bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stretching to informal workers: The Ghana Trades Union Congress’s hand and social protection
Authors: Boampong Owusu
Published: March 2022

Trade unions have adopted various ingenious strategies to reach out to groups of informal workers who were once considered beyond organisation. The unions claim this move is meant to offer protection to the unregulated workers. Drawing largely on secondary data (i.e. through the review of relevant documents) this paper shows that organisational coverage of unions to date lacks the substance of meaningful and genuine representation of their fluid affiliated informal workers. The voices and interests of affiliated informal workers are excluded from the mainstream activities of the formal traditional unions due to structural rigidities. It requires unions to temper its narrow focus on collective bargaining and embrace a much wider conceptualisation of their functions within the domain of social protection. This forms the central position of the paper. The paper also demonstrated that where unions are institutionally responsive, they can achieve some level of social protection for their associate informal worker groups.
Food as a conduit for poverty reduction in Cape Coast Metropolitan Area
Authors: Bondzi-Simpson Alberta
Published: March 2022

The concept of the School Feeding Programme as instituted by the Government ofGhana was to provide caterers in deprived communities with money, who in turn will purchase locally grown foodstuff, prepare it and feed them to kindergarten and primary school children in the community. A major requirement was for the caterers to spend 80% of the monies given them in the communities that accommodated the schools. The primary goal was to reduce hunger and malnutrition in the children, increase school enrolment and increase food production in the communities. This paper investigates and discusses the extent to which these objectives are being carried out by the caterers employed to do so with respect to the use of locally produced food and labour and the reasons behind their choices. Using a qualitative approach, an in-depth interview was conducted for eight caterers out of the eleven engaged in the school feeding programme in the Cape Coast Metropolitan Area. The results from the study revealed that, even though all the caterers were aware of the 80% clause, a bulk of the purchases and labour was acquired outside the communities that housed the schools. Availability and affordability were some of the reasons given for this pattern.
Navigating Neurological Recovery with NeuroAiD in Severe Spinal Cord Injury: A Noteworthy Novelty?
Authors: Muhamad Faizal Zainudin  , Esther Jimbih  , Alicia Dixie Abraham  , Mohd Razali Hasim
Published: March 2022

Background and aim: NeuroAiD is a Chinese medicinal supplement containing nine herbal ingredients. Besides neuroprotection, NeuroAiD also promotes neuroregeneration. These have been extensively investigated both in vivo and in vitro. It has gained favour, especially amongst stroke and traumatic brain injury populations, to facilitate neuro recovery. To our knowledge, the SATURN study by Kumar et al. is the only study that has shifted the focus of NeuroAiD usage to the spinal cord injury (SCI) population. We present a case of complete tetraplegia who regained some neurological recovery following NeuroAiD supplementation. Methods: A 34-year-old police officer was involved in a helicopter crash in February 2020. He sustained a C6 vertebra burst fracture with severe spinal canal stenosis, C5 and C7 vertebrae fracture, and extensive cord oedema from C4 till T1, resulting in C4 AIS A Tetraplegia. Surgical fixation was performed on day 3. Upon admission to the rehabilitation ward at the end of March 2020, the best sensory level was C4, best motor C5, and total motor score 12. He regained some recovery throughout the stay, although he remained as C4 AIS A until discharged in April 2020. He started taking 2 capsules of NeuroAiD three times daily in May 2020 for six months. We followed him up until 1-year post-event to monitor his response. Results: The best sensory level improved to C5 at six months and C6 at 1-year, whilst the best motor level improved to C6 at six months and 1-year. The total motor score increased to 17 at six months and subsequently 22 at 1-year post-event. Overall, the neurological level of injury improved from C4 at three months to C5 at six months and C6 at 1-year post-event. AIS classification, however, remained A. Conclusion: The promising role of NeuroAiD in promoting neuro recovery in SCI is noteworthy for further exploration and investigation.
A Case of Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury Associated with Brown Sequard Syndrome After Cervical Blunt Trauma with Atlanto-Axial Rotatory Subluxation in a Paediatric Patient
Authors: Muthia Mukharoma  , Wini Widiani  , Florencia Wirawan  , Andre Maharadja  , Robby Tjandra Kartadinata  , Lisa Nurhasanah
Published: March 2022

Background and aim: Brown Sequard Syndrome (BSS) is a rare clinical presentation of incomplete spinal cord injury and even rarer caused by blunt trauma in the paediatric population. We presented a case of a paediatric patient with high cervical spinal cord injury due to blunt trauma resulting in atlantoaxial rotatory subluxation (AARS). Methods: A 10-year-old boy acquired SCI AIS D and neurological level of C4 due to AARS Fielding 1 secondary to blunt trauma. He had right extremities weakness with the majority of key muscle’s strength of MRC 2-3 and impaired sensory function under the neurological level for light touch and pinprick. The tactile impairment was more prominent on the right side with preserved proprioception, pain, and temperature sensation. Results: The patient underwent Gardner Well Tongs (GWT) traction procedure which was maintained for 2 weeks and then prescribed with Minerva Brace. He also showed signs of reflexive neurogenic bladder. The patient was hospitalised for 2 weeks in the rehabilitation ward for independence and intermittent catheterisation training. He ambulated using a wheelchair at the time of discharge but could walk independently using a quadripod cane after 1 month of follow-up, showing good motor recovery. Conclusion: Most cases of traumatic Brown Sequard usually arise from penetrating or stab wound, while blunt trauma is usually accompanied by spine fracture or non-bony elements such as ligament instability or subluxation. This patient only had AARS fielding 1, but the extensive right side motor weakness might be caused by a direct acceleration-deceleration mechanism at the cervical spinal cord followed by secondary trauma due to oedema and diminished blood perfusion. As a result, this patient did not show pure classic BSS in terms of sensory impairment but had hemiplegia. For pediatric patients, determining the prognosis and optimisation of appropriate rehabilitation programs for children is crucial for maximal outcomes and long-term quality of life.
Marching Forward with Mirabegron: A Novel Treatment Option for Neurogenic Detrusor Overactivity in Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Muhamad Faizal Zainudin  , Pong Mei Yin  , Nadzurah Mohamed Zainuddin
Published: March 2022

Background and aim: Anticholinergics such as tolterodine are notorious for their intolerability. Besides the commonly encountered side effects such as dry mouth and constipation, the medication has been shown to instigate cognitive impairment in the elderly population. In recent years, mirabegron, more commercially known as Betmiga, has garnered attention as an alternative to anticholinergics in treating Overactive Bladder (OAB) for its better tolerability and comparable efficacy. However, its usage in treating Neurogenic Detrusor Overactivity (NDO) is almost unheard of in rehabilitation. We present a case of young traumatic paraplegia who has been successfully treated with mirabegron. Methods: A 21-year-old man was transferred to the rehabilitation ward in August 2019. He had sustained a traumatic burst fracture of the T8 vertebra resulting in T8 complete paraplegia. He had multiple impairments, including neurogenic bladder, neurogenic bowel, and lower limb spasm. Single-channel cystometry was performed during the admission revealed a high-pressure bladder with poor compliance. He soon was started on tolterodine which subsequently worsened constipation, leading to autonomic dysreflexia. We switched to propiverine, the next available anticholinergic in our setting. Unfortunately, it perpetuated constipation and autonomic dysreflexia. The plan to remove the urinary catheter was abandoned. He was admitted for the second time in February 2020 for self-catheterisation training. Results: We started him on mirabegron 25 mg daily and trained him in self-catheterisation. The incontinence episodes reduced gradually, albeit not entirely. Therefore, we decided to optimise the dosage to 50 mg one month later, following which he no longer suffers leaking urine episodes. He tolerated the medication well without disturbance in the bowel routine and was free of autonomic dysreflexia ever since on mirabegron. Conclusion: Mirabegron is a promising treatment option in neurogenic bladder management. Marching forward, we should consider this novel avenue, especially in patients with sensitivity to anticholinergics.
Current status of treatment of acute respiratory failure in Korea
Authors: Choi Yong Jun , Cho Jae Hwa
Published: March 2022

Background: Acute respiratory failure (ARF) is one of the most common causes of intensive care unit (ICU) admission and in-hospital mortality. In South Korea, about 25% of patients admitted to the ICU require mechanical ventilation. The in-hospital mortality rate of these patients is 48%. Respiratory failure can be categorized based on pathophysiologic derangements, and the treatment options vary depending on their classification. This study discusses the status and treatment strategies of patients with ARF in Korea.Current Concepts: The most common treatment for ARF was conventional oxygen therapy, being used at least once in 7.0% of all admitted adult patients and 85.1% of patients admitted with respiratory failure. High-flow oxygen therapy was required in 1.4% of all admissions and 17.2% of respiratory failure-related admissions. High-flow oxygen therapy was attempted in 19.1% of patients who needed invasive mechanical ventilation. Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NIV) was used in 0.4% of all admissions and 5.1% of respiratory failure-related admissions. Hypercapnic respiratory failure (57.1%) was the most common reason for NIV use. Invasive mechanical ventilation was required in 2.8% of all admissions and 33.8% of respiratory failure-related admissions.Discussion and Conclusion: Despite its clinical significance, no large-scale studies have been performed on the etiology, treatment, and prognosis of patients with ARF in South Korea. A multicenter or a Korean National Health Insurance Service database study is necessary to accurately identify the characteristics, diagnose problems, and develop treatment guidelines for patients with ARF in South Korea.
Treatment of acute respiratory failure: high-flow nasal cannula
Authors: Park SeungYong
Published: March 2022

Background: High-flow nasal cannulas (HFNCs) have recently been used for several conditions, such as hypoxemic respiratory failure, hypercapnic respiratory failure, post-extubation respiratory failure, and preintubation oxygenation, in critically ill patients.Current Concepts: The advantages of HFNC compared with those of low-flow oxygen systems or noninvasive ventilation include enhanced comfort, increased humidification of secretions to facilitate expectoration, washout of the nasopharyngeal dead space to improve ventilation efficiency, provisioning for low positive end-inspiratory pressure effect, and fixed and rapid delivery of accurate fraction of inspired oxygen by minimizing the entrainment of room air. However, the indications are not absolute, with much of the proven benefit being subjective and physiologic.Discussion and Conclusion: The goal of this review is to discuss the practical application and clinical uses of HFNCs in patients with acute respiratory failure, highlighting its unique respiratory and physiologic effects, device settings, and clinical indications.
A Qualidade da Educação Profissional e Tecnológica
Authors: Ribeiro Rosselini Diniz Barbosa , Fonseca Maria Aparecida Rodrigues da , Diniz Juliane Aparecida Ribeiro , Machado Elka Cândida De Oliveira
Published: March 2022

Este artigo tem por objetivo analisar a perspectiva de qualidade de educação profissional e tecnológica (EPT) presente nos documentos do Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia de Goiás (IFG), verificando em que medida esses mantêm o alinhamento às concepções de sua criação e relação com os dados do Relatório Anual de Análise dos Indicadores de Gestão das Instituições Federais de Educação Profissional, Científica e Tecnológica. Trata-se de um estudo teórico-bibliográfico, de caráter descritivo e analítico, com abordagem qualitativa, que se utiliza da pesquisa documental como técnica de coleta de dados. Os resultados demonstram a evolução de dados institucionais, tendo em vista a perspectiva da democratização de um novo modelo de educação profissional e tecnológica, garantindo-se as condições de acesso, de permanência e de êxito dos seus estudantes, tendo em vista a formação omnilateral e para o mundo do trabalho, na inter-relação entre ensino, pesquisa e extensão.
TRAJETÓRIA DA EDUCAÇÃO A DISTÂNCIA NA EDUCAÇÃO SUPERIOR PÚBLICA DO BRASIL E O IMPACTO DO ENSINO REMOTO NA DOCÊNCIA
Authors: Segenreich Stella Cecilia Duarte , Medeiros Luciene
Published: March 2022

Com base no ciclo de políticas de Mainardes (influência, texto político, prática) e a partir da comprovação da “influência” das agências internacionais, na inserção desta modalidade de ensino nas décadas de 1990 e 2000, este artigo tem como foco de análise as duas etapas seguintes do ciclo de políticas. São descritos os sucessivos arcabouços jurídico-legais (leis, decretos e portarias) que promoveram a expansão da EaD nas redes pública e privada de ensino superior assim como a experiência de sua institucionalização na Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, uma das pioneiras na adoção desta modalidade de educação. Em 2020, com a chegada da pandemia da COVID-19, a educação a distância, na forma de ensino remoto, foi ‘implantada’ implementada nas IFES, como opção de funcionamento. A ausência de uma institucionalização consistente da EaD na rede federal de educação superior impactou negativamente o processo ensino-aprendizagem. Uma pesquisa exploratória sobre o ensino remoto emergencial na Universidade Federal do Pará revelou que a intensificação do trabalho e o adoecimento docente foram devastadores, e a questão da precarização do trabalho docente se fez mais visível. O desafio que a cultura digital impõe, para que a educação não atenda exclusivamente a interesses mercadológicos, é o de que as relações entre tecnologias e educação ultrapassem sua dimensão instrumentalista como demonstram várias IFES que atualmente prosseguem em suas “práticas” institucionais de EaD autônomas e em várias direções como, por exemplo, o ensino híbrido que ainda vai merecer discussão na pós-pandemia.
O TRABALHO DOCENTE NA EDUCAÇÃO SUPERIOR BRASILEIRA:
Authors: Araujo do Vale Andréa
Published: March 2022

Este artigo analisa a reconfiguração do trabalho docente no período da pandemia de COVID-19. A partir de pesquisa bibliográfica e documental, demonstra que a pandemia tem sido operada, no governo Bolsonaro, como crise que oportuniza o ataque e o esvaziamento das instituições públicas de ensino e o avanço das contrarreformas neoliberalizantes em uma lógica que obedece a doutrina do choque, tal como descreve minuciosamente Naomi Klein (2008), e robustece o poder e a riqueza das classes dominantes. É nessa linha que se analisa a opção quase automática pelo chamado ensino remoto em um contexto de crise social, econômica e sanitária, bem como as modificações no arcabouço jurídico-político e normativo para a educação à distância. Aponta-se ainda para as relações entre a educação à distância, a tecnologia e a acumulação capitalista e suas imbricações para o trabalho docente, especialmente considerando o quadro em que se insere o governo Bolsonaro nos marcos da ofensiva neoliberal e neoconservadora sobre a educação superior. Conclui-se que o quadro aponta para a permanência da educação a distância como padrão na educação superior tanto como via para o desmonte das instituições federais de educação superior sob o logro de que esta é o caminho de sua sobrevivência.
note on generalisations of the concordance index for survival data
Authors: Kejžar Nataša , Stare Janez
Published: March 2022

Concordance index (c-index) was adapted to survival data by Harrell (1982). In its basic form, the index depends on censoring, however the issue can be effectively dealt with. More importantly, Harrell's c-index cannot be used with time-varying effects and/or time-dependent covariates, and several generalisations were proposed. We look at some of them, explore their differences, point to a basic difference between these generalisations, and strongly favour one type of generalisation.
Researching long-term care for older people using the Rapid Assessment of Needs and Services method
Authors: Mali Jana , Grebenc Vera
Published: March 2022

The method of Rapid Assessment of Needs and Services is presented in the article as the basic method for researching the needs of different groups of people and as ground for the development of responses (services) in communities. It is one of the basic research methods used in a holistic and hermeneutic approach to the development of social work theory and practice. The method is a combination of qualitative research methods, techniques and approaches mainly including grounded theory, ethnography and action research, which, depending on the research aims, is further complemented with a set of methods from quantitative research methodology. The decision about the choice of research methods and procedures combined within the Rapid Assessment of Needs and Services method depends on each individual research situation and the aims and objectives of the concrete research project. Depending on the aim and objectives of the Rapid Assessment of Needs and Services, one of the methods can be prevalent or all methods can be represented in an equal share or in combination with other social scientific research methods, both qualitative and quantitative, which is presented in this article with the examples of three studies on long-term care in Slovenia.
Measurement Report: Effects of anthropogenic emissions and environmental factors on biogenic secondary organic aerosol (BSOA) formation in a coastal city of Southeastern China
Authors: Hong Youwei , Xu Xinbei , Liao Dan , Liu Taotao , Ji Xiaoting , Xu Ke , Liao Chunyang , Wang Ting , Lin Chunshui , Chen Jinsheng
Published: March 2022

Abstract. To better understand the formation of biogenic secondary organic aerosol (BSOA), aerosol samples with a 4 h time resolution were collected during summer and wintertime in the southeast of China, along with on-line measurements of trace gases, aerosol chemical compositions, and meteorological parameters. The samples were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry for PM2.5-bound SOA tracers, including isoprene (SOAI), α/β-pinene (SOAM), β-caryophyllene (SOAC), and toluene (ASOA). The average concentrations of total SOA tracers in winter and summer were 38.8 and 111.9 ng m−3, respectively, with the predominance of SOAM (70.1 % and 45.8 %), followed by SOAI (14.0 % and 45.6 %), ASOA (11.0 % and 6.2 %) and SOAC (4.9 % and 2.3 %). Compare to those in winter, the majority of BSOA tracers in summer showed significant positive correlations with Ox (O3+NO2), HONO, ultraviolet (UV) and temperature (T), indicating the influence of photochemical oxidation under relatively clean conditions. However, in winter, BSOA tracers were significantly correlated with PM2.5, NO3-, SO42-, and NH3, attributed to the contributions of anthropogenic emissions. Major BSOA tracers in both seasons was linearly correlated with aerosol acidity (pH), liquid water content (LWC) and SO42-. The results indicated that acid-catalyzed reactive uptake onto sulfate aerosol particles enhanced the formation of BSOA. In summer, the clean air mass originated from the ocean, and chlorine depletion was observed. We also found that concentrations of the total SOA tracers was correlated with HCl and chlorine ions in PM2.5, reflecting the contribution of Cl-initiated VOC oxidations to the formation of SOA. In winter, the northeast dominant wind direction brought continental polluted air mass to the monitoring site, affecting the transformation of BSOA tracers. This implied that anthropogenic emissions, atmospheric oxidation capacity and halogen chemistry have significant effects on the formation of BSOA in the southeast coastal area.
Geodiversity and biodiversity on a volcanic island: the role of scattered phonolites for plant diversity and performance
Authors: Kienle David , Walentowitz Anna , Sungur Leyla , Chiarucci Alessandro , Irl Severin D. H. , Jentsch Anke , Vetaas Ole R. , Field Richard , Beierkuhnlein Carl
Published: March 2022

Abstract. Oceanic islands are cradles of endemism, contributing
substantially to global biodiversity. A similarity in magmatic origin
translates into high global comparability of substrates of volcanic islands
on the oceanic crust with, however, slightly chemically or physically
differentiated petrography in some places. Phonolites are examples of rare
localities with intermediate chemical characteristics between felsic and
mafic and with diverse textures. They contribute to habitat heterogeneity
and offer specific growth conditions in a significantly different matrix of
basaltic substrates. The explicit contribution of geodiversity to island
biodiversity has been little studied, despite growing evidence of its
importance on continents. On the island of La Palma, Canary Islands,
isolated phonolitic rocks are conspicuous due to their light colour and specific
shape. Although these outcrops only cover small areas, their unique form and
composition increase within-island geodiversity. To investigate how this
affects biodiversity on La Palma, we sampled all vascular plant species in
120 plots on four sets of paired sites in order to test if plant diversity and
performance is enhanced on phonolitic rocks compared to basaltic rocks. We
recorded species number and abundance as well as individual plant height and diameter
as proxies for aboveground resource allocation and tested for differences in
vegetation cover and species composition between the bedrock types. We found
higher species richness and abundance on phonolites than neighbouring
basaltic substrates, and individuals of the same species were larger (in
height and diameter) on phonolites compared to neighbouring basalt. An
endemic woody species with two distinct varieties even appears almost
exclusively on the small surfaces of phonolitic rock. Despite extremely
limited spatial extent, phonolitic rocks can play an important role in
plant biodiversity on islands.
Improved prediction of dimethyl sulfide (DMS) distributions in the northeast subarctic Pacific using machine-learning algorithms
Authors: McNabb Brandon J. , Tortell Philippe D.
Published: March 2022

Abstract. Dimethyl sulfide (DMS) is a volatile biogenic gas with the
potential to influence regional climate as a source of atmospheric aerosols
and cloud condensation nuclei (CCN). The complexity of the oceanic DMS cycle
presents a challenge in accurately predicting sea surface concentrations and
sea–air fluxes of this gas. In this study, we applied machine-learning
methods to model the distribution of DMS in the northeast subarctic Pacific
(NESAP), a global DMS hot spot. Using nearly two decades of ship-based DMS
observations, combined with satellite-derived oceanographic data, we
constructed ensembles of 1000 machine-learning models using two techniques:
random forest regression (RFR) and artificial neural networks (ANN). Our
models dramatically improve upon existing statistical DMS models, capturing
up to 62 % of observed DMS variability in the NESAP and demonstrating
notable regional patterns that are associated with mesoscale oceanographic
variability. In particular, our results indicate a strong coherence between
DMS concentrations, sea surface nitrate (SSN) concentrations,
photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), and sea surface height anomalies
(SSHA), suggesting that NESAP DMS cycling is primarily influenced by
heterogenous nutrient availability, light-dependent processes and physical
mixing. Based on our model output, we derive summertime, sea–air flux
estimates of 1.16 ± 1.22 Tg S in the NESAP. Our work demonstrates a new
approach to capturing spatial and temporal patterns in DMS variability,
which is likely applicable to other oceanic regions.
Aqueous system-level processes and prokaryote assemblages in the ferruginous and sulfate-rich bottom waters of a post-mining lake
Authors: Petrash Daniel A. , Steenbergen Ingrid M. , Valero Astolfo , Meador Travis B. , Pačes Tomáš , Thomazo Christophe
Published: March 2022

Abstract. In the low-nutrient, redox-stratified Lake Medard
(Czechia), reductive Fe(III) dissolution outpaces sulfide generation from
microbial sulfate reduction (MSR) and ferruginous conditions occur without
quantitative sulfate depletion. The lake currently has marked overlapping C,
N, S, Mn and Fe cycles occurring in the anoxic portion of the water column.
This feature is unusual in stable, natural, redox-stratified lacustrine
systems where at least one of these biogeochemical cycles is functionally
diminished or undergoes minimal transformations because of the dominance of
another component or other components. Therefore, this post-mining lake has scientific
value for (i) testing emerging hypotheses on how such interlinked
biogeochemical cycles operate during transitional redox states and (ii) acquiring insight into redox proxy signals of ferruginous sediments underlying a
sulfatic and ferruginous water column. An isotopically constrained estimate
of the rates of sulfate reduction (SRRs) suggests that despite high genetic
potential, this respiration pathway may be limited by the rather low amounts
of metabolizable organic carbon. This points to substrate competition
exerted by iron- and nitrogen-respiring prokaryotes. Yet, the planktonic
microbial succession across the nitrogenous and ferruginous zones also
indicates genetic potential for chemolithotrophic sulfur oxidation.
Therefore, our SRR estimates could rather be portraying high rates of anoxic
sulfide oxidation to sulfate, probably accompanied by microbially induced
disproportionation of S intermediates. Near and at the anoxic
sediment–water interface, vigorous sulfur cycling can be fuelled by ferric
and manganic particulate matter and redeposited siderite stocks. Sulfur
oxidation and disproportionation then appear to prevent substantial
stabilization of iron monosulfides as pyrite but enable the interstitial
precipitation of microcrystalline equant gypsum. This latter mineral
isotopically recorded sulfur oxidation proceeding at near equilibrium
with the ambient anoxic waters, whilst authigenic pyrite sulfur displays a
38 ‰ to 27 ‰ isotopic offset from ambient sulfate,
suggestive of incomplete MSR and open sulfur cycling. Pyrite-sulfur
fractionation decreases with increased reducible reactive iron in the
sediment. In the absence of ferruginous coastal zones today affected by
post-depositional sulfate fluxes, the current water column redox stratification in the post-mining Lake Medard is thought relevant for
refining interpretations pertaining to the onset of widespread redox-stratified
states across ancient nearshore depositional systems.
Spatial and temporal variation of 13C signature of methane emitted from a temperate mire: Methanogenesis, methanotrophy, and hysteresis
Authors: Rinne Janne , Łakomiec Patryk , Vestin Patrik , White Joel D. , Weslien Per , Kelly Julia , Kljun Natascha , Ström Lena , Klemedtsson Leif
Published: March 2022

Abstract. The reasons for spatial and temporal variation of methane emission from mire ecosystems are not fully understood. Stable isotope signatures of the emitted methane can offer cues to the causes of these variations. We measured the methane emission and 13C-signature of emitted methane by automated chambers at a temperate mire for two growing seasons. In addition, we used ambient methane mixing ratios and δ13C-CH4 to calculate a mire-scale 13C signature using a nocturnal boundary-layer accumulation approach. Microbial methanogenic and methanotrophic communities were determined by a captured metagenomics analysis. The chamber measurements showed large and systematic spatial variations in δ13C-CH4 of up to 15 ‰ but smaller and less systematic temporal variation. The trophic status of methanogenesis was the dominant factor explaining the spatial variation. Genetic analysis indicated that methanogenic communities at all sample locations were able to utilize both hydrogenotrophic and acetoclastic pathways and could thus adapt to trophic status. The temporal variation of methane emission and δ13C-CH4 over the growing seasons showed hysteresis-like behavior, indicative of time-lagged responses to temperature and trophic status. The up-scaled chamber measurements and nocturnal boundary-layer accumulation measurements showed similar average δ13C-CH4 values of -81.3 ‰ and -79.3 ‰, respectively, lending confidence to the use of mire scale isotopic signatures to be used in e.g. atmospheric inversion modelling of methane sources. The results obtained can constrain our theories on the variability of methane emission from mire ecosystems and be useful in development of numerical models of mire biogeochemistry.
Pacific Decadal Oscillation modulates the Arctic sea-ice loss influence on the mid-latitude atmospheric circulation in winter
Authors: Simon Amélie , Gastineau Guillaume , Frankignoul Claude , Lapin Vladimir , Ortega Pablo
Published: March 2022

Abstract. The modulation of the winter impacts of Arctic sea ice loss by the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) is investigated in the IPSL-CM6A-LR ocean-atmosphere general circulation model. Ensembles of simulations are performed with constrained sea ice concentration corresponding to pre-industrial, present-day and future states, and initial conditions sampling warm and cold phases of the PDO. Using a general linear model, we estimate the simulated winter impact of sea ice loss, PDO and their combined effects. In response to sea ice loss, the Arctic lower troposphere warms and a negative North-Atlantic oscillation like pattern appears together with a weak deepening of the Aleutian Low. The two patterns are associated with a weakening of the poleward flank of the eddy-driven jet, while in the stratospheric the polar vortex weakens. Besides, a warm PDO phase induces a large positive Pacific North America pattern, as well as a small negative Arctic oscillation pattern associated with a weakening of the stratospheric polar vortex. However, the effects of PDO and Arctic sea ice loss are not additive. The Arctic sea ice teleconnections in both troposphere and stratosphere are reduced by the PDO, most importantly in the stratosphere. The results are discussed and compared to those obtained with the same model in atmosphere-only simulations, where sea ice loss does not significantly alter the stratospheric polar vortex.
Identification of typical ecohydrological behaviours using InSAR allows landscape-scale mapping of peatland condition
Authors: Bradley Andrew V. , Andersen Roxane , Marshall Chris , Sowter Andrew , Large David J.
Published: March 2022

Abstract. Better tools for rapid and reliable assessment of global peatland extent and condition are urgently needed to support action to prevent further decline of peatlands. Peatland surface motion is a response to changes in the water and gas content of a peat body regulated by the ecology and hydrology of a peatland system. Surface motion is therefore a sensitive measure of ecohydrological condition but has traditionally been impossible to measure at the landscape scale. Here we examine the potential of surface motion metrics derived from satellite interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) to map peatland condition in a blanket bog landscape. We show that the timing of maximum seasonal swelling of the peat is characterised by a bimodal distribution. The first maximum, usually in autumn, is typical of “stiffer” peat associated with steeper topographic gradients, peatland margins, and degraded peatland and more often associated with “shrub”-dominated vegetation communities. The second maximum, usually in winter, is typically associated with “softer” peat typically found in low topographic gradients often featuring pool systems and Sphagnum-dominated vegetation communities. Specific conditions of “soft” and “stiff” peats are also determined by the amplitude of swelling and multi-annual average motion. Peatland restoration currently follows a re-wetting strategy; however, our approach highlights that landscape setting appears to determine the optimal endpoint for restoration. Aligning the expectation for restoration outcomes with landscape setting might optimise peatland stability and carbon storage. Importantly, deployment of this approach, based on surface motion dynamics, could support peatland mapping and management on a global scale.
Swarm Langmuir probes' data quality validation and future improvements
Authors: Catapano Filomena , Buchert Stephan , Qamili Enkelejda , Nilsson Thomas , Bouffard Jerome , Siemes Christian , Coco Igino , D'Amicis Raffaella , Tøffner-Clausen Lars , Trenchi Lorenzo , Holmdahl Olsen Poul Erik , Stromme Anja
Published: March 2022

Abstract. Swarm is the European Space Agency (ESA)'s first Earth observation constellation mission, which was launched in 2013 to study the geomagnetic field and its temporal
evolution. Two Langmuir probes aboard each of the three Swarm satellites provide in situ measurements of plasma parameters, which contribute to
the study of the ionospheric plasma dynamics. To maintain a high data quality for scientific and technical applications, the Swarm products are
continuously monitored and validated via science-oriented diagnostics. This paper presents an overview of the data quality of the Swarm Langmuir
probes' measurements. The data quality is assessed by analysing short and long data segments, where the latter are selected to be sufficiently long enough to
consider the impact of the solar activity. Langmuir probe data have been validated through comparison with numerical models, other satellite
missions, and ground observations. Based on the outcomes from quality control and validation activities conducted by ESA, as well as scientific
analysis and feedback provided by the user community, the Swarm products are regularly upgraded. In this paper, we discuss the data quality
improvements introduced with the latest baseline, and how the data quality is influenced by the solar cycle. In particular, plasma measurements are
more accurate in day-side regions during high solar activity, while electron temperature measurements are more reliable during night side at middle
and low latitudes during low solar activity. The main anomalies affecting the Langmuir probe measurements are described, as well as possible
improvements in the derived plasma parameters to be implemented in future baselines.
Multilevel multifidelity Monte Carlo methods for assessing coastal flood risk
Authors: Clare Mariana C. A. , Leijnse Tim W. B. , McCall Robert T. , Diermanse Ferdinand L. M. , Cotter Colin J. , Piggott Matthew D.
Published: March 2022

Abstract. When choosing an appropriate hydrodynamic model, there is always a compromise between accuracy and computational cost, with high fidelity models being more expensive than low fidelity ones. However, when assessing uncertainty, we can use a multifidelity approach to take advantage of the accuracy of high fidelity models and the computational efficiency of low fidelity models. Here, we apply the multilevel multifidelity Monte Carlo method (MLMF) to quantify uncertainty by computing statistical estimators of key output variables with respect to uncertain inputs, using the high fidelity hydrodynamic model XBeach and the lower fidelity coastal flooding model SFINCS. The multilevel aspect opens up the further advantageous possibility of applying each of these models at multiple resolutions. This work represents the first application of MLMF in the coastal zone and one of its first applications in any field. For both idealised and real-world test cases, MLMF can significantly reduce computational cost for the same accuracy compared to both the standard Monte Carlo method and to a multilevel approach utilising only a single model (the multilevel Monte Carlo method). In particular, here we demonstrate using the case of Myrtle Beach, USA, that this improvement in computational efficiency allows in-depth uncertainty analysis to be conducted in the case of real-world coastal environments – a task that would previously have been practically unfeasible. Moreover, for the first time, we show how an inverse transform sampling technique can be used to accurately estimate the cumulative distribution function (CDF) of variables from the MLMF outputs. MLMF based estimates of the expectations and the CDFs of the variables of interest are of significant value to decision makers when assessing risk.
Spatiotemporal evolution and meteorological triggering conditions of hydrological drought in the Hun River basin, NE China
Authors: Yue Shupeng , Sheng Xiaodan , Yang Fengtian
Published: March 2022

Abstract. The change of climate and environmental conditions has obviously
affected the evolution and propagation of drought in river basins. The Hun
River basin (HRB) is a region seriously troubled by drought in China, so it
is particularly urgent to evaluate the evolution of hydrological drought and
investigate the threshold of triggering hydrological drought in the HRB. In this
study, the standardized runoff index (SRI) was applied to reveal the evolution
characteristics of hydrological drought. Meanwhile, based on drought
duration and severity identified by the run theory, the copula function with
the highest goodness of fit was selected to calculate the return period of
hydrological drought. Furthermore, the propagation time from meteorological
to hydrological drought was determined by calculating the Pearson
correlation coefficients between 1-month SRI and multi-timescale
standardized precipitation index (SPI). Finally, based on the improvement of
the drought propagation model, the drought propagation thresholds for
triggering different scenarios of hydrological drought and its potential
influence factors were investigated. The results show that (1) the
hydrological drought showed a gradually strengthened trend from downstream
to upstream of the HRB from 1967 to 2019; (2) downstream of the HRB were
districts vulnerable to hydrological drought with longer drought duration
and higher severity; (3) the most severe drought with drought duration of 23
months and severity of 28.7 had corresponding return periods that exceed
the thresholds of both duration and severity of 371 and 89 years, respectively; (4) the propagation
time from meteorological to hydrological drought downstream of
reservoir has been significantly prolonged; and (5) the drought propagation
threshold downstream of the HRB was remarkably higher than that
upstream in all drought scenarios. Additionally, midstream showed the
highest drought propagation threshold at moderate and severe drought
scenarios, while downstream showed the highest drought propagation threshold in the extreme drought scenario.
Characteristics of intrinsic non-stationarity and its effect on eddy-covariance measurements of CO2 fluxes
Authors: Liu Lei , Shi Yu , Hu Fei
Published: March 2022

Abstract. Stationarity is a critical assumption in the eddy-covariance method that is widely used to calculate turbulent fluxes. Many methods have been proposed to diagnose non-stationarity attributed to external non-turbulent flows. In this paper, we focus on intrinsic non-stationarity (IN) attributed to turbulence randomness. The detrended fluctuation analysis is used to quantify IN of CO2 turbulent fluxes in the downtown of Beijing. Results show that the IN is common in CO2 turbulent fluxes and is a small-scale phenomenon related to the inertial sub-range turbulence. The small-scale IN of CO2 turbulent fluxes can be simulated by the Ornstein–Uhlenbeck (OU) process as a first approximation. Based on the simulation results, we find that the flux-averaging time should be greater than 27 s to avoid the effects of IN. Besides, the non-stationarity diagnosis methods that do not take into account IN would possibly make a wrong diagnosis with some parameters.
Validation of wind resource and energy production simulations for small wind turbines in the United States
Authors: Sheridan Lindsay M. , Phillips Caleb , Orrell Alice C. , Berg Larry K. , Tinnesand Heidi , Rai Raj K. , Zisman Sagi , Duplyakin Dmitry , Flaherty Julia E.
Published: March 2022

Abstract. Due to financial and temporal limitations, the small wind community relies upon simplified wind speed models and energy production simulation tools to assess site suitability and produce energy generation expectations. While efficient and user-friendly, these models and tools are subject to errors that have been insufficiently quantified at small wind turbine heights. This study leverages observations from meteorological towers and sodars across the United States to validate wind speed estimates from the Wind Integration National Dataset (WIND) Toolkit, the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) Reanalysis v5 (ERA5), and the Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Applications, version 2 (MERRA-2), revealing average biases within ±0.5 m s−1 at small wind hub heights. Observations from small wind turbines across the United States provide references for validating energy production estimates from the System Advisor Model (SAM), Wind Report, MyWindTurbine.com, and Global Wind Atlas 3 (GWA3), which are seen to overestimate actual annual capacity factors by 2.5, 4.2, 11.5, and 7.3 percentage points, respectively. In addition to quantifying the error metrics, this paper identifies sources of model and tool discrepancies, noting that interannual fluctuation in the wind resource, wind speed class, and loss assumptions produces more variability in estimates than different horizontal and vertical interpolation techniques. The results of this study provide small wind installers and owners with information about these challenges to consider when making performance estimates and thus possible adjustments accordingly. Looking to the future, recognizing these error metrics and sources of discrepancies provides model and tool researchers and developers with opportunities for product improvement that could positively impact small wind customer confidence and the ability to finance small wind projects.
Representaciones sociales de la Ergonomía en personal directivo
Authors: Gómez-Salazar Lessby
Published: March 2022

La ergonomía se enfoca en el estudio de las interacciones humanas, con el propósito de optimizar el bienestar humano y general. El concepto de ergonomía ha ido evolucionando a enfoques sistémicos que propenden por el adecuado equilibrio entre la economía, la sociedad y el ambiente. Sin embargo, este avance conceptual no siempre se refleja el accionar empresarial, por lo que esta investigación busca analizar la representación social que los directivos empresariales tienen de la ergonomía, para tratar de comprender si este es uno de los factores que afectan el limitado alcance de la ergonomía en países como Colombia. Para ello, se llevó a cabo una investigación cualitativa de enfoque estructural de las representaciones sociales del término ergonomía, en 21 directivos de empresas. En los resultados, se determinó que el núcleo central de la representación social estuvo constituido por los términos “salud, confort, postura”, siendo las categorías “Relación y beneficios” las más referidas. Esta investigación permite concluir que, en los participantes del estudio, la visión de la ergonomía se encuentra más orientada hacia la microergonomía en el dominio de la ergonomía física, evidenciando un limitado conocimiento de los alcances de la ergonomía actual.
Pengaruh Pelaksanaan Kebijakan Penerimaan Peserta Didik Baru Terhadap Manajemen Penerimaan Peserta Didik Baru Dalam Mewujudkan Minat Calon Orang Tua Siswa
Authors: Saepudin Asep
Published: March 2022

Tujuan penulisan artikel ini adalah untuk mengkaji dan menganalisis tentang pengaruh pelaksanaan kebijakan PPDB terhadap manajemen PPDB dalam mewujudkan minat calon orang tua siswa. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode analisis deskriptif dengan tehnik survey. Populasi yang dijadikan sampel atau responden dalam penelitian ini sebanyak 32 orang guru di SMP IT Daarul Amiin. Teknik pengumpulan data yang digunakan adalah studi dokumentasi dan studi lapangan. Sedangkan teknik analisis data yang digunakan untuk menjawab hipotesis penelitian penelitian adalah analisis statistik dengan model analisis jalur (path analysis). Hasil pengujian hipotesis utama dalam penelitian ini dapat disimpulkan bahwa pelaksanaan kebijakan PPDB positif secara signfikan terhadap manajemen PPDB dan minat calon orang tua siswa. Adapun pengujian pada sub-sub hipotesis menunjukan bahwa pelaksanaan kebijakan PPDB memiliki pengaruh secara positif dan signifikan terhadap manajemen PPDB, pelaksanaan kebijakan PPDB memiliki pengaruh secara positif dan signifikan terhadap minat calon orang tua siswa, manajemen PPDB pengaruh secara positif dan signifikan terhadap minat calon orang tua siswa di SMP IT Daarul Amiin.
Remittances and Financial Development in Kenya: An Autoregressive Distributed Lag Approach
Authors: Atem Gabriel Garang
Published: March 2022

This study estimates an Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) econometric model between 1970 to 2018 to test the long-run effect of remittances on financial development in Kenya. It also interacts remittances with monetary policy and human capital to test their complementarity in facilitating financial development. The long-run model finds that remittances hurt financial development contradicting the theoretical view. A possible explanation is the substitutability hypothesis which states that remittances replace the demand for financial products. The long-run model’s results find that monetary policy complements remittances while human capital harms the complementarity role of remittances. More studies are required to isolate the cause of the negative externality of human capital in facilitating remittances to boost financial development. Surprisingly, openness and economic growth used as control variables have negative effects on financial development, which also need further study. The long-run equilibrium model adjusts at a speed of 51.8 percent to correct short-term disequilibrium after every two years. The study recommends that policymakers in Kenya should be cautious about the negative side effects of remittances on financial development. This study recommends that policymakers identify prudent monetary, exchange rate, trade, and fiscal policies to curb the side effects of remittances in the economy and broader development planning.