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Aquatic invasive species have drastically changed how the San Francisco Estuary functions. During the past 2 decades, the effects of invasive species in the estuary may have increased in response to frequent and severe drought conditions. The invasive overbite clam (Potamocorbula amurensis), and the Asian clam (Corbicula fluminea) have well documented consequences on the estuarine food web, but their responses to drought are not well understood. Another invasive species, the jellyfish Maeotias marginata, can further affect the food web, but these effects have not been studied. We investigated the population responses of these invasive species to dry years and their potential effects on the pelagic food web using data from the Interagency Ecological Program’s monitoring surveys. We found M. marginata rapidly moves upstream with changing salinities during dry years, though it sees its highest abundance during high-outflow years in Suisun Bay and Suisun Marsh. Grazing rates of M. marginata in the estuary have not been quantified but are potentially high during localized blooms. The two invasive clams overlap in distribution, but have opposite population responses to drought conditions, with increases in P. amurensis densities and decreases in C. fluminea densities in dry years. With increasing P. amurensis densities, the clams’ combined annual filtration rates increase during drier years in the confluence and Suisun Marsh. Like M. marginata, P. amurensis also shifts upstream during droughts, but because adults cannot move immediately with a change in salinity, the population center of distribution shifts upstream the year after a dry year as a result of juvenile recruitment. If multiple dry years occur in a row, and both P. amurensis and M. marginata move upstream together, their effects on the food web could be compounded, and phytoplankton and zooplankton biomass could steeply decline in the confluence, affecting higher trophic levels in the estuary.

Lakshmanan, R.; Saravanan, R.; Kalidas, C.; Rajendran, P.; Babu, A.M.; Asha, P.S., and Joshi, K.K., 2024. Occurrence of the non-native mauve stinger, Pelagia cf. noctiluca, in coastal waters off Cape Comorin, southern Bay of Bengal. Journal of Coastal Research, 40(6), 1103–1110. Charlotte (North Carolina), ISSN 0749-0208. During a jellyfish survey in the southern Bay of Bengal, India, four scyphozoan jellyfish from the family Pelagiidae (Order: Semaeostomeae) were observed. The observed specimens were found at a depth of 1 to 2 m off the coast of Arockiapuram (8°05′ N, 77°11′ E), Cape Comorin (now Kanyakumari). The underwater photographic and video documentation with live colouration enabled the identification of the collected specimens as mauve stingers, Pelagia noctiluca (Forskal, 1775). The observed specimens have pink- or mauve-coloured hemispherical umbrellas with eight marginal tentacles that are transversely wrinkled and eight pear-shaped rhopalia. In general, P. noctiluca has a common distribution along the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Pacific Ocean; however, recordings of this species in Indian waters are considered rare and out of its documented distribution area. It has been reported earlier from Indian waters, and the nearest known distribution is from the Gulf of Mannar, Bay of Bengal. This species shows an invasive distribution in the warmer tropical environments due to its wide range of temperature tolerance. The species can be considered "invasive" as the periodic occurrence of large abundances in coastal waters occurs when this typically offshore species is advected shoreward in years when population densities appear to be exceptionally high. Consequently, it is problematic at the very periphery of its "natural range," thus differing from truly invasive species that have been introduced into a new area. The findings in this study suggest that specific hydrodynamic conditions may transport the permanent offshore population of P. noctiluca inshore, resulting in non-native outbreaks on shores. The study sheds light on the presence of the non-native oceanic mauve stinger in the Cape Comorin coastal waters in the Bay of Bengal, which alters the fisheries and tourism industries because it has a negative interaction with human recreational and coastal fishing activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Envenomation by an aquatic animal can produce distressing and occasionally life-threatening signs and symptoms. Common vectors of exposure in the US are cnidaria and venomous fish. Prompt recognition and treatment may help manage distressing symptoms, limit subsequent tissue destruction, and minimize the risk of more serious complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toxocariasis is a zoonotic parasitic infection with worldwide distribution and high impact on human health. It has a limited clinical resolution with the available drugs, making it challenging to treat. Quercetin, which possesses biological and pharmacological qualities including antiparasitic, antioxidant, and anticancer activities, is a possible substitute for the current medications. Marine invertebrates can produce a vast array of different molecules, many of which are biologically active substances with distinct characteristics. In this study, we assessed the in vitro nematocidal effect of both quercetin and venom of Cassiopea andromeda Research highlights: Biological activity of quercetin could be used as chemotherapy for larval stages of parasitic nematode.Bioactive products in jellyfish venom is positively affect the larval stage of Toxocara. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to develop bioactive protein hydrolysates from low-value edible jellyfish obtained from local fisheries using enzymatic hydrolysis. Fresh white jellyfish were hydrolyzed using several commercial proteases, including alcalase (WJH-Al), flavourzyme (WJH-Fl), and papain (WJH-Pa). The antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anticancer activities of these white jellyfish hydrolysates (WJH) were investigated. The results demonstrated that the crude WJH exhibited strong antioxidant properties, including DPPH, ABTS, and hydroxyl radical scavenging activities, as well as ferric-reducing antioxidant power. Additionally, the hydrolysates showed notable immunomodulatory activity. However, all WJH samples displayed relatively low ability to inhibit HepG2 cell proliferation at the tested concentrations. Among the hydrolysates, WJH-Pa demonstrated the highest antioxidant and immunomodulatory activities and was therefore selected for further bioactive peptide isolation and characterization. Ultrafiltration membranes with three molecular weight (MW) cut-offs (1, 3, 10 kDa) were used for peptide fractionation from WJH-Pa. Six potential peptides were identified with the MW range of 1049–1292 Da, comprising 9–12 residues, which exhibited strong antioxidant and immunomodulatory activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mutualistic relationships with photosynthetic organisms are common in cnidarians, which form an intracellular symbiosis with dinoflagellates in the family Symbiodiniaceae. The establishment and maintenance of these symbionts are associated with the suppression of key host immune factors. Because of this, there are potential trade-offs between the nutrition that cnidarian hosts gain from their symbionts and their ability to successfully defend themselves from pathogens. To investigate these potential trade-offs, we utilized the facultatively symbiotic polyps of the upside-down jellyfish Cassiopea xamachana and exposed aposymbiotic and symbiotic polyps to the pathogen Serratia marcescens. Symbiotic polyps had a lower probability of survival following S. marcescens exposure. Gene expression analyses 24 hours following pathogen exposure indicate that symbiotic animals mounted a more damaging immune response, with higher levels of inflammation and oxidative stress likely resulting in more severe disruptions to cellular homeostasis. Underlying this more damaging immune response may be differences in constitutive and pathogen-induced expression of immune transcription factors between aposymbiotic and symbiotic polyps rather than broadscale immune suppression during symbiosis. Our findings indicate that in facultatively symbiotic polyps, hosting symbionts limits C. xamachana's ability to survive pathogen exposure, indicating a trade-off between symbiosis and immunity that has potential implications for coral disease research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fatty acids (FAs) are vital biomolecules crucial for determining food quality for higher trophic levels. To investigate FA transfer and turnover time in predators, we conducted a diet switch experiment using jellyfish polyps. These polyps were fed food sources including Artemia sinica nauplii and FA‐manipulated copepod Pseudodiaptomus annandalei, maintained on distinct algal diets with varied FA compositions. Our findings reveal that copepods may have a strong potential to synthesize long‐chain polyunsaturated FA to maintain biochemical homeostasis when consuming low‐quality food. Consequently, the species‐specific fatty acid composition within plankton, combined with effects of seasonal environmental fluctuations and climate change, leads to changes in the FA composition of foundational food web components. These alterations create a complex "nutrient black box" effect as they propagate up trophic levels. Our study shows that jellyfish polyps fail to accumulate EPA and DHA but display high levels of ARA compared to their zooplankton and phytoplankton food sources, suggesting a potential association with dietary EPA and DHA through an unidentified pathway. Certain FA components indicate variations in the turnover time when polyps undergo a dietary shift. Understanding the trajectory of FA metabolism across the "phytoplankton–zooplankton" interface, along with its turnover time, provides crucial insights for modeling diet estimation of components within food webs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jellyfish populations experience fluctuations referred to as 'bloom and busts', with numbers rapidly increasing followed by their sudden disappearance. When jellyfish numbers are blooming, they have a complicated relationship with their surrounding environment (predators, competitors, but also a food source), and with humans (sting swimmers, but also source of income and food). As a result, it is important to have a precise and efficient tool for monitoring jellyfish populations. In this extended abstract, we will review studies that have used drones to monitor and track different species of jellyfish, identify the advantages and limitations across these studies, and suggest methods to be adopted when using drones to monitor jellyfish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most host-parasite associations are explained by phylogenetically conservative capabilities for host utilization, and therefore parasite switches between distantly related hosts are rare. Here we report the first evidence of a parasitic spillover of the burrowing sea anemone Edwardsiella carnea from the invasive ctenophore Mnemiopsis leidyi to two scyphozoan hosts: the native Mediterranean barrel jellyfish Rhizostoma pulmo and the invasive Indo-Pacific nomad jellyfish Rhopilema nomadica, collected from the Eastern Mediterranean Sea. Edwardsiella carnea planulae found in these jellyfish were identified using molecular analyses of the mitochondrial 16S and nuclear 18S rRNA genes. Overall, 93 planulae were found on tentacles, oral arms, and inside of the gastrovascular canals of the scyphomedusae, whereas no infection was observed in co-occurring ctenophores. DNA metabarcoding approach indicated seasonal presence of Edwardsiella sp. in the Eastern Mediterranean mesozooplankton, coinciding with jellyfish blooms in the region. Our findings suggest a non-specific parasitic relationship between Edwardsiella carnea and various gelatinous hosts based on shared functionality rather than evolutionary history, potentially driven by shifts in host availability due to jellyfish blooms. This spillover raises questions about the ecological impacts of parasitism on native and invasive scyphozoan hosts and the potential role of Edwardsiella in controlling their populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jellyfish, microorganisms, and the marine environment collectively shape a complex ecosystem. This study aimed to analyze the microbial communities associated with five jellyfish species, exploring their composition, diversity, and relationships. Microbial diversity among the species was assessed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and QIIME analysis. Significant differences in bacterial composition were found, with distinct dominant taxa in each species: Mycoplasmataceae (99.21%) in Aurelia coerulea, Sphingomonadaceae (22.81%) in Cassiopea andromeda, Alphaproteobacteria_unclassified (family level) (64.09%) in Chrysaora quinquecirrha, Parcubacteria_unclassified (family level) (93.11%) in Phacellophora camtschatica, and Chlamydiaceae (35.05%) and Alphaproteobacteria_unclassified (family level) (38.73%) in Rhopilema esculentum. C. andromeda showed the highest diversity, while A. coerulea exhibited the lowest. Correlations among dominant genera varied, including a positive correlation between Parcubacteria_unclassified (genus level) and Chlamydiaceae_unclassified (genus level). Genes were enriched in metabolic pathways and ABC transporters. The most abundant potential pathogens at the phylum level were Proteobacteria, Tenericutes, Chlamydiae, and Epsilonbacteraeota. The differing microbial compositions are likely influenced by species and their habitats. Interactions between jellyfish and microorganisms, as well as among microorganisms, showed interdependency or antagonism. Most microbial gene functions focused on metabolic pathways, warranting further study on the relationship between pathogenic bacteria and these pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phylllorhiza punctata von Lendenfeld, 1884 originates from Australia and Coral Triangle, but its occurrence has been reported in the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, so it is necessary to better understand its geographic range. Two specimens were collected in Nagasaki and Kagoshima Prefectures, Japan, and morphological and molecular studies suggest that they are P. punctata. These are the first records of the species in Japan, and it is possible that individuals have been transported to Japan by the Kuroshio Current.

Abstract Most host-parasite associations are explained by phylogenetically conservative capabilities for host utilization, and therefore parasite switches between distantly related hosts are rare. Here we report the first evidence of a parasitic spillover of the burrowing sea anemone Edwardsiella carnea from the invasive ctenophore Mnemiopsis leidyi to two scyphozoan hosts: the native Mediterranean barrel jellyfish Rhizostoma pulmo and the invasive Indo-Pacific nomad jellyfish Rhopilema nomadica, collected from the Eastern Mediterranean Sea. Edwardsiella carnea planulae found in these jellyfish were identified using molecular analyses of the mitochondrial 16S and nuclear 18S rRNA genes. Overall, 93 planulae were found on tentacles, oral arms, and inside of the gastrovascular canals of the scyphomedusae, whereas no infection was observed in co-occurring ctenophores. DNA metabarcoding approach indicated seasonal presence of Edwardsiella sp. in the Eastern Mediterranean mesozooplankton, coinciding with jellyfish blooms in the region. Our findings suggest a non-specific parasitic relationship between Edwardsiella carnea and various gelatinous hosts based on shared functionality rather than evolutionary history, potentially driven by shifts in host availability due to jellyfish blooms. This spillover raises questions about the ecological impacts of parasitism on native and invasive scyphozoan hosts and the potential role of Edwardsiella in controlling their populations.

The collection and preservation of biological material before DNA analysis is critical for inter alia biomedical research, medical diagnostics, forensics and biodiversity conservation. In this study, we evaluate an in-house formulated buffer called the Forensic DNA Laboratory-buffer (FDL-buffer) for preservation of biological material for long term at room temperature. Human saliva stored in the buffer for 8 years, human blood stored for 3 years and delicate animal tissues from the jellyfish Pelagia noctiluca comb jelly Beroe sp., stored for 4 and 6 years respectively consistently produced high-quality DNA. FDL-buffer exhibited compatibility with standard organic, salting out and spin-column extraction methods, making it versatile and applicable to a wide range of applications, including automation.

Atherosclerosis, a noncommunicable disease caused by cholesterol plaque, can cause chronic diseases. The antiplatelet medicines used in its treatment can cause complications. Marine collagen peptides can be used as a natural atherosclerosis remedy. The present study investigated the preparation and characterization of hydrolyzed collagen (HC) from jellyfish and its conjugation with black jelly mushroom extract (BJME). Their cytotoxicity and ability to prevent cholesterol-induced endothelial cell injury were also examined. HC was prepared using Alcalase or papain hydrolysis (0.2–0.4 units/g of dry matter (DM)). Higher yield, degree of hydrolysis, and antioxidant activities (AAs) were found in the HC obtained from Alcalase, especially at 0.4 units/g DM (A-0.4), compared to other processes (p < 0.05). Thus, A-0.4 was further conjugated with BJME (1–4%, w/w of HC). The HC-2%BJME conjugate showed the highest surface hydrophobicity and AAs compared to other samples. The FTIR spectra and size distribution also confirmed the conjugation between HC and BJME. When EA.hy926 endothelial cells were treated with HC or HC-2%BJME (25–1000 µg/mL), HC-2%BJME had no cytotoxicity, whereas HC at 1000 µg/mL induced cytotoxicity (p < 0.05). Both samples also exhibited protective ability against cholesterol-induced apoptosis and VE-cadherin downregulation of cells. Therefore, HC and conjugate could be natural agents for preventing atherosclerosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jellyfish venom contains a variety of compounds including several potential therapeutic properties. The present study investigates the venom of Chrysaora hysoscella jellyfish and analyzes its cytotoxic properties. The fractions of C. hysoscella jellyfish venom were purified using HPLC method, and their molecular weight was determined by SDS-PAGE method. The cytotoxic properties of the fractions were evaluated using the MTT method against HCT116 and Caco-2 cancer cell lines as well as RAW 264.7 normal cells. Based on the obtained results, the raw venom of C. hysoscella had 10 fractions with a molecular weight of 15 to 170 kilodaltons, of which fraction 2 had a strong cytotoxic effect against the studied cancer cell lines. The value of IC50 against HCT116 and Caco-2 cells was 63.21 and 64.36 μg/mL, respectively, while against RAW 264.7 cells, it was 122.88 μg/mL. The obtained results revealed the specific cytotoxic property of fraction 2 against colon cancer cells, while its cytotoxic effect on normal cells was significantly less. These results introduce the fraction 2 as a potential anticancer agent for colon cancer [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Against the background of frequent threats to the cooling water intake systems of nuclear power plants by marine organisms, this study utilized a Generalized Additive Model to investigate the correlation between jellyfish aggregations and environmental factors in the South China Sea region of the Shandong Peninsula. The results indicate that key variables affecting jellyfish resource density include year, longitude, latitude, sea surface temperature (SST), and sea surface salinity (SSS). Subsequently, the study also examined the impact of sea winds and currents on jellyfish resource density. The results suggest that the environmental conditions around marine nuclear power plants (SST, SSS, and ocean current) provide a favorable environment for jellyfish survival. In recent years, there have been frequent jellyfish outbreaks in Chinese coastal waters, significantly impacting the structure, functionality, safety, and economy of nuclear power plant cooling water intake and nearby ecosystems. Therefore, this study focuses on jellyfish outbreaks in Chinese coastal waters, particularly near the Shandong Peninsula. By analyzing jellyfish abundance data, a Generalized Additive Model integrating environmental factors reveals that temperature and salinity greatly influence jellyfish density. The results show variations in jellyfish density among years, with higher densities in coastal areas. The model explains 42.2% of the variance, highlighting the positive correlation between temperature (20–26 °C) and jellyfish density, as well as the impact of salinity (27.5–29‰). Additionally, ocean currents play a significant role in nearshore jellyfish aggregation, with a correlation between ocean currents and site coordinates. This study aims to investigate the relationship between jellyfish blooms and environmental factors. The results obtained from the study provide data support for the prevention and control of blockages in nuclear power plant cooling systems, and provide a data basis for the implementation of monitoring measures in nuclear power plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let G be a graph. Let f: V (G) → {0,1, 2, ..., k -- 1} be ai function where k ... N and k > 1. For each edge uv, assign the label f (uv) = f(u)+f (v) ~∣. f is called ktotal mean cordial labeling of G if |tmf (i) -- tmf (j)| ≤ 1, for all i, j ... {0, 1, . . ., k -- 1}, where tmf (x) denotes the total number of vertices and edges labelled with x, x ... {0,1,2, ..., k -- 1}. A graph with admit a k-total mean cordial labeling is called k-total mean cordial graph. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Gelatinous zooplankton are essential components of healthy ecosystems. Given their characteristic life cycle, ecological aspects and adaptability to a variety of oceanic conditions, these organisms are considered indicators of climate change, having particular advantages relative to other taxa. Citizen science initiatives are becoming increasingly frequent, providing data that are otherwise difficult to collect and interesting results for different taxa worldwide, allowing for example the detection of new occurrences. The ongoing citizen science program GelAvista, running since 2016, gathers data reported by observers on jellyfish occurrences in Portuguese waters, in the north-eastern Atlantic. The program has enhanced the knowledge of these organisms, providing data on biodiversity, and the dynamics of their distribution and abundance. Particular sightings of hydromedusae were received through GelAvista for mainland Portugal, close to the Tagus River, in the Lisbon Bay region. The species was morphologically and molecularly identified as Odessia maeotica, comprising its first reported occurrence in the Lisbon Bay. The details on the occurrence of the species are provided and discussed given the current knowledge of the species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Fatty acids (FAs) are vital biomolecules crucial for determining food quality for higher trophic levels. To investigate FA transfer and turnover time in predators, we conducted a diet switch experiment using jellyfish polyps. These polyps were fed food sources including Artemia sinica nauplii and FA‐manipulated copepod Pseudodiaptomus annandalei, maintained on distinct algal diets with varied FA compositions. Our findings reveal that copepods may have a strong potential to synthesize long‐chain polyunsaturated FA to maintain biochemical homeostasis when consuming low‐quality food. Consequently, the species‐specific fatty acid composition within plankton, combined with effects of seasonal environmental fluctuations and climate change, leads to changes in the FA composition of foundational food web components. These alterations create a complex “nutrient black box” effect as they propagate up trophic levels. Our study shows that jellyfish polyps fail to accumulate EPA and DHA but display high levels of ARA compared to their zooplankton and phytoplankton food sources, suggesting a potential association with dietary EPA and DHA through an unidentified pathway. Certain FA components indicate variations in the turnover time when polyps undergo a dietary shift. Understanding the trajectory of FA metabolism across the “phytoplankton–zooplankton” interface, along with its turnover time, provides crucial insights for modeling diet estimation of components within food webs.

This is the third Cochrane Corner in the International Journal of First Aid Education, provided to you by Cochrane First Aid. Like any Cochrane Corner, it summarizes the findings of a Cochrane systematic review. It is meant to give first aid trainers, laypeople providing first aid, and guideline developers direct access to highly relevant first aid-related evidence tailored to them, which they might otherwise not have access to. Additionally, this Cochrane Corner is accompanied by a visual abstract that highlights the key findings. Cochrane First Aid aims to support Cochrane’s work by disseminating Cochrane evidence to a wider audience. To find out more, we refer you to Cochrane First Aid: the next step towards evidence-based first aid and the Cochrane First Aid website (firstaid.cochrane.org). This Cochrane Corner is based on a review that investigates the benefits and harms associated with interventions aimed at treating jellyfish stings in both adults and children. The updated review was developed by the Cochrane Pain, Palliative and Supportive Care Group and is published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2023, Issue 6, DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD009688.pub3 (see www.cochranelibrary.com for information). Since Cochrane reviews are regularly updated as new evidence emerges and in response to feedback, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews should be consulted for the most recent version of the review. Both the Cochrane Corner and the visual abstract were checked by Dr. Richard G McGee, the corresponding author of this Cochrane review.

Jellyfish venoms cause different reactions in human skin after exposure. The most common skin findings are linear, urticarial, and painful eruptions at the areas of tentacular contact. Delayed and recurrent rashes may also occur less commonly. We report a case of a 45-year-old female patient who developed acute pruritic rash and burning as well as dizziness on the right arm while swimming off the Island of Sicily in the Mediterranean Sea. Our patient, who had an increase in lesions from time to time in the following weeks, was diagnosed with delayed and recurrent jellyfish dermatitis according to her history and clinical findings. She was treated with systemic antihistamines, systemic steroids and topical steroids. The lesions of our patient, whose lesions did not show significant improvement with systemic antihistamines, systemic steroids, or topical steroids, improved with topical tacrolimus. Since this picture is rare in our country, we found it appropriate to present our case to emphasize that jellyfish dermatitis should be kept in mind in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with this type of skin rash and that topical tacrolimus is effective in delayed and recurrent reactions.

Abstract Background We report a case of anaphylaxis induced by natto (fermented soybeans) allergy that occurred following dermal sensitization from a jellyfish sting. Case presentation A 49-year-old male presented to the emergency room complaining of an acute onset of erythema with pruritis that appeared while he was surfing. Given that his heart rate dropped to ~ 40 bpm without a decline in blood pressure or oxygen saturation, we suspected anaphylaxis and administered 0.5 mg of adrenaline intramuscularly. Immediately after the muscular adrenaline injection, his heart rate recovered to ~ 60–70 bpm. Conclusions The major allergen that induces natto allergy is poly(γ-glutamic acid) (PGA), which is present in its mucilage. Given that PGA is also produced by jellyfish tentacles, it can be inferred that the PGA sensitization occurred via dermal exposure to jellyfish PGA. This is an example of a food allergy induced by animal stings. As PGA is a high-molecular-weight polymer, natto allergy, despite being IgE-mediated, often presents with late-onset anaphylaxis, which typically develops half a day after digestion. PGA has a wide range of applications in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and foods. Patients may develop allergic symptoms and experience repeated anaphylaxis with no known cause. Therefore, it is important to obtain a detailed medical history and individually instruct patients suspected of being allergic to PGA to avoid PGA-containing products.

Abstract The growing interest in valorizing industrial by-products has led researchers to focus on exploring different sources and optimizing collagen extraction conditions over the past decade. While bovine hide, cattle bones, pork, and pig skins remain the most abundant collagen sources, there is a growing trend in the industrial utilization of collagen from non-mammalian species. This review explores alternative marine collagen sources and summarizes emerging trends in collagen recovery from marine sources, with a particular focus on environmentally friendly methods. Additionally, this review covers the colloidal structure-forming properties of marine collagens, including foam, film, gel, and emulsion formation. It also highlights the potential and important applications of marine collagen in various food products. Based on the currently reported marine sources, collagens extracted from fish, jellyfish, and sea cucumbers were found to have the highest yield and mostly comprised type-I collagen, while crustaceans and mollusks yielded lower percentages of collagen. Traditional extraction techniques isolate collagen based on acetic acid and pepsin treatment, but they come with drawbacks such as being time-consuming, causing sample destruction, and using solvents. Conversely, marine collagen extracted using conventional methods assisted with ultrasonication resulted in higher yields and strengthened the triple-stranded helical structures. Recently, an increasing number of new applications have been found in the food industry for marine collagens, such as biodegradable film-forming materials, colloid stabilizers, foaming agents, and micro-encapsulating agents. Furthermore, collagen is a modern foodstuff and is extensively used in the beverage, dairy, and meat industries to increase the stability, consistency, and elasticity of products. Graphical abstract

Max Egon Thiel's chapter on the ecology of rhizostomes in his review up to 1970 covered a bewildering variety of topics, many of which are the focus of other chapters in this volume: their interactions with humans; their associations with other organisms; their venoms. Although he also discussed their habitats and habits, the effects of environmental conditions on distribution, and patterns in seasonality, he paid scant attention to blooms, he did not write about their role in the wider ecosystem, and he ignored alien introductions. It is clearly impossible to comprehensively update Thiel's review in a similar vein - we don't have the space - and so we have decided to focus our efforts here on either those topics that particularly fascinated him (seasonality), or those that he did not write about (alien introductions, their role in the ecosystem). Our narrative is based on case studies of well known taxa, from which we attempt to draw patterns of commonality, where appropriate. We conclude our account with a discussion of rhizostomes as Discomedusae, and whether we should be considering them separately from semaeostomes in terms of ecology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhizostomeae research based on morphological approaches was reinforced and diversified by new techniques after the 1970s, including developing methodologies for phylogenetic analysis, the rise of the polymerase chain reaction, and the emergence of different sequencing technologies. Here, we summarize the contribution of morphological and molecular data to the study of the classification and phylogenetic relationships of Rhizostomeae in addition to the use of molecular data in studies at the population, species, and supraspecific levels. Throughout the history of the study of the Rhizostomeae systematics, morphological data have been neglected when it comes to phylogenetic inferences, which is reflected in the lack of a phylogenetic analysis of the taxa within Rhizostomeae based on phenotypic characters of the adult medusa. Concerning molecular data, ca. 3,200 nucleotide sequences are available in GenBank and are mainly used for discovering, delimiting, describing, and identifying species. Molecular approaches have also allowed species monitoring by qPCR and metabarcoding of environmental DNA, as well as unveiling the distribution and genetic diversity of jellyfish populations, shedding light on introduction events, conservation, and health of edible jellyfish stocks. Nucleotide sequences have also been key for the development of phylogenetic hypotheses that serve as basis for investigations on the origin and diversification of morphological, ecological, and behavioral traits within Cnidaria; however, despite the progress achieved, phylogenetic uncertainty still exists, especially within the formerly known superfamily Inscapulatae. Future directions in Rhizostomeae research involve generating molecular and morphological data of neglected taxa, which represents a golden opportunity to understand the evolution of Rhizostomeae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many metazoans contain molecules capable of fluorescence, which is the absorption and re-emission of light. As the anatomical distribution, or patterning, of these molecules varies across taxa, fluorescence patterns may serve as a powerful diagnostic tool in taxonomy and ecology. However, species-specific fluorescence patterns in marine invertebrates are poorly understood. Here, we show that hydrozoans exhibit diverse fluorescence patterns, which may result from molecules that are produced intrinsically or obtained from dietary sources. We surveyed 5 orders of hydrozoans, including siphonophores, hydromedusae, and hydroids, from pelagic and benthic marine environments in Bocas del Toro, Panama. Our findings show that fluorescence patterns are highly prevalent and may vary across hydrozoan species throughout development. Most hydrozoan taxa exhibited some form of fluorescence, with variation observed among life stages and body parts. Fluorescence was documented in 88% of hydromedusae (Leptothecata, Anthoathecata, Limnomedusae, and Narcomedusae), 50% of hydroids, and 75% of siphonophores. Our results illustrate how fluorescence patterns can serve as a useful diagnostic tool to explore marine biodiversity, highlighting the need for further documentation of fluorescence patterns across marine taxa and research into the molecules that underlie this phenomenon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We identified a new human voltage-gated potassium channel blocker, NnK-1, in the jellyfish Nemopilema nomurai based on its genomic information. The gene sequence encoding NnK-1 contains 5408 base pairs, with five introns and six exons. The coding sequence of the NnK-1 precursor is 894 nucleotides long and encodes 297 amino acids containing five presumptive ShK-like peptides. An electrophysiological assay demonstrated that the fifth peptide, NnK-1, which was chemically synthesized, is an effective blocker of hKv1.3, hKv1.4, and hKv1.5. Multiple-sequence alignment with cnidarian Shk-like peptides, which have Kv1.3-blocking activity, revealed that three residues (3Asp, 25Lys, and 34Thr) of NnK-1, together with six cysteine residues, were conserved. Therefore, we hypothesized that these three residues are crucial for the binding of the toxin to voltage-gated potassium channels. This notion was confirmed by an electrophysiological assay with a synthetic peptide (NnK-1 mu) where these three peptides were substituted with 3Glu, 25Arg, and 34Met. In conclusion, we successfully identified and characterized a new voltage-gated potassium channel blocker in jellyfish that interacts with three different voltage-gated potassium channels. A peptide that interacts with multiple voltage-gated potassium channels has many therapeutic applications in various physiological and pathophysiological contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The escalation of jellyfish stings has drawn attention to severe skin reactions, underscoring the necessity for novel treatments. This investigation assesses the potential of hydroxybenzoic acid derivatives, specifically protocatechuic acid (PCA) and gentisic acid (DHB), for alleviating Nemopilema nomurai Nematocyst Venom (NnNV)-induced injuries. By employing an in vivo mouse model, the study delves into the therapeutic efficacy of these compounds. Through a combination of ELISA and Western blot analyses, histological examinations, and molecular assays, the study scrutinizes the inflammatory response, assesses skin damage and repair mechanisms, and investigates the compounds' ability to counteract venom effects. Our findings indicate that PCA and DHB significantly mitigate inflammation by modulating critical cytokines and pathways, altering collagen ratios through topical application, and enhancing VEGF and bFGF levels. Furthermore, both compounds demonstrate potential in neutralizing NnNV toxicity by inhibiting metalloproteinases and phospholipase-A2, showcasing the viability of small-molecule compounds in managing toxin-induced injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The abundance of gelatinous organisms, such as salps and jellyfish, in the Adriatic Sea has significantly increased over the past decade. Environmental factors play a key role in driving this shift in abundance through rising temperatures and a consequent decrease in oxygen levels in the water, for which jellyfish have higher tolerance levels. Additionally, fisheries may contribute to the proliferation of jellyfish by diminishing their natural predators and food competitors. Pelagic trawl catch data from 2015 to 2023 acquired during MEDIAS acoustic surveys in the western Adriatic Sea were reviewed to extract information concerning the abundance and distribution of salps and jellyfish. These data were subsequently analyzed and compared with satellite environmental information to identify potential correlations. When considering environmental information related to the month of the survey, the results show two significant relationships: one between the abundance of Aequorea aequorea and average salinity and another one between the abundance of Rhizostoma pulmo and bottom temperature. Furthermore, when considering environmental data from the month preceding the survey, a relationship between the overall abundance of gelatinous organisms, salps and jellyfish together, and surface temperature was identified. Additionally, an analysis was conducted on specific hauls that almost exclusively yielded jellyfish, with the aim of identifying their echo traces. Although it was not possible to allocate one jellyfish species to a specific echo trace due to the frequent co-occurrence of more than one species, a general indication of typical backscatter for these species, with a higher response at 70 kHz, was consistently observed in all cases examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to its excellent biocompatibility and ease of biodegradation, jellyfish gelatin has gained attention as a hydrogel. However, hydrogel produced from jellyfish gelatin has not yet been sufficiently characterized. Therefore, this research aims to produce a jellyfish gelatin-based hydrogel. The gelatin produced from desalted jellyfish by-products varied with the part of the specimen and extraction time. Hydrogels with gelatin: glutaraldehyde ratios of 10:0.25, 10:0.50, and 10:1.00 (v/v) were characterized, and their cefazolin release ability was determined. The optimal conditions for gelatin extraction and chosen for the development of jellyfish hydrogels (JGel) included the use of the umbrella part of desalted jellyfish by-products extracted for 24 h (WU24), which yielded the highest gel strength (460.02 g), viscosity (24.45 cP), gelling temperature (12.70 °C), and melting temperature (22.48 °C). The quantities of collagen alpha−1(XXVIII) chain A, collagen alpha−1(XXI) chain, and collagen alpha−2(IX) chain in WU24 may influence its gel properties. Increasing the glutaraldehyde content in JGel increased the gel fraction by decreasing the space between the protein chains and gel swelling, as glutaraldehyde binds with lateral amino acid residues and produces a stronger network. At 8 h, more than 80% of the cefazolin in JGel (10:0.25) was released, which was higher than that released from bovine hydrogel (52.81%) and fish hydrogel (54.04%). This research is the first report focused on the production of JGel using glutaraldehyde as a cross-linking agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 1980, reports of deep-sea jellyfish blooms in Norwegian fjords led researchers to investigate the problem. The helmet jellyfish, Periphylla periphylla, has since migrated far north into Arctic waters. This paper examines what happened when the jellyfish blooms were noticed in 1980 from a historical and ethnographic perspective. It traces four research projects and business ideas that proposed solutions to the jellyfish problem and asks how they are representative of the ways in which humans meet the challenges of anthropogenic climate change. The paper concludes that the jellyfish problem was met with a "techno-fix" attitude that sought to "turn a problem into a resource", which eventually leads to what Julia Livingston has termed "self-devouring growth". In a final outlook, the article asks how we can engage with questions of conservation from a humanities perspective and concludes that the jellyfish story can help us to ask questions about "conservation for whom". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article investigates the usefulness of new formalist terminology for the study of integrated short fiction volumes. It adopts a case-study design: I take Janice Galloway's short story composite Jellyfish ([2015] 2019) as an example because the author experiments with new ways of writing, arranging and presenting short fiction in this volume. I explore how Caroline Levine's broad understanding of two forms (networks and rhythms) and their affordances can be brought together with different positions in short story criticism. Particular consideration shall be given to Rolf Lundén's conceptualization of the characteristic tension between the short story composite as a whole and its component parts. In short, the article analyses the complex networks and rhythms which give structure to Jellyfish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, research on hydrogel materials with a porous structure and superior water absorption capabilities significantly grown. However, the hydrogel under gravity-driven separation conditions often exhibit an unstable pore structure, poor mechanical properties, and limited functionality. To this end, this work presents a novel approach that combines a macro-micro double bionic strategy with a triple crosslinking method to develop a multifunctional alginate composite hydrogel filter (2%-SA-κ-CG-PVA-Ca2+, 2%-SKP-Ca2+ for short) with a stable pore structure and superior mechanical properties, which possessed an umbrella-shaped structure resembling that of jellyfish. The 2%-SKP-Ca2+ filter was synthesized using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as a stable structure-directing agent, and sodium alginate (SA) and κ-carrageenan (κ-CG) as polymer hydrogels. The distinctive umbrella-shaped hydrogel of 2%-SKP-Ca2+ filter, formed through the triple crosslinking method, overcomes the limitations of unstable pore structure and poor durability seen in hydrogels prepared by traditional crosslinking methods. Furthermore, the utilization of the 2%-SKP-Ca2+ filter in water treatment demonstrates its good selective permeability, excellent resistance to fouling, and extended longevity, which enables it to simultaneously achieve the multifunctional water purification and the coating of multi-substrate anti-fouling coatings. Therefore, not only does this research provide an efficient, multifunctional, highly pollution-resistant preparation method for designing a new filter, but it also confirms the application prospect of the macro-micro dual bionic strategy developed in this study in complex water treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We report a case of anaphylaxis induced by natto (fermented soybeans) allergy that occurred following dermal sensitization from a jellyfish sting. Case presentation: A 49-year-old male presented to the emergency room complaining of an acute onset of erythema with pruritis that appeared while he was surfing. Given that his heart rate dropped to ~ 40 bpm without a decline in blood pressure or oxygen saturation, we suspected anaphylaxis and administered 0.5 mg of adrenaline intramuscularly. Immediately after the muscular adrenaline injection, his heart rate recovered to ~ 60–70 bpm. Conclusions: The major allergen that induces natto allergy is poly(γ-glutamic acid) (PGA), which is present in its mucilage. Given that PGA is also produced by jellyfish tentacles, it can be inferred that the PGA sensitization occurred via dermal exposure to jellyfish PGA. This is an example of a food allergy induced by animal stings. As PGA is a high-molecular-weight polymer, natto allergy, despite being IgE-mediated, often presents with late-onset anaphylaxis, which typically develops half a day after digestion. PGA has a wide range of applications in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and foods. Patients may develop allergic symptoms and experience repeated anaphylaxis with no known cause. Therefore, it is important to obtain a detailed medical history and individually instruct patients suspected of being allergic to PGA to avoid PGA-containing products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing interest in valorizing industrial by-products has led researchers to focus on exploring different sources and optimizing collagen extraction conditions over the past decade. While bovine hide, cattle bones, pork, and pig skins remain the most abundant collagen sources, there is a growing trend in the industrial utilization of collagen from non-mammalian species. This review explores alternative marine collagen sources and summarizes emerging trends in collagen recovery from marine sources, with a particular focus on environmentally friendly methods. Additionally, this review covers the colloidal structure-forming properties of marine collagens, including foam, film, gel, and emulsion formation. It also highlights the potential and important applications of marine collagen in various food products. Based on the currently reported marine sources, collagens extracted from fish, jellyfish, and sea cucumbers were found to have the highest yield and mostly comprised type-I collagen, while crustaceans and mollusks yielded lower percentages of collagen. Traditional extraction techniques isolate collagen based on acetic acid and pepsin treatment, but they come with drawbacks such as being time-consuming, causing sample destruction, and using solvents. Conversely, marine collagen extracted using conventional methods assisted with ultrasonication resulted in higher yields and strengthened the triple-stranded helical structures. Recently, an increasing number of new applications have been found in the food industry for marine collagens, such as biodegradable film-forming materials, colloid stabilizers, foaming agents, and micro-encapsulating agents. Furthermore, collagen is a modern foodstuff and is extensively used in the beverage, dairy, and meat industries to increase the stability, consistency, and elasticity of products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The life cycle of the moon jellyfish Aurelia coerulea consists of sessile polyp and free-swimming jellyfish stages. Strobilation is a polyp-to-jellyfish transition comprising sequential segment formation (segmentation), subsequent morphogenesis into ephyrae (young jellyfish), and detachment of the ephyrae. Cell proliferation is involved in metamorphosis in various animals. In the present study, we examined the relationship between cell proliferation and strobilation in A. coerulea. To visualize cell proliferation at various stages of strobilation, 5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine labeling experiments were conducted, in which cell proliferation was distributed in the segments and prospective regions of the next segment during segmentation. Cell proliferation in segments continues during ephyra morphogenesis. Hydroxyurea, a cell-cycle inhibitor, was administered to investigate cell proliferation in animals at different stages of strobilation. In this study, hydroxyurea interrupted the initiation of strobilation, segmentation, and ephyra morphogenesis, but not ephyra detachment. This suggests that cell proliferation plays a crucial role in generating a new segment and constructing the ephyra body. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jellyfish (JF) are essential to marine ecosystems. However, JF that increases rapidly can have negative effects. On 3-4 August 2022, a significant JF (Lobonemoides robustus Stiasny, 1920) bloom was observed along Cox's Bazar coast (from Najdirartek to Sabrang) in Bangladesh. The goal of the current investigation was to identify the fatty acids (FAs) and amino acids (AAs) of L. robustus. The AAs were determined using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis, while the FAs were determined using a gas chromatographic system with a flame ionisation detector. The most prevalent AA was glycine. The most common FA was linoleic acid (C18:3) (0.43%), followed by myristic acid (0.12%), cis-9-oleic acid (0.18%), gamma-linolenic acid (0.24%), and heptadecanoic acid (0.29%). Based on its AA and FA contents, L. robustus can be a great candidate for the potentially sustainable manufacture of nutraceutical, cosmeceutical, and biomedical natural products to improve health and well-being. In addition, the edible L. robustus could be exported to other countries, thus way it can play a major role in achieving a blue economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the moral dimensions of the planet’s challenges by examining the intersection of environmental ethics, metaphorical expressions, and geography in the context of the escalating climate crisis. The study employs the jellyfish metaphor and geographical ethics to link theoretical ethical issues with real-world societal behaviours. The study emphasizes the need to contextualize metaphors like climate change and jellyfish resilience to make them more relevant in real-world situations. This approach represents a shift in societal attitudes toward sustainable coexistence, emphasizing the use of metaphors to promote environmental consciousness and ethical action. The study aims to strongly promote ethical behaviour and environmental awareness.

Jellyfish venoms cause different reactions in human skin after exposure. The most common skin findings are linear, urticarial, and painful eruptions at the areas of tentacular contact. Delayed and recurrent rashes may also occur less commonly. We report a case of a 45-year-old female patient who developed acute pruritic rash and burning as well as dizziness on the right arm while swimming off the Island of Sicily in the Mediterranean Sea. Our patient, who had an increase in lesions from time to time in the following weeks, was diagnosed with delayed and recurrent jellyfish dermatitis according to her history and clinical findings. She was treated with systemic antihistamines, systemic steroids and topical steroids. The lesions of our patient, whose lesions did not show significant improvement with systemic antihistamines, systemic steroids, or topical steroids, improved with topical tacrolimus. Since this picture is rare in our country, we found it appropriate to present our case to emphasize that jellyfish dermatitis should be kept in mind in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with this type of skin rash and that topical tacrolimus is effective in delayed and recurrent reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, three genes associated with the metabolism of Pampus argenteus, namely dehydropeptidase (dp), carboxypeptidase A (cpa), and sulfotransferase (sult), were cloned and evaluated using transcriptomics analysis, and their functions in the digestion and absorption of jellyfish were discussed. First, full-length cDNA sequences for dp1, cpa2l, and sult2 were cloned using RACE and confirmed using sequencing. The total length of the dp1 was 2 522 bp, with this transcript including an open reading frame (ORF) of 1 272 bp, a signal peptide composed of 23 amino acids, and an amide hydrolase superfamily domain. The cpa2l transcript was 1 421 bp long and encoded a 1 260 bp ORF. This protein consisted of a signal peptide of 16 amino acids and was characterized by a typical M14 metal carboxypeptidase family domain. sult2 was 1 834 bp in length, producing an ORF of 714 bp, which included a typical sulfatase domain. In addition, homology evaluations of these three P. argenteus genes revealed that they were most similar to the bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii), and phylogenetic tree analysis showed that dp1, cpa2l, and sult2 were all closely related to their corresponding genes from T. maccoyii. RT-qPCR was then used to evaluate the expression levels of these three genes in different tissues and the changes in expression patterns in response to jellyfish ingestion. These experiments revealed that dp1 expression was naturally the highest in the liver (P < 0.05) and significantly increased in the brain, gills (P < 0.01), midgut, and kidney (P < 0.05), but significantly decreased in the muscle (P < 0.05) when compared to that in the non-feeding control. cpa2l expression was highest in the middle intestine in the non-jellyfish feeding group and the kidney in the jellyfish feeding group (P < 0.05) and was shown to be significantly increased in the liver (P < 0.01) but significantly decreased in the midgut and muscle (P < 0.01) when compared to that in the non-feeding group. sult2 expression was highest in the liver (P < 0.05) and significantly increased in the midgut, brain, gill, liver, and kidney in the feeding group compared to that in the non-feeding group (P < 0.05). Taken together, these results suggest that dp1, cpa2l, and sult2 play important roles in nutrient digestion, absorption, and metabolism in P. argenteus, especially in response to jellyfish feeding. In addition, the results of the tissue expression patterns for each of these genes following jellyfish ingestion suggest that dp1 is primarily involved in the regulation of digestion, absorption, and nutrient deposition; cpa2l is involved in the regulation of nutrient metabolism in the liver; and sult2 may play an important role in the overall process of digestion, absorption, and metabolism.

This study aimed to develop bioactive protein hydrolysates from low-value edible jellyfish obtained from local fisheries using enzymatic hydrolysis. Fresh white jellyfish were hydrolyzed using several commercial proteases, including alcalase (WJH-Al), flavourzyme (WJH-Fl), and papain (WJH-Pa). The antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anticancer activities of these white jellyfish hydrolysates (WJH) were investigated. The results demonstrated that the crude WJH exhibited strong antioxidant properties, including DPPH, ABTS, and hydroxyl radical scavenging activities, as well as ferric-reducing antioxidant power. Additionally, the hydrolysates showed notable immunomodulatory activity. However, all WJH samples displayed relatively low ability to inhibit HepG2 cell proliferation at the tested concentrations. Among the hydrolysates, WJH-Pa demonstrated the highest antioxidant and immunomodulatory activities and was therefore selected for further bioactive peptide isolation and characterization. Ultrafiltration membranes with three molecular weight (MW) cut-offs (1, 3, 10 kDa) were used for peptide fractionation from WJH-Pa. Six potential peptides were identified with the MW range of 1049–1292 Da, comprising 9–12 residues, which exhibited strong antioxidant and immunomodulatory activities.

This study explores the moral dimensions of the planet's challenges by examining the intersection of environmental ethics, metaphorical expressions, and geography in the context of the escalating climate crisis. The study employs the jellyfish metaphor and geographical ethics to link theoretical ethical issues with real-world societal behaviours. The study emphasizes the need to contextualize metaphors like climate change and jellyfish resilience to make them more relevant in real-world situations. This approach represents a shift in societal attitudes toward sustainable coexistence, emphasizing the use of metaphors to promote environmental consciousness and ethical action. The study aims to strongly promote ethical behaviour and environmental awareness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IoT-Fog computing provides a wide range of services for end-based IoT systems. End IoT devices interface with cloud nodes and fog nodes to manage client tasks. Critical attacks like DDoS and other security risks are more likely to compromise IoT end devices while they are collecting data between the fog and the cloud layer. It's important to find these network vulnerabilities early. By extracting features and placing the danger in the network, DL is crucial in predicting end-user behavior. However, deep learning cannot be carried out on Internet of Things devices because to their constrained calculation and storage capabilities. In this research, we suggest a three-stage Deep Hybrid Detection Model for Attack Detection in IoT-Fog Architecture. Improved Z-score normalization-based data preparation will be carried out in the initial step. On the basis of preprocessed data, features like IG, raw data, entropy, and enhanced MI are extracted in the second step. The collected characteristics are used as input to hybrid classifiers dubbed optimized Deep Maxout and Deep Belief Network (DBN) in the third step of the process to classify the assaults based on the input dataset. A hybrid optimization model called the BMUJFO (Blue Monkey Updated Jellyfish Optimization) technique is presented for the best Deep Maxout training. Additionally, the suggested model produced higher accuracy, precision, sensitivity, and specificity results, with values of 95.26 percent, 94.84%, 96.28%, and 97.84%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rhizostomatid scyphozoan Rhopilema nomadica is one of the most notorious marine invasive species established in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. Using seven microsatellite loci, here, we examined the population genetic structures on 587 individual tissue samples collected from 21 sites along the Mediterranean coast of Israel over a period of 16 years. The results indicate unique microsatellite landscapes for all samples, which belong to a single unstructured population. The >20 alleles found in most loci, low fixation index (F) values (average 0.106), and high heterozygosity (average 0.667) suggest random or assortative mating. Additionally, the low overall differentiation (Fst) values (0.043) and pairwise Fst values between the samples collected in different years indicated gene flow and random mating over the years, potentially due to the long-lasting podocytes, scyphistomae, and adults causing a population overlap between the sampled months/years. Likewise, analyses were conducted between seasons, sites, and early/intermediate/late periods of collecting years. These results support the previous analyses performed on the mitochondrial gene cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) sequences, altogether indicating a highly polymorphic single unstructured R. nomadica population in the Levant, possibly backed by independent introductions. The results hint to the existence of highly functional connectivity with a genetically highly diverse source population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Power system stability relies heavily on load frequency control (LFC) because it ensures that the power generated in a grid matches the load demand. The conventional LFC methods are no longer adequate with the rising use of renewable energy sources like wind and solar power. These resources are intermittent, and their power output varies depending on weather conditions. As a result, incorporating renewable energy resources (RERs) into the LFC system necessitates a different approach. One method is to use advanced control algorithms that can respond quickly to changes in power output. Hence, this article proposes an autoencoder‐based jellyfish optimization developed in this framework to reduce the power outage and control voltage and frequency fluctuations. The LFC system can be optimized by combining autoencoder and jellyfish optimization techniques to effectively handle the variability and unpredictability of RERs while maintaining the power system's stability and reliability. This approach may also result in more efficient and cost‐effective power system operation by reducing the need for conventional power generation and minimizing the impact of RERs on the system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jellyfish are one of the earliest example of animal that actively regulate swimming, but the mechanisms governing the locomotion are still a matter of research. Jellyfish obtain locomotion by activating the subumbrellar muscle layer. Sensory inputs trigger the contraction of the bell and the fluid-structure interaction effects driving locomotion. These have been extensively studied, whereas a representation of the full neuro-mechanical locomotion chain, with focus on the actuation-locomotion dynamics, has not been proposed yet. A model of such a complex multi-physical phenomenon would be informative for several purposes, ranging from the comprehension of behavioral aspects to the design of soft actuators and bio-inspired devices. In this regard, we propose a computational framework to address the coupled electrophysiological, elastic, and fluid aspects of the locomotion of the Scyphozoan group. This relies on the sequential coupling of segregated solvers, such that each sub-problem can be addressed with the most computationally effective technique. The spatial discretization is addressed by isogeometric analysis for the electrophysiological and elastic sub-problems, and by finite differences for the fluid sub-problem. The active strain approach allows to distribute the active contraction of radial and coronal muscle fibers following the biological architecture. The inherent multi-scale nature of the model is addressed by means of a nested grid approach and multiple time-advancement lines. In view of a reasonable computational effort, we enforce the hypothesis of axial symmetry limiting the number of degrees of freedom used in the simulations. The effectiveness of the scheme employed for each sub-problem is verified against different test-cases of engineering and biologic inspiration. Finally, we carry out an extensive comparison between the simulation output and the in-vivo measurements on a 3-cm specimen of Aurelia Aurita. • Formulation of an axisymmetric model for the straight propulsion of jellyfish. • Coupling of a neuronal excitation model with a fluid-structure computational framework. • Flexible handling of coupled sub-problems by staggered time schemes and nested grids. • Tuning an active-strain approach to replicate high-fidelity muscle contractions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]