extreme biology Flashcards

1
Q

what is a virus?

A

‘a virus is a piece of bad news wrapped in a protein’ -sir peter medawar (nobel laureate)

a virus is a small parasite that cannot reproduce by itself. Once it infects a susceptible cell, however, a virus can direct the cell machinery to produce more viruses

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2
Q

give some details on the porcone circovirus. (diameter, what it infects, how many nucleotides, antibody size, mRNA length)

A

> only 17nm diameter
infects pigs
1759 nucleotides ssDNA genome
antibody size: 10-15nm
median length of mRNA is 2787 bases

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3
Q

viroids

A

> only RNA 250-400 nucleotides
infect plants
no proteins encoded

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4
Q

how big is E.coli?

A

~500nm wide and 1000-2000nm long
genome 4.6Mb

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5
Q

how many different viruses are there?

A

9110 species (virus taxonomy; 2020 release)
14690 species (virus taxonomy; 2023 release)

*most viruses are still unknown

estimated 10^31 viruses on Earth (for comparison 10^22-10^24 stars in the universe)

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6
Q

how many viruses genotypes are in human faeces? 200 litres of water? marine sediment? seawater?

A

~1000 genotypes in human faeces

~5000 genotypes/200L of water

marine sediment sample between 10,000 and 1 million viral genotypes

~10million virus-like particles (VLPs) per ml of seawater

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7
Q

what are VPLs?

A

virus-like particles

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8
Q

give examples of viruses and the deaths per year and fatality rate they have.

A

virus vs deaths/year
HIV 1.1 million
Hep C 700K
Hep B 686K
Influenza >250K
Rotavirus 215K
Measles >130K
Hep A 100K
Chikungunya/dengue/yellow fever >50K

virus vs case fatality rate
rabies ~100%
variola major (smallpox) ~95%
ebola ~83-90%
HIV 80-90%
Lujo 80%
Herpes B </= 70%
Influenza A (H5N1) 60%
Marbug 23-90%

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9
Q

how many viruses infect humans?

A

263 virus species are known to be able to infect humans

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10
Q

how are viruses classified?

A

Baltimore classification

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11
Q

describe Baltimore classification

A

I: (dsDNA)
genome structure= mostly linear, genome size=5-2,500 kb,
no genome segmentation

II: (ssDNA)
genome structure=mostly circular,
genome size= 1.7-25 kb,
mostly nonsegmented

III: (dsRNA)
genome structure= linear,
genome size=4-30 kb,
mostly segmented

IV: ((+)RNA)
genome structure=linear,
genome size=3.5-40 kb,
mostly nonsegmented but many segmented

V ((-)RNA) genome structure=mostly linear,
genome size=1.7-20 kb,
roughly half segmented

VI ((+)RNA,RT
genome structure= linear
genome size= 5-13 kb
nonsegmented

VII dsDNA,RT
genome structure=circular
genome size=3-10 kb
nonsegmented

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12
Q

what is RT?

A

A reverse transcriptase (RT) is an enzyme used to convert RNA genome to DNA, a process termed reverse transcription.

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13
Q

symbiotic viruses

A

Symbiosis can be obligate, meaning that the relationship is required for the survival of one or both partners, or non-obligate. Viruses are obligate symbionts in that they cannot replicate outside their hosts.

e.g. parasitic wasps
wasp inject egg and polydnavirus virions into host

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14
Q

what is a parasite?

A

an organism that lives in or on an organism of another species (its host) and benefits by deriving nutrients at the other’s expense

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15
Q

discuss malaria

A

Malaria is a life-threatening disease spread to humans by some types of mosquitoes. It is mostly found in tropical countries. It is preventable and curable. The infection is caused by a parasite and does not spread from person to person.
Malaria is caused by protozoa of the genus Plasmodium
Malaria infection begins when an infected female Anopheles mosquito bites a person, injecting Plasmodium parasites, in the form of sporozoites, into the bloodstream. The sporozoites pass quickly into the human liver. The sporozoites multiply asexually in the liver cells over the next 7 to 10 days, causing no symptoms.

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16
Q

discuss the importance of thermoregulation

A

allows organs and bodily processes to work effectively

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17
Q

discuss how hot and cold environments effect thermoregulation

A

Thermoregulation is the body’s process of maintaining its core temperature within a narrow, optimal range, generally around 37°C (98.6°F) in humans. Hot and cold environments place significant stress on thermoregulation, leading the body to adapt using physiological and behavioral mechanisms to maintain a stable internal temperature. Here’s a breakdown of the effects and responses in both types of environments:

Effects of Hot Environments on Thermoregulation
In hot environments, the main threat is hyperthermia, where the body’s internal temperature rises above the safe range. To counteract this, the body activates several cooling mechanisms:

Sweating: The primary cooling mechanism in humans is sweating. As sweat evaporates from the skin’s surface, it cools the body. This process, however, can lead to dehydration if fluids aren’t replaced, impacting the body’s ability to maintain thermoregulation.

Vasodilation: Blood vessels near the skin surface widen, allowing more blood to flow to the skin where heat can be lost to the environment. This radiative heat loss lowers core temperature but may cause drops in blood pressure if prolonged, sometimes leading to heat-related issues like dizziness or fainting.

Behavioral Changes: People tend to seek shade, drink cool water, wear light clothing, and reduce activity levels to avoid overheating. Behavioral adjustments are a crucial part of thermoregulation in extreme heat.

Risks of Prolonged Heat Exposure: Prolonged exposure to high temperatures without adequate cooling can overwhelm the body’s thermoregulatory system, leading to heat exhaustion, heat cramps, or potentially fatal heatstroke. Heatstroke occurs when body temperature exceeds 40°C (104°F) and the body can no longer cool itself effectively.

Effects of Cold Environments on Thermoregulation
In cold environments, the primary concern is hypothermia, where the body’s core temperature drops below the safe range. The body’s thermoregulatory mechanisms shift to conserve heat and generate warmth:

Shivering: Muscles contract rapidly to generate heat through movement. Shivering is effective for short-term heat production but can be energetically costly and tiring, limiting its long-term effectiveness.

Vasoconstriction: Blood vessels near the skin constrict, reducing blood flow to the skin and extremities to minimize heat loss. This helps retain heat in the body’s core, but it can cause frostbite in extremities like fingers, toes, and ears if temperatures are very low.

Non-shivering Thermogenesis: In prolonged cold exposure, the body can generate heat by metabolizing brown adipose tissue, a type of fat specialized for heat production. This mechanism is especially prevalent in infants, though adults retain some capacity.

Behavioral Adjustments: People instinctively bundle up in layers, seek shelter, or huddle together to conserve warmth. This behavior supports the body’s physiological responses by adding insulation and reducing exposure to cold air.

Risks of Prolonged Cold Exposure: If the body’s heat loss continues to outpace heat production, hypothermia can set in. Mild hypothermia causes symptoms like shivering and mental confusion, while severe hypothermia can be life-threatening, impairing heart and brain function.

Summary
Both hot and cold environments challenge thermoregulation through stress on the body’s ability to maintain homeostasis. The body relies on physiological adaptations like sweating, shivering, vasodilation, and vasoconstriction, alongside behavioral responses to counterbalance the extreme temperatures. However, the effectiveness of these mechanisms has limits; prolonged or extreme exposures can overwhelm them, posing serious health risks such as heatstroke or hypothermia. Proper hydration, insulation, and environmental control are essential to assist thermoregulation in these conditions

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18
Q

discuss the challenges of excersising in hot and cold environments

A

Exercising in extreme temperatures stresses the body’s thermoregulation system, impacting performance and safety.

In Hot Environments:
Dehydration: Sweating increases to cool the body, but fluid loss risks dehydration, impairing endurance and raising the risk of heat illness.
Heatstroke Risk: High temperatures can lead to overheating if the body can’t cool down quickly enough, causing heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
Reduced Performance: Increased heart rate and energy use for cooling leave less energy for exercise, reducing performance and stamina.
In Cold Environments:
Heat Loss: Cold air pulls heat from the body, risking hypothermia. Blood flow to muscles is reduced, which may decrease strength and flexibility.
Muscle Stiffness: Cold causes muscles to stiffen, increasing the risk of injury and limiting performance.
Reduced Coordination: Numbness in extremities from the cold can impact coordination, further increasing injury risk.

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19
Q

discuss strategies to cope with exercising in the heat and cold

A

Strategies for Exercising in the Heat:
Hydrate Regularly: Drink water before, during, and after exercise to prevent dehydration.
Time Your Workouts: Exercise during cooler parts of the day, like early morning or evening.
Dress Lightly: Wear breathable, moisture-wicking clothing to stay cool.
Acclimate Gradually: Slowly increase exercise intensity in the heat to help the body adapt.
Strategies for Exercising in the Cold:
Layer Up: Use layers that can be removed as you warm up; wear moisture-wicking inner layers to stay dry.
Warm Up Thoroughly: Take extra time to warm up to prevent stiff muscles and reduce injury risk.
Stay Hydrated: Cold air can still cause dehydration, so drink water regularly.
Cover Extremities: Wear gloves, hats, and insulated socks to protect from frostbite.

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20
Q

what range of temperature can a human tolerate?

A

a protected human can tolerate environmental temperatures ranging from ~50 - 100 degrees Celsius; goal is to maintain core temperature

thermal comfort:
- core temperature between 36.6 and 37.1 degrees celcius
- skin temperature between 32 and 35.5 degrees celcius

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21
Q

what factors contribute to heat gain and heat loss?

A

(maintaining heat balance)
heat gain; BMR, muscular activity, hormones, dietary-induced thermogenesis, postural changes, environment
heat loss; radiation, conduction, convection, evaporation

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22
Q

what factors contribute to heat loss of the body?

A

radiation
conduction
convection
evaporation

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23
Q

what drop and rise of core body temperature can a person tolerate?

A

person can tolerate (just) a drop of 10 degrees celcius in CORE body temperature, but only a 5 degrees celcius rise

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24
Q

how do you measure deep core temperature?

A

oral temperature averages ~0.56 degrees Celcius less than core temperature
- oral measures does not reflect deep core temp

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25
what is the role of the hypothalamus in reacting to changes in heat balance? and where is it located?
> located at the base of the brain above the pituitary glands (approx. the size of a pea) > major role is to keep the body in homeostasis > responds to signals from internal and external environment: e.g. temperature, hormone levels in the circulation, satiety, blood pressure > initiates responses to protect the body when core temperature changes serves as a thermostat: regulates core temperature to 37+/- degrees celcius
26
what activate the heat regulating mechanisms or the hypothalamus?
1. thermal receptors in the skin provide information about surface temperature of the body 2. temperature changes in blood perfusing the hypothalamus
27
heat acclimatisation
physiological changes that improve heat tolerance
28
what are strategies to cope with exercise in the heat?
goal to reduce core temperature when exercising in the heat - increase rate of heat loss (i.e. increase sweat rate)
29
what are the primary acclimatisation adaptations to heat?
- increased sweat rate - reduced core temp - reduced HR 9 consecutive days of heat exposure 100 min per exposure intensity; 300kcal/hr temp; 48.9 degrees celcius
30
what responses do exposure to the cold cause?
- vascular - muscle activity - hormonal
31
discuss action potentials, power output in muscles and VO2 max in terms of cold exposure.
1. action potentials - at a tissue temperature of ~20 degrees celcius, conduction velocity, amplitude and repolarisation of action potentials is slowed 2. power output (in the muscle) - max power output drops by ~3% per degrees celcuis reduction in muscle temp. -incapacitation can occur at a mucle temp of 27 degrees celcius 3. VO2 max - reduced by 10-30% if core temp falls by 0.5-2 degrees celcius - in exercise stride frequency can increase/stride length decrease leading to slips and falls
32
what is VO2 max?
VO2 max, or maximal oxygen consumption, refers to the maximum amount of oxygen that an individual can utilize during intense or maximal exercise. This measurement is generally considered the best indicator of cardiovascular fitness and aerobic endurance
33
at what tissue temperature does conduction velocity, amplitude and repolarisation of action potentials slow?
~20 degrees celcius
34
by what percentage does the max power muscle output per degrees reduction in muscle temp?
mac power output (in muscles) drops by ~3% per degrees celcius reduction in muscle temperature
35
at what muscle temperature can incapacitation occur?
~27 degrees celcius
36
what core temperature drop reduced VO2 max by 10-30%?
VO2 max reduced by 10-30% if core temp fall by 0.5-2 degrees celcius
37
discuss wind chill including the different degrees and treatment
(cold injury) - begins at ambient temp of ~12 degrees celcius wind speed>5mph - frostbite (freezing of tissue & formation of ice crystals) 1st degree; damage to superficial layer of the skin 2nd degree; blister on the skin 3rd degree; freezing of deeper tissue (subcutaneous and muscle) treatment 1st; simple re-warming 2nd; leave the blisters 3rd; hospitalisation (can result in amputation of effected area)
38
what is frostbite?
freezing of tissue and formation of ice crystals
39
discuss clothing in regards to wind chill
- fibres in clothing traps air and warms it (creates barrier to heat loss) - thicker zone of trapped air next to skin provides better insulation - several layers traps air better (or thick clothing lined with fur/feathers/synthetic fibres) - be windproof - wick moisture away from body (to then evaporate)
40
what happens when walking in cold wet conditions?
initial rise in core temp (peripheral vasoconstriction, shunting of blood to core) ' theres no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothing' - billy connolly
41
what is the giant-impact hypothesis?
it has been proposed that earth collided with a mars-sized planet around 4.5 billion years ago, something that would help explain its tilted axis
42
what are some of earth's biomes?
ice and snow tundra taiga montane temp, coniferous temp, broadleaf temp, grasslands trop. coniferous rainforest dry broadleaf trop. grasslands Mediterranean mangroves flooded grassland desserts
43
what does migration allow animals to do?
in highly seasonal climatic regions annual migration can help animals avoid the harshest time each year
44
what are the three types of migration and their meaning?
1. obligate annual migration; all individuals migrate each year, usually to the same general areas 2. irruptive migration opportunistic movements that are determined by the local conditions 3. partial migration a part of the population migrates, the remaining stays, but pattern is annual and generally fairly regular
45
what is obligate annual migration?
all individuals migrate each year, usually to the same general areas
46
what is irruptive migration?
opportunistic movements that are determined by the local conditions
47
what is partial migration?
a part of the population migrates, the remaining stays, but pattern is annual and generally fairly regular
48
discuss the historic views on bird migration.
- samoan and greek descriptions of migration of birds dates as far back as over 3000 years ago - aristole had an interesting view on cranes 'cranes migrate from the steppes of Scythia to the marsh-lands south of Egypt, where the Nile has its source. And it is here that they are said to fight with the pygmies; and the story is true, as there is actually a race of cave dwelling dwarfish men, and their horses are little in proportion too' - the exiled swedish archbishop Olaus Magnus moved the crane story to Greenland he also said that swallows spend their winter in lakes - hard evidence came in 1822 when the famous Pfeilstorch (arrow stork) was caught in Germany with a central African spear buried in its throat
49
what is a way which allows smaller animals to escape the cold?
thick snow forms an excellent insulating layer providing smaller animals and escape the habitat under the snow is called the subnivean zone and stays around 0 degrees celcius
50
what is the habitat under the snow called and what temperature is it?
subnivean zone ~ 0 degrees celcius
51
to what animals is the subnivean zone not accessible to?
not accessible to large animals or those that need large territories to find food
52
to what animals is the subnivean zone accessible to and when is it used?
to smaller animals some stay below all winter and others only shelter overnight or during bad weather
53
what does static insulation need in terms of conserving valuable heat?
(different materials are different in their ability to conduct heat; as well as cold) - static insulation will need modulation
54
what is thermal conductivity and give an example of a material which is very thermal conductive.
the ability of a substance to conduct heat or move heat from one location to another without the movement of the material conducting the heat. diamond - 1000 copper- 400 iron- 75
55
what is static insulation ?
Designed to support performance in extreme cold, these layers keep you warm and dry in temperatures as low as 0°F while minimizing encumbrance. Powerful weather protection keeps out the rain, wind, and snow, and breathable insulation ensures that staying warm doesn't mean getting sweaty. Static insulation refers to insulation materials and systems that rely on physical barriers to resist heat flow without the need for active components like fans or heaters.
56
what is counter-current heat exchange and give an example?
two liquids of different concentration to flow in opposing directions improves any transfer. *Counter-current heat exchange is an efficient method of heat transfer that optimizes temperature gradients, resulting in higher efficiency and effectiveness. found across the animal kingdom, e.g. in gills and kidneys to maximise their efficiency Fish Gills: Fish use counter-current exchange to maximize oxygen absorption from water. Blood flows in the opposite direction to water passing over the gills, allowing the blood to absorb the maximum amount of oxygen, even when oxygen levels in the water are low.
57
explain regional fine-tuning
a rounded body-shape helps to minimise heat-loss, but inevitable some parts need to be thin and will also be more exposed to minimise any heat-loss, extremities are frequently keep at lower temperatures than that of the body core
58
how is heat loss minimised in physiology of an organism?
a rounded body-shape helps to minimise helps to minimise heat-loss, but inevitable some parts need to be thin and will also be more exposed to minimise any hear-loss, extremities are frequently keep at lower temperatures than that of the body core ** A rounded body shape minimizes heat loss by reducing the surface area-to-volume ratio, which limits the area through which heat can escape relative to the body’s size. This is why animals in cold environments, like seals or polar bears, tend to have more compact, rounded bodies—they retain heat more effectively. However, certain body parts, such as limbs, tails, and even extremities like ears, must be thin or elongated for functionality, movement, and balance. These thinner areas are more exposed and have a higher surface area-to-volume ratio, which means they lose heat more readily than the body core.
59
what are endothermic fish and what is regional heterothermy?
tuna and some sharks. regional heterothermy is used by some large predatory fish, this helps them to keep their swimming muscles, brains and eyes working more effectively than their ectothermic prey. organisms that are able to maintain different temperature "zones" in different regions of the body.
60
why aren't all fish endotherms?
- the different thermal properties of water and air makes it much more energetically expensive to be an endotherm in water - in nature, everything comes down to a balance between both costs and gains - early theories suggested that endothermy in fish would have enables them to spread towards colder polar seas - a recent survey of large marine predators showed that endotherms indeed dominate in polar regions, but this niche is typically occupied by marine mammals, not fish
61
endotherms vs ectotherms
Endotherms use internally generated heat to maintain body temperature. Their body temperature tends to stay steady regardless of environment. Ectotherms depend mainly on external heat sources, and their body temperature changes with the temperature of the environment.
62
discuss how fish and some insects deal with very low temperatures
the blood of marine fish have a lower osmotic concentration than seawater, therefore it freezes at -0.5 degrees celcius while the surrounding water freezes at ~-2 degrees celcius. since frozen water increases its volume, fish in polar seas face a lethal problem *Marine fish in polar seas face a unique survival challenge because their blood has a lower osmotic concentration than seawater, meaning it freezes at around -0.5°C. Seawater, due to its high salt content, has a lower freezing point of about -2°C. This creates a lethal situation: if the fish’s blood or bodily fluids begin to freeze, the ice crystals could expand within their tissues. Ice formation increases the volume of water, which could rupture cells and tissues, causing fatal damage to the fish. insects; on land, insects face the same problem, and both groups have evolved the same solution to survive. ANTI-FREEZE proteins these proteins bind to small ice crystals, even low concentration inhibit freezing AFPs have evolved independently many time across the animal kingdom and are a great example of convergent evolution
63
what is a good example of convergent evolution?
AFPs (anti-freeze proteins) have evolved independently many times across the animal kingdom and are a great example of convergent evolution *the process whereby distantly related organisms independently evolve similar traits to adapt to similar necessities.
64
what is convergent evolution?
the process whereby distantly related organisms independently evolve similar traits to adapt to similar necessities.
65
discuss anti-freeze proteins
these proteins bind to small ice crystals, even a low concentration inhibit freezing. AFPs have evolved independently many times across the animal kingdom and are a great example of convergent evolution. produced in some fish and insects Many polar fish produce antifreeze proteins, which bind to small ice crystals in their body fluids and prevent them from growing. These proteins work by inhibiting the formation and expansion of ice crystals, allowing the fish’s blood to remain in a liquid state even at temperatures below their normal freezing point. This is critical because it stops the lethal effects of internal ice formation.
66
what are homeotherms and comment on their fuel consumption?
Homeotherms are those organisms, that maintains the internal body temperature under the influence of variable environmental conditions through their metabolic activities like shivering, sweating. Mammals and birds are homeotherms. homeotherms burn fuel quickly! - a high metabolic rate needs lots of energy, especially when subjected to a cold climate
67
do smaller or larger animals normally have a higher metabolic rate?
smaller relative metabolic rate is typically higher in smaller animals compared with larger ones
68
what are different ways of saving fuel?
1. torpor; shorter periods of inactivity, often with reduced temperature and metabolism, used to handle daily temperature and food fluctuations 2. hibernation; prolonged reduction of the body temperature and metabolism (winter dormancy) * the regular return to normal temperature seen during hibernation is not yet fully understood
69
what is torpor?
shorter periods of inactivity, often with reduced temperature and metabolism, used to handle daily temperature and food fluctuations (way in which fuel is saves)
70
what is hibernation?
prolonged reduction of the body temperature and metabolism (winter dormancy) *the regular return to normal temperature seen during hibernation is not yet fully understood (a way in which fuel is saved)
71
discuss extreme hibernation
artic ground squirrels live in arid artic regions and normally hibernate from september to may. in extreme cases their body temperature drops to -2.9 degrees celcius, but their brain stays just above 0 degrees celcius not fully understood how they survive freezing, but most likely by cleaning their blood of any potential ice nucleators to keep it supercooled *The initiation of the transition from the liquid state to ice is called nucleation. Substances that facilitate this transition so that it takes place at a relatively high sub-zero temperature are called ice nucleators. Many living organisms produce ice nucleators. the potential of keeping human tissues alive at sub-zero temperature have made the squirrels the focus of ongoing organ transplant research **this allows the squirrels to save on metabolism during the winter
72
how much of earth land area is covered in desert?
deserts cover 1/3 of all land area on earth
73
why are deserts difficult climates for animals to live in?
the searing day-time temperatures put desert-living animals at a serious risk of overheating at night time the temperatures drop
74
what tactics are used by organisms to keep cool in the desert?
evaporation cooling reflection reducing contact use of counter-current systems insulation and localising fat stores refuges *finding enough water is another challenge that needs to be solved to survive in a desert habitat
75
how have darkling beetles (tenebrionidae) evolved to access water?
darkling beetles (tenebrionidae) in Namibia have evolved ways to access water in one of the driest deserts found anywhere on Earth. the surface of their elytra (cover wings) have a texture that turn fog particles into droplets. their hindlegs are elongates to help them align against the fog drifting from the sea
76
discuss thermophilic scavengers
Thermophilic scavengers are organisms that thrive in high-temperature environments and feed on dead organic material, often playing crucial roles in nutrient recycling in extreme habitats. "Thermophilic" means "heat-loving," so these scavengers are specifically adapted to survive and function in hot environments, live in one of the hottest environments on Earth, feeding on victims of extreme heat surface temperature reaches up to 70 degrees celcius (their own thermal maxima is 'just' 53.6 degrees celcius) minimise heat build-up by short foraging trips, elevated objects, and reflective hairs. do not use pheromones to find their nest, instead navigate by 'dead reckoning' with an internal solar-compass and step-counter spiralling search pattern used if nest is not found, **in 1966 the US air force employed this method to locate a lost nuclear bomb
77
how do thermophilic scavengers minimise heat build up and find their nests?
minimise heat build-up by short foraging trips, elevated objects, and reflective hairs. do not use phermones to find their nest, instead navigate by 'dead reckoning' with an internal solar-compass and step-counter
78
in what way is a polar bear a master of the cold?
1. small surface area to body volume ratio; strongly reduces heat loss compared with smaller and less rounded animals 2. white, translucent fur; provides camouflage in icy landscape making it easier to stalk and catch prey 3. large, dimpled feet; allows easier grip and spreads weight of the entire animal over a large area 4. acute sense of smell; can smell prey hiding under the ice and at a far distance 5. thick fat and fur layers; direct protection against the cold and also used as fuel during hibernation. fat metabolism acts as water source. 6. water repellent fur; water particles bead off, reducing the risk of water freezing on to the fur coat 7. rear young in a den; protects young from cold winds until most of their fur growth have finished 8. closable nostrils; prevents water from entering into nose when swimming and diving
79
define psychological stress and potential mechanisms
80
understand psychological effect of acute and chronic stress exposure on human performance
81
describe what is meant by 'clutch' and 'choking' performances
82
define fear of failure
83
understand management of psychological pressure - psychological resilience/psychological flexibility
84
define psychological pressure
'excessive/stressful demands imagined /real, made on an individual to think, feel, or act in particular ways. The experience of pressure is often the source of cognitive and affective discomfort or disorder, as well as of maladaptive coping strategies the correlation of which may be a mediate or end goal in psychotherapy'
85
what is the difference between stress and a stressor?
stress is the response stressor is a place/event/situation which causes the response
86
difference between arousal, stress and anxiety
arousal; general physiological and psychological activation of an organism which varies on a continuum from deep sleep to intense excitement stress; non-specific response of the body to any demand placed upon it *directionality (good stress= eustress) anxiety; an unpleasant psychological state in reaction to perceived stress concerning the performance of a task under pressure (cognitive/somatic) state/trait
87
cognitive vs somatic anxiety
cognitive anxiety refers to the negative thoughts and doubts someone may experience. somatic anxiety relates to the physiological. symptoms brought on by high pressure moments.
88
state vs trait anxiety
trait anxiety is a stable part of how someone thinks and feels, state anxiety is a temporary state that only occurs in response to or anticipation of stressful situations. For example, a person might experience state anxiety when they are late for work but calm down once they get there on time.
89
explain the stress process
- perceived imbalance between what is being asked of the person and the person's ability to cope with those demands, and where failure has severe consequences perceived sufficient ability to cope vs perceived demands of task the interpretation of threat
90
what is selye's general adaptation syndrome?
alarm; fight/flight activation causes stress resistance incorporated ability to cope with stress resistance; body starts to react to stress exhaustion: resources are depleted, stress resistance starts to decrease maladaptive response
91
discuss stress in terms of SNS and HPA axis.
The perception of events as stressors involves diverse and different networks depending whether it is a physical/psychological stressor SNS (fast); triggers arousal in response to stressor via release of adrenaline from adrenal glands HPA axis- hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (slow); hypothalamus releases corticotrophin-releasing factor in moments of stress, process temporarily boosts immune function and decreases pain sensitivity
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what is the SNS network in terms of stress?
fast acting; triggers arousal in response to stressor via release of adrenaline from adrenal glands
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what is the HPA axis in terms of stress?
slow acting ; hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal, hypothalamus releases corticotrophin-releasing factor
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what effect does the stress process have on immune function and pain sensitivity ?
boosts immune function and decreases pain sensitivity
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describe the stress process in terms of SAM and HPA pathway and cortisol.
SAM pathway leads to short-lasting responses e.g. alertness, vigilance, situation appraisal, enabling a strategic decision to face the challenge in the initial phase of a stressful event HPA pathway is slower acting (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) hypothalamus releases corticotrophin-releasing factor cortisol 'stress hormone' promotes blood sugar availability, regulate metabolism, reduce inflammation hypothalamus (coricotrophic releasing hormone) --> pituitary gland (adrenocorticotrophic hormone) --> adrenal glands (cortisol)
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what is cortisol and what affect does it have on the body?
stress hormone; promotes blood sugar availability regulate metabolism reduce inflammation
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what hormone does the hypothalamus release in the stress process which acts on the pituitary gland?
corticotropic releasing hormone
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what hormone does the pituitary gland release which acts on the adrenal glands?
adrenocorticotrophic hormone
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what hormone do the adrenal glands release in response to adrenocorticotrophic hormone released from the pituitary gland?
cortisol
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what does the SAM pathway lead to in the stress response?
leads to short-lasting responses e.g. alertness, vigilance, situation appraisal, enabling a strategic decision to face the challenge in the initial phase of a stressful event
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what are the effect of stress?
stress response is adaptive; prepares body for challenge on it repeated acute bouts, chronic stress or perceived as intense leads to maladaptive responses (biological/behavioural /psychological) GI problems perspiration muscle tension redirection of blood flow to large muscles elevated HR + increased blood pressure dilated pupils maladaptive cognitions and emotions elevated respiration
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acute vs chronic stress
Many people, over the course of their lives, have experienced acute stress, a dramatic physiological and psychological reaction to a specific event. Chronic stress, however, is a consistent sense of feeling pressured and overwhelmed over a long period of time.
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effects of chronic stress
vulnerability (adversity/environmental stress/familial stress) acts on adrenal glands which release glucocorticoids glucocorticoids have neurotoxic effects neurotoxicity hypothesis; high levels of GC for long periods has harmful effects on HPA-axis regulation, that impacts hippocampus and memory - neurotoxic effects of glucocorticoids on brain - chronically high cortisol levels can lead to cognitive impairments; in attention, memory and emotion processing - vulnerability to mental health disorders
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location of adrenal glands
on top of kidneys Adrenal glands, also known as suprarenal glands, are small, triangular-shaped glands located on top of both kidneys. Adrenal glands produce hormones that help regulate your metabolism, immune system, blood pressure, response to stress and other essential functions.
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hippocampus
The hippocampus is a part of your brain that's responsible for your memory and learning. This small structure helps you remember, both short- and long-term, and gain awareness from your environment.
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what is the problem with glucocorticoids ?
Glucocorticoids are steroid hormones produced from the cortex of adrenal glands . - have neurotoxic effects on brain (chronically high cortisol levels can lead to cognitive impairments; in attention, memory and emotion processing) *cortisol is a glucocorticoid
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what are potential sources of stress?
> traumatic events e.g. military combat, traffic collision, victim of crime, bereavement > life changes e.g. moving house, graduating, retiring > hassles e.g. finding parking/traffic, burst pipe to be fixed > other stressors e.g. job burnout/uncertainty, exams > situational factors competition, inadequate kit/facilities/poor weather > intrapersonal factors goals/demands/expectations, perceptions of readiness > interpersonal factors teammates/coaches/spectators, placing demand/expectations on athletes/conflicts
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Endler's 5 facets of anxiety
- interpersonal ego-threat - physical danger - ambiguity (fear of unknown) - disruption in daily routine - social evaluation
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describe the 4-stage process of how stress can influence performance
1. facing objective demands 2. interpretation the objective demands (perceived as threatening or non-threatening) 3. response to perceived imbalance - raised somatic anxiety (muscle tension, altered movement patterns) - raised cognitive anxiety (disrupted concentration, attentional control and can end up worrying about their thoughts of worry) 4. behavioural consequences as result of stage three *cognitive anxiety refers to the negative thoughts and doubts someone may experience. somatic anxiety relates to the physiological.
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choking vs clutch performance
CLUTCH: improved performance under heightened pressure characteristics; fully absorbed on task, high confidence, sense of control, enjoyment, enhanced motivation to succeed, focus, effort, heightened self awareness, high arousal levels, absence of negative thoughts of consequence if don't win. strategies to achieve clutch; deliberate focus, optimal arousal levels, confidence in ability CHOKING: sudden & significant decrement in normal expert levels of performance under conditions of perceived pressure performance paradox mechanism is unclear (attentional theories- self focus, distraction) *pre-performance routines useful to prevent choking
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explain the FoF- motivation to avoid failure
disposition to avoid failure and/or capacity for experiencing shame/humiliation as a consequence of failure FoF- motivation to avoid failure: - predisposition to perceive threat in chellenges and this experience anxiety - associated with anticatory shame - consequences of failure are perceived as hugely (negatively) impactful > lower self-estimate (e.g. im no good) > non-ego punishment (e.g. waste of time to not reach goals) > reduced social value (e.g. others will think less of me if i fail) - positive relationship with coaching style (controlling = hFoF, autonomoy supportive = lower FoF - performance failure appraisal inventory (PFAI)
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what is PFAI?
performance failure appraisal inventory The Performance Failure Appraisal Inventory (PFAI) is a psychological assessment tool used to measure individuals' fear of failure in performance settings, typically applied in areas such as sports, academics, and work. The PFAI evaluates how much someone worries about failure and what specific negative consequences they associate with failing. Understanding fear of failure is critical because it can significantly impact motivation, emotional responses, and overall performance in various high-stakes settings.
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explain hFoF and lowerFoF
High Fear of Failure (hFoF): Individuals may benefit from interventions like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), resilience training, and self-compassion exercises to manage their fear of failure and reduce the impact on performance and mental health. Lower Fear of Failure (lowerFoF): Individuals with a low fear of failure often already have adaptive responses to setbacks. However, they can benefit from continued support to maintain resilience and a positive growth mindset, which sustains performance and personal development over time.
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what is psychological resilience?
the role of mental processes and behaviour in promoting personal assets and protecting an individual from the potential negative effect of stressors
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how is psychological pressure managed?
develop strategies/learn techniques to reduce perceived demand/increase ability to cope forms of 'therapy' e.g. CBT/ACT - release breathing -imagery social support ACT; Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT therapy) is a type of mindful psychotherapy that helps you stay focused on the present moment and accept thoughts and feelings without judgment. CBT; Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a talking therapy that can help you manage your problems by changing the way you think and behave.
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ACT vs CBT therapy
ACT; Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT therapy) is a type of mindful psychotherapy that helps you stay focused on the present moment and accept thoughts and feelings without judgment. CBT; Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a talking therapy that can help you manage your problems by changing the way you think and behave.
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define what is meant by extreme environmental pressure
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give examples of the types of environments you will find these extremes
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explain how the human body reacts and adapts to pressure
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describe future challenges humans may encounter with extreme pressures
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what is pressure? give the equation
the amount of force applied at right angles to the surface of an object per unit area pressure (Pa) = force normal to a surface (N)/ area of surface (m^2) (F= P x A) F= force normal to a surface (N) Pa=pressure A=area of that surface (m^2)
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what are the main limiting variables for the human body at high and low pressures?
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what factors vary the effect of pressure on the human body?
total pressure duration of exposure to pressure state of activity (resting/exercising) temperature drugs in the body gas mixtures inspired rate of ascent/descent
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what is partial pressure?
the pressure exerted by an individual gas in a mixture is known as its partial pressure
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what is henry's law?
The partial pressure of a gas is the amount of pressure that the gas contributes to the total pressure of that gas mixture. Per Henry's law, if the pressure of a gas over a liquid increases, the amount of gas dissolved in the liquid increases proportionally.
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martini's law
compares having a martini every 10m of depth you descend. This means by the time you are at 30-40m (3-4 martini's) depth it's no surprise you may feel a little tipsy! - reduced mental activity - perception of time affected - perceptual narrowing - light-headedness - vomiting (nitrogen narcosis)
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what is nitrogen narcosis and how does it relate to martini's law?
Nitrogen narcosis is a condition that affects divers at depth, caused by the anaesthetic effects of nitrogen under high pressure. As divers descend and the surrounding pressure increases, nitrogen—one of the primary gases in the air—dissolves more readily into the blood and tissues. Under high pressure, nitrogen has a narcotic effect on the central nervous system, leading to symptoms like euphoria, impaired judgment, slowed reaction times, and, in severe cases, hallucinations. The deeper a diver goes, the stronger these effects become, creating a state similar to alcohol intoxication. Martini's Law is an informal rule often used to describe the effects of nitrogen narcosis. It states that for every 10 meters of depth below 20 meters, a diver experiences an effect similar to drinking one martini
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what is the bends?
decompression sickness (DCS) retention of dissolved nitrogen on decompression causes bubbles symptoms; joint pain, rashes, paralysis, death
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discuss the bends and henry's law
The bends, or decompression sickness (DCS), is a dangerous condition that occurs when dissolved gases (mainly nitrogen) come out of solution in a diver's body too quickly upon ascending. This rapid release of gas forms bubbles in the blood and tissues, leading to symptoms that can range from joint pain and dizziness to paralysis and even death. The process of decompression sickness is fundamentally related to Henry's Law, which states: The amount of a gas that dissolves in a liquid (like blood) is proportional to the partial pressure of that gas above the liquid.
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what happens to the body under extreme oceanic pressure?
ear and sinus pressure nitrogen narcosis ruptured capillaries blackout inability to inspire gasses collapsed lungs the bends death
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what occurs to non-linear air as altitude increases?
density decreases. altitude increase= non-linear aur density decrease *density of air is not constant ait 'gets thinner'
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what are acute effects of extreme altitude?
when humans are exposed to altitude >5500m - partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) decreases with altitude - 1/3 of sea level POa2 at Everest summit (8848m) - arterial PO2 reduced - plasma volume decreases by ~20% - sensed by carotid body chemoreceptors > increased respiratory rate > increased heart contractility and rate > increased urination > non-essential body functions suppressed
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discuss acclimatisation to altitude
- occur > 4 days at altitude - adaptation can be approximated by multiplying the altitude in kilometres by 11.4 days - erythropoietin (EPO) produces more haemoglobin - increased ability to transport oxygen - decreased plasma volume - increased capillarisation in skeletal muscle tissue - increased muscle mitochondria - right ventricular hypertrophy *Right ventricular hypertrophy (RVH) is an abnormal enlargement or pathologic increase in the right ventricular muscle mass as a maladaptive response to chronic pressure overload.
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how can adaptation for acclimatisation to altitude be approximated?
multiplying the altitude in kilometres by 11.4
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discuss the death zone above 8000M
- 14 summits above 8000m - extreme hypoxia - O2 used up faster than it can be replenished - no human can acclimatise - rapid deterioration of bodily functions - loss of consciousness
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what are three acute disorder at altitude?
1. HACE high-altitude cerebral oedema - retention of cerebral fluid - 'brain swelling' - loss of consciousness >fever >ataxia - altered mental state - hypocapnia (low CO2) 2. AMS acute mountain sickness - headache - GI disturbance - nausea - vomiting - insomnia - fatigue - dizziness 3. HAPE high-altitude pulmonary oedema - pulmonary hypertension - increased hydrostatic pressure - increased permeability of vascular epithelium - 'stress failure' - leakage of cells and protein into alveoli
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what is hypocapnia?
low CO2
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what is HAPE?
(acute disorders at altitude) HAPE high-altitude pulmonary oedema - pulmonary hypertension - increased hydrostatic pressure - increased permeability of vascular epithelium - 'stress failure' - leakage of cells and protein into alveoli
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what is AMS?
(acute disorders at altitude) AMS acute mountain sickness - headache - GI disturbance - nausea - vomiting - insomnia - fatigue - dizziness
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what is HACE?
HACE high-altitude cerebral oedema - retention of cerebral fluid - 'brain swelling' - loss of consciousness >fever >ataxia - altered mental state - hypocapnia (low CO2)
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what are the effects of no pressure (space) on the body?
- no gravity to move blood and other body fluids to legs - 'puffy head, chicken legs' - reduced cardiac work- decreased CO - muscle wastage - reduction in bond density - dizziness >exposure to high-energy cosmic radiation increases risk of neurodegenerative disease >eye abnormalities may rise die to UV exposure and increased intracranial pressure >due to microgravity, disruption of fluids to the upper body result in 'puffy face' appearance >nasal congestion due to fluid redistribution causes anosmia (loss of smell) and diminished taste >heart stroke volume decreases as cardiovascular system adapts to microgravity. red blood cell number also decreases. >musculoskeletal adaptation to microgravity leads to loss of muscle mass and bone density >blood plasma volume is reduced by increased kidney output. elevated calcium secretion results in increased risk of kidney stones.
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what are extremophiles?
organisms that grow optimally in environments considered extreme **dominant in earth's evolutionary history > an extreme environment 40M years ago > life may even have begun in deep sea hydrothermal vents have continued to thrive in extreme conditions > one of most abundant life forms > biological 'dark matter' many yet to be discovered
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what are extreme bacteria that are not extremophiles?
- very slow/fast growing - very large/small - very large genome - extreme cellular complexity - some are not really bacteria (archaea)
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what are archaea?
microorganisms which are similar to bacteria in size and simplicity of structure but radically different in molecular organization. They are now believed to constitute an ancient group which is intermediate between the bacteria and eukaryotes.
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what might be the physical limits to life?
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extreme bacteria that are not extremophiles
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earth's environment in terms of bacterial habitats
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extremophile bacteria and how they thrive in extreme habitats
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why and how physical parameters affect biological processes?
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how key biological processes can be modulated to function in extreme conditions ?
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how industry, agriculture and space programmes benefit extremophile research?
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normal bacterial stats - E.coli
2 micro meter long 0.7 micro meter cubed volume 1 chromosome 4.6 Mbp genome 4,300 protein coding sequences 20 minute doubling time
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discuss candidatis pelagibacter ubique
- in salt and fresh water globally > discovered in sargasso sea- very low nutrients, relatively devoid of life - possibly most numerous bacterium globally > ~2x10^28 candidatus P. communis and relatives >total weight> all fish in sea - one of smallest self-replicating cells known > an ultramicrobacterium (V<0.1 micro meters cubed), 0.4-0.9 micrometer x 0.1-0.2 micrometer. > genome 1.3 Mbp, 1354 protein genes, 35 RNA genes - understanding ultramicrobacteria important for synthetic biology >e.g. creation of self-replicating synthetic organisms based on minimal genomes
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discuss epulopiscium spp
large and extreme polyploidy. *the heritable condition of possessing more than two complete sets of chromosomes most bacteria and archaea rely on diffusion to move metabolites and biomolecules short distances. exception; bacterial symbiont of surgeonfish -epuloposcium spp. latin; 'a guest of banquet fish L> 600 micro meters V~3x10^8 micro meters cubed homozygous: 10s of 1000s genome copies how does it maintain large size? - highly folded cell membrane increases effective surface area - arrangement of geneomes around cell periphery may permit regional responses to local stimuli abundance of genome copies may permit unstable genetic feature common in eukaryotes, rare in bacteria - long (10bp) poly(A) repeat in dnaA >essential gene encoding dnaA which activates DNA replication initiation > functional significance of mononucleotide repeat unknown epulopiscium has acquired some characteristics and advantages of eukaryotic cells!
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polyploidy
the heritable condition of possessing more than two complete sets of chromosomes
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give an example of bacterial heterozygosity
ACHROMATIUM - large (125 micro metwe), hyperployploid and only known heterozygous bacterium ~300 different chromosomes - allelic diversity far exceeds that of typical bacterium - common worldwide, spanning T, salinity, pH and depth ranges normally resulting in bacterial speciation - anchromatium from differing ecosystems (freshwater, saline) equally functionally equipped but differ in gene expression patterns by transcribing only relevant genes - hypothesis; environmental adaptation occurs by increasing copy number of relevant genes across chromosomes, without losing irrelevant ones, maintaining ability to survive any ecosystem
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discuss bacterial growth rates
bacterial growth rates very widely. several times/hour in nutrient rich lab conditions once/year in nutrient poor subglacial lakes
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what biological processes are primary determinants for bacterial growth and reproduction rates?
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what limits bacterial growth rate?
may organisms vary ribosomal abundance as function of growth conditions translation time/ribosome (~7min) places inherent limit on bacterial growth rate >could be surpassed only if cell could 1. increase polypeptide elongation rate 2. reduce total mass of ribosomal protein and rRNA
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discuss archaea
prokaryotes but not bacteria like bacteria - size and shape - reproduce asexually by binary fission, fragmentation or budding unlike bacteria - genes and metabolic pathways more closely related to eukaryotes - membrane lipid e.g. archaeol (not e.g. phosphatidylcholine) - do not form endospores major part of life on earth- key to animal microbiota not pathogens/parasites- mutualists and commensals *hard to grow in lab first observed archaea were extremophiles e.g. haloquadratum walsbyi > discovered in brine pool (sinai, egypt) > phosotrophic halophile -survives [NaCl] ~3M [MgCl2] ~2M -among most haloresistant organisms general halophile high-salt strategy - increase internal osmolarity by accumulating K+ ions in cytoplasm, requires 2xATP/K+ general halophile in low-salt strategy - de novo synthesis/uptake of osmoprotectants maintain osmotic balance and establish proper turgor pressure
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what are stats of a normal environment?
temp. ~10-37 degrees celcius relative humidity ~30-50% water activity ~0.75 [salt] ~0.15-0.5M pH ~7 pressure ~0.1MPa ionising radiation ~0.6 mSv/year
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thermophiles (hot)
thrive at 41 degrees celcius (moderate) to 122 degrees celcius (hyperthermophiles) hyperthermophilic and mesophilic enzymes highly similar - a.a. sequences tyically 40-85% similar - 3D structures superimposable - same catalytic mechanisms main source of industrially important thermostable enzymes - thermus aquaticus (Taq DNA polymerase) > used in PCR to amplify short segments of DNA - thermophilic clostridium spp > used to produce biobutanol from corn hypothesis; hyperthermophillic enxymes more rigid than mesophillic homoloques at mesophillic T, rigidity prerequisite for high protein thermostability. rigidity arises from more ion-pairs e.g. in glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) - 45/subunit in pyrococcus furiosus -26/subunit in clostridium symbiosum high melting temperature (Tm), long half-life at high T.
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psychrophiles (cold)
cell fluctuations reveal prokaryotic response to long-term climatic and environmental processes north greenkkand eemian ice drilling core - 2km deep= 80,000 years ago - 3.6x10^5 cells/ml >85% viable >hard to culture >0.00028% success rate -4 isolates cultured > acinetobacter > firmicuted x2 > gammaproteobacteria general psychrophile cold tolerance strategies - high level of unsaturated and short chain fatty acids (SCFA) - cold shock proteins (CSP) > nucleic acid chaperones- prevent formation of mRNA 2 degrees structures at low temperature thus facilitate translation initiation - protein chaperones (assist folding/unfolding) - anti-freeze proteins (AFP) restrict ice growth on protein surfaces - mannitol and other solutes accumulate in cytoplasm as cryo-protectants -prevents protein aggregation - carotenoids support membrane fluidity and prevent UV damage
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what are general psychrophile cold tolerance strategies?
general psychrophile cold tolerance strategies - high level of unsaturated and short chain fatty acids (SCFA) - cold shock proteins (CSP) > nucleic acid chaperones- prevent formation of mRNA 2 degrees structures at low temperature thus facilitate translation initiation - protein chaperones (assist folding/unfolding) - anti-freeze proteins (AFP) restrict ice growth on protein surfaces - mannitol and other solutes accumulate in cytoplasm as cryo-protectants -prevents protein aggregation - carotenoids support membrane fluidity and prevent UV damage
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xerotolerance (dry)
atacama desert, chile - oldest desert ~ 90M y.o. - ave. rainfall < 5mm/year -hyper arid - pH extremes - highest UV levels on earth - mars-like soil importance of extremophile research medicine: s. atacamensis synthesises ansamycin and 22-membered macrolactones - antibacterial and antitumor activities climate change: response to drought by bacteria important to crops bioremediation: of soils in extreme dry conditions space science: survival on mars general xerotolerant survival strategies - evasion of environmental stress - spore formation - adaptive mechanisms > preventing H2O loss and increasing H2O retention through osmoprotectant accumulation (trehalose, L-glutamate, glycine betaine) - increasing H2O retention through cell membrane modifications - production of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) - synthesis of DNA-repair proteins
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general xerotolerant survival strategies
- evasion of environmental stress - spore formation - adaptive mechanisms > preventing H2O loss and increasing H2O retention through osmoprotectant accumulation (trehalose, L-glutamate, glycine betaine) - increasing H2O retention through cell membrane modifications - production of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) - synthesis of DNA-repair proteins
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deinococcuss radiodurans
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how do we study extreme bacteria?
1. collect 2. culture 3. examine 4. extract and sequence genomic material 5. knock out key genes and look at effect on organism 6. express key genes in workhorse bacteria 7. solve structures of key proteins
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how deep is the mariana trench
deepest ocean bottom; 11km deep
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what are some human driven impacts on the environment?
habitat fragmentation hunting/harvesting climate change pollution
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habitat fragmentation and the two types
Fragmentation happens when parts of a habitat are destroyed, leaving behind smaller unconnected areas. This can occur naturally, as a result of fire or volcanic eruptions, but is normally due to human activity. A simple example is the construction of a road through a woodland. 1. natural 2. anthropogenic processes in population biology are affected by habitat patchiness (fragmentation) low degrees of fragmentation and high connectivity = good small and isolated populations = bad effects are magnified over time
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how does habitat fragmentation affect species?
will affect species differently; can be grouped into two main categories 1. specialist species 2. generalist species carnivores are vulnerable to habitat loss - lower population densities - require large home ranges - often persecuted by humans
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fragmentation and linear features (+ve vs -ve)
- fragmentation also leads to linear features in the environment - roads, fences, pastures, powerlines negatives; > restrict movement > increase mortality > increase hunting and/or poaching > increased stress from visual and noise stimuli positives for some > carnivores > facilitate travel > forage further and faster > trap prey on edges of habitats > scavenging on roads
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tasmanian devils and spotted quolls
spotted quolls (dasyurus maculatis) and tasmanian devils (sarcophilus harrisii) are generalist medium sized carnivores habitat plasticity- trait allowing them to adapt to fragmentation pasture cover for foraging- slower movement roads- movement was faster and straighter - directional travel **placticity='the ability of individual genotypes to produce different phenotypes when exposed to different environmental conditions'
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what is placticity?
'the ability of individual genotypes to produce different phenotypes when exposed to different environmental conditions'
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discuss hunting/harvesting
evolution of wild populations can be impacted by harvesting leads to changes in -morphological -behavioural - life history traits >natural selection bring local adaptations to the natural environment >selective harvesting impedes adaptive evolutionary processes >potential delay in the recovery of populations
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discuss african elephants and illegal ivory
- sustained size selection on vertebrate population = shift in age structure - traits targeted by hunters positively correlated with age - african elephants (locodonta africana) are of particular risk - disproportionally affected- older ages classes and males have larger tusks - poaching is the driver- contemporaty tusk evolution in african elephants?
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how much slower is the typical rate of niche evolution than that which is required to keep up with climate change?
10,000 x slower typical rate of niche evolution (500 species) is 10,000 x slower than the rate that is required to keep up with climate change projections
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what are the 4 ways in which species are vulnerable to environmental change?
1. exposure 2. sensitivity 3. resilience 4. adapt
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what are the 3 options to deal with climate change for vulnerable species?
1. shift in range distribution within climate tolerant limits 2. remain and adjust I. genetic composition II. phenotypic plasticity 3. extinction I. local level II. global level
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what does the shift in range distribution within climate tolerant limits option mean for vulnerable species?
rapid shift in environmental stability challenges the adaptive nature of marine mammals species that reply on the ice are particularly vulnerable
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resilience scenarios in 3 ice related categories
ice obligate ice associated seasonally migrant
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seasonal migrant adaptation to climate change
- expend their geographical range - will benefit from net loss in sea ice - scoring of resilience to change through adaptation - chukchi region scores the highest for resilience for seasonal migrants - seasonal migrants can adapt to their changing environment- generalise species
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genetic composition (response to climate change)
- micro evolution = heritable shifts in allele frequencies in a population - morphological features; (in relation to climate change is coat colour)
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phenotypic plasticity as a response option to climate change
phenotypic plasticity = where a single genotype gives rise to different phenotypes in different circumstances epigenetic effect the animal itself changes not future lineages in response to environmental change in response to climate change; 1. acclimation 2. acclimatisation 3. learning
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springbok + climate change
pelt colour in springbok (antidorcas marsupialis) thermoregulatory significance black springbok reduce their metabolic costs when it is cooler black absorbs solar radiation more efficiently trade off during periods of high heat
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soay sheep and climate change
soay sheep in st kilda climate change has meant that winters are milder reduction in average body mass - 0.3% in senescent - 0.8% in yearlings decrease in hindleg length body weight decline rather than a decline in body condition proposed mechanism; less reliance on fat reserve
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conduction convection and radiation
In conduction, heat transfer occurs between objects by direct contact. In convection, the heat transfer takes within the fluid. In radiation, heat transfer occurs through electromagnetic waves without involving particles. The heat transfer takes place due to the difference in temperature.