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This study quantifies the impact of using an updated Land Use/Land Cover (LULC) dataset in the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model on simulating temperature, relative humidity (RH), heat index (HI), wind speed (WS) and wind direction (WD) over Metro Manila (MM), Philippines. The 2015 LULC dataset from the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA) of the Philippines was used to update the default LULC datasets in the WRF model. Model outputs from four simulations for April 2015 using the default USGS and MODIS LULC, and their updated counterparts (USGS_NAMRIA and MODIS_NAMRIA) were compared with data from 28 automated weather stations distributed across MM. The results show that the MODIS LULC experiment performed better in simulating the overall temperature, HI, and WS, but performed worse in simulating RH and WD, compared to the USGS LULC experiment. On the other hand, the two experiments with updated LULC have nearly similar results for all simulated variables. Both experiments show lower mean percentage biases (MPB), lower Root Mean Square Errors (RMSE), and higher Index of Agreement (IOA) with respect to the observational data in temperatures and nighttime HI, compared to their default counterparts. However, they worsen the overall RH. All simulations tended to overestimate WS, though the overall WS in the USGS_NAMRIA and daytime WS in MODIS_NAMRIA simulations improved, compared to their default counterparts. Lower MB and RMSE values are also evident in the simulated daytime WD in the updated experiments. The results of this study demonstrate potential improvements in reducing biases in temperature (0.6 to 2.4%), nighttime HI (5 to 7%), wind speed (25 to 38%) and wind direction (up to 4°) when using an updated LULC in the WRF model over MM during April 2015. This information will be useful in climate research and weather forecasting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low dissolved oxygen (hypoxia) poses significant challenges to aquatic ecosystems, affecting the behavior, reproduction, and survival of aquatic organisms. Some fishes respond to hypoxia by changes in gene expression, which may be regulated by the hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) family of transcription factors. HIF abundance and activity depends upon the post-translational modification of the alpha protein subunit, although several studies indicate that HIFA mRNA abundance increases in tissues of fishes exposed to hypoxia. This study reviewed reports of laboratory exposures of adult ray-finned fishes to hypoxia and used generalized linear mixed effects models to examine the influence of HIFA gene, tissue sampled, and exposure conditions in explaining the diversity of responses seen in HIFA mRNA abundance. The frequency of hypoxia-induced increases in HIFA mRNA was poorly explained by gene, tissue, or the severity of the hypoxic exposure. Rather, the frequency of reported increases was strongly related to the extent to which studies adhered to guidelines for documenting quantitative real-time PCR methods: the frequency of hypoxia-induced increases in HIFA mRNA decreased sharply in studies with more thorough description of experimental design. Future research should (a) adhere to stringent reporting of experimental design, (b) address the relative paucity of data on HIF2A and HIF3A , and (c) determine levels of HIF alpha protein subunits. By following these recommendations, it is hoped that a more complete understanding will be gained of the role of the HIF family of transcription factors in the response of fish to hypoxia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low dissolved oxygen (hypoxia) poses significant challenges to aquatic ecosystems, affecting the behavior, reproduction, and survival of aquatic organisms. Some fishes respond to hypoxia by changes in gene expression, which may be regulated by the hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) family of transcription factors. HIF abundance and activity depends upon the posttranslational modification of the alpha protein subunit, although several studies indicate that HIFA mRNA abundance increases in tissues of fishes exposed to hypoxia. This study reviewed reports of laboratory exposures of adult ray-finned fishes to hypoxia and used generalized linear mixed effects models to examine the influence of HIFA gene, tissue sampled, and exposure conditions in explaining the diversity of responses seen in HIFA mRNA abundance. The frequency of hypoxia-induced increases in HIFA mRNA was poorly explained by gene, tissue, or the severity of the hypoxic exposure. Rather, the frequency of reported increases was strongly related to the extent to which studies adhered to guidelines for documenting quantitative real-time PCR methods: the frequency of hypoxia-induced increases in HIFA mRNA decreased sharply in studies with more thorough description of experimental design. Future research should (a) adhere to stringent reporting of experimental design, (b) address the relative paucity of data on HIF2A and HIF3A, and (c) determine levels of HIF alpha protein subunits. By following these recommendations, it is hoped that a more complete understanding will be gained of the role of the HIF family of transcription factors in the response of fish to hypoxia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We assess the volcanic hazard posed by pyroclastic density currents (PDCs) at Tungurahua volcano, Ecuador, using a probabilistic approach based on the analysis of calibrated numerical simulations. We address the expected variability of explosive eruptions at Tungurahua volcano by adopting a scenario-based strategy, where we consider three cases: violent Strombolian to Vulcanian eruption (VEI 2), sub-Plinian eruption (VEI 3), and sub-Plinian to Plinian eruption (VEI 4–5). PDCs are modeled using the branching energy cone model and the branching box model, considering reproducible calibration procedures based on the geological record of Tungurahua volcano. The use of different calibration procedures and reference PDC deposits allows us to define uncertainty ranges for the inundation probability of each scenario. Numerical results indicate that PDCs at Tungurahua volcano propagate preferentially toward W and NW, where a series of catchment ravines can be recognized. Two additional valleys of channelization are observed in the N and NE flanks of the volcano, which may affect the city of Baños. The mean inundation probability calculated for Baños is small (6 ± 3%) for PDCs similar to those emplaced during recent VEI 2 eruptions (July 2006, February 2008, May 2010, July 2013, February 2014, and February 2016), and on the order of 13 ± 4% for a PDC similar to that produced during the sub-Plinian phase of the August 2006 eruption (VEI 3). The highest intensity scenario (VEI 4–5), for which we present and implement a novel calibration procedure based on a few control points, produces inundation areas that nearly always include inhabited centers such as Baños, Puela, and Cotaló, among others. This calibration method is well suited for eruptive scenarios that lack detailed field information, and could be replicated for poorly known active volcanoes around the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Academic inquiry into theoretical positions on sustainable development in Africa have risen to prominence in recent times. This paper questions the traditional paradigms of thought on Africa's underdevelopment. It advances novel perspectives in rethinking resource governance by suggesting that an Induced Cumulative Causative Theory is key to understanding the proverbial 'box' in which Africans have to think out of to re-invent resource governance. The paper makes the connect between historical colonial antecedents of foreign resource control with the present proxy control of the same resources as a key structure that needs reinventing in the face of the 'New scramble for Africa'. The paper suggests that depreciating global resources has put Africa in the crosshairs global imperial forces making the control of Africa's resources by Africans a nearimpossible task. Policymakers will face the task of reinventing Africa's engagement with International corporations who are at the forefront the 'New Scramble'. The paper recommends that the control of African resources should be placed at the centre of the discourse on confronting the 'new scramble'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low dissolved oxygen (hypoxia) is recognized as a major threat to aquatic ecosystems worldwide. Because oxygen is paramount for the energy metabolism of animals, understanding the functional and genetic drivers of whole-animal hypoxia tolerance is critical to predicting the impacts of aquatic hypoxia. In this study, we investigate the molecular evolution of key genes involved in the detection of and response to hypoxia in ray-finned fishes: the prolyl hydroxylase domain (PHD)–hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) oxygen-sensing system, also known as the EGLN (egg-laying nine)– HIF oxygen-sensing system. We searched fish genomes for HIFA and EGLN genes, discovered new paralogs from both gene families, and analyzed protein-coding sites under positive selection. The physicochemical properties of these positively selected amino acid sites were summarized using linear discriminants for each gene. We employed phylogenetic generalized least squares to assess the relationship between these linear discriminants for each HIFA and EGLN and hypoxia tolerance as reflected by the critical oxygen tension (P crit) of the corresponding species. Our results demonstrate that P crit in ray-finned fishes correlates with the physicochemical variation of positively selected sites in specific HIFA and EGLN genes. For HIF2A , two linear discriminants captured more than 90% of the physicochemical variation of these sites and explained between 20% and 39% of the variation in P crit. Thus, variation in HIF2A among fishes may contribute to their capacity to cope with aquatic hypoxia, similar to its proposed role in conferring tolerance to high-altitude hypoxia in certain lineages of terrestrial vertebrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is a mosquito-borne RNA virus of the Phlebovirus genus in the phenuviridae family. Its genome is trisegmented with small (S), medium (M) and large (L) fragments. In nature, the virus exists as a single serotype that is responsible for outbreaks of Rift Valley fever (RVF), a zoonotic disease that often occurs in Africa and the Middle East. RVFV genomes are thought to undergo both recombination and reassortment and investigations of these events is important for monitoring the emergence of virulent strains and understanding the evolutionary characteristics of this virus. The aim of this study was to characterize the genomes of RVFV isolates from cattle, sheep, and goats collected during an interepidemic period in Kenya between June 2016 and November 2021. A total of 691 serum samples from cattle (n = 144), goats (n = 185) and sheep (n = 362) were analysed at the Central Veterinary Laboratories. The competitive IgM-capture ELISA, was used to screen the samples; 205 samples (29.67%) tested positive for RVFV. Of the 205 positive samples, 42 (20.5%) were from cattle, 57 (27.8%) from goats, and 106 (51.7%) from sheep. All the IgM-positive samples were further analyzed by qPCR, and 24 (11.71%) tested positive with Ct values ranging from 14.788 to 38.286. Two samples, 201808HABDVS from sheep and 201810CML3DVS from cattle, had Ct values of less than 20.0 and yielded whole genome sequences with 96.8 and 96.4 coverage, respectively. There was no statistically significant evidence of recombination in any of the three segments and also phylogenetic analysis showed no evidence of reassortment in the two isolated RVFV segments when compared with other isolates of different lineages from previous outbreaks whose genomes are deposited in the GenBank. No evidence of reassortment leaves room for other factors to be the most probable contributors of change in virulence, pathogenicity and emergence of highly virulent strains of the RVFV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maize has been identified as an excellent alternative to rice as a staple food in the Philippines. The Asian corn borer (ACB; Ostrinia furnacalis Guenée), one of the most destructive insect pests of maize, damages plants throughout their vegetative and reproductive stages. Most open-pollinated varieties are threatened by pests and diseases. The CGUARD program investigated the potential of traditional Philippine maize as a source of resistance to major insect pests, including ACB. This paper evaluated the response of the selected 149 Philippine traditional maize accessions to ACB at vegetative and reproductive stages through laboratory bioefficacy procedures for potential resistance without the presence of Bt leaf and stalk-feeding resistance were determined through mean larval survival and mean tunnel length, respectively, after 5 d using laboratory-reared second-instar larvae. Improvements in screening procedures for laboratory assays are detailed in this report. Fourteen (14) accessions were identified to have promising leaf-feeding resistance, whereas 30 accessions were identified for stalk-feeding resistance. The resistance of APN 0088, a white glutinous type of maize from Palawan, to both leaf and stalk feeding of ACB was also validated. The results demonstrate the presence of natural resistance to ACB in traditional maize that has been exposed to the threat of the pest for decades. These promising accessions may be utilized to generate ACB-resistant or-tolerant maize, in addition to other breeding programs. Several pigmented varieties with ACB resistance were also identified, which may be further examined for their nutritional properties and potential as functional foods. By utilizing our traditional varieties, we are boosting local maize production that will benefit small-scale farmers and ultimately providing them with a high-performing variety that is crucial in this time of changing climate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The maximum rate at which fish can take up oxygen from their environment to fuel aerobic metabolism is an important feature of their physiology and ecology. Methods to quantify maximum oxygen uptake rate (ṀO2), therefore, should reliably and reproducibly estimate the highest possible ṀO2 by an individual or species under a given set of conditions (peak ṀO2). This study determined peak ṀO2 and its repeatability in Gulf killifish, Fundulus grandis, subjected to three methods to elevate metabolism: swimming at increasing water speeds, during recovery after an exhaustive chase, and after ingestion of a large meal. Estimates of peak ṀO2 during swimming and after an exhaustive chase were repeatable across two trials, whereas peak ṀO2 after feeding was not. Peak ṀO2 determined by the three methods was significantly different from one another, being highest during swimming, lowest after an exhaustive chase, and intermediate after feeding. In addition, peak ṀO2 during recovery from an exhaustive chase depended on the length of time of recovery: in nearly 60% of the trials, values within the first hour of the chase were lower than those measured later. A novel and important finding was that an individual's peak ṀO2 was not repeatable when compared across methods. Therefore, the peak ṀO2 estimated for a group of fish, as well as the ranking of individual ṀO2 within that group, depends on the method used to elevate aerobic metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breadcrust bombs formed during Vulcanian eruptions are assumed to originate from the shallow plug or dome. Their rim to core texture reflects the competition between cooling and degassing timescales, which results in a dense crust with isolated vesicles contrasting with a highly vesicular vesicle network in the interior. Due to relatively fast quenching, the crust can shed light on pre‐ and syn‐eruptive conditions prior to or during fragmentation, whereas the interior allows us to explore post‐fragmentation vesiculation. Investigation of pre‐ to post‐fragmentation processes in breadcrust bombs from the 1999 Vulcanian activity at Guagua Pichincha, Ecuador, via 2D and 3D textural analysis reveals a complex vesiculation history, with multiple, spatially localized nucleation and growth events. Large vesicles (Type 1), present in low number density in the crust, are interpreted as pre‐eruptive bubbles formed by outgassing and collapse of a permeable bubble network during ascent or stalling in the plug. Haloes of small, syn‐fragmentation vesicles (Type 2), distributed about large vesicles, are formed by pressurization and enrichment of volatiles in these haloes. The nature of the pressurization process in the plug is discussed in light of seismicity and ground deformation signals, and previous textural and chemical studies. A third population (Type 3) of post‐fragmentation small vesicles appears in the interior of the bomb, and growth and coalescence of Type 2 and 3 vesicles causes the transition from isolated to interconnected bubble network in the interior. We model the evolution of viscosity, bubble growth rate, diffusion timescales, bubble radius and porosity during fragmentation and cooling. These models reveal that thermal quenching dominates in the crust whereas the interior undergoes a viscosity quench caused by degassing, and that the transition from crust to interior corresponds to the onset of percolation and development of permeability in the bubble network. Plain Language Summary: Breadcrust bombs are volcanic ejecta formed during explosive volcanic eruptions by rapid cooling of the exterior (the crust) and slow cooling of the interior that causes gas loss, bubble growth and cracking of the exterior. The rapidly cooled crust preserves characteristics of the magma prior to explosion. We study here the variations in porosity and vesicle properties from crust to interior in breadcrust bombs from the Guagua Pichincha volcano in Ecuador. Our results shed light on the pre‐eruptive conditions in the magma prior to explosive activity, and on the post‐fragmentation evolution of the bomb interior by bubble formation. Key Points: Vesicle textures in breadcrust bombs correlate with pre‐ to post‐fragmentation degassing processes during Vulcanian eruptionsLarge isolated vesicles preserved in the crust record a pre‐eruptive episode of outgassing and pressurization prior to fragmentationSmall vesicles provide insights into post‐fragmentation onset of permeability from the crust to the interior [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As aquatic hypoxia worsens on a global scale, fishes will become increasingly challenged by low oxygen, and understanding the molecular basis of their response to hypoxia may help to better define the capacity of fishes to cope with this challenge. The hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) plays a critical role in the molecular response to hypoxia by activating the transcription of genes that serve to improve oxygen delivery to the tissues or enhance the capacity of tissues to function at low oxygen. The current study examines the molecular evolution of genes encoding the oxygen-dependent HIFα subunit (HIFA) in the ray-finned fishes (Actinopterygii). Genomic analyses demonstrate that several lineages retain four paralogs of HIFA predicted from two rounds of genome duplication at the base of vertebrate evolution, broaden the known distribution of teleost-specific HIFA paralogs, and provide evidence for salmonid-specific HIFA duplicates. Evolution of the HIFA gene family is characterized by widespread episodic positive selection at amino acid sites that potentially mediate protein stability, protein–protein interactions, and transcriptional regulation. HIFA transcript abundance depends upon paralog, tissue, and fish lineage. A phylogenetically-informed gene nomenclature is proposed along with avenues for future research on this critical family of transcription factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stratovolcanoes are commonly characterised by cyclic eruptive activity marked by transitions between dome-forming, Vulcanian, Subplinian and Plinian eruptions. Guagua Pichincha volcano (Ecuador) has been a location of such cyclicity for the past ~ 2000 years, with Plinian eruptions in the first and tenth centuries AD (Anno Domini/after Christ), and CE (Common Era) 1660, which were separated by dome-forming to Subplinian eruptions, such as the recent 1999–2001 eruption. These cycles are therefore a prominent example of effusive-explosive transitions at varying timescales. Here, we investigate the reasons for such shifts in activity by focusing on degassing and outgassing processes within the conduit. We have coupled a petrophysical and textural analysis of dacites from the CE 1660 Plinian eruption and the 1999–2001 dome-forming/Vulcanian eruption, with different percolation models in order to better understand the role of degassing on eruptive style. We demonstrate that the transition from dome-forming to Plinian activity is correlated with differences in phenocryst content and consequently in bulk viscosity. A lower initial phenocryst content and viscosity is inferred for the Plinian case, which promotes faster ascent, closed-system degassing, fragmentation and explosive activity. In contrast, dome-forming phases are promoted by a higher magma viscosity due to higher phenocryst content, with slower ascent enhancing gas escape and microlite crystallization, decreasing explosivity and yielding effusive activity. Resumen: Los estratovolcanes se caracterizan comúnmente por presentar actividad eruptiva cíclica, marcada por transiciones entre erupciones formadoras de domos y erupciones de tipo Vulcanianas, Subplinianas y Plinianas. El volcán Guagua Pichincha (Ecuador) ha dado lugar a tal ciclicidad durante los últimos ~ 2000 años, con erupciones Plinianas tanto en los siglos Primero y Décimo, como en el año 1660, las cuales estuvieron intercaladas por erupciones formadoras de domos y de tipo Subplinianas, tal como ocurrió durante la erupción reciente de 1999–2001. Estos ciclos son, por lo tanto, ejemplos destacados de transiciones eruptivas de tipo efusiva-explosiva a escalas de tiempo variadas. En este trabajo, investigamos las razones de tales cambios de actividad enfocándonos en procesos de exsolución y pérdida de gases del magma en el conducto (desgasificación en sistemas cerrado y abierto). Hemos acoplado análisis petrofísicos y texturales tanto de dacitas de la erupción Pliniana de 1660, como de la erupción formadora de domos/Vulcaniana de 1999–2001, junto con diferentes modelos de percolación, para así comprender mejor el rol de la exsolución de volátiles en el estilo eruptivo. Demostramos que la transición desde una actividad efusiva formadora de domos a una Pliniana está correlacionada con diferencias en el contenido de fenocristales y, subsecuentemente, con la viscosidad total del magma. Un contenido inicial menor de fenocristales y una menor viscosidad se infiere para el caso Pliniano, lo que promueve un ascenso más rápido, desgasificación en sistema cerrado, fragmentación y finalmente actividad explosiva. Por el contrario, las fases formadoras de domos son promovidas por una viscosidad mayor debido a un contenido mayor de fenocristales, con ascenso más lento promoviendo a su vez el escape de gases y la cristalización de microlitos, disminuyendo la explosividad y produciendo actividad efusiva. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVMs) are uncommon, predominantly congenital direct fistulous connections between the pulmonary arteries and pulmonary veins, resulting in a right to left shunt. Patients with PAVMs are usually asymptomatic with lesions detected incidentally when radiological imaging is performed for other indications. In this review, we discuss the classification and radiological features of PAVMs as well as their treatment and follow-up options, with a particular focus on percutaneous endovascular techniques and the evolution of the available equipment for treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most common power problems today is communication and control delays. This can adversely affect decision interaction in grid security management. This paper focuses on communication signal delays and how to identify and address communication system failure issues in the context of grid monitoring and control, with emphasis on communication signal delay. An application to solve this problem uses a thyristor switch capacitor (TSC) and a thyristor-controlled reactor (TCR) to improve the power quality of the Rwandan National Grid (RNG) with synchronous and PV generators. It is to counteract the negative effects of time delays. To this end, the TSC and TCR architectures use two methods: the fuzzy logic controller (FLC) method and the modified predictor method (MPM). The experiment was performed using the Simulink MATLAB tool. The power quality of the system was assessed using two indicators: the voltage index and total harmonic distortion. The FLC-based performance was shown to outperform the MPM for temporary or permanent failures if the correct outcome was found. As a result, we are still unsure if TSC and TCR can continue to provide favorable results in the event of a network cyber-attack. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Communication plays a huge role in the operation of modern power systems. It permits a real-time monitoring coordination and control of the transmission, generation and distribution of electrical energy. As the modern grid grows towards an increased reliance on communication systems for the protection, metering and monitoring for as well as data acquisition for planning; there is a need to understand the challenge in the powers' system communication and their impact on the uninterrupted supply of electrical energy. Communication delays are one of the challenges that might affect the performance of the power system and lead to power losses and equipment damage, it is important to investigate the causes and the mitigation options available. Thus, this paper the state of arts on the cause, the effect and mitigation of communication delays in the power system. Furthermore, in this paper an analysis of different causes of the delays for different network configurations and communication systems used; a comparative analysis of different latency mitigation methods and system performance simulations of a given compensation algorithm is tested against the existing methods. The pros and cons of these control strategies are illustrated in this paper. The summary and assessment of those methods of control in this review offer scholars and utilities valuable direction-finding to design superior communication energy control systems in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tephra fallout hazard assessment is undertaken with probabilistic maps that rely on numerical models. Regarding maps production, the input parameters of the model (including atmospheric conditions), the physical approximations of the numerical simulations, and the probabilities of occurrence of different eruption types in specific time frames are among the most critical sources of uncertainty. We therefore present a tephra fallout hazard assessment study for two active volcanoes (Cotopaxi and Guagua Pichincha) in Ecuador. We utilize PLUME‐MoM/HYSPLIT models, and a procedure for uncertainty quantification where: (a) the uncertainty on eruptive source parameters and eruption type occurrence is quantified through expert elicitation; (b) we implement a new procedure for correlations between the different parameters, and (c) we use correction coefficients to take into account the uncertainty of the numerical model. Maps of exceedance probability given a deposit thickness threshold, and thickness maps given a probability of exceedance, are produced (a) for two eruptive scenarios (sub‐Plinian and Plinian) and (b) as a combination of these scenarios in case the next eruption will be sub‐Plinian or Plinian. These maps are described according to the uncertainty distribution of eruption type occurrence probabilities, considering their 5th percentile, mean, and 95th percentile values. We finally present hazard curves describing exceeding probabilities in 10 sensitive sites within the city of Quito. Additional information includes the areal extent and the population potentially affected by different isolines of tephra accumulation. This work indicates that full uncertainty quantification helps in providing more robust scientific information, improving the hazard assessment reliability. Plain Language Summary: We present a tephra fallout (i.e., volcanic ash accumulation on the ground due to sedimentation from volcanic clouds) hazard assessment for two Ecuadorian volcanoes (Cotopaxi and Guagua Pichincha) threatening Quito, the capital city of Ecuador. The novelties of this study are that (a) we use coupled models for eruptive column and ash transport and (b) we quantify the main sources of uncertainties that normally affect probabilistic hazard maps. In particular, we present probability maps, for which a certain deposit thickness is overcome, and thickness maps, which show the expected thickness for a given probability. For the two volcanoes, the maps are related to the case that a next eruption will be of medium to large size (i.e., sub‐Plinian or Plinian). Moreover, we also present hazard curves for 10 sensitive sites within the city of Quito. These curves are used to infer, for each site, the probabilities for a given accumulation of ash. Finally, we show the areal extent and the population potentially affected by different tephra accumulations. Our study points toward the necessity to perform a full uncertainty quantification for volcanic hazard assessment. Key Points: We develop tephra fallout probabilistic hazard maps for Cotopaxi and Guagua Pichincha volcanoes using the PLUME‐MoM/HYSPLIT modelWe incorporate the quantification of the uncertainty on the input parameters, the model, and the occurrence of different eruption typesOur study indicates that full uncertainty quantification is essential in volcanic hazard assessment in order to provide robust information [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tropical Northwest Pacific (TNWP) is a receptor for pollution sources throughout Asia and is highly susceptible to climate change, making it imperative to understand long-range transport in this complex aerosol-meteorological environment. Measurements from the NASA Cloud, Aerosol, and Monsoon Processes Philippines Experiment (CAMP 2 Ex; 24 August to 5 October 2019) and back trajectories from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Hybrid Single Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory Model (HYSPLIT) were used to examine transport into the TNWP from the Maritime Continent (MC), peninsular Southeast Asia (PSEA), East Asia (EA), and the West Pacific (WP). A mid-campaign monsoon shift on 20 September 2019 led to distinct transport patterns between the southwest monsoon (SWM; before 20 September) and monsoon transition (MT; after 20 September). During the SWM, long-range transport was a function of southwesterly winds and cyclones over the South China Sea. Low- (high-) altitude air generally came from MC (PSEA), implying distinct aerosol processing related to convection and perhaps wind shear. The MT saw transport from EA and WP, driven by Pacific northeasterly winds, continental anticyclones, and cyclones over the East China Sea. Composition of transported air differed by emission source and accumulated precipitation along trajectories (APT). MC air was characterized by biomass burning tracers while major components of EA air pointed to Asian outflow and secondary formation. Convective scavenging of PSEA air was evidenced by considerable vertical differences between aerosol species but not trace gases, as well as notably higher APT and smaller particles than other regions. Finally, we observed a possible wet scavenging mechanism acting on MC air aloft that was not strictly linked to precipitation. These results are important for understanding the transport and processing of air masses with further implications for modeling aerosol lifecycles and guiding international policymaking to public health and climate, particularly during the SWM and MT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Based on the context of extensive petroleum hydrocarbon pollution in southern Nigeria, the concentrations of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylene (BTEX) in seafood were determined, and the health risks of these compounds were evaluated. Methods: Biota samples (Crayfish, Goby fish, Moonfish, Mudskipper, Mullet, Sardine and Tilapia) were collected from the Bonny Estuary from 2016 to 2018 and analyzed according to US EPA method 5030/8260C to determine the concentrations of BTEX. Risk assessment of BTEX to humans through the dietary route was conducted based on the lifetime cancer risk (LTCR) for benzene and the hazard quotient (HQ) for BTEX. Results and conclusion: The following BTEX concentration ranges were observed: benzene: < 0.01–0.36 mg/kg; toluene: 0.22–19.85 mg/kg; ethylbenzene: < 0.00–1.54 mg/kg; xylene: < 0.00–7.28 mg/kg. The median LTCR for benzene in children and adults was 0.65 and 0.30, respectively, which are higher than the limit recommended by the World Health Organization. The model showed that the LTCR is reducible by 99.9% and 66.6% if the concentration of benzene is 0.00001 mg/kg, and fresh seafood consumption is reduced to 10.4 g/day. The HQ for all BTEX compounds was greater than 1 (benzene: 1.0 × 104 (child), 4.9 × 103 (adult); toluene: 1.9 × 105 (child), 9.0 × 104 (adult); ethylbenzene: 9.4 × 103 (child), 4.4 × 103 (adult); xylene: 2.5 × 104 (child), 1.2 × 104 (adult)), which signifies a high non-cancer health risk to humans. These results are a reflection of the high level of petroleum hydrocarbon pollution in southern Nigeria and the debilitating human health consequences that could accompany it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tropical Western North Pacific (TWNP) is a receptor for pollution sources throughout Asia and is highly susceptible to climate change, making it imperative to understand long-range transport in this complex aerosol-meteorological environment. Measurements from the NASA Cloud, Aerosol, and Monsoon Processes Philippines Experiment (CAMP2Ex; 24 Aug to 5 Oct 2019) and back trajectories from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Hybrid Single Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory Model (HYSPLIT) were used to examine transport into the TWNP from the Maritime Continent (MC), Peninsular Southeast Asia (PSEA), East Asia (EA), and West Pacific (WP). A mid-campaign monsoon shift on 20 Sep 2019 led to distinct transport patterns between the southwest monsoon (before 20 Sep) and monsoon transition (after 20 Sep). During the southwest monsoon, long-range transport was a function of southwesterly winds and cyclones over the South China Sea. Low (high) altitude air generally came from MC (PSEA), implying distinct aerosol processing related to convection and perhaps wind shear. The monsoon transition saw transport from EA and WP, driven by Pacific northeasterly winds, continental anticyclones, and cyclones over the East China Sea. Composition of transported air differed by emission source and accumulated precipitation along trajectories (APT) as an indicator of convection. MC air was characterized by biomass burning tracers while major components of EA air pointed to Asian outflow and secondary formation. Convective scavenging of PSEA air was evidenced by considerable vertical differences between aerosol species but not trace gases, as well as notably higher APT and smaller particles than other regions. Finally, we observed a possible wet scavenging mechanism acting on MC air aloft that was not strictly linked to precipitation. These results are important for understanding the transport and processing of air masses with further implications for modeling aerosol lifecycles and guiding international policymaking on public health and climate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Safety nets in Ethiopia are targeted and delivered in a context in which informal social capital practices also operate. But the role of social relations is largely overlooked in welfare programming. Understanding how social capital is mobilized and under which condition it enhances or constrains social safety net targeting may inform policy to design sustainable and inclusive welfare programs to improve household resilience. Using an ethnographic case study design, we studied the role of social capital in the implementation of a welfare intervention. Data were collected through observations and interviews with 30 households. Besides, data on household social network characteristics were collected using semi-structured interviews. The result suggested that greater access to social capital by a household enhances the efficiency of safety net targeting and delivery. Positioning the social transfer instruments within the broader sets of community social arrangements can optimize the allocation of scarce safety net resources and improves community relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerical modeling of tephra dispersal and deposition is essential for evaluation of volcanic hazards. Many models consider reasonable physical approximations in order to reduce computational times, but this may introduce a certain degree of uncertainty in the simulation outputs. The important step of uncertainty quantification is dealt in this paper with respect to a coupled version of a plume model (PLUME-MoM) and a tephra dispersal model (HYSPLIT). The performances of this model are evaluated through simulations of four past eruptions of different magnitudes and styles from three Andean volcanoes, and the uncertainty is quantified by evaluating the differences between modeled and observed data of plume height (at different time steps above the vent) as well as mass loading and grain size at given stratigraphic sections. Different meteorological data sets were also tested and had a sensible influence on the model outputs. Other results highlight that the model tends to underestimate plume heights while overestimating mass loading values, especially for higher-magnitude eruptions. Moreover, the advective part of HYSPLIT seems to work more efficiently than the diffusive part. Finally, though the coupled PLUME-MoM/HYSPLIT model generally is less efficient in reproducing deposit grain sizes, we propose that it may be used for hazard map production for higher-magnitude eruptions (sub-Plinian or Plinian) for what concern mass loading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The post-Cold-War collapse of the Soviet military-industrial complex has enabled the rapid global proliferation of nuclear weapons and fissile material, thereby escalating the possibilities of non-conventional nuclear attacks. Such attacks have become more likely with the emergence of very powerful terrorist groups like Boko Haram and others around the world. Over 1,800 metric tons of nuclear material is still stored in poorly secured facilities in more than 25 countries. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) as at December 2015 had recorded in their trafficking database a total of 2,889 incidents involving losses, thefts and attempts to traffic fissile material across international borders. Boko Haram may also engage with radiological or biochemical 'dirty bombs', which are easier to make. With no less than 48 reported incidences of biochemical attacks since 1900, it is likely that Boko Haram may switch tactics, especially considering the lack of biochemical detection protocols in Nigeria's counterterrorism strategy and also the inconsistency in public and private sector collaboration. This new reality calls for a recalibration of Nigeria's counterterrorism protocols to accommodate the anticipated threat. The paper thus highlights policy considerations and advocates new directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of passive integrated transponder (PIT) tagging on cortisol release, standard metabolic rate (SMR) and daily specific growth rate (GS) were evaluated in the Gulf killifish, Fundulus grandis, a small estuarine fish native to the Gulf of Mexico. Cortisol release by individual fish was measured non‐invasively prior to PIT tagging, immediately after tagging and once per week for 1 month following tagging. Within the first 2 h of tagging, cortisol release rates were significantly elevated compared with values measured prior to tagging and significantly higher than that of fish handled identically except not implanted with PIT tags. By 1 week after PIT tagging, cortisol release rates returned to control levels. SMR, determined by intermittent‐flow respirometry and GS, defined as per cent change in body mass per day, were measured prior to PIT tagging and weekly for 1 month after tagging. Neither SMR nor GS was significantly different in tagged v. untagged fish for the duration of the study. One month after tagging, haematocrit, plasma cortisol, blood glucose and blood lactate did not differ between tagged and untagged individuals. Therefore, after a transient stress response that subsides within 1 week, PIT tagging had no significant effects on these physiological variables in F. grandis, validating its use as a method of marking this and other small fishes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Liberian conflict is a classical study in the confluence of factors that created a 'perfect storm' of weapons proliferation. This paper outlines the gradual aligning of factors and processes, both local and international, that made the Liberian war a hot bed of small arms. The same weapons that would be recycled into other conflicts in the region where funneled into Liberia via the same countries that would later suffer the fallout of the Liberian conflict. The historical method is employed to examine the gradual build-up and the distinct patterns that were created in the process. The same patterns can be recreated if cooperative security in the region does not engage regional security sector reforms with the intent of stemming the growth of such patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents a study that evaluated the frequency fluctuations of an electronically cooled rotor. Theoretical background; Analysis of the frequency stability of the cooled rotor; Examination of the electronic cooling behavior of the rotor.

Background: This study seeks to compare the performance of HRP2 (First Response) and pLDH/HRP2 (Combo) RDTs for falciparum malaria against microscopy and PCR in acutely ill febrile children at presentation and follow-up. Methods: This is an interventional study that recruited children < 5 years who reported to health facilities with a history of fever within the past 72 h or a documented axillary temperature of 37.5 °C. Using a longitudinal approach, recruitment and follow-up of participants was done between January and May 2012. Based on results of HRP2-RDT screening, the children were grouped into one of the following three categories: (1) tested positive for malaria using RDT and received anti-malarial treatment (group 1, n = 85); (2) tested negative for malaria using RDT and were given anti-malarial treatment by the admitting physician (group 2, n = 74); or, (3) tested negative for malaria using RDT and did not receive any anti-malarial treatment (group 3, n = 101). Independent microscopy, PCR and Combo-RDT tests were done for each sample on day 0 and all follow-up days. Results: Mean age of the study participants was 22 months and females accounted for nearly 50%. At the time of diagnosis, the mean body temperature was 37.9 °C (range 35–40.1 °C). Microscopic parasite density ranged between 300 and 99,500 parasites/µL. With microscopy as gold standard, the sensitivity of HRP2 and Combo-RDTs were 95.1 and 96.3%, respectively. The sensitivities, specificities and predictive values for RDTs were relatively higher in microscopy-defined malaria cases than in PCR positive-defined cases. On day 0, participants who initially tested negative for HRP2 were positive by microscopy (n = 2), Combo (n = 1) and PCR (n = 17). On days 1 and 2, five of the children in this group (initially HRP2-negative) tested positive by PCR alone. On day 28, four patients who were originally HRP2-negative tested positive for microscopy (n = 2), Combo (n = 2) and PCR (n = 4). Conclusion: The HRP2/pLDH RDTs showed comparable diagnostic accuracy in children presenting with an acute febrile illness to health facilities in a hard-to-reach rural area in Ghana. Nevertheless, discordant results recorded on day 0 and follow-up visits using the recommended RDTs means improved malaria diagnostic capability in malaria-endemic regions is necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The capacity of fishes to tolerate low oxygen (hypoxia) through behavioral and physiological adjustments varies among species in a fashion that correlates with oxygen availability in their natural habitats. Less is known about variation in hypoxia tolerance within a species, but it is expressly this interindividual variation that will determine which individuals will survive during severe hypoxia. Here, we measured aquatic surface respiration (ASR) and loss of equilibrium (LOE), two common indexes of hypoxia tolerance of fishes, in gulf killifish, Fundulus grandis, subjected to multiple trials of a highly reproducible hypoxia protocol over a period of 6–8 wk. The time and PO2 at the first occurrence of ASR and the time and PO2 at LOE differed significantly among individuals in a repeatable fashion. This interindividual variation in ASR and LOE was significantly correlated with general body and gill morphology. The time to ASR was shorter and the PO2 at ASR was higher for fish with greater mass. After correcting for mass, fish with longer or more numerous gill filaments had longer times to ASR or LOE, respectively. Fish in better condition factor (heavier for their length) had lower PO2 at LOE. Repeatable interindividual variation in hypoxia tolerance, if genetically based, could influence the capacity of species to adapt as their habitats become increasingly threatened by aquatic hypoxia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of International Journal of Cosmetic Science is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of International Journal of Cosmetic Science is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The article discusses a Phase I dose-ranging study of bendamustine and rituximab (BR) inpatients with previously untreated or relapsed/refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) who had comorbidities. Topics covered include treatment-related toxicity and maximum tolerated dose (MTD), treatment efficacy and event-free survival (EFS), and the pharmacokinetic disposition of bendamustine and patient-related outcomes.

Excessive neutrophil infiltration of the lungs is a common contributor to immune-related pathology in many pulmonary disease states. In response to pathogenic infection, airway epithelial cells produce hepoxilin A3 (HXA3), initiating neutrophil transepithelial migration. Migrated neutrophils amplify this recruitment by producing a secondary gradient of leukotriene B4 (LTB4). We sought to determine whether this two-step eicosanoid chemoattractant mechanism could be exploited by the pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. ExoU, a P. aeruginosa cytotoxin, exhibits phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activity in eukaryotic hosts, an enzyme critical for generation of certain eicosanoids. Using in vitro and in vivo models of neutrophil transepithelial migration, we evaluated the impact of ExoU expression on eicosanoid generation and function. We conclude that ExoU, by virtue of its PLA2 activity, augments and compensates for endogenous host neutrophil cPLA2α function, leading to enhanced transepithelial migration. This suggests that ExoU expression in P. aeruginosa can circumvent immune regulation at key signaling checkpoints in the neutrophil, resulting in exacerbated neutrophil recruitment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In rural African communities, the support of extended family, friends, and neighbours is essential in borrowing or leveraging land, labour, food, and money, especially at times of social and financial turmoil. Little is known, though, about the nature of the networks and the conditions under which they may generate greater support in post-conflict communities. This study, conducted in the Lira district of northern Uganda, examined the composition, proximity, and size of the networks that households utilise to gain access to resources during and after resettlement. Network structures with more kin and co-resident ties were found to offer greater resource access to households in post-conflict settings. Furthermore, there was a lack of meaningful linkages outside of a person's own village, especially with regard to households whose head has no or a low level of education. These findings enhance understanding of the specific role of relationships in social support for resource access among households in post-conflict communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) family of transcription factors plays central roles in the development, physiology, pathology, and environmental adaptation of animals. Because many aquatic habitats are characterized by episodes of low dissolved oxygen, fish represent ideal models to study the roles of HIF in the response to aquatic hypoxia. The estuarine fish Fundulus heteroclitus is found in habitats prone to hypoxia. It responds to low oxygen via behavioral, physiological, and molecular changes, and one member of the HIF family, HIF2α, has been previously described. Herein, cDNA sequencing, phylogenetic analyses, and genomic approaches were used to determine other members of the HIFα family from F. heteroclitus and their relationships to HIFα subunits from other vertebrates. In vitro and cellular approaches demonstrated that full-length forms of HIF1α, HIF2α, and HIF3α independently formed complexes with the β-subunit, aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator, to bind to hypoxia response elements and activate reporter gene expression. Quantitative PCR showed that HIFα mRNA abundance varied among organs of normoxic fish in an isoform-specific fashion. Analysis of the F. heteroclitus genome revealed a locus encoding a second HIF2α-HIF2αb-a predicted protein lacking oxygen sensing and transactivation domains. Finally, sequence analyses demonstrated polymorphism in the coding sequence of each F. heteroclitus HIFα subunit, suggesting that genetic variation in these transcription factors may play a role in the variation in hypoxia responses among individuals or populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]