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Copyright of Biodiversity & Conservation is the property of Springer Nature 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.)

We employ direct numerical simulations to investigate the heat transfer and flow structures in turbulent Rayleigh–Bénard convection in both cylindrical cells and laterally periodic domains, spanning an unprecedentedly wide range of aspect ratios $0.075 \leqslant \varGamma \leqslant 32$. We focus on Prandtl number ${Pr}=1$ and Rayleigh numbers ${{Ra}}=2\times 10^7$ and ${{Ra}}=10^8$. In both cases, with increasing aspect ratio, the heat transfer first increases, then reaches a maximum (which is more pronounced for the cylindrical case due to confinement effects), and then slightly goes down again before it finally saturates at the large aspect ratio limit, which is achieved already at $\varGamma \approx 4$. Already for $\varGamma \gtrsim 0.75$ , the heat transfers in both cylindrical and laterally periodic domains become identical. The large- $\varGamma$ limit for the volume-integrated Reynolds number and the boundary layer thicknesses are also reached at $\varGamma \approx 4$. However, while the integral flow properties converge at $\varGamma \approx 4$ , the confinement of a cylindrical domain impacts the temperature and velocity variance distributions up to $\varGamma \approx 16$ , as thermal superstructures cannot form close to the sidewall. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We provide scaling relations for the Nusselt number $Nu$ and the friction coefficient $C_{S}$ in sheared Rayleigh–Bénard convection, i.e. in Rayleigh–Bénard flow with Couette- or Poiseuille-type shear forcing, by extending the Grossmann & Lohse (J. Fluid Mech. , vol. 407, 2000, pp. 27–56, Phys. Rev. Lett. , vol. 86, 2001, pp. 3316–3319, Phys. Rev. E , vol. 66, 2002, 016305, Phys. Fluids , vol. 16, 2004, pp. 4462–4472) theory to sheared thermal convection. The control parameters for these systems are the Rayleigh number $Ra$ , the Prandtl number $Pr$ and the Reynolds number $Re_S$ that characterises the strength of the imposed shear. By direct numerical simulations and theoretical considerations, we show that, in turbulent Rayleigh–Bénard convection, the friction coefficients associated with the applied shear and the shear generated by the large-scale convection rolls are both well described by Prandtl's (Ergeb. Aerodyn. Vers. Gött. , vol. 4, 1932, pp. 18–29) logarithmic friction law, suggesting some kind of universality between purely shear-driven flows and thermal convection. These scaling relations hold well for $10^6 \leq Ra \leq 10^8$ , $0.5 \leq Pr \leq 5.0$ , and $0 \leq Re_S \leq 10^4$. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate prediction of the global properties of wall-bounded turbulence holds significant importance for both fundamental research and engineering applications. In atmospheric boundary layers, the relationship between friction drag and geostrophic wind is described by the geostrophic drag law (GDL). We use carefully designed large-eddy simulations to study nocturnal stable atmospheric boundary layers (NSBLs), which are characterized by a negative potential temperature flux at the surface and neutral stratification higher up. Our simulations explore a wider range of the Kazanski–Monin parameter, $\mu = L_f / L_s = [16.7, 193.3]$ , with $L_f$ the Ekman length scale and $L_s$ the surface Obukhov length. We show collapse of the GDL coefficients onto single curves as functions of $\mu$ , thereby validating the GDL's applicability to NSBLs over a very wide $\mu$ range. We show that the boundary-layer height $h$ scales with $\sqrt {L_f L_s}$ , while both the streamwise and spanwise wind gradients scale with $u_*^2 / (h^2 f)$ , where $u_*$ represents the friction velocity and $f$ the Coriolis parameter. Leveraging these insights, we developed new analytical expressions for the GDL coefficients, significantly enhancing our understanding of the GDL for turbulent boundary layers. These formulations facilitate the analytical prediction of the geostrophic drag coefficient and cross-isobaric angle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. Species should optimally modify behavior to local conditions, a concept we examined in bats. If landscapes differ, changes in roost use should manifest, influenced by habitat characteristics and conspecifics. We tested the relationship between bats and landscape, contrasting roosting behavior between contiguous forest and fragmented matrix. 2. Artibeus lituratus is a common bat in the Atlantic Forests of Paraguay. We collected day-roosting behavior data by following radio-telemetered bats, and compared observations between bat groups in the contiguous reserve and surrounding fragmented matrix. 3. Bats exhibited no difference between landscapes in the average number of roost trees used, frequency of roost switching, and area of roosting range. 4. Shared roosts were less available in the matrix landscape; on average matrix bats used shared roosts more often than contiguous landscape bats. However, the proportion of roost days shared were not different between landscapes. Roosting group sizes were found to differ, but not between landscapes. Instead, adult bats roosted in larger groups while pups were present. 5. Roost trees in the matrix landscape may provide less protection from predators. On average, we were less likely to visually confirm bats roosting in the contiguous landscape than those in the matrix. Bats in the contiguous landscape also roosted higher than those in the matrix, unless the roost tree was uncommonly short. Bats exhibited no difference in flushing frequency between landscapes. 6. Some of the behavioral differences observed could be heuristic and diagnostic when assessing the ecological condition of a landscape. Significance statement: Where species range across changing landscapes, evolutionary theory predicts their behaviors will adapt accordingly. When landscapes change by human activities, native biodiversity can be negatively affected. Wildlife that persists in human-modified landscapes are often subjected to increased environmental stressors, which emerge from those new environments. Stressors can manifest as altered behaviors, which are different from the behaviors of populations occurring in unmodified habitats. Researchers can then quantify behavioral differences to compare unmodified and modified habitats. We provide proof of concept, comparing roosting behaviors between two groups of the great fruit-eating bat (Artibeus lituratus). Behaviors differed between two landscapes in visual detection ease, roosting height, and proportion of roost trees shared. Such behaviors — when consistent — are potential indicators of declining ecological health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wind turbine noise propagation in a hilly terrain is studied through numerical simulation in different scenarios. Linearized Euler equations are solved in a moving frame that follows the wavefront, and wind turbine noise is modeled with an extended moving source. We employ large-eddy simulations to simulate the flow around the hill and the wind turbine. The sound pressure levels (SPLs) obtained for a wind turbine in front of a 2D hill and a wind turbine on a hilltop are compared to a baseline flat case. First, the source height and wind speed strongly affect sound propagation downwind. We find that topography influences the wake shape, inducing changes in the sound propagation that drastically modify the SPL downwind. Placing the turbine on the hilltop increases the average sound pressure level and amplitude modulation downwind. For the wind turbine placed upstream of a hill, a strong shielding effect is observed. But, because of the refraction by the wind gradient, levels are comparable with the baseline flat case just after the hill. Thus, considering how terrain topography alters the flow and wind turbine wake is essential to accurately predict wind turbine noise propagation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background : Action on smoking, obesity, excess alcohol, and physical inactivity in primary care is effective and cost-effective, but implementation is low. The aim was to examine the effectiveness of strategies to increase the implementation of preventive healthcare in primary care. Methods: CINAHL, CENTRAL, The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Dissertations & Theses – Global, Embase, Europe PMC, MEDLINE and PsycINFO were searched from inception through 5 October 2023 with no date of publication or language limits. Randomised trials, non-randomised trials, controlled before-after studies and interrupted time series studies comparing implementation strategies (team changes; changes to the electronic patient registry; facilitated relay of information; continuous quality improvement; clinician education; clinical reminders; financial incentives or multicomponent interventions) to usual care were included. Two reviewers screened studies, extracted data, and assessed bias with an adapted Cochrane risk of bias tool for Effective Practice and Organisation of Care reviews. Meta-analysis was conducted with random-effects models. Narrative synthesis was conducted where meta-analysis was not possible. Outcome measures included process and behavioural outcomes at the closest point to 12 months for each implementation strategy. Results: Eighty-five studies were included comprising of 4,210,946 participants from 3713 clusters in 71 cluster trials, 6748 participants in 5 randomised trials, 5,966,552 participants in 8 interrupted time series, and 176,061 participants in 1 controlled before after study. There was evidence that clinical reminders (OR 3.46; 95% CI 1.72–6.96; I2 = 89.4%), clinician education (OR 1.89; 95% CI 1.46–2.46; I2 = 80.6%), facilitated relay of information (OR 1.95, 95% CI 1.10–3.46, I2 = 88.2%), and multicomponent interventions (OR 3.10; 95% CI 1.60–5.99, I2 = 96.1%) increased processes of care. Multicomponent intervention results were robust to sensitivity analysis. There was no evidence that other implementation strategies affected processes of care or that any of the implementation strategies improved behavioural outcomes. No studies reported on interventions specifically designed for remote consultations. Limitations included high statistical heterogeneity and many studies did not account for clustering. Conclusions: Multicomponent interventions may be the most effective implementation strategy. There was no evidence that implementation interventions improved behavioural outcomes. Trial registration: PROSPERO CRD42022350912. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: External validation studies create evidence about a clinical prediction rule's (CPR's) generalizability by evaluating and updating the CPR in populations different from those used in the derivation, and also by contributing to estimating its overall performance when meta-analysed in a systematic review. While most cardiovascular CPRs do not have any external validation, some CPRs have been externally validated repeatedly. Hence, we examined whether external validation studies of the Framingham Wilson coronary heart disease (CHD) risk rule contributed to generating evidence to their full potential. Methods: A forward citation search of the Framingham Wilson CHD risk rule's derivation study was conducted to identify studies that evaluated the Framingham Wilson CHD risk rule in different populations. For external validation studies of the Framingham Wilson CHD risk rule, we examined whether authors updated the Framingham Wilson CHD risk rule when it performed poorly. We also assessed the contribution of external validation studies to understanding the Predicted/Observed (P/O) event ratio and c statistic of the Framingham Wilson CHD risk rule. Results: We identified 98 studies that evaluated the Framingham Wilson CHD risk rule; 40 of which were external validation studies. Of these 40 studies, 27 (67.5%) concluded the Framingham Wilson CHD risk rule performed poorly but did not update it. Of 23 external validation studies conducted with data that could be included in meta-analyses, 13 (56.5%) could not fully contribute to the meta-analyses of P/O ratio and/or c statistic because these performance measures were neither reported nor could be calculated from provided data. Discussion: Most external validation studies failed to generate evidence about the Framingham Wilson CHD risk rule's generalizability to their full potential. Researchers might increase the value of external validation studies by presenting all relevant performance measures and by updating the CPR when it performs poorly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myotis septentrionalis (Northern Long-eared Bat) has recently suffered a >90% decline in population size in North America due to white-nose syndrome (WNS). We assessed genetic diversity, population structure, current effective population size, and demographic history of M. septentrionalis distributed across the United States to determine baseline levels pre-WNS. We analyzed RADseq data from 81 individuals from Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, Oklahoma, and Wisconsin. Additionally, we examined population genetic structure using discriminant analysis of principal components, fastStructure, and STRUCTURE. We then estimated effective population size and demographic history using fastsimcoal2. Similar levels of genetic diversity were found across all samples. We found no population genetic structure in the varied analyses from these contemporary samples. The best model for demographic history estimated a rapid population expansion followed by a slower expansion approximately 340,000 years ago. The vagility of M. septentrionalis , along with male dispersal and random mating, may provide a buffer against serious bottleneck effects stemming from rapid population declines due to WNS. This research provides a baseline for tracking and monitoring the influence of WNS on genetic diversity such as potential reduced diversity or increased population structuring in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the parameterization of the geostrophic drag law (GDL) for conventionally neutral atmospheric boundary layers (CNBLs). Utilizing large eddy simulations, we confirm that in CNBLs capped by a potential temperature inversion, the boundary-layer height scales as u ∗ / Nf , where u ∗ represents the friction velocity, N the free-atmosphere Brunt–Väisälä frequency, and f the Coriolis parameter. Additionally, we confirm that the wind gradients normalized by the Brunt–Väisälä frequency have universal profiles above the surface layer. Leveraging these physical insights, we derived analytical expressions for the GDL coefficients A and B, correcting the earlier form of Zilitinkevich and Esau (Q J R Meteorol Soc 131:1863–1892, 2005). These expressions for A and B have been validated numerically, ensuring their accuracy in representing the geostrophic drag coefficient u ∗ / G (G is the geostrophic wind speed) and the cross-isobaric angle. This work extends the range for which the GDL has been validated up to u ∗ / G = [ 0.019 , 0.047 ] . This further supports the application of GDL to CNBLs over a broader range of u ∗ / G , which is useful for meteorological applications such as wind energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Neotropical Mammalogy / Mastozoologia Neotropical is the property of Sociedad Argentina para el Estudio de los Mamiferos 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 degree to which Grinnellian and Eltonian niche characteristics influence species distribution may depend on latitude. Tropical regions are environmentally stable and resource-rich, whereas temperate regions are comparatively less environmentally stable (e.g., environmental filtering). Moreover, phylogenetic niche conservatism could influence distributions by inhibiting the ability for species to colonize environmentally different locations. Herein, we examine relationships between niche characteristics, passerine distributions, and phylogenetic niche conservatism across the latitudinal gradient. We used environmental and climatic variables to characterize Grinnellian niches and diets to characterize Eltonian niches. We conducted variation partitioning with retained components from ordination methods to evaluate the degree of association of Grinnellian and Eltonian niche characteristics with passerine distribution across latitudes. We examined the relationship between phylogenetic signal and niche characteristics with a phylogenetic regression. Passerine distributions were more related to environmental gradients than resources across latitudes. While niche conservatism was prevalent in Eltonian niche characteristics, phylogeny was related to Grinnellian niche characteristics in only 46% of biomes. There was no latitudinal gradient in phylogenetic niche conservatism or the degree to which Eltonian and Grinnellian niche characteristics relate to passerine distribution. Niche conservatism, albeit weak, was present for Grinnellian niche characteristics, thus potentially influencing the expansion of passerine distributions into the northern hemisphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Western North American Naturalist is the property of Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum 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.)

Background Restricted activity is a potential early marker of declining health in older adults. Previous studies of this association with patient outcomes have been inconclusive. This review aimed to evaluate the extent to which restricted activity is associated with decline in health. Methods A search was conducted for studies including people over 65 years old which investigated the association between measures of restricted activity and hospitalisation, cognitive decline, and mortality. Following data extraction by two reviewers, eligible studies were summarised using Inverse Variance Heterogeneity meta-analysis. Results The search identified 8,434 unique publications, with 11 eligible studies. Three measures of restricted activity were identified: bed rest, restricted movement, and dependency for activities of daily living (ADL). Three studies looked at hospitalisations, with two finding a significant association with bed rest or restricted movement and one showing no evidence of an association. Restricted activity was associated with a significant increase in mortality across all three measures (bed rest odds ratio [OR] 6.34, 95%CI 2.51-16.02, 12=76%; restricted movement OR 5.38 95%CI 2.60-11.13, 12=69%; general ADL dependency OR 4.65 95%CI 2.25-9.26, 12=84%). The significant heterogeneity observed could not be explained by restricting the analysis by length of follow-up, or measure of restricted activity. No meta-analysis was conducted on the limited evidence for cognitive decline outcomes. Conclusions Limited studies have considered the prognostic value of restricted activity in terms of predicting future declining health. Current evidence suggests restricted activity is associated with hospitalisation and mortality, and therefore could identify a group for whom early intervention might be possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using sequences from 2,615 ultraconserved element (UCE) loci and multiple methodologies we inferred phylogenies for the largest genetic data set of New World bats in the genus Myotis to date. The resulting phylogenetic trees were populated with short branch lengths and widespread conflict, hallmarks consistent with rapid adaptive radiations. The degree of conflict observed in Myotis has likely contributed to difficulties disentangling deeper evolutionary relationships. Unlike earlier phylogenies based on 1 to 2 gene sequences, this UCE data set places M. brandtii outside the New World clades. Introgression testing of a small subset of our samples revealed evidence of historical but not contemporary gene flow, suggesting that hybridization occurs less frequently in the Neotropics than the Nearctic. We identified several instances of cryptic lineages within described species as well as several instances of potential taxonomic oversplitting. Evidence from Central and South American localities suggests that diversity in those regions is not fully characterized. In light of the accumulated evidence of the evolutionary complexity in Myotis and our survey of the taxonomic implications from our phylogenies, it is apparent that the definition of species and regime of species delimitation need to be reevaluated for Myotis. This will require substantial collaboration and sample sharing between geneticists and taxonomists to build a system that is both robust and applicable in a genus as diverse as Myotis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective management of rare species requires an understanding of spatial variation in abundance, which is challenging to estimate. We tested the efficacy of high‐resolution imagery to detect burrows of the Texas kangaroo rat (TKR; Dipodomys elator) as a means of estimating abundance across its geographic range. Specifically, we estimated burrow counts using an Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) to collect data from very high‐resolution Red–Green–Blue (RGB) imagery and estimate digital elevation (2.5‐mm pixel resolution) over active and inactive burrows located on mesquite mounds and anthropogenic features (roadsides, fences, etc.). In 2018, we identified 26 burrow locations on a private ranch in Wichita County, Texas, USA, and characterized burrows based on topography and vegetation density. We found that TKR burrows can only be identified with data of <5 cm pixel resolution, thus eliminating the possibility of using high‐resolution imagery data currently available for Texas. Alternatively, we propose that the use of National Agriculture Imagery Program (NAIP) imagery at 0.5‐ and 0.6‐m pixel resolution, in combination with resampled digital elevation data, can provide an effective means for identifying potential TKR burrow locations at the county level. We present 3 different approaches at the county and local scale that combine topographic and vegetation fractional cover information using a weighted overlay approach. The modeling approaches have strong predictive capabilities and can be integrated with UAS data for visual confirmation of active and inactive burrows. We concluded that very high‐resolution imagery and topographic information at pixel resolutions <5 cm collected by airborne systems can effectively help locate active TKR burrows. However, to remain cost effective, upscaling to the county level will require reducing the sampling area to the most suitable habitat. Modeling approaches, such as those proposed in this study, can help effectively locate these sampling areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interior oceans of several icy moons are considered as affected by rotation. Observations suggest a larger heat transport around the poles than at the equator. Rotating Rayleigh‐Bénard convection (RRBC) in planar configuration can show an enhanced heat transport compared to the non‐rotating case within this "rotation‐affected" regime. We investigate the potential for such a (polar) heat transport enhancement in these subglacial oceans by direct numerical simulations of RRBC in spherical geometry for Ra = 106 and 0.7 ≤ Pr ≤ 4.38. We find an enhancement up to 28% in the "polar tangent cylinder," which is globally compensated by a reduced heat transport at low latitudes. As a result, the polar heat transport can exceed the equatorial by up to 50%. The enhancement is mostly insensitive to different radial gravity profiles, but decreases for thinner shells. In general, polar heat transport and its enhancement in spherical RRBC follow the same principles as in planar RRBC. Plain Language Summary: The icy moons of Jupiter and Saturn like for example, Europa, Titan, or Enceladus are believed to have a water ocean beneath their ice crust. Several of them show phenomena in their polar regions like active geysers or a thinner crust than at the equator, all of which might be related to a larger heat transport around the poles from the underlying ocean. We simulate the flow dynamics and currents in these subglacial ocean by high‐fidelity simulations, though still at less extreme parameters than in reality, to study the heat transport and provide a possible explanation of such a "polar heat transport enhancement." We find that the heat transport around the poles can be up to 50% larger than around the equator, and that the believed properties of the icy moons and their oceans would allow polar heat transport enhancement. Therefore, our results may help to improve the understanding of ocean currents and latitudinal variations in the oceanic heat transport and crustal thickness on icy moons. Key Points: The polar heat transport in spherical rotating Rayleigh‐Bénard convection experiences an enhancement by rotationThe influence of rotation differs at low latitudes: the heat flux is reduced and compensates the polar enhancement on the global averageIn combination, this strengthens the latitudinal variation between polar and equatorial heat flux for Prandtl numbers larger than unity [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Winter presents environmental and energetic challenges for temperate insectivorous bats as colder temperatures increase metabolic rates while simultaneously reducing resource availability. While bats in northern regions typically hibernate or migrate to circumvent these adverse conditions, there is growing evidence of winter bat activity as weather permits. Bats at lower latitudes may experience shorter, milder winters, increasing opportunities for activity. To better understand the relationship between ambient temperature and winter bat activity, we deployed acoustic detectors in central Louisiana and eastern Texas and examined data at 3 levels of biological organization: overall bat activity, species richness, and species-specific activity. Across 1,576 detector-nights, we recorded 37,435 bat passes. Bats responded positively to warmer temperatures but the temperature threshold for winter activity varied among species, ranging from 7.2 to 15.6 °C. Consequently, observed species richness increased at warmer ambient temperatures. With activity linked to environmental conditions in a species-specific manner, different subsets of the winter bat assemblage may be active from night to night. Additionally, our study adds to a rather limited body of literature of winter bat activity and provides a baseline for future studies as white-nose syndrome and climate change affect North American bat populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Western North American Naturalist is the property of Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum 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.)

Noise generated by wind turbines is significantly impacted by its propagation in the atmosphere. Hence, for annoyance issues, an accurate prediction of sound propagation is critical to determine noise levels around wind turbines. This study presents a method to predict wind turbine sound propagation based on linearized Euler equations. We compare this approach to the parabolic equation method, which is widely used since it captures the influence of atmospheric refraction, ground reflection, and sound scattering at a low computational cost. Using the linearized Euler equations is more computationally demanding but can reproduce more physical effects as fewer assumptions are made. An additional benefit of the linearized Euler equations is that they provide a time-domain solution. To compare both approaches, we simulate sound propagation in two distinct scenarios. In the first scenario, a wind turbine is situated on flat terrain; in the second, a turbine is situated on a hilltop. The results show that both methods provide similar noise predictions in the two scenarios. We find that while some differences in the propagation results are observed in the second case, the final predictions for a broadband extended source are similar between the two methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We develop innovative analytical expressions for the mean wind and potential temperature flux profiles in convective boundary layers (CBLs). CBLs are frequently observed during daytime as Earth's surface is warmed by solar radiation. Therefore, their modeling is relevant for weather forecasting, climate modeling, and wind energy applications. For CBLs in the convective-roll-dominated regime, the mean velocity and potential temperature in the bulk region of the mixed layer are approximately uniform. We propose an analytical expression for the normalized potential temperature flux profile as a function of height, using a perturbation method approach in which we employ the horizontally homogeneous and quasi-stationary characteristics of the surface and inversion layers. The velocity profile in the mixed layer and the entrainment zone is constructed based on insights obtained from the proposed potential temperature flux profile and the convective logarithmic friction law. Combining this with the well-known Monin–Obukhov similarity theory allows us to capture the velocity profile over the entire boundary layer height. The proposed profiles agree excellently with large-eddy simulation results over the range of −L/z0 ∈ [3.6 × 102, 0.7 × 105], where L is the Obukhov length and z0 is the roughness length. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Antihypertensives reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease but are also associated with harms including acute kidney injury (AKI). Few data exist to guide clinical decision making regarding these risks. Aim: To develop a prediction model estimating the risk of AKI in people potentially indicated for antihypertensive treatment. Design and setting: Observational cohort study using routine primary care data from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD) in England. Method: People aged ≥40 years, with at least one blood pressure measurement between 130 mmHg and 179 mmHg were included. Outcomes were admission to hospital or death with AKI within 1, 5, and 10 years. The model was derived with data from CPRD GOLD (n = 1 772 618), using a Fine–Gray competing risks approach, with subsequent recalibration using pseudo-values. External validation used data from CPRD Aurum (n = 3 805 322). Results: The mean age of participants was 59.4 years and 52% were female. The final model consisted of 27 predictors and showed good discrimination at 1, 5, and 10 years (C-statistic for 10-year risk 0.821, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.818 to 0.823). There was some overprediction at the highest predicted probabilities (ratio of observed to expected event probability for 10-year risk 0.633, 95% CI = 0.621 to 0.645), affecting patients with the highest risk. Most patients (>95%) had a low 1- to 5-year risk of AKI, and at 10 years only 0.1% of the population had a high AKI and low CVD risk. Conclusion: This clinical prediction model enables GPs to accurately identify patients at high risk of AKI, which will aid treatment decisions. As the vast majority of patients were at low risk, such a model may provide useful reassurance that most antihypertensive treatment is safe and appropriate while flagging the few for whom this is not the case. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Continuous phenotypic variation reflecting geographical clines can be difficult to distinguish from subspecific discontinuities when specimens are few and heterogeneously distributed. Nonetheless, increases in the holdings of museum collections over recent decades contribute to our ability to resolve more fine-scaled phenotypic gradients for many species. Although the big-eared woolly bat (Chrotopterus auritus) is not commonly encountered and thus poorly represented in museum collections, sufficient numbers have accumulated to allow an assessment of subspecific, sexual, spatial and environmental components of phenotypic variation. I examined 123 specimens from across the distribution of C. auritus and characterized the phenotype based on external, cranial and mandibular characteristics. I decomposed variation into components based on univariate and multivariate statistical analyses. All components accounted for significant phenotypic variation. Nonetheless, when examined together and after accounting for correlated variation among components, only sexual, spatial and environmental components accounted for significant unique variation. This, combined with the observation that all qualitative characteristics used to define subspecies of C. auritus can be observed throughout its geographical range, suggest that phenotypic variation is clinal and not characterized by discontinuities reflective of subspecies. Clinal variation was most strongly related to temperature and its seasonality, highlighting the important role played by these climatic characteristics in many aspects of the biology of Phyllostomidae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Weight loss is one of the most common New Year's resolutions, but it is unclear whether attempting to lose weight in January is more successful than attempting it at other times of the year. Methods: In this prospective cohort study from the English National Health Service (NHS) Diabetes Prevention Program, adults with nondiabetic hyperglycemia were enrolled in a structured behavioral weight management program. Repeated measures models assessed the mean difference between baseline and follow‐up weight adjusting for monthly variation in weight among those with ≥1 weight measurement. Results: Among 85,514 participants with a mean baseline BMI of 30.3 kg/m2 (range: 13.4 to 84.2), mean weight change at the end of the program after an average 7.9 (SD: 4.5) sessions over 6.4 (SD: 5.6) months was −2.00 kg (95% CI: −2.02 to −1.97 kg) or −2.33% (95% CI: −2.35% to −2.32%). Compared with participants starting in January, participants starting in other months lost less weight, ranging between 0.28 kg (95% CI: 0.10 to 0.45 kg) less weight in those starting in March and 0.71 kg (95% CI: 0.55 to 0.87 kg) less weight in those starting in November. April and May were the only exceptions, in which the estimates followed the same direction but were not statistically significant. Higher session attendance mediated the effects, with participants starting in January attending, on average, 0.2 to 0.7 more sessions than those starting in other months. Conclusions: People starting a weight management program in January lost 12% to 30% more weight than people starting it at other times of the year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Western North American Naturalist is the property of Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum 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 Therya is the property of Asociacion Mexicana de Mastozoologia, A. C. 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.)

This paper describes an experimental setup using a coffee mug, a low delta-temperature model Stirling engine, and a gas pressure sensor. The experiment is targeted toward first-year calculus-based physics labs and was designed to be implemented at low cost (approximately $120 for engine and pressure sensor) and minimal modification to off-the-shelf components for an instructor. The gas pressure sensor we used plugs directly into a USB port, and no data acquisition hub was required. Software to operate the sensor is available from the manufacturer at no additional cost. A sample student procedure handout is provided in Appendix B. Modifications for use in high school physics, algebra-based college physics, and upper-division thermodynamics courses are presented in Appendix A. Two simple modifications to the Stirling engine are required: (1) drilling a hole in the top plate of the Stirling engine and gluing a Luer lock fitting over the hole; and (2) 3D printing a spool that is then hot glued to the driveshaft of the Stirling engine. A more advanced experiment can be performed by 3D printing two gears and using a rotary motion sensor to track the phase of the system. A video demonstration of these modifications is provided. Student calculations of work done by the engine show good correlation with predicted theoretical calculations. Students also rated the experimental procedure highly for both interest and understanding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Antihypertensives are effective at reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, but limited data exist quantifying their association with serious adverse events, particularly in older people with frailty. This study aimed to examine this association using nationally representative electronic health record data. Methods and findings: This was a retrospective cohort study utilising linked data from 1,256 general practices across England held within the Clinical Practice Research Datalink between 1998 and 2018. Included patients were aged 40+ years, with a systolic blood pressure reading between 130 and 179 mm Hg, and not previously prescribed antihypertensive treatment. The main exposure was defined as a first prescription of antihypertensive treatment. The primary outcome was hospitalisation or death within 10 years from falls. Secondary outcomes were hypotension, syncope, fractures, acute kidney injury, electrolyte abnormalities, and primary care attendance with gout. The association between treatment and these serious adverse events was examined by Cox regression adjusted for propensity score. This propensity score was generated from a multivariable logistic regression model with patient characteristics, medical history and medication prescriptions as covariates, and new antihypertensive treatment as the outcome. Subgroup analyses were undertaken by age and frailty. Of 3,834,056 patients followed for a median of 7.1 years, 484,187 (12.6%) were prescribed new antihypertensive treatment in the 12 months before the index date (baseline). Antihypertensives were associated with an increased risk of hospitalisation or death from falls (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.23, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.21 to 1.26), hypotension (aHR 1.32, 95% CI 1.29 to 1.35), syncope (aHR 1.20, 95% CI 1.17 to 1.22), acute kidney injury (aHR 1.44, 95% CI 1.41 to 1.47), electrolyte abnormalities (aHR 1.45, 95% CI 1.43 to 1.48), and primary care attendance with gout (aHR 1.35, 95% CI 1.32 to 1.37). The absolute risk of serious adverse events with treatment was very low, with 6 fall events per 10,000 patients treated per year. In older patients (80 to 89 years) and those with severe frailty, this absolute risk was increased, with 61 and 84 fall events per 10,000 patients treated per year (respectively). Findings were consistent in sensitivity analyses using different approaches to address confounding and taking into account the competing risk of death. A strength of this analysis is that it provides evidence regarding the association between antihypertensive treatment and serious adverse events, in a population of patients more representative than those enrolled in previous randomised controlled trials. Although treatment effect estimates fell within the 95% CIs of those from such trials, these analyses were observational in nature and so bias from unmeasured confounding cannot be ruled out. Conclusions: Antihypertensive treatment was associated with serious adverse events. Overall, the absolute risk of this harm was low, with the exception of older patients and those with moderate to severe frailty, where the risks were similar to the likelihood of benefit from treatment. In these populations, physicians may want to consider alternative approaches to management of blood pressure and refrain from prescribing new treatment. Using nationally representative electronic health record data, James Peter Sheppard and team investigate the association between antihypertensives and serious adverse events in individuals aged 40+ in England. Author summary: Why was this study done?: The benefits of blood pressure–lowering treatment have been widely studied, with recent reviews of the scientific literature suggesting increasing benefit as patients get older. The harms of blood pressure–lowering treatment are less well known, although another recent review of clinical trials showed that treatment is associated with acute kidney injury, hyperkalaemia (high blood potassium leading to medical complications), hypotension (low blood pressure) and syncope (fainting), but not falls or fracture. However, the trials included in these reviews are likely to have limited external validity, since participants are typically highly selected and diligently supported by trial teams in a way that does not reflect routine clinical practice. At present, there is little evidence to describe how the harms of antihypertensive treatment change as patients get older and develop frailty. What did the researchers do and find?: This observational study utilised anonymised data from the electronic health records of patients in England. Those included were aged 40+ years, with high blood pressure, but had not previously been prescribed blood pressure–lowering treatment. A statistical analysis was undertaken to examine whether patients prescribed a blood pressure–lowering medication were more likely to experience a serious adverse event sooner, compared to those who were not prescribed such medications. In a total of 3,834,056 patients, blood pressure–lowering treatment was associated with an increased risk of hospitalisation or death from falls, hypotension, syncope (but not fracture), acute kidney injury, electrolyte abnormalities, and primary care consultations for gout. These risks were much higher in older patients and those with frailty. For example, in those aged 40 to 49 years, 3,501 patients would need to be treated for 5 years to cause a serious fall. However, for those aged 80 to 89 years, only 33 patients would need to be treated for the same period to cause a serious fall. What do these findings mean?: Blood pressure–lowering treatment was found to be associated with an increased risk of serious adverse events. Across the whole population, the likelihood of experiencing this harm was very low. However, in older patients (aged 80+ years) and those with moderate to severe frailty, the risk of harm was notably increased. This analysis suggests that new prescription of blood pressure–lowering treatment in these older patients with frailty was just as likely to cause a serious fall, as it would prevent a stroke or heart attack. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Western North American Naturalist is the property of Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum 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.)

Kirby et al. (J. Fluid Mech. , vol. 953, 2022, A39) adapted the two-scale momentum theory (Nishino & Dunstan, J. Fluid Mech. , vol. 894, A2) to large finite-sized farms. They demonstrated that analytical estimates agree excellently with large eddy simulations, and that the model provides a good upper limit of the power production for a given array density. Crucially, they introduced the concepts of farm-scale losses, caused by the atmospheric response to the whole farm, and turbine-scale losses, owing to internal flow interactions in the wind farm. These two new theoretical concepts offer a novel way to analyse the performance of extended wind farms. For large offshore wind farms, losses at the wind-farm scale are typically twice as high as at the turbine scale. This demonstrates that there is limited potential for layout optimizations of extended arrays. Instead, optimization strategies should focus on developing methods to increase the energy entrainment into the wind farm. This work provides an exciting roadmap for analysing the effective efficiency of large wind farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the accuracy of self‐testing for proteinuria during pregnancy. Design: Diagnostic accuracy study. Setting: Antenatal clinics, maternity assessment units and inpatient wards at three hospital sites. Population or Sample: 345 pregnant women. Methods: Pregnant women self‐tested in‐clinic for urinary protein using visually read dipsticks with samples then sent for laboratory estimation of the spot protein‐creatinine ratio (PCR) (primary reference test). Secondary index tests included testing by antenatal healthcare professionals and an automated colorimetric reader. Main outcome measures: Sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value, positive predictive value and likelihood ratios were calculated for self‐testing (primary index test) along with healthcare professional and colorimetric testing compared to the primary reference test (PCR). Results: 335/345 (97%) had sufficient data to be included in the analysis. Self‐testing had a sensitivity of 0.71 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.62–0.79) and a specificity of 0.89 (95% CI 0.84–0.92) compared to PCR. Sensitivity and specificity of testing by healthcare professionals and the colorimetric reader were similar: sensitivity 0.73 (95% CI 0.64–0.80) and 0.78 (95% CI 0.69–0.85), respectively; specificity 0.88 (95% CI 0.82–0.92) and 0.83 (95% CI 0.78–0.88), respectively. Conclusion: Pregnant women can visually read a dipstick for urinary protein with similar accuracy to antenatal healthcare professionals. Automated colorimetric testing was not significantly different, in contrast to some previous studies. Self‐testing has the potential to form part of a self‐monitoring regime in pregnancy. Linked article: This article is commented on by Wessel Ganzevoort, pp. 2149 in this issue. To view this mini commentary visit https://doi.org/10.1111/1471‐0528.17202 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phenotypic variability is ubiquitous. This is especially true in bats, where families such as Phyllostomidae encompass as much phenotypic variability as some entire orders of mammals. Typically, phenotypic variability is characterized based on cranial morphology, with studies of other functionally important aspects of the phenotype, such as legs, feet and wings, being less frequent. We examined patterns of secondary sexual dimorphism and allometry of wing elements of the fringed fruit-eating bat (Artibeus fimbriatus) and examined, for the first time, the modularity of bat wings. Patterns were based on 13 wing measurements taken from 21 females and 15 males from eastern Paraguay. From a multivariate perspective, A. fimbriatus exhibited significant secondary sexual dimorphism. Females were larger than males for all 13 wing characteristics, with significant differences involving the last phalanx of the fourth and fifth digits. Female wings were also relatively larger than male wings from a multivariate perspective, as was the last phalanx of the fourth and fifth digits, after adjusting for wing size based on forearm length. Wing elements were highly variable regarding allometric relationships, with some exhibiting no allometric patterns and others exhibiting isometry or hyperallometry, depending on the element. Wings exhibited significant modularity, with metacarpals, proximal phalanges and distal phalanges each representing a discrete module. The wings of A. fimbriatus exhibit substantive patterns of dimorphism, allometry and modularity. Although the big mother hypothesis is a strong theoretical construct to explain wing dimorphism, there is not yet any sound theoretical basis for the patterns of allometry and modularity of the wing. Further investigation is required to understand the determinants of variation in wing morphology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The wind energy industry relies on computationally efficient engineering-type models to design wind farms. Typically these models do not account for the effect of atmospheric stratification in either the boundary layer or the free atmosphere. This study proposes a new analytical model for fully developed wind-turbine arrays in conventionally neutral atmospheric boundary layers frequently encountered in nature. The model captures the effect of the free-atmosphere stratification, Coriolis force, wind farm layout and turbine operating condition on the wind farm performance. The model is developed based on the physical insight derived from large-eddy simulations. We demonstrate that the geostrophic drag law (GDL) for flow over flat terrain can be extended to flow over fully developed wind farm arrays. The presence of a vast wind farm significantly increases the wind farm friction velocity compared with flow over flat terrain, which is modelled by updated coefficients in the GDL. The developed model reliably captures the vertical wind speed profile inside the wind farm. Furthermore, the power production trends observed in simulations are reliably reproduced. The wind farm performance, normalized by the geostrophic wind speed, decreases as the free-atmosphere thermal stability increases or the Coriolis force decreases. In addition, we find that the optimal wind farm performance is obtained at a lower thrust coefficient than the Betz limit, which indicates that optimal operating conditions for turbines in a wind farm are different than for a single turbine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species with low effective population sizes are at greater risk of extinction because of reduced genetic diversity. Such species are more vulnerable to chance events that decrease population sizes (e.g. demographic stochasticity). Dipodomys elator, (Texas kangaroo rat) is a kangaroo rat that is classified as threatened in Texas and field surveys from the past 50 years indicate that the distribution of this species has decreased. This suggests geographic range reductions that could have caused population fluctuations, potentially impacting effective population size. Conversely, the more common and widespread D. ordii (Ord's kangaroo rat) is thought to exhibit relative geographic and demographic stability. We assessed the genetic variation of D. elator and D. ordii samples using 3RAD, a modified restriction site associated sequencing approach. We hypothesized that D. elator would show lower levels of nucleotide diversity, observed heterozygosity, and effective population size when compared to D. ordii. We were also interested in identifying population structure within contemporary samples of D. elator and detecting genetic variation between temporal samples to understand demographic dynamics. We analyzed up to 61,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms. We found that genetic variability and effective population size in contemporary D. elator populations is lower than that of D. ordii. There is slight, if any, population structure within contemporary D. elator samples, and we found low genetic differentiation between spatial or temporal historical samples. This indicates little change in nuclear genetic diversity over 30 years. Results suggest that genetic diversity of D. elator has remained stable despite reduced population size and/or abundance, which may indicate a metapopulation-like system, whose fluctuations might counteract species extinction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identifying biological processes that structure natural communities has long interested ecologists. Community structure may be determined by various processes, including differential responses of species to environmental characteristics, regional-level spatial influences such as dispersal, or stochasticity generated from ecological drift. Few studies have used the metacommunity paradigm (interacting communities linked by dispersal) to investigate avian community composition along an urban gradient, yet such a theoretical construct may provide insights into species turnover even in unnatural settings such as rural to urban gradients. We measured the influence of spatial and environmental characteristics on two aspects of avian community structure across a gradient of urbanization: 1) taxonomic composition and 2) functional richness based on diet, foraging strategies, nesting locations and morphology. We also measured the relationship between species traits and environmental variables with an RLQ-fourth corner analysis. Together, environmental and spatial processes were significantly related to taxonomic structure and functional richness, but spatial variables accounted for more variation than environmental variables. Fine spatial scales were positively correlated with insectivorous birds and negatively correlated with body and wing size. Urbanization was positively correlated with birds that forage at the canopy level, while emergent wetlands were negatively correlated with birds that nested in cliffs and frugivorous birds. Functional richness and urbanization were significantly related to fine spatial variables. Spatial and environmental factors played an important role in taxonomic and functional structure in avian metacommunity structure. This study highlights the importance of studying multiple aspects of biodiversity, such as taxonomic and functional dimensions, especially when examining effects of complementary spatial and environmental processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate the counter-intuitive initial decrease and subsequent increase in the Nusselt number Nu with increasing wall Reynolds number Rew in the sheared Rayleigh--Bénard (RB) system by studying the energy spectra of convective flux and turbulent kinetic energy for Rayleigh number Ra = 107, Prandtl number Pr = 1.0 and inverse Richardson numbers 0 ≤ 1/Ri ≤ 10. These energy spectra show two distinct high-energy regions corresponding to the large-scale superstructures in the bulk and small-scale structures in the boundary layer (BL) regions. A greater separation between these scales at the thermal BL height correlates to a higher Nu and indicates that the BLs are more turbulent. The minimum Nu, which occurs at 1/Ri = 1.0, is accompanied by the smallest separation between the large- and small-scale structures at the thermal BL height. At 1/Ri = 1.0, we also observe the lowest value of turbulent kinetic energy normalized with the square of friction velocity within the thermal BL. Additionally, we find that the domain size has a limited effect on the heat and momentum transfer in the sheared RB system as long as the domain can accommodate the small-scale convective structures at the thermal BL height, signifying that capturing the large-scale superstructures is not essential to obtain converged values of Nu and shear Reynolds number Reτ. When the domain is smaller than these small-scale convective structures, the overall heat and momentum transfer reduces drastically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A scaling theory for the passive scalar transport in Couette flow, i.e. the flow between two parallel plates moving with different velocities, is proposed. This flow is determined by the bulk Reynolds number Reb and the Prandtl number Pr. In the turbulent regime, for moderate shear Reynolds number Reτ and moderate Pr, we derive that the passive scalar transport characterised by the Nusselt number Nu scales as Nu ∼ Pr1/2Re² τReb−1. We then use the well-established scaling for the friction coefficient Cf ∼ Reb−1/4 (corresponding to a shear Reynolds number Reτ ∼ Reb7/8) which holds reasonably well within the range 3 × 10³ ≤ Reb ≤105, to obtain Nu ∼ Pr1/2Reb3/4 for the Nusselt number scaling. The theoretical results are tested against direct numerical simulations of Couette flows for the parameter ranges 81≤ Reb≤ 22361 and 0.1 ≤Pr ≤10, finding good agreement. Analyses of the numerically obtained turbulent flow fields confirm logarithmic mean wall-parallel profiles of the velocity and the passive scalar in the inertial sublayer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We perform direct numerical simulations to study the effect of the gravity centre offset in spherical Rayleigh-Bénard convection. When the gravity centre is shifted towards the south, we find that the shift of the gravity centre has a pronounced influence on the flow structures. At low Rayleigh number Ra, a steady-state large-scale meridional circulation induced by the baroclinic imbalance, created by the misalignment of the gravity potentials and isotherms, is formed. At high Ra, an energetic jet is created on the northern side of the inner sphere that is directed towards the outer sphere. The large-scale circulation induces a strong co-latitudinal dependence in the local heat flux. Nevertheless, the global heat flux is not affected by the changes in the large-scale flow organization induced by the gravity centre offset. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We evaluate the accuracy of the actuator line model (ALM) approach by performing simulations for the NREL 5‐MW wind turbine in uniform inflow using three large eddy simulation codes. The power and thrust coefficients obtained using the three codes agree within 1% when the grid spacing Δgrid≤5.25 m and are cross‐validated against blade element momentum (BEM) theory. We find that the results of ALM converge towards BEM theory without the need for tip correction when the numerical resolution is increased. For Δgrid=0.98 m, the difference between the power and thrust coefficient obtained using ALM and BEM is 4.5% and 2.1%, respectively, although we note that no absolute convergence between ALM and BEM can be obtained as both models use different assumptions, such as the use of a force projection method in the ALM. The difference in the local axial and tangential forces along the blades obtained from ALM simulations using Δgrid=1.97 m and Δgrid=0.98 m can be as large as 10%. The effect of the number of actuator points on the obtained turbine power and thrust coefficients is limited as the results converge when the spacing between the actuator points is about three times the grid spacing. This insight on the required number of blade points can be used to improve the efficiency of actuator line simulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventionally neutral atmospheric boundary layers (ABLs) are frequently encountered in nature, and their flow dynamics affect the transfer of momentum, heat, and humidity in the atmosphere. Therefore, insight into the flow structure in conventionally neutral ABLs is necessary to further improve models for long-term weather and climate forecast, while it provides further insight for atmospheric applications like the wind industry. The structure of conventionally neutral ABLs is complicated due to the coexistence of shear- and buoyancy-generated turbulence, and therefore analytical descriptions have been limited to the mean wind speed. Here we introduce an innovative model based on the Ekman equations and the basis function of the universal potential temperature flux profile that allows one to describe the vertical profiles of the horizontal components of wind and shear stress and hence capture features like the wind veer profile. Our formulation in terms of departure from the geostrophic wind allows us to describe the profiles as a function of one control parameter, although the description of wind speed profile still needs two. We find excellent agreement between analytical predictions, high-fidelity simulations, and field measurement campaigns. These findings advance the fundamental understanding of the ABL structures and atmospheric turbulence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Moderate rotation and moderate horizontal confinement similarly enhance the heat transport in Rayleigh-Bénard convection (RBC). Here, we systematically investigate how these two types of flow stabilization together affect the heat transport. We conduct direct numerical simulations of confined-rotating RBC in a cylindrical set-up at Prandtl number Pr = 4.38, and various Rayleigh numbers 2 × 108 < Ra < 7 × 109. Within the parameter space of rotation (given as inverse Rossby number 0 < Ro-1 < 40) and confinement (given as height-to-diameter aspect ratio 2 < Γ-1 < 32), we observe three heat transport maxima. At lower Ra, the combination of rotation and confinement can achieve larger heat transport than either rotation or confinement individually, whereas at higher Ra, confinement alone is most effective in enhancing the heat transport. Further, we identify two effects enhancing the heat transport: (i) the ratio of kinetic and thermal boundary layer thicknesses controlling the efficiency of Ekman pumping, and (ii) the formation of a stable domain-spanning flow for an efficient vertical transport of the heat through the bulk. Their interfering efficiencies generate the multiple heat transport maxima. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research Highlights: Seasonal variation in environmental conditions coinciding with reproductive and energetic demands might result in seasonal differences in species-specific habitat use. We studied a winter assemblage of insectivorous bats and found that species acted as habitat generalists during winter compared to expectations based on the summer active season. Background and Objectives: In temperate regions, seasonal fluctuations in resource availability might restructure local bat assemblages. Initially perceived to only hibernate or migrate to avoid adverse winter conditions, temperate insectivorous bats appear to also employ intermediate overwintering strategies, as a growing body of literature suggests that winter activity is quite prevalent and even common in some lower latitude areas. However, to date, most studies have exclusively assessed habitat associations during summer. Because habitat use during summer is strongly influenced by reproduction, we hypothesized that habitat associations might differ during the non-reproductive winter period. We used acoustic monitoring to assess the habitat associations of bats across a managed pine landscape in the southeastern United States. Materials and Methods: During the winters of 2018 and 2019, we deployed acoustic detectors at 72 unique locations to monitor bat activity and characterized vegetation conditions at two scales (microhabitat and landscape). We used linear mixed models to characterize species-specific activity patterns associated with different vegetation conditions. Results: We found little evidence of different activity patterns during winter. The activity of three species (hoary bat: Lasiurus cinereus; southeastern myotis: Myotis austroriparius; and tricolored bat: Perimyotis subflavus) was not related to vegetation variables and only modest relationships were evident for four other species/groups (big brown bat: Eptesicus fuscus; eastern red bat: L. borealis; Seminole bat: L. seminolus; evening bat: Nycticeius humeralis; and Brazilian free-tailed bat: Tadarida brasiliensis). Conclusions: During winter, the bats in our study were active across the landscape in various cover types, suggesting that they do not exhibit the same habitat associations as in summer. Therefore, seasonal differences in distributions and habitat associations of bat populations need to be considered so that effective management strategies can be devised that help conserve bats year round. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Western North American Naturalist is the property of Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum 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.)

Using presence/absence data from over 10,000 Ves SINE insertions, we reconstructed a phylogeny for 11 Myotis species. With nearly one-third of individual Ves gene trees discordant with the overall species tree, phylogenetic conflict appears to be rampant in this genus. From the observed conflict, we infer that ILS is likely a major contributor to the discordance. Much of the discordance can be attributed to the hypothesized split between the Old World and New World Myotis clades and with the first radiation of Myotis within the New World. Quartet asymmetry tests reveal signs of introgression between Old and New World taxa that may have persisted until approximately 8 MYA. Our introgression tests also revealed evidence of both historic and more recent, perhaps even contemporary, gene flow among Myotis species of the New World. Our findings suggest that hybridization likely played an important role in the evolutionary history of Myotis and may still be happening in areas of sympatry. Despite limitations arising from extreme discordance, our SINE-based phylogeny better resolved deeper relationships (particularly the positioning of M. brandtii) and was able to identify potential introgression pathways among the Myotis species sampled. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identifying mechanisms that promote coexistence at the local level is enigmatic for many organisms. Numerous studies have indirectly demonstrated that biotic interactions may not cause deterministic patterns reflective of the coexistence of interacting bat species. Nonetheless, demonstration of the partitioning of resources by phyllostomid bats by directly examining diet matrices may illuminate a mechanism of coexistence. I examined the dietary overlap of phyllostomid bats across 23 sites in the Atlantic Forest of South America. I also examined components of beta diversity (turnover and nestedness) of resources among species as well as the degree to which morphology can act as a surrogate for dietary similarity in each community. Bats exhibited high overlap. Nonetheless, dietary beta diversity was more related to turnover than nestedness of items suggesting substantive species-specific affinities. Niche breath and dietary overlap were positively related to the number of species and the number of resources consumed in communities. Accordingly, changes in richness across Atlantic Forest may be facilitated by increases in resources available at the community level. There were positive, yet weak relationships between morphological and dietary distance. The relationship between morphology and diet was invariant relative to geography, species richness, number of dietary resources, average diet breadth and average dietary overlap indicating that in the Atlantic Forest morphology is a consistent surrogate of dietary relationships of species. Atlantic Forest is one of the most anthropogenically modified tropical forests in the world. This in combination with distinct climatic seasonality likely causes higher dietary overlap, weaker ecomorphological relationships and persistence of only the most general bat species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim was to investigate the impact of a group-based weight management programme on symptoms of depression and anxiety compared with self-help in a randomised controlled trial (RCT). Method: People with overweight (Body Mass Index [BMI]≥28kg/m2) were randomly allocated self-help (n = 211) or a group-based weight management programme for 12 weeks (n = 528) or 52 weeks (n = 528) between 18/10/2012 and 10/02/2014. Symptoms were assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, at baseline, 3, 12 and 24 months. Linear regression modelling examined changes in Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale between trial arms. Results: At 3 months, there was a -0.6 point difference (95% confidence interval [CI], -1.1, -0.1) in depression score and -0.1 difference (95% CI, -0.7, 0.4) in anxiety score between group-based weight management programme and self-help. At subsequent time points there was no consistent evidence of a difference in depression or anxiety scores between trial arms. There was no evidence that depression or anxiety worsened at any time point. Conclusions: There was no evidence of harm to depression or anxiety symptoms as a result of attending a group-based weight loss programme. There was a transient reduction in symptoms of depression, but not anxiety, compared to self-help. This effect equates to less than 1 point out of 21 on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and is not clinically significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has published frequent summaries of spontaneous reports of suspected adverse drug reactions (ADRs) (Yellow Cards) to vaccines against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The EudraVigilance database has provided similar data for the European Economic Area. Objective: Our objective was to characterize the evolution over time of spontaneous reports of suspected ADRs to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines and to observe the effect of a publicized reaction (cerebral venous and sinus thrombosis [CVST]) on reporting rates. Methods: We used publicly available data on reports of suspected ADRs and doses of vaccine administered, published by the MHRA, EudraVigilance, and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control to calculate reporting rates. Results: Approximately 4814 Yellow Card reports (23 fatal) per million doses of ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 (AstraZeneca) and 2890 (13 fatal) per million doses of tozinameran (Pfizer/BioNTech) have been lodged. Between 15 March and 31 October 2021, cumulative European reports of CVST rose from 0 to 443 (183 with thrombocytopenia, 72 fatal) with ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 and from 2 to 315 (9 with thrombocytopenia, 28 fatal) with tozinameran. European cases of retinal vein occlusion and thrombosis rose from 0 to 168 with ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 and from 1 to 220 with tozinameran; four of the ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 cases were associated with thrombocytopenia. Conclusion: Reports of fatal adverse reactions to coronavirus vaccines are very rare. Reports of CVST have been made in relation to both vaccines. Most were submitted after the reaction had been publicized. Thrombocytopenia occurred in a minority of cases. Reports linked both vaccines to cases of retinal vein thrombosis, just four cases with thrombocytopenia. This suggests two different mechanisms of thrombosis associated with the vaccines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]