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Ma C, Tang Y, Mitchell RN, Li Y, Sun S, Zhu J, Foley SF, Wang M, Ye C, Ying J, Zhu R. Volcanic phosphorus supply boosted Mesozoic terrestrial biotas in northern China. Sci Bull (Beijing) 2023:S2095-9273(23)00341-9. [PMID: 37268441 DOI: 10.1016/j.scib.2023.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The Mesozoic terrestrial Jehol Biota of northern China exceeds the biomass and biodiversity of contemporaneous Lagerstätten. From 135 to 120 Ma, biotic radiation may have responded to the peak destruction of the North China Craton. However, the direct mechanistic link between geological and biological evolution is unclear. Phosphorus (P), a bio-essential nutrient, can be supplied by weathering of volcanics in terrestrial ecosystems. The middle-late Mesozoic volcanic-sedimentary sequences of northern China are amazingly rich in terrestrial organisms. Here we demonstrate episodic increases in P delivery, biological productivity, and species abundance in these strata to reveal the coevolution of volcanism and terrestrial biotas. A massive P supply from the weathering of voluminous volcanic products of craton destruction thus supported a terrestrial environment conducive to the high prosperity of the Jehol Biota. During the nascent stage of craton destruction, such volcanic-biotic coupling can also account for the preceding Yanliao Biota with relatively fewer fossils.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Lithospheric Evolution, Institute of Geology and Geophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China; College of Earth and Planetary Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yanjie Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Lithospheric Evolution, Institute of Geology and Geophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China; College of Earth and Planetary Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Ross N Mitchell
- State Key Laboratory of Lithospheric Evolution, Institute of Geology and Geophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China; College of Earth and Planetary Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yongfei Li
- Shenyang Center of China Geological Survey, Shenyang 110034, China
| | - Shouliang Sun
- Shenyang Center of China Geological Survey, Shenyang 110034, China
| | - Jichang Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Lithospheric Evolution, Institute of Geology and Geophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China; College of Earth and Planetary Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Stephen F Foley
- Australia School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde NSW 2109, Australia; Research School of Earth Sciences, Australian National University, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Min Wang
- Key Laboratory of Vertebrate Evolution and Human Origins, Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100044, China; Center for Excellence in Life and Paleoenvironment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Chenyang Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Lithospheric Evolution, Institute of Geology and Geophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China; College of Earth and Planetary Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jifeng Ying
- State Key Laboratory of Lithospheric Evolution, Institute of Geology and Geophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China; College of Earth and Planetary Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Rixiang Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Lithospheric Evolution, Institute of Geology and Geophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China; College of Earth and Planetary Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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Schwenk C, Negele S, Balagizi CM, Aeschbach W, Boehrer B. High temperature noble gas thermometry in Lake Kivu, East Africa. Sci Total Environ 2022; 837:155859. [PMID: 35568162 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Due to their biological and chemical inertness, noble gases in natural waters are widely used to trace natural waters and to determine ambient temperature conditions during the last intensive contact with the atmosphere (equilibration). Noble gas solubilities are strong functions of temperature, with higher temperatures resulting in lower concentrations. Thus far, only common environmental conditions have been considered, and hence investigated temperatures have almost never exceeded 35 °C, but environmental scenarios that generate higher surface-water temperatures (such as volcanism) exist nonetheless. Recently published measurements of noble gas concentrations in Lake Kivu, which sits at the base of the Nyiragongo volcano in East Africa, unexpectedly show that the deep waters are strongly depleted in noble gases with respect to in-situ conditions, and so far no quantitative explanation for this observation has been provided. We make use of recently published noble gas solubility data at higher temperatures to investigate our hypothesis that unusually high equilibration temperatures could have caused the low measured noble gas concentrations by applying various approaches of noble gas thermometry. Noble gas concentration ratios and least squares fitting of individual concentrations indicate that the data agrees best with the assumption that deep water originates from groundwater formed at temperatures of about 65 °C. Thus, no form of degassing is required to explain the observed noble gas depletion: the deep water currently contained in Lake Kivu has most probably never experienced a large scale degassing event. This conclusion is important as limnic eruptions were feared to threaten the lives of the local population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelis Schwenk
- Helmholtz-Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Magdeburg, Germany; Institute of Environmental Physics, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Sophie Negele
- Institute of Environmental Physics, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Charles M Balagizi
- Geochemistry and Environmental Department, Goma Volcano Observatory, Goma, Congo; Department of Chemistry, Institut Supérieur Pédagogique de Bukavu, Bukavu, Congo; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia, Sezione di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Werner Aeschbach
- Institute of Environmental Physics, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Bertram Boehrer
- Helmholtz-Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Magdeburg, Germany
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Linhares D, Pimentel A, Garcia P, Rodrigues A. Deficiency of essential elements in volcanic soils: potential harmful health effects on grazing cattle. Environ Geochem Health 2021; 43:3883-3895. [PMID: 33712971 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-021-00874-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Several essential nutrients such as Fe, Co, Cu, I, Se, and Zn are vital to grazing cattle as they play a significant role in intracellular enzyme systems, with antioxidant and repair functions of DNA lesions. Feeds may supply most essential nutrients in adequate amounts. However, essential nutrient deficiencies are common and are mainly related to the geochemical characteristics of the soils, inherited from parent rocks. This study aims to assess the concentrations of the selected essential nutrients in topsoils and pasture grass from São Miguel Island (Azores) and discuss the possible effects of its deficiency in grazing cattle health. Sixty-eight samples of agricultural (pastures) topsoil and thirty samples of pasture grass were collected throughout São Miguel Island in areas with basaltic and trachytic parent rocks. Soil physicochemical properties and geochemical baselines of selected elements were determined on composite samples of soil and pasture grass in each site. Results indicate that the highest concentrations of the selected essential nutrients were observed in areas with basaltic soils, while the lowest values were found in areas with trachytic soils. These differences are considered of geogenic origin since they result from the weathering of volcanic parent rocks with different geochemical compositions. Data indicate a lack of some essential nutrients in topsoils (Co and Se) and/or pasture grass (Co, Cu, Se, and Zn) that can contribute to harmful health effects on grazing cattle. The uneven distribution of essential nutrients in topsoil and pasture grass and their deficiency can lead to several health problems in the cattle since these elements regulate physiological functions in biological systems. The identification of these deficit sites is important as it can help farmers to implement soil and/or animal supplementation programs to diminish possible health problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Linhares
- IVAR, Research Institute for Volcanology and Risk Assessment, University of the Azores, Rua da Mãe de Deus, Apartado 1422, 9501-801, Ponta Delgada, Açores, Portugal.
| | - Adriano Pimentel
- IVAR, Research Institute for Volcanology and Risk Assessment, University of the Azores, Rua da Mãe de Deus, Apartado 1422, 9501-801, Ponta Delgada, Açores, Portugal
- CIVISA, Centre for Information and Seismovolcanic Surveillance of the Azores, 9501-801, Ponta Delgada, Portugal
- InBIO Associate Laboratory, CIBIO, Research Centre in Biodiversity and Genetic Resources, Pole of the Azores, 9501-801, Ponta Delgada, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Garcia
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of the Azores, 9501-801, Ponta Delgada, Portugal
- CE3C, Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes, and Azorean Biodiversity Group, University of the Azores, 9501-801, Ponta Delgada, Portugal
| | - Armindo Rodrigues
- IVAR, Research Institute for Volcanology and Risk Assessment, University of the Azores, Rua da Mãe de Deus, Apartado 1422, 9501-801, Ponta Delgada, Açores, Portugal
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of the Azores, 9501-801, Ponta Delgada, Portugal
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Brossier J, Gilmore M, Toner K. Low radar emissivity signatures on Venus volcanoes and coronae: New insights on relative composition and age. Icarus 2020; 343:113693. [PMID: 33678821 PMCID: PMC7934947 DOI: 10.1016/j.icarus.2020.113693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Multiple studies reveal that most of Venus highlands exhibit anomalously high radar reflectivity and low radar emissivity relative to the lowlands. This phenomenon is thought to be the result of atmosphere-surface interactions in the highlands, due to lower temperatures. These reactions are a function of rock composition, atmospheric composition, and degree of weathering. We examine the Magellan radar emissivity, altimetry and SAR data for all major volcanoes and coronae on Venus. We characterize and classify edifices according to the pattern of the variation of radar emissivity with altitude. The volcanic highlands can be classified into 7 distinct patterns of emissivity that correspond to at least 3 discrete types of mineralogy based on the altitude (temperature) of the emissivity anomalies. The majority of emissivity anomalies support the hypothesis of a weathering phenomenon at high altitude (>6053 km), but we also find strong emissivity anomalies at lower altitudes that correspond spatially to individual lava flows, indicating variations in mineralogy within an evolving volcanic system. The emissivity signature of tallest volcanoes on Venus are consistent with the presence of ferroelectric minerals in their rocks, while volcanic edifices in western Ishtar Terra and eastern Aphrodite Terra are consistent with the presence of semiconductor minerals. Sapas Mons and Pavlova Corona are also consistent with ferroelectrics, but at a different Curie temperature than the other volcanoes in Atla Regio. The spatial distribution of radar emissivity classes correlates to different geologic settings indicating that different mantle source regions (deep/shallow plumes, and possible convergence zones) may contribute to differences in mineralogy for the studied edifices. Finally, we show that the emissivity signatures of Idunn, Maat and other volcanic edifices are consistent with relatively fresh and unweathered rocks, indicating recent or possibly current volcanism on Venus.
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Bernardo F, Pinho P, Matos P, Viveiros F, Branquinho C, Rodrigues A, Garcia P. Spatially modelling the risk areas of chronic exposure to hydrothermal volcanic emissions using lichens. Sci Total Environ 2019; 697:133891. [PMID: 32380593 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.133891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2019] [Revised: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/11/2019] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Human populations living in volcanically active areas are chronically exposed to volcanogenic air pollution, potentially contributing to long-term adverse health effects. However, mapping chronic exposure is difficult due to low spatial resolution of monitoring data on air pollutants and the need for time integration. To overcome these problems, lichens were tested as ecological indicators of hydrothermal volcanic air pollution, considering their bioaccumulation capacity over time, by transplanting them from a reference area to several sites (n = 39) in a volcanic area. The test was developed at Furnas volcano (Azores, Portugal). A stratified sampling design was followed using previous measurements of soil CO2 flux at ground level and the distance to the main fumarolic fields. After 6 months of exposure, lichen transplants were analyzed for S isotopic ratio (δ34S), which strongly related with the distance to fumarolic fields on a logarithmic regression, serving as an appropriate hydrothermal exposure biomarker. Considering kriging interpolated δ34S values as tracer of airborne hydrothermal emissions and habitational areas as proxy of ongoing human presence, a map was built relating both information per area unit to spatially model risk areas. It was estimated that 26% of habitational areas in the study area stand at high or very high risk of outdoors chronic exposure to airborne hydrothermal emissions. This methodologic approach to produce chronic exposure risk maps is applicable to other volcanically active and inhabited areas of the world, with time-integration and high spatial resolution, contributing in this way for spatially focusing future human health assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipe Bernardo
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Portugal; Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes, and Azorean Biodiversity Group (cE3c-GBA), University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Portugal.
| | - Pedro Pinho
- Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa (cE3c-FC-ULisboa), Edifício C2, 5º piso, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Paula Matos
- Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa (cE3c-FC-ULisboa), Edifício C2, 5º piso, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Fátima Viveiros
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Portugal; IVAR, Institute of Volcanology and Risks Assessment, University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Portugal
| | - Cristina Branquinho
- Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal; Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa (cE3c-FC-ULisboa), Edifício C2, 5º piso, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Armindo Rodrigues
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Portugal; IVAR, Institute of Volcanology and Risks Assessment, University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Garcia
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Portugal; Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes, and Azorean Biodiversity Group (cE3c-GBA), University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Portugal
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Camarinho R, Garcia PV, Choi H, Rodrigues AS. Chronic exposure to non-eruptive volcanic activity as cause of bronchiolar histomorphological alteration and inflammation in mice. Environ Pollut 2019; 253:864-871. [PMID: 31349195 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.07.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Revised: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/10/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
It is estimated that 10% of the worldwide population lives in the vicinity of an active volcano. However, volcanogenic air pollution studies are still outnumbered when compared with anthropogenic air pollution studies, representing an unknown risk to human populations inhabiting volcanic areas worldwide. This study was carried out in the Azorean archipelago of Portugal, in areas with active non-eruptive volcanism. The hydrothermal emissions within the volcanic complex of Furnas (São Miguel Island) are responsible for the emission of nearly 1000 tons of CO2 per day, along with H2S, the radioactive gas - radon, among others. Besides the gaseous emissions, metals (e.g., Hg, Cd, Al, Ni) and particulate matter are also released into the environment. We test the hypothesis that chronic exposure to volcanogenic air pollution alters the histomorphology of the bronchioles and terminal bronchioles, using the house mouse, Mus musculus, as bioindicator species. Mus musculus were live-captured at three different locations: two villages with active volcanism and a village without any type of volcanic activity (reference site). The histomorphology of the bronchioles (diameter, epithelium thickness, smooth muscle layer thickness, submucosa thickness and the histological evaluation of the peribronchiolar inflammation) and of the terminal bronchioles (epithelium thickness and classification) were evaluated. Mice chronically exposed to volcanogenic air pollution presented bronchioles with increased epithelial thickness, increased smooth muscle layer, increased submucosa thickness and increased peribronchiolar inflammation. Similarly, terminal bronchioles presented structural alterations consistent with bronchodysplasia. For the first time we demonstrate that chronic exposure to non-eruptive volcanically active environments causes inflammation and histomorphological alterations in mice lower airways consistent with asthma and chronic bronchitis. These results reveal that chronic exposure to non-eruptive volcanic activity represents a risk factor that can affect the health of the respiratory system of humans inhabiting hydrothermal areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Camarinho
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Portugal; IVAR - Instituto de Vulcanologia e Avaliação de Riscos, University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Portugal.
| | - P V Garcia
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Portugal; CE3C - cE3c, Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes/Azorean Biodiversity Group, University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal.
| | - H Choi
- University of Albany, Departments of Environmental Health Sciences, Epidemiology, and Biostatistics, University at Albany School of Public Health, One University Place, Rm 153, Rensselaer, NY 12144-3456, USA.
| | - A S Rodrigues
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Portugal; IVAR - Instituto de Vulcanologia e Avaliação de Riscos, University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Portugal.
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Camarinho R, Garcia PV, Choi H, Rodrigues AS. Overproduction of TNF-α and lung structural remodelling due to chronic exposure to volcanogenic air pollution. Chemosphere 2019; 222:227-234. [PMID: 30708156 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.01.138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Revised: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Volcanogenic air pollution studies and their effects on the respiratory system are still outnumbered by studies regarding the effects of anthropogenic air pollution, representing an unknown risk to human population inhabiting volcanic areas worldwide (either eruptive or non-eruptive areas). This study was carried in the archipelago of the Azores- Portugal, in two areas with active volcanism (Village of Furnas and Village of Ribeira Quente) and a reference site (Rabo de Peixe). The hydrothermal volcanism of Furnas volcanic complex is responsible for the release of 1000 t d-1 of CO2, H2S, the radioactive gas - radon, among others. Besides the gaseous emissions, particulate matter and metals (Hg, Cd, Zn, Al, Ni, etc.) are also released into the environment. We tested a hypothesis whether chronic exposure to volcanogenic air pollution causes lung structural remodelling, in the house mouse, Mus musculus, as a bioindicator species. Histopathological evaluations were performed to assess the amount of macrophages, mononuclear leukocyte infiltrate, pulmonary emphysema, and the production of pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α. Also, the percentage of collagen and elastin fibers was calculated. Mice chronically exposed to volcanogenic air pollution presented an increased score in the histopathological evaluations for the amount of macrophages, mononuclear leukocyte infiltrate, pulmonary emphysema and production of TNF-α; and also increased percentages of collagen and elastin. For the first time, we demonstrate that non-eruptive active volcanism has a high potential to cause lung structural remodelling. This study also highlights the Mus musculus as a useful bioindicator for future biomonitoring programs in these type of volcanic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Camarinho
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of the Azores, 9501-801, Ponta Delgada, Portugal; IVAR - Instituto de Vulcanologia e Avaliação de Riscos, University of the Azores, 9501-801, Ponta Delgada, Portugal.
| | - P V Garcia
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of the Azores, 9501-801, Ponta Delgada, Portugal; CE3C - cE3c, Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes /Azorean Biodiversity Group, University of the Azores, 9501-801, Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal.
| | - H Choi
- University of Albany - Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University at Albany School of Public Health One University Place, Rm 153, Rensselaer, NY, 12144-3456, USA.
| | - A S Rodrigues
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of the Azores, 9501-801, Ponta Delgada, Portugal; IVAR - Instituto de Vulcanologia e Avaliação de Riscos, University of the Azores, 9501-801, Ponta Delgada, Portugal.
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Ranjan S, Todd ZR, Sutherland JD, Sasselov DD. Sulfidic Anion Concentrations on Early Earth for Surficial Origins-of-Life Chemistry. Astrobiology 2018; 18:1023-1040. [PMID: 29627997 PMCID: PMC6225604 DOI: 10.1089/ast.2017.1770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2018] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
A key challenge in origin-of-life studies is understanding the environmental conditions on early Earth under which abiogenesis occurred. While some constraints do exist (e.g., zircon evidence for surface liquid water), relatively few constraints exist on the abundances of trace chemical species, which are relevant to assessing the plausibility and guiding the development of postulated prebiotic chemical pathways which depend on these species. In this work, we combine literature photochemistry models with simple equilibrium chemistry calculations to place constraints on the plausible range of concentrations of sulfidic anions (HS-, HSO3-, SO32-) available in surficial aquatic reservoirs on early Earth due to outgassing of SO2 and H2S and their dissolution into small shallow surface water reservoirs like lakes. We find that this mechanism could have supplied prebiotically relevant levels of SO2-derived anions, but not H2S-derived anions. Radiative transfer modeling suggests UV light would have remained abundant on the planet surface for all but the largest volcanic explosions. We apply our results to the case study of the proposed prebiotic reaction network of Patel et al. ( 2015 ) and discuss the implications for improving its prebiotic plausibility. In general, epochs of moderately high volcanism could have been especially conducive to cyanosulfidic prebiotic chemistry. Our work can be similarly applied to assess and improve the prebiotic plausibility of other postulated surficial prebiotic chemistries that are sensitive to sulfidic anions, and our methods adapted to study other atmospherically derived trace species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sukrit Ranjan
- Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- MIT Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Zoe R. Todd
- Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
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Linhares D, Camarinho R, Garcia PV, Rodrigues ADS. Mus musculus bone fluoride concentration as a useful biomarker for risk assessment of skeletal fluorosis in volcanic areas. Chemosphere 2018; 205:540-544. [PMID: 29709804 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.04.144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2018] [Revised: 04/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/22/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Fluoride is often found in elevated concentrations in volcanic areas due to the release of magmatic fluorine as hydrogen fluorine through volcanic degassing. The exposure to high levels of fluoride can affect the processes of bone formation and resorption causing skeletal fluorosis, a pathology that can easily be mistaken for other skeletal diseases. In this study, we aimed to determine if fluoride concentration in the femoral bone of wild populations of the house mouse (Mus musculus) is a good biomarker of exposure to active volcanic environments naturally enriched in fluoride, allowing their use in biomonitoring programs. The fluoride concentration of the whole femoral bone of 9 mice from Furnas (5 males and 4 females) and 33 mice from Rabo de Peixe (16 males and 17 females) was measured by the potentiometric method with a fluoride ion selective electrode. Fluoride in bones was significantly higher in the mice from Furnas when compared with the mice from Rabo de Peixe (616.5 ± 129.3 μg F/g vs. 253.8 ± 10.5 μg F/g). Accumulation rates were also significantly higher in the mice collected in Furnas when compared with Rabo de Peixe individuals (3.84 ± 0.52 μg F/day vs. 1.22 ± 0.06 μg F/day). The results demonstrate a significant association between exposure to fluoride in the active volcanic environment and fluoride content in bone, revealing that bone fluoride concentration is a suitable biomarker of chronic environmental exposure to fluoride.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Linhares
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Portugal; IVAR, Institute of Volcanology and Risks Assessment, University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Portugal.
| | - Ricardo Camarinho
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Portugal; IVAR, Institute of Volcanology and Risks Assessment, University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Portugal.
| | - Patrícia Ventura Garcia
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Portugal; cE3c, Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes, And Azorean Biodiversity Group, University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Portugal.
| | - Armindo Dos Santos Rodrigues
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Portugal; IVAR, Institute of Volcanology and Risks Assessment, University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Portugal.
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Reyes-Wagner V, Díaz D, Cordell D, Unsworth M. Regional electrical structure of the Andean subduction zone in central Chile (35°-36°S) using magnetotellurics. Earth Planets Space 2017; 69:142. [PMID: 32009833 PMCID: PMC6961476 DOI: 10.1186/s40623-017-0726-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2017] [Accepted: 09/29/2017] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
A profile of broadband magnetotelluric stations was acquired between 2009 and 2016 at 35°-36°S in the Southern Volcanic Zone of the Chilean Andes to image the subduction zone and its relation with the volcanic arc at this latitude. This transect extends from the Coastal Cordillera across the Central Valley and the volcanic arc of the Principal Cordillera to the Argentine border. Two active volcanic complexes are found along this profile: Tatara-San Pedro is located on the modern volcanic front, and the Laguna del Maule volcanic field is found approximately 30 km to the east. The latter exhibits considerable signs of unrest, such as uplift rates of up to 25 cm/year, and has produced a high concentration of silicic eruptions in the last 25 ky. The data covered the period range from 0.001 to 1000 s. Robust processing techniques were used, including remote reference, and dimensionality was investigated by estimation of geoelectric strike, skew and analysis of the induction arrows. The data were modeled using a 2D inversion algorithm to produce a resistivity model which was consistent with surface geology and seismicity. The final resistivity model shows a generally resistive fore-arc structure, coincident with the tectonic environment, and a wide conductive region from the volcanic front to the east. This suggests a broad region of magmatism throughout the arc, related to three distinct magma bodies, associated with the Tatara-San Pedro and Laguna del Maule volcanic complexes and the Mariposa Geothermal System.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Reyes-Wagner
- Departamento de Geofísica, Universidad de Chile, Blanco Encalada 2002, Santiago, Chile
- Centro de Excelencia en Geotermia de Los Andes, Plaza Ercilla 803, Santiago, Chile
| | - Daniel Díaz
- Departamento de Geofísica, Universidad de Chile, Blanco Encalada 2002, Santiago, Chile
- Centro de Excelencia en Geotermia de Los Andes, Plaza Ercilla 803, Santiago, Chile
| | - Darcy Cordell
- Department of Physics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6E 2E1 Canada
| | - Martyn Unsworth
- Department of Physics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6E 2E1 Canada
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Huang X, Chen S, Zeng Z, Pu X, Hou Q. Characteristics of hydrocarbons in sediment core samples from the northern Okinawa Trough. Mar Pollut Bull 2017; 115:507-514. [PMID: 28007387 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2016.12.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Revised: 12/06/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Sediment core samples from the northern Okinawa Trough (OT) were analyzed to determine abundances and distributions of hydrocarbons by gas chromatography-mass spectrometer (GC-MS). The results show that the n-alkanes in this sediment core conform to a bimodal distribution, and exhibit an odd-to-even predominance of high molecular weights compared to an even-to-odd predominance in low molecular weight n-alkanes with maxima at C16 and C18. The concentrations of bitumen, alkanes and polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were higher in samples S10-07 than all others. Three maturity parameters as well as the ratios between parent phenanthrenes (Ps) and methylphenanthrenes (MPs) in samples S10-07 and S10-17 were higher. The distribution and composition of hydrocarbons in sample S10-07 suggest that one, or several, undetected hydrothermal fields may be present in the region of this sediment core. Results also suggest that volcanism may be the main reason for the observed distribution and composition of hydrocarbons in S10-17 sample.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Huang
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Coastal Ocean Variation and Disaster Prediction Technologies, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Geology and Environment, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China.
| | - Shuai Chen
- Key Laboratory of Marine Geology and Environment, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Zhigang Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Marine Geology and Environment, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Mineral Resources, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Pu
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Coastal Ocean Variation and Disaster Prediction Technologies, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Qinghua Hou
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Coastal Ocean Variation and Disaster Prediction Technologies, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
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12
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Linhares DPS, Garcia PV, Amaral L, Ferreira T, Cury JA, Vieira W, Rodrigues ADS. Sensitivity of two biomarkers for biomonitoring exposure to fluoride in children and women: A study in a volcanic area. Chemosphere 2016; 155:614-620. [PMID: 27155929 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2016.04.092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2016] [Revised: 04/22/2016] [Accepted: 04/23/2016] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
The natural enrichment of water with fluoride is related to natural sources such as volcanic activity, with it being documented that fluorosis, an endemic and widespread disease in volcanic areas, is associated to the ingestion of high levels of fluoride through water. Thus, in this study, we aimed to define the fluoride concentration in drinking waters of volcanic origin and compare the sensitivity of urine and nail clippings as biomarkers for fluoride exposure in adults and children. Samples of drinking water from four villages in São Miguel Island (Azores) were used and the fluoride concentration was determined, as well the fluoride content in urine and toenails clippings from 66 children and 63 adults from these villages. A validated diet questionnaire, assessing sources of fluoride, was recorded for each participant. The fluoride determination in urine and nail clipping samples was made using a fluoride-specific electrode. A positive correlation was found between the fluoride daily intake and fluoride content in children urine (rs = 0.475; p < 0.001) and in their nail clippings (rs = 0.475; p < 0.001), while in adult women, the fluoride daily intake correlated positively with fluoride content nail clippings (rs = 0.495, p < 0.001). This reveals that nail clippings are more reliable as biomarkers of chronic exposure to fluoride than urine for populations of different ages (children vs. adults). Furthermore, nail clippings are more suitable than urine fluoride levels to assess long term exposure to fluoride in areas where the exposure to fluoride in drinking water is considered within, or slightly above, the recommended legal values.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Paula Silva Linhares
- Department of Biology, University of the Azores, 9501-801, Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal; CVARG, Center for Volcanology and Geological Risks Assessment, University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal.
| | - Patrícia Ventura Garcia
- Department of Biology, University of the Azores, 9501-801, Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal; cE3c, Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes and Azorean Biodiversity Group, University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal.
| | - Leslie Amaral
- Department of Biology, University of the Azores, 9501-801, Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal; School of Sciences, University of Minho, Gualtar Campus, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal.
| | - Teresa Ferreira
- Department of Geosciences, University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal; CVARG, Center for Volcanology and Geological Risks Assessment, University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal.
| | - Jaime A Cury
- Piracicaba Dental School, University of Campinas, Piracicaba, SP, Brazil.
| | - Waldomiro Vieira
- Piracicaba Dental School, University of Campinas, Piracicaba, SP, Brazil.
| | - Armindo Dos Santos Rodrigues
- Department of Biology, University of the Azores, 9501-801, Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal; CVARG, Center for Volcanology and Geological Risks Assessment, University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal.
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13
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Daga R, Ribeiro Guevara S, Pavlin M, Rizzo A, Lojen S, Vreča P, Horvat M, Arribére M. Historical records of mercury in southern latitudes over 1600 years: Lake Futalaufquen, Northern Patagonia. Sci Total Environ 2016; 553:541-550. [PMID: 26938317 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.02.114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2015] [Revised: 02/16/2016] [Accepted: 02/17/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Mercury is released to the environment from natural and anthropogenic sources, and through atmospheric transport is distributed globally. Lake Futalaufquen (42.8°S) is an oligotrophic lake located in Los Alerces National Park (Northern Patagonia), providing a remote and unpolluted study system. A lacustrine sedimentary sequence revealed 1600 years of Hg deposition, identifying natural baselines and marked peaks not correlated with long-range atmospheric transport. Organic matter and catchment erosion were discarded as Hg drivers. Natural background, pre-1300 CE Hg concentrations, ranged between 27 and 47 ng g(-1) (accumulation rates from 8 to 15μg m(-2) y(-1)). From 1300 CE on, the Hg background profile did not follow the generally increasing Hg pattern observed in both Southern and Northern Hemisphere since pre-industrial times. It was not until the last century that a 1.6-fold increase is observed in the Hg accumulation rate, considered among the lowest increments in southern South America. Noteworthy local/regional sources of Hg for this area, along with global transport, are forest fires and volcanic activity. Between approx. 1340 and 1510 CE, sharp increase in Hg concentration and accumulation rate (up to 204 ng g(-1) and 51 μg m(-2) y(-1), respectively) were clearly associated with extended fire episodes. Furthermore, high Hg peaks during the last 300 years were associated with volcanic eruptions in northernmost Patagonia together with fairly irregular fire episodes, caused by anthropogenic burning by settling population in the Andes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romina Daga
- Laboratorio de Análisis por Activación Neutrónica, Centro Atómico Bariloche, CNEA, Av. Bustillo km 9.5, 8400 Bariloche, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina.
| | - Sergio Ribeiro Guevara
- Laboratorio de Análisis por Activación Neutrónica, Centro Atómico Bariloche, CNEA, Av. Bustillo km 9.5, 8400 Bariloche, Argentina
| | - Majda Pavlin
- Jožef Stefan Institute, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Andrea Rizzo
- Laboratorio de Análisis por Activación Neutrónica, Centro Atómico Bariloche, CNEA, Av. Bustillo km 9.5, 8400 Bariloche, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina
| | - Sonja Lojen
- Jožef Stefan Institute, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; Faculty of Environmental Sciences, University of Nova Gorica, 5000 Nova Gorica, Slovenia
| | - Polona Vreča
- Jožef Stefan Institute, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | - María Arribére
- Laboratorio de Análisis por Activación Neutrónica, Centro Atómico Bariloche, CNEA, Av. Bustillo km 9.5, 8400 Bariloche, Argentina; Instituto Balseiro, UNCu, Argentina
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14
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Dunlop JA, Legg DA, Selden PA, Fet V, Schneider JW, Rößler R. Permian scorpions from the Petrified Forest of Chemnitz, Germany. BMC Evol Biol 2016; 16:72. [PMID: 27056633 PMCID: PMC4823912 DOI: 10.1186/s12862-016-0634-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2015] [Accepted: 03/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Paleozoic scorpions (Arachnida: Scorpiones) have been widely documented from the Carboniferous Period; which hosts a remarkable assemblage of more than sixty species including both putative stem- and crown-group fossils. By contrast the succeeding Permian Period is almost completely devoid of records, which are currently restricted to a trace fossil from the early Permian of New Mexico, USA and some limb fragments from the late Permian of the Vologda Region, Russia. RESULTS ?Opsieobuthus tungeri sp. nov. from the Petrified Forest of Chemnitz, Germany represents the first complete body fossils of scorpions from the Permian. Explosive volcanism preserved these remarkable specimens in situ as part of the palaeosol horizon and bedrock of the Petrified Forest, immediately beneath the Zeisigwald tuff horizon. This dates to the early Permian (Sakmarian) or ca. 291 Ma. Intriguingly, the specimens were obtained from a palaeosol horizon with a compacted network of different-sized woody roots and thus have been preserved in situ in their likely life position, even within their original burrows. Differences in the structure of the comb-like pectines in the two fossils offer evidence for sexual dimorphism, and permit further inferences about the ecology and perhaps even the reproductive biology of these animals. CONCLUSIONS As putative members of a Coal Measures genus, these fossils suggest that at least some Carboniferous scorpion lineages extended their range further into the Permian. This contributes towards a picture of scorpion evolution in which both basal and derived (orthostern) forms coexisted for quite some time; probably from the end of the Carboniferous through to at least the mid Triassic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason A. Dunlop
- />Museum für Naturkunde, Leibniz Institute for Research on Evolution and Biodiversity at the Humboldt University Berlin, Invalidenstrasse 43, D-10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - David A. Legg
- />Oxford University Museum of Natural History, Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PW UK
| | - Paul A. Selden
- />Paleontological Institute, University of Kansas, 1475 Jayhawk Boulevard, Lawrence, KS 66045 USA
- />Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London, SW7 5BD UK
| | - Victor Fet
- />Department of Biological Sciences, Marshall University, One John Marshall Drive, Huntington, WV 25755 USA
| | - Joerg W. Schneider
- />TU Bergakademie Freiberg, Geological Institute, Bernhard von Cotta-Straße, D-09599 Freiberg, Germany
- />Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia
| | - Ronny Rößler
- />TU Bergakademie Freiberg, Geological Institute, Bernhard von Cotta-Straße, D-09599 Freiberg, Germany
- />Museum für Naturkunde, Moritzstraße 20, D-09111 Chemnitz, Germany
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15
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Ferreira AF, Garcia PV, Camarinho R, Rodrigues ADS. Volcanogenic pollution and testicular damage in wild mice. Chemosphere 2015; 132:135-141. [PMID: 25828918 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2015.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2014] [Revised: 02/28/2015] [Accepted: 03/09/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Many evidences have surfaced the adverse effects of environmental pollutants on male reproduction. Volcanogenic pollution is understudied, although it is a well-known source of hazardous contaminants. This study aims to assess the effects of chronic exposure to volcanogenic pollution on wild mice testes by studying: (i) diameter of seminiferous tubules; (ii) relative volumetric density of different spermatogenic cells and interstitial space; (iii) damage in the seminiferous tubules and (iv) apoptotic level in the germinal epithelium. The mice from the polluted site showed higher levels of the selected heavy metals than those from the reference site. The mean diameter of seminiferous tubules and the relative volume occupied by spermatozoa and lumen in exposed mice were significantly lower than in the unexposed group. Contrarily, exposed mice showed a significantly higher relative volume occupied by interstitium, as well as, a higher degree of damage and a significantly higher number of apoptotic cells in the germinal epithelium. Results show that secondary manifestations of volcanic activity can pose a serious risk of testicular injury and therefore for male reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana F Ferreira
- University of the Azores, Department of Biology, Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal; CIBIO Azores, Center for Research on Biodiversity and Genetic Resources, InBIO Associated Laboratory, University of the Azores, Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal.
| | - Patrícia Ventura Garcia
- University of the Azores, Department of Biology, Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal; CE3C, Center for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes, and Azorean Biodiversity Group, University of the Azores, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Portugal.
| | - Ricardo Camarinho
- University of the Azores, Department of Biology, Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal; CVARG, Center for Volcanology and Evaluation of Geological Risks, Ponta Delgada, Portugal.
| | - Armindo dos Santos Rodrigues
- University of the Azores, Department of Biology, Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal; CVARG, Center for Volcanology and Evaluation of Geological Risks, Ponta Delgada, Portugal.
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16
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Tse TK, Pittman M, Chang MM. A specimen of Paralycoptera Chang & Chou 1977 (Teleostei: Osteoglossoidei) from Hong Kong (China) with a potential Late Jurassic age that extends the temporal and geographical range of the genus. PeerJ 2015; 3:e865. [PMID: 25834774 PMCID: PMC4380157 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2014] [Accepted: 03/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe a Mesozoic fish Paralycoptera sp. (Teleostei: Osteoglossoidei), on the basis of a postcranial skeleton collected from the volcaniclastic mudstones of the Lai Chi Chong Formation of Hong Kong, China. The new finding—representing the city’s first Mesozoic fish—extends the geographical distribution of Paralycoptera from eastern mainland China into Hong Kong, demonstrating a wider distribution than previously appreciated for this genus. A radiometric age for the Lai Chi Chong Formation of 146.6 ± 0.2 Ma implies a temporal range expansion for Paralycoptera of approximately 40 million years back from the Early Cretaceous (∼110 Ma). However, spores found in the Formation suggest an Early Cretaceous age that is consistent with the existing age assignment to Paralycoptera. We argue that the proposed temporal range extension is genuine because it is based on recent high precision radiometric age data, but given the discrepancies with the biostratigraphic ages further investigation is needed to confirm this. This study provides an important step towards revealing Hong Kong’s Mesozoic vertebrate fauna and understanding its relationship to well-studied mainland Chinese ones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tze-Kei Tse
- Vertebrate Palaeontology Laboratory, Life and Planetary Evolution Research Group, Department of Earth Sciences, The University of Hong Kong , Pokfulam, Hong Kong , China
| | - Michael Pittman
- Vertebrate Palaeontology Laboratory, Life and Planetary Evolution Research Group, Department of Earth Sciences, The University of Hong Kong , Pokfulam, Hong Kong , China
| | - Mee-Mann Chang
- Key Laboratory of Vertebrate Evolution and Human Origin of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology & Paleoanthropology, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Beijing , China
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Abstract
A new mapping-based study of the 900-km-long Mangala Valles outflow system was motivated by the availability of new high-resolution images and continued debates about the roles of water and lava in outflow channels on Mars. This study uses photogeologic analysis, geomorphic surface mapping, cratering statistics, and relative stratigraphy. Results show that Mangala Valles underwent at least two episodes of fluvial activity and at least three episodes of volcanic activity during the Late Amazonian. The occurrence of scoured bedrock at the base of the mapped stratigraphy, in addition to evidence provided by crater retention ages, suggests that fluvial activity preceded the deposition of two of the volcanic units. Crater counts performed at 30 locations throughout the area have allowed us to construct the following timeline: (1) formation of Noachian Highlands and possible initial flooding event(s) before ~1 Ga, (2) emplacement of Tharsis lava flows in the valley from ~700 to 1000 Ma, (3) a megaflooding event at ~700-800 Ma sourced from Mangala Fossa, (4) valley fill by a sequence of lava flows sourced from Mangala Fossa ~400-500 Ma, (5) another megaflooding event from ~400 Ma, (6) a final phase of volcanism sourced from Mangala Fossa ~300-350 Ma, and (7) emplacement of eolian sedimentary deposits in the northern portion of the valley ~300 Ma. These results are consistent with alternating episodes of aqueous flooding and volcanism in the valles. This pattern of geologic activity is similar to that of other outflow systems, such as Kasei Valles, suggesting that there is a recurring, and perhaps coupled, nature of these processes on Mars.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber L. Keske
- School of Earth and Space Exploration, Arizona State University, 201 E. Orange Mall, Tempe, AZ 85287, United States
| | | | - Alfred S. McEwen
- Lunar and Planetary Laboratory, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, United States
| | - Ingrid J. Daubar
- Lunar and Planetary Laboratory, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, United States
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Gaina C, Medvedev S, Torsvik TH, Koulakov I, Werner SC. 4D Arctic: A Glimpse into the Structure and Evolution of the Arctic in the Light of New Geophysical Maps, Plate Tectonics and Tomographic Models. Surv Geophys 2013; 35:1095-1122. [PMID: 26069354 PMCID: PMC4456077 DOI: 10.1007/s10712-013-9254-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2013] [Accepted: 09/10/2013] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Knowledge about the Arctic tectonic structure has changed in the last decade as a large number of new datasets have been collected and systematized. Here, we review the most updated, publicly available Circum-Arctic digital compilations of magnetic and gravity data together with new models of the Arctic's crust. Available tomographic models have also been scrutinized and evaluated for their potential to reveal the deeper structure of the Arctic region. Although the age and opening mechanisms of the Amerasia Basin are still difficult to establish in detail, interpreted subducted slabs that reside in the High Arctic's lower mantle point to one or two episodes of subduction that consumed crust of possibly Late Cretaceous-Jurassic age. The origin of major igneous activity during the Cretaceous in the central Arctic (the Alpha-Mendeleev Ridge) and in the proximity of rifted margins (the so-called High Arctic Large Igneous Province-HALIP) is still debated. Models of global plate circuits and the connection with the deep mantle are used here to re-evaluate a possible link between Arctic volcanism and mantle plumes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Gaina
- Centre for Earth Evolution and Dynamics (CEED), University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sergei Medvedev
- Centre for Earth Evolution and Dynamics (CEED), University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Trond H. Torsvik
- Centre for Earth Evolution and Dynamics (CEED), University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Geodynamics, Geological Survey of Norway, Trondheim, Norway
- School of Geosciences, University of Witwatersrand, WITS, Johannesburg, 2050 South Africa
| | - Ivan Koulakov
- Trofimuk Institute of Petroleum Geology and Geophysics, SB RAS, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Stephanie C. Werner
- Centre for Earth Evolution and Dynamics (CEED), University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Camarinho R, Garcia PV, Rodrigues AS. Chronic exposure to volcanogenic air pollution as cause of lung injury. Environ Pollut 2013; 181:24-30. [PMID: 23800425 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2013.05.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2012] [Revised: 05/24/2013] [Accepted: 05/30/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Few studies were made regarding the pulmonary effects of exposure to volcanogenic air pollution, representing an unrecognized health risk for humans inhabiting non-eruptive volcanically active areas (10% of world human population). We tested the hypothesis whether chronic exposure to air pollution of volcanogenic origin causes lung injury, using wild mice (Mus musculus) as model. Lung injury was determined using histological morphometric parameters, inflammatory status (InfS) and the amount of black silver deposits (BSD). Mice exposed to volcanogenic air pollution have decreased percentage of alveolar space, alveolar perimeter and lung structural functionality (LSF) ratio and, increased alveolar septal thickness, amount of BSD and InfS. For the first time it is evidenced that non-eruptive active volcanism has a high potential to cause lung injury. This study also highlights the usefulness of M. musculus as bioindicator species, and of the developed biomarker of effect LSF ratio, for future animal and/or human biomonitoring programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Camarinho
- CVARG, Centro de Vulcanologia e Avaliação de Riscos Geológicos, Ponta Delgada, Portugal.
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