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The author has carried out a bibliographic survey of the status of breeding forest birds in Italy over 15 decades (1872-2022) in order to establish an objective long-term trend (stable, increasing, decreasing, etc.). The number of breeding forest birds in Italy amounts to 61; their distribution, with a few exceptions, indicates that they are widespread in Eurasia, but only a small percentage of Eurasian forest species have colonized Italy and the other Mediterranean peninsulas, namely 49 in Iberian, 61 in Italian and 64 in Balkan peninsulas; a small percentage of them (between 15.6 and 19.7%) belongs to trans-Saharan migrants, and between 31.2 and 40.8% increases their populations in winter. The similarity between the forest species on the three peninsulas (Iberian, Italian, and Balkan) results between 0.45 and 0.48, indicating a certain difference in the overall avifauna in the three territories. Not all species have penetrated southwards into the three peninsulas; for example, some that stopped in the Italian Alps have instead arrived in the forests of Greece, at a latitude corresponding to southern Italy, or species that in Italy stopped in the northern Apennines in the other two peninsulas have instead arrived far south. Iberian peninsula and the island of Corsica hold three endemic species among breeding forest birds, Italian and Balkan peninsulas have no endemic species. A tentative reconstruction of the climatic vicissitudes of the Mediterranean has been made to explain why only broadly distributed Eurasian forest species have penetrated the Mediterranean peninsulas. Overall, the Mediterranean presently hosts mainly neo-endemic taxa among forest bird species; the only paleo-endemics can be considered the three species of nuthatches living in Corsica, Algeria, and Turkey (other than Caucasus and the islet of Lesvos) and Le Vaillant’s woodpecker in the Maghreb (North Africa). Italian forests presently cover ca. 40% of the land surface, increasing since 1980’, but 22% of woodland is not of natural origin (3.3% due to afforestation). However, it is difficult to know the true increase of forests, because some of them are fired every year. The presence of some ecologically demanding forest birds depends on the age of the trees, permanent open spaces and other characteristics at the edge of woodland.

Objective: To analyze the changes in children's height, weight, BMI and rates of stunting and overweight and obesity over three periods: 1986–1987, 1996–1998, and 2023 for the community of Yalcoba in the Yucatan Peninsula. Material and Methods: Four hundred forty (6‐to‐15 years) children measured in 2023 were compared with data obtained in 1986–1987 (n = 675) and 1996–1998 (n = 628). Z‐scores of height and BMI were calculated to estimate percentages of stunting and high BMI‐for‐age (overweight and obesity). Comparisons of anthropometric parameters by sex and age groups between years of measurement were performed through one way ANOVAs. Results: Differences in anthropometric parameters were significant in all age groups of both sexes. Boys measured in 2023 were, on average, 6.4 and 3.3 cm taller than boys measured in the 1980s and 1990s, respectively. Increases in girls were 12 and 7.3 cm, respectively. Average increases in weight of boys measured in 2023 were 7.9 kg compared to the 1980s and 5.8 kg compared to 1990s. Average increases in girls measured in 2023 were 11.3 kg compared to the 1980s, and 7.6 kg compared to the 1990s. Stunting between the 1980s and 1990s decreased by 15 percentage points and between the 1990s and 2023 decreased by 47 percentage points. The percent of children deemed overweight/obese during these periods increased from 8 to 12–50 by 2023. Conclusion: Results reflect the overall trends seen in the Yucatan where stunting has decreased substantially but the numbers of overweight/obese youths have increased dramatically in the past 30 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A remarkable new genus and species of cyclostome bryozoans is described from the Sea of Okhotsk off the Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia. Kamchatkapora ozhgibesovigen. et sp. n. has large, multilayered colonies, each layer constructed of numerous subcolonies joined at their outer edges. This colony-form was previously unknown in extant cyclostomes, although common in the geological past, especially during the Cretaceous period. The term 'stratocormidial' is here introduced for such colonies, and their taxonomy and geological history are reviewed. Six fossil stratocormidial cyclostome genera (Blumenbachium, Cellulipora, Centronea, Multifascigera, Reptomulticava and Semimulticavea) are illustrated and briefly characterised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In low-to-moderately active seismic regions such as the Korean Peninsula, it is difficult to analyze seismic hazards because only a limited number of strong ground motions have been recorded. To address this shortcoming in the data, ground motion simulation can be used to generate the strong ground motions associated with potentially large earthquakes, taking into account the attenuation that occurs as the distance from the source increases. To simulate this attenuation, the path effect, which is a component of the Fourier amplitude spectrum (FAS), needs to be defined, along with the source and site effects. The path effect represents the propagation of seismic rays through a tectonic medium. In this study, a three-dimensional (3D) path effect model is developed for the Korean Peninsula, consisting of a 3D geometrical spreading factor, quality factor, and shear-wave velocity. The accuracy of the proposed model is verified by comparing the path-effect values obtained from the FAS of individual ground motions recorded on the Korean Peninsula and those calculated from the model. Examples that demonstrate the procedure to calculate the 3D path effect for the Korean Peninsula are also provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The behavior and influence mechanisms of trace elements in Antarctic ecosystems are particularly complex and important. This study aims to assess the ecological risk to the Fildes Peninsula by systematically analyzing the distribution of trace elements, and provides a scientific basis for the protection of the Antarctic ecosystem. Trace element concentrations in the soils of the Fildes Peninsula are highest for Fe, Al, and Mg, with notable differences in distribution due to varying topographies and landscapes. Principal component analysis reveals strong correlations among Zn, Fe, Mn, Co, and Cu, and distinct patterns for Na, Ca, As, and Cr. Moss demonstrates a high enrichment capacity for Cu and Zn, often accumulating them to higher levels than soil, with significant spatial variation observed. The bioaccumulation factors (BAF) for K and Ag exceed 1 at all 12 stations, indicating a high capacity for bioaccumulation. Over half of the stations show BAF values greater than 1 for Na, Ca, and Cd, while the other trace elements have BAF values greater than 1 at only limited stations. The geo-accumulation index (Igeo) shows most trace elements in the Fildes Peninsula soils are unpolluted, with Mg, Mn, Cr, and Ni concentrations varying between unpolluted and moderate pollution, and all potential ecological risk index (PERI) values under 150 indicating low ecological risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The distribution characteristics of size-fractionated Chlorophyll a (Chl-a) and the environmental factors were studied in the coastal area of the Leizhou Peninsula in January 2022. The result showed that Chl-a ranged from 0.39 to 4.78 mg/m³ (averaging 1.21 mg/m³ ) at the surface and 0.43 to 2.78 mg/m³ (averaging 1.04 mg/m³) at the bottom layer, respectively. The spatial distribution of Chl-a concentration was associated with salinity. High Chl-a concentration was observed in the eastern part of the Leizhou Peninsula characterized by lower salinity, and low Chl-a concentration in Qiongzhou Strait with higher salinity. Nanophytoplankton (2-20 µm) was the dominant contributor, accounting for 61.3% and 63.7% of the total Chl-a at the surface and bottom layer, respectively. Both microphytoplankton (>20 µm) and nanophytoplankton displayed increased Chl-a with the increase in total Chl-a. Salinity, nutrients and temperature appear to influence the phytoplankton size structure in the coastal area of the Leizhou Peninsula. Additionally, the regulation of nutrient varied among phytoplankton of different sizes. This study contributed to our understanding of coastal ecosystem processes and has potential implications for coastal management and monitoring efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China has insisted that the BRI is a policy of openness, inclusiveness, and win–win rather than a geopolitical exercise or the Chinese version of the Marshall Plan. By exploring the repeated setbacks in the BRI cooperation between South Korea and China over the past 10 years, this study found that the BRI cooperation is a product of geopolitical considerations and that it is vulnerable to geopolitical conditions and factors. It also implies that unless the geopolitical rivalry between the United States and China over the Korean Peninsula is alleviated or the reality of the North–South Korea's divide is overcome, neither the alignment of South Korea's initiatives with China's BRI nor the expansion of the BRI to Northeast Asia will be easy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ongoing increase in wild boar populations across Europe has fostered human–wildlife conflicts, including the transmission of emerging pathogens with zoonotic importance. Blastocystis is a ubiquitous, faecal-oral transmitted protist that can cause gastrointestinal illnesses and is observed in humans and animals worldwide. The role of wildlife in the epidemiology of Blastocystis is insufficiently understood. Thus, we investigated the occurrence and subtype diversity of Blastocystis in free-ranging wild boars from the Iberian Peninsula using conventional PCR and next-generation amplicon sequencing of a fragment of the ssu RNA gene. A total of 459 wild boar faecal samples were collected across Spain (n = 360) and Portugal (n = 99) between 2014 and 2021. Blastocystis was present in 15.3% (70/459; 95% CI 12.1–18.9) of the wild boars analysed, and its occurrence was significantly higher in Portugal (34.3%, 34/99; 95% CI 25.1–44.6) than in Spain (10.0%, 36/360; 95% CI 7.1–13.6). Seven Blastocystis subtypes (ST5, ST10b, ST13–ST15, ST24b, and ST43) were detected among the surveyed wild boar populations, with greater variability detected in Portuguese samples. ST5 was identified in all the Blastocystis-positive animals, whereas 14.3% of them harboured ST mixed colonisations. Our results demonstrate that Blastocystis ST5 is particularly adapted to infect wild boars. The additional identification of zoonotic STs reinforces the role of wild boars as spreaders of zoonotic infections with public health significance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article compares the storm that the Armada del Mar Océano suffered in 1672 with the Bernard storm of 2023, both affecting the southwest of the Iberian Peninsula with intense rains and strong winds. The Armada's storm was described as a "squall of the equinox", while Bernard was an extratropical cyclone that underwent a tropical transition in the eastern North Atlantic. Both storms had characteristics of a tropical cyclone, mainly affecting the Algarve region and lasting for approximately nine hours. [Extracted from the article]

The current highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 panzootic is having substantial impacts on wild birds and marine mammals. Following major and widespread outbreaks in South America, an incursion to Antarctica occurred late in the austral summer of 2023/2024 and was confined to the region of the Antarctic Peninsula. To infer potential underlying processes, we compiled H5N1 surveillance data from Antarctica and sub‐Antarctic Islands prior to the first confirmed cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coastal grasslands host diverse arthropod communities and provide important ecosystem services. Islands, being isolated environments, are expected to have simpler ecosystems than continental areas, with the few successful colonizing species often attaining high densities; however, these patterns are still poorly documented for coastal grassland arthropods. We conducted a comparative study of the biodiversity of arthropod communities in two distinct coastal grassland ecosystems (Portugal mainland and the Azores) with the following objectives: (a) to investigate the arthropod community composition in both locations; (b) to compare the diversity profiles in both locations; (c) to investigate potential density compensation in the island's arthropod communities. For four months, arthropods were collected on the Island of São Miguel, Setúbal Peninsula, and Sine's region and subsequently classified into taxonomic groups. With the data collected, Hill Numbers were calculated for each region. We confirmed that the richness on the mainland was higher than in the Azores, and we found some apparent abundance compensation in the Azores. At the same time, we also observed that many species in the Azores are also present in the continental coastal grasslands of mainland Portugal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The probability of the mountain wave generation over the European part of the Russian Federation in May–August 2023 is studied. The conditions for the occurrence of strong downdrafts and leeward orographic turbulence are discussed for four domains including the mountain systems of the Urals, the North Caucasus, the Kola Peninsula, and Crimea. An analysis of circulation and thermodynamic conditions favorable for the generation of mountain waves over European Russia has been performed using the initial and forecast data of the COSMO-Ru6.6 model. The forecast accuracy has been assessed for the parameters used in the calculations. It has been found that in some cases, moderate turbulence reported in the AIREP Speci aircraft observations near the areas as with complex terrain could be of orographic nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A drone was used to obtain thermal profiles to estimate atmospheric turbulence for the purposes of astronomical observation. The first 150 metres above ground level were studied in two areas in the south‐east of the Iberian Peninsula. The preliminary results are promising regarding the use of drones as a suitable means of transport for obtaining microthermal measurements. We have also assessed the influence of the planetary boundary layer on the quality of the image for astronomical purposes. In future research, we intend to check these measurements with fixed microthermal sensors installed in meteorological towers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the upper part of the Dzheromo Formation (Dolborian Regional Stage, Katian Stage, Upper Ordovician) along the Moyerokan River (Northern Siberian Platform), seventeen bryozoan species were revealed, seven from which, owing to the poor preservation of the colonies, were identified in an open nomenclature. The bryozoans belong to ten genera from four orders: Cystoporata (Constellaria vesiculosa (Modzalevskaya in Modzalevskaya et Nekhoroshev), Lunaferamita? sp.), Trepostomata (Calloporella sp. 1, Calloporella sp. 2, Stigmatella sp., S. convestens Astrova in Ivanova et al., Batostoma varians (James), Orbignyella moyerokanensis sp. nov., Leptotrypa sp.), Fenestrata (Parachasmatopora sp.), and Cryptostomata (Phaenopora plebeia Nekhoroshev in Modzalevskaya et Nekhoroshev, P. pennata Nekhoroshev, P. erecta Nekhoroshev in Modzalevskaya et Nekhoroshev, P. carinata Nekhoroshev, P. viluensis Nekhoroshev in Modzalevskaya et Nekhoroshev, Phaenoporella sp., and Ph. multipora Nekhoroshev). The genera Lunaferamita, Orbignyella, and Parachasmatopora were first found in the Ordovician of the Siberian Platform, and the genus Calloporella was found in the Dolborian Regional Stage. The species O. moyerokanensis sp. nov. is endemic to Northern Siberia, while the majority of the species have a wide geographic distribution. The studied bryozoan complex demonstrates some connection with bryozoan assemblages from the Taimyr Peninsula, Kotelny Island, the Sette-Daban Ridge, and Mongolia at the species level. At the generic level, it is close to the bryozoan assemblages from Laurentia, Baltica, the Argentine Precordillera, and China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 2017 Pohang earthquake (ML 5.4) ranks as the second-largest instrumental earthquake in the Korean Peninsula and the country's most destructive seismic event. The earthquake history of the Pohang area prior to the 2017 event is unknown due to the absence of instrumental seismic activity and the lack of mapped Quaternary faults near the 2017 epicenter. The aim of the present study is to identify evidence for previous earthquake ruptures along the surface projection of the seismogenic fault and interpret their paleoseismic implications. The study involved comprehensive paleoseismological investigation, including geomorphic analysis, field-work, drillhole surveys, trench excavation, and numerical age dating. Geomorphic analysis and drillhole surveys revealed two lineaments presumed to have originated from Quaternary faulting: NNE-SSW-striking Fault-1 and NE-SW to NNE-SSW-striking Fault-2. At the excavation site of Fault-1, which is regarded as the seismogenic fault of the 2017 Pohang earthquake, stratigraphic features and numerical ages show that the penultimate event occurred between 11 ± 1 and 2.6 ± 0.1 ka and that the most recent event took place after 0.17 ± 0.01 ka. Combined results from two outcrops of Fault-2 give occurrence ages for the penultimate and most recent events of ca. 200 ka and between 148 ± 7 ka and the analytical limit of 14C dating (> 43,500 BP), respectively. Our findings reveal that at least three seismic events causing surface ruptures have occurred in the Pohang area during the late Quaternary before the 2017 Pohang earthquake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study is based on oribatid mite material collected from litter of the riparian mixed forest in the Hicacos Peninsula, northern Cuba. A list of 26 species, belonging to 23 genera and 15 families, is presented; of these, one genus and three species are reported for the first time for Cuban fauna. Two new species – Eremulus hicacosensis sp. nov. (Eremulidae) and Suctobelbella (Flagrosuctobelba) matanzasensis sp. nov. (Suctobelbidae) – are described. Identification keys to the known species of Eremulus and Suctobelbella (Flagrosuctobelba) from the Neotropical region are provided.http://www.zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:2F4E8CE0-49AE-400B-BF0E-E9640C521E3E [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Late Quaternary crustal uplift is well recognized in northeast Sicily, southern Italy, a region also prone to damaging earthquakes such as the 1908 "Messina" earthquake (Mw 7.1), the deadliest seismic event reported within the Italian Earthquake Catalogue. Yet it is still understudied if, within the Milazzo Peninsula, crustal uplift rates are varying spatially and temporally and whether they may be either influenced by (i) local upper‐plate faulting activity or (ii) deep geodynamic processes. To investigate the long‐term crustal vertical movements in northeast Sicily, we have mapped a flight of Middle‐Late Pleistocene marine terraces within the Milazzo Peninsula and in its southern area and refined their chronology, using a synchronous correlation approach driven by published age controls. This has allowed a new calculation of the associated crustal uplift rates, along a north–south oriented coastal‐parallel transect within the investigated area. Our results show a decreasing uplift rate from south to north across the Milazzo Peninsula and beyond, and that the associated rates of uplift have been constant through the Late Quaternary. This spatially varying yet temporally constant vertical deformation helps to constrain the amount of uplift, allowing us to explore which is the driving mechanism(s), proposing a few related scenarios. We discuss our results in terms of tectonic implications and emphasize the importance of using appropriate approaches, as such applying a synchronous correlation method, to refine chronologies of undated palaeoshorelines when used for tectonic investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic susceptibility enhancement (kE) is useful for reconstructing terrestrial paleohydroclimate variabilities. However, kE and its driving process(es) in the Korean Peninsula remain uninvestigated. Therefore, this study investigated two kEs of similar magnitudes, dated MIS 1 (Holocene) and late MIS 3 (~ 29–36 ka), from a paleosol sequence in the upland of paleo-fluvial terrace in the central Korean Peninsula. We observed increased ferri- and antiferro-magnetic mineral components,including ultrafine particles, and stronger chlorite weathering for the two kEs, suggesting pedogenic component predominance. The Fe-bearing (phyllo)silicate weathering mechanism proposed for the Chinese Loess Plateau sequences can explain the pedogenesis-induced kEs for the studied site. Superparamagnetic-domain (SPD) to pseudo-single-domain sized particles of pedogenic magnetite are likely major contributors to kEs. Moreover, we recognized the younger kE interval as more SPD contribution but less in total ferrimagnetic contribution, and more antiferromagnetic contribution than the older ones. The magnetic differences between the periods can result from vegetation cover impact and surrounding hydroclimate conditions, consistent with the recent suggestion for part of the southeast Chinese sites with relatively more rainfall. Consequently, our study provides a baseline for improving the relationship between mineral magnetic signals and local/regional hydroclimatic and environmental variabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study the possible effect of climate change on the extreme wind over northern Europe using data from 18 models of the Sixth Phase of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6) and the high-emission Shared Socioeconomic Pathway 5-8.5 (SSP585) scenario. We use the spectral correction method to correct the 6-hourly wind speeds and calculate the 50-year wind at an equivalent temporal resolution of 10 min, consistent with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standard. We obtain the possible effect of climate change through the comparison of the extreme wind parameters, including the 50-year wind and the 95%-percentile of the wind speed, and the change in turbine class at 50 m, 100 m and 200 m, between a near future period (2020-2049) and the historic period (1980-2009). The analysis shows an overall increase in the extreme winds in the North Sea and the southern Baltic Sea, but a decrease over the Scandinavian Peninsula and most of the Baltic Sea. However, the suggested change is not significant enough to conclude whether higher or lower classes of turbines will be needed in this area in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractDespite a clear and common threat from North Korea, why has the security cooperation between Japan and South Korea been less developed than the security cooperation between Australia and Japan? This paper explains this puzzle by focusing on policymakers’ perceptions of the rise of China. The paper concludes that, not only historical issues between Japan and South Korea, but different threat perceptions of China between Australia, Japan, and South Korea can best explain why Australia-Japan security cooperation has developed more than Japan-South Korea security cooperation in terms of the degree of institutionalization and the scope of cooperation. Throughout the post-Cold War era, Australian and Japanese policymakers were increasingly concerned about the rise of Chinese power and influence. This has ultimately led Tokyo and Canberra to strengthen their bilateral and trilateral cooperation with the United States as a means of hedging or balancing against the rise of China. On the other hand, South Korean policymakers were less concerned about China and more concerned about North Korean threat. Indeed, some Korean policymakers understood China as the indispensable power to maintain peace and stability in the Korean Peninsula. Thus, many Korean policymaker were reluctant to enhance security cooperation with Japan in areas beyond Northeast Asia. However, with rapidly changing security environments and the intensifying U.S.-Sino rivalry, as well as deteriorating relations with China, Korean policymakers’ perceptions of China have become increasingly closer to those of Australia and Japan. Accordingly, there has been growing momentum for stronger security cooperation between Japan and South Korea not only in Northeast Asia, but also in broader Indo-Pacific. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citizen science data on biodiversity has experienced significant growth, largely driven by advancements in technology that facilitate data sharing. In recent years, mobile applications have provided a substantial boost to both the collection and sharing of this data. While this accessible information is undoubtedly valuable, we must consider the numerous biases present in this data when used for high-quality research. In this study, we analyse citizen science data for the birds of the Iberian Peninsula, comprising over 23 million unique records after filtering for duplicates (i.e., instances where the same observation was uploaded more than once). Using a 10 × 10 km square grid, we present information on well-surveyed cells (completeness) as well as temporal, taxonomic, geographical, and land use coverages. We found that the completeness of information is generally high, with better coverage around densely populated areas such as major cities and coastal regions, as well as popular birding destinations, which are frequently visited. The Mediterranean ecoregion and wetlands exhibit the highest levels of surveying. Furthermore, we observed an increase in temporal coverage since the 1980s and broad taxonomic coverage across all bird orders in the Iberian region. Our results underscore the utility of citizen science for many locations, as expressed in 10 × 10 km cells. However, they also highlight the inadequate data completeness across part of the territory, particularly in forested or sparsely inhabited areas. These findings not only identify cells suitable for bird diversity or conservation studies but also indicate areas where citizen-driven bird recording efforts should be encouraged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantifying today's topography can provide insights into landscape evolution and its controls, since present topography represents a cumulative expression of past and present surface processes. The Ulsan Fault Zone (UFZ) is an active fault zone on the southeastern Korean Peninsula that was reactivated as a reverse fault around 5 Ma. The UFZ strikes NNW–SSE and dips eastward. This study investigates the relative tectonic activity along the UFZ and the landscape evolution of the hanging-wall side of the UFZ, focusing on neotectonic perturbations using 10 Be-derived catchment-averaged denudation rates and bedrock incision rates, topographic metrics, and a landscape evolution model. Five geological segments were identified along the fault, based on their relative tectonic activity and fault geometry. We simulated four cases of landscape evolution to investigate the geomorphic processes and accompanying topographic changes in the study area in response to fault movement. Model results reveal that the geomorphic processes and the patterns of topographic metrics (e.g., χ anomalies) depend on inherited topography (i.e., the topography that existed prior to reverse fault reactivation of the UFZ). On the basis of this important model finding and additional topographic metrics, we interpret the tectono-geomorphic history of the study area as follows: (1) the northern part of the UFZ has been in a transient state and is in topographic and geometric disequilibrium, so this segment underwent asymmetric uplift (westward tilting) prior to reverse faulting on the UFZ around 5 Ma, and (2) its southern part was negligibly influenced by the asymmetric uplift before reverse faulting. Our study demonstrates the utility of topographic metrics as reliable criteria for resolving fault segments. Together with landscape evolution modeling, topographic metrics provide powerful tools for examining the influence of inherited topography on present topography and for the elucidation of tectono-geomorphic histories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Size-frequency, length-weight, and length-length relationships for Hemiramphus brasiliensis (Linnaeus, 1978) and Hyporhamphus unifasciatus (Ranzani, 1841) from the north coast of the Yucatan peninsula in the Gulf of Mexico were studied. All specimens were collected from the artisanal fishery of halfbeaks, which is under an exploratory fishery license. Five thousand two hundred-one individuals (5,134 H. brasiliensis and 67 H. unifasciatus) were sampled and analyzed. The size-frequency analysis showed that individuals of H. brasiliensis among 31.5 to 34.5 cm of total length (TL) class dominated the fishery samples; however, the separation index (=2) detected two modes in the last months of the year, identifying a cohort with a length below the average (24.5 to 26.5 cm TL). The isometric growth pattern was found in females and pooled sex in H. unifasciatus, and positive allometric growth was found in males and H. brasiliensis. The TL was 9 and 4.5% greater than the fork length for H. brasiliensis and H. unifasciatus, respectively. The size of H. brasiliensis (45.5 cm TL) exceeds the reported in previous studies from the Gulf of Mexico and the Mexican Caribbean Sea, and a new record of maximum length for H. unifasciatus (31cm TL) was reported to the FishBase database. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the frequencies of sympatric small mammal species in 12 habitat-types located in the extreme south of the Italian peninsula (Calabria) using trapping techniques. Ten species were detected with Apodemus sylvaticus, the most abundant species. The assemblages of small mammal species recorded in the 12 selected habitat types revealed clear ecological and biogeographical patterns in the extreme southern tip of the Italian peninsula. Ecologically, we observed a clear dissimilarity between a guild of species linked to thermo-xerophilous habitat types and a comparable guild of mesophilous species linked to forest and sciaphilous habitat types. The differences among communities inhabiting in different habitat types also emerged in rarefaction curves, DCA analysis and Whittaker plots. Thus, all these sets of analyses were consistent in their interpretation of the variation of small mammal community structure along the gradient (β-diversity) among habitat types. From a biogeographical point of view, this is an apparent expression of a clear North–South gradient pattern that was already observed at the species level with Calabria being characterized by a strong impoverishment in species' richness and diversity ("peninsula effect"). However, this rationale has been based so far on indirect data of small mammals preyed upon and recorded in owl's pellets: the fact that a similar pattern was obtained also using small mammals recorded by traps indicates that the results were robust and generalizable. Ecological factors at the local scale and biogeographical factors at the peninsular scale could explain the community patterns that we observed in the present study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Sorrento Peninsula is characterized by a significant occurrence of examples of vernacular architecture, which exhibit distinctive morphological and constructive features. These have been the subject of numerous studies. However, some buildings have undergone a process of transformation over time, the details of which have yet to be investigated. Architectures that initially held a rural character were enlarged and ennobled, thereby becoming what could be termed as "villas of delights". However, these clearly manifest their origin based on the permanence of some vernacular features. This paper focuses on the analysis of a case study, Villa Murat, which is exemplary in illustrating this process. This thorough interdisciplinary research combines historical investigation, based mainly on archival documents, with a direct examination of the Villa. This has enabled the retracing of the building's evolution and of the events that occurred in it. An integrated survey, which employed photogrammetry and laser scanning, enabled the assessment of the current state of conservation. The ultimate objective of this research is to propose conservative interventions which, in conjunction with the suggested new intended use, could ensure the preservation of the Villa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For past societies on the Iberian Peninsula, one of the most prolific architectures was earthen construction, with a wealth of typologies and solutions derived from the legacy of local construction and materials. However, its study within the field of archaeology has been limited. The challenges posed by conservation, archaeological identification and social recognition have traditionally limited the dissemination of this type of architecture. Its low profile is perceived as fragile once the original protections collapse. The ethnological information preserved and linked to past ways of life and societies is crucial to the interpretation of the cultural development handed down over generations by different communities and now transmitted to the general public through archaeological sites. This research aims to provide an overview of the main earthen vestiges from domestic, productive and funerary architecture dating from the prehistoric, protohistoric, Roman and medieval periods. For this, a bibliographical review and data collection through fieldwork were conducted for numerous case studies. These included the classification of materials, compositions and construction techniques, creating an integrated comprehensive database with information on geography, measurements and the general state of conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present treatise examines the emergence of the Corded Ware culture on the Jutland Peninsula. The focus is on the so-called individual burial customs, which represent the most striking element of this culture in the region. The distribution, chronology, and morphology of these structures are analyzed, as well as their connection to graves and their probable ritual function in relation to death. Geographical variations in the manifestation of these individual burial customs are also examined, and possible causes are discussed. The study emphasizes the importance of regional studies in order to better understand the emergence and development of this culture. [Extracted from the article]

In many ways, the COVID‐19 pandemic provided a natural experiment for alternate ways of living and working. Although alcohol supply was one of many aspects impacted by COVID‐19 restrictions, few of those alcohol‐related measures have been continued. This commentary presents a unique case study from the Gove Peninsula in northern Australia, where pandemic restrictions acted as a catalyst for a review of an established alcohol management system. A permit system was introduced on the Gove Peninsula in 2008 to control who can purchase takeaway alcohol and how much they could buy each day. Development of the system was rooted in the principles of community development and self‐determination. This commentary describes how COVID‐19 and associated changes in levels of alcohol harms mobilised community support for a review of the system, that had operated unchanged for the past decade. COVID‐19 was adventitious in revealing compelling localised information which encouraged examination of potential improvements to the system. An updated regime is now being trialled, which sets daily limits on the alcohol purchases of everyone in the area. This experience illustrates the benefits of timely and relevant data to assist communities in formulating local solutions to local problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Australia's interactions with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), henceforth known as North Korea, have ebbed and flowed throughout their seventy‐five‐year history. In times of détente on the Korean Peninsula, Australia actively engaged North Korea and sought to facilitate its integration into the international system. However, during the recent détente in 2018–2019, Canberra broke with tradition and watched on as Trump, Moon, and Kim sought to negotiate a deal towards Pyongyang's denuclearisation. Why has Australia not followed its security partners and engaged, despite being an Indo‐Pacific middle power and an advocate for non‐proliferation? Answers to this question remain unknown in the international relations literature. Therefore, I conducted process tracing and identified seven "critical junctures" in Australia's relationship with North Korea while analysing its responses using middle power theory. Australia's preference for non‐engagement is due to a shift towards a "maximum pressure" policy reliant on sanctions, reducing incentives to engage. This stems from a normative objection to Pyongyang's violation of the Treaty on the Non‐Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and limited material capabilities to persuade North Korea to denuclearise unilaterally. I aim to give an up‐to‐date account of Australia‐North Korea relations and draw attention to a neglected area in Australia's non‐proliferation policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Yangtze River basin (YRB) experienced a record-breaking mei-yu season in June–July 2020. This unique long-lasting extreme event and its origin have attracted considerable attention. Previous studies have suggested that the Indian Ocean (IO) SST forcing and soil moisture anomaly over the Indochina Peninsula (ICP) were responsible for this unexpected event. However, the relative contributions of IO SST and ICP soil moisture to the 2020 mei-yu rainfall event, especially their linkage with atmospheric circulation changes, remain unclear. By using observations and numerical simulations, this study examines the synergistic impacts of IO SST and ICP soil moisture on the extreme mei-yu in 2020. Results show that the prolonged dry soil moisture led to a warmer surface over the ICP in May under strong IO SST backgrounds. The intensification of the warm condition further magnified the land thermal effects, which in turn facilitated the westward extension of the western North Pacific subtropical high (WNPSH) in June–July. The intensified WNPSH amplified the water vapor convergence and ascending motion over the YRB, thereby contributing to the 2020 mei-yu. In contrast, the land thermal anomalies diminish during normal IO SST backgrounds due to the limited persistence of soil moisture. The roles of IO SST and ICP soil moisture are verified and quantified using the Community Earth System Model. Their synergistic impacts yield a notable 32% increase in YRB precipitation. Our findings provide evidence for the combined influences of IO SST forcing and ICP soil moisture variability on the occurrence of the 2020 super mei-yu. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent events on the Korean Peninsula have heightened tensions to what may be their most dangerous level since the 1950–53 Korean War. The breakdown of the 2018 Comprehensive Military Agreement and North Korea's abandonment of its longstanding unification policy have marked significant shifts in inter-Korean relations, amid a realignment of regional powers into opposing alliances. A historical survey of Korean reunification efforts reveals the cross-cutting implications of recent diplomatic and military developments, while an analysis of the derailed inter-Korean peace process—particularly after the failed 2019 Hanoi summit between North Korea and the United States—highlights lost opportunities for regional integration and peaceful interconnection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the nineteenth century in Spain there was a growing interest in the civilizations of the East—those located to the east of the Mediterranean. However, in Spain this interest did not translate into a consolidation of cuneiform studies in academia as it had done in other countries. In this article we offer some clues to help understand these two circumstances by providing an overview of the study of the ancient Near East in the Iberian Peninsula. In our analysis we shall pay special attention to Spain, and also highlight the connections with its neighbor Portugal and with the Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking countries of Latin America, where this field of studies has expanded notably in recent decades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Universidad Autónoma de Madrid has been working since the mid-1990s at the Iron Age village of al Madam located in the interior of the Oman peninsula, in the Emirate of Sharjah (UAE). In 2019 we received permission to excavate a necropolis in the municipality of al Khudairah (Sharjah), opening a new potential for the study of the funerary world of ancient Magan, as this area was called in the Mesopotamian texts. With the permission of the local authorities, and so as to balance study of the village with that of the necropolis, our team expanded and added a permanent contingent of archaeobiologists to our roster. Thus in February 2020 began the Spanish Archaeological and Archaeobiological Mission at Sharjah (SAAMS) and a new project: the "Al Madam–al Khudairah Project: Life in the Oasis–Death on the Hills." [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Between 1833 and 1877 the Tasman Peninsula (Van Diemens Land/Tasmania) operated as a restricted penal zone for British convicts transported to Australia. The main penal settlement was situated at Port Arthur, with a series of substations spread across an area of 660 km2 (250 mi2). At its mid-1840s peak over 3,000 male convicts, military, and free resided on the peninsula. The vast majority of the men were engaged in diverse industrial activities, ranging from manufacturing to resource extraction, as well as the associated tasks of transport and communications. Archaeological and historical evidence demonstrates that this multiscalar penological industrial landscape was coordinated by an interlinked system of audio and visual signaling. Activity within settlements and the immediate economic hinterland was synchronized by bells, while more distant or topographically difficult sites incorporated visual signaling with time balls and semaphores. A GIS analysis of soundscapes and viewsheds shows that the latter afforded coordination of labor across the hinterland, as well as rapid complex messaging between different stations and beyond, while also spreading a net of time compliance and surveillance across the penal peninsula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of SHILAP Revista de Lepidopterologia is the property of Sociedad Hispano-Luso-Americana de Lepidopterologia 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 Humanitas: International Journal of Social Sciences / Uluslararasi Sosyal Bilimler Dergisi is the property of Humanitas: International Journal of Social Sciences 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.)

Oxynotus paradoxus, documented in the Eastern Atlantic Ocean from Senegal to Scotland at depths ranging between 92 and 1044 m, has been a subject of limited scientific attention in Portugal. Despite its presence in various Portuguese occurrence checklists, only two scientific studies have reported O. paradoxus, one off the mainland and the other off the Azores islands. In this study, conducted during fishing campaigns, four O. paradoxus specimens were caught off the southwest coast of Portugal (SW Iberian Peninsula) at depths ranging between 742 and 1238 m. Notably, an adult female achieved a new maximum depth record for this species, measuring 650 mm in total length. By examining this adult female, we provide novel insights into the ecology and biology of O. paradoxus. Morphometric measurements are compared with previous studies, revealing some intra-specific variability. The observed low hepato-, gonadosomatic, and ecophysiological indices suggest that the adult female had refrained from feeding for some time before collection. This individual-focused approach contributes significantly to the understanding of this poorly known species, especially considering its rarity. This study marks a noteworthy effort to enhance knowledge and emphasizes the importance of individual-based investigations when targeting rare species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 2024 Mw 7.5 Noto Peninsula, Japan, earthquake was initiated within the source region of intense swarm activity. To reveal the mainshock early process, we relocated the earthquake hypocenters and found that many key phenomena, including the mainshock initiation, foreshocks, swarm earthquakes, and deep aseismic slip, occurred at parts of a previously unrecognized fault in intricate fault network. This fault is subparallel (several kilometers deeper) to a known active fault, and the mainshock initiation and foreshocks occurred at the front of a 2‐year westward swarm migration. The initiation location coincides with the destination of the upward migration of a deeper earthquake cluster via several smaller faults. Fluid supply, small earthquakes, and aseismic slip on the fault likely triggered the mainshock, leading to the first major rupture at the western region, propagating further to the west and east sides, resulting in an Mw7.5 event, exceeding 100 km in length. Plain Language Summary: In 2024, an earthquake of magnitude 7.5 happened on the Noto Peninsula, Japan. This earthquake started in an area where many small earthquakes occurred. To reveal how this large earthquake occurred, we precisely determined the hypocenters of the mainshock, foreshocks, aftershocks, and swarm earthquakes. We observed that the mainshock initiation, foreshocks, and some aftershocks occurred on the largest fault in the complex network. Aseismic slip also occurred near the deeper extension. This fault is not a previously known active fault, but small earthquakes migrated westward on it for over 2 years, and the mainshock rupture was initiated at the front. Directly below the mainshock initiation area, small earthquakes moved upward through several small faults. Aseismic slip propagation, fluid supply, and small earthquakes likely triggered the mainshock. The initiated mainshock rupture caused the first major slip in the western region, causing considerable uplift there and further propagating to the east and west. Despite the existence of many minor faults, many key phenomena have occurred on this previously unrecognized fault, which plays a vital role in stress release and tectonic processes in this crust. Key Points: The mainshock initiation, foreshocks, and deep aseismic slip occurred on a previously unknown fault deeper than a known active faultMany swarm earthquakes that appeared to have occurred on different faults actually occurred on different parts of the same faultMainshock rupture was initiated in a westward earthquake migration front where fluid was supplied from depth through several small faults [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research provides a brief insight into the spatial nature of urban sprawl in functional urban areas (FUAs) of European capitals, as opposed to most investigations into urban growth that focus on case studies. Its purpose is to identify European capitals that grow the most and characterize the spatial aspect of urban sprawl and dynamics of ensuing land‐cover change between 2006, 2012, and 2018. We employed open data from the Urban Atlas, which we processed with spatial analyses and the NUASI (Normalized Urban Atlas Sprawl Indicator) to quantify the scale of urban sprawl in the investigated areas. The results demonstrate the most dynamic growth for Central and Eastern European and Iberian Peninsula capitals, while it seems to be slowing down in other Western European and Balkan countries. Moreover, we found out that FUAs of European capitals differ in terms of the scale and pace of uncontrolled urban sprawl. The results of our comparative analyses are relevant to urban development because they can identify areas exhibiting various scales and paces of urban sprawl to take targeted actions depending on the needs defined by decision‐makers and strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We estimate the true aftershock activity rate from the detected initial aftershocks of the M7.6 Noto Peninsula earthquake on January 1, 2024, in addition to the preceding M6.5 Noto Peninsula earthquake on May 5, 2023. Estimating the initial aftershock activity rates has the serious problem of missing data, but in itself contains important clues to the physical structure associated with aftershocks and other external factors. We first estimate the detection rate models of the two aftershock sequences assuming the Gutenberg–Richter frequency laws, and we have found the contrasting time evolution of b-values immediately after the mainshocks, in addition to the contrasting detection rate evolutions. Furthermore, by applying the compensated nonstationary ETAS (epidemic-type aftershock sequence) model, we have revealed the contrasting time evolution of the background intensity rates, which characterizes the external factor of the original ETAS model besides the static triggering seismic activity. We discuss the implications of these differences of the analyzed outputs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 2024 moment magnitude 7.5 Noto Peninsula (Japan) earthquake caused devastation to communities and was generated by a complex rupture process. Using space geodetic and seismic observations, we have shown that the event deformed the peninsula with a peak uplift reaching 5 meters at the west coast. Shallow slip exceeded 10 meters on an offshore fault. Peak stress drop was greater than 10 megapascals. This devastating event began with a slow rupture propagation lasting 15 to 20 seconds near its hypocenter, where seismic swarms had surged since 2020 because of lower-crust fluid supply. The slow start was accompanied by intense high-frequency seismic radiation. These observations suggest a distinct coseismic slip mode reflecting high heterogeneity in fault properties within a fluid-rich fault zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the Mesozoic, the North China Craton experienced intense tectonic movements that resulted in the formation of numerous gold deposits on the Liaodong and Jiaodong Peninsulas in northeastern China. To investigate the relationship between deep crustal structure and gold mineralization in the Liaodong Peninsula, we deployed 334 dense seismic stations in the Wulong goldfield (WLGF) with the idea of analysing numerous receiver functions at different array stations. The purpose focused on knowing the potential for gold mineralization in the area. The study revealed the following: (1) The WLGF is characterized by a crustal thickness of approximately 32 km and an average Vp/Vs ratio of 1.76. The high value of the Vp/Vs ratio near the Wulong gold deposit suggests that mantle materials have penetrated into the crust and contributed to the mineralization process. (2) A low-velocity layer located at a depth of 10-18 km below the WLGF seems to support the existence of a potentially brittle-ductile transition zone. Also, hydrothermal magma upwelling channels are observed in the upper crust beneath the Wulong gold deposit. (3) The presence of a discontinuous low-velocity layer in the middle crust beneath the Liaodong Peninsula suggests promising prospects for gold ore exploration. The receiver functions method based on a dense seismic array employed in this study can offer valuable references and guidance for the fine exploration and research of ore deposits in other regions globally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the increasing interest in Italian medicine, comparatively little attention has been paid to the establishment of iatrochemistry. Though this process spread throughout the Peninsula, Naples witnessed an impressive growth of chemical research and the outbreak of a conflict between the medical establishment and the chemical physicians. The purpose of this article is to explore the emergence of chemical medicine in Naples in the period that precedes the founding (1663) of the Accademia degli Investiganti. In the first part of the seventeenth century, chemistry achieved recognition in settings like academies, pharmacies, hospitals, and monasteries. Chemical studies and the making of new remedies were spurred by the scientific exchange that Neapolitan savants established with scholars from different areas. The so-called medical pluralism and the recurrent outbreaks of epidemics stimulated the introduction of new chemical therapies, which coexisted with old ones. The establishment of chemical medicine was triggered by Marco Aurelio Severino (1580–1656), who, besides promoting chemical remedies, resorted to chemical theories, including Paracelsian ones, to account for physiological processes. Severino was the mentor of the chemical physicians who gave rise to the Accademia degli Investiganti. One of Severino's disciples was Giuseppe Donzelli (1596–1670), who fostered chemical remedies in Naples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asclepias speciosa was discovered for the first time in northern Greece. It has never been previously recorded in the Balkan Peninsula or even in southern Europe. A detailed description of the species, its habitat and distribution as well as conjectures on its arrival in Greece, are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Daphne kosaninii (Thymelaeaceae) was described from the Slavyanka Mt and Pirin Mts in SW Bulgaria. It is reported as also occurring in Kosovo, Greece and North Macedonia. The species is characterized by glabrous leaves and reddish-pink pubescent flowers. Two morphotypes can be recognized, one with patent-spreading perianth lobes and the other with erect perianth lobes. Daphne kosaninii f. kosaninii is defined as the typical form with patent-spreading perianth lobes; it occurs in Bulgaria, Greece and North Macedonia. Daphne sojakii described from Mt Vermion in north central Greece is synonymous with it. Daphne kosaninii f. cleistogama is the variant with erect perianth lobes held closely together so that the flowers appear cleistogamous. Daphne domini described from the area of Mt Orelek in SW Bulgaria is a synonym. This is the most common form in the mountains of northern Greece. The two forms are geographically separate, they never occur together in the same locality. Daphne velenovskyi described from Pirin Mts (SW Bulgaria) is considered synonymous with D. cneorum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The existence of two regimes of chain combustion is predicted, the phenomenon of explosion with a chain mechanism is explained, and the condition for the transition of combustion to this regime is formulated. The abrupt changes in the kinetic curves during the transition of combustion to this regime are illustrated and explained. The results of an experimental study of the transition from combustion to explosion are presented; it is found out that the ignition peninsulas, which are presented in courses and monographs on chemical kinetics as kinetically homogeneous regions, actually consist of two regions that are different in all reaction characteristics: the combustion region and the explosion region. Experimental evidence is given of the chain nature of combustion in an explosion under conditions of cumulation and control of such an explosion by means of inhibitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study seeks to contribute to the current understanding of dietary variation in the late Prehistory of the northeastern Iberian Peninsula by examining buccal dental microwear patterns alongside archeological data from the same populations. Materials and Methods: Teeth from 84 adult individuals from eight distinct samples spanning the Middle‐Late Neolithic to the Middle Bronze Age (Cova de l'Avi, Cova de Can Sadurní, Cova de la Guineu, Cova Foradada, Cova del Trader, Roc de les Orenetes, Cova del Gegant, Cova dels Galls Carboners) were analyzed using optical microscopy to examine buccal dental microwear patterns. Results: The analysis did not reveal clear chronological contrasts in the dietary habits of these samples. Nevertheless, significant differences emerged among the samples, leading to their classification into two distinct sets based on the abrasiveness of the diet informed by the microwear patterns. These findings offer similarities and differences among samples in the Iberian Peninsula, shedding light on the diverse lifestyles of these individuals. Discussion: Integrating our new results with other available proxies points to a multifaceted specialization in dietary patterns among these samples, influenced by factors such as habitat, resource selection, and available technology. By contextualizing the results within the broader context of the Iberian Peninsula, this research discerns shared characteristics and distinctive adaptations in the dietary practices and subsistence strategies of these groups. Ultimately, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the intricate interplay between culture and environment in shaping human diets throughout late Prehistory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The isotopic signature (δ18О, δ2Н, d-excess) of the glacier ice in Ushkovskii volcano (Kamchatka Peninsula) was studied. A new shallow ice core was obtained in 2022 in the Gorshkov crater. The 14 m long ice core was dated by counting the annual layers, which were also compared with known eruptions in recent years. The upper 14 m of the glacier were formed over the last 16 years (from 2006 to 2022). The values of δ18О vary from −16 to −24‰, and the values of δ2Н, from −110.5 to −177.7‰, while the mean values are −20.5 and −150.2‰, respectively. The d-excess values vary with depth from 8.7 to 21.3‰ at a mean value of 13.7‰. For winter horizons at low values of δ18О and δ2Н, an increase in d-excess is noted. Such features are associated with the origin of moisture brought to Kamchatka. The source of moisture is the Pacific Ocean, the Sea of Okhotsk, and the Sea of Japan, for which there are pronounced differences in the conditions of moisture evaporation between summer and winter. The trends of increases in the δ18О and δ2Н values from 2006 to 2022 are accompanied by a decrease in the deuterium excess, indicating an increase in summer precipitation. However, in addition to changes in the seasonal proportions of precipitation, the d-excess values of ice may reflect climatic changes in the source of moisture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antarctica's unique marine ecosystems are threatened by the arrival of non‐native marine species on rafting ocean objects. The harsh environmental conditions in Antarctica prevent the establishment of many such species, but warming around the continent and the opening up of ice‐free regions may already be reducing these barriers. Although recent genomic work has revealed that rafts—potentially carrying diverse coastal passengers—reach Antarctica from sub‐Antarctic islands, Antarctica's vulnerability to incursions from Southern Hemisphere continents remains unknown. Here we use 0.1° global ocean model simulations to explore whether drift connections exist between more northern, temperate landmasses and the Antarctic coastline. We show that passively floating objects can drift to Antarctica not only from sub‐Antarctic islands, but also from continental locations north of the Subtropical Front including Australia, South Africa, South America and Zealandia. We find that the Antarctic Peninsula is the region at highest risk for non‐native species introductions arriving by natural oceanic dispersal, highlighting the vulnerability of this region, which is also at risk from introductions via ship traffic and rapid warming. The widespread connections with sub‐Antarctic and temperate landmasses, combined with an increasing abundance of marine anthropogenic rafting vectors, poses a growing risk to Antarctic marine ecosystems, especially as environmental conditions around Antarctica are projected to become more suitable for non‐native species in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are significant differences between urban and rural bed-and-breakfasts (B&Bs) in terms of customer positioning, economic strength and spatial carrier. Accurately identifying the differences in spatial characteristics and influencing factors of each type, is essential for creating urban and rural B&B agglomeration areas. This study used density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise (DBSCAN) and the multi-scale geographically weighted regression (MGWR) model to explore similarities and differences in the spatial distribution patterns and influencing factors for urban and rural B&Bs on the Jiaodong Peninsula of China from 2010 to 2022. The results showed that: 1) both urban and rural B&Bs in Jiaodong Peninsula went through three stages: a slow start from 2010 to 2015, rapid development from 2015 to 2019, and hindered development from 2019 to 2022. However, urban B&Bs demonstrated a higher development speed and agglomeration intensity, leading to an increasingly evident trend of uneven development between the two sectors. 2) The clustering scale of both urban and rural B&Bs continued to expand in terms of quantity and volume. Urban B&B clusters characterized by a limited number, but a higher likelihood of transitioning from low-level to high-level clusters. While the number of rural B&B clusters steadily increased over time, their clustering scale was comparatively lower than that of urban B&Bs, and they lacked the presence of high-level clustering. 3) In terms of development direction, urban B&B clusters exhibited a relatively stable pattern and evolved into high-level clustering centers within the main urban areas. Conversely, rural B&Bs exhibited a more pronounced spatial diffusion effect, with clusters showing a trend of multi-center development along the coastline. 4) Transport emerged as a common influencing factor for both urban and rural B&Bs, with the density of road network having the strongest explanatory power for their spatial distribution. In terms of differences, population agglomeration had a positive impact on the distribution of urban B&Bs and a negative effect on the distribution of rural B&Bs. Rural B&Bs clustering was more influenced by tourism resources compared with urban B&Bs, but increasing tourist stay duration remains an urgent issue to be addressed. The findings of this study could provide a more precise basis for government planning and management of urban and rural B&B agglomeration areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]