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Showing 20141 – 20160 of 30345 publications

Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of Two Tomato Species from the Galapagos Islands

Galápagos Islands — 2017 — WHE81855FB0BD

A study on the genetic diversity and population structure of two Galapagos tomato species, Solanum cheesmaniae and Solanum galapagense, reveals distinct evolutionary patterns linked to the islands' geological history. Analysis of 3,974 polymorphic SNP markers using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and STRUCTURE identified clear genetic distinctions between the species, with S. cheesmaniae showing subdivision based on geographical origin and island age. The findings suggest that the movement of the Galapagos Islands from west to east influenced gene flow in S. cheesmaniae, while the absence of S. galapagense in eastern islands indicates post-isolation divergence. This research highlights the potential of these species for plant breeding, offering novel alleles contributing to stress tolerance.

Genetic diversity of Castanea sativa an endangered species in the Hyrcanian forest

Hyrcanian Forests — 2017 — WHE4A4DB3560F

A study on the genetic diversity of Castanea sativa, an endangered tree species in Iran's Hyrcanian Forest, reveals significant genetic erosion and population differentiation. Using 18 simple sequence repeat (SSR) loci—10 nuclear and 8 chloroplastic—the research found low nuclear genetic diversity with observed heterozygosity ranging from 0.125 to 1.000, while chloroplast SSRs showed no polymorphism. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) indicated high within-population variation (84%) but notable between-population differentiation (16%). Structure and UPGMA analyses separated the Shafaroud population from others, suggesting a genetic extinction vortex due to limited gene flow over short distances. The findings underscore the urgent need for stricter protection measures across all four known populations of this species in Iran.

Genetic structure and evidence of anthropogenic effects on wild populations of two Neotropical catfishes: baselines for conservation

Pantanal Conservation Area — 2017 — WHE76B6778303

Anthropogenic pressures, including overfishing and dam construction, are significantly reducing genetic diversity and population resilience in two Neotropical catfish species, Pseudoplatystoma corruscans and P. reticulatum, within the Pantanal Conservation Area and adjacent basins. The study revealed that while these migratory fishes remain abundant in the Pantanal, isolated populations—particularly those in the upper Paraná Basin—exhibit signs of genetic bottlenecks and diminished diversity due to human interference. Microsatellite analysis further exposed subtle yet significant genetic differentiation between populations, particularly between the Paraguay and upper Paraná basins for P. corruscans, suggesting historical isolation patterns. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted conservation measures to mitigate anthropogenic impacts on these species' migratory corridors and preserve their genetic integrity.

Genetic Variation in Abies religiosa for Quantitative Traits and Delineation of Elevational and Climatic Zoning for Maintaining Monarch Butterfly Overwintering Sites in Mexico, considering Climatic Change

Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve — 2017 — WHE524CA76E43

Researchers have identified three distinct elevational and climatic zones for the optimal collection of Abies religiosa (sacred fir) seeds, crucial for sustaining Monarch Butterfly overwintering sites in Mexico. These zones are defined by specific elevation ranges and Mean Temperature of the Coldest Month (MTCM), with boundaries at 2650 masl or 9.7 °C, 3000 masl or 8.5 °C, 3350 masl or 7.3 °C, and 3700 masl or 6.1 °C. The study found significant genetic variation among A. religiosa populations along an elevational gradient (2850-3550 masl), with populations differing by as little as 364 meters in elevation showing distinct traits such as growth rate, frost damage resistance, and dry weight. Projections suggest that these zones will shift upwards by 350 meters by 2030 due to climate change, potentially exceeding the current highest elevations within the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve (MBBR). This necessitates the establishment of A. religiosa stands outside the MBBR to serve as future overwintering sites. The research involved a common garden experiment with seedlings from fifteen populations, evaluated over 30 months for various quantitative traits, providing critical insights for adaptive management strategies.

Genetics of Genome-Wide Recombination Rate Evolution in Mice from an Isolated Island

Gough and Inaccessible Islands — 2017 — WHE3153D5AFA1

Research on wild house mice from Gough Island reveals that genome-wide recombination rate evolution is not directional and proceeds from distinct genetic loci. The study identified four quantitative trait loci (QTL) influencing recombination rates, with one exhibiting effects opposite to parental trait differences. By analyzing 240 F2 male mice from intercrosses between Gough Island-derived mice and the wild-derived inbred strain WSB/EiJ, scientists quantified autosomal recombination rates using immunofluorescence cytology. Candidate genes and mutations were pinpointed by integrating whole-genome sequencing data with spermatocyte transcriptomic profiles. These findings challenge the assumption that recombination rate evolution follows a predictable pattern, offering new insights into genetic diversity and adaptation in isolated populations.

Genomes of Novel Microbial Lineages Assembled from the Sub-Ice Waters of Lake Baikal

Lake Baikal — 2017 — WHE3143BB8065

A metagenomic analysis of Lake Baikal's sub-ice waters revealed novel microbial lineages with small genomes, adapted to the lake's extreme oligotrophic and cold conditions. These microbes, distinct from those in other freshwater bodies, showed closest relationships to lineages found in similarly cold but brackish environments like the Baltic Sea. Notably, many contained rhodopsin genes, suggesting widespread photoheterotrophy despite limited light penetration due to ice cover. The study also identified a nonmarine Pelagibacter-like genome and a phage infecting Polynucleobacter, highlighting the unique microbial diversity of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Genomic characterization of eight Ensifer strains isolated from pristine caves and a whole genome phylogeny of Ensifer (Sinorhizobium)

Carlsbad Caverns National Park — 2017 — WHEF307F8575F

A genomic analysis of eight Ensifer strains isolated from pristine caves, including Wind Cave National Park and Lechuguilla Cave within Carlsbad Caverns National Park, reveals significant genetic overlap between the genera Ensifer and Sinorhizobium. Contrary to traditional phylogenetic separation, these bacteria share over 50% conserved proteins, suggesting they should be classified as a single genus. This finding challenges existing taxonomic boundaries and provides robust genomic evidence for re-evaluating bacterial classification in these environments.

Gentlemen You Are Welcome to Elsinore: Hamlet in Performance at Kronborg Castle, Elsinore

Kronborg Castle — 2017 — WHE97E5E3B69F

Kronborg Castle, located twenty-five miles north of Copenhagen, is identified as the likely setting for Shakespeare's 'Hamlet,' despite no direct evidence linking Shakespeare to the site. The study suggests that Shakespeare may have chosen this newly erected castle for its familiarity with Englishmen who visited the royal court and possibly entertainers like Will Kempe, a later member of Shakespeare's company. While the play contains some local color, it lacks detailed accuracy, indicating that any connection to Kronborg Castle is speculative rather than proven.

Geochemical and mineralogical controls on metal(loid) dispersion in streams and stream sediments in the Prairie Creek district, NWT

Nahanni National Park — 2017 — WHED378796D66

Zinc (Zn) and lead (Pb) serve as the most effective pathfinder elements for detecting metal(loid) dispersion in streams and sediments of the Prairie Creek district, within Nahanni National Park Reserve. Unlike other mineralized areas, this region exhibits a weak geochemical signal, yet Zn and Pb show anomalous concentrations downstream from Mississippi Valley-type mineralization and quartz-carbonate-sulphide vein deposits, respectively. While Zn is more mobile than Pb, neither element persists significantly beyond the metal source. Microanalytical studies reveal that Zn and Pb are associated with iron oxides like goethite and hematite, indicating active chemical weathering in this subarctic alpine environment. The study sampled stream waters and sediments to investigate mineral hosting of elements (Pb, Zn, Ag, As, Cd, Cu, Hg, Sb, Se) and their mobility controls.

Geochemical and mineralogical controls on metal(loid) mobility in the oxide zone of the Prairie Creek Deposit, NWT

Nahanni National Park — 2017 — WHE10B6E43589

A significant discovery at the Prairie Creek Zn-Pb-Ag deposit within Nahanni National Park reveals that smithsonite and cerussite, primary metal carbonates in the oxidized zone, host substantial concentrations of trace elements like Pb, Cd, Cu, As, Sb, Hg, Ag, and Se. These minerals can retain up to 53% of Hg and 79% of Ag within their structure, posing potential environmental risks if released during mining operations. The study employed advanced microanalytical techniques, including electron microscopy, laser-ablation spectrometry, and synchrotron-based mapping, to characterize these mineralogical controls on metal(loid) mobility under mine waste conditions. Findings suggest that while near-neutral pH may initially retain trace elements in solids, long-term oxidation and dissolution could mobilize these contaminants, particularly in localized flow paths or acidified environments.

Geodetic monitoring and geotechnical analyses of subsidence induced settlements of historic structures

Cathedral, Torre Civica and Piazza Grande, Modena — 2017 — WHEB6DC8E7521

A comprehensive analysis of the Cathedral, Torre Civica, and Piazza Grande in Modena—part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site—reveals significant subsidence-induced settlements, driven by complex historical construction, subsoil conditions, and both natural and human-induced factors. The study integrates geodetic monitoring data from 1984 with advanced 3D finite element modeling to assess long-term structural behavior, particularly differential settlements that pose risks to the monuments' stability. By incorporating soil characteristics derived from laboratory and in situ tests, the model accurately predicts settlement profiles, aligning with high-precision leveling observations. This approach provides a proactive tool for conservation authorities to manage heritage safety by anticipating risk scenarios.

Geoelectric section of the crust and upper mantle of the northern Sikhote-Alin from magnetotelluric sounding data

Central Sikhote-Alin — 2017 — WHE32519E8AA3

Research reveals three distinct low-resistivity zones in the upper mantle beneath northern Sikhote-Alin, coinciding with crustal block boundaries. These zones suggest the presence of an ancient subducting plate and indicate a gradient of increasing resistivity from continent to coast, linked to dry peridotite mantle melting. The study used magnetotelluric soundings (MTS) across 57 sites, analyzing data down to 150 km depth. It confirmed the Vostochny deep fault but found no evidence for deep roots of the Central Sikhote-Alin fault. The crust's resistivity (>1000 Ohm m) and thickness (30–40 km) align with seismic data, while a high-resistivity coastal layer extends to 120 km depth, proposing an evolutionary model starting in the Late Cretaceous.

Geofluid Systems of Koryaksky-Avachinsky Volcanoes (Kamchatka, Russia)

Volcanoes of Kamchatka — 2017 — WHE6A6C6548C9

A study of the Koryaksky-Avachinsky volcanogenic basin in Kamchatka, Russia, reveals that active volcanoes Avachinsky and Koryaksky serve as recharge areas for adjacent thermal mineral springs, with water isotopic data indicating a magmatic origin for CO2 in these systems. The research identifies magma injection zones through seismic activity clusters during volcanic events (2008–2011), occurring at specific depths beneath the volcanoes. Thermal-hydrodynamic modeling using TOUGH2 suggests that distinct hydrogeologic boundaries and heat sources are necessary to replicate observed temperature, pressure, phase, and CO2 distributions. Additionally, methane in Neogene-Quaternary layers around these volcanoes is found to have a thermobiogenic origin.

Geological Conservation Through Risk Mitigation and Public Awareness at the Siq of Petra, Jordan

Petra — 2017 — WHE7DC6BF2085

A long-term strategy to mitigate natural hazards and enhance public awareness has significantly advanced the conservation of Petra. The study highlights the effectiveness of targeted interventions, such as geomorphological monitoring and landslide risk mitigation measures, in stabilizing the Siq—a narrow, 1.2 km gorge that serves as the primary tourist entrance to Petra. These efforts have not only reduced the vulnerability of the site but also strengthened the capacity of national authorities through capacity development initiatives. The project underscores a successful model for managing natural hazards at heritage sites, offering valuable insights for broader applications in cultural conservation.

Geological evolution of Central Asian Basins and the western Tien Shan Range

Western Tien-Shan — 2017 — WHE5D1F8295AB

The geological evolution of the western Tien Shan Range and adjacent Central Asian basins reveals a dynamic history shaped by multiple tectonic events, from Precambrian-Palaeozoic orogenesis to Cenozoic continental collisions. This study highlights how the accretion of Cimmerian blocks during the Mesozoic and subsequent collisions involving the Indian and Arabian plates led to structural reactivation, intracontinental deformation, and the formation of sedimentary basins. The research integrates multidisciplinary approaches to elucidate the Late Palaeozoic–Cenozoic tectono-sedimentary evolution, emphasizing fault reactivation patterns and the climatic influence on sedimentation. These findings provide a comprehensive framework for understanding the complex interplay between tectonic processes and basin development in this UNESCO-listed region.

Geometridae Stephens, 1829 from different altitudes in Western Himalayan Protected Areas of Uttarakhand, India (Lepidoptera: Geometridae)

Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks — 2017 — WHECD7B478FAC

A comprehensive survey of Geometridae moths (Lepidoptera) across Western Himalayan Protected Areas in Uttarakhand, India, reveals 168 species, including 36 newly recorded for the region and significant altitudinal range expansions for at least 15 species. The study, spanning elevations from 600 to 3600 meters, identified Ennominae as the dominant subfamily while Larentiinae were more restricted to higher elevations. Western Mixed Coniferous forests hosted the greatest species diversity, whereas Subalpine forests exhibited the highest number of indicator species. The assemblage was dominated by Indo-Malayan species but also included a notable number of Himalayan endemics, suggesting long-term adaptation to the region's climatic gradient. Ongoing climate-mediated perturbations pose potential threats to these endemic species.

Geosciences: a tool in a changing world - Congresso congiunto SGI-SIMP-AIV-SOGEI, Pisa 3-6 settembre 2017

Evaporitic Karst and Caves of Northern Apennines — 2017 — WHE8DB4D4BA3E

A three-day field trip through the Apuane Alps in northern Tuscany revealed how plate tectonics shapes landscapes and rock formations, from oceanic to continental origins. Participants observed brittle and ductile deformations across different structural levels, linking outcrop-scale structures to mountain-scale folds like pluridecametric folds. The Antro del Corchia cave provided insights into karstification processes, while the Levigliani mine highlighted historical mineralization activities. Interactive lab sessions focused on rock classification, age determination, and geological map interpretation, offering hands-on learning experiences for teachers.

Geospatial Data Processing for 3D City Model Generation, Management and Visualization

City of Graz – Historic Centre and Schloss Eggenberg — 2017 — WHE7A47715DDE

A breakthrough in 3D city modeling and management has been achieved, demonstrating how advanced photogrammetric workflows can efficiently generate topologically and geometrically accurate 3D geo-objects, such as building models, at various levels of detail. The study, part of the SENECA project, introduces automatic procedures that integrate aerial triangulation, dense image matching, and non-spatial data (e.g., cadastral information and energy consumption) into a web-based 3D geo-database management system. Tested in Trento (Italy) and Graz (Austria), this methodology bridges the gap between visualization and functional applications, offering practical benefits for public administrations and smart city initiatives. The approach not only enhances spatial data processing but also enables dynamic geometry enrichment and real-time accessibility via webGIS platforms.

Geospatial distribution of intestinal parasitic infections in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) and its association with social determinants

Rio de Janeiro: Carioca Landscapes between the Mountain and the Sea — 2017 — WHE385545E3FE

Intestinal parasitic infections are highly prevalent and strongly linked to socioeconomic status in Rio de Janeiro's metropolitan area, with younger children and males at higher risk. A study analyzing 3245 individuals found that 17.5% were infected by at least one parasite, predominantly protozoa like Endolimax nana (28.8%) and Entamoeba coli (14.8%), while helminths such as Strongyloides stercoralis (4.3%) and Schistosoma mansoni (3.3%) were less common. Multiple infections were observed in 24.8% of cases, with geospatial distribution revealing a non-random pattern influenced by material deprivation. The research used stool sample analysis combined with demographic and socioeconomic data to highlight the public health burden of these infections, particularly in socially vulnerable areas.

Geosteering in thin sandstones — planning and operating a duo-lateral well in the Mittelplate oilfield, offshore Germany

Wadden Sea — 2017 — WHEF0973FBC16

A novel approach to optimizing oil extraction in the UNESCO-listed Wadden Sea demonstrates that multi-lateral well technology can efficiently maximize reservoir exposure while adhering to environmental constraints. The study, conducted at the Mittelplate oilfield—Germany’s largest offshore accumulation—shows that duo-lateral drilling from a single island structure can sustain production without expanding infrastructure, even in thin sandstone reservoirs. Over 30 years of operation, this method has yielded over 232 million barrels of oil while preserving the integrity of the protected national park and World Heritage Site. The research highlights the feasibility of high-precision geosteering to navigate complex geological formations, offering a model for sustainable offshore energy development in ecologically sensitive regions.