bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Classification of computed thermal tomography images with deep learning convolutional neural network
Authors: Ankel V. , Shribak D. , Chen W.-Y. , Heifetz A.
Published: June 2022

Thermal tomography (TT) is a computational method for the reconstruction of depth profile of the internal material defects from Pulsed Infrared Thermography (PIT) nondestructive evaluation. The PIT method consists of recording material surface temperature transients with a fast frame infrared camera, following thermal pulse deposition on the material surface with a flashlamp and heat diffusion into material bulk. TT algorithm obtains depth reconstructions of thermal effusivity, which has been shown to provide visualization of the subsurface internal defects in metals. In many applications, one needs to determine the defect shape and orientation from reconstructed effusivity images. Interpretation of TT images is non-trivial because of blurring, which increases with depth due to the heat diffusion-based nature of image formation. We have developed a deep learning convolutional neural network (CNN) to classify the size and orientation of subsurface material defects in TT images. CNN was trained with TT images produced with computer simulations of 2D metallic structures (thin plates) containing elliptical subsurface voids. The performance of CNN was investigated using test TT images developed with computer simulations of plates containing elliptical defects, and defects with shapes imported from scanning electron microscopy images. CNN demonstrated the ability to classify radii and angular orientation of elliptical defects in previously unseen test TT images. We have also demonstrated that CNN trained on the TT images of elliptical defects is capable of classifying the shape and orientation of irregular defects.
A method for infrared sensing based on oscillating zero power microelectromechanical photoswitches
Authors: Rajaram Vageeswar , Kang Sungho , Calisgan Sila Deniz , Risso Antea , Qian Zhenyun , Rinaldi Matteo
Published: June 2022

This paper presents an interesting new method for measuring infrared (IR) radiation using a micromechanical photoswitch (MP). By leveraging the event-driven narrowband IR detection capability of an MP, electrostatic pull-in, and a novel integrated thermomechanical feedback mechanism, we show for the first time a zero-standby power IR sensor that can not only detect above-threshold IR power levels (>600 nW), but also generates an oscillating electromechanical pulse waveform whose frequency is a function of the incident IR power level. The device design, the theoretical model for the proposed idea, and the experimental demonstration of the mechanism are shown. The unique capability of zero-standby power IR detection and frequency-tunable AC waveform generation from a constant input signal (IR radiation) without the need for additional electronics promises to enable new functionalities for such remote wake-up sensors beyond simply detection, with potential uses in microrobotics and low-power computing.
Turn all the lights off: Bright- and dark-field second-harmonic microscopy to select contrast mechanisms for ferroelectric domain walls
Authors: Hegarty Peter A. , Beccard Henrik , Eng Lukas M. , Rüsing Michael
Published: June 2022

Recent analyses by polarization resolved second-harmonic (SH) microscopy have demonstrated that ferroelectric (FE) domain walls (DWs) can possess non-Ising wall characteristics and topological nature. These analyses rely on locally analyzing the properties, directionality, and magnitude of the second-order nonlinear tensor. However, when inspecting FE DWs with SH microscopy, a manifold of different effects may contribute to the observed signal difference between domains and DWs, i.e., far-field interference, Čerenkov-type phase-matching (CSHG), and changes in the aforementioned local nonlinear optical properties. They all might be present at the same time and, therefore, require careful interpretation and separation. In this work, we demonstrate how the particularly strong Čerenkov-type contrast can selectively be blocked using dark- and bright-field SH microscopy. Based on this approach, we show that other contrast mechanisms emerge that were previously overlayed by CSHG but can now be readily selected through the appropriate experimental geometry. Using the methods presented, we show that the strength of the CSHG contrast compared to the other mechanisms is approximately 22 times higher. This work lays the foundation for the in-depth analysis of FE DW topologies by SH microscopy.
Simulation of the microwave propagation through the plume of a Hall thruster integrated on small spacecraft
Authors: de Mejanes N. , Pascaud R. , Mazières V. , Rossi A. , Laquerbe V. , Garrigues L. , Pascal O.
Published: June 2022

More and more CubeSats are being launched. On these small platforms, subsystems such as propulsion and communication ones have to coexist. This article focuses on electromagnetic interaction between these two critical subsystems. Hence, a numerical multi-physics method is proposed in order to quantify perturbation caused by an electric thruster’s plume on the antenna of a CubeSat type spacecraft. A plume simulation model has been coupled with electromagnetic simulation software. As an example, the farfield radiation patterns and radioelectric characteristics of a 436 MHz dipole are presented when located near a Hall thruster’s plume on a 6U type platform. Changes in radiation patterns are observed in the presence of plume for the dipole antenna. This versatile method makes it possible to represent microwave propagation through a plume for various antennas, thruster’s plumes, or relative positions.
Investigation of acoustic characterization of ultrasonic air coupling testing of NEPE propellant under strain control
Authors: Li Jian , Huang Liuchun , Li Bojun , Zhao Liang , Wu Chao
Published: June 2022

To explore the acoustic characterization of composite solid propellant materials, the wave equation of the viscoelastic body was derived based on the linear viscoelastic constitutive model, and the theoretical relationship between ultrasonic sound velocity and attenuation coefficient, which are closely related to mechanical properties, such as elastic modulus, viscosity coefficient, and complex modulus, was obtained. Ultrasonic air-coupled testing experiments of the NEPE (Nitrate Ester Plasticized Polyether) propellant under different tensile strain states were carried out to obtain the variation law of ultrasonic transmission wave peak amplitude, sound velocity, and attenuation coefficient with strain variables in combination with the variation in propellant porosity under tensile strain. Furthermore, the acoustic parameters with strain and porosity were fitted by the regression equation, and the effect of mesoscopic damage on macroscopic mechanical properties was analyzed. The results show that with the increase in NEPE propellant tensile strain, the porosity increases exponentially. With the increase in porosity, the sound velocity decreases by first polynomials, the wave amplitude decreases by second polynomials, and the attenuation coefficient increases by third polynomials.
Design of high-power arbitrary multi-way radial power dividers using periodic matching structure
Authors: Liu Haixia , Chen Liangping , Song Minsheng , Qin Yu , Meng Lin , Wang Bin , Li Hailong , Yin Yong
Published: June 2022

An arbitrary multi-way radial power divider/combiner with high-power capacity based on the coaxial waveguide TE01-mode is presented in this paper. The study of the TE01-mode in the coaxial waveguide shows the radial power divider can operate in the base mode with a large diameter, which can allow arbitrary multi-way waveguides to be radially distributed along the circumference of the coaxial waveguide. An equivalent circuit model of the arbitrary multi-way radial power divider is used to analyze its design procedure including the matching section, which can improve the transmission coefficient and isolation between output ports. To verify these, a 4-way and a 20-way radial power divider/combiner with a matching section are designed; the simulation results show that the power capability is >43 kW within 0.5 dB insertion loss for the four-way radial power divider. The average value of isolation between adjacent ports has improved by 11.1 dB after using the periodic matching structure as well as 2.78 dB between opposite ports in the frequency range of 34.08–36.32 GHz. The insertion loss of the 20-way radial power divider is less than 1 dB in the frequency range of 33.4–37.6 GHz, while the return loss is greater than 25 dB.
Nonequilibrium reaction rate theory: Formulation and implementation within the hierarchical equations of motion approach
Authors: Ke Yaling , Kaspar Christoph , Erpenbeck André , Peskin Uri , Thoss Michael
Published: June 2022

The study of chemical reactions in environments under nonequilibrium conditions has been of interest recently in a variety of contexts, including current-induced reactions in molecular junctions and scanning tunneling microscopy experiments. In this work, we outline a fully quantum mechanical, numerically exact approach to describe chemical reaction rates in such nonequilibrium situations. The approach is based on an extension of the flux correlation function formalism to nonequilibrium conditions and uses a mixed real and imaginary time hierarchical equations of motion approach for the calculation of rate constants. As a specific example, we investigate current-induced intramolecular proton transfer reactions in a molecular junction for different applied bias voltages and molecule–lead coupling strengths.
Selection criteria for frame score and its association with growth-, reproductive-, feed efficiency- and carcass-related traits in Nellore cattle
Authors: Negreiros M. P. , Peripolli E. , Espigolan R. , Londoño-Gil M. , Rodriguez J. D. , Brunes L. , Magnabosco C. U. , Guimarães N. C. , Sainz R. D. , Pereira A. S. C. , Lobo R. B. , Baldi F.
Published: June 2022

Context A frame score prediction equation developed specifically for Nellore cattle could be an auxiliary tool to improve mating decisions on the basis of feed resources and production-system objectives. Aims Estimate genetic parameters for frame by using a prediction equation developed for Nellore cattle and genetic associations between frame score (FRAME) and growth-, reproductive-, carcass- and feed efficiency-related traits, and five bioeconomic indexes. Methods Birth weight (BW), adjusted weight at 120 (W120), 210 (W210) and 450 (W450) days of age, adult weight (AW), age at first calving (AFC), probability of precocious calving (PPC30), stayability (STAY), accumulated cow productivity (ACP), adjusted scrotal circumference at 365 (SC365) and 450 (SC450) days of age, rib eye area (REA), subcutaneous backfat thickness (BFT), rump fat thickness (RFT), intramuscular fat percentage (IMF), residual feed intake (RFI) and dry-matter intake (DMI) were included in the analyses. Frame score was calculated using the multiple linear regression (MLR) prediction method. The estimation of genetic parameters was performed using a linear animal model, except for PPC30 and STAY, which were estimated through a threshold animal model. The correlated response in FRAME considering selection for growth-, reproductive-, carcass- and feed efficiency-indicator traits were obtained in the context of single-trait selection and a multiple-trait context. Key results Heritability estimated for FRAME was moderate (0.30 ± 0.09). Frame score showed moderate genetic correlations with growth traits, BW (0.51 ± 0.08), W120 (0.41 ± 0.07), W210 (0.35 ± 0.07) and W450 (0.29 ± 0.08). The genetic correlation estimates between FRAME and RFT was high (−0.84 ± 0.02), but low with ACP (0.25 ± 0.08) and RFI (0.10 ± 0.13). In the single-trait and multi-trait contexts, there was a lower correlated gain for FRAME when the selection was applied for traits commonly measured in beef cattle breeding programs. Conclusion Selection to increase growth traits would lead to an increase in frame size and herd nutritional requirements, and it would reduce the carcass fatness level and early heifer sexual precocity. FRAME could be an alternative trait to monitor calf birth weight. Implications Selection for FRAME is feasible, and the most suitable frame score value depends on the production system objectives and feed resources.
Warm stratification and optimised temperatures improve conservation of the endangered orchid,
Authors: Janissen Brendan , Lawrie Ann C. , Huynh Tien
Published: June 2022

Context Maximising seed germination and seedling development is critical for conservation of endangered plants around the world. Orchidaceae is one of the most threatened plant families and can be one of the most difficult to propagate ex situ. Three critical, but potentially limiting, factors are important for orchid germination, namely, conducive conditions, ‘ready-to-germinate’ seed and effective mycorrhizal fungi. Aims Our aim was to improve poor germination in vitro of a recalcitrant Australian endangered orchid, Caladenia robinsonii, and to predict the potential impacts of climate change on this species. Methods Three experiments were conducted to optimise germination in C. robinsonii, with a focus on temperature. In Experiment 1, on the basis of meteorological data, three constant temperatures (15°C, 20°C and 27°C) were tested. In Experiment 2, the optimal constant temperature was compared with diurnally varying temperatures of 22°C/18°C (12/12 h), with and without warm stratification at 30°C/27°C (12/12 h) for 1 week. In Experiment 3, the same diurnally varying temperature and warm stratification were tested using multiple orchid mycorrhizal fungal isolates cultured from wild and re-introduced populations of C. robinsonii. Key results Without warm stratification, germination was greatest at 20°C (21%), but only 4% of seedlings developed to the green-leaf stage, whereas fungal growth was greatest at 27°C. Stratification increased germination (79%) and development to the green-leaf stage (47%), but more so with subsequent incubation under constant 20°C than diurnal 22°C/18°C. Fungal isolate affected total germination (53–69%) and development to the green-leaf stage (26–41%); isolates from the wild population were less effective than were those from re-introductions. Conclusions Warm stratification and specific seasonal temperatures significantly improved germination, both factors being typical of seeds with physiological dormancy. Implications Mimicking in situ conditions can provide a strong basis for ex situ germination strategies and predicting future outcomes. Winter–spring flowering orchid seedlings are commonly observed in autumn, and warm stratification should be considered for improving germination of similar orchid species. However, future climate warming may reduce in situ seedling recruitment.
White patients’ physical responses to healthcare treatments are influenced by provider race and gender
Authors: Howe Lauren C. , Hardebeck Emerson J. , Eberhardt Jennifer L. , Markus Hazel R. , Crum Alia J.
Published: June 2022

The healthcare workforce in the United States is becoming increasingly diverse, gradually shifting society away from the historical overrepresentation of White men among physicians. However, given the long-standing underrepresentation of people of color and women in the medical field, patients may still associate the concept of doctors with White men and may be physiologically less responsive to treatment administered by providers from other backgrounds. To investigate this, we varied the race and gender of the provider from which White patients received identical treatment for allergic reactions and measured patients’ improvement in response to this treatment, thus isolating how a provider’s demographic characteristics shape physical responses to healthcare. A total of 187 White patients experiencing a laboratory-induced allergic reaction interacted with a healthcare provider who applied a treatment cream and told them it would relieve their allergic reaction. Unbeknownst to the patients, the cream was inert (an unscented lotion) and interactions were completely standardized except for the provider’s race and gender. Patients were randomly assigned to interact with a provider who was a man or a woman and Asian, Black, or White. A fully blinded research assistant measured the change in the size of patients’ allergic reaction after cream administration. Results indicated that White patients showed a weaker response to the standardized treatment over time when it was administered by women or Black providers. We explore several potential explanations for these varied physiological treatment responses and discuss the implications of problematic race and gender dynamics that can endure “under the skin,” even for those who aim to be bias free.
Microbiome-associated human genetic variants impact phenome-wide disease risk
Authors: Markowitz Robert H. George , LaBella Abigail Leavitt , Shi Mingjian , Rokas Antonis , Capra John A. , Ferguson Jane F. , Mosley Jonathan D. , Bordenstein Seth R.
Published: June 2022

Human genetic variation associates with the composition of the gut microbiome, yet its influence on clinical traits remains largely unknown. We analyzed the consequences of nearly a thousand gut microbiome-associated variants (MAVs) on phenotypes reported in electronic health records from tens of thousands of individuals. We discovered and replicated associations of MAVs with neurological, metabolic, digestive, and circulatory diseases. Five significant MAVs in these categories correlate with the relative abundance of microbes down to the strain level. We also demonstrate that these relationships are independently observed and concordant with microbe by disease associations reported in case–control studies. Moreover, a selective sweep and population differentiation impacted some disease-linked MAVs. Combined, these findings establish triad relationships among the human genome, microbiome, and disease. Consequently, human genetic influences may offer opportunities for precision diagnostics of microbiome-associated diseases but also highlight the relevance of genetic background for microbiome modulation and therapeutics.
Invoking asymmetry of affiliation in couple and family therapists’ accounts
Authors: Pawelczyk Joanna , Janusz Bernadetta , Józefik Barbara
Published: June 2022

In this paper we examine how couple and family therapists, in accounting for the moments of their first therapeutic encounters identified asmeaningful, invoke asymmetric affiliations with their clients in the Interpersonal Process Recall (IPR) dialogues. Applying Conversation Analysis and drawing on Membership Categorization Analysis, we analyze how these invoked (dis)affiliations are constructed in the fine interactional details of the interview and in/through the categories mobilized by the participants. The findings show therapists’ explicit affiliation with one spouse and often concurrently disaffiliation with the other in yet another interactive format. Consequently, the asymmetric affiliations are further strengthened by remaining unrecognized, unaddressed and ultimately unreflected in the IPR dialogue. The interviewer’s key role in promoting or constraining the therapist’s recognition of the asymmetric relations is discussed.
Discretization Analysis of Fluid Mechanical Flow Field Grid
Authors: Sheng Yu
Published: June 2022

The design basis of the performance of special industrial fluid machinery is to obtain the distribution of air flow parameters through the solution of flow field. In the numerical solution of flow field, the discretization of computational domain grid is the key factor affecting the calculation results. In this paper, the two-dimensional axisymmetric flow field analysis model were adopted. By establishing the software interface and automatic execution script file, the grid discreteness analysis process was established. The Richardson extrapolation method was used to infer the accurate solution of the flow field, and the grid independence and convergence analysis and the grid spacing analysis of the first layer of the wall were carried out. The results showed that the numerical results gradually approached the exact solution with the increase of the total number of grids, but the correlation between the numerical results and the total number of grids decreased in this process; By changing the normal spacing of the first layer of grid on each wall and making mathematical statistical analysis, the sensitive area of grid spacing could be determined. The method established in this paper could significantly improve the overall efficiency of the fluid mechanical mesh discreteness analysis and flow field analysis, and recommended the configuration of the optimal mesh discretization mode for the subsequent simulation calculation, which was conducive to further improve the calculation accuracy and efficiency of the flow field.
Visual Hierarchy Design of Map Site Information in Thematic Meteorological Interface
Authors: Shao Junkai , Tang Wenzhe , Yang Bingqing , Xue Chengqi
Published: June 2022

The visual map elements of the thematic meteorological interface have an essential impact on the user’s processing efficiency. Based on the different visual hierarchies of map site information, including shape, colour, and area, this paper explored the influence of site information’s visual hierarchy change mechanism on user behaviour performance. The results were as follows: 1) The greater the number of shapes, the more difficult it was to complete the task. Therefore, the shape of map sites could be formulated according to the type of meteorological disaster. 2) Under the same comparison level, when the number of colours for multiple map sites was 6, the user’s task operation efficiency was best. 3) The area of map sites was reasonably enlarged within a specific range that could improve the operation efficiency of interface tasks and balance the information complexity of map sites. The results have certain reference value for the visual hierarchy design of map sites in the meteorological interface.
Hyperelastic Constitutive Model Determination and Structural Optimization Based on High Vacuum Elastomer Sealing Structure
Authors: Wang Bo , Liang Zehui , Li Zhen , Chen Xuekai , Kang Zhenran
Published: June 2022

The stress analysis of rubber liner is widely used in the design of high vacuum elastomer sealing structure. It is very important to determine a reasonable constitutive model and establish a strength evaluation method suitable for failure mode. A series of mechanical properties tests of JY7766 fluororubber were completed in this paper, and material parameters under different constitutive models and strain levels were fitted. A model selection method based on stiffness relative deviation of liner as evaluation index was proposed, and the high precision constitutive model and material parameters with only 0.2% stiffness relative deviation was determined. At the same time, the consistency of crack propagation path and Mises stress distribution of liner was confirmed based on the comparison between theoretical calculation and the actual structure. Under the condition of ensuring the contact total stress of main sealing surface, the maximum Mises stress was reduced by 43.6% and the safety margin of structural strength was improved by optimizing the sealing groove size of a vacuum equipment. The test result showed that the optimized structure meet the requirement of sealing performance.
Lunar Observatory for monitoring the radiation balance of the Earth and climate
Authors: Abdussamatov H I
Published: June 2022

Continuous uniform high-precision data on the Earth's radiation balance over many decades and hundreds of years are essential for reliable research and prediction of climate change. This necessarily requires the use of long-term fixed, stable space platforms at a sufficient distance from Earth. However, measurements by all low-orbit and geostationary satellites cannot provide high-precision identifications of the radiation balance, since they observe its limited areas. Two identical especial optical robotic telescopes, of which the Lunar Observatory (LO) consists of, are a single system of sequentially functioning in the automatic mode of Earth observations. Telescopes will be installed along the equatorial zone at opposite edges of the Moon, 80.9±0.1° distant from its visible center. LO provides measurements of the variations in the magnitude of the specific power reflected by the planet into the space of the total solar irradiance in the spectral range Δλ=0.2–4 μm and outgoing intrinsic thermal radiation of the Earth in the ranges Δλ=4–50 μm and the atmospheric transparency window Δλ=8–13 μm. The system of two telescopes, replacing each other, will sequentially survey the entire Earth's surface continuously for more than 94% of the time of a lunar day only at lunar night time. LO will make it possible to determine the parameters of the average annual values of total energies departing from the Earth into space with an error of the order of 0.1%, which is almost an order of magnitude more accurate than the errors in the measurement of these parameters by instruments of any orbital spacecraft. Monitoring of energy variations in the range Δλ=8–13 μm will make it possible to control and determine the relative contribution of the variation in the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere to climate change.
Submicron aerosol and nitrogen dioxide in the atmospheric near-surface layer at the Zvenigorod Scientific Station of the A. M. Obukhov Institute of Atmospheric Physics RAS: Thirty years of measurements
Authors: Gruzdev A N , Isakov A A , Elokhov A S , Anikin P P
Published: June 2022

The paper presents results of measurements and trend analysis of the mass concentration of submicron aerosol and the NO2 content in the atmospheric surface layer at the Zvenigorod Scientific Station of the A. M. Obukhov Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences. The station is located in a rural area of the western Moscow region. Aerosol concentration is determined by directional light scattering in a flow nephelometer. The NO2 content is measured spectrometrically by zenith-scattered solar radiation. Three decades of aerosol and NO2 measurements give a possibility to analyze long-term trends in near-surface aerosol and NO2. Seasonally dependent estimates of the aerosol trends are presented for three periods differing in character of aerosol variability: 1991–2002, 2003–2012, and 2013–2020. The common feature of the trends is a general decrease in the aerosol concentration. There are however significant interdecadal differences in the strength of the trends and in their seasonal dependence. The NO2 content in the near-surface layer undergoes a significant positive trend. The NO2 increase is likely associated with an increase in the population and human activity resulting, in particular, in the increase in motor traffic in the region. Effects of wind direction on aerosol and NO2 anomalies are also studied.
Meteorological multi-rotor unmanned aerial complex and its application for monitoring of the atmosphere
Authors: Popov Yu B , Karpushin P A , Krasnenko N P , Kurakov S A , Popova K Yu , Rakov A S
Published: June 2022

A design of a meteorological complex based on multi-rotor aeromobile platforms of unmanned aerial vehicles and its possible application for measuring vertical profiles of the main meteorological parameters of the atmosphere, including the air temperature, humidity, and pressure are considered. An example of a comparison of multicopter measurements with the data obtained using an MPT-5 meteorological temperature profiler is given.
Variability of near-surface aerosol composition in Moscow in the spring of 2020
Authors: Gubanova D P , Skorokhod A I , Elansky N F , Iordanskii M A , Minashkin V M
Published: June 2022

The paper studies variability in mass concentration and elemental composition of near-surface aerosol in Moscow in March-April 2020. During the study period, noticeable fluctuations in concentration of surface aerosol caused by atypical synoptic and meteorological conditions were revealed. Sharp increase in PM10 particle concentration (March 25-29, April 13) is associated with anticyclonic activity and advection of air containing combustion aerosols from the areas with biomass fires. In April as a whole, anomalously low values of aerosol particle concentrations were recorded in comparison with the long-term average. The prevailing dry Arctic air masses significantly decreased the atmospheric aerosol pollution. The decrease of anthropogenic load during COVID-19 non-proliferation actions affected on daily variations of the surface aerosol, smoothing out its typical daily maximal concentration values. Results of spring experiment at the IAP RAS showed good agreement with the data of the Obuchi nearest station of State Budgetary Institution "Mosecomonitoring". We analyzed geochemical spectrum of chemical elements in aerosol and its variability under different synoptic and weather conditions in Moscow. Possible sources and sinks of aerosols are discussed taking into account both abnormal weather conditions and decreased anthropogenic load during a lockdown period in the spring of 2020.
Numerical modeling of methane hydrates dissociation in the submarine permafrost
Authors: Malakhova V V
Published: June 2022

In this study, we evaluate the sensitivity of gas hydrate reservoirs associated with submarine permafrost conditions to changes in global climate. We apply numerical simulations to assess the timings of methane hydrate dissociation on the East Siberian Arctic Shelf after flooding the shelf with the seawater. The modeling combines a model of submarine permafrost evolution with a model of methane hydrate dissociation that accounts for the consumption of latent heat during hydrate dissociation. Based on the analysis of the performed experiments, we found that the endothermic reaction is a significant mechanism for slowing hydrate dissociation in frozen sediments. As a result, it additionally increases the lag of the subsea permafrost and hydrates stability zone response to glacial cycles.
Application of A.M. Obukhov’s theory of correlation of vectors for scientific research and engineering calculations of ice drift in the Arctic Ocean.
Authors: Ivanov N E , Demchev D M , Nesterov A V
Published: June 2022

The theory of vectors correlation of Obukhov was used to describe an ice drift in the Arctic Ocean. The main features are defined by an area. The tracks tortuosity in Beaufort Gyre and Transarctic current varies threefold: 1.5 and 4.5. Year to year and seasonal variations indicate the position of the Beaufort Gyre and the speed of the Transarctic drift. The average speed does not exceed 10 cm/s. The drift increases in summer, and in winter it intensifies in Fram Strait. In Fram Strait the velocity month–over–month increases from June to December–March from 2.5 to 6.5 cm/s. Overall correlation drift and wind is 0.95 and 0.85 for ice fields and icebergs. The non-wind drift reproduces the cyclonic circulation between Frantz Josef Land and Novaya Zemlya. The wind drift specifies the coefficients and angles of drift evasion from the wind. The coefficient for total drift is 0.14–0.18, fore wind drift 0.10–0.15, and the angles are 15–30° and 10–15° in the Barents Sea. In the Fram Strait the drift and wind directions are stable, the trend considers the modulus and direction. The drift trend has the direction towards the south. It decreases to 5 % of variance in June and increases to 15% from December to March.
Atomic-molecular effects in geophysical hydrodynamics
Authors: Chashechkin Y D
Published: June 2022

To calculate the dynamics and structure of flows, a system of fundamental equations of fluid mechanics with equations of state for the Gibbs potential and density of an inhomogeneous medium is applied. The complete solution of the system describes ligaments, waves, vortices, jets, wakes, and other types of flows. Calculations of flow patterns around obstacles are consistent with the experiment. Observations of the processes of merging a freely falling drop with a target fluid revealed that the finest components are formed during the direct generation of ligaments by atomic-molecular processes. The involvement of a scaled and parametrically invariant system of fundamental equations permits the study of unsteady energetic flows and more accurately describes their dynamics and structure in the whole range of scales from microscopic to global.
The ability of climate models to reproduce the weakening of the annual air temperature cycle over the central part of the Russian Plain
Authors: Alexandrov G A
Published: June 2022

Natural variability plays a large role in local climate that makes it difficult to specify the causes of the weakening of the annual cycle of surface air temperature in the central part of the Russian Plain. This study is to check whether this could be caused by the global warming by using the outputs of climate models. For this purpose, the changes in monthly surface air temperature simulated for the period from 1950 to 2010 were used to calculate the coefficients of correlation between the annual mean of the air temperature and the amplitude of its annual cycle. The negative correlation demonstrated by some models allows us to attribute, at least with a low confidence, the weakening of the annual temperature cycle in the central part of the Russian Plain to the global warming. The model disagreement on the sign of the correlation calls for the study of model ability to reproduce the changes in zonal and meridional atmospheric circulation over the eastern part of the European continent.
Scattering diagrams, stability conditions, and coherent sheaves on ℙ²
Authors: Bousseau Pierrick
Published: June 2022

We show that a purely algebraic structure, a two-dimensional scattering diagram, describes a large part of the wall-crossing behavior of moduli spaces of Bridgeland semistable objects in the derived category of coherent sheaves on

P

2

\mathbb {P}^2

. This gives a new algorithm computing the Hodge numbers of the intersection cohomology of the classical moduli spaces of Gieseker semistable sheaves on

P

2

\mathbb {P}^2

, or equivalently the refined Donaldson-Thomas invariants for compactly supported sheaves on local

P

2

\mathbb {P}^2

.

As applications, we prove that the intersection cohomology of moduli spaces of Gieseker semistable sheaves on

P

2

\mathbb {P}^2

is Hodge-Tate, and we give the first non-trivial numerical checks of the general

χ
\chi

-independence conjecture for refined Donaldson-Thomas invariants of one-dimensional sheaves on local

P

2

\mathbb {P}^2

.
Algorithms for Operationalizing Mild Cognitive Impairment Using the Spanish-Language NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery
Authors: Karr Justin E , Rivera Mindt Monica , Iverson Grant L
Published: June 2022

Objective

Neuropsychologists would benefit from flexible methods for operationalizing psychometric cognitive impairment in Spanish-speaking examinees that vary in association with intelligence, education, and sociocultural characteristics. The current study combined low and high score base rates (BRs) for the Spanish-language NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery (NIHTB-CB) to identify score combinations that are uncommon within different stratifications of the normative sample and may indicate cognitive impairment.

Method

The Spanish-language NIHTB-CB normative sample included 250 healthy Latinx adults with complete data on two crystallized and five fluid cognitive tests (M = 38.8 ± 13.7 years old, 72.0% women). Test performances were converted into age-adjusted and demographically adjusted normed scores, adjusting for age, gender, and education. The frequencies at which participants obtained one or more low scores or few to no high scores on fluid cognitive tests were combined into algorithms that occurred at BRs approximately 1 SD (~16%) or 1.5 SDs (~7%) below the mean.

Results

Algorithms are provided for age-adjusted and demographically adjusted scores, with BRs stratified by crystallized ability, education, and sociocultural characteristics. Using demographically adjusted norms, the BR of obtaining any one of the following, 5 scores <50th, 4+ scores ≤25th, 3+ scores ≤16th, or 2+ scores ≤9th percentile, approximates 1 SD below the mean in participants born (BR = 16.2%) or educated abroad (BR = 18.6%), who are monolingual Spanish speakers (BR = 16.4%) or who reside in low-income households (BR = 13.6%).

Conclusions

These algorithms offer a flexible approach to operationalizing psychometric cognitive impairment, through which different definitions can be applied to different examinees based on varying crystallized ability, education, and sociocultural characteristics.
Arginine inhibits Saccharomyces cerevisiae biofilm formation by inducing endocytosis of the arginine transporter Can1
Authors: Nishimura Akira , Nakagami Kazuki , Kan Kyoyuki , Morita Fumika , Takagi Hiroshi
Published: June 2022

Biofilms are formed by the aggregation of microorganisms into multicellular structures that adhere to surfaces. Biofilm formation by yeast is a critical issue in clinical and industrial fields because of the strong adhesion of yeast biofilm to abiotic surfaces and tissues. Here, we clarified the arginine-mediated inhibition of biofilm formation by yeast. First, we showed that arginine inhibits biofilm formation in fungi such as Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Candida glabrata, and Cladosporium cladosporioides, but not in bacteria. In regard to the underlying mechanism, biochemical analysis indicated that arginine inhibits biofilm formation by suppressing Flo11-dependent flocculation. Intriguingly, a strain with deletion of the arginine transporter-encoding CAN1 was insensitive to arginine-mediated inhibition of biofilm formation. Finally, Can1 endocytosis appeared to be required for the inhibitory mechanism of biofilm formation by arginine. The present results could help to elucidate the molecular mechanism of yeast biofilm formation and its control.
Baicalein inhibits macrophage lipid accumulation and inflammatory response by activating the PPARγ/LXRα pathway
Authors: Zhang Zi-Zhen , Yu Xiao-Hua , Tan Wei-Hua
Published: June 2022

Lipid accumulation and inflammatory response are two major risk factors for atherosclerosis. Baicalein, a phenolic flavonoid widely used in East Asian countries, possesses a potential atheroprotective activity. However, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. This study was performed to explore the impact of baicalein on lipid accumulation and inflammatory response in THP-1 macrophage-derived foam cells. Our results showed that baicalein up-regulated the expression of ATP binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1), ABCG1, liver X receptor α (LXRα), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), promoted cholesterol efflux, and inhibited lipid accumulation. Administration of baicalein also reduced the expression and secretion of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. Knockdown of LXRα or PPARγ with siRNAs abrogated the effects of baicalein on ABCA1 and ABCG1 expression, cholesterol efflux, lipid accumulation as well as pro-inflammatory cytokine release. In summary, these findings suggest that baicalein exerts a beneficial effect on macrophage lipid accumulation and inflammatory response by activating the PPARγ/LXRα signaling pathway.
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in Africa: Current Considerations and Future Projections
Authors: Idoko Olubukola T , Usuf Effua , Okomo Uduak , Wonodi Chizoba , Jambo Kondwani , Kampmann Beate , Madhi Shabir , Adetifa Ifedayo
Published: June 2022

The burden of severe Covid-19 has been relatively low in sib-Saharan Africa compared to Europe and the Americas. However, SARS-CoV-2 sero-prevalence data has demonstrated that there has been more widespread transmission than can be deduced from reported cases. This could be attributed to under reporting due to low testing capacity or high numbers of asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection in communities. Recent data indicates that prior SARS-CoV-2 exposure is protective against reinfection and that vaccination of previously SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals induces robust cross-reactive antibody responses. Considering these data, calls for a need for a re-think of the COVID-19 vaccination strategy in sub-Saharan African settings with high SARSCoV-2 population exposure but limited available vaccine doses. A potential recommendation would be to prioritize rapid and widespread vaccination of the first dose, while waiting for more vaccines to become available.
Prevalence of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Antibodies in the Mozambican Population: A Cross-Sectional Serologic Study in 3 Cities, July–August 2020
Authors: Arnaldo Paulo , Mabunda Nédio , Young Peter Wesley , Tran Tiffany , Sitoe Nádia , Chelene Imelda , Nhanombe Armando , Ismael Nália , Júnior António , Cubula Basílio , Inlamea Osvaldo Frederico , Gudo Eduardo , Jani Ilesh Vinodrai
Published: June 2022

Background

The extent of population exposure to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was uncertain in many African countries during the onset of the pandemic.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study and randomly selected and surveyed general population and occupational groups from 6 July to 24 August 2020, in 3 cities in Mozambique. Anti–SARS-CoV-2–specific immunoglobulin M (IgM) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies were measured using a point-of-care rapid test. The prevalence was weighted for population (by age, sex, and city) and adjusted for test sensitivity and specificity.

Results

A total of 21 183 participants, including 11 143 from the general population and 10 040 from occupational groups, were included across all 3 cities. General population seropositivity (IgM or IgG) prevalence was 3.0% (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.0%–6.6%) in Pemba, 2.1% (95% CI, 1.2%–3.3%) in Maputo City, and 0.9% (95% CI, .1%–1.9%) in Quelimane. The prevalence in occupational groups ranged from 2.8% (95% CI, 1.3%–5.2%) to 5.9% (95% CI, 4.3%–8.0%) in Pemba, 0.3% (95% CI, .0%–2.2%) to 4.0% (95% CI, 2.6%–5.7%) in Maputo City, and 0.0% (95% CI, .0%–.7%) to 6.6% (95% CI, 3.8%–10.5%) in Quelimane, and showed variations between the groups tested.

Conclusions

In the first representative COVID-19 serosurveys in Mozambique, in mid-2020, weighted and assay-adjusted seroprevalence in 3 provincial capitals of anti–SARS-CoV-2 ranged from 0.9% to 3.0%, whereas adjusted prevalence in occupational groups ranged from 0.0% to 6.6% with variation between groups. Exposure to SARS-CoV-2 was extensive during the first pandemic wave, and transmission may have been more intense among occupational groups. These data have been of utmost importance to inform public health intervention to control and respond to the pandemic in Mozambique.
Vaccines, Variants, and Vigilance: Strengthening the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Public Health Response Through Partnerships and Collaborations
Authors: Kutty Preeta K , Stuckey Matthew J , Koumans Emilia H
Published: June 2022

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC); state, tribal, local, and territorial health departments; other US government departments and agencies; the private sector; and international partners have engaged in a real-time public health response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Vaccination, variants, and vigilance were themes that arose in the second year of pandemic response in the United States. The findings included in this supplement emerged from these themes and represent some of the many collaborative efforts to improve public health knowledge and action to reduce transmission, infection, and disease severity.
The prevalence of musculoskeletal presentations in general practice: an epidemiological study
Authors: Keavy Ruairi , Horton Robbie , Al-Dadah Oday
Published: June 2022

Background

It is estimated that 18.8 million people in the United Kingdom are living with a musculoskeletal (MSK) condition. It is a major cause of morbidity and a significant reason for presentation to primary care.

Aim

To determine the prevalence of MSK conditions presenting for consultation in general practice (GP), and how they are managed.

Design and setting

Epidemiological study.

Method

Patient episode consultations were reviewed at an urban community general practice. This involved evaluating morning consultations over a 1-week period from each of January, April, July, and October 2018. This included all the morning consultations from all GPs present. The number of MSK consultations was recorded, and within that the different presentations and their management plan.

Results

A total of 545 consultations were reviewed, of which 115 were related to an MSK presentation: an overall prevalence of 21.1%. The commonest MSK presentations related to the lumbosacral spine (18.3%) and the knee joint (17.4%). Re-presentations of an existing condition accounted for 73.9% of all MSK consultations. Steroid injections were administered in 33% of knee related consultations.

Conclusion

MSK presentations account for a large proportion of GP workload, but there is currently no mandatory training in orthopedics as part of the GP curriculum. Structured MSK education for GPs is important and may reduce the burden of re-presentations. Competency in joint injection is also an important skill for GPs.
Glacier melt-down changes habitat characteristics and unique microbial community composition and physiology in alpine lake sediments
Authors: Kleinteich Julia , Hanselmann Kurt , Hildebrand Falk , Kappler Andreas , Zarfl Christiane
Published: June 2022

Glacial melt-down alters hydrological and physico-chemical conditions in downstream aquatic habitats. In this study, we tested if sediment-associated microbial communities respond to the decrease of glaciers and associated meltwater flows in high-alpine lakes. We analyzed 16 lakes in forefield catchments of three glaciers in the Eastern Swiss Alps on physico-chemical and biological parameters. We compared lakes fed by glacier meltwater with hydrologically disconnected lakes, as well as “mixed” lakes that received water from both other lake types. Glacier-fed lakes had a higher turbidity (94 NTU) and conductivity (47 µS/cm), but were up to 5.2°C colder than disconnected lakes (1.5 NTU, 26 µS/cm). Nutrient concentration was low in all lakes (TN < 0.05 mg/l, TP < 0.02 mg/l). Bacterial diversity in the sediments decreased significantly with altitude. Bacterial community composition correlated with turbidity, temperature, conductivity, nitrate, and lake age and was distinctly different between glacier-fed compared to disconnected and mixed water lakes, but not between catchments. Chemoheterotrophic processes were more abundant in glacier-fed compared to disconnected and mixed water lakes where photoautotrophic processes dominated. Our study suggests that the loss of glaciers will change sediment bacterial community composition and physiology that are unique for glacier-fed lakes in mountain and polar regions.