We present numerical simulation studies of 2D reduced MHD equations
investigating the impact of the electronic \beta parameter and of curvature
effects on the nonlinear evolution of drift tearing islands. We observe a
bifurcation phenomenon that leads to an amplification of the pressure energy,
the generation of E \times B poloidal flow and a nonlinear diamagnetic drift
that affects the rotation of the magnetic island. These dynamical modifications
arise due to quasilinear effects that generate a zonal flow at the onset point
of the bifurcation. Our simulations show that the transition point is
influenced by the \beta parameter such that the pressure gradient through a
curvature effect strongly stabilizes the transition. Regarding the modified
rotation of the island, a model for the frequency is derived in order to study
its origin and the effect of the \beta parameter. It appears that after the
transition, an E \times B poloidal flow as well as a nonlinear diamagnetic
drift are generated due to an amplification of the stresses by pressure
effects