Showing papers by "University of Costa Rica published in 2021"
TL;DR: An insufficient reporting of model performance and parameterization, heavy reliance on model selection with AICc and low utilization of spatial cross‐validation are found; it is explained how ENMeval 2.0 can help address these issues.
158 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, a comparative bioprospecting for a group of wild orchids using EBDCS (the Economic Botany Data Collection Standards) organ targeted and biological response methods was carried out.
Abstract: Necklace orchids (Coelogyninae, Epidendroideae) have been used in traditional medicine practices for centuries. Previous studies on a subset of unrelated orchid species utilized in these traditional practices revealed they possessed antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant activity, providing experimental proof for their medicinal properties. To date however none of these species have been investigated ethno-botanically in a phylogenetic context. This study carried out comparative bioprospecting for a group of wild orchids using EBDCS (the Economic Botany Data Collection Standards) organ targeted and biological response methods. The traditional medicinal use of necklace orchids was recorded from books and journals published between 1984 and 2016. Two orchids, Coelogyne cristata and Coelogyne fimbriata, were selected, cultivated both indoors and outdoors, and the antimicrobial properties on extracts from their leaves and pseudobulbs tested against a selection of human pathogens. A molecular phylogeny of Coelogyninae based on nuclear ribosomal ITS and plastid matK DNA sequences obtained from 148 species was reconstructed with Maximum Likelihood (ML) using RAxML, Maximum Parsimony (MP) using PAUP and Bayesian Inference using MrBayes. Bioprospecting comparison of EBDCS and biological response was carried out using customized R scripts. Ethanolic extracts obtained from leaves of C. fimbriata inhibited growth of Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, and Yersinia enterocolitica, confirming the antimicrobial properties of these extracts. Leaf extracts were found to have slightly stronger antimicrobial properties for plants cultivated outdoors than indoors. These differences were not found to be statistically significant though. Three hot nodes with high potency for antimicrobial activities were detected with the EBDCS organ targeted classification method, and eight hot nodes were detected with the biological response classification method. The biological response classification method is thus a more effective tool in finding hot nodes amongst clades of species with high medicinal potential.
142 citations
Université catholique de Louvain1, University of Porto2, Ankara University3, Özyeğin University4, University of Jyväskylä5, University of Lausanne6, National University of Rwanda7, Saint Joseph's University8, Ghent University9, University of Paris10, University of Wrocław11, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières12, Fudan University13, University of São Paulo14, University College London15, University of Geneva16, Alpen-Adria-Universität Klagenfurt17, Charité18, Hokkai Gakuen University19, Centre for Social Studies20, Harvard University21, Stanford University22, Tilburg University23, University of the Punjab24, Menoufia University25, University of Social Sciences and Humanities26, Chubu University27, University of Belgrade28, University of Lomé29, University of Nîmes30, Rio de Janeiro State University31, University of Sydney32, Universidad de San Martín de Porres33, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador34, University of Padua35, National University of Distance Education36, Alzahra University37, West University of Timișoara38, University of Yaoundé39, University of Ulm40, Dalarna University41, Universidad Santo Tomás42, Austral University of Chile43, Florida International University44, National University of Tucumán45, National Pedagogic University (Mexico)46, University of Toulouse47, University of the Basque Country48, Aix-Marseille University49, University of the Republic50, University College West51, University of Bucharest52, Saint Petersburg State University53, University of Costa Rica54, Bahçeşehir University55, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems56, Chiang Mai University57
TL;DR: It is shown that individualism plays a larger role in parental burnout than either economic inequalities across countries, or any other individual and family characteristic examined so far, including the number and age of children and the number of hours spent with them.
Abstract: High levels of stress in the parenting domain can lead to parental burnout, a condition that has severe consequences for both parents and children. It is not yet clear, however, whether parental burnout varies by culture, and if so, why it might do so. In this study, we examined the prevalence of parental burnout in 42 countries (17,409 parents; 71% mothers; Mage = 39.20) and showed that the prevalence of parental burnout varies dramatically across countries. Analyses of cultural values revealed that individualistic cultures, in particular, displayed a noticeably higher prevalence and mean level of parental burnout. Indeed, individualism plays a larger role in parental burnout than either economic inequalities across countries, or any other individual and family characteristic examined so far, including the number and age of children and the number of hours spent with them. These results suggest that cultural values in Western countries may put parents under heightened levels of stress.
94 citations
Wageningen University and Research Centre1, Utrecht University2, Carleton University3, University of Maryland, College Park4, University of Costa Rica5, Hosei University6, Stellenbosch University7, Chinese Academy of Sciences8, Oregon State University9, University of Toronto10, University of California, Berkeley11, University of Pretoria12, Technical University of Denmark13, Suez Canal University14, University of Kurdistan15, University of Cambridge16, Imperial College London17, University of Kharkiv18, Cape Peninsula University of Technology19, University of Florida20, National Taiwan University21, Norwegian University of Science and Technology22, University of Oslo23, Universidade Federal de Goiás24, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco25, University of the Republic26, University of Perugia27, University of Los Andes28, New York State Department of Health29, University of Neuchâtel30, American Museum of Natural History31, Université catholique de Louvain32, Babcock University33, Beijing Forestry University34, University of Buenos Aires35, Royal Botanic Gardens36, Austral University of Chile37, Spanish National Research Council38, University of Graz39, Scotland's Rural College40, University of Turin41, Sewanee: The University of the South42, Ghent University43, Swedish Museum of Natural History44, Charles University in Prague45, Mae Fah Luang University46, Cornell University47, University of Mauritius48, Landcare Research49, Yeditepe University50, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna51, University of California, Davis52, Chonnam National University53, Laboratory of Molecular Biology54, Sukachev Institute of Forest55, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China56, University of Queensland57, University of Florence58, Mie University59, University of Gothenburg60, University of Batna61, National Scientific and Technical Research Council62, University of Lisbon63, University of Catania64, Agharkar Research Institute65, Federal University of São Paulo66, Agricultural Research Service67, Federal University of Pernambuco68, University of Southern Queensland69, Northwest A&F University70, University of the Free State71, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh72, University of Melbourne73, Shandong Agricultural University74, Leibniz Association75, Uppsala University76, Goethe University Frankfurt77
TL;DR: Fusarioid-ID as discussed by the authors is an online monograph of the genus Fusarium, which is used to identify fusarioids in the Nectriaceae family.
89 citations
King Abdulaziz University1, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven2, Columbia University3, University of California, Los Angeles4, Oak Ridge National Laboratory5, Ensenada Center for Scientific Research and Higher Education6, National Autonomous University of Mexico7, Iowa State University8, University of Costa Rica9, University of the West Indies10, Pakistan Meteorological Department11, African Institute for Mathematical Sciences12, University of Massachusetts Lowell13
TL;DR: The Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6) dataset is used to examine projected changes in temperature and precipitation over the United States, Central America and the Caribbean as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: The Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6) dataset is used to examine projected changes in temperature and precipitation over the United States (U.S.), Central America and the Caribbean. The changes are computed using an ensemble of 31 models for three future time slices (2021–2040, 2041–2060, and 2080–2099) relative to the reference period (1995–2014) under three Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs; SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, and SSP5-8.5). The CMIP6 ensemble reproduces the observed annual cycle and distribution of mean annual temperature and precipitation with biases between − 0.93 and 1.27 °C and − 37.90 to 58.45%, respectively, for most of the region. However, modeled precipitation is too large over the western and Midwestern U.S. during winter and spring and over the North American monsoon region in summer, while too small over southern Central America. Temperature is projected to increase over the entire domain under all three SSPs, by as much as 6 °C under SSP5-8.5, and with more pronounced increases in the northern latitudes over the regions that receive snow in the present climate. Annual precipitation projections for the end of the twenty-first century have more uncertainty, as expected, and exhibit a meridional dipole-like pattern, with precipitation increasing by 10–30% over much of the U.S. and decreasing by 10–40% over Central America and the Caribbean, especially over the monsoon region. Seasonally, precipitation over the eastern and central subregions is projected to increase during winter and spring and decrease during summer and autumn. Over the monsoon region and Central America, precipitation is projected to decrease in all seasons except autumn. The analysis was repeated on a subset of 9 models with the best performance in the reference period; however, no significant difference was found, suggesting that model bias is not strongly influencing the projections.
86 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the role of CCR5 and its ligands across the immunologic spectrum of COVID-19 was explored using a bioinformatics approach to predict and model the immunological phases of the virus pathogenesis.
Abstract: Expression of CCR5 and its cognate ligands have been implicated in COVID-19 pathogenesis, consequently therapeutics directed against CCR5 are being investigated. Here, we explored the role of CCR5 and its ligands across the immunologic spectrum of COVID-19. We used a bioinformatics approach to predict and model the immunologic phases of COVID so that effective treatment strategies can be devised and monitored. We investigated 224 individuals including healthy controls and patients spanning the COVID-19 disease continuum. We assessed the plasma and isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from 29 healthy controls, 26 Mild-Moderate COVID-19 individuals, 48 Severe COVID-19 individuals, and 121 individuals with post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) symptoms. Immune subset profiling and a 14-plex cytokine panel were run on all patients from each group. B-cells were significantly elevated compared to healthy control individuals (P<0.001) as was the CD14+, CD16+, CCR5+ monocytic subset (P<0.001). CD4 and CD8 positive T-cells expressing PD-1 as well as T-regulatory cells were significantly lower than healthy controls (P<0.001 and P=0.01 respectively). CCL5/RANTES, IL-2, IL-4, CCL3, IL-6, IL-10, IFN-γ, and VEGF were all significantly elevated compared to healthy controls (all P<0.001). Conversely GM-CSF and CCL4 were in significantly lower levels than healthy controls (P=0.01). Data were further analyzed and the classes were balanced using SMOTE. With a balanced working dataset, we constructed 3 random forest classifiers: a multi-class predictor, a Severe disease group binary classifier and a PASC binary classifier. Models were also analyzed for feature importance to identify relevant cytokines to generate a disease score. Multi-class models generated a score specific for the PASC patients and defined as S1 = (IFN-γ + IL-2)/CCL4-MIP-1β. Second, a score for the Severe COVID-19 patients was defined as S2 = (IL-6+sCD40L/1000 + VEGF/10 + 10*IL-10)/(IL-2 + IL-8). Severe COVID-19 patients are characterized by excessive inflammation and dysregulated T cell activation, recruitment, and counteracting activities. While PASC patients are characterized by a profile able to induce the activation of effector T cells with pro-inflammatory properties and the capacity of generating an effective immune response to eliminate the virus but without the proper recruitment signals to attract activated T cells.
76 citations
Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University1, Leibniz Association2, Humboldt University of Berlin3, University of Bucharest4, Free University of Berlin5, University of New Brunswick6, Alexander von Humboldt Biological Resources Research Institute7, University of Barcelona8, University of Leeds9, Chinese Academy of Sciences10, Norwegian University of Life Sciences11, American Museum of Natural History12, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos13, Carleton University14, IMDEA15, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven16, Naturalis17, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology18, University of Hong Kong19, Ateneo de Manila University20, Museum für Naturkunde21, Technische Universität München22, Ghent University23, Zoological Society of London24, University of Ghana25, University of Potsdam26, University of Costa Rica27, University of Duisburg-Essen28, University of Koblenz and Landau29, Utah State University30, Finnish Environment Institute31, University of Nevada, Reno32, Chongqing University of Posts and Telecommunications33, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences34, Kabale University35, EARTH University36, Trinity College, Dublin37, Stockholm Resilience Centre38, University of Münster39, Norwegian Institute for Water Research40, University of Otago41, International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources42, University of the Philippines Diliman43, National Institute for Environmental Studies44, Ilia State University45, University of Douala46, University of Mississippi47, Rhodes University48, World Wide Fund for Nature49, University of Giessen50, Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies51, North Carolina State University52, University of the South Pacific53, Stellenbosch University54, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna55, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology56, University of Bern57, Tribhuvan University58, Kathmandu University59, University of Helsinki60, University of Vermont61, Braunschweig University of Technology62, François Rabelais University63, University of Kansas64, Goethe University Frankfurt65, University of Canterbury66, University of California, Santa Barbara67, Federal University of Paraná68, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ69
TL;DR: In this article, the authors identified 15 pressing priority needs, grouped into five research areas, in an effort to support informed stewardship of freshwater biodiversity, and proposed a global biodiversity research agenda aiming to advance freshwater biodiversity research globally.
Abstract: Global freshwater biodiversity is declining dramatically, and meeting the challenges of this crisis requires bold goals and the mobilisation of substantial resources. While the reasons are varied, investments in both research and conservation of freshwater biodiversity lag far behind those in the terrestrial and marine realms. Inspired by a global consultation, we identify 15 pressing priority needs, grouped into five research areas, in an effort to support informed stewardship of freshwater biodiversity. The proposed agenda aims to advance freshwater biodiversity research globally as a critical step in improving coordinated actions towards its sustainable management and conservation.
69 citations
Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine1, University of California, San Diego2, University of Montana3, University of Queensland4, Leiden University5, Cornell University6, Swansea University7, Nottingham Trent University8, Bangor University9, University of Costa Rica10, University of Bristol11, University of São Paulo12
TL;DR: In this article, three lineages of cobras have independently evolved the ability to spit venom at adversaries, and the three spitting lineages possess venoms characterized by an up-regulation of phospholipase A2 (PLA2) toxins, which potentiate the action of preexisting venom cytotoxins to activate mammalian sensory neurons and cause enhanced pain.
Abstract: Convergent evolution provides insights into the selective drivers underlying evolutionary change. Snake venoms, with a direct genetic basis and clearly defined functional phenotype, provide a model system for exploring the repeated evolution of adaptations. While snakes use venom primarily for predation, and venom composition often reflects diet specificity, three lineages of cobras have independently evolved the ability to spit venom at adversaries. Using gene, protein, and functional analyses, we show that the three spitting lineages possess venoms characterized by an up-regulation of phospholipase A2 (PLA2) toxins, which potentiate the action of preexisting venom cytotoxins to activate mammalian sensory neurons and cause enhanced pain. These repeated independent changes provide a fascinating example of convergent evolution across multiple phenotypic levels driven by selection for defense.
68 citations
TL;DR: In this article, an extensive literature including historical texts is reviewed, controversial issues are critically examined, and errors perpetuated in literature are corrected, and the potential of hairy roots for manufacturing lignans in vitro are outlined.
Abstract: Major lignans of sesame sesamin and sesamolin are benzodioxol--substituted furofurans. Sesamol, sesaminol, its epimers, and episesamin are transformation products found in processed products. Synthetic routes to all lignans are known but only sesamol is synthesized industrially. Biosynthesis of furofuran lignans begins with the dimerization of coniferyl alcohol, followed by the formation of dioxoles, oxidation, and glycosylation. Most genes of the lignan pathway in sesame have been identified but the inheritance of lignan content is poorly understood. Health-promoting properties make lignans attractive components of functional food. Lignans enhance the efficiency of insecticides and possess antifeedant activity, but their biological function in plants remains hypothetical. In this work, extensive literature including historical texts is reviewed, controversial issues are critically examined, and errors perpetuated in literature are corrected. The following aspects are covered: chemical properties and transformations of lignans; analysis, purification, and total synthesis; occurrence in Seseamum indicum and related plants; biosynthesis and genetics; biological activities; health-promoting properties; and biological functions. Finally, the improvement of lignan content in sesame seeds by breeding and biotechnology and the potential of hairy roots for manufacturing lignans in vitro are outlined.
66 citations
TL;DR: In this article, metabolic network-wide routes for NADPH generation, the metabolic currency that fuels redox-stress quenching mechanisms, were inspected when P. putida KT2440 was challenged with a sub-lethal H2O2 dose as a proxy of oxidative conditions.
Abstract: As a frequent inhabitant of sites polluted with toxic chemicals, the soil bacterium and plant-root colonizer Pseudomonas putida can tolerate high levels of endogenous and exogenous oxidative stress. Yet, the ultimate reason of such phenotypic property remains largely unknown. To shed light on this question, metabolic network-wide routes for NADPH generation—the metabolic currency that fuels redox-stress quenching mechanisms—were inspected when P. putida KT2440 was challenged with a sub-lethal H2O2 dose as a proxy of oxidative conditions. 13C-tracer experiments, metabolomics, and flux analysis, together with the assessment of physiological parameters and measurement of enzymatic activities, revealed a substantial flux reconfiguration in oxidative environments. In particular, periplasmic glucose processing was rerouted to cytoplasmic oxidation, and the cyclic operation of the pentose phosphate pathway led to significant NADPH-forming fluxes, exceeding biosynthetic demands by ~50%. The resulting NADPH surplus, in turn, fueled the glutathione system for H2O2 reduction. These properties not only account for the tolerance of P. putida to environmental insults—some of which end up in the formation of reactive oxygen species—but they also highlight the value of this bacterial host as a platform for environmental bioremediation and metabolic engineering.
64 citations
Michael A. Cork1, Nathaniel J. Henry2, Nathaniel J. Henry1, Stefanie Watson1 +386 more•Institutions (212)
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors used a Bayesian spatially explicit mixed-effects regression model to estimate the HIV mortality rate and the number of HIV deaths by age group, sex, and municipality in Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, and Mexico.
Abstract: Background
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) remains a public health priority in Latin America. While the burden of HIV is historically concentrated in urban areas and high-risk groups, subnational estimates that cover multiple countries and years are missing. This paucity is partially due to incomplete vital registration (VR) systems and statistical challenges related to estimating mortality rates in areas with low numbers of HIV deaths. In this analysis, we address this gap and provide novel estimates of the HIV mortality rate and the number of HIV deaths by age group, sex, and municipality in Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, and Mexico.
Methods
We performed an ecological study using VR data ranging from 2000 to 2017, dependent on individual country data availability. We modeled HIV mortality using a Bayesian spatially explicit mixed-effects regression model that incorporates prior information on VR completeness. We calibrated our results to the Global Burden of Disease Study 2017.
Results
All countries displayed over a 40-fold difference in HIV mortality between municipalities with the highest and lowest age-standardized HIV mortality rate in the last year of study for men, and over a 20-fold difference for women. Despite decreases in national HIV mortality in all countries—apart from Ecuador—across the period of study, we found broad variation in relative changes in HIV mortality at the municipality level and increasing relative inequality over time in all countries. In all six countries included in this analysis, 50% or more HIV deaths were concentrated in fewer than 10% of municipalities in the latest year of study. In addition, national age patterns reflected shifts in mortality to older age groups—the median age group among decedents ranged from 30 to 45 years of age at the municipality level in Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico in 2017.
Conclusions
Our subnational estimates of HIV mortality revealed significant spatial variation and diverging local trends in HIV mortality over time and by age. This analysis provides a framework for incorporating data and uncertainty from incomplete VR systems and can help guide more geographically precise public health intervention to support HIV-related care and reduce HIV-related deaths.
Newcastle University1, University of Reading2, University of Innsbruck3, Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute4, Towers Watson5, Met Office6, Cardiff University7, University of New South Wales8, Istituto Universitario Di Studi Superiori Di Pavia9, University of Edinburgh10, Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute11, Massachusetts Institute of Technology12, Environment Agency13, National Center for Atmospheric Research14, ETH Zurich15, University of Exeter16, University of Costa Rica17, University of Iowa18, University of Melbourne19, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory20, University of Adelaide21
TL;DR: A large number of recent studies have aimed at understanding short-duration rainfall extremes, due to their impacts on flash floods, landslides and debris flows and potential for these to worsen with global warming.
Abstract: A large number of recent studies have aimed at understanding short-duration rainfall extremes, due to their impacts on flash floods, landslides and debris flows and potential for these to worsen with global warming. This has been led in a concerted international effort by the INTENSE Crosscutting Project of the GEWEX (Global Energy and Water Exchanges) Hydroclimatology Panel. Here, we summarize the main findings so far and suggest future directions for research, including: the benefits of convection-permitting climate modelling; towards understanding mechanisms of change; the usefulness of temperature-scaling relations; towards detecting and attributing extreme rainfall change; and the need for international coordination and collaboration. Evidence suggests that the intensity of long-duration (1 day+) heavy precipitation increases with climate warming close to the Clausius-Clapeyron (CC) rate (6-7% K-1), although large-scale circulation changes affect this response regionally. However, rare events can scale at higher rates, and localized heavy short-duration (hourly and sub-hourly) intensities can respond more strongly (e.g. 2 × CC instead of CC). Day-to-day scaling of short-duration intensities supports a higher scaling, with mechanisms proposed for this related to local-scale dynamics of convective storms, but its relevance to climate change is not clear. Uncertainty in changes to precipitation extremes remains and is influenced by many factors, including large-scale circulation, convective storm dynamics andstratification. Despite this, recent research has increased confidence in both the detectability and understanding of changes in various aspects of intense short-duration rainfall. To make further progress, the international coordination of datasets, model experiments and evaluations will be required, with consistent and standardized comparison methods and metrics, and recommendations are made for these frameworks. This article is part of a discussion meeting issue 'Intensification of short-duration rainfall extremes and implications for flash flood risks'.
TL;DR: The results suggest that the water quality in the microcatchments seems to be affected by the nearby agricultural and urban activities in the region.
TL;DR: A novel approach to define optimal sites for photovoltaic plants, connected to the medium-voltage level, using a geographic information system based multi-criteria decision making and spatial overlay with electric load is proposed.
Abstract: The growing adoption of photovoltaic systems as a result of government incentives and the cost-effectiveness of the technology will bring significant environmental benefits and help countries meeting their international commitments in terms of renewables share. Nevertheless, an unsuitable site location could compromise its production and lead to a poor integration. An optimal location of photovoltaic systems must account for factors such as land use restrictions, orography, environmental, climatic limitations, and proximity to infrastructure. A key aspect that needs to be further researched is the influence of the electric demand requirement and its spatial distribution on the enhancement of photovoltaic integration. This paper proposes a novel approach to define optimal sites for photovoltaic plants, connected to the medium-voltage level, using a geographic information system based multi-criteria decision making and spatial overlay with electric load. The main feature of this work is the use of high-resolution information to spatially characterize the demand and make a density analysis. The performance of the proposed method is assessed in the service area of an Ecuadorian power utility. Scenarios considering solar potential and the massive penetration of a new type of load are assessed to define the photovoltaic sites that enhance the integration of renewable sources in the case study.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors analyzed an international collection of over 12,000 C. difficile genomes spanning the eight currently defined phylogenetic clades and identified major taxonomic incoherence with clear species boundaries for each of the recently described cryptic clades CI-III.
Abstract: Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) remains an urgent global One Health threat. The genetic heterogeneity seen across C. difficile underscores its wide ecological versatility and has driven the significant changes in CDI epidemiology seen in the last 20 years. We analysed an international collection of over 12,000 C. difficile genomes spanning the eight currently defined phylogenetic clades. Through whole-genome average nucleotide identity, and pangenomic and Bayesian analyses, we identified major taxonomic incoherence with clear species boundaries for each of the recently described cryptic clades CI-III. The emergence of these three novel genomospecies predates clades C1-5 by millions of years, rewriting the global population structure of C. difficile specifically and taxonomy of the Peptostreptococcaceae in general. These genomospecies all show unique and highly divergent toxin gene architecture, advancing our understanding of the evolution of C. difficile and close relatives. Beyond the taxonomic ramifications, this work may impact the diagnosis of CDI.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors proposed to improve the understanding of the frequency and frequency of natural disasters in the tropics, which can cause substantial human and economic losses in the region.
TL;DR: In this paper, different generalized linear models (GLM) were performed to analyze the landslide hazard, vulnerability and risk in all the municipalities of Costa Rica, and an Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) backward selection was used to contrast and determine the best hazard and vulnerability models.
Abstract: Landslides are a common natural hazard worldwide with greater socioeconomic impacts in developing and tropical countries. In Central America and Costa Rica, this phenomenon is mainly triggered by seismicity and extraordinary rainfall. In order to portray the damaging landslides, that caused human and material losses in Costa Rica, DesInventar disaster database was used to analyze damaging landslides reports from 1970 to 2018. Moreover, different generalized linear models (GLM) were performed to analyze the landslide hazard, vulnerability and risk in all the municipalities of the country. An Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) backward selection was used to contrast and determine the best hazard and vulnerability models. From a total of ten variables, terrain ruggedness index, 5 year intensity-duration-frequency precipitation curves and earthquakes distribution determined the landslide hazard. Otherwise, population, municipality area and Social Development Index are the most suitable variables to explain the landslide vulnerability. Subsequently, the multiplication between alternative landslide hazard and vulnerability indexes produced the risk index. Consequently, the highest risk values were obtained for large and rural municipalities (Perez Zeledon, San Carlos, and Turrialba) as well as for densely populated and urban units (Alajuela, Desamparados, and Cartago. Results are critical for disaster risk reduction public institutions and academic stakeholders. Therefore, this methodology could be an interesting opportunity for different tropical and developing countries to achieve national or regional analyses of the most important risk component in each municipality and implement risk reduction strategies adapted for each municipality characteristics.
TL;DR: Transformation into a digitally enabled profession will maximize the benefits to patient care, write Richard Booth and colleagues as mentioned in this paper, and they propose a model for patient care transformation in the digital health field.
Abstract: Transformation into a digitally enabled profession will maximize the benefits to patient care, write Richard Booth and colleagues
TL;DR: In this article, the authors present and promote innovative low-cost low-power UAV surveying for volcanic geomorphology and volcanic hazards in the tropics with heavy rainfall, deep volcanic soils and high relief.
TL;DR: In this article, the occurrence and behavior of pharmaceuticals have been investigated in a conventional WWTP which receives wastewater from an urban area and a near-by hospital, and a preliminary wide-scope screening using liquid chromatography (LC) coupled to high resolution mass spectrometry allowed to identify a wide number of pharmaceutical compounds in the samples.
Abstract: Discharges from the wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are among the main sources of contamination to receiving surface water, therefore the quality of treated wastewater needs to be properly monitored. However, not only the effluents of larger WWTPs employing advanced treatment processes have been considered, but also those from more conventional WWTPs. In this study, the occurrence and behavior of pharmaceuticals have been investigated in a conventional WWTP which receives wastewater from an urban area and a near-by hospital. 24-h composite samples were collected during one week before (influent wastewater, IWW) and after (effluent wastewater, EWW) treatment along three monitoring campaigns distributed over one year. Moreover, seven daily IWW samples discharged from a hospital were also collected. A preliminary wide-scope screening using liquid chromatography (LC) coupled to high resolution mass spectrometry allowed to identify a wide number of pharmaceuticals in the samples. Based on the screening findings, a list of 40 compounds was established for subsequent target quantitative analyses by LC-tandem mass spectrometry. Up to 75% of the compounds investigated were present in all wastewater samples. Analyte concentrations in hospital discharge samples were significantly higher, evidencing an important contribution in terms of pharmaceuticals content. Antibiotics showed the highest concentrations during the winter season, which could be related to the increase in the prescription of these compounds to treat respiratory infections. Data from this work show that the biological treatment applied was able to eliminate nearly half of the compounds under study, although still 12 pharmaceuticals were not or poorly removed.
TL;DR: In this paper, a bibliometric analysis of the different types of landslides that the United States Geological Survey emphasized, through the SCOPUS database and the VOSviewer software version 1.6.17, for the analysis of their structure, scientific production, and the close relationship with several scientific fields and its trends.
Abstract: Landslides are generated by natural causes and by human action, causing various geomorphological changes as well as physical and socioeconomic loss of the environment and human life. The study, characterization and implementation of techniques are essential to reduce land vulnerability, different socioeconomic sector susceptibility and actions to guarantee better slope stability with a significant positive impact on society. The aim of this work is the bibliometric analysis of the different types of landslides that the United States Geological Survey (USGS) emphasizes, through the SCOPUS database and the VOSviewer software version 1.6.17, for the analysis of their structure, scientific production, and the close relationship with several scientific fields and its trends. The methodology focuses on: (i) search criteria; (ii) data extraction and cleaning; (iii) generation of graphs and bibliometric mapping; and (iv) analysis of results and possible trends. The study and analysis of landslides are in a period of exponential growth, focusing mainly on techniques and solutions for the stabilization, prevention, and categorization of the most susceptible hillslope sectors. Therefore, this research field has the full collaboration of various authors and places a significant focus on the conceptual evolution of the landslide science.
TL;DR: A review of existing literature and flood guidance reveals that although research efforts in hydrology do not always reflect the methods used in flood estimation, significant progress has been made with many jurisdictions around the world now incorporating climate change in their flood guidance as mentioned in this paper.
Abstract: Research into potential implications of climate change on flood hazard has made significant progress over the past decade, yet efforts to translate this research into practical guidance for flood estimation remain in their infancy. In this commentary, we address the question: how best can practical flood guidance be modified to incorporate the additional uncertainty due to climate change? We begin by summarizing the physical causes of changes in flooding and then discuss common methods of design flood estimation in the context of uncertainty. We find that although climate science operates across aleatory, epistemic and deep uncertainty, engineering practitioners generally only address aleatory uncertainty associated with natural variability through standards-based approaches. A review of existing literature and flood guidance reveals that although research efforts in hydrology do not always reflect the methods used in flood estimation, significant progress has been made with many jurisdictions around the world now incorporating climate change in their flood guidance. We conclude that the deep uncertainty that climate change brings signals a need to shift towards more flexible design and planning approaches, and future research effort should focus on providing information that supports the range of flood estimation methods used in practice. This article is part of a discussion meeting issue 'Intensification of short-duration rainfall extremes and implications for flash flood risks'.
University of Konstanz1, Masaryk University2, Durham University3, University of Vienna4, University of Coimbra5, University of Göttingen6, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic7, Charles University in Prague8, Spanish National Research Council9, Sapienza University of Rome10, University of Jena11, University of the Basque Country12, Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research13, Free University of Bozen-Bolzano14, University of Copenhagen15, Andong National University16, University of Nova Gorica17, Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts18, University of Molise19, King's College London20, University of Insubria21, University of Costa Rica22, University of Pisa23, Ministry of Interior (Bahrain)24, Zürcher Fachhochschule25, University of Bayreuth26, Russian Academy of Sciences27, Martin Luther University of Halle-Wittenberg28, University of Rostock29, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine30, University of Picardie Jules Verne31, University of Sarajevo32, University of Toronto33, University of British Columbia34, Yokohama National University35, Estonian University of Life Sciences36, University of Agriculture in Krakow37, University of Latvia38, Goethe University Frankfurt39, Slovak Academy of Sciences40, University of Ulm41, Aarhus University42, University of Wrocław43, Wageningen University and Research Centre44, Taizhou University45
TL;DR: In this article, the authors assess the invasiveness of European alien seed plant flora and find that alien species originating from other continents, particularly acquisitive growth strategists, were among the most successful invaders in Europe.
Abstract: Understanding drivers of success for alien species can inform on potential future invasions. Recent conceptual advances highlight that species may achieve invasiveness via performance along at least three distinct dimensions: 1) local abundance, 2) geographic range size, and 3) habitat breadth in naturalized distributions. Associations among these dimensions and the factors that determine success in each have yet to be assessed at large geographic scales. Here, we combine data from over one million vegetation plots covering the extent of Europe and its habitat diversity with databases on species' distributions, traits, and historical origins to provide a comprehensive assessment of invasiveness dimensions for the European alien seed plant flora. Invasiveness dimensions are linked in alien distributions, leading to a continuum from overall poor invaders to super invaders-abundant, widespread aliens that invade diverse habitats. This pattern echoes relationships among analogous dimensions measured for native European species. Success along invasiveness dimensions was associated with details of alien species' introduction histories: earlier introduction dates were positively associated with all three dimensions, and consistent with theory-based expectations, species originating from other continents, particularly acquisitive growth strategists, were among the most successful invaders in Europe. Despite general correlations among invasiveness dimensions, we identified habitats and traits associated with atypical patterns of success in only one or two dimensions-for example, the role of disturbed habitats in facilitating widespread specialists. We conclude that considering invasiveness within a multidimensional framework can provide insights into invasion processes while also informing general understanding of the dynamics of species distributions.
University of Cantabria1, Edith Cowan University2, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology3, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation4, University of Queensland5, Deakin University6, University of Costa Rica7, Southern Cross University8, Spanish National Research Council9
TL;DR: This article examined the variability in seagrass soil C stocks and composition across Australia and identified the main drivers of variability, applying a spatially hierarchical approach that incorporates bioregions and geomorphic settings.
Abstract: Seagrass meadows rank among the most significant organic carbon (C) sinks on earth. We examined the variability in seagrass soil C stocks and composition across Australia and identified the main drivers of variability, applying a spatially hierarchical approach that incorporates bioregions and geomorphic settings. Top 30 cm soil C stocks were similar across bioregions and geomorphic settings (min-max: 20–26 Mg C ha), but meadows formed by large species (i.e., Amphibolis spp. and Posidonia spp.) showed higher stocks (24–29 Mg C ha) than those formed by smaller species (e.g., Halodule, Halophila, Ruppia, Zostera, Cymodocea, and Syringodium; 12–21 Mg C ha). In temperate coastal meadows dominated by large species, soil C stocks mainly derived from seagrass C (72 ± 2%), while allochthonous C dominated soil C stocks in meadows formed by small species in temperate and tropical estuarine meadows (64 ± 5%). In temperate coastal meadows, soil C stocks were enhanced by low hydrodynamic exposure associated with high mud and seagrass C contents. In temperate estuarine meadows, soil C stocks were enhanced by high contributions of seagrass C, low to moderate solar radiation, and low human pressure. In tropical estuarine meadows formed by small species, large soil C stocks were mainly associated with low hydrodynamic energy, low rainfall, and high solar radiation. These results showcase that bioregion and geomorphic setting are not necessarily good predictors of soil C stocks and that site-specific estimates based on local environmental factors are needed for Blue Carbon projects and greenhouse gases accounting purposes.
13 Jul 2021
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors outline how WVRT is shaped by the interaction between evaporation and precipitation, and thus reflect anthropogenic changes in the hydrological cycle.
Abstract: Atmospheric water vapour residence time (WVRT) is an essential indicator of how atmospheric dynamics and thermodynamics mediate hydrological cycle responses to climate change. WVRT is also important in estimating moisture sources and sinks, linking evaporation and precipitation across spatial scales. In this Review, we outline how WVRT is shaped by the interaction between evaporation and precipitation, and, thus, reflects anthropogenic changes in the hydrological cycle. Estimates of WVRT differ owing to contrasting definitions, but these differences can be reconciled by framing WVRT as a probability density function with a mean of 8–10 days and a median of 4–5 days. WVRT varies spatially and temporally in response to regional, seasonal and synoptic-scale differences in evaporation, precipitation, long-range moisture transport and atmospheric mixing. Theory predicts, and observations confirm, that in most (but not all) regions, anthropogenic warming is increasing atmospheric humidity faster than it is speeding up rates of evaporation and precipitation. Warming is, thus, projected to increase global WVRT by 3–6% K−1, lengthening the distance travelled between evaporation sources and precipitation sinks. Future efforts should focus on data integration, joint measurement initiatives and intercomparisons, and dynamic simulations to provide a formal resolution of WVRT from both Lagrangian and Eulerian perspectives. The residence time of atmospheric water vapour has important implications for understanding hydrological processes. This Review discusses the general characteristics and changes in water vapour residence time, indicating 3–6% K−1 projected increases with warming.
Seoul National University Hospital1, New Generation University College2, University of Auckland3, Columbia University4, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development5, University of Los Andes6, Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa7, Seoul National University8, McMaster University9, University of Barcelona10, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention11, University College London12, University of Bergen13, Public Health Foundation of India14, Stockholm University15, University of Costa Rica16, Monash University17, Tsinghua University18
TL;DR: A review of published studies of data analytics and modelling, evidence synthesis and contextualisation, and behavioural science evidence and theory on public health interventions from a range of sources is presented in this article.
TL;DR: In this article, a stable rate estimation of hospitalization and death related to the Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) using publicly available reports from various distinct communities is presented.
Abstract: Background Underreporting cases of infectious diseases poses a major challenge in the analysis of their epidemiological characteristics and dynamical aspects. Without accurate numerical estimates it is difficult to precisely quantify the proportions of severe and critical cases, as well as the mortality rate. Such estimates can be provided for instance by testing the presence of the virus. However, during an ongoing epidemic, such tests' implementation is a daunting task. This work addresses this issue by presenting a methodology to estimate underreported infections based on approximations of the stable rates of hospitalization and death. Methods We present a novel methodology for the stable rate estimation of hospitalization and death related to the Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) using publicly available reports from various distinct communities. These rates are then used to estimate underreported infections on the corresponding areas by making use of reported daily hospitalizations and deaths. The impact of underreporting infections on vaccination strategies is estimated under different disease-transmission scenarios using a Susceptible-Exposed-Infective-Removed-like (SEIR) epidemiological model. Results For the considered locations, during the period of study, the estimations suggest that the number of infected individuals could reach 30% of the population of these places, representing, in some cases, more than six times the observed numbers. These results are in close agreement with estimates from independent seroprevalence studies, thus providing a strong validation of the proposed methodology. Moreover, the presence of large numbers of underreported infections can reduce the perceived impact of vaccination strategies in reducing rates of mortality and hospitalization. Conclusions pBy using the proposed methodology and employing a judiciously chosen data analysis implementation, we estimate COVID-19 underreporting from publicly available data. This leads to a powerful way of quantifying underreporting impact on the efficacy of vaccination strategies. As a byproduct, we evaluate the impact of underreporting in the designing of vaccination strategies.
01 Jul 2021
TL;DR: It is proposed that fungi, particularly white-rot fungi (WRF), can be used for their bioremediation and the main mechanisms used for degrading this type of emerging pollutants; however, the need to prospect for new fungal models is highlighted.
Abstract: The excessive amount of pharmaceutical compounds (PhCs) released into aquatic environments poses a risk to humans, wildlife, and environmental health. It is a serious problem that requires urgent attention. In this work, we review various PhCs detected in water treatment plants. We propose that fungi, particularly white-rot fungi (WRF), can be used for their bioremediation and describe the main mechanisms used for degrading this type of emerging pollutants; however, we also highlight the need to prospect for new fungal models. A conceptual proposal is made to develop an immobilization device containing a consortium of fungal species that can be placed in wastewater treatment plants (WWTP). We consider that this device would allow more efficient bioremediation of PhCs and address an environmental problem that remains neglected.
TL;DR: In this article, a comprehensive review of smart thermo-responsive biomaterials for wound healing is presented, where 3D printing and electrospinning are explored for tuning their physicochemical properties to adjust therapies according to patient convenience and reduce drug toxicity and side effects.
Abstract: Innate and adaptive immune responses lead to wound healing by regulating a complex series of events promoting cellular cross-talk. An inflammatory response is presented with its characteristic clinical symptoms: heat, pain, redness, and swelling. Some smart thermo-responsive polymers like chitosan, polyvinylpyrrolidone, alginate, and poly(e-caprolactone) can be used to create biocompatible and biodegradable scaffolds. These processed thermo-responsive biomaterials possess 3D architectures similar to human structures, providing physical support for cell growth and tissue regeneration. Furthermore, these structures are used as novel drug delivery systems. Locally heated tumors above the polymer lower the critical solution temperature and can induce its conversion into a hydrophobic form by an entropy-driven process, enhancing drug release. When the thermal stimulus is gone, drug release is reduced due to the swelling of the material. As a result, these systems can contribute to the wound healing process in accelerating tissue healing, avoiding large scar tissue, regulating the inflammatory response, and protecting from bacterial infections. This paper integrates the relevant reported contributions of bioengineered scaffolds composed of smart thermo-responsive polymers for drug delivery applications in wound healing. Therefore, we present a comprehensive review that aims to demonstrate these systems' capacity to provide spatially and temporally controlled release strategies for one or more drugs used in wound healing. In this sense, the novel manufacturing techniques of 3D printing and electrospinning are explored for the tuning of their physicochemical properties to adjust therapies according to patient convenience and reduce drug toxicity and side effects.
TL;DR: In this article, snake venom toxins are classified in terms of their abundance and toxicity, and priority actions are being proposed in the search for snake venom metalloproteinase (SVMP), phospholipase A2 (PLA2), three-finger toxin (3FTx), and serine proteinase(SVSP) inhibitors.
Abstract: A global strategy, under the coordination of the World Health Organization, is being unfolded to reduce the impact of snakebite envenoming. One of the pillars of this strategy is to ensure safe and effective treatments. The mainstay in the therapy of snakebite envenoming is the administration of animal-derived antivenoms. In addition, new therapeutic options are being explored, including recombinant antibodies and natural and synthetic toxin inhibitors. In this review, snake venom toxins are classified in terms of their abundance and toxicity, and priority actions are being proposed in the search for snake venom metalloproteinase (SVMP), phospholipase A2 (PLA2), three-finger toxin (3FTx), and serine proteinase (SVSP) inhibitors. Natural inhibitors include compounds isolated from plants, animal sera, and mast cells, whereas synthetic inhibitors comprise a wide range of molecules of a variable chemical nature. Some of the most promising inhibitors, especially SVMP and PLA2 inhibitors, have been developed for other diseases and are being repurposed for snakebite envenoming. In addition, the search for drugs aimed at controlling endogenous processes generated in the course of envenoming is being pursued. The present review summarizes some of the most promising developments in this field and discusses issues that need to be considered for the effective translation of this knowledge to improve therapies for tackling snakebite envenoming.