scholarly journals Often Overlooked: Understanding and Meeting the Current Challenges of Marine Invertebrate Conservation

2021 ◽  
Vol 8 ◽  
Author(s):  
Emily Yi-Shyuan Chen
Keyword(s):  
Public Perception ◽  
Marine Invertebrates ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Marine Invertebrate ◽  
Human Life ◽  
Habitat Destruction ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Anthropogenic Pressures ◽  
Invertebrate Conservation ◽  
Key Species

Making up over 92% of life in our oceans, marine invertebrates inhabit every zone in the water column, with contributions ranging from ecosystem functioning to socioeconomic development. Compared to charismatic species, marine invertebrates are often underrepresented in IUCN reports and national conservation efforts. Because of this, as climate change intensifies in conjunction with increasing anthropogenic pressures such as habitat destruction, many marine invertebrates are at risk of silently heading toward extinction. However, public perception has shifted in recent years due to the growing awareness of the important roles these invertebrates play in marine and human life. This change may promote greater support for future research and conservation campaigns of key species. This review highlights the importance of marine invertebrates, the environmental and anthropogenic stressors they are currently facing, and the inherent challenges in their successful conservation. Potential solutions to fill the gaps in current knowledge will be also explored in the context of recent globalization and technological advancements. The loss of marine invertebrate biodiversity will have cascading ecological, economic, and sociological repercussions, so compiling key information into a holistic review will add to the conversation of the importance of global marine invertebrate conservation.

scholarly journals The use of questionnaires for acquiring information on public perception of natural hazards and risk mitigation – a review of current knowledge and practice

2009 ◽  
Vol 9 (4) ◽  
pp. 1307-1325 ◽  
Author(s):  
D. K. Bird
Keyword(s):  
Natural Hazards ◽  
Public Perception ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Risk Mitigation ◽  
Mode Of Delivery ◽  
Sampling Technique ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Delivery Mode ◽  
Management Procedures ◽  
Knowledge And Practice

Abstract. Questionnaires are popular and fundamental tools for acquiring information on public knowledge and perception of natural hazards. Questionnaires can provide valuable information to emergency management agencies for developing risk management procedures. Although many natural hazards researchers describe results generated from questionnaires, few explain the techniques used for their development and implementation. Methodological detail should include, as a minimum, response format (open/closed questions), mode of delivery, sampling technique, response rate and access to the questionnaire to allow reproduction of or comparison with similar studies. This article reviews current knowledge and practice for developing and implementing questionnaires. Key features include questionnaire design, delivery mode, sampling techniques and data analysis. In order to illustrate these aspects, a case study examines methods chosen for the development and implementation of questionnaires used to obtain information on knowledge and perception of volcanic hazards in a tourist region in southern Iceland. Face-to-face interviews highlighted certain issues with respect to question structure and sequence. Recommendations are made to overcome these problems before the questionnaires are applied in future research projects. In conclusion, basic steps that should be disclosed in the literature are provided as a checklist to ensure that reliable, replicable and valid results are produced from questionnaire based hazard knowledge and risk perception research.

scholarly journals Diversity, function and evolution of marine invertebrate genomes

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Guangyi Fan ◽  
Yaolei Zhang ◽  
Jiahao Wang ◽  
Meiqi Lv ◽  
Haoyang Gao ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Molecular Mechanisms ◽  
Tandem Repeats ◽  
Hox Genes ◽  
Marine Invertebrates ◽  
Marine Invertebrate ◽  
Human Life ◽  
Gene Families ◽  
Sister Group ◽  
Immune Gene ◽  
Invertebrate Genome

Invertebrates, animals (metazoans) without backbones, encompass ~97% of all animal yet remains understudied. They have provided insights into molecular mechanisms underlying fundamentally identical mechanisms in phylogenetically diverse animals, including vertebrates. Marine invertebrates have long fascinated researchers due to their abundance, diversity, adaptations, and impact on ecosystems and human economies. Here, we report a compendium and appraisal of 190 marine invertebrate genomes spanning 21 phyla, 43 classes, 92 orders, and 134 families. We identify a high proportion and long unit size of tandem repeats, likely contributing to reported difficulties in invertebrate genome assembly. A well-supported phylogenetic tree of marine invertebrates from 974 single-copy orthologous genes resolved topological controversies. We show that Ctenophora is at the basal phylum and Porifera is the sister group of Parahoxozoa; that Xenacoelomorpha is within Bilateria and is the sister group to Protostomia, rejecting three out of four hypotheses in the field; and that Bryozoa is at the basal position of Lophotrochozoa, not grouped into Lophophorata. We also present insights into the genetic underpinnings of metazoans from Hox genes, innate immune gene families, and nervous system gene families. Our marine invertebrate genome compendium provides a unified foundation for studies on their evolution and effects on ecological systems and human life.

scholarly journals Asexual Reproduction of Marine Invertebrate Embryos and Larvae

2018 ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Asexual Reproduction ◽  
Life Histories ◽  
Developmental Plasticity ◽  
Developmental Stages ◽  
Marine Invertebrates ◽  
Marine Invertebrate ◽  
Taxonomic Diversity ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Open Questions ◽  
Juvenile Stages

Developmental plasticity during the early life histories of marine invertebrates is a fascinating opportunity to study the interplay between ecology and evolution. In particular, some embryos and larvae initiate asexual reproduction while completing their development. This chapter examines the mode, frequency, and taxonomic diversity of asexual reproduction that occurs between the zygotic and the juvenile stages. Special attention is given to the phylum Echinodermata, where asexual reproduction during embryonic and larval development has been best studied. An emphasis is also placed on the factors that have been identified as likely inducers of asexual reproduction and an assessment of the likelihood that asexual reproduction is an adaptive response to these factors. Lastly, several key open questions are identified as potential avenues for future research about the causes and consequences of asexual reproduction by the developmental stages of marine invertebrates.

scholarly journals Marine Invertebrate Peptides: Antimicrobial Peptides

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ran Wu ◽  
Jiri Patocka ◽  
Eugenie Nepovimova ◽  
Patrik Oleksak ◽  
Martin Valis ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Antimicrobial Peptides ◽  
Marine Invertebrates ◽  
Marine Invertebrate ◽  
Antimicrobial Activities ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Antitumor Activities ◽  
Killing Effect ◽  
Existing Problems ◽  
Theoretical Support ◽  
Direct Killing

Antimicrobial peptides are an important component of many organisms’ innate immune system, with a good inhibitory or killing effect against the invading pathogens. As a type of biological polypeptide with natural immune activities, antimicrobial peptides have a broad spectrum of antibacterial, antiviral, and antitumor activities. Nevertheless, these peptides cause no harm to the organisms themselves. Compared with traditional antibiotics, antimicrobial peptides have the advantage of not producing drug resistance and have a unique antibacterial mechanism, which has attracted widespread attention. In this study, marine invertebrates were classified into arthropods, annelids, mollusks, cnidarians, and tunicata. We then analyzed the types, sources and antimicrobial activities of the antimicrobial peptides in each group. We also reviewed the immune mechanism from three aspects: membrane-targeted direct killing effects, non-membrane targeting effects and immunomodulatory effects. Finally, we discussed their applications and the existing problems facing antimicrobial peptides in actual production. The results are expected to provide theoretical support for future research and applications of antimicrobial peptides in marine invertebrates.

scholarly journals Marine invertebrate diversity in Aristotle’s zoology

2007 ◽  
Vol 76 (2) ◽  
pp. 103-120 ◽  
Author(s):  
Eleni Voultsiadou ◽  
Dimitris Vafidis
Keyword(s):  
Scientific Knowledge ◽  
Benthic Invertebrates ◽  
Marine Invertebrates ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Marine Invertebrate ◽  
Species Level ◽  
Invertebrate Diversity ◽  
Higher Taxa ◽  
Starting Point ◽  
Animal Names

The aim of this paper is to bring to light Aristotle’s knowledge of marine invertebrate diversity as this has been recorded in his works 25 centuries ago, and set it against current knowledge. The analysis of information derived from a thorough study of his zoological writings revealed 866 records related to animals currently classified as marine invertebrates. These records corresponded to 94 different animal names or descriptive phrases which were assigned to 85 current marine invertebrate taxa, mostly (58%) at the species level. A detailed, annotated catalogue of all marine anhaima (a = without, haima = blood) appearing in Aristotle’s zoological works was constructed and several older confusions were clarified. Some of Aristotle’s “genera” were found to be directly correlated to current invertebrate higher taxa. Almost the total of the marine anhaima were benthic invertebrates. The great philosopher had a remarkable, well-balanced scientific knowledge of the diversity of the various invertebrate groups, very similar to that acquired by modern marine biologists in the same area of study. The results of the present study should be considered as a necessary starting point for a further analysis of Aristotle’s priceless contribution to the marine environment and its organisms.

Multiple Facets of Marine Invertebrate Conservation Genomics

2019 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. 473-497 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jose V. Lopez ◽  
Bishoy Kamel ◽  
Mónica Medina ◽  
Timothy Collins ◽  
Iliana B. Baums
Keyword(s):  
Marine Invertebrates ◽  
Marine Invertebrate ◽  
Marine Conservation ◽  
Ex Situ ◽  
Conservation Genomics ◽  
Invertebrate Conservation ◽  
Genomics Research ◽  
Living Organisms ◽  
The Impact

Conservation genomics aims to preserve the viability of populations and the biodiversity of living organisms. Invertebrate organisms represent 95% of animal biodiversity; however, few genomic resources currently exist for the group. The subset of marine invertebrates includes the most ancient metazoan lineages and possesses codes for unique gene products and possible keys to adaptation. The benefits of supporting invertebrate conservation genomics research (e.g., likely discovery of novel genes, protein regulatory mechanisms, genomic innovations, and transposable elements) outweigh the various hurdles (rare, small, or polymorphic starting materials). Here we review best conservation genomics practices in the laboratory and in silico when applied to marine invertebrates and also showcase unique features in several case studies of acroporid corals, crown-of-thorns starfish, apple snails, and abalone. Marine conservation genomics should also address how diversity can lead to unique marine innovations, the impact of deleterious variation, and how genomic monitoring and profiling could positively affect broader conservation goals (e.g., value of baseline data for in situ/ex situ genomic stocks).

Amruthapala (Decalepis arayalpathra (J. Joseph and V. Chandras.) Venter): A Comprehensive Review on Diversity, Therapeutic Uses, and Valorization of Bioactive Constituents

2019 ◽  
Vol 20 (5) ◽  
pp. 376-389 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sonali Mishra ◽  
Nupur Srivastava ◽  
Velusamy Sundaresan ◽  
Karuna Shanker
Keyword(s):  
Secondary Metabolite ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Experimental Studies ◽  
Critical Discussion ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Bioactive Constituents ◽  
Medicinal Uses ◽  
Comprehensive Review ◽  
Therapeutic Uses ◽  
Decalepis Arayalpathra

Background: Decalepis arayalpathra (J. Joseph and V. Chandras.) Venter is used primarily for nutrition besides its therapeutic values. Traditional preparations/formulations from its tuber are used as a vitalizer and blood purifier drink. The folklore medicinal uses cover inflammation, cough, wound healing, antipyretic, and digestive system management. A comprehensive review of the current understanding of the plant is required due to emerging concerns over its safety and efficacy. Objective: The systematic collection of the authentic information from different sources with the critical discussion is summarised in order to address various issues related to botanical identity, therapeutic medicine, nutritional usage, phytochemical, and pharmacological potentials of the D. arayalpathra. Current use of traditional systems of medicine can be used to expand future research opportunities. Materials and Methods: Available scripted information was collected manually, from peered review research papers and international databases viz. Science Direct, Google Scholar, SciFinder, Scopus, etc. The unpublished resources which were not available in database were collected through the classical books of ‘Ayurveda’ and ‘Siddha’ published in regional languages. The information from books, Ph.D. and MSc dissertations, conference papers and government reports were also collected. We thoroughly screened the scripted information of classical books, titles, abstracts, reports, and full-texts of the journals to establish the reliability of the content. Results: Tuber bearing vanilla like signature flavor is due to the presence of 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzaldehyde (HMB). Among five other species, Decalepis arayalpathra (DA) has come under the ‘critically endangered’ category, due to over-exploitation for traditional, therapeutic and cool drink use. The experimental studies proved that it possesses gastro-protective, anti-tumor, and antiinflammatory activities. Some efforts were also made to develop better therapeutics by logical modifications in 2-Hydroxy-4-methoxy-benzaldehyde, which is a major secondary metabolite of D. arayalpathra. ‘Amruthapala’ offers the enormous opportunity to develop herbal drink with health benefits like gastro-protective, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory actions. Results: The plant has the potential to generate the investigational new lead (IND) based on its major secondary metabolite i.e. 2-Hydroxy-4-methoxy-benzaldehyde. The present mini-review summarizes the current knowledge on Decalepis arayalpathra, covering its phytochemical diversity, biological potentials, strategies for its conservation, and intellectual property rights (IPR) status. Chemical Compounds: 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzaldehyde (Pubchem CID: 69600), α-amyrin acetate (Pubchem CID: 293754), Magnificol (Pubchem CID: 44575983), β-sitosterol (Pubchem CID: 222284), 3-hydroxy-p-anisaldehyde (Pubchem CID: 12127), Naringenin (Pubchem CID: 932), Kaempferol (Pubchem CID: 5280863), Aromadendrin (Pubchem CID: 122850), 3-methoxy-1,2-cyclopentanedione (Pubchem CID: 61209), p-anisaldehyde (Pubchem CID: 31244), Menthyl acetate (Pubchem CID: 27867), Benzaldehyde (Pubchem CID: 240), p-cymene (Pubchem CID: 7463), Salicylaldehyde (Pubchem CID: 6998), 10-epi-γ-eudesmol (Pubchem CID: 6430754), α -amyrin (Pubchem CID: 225688), 3-hydroxy-4-methoxy benzaldehyde (Pubchem CID: 12127).

Physiology of Larval Feeding

2018 ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Growth And Development ◽  
Marine Invertebrate ◽  
Larval Growth ◽  
Circulatory System ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Larval Feeding ◽  
Digestive Physiology ◽  
Larval Body ◽  
The Individual ◽  
Invertebrate Larvae

The functional properties of marine invertebrate larvae represent the sum of the physiological activities of the individual, the interdependence among cells making up the whole, and the correct positioning of cells within the larval body. This chapter examines physiological aspects of nutrient acquisition, digestion, assimilation, and distribution within invertebrate larvae from an organismic and comparative perspective. Growth and development of larvae obviously require the acquisition of “food.” Yet the mechanisms where particulate or dissolved organic materials are converted into biomass and promote development of larvae differ and are variably known among groups. Differences in the physiology of the digestive system (secreted enzymes, gut transit time, and assimilation) within and among feeding larvae suggest the possibility of an underappreciated plasticity of digestive physiology. How the ingestion of seawater by and the existence of a circulatory system within larvae contribute to larval growth and development represent important topics for future research.

Disparities in Health Between Black and White Americans: Current Knowledge and Directions for Future Research

2018 ◽  
pp. 456-478
Author(s):  
Thomas E. Fuller-Rowell ◽  
David S. Curtis ◽  
Adrienne M. Duke
Keyword(s):  
Health Disparities ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Public Investment ◽  
The United States ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Sociocultural Factors ◽  
White Americans ◽  
Biological Mechanisms ◽  
Black And White ◽  
Racial Ethnic

Conceptual frameworks for racial/ethnic health disparities are abundant, but many have received insufficient empirical attention. As a result, there are substantial gaps in scientific knowledge and a range of untested hypotheses. Particularly lacking is specificity in behavioral and biological mechanisms for such disparities and their underlying social determinants. Alongside lack of political will and public investment, insufficient clarity in mechanisms has stymied efforts to address racial health disparities. Capitalizing on emergent findings from the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) study and other longitudinal studies of aging, this chapter evaluates research on health disparities between black and white US adults. Attention is given to candidate behavioral and biological mechanisms as precursors to group differences in morbidity and mortality and to environmental and sociocultural factors that may underlie these mechanisms. Future research topics are discussed, emphasizing those that offer promise with respect to illuminating practical solutions to racial/ethnic health disparities.

scholarly journals Protocol for a systematic review on the experience of informal caregivers for people with a moderate to advanced dementia within a domestic home setting

2020 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Charles James ◽  
Catherine Walshe ◽  
Katherine Froggatt
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Negative Impact ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Informal Caregivers ◽  
Informal Caregiving ◽  
Bibliographic Databases ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Advanced Dementia ◽  
Home Setting ◽  
Search Terms

Abstract Background The knowledge about the experience of informal caregivers who provide care to people with moderate to advanced dementia in a domestic home setting is limited. A consequence of long hours of caregiving in addition to dealing with normal challenges of daily living is their experience of a poor quality of life. Some of their experiences may be described in terms of a feeling of powerlessness to make changes during care provision. This feeling may also suggest an experience of moral distress. The aim of this systematic review is to synthesise qualitative evidence relating to these experiences. Methods This review adopts a narrative synthesis approach. A search will be conducted for studies written in the English language in the bibliographic databases MEDLINE Complete, CINAHL, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Web of Science and Academic Search Complete covering periods from 1984 to present. Included studies will be qualitative or mixed-methods designs. The search terms will be related to dementia and caregivers, and the process will be focused on dementia at the moderate to the advanced stages within the domestic home setting. Reference lists of included papers will also be searched for additional relevant citations. Search terms and strategies will be checked by two independent reviewers. The identification of abstracts and full texts of studies will be done by the author, while the quality and the risk of bias will also be checked by the two independent reviewers. Discussion Psychological distress is cited as an experience reported within informal caregiving. For the caregiver, it is associated with a negative impact on general health. To date, no synthesis exists on the specific experience of informal caregiving for people with moderate to advanced dementia within the domestic home setting. This review considers that variation of accounts contributes to how the informal caregivers’ general experience is explored in future research. This may enable gaps in current knowledge to be highlighted within the wider context of caregiving in the domestic home setting. Systematic review registration This review is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020183649).

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