Midlands Of Ireland Research Articles

An agrogeophysical modelling framework for the detection of soil compaction spatial variability due to grazing using field‐scale electromagnetic induction data

AbstractSoil compaction is a regarded as a major environmental and economical hazard, degrading soils across the world. Changes in soil properties due to compaction are known to lead to decrease in biomass and increase in greenhouse gas emissions, nutrient leaching and soil erosion. Quantifying adverse impacts of soil compaction and developing strategies for amelioration relies on an understanding of soil compaction extent and temporal variability. The main indicators of soil compaction (i.e., reduction of pore space, increase in bulk density and decrease in soil transport properties) are relatively easy to quantify in laboratory conditions but such traditional point‐based methods offer little information on soil compaction extent at the field scale. Recently, geophysical methods have been proposed to provide non‐invasive information about soil compaction. In this work, we developed an agrogeophysical modelling framework to help address the challenges of characterizing soil compaction across grazing paddocks using electromagnetic induction (EMI) data. By integrative modelling of grazing, soil compaction, soil processes and EMI resistivity anomalies, we demonstrate how spatial patterns of EMI observations can be linked to management leading to soil compaction and concurrent modifications of soil functions. The model was tested in a dairy farm in the midlands of Ireland that has been grazed for decades and shows clear signatures of grazing‐induced compaction. EMI data were collected in the summer of 2021 and autumn of 2022 under dry and wet soil moisture conditions, respectively. For both years, we observed decreases of apparent electrical resistivity at locations that with visible signatures of compaction such as decreased vegetation and water ponding (e.g., near the water troughs and gates). A machine learning algorithm was used to cluster EMI data with three unique cluster signatures assumed to be representative of heavy, moderately, and non‐compacted field zones. We conducted 1D process‐based simulations corresponding to non‐compacted and compacted soils. The modelled EMI signatures agree qualitatively and quantitatively with the measured EMI data, linking decreased electrical resistivities to zones that were visibly compacted. By providing a theoretical framework based on mechanistic modelling of soil management and compaction, our work may provide a strategy for utilizing EMI data for detection of soil degradation due to compaction.

Do the Culturable Microbial Groups Present in Cutaway Bogs Change According to Temporal Variation? Pilot Study Based on the Midlands in the Republic of Ireland

Cutaway peatlands in the midlands of the Republic of Ireland are rarely the focus of scientific studies. The soil quality and related microenvironment have been severely impacted by peat extraction. Returning them to a ‘near-natural state’ would require greater insights into this ecological niche. The current research took the initiative to study the microbiology of vast cutaway sites in the midlands of Ireland. Peat was collected over two seasons in January, February and April. Homogenised peat was aseptically cultured on a range of specific and non-specific culture media. Microbial enumeration, Gram staining and other microscopic observations of morphologically distinct microorganisms were performed. The total viable bacterial and fungal numbers were highest in February (1.33 × 105 CFU ml−1 and 5.93 × 106 CFU ml−1, respectively) and were lowest in April (1.14 × 103 CFU ml−1 and 5.57 × 106 CFU ml−1). Penicillium spp. and Trichoderma spp. were common in all the sites. The highest values of phosphate solubilisation index were recorded in peat collected in April (SI = 3.167 & 3.000). Overall, there is a statistically significant difference (p ≤ 0.0001) among the microbial numbers across the three months. This variation could be due to the temperature and pH differences across peat soil.

Pop-up COVID-19 vaccination clinics for vulnerable groups in the Midlands.

Roma, travellers and the homeless suffer from a higher risk of both COVID-19 infection and severe disease relative to the general population. The purpose of this project was to ensure as many members as possible from vulnerable groups in the Midlands availed of COVID-19 vaccines. Following on from successful testing of vulnerable populations in the Midlands of Ireland in March/April 2021, a collaboration of HSE Midland's Department of Public Health, Safetynet Primary Care and the HSE Midlands Traveller Health Unit (MTHU) operated pop-up vaccination clinics in June/July 2021, targeting the same populations. Clinics delivered the first dose of the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, registering clients for second doses in Community Vaccination Centres (CVCs). Thirteen clinics were hosted between 8 June 2021 and 20 July 2021, resulting in 890 first-dose Pfizer vaccinations delivered to vulnerable populations. Trust established months prior with our grassroots testing service resulted in strong vaccine uptake, with the quality service provided seeding further demand over time. This service integrated into the national system and allowed individuals to receive their second doses within the community.

Predicting Key Grassland Characteristics from Hyperspectral Data

A series of experiments were conducted to measure and quantify the yield, dry matter content, sugars content, and nitrates content of grass intended for ensilement. These experiments took place in the East Midlands of Ireland during the Spring, Summer, and Autumn of 2019. A bespoke sensor rig was constructed; included in this rig was a hyperspectral radiometer that measured a broad spectrum of reflected natural light from a circular spot approximately 1.2 m in area. Grass inside a 50 cm square quadrat was manually collected from the centre of the circular spot for ground truth estimation of the grass qualities. Up to 25 spots were recorded and sampled each day. The radiometer readings for each spot were automatically recorded onto a laptop that controlled the sensor rig, and ground truth measurements were made either on-site or within 24 h in a wet chemistry laboratory. The collected data was used to build Partial Least Squares Regression (PLSR) predictive models of grass qualities from the hyperspectral dataset, and it was found that substantial relationships exist between the spectral reflectance from the grass and yield (r2 = 0.62), dry matter % (r2 = 0.54), sugar content (r2 = 0.54) and nitrates (r2 = 0.50). This shows that hyperspectral reflectance data contains substantial information about key grass qualities and can form part of a broader holistic data-driven approach to provide accurate and rapid predictions to farmers, agronomists, and agricultural contractors.

Application of microcosm experiments for quantifying lateral flow and evapotranspiration on recovering bog ecotypes.

The importance of characterizing the ecohydrological interactions in natural, damaged/drained, and restored bogs is underscored by the importance of peatlands to global climate change and the growing need for peatland restoration. An understudied aspect of peatland ecohydrology is how shallow lateral flow impacts local hydrological conditions and water balance, which are critical for peatland restoration success. A novel method is presented using microcosms installed in the field to understand the dynamics of shallow lateral flow. Analysis of the difference in water table fluctuation inside and outside the microcosm experimental areas allowed the water balance to be constrained and the calculation of lateral flow and evapotranspiration. As an initial demonstration of this method, a series of four microcosm experiments were set up in locations with differing ecological quality and land management histories, on a raised bog complex in the midlands of Ireland. The timing and magnitude of the lateral flow differed considerably between locations with differing ecological conditions, indicating that shallow lateral flow is an important determining factor in the ecohydrological trajectory of a recovering bog system. For locations where Sphagnum spp. moss layer was present, a slow continuous net lateral input of water from the upstream catchment area supported the water table during drought periods, which was not observed in locations lacking Sphagnum. Consistent with other studies, evapotranspiration was greater in locations with a Spaghnum moss layer than in locations with a surface of peat soil.

Towards an Alternative Black Death Narrative for Ireland: Ecological and Socio-Economic Divides on the Medieval European Frontier

Studies over the last couple of decades of human zoonotic (animal reservoir initiated) epidemics reveal that vulnerability-factors for such epidemics include high population densities, human-induced changes in the biological makeup of ecological systems, and the distinct human interactions within these new ecosystems, intensive farming practices, malnutrition, and prior ill-health. The recent DNA evidence of Yersinia pestis, known to be responsible for the bubonic plague, forces a re-evaluation of basic assumptions of the Black Death that almost all historical narratives have made. A monomorphic pathogen, Y. pestis, has been remarkable in how little it has changed since the Black Death, and there is no evidence to show that the 14th-century plague was more virulent or contagious than modern outbreaks.Contemporary medieval documentation reveals a perception that the Gaelic-Irish were not suffering from the Black Death as much as the colonists. However, if the genetic disposition between the national groups was a significant factor, then why is there no noteworthy difference noted in subsequent epidemics? This paper uses vulnerability factors for a zoonotic epidemic to assess regional ecological risk in Gaelic and colonial Ireland. Since the ecological change of the period has been largely attributed to human activity, socio-economic and knowledge systems and institutions role in promoting certain activity that altered the landscape is an important part of this inquiry. Pollen evidence is used in conjunction with historic and archaeological data to note regional differences, and to document how they became especially apparent during the Bruce Invasion of 1315–1318. The evidence suggests that vulnerability to epidemic disease was greater in the south-east and midlands of Ireland than in northern parts of the island, and that this paved the way for contrasting responses to the Black Death.

Analysis of broadleaf encroachment in coniferous forest plantations using multi-temporal satellite imagery

In recent years, several critical issues have been identified concerning the performance of recently established spruce forest plantations in Ireland, in particular coniferous reforestation sites. More specifically, the reforestation of peatland areas in the midlands of Ireland have been subject to encroachment by broadleaf species, such as birch, and willow. These species regenerate naturally and compete with, and outgrow, the coniferous species (commonly Norway spruce) that were planted. In many cases, the growth of these trees is faster than the spruce, resulting in stands being completely encroached by approximately 15 years of age. Given the widespread nature of this problem coupled with the fragmented nature of the Irish forest estate, a project was established to use Earth observation data to predict the spatial distribution and species composition of the affected sites. The spatial distribution and associated area estimates of broadleaf encroachment within State owned spruce forests were assessed using multi-temporal Landsat satellite imagery. The overall accuracy of the encroachment map was 85.23% and a Kappa Index of Agreement of 0.58. The associated area of encroached or broadleaf dominated forests was 20,003 ha with a confidence interval of ±20% calculated using a sample-based estimator.

Periglacial wedge‐casts and patterned ground in the midlands of Ireland

Two groups of ice‐wedge and ground‐wedge casts have been identified in the study area. Both are located in outwash sands and gravels of Midlandian age formed during ice retreat from the vicinity of the Caher and Roscrea moraines respectively. They probably formed between 18000 and 10000 B.P. (the Nahanagan Stadial). At least some of them are associated with patterned ground, and ice‐wedge and ground‐wedge polygons were probably widespread on sand and gravel deposits during the latter part of the Midlandian. The ice‐ and ground‐wedge casts evidence a period (or periods) in which annual ground temperatures of at least —5°C occurred, following the retreat of Midlandian ice from the Caher and Roscrea positions. Ice‐wedge casts are almost entirely lacking in eskers, and it is suggested that ice‐wedges and ice‐veins formed only where sufficient surface and/or ground water was available. The parameters controlling ice‐wedge and ice‐vein development therefore include suitable low temperature and suitable water conditions.

The diversity and composition of moth assemblages of protected and degraded raised bogs in Ireland

Abstract Peatlands are globally important habitats, which act as net carbon stores. As a result of drainage, peat extraction and agricultural intensification, raised bogs in the midlands of Ireland are a diminishing and increasingly fragmented peatland habitat. A network of protected sites has been established, which is intended to represent the best abiotic and plant community systems. Lepidoteran communities are an important component of raised bog biodiversity and may be useful as biodiversity indicators, yet they are a neglected area of research. We address this by surveying night‐flying macro‐moths on six protected and six degraded raised bogs to establish whether there is a distinct moth fauna associated with the wettest areas of protected sites by comparing them to assemblages found on degraded sites where this wet habitat has been lost. In general, differences between moth assemblages on protected and degraded raised bogs are rather subtle, with assemblages on both site types generally similar. But, a number of species were found to be associated with protected sites, three of which are bog‐associated species of conservation concern and may be particularly vulnerable due to the continuing loss of the wettest areas of raised bogs. Degraded sites were found to harbour a significant number of bog‐associated species of conservation concern and may have a role to play in peatland invertebrate conservation, hitherto undervalued. To determine this, further research is required to describe the invertebrate fauna of these sites and of marginal areas of protected sites.

Pre-school manager training: a cost-effective tool to promote nutrition- and health-related practice improvements in the Irish full-day-care pre-school setting.

To evaluate the impact on nutrition- and health-related practice of two methods of delivery of a nutrition and health intervention in Irish full-day-care pre-schools: training of pre-school managers only or training of managers and their staff. A simple randomised study with pre-schools divided into two training groups: 'manager trained' and 'manager and staff trained'. Direct observational data--food and fluid provision, physical activity, outdoor time, staff practices and availability of nutrition and health resources--were recorded during one full day spent in each pre-school both pre- and post-intervention, using a specifically developed and validated Pre-school Health Promotion Activity Scored Evaluation Form. Post-intervention, self-assessment data were also collected using the same evaluation tool. Pre-schools, Midlands of Ireland. A convenience sample of forty-two pre-schools registered with the Irish Health Service Executive. From pre- to post-intervention, significant improvement (P < 0.05) in nutrition- and health-related practice was observed within both intervention delivery groups in all areas evaluated: environment, food service, meals and snacks. No additional effect attributable to staff training was observed. Scores assigned by direct independent observation were lower than pre-school self-assessment scores. The implementation of a training intervention in pre-schools significantly improved practice with no significant benefit of additional staff training. Direct independent observation is required to quantify practice accurately.

Time-lapse resistivity analysis of Quaternary sediments in the Midlands of Ireland

Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) data are influenced by a number of factors associated with the subsurface such as porosity, moisture content and lithology; as well as external factors such as rainfall and temperature. Two time-lapse ERT profiles with 5 m and two with 2 m electrode spacings were acquired over a range of Quaternary sediment types encompassing till, esker gravel, glaciofluvial sand and silt and glaciolacustrine silt/clay. Data were collected on a monthly basis during 2006 at a site located in the Midlands of Ireland in order to evaluate the influence of such conditioning factors on the resistivity of the subsurface. Effective recharge, the depth of investigation, the texture and the internal architecture of the different sediment types and temperature variation are the main factors influencing the resistivity seasonal variation. The shallow subsurface (< 3 m depth) showed a direct relationship between resistivity variation and effective recharge, whereas, an increasing time-lag between effective recharge and resistivity was recorded at increasing depths. As a result of the time-lag, it was possible to determine the rate of movement of the wetting/drying front for the unconsolidated relatively sorted coarse sediments recorded on the site at 7.8 cm/day. Conversely, poorly sorted and fine sediments show little resistivity variation and the velocity of the wetting front could not be estimated. Other factors influencing the electrical response of the subsurface are the electrode spacing used for data collection and the seasonal temperature variation of the subsurface. Two methods for temperature correction of electrical resistivity data were tested in this study — both gave similar results. Resistivity values recorded in the shallow subsurface (< 5 m) show variations of over 15% subsequent to temperature correction. The results illustrate that seasonal temperature changes and their influence on subsurface temperature have to be accounted for in data interpretation and emphasise the potential of this technique for the estimation of the rate of movement of the wetting/drying front in soft sediments.

AN ASSESSMENT OF FISH PREDATION ON THE ZEBRA MUSSEL, DREISSENA POLYMORPHA (PALLAS 1771) AFTER RECENT COLONISATION OF TWO MANAGED BROWN TROUT LAKE FISHERIES IN IRELAND

The zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha, Pallas 1771) invaded Lough Sheelin in the midlands of Ireland in 2001, providing a novel potential food resource for the resident fish species. This paper assesses fish predation on the mussel after the recent colonisation of the lake (with supplementary data from Lough Arrow). In addition, implications for the resident fish community are considered. Roach (Rutilus rutilus L.), and roach—bream hybrids (R. rutilus × Abramis brama L.) were found to consume zebra mussels in all sampling seasons. For other fish species (European perch [Perca fluviatilis L.], northern pike [Esox lucius L.] and the brown trout [Salmo trutta L.]) the occurrence of zebra mussels in the diet was low, in addition to being seasonal, and possibly consumed as incidental by-catch in some cases. The incorporation of mussels into the diet represents the most important change to the feeding habits of cyprinids. Adult roach populations have not increased despite feeding on zebra mussels and appear to be the most negatively impacted fish taxa since the establishment of the mussel in the lake. Brown trout and perch may be advantaged in the long-term, most likely due to reductions in chlorophyll a, habitat changes and altered food resources. The extent of fish predation on zebra mussels does not appear to be sufficient to suppress the mussel population in the lake.

Electrical resistivity and Ground Penetrating Radar for the characterisation of the internal architecture of Quaternary sediments in the Midlands of Ireland

Abstract Geophysical techniques Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) supported by traditional field methods are used for the geological mapping, description and interpretation of Quaternary unconsolidated sediments in a site located in the Midlands of Ireland. The site comprises a broad range of glacial and postglacial sediments (diamicton, esker sand and gravel, glaciolacustrine sand, glaciolacustrine silt/clay and peat). Preliminary fieldwork comprising, geomorphological mapping, lithostratigraphic analysis of exposures and borehole drilling and laboratory testing encompassing particle size distribution analysis were carried out to broadly characterise the geology of the study area. These data aided locating the geophysical profiles and supported the geophysical data interpretation. Five GPR radargrams were collected and permitted depicting the subsurface internal architecture within low conductivity unconsolidated sediments and aided to the classification and characterisation of sedimentological and deformational structures. Four ERT profiles allowed the depth to bedrock to be determined and lithological classification of the sediments. The use of these geophysical techniques in combination with geotechnical and geological data allowed (i) the determination of the lithological composition and detailed internal architecture of the subsurface, (ii) the characterisation and description of the geology of the site and (iii) understanding the depositional processes acting in the area during ice withdrawal. Diamicton and esker gravels were deposited subglacially by an ice sheet withdrawing westwards; glaciolacustrine sediments located along the south margin of the esker ridge were laid down in an ice marginal environment as a subaqueous fan composed of silt, sand and gravel, and as distal deposits composed of silt and clay in the lower ground area between the fan and the esker ridge. Peat developed during postglacial times and was partially cut away by anthropogenic action at a later stage.

Stuck Between a Rock and Hard Place

In Ireland, differential levels of skill were occasionally observed in Mesolithic stone tool assemblages. This research has only concentrated on assemblages which predominantly derive from the flint-rich north-eastern region of the island. The lithic assemblages excavated from sites located in the south, west and midlands of Ireland are often composed of a mixture of raw materials including volcanic rocks and sometimes contain only coarse-grained chert. The lithic assemblage from Ferriter's Cove, Co. Kerry, will serve as a case study for the exploration of the differential use of raw materials during knapping skill transmission and its organization in the flint-poor regions of Ireland.

Fluid provision in the Irish full day care pre-school setting

Background: Children of pre-school age should consume up to six cups of fluids daily. Milk, water and diluted juice (one part juice to 4–5 parts water) are advised with meals; milk and water are recommended between meals and with snacks; ‘no added sugar’ squash should not be offered to children under 5 years and the sodium content of bottled waters should be checked (Department of Health and Children (Ireland), 2004). The ‘Healthy Incentive for Pre-schools’ (HIP) project is an ongoing child care intervention in the Midlands of Ireland which aims to develop and evaluate an incentive scheme to improve pre-school nutrition practices. The aim of this study was to examine the baseline study data and characterise the fluids provided by pre-schools engaged in the project. Methods: Full day care pre-schools catering for children aged 3 months–5 years were invited to participate in the HIP project (n = 100). All meal and snack times were observed by a community dietitian during one full day spent in each pre-school. The eating environment, type, and timing of all fluids offered were recorded, using household measures, on an evaluation form developed for the HIP project. As drinks provided by parents could not be identified, they were classed as ‘parental drinks’. Ethical approval to carry out the study was obtained from the Irish Health Service Executive Dublin Mid-Leinster and the Dublin Institute of Technology Research Ethics Committees. Results: Seventy six pre-schools were included in the study. Eleven withdrew due to a change in the type of service offered. Two were deemed ineligible to participate by the local pre-school inspection team as major changes to overall pre-school care were required. Baseline data were collected in 63 pre-schools. The number of meals offered daily ranged from zero to two while the number of snacks provided ranged from one to five. The types of fluids provided with meals and snacks are outlined in Table 1. Only four of the 63 pre-schools provided recommended fluids outside meal and snack times. Table 1. Types and timing of fluids provided to children in full day care pre-schools Drinks with meals % (n) Drinks with snacks % (n) %, percentage; n, number. Milk and tap water 11 (7) 10 (6) Milk, tap water or diluted juice 33 (21) 11 (7) Bottled water 3 (2) 10 (6) Squash and juice drinks 38 (24) 59 (37) ‘No added sugar’ squash 21 (13) 25 (16) Undiluted juice 10 (6) 30 (19) Parental drinks 35 (22) 54 (34) Discussion: These data demonstrate that a variety of fluids are provided to children in full day care Irish pre-schools, many of which are not recommended in this age group. The consumption by children of drink types other than milk or water adversely affects dietary quality (Marshall et al., 2005). Although a limitation of the current study is that the actual volume of fluids consumed by children was not recorded, the gathering of data on the types and timing of fluid provision in this setting is important, when considering the possible detrimental effect of these on children's health. Conclusion: This study would suggest that best practice fluid guidelines are not being followed in the Irish pre-school setting; these data will inform the educational components of the HIP project.

Impact of the zebra mussel invasion on the ecological integrity of Lough Sheelin, Ireland: distribution, population characteristics and water quality changes in the lake

The zebra mussel, Dreissena polymorpha (Pallas 1771), invaded Lough Sheelin in the midlands of Ireland in 2001. In order to assess the status of the mussel population in the lake, the distribution, extent of colonisation, abundance, biomass and size-frequency structure of post-settlement stages were studied in 2005 and 2006. In addition, changes to water quality parameters in the lake postestablishment were assessed with reference to the pre-invasion period. Zebra mussels were found throughout the lake at most sites on all main categories of substrates examined (stony and soft substrate; submerged vegetation: Characeae, Elodea spp., Cladophora spp., Potamogeton spp. and Myriophyllum spp., and emergent vegetation: Phragmites australis and Schoenoplectus lacustris). Overall, increases in density and biomass of mussels were recorded from 2005 to 2006. Analysis of physiochemical data show a reduction in chlorophyll a with an increase in water transparency, however the total phosphorus concentration remains high. This paper highlights the common misconception that zebra mussel introductions lead to overall improvements in water quality.

An exploration of factors that influence the regular consumption of water by Irish primary school children

Inadequate hydration has been linked to many factors that may impact on children's education and health. Teachers play an important role in the education and behaviour of children. Previous research has demonstrated low water intake amongst children and negative teachers' attitudes to water in the classroom. The present study aimed to explore teachers' knowledge about water and the perceived barriers to allowing children access to water during lesson time. In-depth interviews were conducted with 12 teachers from primary schools in the Midlands of Ireland. Interviews were continued until there was saturation of the data. Thematic analysis of the data was conducted. Participants had a poor knowledge of hydration requirements and the associated health benefits and effect on concentration. Low water intake amongst teachers and pupils, and barriers such as disruption to class and increased need to urinate, were reported. Teachers identified the hydration effect on learning as the education message most likely to influence the decision to allow water in the classroom. The issues, opinions and perceived barriers raised by teachers as part of this qualitative research provide a basis for future health promotion around water.

The vegetation history of monastic and secular sites in the midlands of Ireland over the last two millennia

Historic Icelandic tephrochronology forms the timeframe for four palynological investigations of peat profiles from the Irish midlands to trace vegetation history and land use at contemporary monastic and secular sites during the last two millennia. Scrubby woodlands changed little in nature and extent until the late 17th or early 18th century. Pastoral agriculture has a long record at all of the sites studied, with arable agriculture being sustained throughout the 2nd millennium. All sites show evidence for scrub clearance with associated agricultural expansion in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. At this time, trees not native to Ireland were planted.

Periglacial wedge‐casts and patterned ground in the midlands of Ireland

Two groups of ice‐wedge and ground‐wedge casts have been identified in the study area. Both are located in outwash sands and gravels of Midlandian age formed during ice retreat from the vicinity of the Caher and Roscrea moraines respectively. They probably formed between 18000 and 10000 B.P. (the Nahanagan Stadial). At least some of them are associated with patterned ground, and ice‐wedge and ground‐wedge polygons were probably widespread on sand and gravel deposits during the latter part of the Midlandian. The ice‐ and ground‐wedge casts evidence a period (or periods) in which annual ground temperatures of at least —5°C occurred, following the retreat of Midlandian ice from the Caher and Roscrea positions. Ice‐wedge casts are almost entirely lacking in eskers, and it is suggested that ice‐wedges and ice‐veins formed only where sufficient surface and/or ground water was available. The parameters controlling ice‐wedge and ice‐vein development therefore include suitable low temperature and suitable water conditions.