In most developing countries, governments attempt to enforce the movement from analogue to digital for all their sectors, from public to private. These technological advancements have been noted to bring necessary and...In most developing countries, governments attempt to enforce the movement from analogue to digital for all their sectors, from public to private. These technological advancements have been noted to bring necessary and unavoidable changes to businesses and learning environments. Higher learning institutions have adopted various e-learning systems to support learning, research, and publication activities to stay competitive in global academic systems. However, most public higher learning institutions in Tanzania lag behind in the adoption of these systems. Thus, research shows a failure of these institutions in utilising the full benefit that today’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) can offer in learning environments. Thus, this study examines factors affecting the adoption of such a system in developing countries like Tanzania, taking the Institute of Accountancy Arusha (IAA) as a case study. The study used a mixed methodology where thematic and descriptive analysis was used to analyse both qualitative and quantitative research data. The study population was 187 teaching staff, a sample size of 126 was obtained, and 157 study participants were involved in the study. The study found that factors affecting the adoption of e-learning systems in public higher learning institutions in Tanzania include lack of ICT infrastructure, lack of technical and managerial support and lack of computers and e-learning knowledge among facilitators. Thus, the study recommended investments in adequate and reliable ICT facilities, high intermate speed and bandwidth, and policies that support e-learning and training programs about e-learning knowledge and use. Also, this study recommends the use of the Multi-Factors Adoption Model (MFAM11) for the successful adoption of an e-learning system in public higher learning institutions in Tanzania.展开更多
All modern computer users need to be concerned about information system security (individuals and organisations). Many businesses established various security structures to protect information system security from har...All modern computer users need to be concerned about information system security (individuals and organisations). Many businesses established various security structures to protect information system security from harmful occurrences by implementing security procedures, processes, policies, and information system security organisational structures to ensure data security. Despite all the precautions, information security remains a disaster in Tanzania’s learning institutions. The fundamental issue appears to be a lack of awareness of crucial information security factors. Various companies have different security issues due to differences in ICT infrastructure, implementations, and usage. The study focuses on identifying information system security threats and vulnerabilities in public higher learning institutions in Tanzania, particularly the Institute of Accountancy Arusha (IAA). The study involved all employees of IAA, academics, and other supporting staff, which totalled 302, and the sample size was 170. The study utilised a descriptive research design, where the quantitative methodology was used through a five-point Likert scale questionnaire, and found that key factors that affect the security of information systems at IAA include human factors, policy-related issues, work environment and demographic factors. The study proposed regular awareness and training programs;an increase in women’s awareness of information system security;proper policy creation and reviews every 4 years;promote actions that lessen information system security threats and vulnerabilities, and the creation of information system security policy documents independently from ICT policy.展开更多
In this work,we report long-term trends in the abundance and breeding performance of Adélie penguins(Pygoscelis adeliae)nesting in three Antarctic colonies(i.e.,at Martin Point,South Orkneys Islands;Stranger Poin...In this work,we report long-term trends in the abundance and breeding performance of Adélie penguins(Pygoscelis adeliae)nesting in three Antarctic colonies(i.e.,at Martin Point,South Orkneys Islands;Stranger Point/Cabo Funes,South Shetland Islands;and Esperanza/Hope Bay in the Antarctic Peninsula)from 1995/96 to 2022/23.Using yearly count data of breeding groups selected,we observed a decline in the number of breeding pairs and chicks in crèche at all colonies studied.However,the magnitude of change was higher at Stranger Point than that in the remaining colonies.Moreover,the index of breeding success,which was calculated as the ratio of chicks in crèche to breeding pairs,exhibited no apparent trend throughout the study period.However,it displayed greater variability at Martin Point compared to the other two colonies under investigation.Although the number of chicks in crèche of Adélie penguins showed a declining pattern,the average breeding performance was similar to that reported in gentoo penguin colonies,specifically,those undergoing a population increase(even in sympatric colonies facing similar local conditions).Consequently,it is plausible to assume a reduction of the over-winter survival as a likely cause of the declining trend observed,at least in the Stranger Point and Esperanza colonies.However,we cannot rule out local effects during the breeding season affecting the Adélie population of Martin Point.展开更多
In recent years,the taxonomy and systematics of the cartilaginous fish taxa from the Eocene La Meseta Formation of Seymour(Marambio)Island,Antarctica have been extensively discussed in a series of papers,resulting in ...In recent years,the taxonomy and systematics of the cartilaginous fish taxa from the Eocene La Meseta Formation of Seymour(Marambio)Island,Antarctica have been extensively discussed in a series of papers,resulting in a complete revision of the Antarctic Eocene ichthyofauna housed in the Vertebrate Paleontology collection of the Museo de La Plata,Argentina.This collection constitutes one of the largest and taxonomically most diverse in the world,with approximately 20000 specimens,which provides a solid database used for the analysis of qualitative and quantitative chondrichthyan taxonomic composition.The information provided herein might be useful to understand the sudden decline in chondrichthyan taxonomic diversity towards the top of La Meseta Formation as well as its potential relationship with environmental changes during the Eocene.展开更多
To help farmers in the mid hills of Nepal improve their crop management and rice yields, we conducted a study testing different nursery management options and their effect on grain yield and yield components under rai...To help farmers in the mid hills of Nepal improve their crop management and rice yields, we conducted a study testing different nursery management options and their effect on grain yield and yield components under rainfed conditions. The experiment was conducted in a farmer’s field during the cropping season 2009 and 2010 at Sundarbazar, Lamjung, Nepal, using a 3-factor factorial RCB design with 3 replications. The three management factors tested were 1) fertilizer management in the nursery, 2) seeding density, and 3) seedling age at transplanting, using the rainfed lowland rice variety Radha-4. There were eight treatment combinations, consisting of two levels of fertilization (0 and 20:20:0:13 kg NPKS ha-1 at 15 DAS), two levels of seeding density (607 and 303 g·m-2) and two seedling ages (20 and 40 days old). Two years’ results showed that top-dressed fertilizer in the nursery had no consistent effect on grain yield. However, lower seeding density (303 g·m-2) resulted in taller plants, more productive tillers m-2, less sterility and higher grain yield. In addition, older seedlings (40 days) produced taller plants, more productive tillers, more filled grains, and a higher grain and straw yield. The interaction analysis between both factors indicated that 40 days old seedling with a low seeding density produced the highest grain yield, both in the drought season 2009 and the high-yielding season 2010. The economic analysis confirmed that the treatment with low seeding density and 40 days old seedlings produced by far the highest net returns and B:C ratio in both seasons, independent of the fertilizer treatment. The combination of these two management components is therefore economically viable and profitable, and can be recommended to farmers. However, the results need to be confirmed for other varieties used by farmers in the region.展开更多
Acid Lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle) is one of the important commercial fruits cultivated from terai to high hill of Nepal. It is an important source of vitamin “C” (ascorbic acid) for human nutrition. Amount of ...Acid Lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle) is one of the important commercial fruits cultivated from terai to high hill of Nepal. It is an important source of vitamin “C” (ascorbic acid) for human nutrition. Amount of juice, TSS (Total soluble solids), TA (Titrable acid) and vitamin C are the determining factors of quality of acid lime fruits which may vary according to bearing sides of the trees. The main objective of this study is, to determine the variation of fruit quality at different sides of the tree. Total of 15 bearing trees were selected randomly (5 trees per site) from three different agro ecological domain representing terai (1200 m asl) and samples were collected from the selected trees. Randomly ten fruits (from east, west, centre, north and south sides) were collected from each tree and analyzed for amount of vitamin C, TSS, TA and juice. Highest ascorbic acid 79.6 mg and 69.9 mg was observed in south side fruits whereas lowest 62.8 mg and 55.1 mg was observed in centre fruits in the high and mid hills zone respectively, but in terai, highest ascorbic acid 58.7 mg was observed in north side and lowest 41.8 mg was observed in centre. Highest amount of juice 43.9% was observed in south side fruits and lowest 36.6% in centre fruits, but amount of TSS 8.2% and TA 7.2% was observed in south side fruits and lowest 7.3% TSS and 7.0% TA was observed in centre fruits in high hills. In terai highest TSS 8.3% and TA 7.4% was observed in north side fruits and lowest TSS 7.3% and TA 6.7% was observed in centre fruits. Variation of TSS, TA percent and ascorbic acids was observed according to the agro ecological zone.展开更多
To solve the problems of poor forming and easy adhesion of the stainless steel,Cu alloyed layer on the stainless steels was prepared by the double glow plasma surface alloying technique.The experimentalresults indicat...To solve the problems of poor forming and easy adhesion of the stainless steel,Cu alloyed layer on the stainless steels was prepared by the double glow plasma surface alloying technique.The experimentalresults indicated that the supersaturated copper dispersedly precipitated in grain interior and crystalboundaries and formed the vermicular structure.The tribologicaltests indicated that the friction coefficient of the Cu alloyed layer was lower than that of the stainless steels.The wear rate of stainless steelin the presence of Cu alloyed layer was approximately 2-fold lower than that in the absence of the alloyed layer.The results of the incrementalforming indicated that the ploughing phenomenon was not observed on the stainless steelin the presence of Cu alloyed layer during the incrementalforming,while the stainless steelpresented the deep ploughing.Therefore,Cu alloyed layer on stainless steelexhibited excellent self-lubrication and forming properties.展开更多
Under the present changing climate conditions and the observed temperature increase,it is of high importance to understand its effects on aquatic microbial life,and organisms’adaptations at the biochemical level.To a...Under the present changing climate conditions and the observed temperature increase,it is of high importance to understand its effects on aquatic microbial life,and organisms’adaptations at the biochemical level.To adjust to temperature or salinity stress and avoid cell damage,organisms alter their degree of fatty acids(FAs)saturation.Thus,temperature is expected to have strong effects on both the quantity and quality of FAs in aquatic microorganisms.Here we review some recent findings about FAs sensitivity to climate change in contrasting environments.Overall,heat waves may induce changes in the relative abundance of polyunsaturated FAs(PUFA).However,the impact of the exposure to warming waters is different in temperate and polar environments.In cold marine waters,high concentration of omega-3(ω3)FAs such as eicosapentaenoic acid(EPA)is promoted due to the activation of the desaturase enzyme.In this way,cells have enough energy to produce or activate antioxidant protection mechanisms and avoid oxidative stress due to heat waves.Contrastingly,under high irradiance and heat wave conditions in temperate environments,photosystems’protection is achieved by decreasing EPA concentration due to desaturase sensitivity.Essential FAs are transferred in aquatic food webs.Therefore,any alteration in the production of essential FAs by phytoplankton(the main source ofω3)due to climate warming can be transferred to higher trophic levels,with cascading effects for the entire aquatic ecosystem.展开更多
Acid lime (Citrus aurantifolia) fruits are cultivated in terai, mid hill and high hill districts of Nepal. It is cross-pollinated crop and has a high variation in fruit characters within the species. Fruit character i...Acid lime (Citrus aurantifolia) fruits are cultivated in terai, mid hill and high hill districts of Nepal. It is cross-pollinated crop and has a high variation in fruit characters within the species. Fruit character is the main basis of genotype selection. Study of fruit diversity is of utmost importance to select the elite genotypes for breeding and variety development program. Therefore, total of 620 fruit samples were collected and evaluated in the main production season of the year 2010 and 2011, from 62 bearing trees. Samples were collected from three agro-ecological domains, representing terai, mid hill and high hill areas of eastern Nepal. Elite landraces were selected on the basis of scoring fruit characters. High variation in vitamin C was observed between the terai (57.4 mg) and high hill (72.5 mg) samples. Amount of juice was 36.8% in mid hill and 44.1% in terai samples. Higher percent of juice and total soluble solids (TSS) observed in terai samples but tritable acidity (TA) and vitamin C was low as compare to high hills. There was significantly negative correlation found in fruit weight, fruit diameter, juice percent and seed number, whereas significantly positive correlation was in pulp and vitamin C, with altitude range. Total landraces were separated in five major cluster group. Variation in the level of similarity was observed among the cluster groups. The variability distance of fruit characters was highest in cluster group II (–17.45%) and lowest in cluster group V (58.5%). On the basis of scoring number of fruit characters, total four elite genotypes i.e. LD-49 from mid hills, LD-23 and LT-17 from higher hills and LM-44 from terai were selected for conservation, breeding and variety development purpose.展开更多
Acid lime (Citrus aurantifolia) is an important commercial fruits crop, cultivated in terai to high hills of Nepal. High variation of acid lime fruits are observed in existing landraces due to crossing within the othe...Acid lime (Citrus aurantifolia) is an important commercial fruits crop, cultivated in terai to high hills of Nepal. High variation of acid lime fruits are observed in existing landraces due to crossing within the other citrus species. Determination of genetic variation is important to the plant breeders for development of high yielding variety and hybrids. Therefore, an attempt has been made to study the genetic diversity of 62 acid lime landraces, collected from different altitudinal range in the eastern part of Nepal, using SSR markers. Twelve Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) primer pairs were used to assess the genetic diversity of acid lime. The average genetic similarity level among the 62 accessions was 0.77, ranging from 0.54 to 1.0 and separated five major cluster groups. Total of 33 alleles were detected by eleven primer pairs and size of alleles ranged from 50 to 225. Average polymorphic information content (PIC) value was 0.50, whereas highest 0.75 and lowest 0.18 was observed in CAT01 and GT03 loci respectively. The results of the study clearly indicated that, SSR markers are highly polymorphic and more informative for the assessment of genetic diversity of acid lime landraces.展开更多
Establishment of the Russian section in the framework of Global Geodetic Observing System (GGOS) is under progress. New components of "Quasar" network observatories, which are included into GGOS global network as ...Establishment of the Russian section in the framework of Global Geodetic Observing System (GGOS) is under progress. New components of "Quasar" network observatories, which are included into GGOS global network as core stations, are presented. Recent developments include: two new generation radio telescopes with 13 m antennas at Badary and Zelenchukskaya observatories, water vapor radiometers installed at all observatories and software correlator at the Institute of Applied Astronomy. New and potential developments within other networks belonging to different agencies are also considered in the context of widening of Russian section activity in GGOS project, The paper gives a short overview of status, new components and plans, concerning 5 sub-networks of Federal Agency of Scientific Organi- zations, Roskosmos, Rosstandard, and Rosreestr. Short overview of the plans on creating Data and Analysis Distributed Center is also ~iven.展开更多
Mismanaged plastics,upon entering the environment,undergo degradation through physicochemical and/or biological processes.This process often results in the formation of microplastics(MPs),the most prevalent form of pl...Mismanaged plastics,upon entering the environment,undergo degradation through physicochemical and/or biological processes.This process often results in the formation of microplastics(MPs),the most prevalent form of plastic debris(<1 mm).MPs pose severe threats to aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems,necessitating innovative strategies for effective remediation.Some photosynthetic microorganisms can degrade MPs but there lacks a comprehensive review.Here we examine the specific role of photoautotrophic microorganisms in water and soil environments for the biodegradation of plastics,focussing on their unique ability to grow persistently on diverse polymers under sunlight.Notably,these cells utilise light and CO_(2) to produce valuable compounds such as carbohydrates,lipids,and proteins,showcasing their multifaceted environmental benefits.We address key scientific questions surrounding the utilisation of photosynthetic microorganisms for MPs and nanoplastics(NPs)bioremediation,discussing potential engineering strategies for enhanced efficacy.Our review highlights the significance of alternative biomaterials and the exploration of strains expressing enzymes,such as polyethylene terephthalate(PET)hydrolases,in conjunction with microalgal and/or cyanobacterial metabolisms.Furthermore,we delve into the promising potential of photo-biocatalytic approaches,emphasising the coupling of plastic debris degradation with sunlight exposure.The integration of microalgal-bacterial consortia is explored for biotechnological applications against MPs and NPs pollution,showcasing the synergistic effects in wastewater treatment through the absorption of nitrogen,heavy metals,phosphorous,and carbon.In conclusion,this review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of research on the use of photoautotrophic cells for plastic bioremediation.It underscores the need for continued investigation into the engineering of these microorganisms and the development of innovative approaches to tackle the global issue of plastic pollution in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.展开更多
文摘In most developing countries, governments attempt to enforce the movement from analogue to digital for all their sectors, from public to private. These technological advancements have been noted to bring necessary and unavoidable changes to businesses and learning environments. Higher learning institutions have adopted various e-learning systems to support learning, research, and publication activities to stay competitive in global academic systems. However, most public higher learning institutions in Tanzania lag behind in the adoption of these systems. Thus, research shows a failure of these institutions in utilising the full benefit that today’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) can offer in learning environments. Thus, this study examines factors affecting the adoption of such a system in developing countries like Tanzania, taking the Institute of Accountancy Arusha (IAA) as a case study. The study used a mixed methodology where thematic and descriptive analysis was used to analyse both qualitative and quantitative research data. The study population was 187 teaching staff, a sample size of 126 was obtained, and 157 study participants were involved in the study. The study found that factors affecting the adoption of e-learning systems in public higher learning institutions in Tanzania include lack of ICT infrastructure, lack of technical and managerial support and lack of computers and e-learning knowledge among facilitators. Thus, the study recommended investments in adequate and reliable ICT facilities, high intermate speed and bandwidth, and policies that support e-learning and training programs about e-learning knowledge and use. Also, this study recommends the use of the Multi-Factors Adoption Model (MFAM11) for the successful adoption of an e-learning system in public higher learning institutions in Tanzania.
文摘All modern computer users need to be concerned about information system security (individuals and organisations). Many businesses established various security structures to protect information system security from harmful occurrences by implementing security procedures, processes, policies, and information system security organisational structures to ensure data security. Despite all the precautions, information security remains a disaster in Tanzania’s learning institutions. The fundamental issue appears to be a lack of awareness of crucial information security factors. Various companies have different security issues due to differences in ICT infrastructure, implementations, and usage. The study focuses on identifying information system security threats and vulnerabilities in public higher learning institutions in Tanzania, particularly the Institute of Accountancy Arusha (IAA). The study involved all employees of IAA, academics, and other supporting staff, which totalled 302, and the sample size was 170. The study utilised a descriptive research design, where the quantitative methodology was used through a five-point Likert scale questionnaire, and found that key factors that affect the security of information systems at IAA include human factors, policy-related issues, work environment and demographic factors. The study proposed regular awareness and training programs;an increase in women’s awareness of information system security;proper policy creation and reviews every 4 years;promote actions that lessen information system security threats and vulnerabilities, and the creation of information system security policy documents independently from ICT policy.
基金Nacional de Promoción Científica y Tecnológica(Grant:PICTO 2010-0111)the Instituto Antártico Argentino-Dirección Nacional del Antártico(PINST-05)provided financial and logistical support.
文摘In this work,we report long-term trends in the abundance and breeding performance of Adélie penguins(Pygoscelis adeliae)nesting in three Antarctic colonies(i.e.,at Martin Point,South Orkneys Islands;Stranger Point/Cabo Funes,South Shetland Islands;and Esperanza/Hope Bay in the Antarctic Peninsula)from 1995/96 to 2022/23.Using yearly count data of breeding groups selected,we observed a decline in the number of breeding pairs and chicks in crèche at all colonies studied.However,the magnitude of change was higher at Stranger Point than that in the remaining colonies.Moreover,the index of breeding success,which was calculated as the ratio of chicks in crèche to breeding pairs,exhibited no apparent trend throughout the study period.However,it displayed greater variability at Martin Point compared to the other two colonies under investigation.Although the number of chicks in crèche of Adélie penguins showed a declining pattern,the average breeding performance was similar to that reported in gentoo penguin colonies,specifically,those undergoing a population increase(even in sympatric colonies facing similar local conditions).Consequently,it is plausible to assume a reduction of the over-winter survival as a likely cause of the declining trend observed,at least in the Stranger Point and Esperanza colonies.However,we cannot rule out local effects during the breeding season affecting the Adélie population of Martin Point.
基金Thanks to the Agencia Nacional de Promoción Científica y Tecnológica for financial support trough PICT 2017-0607(to MR),PICT 2019-02419(to SGC).
文摘In recent years,the taxonomy and systematics of the cartilaginous fish taxa from the Eocene La Meseta Formation of Seymour(Marambio)Island,Antarctica have been extensively discussed in a series of papers,resulting in a complete revision of the Antarctic Eocene ichthyofauna housed in the Vertebrate Paleontology collection of the Museo de La Plata,Argentina.This collection constitutes one of the largest and taxonomically most diverse in the world,with approximately 20000 specimens,which provides a solid database used for the analysis of qualitative and quantitative chondrichthyan taxonomic composition.The information provided herein might be useful to understand the sudden decline in chondrichthyan taxonomic diversity towards the top of La Meseta Formation as well as its potential relationship with environmental changes during the Eocene.
文摘To help farmers in the mid hills of Nepal improve their crop management and rice yields, we conducted a study testing different nursery management options and their effect on grain yield and yield components under rainfed conditions. The experiment was conducted in a farmer’s field during the cropping season 2009 and 2010 at Sundarbazar, Lamjung, Nepal, using a 3-factor factorial RCB design with 3 replications. The three management factors tested were 1) fertilizer management in the nursery, 2) seeding density, and 3) seedling age at transplanting, using the rainfed lowland rice variety Radha-4. There were eight treatment combinations, consisting of two levels of fertilization (0 and 20:20:0:13 kg NPKS ha-1 at 15 DAS), two levels of seeding density (607 and 303 g·m-2) and two seedling ages (20 and 40 days old). Two years’ results showed that top-dressed fertilizer in the nursery had no consistent effect on grain yield. However, lower seeding density (303 g·m-2) resulted in taller plants, more productive tillers m-2, less sterility and higher grain yield. In addition, older seedlings (40 days) produced taller plants, more productive tillers, more filled grains, and a higher grain and straw yield. The interaction analysis between both factors indicated that 40 days old seedling with a low seeding density produced the highest grain yield, both in the drought season 2009 and the high-yielding season 2010. The economic analysis confirmed that the treatment with low seeding density and 40 days old seedlings produced by far the highest net returns and B:C ratio in both seasons, independent of the fertilizer treatment. The combination of these two management components is therefore economically viable and profitable, and can be recommended to farmers. However, the results need to be confirmed for other varieties used by farmers in the region.
文摘Acid Lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle) is one of the important commercial fruits cultivated from terai to high hill of Nepal. It is an important source of vitamin “C” (ascorbic acid) for human nutrition. Amount of juice, TSS (Total soluble solids), TA (Titrable acid) and vitamin C are the determining factors of quality of acid lime fruits which may vary according to bearing sides of the trees. The main objective of this study is, to determine the variation of fruit quality at different sides of the tree. Total of 15 bearing trees were selected randomly (5 trees per site) from three different agro ecological domain representing terai (1200 m asl) and samples were collected from the selected trees. Randomly ten fruits (from east, west, centre, north and south sides) were collected from each tree and analyzed for amount of vitamin C, TSS, TA and juice. Highest ascorbic acid 79.6 mg and 69.9 mg was observed in south side fruits whereas lowest 62.8 mg and 55.1 mg was observed in centre fruits in the high and mid hills zone respectively, but in terai, highest ascorbic acid 58.7 mg was observed in north side and lowest 41.8 mg was observed in centre. Highest amount of juice 43.9% was observed in south side fruits and lowest 36.6% in centre fruits, but amount of TSS 8.2% and TA 7.2% was observed in south side fruits and lowest 7.3% TSS and 7.0% TA was observed in centre fruits in high hills. In terai highest TSS 8.3% and TA 7.4% was observed in north side fruits and lowest TSS 7.3% and TA 6.7% was observed in centre fruits. Variation of TSS, TA percent and ascorbic acids was observed according to the agro ecological zone.
基金Funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.51245010 and 51405242)the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province,China(No.BK2012463)
文摘To solve the problems of poor forming and easy adhesion of the stainless steel,Cu alloyed layer on the stainless steels was prepared by the double glow plasma surface alloying technique.The experimentalresults indicated that the supersaturated copper dispersedly precipitated in grain interior and crystalboundaries and formed the vermicular structure.The tribologicaltests indicated that the friction coefficient of the Cu alloyed layer was lower than that of the stainless steels.The wear rate of stainless steelin the presence of Cu alloyed layer was approximately 2-fold lower than that in the absence of the alloyed layer.The results of the incrementalforming indicated that the ploughing phenomenon was not observed on the stainless steelin the presence of Cu alloyed layer during the incrementalforming,while the stainless steelpresented the deep ploughing.Therefore,Cu alloyed layer on stainless steelexhibited excellent self-lubrication and forming properties.
基金The research leading to these results further received funding grants ANPCYT PICT 2011-130 Raíces of the Agencia Nacional de Promociones Científicas of Argentina to IRS and MPH,and from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program under grant agreement No.730984,ASSEMBLEPLUS2019359 Project awarded to FDIt is further a contribution to CoastCarb(Funding ID 872609,H2020,MSCA-RISE-2019,Research and Innovation Staff Exchange).
文摘Under the present changing climate conditions and the observed temperature increase,it is of high importance to understand its effects on aquatic microbial life,and organisms’adaptations at the biochemical level.To adjust to temperature or salinity stress and avoid cell damage,organisms alter their degree of fatty acids(FAs)saturation.Thus,temperature is expected to have strong effects on both the quantity and quality of FAs in aquatic microorganisms.Here we review some recent findings about FAs sensitivity to climate change in contrasting environments.Overall,heat waves may induce changes in the relative abundance of polyunsaturated FAs(PUFA).However,the impact of the exposure to warming waters is different in temperate and polar environments.In cold marine waters,high concentration of omega-3(ω3)FAs such as eicosapentaenoic acid(EPA)is promoted due to the activation of the desaturase enzyme.In this way,cells have enough energy to produce or activate antioxidant protection mechanisms and avoid oxidative stress due to heat waves.Contrastingly,under high irradiance and heat wave conditions in temperate environments,photosystems’protection is achieved by decreasing EPA concentration due to desaturase sensitivity.Essential FAs are transferred in aquatic food webs.Therefore,any alteration in the production of essential FAs by phytoplankton(the main source ofω3)due to climate warming can be transferred to higher trophic levels,with cascading effects for the entire aquatic ecosystem.
文摘Acid lime (Citrus aurantifolia) fruits are cultivated in terai, mid hill and high hill districts of Nepal. It is cross-pollinated crop and has a high variation in fruit characters within the species. Fruit character is the main basis of genotype selection. Study of fruit diversity is of utmost importance to select the elite genotypes for breeding and variety development program. Therefore, total of 620 fruit samples were collected and evaluated in the main production season of the year 2010 and 2011, from 62 bearing trees. Samples were collected from three agro-ecological domains, representing terai, mid hill and high hill areas of eastern Nepal. Elite landraces were selected on the basis of scoring fruit characters. High variation in vitamin C was observed between the terai (57.4 mg) and high hill (72.5 mg) samples. Amount of juice was 36.8% in mid hill and 44.1% in terai samples. Higher percent of juice and total soluble solids (TSS) observed in terai samples but tritable acidity (TA) and vitamin C was low as compare to high hills. There was significantly negative correlation found in fruit weight, fruit diameter, juice percent and seed number, whereas significantly positive correlation was in pulp and vitamin C, with altitude range. Total landraces were separated in five major cluster group. Variation in the level of similarity was observed among the cluster groups. The variability distance of fruit characters was highest in cluster group II (–17.45%) and lowest in cluster group V (58.5%). On the basis of scoring number of fruit characters, total four elite genotypes i.e. LD-49 from mid hills, LD-23 and LT-17 from higher hills and LM-44 from terai were selected for conservation, breeding and variety development purpose.
文摘Acid lime (Citrus aurantifolia) is an important commercial fruits crop, cultivated in terai to high hills of Nepal. High variation of acid lime fruits are observed in existing landraces due to crossing within the other citrus species. Determination of genetic variation is important to the plant breeders for development of high yielding variety and hybrids. Therefore, an attempt has been made to study the genetic diversity of 62 acid lime landraces, collected from different altitudinal range in the eastern part of Nepal, using SSR markers. Twelve Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) primer pairs were used to assess the genetic diversity of acid lime. The average genetic similarity level among the 62 accessions was 0.77, ranging from 0.54 to 1.0 and separated five major cluster groups. Total of 33 alleles were detected by eleven primer pairs and size of alleles ranged from 50 to 225. Average polymorphic information content (PIC) value was 0.50, whereas highest 0.75 and lowest 0.18 was observed in CAT01 and GT03 loci respectively. The results of the study clearly indicated that, SSR markers are highly polymorphic and more informative for the assessment of genetic diversity of acid lime landraces.
文摘Establishment of the Russian section in the framework of Global Geodetic Observing System (GGOS) is under progress. New components of "Quasar" network observatories, which are included into GGOS global network as core stations, are presented. Recent developments include: two new generation radio telescopes with 13 m antennas at Badary and Zelenchukskaya observatories, water vapor radiometers installed at all observatories and software correlator at the Institute of Applied Astronomy. New and potential developments within other networks belonging to different agencies are also considered in the context of widening of Russian section activity in GGOS project, The paper gives a short overview of status, new components and plans, concerning 5 sub-networks of Federal Agency of Scientific Organi- zations, Roskosmos, Rosstandard, and Rosreestr. Short overview of the plans on creating Data and Analysis Distributed Center is also ~iven.
基金financial support by the University of Graz(Open Access Publishing Agreement)ARS would like to acknowledge the support given through ED431C2021/46-GRC attributed to Universidade de Vigo by Xunta de Galicia and IJC2020-044197-I through the Universidade de Vigo,MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033+2 种基金the European Union through“Next-GenerationEU/PRTR”This article/publication is based upon work from COST Action CA20101 Plastics monitoRIng detection RemedIaTion recoverY-PRIORITY,supported by COST(European Cooperation in Science and Technology),www.cost.euThis work was partially supported the University of Wolverhampton Research Investment Fund(RIF4).The figures were created with BioRender.com.
文摘Mismanaged plastics,upon entering the environment,undergo degradation through physicochemical and/or biological processes.This process often results in the formation of microplastics(MPs),the most prevalent form of plastic debris(<1 mm).MPs pose severe threats to aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems,necessitating innovative strategies for effective remediation.Some photosynthetic microorganisms can degrade MPs but there lacks a comprehensive review.Here we examine the specific role of photoautotrophic microorganisms in water and soil environments for the biodegradation of plastics,focussing on their unique ability to grow persistently on diverse polymers under sunlight.Notably,these cells utilise light and CO_(2) to produce valuable compounds such as carbohydrates,lipids,and proteins,showcasing their multifaceted environmental benefits.We address key scientific questions surrounding the utilisation of photosynthetic microorganisms for MPs and nanoplastics(NPs)bioremediation,discussing potential engineering strategies for enhanced efficacy.Our review highlights the significance of alternative biomaterials and the exploration of strains expressing enzymes,such as polyethylene terephthalate(PET)hydrolases,in conjunction with microalgal and/or cyanobacterial metabolisms.Furthermore,we delve into the promising potential of photo-biocatalytic approaches,emphasising the coupling of plastic debris degradation with sunlight exposure.The integration of microalgal-bacterial consortia is explored for biotechnological applications against MPs and NPs pollution,showcasing the synergistic effects in wastewater treatment through the absorption of nitrogen,heavy metals,phosphorous,and carbon.In conclusion,this review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of research on the use of photoautotrophic cells for plastic bioremediation.It underscores the need for continued investigation into the engineering of these microorganisms and the development of innovative approaches to tackle the global issue of plastic pollution in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.