Successful Restoration Research Articles

Cumulative effects of fish disturbance and vegetative propagules reduce the growth advantage of Vallisneria natans

Benthivorous fish disturbance and density-dependent competition from adjacent macrophytes are two important biotic factors that significantly impact the growth of submerged macrophyte pioneer species, which is crucial for the success of eutrophication lake restoration. We conducted an outdoor mesocosm experiment to explore the individual and combined effects of these two factors on water quality and the growth of Vallisneria natans. The experiment involved two levels of fish (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus) disturbance crossed with two levels of Hydrilla verticillata vegetative propagule (shoot) intensity. The results showed that fish disturbance significantly increased the water column total nitrogen (TN), ammonia nitrogen (N-NH4), total phosphorus (TP), and phosphate‑phosphorus (P-PO4). V. natans exhibited restricted plant height elongation and decreased soluble carbohydrate (SC) and starch concentration in fish treatments. Fish disturbance inhibited the growth advantage of V. natans by increasing the extinction coefficient of the water column. There was no statistical significance in total biomass between the two macrophytes in increased vegetative propagule and fish treatments. H. verticillata exhibited a higher relative growth rate (RGR) and summed dominance ratio (SDR3) than V. natans in four treatments and the treatment with three shoots of H. verticillata and one M anguillicaudatus, respectively. Fish disturbance and vegetative propagules showed cumulative effects that negatively affected the RGR_V.H (V. natans relative to H. verticillata). Our findings indicated that benthivorous fish disturbance and vegetative propagules could individually and cumulatively reduce the growth advantage of the pioneer species, V. natans. Our study sheds light on the accumulated effects of multiple disturbances that simultaneously occur in lakes, which holds theoretical and practical importance for lake restoration efforts.

Mapping fine-scale seagrass disturbance using bi-temporal UAV-acquired images and multivariate alteration detection

Seagrasses provide critical ecosystem services but cumulative human pressure on coastal environments has seen a global decline in their health and extent. Key processes of anthropogenic disturbance can operate at local spatio-temporal scales that are not captured by conventional satellite imaging. Seagrass management strategies to prevent longer-term loss and ensure successful restoration require effective methods for monitoring these fine-scale changes. Current seagrass monitoring methods involve resource-intensive fieldwork or recurrent image classification. This study presents an alternative method using iteratively reweighted multivariate alteration detection (IR-MAD), an unsupervised change detection technique originally developed for satellite images. We investigate the application of IR-MAD to image data acquired using an unoccupied aerial vehicle (UAV). UAV images were captured at a 14-week interval over two seagrass beds in Brisbane Water, NSW, Australia using a 10-band Micasense RedEdge-MX Dual camera system. To guide sensor selection, a further three band subsets representing simpler sensor configurations (6, 5 and 3 bands) were also analysed using eight categories of seagrass change. The ability of the IR-MAD method, and for the four different sensor configurations, to distinguish the categories of change were compared using the Jeffreys-Matusita (JM) distance measure of spectral separability. IR-MAD based on the full 10-band sensor images produced the highest separability values indicating that human disturbances (propeller scars and other seagrass damage) were distinguishable from all other change categories. IR-MAD results for the 6-band and 5-band sensors also distinguished key seagrass change features. The IR-MAD results for the simplest 3-band sensor (an RGB camera) detected change features, but change categories were not strongly separable from each other. Analysis of IR-MAD weights indicated that additional visible bands, including a coastal blue band and a second red band, improve change detection. IR-MAD is an effective method for seagrass monitoring, and this study demonstrates the potential for multispectral sensors with additional visible bands to improve seagrass change detection.

Modelling Water Depth, Turbidity and Chlorophyll Using Airborne Hyperspectral Remote Sensing in a Restored Pond Complex of Doñana National Park (Spain)

Restored wetlands should be closely monitored to fully evaluate the effectiveness of restoration efforts. However, regular post-restoration monitoring can be time-consuming and expensive, and is often absent or inadequate. Satellite and airborne remote sensing systems have proven to be cost-effective tools in many fields, but they have not been widely used to monitor ecological restoration. This study assessed the potential of airborne hyperspectral remote sensing to monitor water mass characteristics of experimental temporary ponds in the Mediterranean region. These ponds were created during marsh restoration in Doñana National Park (south-west Spain). We used hyperspectral images acquired by the CASI-1500 hyperspectral airborne sensor to estimate and map water depth, turbidity and chlorophyll a in a subset of the 96 new ponds. The high spatial and spectral resolution of the CASI sensor allowed us to detect differences between ponds in water depth, turbidity and chlorophyll a, providing accurate mapping of these three variables, and a useful method to assess restoration success. High levels of spatial variation were recorded between different ponds, which likely generates high diversity in the animal and plant species that they contain. These results highlight the great potential of hyperspectral sensors for the long-term monitoring of wetland complexes in the Mediterranean region and elsewhere.

Genetic diversity matters for restoration of a threatened saltmarsh plant in harsh environments

Abstract While genetic diversity is theorised to increase the restoration success of degraded plant populations, previous studies examining its impacts on restoration outcomes have yielded mixed results. We hypothesise that the importance of genetic diversity for the performance of plants targeted for restoration increases with environmental stress and varies with specific plant traits related to different plant successive life stages. To test this, we conducted a fully factorial common garden experiment, crossing salinity and genetic diversity under low‐ and high‐nitrogen conditions on the growth and reproduction of Scirpus mariqueter, a threatened endemic saltmarsh plant in the Yangtze Estuary. The impacts of genetic diversity varied across stress gradients and metrics. Under high stress (high salinity, low nutrients), greater diversity enhanced reproductive traits such as clonal growth and seed production, but not under low stress. Plant growth traits showed no diversity effects regardless of stress. Synthesis: Our results highlight the importance of considering intraspecific genetic diversity in ecological restoration and help explain the context‐dependent effects of diversity.

Portal vein hypoplasia is present in patients with biliary atresia at the time of diagnosis.

In patients with biliary atresia (BA), severe portal hypertension (HTN) develops even with successful bile flow restoration, suggesting an intrinsic factor driving portal HTN independent from bile obstruction. We hypothesize that patients with BA have abnormal portal vein (PV) development, leading to PV hypoplasia. In this observational cohort study, we enrolled patients who were referred to a tertiary center from 2017 to 2021 to rule out BA. Newborns who underwent computed tomography angiogram as a clinical routine before intraoperative cholangiogram, and laparoscopic Kasai hepatoportoenterostomy. The diameter of the PV and hepatic artery (HA) were compared to the degree of liver fibrosis in the wedge biopsies. The jaundice clearance, native liver survival, and clinical portal hypertensive events, including ascites development and intestinal bleeding, were assessed. 47 newborns with cholestasis were included in the cohort; 35 were diagnosed with BA. The patients with BA had a smaller median PV diameter (4.3 vs. 5.1 mm; p < 0.001) and larger median HA diameter (1.4 vs. 1.2 mm; p < 0.05) compared to the patients with other forms of cholestasis. The median PV and HA diameter did not correlate with the degree of liver fibrosis. Among 35 patients with BA, 29 patients (82.9%) achieved jaundice clearance, and 23 patients (65.7%) were alive with their native liver at two years of age. Seven patients (20%) developed intestinal bleeding, and seven patients (20%) developed ascites, with one overlapping patient. PV hypoplasia is present in patients with BA independent of liver fibrosis at the time of diagnosis.

Manipulated microtopography alters plant community development in fragile farm–pastoral transition zone

Abstract The ecosystems within agro-pastoral transition zones exhibit inherent fragility and heightened susceptibility to climate variability, exacerbated by profound degradation resulting from anthropogenic activities. Subsequent vegetation degradation in these areas precipitates severe soil erosion, presenting formidable challenges for ecological restoration efforts. The utilization of microtopographic structures to mitigate soil erosion and facilitate vegetation recovery stands as a prominent strategy for vegetation restoration within agro-pastoral transition zones. Despite the acknowledgment in current restoration practices that the efficacy of microtopography-based restoration is contingent upon slope, aspect and elevation, there remains a notable absence of precise observed information on this correlation. This study, conducted in the Bashang Grassland, a typical agro-pastoral transition zone in northern China, aims to fill the information gap concerning the correspondence between microtopographic structures and restoration outcomes. Our findings revealed that microtopography has a significant impact on vegetation characteristics, with outcomes varying by location. Shaded slopes displayed higher biomass and density compared with sunny slopes and valleys. While microtopography affected community structure, it did not substantially alter species richness, highlighting the critical role of location and pit construction in successful restoration endeavors. This study provides insights for the selection, design and assessment of microtopography-based restoration in vulnerable ecosystems.

Effect of fit and self-etching adhesive on fiber post retention in endodontically treated teeth.

Fiber post (FP) reinforced restoration was widespread in endodontically treated teeth, of which the retention was closely related to fit and operation process. However, the question whether the fit and self-etching adhesive (SED) affect the success of FP restoration still remained unclear. This research aimed to assess how the fit and self-etching adhesive (SED) impact the pull-out bond strength (BS) of glass fiber-reinforced composite posts from the root canal dentin. Eighty lower first premolars underwent simulated endodontic treatment, after which their canals were shaped to accommodate a size three RelyX fiber post (FP) (diameter 1.9 mm). They were then divided into 4 equal groups [Unfit post and no SEA (Group UN), Fit post and no SEA (Group FN), Unfit post with SEA (Group UA) and Fit post with SEA (Group FA)] using two different sized FPs and SEA. Cement thickness was acquired by histological analysis and stereomicroscopy. Each sample was tested for pull-out strength through a universal testing machine. Based on the pull-out test, the failure types were observed and scored by visualizing through a stereomicroscope. Group FA demonstrated significantly greater BS compared to Group UN and Group UA, with Group UN showing a statistically significant difference at p< 0.01 and Group UA at p< 0.05. Main failure types in Group FA were Type II, which illustrated that the cement detachment mainly occurred from the post-cement interface. Therefore, Group FA possessed the STRONGEST BS and was most suitable for FP-reinforced crown restorations. Both the fit and SEA enhanced the pull-out BS. The SEA was critical for BS promotion when the mechanical retention was inadequate.

Restoration of Strength in Polyamide Woven Glass Fiber Organosheets by Hot Pressing: Case Study of Impact and Compression after Impact.

Thermoplastic composite organosheets (OSs) are increasingly recognized as a viable solution for automotive and aerospace structures, offering a range of benefits including cost-effectiveness through high-rate production, lightweight design, impact resistance, formability, and recyclability. This study examines the impact response, post-impact strength evaluation, and hot-pressing repair effectiveness of woven glass fiber nylon composite OSs across varying impact energy levels. Experimental investigations involved subjecting composite specimens to impact at varying energy levels using a drop-tower test rig, followed by compression-after-impact (CAI) tests. The results underscore the exceptional damage tolerance and improved residual compressive strength of the OSs compared to traditional thermoset composites. This enhancement was primarily attributed to the matrix's ductility, which mitigated transverse crack propagation and significantly increased the amount of absorbed energy. To mitigate impact-induced damage, a localized hot-pressing repair approach was developed. This allowed to restore the post-impact strength of the OSs to pristine levels for impact energies below 40 J and by 83.6% for higher impact energies, when OS perforation was observed. The measured levels of post-repair strength demonstrate a successful restoration of OS strength over a wide range of impact energies, and despite limitations in achieving complete strength recovery above 40 J, hot-pressing repair emerges as a promising strategy for ensuring the longevity of thermoplastic composites through repairability.

The function of phytogenic mounds in the accumulation and conservation of soil seed banks in semiarid areas with water erosion

BackgroundPhytogenic mounds are a type of microtopography formed under perennial plants canopies in water erosion areas. However, the function of phytogenic mounds in seed assemblages and their ecological consequences remain poorly understood in semiarid areas with water erosion. Thus, understanding the characteristics of seed banks on mounds is crucial for ecosystem conservation and management in water-eroded areas.MethodsWe compared the quantity and composition of soil seed banks on the upslope and downslope parts of mounds and intercanopy surfaces along four slope gradients. We also explored the relationships among the soil seed bank, aboveground vegetation, and environmental factors. Furthermore, the species similarity between the soil seed bank and aboveground vegetation was analyzed to clarify the important ecological consequences of phytogenic mounds for plant community construction in serious soil erosion area.ResultsFor slopes with α ≤ 46.6%, the intercanopy surfaces had greater soil seed bank species composition, density, and diversity than did the phytogenic mounds, and these characteristics showed no significant differences between the upslope and downslope parts of the mounds. As the slope increased, the soil seed bank density and species composition increased on the upslope part of the mound, and reached a maximum for slopes with α &amp;gt; 70%, while the downslope part of the mound negatively effected on seed aggregation. The sediment accumulation rate, soil moisture, particle size distribution, pH, organic matter carbon, and hardness were significantly correlated with the soil seed bank density and diversity in the study area. For slopes with 0 &amp;lt; α ≤ 26.8%, the species similarity coefficient between the soil seed bank and aboveground vegetation was the highest for the intercanopy surface. This species similarity on the upslope part of the mound showed an increasing trend with increasing slope gradient, while the downslope part of the mound had the opposite trend. For slopes with α &amp;gt; 70%, the upslope part of the mound did not only have more species in the soil seed bank but also had more species in aboveground vegetation than did the downslope part of the mound and intercanopy surface.ConclusionFor slopes with α ≤ 46.6%, phytogenic mounds had barely impact soil seed bank accumulation and conservation in semiarid and eroded areas. For slopes with α &amp;gt; 46.6%, the mounds (particularly on the upslope part of the mound) showed seed assemblage functions, which are coupled with improving edaphic conditions and decreasing microhabitat stress; thus, phytogenic mounds, or areas of microtopography, can be used to promote restoration success in semiarid eroded areas.

ENPP1 enzyme replacement therapy improves ectopic calcification but does not rescue skeletal phenotype in a mouse model for craniometaphyseal dysplasia.

Craniometaphyseal dysplasia (CMD) is a rare genetic bone disorder, characterized by progressive thickening of craniofacial bones and flared metaphyses of long bones. Craniofacial hyperostosis leads to the obstruction of neural foramina and neurological symptoms such as facial palsy, blindness, deafness, or severe headache. Mutations in ANKH (mouse ortholog ANK), a transporter of small molecules such as citrate and ATP, are responsible for autosomal dominant CMD. Knock-in (KI) mice carrying an ANKF377del mutation (AnkKI/KI ) replicate many features of human CMD. Pyrophosphate (PPi) levels in plasma are significantly reduced in AnkKI/KI mice. PPi is a potent inhibitor of mineralization. To examine the extent to which restoration of circulating PPi levels may prevent the development of a CMD-like phenotype, we treated AnkKI/KI mice with the recombinant human ENPP1-Fc protein IMA2a. ENPP1 hydrolyzes ATP into AMP and PPi. Male and female Ank+/+ and AnkKI/KI mice (n ≥ 6/group) were subcutaneously injected with IMA2a or vehicle weekly for 12wk, starting at the age of 1wk. Plasma ENPP1 activity significantly increased in AnkKI/KI mice injected with IMA2a (Vehicle/IMA2a: 28.15 ± 1.65/482.7 ± 331.2 mOD/min; p <.01), which resulted in the successful restoration of plasma PPi levels (Ank+/+ /AnkKI/KI vehicle treatment/AnkKI/KI IMA2a: 0.94 ± 0.5/0.43 ± 0.2/1.29 ± 0.8μM; p <.01). We examined the skeletal phenotype by X-Ray imaging and μCT. IMA2a treatment of AnkKI/KI mice did not significantly correct CMD features such as the abnormal shape of femurs, increased bone mass of mandibles, hyperostotic craniofacial bones, or the narrowed foramen magnum. However, μCT imaging showed ectopic calcification near basioccipital bones at the level of the foramen magnum and on joints of AnkKI/KI mice. Interestingly, IMA2a treatment significantly reduced the volume of calcified nodules at both sites. Our data demonstrate that IMA2a is sufficient to restore plasma PPi levels and reduce ectopic calcification but fails to rescue skeletal abnormalities in AnkKI/KI mice under our treatment conditions.

The Impact of Meteorological Drought at Different Time Scales from 1986 to 2020 on Vegetation Changes in the Shendong Mining Area

The Shendong Mining Area, being the largest coal base in the world, has significant challenges in the intensive development and utilization of coal resources, as well as the impact of a dry climate, which can have serious negative effects on the growth of flora in the region. Investigating the spatial and temporal patterns of how meteorological drought affects vegetation in the Shendong Mining Area at various time scales can offer a scientific foundation for promoting sustainable development and ecological restoration in the region. This study utilizes the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) data from 1986 to 2020 in the Shendong Mining Area. It employs Slope trend analysis, a Mann–Kendall test, a Geographic Detector, and other methods to examine the spatiotemporal distribution characteristics of meteorological drought at various time scales. Additionally, the study investigates the influence of these drought patterns on vegetation growth in the Shendong Mining Area. Across the mining area, there was a general decrease in the monthly average SPEI on an annual basis. However, on a seasonal, semi-annual, and annual basis, there was a gradual increase in the annual average SPEI, with a higher rate of increase in the southern region compared to the northern region. When considering the spatial variation trend in different seasons, both positive and negative trends were observed in winter and summer. The negative trend was mainly observed in the western part of the mining area, while the positive trend was observed in the eastern part. In spring, the mining area generally experienced drought, while in autumn, it generally experienced more precipitation. The mining area exhibits a prevailing distribution of vegetation, with a greater extent in the southeast and a lesser extent in the northwest. The vegetation coverage near the mine is insufficient, resulting in a low NDVI value, which makes the area prone to drought. Over the past few years, the mining area has experienced a significant increase in vegetation coverage, indicating successful ecological restoration efforts. Various forms of land use exhibit distinct responses to drought, with forests displaying the most positive correlation and barren land displaying the strongest negative correlation. Various types of landforms exhibit varying responses to drought. Loess ridge and hill landforms demonstrate the most pronounced positive association with monthly-scale SPEI values, whereas alluvial and floodplain landforms display the poorest positive correlation with yearly scale SPEI values. The general findings of this research can be summarized as follows: (1) The mining area exhibits a general pattern of increased humidity, with the pace of humidity increase having intensified in recent times. Seasonal variations exhibit consistent cyclic patterns. (2) There are distinct regional disparities in NDVI values, with a notable peak in the southeast and a decline in the northwest. The majority of the mining area exhibits a positive trend in vegetation recovery. (3) Regional meteorological drought is a significant element that influences changes in vegetation coverage in the Shendong Mining Area. Nevertheless, it displays complexity and is more obviously impacted by other factors at a small scale. (4) It should be noted that forests and barren land exert a more significant influence on SPEI values, despite their relatively lesser spatial coverage. The predominant land use type in most locations is grasslands; however, they have a relatively minor influence on SPEI. (5) A shorter time period, higher elevation, and steeper slope gradient all contribute to a larger correlation with drought.

Supinator to posterior interosseous nerve transfer to restore hand opening in brachial plexus and spinal cord injury: a systematic review and individual patient-data meta-analysis.

Cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) and lower trunk brachial plexus injury (BPI) commonly result in hand paralysis. Although restoring hand function is complex and challenging to achieve, regaining volitional hand control drastically enhances functionality for these patients. The authors aimed to systematically review the outcomes of hand-opening function after supinator to posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) transfer. A systematic literature review was performed according to the PRISMA guidelines. A total of 16 studies with 88 patients and 119 supinator to PIN transfers were included (87 transfers for SCI and 32 for BPI). In most studies, the time interval from injury to surgery was 6-12 months. Finger extension and thumb extension (Medical Research Council grade ≥ 3/5) recovered in 86.5% (103/119) and 78.1% (93/119) of cases, respectively, over a median follow-up of 19 months. The rates of recovery were similar for the SCI and BPI populations (finger extension, 87.3% in SCI and 84.3% in BPI; thumb extension, 75.8% in SCI and 84.3% in BPI). Type of injury (OR 1.05, 95% CI 0.17-6.4, p = 0.95), time from injury to surgery (OR 1.01, 95% CI 0.8-1.29, p = 0.88), and age (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.90-1.06, p = 0.60) were not associated with odds of a successful outcome. Duration of follow-up was significantly associated with successful finger extension (OR 1.15, 95% CI 1.01-1.30, p = 0.026). No donor-associated supinator weakness was reported postoperatively given that patients had an intact bicep muscle preoperatively contributing to supination. Supinator to PIN transfer is a safe and effective procedure that can achieve successful restoration of digital extension in the SCI and BPI population at similar rates. Duration of follow-up was associated with superior outcomes, which was expected.

Integrating socioeconomic and ecological data into restoration practice.

Driven by the United Nations Decade on Restoration and international funding initiatives, such as the Mangrove Breakthrough, investment in mangrove restoration is expected to increase. Yet, mangrove restoration efforts frequently fail, usually because of ad hoc site-selection processes that do not consider mangrove ecology and the socioeconomic context. Using decision analysis, we developed an approach that accounts for socioeconomic and ecological data to identify sites with the highest likelihood of mangrove restoration success. We applied our approach in the Biosphere Reserve Marismas Nacionales Nayarit, Mexico, an area that recently received funding for implementing mangrove restoration actions. We identified 468 potential restoration sites, assessed their restorability potential based on socioeconomic and ecological metrics, and ranked sites for implementation with spatial optimization. The metrics we used included favorable conditions for propagules to establish and survive under sea-level rise, provision of ecosystem services, and community dynamics. Sites that were selected based on socioeconomic or ecological metrics alone had lower likelihood of mangrove restoration success than sites that were selected based on integrated socioeconomic and ecological metrics. For example, selecting sites based on only socioeconomic metrics captured 16% of the maximum attainable value of functioning mangroves able to provide propagules to potential restoration sites, whereas selecting sites based on ecological and socioeconomic metrics captured 46% of functioning mangroves. Our approach was developed as part of a collaboration between nongovernmental organizations, local government, and academics under rapid delivery time lines given preexisting mangrove restoration implementation commitments. The systematic decision process we used integrated socioeconomic and ecological considerations even under short delivery deadlines, and our approach can be adapted to help mangrove restoration site-selection decisions elsewhere.

Custom Cast Post and Core: The Key to Successful Endodontic Restoration of Anterior Teeth — Case Report

Custom Cast Post and Core: The Key to Successful Endodontic Restoration of Anterior Teeth — Case Report

Can flowable short-fiber-reinforced resins achieve a strong adhesion to bioceramics?

This study compared the microshear bond strength (μSBS) of four calcium silicate-based cements (CSCs), TheraCal PT (TPT), TheraCal LC (TLC), Biodentine (BD), and Dia-Root Bio MTA (DR), with a short fiber-reinforced composite resin (SFRC). Forty cylindrical acrylic blocks were used, each with a center hole (diameter 5 mm, depth 2 mm). CSCs were placed in the holes (n = 10/group), and the blocks were incubated for 48 h. G-Premio BOND, a self-etching adhesive, was applied to the CSCs surfaces using a micro-applicator for 10 s and then air-dried for 5 s, followed by light curing for 20 s. SFRC materials placed in cylindrical polyethylene capsules (diameter 2 mm, height 2 mm) were polymerized for 20 s and placed over the CSCs. The samples were then incubated at 37°C and 100% humidity for 24 h, and their μSBSs were tested using an "Instron Universal Testing Machine." Data were statistically analyzed using chi-square and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Statistically significant differences were observed between the tested CSCs. The μSBS of TPT (45.17 ± 4.56 MPa) was significantly higher (p < .05) than that of the other materials: BD, TLC, and DR had μSBSs of 29.18 ± 2.86 MPa (p < .05), 23.86 ± 2.84 MPa (p > .05), and 18.08 ± 2.69 MPa (p < .05), respectively. Considering the importance of bond strength for CSC sealing with restorative material, using SFRC over CSC was promising for improving the μSBS, adhesion, and sealing of the material. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Adhesion is critical to the success of vital pulp restorations. To achieve strong adhesion, the bioceramic material and the resin composite to which it is bonded are very important. In our study, short fiber-reinforced composite resin, which is gaining popularity, was used and found to be a promising material for improved adhesion.

Mapping tidal restrictions to support blue carbon restoration

Blue carbon ecosystems (BCEs), encompassing mangroves, saltmarshes, and seagrasses, are vital ecosystems that deliver valuable services such as carbon sequestration, biodiversity support, and coastal protection. However, these ecosystems are threatened by various anthropogenic factors, including tidal restrictions like levees, barriers, and embankments. These structures alter the natural seawater flow, often converting coastal ecosystems into freshwater environments. Identifying tidal restrictions and assessing their suitability for tidal restoration in areas amenable for coastal management is a crucial first step to successfully restore BCEs and the associated ecosystem services they provide, i.e., managed realignment. This study presents a novel approach for detecting tidal restrictions in the state of Victoria, Australia, using high-resolution LiDAR data, geospatial analysis techniques, and a multi-criteria scoring system. Our model successfully identified 90 % of known tidal restrictions from an existing dataset, while also detecting an additional 118 potential tidal restrictions, representing a 35 % increase. The model performance analysis revealed trade-offs between precision, recall, and noise ratio when using different noise reduction thresholds, highlighting the importance of selecting an appropriate threshold based on project objectives. The multi-criteria scoring system, which considered factors such as proximity to BCEs and current land use, enabled the selection of tidal restrictions based on their hydrological suitability for restoration. The results of this study have significant implications for BCE restoration efforts not only in Victoria, but more broadly across Australia and globally, providing a systematic approach to identifying and targeting areas with the greatest potential for successful restoration projects. While the approach is low-cost and user-friendly, it is dependent on the availability of LiDAR data for the study area. This can make it accessible to researchers and practitioners worldwide, allowing for its adaptation and application in diverse regions to support global efforts in restoring BCEs through tidal restoration.

Survival and plasticity in Acacia saligna growth across Contrasting management practices and growing niches

Reforestation and afforestation either through natural regeneration, tree planting or both methods have been globally promoted to motivate ecological restoration of degraded lands and to improve livelihoods. However, moisture stress and infertile soils limit the survival and growth of trees planted for restoration in drier areas. Hence, understanding the factors that determine the restoration success of drylands through tree planting is critical. We conducted a factorial experiment in Tigray, Ethiopia to evaluate the survival, growth performance and biomass of planted seedlings of the multipurpose agroforestry tree species Acacia saligna over 24 months. The treatments were application of watering (W), mulching (M) and compost (C) separately and in combinations (WM, WMC). We established experimental plots on farmland and on a nearby hillside-exclosure to examine the role of planting niches on seedling performance. Seedlings treated with watering, mulching, and compost (WMC) revealed significantly greater height, root collar diameter (RCD), and dry biomass compared to the other treatments. Seedlings planted in farmland showed significantly greater height, RCD, and total dry biomass compared to those planted at the hillside-exclosure. Although the survival rate was slightly higher in farmland, we also found sufficient survival rates in the hillside-exclosures. Therefore, post-planting care and activities including mulching, watering and fertilization are crucial to enhance the survival and growth performance of A. saligna or other tree species so that efforts in reversing land degradation and restoration of drylands will be successful.

Research Geographical Distribution, Strategies, and Environmental and Socioeconomic Factors Influencing the Success of Land-Based Restoration: A Systematic Review

Research Geographical Distribution, Strategies, and Environmental and Socioeconomic Factors Influencing the Success of Land-Based Restoration: A Systematic Review

A low-cost protocol for reconditioning of deep-brain neural microelectrodes with material failure for electrophysiology recording

To date, a myriad of neural microelectrodes has been meticulously developed, but the focus of existing literature predominantly revolves around fabrication methodologies rather than delving into the reconditioning processes or strategies for salvaging electrodes exhibiting diminished performance due to material failure. This study aims to elucidate the underlying factors contributing to the degradation in performance of neural microelectrodes. Additionally, it introduces a comprehensive, cost-effective protocol for the reconditioning and repurposing of electrodes afflicted by material failure, tailored for a broad spectrum of electrode types. The efficacy of the proposed reconditioning protocol is substantiated through experimental validation on single-site tungsten microelectrodes. The results of neural signal recording unequivocally demonstrate the successful restoration of a substantial number of electrodes, underscoring the protocol’s effectiveness.

Sampling data of macro-invertebrates collected in grasslands under restoration succession in a lowland stream-valley system.

Publication of data from past field studies on invertebrate populations is of high importance, as there is much added value for them to be used as baselines to study spatiotemporal population and community dynamics in these groups. Therefore, a dataset consisting of occurrence data on epigaeic invertebrates collected in 1996 was standardised into the Darwin core format and cross-checked in order to make it publicly available following FAIR data principles. With publication, it can contribute to the biodiversity assessment of terrestrial invertebrates, thereby improving the availability and accessibility of much-needed historical datasets on macro-invertebrates.Here, we present sampling event data on invertebrates from four grasslands taken out of agricultural production over the span of several decades, effectively displaying a chronosequence on the effects of agricultural extensification. The data were collected by means of a standardised sampling design using pyramid traps, pitfall traps and soil samples. The raw data presented in this data paper have not been published before. They consist of 20,000+ records of nearly 70,000 specimens from 121 taxonomic groups. The data were collected using a standardised field study set-up and specimens were identified by taxonomic specialists. Most groups were identified up to family level, with eight groups identified up to species level. The occurrence data are complemented by information on plant composition, meteorological data and soil physical characteristics. The dataset has been registered in the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF): http://doi.org/10.15468/7n499e.