bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiplasmid DNA in agarose gel electrophoresis: Suitable dye and temperature is essential for prominent profiles
Authors: Jiao Qiuxia , Xin Zhao , Gou Qiufeng , Cao Kang , Pan Qu
Published: October 2021

Nucleic acids dye Goldview is widely used in agarose gel electrophoresis (AGE). However, in this study, a sample of multiplasmid DNA (multi‐pDNA) stained with Goldview analyzed by AGE showed its instability at low temperature. Three types of DNA samples were analyzed, including linear DNA (ladder), single‐plasmid DNA (single‐pDNA), and multi‐pDNA, electrophoretic conditions were optimized by adjusting the dye, the buffer, and the temperature (1–50°C). The results showed that the light intensity of Gelred is 2.2‐times higher than that of Goldview in staining multi‐pDNA. Compared with the single‐pDNA and the linear DNA, the multi‐pDNA stained with Goldview was greatly affected by temperature. This short communication indicated that Gelred is a highly applicable dye for analyzing multiplasmid samples. The degree and the way of binding of Goldview to multi‐pDNA are greatly affected by temperature.
Evaluation of high‐resolution DEMs from satellite imagery for geomorphic applications: A case study using the SETSM algorithm
Authors: Atwood Abra , West A. Joshua
Published: October 2021

High‐resolution digital elevation models (DEMs) have revolutionized research in geomorphology by allowing for detailed quantitative analysis of Earth's surface. Satellite stereo images offer the promise of expanding the availability of high‐resolution DEMs over broad areas, but rigorous evaluation of the scientific application of these datasets remains limited. In this study, we consider DEMs built using stereo pairs of high‐resolution (0.5 m) satellite imagery and the open‐source DEM extraction algorithm, Surface Extraction from TIN Space‐search Minimization (SETSM). We selected locations across a range of landscapes to evaluate the application of these DEMs to geomorphic problems, with particular attention to hillslope analyses where high spatial resolution has been shown to be important for revealing topographic signatures of tectonic and environmental processes. We compared the quality of SETSM 2 m DEMs to LiDAR‐derived DEMs and the widely available SRTM‐30 m and ALOS‐30 m DEMs by comparing the elevation data and derivative products (e.g., slope, aspect, and curvature). We found that SETSM DEMs performed noticeably better than SRTM and ALOS DEMs, but with systematic biases relative to LiDAR DEMs in regions with vegetation. Moreover, noise in the initial SETSM elevation data is amplified with every subsequent derivative, significantly decreasing quality. Finally, we evaluated the potential use of SETSM products for change detection. Applying DEM differencing to a major landslide, we found volume and sediment thickness from SETSM DEMs were similar to volumes and thicknesses from other studies. This example illustrates the capabilities of SETSM and other satellite‐based stereo‐photogrammetry for contributing to rapid response after natural disasters. Overall, we conclude that DEMs derived from satellite image stereo‐photogrammetry can markedly improve on lower resolution global elevation data for terrain analysis and can open possibilities for change detection, but that care needs to be taken in their application especially in regions with significant vegetation.
Direct zirconU–Pbevidence forpre‐Himalayan HTmetamorphism in the Higher Himalayan Crystallines, eastern Garhwal Himalaya, India
Authors: Prabha Mohan Shashank , Williams Ian S. , Singh Sandeep
Published: October 2021

The high‐grade Higher Himalayan Crystallines (HHC), located between the South Tibetan Detachment System and Main Central Thrust in the collision zone between the Indo‐Australian and Eurasian plates, have been subject to at least four significant phases of deformation and metamorphism. The earliest of those significantly predates the Cenozoic continent‐continent collision, but has been difficult to date isotopically because of later overprinting. Migmatitic paragneiss from the Badrinath Formation in the Dhauliganga Valley, northern Uttarakhand, some of the highest‐grade rocks in the HHC, preserves direct evidence of mid‐Ordovician metamorphism in the form of 465.8 ± 6.4 Ma zircon overgrowths with extremely low Th/U (0.0038–0.0074). The overgrowths have formed on ca. 2.63–0.71 Ga detrital zircon cores and are themselves overgrown by two generations of Miocene metamorphic zircon with mean Pb/U ages of ca. 21.5 and 18.2 Ma. Monazite from the same sample has a mean Pb/Th age of 19.4 ± 0.2 Ma. The oxygen isotopic compositions of the monazite (δ18O: 7.69 ± 0.08‰) and youngest zircon overgrowths (δ18O: 7.95 ± 0.12, 8.24 ± 0.09‰) are consistent with mineral growth in a metasediment, but either of the two minerals did not grow in isotopic equilibrium with each other, or the original composition of the monazite has not been preserved. If the quartz (δ18O: 13.29 ± 0.11‰) equilibrated with the youngest zircon and its composition has been preserved, then the last episode of zircon growth took place at low temperature, ca. 420°C, after the migmatization. The protolith of the Badrinath migmatite was a Neoproterozoic or Early Palaeozoic metasediment partially melted (and probably migmatized) in the Middle Ordovician. The strong planar foliation currently present in the migmatite is probably the result of mid‐crustal extrusional channel flow and HT decompressional partial melting in the Miocene.
Photocatalysis in Chemical Biology: Extending the Scope of Optochemical Control and Towards New Frontiers in Semisynthetic Bioconjugates and Biocatalysis
Authors: Liu Weilong , Watson Emma E. , Winssinger Nicolas
Published: October 2021

Biomedical research has been empowered by tools that enable spatial and temporal control of biological systems. These have predominantly come from photocaged bioactive molecules (optochemical control; N. Ankenbruck, T. Courtney, Y. Naro, A. Deiters,Angew. Chem. Int. Ed.2018,57, 2768–2798) and light‐dependent proteins (optogenetic control; L. Fenno, O. Yizhar, K. Deisseroth,Annu. Rev. Neurosci.2011,34, 389–412). Recent advances in photocatalysis offer the opportunity to amplify these strategies by providing new dimension of biorthogonality. Photocatalysis also empowers bioconjugation with unprecedented reactivities enabling new crosslinking chemistry or biomolecule functionalization, while merging photocatalysis with biocatalysis extends the scope of both of these powerful classes of transformation.
Molecular Diagnoses of X-Linked and Other Genetic Hypophosphatemias: Results From a Sponsored Genetic Testing Program
Authors: Rush Eric T. , Johnson Britt , Aradhya Swaroop , Beltran Daniel , Bristow Sara L. , Eisenbeis Scott , Guerra Norma E. , Krolczyk Stan , Miller Nicole , Morales Ana , Ramesan Prameela , Sarafrazi Soodabeh , Truty Rebecca , Dahir Kathryn
Published: October 2021

X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH), a dominant disorder caused by pathogenic variants in the PHEX gene, affects both sexes of all ages and results in elevated serum fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) and below-normal serum phosphate. In XLH, rickets, osteomalacia, short stature, and lower limb deformity may be present with muscle pain and/or weakness/fatigue, bone pain, joint pain/stiffness, hearing difficulty, enthesopathy, osteoarthritis, and dental abscesses. Invitae and Ultragenyx collaborated to provide a no-charge sponsored testing program using a 13-gene next-generation sequencing panel to confirm clinical XLH or aid diagnosis of suspected XLH/other genetic hypophosphatemia. Individuals aged ≥6 months with clinical XLH or suspected genetic hypophosphatemia were eligible. Of 831 unrelated individuals tested between February 2019 and June 2020 in this cross-sectional study, 519 (62.5%) individuals had a pathogenic or likely pathogenic variant in PHEX (PHEX-positive). Among the 312 PHEX-negative individuals, 38 received molecular diagnoses in other genes, including ALPL, CYP27B1, ENPP1, and FGF23; the remaining 274 did not have a molecular diagnosis. Among 319 patients with a provider-reported clinical diagnosis of XLH, 88.7% (n = 283) had a reportable PHEX variant; 81.5% (n = 260) were PHEX-positive. The most common variant among PHEX-positive individuals was an allele with both the gain of exons 13–15 and c.*231A>G (3′UTR variant) (n = 66/519). Importantly, over 80% of copy number variants would have been missed by traditional microarray analysis. A positive molecular diagnosis in 41 probands (4.9%; 29 PHEX positive, 12 non-PHEX positive) resulted in at least one family member receiving family testing. Additional clinical or family member information resulted in variant(s) of uncertain significance (VUS) reclassification to pathogenic/likely pathogenic (P/LP) in 48 individuals, highlighting the importance of segregation and clinical data. In one of the largest XLH genetic studies to date, 65 novel PHEX variants were identified and a high XLH diagnostic yield demonstrated broad insight into the genetic basis of XLH. © 2021 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Reversed diastolic flow in a renal transplant due to ureteric obstruction from intraluminal blood clot
Authors: Patel Arbaaz , Sener Alp , Lee Stefanie Y.
Published: October 2021

Reversal of arterial diastolic flow is commonly considered a sign of transplant renal vein thrombosis until proven otherwise, with the differential including acute rejection, acute tubular necrosis, and perirenal hematoma. We discuss a case of a patient who presented with decreased urine output on the second postoperative day following living unrelated kidney transplantation. Doppler ultrasound was performed and demonstrated reversal of diastolic flow in the transplant renal artery. Prompt surgical exploration revealed intraluminal blood clot obstructing the ureter. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of reversed diastolic flow secondary to ureteral obstruction by an intraluminal blood clot.
Effect of environment and field management strategies on phenolic acid profiles of hard red winter wheat genotypes
Authors: Tian Wenfei , Jaenisch Brent , Gui Yijie , Hu Ruijia , Chen Gengjun , Lollato Romulo P , Li Yonghui
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Integrated wheat management strategies can affect grain yield and flour end‐use properties. However, the effect of integrated management and its interaction with environmental factors on the phenolic acid profiles of wheat has not been reported. The phenolic acid profile has become another parameter for the evaluation of wheat quality due to its potential health benefits.

RESULTS

Year × location × management and year × management × genotype interactions were significant for the total phenolic content (TPC) of wheat samples. The year × location × management × genotype interaction was significant for the concentration of trans‐ferulic acid and several other phenolic acids. Field management practices with no fungicide application (e.g., farmer's practice, enhanced fertility) may lead to increased accumulation of phenolic compounds, especially for WB4458, which is more susceptible to fungi infection. However, this effect was also related to growing year and location. Higher soil nitrogen content at sowing also seems to affect the TPC and phenolic acid concentration positively.

CONCLUSION

Wheat phenolic acid profiles are affected by genotype, field management, environment, and their interactions. Intensified field management, in particular, may lead to decreased concentration of wheat phytochemicals. The level of naturally occurring nitrogen in the soil may also affect the accumulation of wheat phytochemicals. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Liquid Crystalline Hydrogel with Thermally Induced Reversible Shape Change and Water‐Triggered Shape Memory
Authors: Chen Yiming , Yin Lu , Ge Feijie , Tong Xia , Zhang Hongji , Zhao Yue
Published: October 2021

Liquid crystalline hydrogel (LCH) is synthesized through simultaneous polymerization of hydrophobic and hydrophilic monomers in an oil‐in‐water emulsion, resulting in phase‐separated liquid crystalline network (LCN) embedded in a hydrogel matrix. This material features some properties and functions of both LCN and hydrogel, displaying stable LC phase over repeated hydration and dehydration cycles of the hydrogel matrix. Using mechanically stretched and photocrosslinked LCH, the thermally induced LC‐isotropic phase transition in LCN domains can be translated into reversible macroscopic deformation of the LCH. Moreover, the LCH exhibits water absorption‐controlled shape memory effect.
External waveguide magnetic resonance imaging for lower limbs at 3 T
Authors: Vazquez F. , Marrufo O. , Solis‐Najera S. E. , Martin R. , Rodriguez A. O.
Published: October 2021

Purpose. We report a method based on the traveling‐wave MRI approach, in order to acquire images of human lower limbs with an external waveguide at 3 T.

Methods. We use a parallel‐plate waveguide and an RF surface coil for reception, while a whole‐body birdcage is used for transmission. The waveguide and the surface coil are located right outside the magnet, in the magnetic resonance (MR) conditional devices zone. We ran numerical simulations to investigate the field generated by the surface coil located at one of the waveguides, as well as a saline‐solution phantom positioned on the opposite side (150 cm away) inside the magnet.

Results. We obtained phantom images by varying the distance between the coil and the phantom, in order to investigate the signal‐to‐noise ratio and to validate our numerical simulations. Lower limb images of a healthy volunteer were also acquired, demonstrating the viability of this approach. Standard pulse sequences were used and no physical modifications were made to the MR imager.

Conclusions. These numerical and experimental results show that traveling‐wave MRI can produce high‐quality images with only a simple waveguide and an RF coil located outside the magnet. This can be particularly favorable when acquiring images of lower limbs requiring a larger field of view.
A boundary density evolutionary topology optimization of continuum structures with smooth boundaries
Authors: Li Xueping , Qin Chuhao , Wei Peng , Su Cheng
Published: October 2021

Based on the variable density method, this article proposes a boundary density evolutionary topology optimization method. The method uses a material interpolation model without penalization. Combined with the density grading filtering method, an optimal topology with only 0/1 cells can be obtained. Compared with the solid isotropic microstructures with penalization method (SIMP), no penalty factor is required in the material interpolation model; compared with the evolutionary structural optimization method (ESO), intermediate‐density elements are allowed in the optimization process, but the concept of gradually removing the low‐utilization materials near the boundary in the ESO method is retained. After the optimal result is obtained, the structural boundary element is processed by the level set of nodal strain energy, and the optimization result with smooth boundaries similar to the level set method (LSM) can be obtained. The proposed method has the superiority of the variable density method, and it also combines the advantages of the evolutionary method and the level set method, so which is named as boundary density evolution (BDE) method. The four static and one dynamic optimization examples illustrate the stability and efficiency of the proposed method.
Insights from tissue “omics” analysis on intestinal remodeling in celiac disease
Authors: Stamnaes Jorunn
Published: October 2021

Celiac disease (CeD) is a prevalent intestinal disorder that only develops in genetically susceptible individuals when they mount a harmful CD4+ T‐cell response towards gluten peptides. Intake of gluten leads to inflammation and remodeling of the small intestine with symptoms such as nausea and diarrhea. The only current treatment is a lifelong gluten free diet. The immunological basis for CeD is well characterized but the mechanisms that drive intestinal remodeling are still poorly understood. Transcriptome or proteome analysis of intestinal biopsies gives a global snapshot of all processes that occur in the tissue, including alterations in the epithelial cell layer. This paper will introduce concepts of intestinal remodeling, recapitulate the current understanding of CeD pathogenesis and discuss findings from relevant tissue “omics” studies. On the basis of this review, I give perspectives on what tissue “omics” studies can tell us about disease pathogenesis with a particular focus on the gluten induced intestinal remodeling.
Gurney Equation Change for the Symmetric Sandwich
Authors: Souers P. Clark , Lauderbach Lisa , Moua Konmeng , Haylett Dan , Davidson Scott , Pease Steven
Published: October 2021

Sixteen symmetric sandwiches of explosive/copper have been fired. The traditional Gurney equation for energy density is found to be 3–8 % low compared to Cylinder test results. The suggestion is made to divide the Gurney energy by the square of the cosine of the edge angle caused by the fanning out of the metal. This introduces a fundamental correction to the Gurney equation for the unidirectional nature of detonation.
DSLs and Middleware Platforms in a Model-Driven Development Approach for Secure Predictive Maintenance Systems in Smart Factories
Authors: John Jobish , Ghosal Amrita , Margaria Tiziana , Pesch Dirk
Published: October 2021

In many industries, traditional automation systems (operating technology) such as PLCs are being replaced with modern, networked ICT-based systems as part of a drive towards the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). The intention behind this is to use more cost-effective, open platforms that also integrate better with an organisation’s information technology (IT) systems. In order to deal with heterogeneity in these systems, middleware platforms such as EdgeX Foundry, IoTivity, FI-WARE for Internet of Things (IoT) systems are under development that provide integration and try to overcome interoperability issues between devices of different standards. In this paper, we consider the EdgeX Foundry IIoT middleware platform as a transformation engine between field devices and enterprise applications. We also consider security as a critical element in this and discuss how to prevent or mitigate the possibility of several security risks. Here we address secure data access control by introducing a declarative policy layer implementable using Ciphertext-Policy Attribute-Based Encryption (CP-ABE). Finally, we tackle the interoperability challenge at the application layer by connecting EdgeX with DIME, a model-driven/low-code application development platform that provides methods and techniques for systematic integration based on layered Domain-Specific Languages (DSL). Here, EdgeX services are accessed through a Native DSL, and the application logic is designed in the DIME Language DSL, lifting middleware development/configuration to a DSL abstraction level. Through the use of DSLs, this approach covers the integration space domain by domain, technology by technology, and is thus highly generalizable and reusable. We validate our approach with an example IIoT use case in smart manufacturing.
Daten teilen für die Forschung: Einstellungen und Perspektiven zur Datenspende in Deutschland
Authors: Lesch Wiebke , Richter Gesine , Semler Sebastian C.
Published: October 2021

Bei jedem Arztbesuch oder Krankhausaufenthalt fallen Gesundheitsdaten an. Wenn man diese Daten nutzen könnte, um Krankheiten zu erforschen, neue Therapien zu entwickeln oder den Versorgungsbedarf zu ermitteln, würde das ein enormes Potenzial zur Verbesserung unserer Gesundheitsversorgung erschließen. Doch die Nutzung der Gesundheitsdaten scheitert derzeit unter anderem noch an uneinheitlichen Datenformaten und fehlender Interoperabilität. Um das zu ändern werden in vielen Ländern Europas Initiativen angestoßen, die medizinische Behandlungsdaten der Bürger im Rahmen einer Sekundärdatennutzung digital verfügbar machen sollen. Das Potenzial ist enorm: Wenn es gelingt, Gesundheitsdaten national und international zu nutzen, dann lassen sich damit vielversprechende wissenschaftliche Analysen sowie Big Data- und KI-Anwendungen für den medizinischen Fortschritt generieren. Der wissenschaftliche und ökonomische Fortschritt und das Wohlergehen unserer Gesellschaften hängen entscheidend von unserem Umgang mit Daten ab. Dabei sind regulatorische, ethische und soziale Dimensionen bei der Auseinandersetzung mit der Zukunft der datenreichen Medizin untrennbar miteinander verwoben. Nicht zuletzt stellt das öffentliche Vertrauen eine wichtige Grundvoraussetzung dar, wenn der Schritt in das digitale Zeitalter der Gesundheitsforschung gelingen soll. Um das Vertrauen und die Bereitschaft der deutschen Bevölkerung in die Forschungsdatennutzung zu evaluieren, hat die TMF e. V. eine deutschlandweite repräsentative Befragung durchgeführt. Die Ergebnisse zeigen eine hohe Bereitschaft für eine Forschungsdatenspende auf. Diese ist jedoch an bestimmte Erwartungen seitens der Datenspenderinnen und Datenspender geknüpft.
Personenbezogene Daten im Kontext biomedizinischer Sekundärforschungsnutzung
Authors: Spitz Markus , Cornelius Kai
Published: October 2021

Bevor die datenschutzrechtlichen Anforderungen an die Datenverarbeitung von klinischen Daten zu Forschungszwecken untersucht werden können, muss der Anwendungsbereich des Datenschutzrechts eröffnet sein. Dies ist nur bei Vorliegen personenbezogener Daten der Fall. Im folgenden Beitrag sollen die personenbezogenen Daten und die verbundenen Konzepte der Anonymisierung und Pseudonymisierung näher untersucht werden. Die Frage nach Identifizierbarkeit und faktischer Anonymität stellt sich in der medizinischen Forschung wegen regelmäßig genutzter Pseudonymisierung, oft auch kombiniert mit zwischengeschalteten Datentreuhandstellen. Der Beitrag untersucht, ob trotz organisatorischer Trennung von Zusatzwissen (wie dem Pseudonymisierungsschlüssel) dem Forscher dieses Wissen als eigenes zuzurechnen ist und ihn aus diesem Grund datenschutzrechtliche Pflichten treffen. Zudem stellt sich die praktische Frage, ob (vertragliche) Maßnahmen zwischen Forscher und primär datenerhebender Stelle eine solche Zurechnung verhindern können.
A Temporally Varied Rainfall Simulator for Flash Flood Studies
Authors: Banihabib Mohammad Ebrahim , Vaziri Bahman
Published: October 2021

Experimental studies of flash floods require rainfall simulations. For this reason, various rainfall simulators have been designed, built, and employed in previous studies. These previous rainfall simulators have provided good simulations of constant rainfall intensities; however, these simulators cannot generate temporally varied rainstorms. Thus, the effect of the temporal distribution of a rainstorm on flash flooding cannot be studied using current rainfall simulators. To achieve accurate and reliable results in flash flood studies, simulating rainstorms that are similar to natural precipitation events is essential, and natural rainfall varies temporally. Thus, a rainstorm simulator was designed and built using cascading tanks to generate rainstorm hyetographs that cannot be obtained using traditional rainfall simulators. The result of the rainstorm generated by the proposed instrument and its numerical model showed that the instrument can simulate the temporal distributions of rainstorms with an accuracy of 95 percent. Consequently, the proposed instrument and its numerical model can be applied for generating artificial rainstorm hyetographs in experimental and field studies of flash floods.
Flash Flood Modeling and Mitigation in Arid and Semiarid Basins: Case Studies from Oman and Brazil
Authors: Saber Mohamed , Kantoush Sameh A. , Abdel-Fattah Mohammed , Sumi Tetsuya , Moya Jose Andres , Abdrabo Karim
Published: October 2021

The behaviors and impacts of flash floods (FF) are different based on the climatic regions. To understand such difference, two case studies were selected for the analysis: Wadi Uday, Oman and Sume Basin, Paraiba, Brazil. The rainfall-runoff inundation model (RRI) was used to simulate the discharge and flood inundation of the recent flood events to understand the severity and frequency of flash floods to better assess the current mitigation measures. The current FF situations in arid and semiarid basins were analyzed, and the hazards associated with flood phenomenon were assessed for various calculated rainfall return periods using RRI model. To this end, a flash flood index (average water depth per total basin area) was calculated as a basis to understand the impact of flash floods. A coupling of this index with the FF histories was included to provide a comprehensive overview of the FF vulnerability of arid and semiarid basins. We concluded that FFs tend to be more severe and extreme in arid regions than in semiarid regions, despite the lower frequency of FFs and the water scarcity in arid regions. Distributed dams also proved to be more effective in preventing FFs in arid regions than in semiarid regions.
Assessment of Exposure to Flash Flooding in an Arid Environment: A Case Study of the Jeddah City Neighborhood Abruq Ar Rughamah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alharbi Saeed , Mills Gerald
Published: October 2021

In arid areas, flash floods represent one of the most severe hazards for people and infrastructure alike. The associated risks are compounded by increasing exposure and vulnerability through rapid and unregulated urbanization, poor infrastructure, and sociocultural factors, among other elements. This research explores the flash flooding risk in the Saudi Arabian city of Jeddah with a particular focus on the Abruq Ar Rughamah neighborhood, which experienced a destructive flood in November 2009 that resulted in 116 deaths and 1,200 families becoming homeless. The neighborhood is an interesting case study as it has two distinctive urban layouts representing planned and irregular settlement types. In this paper, the focus is placed on exposure to flash flood hazards using a geographic information system to study urban layouts, building types, and resident populations in conjunction with data from satellites, flood mapping studies, and topographic data. The results show that most of the study area is located along a natural flood path. The regions that were affected by the 2009 disaster received no comprehensive site rehabilitation. This paper concludes that it is important to develop a risk management strategy that includes limiting urban expansion in flood-prone areas and redesigning neighborhoods to increase flood resilience.
Integrated Study of Flash Floods in Wadi Basins Considering Sedimentation and Climate Change: An International Collaboration Project
Authors: Saber Mohamed , Kantoush Sameh A. , Sumi Tetsuya , Ogiso Yusuke , Alharrasi Tahani , Koshiba Takahiro , Abdel-Fattah Mohammed , Al-Maktoumi Ali , Abdalla Osman A. , Takemon Yasuhiro , Nohara Daisuke , Kobayashi Sohei , Almamari Mahmood , Al Hooti Khalid , Al Barwani Ahmed , Almamari Hilal , Ellithey Dina , Holzbecher Ekkehard , Hadidi Ahmed
Published: October 2021

Recently, Wadi flash floods (WFFs) have happened frequently in arid environments, resulting in great damage the society and the environment. In Oman, severe WFFs have occurred repeatedly within the last 10 years causing a huge impact on human lives and properties. This paper aims at introducing the framework of an international collaboration project between Japan and Oman for WFF management considering sediment dynamics and climate changes. Four research groups were established: climate change (G1), rainfall-runoff modeling (G2), sediment yield and transport (G3), and sedimentation and infiltration processes (G4). Several field investigations were conducted since 2017 until now. The detailed field survey to assess the deposited sediment in a dry reservoir by using sediment bars, and infiltration test, as well as drone survey were addressed. Some of the preliminary results and findings from the field investigation is discussed. The results show there is an adverse impact of sedimentation clogging on the infiltration process at the reservoirs. Based on the historical rainfall data analysis, there is a systematic increasing trend of the annual average precipitation with remarkable cycles over the MENA region and Oman. The knowledge obtained from this project is expected to be valuable to understanding sediment dynamics at Wadi basins.
Flood Risk Management Practices in Morocco: Facts and Challenges
Authors: Loudyi Dalila , Hasnaoui Moulay Driss , Fekri Ahmed
Published: October 2021

From ancient flood management practices driven by agricultural activities to dam’s policy for water resources management including flood protection, to the National Strategy for Natural Disaster Risk Integrated Management; Morocco has come a long way in flood risk management. This chapter describes the recurrent flooding phenomenon plaguing the country along with progress in flood risk assessment approaches in terms of technique, governance, and best practices. An extensive number of research articles, administrative documents, consultancy, and international organizations reports are analyzed to give a holistic up-to-date insight into flood risk management in Morocco and present a comprehensive and critical view from a scientific perspective. Information and data were collected from a range of various sources and synthesized to integrate all scientific and governance aspects. Though analysis of this landscape shows progresses made by the Government to protect the population and reduce flood risk, it also shows shortcomings and challenges still to be overcome. Thus, a SWOT analysis was carried out for scoping and identifying the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats pertaining to this issue. The analysis reveals various success and failure factors related to three major components: governance, risk assessment approaches, and flood risk mitigation measures sustainability.
Assessment of Groundwater Resources in Water Spring Areas Using Geophysical Methods, Northern UAE
Authors: Ebraheem Abdel Azim , Sherif Mohsen , Al Mulla Mohamed , Alghafli Khaled , Sefelnasr Ahmed
Published: October 2021

The Khatt, Madab, and Al Ghmour Springs are important springs in UAE. They are located in the foothills of the Oman Mountains. The water temperature of these springs is relatively high (approximately 39 °C). Overexploitation of fractured aquifers negatively affected the waterflows from these springs. The outflows from these springs are time-dependent and range from 10 to 50 L/s (until 1998) to 1–10 L/s (until 2010). To assess the current conditions of the spring areas, relevant data were carefully reviewed, analyzed, and stored in a GIS database. A 3D-geological model was developed for the Khatt Springs area, which allowed different types of visualizations, calculations, and predictions. In addition, a 2D earth resistivity imaging survey was performed to evaluate the available groundwater resources, characterize the major faults/fractures feeding these springs, and to determine the locations of saturated fractures and karsts and the thicknesses of the unconsolidated materials in the wadis. Borehole and drilling information from observation wells were utilized to enhance the analysis of the earth resistivity imaging data. The described procedures and acquired results indicated that it was possible to determine the locations of two production wells for feeding Al Ghmour Springs with water during drought periods to keep it alive.
Evaluation of the Effect of the Wadi Bih Dam on Groundwater Recharge, UAE
Authors: Sherif Mohsen , Ebraheem Abdel Azim , Shetty Ampar , Sefelnasr Ahmed , Alghafli Khaled , Al Asam Mohamed
Published: October 2021

In Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, groundwater from the alluvial aquifer in Wadi Bih was the only source of freshwater for various uses prior to the construction of a seawater desalination plant in 1998. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of the Wadi Bih dam on groundwater resources and to increase knowledge of the hydrodynamics of the aquifer. A local-scale numerical groundwater flow model was developed and used to investigate the impacts of different groundwater management options on groundwater resources. The calibrated and validated model was defined as the base case, and subsequently, simulations were performed to analyze different management scenarios. The simulations indicated that maximum recharge occurred during years of high rainfall (1995–1998). Minimum recharge occurred in 2000, 2002, and 2004. The major contribution to the water balance was from subsurface inflows from the upper wadi zone and the two tributaries. Overall, the annual water balance was negative in most years, with an average net decline of 0.6 MCM per year, indicating a slow but continuous depletion of groundwater resources. At the end of the simulation, the total groundwater recharge due to rainfall and water storage in the ponding area was 9.81 MCM.
Assessment of the Impacts of Groundwater Overdrafting on Water Quality and Environmental Degradation in the Fares Area, Aswan, Egypt
Authors: Saber Mohamed , Ahmed Omar , Keheila Esmat A. , Mohamed Mohamed Abdel-Moneim , Kantoush Sameh A. , Abdel-Fattah Mohammed , Sumi Tetsuya
Published: October 2021

Groundwater contamination and the environmental impact of groundwater uprising due to overpumping are critical issues in Egypt. The main purpose of this study is to evaluate the groundwater quality and the environmental impacts of groundwater uprising in the Fares area of Aswan, Egypt. The environmental impacts of the uprising groundwater level were investigated through field observations and chemical analyses of the surrounding water resources. The results revealed that the use of flood irrigation systems in the upper, newly reclaimed land area is the main cause of the uprising groundwater levels, which causes remarkable environmental degradation in the urban area. Thirty-three samples were collected and chemically analyzed from three groundwater wells. The chemical characterization of the groundwater at Well 1 drastically changed from NaHCO3 to NaCl within a short period of time due to overdrafting. The chemical concentrations of all parameters showed considerable increasing trends and exceeded the standard limits at Well 1. The study stated that the groundwater overdrafting causes extreme changes in the water quality within a very short period of time along with the impacts on the environment. This condition requires attention from decision makers, as the groundwater quality is continuously decreased and the environment is degraded.
Flood Analysis and Mitigation Strategies in Algeria
Authors: Boutaghane Hamouda , Boulmaiz Tayeb , Lameche El Khansa , Lefkir Abdelouahab , Hasbaia Mahmoud , Abdelbaki Chérifa , Moulahoum Ahmed Walid , Keblouti Mehdi , Bermad Abdelmalek
Published: October 2021

Floods are frequent hazard in Algeria. They cause severe casualties, destroy infrastructures, and impair economies. In the past decades, Algeria experienced devastating floods. The dominant type of occurring floods are flash floods, which tend to be not well documented and studied in Algeria. This chapter presents a brief introduction to the flood phenomena within the Algerian climatic and management context, based on databases, scientific publications, and local technical reports. Existing studies about floods are reviewed. It also provides an analysis of the most disastrous floods that occurred in the past decades. Of the most noteworthy flash floods, a highlight of the Bab El Oued flash flood occurring in a heavily urbanized setting and the M’zab Valley flash flood, which took place in a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monitoring network in Algeria is presented and data availability is discussed. The implementation of the first forecasting and early warning system are also presented. Different aspects of flash floods were presented including the effect of the increase of urbanization, the influence of climate change and the adopted strategies of flood risk management. Heavy and increasing urbanization and population growth increased the flood vulnerability and this trend must be mitigated.
Assessing the Impact of Climate Change on Temperature and Precipitation Over India
Authors: Nayak Sridhara , Takemi Tetsuya
Published: October 2021

This study explores a comprehensive assessment of future climate change in terms of the climatologies, distribution patterns, annual cycles, and frequency distributions of temperature and precipitation over India by analyzing 190 mega-ensemble experimental results. The results indicate that the annual mean surface temperatures over Indian regions are typically 25 ℃ or higher in the present climate (1951–2010) and are expected to increase by 3–5 ℃ in the future climate (2051–2110). Some desert regions in the west and tropical humid climate types in the central and south regions of the country show possible temperature increases of 4–5 ℃, while the temperatures over the subtropical humid climates in the north and east regions of the country show increases of 3–4 ℃. The precipitation amounts over the arid and semiarid climate types in the western region and over some tropical rainforest climate zones in the southwest region show increases of 0.5 mm d−1 in the future climate, and the precipitation amounts over the temperate, rainy climate types in the northeast region show increases of more than 1 mm d−1. This study also discusses future changes in various climatic variables, including vertical velocity, air temperature, specific humidity, cloud cover, and relative humidity.
Validation of Flash Flood Simulations Using Satellite Images and Community-Based Observations—Impact of Infiltration and Small-Scale Topographical Features
Authors: Tügel Franziska , Hadidi Ahmed , Özgen-Xian Ilhan , Hou Jingming , Hinkelmann Reinhard
Published: October 2021

This work is aimed at investigating flash floods in the region of El Gouna, Egypt, by using a 2D robust shallow-water model that incorporates the Green-Ampt model to find the most realistic infiltration setting for this desert area. The results of different infiltration settings are compared to inundation areas observed from LANDSAT 8 images as well as to community-based information and photographs to validate the results despite scarce data availability. The model tends to overestimate infiltration in the study area if tabulated Green-Ampt parameters for the dominant soil texture class are considered. Specifically, bare soils with no vegetation tend to develop a surface crust, leading to significantly decreased infiltration rates during heavy rainfalls. Comparing the results of different infiltration settings with the observed data showed that the crust approach or the consideration of sandy clay loam instead of sand led to more plausible results for the considered study area than those obtained using the values for sand from two different sources in the literature. Furthermore, small-scale structures, which are not appropriately captured in the original digital surface model, but significantly affect the resulting flow field, have been included based on the available information leading to much more plausible results.
Hydrologic Assessment of the Uncertainty of Six Remote Sensing Precipitation Estimates Driven by a Distributed Hydrologic Model in the Blue Nile Basin
Authors: Abdelmoneim Hadir , Soliman Mohamed R. , Moghazy Hossam M.
Published: October 2021

Because of the sparseness of the ground monitoring network, precipitation estimations based on satellite products (PESPs) are currently requisite tools for hydrological simulation research and applications. The evaluation of six global high-resolution PESPs (TRMM 3B42V7, GPGP-1DD, TRMM 3B42RT, CMORPH-V1.0, PERSIANN, and PERSIANN-CDR) is the ultimate purpose of this research. Additionally, the distributed Hydrological River Basin Environmental Assessment Model (Hydro-BEAM) is used to investigate their potential effects in streamflow predictions over the Blue Nile basin (BNB) during the period 2001 to 2007. The correctness of the studied PESPs is assessed by applying categorical criteria to appraise their performances in estimating and reproducing precipitation amounts, while statistical indicators are utilized to determine their rain detection capabilities. Our findings reveal that TRMM 3B42V7 outperforms the remaining product in both the estimation of precipitation and the hydrological simulation, as reflected in highest NSE and R2 values ranges from 0.85 to 0.94. Generally, the TRMM 3B42V7 precipitation product exhibits tremendous potential as a substitute for precipitation estimates in the BNB, which will provide powerful forcing input data for distributed hydrological models. Overall, this study will hopefully provide a better comprehension of the usefulness and uncertainties of various PESPs in streamflow simulations, particularly in this region.
Innovative Monitoring Techniques for Wadi Flash Flood by Using Image-Based Analysis
Authors: Al-Mamari Mahmood M. , Kantoush Sameh A. , Sumi Tetsuya
Published: October 2021

Flash floods in wadi systems are a very important environmental issue, and their monitoring is necessary for many applications, including water resource management, irrigation and flood control. However, monitoring networks are very rare and lack spatial distribution features. In this study, image-based techniques were used to quantify and monitor flash floods in wadi channels by using two different methods. In the first section, we employed photogrammetry processing technique to quantify post-peak flood discharges by using a drone survey to build a digital elevation model (DEM) with a high resolution and calibrated and validated the model with a field survey (levelling measurements). This technique used drone-collected images to construct a DEM for extracting a cross-sectional profile and elevation points to calculate the peak discharge using the slope-area method with the Manning equation. In the second section, we combined the previous technique with the large-scale particle image velocimetry (LSPIV) technique to measure flash flood discharge by installing a fixed camera on a road bridge crossing a wadi channel and using a digitally extracted cross section from the DEM in the analysis. The results of those techniques show a high efficiency that is equivalent to that of conventional methods.
Introduction: Drastic Rural Changes in the Age of Land Reform
Authors: Takeuchi Shinichi
Published: October 2021

This introductory chapter presents the objectives and interests of the book as well as important topics that will be addressed in the following chapters. The main purpose of the book is to reflect upon the meanings of drastic African rural changes by analysing recent land reform. Whereas the stated objectives of land reform were relatively similar, that is, strengthening the land rights of users, the experiences of rural change in Africa in the same period have been quite diverse. In this context, this book conducts a comparative analysis, with in-depth case studies to seek reasons that have brought about different outcomes. From the second to fourth sections, we provide an overview of the characteristics of customary land tenure, the pressure over, and change in, African land, and backgrounds of recent land tenure reform. The fifth section considers what land reform has brought to African rural societies. It is evident that land reform has accelerated the commodification of African customary lands. In addition, the political implications of land reform will be examined. The case studies in this book will clarify some types of relationships between the state and traditional leaders, such as collusion, tension, and subjugation. It is likely that these relationships are closely related to macro-level political order and state–society relations, but further in-depth research is required to understand these issues.
A multicenter prospective registry of Borden type I dural arteriovenous fistula: results of a 3-year follow-up study
Authors: Nishi Hidehisa , Ikeda Hiroyuki , Ishii Akira , Kikuchi Takayuki , Nakahara Ichiro , Ohta Tsuyoshi , Sakai Nobuyuki , Imamura Hirotoshi , Takahashi Jun C. , Satow Tetsu , Okada Tomohisa , Miyamoto Susumu
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Although intracranial dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) without retrograde leptomeningeal venous drainage (Borden type I) is reported to have a benign nature, no study has prospectively determined its clinical course. Here, we report a 3-year prospective observational study of Borden type I DAVF.

Methods

From April 2013 to March 2016, consecutive patients with DAVF were screened at 13 study institutions. We collected data on baseline characteristics, clinical symptoms, angiography, and neuroimaging. Patients with Borden type I DAVF received conservative care while palliative intervention was considered when the neurological symptoms were intolerable, and were followed at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months after inclusion.

Results

During the study period, 110 patients with intracranial DAVF were screened and 28 patients with Borden type I DAVF were prospectively followed. None of the patients had conversion to higher type of Borden classification or intracranial hemorrhage during follow-up. Five patients showed spontaneous improvement or disappearance of neurological symptoms (5/28, 17.9%), and 5 patients showed a spontaneous decrease or disappearance of shunt flow on imaging during follow-up (5/28, 17.9%). Stenosis or occlusion of the draining sinuses on initial angiography was significantly associated with shunt flow reduction during follow-up (80.0% vs 21.7%, p = 0.02).

Conclusion

In this 3-year prospective study, patients with Borden type I DAVF showed benign clinical course; none of these patients experienced conversion to higher type of Borden classification or intracranial hemorrhage. The restrictive changes of the draining sinuses at initial diagnosis might be an imaging biomarker for future shunt flow reduction.
Co-occurrence of severe PTSD, somatic symptoms and dissociation in a large sample of childhood trauma inpatients: a network analysis
Authors: Kratzer Leonhard , Knefel Matthias , Haselgruber Alexander , Heinz Peter , Schennach Rebecca , Karatzias Thanos
Published: October 2021

Co-occurrence of mental disorders including severe PTSD, somatic symptoms, and dissociation in the aftermath of trauma is common and sometimes associated with poor treatment outcomes. However, the interrelationships between these conditions at symptom level are not well understood. In the present study, we aimed to explore direct connections between PTSD, somatic symptoms, and dissociation to gain a deeper insight into the pathological processes underlying their comorbidity that can inform future treatment plans. In a sample of 655 adult inpatients with a diagnosis of severe PTSD following childhood abuse (85.6% female; mean age = 47.57), we assessed symptoms of PTSD, somatization, and dissociation. We analyzed the comorbidity structure using a partial correlation network with regularization. Mostly positive associations between symptoms characterized the network structure. Muscle or joint pain was among the most central symptoms. Physiological reactivation was central in the full network and together with concentrations problems acted as bridge between symptoms of PTSD and somatic symptoms. Headaches connected somatic symptoms with others and derealization connected dissociative symptoms with others in the network. Exposure to traumatic events has a severe and detrimental effect on mental and physical health and these consequences worsen each other trans-diagnostically on a symptom level. Strong connections between physiological reactivation and pain with other symptoms could inform treatment target prioritization. We recommend a dynamic, modular approach to treatment that should combine evidence-based interventions for PTSD and comorbid conditions which is informed by symptom prominence, readiness to address these symptoms and preference.