Advancing medicine and treating or preventing chronic illness is tied to the environment in more ways than one. Specifically, working with the overall health of the oceans can lead to opportunities for "bio prospecting" and tapping into underused and under-investigated resources for the benefit of better medicine.
This study investigated the microbiome of three copepod species (Acartia longiremis, Centropages hamatus, Calanus finmarchicus) from the Gulf of Maine over a 3-week period in early summer. The microbiome contained both stable associations and temporal variability. Gammaproteobacteria, especially Pseudoalteromonas species, were consistently abundant across copepod species, suggesting a stable association. However, the microbiome composition also varied between full and starved gut copepods, and over time, influenced by environmental factors like food availability. While some core microbiome was present, temporal changes appeared important in structuring the bacterial communities associated with copepods.
1. The document summarizes seaweed taxonomy, morphology, ecology, and commercial uses. It discusses the three main groups of seaweeds - green, brown and red algae - and their key characteristics like pigments, cell walls and reproduction.
2. Seaweeds are found globally and have a variety of uses including food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and biofuels. The global seaweed industry is valued at over $5 billion annually, with China being the largest producer.
3. Seaweeds play an important ecological role by providing habitat and food for other marine organisms. They also help regulate carbon and oxygen cycles through photosynthesis in the oceans.
The document discusses aquaculture-fisheries interactions and how the ecosystem approach to aquaculture (EAA) can address them. Aquaculture and fisheries often interact through shared ecosystems and resources. Interactions include the use of fisheries products for aquaculture feeds and the potential negative impacts of aquaculture on fisheries habitats and ecosystems. The EAA framework considers these interactions and aims to minimize negative impacts while optimizing positive interactions like culture-based fisheries. Implementing EAA and an ecosystem approach to fisheries requires understanding these interactions and taking an integrated, multisectoral approach to management across scales.
Actinobacterial Diversity of Machilipatnam Coast India with an Emphasis on No...ijtsrd
The document summarizes research on the actinobacterial diversity of the Machilipatnam coast in India. 27 actinobacterial isolates from two stations were identified, belonging to 10 genera, with Streptomyces being the most dominant. These isolates showed antibacterial activity against pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella typhi. The research also focused on using actinobacteria like Streptomyces as probiotics in sustainable aquaculture.
The quest for better food quality has invariably increased cases of food-borne infections which in turn contribute to the problem of antibiotic resistance as a result of drug abuse. This study is aimed at characterizing bacterial isolates from some seafood sold in Nembe, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. A total of 200 fresh seafood samples (crab, shrimp, oyster and periwinkle) were collected randomly from Nembe, Bayelsa State. Isolates were obtained using the conventional microbiological methods and the pure cultures were screened by gram staining and biochemical test for preliminary identification. Isolates were further characterized for 16SrRNA using Polymerase Chain Reaction and Sequencing. The most dominant species isolated were Staphylococcus gallinarum 27(22.5%), Vibrio rotiferanus 17(14.2%), Vibrio parahaemolyticus 48(40%), Klebsiella aerogenes 10(8.3%) and Klebsiella quasipneumoniae 18(15%). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) by single factor was done to determine the variation in colony counts of isolates from the different seafood samples and P value was > 0.05 indicating that there is no significant difference in colony counts among the different sea foods. The presence of these bacterial species in these seafood samples renders the food unsafe for consumption. Adequate handling as well as proper cooking of seafood before consumption is highly recommended so as to reduce the incidence of food-borne infections.
This document summarizes a study that analyzed levels of Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas bacteria in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) from Kesses Dam and University of Eldoret Fish Farm in Kenya. Thirty fish samples were collected from each source and tested for the bacteria. Results found significantly higher levels of both bacteria in fish from Kesses Dam compared to the fish farm. Bacterial levels in all fish exceeded recommended food safety standards, posing a health risk to consumers. The presence of bacteria is likely due to environmental pollution of the dam and farm waters.
Non indigenous species (NIS, also indicated as exotic or alien species), have become a hot issue in recent decades in particular in the Mediterranean Sea...
The aquaculture industry has developed significantly over recent decades and is, today, one of the fastest-growing food production sectors in the world. One of the most important problems that affect aquaculture is the appearance of infectious diseases. Among bacterial diseases affecting cultured salmonid fish, Bacterial Cold-Water Disease, caused by Flavobacterium psychrophilum, produces high mortality and morbidity and consequently, economical losses worldwide.
This study investigated the microbiome of three copepod species (Acartia longiremis, Centropages hamatus, Calanus finmarchicus) from the Gulf of Maine over a 3-week period in early summer. The microbiome contained both stable associations and temporal variability. Gammaproteobacteria, especially Pseudoalteromonas species, were consistently abundant across copepod species, suggesting a stable association. However, the microbiome composition also varied between full and starved gut copepods, and over time, influenced by environmental factors like food availability. While some core microbiome was present, temporal changes appeared important in structuring the bacterial communities associated with copepods.
1. The document summarizes seaweed taxonomy, morphology, ecology, and commercial uses. It discusses the three main groups of seaweeds - green, brown and red algae - and their key characteristics like pigments, cell walls and reproduction.
2. Seaweeds are found globally and have a variety of uses including food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and biofuels. The global seaweed industry is valued at over $5 billion annually, with China being the largest producer.
3. Seaweeds play an important ecological role by providing habitat and food for other marine organisms. They also help regulate carbon and oxygen cycles through photosynthesis in the oceans.
The document discusses aquaculture-fisheries interactions and how the ecosystem approach to aquaculture (EAA) can address them. Aquaculture and fisheries often interact through shared ecosystems and resources. Interactions include the use of fisheries products for aquaculture feeds and the potential negative impacts of aquaculture on fisheries habitats and ecosystems. The EAA framework considers these interactions and aims to minimize negative impacts while optimizing positive interactions like culture-based fisheries. Implementing EAA and an ecosystem approach to fisheries requires understanding these interactions and taking an integrated, multisectoral approach to management across scales.
Actinobacterial Diversity of Machilipatnam Coast India with an Emphasis on No...ijtsrd
The document summarizes research on the actinobacterial diversity of the Machilipatnam coast in India. 27 actinobacterial isolates from two stations were identified, belonging to 10 genera, with Streptomyces being the most dominant. These isolates showed antibacterial activity against pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella typhi. The research also focused on using actinobacteria like Streptomyces as probiotics in sustainable aquaculture.
The quest for better food quality has invariably increased cases of food-borne infections which in turn contribute to the problem of antibiotic resistance as a result of drug abuse. This study is aimed at characterizing bacterial isolates from some seafood sold in Nembe, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. A total of 200 fresh seafood samples (crab, shrimp, oyster and periwinkle) were collected randomly from Nembe, Bayelsa State. Isolates were obtained using the conventional microbiological methods and the pure cultures were screened by gram staining and biochemical test for preliminary identification. Isolates were further characterized for 16SrRNA using Polymerase Chain Reaction and Sequencing. The most dominant species isolated were Staphylococcus gallinarum 27(22.5%), Vibrio rotiferanus 17(14.2%), Vibrio parahaemolyticus 48(40%), Klebsiella aerogenes 10(8.3%) and Klebsiella quasipneumoniae 18(15%). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) by single factor was done to determine the variation in colony counts of isolates from the different seafood samples and P value was > 0.05 indicating that there is no significant difference in colony counts among the different sea foods. The presence of these bacterial species in these seafood samples renders the food unsafe for consumption. Adequate handling as well as proper cooking of seafood before consumption is highly recommended so as to reduce the incidence of food-borne infections.
This document summarizes a study that analyzed levels of Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas bacteria in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) from Kesses Dam and University of Eldoret Fish Farm in Kenya. Thirty fish samples were collected from each source and tested for the bacteria. Results found significantly higher levels of both bacteria in fish from Kesses Dam compared to the fish farm. Bacterial levels in all fish exceeded recommended food safety standards, posing a health risk to consumers. The presence of bacteria is likely due to environmental pollution of the dam and farm waters.
Non indigenous species (NIS, also indicated as exotic or alien species), have become a hot issue in recent decades in particular in the Mediterranean Sea...
The aquaculture industry has developed significantly over recent decades and is, today, one of the fastest-growing food production sectors in the world. One of the most important problems that affect aquaculture is the appearance of infectious diseases. Among bacterial diseases affecting cultured salmonid fish, Bacterial Cold-Water Disease, caused by Flavobacterium psychrophilum, produces high mortality and morbidity and consequently, economical losses worldwide.
Plastisphere is a man-made ecosystem based on Plastic debris in the ecosystem. This PPT describes the formation and importance of Plastisphere in an aquatic ecosystem.
Emily Shultz-Optimized Seperation of Estuarin Plankton to Determine Associati...Emily Shultz, M.S.
1. The study developed and optimized a method for separating estuarine plankton using a freshwater plankton separator to quantify associations between Vibrio species and different plankton.
2. Results showed the optimal separation time with the least cross-contamination between phytoplankton and zooplankton was between 30-40 minutes.
3. Determining the relationships between plankton species and Vibrio populations could help predict disease outbreaks from contaminated shellfish and inform monitoring of coastal waters.
Microplastic uptake and retention in Perna perna (L.); Tripneustes gratilla (...MACE Lab
Gemma Gerber, Thembani Mkhize, Robertson-Andersson, Gan Moodley. Presented at the ninth Scientific Symposium of the Western Indian Ocean Marine Science Association (WIOMSA) 2015.
Isolation of Bioactive Secondary Metabolites from Seaweeds Amphiroa anceps ag...Ferdinand .S. Lubobi
The biodiversity of ocean living resources provide an ample scope for the extraction of drugs and chemicals for therapeutic purposes. Sea weed Amphiroa anceps, collected from Thondi-Palk Strait region of Tamil Nadu, was studied for antagonistic activity of proteins. Seaweed species were identified based on specula morphology. Ethyl
Acetate extracts yielded a total of 0.9 g, 0.12 g, 0.02 g, 0.14 g and 0.17 g from 1.5 g of sponge respectively. The antagonistic activity of crude extract against bacterial pathogens showed clear inhibition zones against Yersinia sp., Streptococcus sp. and Vibrio sp. The extracted Seaweed strain had Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations against all the three chicken meat associated pathogens, Vibrio sp., Yersinia sp. and Streptococcus sp. and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration against two chicken meat associated pathogens, Vibrio sp. and Yersinia sp.
This document summarizes a study that analyzed the diversity of rRNA genes in the guts of adult and fingerling Mugil cephalus (flathead grey mullet) fish inhabiting an Egyptian Mediterranean estuary. Bulk DNA was extracted from the guts and the eukaryotic 18S rRNA gene, bacterial 16S rRNA gene, and archaeal 16S rRNA gene were amplified via PCR, cloned, and sequenced. Rarefaction analyses identified 11, 18, and 13 phylotype groups of rRNA genes for eukaryotes, bacteria, and archaea, respectively, in adult guts, and 6 and 11 phylotype groups for eukaryotes and bacteria in fingerling guts (archaea were not detected in
A preliminary survey of gastrointestinal parasites of animals inAlexander Decker
This study surveyed gastrointestinal parasites in 18 animal species at the Federal University of Agriculture
Abeokuta Zoological Park in Nigeria. Fecal samples collected from April to July 2014 were examined
microscopically and 7 parasite species were identified, with hookworm being the most prevalent at 22.2%. Of the
animals surveyed, 55.6% were infected with at least one parasite. Non-human primates had the highest infection
rates and intensities. The study recommends routine deworming and improved hygiene to control parasite
transmission between animals and humans at the zoo.
Stomach histological decay of milkfish, chanos chanos (forsskal, 1775)Alexander Decker
This document summarizes a study on the histological decay of the stomach in milkfish (Chanos chanos) reared in a traditional brackishwater pond in East Java, Indonesia. Several factors were found to contribute to deterioration of the stomach, including environmental stress from heavy metals in the water, high ammonia levels, a shift in the natural food composition to cyanobacteria, and infection by the Myxobolus parasite. Earlier harvest, higher mortality, and smaller fish size compared to normal indicated declining productivity of traditional milkfish aquaculture in the region in recent decades.
Vibriosis is one of the most prevalent fish diseases caused by bacteria belonging the genus Vibrio affecting many marine and fresh water fishes. The disease characterized by septicemia, dermal ulceration, ascitis and haematopiotic necrosis.
Cluster Analysis of Aerobic Heterotrophic Bacteria from Clarias gariepinus an...Agriculture Journal IJOEAR
Abstract— Fish is a major source of protein for humans, and it is patronized by many in the tropics – where fishes can either be cultivated in the farms domestically or caught from open water bodies such as rivers, ponds and streams. These various sources of fishes and their attendant diversity of microorganisms particularly the bacteria make fishes as potential sources of pathogens. The maintenance of the microbiological quality of food and water is important to prevent waterborne/foodborne diseases in any community, thus the need for this study. A total of 14 samples of water at different points (upstream, midstream and downstream) and 50 samples of live fishes were used for this study. Each of the fish sample was bacteriologically analyzed using the pour-plate and spread plate techniques on culture media plates. And the isolated bacteria were identified using standard microbiological identification techniques. The water samples were subjected to physicochemical analysis to determine the physical and chemical properties of the water. The relatedness of the isolated bacteria was established using cluster analysis/dendogram. The highest bacterial count was obtained from downstream water sample (5.6x10 cfu/ml), indicating a possible pollution of water at this point. Both aerobic heterotrophic Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria were isolated. The Gram positive bacteria isolated include Staphylococcus lugdunensis, S. hominis, S. cohnii, Streptococcus pyogenes, S. pneumoniae, Kocuria varians while the Gram negative bacteria include Raoutella ornithinolytica, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Aeromonas hydrophila, A. veronii, Proteus vulgaris, Serratia fonticola, and Enterobacter gergoriae. Cluster analysis using dendrogram showed some degree of similarity among the different clusters of isolated bacteria. The result of this study presumptively shows that the water sample is polluted; and this in turn affects fresh water fishes in the river. Therefore the microbiological examination of the water at this study site is necessary for monitoring and controlling the quality and safety of the water for usage by the locals.
GOOD COPY individual paper, St. Andrews Field CourseRachel Brodie
This document summarizes an experiment that examined the effects of predator interactions between green crabs and dogwhelks on the consumption of blue mussel prey. The experiment tested single-predator treatments of just dogwhelks or just crabs, as well as a multiple-predator treatment with both species present. Results showed that dogwhelk feeding rates decreased significantly in the presence of green crabs, while crab foraging increased when dogwhelks were present. Additionally, significantly more total mussels were consumed in the multiple-predator treatment than in the single-predator treatments. This indicates that the presence of another predator species impacts the feeding behavior and rates of these invertebrate predators.
Analysis of microbiological and chemical risks in fresh and smoked fishes sol...AI Publications
The diseases due to fish contamination are an important public health concern worldwide particularly histamine fish poisoning. Histamine is produced during bacterial decarboxylation of the histidine present in fish muscles. The aim of this study is to analyze microbiological and chemical factors of degradation of fresh fish at Lomé fishery port and assess histamine content in smoked fish sold in local market. The method of European Regulation has been used to determine Total volatile base nitrogen (TVBN) and the content of histamine was performed by Agilent 1290 Infinity II HPLC. The standard NF V08-051: 1999 was used for the count of microbial colonies expressed in colony forming units (CFU/ml). The results show that 100% of fresh fishes were highly contaminated by total aerobic flora (225 0000 CFU/g), Thermotolerant coliforms (88750 CFU/g) and E. coli (103 920 CFU/g). The content of Total volatile base nitrogen (TVBN) of anchovies and sardinella was ranged from 23.34 ± 0.23 to 103.14 ± 0.27 mg/100g. Smoked fishes from three markets have shown higher histamine mean levels varying from 295.06 to 746.54 mg/kg. These results show that Togolese are exposed to high concentrations of histamine when consuming smoked fish. Determination of histamine is very important due to its toxicity for humans and as an indicator of the freshness of fish and fish products.
This study analyzed total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) in the commercially sold fish Trachurus trecae purchased from Oliha Market in Benin City, Nigeria over a three month period. Samples of fish liver, gills, muscle and kidney were tested using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The results showed mean TPH concentrations of 73.31, 178.82, 30.40 and 64.37 mg/kg in liver, gills, muscles and kidney respectively, with gills having the highest concentration. While muscle TPH levels were lower than other organs, they still exceeded recommended EU limits of 2μg/kg. The study concluded periodic monitoring of TPH in seafood is needed to
Entomology contributes to many fields like agriculture, epidemiology, and forensics. Farmers, pharmaceutical researchers, and industries rely on entomologists. There are over 900,000 known insect species with many still undiscovered. Insects live in almost every habitat worldwide.
The author became interested in wetland ecology for their master's degree. Insects significantly impact wetland ecosystem processes through their diverse niches and roles. Understanding wetland insect communities is important for comprehending wetland biodiversity and functioning, as different insects are adapted to specific wetland conditions. The author studies Diptera because they are abundant and ecologically diverse in wetlands, associated with various wetland habitats.
Risk assessment for species extinction involves estimating the probability of a species becoming extinct based on data like habitat reduction percentages or lack of specimen collection. The precautionary principle is applied when risks are uncertain and involves preventative action, public participation, and alternative exploration. Population viability analysis (PVA) links management decisions to population trends and extinction risk, considering factors like demographics and habitat. International agreements like the Convention on Biological Diversity, CITES, RAMSAR, and JAMBA/CAMBA aim to protect biodiversity through cooperation, permitting, and prohibiting trade of endangered species.
Insects provide several important ecosystem services including pollination, pest control, decomposition, and as a food source. They play a key role in pollinating about 98% of flowering plant species, including 75% of the top 100 crop species that produce most of the world's food. Insects such as beetles, flies, ants, and termites help break down dead plant matter and waste, regulating decomposition. Dung beetles in particular help decompose manure, preventing the loss of nitrogen into the atmosphere which contributes to global warming. Many insect species also feed on other insects, helping to naturally control pest populations.
Mycotoxins are recognized as toxic compounds of great concern in the context of human health and economy. Mycotoxins are toxic chemical products formed as secondary metabolites by some fungi that readily colonise crops in the field or after harvest. The toxicity syndrome resulting from the intake of such contaminated material by animal and manis termed Mycotoxicosis.These compounds pose a potential threat to human and animal health through ingestion of food products prepared from these commodities.Mycotoxicoses affect various systems of the body according to the target organs of the mycotoxin. This review revealed the major mycotoxins of fungal origin and their mycotoxicoses. The study also reviewed the history of mycotoxin, methods of mycotoxin detection, analysis and the health implications of consuming mycotoxin-contaminated foods/products. In most developing countries, majority are ignorant of the inherent dangers of consuming mouldy produce or food contaminated with fungi and moulds with possible contamination by mycotoxigenic fungi. In view of this, there is need for general and public education to sensitise the people on the health hazards posed by mycotoxins. Proper washing and cooking practices of food commodities, good agricultural practices, fast and effective analyses and detection, good produce handling and storage are some of the control/regulatory measures that should be encouraged, as to assist in mitigating the side effects of mycotoxins in food and health particularly in the tropical and sub-tropical countries and in African where there is enabling environment that promotes fungal growth.
This document summarizes research on meiobenthic fauna in India. It discusses how meiobenthic organisms play important roles in marine ecosystems through processes like bioturbation and forming links in the food web. It provides background on the history of meiobenthic research starting in the 18th century. It then reviews studies conducted in India, noting some of the early pioneers of benthic research and more recent works examining meiobenthic diversity along various coasts. The document emphasizes that while many Indian studies focused on ecology, taxonomy was often neglected, and more work is needed to improve species identification and documentation.
Growth Response of Heterotis Niloticus (Cuvier 1829) Fingerlings to Artificia...AI Publications
The study amied at determining the growth response and survival rate of Heterotis niloticus on artificial diet and chicken manure reared in earthen pond system. The experiment was designed as 2 treatment x 12 weeks factorial replicated twice. The fingerlings of H. niloticus were collected from the wild, acclimatised and stocked in an earthen ponds of (200m2) at 50 fish/m2/pond and fed with compounded diet of 30% crude protein and chicken manure for twelve weeks. The body weights were determined bi-weekly using electronic weighing balance. Final mean weight of 32.89±9.10g fish fed with chicken manure and 22.19±2.8g were obtained. Fish fed with chicken manure had a better growth rate. The water quality variables were similar except Dissolved oxygen and Turbididty that shows a sharp difference in culture ponds. The results of the present experiment showed that Heterotis niloticus fingerlings have a different growth performance, under earthen pond system with fish fed with chicken manure having better performance. Therefore, the culture of H. niloticus with chicken manure is recommended for better growth.
The document provides guidance on performing necropsies for fish. It emphasizes that a complete history and environmental assessment are crucial, as most fish health issues relate to water quality and husbandry. A necropsy examines external features, internal organs, and tissues under a microscope to identify parasites, bacteria, and other pathogens. Care must be taken in sample selection and handling due to fish's delicate tissues and rapid decomposition after death. Basic fish anatomy is reviewed to aid veterinarians in working with diverse species.
1. The document discusses the history and development of metro rail systems across several major cities in India, including Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Kochi.
2. It provides details on the operational characteristics, routes, costs, and ridership numbers for the existing and proposed metro systems.
3. Benefits of metro rail over other public transportation options include reduced energy usage, pollution, traffic congestion, and travel times, as well as increased passenger capacity and cost effectiveness.
India's first metro rail system was introduced in Kolkata in 1984 to address issues of traffic congestion and pollution from growing vehicle ownership. Metro systems now exist or are planned for many major Indian cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai. These systems aim to shift travelers from private vehicles to more efficient public transit in order to handle rapid urbanization and population growth. While metro projects require huge initial investments, they provide environmental and transportation benefits by reducing energy use, emissions, road congestion, and travel times compared to private vehicles.
Plastisphere is a man-made ecosystem based on Plastic debris in the ecosystem. This PPT describes the formation and importance of Plastisphere in an aquatic ecosystem.
Emily Shultz-Optimized Seperation of Estuarin Plankton to Determine Associati...Emily Shultz, M.S.
1. The study developed and optimized a method for separating estuarine plankton using a freshwater plankton separator to quantify associations between Vibrio species and different plankton.
2. Results showed the optimal separation time with the least cross-contamination between phytoplankton and zooplankton was between 30-40 minutes.
3. Determining the relationships between plankton species and Vibrio populations could help predict disease outbreaks from contaminated shellfish and inform monitoring of coastal waters.
Microplastic uptake and retention in Perna perna (L.); Tripneustes gratilla (...MACE Lab
Gemma Gerber, Thembani Mkhize, Robertson-Andersson, Gan Moodley. Presented at the ninth Scientific Symposium of the Western Indian Ocean Marine Science Association (WIOMSA) 2015.
Isolation of Bioactive Secondary Metabolites from Seaweeds Amphiroa anceps ag...Ferdinand .S. Lubobi
The biodiversity of ocean living resources provide an ample scope for the extraction of drugs and chemicals for therapeutic purposes. Sea weed Amphiroa anceps, collected from Thondi-Palk Strait region of Tamil Nadu, was studied for antagonistic activity of proteins. Seaweed species were identified based on specula morphology. Ethyl
Acetate extracts yielded a total of 0.9 g, 0.12 g, 0.02 g, 0.14 g and 0.17 g from 1.5 g of sponge respectively. The antagonistic activity of crude extract against bacterial pathogens showed clear inhibition zones against Yersinia sp., Streptococcus sp. and Vibrio sp. The extracted Seaweed strain had Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations against all the three chicken meat associated pathogens, Vibrio sp., Yersinia sp. and Streptococcus sp. and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration against two chicken meat associated pathogens, Vibrio sp. and Yersinia sp.
This document summarizes a study that analyzed the diversity of rRNA genes in the guts of adult and fingerling Mugil cephalus (flathead grey mullet) fish inhabiting an Egyptian Mediterranean estuary. Bulk DNA was extracted from the guts and the eukaryotic 18S rRNA gene, bacterial 16S rRNA gene, and archaeal 16S rRNA gene were amplified via PCR, cloned, and sequenced. Rarefaction analyses identified 11, 18, and 13 phylotype groups of rRNA genes for eukaryotes, bacteria, and archaea, respectively, in adult guts, and 6 and 11 phylotype groups for eukaryotes and bacteria in fingerling guts (archaea were not detected in
A preliminary survey of gastrointestinal parasites of animals inAlexander Decker
This study surveyed gastrointestinal parasites in 18 animal species at the Federal University of Agriculture
Abeokuta Zoological Park in Nigeria. Fecal samples collected from April to July 2014 were examined
microscopically and 7 parasite species were identified, with hookworm being the most prevalent at 22.2%. Of the
animals surveyed, 55.6% were infected with at least one parasite. Non-human primates had the highest infection
rates and intensities. The study recommends routine deworming and improved hygiene to control parasite
transmission between animals and humans at the zoo.
Stomach histological decay of milkfish, chanos chanos (forsskal, 1775)Alexander Decker
This document summarizes a study on the histological decay of the stomach in milkfish (Chanos chanos) reared in a traditional brackishwater pond in East Java, Indonesia. Several factors were found to contribute to deterioration of the stomach, including environmental stress from heavy metals in the water, high ammonia levels, a shift in the natural food composition to cyanobacteria, and infection by the Myxobolus parasite. Earlier harvest, higher mortality, and smaller fish size compared to normal indicated declining productivity of traditional milkfish aquaculture in the region in recent decades.
Vibriosis is one of the most prevalent fish diseases caused by bacteria belonging the genus Vibrio affecting many marine and fresh water fishes. The disease characterized by septicemia, dermal ulceration, ascitis and haematopiotic necrosis.
Cluster Analysis of Aerobic Heterotrophic Bacteria from Clarias gariepinus an...Agriculture Journal IJOEAR
Abstract— Fish is a major source of protein for humans, and it is patronized by many in the tropics – where fishes can either be cultivated in the farms domestically or caught from open water bodies such as rivers, ponds and streams. These various sources of fishes and their attendant diversity of microorganisms particularly the bacteria make fishes as potential sources of pathogens. The maintenance of the microbiological quality of food and water is important to prevent waterborne/foodborne diseases in any community, thus the need for this study. A total of 14 samples of water at different points (upstream, midstream and downstream) and 50 samples of live fishes were used for this study. Each of the fish sample was bacteriologically analyzed using the pour-plate and spread plate techniques on culture media plates. And the isolated bacteria were identified using standard microbiological identification techniques. The water samples were subjected to physicochemical analysis to determine the physical and chemical properties of the water. The relatedness of the isolated bacteria was established using cluster analysis/dendogram. The highest bacterial count was obtained from downstream water sample (5.6x10 cfu/ml), indicating a possible pollution of water at this point. Both aerobic heterotrophic Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria were isolated. The Gram positive bacteria isolated include Staphylococcus lugdunensis, S. hominis, S. cohnii, Streptococcus pyogenes, S. pneumoniae, Kocuria varians while the Gram negative bacteria include Raoutella ornithinolytica, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Aeromonas hydrophila, A. veronii, Proteus vulgaris, Serratia fonticola, and Enterobacter gergoriae. Cluster analysis using dendrogram showed some degree of similarity among the different clusters of isolated bacteria. The result of this study presumptively shows that the water sample is polluted; and this in turn affects fresh water fishes in the river. Therefore the microbiological examination of the water at this study site is necessary for monitoring and controlling the quality and safety of the water for usage by the locals.
GOOD COPY individual paper, St. Andrews Field CourseRachel Brodie
This document summarizes an experiment that examined the effects of predator interactions between green crabs and dogwhelks on the consumption of blue mussel prey. The experiment tested single-predator treatments of just dogwhelks or just crabs, as well as a multiple-predator treatment with both species present. Results showed that dogwhelk feeding rates decreased significantly in the presence of green crabs, while crab foraging increased when dogwhelks were present. Additionally, significantly more total mussels were consumed in the multiple-predator treatment than in the single-predator treatments. This indicates that the presence of another predator species impacts the feeding behavior and rates of these invertebrate predators.
Analysis of microbiological and chemical risks in fresh and smoked fishes sol...AI Publications
The diseases due to fish contamination are an important public health concern worldwide particularly histamine fish poisoning. Histamine is produced during bacterial decarboxylation of the histidine present in fish muscles. The aim of this study is to analyze microbiological and chemical factors of degradation of fresh fish at Lomé fishery port and assess histamine content in smoked fish sold in local market. The method of European Regulation has been used to determine Total volatile base nitrogen (TVBN) and the content of histamine was performed by Agilent 1290 Infinity II HPLC. The standard NF V08-051: 1999 was used for the count of microbial colonies expressed in colony forming units (CFU/ml). The results show that 100% of fresh fishes were highly contaminated by total aerobic flora (225 0000 CFU/g), Thermotolerant coliforms (88750 CFU/g) and E. coli (103 920 CFU/g). The content of Total volatile base nitrogen (TVBN) of anchovies and sardinella was ranged from 23.34 ± 0.23 to 103.14 ± 0.27 mg/100g. Smoked fishes from three markets have shown higher histamine mean levels varying from 295.06 to 746.54 mg/kg. These results show that Togolese are exposed to high concentrations of histamine when consuming smoked fish. Determination of histamine is very important due to its toxicity for humans and as an indicator of the freshness of fish and fish products.
This study analyzed total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) in the commercially sold fish Trachurus trecae purchased from Oliha Market in Benin City, Nigeria over a three month period. Samples of fish liver, gills, muscle and kidney were tested using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The results showed mean TPH concentrations of 73.31, 178.82, 30.40 and 64.37 mg/kg in liver, gills, muscles and kidney respectively, with gills having the highest concentration. While muscle TPH levels were lower than other organs, they still exceeded recommended EU limits of 2μg/kg. The study concluded periodic monitoring of TPH in seafood is needed to
Entomology contributes to many fields like agriculture, epidemiology, and forensics. Farmers, pharmaceutical researchers, and industries rely on entomologists. There are over 900,000 known insect species with many still undiscovered. Insects live in almost every habitat worldwide.
The author became interested in wetland ecology for their master's degree. Insects significantly impact wetland ecosystem processes through their diverse niches and roles. Understanding wetland insect communities is important for comprehending wetland biodiversity and functioning, as different insects are adapted to specific wetland conditions. The author studies Diptera because they are abundant and ecologically diverse in wetlands, associated with various wetland habitats.
Risk assessment for species extinction involves estimating the probability of a species becoming extinct based on data like habitat reduction percentages or lack of specimen collection. The precautionary principle is applied when risks are uncertain and involves preventative action, public participation, and alternative exploration. Population viability analysis (PVA) links management decisions to population trends and extinction risk, considering factors like demographics and habitat. International agreements like the Convention on Biological Diversity, CITES, RAMSAR, and JAMBA/CAMBA aim to protect biodiversity through cooperation, permitting, and prohibiting trade of endangered species.
Insects provide several important ecosystem services including pollination, pest control, decomposition, and as a food source. They play a key role in pollinating about 98% of flowering plant species, including 75% of the top 100 crop species that produce most of the world's food. Insects such as beetles, flies, ants, and termites help break down dead plant matter and waste, regulating decomposition. Dung beetles in particular help decompose manure, preventing the loss of nitrogen into the atmosphere which contributes to global warming. Many insect species also feed on other insects, helping to naturally control pest populations.
Mycotoxins are recognized as toxic compounds of great concern in the context of human health and economy. Mycotoxins are toxic chemical products formed as secondary metabolites by some fungi that readily colonise crops in the field or after harvest. The toxicity syndrome resulting from the intake of such contaminated material by animal and manis termed Mycotoxicosis.These compounds pose a potential threat to human and animal health through ingestion of food products prepared from these commodities.Mycotoxicoses affect various systems of the body according to the target organs of the mycotoxin. This review revealed the major mycotoxins of fungal origin and their mycotoxicoses. The study also reviewed the history of mycotoxin, methods of mycotoxin detection, analysis and the health implications of consuming mycotoxin-contaminated foods/products. In most developing countries, majority are ignorant of the inherent dangers of consuming mouldy produce or food contaminated with fungi and moulds with possible contamination by mycotoxigenic fungi. In view of this, there is need for general and public education to sensitise the people on the health hazards posed by mycotoxins. Proper washing and cooking practices of food commodities, good agricultural practices, fast and effective analyses and detection, good produce handling and storage are some of the control/regulatory measures that should be encouraged, as to assist in mitigating the side effects of mycotoxins in food and health particularly in the tropical and sub-tropical countries and in African where there is enabling environment that promotes fungal growth.
This document summarizes research on meiobenthic fauna in India. It discusses how meiobenthic organisms play important roles in marine ecosystems through processes like bioturbation and forming links in the food web. It provides background on the history of meiobenthic research starting in the 18th century. It then reviews studies conducted in India, noting some of the early pioneers of benthic research and more recent works examining meiobenthic diversity along various coasts. The document emphasizes that while many Indian studies focused on ecology, taxonomy was often neglected, and more work is needed to improve species identification and documentation.
Growth Response of Heterotis Niloticus (Cuvier 1829) Fingerlings to Artificia...AI Publications
The study amied at determining the growth response and survival rate of Heterotis niloticus on artificial diet and chicken manure reared in earthen pond system. The experiment was designed as 2 treatment x 12 weeks factorial replicated twice. The fingerlings of H. niloticus were collected from the wild, acclimatised and stocked in an earthen ponds of (200m2) at 50 fish/m2/pond and fed with compounded diet of 30% crude protein and chicken manure for twelve weeks. The body weights were determined bi-weekly using electronic weighing balance. Final mean weight of 32.89±9.10g fish fed with chicken manure and 22.19±2.8g were obtained. Fish fed with chicken manure had a better growth rate. The water quality variables were similar except Dissolved oxygen and Turbididty that shows a sharp difference in culture ponds. The results of the present experiment showed that Heterotis niloticus fingerlings have a different growth performance, under earthen pond system with fish fed with chicken manure having better performance. Therefore, the culture of H. niloticus with chicken manure is recommended for better growth.
The document provides guidance on performing necropsies for fish. It emphasizes that a complete history and environmental assessment are crucial, as most fish health issues relate to water quality and husbandry. A necropsy examines external features, internal organs, and tissues under a microscope to identify parasites, bacteria, and other pathogens. Care must be taken in sample selection and handling due to fish's delicate tissues and rapid decomposition after death. Basic fish anatomy is reviewed to aid veterinarians in working with diverse species.
1. The document discusses the history and development of metro rail systems across several major cities in India, including Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Kochi.
2. It provides details on the operational characteristics, routes, costs, and ridership numbers for the existing and proposed metro systems.
3. Benefits of metro rail over other public transportation options include reduced energy usage, pollution, traffic congestion, and travel times, as well as increased passenger capacity and cost effectiveness.
India's first metro rail system was introduced in Kolkata in 1984 to address issues of traffic congestion and pollution from growing vehicle ownership. Metro systems now exist or are planned for many major Indian cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai. These systems aim to shift travelers from private vehicles to more efficient public transit in order to handle rapid urbanization and population growth. While metro projects require huge initial investments, they provide environmental and transportation benefits by reducing energy use, emissions, road congestion, and travel times compared to private vehicles.
This report examines 28 key trends that are driving the sustainable development and efficient operation of modern cities as they respond to the unique challenges posed by rapid urbanization. Aided by connected technologies, social platforms, and flexible design thinking, cities at the forefront of these progressive solutions are creating a compelling blueprint for ensuring that their citizens, businesses and public institutions thrive. As we plan for the future, PSFK Labs is excited for the opportunity to contribute its point of view to this ongoing conversation.
This document provides an overview of different types of planning, their advantages, and limitations. It discusses strategic planning which covers long term goals over 3-5 years, and operational planning which focuses on short term goals under one year. Planning has advantages like facilitating management by objectives, minimizing uncertainties, improving coordination, and encouraging innovations. However, planning can also be costly, time consuming, provide a false sense of security given uncertainties, and be challenging with rapid changes. The document aims to educate on various aspects of organizational planning.
Planning involves determining in advance what actions need to be taken to achieve goals. It is goal-oriented, continuous, and looks ahead to anticipate the future. The main steps in the planning process are to define the task, identify resources, consider alternatives, create the plan, implement the plan, and evaluate. Planning provides direction, reduces risk and uncertainty, and guides decision-making. Challenges to planning include lack of information, time/costs, resistance to change, and inability to plan. There are different levels of planning including corporate, divisional/departmental, and group/sectional planning at different management levels in an organization.
The document outlines the key project management processes. It discusses the six phases of a project - initiation, planning, implementation, monitoring, adaptation and closure. It then describes the nine core management processes which include scope, schedule, budget, quality, team, stakeholder, information, risk and contract management. Each process involves planning, execution, monitoring and control activities to ensure successful project delivery.
Finding Our Happy Place in the Internet of ThingsPamela Pavliscak
In the future, technology will work together and make decisions for us, though it may not truly understand humans. Currently, technology can have negative effects like distracting and isolating people. However, if designed well with a focus on empathy, emotional intelligence, and human well-being, technology could have positive impacts like strengthening relationships and empowering personal growth. Creating technology with emotional sensitivity, transparency, and a wellness model may lead to a more human future.
My talk to the joint OECD/G20 German Presidency conference on digitalization in Berlin on January 12, 2017. Fitness landscapes as applied to technology, business, and the economy. Note that the fitness landscape slides will not be animated in this PDF, which I shared this way so that you could see my narrative in the speaker notes. While it has some slides in common with my White House Frontiers conference talk, it includes a bunch of other material.
Download a full version of the report at:
www.psfk.com/report/future-of-work-2016/
The PSFK Future of Work Report deep dives into the talent and development landscape to identify the conditions and qualities that cultivate tomorrow’s leaders in the workplace. In return for investing in greater opportunity and education, employers will reap the rewards of increased efficiency, engagement and entrepreneurship—reducing mistrust, stress and ultimately turnover across teams.
Additionally, PSFK has developed six workplace visions that were inspired by 10 strategies to develop a new era of internal leadership. These boundary-pushing product and workplace concepts reimagine how teams can onboard employees, expand the office, and prevent miscommunication.
This presentation, by big data guru Bernard Marr, outlines in simple terms what Big Data is and how it is used today. It covers the 5 V's of Big Data as well as a number of high value use cases.
How to run system administrator recruitment process? By creating platform based on open source parts in just 2 nights! I gave this talk in Poland / Kraków OWASP chapter meeting on 17th October 2013 at our local Google for Entrepreneurs site. It's focused on security and also shows how to create recruitment process in CTF / challenge way.
This story covers mostly security details of this whole platform. There's great chance, that I will give another talk about this system but this time focusing on technical details. Stay tuned ;)
The Future Of Work & The Work Of The FutureArturo Pelayo
What Happens When Robots And Machines Learn On Their Own?
This slide deck is an introduction to exponential technologies for an audience of designers and developers of workforce training materials.
The Blended Learning And Technologies Forum (BLAT Forum) is a quarterly event in Auckland, New Zealand that welcomes practitioners, designers and developers of blended learning instructional deliverables across different industries of the New Zealand economy.
Gave a talk at StartCon about the future of Growth. I touch on viral marketing / referral marketing, fake news and social media, and marketplaces. Finally, the slides go through future technology platforms and how things might evolve there.
Network effects. It’s one of the most important concepts for business in general and especially for tech businesses, as it’s the key dynamic behind many successful software-based companies. Understanding network effects not only helps build better products, but it helps build moats and protect software companies against competitors’ eating away at their margins.
Yet what IS a network effect? How do we untangle the nuances of 'network effects' with 'marketplaces' and 'platforms'? What’s the difference between network effects, virality, supply-side economies of scale? And how do we know a company has network effects?
Most importantly, what questions can entrepreneurs and product managers ask to counter the wishful thinking and sometimes faulty assumption behind the belief that “if we build it, they will come” … and instead go about more deterministically creating network effects in their business? Because it's not a winner-take-all market by accident.
In this update of his past presentations on Mobile Eating the World -- delivered most recently at The Guardian's Changing Media Summit -- a16z’s Benedict Evans takes us through how technology is universal through mobile. How mobile is not a subset of the internet anymore. And how mobile (and accompanying trends of cloud and AI) is also driving new productivity tools.
In fact, mobile -- which encompasses everything from drones to cars -- is everything.
WTF - Why the Future Is Up to Us - pptx versionTim O'Reilly
This is the talk I gave January 12, 2017 at the G20/OECD Conference on the Digital Future in Berlin. I talk about fitness landscapes as applied to technology and business, the role of unchecked financialization in the state of our politics and economy, and why technology really wants to create jobs, not destroy them. (There is a separate PDF version, but some readers said the notes were too fuzzy to read.)
What does the future look like? Is it a dark space where we’re suffering from varying degrees of techamphetamine or are we heading towards a Utopian fantasy of abundance and harmony?
Understanding that our basic human needs and wants barely change, we explore the future state of a range of topics; from our need for physical sustenance through to our age-long fascination of transcending the limitations of our biology.
Looking at the future from a human perspective, our potential for greatness is teetering on a fine line between darkness and hope. We’re banking on the latter.
This document provides an overview of biodiversity. It defines biodiversity as the variety of life on Earth, including genetic diversity within species, species diversity within biological communities, and ecosystem diversity within and across landscapes. It discusses how biodiversity has evolved over 3.5 billion years and increased rapidly during the Cambrian explosion. While species diversity in the oceans has increased logistically, diversity on land has grown exponentially. The document also outlines different types of biodiversity like taxonomic diversity, ecological diversity, and genetic diversity. It notes that most terrestrial diversity is found in tropical forests and that an estimated 8.7 million species exist on Earth. The document concludes by discussing threats to biodiversity like habitat destruction and climate change, as well as conservation
This document discusses a lesson on biodiversity and its relationship to human health and society. The learning objectives are to define biodiversity and its levels, understand the interrelatedness of society, environment and health, create a diagram showing how diverse species form a healthy society, and identify everyday tasks that impact biodiversity and wellness. It then introduces biodiversity and discusses threats like habitat loss, pollution and climate change, and consequences such as nutritional and health impacts.
This document discusses the application of genetics in aquaculture. It begins by providing background on genetics and key scientists who advanced the field like Gregor Mendel. Genetic techniques can be used for both short-term and long-term genetic improvement in aquaculture species. Examples of short-term techniques discussed include hybridization and sex manipulation. Long-term techniques include selective breeding programs that can increase growth rates up to 20% per generation. Emerging technologies using genome mapping and markers are also discussed that could help improve traits like disease resistance and growth.
Marine natural products are drugs obtained from marine organisms that have been studied since ancient times. The oceans cover most of the earth's surface and are home to a vast diversity of species, many of which are still unknown. Marine organisms produce unique biochemical adaptations for survival in extreme conditions that could provide benefits for pharmacology. However, issues like limited supply, taxonomic identification challenges, and screening large numbers of microbes associated with invertebrates present obstacles for drug development from marine sources. Improved genetic engineering, databases, and activity-based screening methods may help address these problems and unlock the potential of marine organisms for new pharmaceuticals.
Marine Biodiversity : A Global Pattern Essay
Biodiversity And Biodiversity
Big Idea Biodiversity
Biodiversity And Its Impact On Biodiversity
biodiversity Essay
Biodiversity
Biological Diversity
The Importance Of Biodiversity
Essay about The Importance of Biodiversity
Essay On Endangered Plants
Persuasive Essay On Biodiversity Conservation
Reflection Essay On Biodiversity
Biodiversity Loss And Loss Of Species Essay
Biodiversity And Its Effects On The Environment
Essay on Biodiversity
The Study of Biodiversity
Biodiversity And Its Effects On Biodiversity
Biological Diversity Essay
The Importance of Biodiversity
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life forms within an ecosystem and is a measure of ecosystem health. Greater biodiversity implies greater health, and terrestrial biodiversity generally declines from the equator to the poles. The evolution of life over 3.5 billion years has resulted in the biodiversity we see today, although until around 600 million years ago life consisted primarily of single-celled organisms like bacteria and archaea. Biodiversity provides many benefits to humans like genetic resources for improving crops, and is also culturally and aesthetically valuable. However, biodiversity is facing major threats from habitat destruction, invasive species, pollution, and climate change, with many species currently endangered or facing extinction. Conservation efforts are needed to protect biod
This document discusses biodiversity, which refers to the variety of plant and animal species on Earth, as well as the ecosystems they inhabit. It notes that scientists have identified over 10 million species so far. Biodiversity underlies important services like food production and medicine. The document also discusses genetic diversity within species, species diversity among ecosystems, and ecological diversity of habitats. It outlines benefits of biodiversity and major threats like climate change, deforestation, overexploitation, invasive species, and pollution.
Biodiversity and Land Quality Essay
Why Is Ocean Biodiversity Important
Essay On Endangered Plants
Big Idea Biodiversity
biodiversity Essay
Biodiversity Loss And Loss Of Habitat Loss
Biodiversity And Biodiversity
Biodiversity And Its Effects On Biodiversity
Reflection Essay On Biodiversity
Biodiversity And Its Impact On Biodiversity
Biodiversity, Or Biological Diversity
Essay on Biodiversity
Biodiversity, Or Biological Diversity
Paragraph On Conservation Of Biodiversity
Marine Biodiversity : A Global Pattern Essay
Biodiversity In Australia
Persuasive Essay On Biodiversity Conservation
Biodiversity
Essay about The Importance of Biodiversity
Lab Report Biodiversity
The document discusses the loss of biodiversity due to various human activities. It defines biodiversity as the variety of life on Earth, including diversity within and between species and ecosystems. Key threats to biodiversity discussed include overexploitation of species, invasive alien species, climate change, habitat loss, pollution, and natural hazards. Managing biodiversity loss requires quantifying diversity and understanding which species losses will have the most harmful impacts on ecosystems.
This document discusses Hawaii's efforts to save biodiversity. It defines biodiversity as the variety of plant and animal life in an environment. Interventions like cutting Hawaiian monk seals from fishing nets have helped save endangered species populations. New technologies are also being used to better monitor ocean life, including acoustic sensing to track fish populations and DNA barcoding to identify endangered species. Overall the document outlines the importance of biodiversity and initiatives in Hawaii and around the world to preserve life on Earth through species protections and innovative monitoring tools.
Hawaii is working to save biodiversity through efforts like cutting Hawaiian monk seals from fishing nets and moving vulnerable pups away from sharks. These interventions have helped the endangered monk seal population increase by 30%. Scientists from 80 countries are also deploying new technologies like acoustic sensing, DNA barcoding, and tagging to better monitor ocean life diversity and anticipate problems. Maintaining biodiversity is important for economies, medicine, adaptation, and sustaining fisheries.
Ecology is the study of relationships between living organisms and their environment. Ecologists study interactions from microscopic to large-scale levels. Their research helps improve the environment, manage resources, and protect human health by identifying issues like water pollutants, controlling invasive species, and predicting disease outbreaks. Ecological knowledge has helped restore lakes and streams, develop safer pest controls, reduce water treatment needs, and save threatened species from extinction.
Hawaii is working to save biodiversity through efforts like cutting Hawaiian monk seals from fishing nets and moving vulnerable pups away from sharks, significantly helping the endangered species. About 30% more Hawaiian monk seals are alive today because of these interventions. Scientists from 80 countries are also deploying new technologies like acoustic sensing, DNA barcoding, and tagging to better monitor ocean life as all nations are affected by issues like overfishing and pollution. These technologies allow for tracking greater numbers of fish and identifying endangered species.
Biodiversity provides significant goods and services that benefit humanity. Genetic diversity in crops and other species is critical for adapting to changing conditions. Many foods, medicines, fibers and industrial products come directly from biodiversity. Ecosystem services like water purification and flood control are also dependent on biodiversity. Relatively few plant and animal species provide most food globally, though many local species could be developed further. Wild systems still provide substantial food, fuel and fiber. Natural products from biodiversity have historically been important in medicine and continue to be so today. Biotechnology relies on biodiversity as its raw material for developing new products. Microorganisms also play roles in bioremediation and environmental monitoring. Higher species diversity in ecosystems tends to
Biodiversity is the foundation of life on Earth and provides humanity with essential resources. However, biodiversity is declining rapidly due to factors like increased human dependence on agriculture and industrialization. An estimated 1.7 million species, around 25% of all biological diversity, face extinction over the next few decades if conservation efforts are not improved. India contains significant biodiversity with over 1.35 lakh species, including many endemic species, across diverse ecosystems. While only comprising 2.45% of the world's land area, India is home to 8.1% of global biodiversity. Urgent action is needed to protect biodiversity through expanded conservation areas and policies to ensure biodiversity is preserved for future generations.
Biodiversity loss is a major problem that can lead to species extinction and negatively impact human life. Key causes of biodiversity loss include habitat destruction and alteration due to land use for agriculture and development, pollution, climate change, and the introduction of invasive species. These threats are exacerbated by human activity and consumption patterns. Protecting biodiversity and addressing the root causes of loss and extinction is an important responsibility to help ensure environmental and human health and sustainability.
This document discusses marine ecology, which is the scientific study of marine life, habitats, and interactions between organisms and their environment. It examines various topics related to marine ecology including trophic structure, components of ecosystems, biomass, nutritional groups, biotic structure, food chains and webs, symbiosis, competition, predators, adaptations to marine living, chordate origins, reptiles, mammals, animals with shells, and effects of pollution on marine life.
This document provides an overview of aquatic ecosystems, including definitions, types, characteristics, threats, and solutions. It begins with definitions of ecosystems and descriptions of the two main types - marine ecosystems, which cover 71% of the Earth's surface, and freshwater ecosystems, which include lakes, rivers, and wetlands. It then discusses characteristics like abiotic factors, flora and fauna, and functions. Threats to aquatic ecosystems are reviewed, like pollution, development and invasive species. The document concludes with potential solutions such as education, stakeholder participation, pollution reduction, and habitat restoration.
This document provides information about Dr. T. Citarasu and his research interests in marine ecosystem and marine biotechnology at Manonmaniam Sundaranar University. It discusses how the ocean contributes to the climate and is home to most life on Earth. It also outlines various applications of marine biotechnology including medicines, cosmetics, nutraceuticals, enzymes, fuels, foods and more. The document then discusses different sources of marine natural products including microbes, fungi, invertebrates like sponges, cnidarians, annelids, arthropods, molluscs and echinoderms. It provides several examples of bioactive compounds isolated from these marine sources and their activities.
This document provides an overview of marine ecology. It begins by discussing ocean currents, including the factors that drive them and their influence on climate. It then describes the major types of marine organisms - nektonic, planktonic, and benthic. Microbes like bacteria, archaea, and protists are introduced. Primary producers like phytoplankton, seaweeds, and their characteristics are outlined. Finally, the document examines some invertebrate phyla found in marine ecosystems like sponges, cnidarians, mollusks, arthropods, and echinoderms.
Similar to Todd Kleperis: Protecting Ocean Regions with Robotics (20)
Why You Should Replace Windows 11 with Nitrux Linux 3.5.0 for enhanced perfor...SOFTTECHHUB
The choice of an operating system plays a pivotal role in shaping our computing experience. For decades, Microsoft's Windows has dominated the market, offering a familiar and widely adopted platform for personal and professional use. However, as technological advancements continue to push the boundaries of innovation, alternative operating systems have emerged, challenging the status quo and offering users a fresh perspective on computing.
One such alternative that has garnered significant attention and acclaim is Nitrux Linux 3.5.0, a sleek, powerful, and user-friendly Linux distribution that promises to redefine the way we interact with our devices. With its focus on performance, security, and customization, Nitrux Linux presents a compelling case for those seeking to break free from the constraints of proprietary software and embrace the freedom and flexibility of open-source computing.
Goodbye Windows 11: Make Way for Nitrux Linux 3.5.0!SOFTTECHHUB
As the digital landscape continually evolves, operating systems play a critical role in shaping user experiences and productivity. The launch of Nitrux Linux 3.5.0 marks a significant milestone, offering a robust alternative to traditional systems such as Windows 11. This article delves into the essence of Nitrux Linux 3.5.0, exploring its unique features, advantages, and how it stands as a compelling choice for both casual users and tech enthusiasts.
Dr. Sean Tan, Head of Data Science, Changi Airport Group
Discover how Changi Airport Group (CAG) leverages graph technologies and generative AI to revolutionize their search capabilities. This session delves into the unique search needs of CAG’s diverse passengers and customers, showcasing how graph data structures enhance the accuracy and relevance of AI-generated search results, mitigating the risk of “hallucinations” and improving the overall customer journey.
Climate Impact of Software Testing at Nordic Testing DaysKari Kakkonen
My slides at Nordic Testing Days 6.6.2024
Climate impact / sustainability of software testing discussed on the talk. ICT and testing must carry their part of global responsibility to help with the climat warming. We can minimize the carbon footprint but we can also have a carbon handprint, a positive impact on the climate. Quality characteristics can be added with sustainability, and then measured continuously. Test environments can be used less, and in smaller scale and on demand. Test techniques can be used in optimizing or minimizing number of tests. Test automation can be used to speed up testing.
GraphSummit Singapore | The Future of Agility: Supercharging Digital Transfor...Neo4j
Leonard Jayamohan, Partner & Generative AI Lead, Deloitte
This keynote will reveal how Deloitte leverages Neo4j’s graph power for groundbreaking digital twin solutions, achieving a staggering 100x performance boost. Discover the essential role knowledge graphs play in successful generative AI implementations. Plus, get an exclusive look at an innovative Neo4j + Generative AI solution Deloitte is developing in-house.
Driving Business Innovation: Latest Generative AI Advancements & Success StorySafe Software
Are you ready to revolutionize how you handle data? Join us for a webinar where we’ll bring you up to speed with the latest advancements in Generative AI technology and discover how leveraging FME with tools from giants like Google Gemini, Amazon, and Microsoft OpenAI can supercharge your workflow efficiency.
During the hour, we’ll take you through:
Guest Speaker Segment with Hannah Barrington: Dive into the world of dynamic real estate marketing with Hannah, the Marketing Manager at Workspace Group. Hear firsthand how their team generates engaging descriptions for thousands of office units by integrating diverse data sources—from PDF floorplans to web pages—using FME transformers, like OpenAIVisionConnector and AnthropicVisionConnector. This use case will show you how GenAI can streamline content creation for marketing across the board.
Ollama Use Case: Learn how Scenario Specialist Dmitri Bagh has utilized Ollama within FME to input data, create custom models, and enhance security protocols. This segment will include demos to illustrate the full capabilities of FME in AI-driven processes.
Custom AI Models: Discover how to leverage FME to build personalized AI models using your data. Whether it’s populating a model with local data for added security or integrating public AI tools, find out how FME facilitates a versatile and secure approach to AI.
We’ll wrap up with a live Q&A session where you can engage with our experts on your specific use cases, and learn more about optimizing your data workflows with AI.
This webinar is ideal for professionals seeking to harness the power of AI within their data management systems while ensuring high levels of customization and security. Whether you're a novice or an expert, gain actionable insights and strategies to elevate your data processes. Join us to see how FME and AI can revolutionize how you work with data!
In the rapidly evolving landscape of technologies, XML continues to play a vital role in structuring, storing, and transporting data across diverse systems. The recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) present new methodologies for enhancing XML development workflows, introducing efficiency, automation, and intelligent capabilities. This presentation will outline the scope and perspective of utilizing AI in XML development. The potential benefits and the possible pitfalls will be highlighted, providing a balanced view of the subject.
We will explore the capabilities of AI in understanding XML markup languages and autonomously creating structured XML content. Additionally, we will examine the capacity of AI to enrich plain text with appropriate XML markup. Practical examples and methodological guidelines will be provided to elucidate how AI can be effectively prompted to interpret and generate accurate XML markup.
Further emphasis will be placed on the role of AI in developing XSLT, or schemas such as XSD and Schematron. We will address the techniques and strategies adopted to create prompts for generating code, explaining code, or refactoring the code, and the results achieved.
The discussion will extend to how AI can be used to transform XML content. In particular, the focus will be on the use of AI XPath extension functions in XSLT, Schematron, Schematron Quick Fixes, or for XML content refactoring.
The presentation aims to deliver a comprehensive overview of AI usage in XML development, providing attendees with the necessary knowledge to make informed decisions. Whether you’re at the early stages of adopting AI or considering integrating it in advanced XML development, this presentation will cover all levels of expertise.
By highlighting the potential advantages and challenges of integrating AI with XML development tools and languages, the presentation seeks to inspire thoughtful conversation around the future of XML development. We’ll not only delve into the technical aspects of AI-powered XML development but also discuss practical implications and possible future directions.
TrustArc Webinar - 2024 Global Privacy SurveyTrustArc
How does your privacy program stack up against your peers? What challenges are privacy teams tackling and prioritizing in 2024?
In the fifth annual Global Privacy Benchmarks Survey, we asked over 1,800 global privacy professionals and business executives to share their perspectives on the current state of privacy inside and outside of their organizations. This year’s report focused on emerging areas of importance for privacy and compliance professionals, including considerations and implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies, building brand trust, and different approaches for achieving higher privacy competence scores.
See how organizational priorities and strategic approaches to data security and privacy are evolving around the globe.
This webinar will review:
- The top 10 privacy insights from the fifth annual Global Privacy Benchmarks Survey
- The top challenges for privacy leaders, practitioners, and organizations in 2024
- Key themes to consider in developing and maintaining your privacy program
HCL Notes und Domino Lizenzkostenreduzierung in der Welt von DLAUpanagenda
Webinar Recording: https://www.panagenda.com/webinars/hcl-notes-und-domino-lizenzkostenreduzierung-in-der-welt-von-dlau/
DLAU und die Lizenzen nach dem CCB- und CCX-Modell sind für viele in der HCL-Community seit letztem Jahr ein heißes Thema. Als Notes- oder Domino-Kunde haben Sie vielleicht mit unerwartet hohen Benutzerzahlen und Lizenzgebühren zu kämpfen. Sie fragen sich vielleicht, wie diese neue Art der Lizenzierung funktioniert und welchen Nutzen sie Ihnen bringt. Vor allem wollen Sie sicherlich Ihr Budget einhalten und Kosten sparen, wo immer möglich. Das verstehen wir und wir möchten Ihnen dabei helfen!
Wir erklären Ihnen, wie Sie häufige Konfigurationsprobleme lösen können, die dazu führen können, dass mehr Benutzer gezählt werden als nötig, und wie Sie überflüssige oder ungenutzte Konten identifizieren und entfernen können, um Geld zu sparen. Es gibt auch einige Ansätze, die zu unnötigen Ausgaben führen können, z. B. wenn ein Personendokument anstelle eines Mail-Ins für geteilte Mailboxen verwendet wird. Wir zeigen Ihnen solche Fälle und deren Lösungen. Und natürlich erklären wir Ihnen das neue Lizenzmodell.
Nehmen Sie an diesem Webinar teil, bei dem HCL-Ambassador Marc Thomas und Gastredner Franz Walder Ihnen diese neue Welt näherbringen. Es vermittelt Ihnen die Tools und das Know-how, um den Überblick zu bewahren. Sie werden in der Lage sein, Ihre Kosten durch eine optimierte Domino-Konfiguration zu reduzieren und auch in Zukunft gering zu halten.
Diese Themen werden behandelt
- Reduzierung der Lizenzkosten durch Auffinden und Beheben von Fehlkonfigurationen und überflüssigen Konten
- Wie funktionieren CCB- und CCX-Lizenzen wirklich?
- Verstehen des DLAU-Tools und wie man es am besten nutzt
- Tipps für häufige Problembereiche, wie z. B. Team-Postfächer, Funktions-/Testbenutzer usw.
- Praxisbeispiele und Best Practices zum sofortigen Umsetzen
For the full video of this presentation, please visit: https://www.edge-ai-vision.com/2024/06/building-and-scaling-ai-applications-with-the-nx-ai-manager-a-presentation-from-network-optix/
Robin van Emden, Senior Director of Data Science at Network Optix, presents the “Building and Scaling AI Applications with the Nx AI Manager,” tutorial at the May 2024 Embedded Vision Summit.
In this presentation, van Emden covers the basics of scaling edge AI solutions using the Nx tool kit. He emphasizes the process of developing AI models and deploying them globally. He also showcases the conversion of AI models and the creation of effective edge AI pipelines, with a focus on pre-processing, model conversion, selecting the appropriate inference engine for the target hardware and post-processing.
van Emden shows how Nx can simplify the developer’s life and facilitate a rapid transition from concept to production-ready applications.He provides valuable insights into developing scalable and efficient edge AI solutions, with a strong focus on practical implementation.
UiPath Test Automation using UiPath Test Suite series, part 6DianaGray10
Welcome to UiPath Test Automation using UiPath Test Suite series part 6. In this session, we will cover Test Automation with generative AI and Open AI.
UiPath Test Automation with generative AI and Open AI webinar offers an in-depth exploration of leveraging cutting-edge technologies for test automation within the UiPath platform. Attendees will delve into the integration of generative AI, a test automation solution, with Open AI advanced natural language processing capabilities.
Throughout the session, participants will discover how this synergy empowers testers to automate repetitive tasks, enhance testing accuracy, and expedite the software testing life cycle. Topics covered include the seamless integration process, practical use cases, and the benefits of harnessing AI-driven automation for UiPath testing initiatives. By attending this webinar, testers, and automation professionals can gain valuable insights into harnessing the power of AI to optimize their test automation workflows within the UiPath ecosystem, ultimately driving efficiency and quality in software development processes.
What will you get from this session?
1. Insights into integrating generative AI.
2. Understanding how this integration enhances test automation within the UiPath platform
3. Practical demonstrations
4. Exploration of real-world use cases illustrating the benefits of AI-driven test automation for UiPath
Topics covered:
What is generative AI
Test Automation with generative AI and Open AI.
UiPath integration with generative AI
Speaker:
Deepak Rai, Automation Practice Lead, Boundaryless Group and UiPath MVP
Removing Uninteresting Bytes in Software FuzzingAftab Hussain
Imagine a world where software fuzzing, the process of mutating bytes in test seeds to uncover hidden and erroneous program behaviors, becomes faster and more effective. A lot depends on the initial seeds, which can significantly dictate the trajectory of a fuzzing campaign, particularly in terms of how long it takes to uncover interesting behaviour in your code. We introduce DIAR, a technique designed to speedup fuzzing campaigns by pinpointing and eliminating those uninteresting bytes in the seeds. Picture this: instead of wasting valuable resources on meaningless mutations in large, bloated seeds, DIAR removes the unnecessary bytes, streamlining the entire process.
In this work, we equipped AFL, a popular fuzzer, with DIAR and examined two critical Linux libraries -- Libxml's xmllint, a tool for parsing xml documents, and Binutil's readelf, an essential debugging and security analysis command-line tool used to display detailed information about ELF (Executable and Linkable Format). Our preliminary results show that AFL+DIAR does not only discover new paths more quickly but also achieves higher coverage overall. This work thus showcases how starting with lean and optimized seeds can lead to faster, more comprehensive fuzzing campaigns -- and DIAR helps you find such seeds.
- These are slides of the talk given at IEEE International Conference on Software Testing Verification and Validation Workshop, ICSTW 2022.
Best 20 SEO Techniques To Improve Website Visibility In SERPPixlogix Infotech
Boost your website's visibility with proven SEO techniques! Our latest blog dives into essential strategies to enhance your online presence, increase traffic, and rank higher on search engines. From keyword optimization to quality content creation, learn how to make your site stand out in the crowded digital landscape. Discover actionable tips and expert insights to elevate your SEO game.
Observability Concepts EVERY Developer Should Know -- DeveloperWeek Europe.pdfPaige Cruz
Monitoring and observability aren’t traditionally found in software curriculums and many of us cobble this knowledge together from whatever vendor or ecosystem we were first introduced to and whatever is a part of your current company’s observability stack.
While the dev and ops silo continues to crumble….many organizations still relegate monitoring & observability as the purview of ops, infra and SRE teams. This is a mistake - achieving a highly observable system requires collaboration up and down the stack.
I, a former op, would like to extend an invitation to all application developers to join the observability party will share these foundational concepts to build on:
UiPath Test Automation using UiPath Test Suite series, part 5DianaGray10
Welcome to UiPath Test Automation using UiPath Test Suite series part 5. In this session, we will cover CI/CD with devops.
Topics covered:
CI/CD with in UiPath
End-to-end overview of CI/CD pipeline with Azure devops
Speaker:
Lyndsey Byblow, Test Suite Sales Engineer @ UiPath, Inc.
UiPath Test Automation using UiPath Test Suite series, part 5
Todd Kleperis: Protecting Ocean Regions with Robotics
1. Protecting Ocean Regions with Robotics
“How medical breakthroughswillcome fromthe oceanandtransformfuture medicine”
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 INCREASING BURDEN OF CHRONIC ILLNESS ANDEVER-AGING GLOBAL POPULATION
Withthe ever-agingglobal populationandthe growingburdenof chronicillness,there isanincreased
reliance onthe healthcare system(particularlythe biopharmaceutical industry) inorderorone to
achieve andsustainahigh qualityof life.Accordingtothe WorldHealthOrganization(WHO),the burden
of humandiseaseshave beenrapidlyincreasingfordecadeswiththistrendpredominantlycontributed
by populationgrowthandenvironmental degradation.
1.2 DEFINITION OFMARINE BIOPROSPECTING
Marine bioprospectingisthe searchfornovel compoundsfromnatural sourcesinthe marine
environment.These activitieshave increasedagreatdeal inthe lastfew yearslikelyinpartdue to the
continuedtechnological advancesenablingfurtheroceanicexploration,acknowledgementof the rich
genericdiversityinthe marine biome,aswell asthe pressure fromindustrytoproduce givenvarious
blockbusterdrugsgoingoff patent.Today,about18,000 natural productshave beenreportedfrom
marine organismsbelongingtoabout4,800 namedspecies.The numberof natural productsfrom
marine speciesisgrowingata rate of 4% per year.The increase inthe rate of discoveriesislargelythe
resultof technological advancesinexploringthe oceanandthe geneticdiversityitcontains.Advancesin
technologiesforobservingandsamplingthe deepocean,suchassubmersiblesandremotelyoperated
vehicles(ROVs),have openeduppreviouslyunexploredareastoscientificresearch.Since 1999,the
numberof patentsof geneticmaterial frommarine specieshasincreasedatthe rate of 12% per year.
Marine speciesare abouttwice as likelytoyieldatleastone gene inapatentthantheirterrestrial
counterparts.Bioprospectingtypicallyrequiresthe collectionof averylimitedamountof biomassfor
the initial discovery.Althoughfurthercollectionsmaybe requiredafterapromisingdiscoveryhasbeen
made,bioprospectinggenerallydoesnotinvolve threatstobiodiversitycomparable tothe large biomass
removalsinvolvedinharvestingresourcesforfoodormineral exploitation.
1.3 THE SUCCESSOF NATURAL COMPOUNDS IN DRUG DISCOVERYAND BIOPHARMACEUTICAL BACK
DROP
Biopharmaceuticalsare one of the mostimpressive achievementsof modernscience.Many
biopharmaceuticalsofferhighefficacyandfew side effects.Andthere ismuchmore tocome:radically
newconceptsare makingit to the market,andthe advanceskeepcomingata rapidpace. The successof
natural compoundsindrug discoveryisunparalleled:forantimicrobialandanticancertherapies,for
example,more than70%of newchemical entitiesintroducedduringthe period1981–2002 originated
fromnatural products.Ithas beenestimatedbythe USNational CancerInstitute (NCI)that1% of
samplesfrommarine animalstestedinthe laboratoryreveal anti-tumorpotential (whichcompares
favorablywithjust0.01% of samplesof terrestrial origin).Inthe lastfew decades,advancesin
2. informatics,automationandimagingtechnologyhave made itpossible toscreen100,000s – 1,000,000s
of small moleculesagainstaspecificbiological targetorcellularassayperday,comparedwith10s-100s
of compoundstestedonanimalsovermanymonthspreviously.Growingawarenessof the limitationsof
historicallyvaluableapproaches,andbreakthroughsinroboticstechnologies,suchasthose usedin
separation andstructure determination,have made screeningmixturesof structurallycomplexnatural
productmoleculeseasier,andhave expandedthe potential roleof natural chemical diversityinthe drug
discoveryprocess
2 THEOPPORTUNITY
2.1 AUSTRALIA CONTEXT
Australiaisone of only17 mega-diverse countriesinthe worldandisrenownedforthe uniquenessof its
biota.Australiahasseveral featuresprovingattractive toinvestorsandresearchersinthe natural
productsarea. Thisincludes,notleast,accesstoa diverse andunique biota.More generally,the
featuresof Australiaconducivetoresearchandcommercial activityincludeitsrobustsystemof lawand
stable democraticsystemof government,itsstable andresilienteconomy,transparentandefficient
regulatoryenvironment,comprehensiveintellectual propertyprotectionsandhighscientificand
technological capacity.Australiahasremainedrelativelyisolatedovertime comparedtomostcountries.
Consequently,Australiahasa highproportionof endemicspecies–thatis,speciesnotoccurring
naturallyelsewhere.Forexample,inthe case of mammals,approximately83% are endemictoAustralia.
Australia'sunique marineenvironmentcontainsthe world'slargestareasandhighestdiversityof
tropical and temperate seagrassspeciesandof mangrove species;some of the largestareasof coral
reefs;exceptionallevelsof biodiversityforawide range of marine invertebrates;anditisestimatedthat
around80% of the southernmarine speciesoccurnowhere elseinthe world.Withonly0.3% of the
world'spopulation,Australiacontributes2.5% of the world'smedical researchand2.9% of global
scientificpublications(InvestAustralia,2007, p.6).In 2005, Australiarankedeighthinthe OECDinterms
of the proportionof researchersinthe total laborforce.Thisisabove the OECD average.Ona percapita
basis,Australiahasa researchoutputtwice the OECD average.Intermsof biotechnologyresearch,
Australiahasseveral dedicatedbiotechnologyresearchinstitutes.Australia'sbiotechnologyindustryis
steadilygrowing,withactivityacrossbiotechnologyfieldsincludingbiomedicine,agricultural
biotechnology,industrialbiotechnologyandenvironmentalbiotechnology.The AustralianGovernment
isa staunchadvocate of the domesticpharmaceuticalindustryandhasbeenverysupportive in
implementinginitiativestogrowthissector.By any measure,AustralianGovernmentsupportfor
researchand developmentinthe biopharmaceutical industryhasbeenandlookstocontinue to be
strong.
2.2 MARINE BIOME REMAINS UNTAPPED/UNDER-INVESTIGATED—THUSPROSPECTSFOR NEWAND
MEANINGFUL FINDINGS ARE SIGNIFICANT
Today,biopharmaceuticalsgenerateglobal revenuesof $163 billion,makingupabout20 percentof the
pharma market.It’sbyfar the fastest-growingpartof the industry:biopharma’scurrentannual growth
rate of more than 8 percentisdouble thatof conventional pharma,andgrowthisexpectedtocontinue
at that rate forthe foreseeablefuture.Marine bioprospectinghasthe potential tofurtherdrive these
3. trends.The marine biome remainsuntappedandunderinvestigated,andthus,perfectlypoisedtodrive
bothtopline andbottomline formultiplestakeholdersinthe biopharmavaluechain. Investingin
biotechR&D hasyieldedbetter returnsthanthe pharma-industryaverage.The currentbiologics-
developmentpipeline supportsanoutlookof continuedhealthygrowth.The numberof biotechpatents
appliedforeveryyearhasbeengrowingat25 percentannuallysince 1995. There are currentlymore
than 1,500 biomoleculesundergoingclinicaltrials,andthe successrate forbiologicshassofar beenover
twice thatof small-molecule products,with13 percentof biopharmaproductsthatenterthe Phase I
trial stage goingon to launch.To date, samplingof marine productshasprimarilyoccurredineasy-to-
reach coastal waters.Asa result,97%of natural productsof marine originare fromeukaryoticsources
(organismswithcomplexcells),withspongesaloneaccountingfor38% of the products.However,the
majorityof the Earth's metabolicdiversityresidesinprokaryoticorganisms(single-celledorganismssuch
as bacteria) andover99% of the microbial communityof the oceanremainstobe explored,soitstands
to reasonthat manymore geneticsequencesvaluable forproductsare yetto be discovered.There isa
particularinterestinmarine speciesthatlive inextreme environments,suchashydrothermal ventsand
seamounts(‘extremophiles’).Bythe endof 2007, only10 compoundshadbeenreported fromDeep
Oceanand oceantrench environments,withafurthersevenidentifiedin2010. Fewerthan10 marine
natural productshave so far beenreportedfromhotventbacteria.Furthermore,if we breakdownthe
variousecosystemsof ourseasandoceansand compare the chemical dynamics,coral reefshave
particularlyimpressivepotential.The coralsthatwe see are actuallymade upof coloniesthatbuildup
and thrive inan environmentwherenutrientsare low.Althoughcoral reefsonlyoccupy0.1% of the
world’soceansurface,theyare one of the most diverse ecosystemsonearth,hosting~25% of all marine
species.The focusonthe coral reef ecosystemasatarget place formedicinal purposesisnotanew
concept.Asearlyas the 14th century,coral reefswere aknownsource formedicines.One practice at
that time isthe use of fishgall bladdertotreatvenomousstingsfrommarine organisms.Today,coral
reefshave alreadycontributeditsname inthe pharmaceutical industryasone of the source of
biochemical compoundsfornewdrugsandthe possibilitiesare endless.The opportunitymoving
forwardissubstantial.
2.3 SPECIFIC EXAMPLESOF SUCCESSFUL MARINE BIOPROSPECTING
2.3.1 Aplidin
One of the earlybiochemical compoundsderivedfromthe seaisDidemnin,acompoundisolatedforthe
treatmentof certaincancers.Thiscompoundwasobtainedfromthe tunicate Trididemnumsolidum.
Unfortunately,Didemindidnotsurviveinlaterstagesof itsclinical trials.However,afteraseriesof
furtherexploration,arelative of the formerspecieswasdiscoveredtoposessimilartraits.The tunicate
Aplidiumalbicanspossessesthe compoundAplidin® whichhasa similarstructure withDidemninbutfar
lesstoxic.Aplidinisananti-tumor,anti-viral andimmunosuppressive drugthathas beendemonstrated
to be effective inpancreatic,stomach,bladderandprostate cancers.Afterundergoingseriesof clinical
test,Aplidinwasgrantedthe classificationasanorphan drug thatspecificallytreatsmultiple myeloma
and acute lymphoblasticleukemia.Inthe UnitedStatesalone,there are over45,000 people with
multiple myelomaandanestimated15,000 new casesinthe U.S. eachyear.
4. 2.3.2 Yondelis
Yondelis® wasdevelopedbythe PharmaMar Pharmaceutical Companyandwasreleasedinthe market
in2003. Thiscompoundisnow soldbyZeltiaandJohnsonandJohnson.Yondeliscontainsthe active
substance Trabectedin.Trabectedinisderivedfromcoral reefs.Specificallyfromthe filterfeedingsacs
of the small andimmobile plant-like invertebrate calledseasquirts.Extractsof thisreef associated
specieshasbeenfoundtocontaina treatmentforsoft-tissuesarcomaandovarianneoplasmsarcoma.
Yondeliswasdevelopedasaresultof the National CancerInstitute ScreeningProgramformarine plants
and animals.Seaquirtswere collectedfromreefsof WestIndiesandstudiedinthe laboratoryatthe
Universityof Illinois.The anti-cancerbiosyntheticcompoundwasthendiscoveredtobe embeddedin
the symbioticmicroorganismwithinthe seasquirts.Yondelisisproducedinasemi-syntheticmanner,
afterthe extractsfrom the seasquirtsundergoa patentedchemical process.Thisprocessisless
intrusive andlessdemandingtothe natural marine biome.Moreover,eventhoughthe usage of Yondelis
isonlyfor rare medical conditionssuchassarcoma, there isstill potential forthisproducttoadd a lot of
value tothe livesof patientsandotherstakeholders.More andmore adoptingYondelisintheir
prescribingworkflowforsarcomasandthere are an increasingnumberof patientswhoare sensitive to
medicinescontainingplatinumandYondelisisone of the onlyalternative anti-cancermedicines.
2.3.3 Pro Osteon
There are manyindicationsforabone graft implant(e.g.fusionof the spine,jointsinarmsandlegs,
fracturesor gaps inbonescausedbytrauma or infection,oral surgery).Inatypical bone grafting
procedure,asyntheticmaterial isshapedbythe surgeontofitthe affectedareaof the bone while pins
or screwsare usedto holditinplace.Thismaterial buildsasupportstructure where bone cellscan
interlace,regenerate andheal.ProOsteonImplant500 has a porousmicrostructure where new tissues
and bloodcellscangrow,therebystimulatinggrowthandconnectsfracturedbone segments.
Genericallycalled“Bone VoidFiller”andapprovedbythe FDA in 1992, Pro OsteonImplant500 is
clinicallyproventobe safe,strongandcost effective.Thismaterial issterile,therebyminimizingadverse
reactionsfromthe patient’simmune systemrejectingthe implant. The effectivenessof ProOsteon
Implant500 liesinitssource.It usescoralsfromthe seathat has the same porousinterconnected
structure of a typical bone grafttherebymimickingthe internalstructure of ahuman bone.After
undergoingapatentedchemical process,itconvertsthe coral intohydroxyapatitewhichisamineral and
the chief structural elementof a humanbone.Atthisstage,the implantmaterial isnow also
osteoconductivewhichfacilitatesbone cellstoweave intothe porousstructure. Afterthe procedure
and the healingprocessstarts,the ProOsteonImplantwill eventuallybe coveredandreplacedbybones
creatingthe mendedpartas strongas itwas before.ProOsteonhasgreatdemonstratedefficacyanda
safe side-effectprofile.The companymanufacturingthisproductisprojectingatleast$3 billioninsales
by 2017. What’s more,the productionof ProOsteonisnot completelydependentonfarmingand
extractingcoralsfromtheirnatural habitat.Special techniqueshave beendeveloped,whichrequireonly
a small portionof coral to be extracted,whilethe balance isgrownartificiallyinthe lab—thuspromoting
sustainabilityandstabilityof the marine biome.
5. 3 THECHALLENGES
3.1 HOW TO CONSERVE AND SUSTAINABLY USE MARINE BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY
Despite the factthat marine bioprospectingisrelativelyunimposingandthe practice doesnotimpose
the sustainabilityriskof variousterrestrial techniques,conservationistsandthe publicstill have some
concerns.For one,verylittle isknownaboutthe conservationstatusof manyspeciesusedassourcesof
marine geneticresources.Further,manyspeciesoccurinvulnerableandfragile ecosystems.Manyare
alsoconcernedwithwhatwe don’tknow inthisrelativelynascentsub-industryatthispoint.For
instance,the effectonecosystemsof removal of marine geneticresourcesispoorlyunderstood.
3.2 FEW NATIONSCAN SUCCESSFULLY DOBIOPROSPECTING ON THEIR OWN
Investmentinmarine biotechnologyisnotwithoutrisk.Samplingatseacosts a minimumof US$ 30,000
perday or US$ 1 millionforamonth.It typicallytakes15years overall,andaninvestmentof upto
US$ 1billion,togofromresearchto commercial product,due tothe fact that many productsfail to
deliveronearlypromises.Asaresultthe fieldis dominatedbyrelativelyfew nations.Patentclaims
associatedwithmarine geneticresources(MGR) originate fromonly31countries.Ninetypercentof
these patentsoriginate from10countries(USA,Germany,Japan,France,UK,Denmark,Belgium,
Netherlands,SwitzerlandandNorway),with70% originatingfromthe US,GermanyandJapan. Despite
the highlevelsof investmentrequiredinR&D,biotechnologyisalucrative andimportantindustry.
3.3 THE CURRENT UNCERTAIN AND UNPREDICTABLE LEGAL AND REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
DISCOURAGESINDUSTRY (I.E.BIOPHARM COMPANIES)FROM INVESTING THEIR EFFORTSINTO
BIOPROSPECTING
The potential of marine bioprospectinghasbecome the subjectof internationalpolicydebate
(particularlyforareasbeyondnational jurisdiction).One central quetioniswhetherthe potential
benefitsfrommarine bioprospectingoughttobe sharedby the entire internationalcommunityoronly
by the Statesor individualcorporationswiththe capacitytoexploitthem.Variousgroupsare lookingat
thisinorder to configure the mostsensible setof policiestobalance the needtopromote innovation
and technological/biopharmaceutical advances,withthe needtomake sure all stakeholdersinthe value
chainare appropriatelycompensated,alongwiththe needtoensure the longevityof these natural
marine habitats. Increasingly,individualnation-statesare establishingpoliciesthatdictate the wayin
whichprotectedmarine habitatsintheirjurisdictionmaybe usedforbioprospectingandotherscientific
and commercial pursuits.
3.4 COSTSOF BIOPHARM/BIOTECH DISCOVERY
There are operational andtechnological challengestobioprospectingandbiopharmaceuticaldiscovery
ingeneral.Reproducinglarge moleculesreliablyatanindustrial scale requiresmanufacturing
capabilitiesof apreviouslyunknownsophistication.Considerthis:amoleculeof aspirinconsistsof 21
atoms.A biopharmaceutical molecule mightcontainanythingfrom2,000 to 25,000 atoms(Exhibit1).
The “machines”that produce recombinanttherapeuticsare geneticallymodifiedlivingcellsthatmustbe
frozenforstorage,thawedwithoutdamage,andmade tothrive inthe unusual environmentof a
6. reactionvessel.The necessarysophisticationcomesatgreatcost.Large-scale biotech-manufacturing
facilitiesrequire$200 millionto$500 millionormore to build,comparedwithsimilar-scalesmall-
molecule facilitiesthatmaycost just$30 millionto$100 million,andtheycantake fourto five yearsto
build.Asthe numberof productsrisesandnew processtechnologiessuchascontinuousmanufacturing
are introduced,the complexityof biopharmaoperationsandthe biopharmasupplychainwill increase.
4 THESOLUTION
4.1 HUMAN/ROBOTICS INTERVENTION
First, activitiesatseainsupportof biotechnologyneedtobe distinguishedfromprocessesinthe
laboratory.Commercial expeditionspurelytocollectmarine geneticresourcesare rare to non-existent.
Typically,samplingisconductedonscientificresearchcruises,orbyusingdowntime onROVsusedin
the offshore oil industry.Ocean-goingresearchvesselsare typicallyownedbynationalresearchbodies
(e.g.China,UK,US, Brazil,Germany,Japan,France,Russia) orcommercial operations,particularlyinthe
offshore oil andgassector.With the advancesinROVs,lessandlessdirecthumandisruptionof the
marine biome isnecessary.LeveragingROV technologyallowsforminimallyinvasive tacticsthatstill
allowsforeffective research/discovery/developmentopportunitieswhile maintainingthe balance inthe
mostfragile of habitats.InvestingandemployingROV technologyisalsosaferforall partiesinvolved.As
the scientificcommunitycontinuestoresearchmore dangerousandless-exploredmarinehabitats,the
riskfor healthandhumansafetyincrease.ROVsdramaticallyreducesthisriskwhilepermittingresearch
and commercial societiestoexplore true frontierregions.Forexample,LiquidRoboticsisaventure-
backedfirmspecializinginthisareawiththeir marquee product,the Wave Glider.The Wave Gliderisan
autonomous,environmentallypoweredocean-goingplatformforgatheringandremotelytransmitting
informationaboutthe ocean.Wave Gliderscollectdataon temperature,winds,humidity,windgusts,
watertemperature,watercolor,andwatercomposition.Theycanalsotake pictures.These robotsare
gatheringa lotof observational dataaboutclimate change,oceanacidification,fisheriesmanagement,
hurricane andtsunami warnings,andexploration — butina greenway.Thistype of technologyapplied
specificallytomarine bioprospectingtofurtherdrive innovationandefficiencyinthisspace.
4.2 HEALTHY PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS, CASE-IN-POINT:GRIFFITH/ASTAZENECA PARTNERSHIP
The GriffithUniversity(an AustralianUniversitybasedinthe State of Queensland)/AstraZeneca
Partnershiprepresentsamulti-year,100AUD investmentbyAstraZeneca,hasinvolvedthe screeningof
extractsof floraand fauna byGriffithUniversity’sEskitisInstitute toidentifybioactivemoleculesas
potential leadsforpharmaceutical discoveryanddevelopmentof novel pharmaceuticals.More than
45,000 samplesof regional biota,bothmarine andterrestrial,have beencollectedsince the startof the
partnership.Collectionshave derivedfromseveral jurisdictionswithinAustralia.Thispartnershipshould
alsoserve as a groundedexampletohelpinformfuture intiativesaimedatbalancingthe variousneeds
to ensure effectiveandsafe marine bioprospecting.Thispartnershipdemonstratedthatbioprospecting
partnershipscanyieldconsistentbenefitsforprovidercountriesandforbiodiversityconservationover
time.The collaborative agreementandconsequentinvestmentinQueenslandhasresultedinsignificant
technologytransfer.Aspartof the partnership,AstraZenecaprovidesfundingtoGriffithUniversityto
participate intheirbiodiscoveryandcommercializationefforts.GriffithUniversityinturnpartnerswith
7. domesticandoverseascollectinginstitutionstoundertakebiotacollections,make extractsof samples,
and thenrun these samplesthroughhighthroughputscreens(HTS) againsttargetsprovidedbyandof
therapeuticsinteresttoAZ.Active compoundsare thenidentifiedandisolatedatGriffithUniversityvia
bioassayguided fractionation,andstructuresare elucidatedusingnuclearmagneticresonance
spectroscopy.Benefitsaccruedtothe range of collaboratorsinthe partnership –AstraZeneca,Griffith
University,the QueenslandHerbarium,the QueenslandMuseum, andcompaniesandinstitutionsin
China,India,PapuaNewGuinea,andTasmania.Atthe same time,broaderbenefitswere achievedor
may still emerge forthe State of Queensland,the Australianresearchcommunity,the Australianpublic,
and the international community. RealizedbenefitstoAustraliainclude monetaryremunerationlike
feesforsamples(ortocover the costs of an agreed-uponworkplan) androyalties.Non-monetary
benefitstoAustraliaincludedthe provisionof vehicles,equipment,technology,training,buildingof a
state-of-the-artnatural productdiscoveryunit,andincreasedknowledge of biodiversity.BenefitstoAZ
include the accesstoa huge pipeline of potential blockbusterdrugsthatmayyet serve tobenefit
thousands(if notmillions) of patients. Furthermore,new informationanddatagleanedfromthe
partnershipshave gone towardsinformingmore policyaroundconservationandenvironmental
planningandmanagementthroughoutthe region.Manybestpracticesforsimilarfuture partnerships
can be establishedfromthe AZ/GriffithPartnership.
End Note:
Science hasan opportunitynowunlikeanyothertime inhistorytoadvance mankindutilizingrobotics
for the bettermentof usall.
Todd Kleperis