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Dogs are susceptible to a diverse spectrum of dermatologic conditions, several of these skin disorders are analogous to dermatologic conditions occurring in humans. Pool toes appears on the plantar surface of the feet and toes; it is an aquatic pool-associated frictional dermatosis that results from repeated rubbing of the feet and toes against the rough cement at the bottom of the pool or its border. A frictional dermatosis that can develop on the uncalloused paw pads of puppies, resulting from repeated rubbing of the paws against ambient temperature, not heated, paved road is pavement paws. Neither pool toes nor pavement paws result from contact with a hot surface; these dermatoses are distinctive from beach feet, a thermal-associated superficial burn to the skin resulting from the hot temperature of the sand that contacts that the plantar feet and toes. In conclusion, similar to pool toes, the pathogenesis of pavement paws is a frictional dermatosis that can develop on the uncallused paw pads of puppies resulting from repeated rubbing of the paws against ambient temperature, not heated, pavement.

Coastlines are suffering from the effects of erosive processes, the decrease in sediment supply, the rise in mean sea level, and the construction of coastal infrastructure and drainage works, which are further exacerbated by global climate change. The area of the Parque Natural do Litoral Norte (North Coast Natural Park) reveals worsening erosion rates and the transformations directly affect the natural resources that support tourism activities, particularly beach and nature tourism. As part of the CLICTOUR project, we have selected the coastline from Restinga de Ofir to Bonança Beach as a case study. The ESRI ArcGIS software and the Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS) were used to quantify coastline migration and identify the impacts on beach morphology between 2010 and 2023. Based on this information, we calculated changes in carrying capacity and scenarios for visitor usage availability to ensure the protection of fauna and flora, as well as the safety of beachgoers. The results of the linear regression rate confirm the coastline has retreated during the period analyzed (2010–2023). The outcome of these dynamics is noticeable in the beach area, promoting its reduction in area and leisure quality. Considering climate change, this study shows the importance of developing resilience strategies for coastal territories that serve as traditional summer destinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Longshore sediment transport (LST) is essential for shaping sandy shorelines. Many shorelines are complex and indented, containing headlands, offshore islands and tombolos. Tombolos often form between islands and the mainland; however, the conditions for LST across tombolos are unclear. This question is important because tombolos are often reinforced with anthropogenic infrastructure, potentially causing sediment starvation of downdrift beaches. Along many shorelines, the return to a tombolo's natural condition has been proposed to promote sediment connectivity and counteract erosion. Nevertheless, the implications of such restorations remain uncertain. In this study, we employ the Delft3D wave‐current model to investigate hydrodynamics and sediment dynamics across a tombolo, examining its role as a connector between adjacent beaches. Contrary to expectations, our simulations show only diminutive longshore currents from the updrift beach across the tombolo unless offshore wave heights exceed 8 m. Instead, predominant currents crossing the tombolo originate from offshore of the island, driven by storm‐induced water level differences and circulation cells on both sides of the tombolo. The offshore island shelters the downdrift domain, resulting in higher wave energy and dissipation updrift of the tombolo. Further, increasing wave height or wave approach angle not only intensifies water level differences but also relocates circulation cells, enhancing total sediment transport from the updrift beach across the tombolo. However, in general, the deposition of sediment from the updrift side of the domain does not compensate for the sediment loss on the downdrift beach. We conclude that LST across tombolos is limited and occurs only under extreme wave conditions. Plain Language Summary: Longshore transport, the movement of sand and fine gravel along the shoreline driven by waves and tides, plays a crucial role in building and maintaining stable and healthy beaches. Here, we focus on the potential impact of the removal of a road that obstructs water flow and sediment transport across a tombolo. Contrary to our expectations, removal of the road does not result in longshore currents across the tombolo unless the wave heights are very large. Instead, we observe water movement from the offshore of the island's updrift side toward the downdrift beach. This unexpected pattern is attributed to storm‐driven water level differences bet side of the island. Additionally, storms generate circulating current patterns on both sides of the island, influencing the direction of water movement. Further investigation reveals that larger waves, particularly those moving more parallel to the beach, amplify the water level difference and alter the location of the rotating currents. Extremely large waves produce longshore currents across the tombolo, which increase the amount of sediment transferred from the updrift to the downdrift domain. However, this addition of sediment from the updrift domain does not fully compensate for sediment loss from the downdrift beach during storms. Key Points: The position, magnitude, and size of circulation cells on both sides of a tombolo vary with storm surge, wave height, and wave directionCirculation cells and storm‐driven water level differences determine sediment transport across the tomboloLongshore sediment transport across the tombolo is negligible except during extreme storms [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine debris has emerged as a significant environmental issue of growing global concern, closely linked to pollution and its impact on the environment. Understanding the distribution of marine waste in coastal areas is crucial, especially considering that beaches are key sites for various human activities such as tourism, fishing, and shipping. To address this, a study was conducted to analyze the composition of marine debris on three beaches in Banyuwangi Regency, East Java. The study took place in July and August of 2023, focusing on Boom, Cacalan, and Cemara beaches. Marine debris was collected along the coastline in 5 x 5 m transects, spaced 20 m apart, to identify and quantify the types of waste. The findings revealed that Boom Beach had the highest percentage of rubbish (46%), followed by Cemara Beach (30%) and Cacalan Beach (24%). Additionally, the highest abundance of rubbish per area was found at Boom Beach (5.97 ± 16.64 item/m2), Cemara Beach (3,92 ± 11,36 item/m2), and Cacalan Beach (3,12 ± 5,27 item/m2). Boom Beach and Cemara Beach were primarily dominated by plastic waste, while at Cacalan Beach, plastic waste and broken glass were found in nearly equal proportions. The calculation of the Clean Coast Index (CCI) indicated that all three beaches were significantly polluted. As a result, there is a clear need for focused attention on waste management at tourist beaches to preserve the aesthetics and comfort of beach visitors.

This research examines the toponymy of beaches in Belitung using the socio-onomastic approach. The names of beaches in Belitung Regency were studied using written and oral data. The written data was obtained from three maps, i.e., the map from the Geospatial Information Agency, the geological map of Belitung and the digital Google Maps. The oral data was obtained through interviews with resource persons and informants in Belitung. Based on map searches and interviews, seven beach names and the origin of their names have been obtained, as follows (i) Tanjung Tinggi Beach, (ii) Tanjung Pendam Beach, (iii), Penyabong Beach, (iv) Tanjung Kelayang Beach, (v) Tanjung Binga Beach, (vi) Bukit Berahu Beach, and (vii) Batu Bedil Beach. In addition to these beaches, there may be other beach names worth examining. Beach names in Belitung Regency have four naming patterns: (i) beach toponyms with elements of topography, (ii) beach toponyms with elements of topography and fauna, (iii) beach toponyms with elements of topography and flora, and (iv) beach toponyms with elements of sound. Sometimes, a beach has more than one name. From socio-onomastics perspective, it is a natural phenomena, because names of place have various characteristics and influence people’s preferences in using names.

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Polychaete worms of the genus Scolelepis are one of the most abundant members of beach ecosystems worldwide. Along the Atlantic coast of North America, specimens of Scolelepis inhabiting high-energy beaches have long been erroneously identified as the European species Scolelepis squamata (O.F. Müller, 1806). In this study, we examined specimens of Scolelepis collected from Massachusetts to Virginia, finding they match Scolelepis agilis (Verrill, 1873), originally described from beaches in New Jersey. Scolelepis agilis can be most easily distinguished from S. squamata based on differences in palp ciliary pattern, morphology of neuropodial lamellae, and the quantity and start of both notopodial and neuropodial hooded hooks. Live specimens of S. agilis collected from New York were also examined to provide data on their reproduction and morphometric analyses. In addition, molecular data (18S, 28S rRNA, cytochrome c oxidase I and 16S rRNA) showed that specimens of S. agilis from the north to mid-Atlantic coast formed a monophyletic group (p-distance ≤ 0.004 for MA, RI, NY and VA populations) and were distinct from S. squamata (p-distance ≥ 0.196 (0.03 SE)). The molecular data also suggest the presence of several misidentified or undescribed species of Scolelepis, highlighting the need for additional taxonomic work on the genus from these localities as well as others (e.g. South Africa) where the worms have been incorrectly identified as S. squamata. A key to species of Scolelepis from the east coast of the United States is provided and a lectotype and paralectotypes for S. agilis are herein designated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Rakaia River in the South Island of New Zealand is a unique catchment in which to trace active detrital gold transport, deformation and concentration from near-coeval orogenic sources. The catchment hosts widespread small late Cenozoic hydrothermal alteration zones, some of which are gold-bearing, in actively rising and eroding mountain headwaters. Detrital gold liberated from the sources is distinctively porous with abundant micron-scale silicate inclusions, especially albite. Fine gold (∼200–100 µm) has been transported >100 km downstream, but coarse gold remains highly diluted in proximal fluvial sediments. Fine gold is also diluted by coarse fluvial sediments that form the upper kilometre of the Canterbury sedimentary basin southeast of the mountain front. Minor re-concentration of fine gold occurs in a bedrock gorge at the mountain front, and on steep ocean beaches beyond the river mouth. Despite the long-distance transport, the fine gold particles have been only superficially modified by surface smearing and minor flattening. The gold may have travelled in suspension in the river, buoyed by electrostatically adhering fine micas, in contrast to detrital garnets that were rounded in bed-load. In contrast, detrital gold on the western side of the mountains has been flattened to thin flakes during bed-load transport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study focused on the abundance of bacteria in the sand of marine beaches on the southern Baltic Sea coast which differed in the level of anthropogenic pressure. The results showed that the maximum (17.60·106cells · g−1dw.) bacterial abundance was noted on the beach characterized by the highest level of anthropogenic pressure and minimum (10.48·106cells · g−1dw.) on the beach located in the Słowiński National Park. Generally, differences were found in the studied abundance and biomass of bacteria in all investigated beaches in their horizontal profile. The maximum (18.81–23.52·106cells · g−1dw.) density of bacteria was recorded in the dry zones, i.e., dune and the middle part of the beach, and the minimum (9.04–10.52·106cells · g−1dw.) in the wet zones, i.e., under seawater surface and at the waterline. The differences in the abundance of bacteria were found between the surface and subsurface sand layers in the studied beaches. Usually, the highest (19.60·106cells · g−1dw.) number of bacterial cells was determined in the surface sand layer, while with an increasing depth their number decreased. A seasonal variation in bacterial abundance was also documented in the studied beaches. This study resulted in increased knowledge on marine bacteriopsammon abundance, which, as a secondary producer, plays a very important role as the main link between primary producers and higher trophic levels of benthic food webs in marine ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sandy beaches are at the frontline of resisting continuous sea level rise associated with anthropogenic climate change. However, accurate and comprehensive spatial information for monitoring, utilizing, and protecting sandy beaches is still lacking at the national or above scales. This study, for the first time, addresses this gap by collecting cloud-free, low-tide Sentinel-2 images in 2022 to map 10-m sandy beaches across China using the image classification method. We adopted the Support Vector Machine to derive the spatial distribution of sandy beaches, assess accuracy, and analyze spatial characteristics. Our results demonstrate the efficiency of the SVM model in mapping sandy beaches (User's accuracy: 96%, Kappa coefficient: 0.93). We identified 3,444 beaches in China, with a total length of 3,187.57 km, an average width of 69.93 meters, and a total area of 217.43 km², constituting 24.16% of the national coastline. Notably, Guangdong, Taiwan, and Hainan provinces are rich in beach resources, whereas Macao, Shanghai, Tianjin, and Jiangsu provinces have relatively fewer beach resources. Further, our results outperform the existing OpenStreetMap beach dataset. Our developed 10-m beach database is crucial for analyzing potential beach risks, uncovering socioeconomic values of beach resources, and promoting the sustainable coastal zone development in China.

Coasts are settlement areas that attract human for many years. Türkiye, geographically located on Mediterranean Basin and Asian Continent passage with unique climate regime, has a great coastal zone. The mid-latitude geographic setting makes possible to experience coastal recreation and tourism activities for almost all year along. Among all activities sun, sea and sand tourism can be placed on the first stage. Recent changes in local climate of the Black Sea such as rising mean atmospheric temperatures and increasing number of sunny days have triggered touristic beach activities in the region. In the literature, there are different techniques for grading and classifying coastal beaches. In this study, as an integral part of coastal landscape formation Land Use/Land Cover (LULC) structure is linked to landscape value and regarded as cover changes that determines landscape pattern of the area under investigation. The research rationale of this study is based on an assumption of Southern Black Sea coastal blue flag beaches are under severe anthropogenic pressure. For this purpose, 15 blue flag beaches which are located on the Black Sea coast of Türkiye were selected based on their morphological dimensions. To determine landscape changes and potential human induced effects on selected beaches for the last 35–40 years period, georeferenced, atmospherically corrected Landsat 5 TM and Landsat 8 OLI-TIRS satellite images were used. Furthermore, carrying capacities for all researched beaches were calculated and documented in order to find the actual human usage frequencies during the high season. According to results of the study, it is clearly observed that all beach areas are under anthropogenic pressure. The most important evidence of this situation is the proportional increases in the IS (Impervious Surface) cover class in the classified images between 1984 and 1985 and 2021 in all 15 beaches. Moreover, these increases have reached up to 5–6 times for some beaches. As inferred, from the field surveys, beach carrying capacities were also exceeded for the most of the beaches under investigation. This means the blue flag beaches of Southern Black Sea are not only affected by construction and urbanization but also under intense pressure of overuse during the high seasons. It is revealed that these areas should be carefully managed with state-of-the-art techniques that prioritize adaptive planning that takes into account all stakeholders participation. Moreover, the activities, authorization and attitudes of municipalities regarding the coastal zones must be limited and inspected by a higher organization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Throughout the Caribbean region, coastal areas are of vital importance for national incomes from the tourism industry. However, accelerated coastal development has impacted the coastal ecosystems, including the beaches, and deterioration of the shore results from cumulative impacts on both marine and coastal ecosystems. It is essential to identify the areas that need special attention for targeted management plans and actions, especially in areas with high anthropogenic pressure. This research proposes an integrated assessment of the conservation state of shore and coastal ecosystems in the Puerto Morelos National Reef Park (PNAPM) in the Mexican Caribbean, through the spatial monitoring of key parameters. A Geographic Information System (GIS) was employed to analyze the land use on the shore, foredune condition, morphological characteristics of the beaches, shoreline evolution, and the condition of coral reefs and seagrass meadows. The analysis identified the most critical areas in relation to shore deterioration and priority areas for the preservation of ecosystems. The spatial data obtained for the PNAPM can serve as a basis for ongoing shore monitoring, and targeted management actions through the designation of areas that require either preservation or ecosystem restoration practices. This methodology can be applied to other reef systems in the Caribbean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, coastal scenic beauty was assessed at 29 sites at São Miguel, which is one of the Azores Islands, i.e., a group of remote volcanic islands in the North Atlantic Ocean. The assessment was based on in situ observations and the use of the Coastal Scenic Evaluation System (CSES), which consists of a checklist with 26 physical- and anthropic-weighted parameters and the Fuzzy Logic Approach (FLA) mathematical tool. The study sites were classified into five classes according to their typology and their scenic value, ranging from Class I (natural sites of great scenic beauty) to Class V (unattractive, urbanized sites). Concerning beach typology, 13% were remote, 28% rural, 28% village, and 31% urban. Concerning scenic beauty, 10% of the sites belonged to Class I, 14% to Class II, 17% to Class III, 31% to Class IV, and 28% to Class V. The physical parameters were linked to the characteristics of the geological volcanic landscapes, and the anthropic parameters essentially reflected the presence of tourism and public services. The results of the assessment provide a scientific basis for developing a management strategy for the preservation and conservation of the coastal areas and their sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: From a recreational point of view, the sandy beaches are much frequented because they represent a space for relaxation and leisure. Due to the large number of visitors, a possible contamination of the sand by fungal microorganisms could constitute a source of transmission by potentially pathogenic saprophytic fungi. The aim of this work is to determine the biodiversity of the sand of the IFAN (Fundamental Institute of Black Africa) beach in Dakar, Senegal. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional and descriptive study during the period from August 1, 2017, to April 1, 2018 (8 months). For every month, five sand samples of about 70 g collected at different locations on the beach were cultured on Sabouraud medium using the washing technique for yeasts and non-dermatophytic filamentous fungi isolation and the Vanbreusghem trapping technique for dermatophytes isolation. Results: Out of 45 sand samples collected, all contained at least one fungal species (100% positivity). Fifty-three (53) fungal strains composed of 12 micromycetes belonging to nine (09) different genera were isolated: Aspergillus (41.51%), Cladosporium (26.42%), Penicillium (15.09%) were the most predominant. Other species recovered comprise Cryptococcus neoformans and Candida albicans with 1.89% each. Conclusion: According to our results, the sand of IFAN beach contains a great diversity of fungal species, including fungi incriminated in human pathology. Thus, it seems that the coastal sand represents an important reservoir of fungi whose role is poorly elucidated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, most seashores are experiencing increased erosion and retreat. To a large extent, this applies to coasts subjected to the influence of high-amplitude sea tides, which is extremely negatively manifested on the accumulative coasts of oceanic islands. The problem of their dynamics, the theoretical foundations of which are still in the development stage, can only be solved on the basis of wide-regional studies. This study is aimed at elucidating the specific features of the dynamics of such a coast with a case study of the key region of a large oceanic island. The main reasons for its degradation are identified, recommendations are given for stabilizing the coastline, and the development trend according to the natural scenario is considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long-term microplastics (MPs) environmental pollution trends cannot be understood only by investigating their presence on beaches. Without estimating MPs for the entire beach, comparisons between multiple beaches cannot be made. In this study, Nagasaki Prefecture was selected as the study site, we measured MPs accumulation rate to express the MPs pollution trend and weighted the measurement results to enable comparison of MPs content among multiple sandy beaches. The MPs accumulation rate in the study site was measured by periodic investigation at fixed spots. The average in the supratidal zone was 1.5 ± 0.9 mg-MPs/(m ²-sand ⋅d) (n = 15). The weighting of the MPs content in hot spots and non-hot spots by their respective areas enabled us to obtain the representative value and the dispersion of the MPs content in the entire study site. The MPs contents in the three beaches were 298 ² 144, 1,115 ± 518, and 4,084 ± 2,243 mg-MPs/(m ²-sand), respectively. Using these values, it is possible to compare the MPs contents of multiple beaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With increasing threats from climate change and direct human impacts to coastal systems, vulnerability assessment approaches have been developed to enable prioritisation of management actions. This study reviewed vulnerability assessment literature about saltmarsh, beach and mixed shoreline systems published in English. Literature searches and NVivo software were used to analyse literature available, indicative of patterns and gaps in research. Results showed thirteen different methods used in selected literature to assess vulnerability, and the most commonly used was the indices approach. In saltmarsh systems, most articles employed unique methods rather than repeating established ones, and spatial change methods were rare. The majority of research did not include definitions of vulnerability or an indication of which conceptualisation of vulnerability was being used. Most literature assessed vulnerability to climate change and sea level rise, rather than natural hazards or other human impacts. The mangrove vulnerability assessment literature was far more voluminous relative to applications to beach, saltmarsh or mixed such systems. This review identifies how future research can better assess gaps in knowledge, and progress more unified understanding of coastal vulnerability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shorelines face growing threats due to climate change and diminishing sand supply. Coastal headlands, common rocky features along coastlines, are crucial in shaping hydrodynamics and sediment transport. Yet, the influence of future climate conditions, including sea‐level rise (SLR) and intensified storm energy on complex shorelines with headlands has remained relatively unexplored. In this study, we model changes in hydrodynamics and headland bypassing under different SLR and higher storm wave scenarios. Our findings reveal the formation of circulation cells on both sides of a headland, where wave energy converges around the headland zone. Future climate conditions result in larger storm waves on the beach. However, SLR enhances nearshore currents through a landward shifting of the circulation cells, while higher storm waves intensify offshore flow currents due to the seaward movement of the cells. This effect, in turn, increases the potential for headland sediment bypassing. Plain Language Summary: Coastal headlands, prominent rocky features along open coastlines, play a crucial role in protecting nearby beaches from strong waves and erosion. They also affect how sand is exchanged between different beaches. We use a model to explore how future climate conditions including sea‐level rise (SLR) and larger storm waves influence coastal waves, littoral currents, and the transport of sand around headlands. Our findings reveal that headlands converge wave energy forming circulation flow cells. SLR results in stronger nearshore currents, driven by the landward movement of the rotating flow cells. In contrast, larger storm waves can move the rotating flow cells seaward, thereby increasing offshore current strength and the potential for sand transport around the headland. Understanding how coastal waves, flow and sediment transport change under future climate conditions will help determine coastal resilience. Key Points: The formation of circulation cells and wave energy convergence around headlands during storms reduce bottom shear stress at the beachSea‐level rise increases wave heights, currents, and bed shear stress in the nearshore because of landward shifting of the circulation cellsHigher storm waves expand the surf zone, shift circulation cells seaward, and enhance potential headland sediment bypassing [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Placer gold on beaches on either side of a major active mountain belt has strongly contrasting compositions and morphologies. Pleistocene-Holocene beach gold placers have formed along the West Coast where silver (Ag)-bearing gold has been eroded from mountains via steep rivers and glaciers, followed by rapid burial in the abundant associated coastal sediments. Deformation along transport pathways has produced flattened gold flakes, but some primary crystalline shapes are preserved. Internal deformation of particles has caused recrystallisation to fine-grained (µm scale) grain structures including mylonitic banding. However, only minor localised (µm scale) Ag leaching has occurred on some particle margins. In contrast, Pleistocene beach placers formed on the southern side of the mountains contain flattened gold particles with a complex transport history involving long-distance (hundreds of km) fluvial transport since Cretaceous. Most primary Ag has been leached from this gold during transport-related recrystallisation to fine (5–20 µm) internal grains. Sand-blasting on the southern beaches with low sediment supply has resulted in further deformation and leaching of Ag to form toroidal shapes with Ag-free delicate extremities. Placer gold which has undergone rapid transport and deposition is useful as a prospecting tool for bedrock deposits in glaciated terranes around the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The collapse of the bank slope of the floodplain in the lower reaches of the Yellow River has compressed the production space of the people in the floodplain and caused great economic losses. Therefore, based on the survey, sampling and indoor geotechnical tests of the beach from Wantanzhen to Liuyuankou, the soil composition and structural characteristics of the beach were analyzed, and the influence of water content changes to the soil strength was studied. Then, Optum G2 was used to study the influence of soil strength changes to the stability of multi-layer soil beaches. The results show that the beach bank in the section from Wantanzhen to Liuyuankou of the Yellow River is composed of clay and silt soil, and exhibits an alternating layered structure; with the increase of water content, the cohesion of clay and silt will increase first and then decrease, and the internal friction angle will gradually decrease; moisture content has a significant impact on the strength of bank slope soil, water content increases from 18% to 40%, the cohesion of the clay layer decreases by 80%, and the internal friction angle decreases by about 87%; the slope stability of the beach-bank combination decreases, and the slope stability coefficient first increases and then decreases with the increase of water content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper measured the evolution and wave data of the nourished beach, estimated the contributions of erosion amount and effective wave height to beach erosion by taking the West Beach of Beidaihe as an example. The results show that the beach has an overall erosion trend after the nourishment, with the maximum erosion height of 1.7 m. The cumulative influence of the wave height on the beach erosion is an exponential distribution. Although large waves with lower recurrence frequencies (significant wave height>0.6 m) can cause greater beach erosion, their cumulative contribution to the total beach erosion is only about 25%, while the contribution of regular waves with heights of 0.3 m to 0.6 m can reach 75%. This study can provide reference for maintaining the quality of artificial beach, and beach evolution prediction after artificial nourishment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ulee Lheue Beach in Banda Aceh was developed for tourism. The macroalgae and seaweed species found in this area have been widespread but never exploited. Among these species is the green seaweed, Ulva lactuca, commonly known as sea lettuce. The physiological variations and genetic features of the seaweed can be attributed to the variations in the coastal environment. This study aims to describe the molecular identity of the genetic diversity of U. lactuca from the intertidal zone at Ulee Lheue Beach. The development of molecular biotechnology has enabled identification the gene expression through genomic DNA to PCR amplification. Genetic distance was determined using UPGMA. The results from 600-bp fragments were analyze the genetic diversity. A total of 15 (31%) expression identified as polymorphic (>0.500). Heterozygosity (He) and allelic differential (Na) diversity were found of 1.500-3.000. The highest PIC was observed in the rbcL1, with a correlation between subpopulations of 0.459. PCR amplification using the degenerate primer rbcL1 produced fragments ranging from 300 to 460 bp, whereas the expression of UL2 was detected at 448 and 500 bp using the rbcL2 primer. The phylogenetic identify are shown two (2) clusters. The populations of UL1, UL3, and UL4 were found a close relationship. Furthermore, the UL1 and UL2 populations were further divided into distinct clusters but related to the main branch of UL3. Based on this research, the concern of U. lactuca species for industrial and biotechnology destinations, we can describe a suitable method for obtaining he genetic distances between species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the first report of plastic biomedia contamination on Brazilian beaches based on evidence collected from 14 beaches of the Paraná state coastline (southern Brazil). Plastic biomedia, also called biocarriers, are small, perforated plastic pieces used worldwide in wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) that apply the Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR) process. Accidental release of these particles into the environment adds to Ocean's long-term plastic pollution problem. A high amount of plastic biomedia presence in the coastal areas of Paraná was first noticed by a community member, who found 411 plastic particles on a beach located in Pontal do Paraná, bringing this issue to our attention. In this study, plastic biomedia was retrieved from drift line alongshore transects (0.3 to 1 km long) and cross-shore transects (5 m wide) from the water line to the backshore zone. A total of 749 items were collected from 11 of the 14 sampled beaches, including the Mel and Superagui Islands nature reserves. The decreasing trend in plastic biomedia abundance with the increase in distance of the PEC southern outlet suggests that these particles probably originate from a WWTP in the Paranaguá Estuarine Complex (PEC). Once in the water, these floating plastic particles that followed the suspended sediment transport pattern were exported to coastal waters and were transported by longshore currents. Highlighting the potential role of the PEC as a substantial vector for marine debris to the Paraná coastline. The most likely source of this novel plastic contaminant to the Brazilian coastline are WWTP with MBBR systems. Therefore, stakeholders need to discuss and establish a reporting system so that plastic biomedia spillovers or losses are reported, and its dispersal in the environment is reduced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, I expose the effect of beach areas modernization in Mexico, that is, their transformation into international tourist destinations, as well as the role they played in the introduction of new social practices, in the revolution of customs, and in the change or reinforcement of emotional regulations that would be welcomed by some national visitors. My analysis focuses on Acapulco, the first international tourist center in the country. Through the study of its evolution as a vacation destination, and a brief tour of some films of the time and tourist propaganda that took place in the mentioned port, it is possible to observe the transfer of American "beach culture" to tourists from the Mexican coasts, the role they played in the resignification of the exhibition of the semi-naked bodies of young women and in the intergender interactions between members of said age group, which would have visible effects in the 1960s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beach placer gold has been mined around the world historically, but extraction of fine (~ 100 µm) gold particles is notoriously difficult. This study illustrates morphological and mineralogical changes that transform fine gold during aeolian processes on windy beaches and contribute to mine concentration inefficiencies. Sandblasting on exposed beaches in southern New Zealand has caused extreme attenuation of edges of gold flakes that were previously transported in rivers for > 200 km. Flakes have been transformed into complex but compact toroids and spheroids with thin (~ 20 µm) internal and external strands of attenuated gold. Most of the gold within the attenuated strands has recrystallised to fine (micron-scale) undeformed grains with little or no Ag (< 1 wt%). Some coarse (> 40 µm) gold grains remain from the precursor fluvial particles, and these retain original Ag contents (1–10 wt%). These coarse grains show substantial internal crystallographic deformation and sub-grain formation, although some of these strain effects may have been inherited from fluvial transport. Co-existing detrital platinum minerals are much less malleable than gold during sandblasting and have only minor (10-µm scale) toroidal deformation on edges of fluvial flakes. The complex frameworks of the fine toroidal and spheroidal gold particles can include air, water, and clay, which lowers their average density and so they commonly float on water and are readily entrained with other heavy minerals. The fine particle size, compact shapes, and clay coatings also resist mercury amalgamation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Determining the level of solid pollution in beach sands located near artificial inland water bodies in order to maintain high safety standards is a difficult and expensive task. The tests aimed at determining beach pollution caused by solid wastes through analysis of toxic and chemical concentrations, are time-consuming and usually require several days before the results are available. In addition, the maintenance of the beach area involving beach raking or grooming, and the seasonal replenishment of sand makes it difficult to realistically determine the chemical or bacterial contamination of the tested material. Solid pollutants, such as glass, caps, cans, thick foil, metal, and plastic fragments, pose a greater health risk to beachgoers. The above-mentioned pollutants, especially small ones, are hardly visible on the surface or they are buried at shallow depths. Beach garbage poses a serious threat that can lead to infections from cuts and scratches. These injuries can become infected, further jeopardizing the health and lives of beachgoers due to risks like tetanus, staphylococcus, etc. The authors presented a new petrographic method aimed at assessing the quality of sand by examining the content of solid pollutants. The obtained results allowed us to conclude that the mentioned procedure can be used for a quick quantitative estimation of the content of potentially dangerous and undesirable pollutants in beach sands. Consequently, the method implemented to determent the amount of solid pollutants in beach sands has proven to be a valuable tool for recreational facility administrators, helping them in taking necessary measures to ensure the safety of beach users. Petrographic analysis of beach sands revealed the presence of pollutants of plant origin (0.4–1.8%), plastic (0.1–0.4%), paper (0.1–0.6%), charcoal (0.1–0.5%), glass (0.1–0.4%), metals (0.1–0.4%), rust (0.1–0.3%), ash and slag (0.1–0.3%), and fossil coals (0.1–0.2%).

Environmental pollution by microplastics (MPs) has become a growing concern, and not only professional researchers but also the citizenry are needed to understand the pollution situation and to confirm the decreasing trend of MP pollution as a result of the global reduction in plastic use. In this study, the author evaluated the accuracy of a simple method of investigating MPs on sandy beaches that can be conducted even by high school students. In a land survey using simple tools such as a tape measure and cardboard, the maximum coefficient of variation is approximately 1%. Even without heavy liquid, 89% of MPs could be recovered using only seawater. An investigation of MP content by sampling 0.5 cm of the surface layer of sand could explain more than half of the MP content when the sand was sampled to a depth of approximately 50 cm below the surface layer. A method in which the recovered MPs are not visually sorted but floating matter after boiling is considered as MPs is acceptable. If there was no concern about pumice contamination, the overestimation was approximately 1.5 times. Simple laboratory equipment such as buckets, sieves, seawater, hot plates, dryers, and electronic balances could achieve lower limits of quantification of MPs of 13 mg-MPs/m2-sand and 2 mg-MPs/kg-sand.

Searching the key words' wave-beach-dune interactions' in Web of Science, nearly 100 domestical and overseas publications since the 1980s have been analyzed and reviewed. This stuyd summarizes major advances at different temporal-spatial scales. The issues of integration between them are clarified by sorting the conceptual models and categorizing development stages. Additionally, research opportunities and challenges are identified. Studies on wave-beach-dune interactions have been initiated since 1980s and developed through the following three stages: theory proposed and improved, expansion of study areas, and in-depth exploration. The conceptual models have been developed from simple to reliable models across a range of micro-, meso-, and macro-scales. Studies were initially conducted by taking advantage of only field survey and bathymetry maps. Nowadays, collaborated technology and methods have been applied in studying coastal landforms through in-situ field monitoring, wind tunnel trial, 3S technologies, and numerical simulation. Study areas extended and expanded from southeast Australian coasts to Europe, South and North America, and Asian coasts. Although plenty of relevant reports have been published, some issues exist. Owing to their highly temporal-spatial heterogeneity, it is difficult to find a universal conceptual model for the worldwide coastal dune systems. At the micro-scale, as the complex process of wave-tide hydrological and aeolian dynamic imposed on surfzone-beach-dune and limitation of monitoring data utility, the existing theoretical model cannot completely reveal the mechanism of the terrestrial-marine interface and beach-dune landform response and feedback to wind dynamics. At the mesoscale, many mechanisms of dune response to storm surges have been proposed, but few are from the perspective of the surfzone-beach-dune as a whole system. More case studies based on observation are needed, which will benefit in-depth exploration. Furthermore, more long-term monitoring and refined models are required to build the bridge between fundamental process-response dynamics (events scale) and medium-long-term landforms topography changes and evolution. At the macroscale, given the alongshore sediment transport and supply, sea level rise rate, and landward and seaward sediment transport, prediction models of coastal geomorphological changes induced by sea level rise should be tested and supported by multi-temporal-spatial observation and monitoring data. Future studies will continue collaborating the historical reports and site monitoring techniques with high-resolution images interpretation to comprehensively understand the relationships between dynamic-response process and landforms geomorphology evolution by integration of environmental variables and surfzone, beach, and dune landforms investigation. The numerical simulation will reveal the mechanisms of wave-beach-dune interactions across micro-, meso-, and macro-scales and redefine theoretical concepts.

Abstract Shorelines face growing threats due to climate change and diminishing sand supply. Coastal headlands, common rocky features along coastlines, are crucial in shaping hydrodynamics and sediment transport. Yet, the influence of future climate conditions, including sea‐level rise (SLR) and intensified storm energy on complex shorelines with headlands has remained relatively unexplored. In this study, we model changes in hydrodynamics and headland bypassing under different SLR and higher storm wave scenarios. Our findings reveal the formation of circulation cells on both sides of a headland, where wave energy converges around the headland zone. Future climate conditions result in larger storm waves on the beach. However, SLR enhances nearshore currents through a landward shifting of the circulation cells, while higher storm waves intensify offshore flow currents due to the seaward movement of the cells. This effect, in turn, increases the potential for headland sediment bypassing.

This research endeavors to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the Community-Based Development of the Lasiana Beach Tourism Area. Employing a qualitative descriptive approach, data for this study were gathered through interviews, observation, and documentation. The research's focal points include Attractions, Accommodation, Accessibility, Awareness/Promotion, and Amenities/Supporting Facilities. The findings reveal that the development of the Lasiana Beach tourist area has yet to achieve its intended goals, and its progress has not been optimal, primarily due to the absence of diverse arts and cultural events as attractions. The inadequate provision of accommodations such as homestays, cafes, and restaurants within the vicinity further hinders the area's development. However, commendably, the road accessibility is excellent. There exists a noticeable deficiency in promotional efforts, particularly through digital and non-digital media channels and events. Additionally, the absence of supporting facilities within the area diminishes its appeal to potential tourists. This inadequacy is largely attributed to the community's limited involvement in the development of the Lasiana Beach area. To realize the full potential of Lasiana Beach as a tourist destination, it is imperative for the community to actively participate in its development. Collaborative efforts can enhance the range of attractions, improve accommodations, intensify promotional strategies, and bolster supporting facilities, ultimately fostering sustainable tourism growth in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) can be used to evaluate health risks associated with recreational beach use. This study developed a site-specific risk assessment using a novel approach that combined quantitative PCR-based measurement of microbial source tracking (MST) genetic markers (human, dog, and gull fecal bacteria) with a QMRA analysis of potential pathogen risk. Water samples (n = 24) from two recreational beaches were collected and analyzed for MST markers as part of a broader Beach Exposure And Child Health Study that examined child behavior interactions with the beach environment. We report here the measurements of fecal bacteria MST markers in the environmental DNA extracts of those samples and a QMRA analysis of potential health risks utilizing the results from the MST measurements in the water samples. Human-specific Bacteroides was enumerated by the HF183 Taqman qPCR assay, gull-specific Catellicoccus was enumerated by the Gull2 qPCR assay, and dog-specific Bacteroides was enumerated by the DogBact qPCR assay. Derived reference pathogen doses, calculated from the MST marker concentrations detected in recreational waters, were used to estimate the risk of gastrointestinal illness for both children and adults. Dose-response equations were used to estimate the probability of the risk of infection (Pinf) per a swimming exposure event. Based on the QMRA simulations presented in this study, the GI risk from swimming or playing in water containing a mixture of human and non-human fecal sources appear to be primarily driven by the human fecal source. However, the estimated median GI health risk for both beaches never exceeded the U.S. EPA risk threshold of 32 illnesses per 1,000 recreation events. Our research suggests that utilizing QMRA together with MST can further extend our understanding of potential recreational bather risk by identifying the source contributing the greatest risk in a particular location, therefore informing beach management responses and decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mismanagement of waste and subsequent presence of litter in the environment is an increasingly significant problem. Globally, rivers have been shown to be a major pathway for mismanaged waste. We investigated the distribution of macro, meso and micro litter along the Belize river basin. The North-East Atlantic OSPAR beach litter monitoring protocol was adapted for Belize, taking into account local issues such as mangroves and Sargassum sp. accumulations. On average, 77.3% of litter items consisted of plastic, and the most common items categories were unidentifiable plastic pieces (0–2.5 and 2.5–50 cm), broken glass, and metal bottle caps. The study indicated that there is an increase in the litter load as you move from catchment to coast, with both Plastic Pieces (PP) and Fishing Related (FR) items also increasing in numbers down the system. Additionally, microplastics abundance was determined in riverine sediments and in the riverine fish Cichlasoma synspilum (n = 22). All sediment samples contained microplastics, with a concentration of 200–6500 particles per kg dry sediment. Microplastics were found to be present in 36% of the riverine fish. The data from this study will provide evidence for the formation of Belizean legislation to reduce marine litter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Guatemalan strategy for sea turtle conservation was defined by the National Council of Protected Areas (CONAP) in 1989. Hatcheries lie at the core of this strategy: egg collectors are allowed to deliver 20% of a nest to a hatchery in exchange for selling or eating the remaining eggs. Consequently, nearly 100% of nests are collected, with no nests being left on the beaches. Hatchery design promotes shading using roofs made from vegetation. The logic behind this recommendation is that the natural incubation of eggs is supposedly impossible due to the overly high temperatures on the beach. However, changing the incubation temperature of sea turtle eggs can profoundly alter the sex ratio in sea turtles with temperature-dependent sex determination. It can also modify the physiology or behavior of juvenile turtles. Here, we test whether incubation in natural conditions is possible on Guatemalan beaches, and for the first time, we determine the thermal reaction norm of embryo growth to ensure hatching success in sea turtles. We show that incubation in natural conditions is possible since three out of the four monitored nests produced hatchlings. We urge the Guatemala National Council of Protected Areas to reevaluate its strategy for sea turtle conservation in Guatemala in light of these results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, coastal scenic beauty was assessed at 29 sites at São Miguel, which is one of the Azores Islands, i.e., a group of remote volcanic islands in the North Atlantic Ocean. The assessment was based on in situ observations and the use of the Coastal Scenic Evaluation System (CSES), which consists of a checklist with 26 physical- and anthropic-weighted parameters and the Fuzzy Logic Approach (FLA) mathematical tool. The study sites were classified into five classes according to their typology and their scenic value, ranging from Class I (natural sites of great scenic beauty) to Class V (unattractive, urbanized sites). Concerning beach typology, 13% were remote, 28% rural, 28% village, and 31% urban. Concerning scenic beauty, 10% of the sites belonged to Class I, 14% to Class II, 17% to Class III, 31% to Class IV, and 28% to Class V. The physical parameters were linked to the characteristics of the geological volcanic landscapes, and the anthropic parameters essentially reflected the presence of tourism and public services. The results of the assessment provide a scientific basis for developing a management strategy for the preservation and conservation of the coastal areas and their sustainable development.