Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
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Construction, destruction and fan‐river coupling dynamics during two consecutive debris flow events in an arid fluvial system
This study investigates the shifts in fan-river coupling during two major consecutive debris flow events (March 2015 and May 2017) on tributary-junction alluvial fans situated in the Atacama Desert in the Andes. Studying the geomorphological consequences of debris flow events in these fans provides a unique opportunity to understand the mechanisms of fan formation and destruction in arid landscapes. To do so, we integrate repeated high-resolution topography of two end-member fans representative of fans built in confined fluvial settings in the Andes, along with detailed geomorphological and sedimentological mapping.
Here, we identify how fan-river interactions shift after flood events, influenced by: (i) sediment volumes supplied and buffered in the fan, (ii) changes in feeder channel gradient and (iii) the previous position of the main river channel in the trunk valley. The primary geomorphic consequences observed in the fans include deep incisions and entrenchment of the abandoned alluvial surfaces by the feeder channels, leading to the formation of new lobes at the fan toes. In many cases, debris flow partially block the main river, diverting the main channel. We interpret that the sedimentological differences within and between fans during both debris flow events result from varying water-to-sediment ratios, which are influenced by the sediment storage characteristics of the catchments (e.g., net sediment storage, internal buffers in drainage networks, transport capacity).
Our findings provide valuable insights into the mechanisms responsible for the formation of tributary-junction alluvial fans and their interactions with axial valleys in arid, confined valley settings. This approach can be applied to tributary-junction fans elsewhere, contributing to sediment budget estimates, downstream sediment propagation signals and the development of hazard mitigation strategies in regions expected to experience an increase in the frequency and intensity of rainstorm events
Blüten, Bestäuber und ihre Bakterien – eine Dreiecksbeziehung
The plant-microbe-pollinator triangle represents a mutualistic tripartite interaction network among plants, microbes, and insects. Microbes do not only support pollinator health but influence pollination success directly by altering the scent of nectar. Pollinators, in turn, can serve as microbial vectors, and transfer microbes between flowers and across species. Understanding these complex interaction networks is crucial to sustain ecosystem service by wild pollinators for future generations
Statistik und Gesellschaft – Adäquation heute
Der Prozess der Erkenntnisbildung mittels statistischer Methoden und Ergebnisse steht im Mittelpunkt dieses Beitrages. Es geht um einen Faktencheck, in diesem Falle mit der Zielsetzung, die Möglichkeiten, Grenzen, Risiken und Nebenwirkungen von statistischen Informationen zu beleuchten. Wissenschaftlicher Fortschritt im Fach Statistik geht ins Leere, so Heinz Grohmann, „wenn er nicht hilft, die Aufgaben der Praxis zu bewältigen.“ (Grohmann 1985) Was sind aber die besonderen Herausforderungen dieser Praxis an die Statistik? Was sollten diejenigen wissen und umsetzen, die statistische Evidenz für Wissens- und Willensbildung herstellen, und welche Rolle und Verantwortung kommt denjenigen zu, die auf der Seite der Nutzung agieren? Solche Fragen lassen sich nicht mit den Werkzeugen der Statistikmethodik beantworten, sondern bedürfen einer Auseinandersetzung mit Grundlagen aus der Soziologie und Ethik von Quantifizierung. Die amtliche Statistik hat eine Scharnierfunktion zwischen der Produktion und Nutzung von Evidenz. Für sie nimmt dieser Beitrag eine Standortbestimmung vor und skizziert die wesentlichen Herausforderungen für deren Zukunft. Statistikgesellschaften, die es auch in der Vergangenheit als ihre Aufgabe verstanden haben, Wissenschaft und Praxis miteinander zu verbinden, sollten im Kontext dieser Veränderungen ihre strategische Ausrichtung und Prioritäten einem Review unterziehen
Physiological functions and pharmacological targeting of transient receptor potential channels
Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels represent an extensive and diverse protein family fulfilling salient roles as versatile cellular sensors and effectors. The pivotal role of TRP and related ion channels in sensory processes has been well documented. Over the last few years, a new concept has emerged that TRP proteins control an exceptionally broad spectrum of homeostatic physiological functions such as maintenance of body temperature, blood pressure, transmitter release from neurons, mineral and energy homeostasis, and reproduction. This notion is further supported by more than 20 hereditary human diseases in areas as diverse as neurology, cardiology, hematology, pulmonology, nephrology, dermatology, and urology. Most TRP channel-related human disorders impinge on development, metabolism, and other homeostatic functions. The remarkable diversity of pathologies caused by TRP channel dysfunction underscores these proteins' broad spectrum of roles in vivo. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of our progress in the identification, characterization, and clinical relevance of pharmacological agents targeting mammalian TRP channels.
Significance Statement
Accumulating evidence links transient receptor potential (TRP) channels to various human diseases and highlights TRPs as the most appealing pharmacological targets. The review provides an overview of this quickly developing research area, focusing on identified pharmacological modulators of mammalian TRP channels
The Arabic Counterpart of the Byzantine Karaite Treatise Marpe la-ʿAṣem
The article investigates the Arabic source text underlying Marpe la-ʿAṣem, a significant eleventh-century Byzantine Karaite Hebrew theological manual rooted in Baṣran Muʿtazila doctrine. It highlights the treatise’s role within the broader ‘Byzantine Karaite Literary Project’, focusing on its dependence on Arabic models and its adaptation to suit Hebrew-speaking audiences. The study identifies and compares fragments of the Arabic source with the Hebrew text, demonstrating shared structures and content, particularly in sections on divine justice, prophecy, and eschatology. The Hebrew adaptation exhibits creative modifications, including explanatory notes and illustrative examples tailored to a pedagogical context. By reconstructing these interconnections, the research underscores the significance of Arabic compositions in shaping Karaite theological discourse and sheds light on the translation and adaptation practices of Byzantine Karaite scholars
Lead exposure in homes as modifying factors of blood lead levels among young children in Bihar, India
More than 275 million children in India have elevated blood lead levels (BLLs). Previous studies in India have focused on children living in highly polluted areas. In addition to industrial sites, children are exposed to lead in their homes. The study aims to identify sources of lead exposure in a sample of children living in Bihar by assessing lead levels in the children’s homes and products and their association with blood lead levels (BLLs). The study used a subset of a statewide BLL study in Bihar, India. From the larger sample, 150 children were selected, including those with a BLL ≥ 20 µg/dL and a random sample of those below this level. Blood samples from children aged 13 to 60 months were analyzed using the LeadCare II analyzer. A home-based assessment (HBA) was conducted to evaluate lead in soil, drinking water, paint, metal and ceramic cookware, spices, cosmetics, and toys. Lead levels were determined using a portable X-ray fluorescence analyzer and laboratory-based analyses. HBA results were compared with local and international limits. Sampling revealed elevated lead levels in metal foodware and spices. After adjustment, the odds of elevated BLL were associated with lead content in spices only (aOR = 1.35, 95% CI 1.17, 1.58). Elevated lead levels in spices and metal foodware are common in Bihar, India. To protect children’s health, measures are needed to reduce lead exposure, including enforcing regulations on lead content in spices, implementing policies, and monitoring metal foodware items, as well as building public awareness
Multiple bonding in unbridged Mn–Mn dimers of solid-state nitridomanganate(iv) oxide Ca6[Mn2N6]O
On environment-related instrumental effects of ROMY (ROtational Motions in seismologY): A prototype, multi-component, heterolithic ring laser array
Large-scale ring laser gyroscopes (RLGs) are essential scientific instruments to study a variety of geophysical phenomena. The first and so far only large-scale RLG array ROMY (ROtational Motions in seismologY) comprises four triangular, heterolithic, active RLGs and can provide high-quality, three-component rotational ground motion observations. Compared to other RLGs, often being located in underground laboratories, ROMY is a near-surface installation that is more exposed to environmental influences. The prototype design of ROMY could serve as a blueprint for high-sensitivity, six degree-of-freedom stations for geoscientific rotation sensing. Understanding and quantifying instrumental effects caused by its environment is, therefore, essential to enhance the design toward a stable and continuous operation. Geometric deformation of a heterolithic optical ring resonator introduces undesired instrumental drifts that are challenging to mitigate. Applying a classic correction for backscatter-induced errors, we achieve a reduction in short-term Sagnac frequency fluctuations of several millihertz. A new sensor network inside ROMY monitors key environmental parameters such as barometric pressure and temperature. In order to quantify deformation of the resonator, we use camera-based beam tracking and free spectral range measurements. Based on these observations, we discuss the current operational stability of ROMY and recovery methods. We relate the observed instrumental drifts to dominant environmental drivers. Using a linear, multivariate modeling approach, we can identify dominant drivers and reduce long-term drifts of the Sagnac frequency. A quantification and better understanding of environment-induced instrumental effects allows to develop strategies for a further improvement in operational stability
arabisch.digital: über Open Educational Resources (OER) zu einer Kultur der digitalen Lehre
Die Dissertation „arabisch.digital“ zeigt praxisnah, wie mit digitalen Möglichkeiten der universitäre Arabischunterricht an der LMU München verbessert und den Studierenden der Zugang zur arabischen Sprache erleichtert wurde. Im Rahmen der Arbeit entwickelte und implementierte Juli Singer digitale Lehr- und Lernmaterialien (OER) mit der Open-Source-Software H5P. Die Auswirkungen dieser Materialien auf die Lehre und das Lernen wurden durch iterative Lehrforschungen nach dem Design-Based-Research-Ansatz systematisch evaluiert.
Konzeptionell zielt die Arbeit darauf ab, die Herausbildung einer digitalen Lehrkultur zu fördern, die auf der gemeinschaftlichen Entwicklung und Nutzung von Open Educational Resources (OER) basiert. Wesentliche Elemente sind die Integration offener digitaler Tools und Technologien in ein sich wandelndes Bildungssystem sowie die Kooperation der Lehrenden in Netzwerken. Diese Ansätze bilden die Grundlage für die Schaffung einer digitalen Allmende und einer nachhaltigen, gemeinschaftlich gestalteten digitalen Lehrkultur