climate change impacts are expected, particularly in mountain areas such as Sierra Nevada, where we focus. Specifically, we delve into phenological changes in endemic vascular plants over time by analysing data at three scales: entire massif, altitudinal ranges, and particular species, seeking to contribute to stopping biodiversity loss. For this, we analysed 5262 samples of 2129 herbarium sheets from Sierra Nevada, dated from 1837 to 2019, including reproductive structure, complete collection date, and precise location. We found a generalized advancement in phenology at all scales, and particularly in flowering onset and flowering peak. Thus, plants flower on average 11 days earlier now than before the 1970s. Although similar trends have been confirmed for many territories and species, we address plants that have been studied little in the past regarding biotypes and distribution, and which are relevant for conservation. Thus, we analysed phenological changes in endemic plants, mostly threatened, from a crucial hotspot within the Mediterranean hotspot, which is particularly vulnerable to global warming. Our results highlight the urgency of phenological studies by species and of including ecological interactions and effects on their life cycles. Full article

The aquaculture and fisheries sectors play critical roles in promoting a global nutritious and climate-friendly food system. The Japanese government started implementing the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water (NCW) into the Pacific Ocean in August 2023, which was followed by stopping the import of seafood from Japan to ensure the safety of imported food for Chinese citizens. The discharge of NCW into the ocean by Japan will directly harm the marine ecological environment and the global ecosystem due to the importance of China as the largest producer, processor, and exporter of aquatic products (APs). This paper employs the Global Trade Analysis Project (GTAP) model to simulate the future impacts of discharging the NCW under three different scenarios. The results showed that discharging NCW will lead to a global decline in AP production and also has negative repercussions on the macroeconomic landscape. Japan will face the most significant negative impact on its national macroeconomy, e.g., Japan’s GDP, total imports, total exports, household income, and social welfare will decrease by 2.18%, 3.84%, 8.30%, 2.61%, and $130.07 billion; similarly, for China, the decrease will be 0.03%, 1.21%, 0.08%, and $728.15 billion, respectively. If China’s AP consumption decreases by 10% and 20%, it will result in protein deficits of 1.536 million tons and 3.132 million tons, respectively. Japan’s deficit will reach 138,000 tons and 276,000 tons. This necessitates supplementation via the consumption of other protein-rich foods, posing a significant threat to the nutritional security of food in both China and Japan. Full article