bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feral rabbit populations in a peri-urban area: insights about invasion dynamics and potential management strategies
Authors: Sogliani Davide , Cerri Jacopo , Turetta Ramj , Crema Massimo , Corsini Michela , Mori Emiliano
Published: June 2021

Where introduced, the European rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus is considered among the most destructive and invasive species. To date, research focused mostly on populations of wild rabbit, whereas little is known on feral domestic rabbit populations. In this work, we reported the establishment of two self-sustaining populations of feral rabbits in Italy. Direct observations were conducted to assess rabbit range expansion and population increase over time. We also evaluated prey-predator interactions between rabbits and native red foxes Vulpes vulpes, by means of camera trapping and the analysis of fox scats. Moreover, we also assessed the social perception towards feral rabbits and the acceptability of various management options through the administration of a structured questionnaire to park visitors. Rabbit populations increased between 2018 and 2019, as well as the size of the invaded range. Rabbits are predated by foxes, but they seem to have adapted their activity rhythms to minimize the risk of predation, becoming diurnal. Park visitors loved rabbits and deemed them to be a positive presence in the park, which deserve to live there. Surgical sterilization of rabbits was the only management option which was partially supported. Feral domestic rabbits, albeit a neglected species in invasion biology, can become extremely successful invaders of urban green areas: in < 5 years, rabbits were able to colonize our study area and become a food resource for native predators and also an iconic species. These three points raise concerns about the potential impacts of invasive feral rabbits in European urban green areas and call for further research in this direction.
Early warning of systemic risk in global banking: eigen-pair R number for financial contagion and market price-based methods
Authors: Markose Sheri , Giansante Simone , Eterovic Nicolas A. , Gatkowski Mateusz
Published: June 2021

We analyse systemic risk in the core global banking system using a new network-based spectral eigen-pair method, which treats network failure as a dynamical system stability problem. This is compared with market price-based Systemic Risk Indexes (SRIs), viz. Marginal Expected Shortfall (MES), Delta Conditional Value-at-Risk (Delta-CoVaR), and Conditional Capital Shortfall Measure of Systemic Risk (SRISK) in a cross-border setting. Unlike paradoxical market price based risk measures, which underestimate risk during periods of asset price booms, the eigen-pair method based on bilateral balance sheet data gives early-warning of instability in terms of the tipping point that is analogous to the R number in epidemic models. For this regulatory capital thresholds are used. Furthermore, network centrality measures identify systemically important and vulnerable banking systems. Market price-based SRIs are contemporaneous with the crisis and they are found to covary with risk measures like VaR and betas.
Genome-Wide Linkage Study Meta-Analysis of Male Sexual Orientation
Authors: Sanders Alan R. , Beecham Gary W. , Guo Shengru , Badner Judith A. , Bocklandt Sven , Mustanski Brian S. , Hamer Dean H. , Martin Eden R.
Published: June 2021

Male sexual orientation is a scientifically and socially important trait shown by family and twin studies to be influenced by environmental and complex genetic factors. Individual genome-wide linkage studies (GWLS) have been conducted, but not jointly analyzed. Two main datasets account for > 90% of the published GWLS concordant sibling pairs on the trait and are jointly analyzed here: MGSOSO (Molecular Genetic Study of Sexual Orientation; 409 concordant sibling pairs in 384 families, Sanders et al. (2015)) and Hamer (155 concordant sibling pairs in 145 families, Mustanski et al. (2005)). We conducted multipoint linkage analyses with Merlin on the datasets separately since they were genotyped differently, integrated genetic marker positions, and combined the resultant LOD (logarithm of the odds) scores at each 1 cM grid position. We continue to find the strongest linkage support at pericentromeric chromosome 8 and chromosome Xq28. We also incorporated the remaining published GWLS dataset (on 55 families) by using meta-analytic approaches on published summary statistics. The meta-analysis has maximized the positional information from GWLS of currently available family resources and can help prioritize findings from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and other approaches. Although increasing evidence highlights genetic contributions to male sexual orientation, our current understanding of contributory loci is still limited, consistent with the complexity of the trait. Further increasing genetic knowledge about male sexual orientation, especially via large GWAS, should help advance our understanding of the biology of this important trait.
Challenges in simulating economic effects of climate change on global agricultural markets
Authors: Gurgel Angelo C. , Reilly John , Blanc Elodie
Published: June 2021

Many approaches have been used to investigate climate change impacts on agriculture. However, several caveats remain in this field: (i) analyses focus only on a few major crops, (ii) large differences in yield impacts are observed between projections from site-based crops models and Global Gridded Crop Models (GGCMs), (iii) climate change impacts on livestock are rarely quantified, and (iv) several causal relations among biophysical, environmental, and socioeconomic aspects are usually not taken into account. We investigate how assumptions about these four aspects affect agricultural markets, food supply, consumer well-being, and land use at global level by deploying a large-scale socioeconomic model of the global economy with detailed representation of the agricultural sector. We find global welfare impacts several times larger when climate impacts all crops and all livestock compared to a scenario with impacts limited to major crops. At the regional level, food budget can decrease by 10 to 25% in developing countries, challenging food security. The role of land area expansion as a major source of adaptation is highlighted. Climate impacts on crop yields from site-based process crop models generate more challenging socioeconomic outcomes than those from GGCMs. We conclude that the agricultural research community should expand efforts to estimate climate impacts on many more crops and livestock. Also, careful comparison of the GGCMs and traditional site-based process crop models is needed to understand their major implications for agricultural and food markets.
Changes in energetic metabolism and lysosomal destruction in the skeletal muscle and cardiac tissues of pigeons (Columba livia f. urbana) from urban areas of the northern Pomeranian region (Poland)
Authors: Tkachenko Halyna , Kurhaluk Natalia , Hetmański Tomasz , Włodarkiewicz Agnieszka , Tomin Vladimir
Published: June 2021

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the biochemical responses of the skeletal muscle and cardiac tissues of the urban pigeon as a bioindicator organism tested in diverse environments (Szpęgawa as a rural environment and Słupsk as an urban environment, Pomeranian Voivodeship, northern Poland), resulting in changes in the level of lipid peroxidation at the initial and final stages of this process and the activities of Krebs cycle enzymes (succinate dehydrogenase, pyruvate dehydrogenase, isocitrate dehydrogenase, and alfa-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase). Szpęgawa village was chosen due to the intensive use of the European motorway A1 with significant traffic and pollution levels. The concentration of Pb was higher in the soil and feathers of pigeons nesting in the polluted areas (Szpęgawa). Our studies have shown that the presence of lead in soil and feathers of the pigeons resulted in the activation of lipid peroxidation, destabilization and increased activity of lysosomal membranes, and activation of mitochondrial enzymes of the Krebs cycle with energy deficiency (reduction of ATP levels) in cardiac and skeletal muscle tissues simultaneously.
The morendo of the Anthropocene
Authors: Blok Vincent
Published: June 2021

This essay engages with Bernard Stiegler’s discussion with Martin Heidegger in The ordeal of Truth, published in Foundations of Science 2020 (this volume). It appreciates Stiegler’s progressive reading of Heidegger’s work but critically reflects on several elements in his work. A first element is the methodological aspect of Heidegger’s being historical thinking, which is missed by Stiegler and confirms the indifference towards philosophical method that can be found in the work of many contemporary philosophers. A second element concerns Heidegger’s and Stiegler’s remaining humanism and the necessity to move beyond humanism and post-humanism in the era of global warming. A third element of reflection concerns Stiegler’s idea of the obligation of making our being-in-default come true, which shows a hidden metaphysical orientation in his work.
“If I won the lottery…”: work orientations of low-qualified young adults in Albania and Switzerland
Authors: Kallciu Nada , Zhilla Eralda , Fedrigo Laurence , Nano Livia , Masdonati Jonas
Published: June 2021

A qualitative study was carried out to portray the work orientations of 30 low-qualified working young adults in two contrasted economies: Albania and Switzerland. The analysis of their answers to the “lottery question” showed that most participants would continue to work, either to be busy, feed a passion, feel useful, or grow. In contrast to participants from Switzerland, Albanian participants would more easily modify some aspects of their work. Globally, findings reveal that participants’ current situations tend to differ from what they expect from work, which impacts the quality of their work integration and has critical implications for career counseling.
Technological problem solving: an investigation of differences associated with levels of task success
Authors: Morrison-Love David
Published: June 2021

Research into technological problem solving has shown it to exist in a range of forms and draw upon different processes and knowledge types. This paper adds to this understanding by identifying procedural and epistemic differences in relation to task performance for pupils solving a well-defined technological problem. The study is theoretically grounded in a transformative epistemology of technology education. 50 pupils in small groups worked through a cantilever problem, the most and least successful solutions to which were identified using a Delphi technique. Time-interval photography, verbal interactions, observations and supplementary data formed a composite representation of activity which was analysed with successively less contrasting groups to isolate sustained differences. Analyses revealed key differences in three areas. First, more successful groups used better and more proactive process-management strategies including use of planning, role and task allocation with lower levels of group tension. Second, they made greater use of reflection in which knowledge associated with the technological solution was explicitly verblised. This was defined as ‘analytical reflection’ and reveals aspects of pupils’ qualitative technical knowledge. Third, higher-performing groups exhibited greater levels of tacit-procedural knowledge within their solutions. There was also evidence that less successful groups were less affected by competition and not as comprehensive in translating prior conceptual learning into their tangible technological solutions. Overall findings suggest that proactive management, and making contextual and technical connections, are important for pupils solving well-defined technological problems. This understanding can be used to support classroom pedagogies that help pupils learn to problem solve more effectively.
Disruptive Behavior Disorders and Psychopathic Traits in Adolescents: Empathy-Related Responses to Witnessing Animal Distress
Authors: de Wied Minet , Meeus Wim , van Boxtel Anton
Published: June 2021

Cruelty to animals is a symptom of conduct disorder and associated with psychopathic traits in childhood. One of the factors thought to contribute to animal cruelty is reduced empathy and concern for the well-being of animals. A first aim of this study was to examine empathy towards animals in distress in male adolescents with disruptive behavior disorders (DBD) and high or low psychopathic traits, and normal controls (NC). Psychopathic traits were assessed by the Antisocial Process Screening Device (APSD). Respondents were exposed to a short film clip depicting a baby bear in distress. Heart rate (HR) responses were monitored during film exposure. Afterwards, respondents were asked to report the emotions they had observed and experienced. Contrary to expectations based on research on human empathy, no group differences were found in empathy-related responses to witnessing animal distress. Both DBD groups and normal controls observed equal levels of distress in the baby bear, experienced as much empathy and sympathy, and showed similar levels of HR reduction during the most dramatic scene. Results suggest that empathy for humans does not generalize to animals, and vice versa. A second aim was to examine the associations between empathy-related responses and the broad concept of psychopathy as well as its dimensions. The relationships were different and for the most part reversed in the NC and DBD groups. Group proved to be an important moderating factor, indicating that results obtained within a sample of healthy adolescents do not generalize to adolescents with DBD, and vice versa.
Kinetic aspects of virus targeting by nanoparticles in vivo
Authors: Zhdanov Vladimir P.
Published: June 2021

One of the suggested ways of the use of nanoparticles in virology implies their association with and subsequent deactivation of virions. The conditions determining the efficiency of this approach in vivo are now not clear. Herein, I propose the first kinetic model describing the corresponding processes and clarifying these conditions. My analysis indicates that nanoparticles can decrease concentration of infected cells by a factor of one order of magnitude, but this decrease itself (without feedback of the immune system) is insufficient for full eradication of infection. It can, however, induce delay in the progress of infection, and this delay can help to form sufficient feedback of the immune system.
Lineage-Specific Chimerism and Outcome After Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation for DOCK8 Deficiency
Authors: Raedler Johannes , Magg Thomas , Rohlfs Meino , Klein Christoph , Vallée Tanja , Hauck Fabian , Albert Michael H.
Published: June 2021

Bi-allelic variants in the dedicator of cytokinesis 8 (DOCK8) gene cause a combined immunodeficiency, characterized by recurrent sinopulmonary and skin infections, food allergies, eczema, eosinophilia, and elevated IgE. Long-term outcome is poor given susceptibility to infections, malignancy, and vascular complications. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is currently the only curative treatment option and has shown promising outcome. The impact of mixed chimerism on long-term outcome is unclear. We reasoned that reversal of disease phenotype would depend on cell lineage-specific chimerism. DOCK8 variants were confirmed by Sanger and/or exome sequencing and immunoblot and/or intracellular flow cytometry. Donor chimerism was analyzed by XY-fluorescence in situ hybridization or quantitative short tandem repeat PCR. Outcome was assessed by laboratory tests, lymphocyte subsets, intracellular DOCK8 protein flow cytometry, T-cell proliferation analysis, and multiparameter immunoblot allergy screening. We report on nine patients, four of whom with mixed chimerism, with a median follow-up of 78 months after transplantation. Overall, we report successful transplantation with improvement of susceptibility to infections and allergies, and resolution of eczema in all patients. Immunological outcome in patients with mixed chimerism suggests a selective advantage for wild-type donor T-cells but lower donor B-cell chimerism possibly results in a tendency to hypogammaglobulinemia. No increased infectious and allergic complications were associated with mixed chimerism. Aware of the relatively small cohort size, we could not demonstrate a consistent detrimental effect of mixed chimerism on clinical outcomes. We nevertheless advocate aiming for complete donor chimerism in treating DOCK8 deficiency, but recommend reduced toxicity conditioning.
Low-rank matrix recovery with Ky Fan 2-k-norm
Authors: Doan Xuan Vinh , Vavasis Stephen
Published: June 2021

Low-rank matrix recovery problem is difficult due to its non-convex properties and it is usually solved using convex relaxation approaches. In this paper, we formulate the non-convex low-rank matrix recovery problem exactly using novel Ky Fan 2-k-norm-based models. A general difference of convex functions algorithm (DCA) is developed to solve these models. A proximal point algorithm (PPA) framework is proposed to solve sub-problems within the DCA, which allows us to handle large instances. Numerical results show that the proposed models achieve high recoverability rates as compared to the truncated nuclear norm method and the alternating bilinear optimization approach. The results also demonstrate that the proposed DCA with the PPA framework is efficient in handling larger instances.
On a Certain Operator Related to Blackwell’s Markov Chain
Authors: Nieznaj Ernest
Published: June 2021

We present an example of a densely defined, linear operator on the $$l^{1}$$

l
1

space with the property that each basis vector of the standard Schauder basis of $$l^{1}$$

l
1

does not belong to its domain. Our example is based on the construction of a Markov chain with all states instantaneous given by D. Blackwell in 1958. In addition, it turns out that the closure of this operator is the generator of a strongly continuous semigroup of Markov operators associated with Blackwell’s chain.
Asymmetric and chaotic responses of dry friction oscillators with different static and kinetic coefficients of friction
Authors: Csernák Gábor , Licskó Gábor
Published: June 2021

The responses of a simple harmonically excited dry friction oscillator are analysed in the case when the coefficients of static and kinetic coefficients of friction are different. One- and two-parameter bifurcation curves are determined at suitable parameters by continuation method and the largest Lyapunov exponents of the obtained solutions are estimated. It is shown that chaotic solutions can occur in broad parameter domains—even at realistic friction parameters—that are tightly enclosed by well-defined two-parameter bifurcation curves. The performed analysis also reveals that chaotic trajectories are bifurcating from special asymmetric solutions. To check the robustness of the qualitative results, characteristic bifurcation branches of two slightly modified oscillators are also determined: one with a higher harmonic in the excitation, and another one where Coulomb friction is exchanged by a corresponding LuGre friction model. The qualitative agreement of the diagrams supports the validity of the results.
Epistemology without guidance
Authors: Hughes Nick
Published: June 2021

Epistemologists often appeal to the idea that a normative theory must provide useful, usable, guidance to argue for one normative epistemology over another. I argue that this is a mistake. Guidance considerations have no role to play in theory choice in epistemology. I show how this has implications for debates about the possibility and scope of epistemic dilemmas, the legitimacy of idealisation in Bayesian epistemology, uniqueness versus permissivism, sharp versus mushy credences, and internalism versus externalism.
Standard set of patient-reported outcomes for personality disorder
Authors: Prevolnik Rupel Valentina , Jagger Beth , Fialho Luz Sousa , Chadderton Lisa-Marie , Gintner Timea , Arntz Anroud , Baltzersen Åse-Line , Blazdell Julia , van Busschbach Jan , Cencelli Marika , Chanen Andrew , Delvaux Charlotte , van Gorp Fieke , Langford Lucie , McKenna Brian , Moran Paul , Pacheco Karla , Sharp Carla , Wang Wei , Wright Karen , Crawford Mike J.
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of the article is to present standard set of outcomes for people with personality disorder (PD), in order to facilitate patient outcome measurement worldwide.

Methods

The International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement (ICHOM) gathered a multidisciplinary international working group, consisting of 16 experts, including clinicians, nurses, psychologists, methodologists and patient representatives, to develop a standard set of outcome measures for people with PD. The Delphi method was used to reach consensus on the scope of the set, outcome domains, outcome measures, case-mix variables and time points for measuring outcomes in service users. For each phase, a project team prepared materials based on systematic literature reviews and consultations with experts.

Results

The working group decided to include PD, as defined by International Classification of Diseases 11th revision (ICD-11). Eleven core outcomes and three optional outcomes across four health domains (mental health, behaviour, functioning and recovery) were defined as those relevant for people with PD. Validated measures for the selected outcomes were selected, some covering more than one outcome. Case-mix variables were aligned to other ICHOM mental health standard sets and consisted of demographic factors and those related to the treatment that people received. The group recommended that most outcomes are measured at baseline and annually.

Conclusion

The international minimum standard set of outcomes has the potential to improve clinical decision making through systematic measurement and comparability. This will be key in improving the standard of health care for people with PD across the world.
Studying the Microstructural Effect of Selective Laser Melting and Electropolishing on the Performance of Maraging Steel
Authors: Ahmadkhaniha D. , Möller H. , Zanella C.
Published: June 2021

Selective laser melting is one of the additive manufacturing technologies that have been known for building various and complicated shapes. Despite numerous advantages of additive manufacturing technologies, they strongly influence the microstructure and typically show a relatively high surface roughness. In this study, maraging steel was produced by selective laser melting (SLM), and its microstructure, hardness and corrosion behavior before and after heat treatment were studied and compared to traditionally manufactured ones (wrought, forged samples). In addition, the effect of electropolishing on the surface roughness was evaluated. The microstructural study was carried out by scanning electron microscopy equipped with electron backscattered diffraction in three different sections: parallel to the top surface (xy), transverse cross section (xz) and longitudinal cross section (yz). The same characterization was applied to heat-treated samples, austenitized and quenched as well as the aged ones. The results showed that selective laser melting produced a fine grain martensitic structure (in the as-printed condition) with a surface roughness (Ra) of about 10 µm. There was no sign of preferred texture or anisotropy in the microstructure of as-print SLM materials. The SLM microstructure was similar in all 3 sections (xy, xz and yz). Despite finer microstructure, nano-hardness and corrosion behavior of SLM and conventional wrought maraging steel in heat-treated conditions were similar. Aging resulted in the maximum nano-hardness and the minimum corrosion potential values. Precipitation has the main role in both hardness and corrosion behavior. Electropolishing was optimized and reduced the surface roughness (Ra) by 65%.
Growth Differentiation Factor-15 Produces Analgesia by Inhibiting Tetrodotoxin-Resistant Nav1.8 Sodium Channel Activity in Rat Primary Sensory Neurons
Authors: Lin Wei , Zhang Wen-Wen , Lyu Ning , Cao Hong , Xu Wen-Dong , Zhang Yu-Qiu
Published: June 2021

Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) is a member of the transforming growth factor-β superfamily. It is widely distributed in the central and peripheral nervous systems. Whether and how GDF-15 modulates nociceptive signaling remains unclear. Behaviorally, we found that peripheral GDF-15 significantly elevated nociceptive response thresholds to mechanical and thermal stimuli in naïve and arthritic rats. Electrophysiologically, we demonstrated that GDF-15 decreased the excitability of small-diameter dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons. Furthermore, GDF-15 concentration-dependently suppressed tetrodotoxin-resistant sodium channel Nav1.8 currents, and shifted the steady-state inactivation curves of Nav1.8 in a hyperpolarizing direction. GDF-15 also reduced window currents and slowed down the recovery rate of Nav1.8 channels, suggesting that GDF-15 accelerated inactivation and slowed recovery of the channel. Immunohistochemistry results showed that activin receptor-like kinase-2 (ALK2) was widely expressed in DRG medium- and small-diameter neurons, and some of them were Nav1.8-positive. Blockade of ALK2 prevented the GDF-15-induced inhibition of Nav1.8 currents and nociceptive behaviors. Inhibition of PKA and ERK, but not PKC, blocked the inhibitory effect of GDF-15 on Nav1.8 currents. These results suggest a functional link between GDF-15 and Nav1.8 in DRG neurons via ALK2 receptors and PKA associated with MEK/ERK, which mediate the peripheral analgesia of GDF-15.
Photonics of human saliva: potential optical methods for the screening of abnormal health conditions and infections
Authors: Lukose Jijo , M. Sanoop Pavithran , N. Mithun , Barik Ajaya Kumar , Pai Keerthilatha M. , Unnikrishnan V. K. , George Sajan D. , Kartha V. B. , Chidangil Santhosh
Published: June 2021

Human saliva can be treated as a pool of biological markers able to reflect on the state of personal health. Recent years have witnessed an increase in the use of optical devices for the analysis of body fluids. Several groups have carried out studies investigating the potential of saliva as a non-invasive and reliable clinical specimen for use in medical diagnostics. This brief review aims to highlight the optical technologies, mainly surface plasmon resonance (SPR), Raman, and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, which are being used for the probing of saliva for diverse biomedical applications. Advances in bio photonics offer the promise of unambiguous, objective and fast detection of abnormal health conditions and viral infections (such as COVID-19) from the analysis of saliva.
Capturing the structural and compositional variability of Opalinus Clay: constraints from multidisciplinary investigations of Mont Terri drill cores (Switzerland)
Authors: Kneuker Tilo , Furche Markus
Published: June 2021

Opalinus Clay is considered a potential host rock for radioactive waste disposal. The Jurassic claystone formation is composed of several facies and subfacies types, which are characterized by varying amounts of quartz, carbonates (cements and fossils) and clay minerals. To provide samples for ongoing experimental and numerical studies, a complete core section was drilled in the Mont Terri rock laboratory. The lithological and structural variability (including tectonic fault structures) from borehole BAD-2 was investigated using a multidisciplinary approach including high-resolution geoelectric in situ borehole measurements, mineralogical/geochemical and (micro)structural analyses.

The lithological–compositional variability was captured by successfully applying a modified subfacies approach, which is independently confirmed by the geochemical data and ERT (Electrical Resistivity Tomography) measurements. The variability on the cm to dm scale perpendicular to bedding can be determined based on the mean resistivity and variation of amplitude. In particular, the facies transitions could be precisely located. The new results suggest that both shaly facies types form the homogenous part of the investigated section, whereas the sandy facies and especially the carbonate-rich sandy facies represent the more heterogeneous lithofacies types of the Opalinus Clay. The varying resistivity can be attributed to differences in clay mineral and carbonate content. Regarding the structural variability, brittle faults were observed with varying frequency throughout the investigated section. Most fault planes occur in the shaly facies types, some of them concentrate along heterogeneities on the subfacies scale. The striking reproducibility of the measurements and observations was confirmed by a comparison with boreholes drilled in parallel, indicating a rather low compositional–structural variability parallel to bedding. The applied multidisciplinary approach is well suited to depict the vertical and lateral variability of a claystone formation, allowing an assessment of the degree of homogeneity/heterogeneity based on the subfacies concept.
An assessment of water quality index of Godavari river water in Nashik city, Maharashtra
Authors: Kharake Ashali Chandrakant , Raut Vaishali Sanjay
Published: June 2021

Water resource is most essential basic resource for human being. Today water resource management has become an important issue (Kharake, Pathare, Deshmukh, Arebian J Geosci 14(10):1–10, 2021) for all developing countries. Rapid growth of population and its repetitive activities along the river pose a concerned impact on the river system. The water quality and quantity are under constant pressure by the presence of different human activities like removal of vegetation, industrial activities, and encroachment, domestic and religious activities. These all activities resulted in degradation of water quality. These all problems are largely concentrated in and around urban areas. Keeping this view in the account systematic study has been carried out the water quality of Godavari river in Nashik city. Water samples from 10 sampling stations have been collected during 1st week of June 2019. Physico-chemical parameters have been analyzed by standard method. The Karl Pearson correlation matrix has been established for examining relationship between the water quality parameters, and the study is conducted to analyze the water quality status of Godavari river in terms of water quality index (WQI). The overall values showed good water quality status (WQI 133.44) at upper stream in the study area, but as it enters in urban area water quality becomes deteriorate (WQI 35.01). The field observations reveal that water quality is declining due to many human activities mainly industrial, domestic and religious waste. To analyze the water quality index (WQI) is the main aim of the research with remedial measures to mitigate the deterioration and related consequences in future.
Software Tools for Energy Storage Valuation and Design
Authors: Nguyen Tu A. , Byrne Raymond H.
Published: June 2021

Purpose of Review

As the application space for energy storage systems (ESS) grows, it is crucial to valuate the technical and economic benefits of ESS deployments. Since there are many analytical tools in this space, this paper provides a review of these tools to help the audience find the proper tools for their energy storage analyses.

Recent Findings

There are many software tools for valuating ESS. These tools can be classified into two groups: (1) power system simulation and planning tools for analyzing the technical contributions of ESSs, and (2) techno-economic analysis tools for valuating the economic benefits of ESS deployment and specifying the optimal design of energy systems that include ESSs. While many of the tools, developed by the national laboratories, are free to use, the commercial tools are also of great importance in meeting the customers’ specific needs.

Summary

This paper provides a review of software tools for ESS valuation and design. A review of analysis tools for evaluating the technical impacts of energy storage deployments is also provided, as well as a discussion of development trends for valuation and design tools.
Generation Y: Do millennials need a partner to be happy?
Authors: Scheling Louisa , Richter David
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Empirical evidence on Ronald Inglehart's theory of value change shows that subsequent generations show a decline in values of physical and economic security (materialism) in favor of an increase in values of self‐expression and autonomy (postmaterialism).

Methods

We investigate in a pre‐registered study whether Inglehart's theory also applies to partnership, such that millennials think less that they need a partner to be happy. We used data from the German Socio‐Economic Panel (SOEP) study on 4540 17‐year‐olds from 16 birth cohorts.

Results

Results show that adolescents’ estimated importance of a romantic partner for personal happiness decreases on average with each subsequent birth cohort. Further significant predictors were socialization and relationship status of the parents, birth year of the father, as well as education and sex of the adolescent. Socioeconomic status and education level of the parents and birth year of the mother were not significant.

Conclusions

Findings provide initial evidence that as society becomes more individualized, even personal happiness is increasingly seen as independent of significant others. Ronald Inglehart's theory of value change, however, seems to have only limited applicability as an explanatory model for this development.
Qualitative research within the Deaf community in Northern Ireland
Authors: Elder Brent C. , Schwartz Michael A.
Published: June 2021

In this methodology article, the authors illustrate how they conducted multilingual qualitative research in an exploration of the barriers that Deaf people in Northern Ireland face when attempting to access the system of justice. The authors’ research practices are informed, to the extent possible, by the principles of community-based participatory research (CBPR). They explore the challenges of conducting research in American Sign Language (ASL), British Sign Language (BSL), and Irish Sign Language (ISL), and spoken English, facilitated by sign language interpreters ﬂuent in BSL and ISL. Centering the research on the lived experiences of Deaf people who navigate the system of justice, the authors implemented CBPR-informed research methods, which ultimately led to sustained discussion and joint action by the authors and members of the Northern Ireland Deaf community aimed at the removal of barriers that Deaf people face when interacting with the justice system. By writing about their methodological approach in Northern Ireland, the authors wish to be transparent about their work in the hope that other researchers can replicate their successes and avoid the limitations of conducting this work in partnership with members of the Deaf community in other countries.
Mysticism in Early Modern England
Authors: Temple Liam Peter
Published: June 2021

Mysticism in Early Modern England traces how mysticism featured in polemical and religious discourse in seventeenth-century England and explores how it came to be viewed as a source of sectarianism, radicalism, and, most significantly, religious enthusiasm.
Discourse in Old Norse Literature
Authors: Bryan Eric Shane
Published: June 2021

An examination of what dialogues and direct speech in Old Norse literature can convey and mean, beyond their immediate face-value.
Political Legitimacy in Postcolonial Mali
Authors: Schulz Dorothea E.
Published: June 2021

An innovative examination of our understanding of political legitimacy in Mali, and its wider implications for democratization and political modernity in the Global South.
Practices and activities among healthcare personnel with severe acute respiratory coronavirus virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection working in different healthcare settings—ten Emerging Infections Program sites, April–November 2020
Authors: Chea Nora , Eure Taniece , Penna Austin R. , Brown Cedric J. , Nadle Joelle , Godine Deborah , Frank Linda , Czaja Christopher A. , Johnston Helen , Barter Devra , Miller Betsy Feighner , Angell Katie , Marshall Kristen , Meek James , Brackney Monica , Carswell Stacy , Thomas Stepy , Wilson Lucy E. , Perlmutter Rebecca , Marceaux-Galli Kaytlynn , Fell Ashley , Lim Sarah , Lynfield Ruth , Davis Sarah Shrum , Phipps Erin C. , Sievers Marla , Dumyati Ghinwa , Concannon Cathleen , McCullough Kathryn , Woods Amy , Seshadri Sandhya , Myers Christopher , Pierce Rebecca , Ocampo Valerie L. S. , Guzman-Cottrill Judith A. , Escutia Gabriela , Samper Monika , Pena Sandra A. , Adre Cullen , Groenewold Matthew , Thompson Nicola D. , Magill Shelley S.
Published: June 2021

Healthcare personnel with severe acute respiratory coronavirus virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection were interviewed to describe activities and practices in and outside the workplace. Among 2,625 healthcare personnel, workplace-related factors that may increase infection risk were more common among nursing-home personnel than hospital personnel, whereas selected factors outside the workplace were more common among hospital personnel.
Fatty acid profile of milk from Nordestina donkey breed raised on Caatinga pasture
Authors: Messias Tayanna Bernardo Oliveira Nunes , Alves Susana Paula , Bessa Rui José Branquinho , Madruga Marta Suely , Pacheco Maria Teresa Bertoldo , Queiroga Rita de Cássia Ramos do Egypto
Published: June 2021

In this research communication we describe the composition of fatty acids (FA) present in the milk of the Nordestina donkey breed, and how they differ during lactation. Milk samples were taken from 24 multiparous lactating Nordestina donkeys that grazed the Caatinga, comprising 5 animals at each of around 30, 60 and 90 d in milk (DIM) and a further 9 animals ranging from 120 to 180 DIM. The milk fat content was analysed by mid infrared spectroscopy and the FA profile by gas chromatography. The milk fat percentage ranged from 0.45 to 0.61%. The main FA found in milk were 16:0 and 18:1c9. These did not differ among DIM classes and comprised 23% and 25% of total FA. Notably, the α-Linolenic acid (18:3 n-3) was the third most abundant FA and differed (P < 0.05) with DIM, being lowest in the 30 and 60 DIM samples (around 10.7% of total FA) and highest in the 60 and 90 DIM classes (around 14.6% of total FA). The low-fat content and the FA profile of the donkey milk gives it potential as a functional ingredient, which could help to preserve the commercial viability of the Nordestina donkey breed.
Descriptions of Deontolaimus holovachovi sp. nov. and Campylaimus zhoui sp. nov. from Chinese sea areas
Authors: Lu Yang , Zhao Liping , Huang Yong
Published: June 2021

Two new species of free-living marine nematode discovered from an intertidal sandy beach in the Bohai Sea and from a sublittoral region in the East China Sea are described. Deontolaimus holovachovi sp. nov. is characterized by short cephalic setae (2.5–3 μm long); ventrally-unispiral amphidial fovea; excretory pore located at the level with nerve ring; lateral alae present; two pairs of lateral cervical setae present; arcuate spicules 1.5–1.6 cloacal body diameter long, with the proximal half swollen and proximal end hooked, the distal half narrow; gubernaculum with dorso-caudal apophysis; postcloacal sensilla present in males; a midventral caudal papilla with a short seta situated at posterior third of tail length. Campylaimus zhoui sp. nov. is characterized by loop-shaped amphid with very long ventral limb extending along pharyngeal region to level of anterior part of intestine, 4.7–5.2 times the length of dorsal limb; excretory pore opening posterior to the pharyngo-intestinal junction; spicules symmetrical, slightly arcuate without proximal capitulum; gubernaculum with small dorsal apophysis; precloacal supplements absent.
The interplay between Trichuris and the microbiota
Authors: Lawson Melissa A. E. , Roberts Ian S. , Grencis Richard K.
Published: June 2021

Parasitic worms are amongst the most common pathogens to infect humans and have a long-established history of inflicting disease in their hosts. There is a large body of evidence that states intestine-dwelling helminths ensure their survival by influencing the host immune response against them. In recent years, it has become apparent that the large and diverse microbial communities that exist in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract of the host and within the parasite itself have a pivotal role in worm survival and persistence. Using a variety of mouse models (including laboratory, germ-free and rewilded mice), there have been new insights into how bacteria and worms interact with each other; this includes the discovery that Trichuris is unable to hatch and/or infect their host in the absence of bacteria, and that these worms contain a Trichuris-specific gut microbiota. These interactions are determined in part by the capacity of the host, gut microbiota and worms to communicate via metabolites such as butyrate, which are microbially derived and have known immunoregulatory properties. By exploring the contribution of gut bacteria to worm infections and the intricate relationship that exists between them, an exciting and emerging field in whipworm parasitology is established.
Modeling Antarctic Krill Circumpolar Spawning Habitat Quality to Identify Regions With Potential to Support High Larval Production
Authors: Green David B. , Bestley Sophie , Corney Stuart P. , Trebilco Rowan , Lehodey Patrick , Hindell Mark A.
Published: June 2021

Antarctic krill (krill) are important within Southern Ocean ecosystems and support an expanding fishery. Toward understanding krill's response to environmental change, it is necessary to identify regions that support high krill larval production (spawning habitat). We develop a mechanistic model combining thermal and food requirements for krill egg production, with predation pressure post‐spawning, to predict regions of high‐quality spawning habitat. We optimize our model regionally and generate circumpolar predictions of spawning habitat quality. Our results indicate the southwest Atlantic accounts for almost half of all predicted high‐quality spawning habitat. Small‐scale management units (SSMUs) around the Antarctic Peninsula had high coverage of high‐quality spawning habitat. In contrast, the remaining SSMUs (except around South Georgia) were poorly covered, suggestive of population sinks reliant on input from external sources upstream. This implies strong potential for downstream impacts of fishing in key spawning areas, with implications for management of SSMUs and the krill fishery.
Zircon U‐Pb Geochronology Constrains Continental Expression of Great Meteor Hotspot Magmatism
Authors: Kinney S. T. , MacLennan S. A. , Keller C. B. , Schoene B. , Setera J. B. , VanTongeren J. A. , Olsen P. E.
Published: June 2021

The New England‐Québec Igneous Province is considered to be a continental expression of Great Meteor Hotspot magmatism, though other geodynamic scenarios have been suggested. Existing geochronologic data lack the needed accuracy and precision to permit tests of potential causal mechanisms. We provide zircon U‐Pb ages for four igneous centers and a suite of plate reconstructions and show that the duration between magmatism in each branch of this province is ca. 3–6 Myr shorter and ca. 10 Myr older than predicted if the spatial‐temporal distribution of magmatism conformed to a well‐defined age progression. However, in addition to uncertainties in plate reconstructions, variable regional crustal thickness or lithospheric topography likely played a role in mediating the rates of melt transport to emplacement depth and we therefore cannot reject the hotspot hypothesis. Our results place the best‐available chronological constraints on continental magmatism associated with one of the oldest and longest‐lived hotspots.
Subsurface Heat Channel Drove Sea Surface Warming in the High‐Latitude North Atlantic During the Mid‐Pleistocene Transition
Authors: Catunda M. Carolina A. , Bahr André , Kaboth‐Bahr Stefanie , Zhang Xu , Foukal Nicholas P. , Friedrich Oliver
Published: June 2021

The Mid‐Pleistocene Transition (MPT, 1,200–600 ka) marks the rapid expansion of Northern Hemisphere (NH) continental ice sheets and stronger precession pacing of glacial/interglacial cyclicity. Here, we investigate the relationship between thermocline depth in the central North Atlantic, subsurface northward heat transport and the initiation of the 100‐kyr cyclicity during the MPT. To reconstruct deep‐thermocline temperatures, we generated a Mg/Ca‐based temperature record of deep‐dwelling (∼800 m) planktonic foraminifera from mid‐latitude North Atlantic at Site U1313. This record shows phases of pronounced heat accumulation at subsurface levels during the mid‐MPT glacial driven by increased outflow of the Mediterranean Sea. Concurrent warming of the subtropical thermocline and subpolar surface waters indicates enhanced (subsurface) inter‐gyre transport of warm water to the subpolar North Atlantic, which provided moisture for ice‐sheet growth. Precession‐modulated variability in the northward transport of subtropical waters imprinted this orbital cyclicity into NH ice‐sheets after Marine Isotope Stage 24.
Spatial, Temporal, and Multivariate Bias in Regional Climate Model Simulations
Authors: Kim Youngil , Evans Jason P. , Sharma Ashish , Rocheta Eytan
Published: June 2021

Correction of atmospheric variables to remove systematic biases in global climate model (GCM) simulations before downscaling offers a means of improving climate simulation accuracy in climate change impact assessments. Various mathematical approaches have been used to correct the lateral and lower boundary conditions of regional climate models (RCMs). Most of these techniques correct only the magnitude of each variable individually over time without regard to spatial and multivariate bias. Here, we investigate how well an RCM is able to reproduce the dependence of an observed variable based on three aspects: temporal, spatial, and multivariate. Results show that the RCM simulations with univariate bias‐corrected GCM boundary conditions perform well in capturing both temporal and spatial dependence. However, all RCM simulations do not show improvement in the representation of dependence between variables, indicating the need for alternatives that correct systematic biases in multivariate dependence in both lateral and lower boundary conditions.
Hot Spots of Glacier Mass Balance Variability in Central Asia
Authors: Barandun Martina , Pohl Eric , Naegeli Kathrin , McNabb Robert , Huss Matthias , Berthier Etienne , Saks Tomas , Hoelzle Martin
Published: June 2021

The Tien Shan and Pamir mountains host over 28,000 glaciers providing essential water resources for increasing water demand in Central Asia. A disequilibrium between glaciers and climate affects meltwater release to Central Asian rivers, challenging the region's water availability. Previous research has neglected temporal variability. We present glacier mass balance estimates based on transient snowline and geodetic surveys with unprecedented spatiotemporal resolution from 1999/00 to 2017/18. Our results reveal spatiotemporal heterogeneity characterized by two mass balance clusters: (a) positive, low variability, and (b) negative, high variability. This translates into variable glacial meltwater release (≈1–16%) of annual river runoff for two watersheds. Our study reveals more complex climate forcing‐runoff responses and importance of glacial meltwater variability for the region than suggested previously.