What affects the probability of biological invasions in Antarctica? Using an expanded conceptual framework to anticipate the risk of alien species expansion

Successful alien species invasion depends on many factors studied mostly in post invasion habitats, and subsequently summarized in frameworks tailored to describe the studied invasion. We used an existing expanded framework with three groups of contributing factors: habitat invisibility, system context and species invasiveness, to analyze the probability of alien species invasions in terrestrial communities of Maritime Antarctic in the future. We focused on the first two factor groups. We tested if the expanded framework could be used under a different scenario. We chose Point Thomas Oasis on King George Island to perform our analysis. Strong geographical barrier, low potential bioclimatic suitability and resource availability associated with habitat invasibility significantly reduce the likelihood of biological invasion in Antarctica. An almost full enemy release (low pressure of consumers), the high patchiness of the habitat, and the prevalence of open gaps also associated with habitat invasibility increase the possibility of invasion. The dynamics of functional connectivity, propagule pressure and spatio-temporal patterns of propagule arrival associated with human activity and climate change belonging to the system context contribute to an increase in the threat of invasions. Due to the still low land transport activity migration pathways are limited and will reduce the spread of alien terrestrial organisms by land. An effective way of preventing invasions in Antarctica seems to lie in reducing propagule pressure and eliminating alien populations as early as possible. The expanded conceptual framework opens up wider possibilities in analyzing invasions taking place in different systems and with multiple taxa

Mapping Glacier Forelands Based on UAV BVLOS Operation in Antarctica

The aim of this article is to show geomorphological mapping of remote Antarctic locations usingimagestakenbyafixed-wingunmannedaerialvehicle(UAV)duringtheBeyondVisualLineof Sight (BVLOS) operations. We mapped landform assemblages developed in forelands of Ecology Glacier (EGF), Sphinx Glacier (SGF) and Baranowski Glacier (BGF) in Antarctic Specially Protected Area No. 128 (ASPA 128) on King George Island (South Shetland Islands) and inferred about glacial dynamics. The orthophoto and digital elevation model allowed for geomorphological mapping of glacial forelands, including (i) glacial depositional landforms, (ii) fluvial and fluvioglacial landforms, (iii) littoral and lacustrine landforms, (iv) bodies of water, and (v) other. The largest area is occupied by ground moraine and glacial lagoons on EGF and BGF. The most profound features of EGF are the largelatero-frontalmoraineridgesfromLittleIceAgeandthefirsthalfofthe20thcentury. Largeareas of ground moraine, frequently fluted and marked with large recessional moraine ridges, dominate on SGF. A significant percentage of bedrock outcrops and end moraine complexes characterize BGF. The landform assemblages are typical for discontinuous fast ice flow of tidewater glaciers over a deformable bed. It is inferred that ice flow velocity decreased as a result of recession from the sea coast, resulting in a significant decrease in the length of ice cliffs and decrease in calving rate. Image acquisition during the fixed-wing UAV BVLOS operation proved to be a very robust technique in harsh polar conditions of King George Island

An analysis of fungal propagules transported to the Henryk Arctowski Antarctic Station

During three austral summer seasons, dust and soil from clothes, boots and equipment of members of scientific expeditions and tourists visiting the Polish Antarctic Station Henryk Arctowski were collected and analysed for the presence of fungal propagules. Of a total of 60 samples, 554 colonies of fungi belonging to 19 genera were identified. Colonies of the genus Cladosporium, Penicillium and non−sporulating fungus (Mycelia sterilia) dominated in the examined samples. The microbiological assessment of air for the presence of fungi was also conducted at two points in the station building and two others outside the station. A total of 175 fungal colonies belonging to six genera were isolated. Colonies of the genus Penicillium were the commonest in the air samples. The potential epidemiological consequences for indigenous species as a result of unintentional transport of fungal propagules to the Antarctic biome are discussed in the light of rapid climate change in some parts of the Antarctic and adaptation of fungi to extreme conditions

The Long-term Effects of Iron Deficiency in Early Infancy on Neurodevelopment

Introduction and  Purpose: Iron deficiency alongside anaemia is one of the most significant global health concerns with potentially long-lasting implications on child development and health outcomes. The period of infancy represents a crucial phase of central nervous system maturation, rendering infants particularly susceptible to the adverse effects of iron deficiency. It is therefore crucial to pay close attention to this issue.  The aim of this review is to elucidate the neurological implications of iron deficiency in infancy and emphasize the necessity of implementing preventive strategies to safeguard child development. State  of  Knowledge: Iron deficiency in infancy can result in impairments of brain development. Extensive research highlights the influence of this micronutrient on various physiological processes, including the synthesis of neurotransmitters, neuronal metabolism, myelination, synaptogenesis and gene expression. Furthermore, iron deficiency during infancy is associated with adverse developmental outcomes, including cognitive, motor, and socioemotional deficits. Long-term follow-up studies have elucidated the enduring neurological consequences of iron deficiency in infancy, with effects extending into childhood and beyond. Summary: Given that the changes that occur during the infantile period are often irreversible and have long-lasting implications for future development, it is of the utmost importance to prioritize prevention strategies

Exploring the Health Benefits of Matcha: A Comprehensive Review

Introduction: Matcha, a finely powdered form of green tea, has recently gained global popularity due to its vibrant green color, distinctive taste, and versatile applications in various food products. Despite its promising nutritional profile, matcha has not received significant attention in the academic community compared to traditional green tea. Purpose of work: The primary objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of matcha's biological properties and its potential health benefits. Methods and materials: A review of the literature available in the PubMed database and Google Scholar, the following keywords were searched: "matcha", “catechin", "EGCG", “cognitive function”, “green tea” State of knowledge: Existing studies have demonstrated that matcha exhibits anticancer properties, enhances cognitive function, improves cardio-metabolic health, and modulates the gut microbiome. Moreover, matcha is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Summary: This review summarizes the latest research findings on matcha green tea and its potential health benefits. While animal studies have shown promising results, our knowledge of matcha's effects on human health remains limited. Further randomized controlled trials are necessary to fully elucidate its potential health-promoting effects. Therefore, we advocate for continued research into matcha's properties and its integration into dietary practices to promote overall health and well-being

The dark side of herbal medicine - risks of Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera) consumption

Introduction: Herbal medicine has been growing in popularity over the last few years. One of the most often used herbal remedy is Withania somnifera, more widely known as Ashwagandha Now known for its anti-stress, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-cancer, anti-anxiety properties it ranks as a cure-all. However, there is a rising amount of alarming reports regarding its safety. It has been observed that its effects are not always beneficial, and for some patients the risks of taking it may be greater than the promoted benefits.  Aim of study: The aim of this paper is to evaluate possible risks connected to Withania Somnifera consumption based on available research articles and case reports.  Materials and methods: This article is based on the literature found in the PubMed Database from the period of 2004-2024 with the use of keywords such as “Ashwagandha”; “Withania Somnifera”, “herbal medicine”;”complementary medicine”;“liver injury”; “thyrotoxicosis”; “adrenal insufficiency”;”autoimmune diseases”. Results: The outcomes of all the reviewed studies in this paper indicate that Withania Somnifera might cause a wide range of side effects. They include herb induced liver injury, endocrine complications such as thyrotoxicosis and adrenal insufficiency, acute graft rejection in a kidney transplant recipient and possible contribution to the onset of new autoimmune disease in patient with the history of autoimmune disorders.  Conclusion: Further long-term research is needed on the Ashwaghanda’s benefits but particularly on its safety and potential side effects. The common education on the risks of taking herbal supplements should be carried out among health professionals and the rest of the society. Ashwagandha should not be used by patients with liver, endocrine and autoimmune disorders as well as transplant recipients

Effects of antioxidant supplementation for polycystic ovary syndrome

Introduction and purpose: Polycystic ovary syndrome is the most common endocrinopathy in women, with a prevalence ranging from 10% to 13%. Oxidative stress and decreased antioxidant levels contribute to the development of various diseases, and one of them is polycystic ovary syndrome. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the current knowledge about the effects of antioxidant administration in PCOS treatment. A brief description of the state of knowledge: Oxidative stress is an imbalance between increased levels of reactive oxygen species and a decreased efficiency of antioxidant mechanisms, which can potentially cause damage. The harmful effects of free radicals might be neutralized by antioxidants obtained from the diet, such as polyphenols, vitamins C, and E. These compounds improve several aspects of the PCOS pathomechanism, including hormonal imbalance, glucose metabolism, lipid profile, and ovarian functionality. Conclusions: The outcomes of all the reviewed studies in this paper indicate that antioxidants such as resveratrol, curcumin, vitamin C and E, N-acetylcysteine, and melatonin have therapeutic potential in the management of PCOS. However, currently antioxidant therapies cannot be recommended in PCOS therapy since there is a need for more prospective randomized clinical trials on a larger sample to establish a long-term effects of antioxidants supplementation in PCOS, the optimal dosage, and finally to assess which antioxidant is the most efficient in PCOS treatment

Association between personality disorders and migraine. A narrative review

Introduction: Migraine is one of the most prevalent types of headache and is a subject of many clinical trials. There are various risk factors associated with migraine occurrence, from hormonal and genetic to environmental. It is observed that some migraineurs have specific psychological features- sometimes called as migraine personality. This encouraged researchers to evaluate migraine patients in terms of psychiatric co-existing conditions. Aim of study: The main aim of the study was to examine the relationship between migraine and psychiatric comorbidities, primarily personality disorders. Materials and methods: This article is based on the literature found in PubMed and Google Scholar Database with the use of keywords such as ”migraine”, “headache factors”, “personality disorder”, “migraine personality”, “migraine education”, “borderline personality disorder”, “anxious personality disorder”, “migraine health”, “depression and migraine”, “medication over-use in migraine”, “migraine comorbidities”, “depression”, “anxiety”. Results: Investigation of available literature revealed the connection between migraine and personality disorders. Psychiatric comorbidities worsen the treatment prognosis, are a risk factor of medication overuse and chronic headaches. Conclusion: Psychiatric comorbidities are frequent among migraineurs. Clinical evaluation of these patients should be complex and contain psychological and psychiatric analysis, especially in patients resistant to standard treatment

Pentosidine, advanced glycation end product, in acute ischaemic stroke patients with and without atrial rhythm disturbances

Atrial fibrillation (AF) and atherosclerotic disease are independent risk factors for acute ischaemic stroke (AIS). The optimal biological marker which could allow differentiation between AF and non-AF AIS patients is still not available.Aim of the study. Aim of the present study was to investigate the role of pentosidine as a potential biological marker for AF in an AIS patient group.Materials and methods. Sixty-three acute ischaemic hemispheric stroke patients were recruited and divided into two groups according to the presumed underlying mechanism: with or without atrial rhythm disorders. Ten healthy volunteers were a reference group for serum level of pentosidine. Carotid artery ultrasound was performed, and common carotid artery stiffness and intima-media thickness were measured. Serum levels of pentosidine and selected routine biochemical risk factors for atherosclerosis (cholesterol and its lipoprotein fractions, homocysteine) were examined.Results. A higher serum level of pentosidine was observed in patients without atrial fibrillation (1,509 ± 485.13pmol/ml); a statistically significant difference was observed compared to the reference group (1,041.52 ± 411.17pmol/ml; p = 0.01), but not the AF patients (1,438.19 ± 495.97pmol/ml; p = 0.59). No significant difference in the non-AF group compared to the AF group for carotid intima-media thickness (IMT)/stiffness and pentosidine serum level was recorded.Conclusions and clinical implications. A higher serum level of pentosidine was observed in AIS patients without atrial fibrillation compared to the healthy volunteers. According to the results of the present study, no difference between these patients in the selected risk factors of atherosclerosis were observed. Further studies are needed to identify a reliable marker of AF that would bring added value to the standard diagnostic workup after acute ischaemic stroke

Rapid environmental changes in the western antarctic peninsula region due to climate change and human activity

The Antarctic and the Southern Ocean are a critically important part of the Earth system. The climatic, physical, and biological properties of this region are closely linked to other parts of the global environment. 200 years of direct human impact, recent climate amelioration and changes in the main sources and circulation of biogenic compounds as well as accumulation of industrial contaminants have significantly affected the whole ecosystem. Particularly sensitive is the region of the Western Antarctic Peninsula, which is considered to be one of the hot spots of the Earth. In this paper, we review recent literature and compare it with historical data to estimate and predict the consequences of this process. The Antarctic ecosystems can no longer be regarded as pristine. Global as well as local human influence has transgressed the barriers isolating that continent from the rest of the World, causing previously observed changes to accelerate