Article
Marine & Freshwater Biology
Cecilio Valadez-Cano, Adrian Reyes-Prieto, Daniel G. Beach, Cheryl Rafuse, Pearse McCarron, Janice Lawrence
Summary: The presence of toxigenic benthic cyanobacteria in riverine ecosystems is a global concern. In 2018, the death of three dogs in Canada was linked to anatoxin exposure from benthic microbial mats. DNA sequencing of cyanobacterial isolates from the mat samples revealed that some produced anatoxins while others did not. Genomic comparisons showed that toxigenic and non-toxigenic Microcoleus subspecies coexisted with differences in the presence/absence of the anatoxin-a biosynthesis cluster.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Georgios Samiotis, Kostas Stamatakis, Elisavet Amanatidou
Summary: The present study focuses on the dimensioning of a cultivation photobioreactor for wastewater treatment and biomass-derived added value products. The results show that under limited lighting conditions, the photobioreactor can achieve a similar volume compared to an activated sludge reactor, regardless of the wastewater salinity.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Yue Han, Tarek N. Aziz, Dario Del Giudice, Nathan S. Hall, Daniel R. Obenour
Summary: Nutrient reductions are more critical than changes in mixing or background turbidity in controlling cyanobacteria in shallow eutrophic freshwater systems. Both models explain around 60% of the variability in chlorophyll-a, but the mechanistic model is more robust and provides a more comprehensive assessment of algal drivers.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Ainoa Morillas-Espana, Tomas Lafarga, Ana Sanchez-Zurano, Francisco Gabriel Acien-Fernandez, Cynthia Gonzalez-Lopez
Summary: Microalgae based wastewater treatment is a viable strategy for recovering nutrients and producing clean water, with the added benefit of valuable biomass production. Promising results have been reported, but further research and scale-up are needed to enhance industrial relevance.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Christian Helanow, Neal R. Iverson, Jacob B. Woodard, Lucas K. Zoet
Summary: In this study, a process-based, three-dimensional model of glacier slip was applied to measured bed topographies, showing that considering actual glacier beds can eliminate or make rate-weakening drag insignificant, thereby unifying process-based models of slip with certain ice-sheet model parameterizations. The computed slip laws have the same form as those observed in experiments with ice dragged over deformable till, possibly pointing to a universal slip law that could simplify and improve estimations of glacier discharges to the oceans.
Article
Agronomy
Radha Prasanna, Firoz Hossain, Garima Saxena, Babita Singh, Amrita Kanchan, Kaur Simranjit, Balasubramanian Ramakrishnan, Kunal Ranjan, Vignesh Muthusamy, Yashbir Singh Shivay
Summary: The study assessed the responses of different biofortified maize genotypes to three cyanobacterial inoculants, revealing significant genetic variation in soil parameters and nutrients. The genotype-inoculant combinations were found to play a crucial role in the growth and quality of maize crops.
EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF AGRONOMY
(2021)
Article
Fisheries
R. Cerri, A. Niccolai, G. Cardinaletti, F. Tulli, F. Mina, E. Daniso, T. Bongiorno, G. Chini Zittelli, N. Biondi, M. R. Tredici, E. Tibaldi
Summary: Despite limited information on the nutritive value of microalgae and cyanobacteria for carnivorous fish species, this study evaluated the chemical composition and nutrient digestibility of dried whole-cell biomasses. Results showed heterogeneous composition and nutrient profile among the tested microalgae and cyanobacteria, suggesting their potential as alternative protein sources for aquafeeds. Rainbow trout digestion studies ranked the biomasses into two groups based on crude protein and energy digestibility, highlighting the importance of cell-wall structure/composition in nutrient accessibility.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Kaitlin L. Reinl, Ted D. Harris, Inge Elfferich, Ayooluwateso Coker, Qing Zhan, Lisette N. De Senerpont Domis, Ana M. Morales-Williams, Ruchi Bhattacharya, Hans-Peter Grossart, Rebecca L. North, Jon N. Sweetman
Summary: This review investigates the role of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus as critical macroelements in freshwater systems. It explores the various mechanisms through which phytoplankton can utilize the organic nutrient pool, highlighting the influence of naturally- and anthropogenically-derived organic nutrients on phytoplankton community structure. The review also discusses knowledge gaps in phytoplankton physiology and the potential challenges of nutrient management in an organically dynamic and anthropogenically modified world.
Article
Marine & Freshwater Biology
Georgia Thomson-Laing, Niamh Dyer, Ruby Whyte-Wilding, Susanna A. Wood
Summary: The increase in benthic mats dominated by anatoxin-producing Microcoleus autumnalis poses a growing health risk to humans and animals worldwide. In in situ experiments, it was found that the area and expansion of M. autumnalis mats tended to increase downstream, with a complex mix of drivers affecting proliferation and varying hierarchy of importance among different sites. Further research is needed to understand the non-linear drivers of M. autumnalis proliferation and the factors influencing their growth in different environments.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Elias Broman, Mindaugas Zilius, Aurelija Samuiloviene, Irma Vybernaite-Lubiene, Tobia Politi, Isabell Klawonn, Maren Voss, Francisco J. A. Nascimento, Stefano Bonaglia
Summary: Since the introduction of synthetic fertilizers over a hundred years ago, coastal oceans have faced increasing nutrient loading, resulting in eutrophication and extensive algal blooms. Studies show that in a large hypereutrophic lagoon, both dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium (DNRA) and denitrification processes are active, with DNRA playing a crucial role in recycling fixed nitrogen in the ecosystem.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Floriana Iasimone, Jordan Seira, Antonio Panico, Vincenzo De Felice, Francesco Pirozzi, Jean-Philippe Steyer
Summary: The study found that bioflocculation and sedimentation processes are more efficient for filamentous cyanobacteria cultivated in synthetic aqueous solution compared to urban wastewater. Additionally, it highlighted that bioflocculation of sole microalgae is not as effective as when they are cultivated together with filamentous cyanobacteria.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2021)
Review
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Iffat Zareen Ahmad
Summary: Cyanobacteria plays important roles in wastewater treatment by increasing oxygen content and conducting bioremediation through photosynthesis. They also help reduce biological oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, turbidity, mineral content, and microbial contamination in water.
LETTERS IN APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
H. Maurice Valett, Rafael Feijo de Lima, Marc Peipoch, Royce C. Engstrom
Summary: This study aimed to assess riverine algal blooms in the Upper Clark Fork River in Montana and provide a framework for understanding their progression in montane mid-order rivers. The results showed that the intensity of summer blooms is influenced by snowmelt disturbance, and the composition of algae and chemical properties of the river water are related to the succession process.
Article
Geosciences, Multidisciplinary
Ryan W. Bradley, Jeremy G. Venditti
Summary: The mechanisms responsible for dune growth and decay in rivers are still not well understood. Two theories, hydrodynamic and kinematic processes, have been proposed. Observations from the Fraser River in British Columbia show that dune growth is driven by kinematic processes during rising water levels, while decay occurs through the formation of secondary features when the flow diminishes. These processes operate at a common flow threshold.
GEOPHYSICAL RESEARCH LETTERS
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Moshe Gophen
Summary: The study re-evaluated the long-term record of limnological parameters in Lake Kinneret and its drainage basin, indicating the possible impact of climate change on water quality in the lake. Changes in temperature, rainfall, river discharges, and nutrients were observed, leading to a shift in algal dominance and deterioration in water quality.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Tara G. McAllister, Sereana Naepi, Elizabeth Wilson, Daniel Hikuroa, Leilani A. Walker
Summary: This article explores the under-representation of Maori and Pasifika scientists in New Zealand's publicly-funded scientific workforce. The study shows that despite institutions' espousals of valuing diversity and Maori research, there has been little change in the number of Maori and Pasifika scientists employed between 2008 and 2018. The research highlights the urgent need for institutions to improve data collection and dissemination, and to actively recruit, retain, and promote Maori and Pasifika scientists.
JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Laura Biessy, Kirsty F. Smith, Susanna A. Wood, Annabel Tidy, Roel van Ginkel, Joel R. D. Bowater, Ian Hawes
Summary: A method was developed to feed TTX-containing microcapsules to Paphies australis for studying its accumulation and depuration in shellfish. The experiment showed that P. australis could accumulate TTX rapidly, exceeding the recommended concentration by the European Food Safety Authority. This novel method will allow for further exploration of TTX effects and transfer through food webs.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Ian Hawes, Clive Howard-Williams, Neil Gilbert, Kurt Joy
Summary: The McMurdo Dry Valleys are the largest ice-free area in Antarctica and are of significant scientific and conservation value as an extreme polar desert. This study classified over 6000 lakes and ponds in the area to assist in management and address issues faced by researchers and environmental managers. The classification approach used in this study has potential for wider use in other polar landscapes.
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
(2021)
Article
Genetics & Heredity
Jessica E. Lumian, Anne D. Jungblut, Megan L. Dillion, Ian Hawes, Peter T. Doran, Tyler J. Mackey, Gregory J. Dick, Christen L. Grettenberger, Dawn Y. Sumner
Summary: By investigating cyanobacteria's ability to sustain oxygenic photosynthesis in sulfidic environments, the study found that Phormidium pseudopriestleyi utilizes specific genomic content to tolerate sulfide, indicating potential mechanisms including gene expression regulation or direct sulfide oxidation.
Article
Microbiology
Mailys Picard, Susanna A. Wood, Xavier Pochon, Marcus J. Vandergoes, Lizette Reyes, Jamie D. Howarth, Ian Hawes, Jonathan Puddick
Summary: Understanding the historical onset of cyanobacterial blooms in freshwater bodies can help identify their potential drivers. Lake sediments are valuable archives for exploring these records. In this study, we compared the results obtained from a droplet digital PCR assay and high-performance liquid chromatography to analyze cyanobacterial DNA and pigments in sediment cores. Our findings suggest that the biphasic approach of combining these two methods can provide complementary information for studying changes in the cyanobacterial community.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Tara G. McAllister, Giulio Dalla Riva
Summary: This article examines the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment's commitment to diversity in contrast to the demographic data from the 2021 Endeavour Fund. Potential solutions are provided to address the significant lack of diversity in applicants and recipients of funding from the Endeavour Fund.
JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND
(2023)
Article
Education & Educational Research
Max Soar, Lucy Stewart, Sylvia Nissen, Sereana Naepi, Tara McAllister
Summary: This paper responds to calls for increasing the value of postgraduate scholarships in Aotearoa New Zealand. It provides context for understanding the scholarship landscape and addresses the current inequities in scholarship values. The paper argues for raising scholarship values, extending tenure, and reinstating the postgraduate student allowance.
NEW ZEALAND JOURNAL OF EDUCATIONAL STUDIES
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Tara McAllister, Sereana Naepi, Leilani Walker, Ashlea Gillon, Patricia Clark, Emma Lambert, Alana B. McCambridge, Channell Thoms, Jordan Housiaux, Hanareia Ehau-Taumaunu, Charlotte Joy Waikauri Connell, Rawiri Keenan, Kristie-Lee Thomas, Amy Maslen-Miller, Morgan Tupaea, Kate Mauriohooho, Christopher Puli'uvea, Hannah Rapata, Sally Akevai Nicholas, Rere-No-A-Rangi Pope, Sangata A. F. Kaufononga, Kiri Reihana, Kane Fleury, Nathan Camp, Georgia Mae Rangikahiwa Carson, Jasmine Lulani Kaulamatoa, Zaramasina L. Clark, Mel Collings, Georgia M. Bell, Kimiora Henare, Kylie Reiri, Punahamoa Walker, Kirita-Rose Escott, Jaye Moors, Bobbie-Jo Wilson, Olivia Simoa Laita, Kimberley H. Maxwell, Stephanie Fong, Riki Parata, Morgan Meertens, Connor Aston, Yvonne Taura, Nicole Haerewa, Helena Lawrence, Theresa Alipia
Summary: This article explores the experiences of Maori and Pacific postgraduate students in STEM and uncovers how universities fail to cater to their needs. The research highlights issues such as underrepresentation, white dominance, and institutional habits that exclude and devalue these students in STEM.
JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND
(2022)
Article
Audiology & Speech-Language Pathology
Elaine R. Hitchcock, Laura C. Ochs, Michelle T. Swartz, Megan C. Leece, Jonathan L. Preston, Tara McAllister
Summary: This tutorial summarizes current practices of using visual-acoustic bio-feedback (VAB) treatment to improve speech outcomes for individuals with speech sound difficulties. The evidence related to the characteristics of VAB and the populations that may benefit from this treatment is reviewed. Successful use of VAB requires comprehension of the acoustic representation, appropriate selection of acoustic targets and templates, as well as proper articulatory strategies, practice schedules, and feedback models.
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Nam-Thang Ha, Tien-Dat Pham, Huu-Ty Pham, Dang-An Tran, Ian Hawes
Summary: In this study, a fusion of SAR Sentinel-1 (S-1), multi-spectral Sentinel-2 (S-2), and advanced machine learning models was used to improve the estimation of TOC stock in Zostera muelleri meadows in New Zealand. The best prediction of seagrass TOC was achieved by fusing S1 and S2 images, using the CatBoost ML model and the grey wolf optimization algorithm. The results provide new ideas for low-cost, scalable, and reliable estimates of seagrass TOC globally.
GEOCARTO INTERNATIONAL
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Ian Hawes, Clive Howard-Williams, Neil Gilbert, Kevin A. A. Hughes, Peter Convey, Antonio Quesada
Summary: The protection of biodiversity and ecosystem values in Antarctica is outlined in the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty, which establishes Antarctic Specially Protected Areas (ASPAs) for areas with exceptional values. However, there is concern that existing ASPAs do not prioritize areas effectively for long-term conservation. This paper argues for the inclusion of inland waters in the ASPA framework to address their underrepresentation and proposes a structured approach for their selection, taking into account the limited knowledge of inland aquatic diversity and the need to consider catchment-scale processes.
Article
Ecology
Tara McAllister, Daniel Hikuroa, Cate Macinnis-Ng
Summary: This article emphasizes that incorporating Indigenous Knowledge can effectively address environmental threats and pressures. It is essential to engage with Indigenous Peoples in a respectful, reciprocal, and meaningful way. The paper highlights the benefits of using Maori knowledge and cultural perspectives in conjunction with science to address sustainability more holistically. It also stresses the importance of long-term partnerships based on mutual trust and respect with Maori communities.
NEW ZEALAND JOURNAL OF ECOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Louis Johansen Skovsholt, Tenna Riis, Fleur Matheson, Ian Hawes
Summary: By simulating slow flowing lowland stream conditions, the study investigated the responses of aquatic plants to increased nitrate and light. The experiment showed that the growth rate of the alien species, Potamogeton crispus, was higher under high nutrient conditions, and it exhibited increased branching degree and lateral spread under high light conditions, indicating its strong competitive advantage.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Claudineia Lizieri, Carlos Ernesto G. R. Schaefer, Ian Hawes
Summary: This study investigated the benthic cyanobacterial assemblages in ponds along inland coastal gradients in the McMurdo Sound region during the Antarctic summer season. A total of 29 morphospecies were described, with each geographic location containing unique floristic elements.
ANAIS DA ACADEMIA BRASILEIRA DE CIENCIAS
(2022)
Article
Education & Educational Research
Sereana Naepi, Elizabeth Wilson, Samantha Lagos, Sam Manuela, Tara G. McAllister, Joanna Kidman, Reremoana Theodore, Jesse Kokaua
Summary: This paper analyzes the enrollment of Maori and Pasifika communities in New Zealand universities, suggesting targeted investment is needed in the Society and Culture and Natural and Physical Sciences fields, and emphasizing the importance of transparent and reliable data.
HIGHER EDUCATION RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT
(2021)