bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of corruption and clientelism on voter turnout in Africa
Authors: Tambe Elvis Bisong , Monyake Moletsane
Published: March 2023

This article explores the effect of corruption and clientelism on voter turnout in a sample of 34 African countries. It draws on Afrobarometer survey data from Round 5 and utilises a multilevel model to estimate individual and country-level effects. The article contributes to the literature on voter turnout, particularly by exploring the conditional effects of corruption and clientelism on individual voting decisions in Africa. We find that turnout is higher among those with more experience with electoral clientelism (which is especially strong in poorer countries) and that people with dimmer assessments of corruption are less likely to turn out, with the relationship being stronger as overall levels of corruption increase.
A space-time calculus based on symmetric 2-spinors
Authors: Aksteiner Steffen , Bäckdahl Thomas
Published: March 2023

In this paper we present a space-time calculus for symmetric spinors, including a product with a number of index contractions followed by symmetrization. As all operations stay within the class of symmetric spinors, no involved index manipulations are needed. In fact spinor indices are not needed in the formalism. It is also general because any covariant tensor expression in a 4-dimensional Lorentzian spacetime can be translated to this formalism. The computer algebra implementation SymSpin as part of xAct for Mathematica is also presented.
Phylogeographic study using autonomous reef monitoring structures indicates fast range expansion of the invasive bryozoan Juxtacribrilina mutabilis
Authors: Martaeng Rasmus , Obst Matthias , Kuklinski Piotr
Published: March 2023

This is a phylogeographical study of Juxtacribrilina mutabilis, a recently described bryozoan from Japan with sightings in Sweden, Norway, and Maine (US), to test how fast and far it has expanded across Europe in recent years. J. mutabilis settles easily on ship hulls, making it a useful model organism for studying long-distance invasion pathways. The study was conducted using Autonomous Reef Monitoring Structures (ARMS) to monitor the entire European coastline and Svalbard for J. mutabilis using DNA metabarcoding. During the time between its first sighting in Europe 2008 and the last ARMS retrieval 2020, the data shows how J. mutabilis has gained a pan-European distribution, being genetically identified in 14 new distinct locations. Presence/absence of barcodes were confirmed by image-based identification in 74% of the samples. Fourteen haplotypes never reported before were discovered in a 264 bp region of the cytochrome oxidase I gene. Two haplotypes (HP1 and HP3) occurred frequently and geographically widely dispersed, indicating intercontinental connectivity. Two locations, Koster and Getxo showed particularly high genetic diversity with similar haplotype networks suggesting continuous gene flow across oceanographically unlinked regions. Given the recent description of J. mutabilis and the relatively few historical encounters, the genetic diversity described here suggests an unusually fast range expansion within the last two decades. Such global spreading events of fouling organisms may become more common in the future as a result of more frequent and interconnected ship traffic.
Impaired B Cell Recall Memory and Reduced Antibody Avidity but Robust T Cell Response in CVID Patients After COVID-19 Vaccination
Authors: Steiner Sophie , Schwarz Tatjana , Corman Victor M. , Jeworowski Lara M. , Bauer Sandra , Drosten Christian , Scheibenbogen Carmen , Hanitsch Leif G.
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Humoral and cellular immune responses were described after COVID-19 vaccination in patients with common variable immunodeficiency disorder (CVID). This study aimed to investigate SARS-CoV-2-specific antibody quality and memory function of B cell immunity as well as T cell responses after COVID-19 vaccination in seroresponding and non-responding CVID patients.

Methods

We evaluated antibody avidity and applied a memory B cell ELSPOT assay for functional B cell recall memory response to SARS-CoV-2 after COVID-19 vaccination in CVID seroresponders. We comparatively analyzed SARS-CoV-2 spike reactive polyfunctional T cell response and reactive peripheral follicular T helper cells (pTFH) by flow cytometry in seroresponding and non-seroresponding CVID patients. All CVID patients had previously failed to mount a humoral response to pneumococcal conjugate vaccine.

Results

SARS-CoV-2 spike antibody avidity of seroresponding CVID patients was significantly lower than in healthy controls. Only 30% of seroresponding CVID patients showed a minimal memory B cell recall response in ELISPOT assay. One hundred percent of CVID seroresponders and 83% of non-seroresponders had a detectable polyfunctional T cell response. Induction of antigen-specific CD4+CD154+CD137+CXCR5+ pTFH cells by the COVID-19 vaccine was higher in CVID seroresponder than in non-seroresponder. Levels of pTFH did not correlate with antibody response or avidity.

Conclusion

Reduced avidity and significantly impaired recall memory formation after COVID-19 vaccination in seroresponding CVID patients stress the importance of a more differentiated analysis of humoral immune response in CVID patients. Our observations challenge the clinical implications that follow the binary categorization into seroresponder and non-seroresponder.
Richness of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi increases with ecosystem degradation of temperate eucalypt woodlands
Authors: Albornoz Felipe E. , Standish Rachel J. , Bissett Andrew , Prober Suzanne M.
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Degraded ecosystems can be maintained by abiotic and biotic legacies long after initial disturbances, preventing recovery. These legacies can include changes in arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). To inform potential restoration pathways, we aimed to elucidate differences in AMF between intact and degraded ecosystems, their responses to modified soils, and interactions with invasive plants.

Methods

We used a state-and-transition framework to characterise AMF communities, native and exotic plant cover, and soil physicochemical properties across little-modified reference states and degraded states, which were carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) -depleted, intermediate, and CN-enriched, in temperate eucalypt woodlands of south-eastern Australia.

Results

Most ground-layer states differed significantly in their AMF communities, with the CN-enriched states being most distinct. All states had unique taxa and characteristic indicator taxa, but intermediate and CN-enriched states harboured four-to-five times more indicator taxa than the reference state. Consistent with this, richness of AMF was higher in the intermediate and CN-enriched states than in reference states, driven by higher richness of Archaeosporaceae, Diversisporaceae, Glomeraceae, and Paraglomeraceae. Pathway analysis indicated that differences in AMF communities among states were strongly related to differences in native:exotic plant cover ratio, mediated by soil organic matter and nutrients.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that ecosystem degradation is associated with both loss of AMF taxa and introduction of ‘weedy’ AMF, which in turn potentially contribute to maintenance of degraded ecosystems. We argue that our state-and-transition approach to characterising AMF communities improved our understanding of the different pathways of degradation, elucidating possible constraints to ecosystem recovery.
High School FLASH Sexual Health Education Curriculum: LGBTQ Inclusivity Strategies Reduce Homophobia and Transphobia
Authors: Kesler Kari , Gerber Andrea , Laris BA , Anderson Pamela , Baumler Elizabeth , Coyle Karin
Published: March 2023

Homophobic and transphobic beliefs that lead to bias-based harassment remain a critical concern for young people in the USA. The aim of the present study was to examine the impact of an inclusive comprehensive sex education program (High School FLASH) on homophobic and transphobic beliefs. Data from this study come from a randomized controlled trial that evaluated the impact of High School FLASH on students’ sexual behaviors and related outcomes with 20 schools in two U.S. regions (Midwest and South). Following the baseline survey, the 20 schools were randomly assigned to receive FLASH or a comparison curriculum. Ninth and 10th grade students completed follow-up surveys 3 and 12 months after the instructional period. We examined changes in homophobic beliefs using multilevel linear regression models in the full sample and two sub-groups: straight cisgender young people versus those who identified as not straight or cisgender. Mean scores on the homophobic and transphobic beliefs scale were statistically significantly lower among young people receiving FLASH relative to the comparison at both the 3- and 12-month timepoints (p-values for adjusted mean differences were < 0.01, n = 1357 and 1275, respectively). Specifically, FLASH’s positive impact on reducing homophobic and transphobic beliefs was statistically significant for straight and cisgender youth at both survey follow-ups (p < 0.01, n = 1144 and p = 0.05, n = 1078, respectively); the effects for the LGBTQ sub-group reached statistical significance at only the final follow-up (p = 0.01, n = 197). Our results show that carefully designed, inclusive comprehensive sexual health education programs like High School FLASH can play a role in promoting better school climates for all youth by reducing beliefs that may lead to bullying, violence, and victimization.
Efficiency of conventional and nanoparticle oxytetracycline in treatment of clinical endometritis in postpartum dairy cows
Authors: Ghallab Rezk S. , El-Karim Dina R. S. Gad , Fayed Abdel-Hasseb , Rashad Amr M. A.
Published: March 2023

The incidence of clinical endometritis in dairy cows postpartum is one of the important reasons for financial losses in the dairy industry. The costs of treatment, milk losses, infertility, repeated breeding, and high annual culling rate of dairy cows present immediate losses in case of treatment failure. The commonly used therapeutic methods for clinical endometritis have not been successful nor have given definitive solutions to overcome the complications of the disease in dairy cows. Therefore, it was necessary to propose an innovative treatment program to overcome the reasons for the failure and lack of effectiveness of the treatment of clinical endometritis. This was tackled in the current study; oxytetracycline with different concentrations, oxytetracycline 5% (OTCC5%), oxytetracycline 20% (OTCC20%), and oxytetracycline 20% nanoparticles (OTC-NPs) were used for the treatment of clinical endometritis. Diagnosis of clinical endometritis was based on the assessment of high serum concentration of pro-inflammatory cytokines, acute phase protein, increased endometrium thickness, and intrauterine discharges with different degrees of echogenicity monitored by ultrasonography. Application of OTC-NPs revealed a decrease in serum concentration of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α) and acute phase proteins compared to OTCC20% and OTCC5% groups. The improvement achieved by OTC-NPs may be attributed to the reduction of OTC particles into nano size which facilitates its tissue bioavailability, dispersion, penetration power to deeper tissues, and its more broad-spectrum activities. These activities were clearly apparent after the evacuation of uterine contents using a single dose of PGF2α. The OTC-NPs revealed a reduction in serum concentration of cytokines compared to OTCC20% and OTCC5% groups arranged as follows: 10.11, 25.45, 35.56 for IL-1; 99, 300, 319 for IL-6; 1.01, 4.40, 8.06 for CRP; and 46, 183, 266 for TNF-α. Furthermore, an increase in serum concentration of albumin (3.34) was obtained by OTC-NPs compared to OTCC5% (1.70). This improvement can be taken as evidence of liver resumption functions and inflammatory reactions. On the other side, globulin concentration recorded an increase like albumin and total proteins in OTC-NPs compared to others. A reduction in the endometrium thickness in OTC-NPs with the disappearance of intrauterine discharges was monitored by ultrasonography. This confirmed the subsiding of clinical endometritis in OTC-NPs group. Moreover, a significant improvement in conception and pregnancy rate in OTC-NPs compared to other groups were observed.
Hormesis effects of phenol on growth and cellular metabolites of Chlorella sp. under different nutritional conditions using response surface methodology
Authors: Gomaa Mohamed , El-Naeb Eman H. , Hifney Awatief F. , Adam Mahmoud S. , Fawzy Mustafa A.
Published: March 2023

The present study investigated the effects of different phenol concentrations (200 – 1000 mg L−1) towards Chlorella sp. under different culture conditions (light vs. dark) and NaNO3 concentrations (0 – 0.1 g L−1) using central composite design. Phenol induced hormesis effects on the algal growth and cellular metabolites. Nitrate was identified as a crucial factor for promoting the uptake of phenol by Chlorella cells, while light was a limiting factor for growth, but the phyco-toxicity of phenol was decreased in the dark. The pigment contents were generally increased in the treated cells to protect against the oxidative phenol stress. The incorporation of 200 mg L−1 phenol and 0.05 g L−1 NaNO3 to the illuminated cells markedly promoted biomass and lipid contents to 0.22 g L−1 and 26.26% w/w, which was 44 and 112% higher than the phenol-less control, respectively. Under the same conditions, the increase of phenol concentration to 600 mg L−1, the protein contents were increased to 18.59% w/w. Conversely, the algal cells were able to accumulate more than 60% w/w of soluble carbohydrates under dark conditions at 600 mg L−1 of phenol. Nitrate replete conditions stimulated lipid accumulation at the expense of protein biosynthesis. Furthermore, most of the treatments showed an increase of H2O2 and malonaldehyde contents, especially for the illuminated cells. However, catalase activity tended to increase under dark conditions, especially at low phenol and nitrate concentrations. This study is valuable in indicating the effects of phenol on microalgae by exploiting response surface methodology, which can be applied as a powerful tool in growth monitoring and toxicity assessment.
Using a Nominal Group Technique to Develop a Science Communication Curriculum for Health Professionals and Clinical Researchers
Authors: Giuliani Meredith Elana , Papadakos Tina , Coolens Catherine , Fregnani Jose , Gebhardt Philipp , Julius Anet , Pramesh C. S. , Quartey Naa Kwarley , Papadakos Janet
Published: March 2023

Effective science communication is
fundamental to closing the gap from research and innovation to clinical implementation. Existing paradigms of science communication are often challenged by a lack of skill and engagement, particularly from those who progress the science. Currently, a standardized curriculum on science communication, with global applicability, does not exist. The purpose of this project is to address the gap in training by health professionals and clinical researchers through the development of a globally relevant curriculum for science communication. The nominal group technique (NGT) was used whereby a convenience sample of eleven science communication experts from across the globe generated, discussed, and arrived at a consensus on topics that should be included in a standardized science communication curriculum. Experts represented diverse backgrounds within the health sciences. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and geographical constraints, the NGT was conducted virtually. The consensus-building methodology allowed for each expert to equally present ideas and collaborate with one another to create a robust and comprehensive curriculum for effective science communication. Expert panelists reached a consensus on 10 essential components of a standardized global science communication curriculum. Following the refinement of the curriculum topic areas, a virtual meeting with project co-investigators was held to review the topics and discuss relevance, applicability, and appeal to the local contexts. A standardized science communication curriculum is needed for health professionals and clinical researchers. The NGT achieved expert consensus on the core topics. The next steps are to develop the course ensuring optimal participation from learners across the globe.
Impacts of Climate Change on Snow Avalanche Activity Along a Transportation Corridor in the Tianshan Mountains
Authors: Hao Jiansheng , Zhang Xueqin , Cui Peng , Li Lanhai , Wang Yan , Zhang Guotao , Li Chaoyue
Published: March 2023

Snow avalanches can repeatedly occur along the same track under different snowpack and meteorological conditions during the snow season in areas of snow avalanche activity. The snowfall, air temperature, and snow cover can change dramatically in a warming climate, causing significant changes in the snow avalanche risk. But how the risk of snow avalanche activity during the snow season will change under a warming climate remains an open question. Based on the observed meteorological and snowpack data from 1968 to 2021 and the snow avalanche activity data during the 2011–2021 snow seasons along a transportation corridor in the central Tianshan Mountains that has a typical continental snow climate, we analyzed the temporal distribution of the snow avalanche activity and the impacts of climate change on it. The results indicate that the frequency of the snow avalanche activity is characterized by a Gaussian bimodal distribution, resulting from interactions between the snowfall, air temperature, and snowpack evolution. In addition, the active period of wet snow avalanches triggered by temperature surges and high solar radiation has gradually moved forward from the second half to the first half of March with climate warming. The frequency and size of snowfall-triggered snow avalanches showed only a slight and insignificant increase. These findings are important for rationally arranging snow avalanche relief resources to improve the risk management of snow avalanche disasters, and highlight the necessity to immediately design risk mitigation strategies and disaster risk policies to improve our adaptation to climate change.
Characterization of threats in IoT from an MQTT protocol-oriented dataset
Authors: Muñoz Castañeda Ángel Luis , Mata José Antonio Aveleira , Aláiz-Moretón Héctor
Published: March 2023

Nowadays, the cybersecurity of Internet of Thing (IoT) environments is a big challenge. The analysis of network traffic and the use of automated estimators built up with machine learning techniques have been useful in detecting intrusions in traditional networks. Since the IoT networks require new and particular protocols to control the communications between the different devices involved in the networks, the knowledge acquired in the study of general networks may be unuseful some times. The goal of this paper is twofold. On the one hand, we aim to obtain a consistent dataset of the network traffic of an IoT system based on the Message Queue Telemetry Transport protocol (MQTT) and undergoing certain type of attacks. On the other hand, we want to characterize each of these attacks in terms of the minimum possible number of significant variables allowed by this protocol. Obtaining the data set has been achieved by studying the MQTT protocol in depth, while its characterization has been addressed through a hybrid (filter/wrapper) feature selection algorithm based on the idea behind the minimum-redundancy maximum-relevance (mRMR) algorithm. The dataset, together with the feature selection algorithm, carries out a characterization of the different attacks which is optimal in terms of the accuracy of the machine learning models trained on it as well as in terms of the capability of explaining their underlying nature. This confirms the consistency of the dataset.
Innovative technology for ammonia abatement from livestock buildings using advanced oxidation processes
Authors: Prostějovský Tomáš , Kulišťáková Alena , Reli Martin , Žebrák Radim , Kočí Kamila
Published: March 2023

The feasibility of using advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) for abatement of ammonia from livestock buildings was examined in a series of pilot plant experiments. In this study, all the experiments were conducted in a two-step unit containing a dry photolytic reactor (UV185/UV254/O3) and a photochemical scrubber (UV254/H2O2). The unit efficiency was tested for two initial ammonia concentrations (20 and 35 ppmv) and three different air flows (150, 300 and 450 m3·h−1). While the first step removes mainly organic pollutants that are often present together with ammonia in the air and ammonia only partially, the second step removes around 90% of ammonia emissions even at the highest flow rate of 450 m3·h−1. Absorbed ammonia in the aqueous phase can be effectively removed without adjusting the pH (i.e. without the addition of other additives) using UV and ozone. Complete removal of ammonia was achieved after 15 h of irradiation. In order to assess the price efficiency of the suggested technology and to be able to compare it with other methods the figures-of-merit were determined. The price needed for lowering ammonia emission by one order of magnitude is 0.002 € per cubic meter of treated air at the highest flow rate of 450 m3·h−1 and for initial ammonia concentrations of 20 ppmv. These findings demonstrate that AOPs are a promising method for ammonia abatement from livestock buildings which are rarely using any waste air treatment method.
The Power of African Cultures
Authors: Falola Toyin
Published: March 2023

An analysis of the ties between culture and every aspect of African life, using Africa's past to explain present situations.
Wade Hampton Frost, Pioneer Epidemiologist 1880-1938
Authors: Daniel Thomas M.
Published: March 2023

A biography of a seminal figure in the fight against tuberculosis and other public health diseases.
From Plain Fare to Fusion Food
Authors: Oddy Derek J.
Published: March 2023

An account of one hundred years of diet (including political influences) and its reflection in the population's health - from wartime deprivation to fast food overkill.
Anne of France
Authors: Jansen Sharon L.
Published: March 2023

Anne of France (1461-1522) composed these lessons - presented as a portrait of an ideal princess - as guidance in negotiating the pitfalls facing a woman in the world of politics.
Characterizing burnout among healthcare epidemiologists in the early phases of the COVID-19 pandemic: A study of the SHEA Research Network
Authors: Smith Tucker John Guy , Pryor Rachel , Hota Susy S. , Haessler Sarah D. , Deloney Valerie M. , Bearman Gonzalo
Published: March 2023

A multisite research team proposed a survey to assess burnout among healthcare epidemiologists. Anonymous surveys were disseminated to eligible staff at SRN facilities. Half of the respondents were experiencing burnout. Staffing shortages were a key stressor. Allowing healthcare epidemiologists to provide guidance without directly enforcing policies may improve burnout.
Successful ingredients of effective Collaborative Care programs in low- and middle-income countries: A rapid review
Authors: Whitfield Jessica , Owens Shanise , Bhat Amritha , Felker Bradford , Jewell Teresa , Chwastiak Lydia
Published: March 2023

Integrating mental health care in primary healthcare settings is a compelling strategy to address the mental health treatment gap in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Collaborative Care is the integrated care model with the most evidence supporting its effectiveness, but most research has been conducted in high-income countries. Efforts to implement this complex multi-component model at scale in LMICs will be enhanced by understanding the model components that have been effective in LMIC settings. Following Cochrane Rapid Reviews Methods Group recommendations, we conducted a rapid review to identify studies of the effectiveness of Collaborative Care for priority adult mental disorders of mhGAP (mood and anxiety disorders, psychosis, substance use disorders and epilepsy) in outpatient medical settings in LMICs. Article screening and data extraction were performed using Covidence software. Data extraction by two authors utilized a checklist of key components of effective interventions. Information was aggregated to examine how frequently the components were applied. Our search yielded 25 articles describing 20 Collaborative Care models that treated depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, alcohol use disorder or epilepsy in nine different LMICs. Fourteen of these models demonstrated statistically significantly improved clinical outcomes compared to comparison groups. Successful models shared key structural and process-of-care elements: a multi-disciplinary care team with structured communication; standardized protocols for evidence-based treatments; systematic identification of mental disorders, and a stepped-care approach to treatment intensification. There was substantial heterogeneity across studies with respect to the specifics of model components, and clear evidence of the importance of tailoring the model to the local context. This review provides evidence that Collaborative Care is effective across a range of mental disorders in LMICs. More work is needed to demonstrate population-level and longer-term outcomes, and to identify strategies that will support successful and sustained implementation in routine clinical settings.
Explosive dispersal of granular media
Authors: Xue Kun , Miu Lvlan , Li Jiarui , Bai Chunhua , Tian Baolin
Published: March 2023

Explosive dispersal of granular media widely occurs in nature across various length scales, also enabling engineering applications ranging from commercial or military explosive systems to the loss prevention industry. However, the complex particle–flow coupling makes the explosive dispersal behaviour of particles difficult to control or even characterize. Here, we study the central explosion-driven dispersal of dense particle layers using the coarse-grained computational fluid dynamics–discrete element method and present a comprehensive investigation of both macroscale dispersal behaviours and particle-scale pattern formation. Employing three independent dimensionless parameters that characterize the efficiency, homogeneity and completeness of explosive dispersal, we categorize the dispersal behaviours into ideal, partial, retarded and failed modes, and propose the corresponding thresholds. As the mass ratio of granular materials to central pressurized gases (M/C) spans four orders of magnitude, the dispersal mode transitions from ideal to partial, then to retarded and finally to failed mode. The transitions of dispersal modes correspond to the particle–flow coupling regime crossovers, which change from decoupling to weak, medium and finally to strong coupling as the dispersal mode undergoes corresponding transitions. We proceed to develop continuum models accounting for the shock compaction and the ensuing pulsation of the particle ring that are capable of identifying the ideal dispersal mode from various dispersal systems. We also provide insights into the origins of diverse particle-scale patterns that are strongly correlated with macroscale dispersal modes and critical for the accurate prediction of dispersal modes.
Energy balances for the collision of gravity currents of equal strengths
Authors: Dai Albert , Huang Yu-Lin , Wu Ching-Sen
Published: March 2023

Collision of two counterflowing gravity currents of equal densities and heights was investigated by means of three-dimensional high-resolution simulations with the goal of understanding the flow structures and energetics in the collision region in more detail. The lifetime of collision is approximately

$3 \tilde {H}/\tilde {u}_f$

, where

$\tilde {H}$

is the depth of heavy and ambient fluids, and

$\tilde {u}_f$

is the front velocity of the approaching gravity currents, and the lifetime of collision can be divided into three phases. During Phase I,

$-0.2 \leqslant (\tilde {t}-\tilde {t}_c) \tilde {u}_f/\tilde {H} \leqslant 0.5$

, where

$\tilde {t}$

is the time, and

$\tilde {t}_c$

is the time instance at which the two colliding gravity currents have fully osculated, geometric distortions of the gravity current fronts result in stretching of pre-existing vorticity in the wall-normal direction inside the fronts, and an array of vertical vortices extending throughout the updraught fluid column develop along the interface separating the two colliding gravity currents. The array of vertical vortices is responsible for the mixing between the heavy fluids of the two colliding gravity currents and for the production of turbulent kinetic energy in the collision region. The presence of the top boundary deflects the updraughts into the horizontal direction, and a number of horizontal streamwise vortices are generated close to the top boundary. During Phase II,

$0.5 \leqslant (\tilde {t}-\tilde {t}_c) \tilde {u}_f/\tilde {H} \leqslant 1.2$

, the horizontal streamwise vortices close to the top boundary induce turbulent buoyancy flux and break up into smaller structures. While the production of turbulent kinetic energy weakens, the rate of transfer of energy to turbulent flow due to turbulent buoyancy flux reaches its maximum and becomes the primary supply in the turbulent kinetic energy in Phase II. During Phase III,

$1.2 \leqslant (\tilde {t}-\tilde {t}_c) \tilde {u}_f/\tilde {H} \leqslant 2.8$

, the collided fluid slumps away from the collision region, while the production of turbulent kinetic energy, turbulent buoyancy flux and dissipation of energy attenuate. From the point of view of energetics, the production of turbulent kinetic energy and turbulent buoyancy flux transfers energy away from the mean flow to the turbulent flow during the collision. Our study complements previous experimental investigations on the collision of gravity currents in that the flow structures, spatial distribution and temporal evolution of the mean flow and turbulent flow characteristics in the collision region are presented clearly. It is our understanding that such complete information on the energy budgets in the collision region can be difficult to attain in laboratory experiments.
Spatial–temporal transformation for primary and secondary instabilities in weakly non-parallel shear flows
Authors: Xu Jiakuan , Liu Jianxin , Zhang Zhongyu , Wu Xuesong
Published: March 2023

When studying instability of weakly non-parallel flows, it is often desirable to convert temporal growth rates of unstable modes, which can readily be computed, to physically more relevant spatial growth rates. This has been performed using the well-known Gaster's transformation for primary instability and Herbert's transformation for the secondary instability of a saturated primary mode. The issue of temporal–spatial transformation is revisited in the present paper to clarify/rectify the ambiguity/misunderstanding that appears to exist in the literature. A temporal mode and its spatial counterpart may be related by sharing either the real frequency or wavenumber, and the respective transformations between their growth rates are obtained by a simpler consistent derivation than the original one. These transformations, which consist of first- and second-order versions, are valid under conditions less restrictive than those for Gaster's and Herbert's transformations, and reduce to the latter under additional conditions, which are not always satisfied in practice. The transformations are applied to inviscid Rayleigh instability of a mixing layer and a jet, secondary instability of a streaky flow as well as general detuned secondary instability (including subharmonic and fundamental resonances) of primary Mack modes in a supersonic boundary layer. Comparison of the transformed growth rates with the directly calculated spatial growth rates shows that the transformations derived in this paper outperform Gaster's and Herbert's transformations consistently. The first-order transformation is accurate when the growth rates are small or moderate, while the second-order transformations are sufficiently accurate across the entire instability bands, and thus stand as a useful tool for obtaining spatial instability characteristics via temporal stability analysis.
Freak wave in a two-dimensional directional wavefield with bottom topography change. Part 1. Normal incidence wave
Authors: Lyu Zuorui , Mori Nobuhito , Kashima Hiroaki
Published: March 2023

In the propagation and evolution of sea waves, previous studies pointed out that the occurrence of the freak wave height is significantly related to the quasi-resonant four-wave interaction in the modulated waves. From numerical--experimental study over an uneven bottom, the nonlinear effect caused by the bathymetry change also contributes to the occurrence of extreme events in unidirectional waves. To comprehensively analyse the two-dimensional wavefield, this study develops an evolution model for a directional random wavefield based on the depth-modified nonlinear Schrödinger equation, which considers the nonlinear resonant interactions and the wave shoaling the shallow water. Through Monte Carlo simulation, we discuss the directional effect on the four-wave interaction in the wave train and the maximum wave height distribution from deep to shallow water with a slow varying slope. The numerical result indicates that the directional spreading has a dispersion effect on the freak wave height. In a shallow-water environment, this effect becomes weak, and the bottom topography change is the main influencing factor in the wave evolution.
A central limit theorem for conservative fragmentation chains
Authors: Rubenthaler Sylvain
Published: March 2023

We are interested in a fragmentation process. We observe fragments frozen when their sizes are less than
$\varepsilon$
(
$\varepsilon>0$
). It is known (Bertoin and Martínez, 2005) that the empirical measure of these fragments converges in law, under some renormalization. Hoffmann and Krell (2011) showed a bound for the rate of convergence. Here, we show a central limit theorem, under some assumptions. This gives us an exact rate of convergence.
Population genomics of helminth parasites
Authors: Thorn C.S. , Maness R.W. , Hulke J.M. , Delmore K.E. , Criscione C.D.
Published: March 2023

Next generation sequencing technologies have facilitated a shift from a few targeted loci in population genetic studies to whole genome approaches. Here, we review the types of questions and inferences regarding the population biology and evolution of parasitic helminths being addressed within the field of population genomics. Topics include parabiome, hybridization, population structure, loci under selection and linkage mapping. We highlight various advances, and note the current trends in the field, particularly a focus on human-related parasites despite the inherent biodiversity of helminth species. We conclude by advocating for a broader application of population genomics to reflect the taxonomic and life history breadth displayed by helminth parasites. As such, our basic knowledge about helminth population biology and evolution would be enhanced while the diversity of helminths in itself would facilitate population genomic comparative studies to address broader ecological and evolutionary concepts.
Right cervical aortic arch associated with anomaly of epiaortic vessels and haemodynamically significant obstruction between ascending and descending aorta. Extra-anatomic bypass graft between ascending and descending aorta and long-term follow-up
Authors: Cavalla Francesca , Cipriani Adriano
Published: March 2023

Right cervical aortic arch is a rare malformation in which a right-sided aortic arch is unusually long, forms a loop, descends, and crosses behind the oesophagus to continue as a left descending aorta. We present a case of right cervical aortic arch associated with anomaly of epiaortic vessels and aortic obstruction, surgically treated with extra-anatomic bypass graft between ascending and descending aorta.
Hybrid approach for end-stage heart failure treatment in a 6-month-old baby
Authors: Castaldi Biagio , Padalino Massimo , Sirico Domenico , Guariento Alvise , Vida Vladimiro , Di Salvo Giovanni
Published: March 2023

A 6-month-old baby girl, with a history of 2 months of intensive care management and two episodes of cardiac arrest, was transferred from another European country to initiate the “Giessen approach” for end-stage heart failure in children. At the admission, left ventricular ejection fraction was 20%. Severe mitral valve regurgitation and severe left atrial dilatation were present. Right ventricular function was preserved, and tricuspid valve regurgitation was mild. As a result, the patient underwent surgical pulmonary artery banding. Additionally, unloading of the left atrium was achieved by implanting an 8 mm atrial flow regulator device through a hybrid per-atrial approach. Two months after the procedure, the patient was progressively weaned from the inotropes and transferred to the ward.
Missouri natural resource professionals share key insights for supporting agroforestry practices through cost-share funding available from USDA conservation programs
Authors: Kronenberg Raelin , Lovell Sarah , Hall Damon , Harmon-Threatt Alexandra
Published: March 2023

Agroforestry plantings offer a promising ecologically based solution to address agricultural resource concerns while simultaneously achieving conservation goals, because they provide multiple benefits including reduced soil erosion, decreased nutrient runoff, increased biodiversity and greater farm income stability. Despite these benefits, the adoption of agroforestry practices remains low throughout the United States. One approach intended to increase the implementation of these ecologically beneficial practices is to offer financial incentives for landowners. Several USDA conservation programs provide applicant landowners with financial and technical resources to implement approved conservation practices, including tree planting. Missouri offers a unique socio-political context for the application of agroforestry tree plantings in established conservation programs as it is currently the only state with an Environmental Quality Incentives Program fund pool dedicated to agroforestry and woody crop establishment. To gather initial information on the potential for agroforestry in Missouri, seven conservation professionals from prominent agencies, including Natural Resource Conservation Service and University of Missouri Extension, were interviewed. The purpose of these interviews was to gather in-depth knowledge on (1) the current dialogue around trees in conservation programs between natural resource professionals and landowners (2) the relationships between landowners and conservation agencies and (3) the professionals' knowledge of and familiarity with agroforestry practices. Preliminary findings suggest there are misconceptions about the requirements and regulations for conservation programs among landowners and conservation professionals. Another common theme was that conservation agencies face challenges in forming long-term connections with landowners, and they rely primarily on landowners to reach out for assistance. Lastly, conservation professionals are supportive of agroforestry but wish for greater knowledge of the practices before promoting them to landowners. Due to the small sample size of interview participants, these insights provide one perspective into the agroforestry knowledge of natural resource professionals. These initial findings will help direct future research on how well natural resource professionals understand agroforestry concepts and how they are engaging with Missouri farmers to support them in planting trees on their land.
Legal systems and stock market efficiency: an empirical analysis of stock indices around the world
Authors: Diniz-Maganini Natalia , Rasheed Abdul A. , Yaşar Mahmut
Published: March 2023

We examine whether the differences in the legal origins of countries (Common Law versus Civil Law) can explain the variations in the price efficiencies of the stock markets of different countries. Based on multifractal detrended fluctuation analysis of the daily stock indices of 34 countries over 21 years, we find that the stock price indices in Common Law origin countries show greater price efficiency than the stock price indices in Civil Law countries. These results provide additional evidence that the legal origins of countries affect their economic activities and outcomes.
Middle–Late Cenozoic Stepwise Deformation Propagation in Eastern Tibet
Authors: Tao Yaling , Zhang Huiping , Zhao Xudong , Wang Ying , Ma Zifa
Published: March 2023

The uplift and deformation styles of the Tibetan Plateau have been long debated on stepwise growth and crustal channel flow. Here, we offer new insight into this issue by constraining the pulsed exhumation history of the Yalong thrust belt in eastern Tibet, using apatite and zircon (U–Th)/He data from three ∼1 km vertical transects. The results revealed two rapid cooling pulses in the Late Oligocene (∼24 Ma, 50°C/m.y.) and the Middle Miocene (17–14 Ma, 35 °C/m.y.), respectively, which we ascribe to the staged‐thrusting faulting of this belt. These thrust faulting events indicated upward and eastward growth of the Tibetan Plateau, further suggested that the high topographic relief across the Yalong thrust belt mainly formed (at least) since the Late Oligocene. The available documents from paleoaltimetry, basin sediment accumulation, and thermochronometers and our new results reveal a regional‐scale stepwise propagation pattern of tectonic deformation during the Middle–Late Cenozoic in eastern Tibet.
Ion‐Scale Magnetic Flux Rope Generated From Electron‐Scale Magnetopause Current Sheet: Magnetospheric Multiscale Observations
Authors: Hasegawa H. , Denton R. E. , Dokgo K. , Hwang K.‐J. , Nakamura T. K. M. , Burch J. L.
Published: March 2023

We present in‐depth analysis of three southward‐moving meso‐scale (ion‐to magnetohydrodynamic‐scale) flux transfer events (FTEs) and subsequent crossing of a reconnecting magnetopause current sheet (MPCS), which were observed on 8 December 2015 by the Magnetospheric Multiscale spacecraft in the subsolar region under southward and duskward magnetosheath magnetic field conditions. We aim to understand the generation mechanism of ion‐scale magnetic flux ropes (ISFRs) and to reveal causal relationship among magnetic field structures, electromagnetic energy conversion, and kinetic processes in magnetic reconnection layers. Results from magnetic field reconstruction methods are consistent with a flux rope with a length of about one ion inertial length growing from an electron‐scale current sheet (ECS) in the MPCS, supporting the idea that ISFRs can be generated through secondary reconnection in an ECS. Grad‐Shafranov reconstruction applied to the three FTEs shows that the FTEs had axial orientations similar to that of the ISFR. This suggests that these FTEs also formed through the same secondary reconnection process, rather than multiple X‐line reconnection at spatially separated locations. Four‐spacecraft observations of electron pitch‐angle distributions and energy conversion rate suggest that the ISFR had three‐dimensional magnetic topology and secondary reconnection was patchy or bursty. Previously reported positive and negative values of , with magnitudes much larger than expected for typical MP reconnection, were seen in both magnetosheath and magnetospheric separatrix regions of the ISFR. Many of them coexisted with bi‐directional electron beams and intense electric field fluctuations around the electron gyrofrequency, consistent with their origin in separatrix activities.
Current and Future Global Lake Methane Emissions: A Process‐Based Modeling Analysis
Authors: Zhuang Qianlai , Guo Mingyang , Melack John M. , Lan Xin , Tan Zeli , Oh Youmi , Leung L. Ruby
Published: March 2023

Freshwater ecosystem contributions to the global methane budget remains the most uncertain among natural sources. With warming and accompanying carbon release from thawed permafrost and thermokarst lake expansion, the increase of methane emissions could be large. However, the impact and relative importance of various factors related to warming remain uncertain. Based on diverse lake characteristics incorporated in modeling and observational data, we calibrate and verify a lake biogeochemistry model. The model is then applied to estimate global lake methane emissions and examine the impacts of temperature increase for the first and the last decades of the 21st century under different climate scenarios. We find that current emissions are 24.0 ± 8.4 Tg CH4 yr−1 from lakes larger than 0.1 km2, accounting for 11% of the global total natural source as estimated based on atmospheric inversion. Future projections under the RCP8.5 scenario suggest a 58%–86% growth in emissions from lakes. Our model sensitivity analysis indicates that additional carbon substrates from thawing permafrost may enhance methane production under warming in the Arctic. Warming enhanced methane oxidation in lake water can be an effective sink to reduce the net release from global lakes.
The Impact of Crop Rotation and Spatially Varying Crop Parameters in the E3SM Land Model (ELMv2)
Authors: Sinha Eva , Bond‐Lamberty Ben , Calvin Katherine V. , Drewniak Beth A. , Bisht Gautam , Bernacchi Carl , Blakely Bethany J. , Moore Caitlin E.
Published: March 2023

Earth System Models (ESMs) are increasingly representing agriculture due to its impact on biogeochemical cycles, local and regional climate, and fundamental importance for human society. Realistic large scale simulations may require spatially varying crop parameters that capture crop growth at various scales and among different cultivars, as well as common crop management practices, but their importance is uncertain, and they are often not represented in ESMs. In this study, we examine the impact of using constant versus spatially varying crop parameters using a novel, realistic crop rotation scenario in the Energy Exascale Earth System Model (E3SM) Land Model version 2 (ELMv2). We implemented crop rotation by using ELMv2's dynamic land unit capability, and then calibrated and validated the model against observations collected at three AmeriFlux sites in the US Midwest with corn soybean rotation. The calibrated model closely captured the magnitude and observed seasonality of carbon and energy fluxes across crops and sites. We performed regional simulations for the US Midwest using the calibrated model and found that spatially varying only a few crop parameters across the region, as opposed to using constant parameters, had a large impact, with the carbon fluxes and energy fluxes both varying by up to 40%. These results imply that large scale ESM simulations using spatially invariant crop parameters may result in biased energy and carbon fluxes estimation from agricultural land, and underline the importance of improving human‐earth systems interactions in ESMs.
Tonga Eruption May Temporarily Push Earth Closer to 1.5�C of Warming
Authors: Besl J.
Published: March 2023

The underwater eruption of Hunga Tonga–Hunga Ha‘apai sent megatons of water vapor into the stratosphere, contributing to an increase in global warming over the next 5 years.