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Sea level rise induced flooding is projected to cause significant damage to the low-lying coastal areas of many countries around the planet. Many households located in vulnerable areas have already started to adapt to flooding, although some empirical studies indicate that informal adaptation is reaching its limit and that more formal countermeasures by governments will be necessary to cope with the increased flood risks. In such cases, public support for flood adaptation policy is crucial to ensure a successful and timely adaptation, as these strategies can directly affect coastal residents. However, there is limited understanding on the mechanisms and factors that determine public support for flood adaptation policy. Thus, this study proposes a new model – the Foundation of Adaptation Policy Support (FAPS) – which integrates the Protection Motivation Theory and the Risk Information Seeking and Processing models. FAPS was tested using structural equation modelling with latent variables and data that was collected from a household questionnaire survey conducted in the Tokyo lowland areas (n = 388), with the super levee representing a policy that could be applied to sea level rise adaptation. The proposed FAPS model showed a good fit with the collected data, indicating that the strongest predictors of policy support include the perceived effectiveness of the policy and the importance of the issue of flooding to individuals. Other important predictors of policy support include knowledge about flooding, the opinions of surrounding people (i.e. family and friends), and the systematic processing by respondents of information related to floods. The FAPS model sets the foundation for understanding the mechanisms of public support for adaptation policy and provides new insights into designing and planning such policies in practice. Key policy insights Perceived policy effectiveness and the importance of addressing floods are the strongest predictors of public support for adaptation policy. Increasing people's knowledge about flooding is essential to communicate the importance of adaptation policy. Investigating people's knowledge and the perceived importance of the issue of flooding prior to designing policies can predict public preferences for certain countermeasures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sea level rise is not a problem for the future alone. It is already affecting many small to medium cities on the East Coast of the USA. These cities are adapting to their problems without sufficient help from the federal or state government. To escape the perils of short-term reactionary ad hoc measures to deal with such problems, there is a need to utilize longer-term visions and frameworks. One such approach, Adaptation Pathway Planning, requires the involvement of locally affected people. This study looks at the perceptions and preferred adaptation solutions of the residents of St. Augustine and the Hyde Park neighborhood in Tampa, FL, two cities that are already experiencing the worsening flooding effects caused by rising seas. The results show that those living in areas at higher risk, and which are already experiencing frequent tidal flooding, had a greater knowledge of this risk and a higher desire for increased action from multiple levels of government. Also, such people were more aware of what their municipalities were already doing to adapt. Finally, when faced with two different scenarios of the possible rise in sea levels by 2050, those presented with the higher scenarios were more likely to choose a wider range of adaptation countermeasures. All this indicates the need to carefully consider the awareness of residents regarding the effects of sea level rise and how long-term adaptation should be discussed with them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Teratoma, due to its remarkable ability to differentiate into multiple cell lineages, is a valuable model for studying human embryonic development. The similarity of the gene expression and chromatin accessibility patterns in these cells to those observed in vivo further underscores its potential as a research tool. Notably, teratomas derived from human naïve (pre-implantation epiblast-like) pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) have larger embryonic cell diversity and contain extraembryonic lineages, making them more suitable to study developmental processes. However, the cell type-specific epigenetic profiles of naïve PSC teratomas have not been yet characterized. Using single-cell assay for transposase-accessible chromatin sequencing (scATAC-seq), we analyzed 66,384 cell profiles from five teratomas derived from human naïve PSCs and their post-implantation epiblast-like (primed) counterparts. We observed 17 distinct cell types from both embryonic and extraembryonic lineages, resembling the corresponding cell types in human fetal tissues. Additionally, we identified key transcription factors specific to different cell types. Our dataset provides a resource for investigating gene regulatory programs in a relevant model of human embryonic development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydraulic experiments using a wave flume with a wind tunnel at a scale of 1/40 were carried out to investigate the effect of wind on wave overtopping of a vertical seawall. To ascertain the possible effects of wave breaking, incident waves with various wave steepness (0.0102 to 0.0371) and three kinds of wind forcing (0 m/s, 6.84 m/s, 10.04 m/s) were used. The authors found that winds significantly increased the overtopping rate in general, and that there is a clear relationship between the overtopping rate and the wave steepness. Velocity fields obtained from PIV analysis revealed that the onshore winds directly enhanced the transport of overtopping water mass. The influence of the wind on the wave hydrodynamic processes that indirectly have an effect on the overtopping rate (such as the formation of a partially standing wave, breaker location, and breaker type) is also discussed. The perspective of treating wave overtopping as a transport of water mass could provide a novel understanding of complex fluid behavior, which would help to formulate countermeasures against future disasters influenced by intensive wind forcing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification plays essential roles in multiple biological processes, including stem cell fate determination. To explore the role of the m6A modification in pluripotent reprogramming, we used RNA-seq to map m6A effectors in human iPSCs, fibroblasts, and H9 ESCs, as well as in mouse ESCs and fibroblasts. By integrating the human and mouse RNA-seq data, we found that 19 m6A effectors were significantly upregulated in reprogramming. Notably, IGF2BPs, particularly IGF2BP1, were among the most upregulated genes in pluripotent cells, while YTHDF3 had high levels of expression in fibroblasts. Using quantitative PCR and Western blot, we validated the pluripotency-associated elevation of IGF2BPs. Knockdown of IGF2BP1 induced the downregulation of stemness genes and exit from pluripotency. Proteome analysis of cells collected at both the beginning and terminal states of the reprogramming process revealed that the IGF2BP1 protein was positively correlated with stemness markers SOX2 and OCT4. The eCLIP-seq target analysis showed that IGF2BP1 interacted with the coding sequence (CDS) and 3'UTR regions of the SOX2 transcripts, in agreement with the location of m6A modifications. This study identifies IGF2BP1 as a vital pluripotency-associated m6A effector, providing new insight into the interplay between m6A epigenetic modifications and pluripotent reprogramming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Spal: Revista de Prehistoria y Arqueologia de la Universidad de Sevilla is the property of Spal. Revista de Prehistoria y Arqueologia de la Universidad de Sevilla 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.)

Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) provide unlimited resources for regenerative medicine because of their potential for self-renewal and differentiation into many different cell types. The pluripotency of these PSCs is dynamically regulated at multiple cellular organelle levels. To delineate the factors that coordinate this inter-organelle crosstalk, we profiled those long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) that may participate in the regulation of multiple cellular organelles in PSCs. We have developed a unique strand-specific RNA-seq dataset of lncRNAs that may interact with mitochondria (mtlncRNAs) and polyribosomes (prlncRNAs). Among the lncRNAs differentially expressed between induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), fibroblasts, and positive control H9 human embryonic stem cells, we identified 11 prlncRNAs related to stem cell reprogramming and exit from pluripotency. In conjunction with the total RNA-seq data, this dataset provides a valuable resource to examine the role of lncRNAs in pluripotency, particularly for studies investigating the inter-organelle crosstalk network involved in germ cell development and human reproduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The actions of wind and atmospheric pressure associated with tropical cyclones (e.g. typhoons) are considered the primary factors behind the generation of storm surges, though the fields used in meteorological models can sometimes deviate from observations. To improve these, the direct modification method (DMM) has been previously proposed, though this only modifies the wind field of a typhoon, and further development is necessary for applying it to storm surge hindcasts. The present work describes the development of a semi-empirical gradient wind balance-based method (GWB-M) for modifying both the wind and pressure fields in meteorological models, based on the dynamic relationship between the wind and pressure in typhoons (i.e. gradient wind balance). The applicability of GWB-M was assessed through a storm surge hindcast based on Typhoon Faxai in 2019, which generated powerful waves and a storm surge at Tokyo Bay. GWB-M improved the time series of 10 m wind speed and sea level pressure, with their spatial distributions being more realistic than those in DMM and blending parametric typhoon models (BM), which cannot take into account the influence of the complex topography around Tokyo Bay. Further, the maximum sea level anomalies after the typhoon made landfall were also captured by GWB-M with a higher accuracy than DMM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The United Nations estimate that by 2030 about half of the world's population would be comprised of the middle-class, who mostly live in the increasing number of megacities around the world. Southeast Asian megacities, such as Metropolitan Manila, have long been troubled by rapid urbanization, increasing disaster risk, and the looming impacts of climate change. As a response, there is a growing focus on disaster and climate resilient policies in megacities, most of which have only centered on how future disasters and climate uncertainty would impact vulnerable communities. This has resulted in policies that cater towards relocation of the poor to combat disasters and climate change. This exploratory study attempts to elucidate how the middle-class views disasters and land reclamation in Metro Manila, the Philippines. Using an online questionnaire survey of 425 middle-class respondents, the study shows that middle-class perception of risk potentially amplifies vulnerability and reduces the resilience of the poor. While knowledge about the risks is high, the capacity of the middle class to act is low, especially compared to vulnerable communities. Also, climate change and disasters are viewed primarily as environmental issues, which is compounded by inadequate defenses. Land reclamation, along with coastal informal settlements, are viewed as an intrusion into the environment. This study finds that the middle-class's perception of risk may marginalize the poor by favoring eviction of vulnerable communities in coastal areas, including those targeted for land reclamation, under the pretext of controlling the city's population growth and environmental impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considerable evidence suggests that residential demand response enables demand-side flexibility, lowering average electric procurement costs and minimizing greenhouse gas emissions associated with the operation of peak power plants. However, the effectiveness of such demand management is contingent on behavioral interventions that attenuate energy saving at the residential level, highlighting the need to better understand the human dimension of residential electricity curtailment. This study examines the influence of interpersonal, socio-economic characteristics and environmental awareness of households in Ottawa on their willingness to participate in demand response programs. Time of use, real-time pricing, critical peak pricing, and direct load control were considered potential candidates for adoption. Furthermore, the authors propose and investigate the willingness of people to receive non-electricity-related information on their in-home displays and participate in an altruistic peer-to-peer energy platform that was conceptualized and designed by the authors. The results suggest that the corporate social and environmental responsibility of electricity providers and the environmental awareness of respondents, as well as their perceived level of indoor comfort, all influence the effectiveness of demand response. The findings also indicate that philanthropic-oriented and information-driven incentives can potentially increase energy curtailment amongst households with a high prosocial responsibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of wood in construction requires knowledge of the mechanical properties and the particularities that wood presents in comparison with other materials used for structural purposes such as steel, concrete, brick, or stone. The introduction mentions the environmental advantages that justify the use of wood today. The orthotropy of wood is one of the differentiating characteristics that must be taken into account when studying its behaviour. The determination of the properties of wood is then addressed from a historical perspective and the differentiation is made between the properties of small clear wood (defect-free timber) and structural timber. The timber grading systems (visual and mechanical grading) and the non-destructive techniques that currently prevail are explained. Finally, the factors that influence the mechanical properties, such as duration of the load, moisture content, quality, temperature, and the effect of size are explained. The objective of this work is to provide an overview of the current knowledge on the mechanical properties of wood, based mainly on published articles and European and North American standards, including historical references to the beginnings and current trends in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advanced heart failure is a growing problem for which the best treatment is cardiac transplantation. However, the shortage of donors' hearts made left ventricular assist devices as destination therapy (DT-LVAD) a highly recommended alternative: they improved mid-term prognosis as well as patients' quality of life. Current intracorporeal pumps with a centrifugal continuous flow evolved in the last few years. Since 2003, when first LVAD was approved for long-term support, smaller device sizes with better survival and hemocompatibility profile were reached. The most important difficulty lies in the moment of the implant. Recent indications range from INTERMACS class 2 to 4, with close monitoring in intermediate cases. Moreover, a large multiparametric study is needed for considering the candidacy: basal situation, with a special interest in frailty, comorbidities, including renal and hepatic dysfunction, and medical background, considering every prior cardiac condition, must be evaluated. In addition, some clinical risk scores can be helpful to measure the possibility of right heart failure or morbi-mortality. With this review, we sought to summarize all the device improvements, with their updated clinical results, as well as to focus on all the patient selection criteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Haiyan in 2013 was one of the most powerful typhoons to have affected the Philippines, devastating in its path a wide portion of Leyte, and causing extensive damage to structures in Tacloban City. To understand the likely impacts that would be exerted by a storm surge on a structure deemed important, the authors used a coupled model that hindcasted the flooding that took place during Haiyan. This coupled model included the use of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model (with Bogussing scheme) to simulate the atmospheric conditions during the passage of Haiyan, the Finite Volume Coastal Ocean Model (FVCOM) to simulate the storm surge and obtain the boundary conditions for the wind and flood (hydrostatic, hydrodynamic, and breaking wave), and the Structural Analysis and Designing Program (STAAD.Pro) to calculate the corresponding axial, shear, and bending moment envelopes based on the storm surge simulation. A 4-floor public school building in Tacloban was modeled and the effects that the storm surge would have on a corner column were analyzed. Based on the results, the axial, shear, and moment at the corner column significantly increased when considering flood loads, indicating the importance of including such loads in the design of essential structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is one of the most common heart valve diseases, associated a with poor prognosis since significant TR is associated with an increased mortality risk compared to no TR or mild regurgitation. Surgery is the standard treatment for TR, although it is associated with high morbidity, mortality, and prolonged hospitalization, particularly in tricuspid reoperation after left-sided surgery. Thus, several innovative percutaneous transcatheter approaches for repair and replacement of the tricuspid valve have gathered significant momentum and have undergone extensive clinical development in recent years, with favorable clinical outcomes in terms of mortality and rehospitalization during the first year of follow-up. We present three clinical cases of transcatheter tricuspid valve replacement in an orthotopic position with two different innovative systems along with a review of the state-of-the-art of this emergent topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tissue regeneration requires coordination between resident stem cells and local niche cells1,2. Here we identify that senescent cells are integral components of the skeletal muscle regenerative niche that repress regeneration at all stages of life. The technical limitation of senescent-cell scarcity3 was overcome by combining single-cell transcriptomics and a senescent-cell enrichment sorting protocol. We identified and isolated different senescent cell types from damaged muscles of young and old mice. Deeper transcriptome, chromatin and pathway analyses revealed conservation of cell identity traits as well as two universal senescence hallmarks (inflammation and fibrosis) across cell type, regeneration time and ageing. Senescent cells create an aged-like inflamed niche that mirrors inflammation associated with ageing (inflammageing4) and arrests stem cell proliferation and regeneration. Reducing the burden of senescent cells, or reducing their inflammatory secretome through CD36 neutralization, accelerates regeneration in young and old mice. By contrast, transplantation of senescent cells delays regeneration. Our results provide a technique for isolating in vivo senescent cells, define a senescence blueprint for muscle, and uncover unproductive functional interactions between senescent cells and stem cells in regenerative niches that can be overcome. As senescent cells also accumulate in human muscles, our findings open potential paths for improving muscle repair throughout life.A lifetime cartography of in vivo senescent cells shows that they are heterogeneous. Senescent cells create an aged-like inflamed niche that mirrors inflammation associated with ageing and arrests stem cell proliferation and tissue regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As part of its economy-wide decarbonization target towards 2050, Japan plans to increase renewable generation, especially offshore wind, for which the country has a high potential. However, this resource is currently under-developed as available turbines are prone to shut-downs and can even suffer damage during the passage of typhoons. With new typhoon proof (T-class) turbines being currently developed by various companies, Japan now aims to develop 10 GW of offshore wind between 2021 and 2030, and 91 GW in the long-term. This research estimates the impact of integrating offshore wind into the Japanese main power grid using T-class turbines by considering three scenarios. First, a business-as-usual (BAU) case with 10 GW offshore wind capacity (following the 6th Strategic Energy Plan of Japan). Second, an offshore wind capacity of 91 GW. Third, the 91 GW offshore capacity being redistributed amongst regions to maximize its integration opportunities (Scenario 2). The simulations were carried out using the Energy System simulation model (EnSym). The results show that the BAU and Scenario 1 resulted in offshore wind achieving 1.7% and 7.28% of generation share, respectively, increasing to 9.77% for Scenario 2. Increasing the share of offshore wind in the energy mix mainly replaced liquefied natural gas (LNG). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many tumors express meiotic genes that could potentially drive somatic chromosome instability. While germline cohesin subunits SMC1B, STAG3, and REC8 are widely expressed in many cancers, messenger RNA and protein for RAD21L subunit are expressed at very low levels. To elucidate the potential of meiotic cohesins to contribute to genome instability, their expression was investigated in human cell lines, predominately in DLD-1. While the induction of the REC8 complex resulted in a mild mitotic phenotype, the expression of the RAD21L complex produced an arrested but viable cell pool, thus providing a source of DNA damage, mitotic chromosome missegregation, sporadic polyteny, and altered gene expression. We also found that genomic binding profiles of ectopically expressed meiotic cohesin complexes were reminiscent of their corresponding specific binding patterns in testis. Furthermore, meiotic cohesins were found to localize to the same sites as BORIS/CTCFL, rather than CTCF sites normally associated with the somatic cohesin complex. These findings highlight the existence of a germline epigenomic memory that is conserved in cells that normally do not express meiotic genes. Our results reveal a mechanism of action by unduly expressed meiotic cohesins that potentially links them to aneuploidy and chromosomal mutations in affected cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An interview with Francisco Arriaga Martitegui, a professor at the Polytechnic University of Madrid, is presented. Topics include relationship with the School of Forestry Engineering and mainly through construction and wooden structures with energy transformation; and evolution of wood construction in Spain accompanied by a growth of the industrial sector of construction with wood and the increase in the training of professionals.

An interview with Juan Antonio Gómez-Pintado, President of the Association of Promoters and Builders of Spain, is presented. Topics include historical concern for how to industrialize the processes as the problem in the residential real estate developer sector is the lack of access to housing for young people; and bio-sustainable material have less impact on environment and are industrializable through innovation, energy efficiency and the reduction of the carbon footprint.

The aim of this paper is to analyze the mechanical properties of Robinia pseudoacacia L. (black locust), Platanus × hybrida Brot. (London plane), Ulmus pumila L. (Siberian elm), and Populus alba L. (white poplar), estimated using ultrasound wave equipment (USLab y Sylvatest Duo) and impact wave equipment (Microsecond Timer) on standing trees, felled logs and on specimens obtained from different parts of the trees. Bending strength, axial compression strength and tension parallel to grain were determined for each specimen, in order to subsequently correlate the strength and stiffness with the acoustic properties determined in the standing tree. For the relationship between the static modulus of elasticity of the specimens and the dynamic modulus of elasticity determined in standing trees using the USLab, coefficients of determination were found to be between 0.30–0.92, between 0.52 and 0.80 using the Sylvatest Duo and between 0.60 and 0.94 with the Microsecond Timer. It would be necessary to determine whether the removal of bark for the correct coupling of the ultrasonic sensors would provide an entry route for pests or diseases that could affect the health of the tree. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the article, the authors present their study on non-human primates (NHP) to develop a comprehensive single-cell atlas that could be used in the study of human biology and disease by focusing on the cynomolgus monkey (Macaca fascicularis). In the research, 113 major cell types belonging to the monkey's major systems like adipose, digestive and endocrine were identified. Among the types include hepatocytes, adipocytes, and skeletal muscle fibers.

Copyright of Disasters 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 Revista Latinoamericana de Metodología de las Ciencias Sociales is the property of Universidad Nacional de La Plata 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.)

A field survey of Fukuura Coast (in Tokyo Bay, Japan) revealed during the passage of Typhoon Faxai in 2019 waves with considerable momentum caused significant wave overtopping, resulting in structural damage to coastal defenses and localized flooding. The hindcasted wave height using a third-generation wave model was not high enough to explain the extent of the local damage at Fukuura Coast, likely due to such methods failing to take into account the strong gust-winds recorded during the passage of the typhoon. To solve such problems the authors developed a new numerical model that takes into account the dynamic interaction of air and water, based on the finite volume method (FVM) and the volume of fluid method (VOF). Although this model still slightly underestimates the measurements in the experiments previously conducted by different authors, it is better than existing methods when estimating the overtopping rates under strong winds. The model was then applied to a real-scale model of Fukuura Coast, where by taking into account strong gust-wind speed of 41 m/s the authors were able to explain the phenomena that took place. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Nutrition is an important determinant of health above the age of 80 years. Malnutrition in the elderly is often underdiagnosed. The aim of this study was to report the prevalence and prognostic value of malnutrition in patients ≥80 years old with atrial fibrillation (AF) with and without anticoagulant therapy.Methods and Results: We assessed the nutritional status of 4724 octogenarian patients with diagnoses of AF in a single centre from Spain between 2014 and 2017 with the CONUT score. Malnutrition was confirmed in 2036 patients (43.1%). Anticoagulation prescription was more frequent in patients with good nutrition than in those malnourished (79.5% vs. 71.7%, P < 0.001). The impact of malnutrition on mortality was evaluated by Cox regression, whereas its association with ischaemic stroke and major bleeding was studied through competing risk analysis. After multivariate adjusting, malnutrition was associated with mortality [hazard ratio (HR) 1.36, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.24-1.49], stroke [sub-distribution HR (sHR) 1.37, 95% CI 1.10-1.69], and major bleeding (sHR 1.29, 95% CI 1.02-1.64). In anticoagulated patients, the embolic-haemorrhagic trade-off event was virtually neutral for those who had normal nutritional status [average daily rates (ADRs) for stroke and bleeding: 4.70 and 4.69 per 100 000 patients/day, respectively; difference = +0.01 per 100 000 patients/day; P = 0.99] and negative for those with malnutrition (ADR for stroke and bleeding: 5.38 and 7.61 per 100 000 patients/day, respectively; difference = -2.23 per 100 000 patients/day; P = 0.07).Conclusion: Malnutrition is very common in octogenarian patients with AF, being a clinical predictor for poor prognosis. For anticoagulated patients, malnutrition was associated with a negative embolic-haemorrhagic balance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Massive landslides can generate large tsunamis and endanger human lives and properties. While a number of laboratory experiments on either subaerial or submarine landslide‐tsunamis have been conducted, few studies have focused on partially submerged events. The present study aimed to investigate the characteristics of partially submerged landslide‐tsunamis and to develop a predictive equation that can estimate their heights through three‐dimensional laboratory experiments that used 114 different conditions. The experimental results showed that, while waves generated in the landslide sliding direction had around 1.7 times higher amplitude than those propagating laterally in the near‐field region, the wave period, celerity, and wavelength did not alter significantly according to the propagation angles. The effects of wave dispersion were also shown to be significant during the propagation process. Such wave characteristics were consistent with those reported in existing subaerial landslide tsunami experiments conducted by other researchers. Based on the data set obtained, the authors also derived a predictive equation which was confirmed to be able to estimate the results of other experimental studies on partially submerged landslide‐tsunamis with an error of around ±30%, and thus can be helpful for a rapid tsunami hazard assessment. The developed equation indicated that the volume of a landslide could have more than twice the impact on the height of a partially submerged landslide‐tsunami than other parameters. The effects of the landslide size were also shown to be more significant than in the case of a subaerial landslide‐tsunami, though the wave attenuation process was similar in both types. Plain Language Summary: Massive landslides can generate large tsunamis and endanger human lives and properties. While many laboratory experiments on landslide‐generated tsunamis have been conducted, few studies have investigated on partially submerged landslide‐tsunamis. The present study conducted three‐dimensional laboratory experiments on partially submerged landslide‐tsunamis to investigate the characteristics of such waves and to develop a predictive equation of their likely height. The results showed that waves generated in the landslide sliding direction were higher than those generated in the lateral direction, though other wave properties did not change greatly (which is similar to that reported by other researchers for other types of landslide tsunamis). In addition, the results show that partially submerged landslide tsunamis have similar wave propagation properties as those of other types of landslide tsunamis. Based on the experimental results, the authors also derived a predictive equation and confirmed that it can accurately estimate the heights of partially submerged landslide‐tsunamis. The derived equation can be helpful when conducting a rapid tsunami hazard assessment. It was also found that whereas the generation process of a partially submerged landslide‐tsunami is different from a subaerial landslide‐tsunami, the propagation process is similar in both types. Key Points: Three‐dimensional laboratory experiments were conducted on partially submerged landslide‐tsunamisWhile the amplitudes of the generated waves differed according to the propagation angles, other wave properties were not clearly differentThe derived predictive equation is able to estimate the height of the partially submerged landslide‐tsunamis well [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inland tsunami flows can be greatly affected by the presence of coastal buildings. The present study experimentally and numerically investigated the effects of nine different building layouts on 1) the tsunami inundation process and spatial velocity distribution, 2) the flow depth and velocity at a specific point, and 3) the extent of the area where shielding effects take place. High-speed video footage, PIV analysis, and the time history of flow depth, surface velocity and momentum flux demonstrated significant differences in the tsunami run-up behavior among the different building layouts considered. However, it was also shown that a decrease in the surface velocity of flow always appears in front of and immediately behind the building(s), regardless of their layouts. The OpenFOAM simulations performed revealed that significant shielding effects appear in the leeside of the building. These findings can be used when considering where to place evacuation buildings, as constructing them directly behind another study structure could reduce construction costs and increase their stability. The obtained results were also applied to partially validate the method for calculating the channeling effects of tsunami loads provided in ASCE 7–16. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review discusses climate hazards and specific risks associated with existing and new nuclear power plants under global warming level futures, with an emphasis on water-based risks for plants that rely on traditional water-cooling processes. Projected hazards, including extreme heatwaves, sea-level rise, and altered precipitation patterns pose significant challenges to the safe and efficient operation of nuclear plants. Additional risks include reduced water-cooling system efficiency, clogging due to biological contamination of water streams, water access issues in reactors during droughts, disruptions from extreme storms, and coastal sea level rise. These findings emphasise the importance of formulating appropriate adaptation strategies that incorporate enhanced safety measures in the planning and design of new nuclear facilities. Incorporating these specific risks into mitigation scenarios and decision-making processes for nuclear energy expansion or modernisation is crucial to improve the resilience of such infrastructure in the face of a changing climate. • Nuclear plants face increasing climate hazards, such as risks tied to water stress. • Weather extremes, sea-level rise and altered precipitation put nuclear plant safety at increased risk. • Mitigation scenarios with nuclear energy expansion should consider climate impacts that are regionally specific. • Adaptation for enhanced safety in planned nuclear facilities must consider regional climate impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Keywords: rat; body organs; brain regions; chromatin accessibility; transcription factors EN rat body organs brain regions chromatin accessibility transcription factors 1 7 7 05/27/21 20210524 NES 210524 Introduction The use of animal models has greatly facilitated biomedical discoveries to better understand human physiology and diseases (Baldini, [4]). Identification of Tissue-Specific Chromatin Accessible Peaks and Transcription Factors We next identified all genome-wide tissue-specific chromatin accessible regions as illustrated in Figures 2A,B. For tissue-specific genes, we provide integrative genomics viewer results showing higher ATAC-seq enrichment at annotated or putative promoters and enhancers (Figure 2C and Supplementary Figure 1A). In addition, by comparing the open chromatin landscapes among rat tissues, a total of 34,219 body organ-specific peaks, 38,502 brain-specific peaks and a list of putative tissue-specific transcription factors were unbiasedly identified. In order to better understand the relationship between brain regions and social play behaviors, we also analyzed brain datasets to identify region-specific transcription factors. [Extracted from the article]

Rats have been widely used as an experimental organism in psychological, pharmacological, and behavioral studies by modeling human diseases such as neurological disorders. It is critical to identify and characterize cell fate determinants and their regulatory mechanisms in single-cell resolutions across rat brain regions. Here, we applied droplet-based single-nucleus assay for transposase-accessible chromatin using sequencing (snATAC-seq) to systematically profile the single-cell chromatin accessibility across four dissected brain areas in adult Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats with a total of 59,023 single nuclei and identified 16 distinct cell types. Interestingly, we found that different cortex regions exhibit diversity in both cellular compositions and gene regulatory regions. Several cell-type-specific transcription factors (TFs), including SPI1, KLF4, KLF6, and NEUROD2, have been shown to play important roles during the pathogenesis of various neurological diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), astrocytic gliomas, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and intellectual disabilities. Therefore, our single-nucleus atlas of rat cortex could serve as an invaluable resource for dissecting the regulatory mechanisms underlying diverse cortex cell fates and further revealing the regulatory networks of neuropathogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The deltaic coast of Myanmar was severely hit by tropical cyclone Nargis in May 2008. In the present study, a top-down numerical simulation approach using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) and Simulating WAves Nearshore (SWAN) models was conducted to study the meteorological and offshore wave characteristics of cyclone Nargis near the coast of Myanmar. The WRF simulation results agree well with the observed data from the India Meteorological Department. SWAN simulation results were compared with the WaveWatch 3 model by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and validated against available measurement data from satellites. The model results show relatively good agreement, and hindcast with satellites data (significant wave height only) shows a correlation coefficient value of 0.89. The SWAN and satellite comparisons also show better fit for high wave conditions. The resulted maximum significant wave height of 7.3 m by SWAN is considerably higher in energy than the seasonal waves normally prevalent at Myanmar's deltaic coast. The possibility of high energy waves due to cyclones should be considered during the design and operation of coastal and offshore projects in the area, particularly given the risks that climate change can intensify cyclones in the future. Since Myanmar lacks a dense network of in-situ observational stations, the methodology used in the current study presents the potential application of various numerical techniques and satellite data to estimate extreme wave conditions near the Myanmar coast. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 2011 Tohoku Tsunami caused severe damage to many coastal defenses along the Japanese coastline, including areas where two adjacent upright sea dikes of different heights met. There are many places along the coastline where structures of different heights and shapes meet due to the various design codes. In this study, the authors aim to examine the tsunami flow around such dikes by conducting three-dimensional hydraulic experiments in a tsunami wave basin and numerical simulations using the fluid dynamics model OpenFOAM. Twelve experimental cases were tested by changing the waveforms, and also by keeping the height of one side of the dike model constant while adjusting the dimensions of the other side. The results show that the difference in height between the structures significantly influences the volume of overtopping over the relatively lower dike and the inundation depth and velocity behind the dikes. Furthermore, different characteristics of inundation patterns are observed between the inundation depth and velocity. Hence, this study illustrates the necessity to re-assess the effectiveness of such structures against tsunami events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The September 28, 2018 earthquake and tsunami, which occurred north of Palu City, Indonesia, attracted widespread interest from the scientific community due to the unusually large tsunami that occurred after a strike-slip earthquake with a relatively small moment magnitude (MW = 7.5). To understand the structural performance of buildings and infrastructure under hydrodynamic loads and their associated effects, the authors conducted field surveys in Palu City. Light wooden frame constructions and masonry infill walls were common in the area, some of which were severely damaged by the earthquake and tsunami. Reinforced concrete structures remained predominantly intact, although they suffered soil-related issues such as scour around rigid building members. Local structural failures caused by the loss of supporting soil were also observed during the field survey, resulting in an overall reduction in the stability of the inspected structures. Based on the observations made, knowledge gaps and research needs concerning coastal and structural scouring are discussed. These are tied into the latest community research activities and put in the context of a published ASCE standard chapter that discusses tsunami design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 2011 Tohoku Earthquake and Tsunami generated a massive tsunami that devastated Kujukuri Beach in Chiba Prefecture, Japan. The possibility that edge waves were involved in the propagation mechanism of the tsunami was investigated by using a numerical method. To detect the components of edge waves, the fluctuations of the simulated sea level, the variations of the power spectral and the phase, coherences, as well as the dispersed relations of the wavelength and the period, were analyzed. As a result, it was possible to conclude that there is a high probability that edge waves could have propagated around this coastline. In addition, to analyze the various types of edge waves that could be expected three additional earthquake scenarios were considered, each of them with a different magnitude and epicenter: the 1896 Sanriku Earthquake, the 1677 Empo Boso-oki Earthquake, and the 1703 Genroku Kanto Earthquake. This comparison indicates that there is a particular risk that edge waves can be generated by large earthquakes with their epicenter in the northern part of the Japan Trench. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantitative assessments on the effect of translate speed of typhoons on wind waves were carried out. A WRF-SWAN coupled model that used observed meteorological data was applied to eight different typhoons in the vicinity of Shiono-Misaki, on the pacific side of Honshu Island, Japan. The authors proposed a new methodology to modify the translate speed and wind field of tropical cyclones using an empirical model in which the gross wind speed is expressed as the summation of two different types of wind generation. Two different trends of the relationship between the significant wave height ( H s ) and translate speed (V ) were found, describing the most dominant parameter. Typhoons with a modest intensity and size (for the case of Japan) generally showed a positive correlation between the change in the maximum H s and V , which means translation wind speed was the dominant parameter. In contrast, stronger typhoons were less sensitive to the change in V and could maintain high waves even when almost stationary. With reference to the results, it is important to raise awareness of the future problems that could be caused by large storms that stall for prolonged periods of time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, three different types of landslide-generated tsunamis (subaerial, partially submerged and submarine) were investigated through laboratory experiments that used 261 different experimental conditions. The results show that, for the near-field region, the subaerial landslide generated a higher leading wave, while the submarine landslide generated a higher second wave. However, frequency dispersion considerably influenced their propagation, with the leading wave decaying and the trailing waves being enhanced. The present study also revealed that the leading wave has higher values for wave celerity, period, and length than the second wave, regardless of landslide type. It was also shown that the celerity of the leading wave and second wave can be approximated by the solitary wave theory and third-order Stokes theory, respectively. Using the extensive experimental dataset obtained, predictive equations to estimate the maximum crest amplitudes generated by partially submerged and submarine landslides were also developed. A comparison with the experiments of previous researchers and field survey data from the 2018 Palu Tsunami indicated that these equations can estimate reasonably well the height of the generated tsunami. It was also shown that the relative mass and initial position of the landslide are influential nondimensional parameters to determine the tsunami amplitudes generated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The September 28 2018 Palu tsunami surprised the scientific community, as neither the earthquake magnitude nor its strike-slip mechanism were deemed capable of producing the wave heights that were observed. However, recent research has shown that the earthquake generated several landslides inside Palu bay. The authors conducted a post-disaster field survey of the area affected to collect spatial data on tsunami inundation heights, nearshore and bay bathymetry, and carried out eyewitness interviews to collect testimonies of the event. In addition, numerical simulations of the tsunami generation and propagation mechanisms were carried out and validated with the inferred time series. Seven small submarine landslides were identified along the western shore of the bay, and one large one was reported on the eastern shore of Palu City. Most of these landslides occurred at river mouths and reclamation areas, where soft submarine sediments had accumulated. The numerical simulations support a scenario in which the tsunami waves that arrived at Palu city 4–10 min after the earthquake were caused by the co-seismic seafloor deformation, possibly coupled with secondary waves generated from several submarine landslides. These findings suggest that more comprehensive methodologies and tools need to be used when assessing probabilistic tsunami hazards in narrow bays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water level oscillations induced by the ground motion of an earthquake have occasionally been observed in a closed or partially enclosed water system. The generated water disturbances can induce localized flooding, boat collisions, breakage/damage of moored cables due to water disturbances, or even the capsizing of vessels. In this study, the authors focused on cases of seismic water level oscillations in canals and attempted to investigate the potential hazards of and effective countermeasures against them through numerical simulations. The proposed numerical simulation model was first validated by reproducing the water level oscillation that was actually observed at a canal in Mexico City (Xochimilco Canal) during the 2017 Central Mexico Earthquake. The method was then applied to one of the canals in Tokyo (Keihin Canal) to clarify the potential water level fluctuations that can take place due to this phenomenon. The results indicate that while the risks of local inundation would be low, small boats, which can be found in many places in the canal, are at risk of capsizing. Finally, the use of wave-dissipating blocks was found to be an effective countermeasure to decrease the potential for a significant seismic water level oscillation to take place in this canal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Southeast Asia's coastal urban areas continue to grow, with land reclamation fast becoming an important option for megacities to address issues of economic growth and increasing population density. Experts are divided over the advantages and disadvantages of land reclamation, though this process continues unabated, exposing settlements to coastal hazards. The Bataan Shipping and Engineering Company (BASECO) compound is an informal settlement on reclaimed land in Manila, the Philippines. How informal coastal settlements view disaster risk and their more pressing socioeconomic needs is crucial to understanding the potentials and repercussions of land reclamation. Using a topographic survey, a questionnaire survey, and the protective action decision model, this study explored the perception of disasters and land reclamation of informal settlers who are living on reclaimed land. The study found that people are aware of disaster risks, but are more concerned with everyday needs. They are divided on the issue of further land reclamation. Residents on the original non-reclaimed land view it as a coastal defense, while those on reclaimed land fear potential eviction. Despite this, all locations in the community are concerned with the loss of jobs, economic opportunities, and eviction, rather than potential disasters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Five cases of ports in Japan and Indonesia that have subsided by a metre or more were analysed. The findings suggest that there are no unsurmountable technological, cost-benefit, financial and social limits to the progressive raising of these ports, at least for the magnitude of climate-induced sea-level rise expected during the 21st century. In Indonesia observed adaptation is a sequential process: only part of the port is raised at one time, allowing port operations to continue elsewhere and spreading costs in time. Jumps in unit costs are apparent as the elevation height increases. In addition, the possibility of sea-level rise triggering innovative changes in port design to lower costs (e.g., a move to floating ports) is being considered. For traditional ports to upgrade by up to 1 metre, unit costs are found to be somewhere between 50–360 USD/m3 rise (not including the cost of piling). Nevertheless, such adaptation costs would represent a significant burden and adaptation is often reactive rather than proactive, leading to significant damage costs, as in the case of Hurricane Katrina's impact on Gulf Coast Ports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Volcanic ashfall can cause considerable social impacts to a wide geographical area. Given the challenge to predict volcanic eruptions, it is essential to simulate the dispersion of ash as soon as possible after an event and promptly estimate the distribution of deposits and necessary removal works. In this study, a series of procedures to improve the accuracy of the WRF-FALL3D model for the case of the eruption of Mt. Kusatsu-Shirane in 2018 are proposed, which were verified through field surveys of ash deposits, showing that the accuracy of the model can be improved by selecting a range of column heights and promptly conducting field surveys following an event. Also, a methodology to estimate the amount of work necessary to clear road networks and river channels is proposed, which was applied to a volcanic event similar to that of the Hoei eruption of Mt. Fuji in 1707. The results also emphasize the need to improve the estimation of column heights in the future, which is of paramount importance to ensure the safety and operational continuity of human infrastructure in the vicinity of major active volcanoes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2018, Lombok island, Indonesia, was hit by a series of destructive earthquakes that caused thousands of casualties and widespread material damage. In response to those events, a field survey was conducted along the coast of Lombok aiming at collecting data about disaster preparedness and awareness of local inhabitants regarding natural disasters, with a focus on tsunami events. During the survey, the authors interviewed witnesses of small tsunami waves that were generated by the 2018 earthquakes. The work described here encompasses the authors' field observations, which helped ascertain the occurrence of small-scale tsunamis, and the analysis of data collected via unstructured interviews and a limited questionnaire survey. Attention is drawn to the potential value added by recording small-scale tsunamis for future research, and some insights into what priorities should be set for future disaster risk management in Lombok are provided. The authors suggest that improvements in disaster awareness and education of residents, flood-proofing of houses that are bound to be reconstructed after the earthquakes, and investment in a fully modern flood warning system would be beneficial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nondestructive testing (NDT) includes several highly efficient techniques for the estimation of the physical and mechanical properties of structural timber. However, NDT results are affected by several factors [moisture content (MC), temperature, specimen dimensions, sensor positioning and grain angle, timber-sensor coupling, etc.], of which wood MC is the most important. Scientific research on MC influence in NDT measurements started in the 19th century, and 2018 was the first year that a MC adjustment for NDT measurements was published in a European standard (EN14081-2). Although MC influence on NDT has been studied for more than 170 years, MC adjustment factor research is important nowadays because it is widely used in the industry. Currently, NDT device manufacturers develop their own MC adjustment factors adapted to their equipment and species. This paper presents an exhaustive review of MC adjustments for different types of NDT equipment, as proposed by several authors from the 19th century to date, and a discussion of factors affecting MC adjustments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Past studies have projected that global mean sea levels could be up to between 0.98 and 2.92 m higher by the year 2100 than pre-industrial levels, which could seriously affect wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). However, there is currently a lack of guidelines regarding how these types of installations can adapt to sea level rise (SLR). The present research analyzes how SLR might affect WWTPs that are situated near the coastline and how they can adapt by using experiences of land subsidence as a proxy. The Tohoku region in northern Japan experienced severe land subsidence (up to − 1.14 m in Ishinomaki city) after the 2011 Tohoku earthquake. The authors conducted in-depth interviews with staff from three significant WWTPs in the area to elucidate the effects that land subsidence had on their operations and how they could adapt to an increase in land subsidence or SLR. The results suggest that for land subsidence of − 0.53 m (equivalent to a SLR of + 0.53 m), the surveyed WWTPs were considered to be able to operate normally, without undertaking any major adaptation actions. Critical levels that influence the vulnerability and adaptation strategies of WWTPs to SLR were identified. These critical levels can help differentiate between the three types of SLR-induced flooding that can affect the plants, namely coastal flooding, discharge flooding and groundwater inundation. WWTPs utilizing combined sewage systems may face more difficulties when adapting to SLR. Finally, the authors proposed limit-state adaptation pathways for WWTPs situated in low-lying coastal areas, including a sequence of possible countermeasures and a timeline for specific actions to take place. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tsunamis can cause large damage to breakwaters and other protection structures placed along the coastline. The strong flows generated by such waves can move the armor units of composite breakwaters, leading to large impact forces on the caissons behind them. In the present work laboratory experiments were carried out in a flume to determine the forces that can result from such impacts. Then, an empirical equation that would allow the estimation of these forces was proposed, with the aim of facilitating the construction of returning walls and parapets situated on top of caissons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Visfatin/extracellular-nicotinamide-phosphoribosyltranferase-(eNampt) is a multifaceted adipokine enhanced in type-2-diabetes and obesity. Visfatin/eNampt cause in vitro endothelial dysfunction and vascular inflammation, although whether the same effects are achieved in vivo is unknown. Toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4), a main surface pattern recognition receptor of innate immune system is a potential target for visfatin/eNampt. We studied its capacity to generate vascular dysfunction in vivo, focusing on TLR4 role and downstream activation of nod-like-receptor-protein-3 (NLRP3)-inflammasome. 4 month-old C57BL/6 mice were exposed to 7 days infusion of visfatin/eNampt, alone or together with FK 866 (Nampt enzymatic inhibitor), CLI 095 (TLR4 blocker), MCC 950 (NLRP3-inflammasome inhibitor), or anakinra (interleukin(IL)-1-receptor antagonist). Endothelial dysfunction was tested in isolated microvessels. In human umbilical endothelial cells (HUVEC), proteins related to the NLRP3-inflammasome phosphorylated p-65, NLRP3, caspase-1, pro-IL-1β, and mature IL-1β were determined by Western blot, while the inflammasome related apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain (ASC-specks) was studied by immunofluorescence. Impaired endothelium-dependent relaxations were observed in isolated mesenteric microvessels from visfatin/eNampt-infused mice. This effect was attenuated by co-treatment with FK 866 or CLI 095, supporting a role for Nampt enzymatic activity and TLR4 activation. Moreover, cultured HUVEC exposed to visfatin/eNampt showed higher expression and activation of NLRP3-inflammasome. Again, this effect relied on Nampt enzymatic activity and TLR4 activation, and it was abrogated by the inflammasome assembly blockade with MCC 950. The endothelial dysfunction evoked by visfatin/eNampt infusion in vivo was also sensitive to both MCC 950 and anakinra treatments, suggesting that the NLRP3-inflammasome-driven tissular release of IL-1β is the final mediator of endothelial damage. We conclude that Visfatin/eNampt produces in vivo vascular dysfunction in mice by a Nampt-dependent TLR4-mediated pathway, involving NLRP3-inflammasome and paracrine IL-1β. Thus, those targets may become therapeutic strategies for attenuating the adipokine-mediated vascular dysfunction associated to obesity and/or type-2-diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The object of the present study is to numerically evaluate the characteristics of future potential typhoons and storm surges around Tokyo Bay under a RCP8.5 scenario usinga simple one-way model system composed of ARW-WRF and FVCO. In order to evaluate the effect of the expected future increase in sea surface temperature (SST), air temperature (AT) and relative humidity (RH) four types of cases were considered in the 2041–2060 and 2081–2100 horizons. The results show how higher SST will likely lead to more intense typhoons and storm surges, though higher AT in troposphere and tropopause will somehow moderate this effect. In addition, a simple method to estimate the most influential wind direction that can generate surge elevations in Yokohama, Tokyo and Funabashi was examined by using the results of a numerical simulation. Finally, a simple methodology to calculate the required design height of sea walls and dykes in Tokyo Bay was developed, which shows how current design levels will be insufficient to maintain the present acceptable risk levels in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]