bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laparoscopic concomitant cholecystectomy and splenectomy for true left-sided gall bladder with hereditary spherocytosis
Authors: Saraf Vineeth Bhargav , Rege Sameer Ashok
Published: April 2023

A true left-sided gall bladder (LSG) is a rare finding, is mostly discovered incidentally and often presents with symptoms similar to those of a normally positioned gall bladder. The diagnosis in most cases is intraoperative. The surgical technique is frequently difficult, with an increased risk of intraoperative injuries and conversion to open surgery. In this case report, we describe a rare scenario of a young male with hereditary spherocytosis who presented with jaundice and splenomegaly. The diagnosis of LSG was made by chance during pre-operative imaging. The patient was successfully managed with a splenectomy and a cholecystectomy via the minimal access approach in the same setting.
Fine dimensional properties of spectral measures
Authors: Landrigan Michael , Powell Matthew
Published: April 2023

Operators with zero dimensional spectral measures appear naturally in the theory of ergodic Schrödinger operators. We develop the concept of a complete family of Hausdorff measure functions in order to analyze and distinguish between these measures with any desired precision.We prove that the dimension of spectral measures of half-line operators with positive upper Lyapunov exponent are at most logarithmic for every possible boundary phase. We show that this is sharp by constructing an explicit operatorwhose spectralmeasure obtains this dimension. We also extend and improve some basic results from the theory of rank one perturbations and quantum dynamics to encompass generalized Hausdorff dimensions.
Eosinophil-derived TGFβ1 controls the new bone formation in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps
Authors: Jo S , Lee S H , Jo H-R , Weon S , Jeon C , Park M K , Kim T-H , Cho S H
Published: April 2023

Background: Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is characterized by chronic eosinophilic inflammation and new bone formation (NBF). These processes may be associated with each other in the pathogenesis and influence the severity and prognosis of the disease. However, it is still unclear how eosinophilic inflammation is involved in the NBF. Methodology: Sinus bone cells were isolated from ethmoid bone tissues of patients with CRSwNP and controls. Transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFβ1) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) expression in sinus bone cells was determined using quantitative RT–PCR, immunoblotting, and immunohistochemistry. The co-localization of TGFβ1 with eosinophils was assessed by immunofluorescence staining. Sinus bone cells were co-cultured with eosinophils (Eol-1 cell line), which were differentiated with butyrate, to measure the osteoblast differentiation activity of sinus bone cells. Results: TGFβ1 expression was increased in sinus bone tissues and correlated with CT scores in CRSwNP. TGFβ1 was also increased in the submucosa of CRSwNP and co-localized predominantly with eosinophils compared with neutrophils Differentiated Eol-1 cells-derived TGFβ1 increased ALP expression in sinus bone cells. Treatment with a TGFβ1 inhibitor attenuated TGFβ1-induced ALP expression and staining in sinus bone cells of CRSwNP, leading to loss of bone formation. Conclusions: Eosinophil-derived TGFβ1 was enriched in the submucosa of CRSwNP, which induced ALP expression in sinus bone cells and NBF. Therefore, eosinophil-derived TGFβ1 may mediate aberrant bone remodeling in CRSwNP.
Unravelling Europe's 'Migration Crisis'
Authors: Crawley Heaven , Duvell Franck , Jones Katharine , McMahon Simon , Sigona Nando
Published: April 2023

This important new book provides a framework for understanding the dynamics underpinning recent unprecedented levels of migration across, and loss of life in, the Mediterranean, casting new light on the 'migration crisis' and challenging politicians, policy makers and the media to rethink their understanding of why and how people move.
Making Sense of Brexit
Authors: Seidler Victor
Published: April 2023

What can we learn about our society and the need to listen to each other in order to make sense of Brexit within a wider world? This accessible book addresses the causes and implications of Brexit, exploring the anger against political elites as people felt estranged from a political process that no longer expressed their will.
Squaring the Circle on Brexit
Authors: Fossum John Erik , Graver Hans Petter
Published: April 2023

Two preeminent Norwegian scholars of politics and law offer a comprehensive first-hand account of Norway's relationship with the EU and how this affects the country's legal and political system, setting out what Britain can learn from Norway's experience and how transferable these lessons are.
The Soul of a University
Authors: Brink Chris
Published: April 2023

How can we re-establish universities' social purpose? The solution lies with asking not only 'what are we good at?', but also 'what are we good for?'. Chris Brink shows how universities can - and should - promote positive social change.
Who Are Universities For?
Authors: Sperlinger Tom , McLellan Josie , Pettigrew Richard
Published: April 2023

Who are universities for? argues for a large-scale shake up of how we organise higher education. It includes radical proposals for reform of the curriculum and how we admit students to higher education. Offering concrete solutions, it provides a way forward for universities to become more responsive to challenges.
Administración didáctica de la educación invisible a través de las inteligencias múltiples de gestión docente ante la deserción universitaria
Authors: Barreno Leonidas Fidel Castelo
Published: April 2023

Esta investigación tiene como finalidad adaptar las diferentes inteligencias múltiples asociadas al contexto administrativo del desempeño docente. El objetivo general es diagnosticar los diferentes niveles de inseguridad económica y social que inciden en el desarrollo de las competencias de los bachilleres analizando la acción – reacción del análisis psicosocial para gestionar correctamente la aplicación de una didáctica adaptada al contexto de sus inteligencias múltiples. La metodología empleada, es un estudio de campo, en el que se elige un tamaño de la muestra de 70 estudiantes del primer y séptimo semestre de la carrera de Licenciatura en Educación de la Universidad Estatal de Milagro. Se descubre la relación existente entre la deserción universitaria y el contexto de la gestión sin el desarrollo de inteligencias múltiples directivas, lo que perjudica a los estudiantes en su seguridad y bienestar para el rendimiento académico. Se concluye que en la medida que las autoridades y docentes desarrollen sus inteligencias de gestión disminuye la vulnerabilidad y la deserción universitaria.
Anaesthetic Management in a Patient with Fontan Circulation Posted for Elective Tibial Nailing
Authors:   Associate Professor, Department of Anaesthesiology, D.Y.Patil medical college, hospital and research institute, Kolhapur (Maharashtra), Patil Dr. Archita , Setiya Dr. Srishti ,   3rd-year Junior Resident, Department of Anaesthesiology, D.Y.Patil medical college, hospital and research institute, Kolhapur (Maharashtra), Teja Dr. V. Vishnu ,   Senior Resident, Department of Anaesthesiology, D.Y.Patil medical college, hospital and research institute, Kolhapur (Maharashtra)
Published: April 2023

The fatality rate for pediatric population with complex congenital cardiac disease has decreased as a result of improvements in surgical techniques and conservative management [1]. Therefore, more patients are presenting for non-cardiac surgeries as adults with congenital cardiac history [2]. For individuals with complex congenital cardiac disease and single ventricle physiology, the fontan procedure is a palliative operation that reroutes the systemic venous return to the pulmonary artery [3]. Despite improvements in outcomes, this aberrant circulation has a number of co-morbidities, including cardiac dysfunction, arrhythmias, shunt abnormalities, limited exercise ability, and other systemic manifestations [4]. These patients raise various anaesthetic concerns, such as understanding underlying cardiac morphology and mechanics and being conversant with the complexities of fontan physiology for efficient intra-operative management. In this report, we present a case of a 17-year-old male, with complex congenital heart disease with fontan physiology, posted electively for left tibia nailing under sequential combined spinal epidural anaesthesia.
Review on The Impact of Climate Change on Approach to Epidemiology of Livestock Diseases Control
Authors:   Hirna Regional Veterinary Laboratory, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia, Getachew Mekuanint , Mulatu Henok ,   Habro District Livestock and Fisheries Development Office, Oromia Regional State, Gelemso, Ethiopia
Published: April 2023

The livestock sector globally is highly dynamic. In developing countries, it is evolving in response to rapidly increasing demand for livestock products. In developed countries, demand for livestock products is stagnating, while many production systems are increasing their efficiency and environmental sustainability. Currently, the world is facing a number of challenges, of which Global climate change is a priority area. Agriculture and livestock are amongst the most climate sensitive economic sectors in the developing countries. Climates comprises many factors including temperature, rainfall, humidity, winds and altitude hat can have both direct and indirect effects on animal production and health. It can also affect the quality and quantity of feedstuffs such as pasture, forage and grain and the severity and distribution of livestock diseases and parasites. Infectious diseases of animals are of huge socioeconomic and public health importance. The earth’s temperature has risen at an average of 0.3 to 0.7 °C since 1900 & 20-30% of all vertebrate animals are expected to get extinct if the average temperature rises by 2-3 °C. The early consequences of global climate change (GCC) are well documented. However, future impacts on ecosystem health, and on the health of humans, domestic animals, and wildlife, are much less well understood. A two-pronged approach must be adapted to tackle the alarming situation arising out of climate change impacts. Adaptation may involve the measures for future adaptation to the disease onslaught and the Mitigation focuses on reducing the level of agents/factors leading to the climate change. One health concept in one health triad needs to be followed in spirit to avert the otherwise sure to come impacts of climate change.
Impact of Financial Inclusion on Economic Growth of African Countries
Authors: Sam Kilimvi Dr. Aitaa , Solomon Ezekwesiri Amadi
Published: April 2023

Purpose: The main objective of this study was to understand the effect of financial inclusion on economic growth of Africa. Although Africa is the second-most populous continent in the world with a 3.17% growth rate, it has the biggest proportion of the world's population without access to a bank, at a startling 45% throughout the continent. However, a growing number of Fintech businesses have emerged in Africa in recent years to address the issue of financial inclusion. With this advent, it was imperative to study the phenomenon and ascertain if there is any effect on the economy.

Methodology: Descriptive and Correlational Research Design were employed to explain and examine the relationship between financial inclusion and economic growth. This study adopted the quantitative research approach. Secondary data from Financial Access Survey (FAS), World Development Indicators (WDI) and The Global Financial Index Report from 2015 – 2021 were examined. The relationships were tested using Generalized Moments Method (GMM) that was preferred over the Ordinary Least Square method (OLS) because of its efficiency and veracity to work with small samples. The data was presented in form of tables and graphs.

Findings: The results showed that financial inclusion indicators are positively correlated to the economic growth. Using the dimensions of financial inclusion such as availability, penetration, and usage, we can ascertain a positive impact on the economic growth of Africa at large.

Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The outcome of the study will guide policy makers to identify the most effective strategies to achieve financial inclusion that enhances economic growth. While previous studies identified ATM and CBB as one of the highest financial inclusion indicators that aid economic growth, it is recommended that BCB with a higher correlation be considered too for economic growth. Therefore, governments should focus on building structures and systems that encourage borrowing to stimulate economic growth.
Exploring the Politics of Crime Control: An Emphasis on Liberian Society
Authors: Monboe Nebo Sr. Ambrues
Published: April 2023

This study explored the politics of crime control as its conceptual framework. It uses the qualitative method with particular emphasis on content analysis. The data collection was sourced from a relevant literature review comprised of articles, books, journals, and webpages. Putting Liberia in context, the study explains why certain crimes that make major news headlines or stories remain hanging without a logical conclusion for prosecution despite the quantum of evidence that may exist or be available. It attributes the reason to the interest of the state or government. It argues that regardless of the quantum of evidence or pieces of evidence that may be available, the protection of the state interest is more important than the outcome of the prosecution. Thus, the study found that as it relates to certain crimes that make major news headlines or stories the decision for prosecution is politically motivated in which the interest of the state or government must be protected at the expense of society’s expectations that override the prosecution of crime. The study concludes that the politics of crime control inherently promotes injustice. It violates the legal maxim “Let justice be done to all” or “No one is above the law”. This is because when pieces of evidence are ignored because of the interest of the state, or government, it denies people or victims of their rights to justice.
Ventilation with the esophageal-tracheal Combitube during general anaesthesia: assessing complications in 540 patients
Authors: Harrison Nicole , Pajenda Sahra , Szarpak Lukasz , Buschsieweke Anna-Maria , Somri Mostafa , Frass Michael , Panning Bernhard , Robak Oliver
Published: April 2023

Background: The esophageal-tracheal Combitube (ETC) was developed for the management of difficult airways but can also be used for general anaesthesia.

Methods: This clinical study collected data from patients undergoing anaesthesia with the ETC in order to assess the rate of complications.

Results: Five hundred forty patients were ventilated with the ETC. In 94.8% (512/540), insertion was performed for the first time by the respective physician. The following minor complications were observed: 38.7% sore throat, 30.9% blood on tube as sign of mucosal lesions and 17.0% cyanotic tongue. Experience decreased the risk of mucosal lesions (odds ratio [OR]: 2.3, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.5–3.5). A higher than recommended volume of the oropharyngeal cuff was associated with blood on the ETC (OR: 1.5, 95% CI: 1.0–2.3) and tongue cyanosis (OR: 2.3, 95% CI: 1.4–3.7). Ventilation for more than 2 h was associated with tongue cyanosis (OR: 2.2, 95% CI: 1.6–3.1) and tongue protrusion (OR: 1.4, 95% CI: 1.1–1.9).

Conclusion: We conclude that the Combitube may be used for short procedures requiring general anaesthesia, but the high rate of minor complications limits its value when other alternatives such as a laryngeal mask airway are available. The tested method appears safe regarding major complications, but minor complications are common. Adherence to recommended cuff volumes, experience with the ETC and limiting its use to surgeries lasting less than 2 h might reduce the rate of complications.
Review on Advance Methods Used in Treatment of Cancer
Authors: Himanshu B. Borase  , Juned Pinjari  , Harshal K. Chaudhari  , Kanchan S. Akhare
Published: April 2023

Cancer is one of the most dreaded diseases of the 20th century and spreading further with continuance and increasing incidence in the 21st century. The situation is so alarming that every fourth person is having a lifetime risk of cancer. India registers more than 11 lakh new cases of cancer Every year, whereas, this figure is above 14 million worldwide. Is cancer curable? The short answer to this question is “Yes.” In fact, all cancers Are curable if they are caught early enough. Cancer cells continue to grow unless one of four things occur:
(1) The cancerous mass is removed Surgically;
(2) using chemotherapy or another type of cancer‑specific medication, such as hormonal therapy;
(3) using radiation therapy;
(4) The Cancer cells shrink and disappear on their own.
Traffic Sign Board Detection and Voice Alert System
Authors: B. J. M. Ravi Kumar  , P. Bhoomika  , P. Susmitha  , S. Rahul Raj  , V. Kavya Vandana
Published: April 2023

Automated tasks have simplified practically everything we perform in today's world. Drivers often miss signage on the side of the road in an effort to focus on the road, which can be dangerous for them and others. This issue may be avoided if there was a quick way to alert the driver without requiring them to divert their attention. TSDR (Traffic Sign Detection and Recognition) is useful in this situation because it detects and recognizes signs, alerting the motorist to any forthcoming signs. This not only assures road safety, but also puts the driver at ease when driving on unfamiliar or difficult roads. Another issue that arises frequently is the inability to comprehend the sign's meaning. Drivers will no longer struggle to grasp what the sign is saying thanks to this Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) application. In this paper, we propose a method for detecting and recognizing traffic signs that uses image processing for detection and an ensemble of Convolutional Neural Networks (LeNet) for recognition. Because LeNet CNN have a high recognition rate, they are ideal for a variety of computer vision tasks. For the CNN implementation, Tensor Flow is employed. And here for object detection we implement yolo frame work On the German data sets, we achieved recognition accuracies of more than 99 percent for circular signs.
FEATURE SUBSET GENERATION FOR ENSEMBLE LEARNING USING FEATURE CLUSTERING AND MUTUAL INFORMATION
Authors: Amar Hana
Published: April 2023

Ensemble learning is a powerful technique for constructing accurate predictive models. Feature subset generation is an important step for ensemble learning. This paper proposes feature clustering and mutual information as a new feature subset generation method for ensemble learning. The proposed feature subset generation technique clusters the features using a hierarchical clustering algorithm. Mutual information is used to compute the similarity between the features within each cluster. Feature subset generation is then performed by selecting the most informative features from each cluster. Experiments are conducted on a real-world dataset to compare the proposed feature subset generation technique to other existing feature subset generation techniques. The experimental results show that the proposed technique outperforms existing feature subset generation techniques.
Scale of Parental Playfulness Attitude (PaPA): Psychometric Properties With Latino Caregivers in the United States
Authors: Goertzen Kayley , Lane Shelly J. , Yuma Paula , Reinke Jennifer , Bundy Anita
Published: April 2023

Importance: Parent–child play is a beneficial and meaningful co-occupation. Therapists who want to optimize parent–child play for Latino- and Latina-American dyads need valid, reliable measures to assess caregiver playfulness in addition to preexisting measures of child playfulness.

Objective: To evaluate data collected from Latino-American caregivers with the Scale of Parental Playfulness Attitude (PaPA), a 28-item parent self-report to determine its construct validity, internal reliability, and cross-cultural validity.

Design: Quantitative exploratory design applying a latent-trait psychometric model.

Setting: Online survey.

Participants: Convenience sample of 50 Spanish-speaking parents from the mainland United States recruited via snowballing (88% mothers, ages 24–47 yr; M = 34.8 yr; 82% first-generation Americans). The inclusion criteria were age ≥18 yr; literate in Spanish; primary caregiver to a child age 2.5–7 yr. Data from an existing sample of 50 parents dwelling in Puerto Rico were used to examine cross-cultural validity.

Outcomes and Measures: Rasch analysis demonstrated evidence for adequate construct validity: positive point-measure correlations, 93% fit of items, logical item hierarchy, and good progression of the rating scale. Range and mean for parent playfulness exceeded those of the items; principal-components analysis revealed one contrast of 4.46 eigenvalues, bringing unidimensionality into question. Evidence suggested excellent internal reliability (person-reliability index = 0.85, strata = 3.55) and good cross-cultural validity (25 of 28 items formed a similar hierarchy for parents dwelling in the mainland United States and Puerto Rico).

Conclusions and Relevance: Although the PaPA can be used to assess caregiver playfulness with culturally diverse Latino-American dyads, further research is required.

What This Article Adds: This study provides evidence for the construct validity and internal reliability of a tool that measures parent playfulness in the context of parent–child play. The PaPA is an important tool for occupational therapists working with Latino-American families.
Social Participation Experiences of Families Raising a Young Child With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Implications for Mental Health and Well-Being
Authors: Smith Julie , Halliwell Nicole , Laurent Amy , Tsotsoros Jessica , Harris Katelyn , DeGrace Beth
Published: April 2023

Importance: Social participation (SP) is an important facilitator of positive mental health for children and families. Children are dependent on their families to mediate SP, yet families of children with autism spectrum disorder (C-ASD) seemingly limit SP because of behavioral and functional challenges in community environments. The resulting isolation can affect the child’s and the family’s mental health.

Objective: To distill the essence of everyday SP experiences in the community of families raising C-ASD.

Design: Data collected via in-depth, semistructured interviews with a purposive sample and analyzed in the phenomenological tradition.

Setting: Community.

Participants: We recruited seven families with English-speaking parents (ages 18–64 yr) raising one C-ASD (age 2–8 yr). Families with more than one C-ASD or those whose C-ASD was diagnosed with complex medical condition or a neurological or genetic disorder were excluded.

Results: The essence of experiences of SP emerged in the form of three themes depicting the mismatch between societal expectations for SP and families’ experience: (1) “the struggle,” (2) “it’s hard to feel like you belong,” and (3) what we “have to do.”

Conclusions and Relevance: As a collective, families expressed desire for everyday community SP and could do so only in select environments with core groups. The findings, as interpreted through the lens of mental health promotion, reveal opportunities to reduce barriers and to promote meaningful family SP so as to facilitate positive mental health and well-being through the transactional intersecting characteristics of the child with ASD, the family, and the community.

What This Article Adds: This study illuminates the experience of SP of families raising a young C-ASD, highlighting both supports and barriers. Practitioners can use this information to potentially prevent isolation and promote both child and family mental health and well-being.
Breaking With the Past: Embracing Digital Transformation in Education
Authors: Brizard Jean-Claude
Published: April 2023

Today's businesses know that driving innovation is integral to succeeding not just in the present, but more importantly in the decades to come. Through the years, the innovation of digital technologies has transformed entire industries. Now it’s time to put those technologies to use and apply that same mentality to transform our schools. We need digital transformation of teaching and learning at scale across the United States. This report examines how the traditional one-size-fits-all approach to teaching and learning compares to more learner-centered, personalized frameworks; why we need to transition to them at scale; and how digital technologies can enable that scaling.
Una mirada a la agricultura en el Ecuador con una perspectiva social
Authors: Armas-Vega Fernando Vinicio , Posso-Machado María Teresa , Puruncajas-Segarra Wladimir Alejandro , Parise-Vasco Juan Marcos
Published: April 2023

La agricultura desde sus inicios ha sido un pilar de la transformación social de los países y juega un rol importante en el desarrollo de la economía principalmente en los países subdesarrollados y en vías de desarrollo. El objetivo de este estudio fue realizar una revisión de la literatura sobre las principales estrategias dentro del campo de la agricultura social aplicadas en el mundo y su posible proyección a nivel ecuatoriano. Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica para examinar la evidencia disponible sobre la agricultura como herramienta de transformación social. Se empleó una búsqueda sistemática en las bases de datos ScienceDirect y Scielo sin restricción de idioma. Diez artículos coincidieron con las palabras claves de la estrategia de búsqueda. Los hallazgos revelaron que diferentes países de Europa se están haciendo esfuerzos por combinar y desarrollar la actividad productiva de la agricultura con utilidad social. Sin embargo, en el proceso de cribado de los artículos no encontramos ninguna investigación en Latinoamérica. Se concluye que las estrategias observadas dentro del campo de la agricultura social buscan mejorar las condiciones del agricultor y su entorno; y se encuentran direccionadas principalmente a la inversión y el asesoramiento del agricultor en busca de efectivizar una dimensión productiva que priorice el bienestar social y ambiental sobre la ganancia monetaria.
Extracellular enzyme activity in the coastal upwelling system off Peru: a mesocosm experiment
Authors: Spilling Kristian , Piiparinen Jonna , Achterberg Eric P. , Arístegui Javier , Bach Lennart T. , Camarena-Gómez Maria T. , von der Esch Elisabeth , Fischer Martin A. , Gómez-Letona Markel , Hernández-Hernández Nauzet , Meyer Judith , Schmitz Ruth A. , Riebesell Ulf
Published: April 2023

Abstract. The Peruvian upwelling system is a highly productive ecosystem with a large
oxygen minimum zone (OMZ) close to the surface. In this work, we carried out a
mesocosm experiment off Callao, Peru, with the addition of water masses from
the regional OMZ collected at two different sites simulating two different
upwelling scenarios. Here, we focus on the pelagic remineralization of organic
matter by the extracellular enzyme activity of leucine aminopeptidase (LAP) and
alkaline phosphatase activity (APA). After the addition of the OMZ water,
dissolved inorganic nitrogen (N) was depleted, but the standing stock of
phytoplankton was relatively high, even after N depletion (mostly
> 4 µg chlorophyll a L−1). During the initial phase of
the experiment, APA was 0.6 nmol L−1 h−1 even though the
PO43- concentration was > 0.5 µmol L−1.
Initially, the dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP) decreased, coinciding with
an increase in the PO43- concentration that was probably linked to the APA. The
LAP activity was very high, with most of the measurements in the range of
200–800 nmol L−1 h−1. This enzyme hydrolyzes terminal amino acids
from larger molecules (e.g., peptides or proteins), and these high values are
probably linked to the highly productive but N-limited coastal ecosystem.
Moreover, the experiment took place during a rare coastal El Niño event with
higher than normal surface temperatures, which could have affected enzyme
activity. Using a nonparametric multidimensional scaling analysis (NMDS)
with a generalized additive model (GAM), we found that biogeochemical
variables (e.g., nutrient and chlorophyll-a concentrations) and phytoplankton and
bacterial communities explained up to 64 % of the variability in APA. The
bacterial community best explained the variability (34 %) in LAP. The high
hydrolysis rates for this enzyme suggest that pelagic N remineralization,
likely driven by the bacterial community, supported the high standing stock
of primary producers in the mesocosms after N depletion.
Warm conveyor belt activity over the Pacific: Modulation by the Madden-Julian Oscillation and impact on tropical-extratropical teleconnections
Authors: Quinting Julian , Grams Christian Michael , Chang Edmund Kar-Man , Pfahl Stephan , Wernli Heini
Published: April 2023

Abstract. Research in the last decades revealed that rapidly ascending airstreams in extratropical cyclones – so-called warm conveyor belts (WCBs) – play an important role in extratropical atmospheric dynamics. However on the subseasonal time scale, the modulation of their occurrence frequency, henceforth referred to as WCB activity, has so far received little attention. Also, it is not yet clear whether WCB activity may affect tropospheric teleconnection patterns, which constitute a source of predictability on this subseasonal time scale. Using reanalysis data, this study analyzes the modulation of WCB activity by the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO). A key-finding is that WCB activity increases significantly over the western North Pacific when the convection of the MJO is located over the Indian Ocean. This increased WCB activity, which is particularly pronounced during La Niña conditions, is related to enhanced poleward moisture fluxes driven by the circulation of subtropical Rossby gyres associated with the MJO. In contrast, when the convection of the MJO is located over the western North Pacific, WCB activity increases significantly over the eastern North Pacific. This increase stems from a southward shift and eastward extension of the North Pacific jet stream. However, while these mean increases are significant, individual MJO events exhibit substantial variability, with some events even exhibiting anomalously low WCB activity. Individual events of the same MJO phase with anomalously low WCB activity over the North Pacific tend to be followed by the known canonical teleconnection patterns in the Atlantic-European region, i.e., the occurrence frequency of the positive phase of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) is enhanced when convection of the MJO is located over the Indian Ocean, and similarly for the negative phase of the NAO when MJO convection is over the western North Pacific. However, the canonical teleconnection patterns are modified when individual events of the same MJO phase are accompanied by anomalously high WCB activity over the North Pacific. In particular, the link between MJO and the negative phase of the NAO weakens considerably. Reanalysis data and experiments with an idealized general circulation model reveal that this is related to anomalous ridge building over western North America favoured by enhanced WCB activity. Overall, our study highlights the potential role of WCBs in shaping tropical-extratropical teleconnection patterns and underlines the importance of representing them adequately in numerical weather prediction models in order to fully exploit the sources of predictability emerging from the tropics.
Performance-based sub-selection of CMIP6 models for impact assessments in Europe
Authors: Palmer Tamzin E. , McSweeney Carol F. , Booth Ben B. B. , Priestley Matthew D. K. , Davini Paolo , Brunner Lukas , Borchert Leonard , Menary Matthew B.
Published: April 2023

Abstract. We have created a performance-based assessment of CMIP6 models for Europe that can be used to inform the sub-selection of models for this region. Our assessment covers criteria indicative of the ability of individual models to capture a range of large-scale processes that are important for the representation of present-day European climate. We use this study to provide examples of how this performance-based assessment may be applied to a multi-model ensemble of CMIP6 models to (a) filter the ensemble for performance against these climatological and processed-based criteria and (b) create a smaller subset of models based on performance that also maintains model diversity and the filtered projection range as far as possible. Filtering by excluding the least-realistic models leads to higher-sensitivity models remaining in the ensemble as an emergent consequence of the assessment. This results in both the 25th percentile and the median of the projected temperature range being shifted towards greater warming for the filtered set of models. We also weight the unfiltered ensemble against global trends. In contrast, this shifts the distribution towards less warming. This highlights a tension for regional model selection in terms of selection based on regional climate processes versus the global mean warming trend.
A REPLICABLE OPEN-SOURCE MULTI-CAMERA SYSTEM FOR LOW-COST 4D GLACIER MONITORING
Authors: Ioli F. , Bruno E. , Calzolari D. , Galbiati M. , Mannocchi A. , Manzoni P. , Martini M. , Bianchi A. , Cina A. , De Michele C. , Pinto L.
Published: April 2023

Abstract. Image-based monitoring has emerged as a prevalent technique for sensing mountain environments. Monoscopic time-lapse cameras, which rely on digital image correlation to quantify glacier motion, have limitations due to the need for a Digital Elevation Model for deriving 3D flow velocity fields. Multi-camera systems overcome this limitation, as they allow for a 3D reconstruction of the scene. This paper presents a replicable low-cost stereoscopic system designed for 4D glacier monitoring. The system consists of independent and autonomous units, built from off-the-shelves components, such as a DSLR camera, an Arduino microcontroller, and a Raspberry Pi Zero, reducing costs compared to pre-built time-lapse cameras. The units are energetically self-sufficient and resistant to harsh alpine conditions. The system was successfully tested for more than a year to monitor the northwest terminus of the Belvedere Glacier (Italian Alps). Daily stereo-pairs acquired were processed with Structure-from-Motion to derive 3D point clouds of the glacier terminus and estimate glacier retreat and ice volume loss. By combining the information about ice volume loss with ablation estimates and ice flow velocity information, e.g., derived from monoscopic-camera time series, a multi-camera system enables a comprehensive understanding of sub-seasonal glacier dynamics.
CHARACTERIZING MOVEMENT PATTERNS OF NOMADIC PASTORALISTS AND THEIR EXPOSURE TO RIFT VALLEY FEVER IN KENYA
Authors: Mosomtai G. , Kasiiti J. L. , Murithi R. M. , Sandström P. , Landmann T. , Lwande O. W. , Hassan O. A. , Ahlm C. , Sang R. , Evander M. , Szantoi Z. , Ottavianelli G.
Published: April 2023

Abstract. The role of animal movement in spreading infectious diseases is highly recognized by various legislations and institutions such as the World Organisation for Animal Health and the International Animal Health Code. The increased interactions at the nexus of human-animal-ecosystem interface have seen an unprecedented introduction and reintroduction of new zoonotic diseases with high socio-economic impacts such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a zoonotic disease that affects both humans and animals and is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes or through contact with the body fluids of infected animals. This study seeks to characterize movement patterns of pastoralist and how this movement behaviour increases their susceptibility to RVF virus exposure. We levarage on a rapidly growing field of movement ecology to monitor five herds collared from 2013 – 2015 in an RVF endemic semi-arid region in Kenya. The herds were also sampled for RVF antibodies to assess their exposure to RVF virus during the rainy seasons. adehabitatLT package in R was used to analyze the trajectory data whereas the first passage time (FPT) analysis was used to measure the area utilized in grazing. Sedentary herds grazed within 15km radius while migrating herds presented restricted space use patterns during the dry seasons and transient movement during the start and end of the rainy season. Furthermore, RVF virus antibodies were generally low for sedentary herds whereas the migrating herds recorded high levels during their transition periods. This study can be used to identify RVF risk zones for timely and targeted management strategies.
A DEBIASING VARIATIONAL AUTOENCODER FOR DEFORESTATION MAPPING
Authors: Ortega Adarme M. X. , Soto Vega P. J. , Costa G. A. O. P. , Feitosa R. Q. , Heipke C.
Published: April 2023

Abstract. Deep Learning (DL) algorithms provide numerous benefits in different applications, and they usually yield successful results in scenarios with enough labeled training data and similar class proportions. However, the labeling procedure is a cost and time-consuming task. Furthermore, numerous real-world classification problems present a high level of class imbalance, as the number of samples from the classes of interest differ significantly. In various cases, such conditions tend to promote the creation of biased systems, which negatively impact their performance. Designing unbiased systems has been an active research topic, and recently some DL-based techniques have demonstrated encouraging results in that regard. In this work, we introduce an extension of the Debiasing Variational Autoencoder (DB-VAE) for semantic segmentation. The approach is based on an end-to-end DL scheme and employs the learned latent variables to adjust the individual sampling probabilities of data points during the training process. For that purpose, we adapted the original DB-VAE architecture for dense labeling in the context of deforestation mapping. Experiments were carried out on a region of the Brazilian Amazon, using Sentinel-2 data and the deforestation map from the PRODES project. The reported results show that the proposed DB-VAE approach is able to learn and identify under-represented samples, and select them more frequently in the training batches, consequently delivering superior classification metrics.
GROUND TRUTHING: STUDYING PERI-URBANIZATION AND LAND-BASED LIVELIHOODS IN MANKWENG AND ITS ENVIRONS (LIMPOPO, SOUTH AFRICA)
Authors: Patric D. , Schaab G.
Published: April 2023

Abstract. Peri-urbanization is often referred to as a transition zone following either an urban-rural gradient or an inner and outer peri-urban zone. Contrary to these notions and linked to its history in a former homeland, peri-urbanization in Mankweng appears as a complex and erratic process in reaction to shifting livelihoods, in-migration, and climate change. The process of ground truth for the study was designed by accommodating a combination of remote sensing images of WorldView-3 for the densely, vastly changing populated area (200 km2) and of Sentinel-2 for the overall study area of 400 km2. For the purpose of intensive data gathering, 16 plus three additional sites were selected in the area covered with the very high-resolution imagery as well as transect drives in the rural part. The study sites were selected and well distributed based on specific parameters such as building density, home garden size, road type with the goal of better interpreting what can be distinguished on the imagery and what influences land-based livelihoods. Additional information was gathered from informants during the ground truth through open questions and informal discussions. A solid knowledge of the land uses and land cover, including housing structures, agricultural practices, and challenges of land-based subsistence, was attained. The results revealed influential change drivers, settlement structure types, distinct development patterns, changes in traditional land-based livelihood specifically in terms of agriculture in the region and indicators for a functional zoning of the area. The ground truth provides a thorough basis for the object-based image analysis of the 200 km2 peri-urban area being next.
MULTICRITERIA EVALUATION OF THE POTENTIAL OF P-BAND AIRBORNE RADAR DEMS FOR 3D CHARACTERISATION OF HYDROGRAPHY IN TROPICAL FORESTS
Authors: Polidori L. , Caldeira C. R. T. , dos Reis L. , Eco N. , El Hage M.
Published: April 2023

Abstract. Relief mapping through dense tropical forest is a challenge, which can be met by processing P-band radar images. Digital terrain models (DTMs) obtained over three sites in the Amazon region (French Guiana and North Brazil) are evaluated according to two types of quality criteria: on the one hand, the accuracy of elevations and slopes, calculated by comparison with lidar surveys used as reference data; on the other hand, the hydrographic coherence of the DTM, revealed by its compliance to some universal rules like “all rivers flow downhill”, or the fact that landforms shaped by water have a fractal behaviour. The results depend on the scale, the effect of which is addressed. Overall, the results confirm the potential of P-band airborne radar for 3D characterisation of hydrography in tropical forested areas.
THE IMPORTANCE OF EARTH OBSERVATION FOR MONITORING CULTURAL HERITAGE SITES AFFECTED BY FIRE EVENTS: THE CASE STUDY OF ARAKAPAS, CYPRUS USING SENTINEL 2 DATA
Authors: Prodromou M. , Cerra D. , Themistocleous K. , Schreier G. , Krauss T. , Hadjimitsis D.
Published: April 2023

Abstract. This paper presents the importance of using Earth observation to assess the impact of fire events on monitoring cultural heritage sites. The use of sensors such as Sentinel 2 can detect burnt areas in order to determine the extent of fire events on cultural heritage sites, using the fire event in Arakapas, Cyprus as a case study. Sentinel-2 is a multispectral optical sensor acquiring information in a range extending from the visible up to the short-wave infrared, which is the most sensitive spectral range for the detection of damages caused by fire. Sentinel-2 can support cultural heritage monitoring and assessment allowing rapid revisit of any site of interest using pre- and post-event images, where burned areas can be detected with change detection techniques coupled with suitable, spectral indices. Such derived products assist in quickly raising awareness on the endangerment of cultural and natural heritage sites and landscapes, emphasising the importance of Earth observation data for monitoring natural hazards for the protection of valuable cultural heritage sites.
ESTIMATING TREE HEIGHT USING LOW-COST UAV
Authors: Vacca G.
Published: April 2023

Abstract. Precision agriculture (PA) is defined as an agricultural management based on the observation, measurement, and response of a set of quantitative and qualitative variables that affects agricultural production. The first step in the approach to precision agriculture is, therefore, the acquisition and collection of data from optical, multispectral, geophysical sensors, etc. aimed at obtaining knowledge and monitoring of the crop. In recent years UAVs are assuming an important role in precision agriculture. The possibility of mounting RGB, multispectral, LiDAR sensors on them make these systems fast, accurate, and usability compared other geomatic methods. In this study, we focus on a very low-cost UAV system to assess individual tree height and generate 3D Model and orthophoto of the study area. We used the DJI Mini2, a low-cost UAV that can be used without a flight rating and without restrictions due to its light weight of only 250 grams. The case study where the survey was performed is an agricultural area of about 1 hectare, where are some fruit trees and a small vineyard. The area was selected because it contained both tall and small trees. The study concerned the influence of the relative flight altitude and therefore of the GSD of the images on the extraction of the dimensional data of the trees. From the results obtained, it can be stated that the flight altitude has certainly more influence on the measurement of small tree (around one meter tall) compared to tall ones (around 4 m).
VULNERABILITY OF ECONOMIC SECTORS TO GEOMAGNETIC STORMS AND MITIGATION STRATEGIES
Authors: Demirköz M. B. , Karagöz G. , Kadıoğlu Y. K. , Sözeri H.
Published: April 2023

Abstract. Solar storms and CMEs increase the amount of radiation that reaches the Earth and can perturb the magnetic shielding of the Earth. K and Kp indices quantify this perturbation by using magnetometers calibrated accordingly to the latitude of the geomagnetic observatory It is possible to contribute this measurement by establishing an observatory specialized in space weather studies. Many basic sectors are vulnerable against a strong solar storm unless necessary mitigation strategies are applied. Moreover, failure in taking an immediate precaution may have long-term effects which include economic destruction, irreversible health problems and weaknesses in national defence. In this work, the requirement such an observatory should have, the most 11 vulnerable sectors and corresponding mitigation strategies are discussed in detail. Turkey's seven geographical regions are examined to find the optimal location for the foundation of such a probable observatory. It is found that Central Anatolia is the ideal region and districts Konya/Karapinar and Konya/Çeltik are the possible candidates for such a location.
Young growth, mature growth: Understanding creativity and its associations with stress and well-being
Authors:   , Vuong Kiet Tam
Published: April 2023

By focusing on two critical themes of creativity and mental health in emerging adults and creativity and meaning in life in mature adults, this thesis highlights the continuity of creativity across the human life cycle. Whether in youth or old age, creativity is one of the essential human activities – a cherished gift – that should be continually nurtured. Evidence from this thesis extends our understanding of what critical factors can foster or inhibit creativity in different life stages, offering valuable insights into many fields, including economics, psychology and beyond.
Literatura como mitología infraurbana del mal. Sábato: “Informe sobre ciegos” , en Sobre héroes y tumbas (1961-1993)
Authors: Chaparro Amaya Adolfo
Published: April 2023

El artículo plantea la pregunta por el alcance del Informe sobre ciegos, capítulo central de Sobre héroes y tumbas, como un acercamiento fenoménico, poético y mitológico a la pregunta por el mal. La primera parte se ocupa de rastrear los motivos personales, morales y estéticos que llevan a Sábato a la formulación del mito de la Secta de los ciegos como una hipótesis plausible sobre la inteligibilidad del mal. La segunda, explora los recursos pictóricos, cinematográficos y de puesta en escena que Sábato utiliza para entrar al mundo de abajo, al reino del mal. La última parte intenta situar el texto de Sábato en el conjunto de su vida y de su obra como un recurso para examinar el alcance metafísico, político y moral de su pensamiento.
CASO CLINICO: SEGUNDO PREMOLAR SUPERIOR RETENIDO Y EXODONCIA QUIRÚRGICA EN UNA ADOLESCENTE
Authors: Navia Rivera Carla , Mendoza Téllez Carola
Published: April 2023

Se presentó el caso de un segundo premolar superior derecho retenido (pieza 15), observado en el examen radiográfico de rutina, de manera previa al tratamiento ortodóntico.

Paralelamente, se evidenció un aumento de volumen en la mucosa palatina derecha, asintomático a la palpación.

Al examen radiográfico periapical, se observó la pieza retenida en posición vertical con la corona a nivel de las raíces de las piezas vecinas. Al examen clínico no se observó desviación de la línea media a nivel de incisivos superiores e inferiores, por lo que el especialista indicó la exodoncia quirúrgica de la pieza ante la dificultad de erupción de la misma.