bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laboratory and numerical experiments on the near wake of a sphere in a stably stratified ambient
Authors: Madison T.J. , Xiang X. , Spedding G.R.
Published: December 2021

The flow around and behind a sphere in a linear density gradient has served as a model problem for both body-generated wakes in atmospheres and oceans, and as a means of generating a patch of turbulence that then decays in a stratified ambient. Here, experiments and numerical simulations are conducted for 20 values of Reynolds number,$Re$, and internal Froude number,$Fr$, where each is varied independently. In all cases, the early wake is affected by the background density gradient, notably in the form of the body-generated lee waves. Mean and fluctuating quantities do not reach similar states, and their subsequent evolution would not be collapsible under any universal scaling. There are five distinguishable flow regimes, which mostly overlap with previous literature based on qualitative visualisations and, in this parameter space, they maintain their distinguishing features up to and including buoyancy times of 20. The possible relation of the low$\{Re, Fr\}$flows to their higher$\{Re, Fr\}$counterparts is discussed.
Viscoacoustic squeeze-film force on a rigid disk undergoing small axial oscillations
Authors: Ramanarayanan S. , Coenen W. , Sánchez A.L.
Published: December 2021

This paper investigates the air flow induced by a rigid circular disk or piston vibrating harmonically along its axis of symmetry in the immediate vicinity of a parallel surface. Previous attempts to characterize these so-called ‘squeeze-film’ systems largely relied on simplifications afforded by neglecting either fluid acceleration or viscous forces inside the thin enclosed gas layer. The present viscoacoustic analysis employs the asymptotic limit of small vibration amplitudes to investigate the flow by systematic reduction of the Navier–Stokes equations in two distinct flow regions, namely, the inner gaseous film where streamlines are nearly parallel to the confining walls and the near-edge region of non-slender flow that features gas exchange with the surrounding stagnant atmosphere. The flow in the gaseous film depends on the relevant Stokes number, defined as the ratio of the characteristic viscous time across the film to the characteristic oscillation time, and on a compressibility parameter, defined as the square of the ratio of the acoustic time for radial pressure equilibration to the oscillation time. A Strouhal number based on the local residence time emerges as an additional governing parameter for the near-edge region, which is incompressible at leading order. The method of matched asymptotic expansions is used to describe the solution in both regions, across which the time-averaged pressure exhibits comparable variations that give opposing contributions to the resulting time-averaged force experienced by the disk or piston. A diagram structured with the Stokes number and compressibility parameter as coordinates reveals that this steady squeeze-film force, typically repulsive for small values of the Stokes number, alternates to attraction across a critical separation contour in the parametric domain that exists for all Strouhal numbers. This analysis provides, for the first time, a unifying viscoacoustic theory of axisymmetric squeeze films, which yields a reduced parametric description for the time-averaged repulsion/attraction force that is potentially useful in applications including non-contact fluid bearings and robot locomotion.
Vortex evolution in a rotating tank with an off-axis drain
Authors: Munro R.J. , Foster M.R.
Published: December 2021

Fluid entering the periphery of a steadily rotating cylindrical tank exits through an off-axis drain hole, located in the tank's base at the half-radius. Experiments show that, though a concentrated vortex forms over the drain, it soon advects around the tank in what is at first a circular path. Though inviscid vortex dynamics predicts continued motion, our experiments show that the vortex moves inwards from the predicted circular path, finally coming to rest at approximately

$50^{\circ }$

from the drain. In this final state, the vorticity is concentrated in a thin shear layer bounding an irrotational core, which passes over the drain. The broadening of the vortex structure and eventual steady-state formation are believed to be due to the growing boundary layer on the outer wall.
Cambrian trilobites from theGlossopleura walcottiZone (Miaolingian Series, Wuliuan Stage) of Mendoza, western Argentina
Authors: Tortello M. Franco
Published: December 2021

The Museo de La Plata houses numerous Miaolingian and Furongian fossils from the southern Precordillera of Mendoza, western Argentina, collected by Ángel V. Borrello during the 1960s. Early Miaolingian (Wuliuan) trilobites from these collections are described herein. The specimens studied come from allochthonous limestone blocks (San Isidro Olistoliths) of key fossiliferous localities of the San Isidro area (Cerro Martillo, Quebrada Oblicua, Quebrada Empozada, Quebrada San Isidro). Taxa compriseAthabaskia anax(Walcott),Glossopleura leonaLochman,Kooteniaaff.K. incerta(Rusconi),Kootenia crassaFritz,Oryctocephalites reynoldsi(Reed),Zacanthoidessp.,Spencia? sp.,Amecephalus normale? (Resser),Amecephalus laticaudum? (Resser), andAmecephalussp. This assemblage is representative of the North AmericanGlossopleura walcottiZone, and closely allied to faunas from the Great Basin (Spence Shale), Sonora, and to a lesser extent from northwestern Idaho.
New Donors, New Goals? Altruism, Self-Interest, and Domestic Political Support in Development Cooperation in Latin America
Authors: Pauselli Gino
Published: December 2021

The literature on aid allocation shows that many factors influence donors’ decision to provide aid. However, our knowledge about foreign aid allocation is based on traditional foreign aid, from developed to developing countries, and many assumptions of these theories do not hold when applied to southern donors. This article argues that south-south development cooperation (SSDC) can be explained by the strength of development cooperation’s domestic allies and foes. Specifically, it identifies civil society organizations as allies of SSDC and nationalist groups as opponents of SSDC. By using for the first time data on SSDC activities in Latin America, this article shows the predictive strength of a liberal domestic politics approach in comparison to the predictive power of alternative explanations. The results speak to scholars of both traditional foreign aid and south-south development cooperation in highlighting the limits of traditional theories of foreign aid motivations.
The Agricultural Settlement of the Arabah and the Political Ecology of Zionism
Authors: Kaminer Matan
Published: December 2021

Agricultural settlement geared to capitalist commodity production and accompanied by massive ecological interventions has historically been central to the Zionist colonial project of creating a permanent Jewish presence in the “Land of Israel.” The hyperarid southern region known as the Central Arabah is an instructive edge-case: in the 1960s, after the expulsion of the bedouin population, cooperative settlements were established here and vegetables produced through “Hebrew self-labor,” with generous assistance from the state. In the 1990s the region was again transformed as the importation of migrant workers from Thailand enabled farmers to expand cultivation of bell peppers for global markets. But today ecological destruction, depletion of water resources, and global warming cast doubt over the viability of settlement in this climatically extreme region. I locate the settlements of the Arabah within the historical political ecology of the Zionist movement, arguing that their current fragility exposes the essential precarity of capitalist colonization.
Statistical description of coalescing magnetic islands via magnetic reconnection
Authors: Zhou Muni , Wu David H. , Loureiro Nuno F. , Uzdensky Dmitri A.
Published: December 2021

The physical picture of interacting magnetic islands provides a useful paradigm for certain plasma dynamics in a variety of physical environments, such as the solar corona, the heliosheath and the Earth's magnetosphere. In this work, we derive an island kinetic equation to describe the evolution of the island distribution function (in area and in flux of islands) subject to a collisional integral designed to account for the role of magnetic reconnection during island mergers. This equation is used to study the inverse transfer of magnetic energy through the coalescence of magnetic islands in two dimensions. We solve our island kinetic equation numerically for three different types of initial distribution: Dirac delta, Gaussian and power-law distributions. The time evolution of several key quantities is found to agree well with our analytical predictions: magnetic energy decays as$\tilde {t}^{-1}$, the number of islands decreases as$\tilde {t}^{-1}$and the averaged area of islands grows as$\tilde {t}$, where$\tilde {t}$is the time normalised to the characteristic reconnection time scale of islands. General properties of the distribution function and the magnetic energy spectrum are also studied. Finally, we discuss the underlying connection of our island-merger models to the (self-similar) decay of magnetohydrodynamic turbulence.
Big Data and “New” Global History: Global Goods and Trade Networks in Early Modern China and Europe
Authors: Perez-Garcia Manuel , Wang Li , Svriz-Wucherer Omar , Fernández-de-Pinedo Nadia , Diaz-Ordoñez Manuel
Published: December 2021

This paper introduces an innovative method applied to global (economic) history using the tools of digital humanities through the design and development of the GECEM Project Database (www.gecem.eu; www.gecemdatabase.eu). This novel database goes beyond the static Excel files frequently used by conventional scholarship in early modern history studies to mine new historical data through a bottom-up process and analyse the global circulation of goods, consumer behaviour, and trade networks in early modern China and Europe. Macau and Marseille, as strategic entrepôts for the redistribution of goods, serve as the main case study. This research is framed within a polycentric approach to analyse the connectivity of south Chinese and European markets with trade zones of Spain, France, South America, and the Pacific.
Bridging health technology assessment and healthcare quality improvement using international consortium of health outcomes measurement standard sets
Authors: Kalf Rachel R. J. , Zuidgeest Marloes , Delnoij Diana M. J. , Bouvy Marcel L. , Goettsch Wim G.
Published: December 2021

Objective

Although health technology assessment (HTA) and healthcare quality improvement are distinct processes, a greater level of alignment in outcome measures used may increase the quality and efficiency of data collection. This study evaluates the agreement in outcome measures used in oncology for healthcare quality improvement and HTAs, and how these align to the International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement (ICHOM) standard sets.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional comparative analysis of ICHOM sets focusing on oncological indications and publicly available measures for healthcare quality and HTA reports published by the National Health Care Institute from the Netherlands and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence from the United Kingdom.

Results

All ICHOM sets and HTAs used overall survival, whereas quality improvement used different survival estimates. Different progression estimates for cancer were used in HTAs, ICHOM sets, and quality improvement. Data on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) was recommended in all ICHOM sets and all HTAs, but selectively for quality improvement. In HTAs, generic HRQoL questionnaires were preferred, whereas, in quality improvement and ICHOM sets, disease-specific questionnaires were recommended. Unfavorable outcomes were included in all HTAs and all ICHOM sets, but not always for quality improvement.

Conclusions

Although HTA and quality improvement use outcome measures from the same domains, a greater level of alignment seems possible. ICHOM may provide input on standardized outcome measures to support this alignment. However, residual discrepancies will remain due to the different objectives of HTA and quality improvement.
Distal Actions of Automorphisms of Lie Groups G on SubG
Authors: SHAH RIDDHI , YADAV ALOK KUMAR
Published: December 2021

For a locally compact metrisable group G, we study the action of
${\rm Aut}(G)$
on
${\rm Sub}_G$
, the set of closed subgroups of G endowed with the Chabauty topology. Given an automorphism T of G, we relate the distality of the T-action on
${\rm Sub}_G$
with that of the T-action on G under a certain condition. If G is a connected Lie group, we characterise the distality of the T-action on
${\rm Sub}_G$
in terms of compactness of the closed subgroup generated by T in
${\rm Aut}(G)$
under certain conditions on the center of G or on T as follows: G has no compact central subgroup of positive dimension or T is unipotent or T is contained in the connected component of the identity in
${\rm Aut}(G)$
. Moreover, we also show that a connected Lie group G acts distally on
${\rm Sub}_G$
if and only if G is either compact or it is isomorphic to a direct product of a compact group and a vector group. All the results on the Lie groups mentioned above hold for the action on
${\rm Sub}^a_G$
, a subset of
${\rm Sub}_G$
consisting of closed abelian subgroups of G.
A Bright, LED-Lit Future for Ocean Sciences
Authors: Ward Collin
Published: December 2021

LEDs have taken over the global lighting market. Now it’s time for this versatile, low-cost, and energy-efficient technology to illuminate oceanic processes.
Build It, and the Science Will Come
Authors: Goss Heather
Published: December 2021

In January, Eos takes a look at the scientists who know that sometimes the answer to a question is a screwdriver.
Tropospheric Role in the Predictability of the Surface Impact of the 2018 Sudden Stratospheric Warming Event
Authors: González‐Alemán Juan J. , Grams Christian M. , Ayarzagüena Blanca , Zurita‐Gotor Pablo , Domeisen Daniela I. V. , Gómara Iñigo , Rodríguez‐Fonseca Belén , Vitart Frédéric
Published: December 2021

Sudden stratospheric warmings (SSWs) can have a strong impact on the troposphere. Their fingerprint is often associated with the negative phase of the Northern Annular Mode (NAM) and the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), and extreme weather with high societal impact. However, the mechanisms behind this downward impact are not well understood. We investigate this surface impact through its associated predictability limits, by studying the 2018 SSW event. We search for predictability barriers that occurred after the onset of the SSW and before its surface impact. It is found that dynamical tropospheric events consisting of two cyclogenesis events were the main reasons for these predictability barriers in the prediction of negative NAM/NAO anomalies reaching the surface. This work corroborates that individual synoptic events might constitute predictability barriers during the downward impact of SSW events, and thereby sheds light on stratosphere‐troposphere coupling.
An Observationally Trained Markov Model for MJO Propagation
Authors: Hagos Samson , Leung L. Ruby , Zhang Chidong , Balaguru Karthik
Published: December 2021

A Markovian stochastic model is developed for studying the propagation of the Madden‐Julian Oscillation (MJO). This model represents the daily changes in real time multivariate MJO (RMM) indices as random functions of their current state and background conditions. The probability distribution function of the RMM changes is obtained using a machine learning algorithm trained to maximize MJO forecast skills using observed daily indices of RMM and different modes of variability. Skillful forecasts are obtained for lead times between 8 and 27 days. Large ensemble simulations by the stochastic model show that with monsoonal changes in the background state, MJO propagation across the Maritime Continent (MC) is most likely to be disrupted in boreal spring and summer when MJO events propagate from favorable conditions over the Indian Ocean to unfavorable ones over the MC, and predictability is higher during spring and summer when MJO activity is away from the MC region.
Surface Pathways Connecting the South and North Atlantic Oceans
Authors: Drouin Kimberley L. , Lozier M. Susan , Beron‐Vera Francisco J. , Miron Philippe , Olascoaga Maria J.
Published: December 2021

The North Brazil Current (NBC) is considered a bottleneck in the South Atlantic, responsible for carrying upper‐ocean waters into the North Atlantic. This work explores the surface pathways connecting the NBC and 26°N in the North Atlantic. To identify said pathways, we use observational trajectories from surface drifters in conjunction with transition path theory applied on a Markov chain. The pathways are computed as ensembles of paths transitioning directly between the NBC and 26°N. Our results suggest that there are two dominant surface pathways: The first is the traditional pathway through the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico, carrying waters to the Florida Current, while the second is a direct route east of the Caribbean supplying waters to the Antilles Current and basin interior. The latter is composed of multiple pathways that are collectively more probable than the traditional pathway.
Excessive mechanical strain accelerates intervertebral disc degeneration by disrupting intrinsic circadian rhythm
Authors: Ding Sheng-Long , Zhang Tai-Wei , Zhang Qi-Chen , Ding Wang , Li Ze-Fang , Han Guan-Jie , Bai Jin-Song , Li Xi-Lei , Dong Jian , Wang Hui-Ren , Jiang Li-Bo
Published: December 2021

Night shift workers with disordered rhythmic mechanical loading are more prone to intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). Our results showed that circadian rhythm (CR) was dampened in degenerated and aged NP cells. Long-term environmental CR disruption promoted IDD in rats. Excessive mechanical strain disrupted the CR and inhibited the expression of core clock proteins. The inhibitory effect of mechanical loading on the expression of extracellular matrix genes could be reversed by BMAL1 overexpression in NP cells. The Rho/ROCK pathway was demonstrated to mediate the effect of mechanical stimulation on CR. Prolonged mechanical loading for 12 months affected intrinsic CR genes and induced IDD in a model of upright posture in a normal environment. Unexpectedly, mechanical loading further accelerated the IDD in an Light-Dark (LD) cycle-disrupted environment. These results indicated that intrinsic CR disruption might be a mechanism involved in overloading-induced IDD and a potential drug target for night shift workers.
Consultations for clinical features of possible cancer and associated urgent referrals before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: an observational cohort study from English primary care
Authors: Nicholson Brian D. , Ordóñez-Mena José M. , Lay-Flurrie Sarah , Sheppard James P. , Liyanage Harshana , McGagh Dylan , Sherlock Julian , Williams John , Smith Margaret , Drakesmith Cynthia Wright , Thomas Nicholas P. B. , Morris Eva J. A. , Perera Rafael , de Lusignan Simon , Hobbs F. D. Richard , Bankhead Clare R.
Published: December 2021

Background

It remains unclear to what extent reductions in urgent referrals for suspected cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic were the result of fewer patients attending primary care compared to GPs referring fewer patients.

Methods

Cohort study including electronic health records data from 8,192,069 patients from 663 English practices. Weekly consultation rates, cumulative consultations and referrals were calculated for 28 clinical features from the NICE suspected cancer guidelines. Clinical feature consultation rate ratios (CRR) and urgent referral rate ratios (RRR) compared time periods in 2020 with 2019.

Findings

Consultations for cancer clinical features decreased by 24.19% (95% CI: 24.04–24.34%) between 2019 and 2020, particularly in the 6–12 weeks following the first national lockdown. Urgent referrals for clinical features decreased by 10.47% (95% CI: 9.82–11.12%) between 2019 and 2020. Overall, once patients consulted with primary care, GPs urgently referred a similar or greater proportion of patients compared to previous years.

Conclusion

Due to the significant fall in patients consulting with clinical features of cancer there was a lower than expected number of urgent referrals in 2020. Sustained efforts should be made throughout the pandemic to encourage the public to consult their GP with cancer clinical features.
Long noncoding RNA Meg3 sponges miR-708 to inhibit intestinal tumorigenesis via SOCS3-repressed cancer stem cells growth
Authors: Zhang Shuo , Ji Wei-Wei , Wei Wei , Zhan Li-Xing , Huang Xuan
Published: December 2021

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains the most common gastrointestinal cancer and a leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide, with most showing pathologies indicating the malignant transformation of early stage intestinal stem cells. The long non-coding RNAMeg3, which functions as a tumor suppressor, has been reported to be abnormal in multiple tumorigenesis events; however, the underlying mechanism by whichMeg3contributes to the malignant proliferation of colonic stem cells remains unclear.

Methods

We analyzed the expression levels ofMeg3,miR-708, and SOCS3 in samples fromApcloss-of-function (Apcmin) mice and patients with CRC, particularly in colonic crypt cells.Apcminmice and AMO/DSS-induced mice model (in vivo) and organoid culture system (in vitro) were used to explore the effect of theMeg3/miR-708/SOCS3 axis on tumorigenesis in the colon. In vitro, we performed RNApull-down, RNA immunoprecipitation, and luciferase reporter assays using DLD1 and RKO cell lines.

Findings

TheMeg3/miR-708/SOCS3 signaling axis plays a critical role in the early stage of CRC development. Our data showedMeg3levels negatively correlate withmiR-708levels both in clinical samples and in theApcminmouse model, which indicated thatMeg3acts as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) ofmiR-708. Then,miR-708served as an oncogene, inducing neoplasia in bothApcminmice and cultured colonic organoids. Put together,miR-708appears to promote malignant proliferation of colonic stem cells by targeting SOCS3/STAT3 signaling.

Interpretation

These data revealed thatMeg3spongesmiR-708to inhibit CRC development via SOCS3-mediated repression of the malignant proliferation of colonic stem cells. TheMeg3/miR-708/SOCS3 signaling axis provides potential targets for the diagnosis and treatment of CRC, particularly early stage CRC.
Deciphering the tRNA-derived small RNAs: origin, development, and future
Authors: Liu Bowen , Cao Jinling , Wang Xiangyun , Guo Chunlei , Liu Yunxia , Wang Tianjiao
Published: December 2021

Transfer RNA (tRNA)-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs), a novel category of small noncoding RNAs, are enzymatically cleaved from tRNAs. Previous reports have shed some light on the roles of tsRNAs in the development of human diseases. However, our knowledge about tsRNAs is still relatively lacking. In this paper, we review the biogenesis, classification, subcellular localization as well as action mechanism of tsRNAs, and discuss the association between chemical modifications of tRNAs and the production and functions of tsRNAs. Furthermore, using immunity, metabolism, and malignancy as examples, we summarize the molecular mechanisms of tsRNAs in diseases and evaluate the potential of tsRNAs as new biomarkers and therapeutic targets. At the same time, we compile and introduce several resource databases that are currently publicly available for analyzing tsRNAs. Finally, we discuss the challenges associated with research in this field and future directions.
Effects of episodic slow slip on seismicity and stress near a subduction-zone megathrust
Authors: Kita Saeko , Houston Heidi , Yabe Suguru , Tanaka Sachiko , Asano Youichi , Shibutani Takuo , Suda Naoki
Published: December 2021

Slow slip phenomena deep in subduction zones reveal cyclic processes downdip of locked megathrusts. Here we analyze seismicity within a subducting oceanic slab, spanning ~50 major deep slow slip with tremor episodes over 17 years. Changes in rate, b-values, and stress orientations of in-slab seismicity are temporally associated with the episodes. Furthermore, although stress orientations in the slab below these slow slips may rotate slightly, in-slab orientations 20–50 km updip from there rotate farther, suggesting that previously-unrecognized transient slow slip occurs on the plate interface updip. We infer that fluid pressure propagates from slab to interface, promoting episodes of slow slip, which break mineral seals, allowing the pressure to propagate tens of km further updip along the interface where it promotes transient slow slips. The proposed methodology, based primarily on in-slab seismicity, may help monitor plate boundary conditions and slow slip phenomena, which can signal the beginning stages of megathrust earthquakes.
Evidence of free tropospheric and long-range transport of microplastic at Pic du Midi Observatory
Authors: Allen S. , Allen D. , Baladima F. , Phoenix V. R. , Thomas J. L. , Le Roux G. , Sonke J. E.
Published: December 2021

The emerging threat of atmospheric microplastic pollution has prompted researchers to study areas previously considered beyond the reach of plastic. Investigating the range of atmospheric microplastic transport is key to understanding the global extent of this problem. While atmospheric microplastics have been discovered in the planetary boundary layer, their occurrence in the free troposphere is relatively unexplored. Confronting this is important because their presence in the free troposphere would facilitate transport over greater distances and thus the potential to reach more distal and remote parts of the planet. Here we show evidence of 0.09–0.66 microplastics particles/m3 over 4 summer months from the Pic du Midi Observatory at 2877 meters above sea level. These results exhibit true free tropospheric transport of microplastic, and high altitude microplastic particles <50 µm (aerodynamic diameter). Analysis of air/particle history modelling shows intercontinental and trans-oceanic transport of microplastics illustrating the potential for global aerosol microplastic transport.
“World in motion” – emulsion adjuvants rising to meet the pandemic challenges
Authors: O’Hagan Derek T. , van der Most Robbert , Lodaya Rushit N. , Coccia Margherita , Lofano Giuseppe
Published: December 2021

Emulsion adjuvants such as MF59 and AS03 have been used for more than two decades as key components of licensed vaccines, with over 100 million doses administered to diverse populations in more than 30 countries. Substantial clinical experience of effectiveness and a well-established safety profile, along with the ease of manufacturing have established emulsion adjuvants as one of the leading platforms for the development of pandemic vaccines. Emulsion adjuvants allow for antigen dose sparing, more rapid immune responses, and enhanced quality and quantity of adaptive immune responses. The mechanisms of enhancement of immune responses are well defined and typically characterized by the creation of an “immunocompetent environment” at the site of injection, followed by the induction of strong and long-lasting germinal center responses in the draining lymph nodes. As a result, emulsion adjuvants induce distinct immunological responses, with a mixed Th1/Th2 T cell response, long-lived plasma cells, an expanded repertoire of memory B cells, and high titers of cross-neutralizing polyfunctional antibodies against viral variants. Because of these various properties, emulsion adjuvants were included in pandemic influenza vaccines deployed during the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic, are still included in seasonal influenza vaccines, and are currently at the forefront of the development of vaccines against emerging SARS-CoV-2 pandemic variants. Here, we comprehensively review emulsion adjuvants, discuss their mechanism of action, and highlight their profile as a benchmark for the development of additional vaccine adjuvants and as a valuable tool to allow further investigations of the general principles of human immunity.
Caffeine increases performance and leads to a cardioprotective effect during intense exercise in cyclists
Authors: Sampaio-Jorge Felipe , Morales Anderson Pontes , Pereira Rafael , Barth Thiago , Ribeiro Beatriz Gonçalves
Published: December 2021

The present study was designed to investigate the effects of different caffeine dietary strategies to compare the impact on athletic performance and cardiac autonomic response. The order of the supplementation was randomly assigned: placebo(4-day)-placebo(acute)/PP, placebo(4-day)-caffeine(acute)/PC and caffeine(4-day)-caffeine(acute)/CC. Fourteen male recreationally-trained cyclists ingested capsules containing either placebo or caffeine (6 mg kg−1) for 4 days. On day 5 (acute), capsules containing placebo or caffeine (6 mg kg−1) were ingested 60 min before completing a 16 km time-trial (simulated cycling). CC and PC showed improvements in time (CC vs PP, Δ − 39.3 s and PC vs PP, Δ − 43.4 s; P = 0.00; ƞ2 = 0.33) and in output power (CC vs PP, Δ 5.55 w and PC vs PP, Δ 6.17 w; P = 0.00; ƞ2 = 0.30). At the final of the time-trial, CC and PC exhibited greater parasympathetic modulation (vagal tone) when compared to the PP condition (P < 0.00; ƞ2 = 0.92). Our study provided evidence that acute caffeine intake (6 mg∙kg−1) increased performance (time-trial) and demonstrated a relevant cardioprotective effect, through increased vagal tone.
Comparison of HPLC and NMR for quantification of the main volatile fatty acids in rumen digesta
Authors: Wang Mengyuan , Wang Haiying , Zheng Huiru , Uhrin Dusan , Dewhurst Richard J. , Roehe Rainer
Published: December 2021

Accurate quantification of volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentrations in rumen fluid are essential for research on rumen metabolism. The study comprehensively investigated the pros and cons of High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and 1H Nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR) analysis methods for rumen VFAs quantification. We also investigated the performance of several commonly used data pre-treatments for the two sets of data using correlation analysis, principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA). The molar proportion and reliability analysis demonstrated that the two approaches produce highly consistent VFA concentrations. In the pre-processing of NMR spectra, line broadening and shim correction may reduce estimated concentrations of metabolites. We observed differences in results using multiplet of different protons from one compound and identified “handle signals” that provided the most consistent concentrations. Different data pre-treatment strategies tested with both HPLC and NMR significantly affected the results of downstream data analysis. “Normalized by sum” pre-treatment can eliminate a large number of positive correlations between NMR-based VFA. A “Combine” strategy should be the first choice when calculating the correlation between metabolites or between samples. The PCA and PLS-DA suggest that except for “Normalize by sum”, pre-treatments should be used with caution.
Measurement and modeling of clemastine fumarate (antihistamine drug) solubility in supercritical carbon dioxide
Authors: Sodeifian Gholamhossein , Garlapati Chandrasekhar , Razmimanesh Fariba , Ghanaat-Ghamsari Marziehsadat
Published: December 2021

The solubilities of clemastine fumarate in supercritical carbon dioxide (ScCO2) were measured for the first time at temperature (308 to 338 K) and pressure (12 to 27 MPa). The measured solubilities were reported in terms of mole faction (mol/mol total) and it had a range from 1.61 × 10–6 to 9.41 × 10–6. Various models were used to correlate the data. The efficacy of the models was quantified with corrected Akaike’s information criterion (AICc). A new cluster salvation model was derived to correlate the solubility data. The new model was able to correlate the data and deviation was 10.3% in terms of average absolute relative deviation (AARD). Furthermore, the measured solubilities were also correlated with existing K.-W. Chen et al., model, equation of state model and a few other density models. Among density models, Reddy and Garlapati model was observed to be the best model and corresponding AARD was 7.57% (corresponding AICc was − 678.88). The temperature independent Peng–Robinson equation of state was able to correlate the data and AARD was 8.25% (corresponding AICc was − 674.88). Thermodynamic parameters like heats of reaction, sublimation and solvation of clemastine fumarate were calculated and reported.
Hinge-type FBG acceleration sensor based on double elastic plate
Authors: Qiu Zhongchao , Zhang Jinquan , Teng Yuntian , Gao Zhitao , Hong Li
Published: December 2021

It is critical for the health monitoring of large-scale structures such as bridge, railway and tunnel to acquire the medium-frequency and high-frequency vibration signals. To solve the problems of low sensitivity and poor transverse anti-interference of the medium-frequency and high-frequency fiber acceleration sensor, a hinge-type Fiber Bragg Grating(FBG) acceleration sensor based on double elastic plate has been proposed, and the hinge and elastic plate are used as elastomer to realize the miniaturization and transverse interference suppression of the sensor. The MATLAB and the ANSYS are used for theoretical analysis and optimization of sensor sensitivity and resonance frequency, structural static stress analysis and modal simulation analysis, while the test system is built to test the sensor performance. The results show that the resonance frequency of the sensor is 1300 Hz; the sensor has a flat sensitivity response in the middle-high frequency band of 200–800 Hz; the sensitivity is about 20 pm/g, and the fiber central wavelength drift and acceleration have good linearity and stability, while the transverse anti-interference is about 3.16%, which provides a new idea for monitoring of medium-frequency and high-frequency vibration signals in large-scale structures.
A retrospective study of distribution of HIV associated malignancies among inpatients from 2007 to 2020 in China
Authors: Wang Fang , Xiang Pan , Zhao Hongxin , Gao Guiju , Yang Di , Xiao Jiang , Han Ning , Wu Liang , Liang Hongyuan , Ni Liang , Duan Yujiao , Xu Qiuhua , Chen Meiling , Zhang Fujie
Published: December 2021

HIV-associated malignancies are responsible for morbidity and mortality increasingly in the era of potent antiretroviral therapy. This study aimed to investigate the distribution of HIV-associated malignancies among inpatients, the immunodeficiency and the effect of antiretroviral therapy (ART) on spectrum of HIV-associated malignancies. A total of 438 cases were enrolled from 2007 to 2020 in Beijing Ditan Hospital. Demographic, clinical and laboratory data, managements, and outcomes were collected and analyzed retrospectively. Of 438 cases, 433 were assigned to non-AIDS-defining cancers (NADCs) (n = 200, 45.7%) and AIDS-defining cancers (ADCs) (n = 233, 53.2%), 5 (1.1%) with lymphoma were not specified further. No significant change was observed in the proportion of NADCs and ADCs as time goes on. Of NADCs, lung cancer (n = 38, 19%) was the most common type, followed by thyroid cancer (n = 17, 8.5%). Patients with ADCs had lower CD4 counts(104.5/μL vs. 314/μL), less suppression of HIVRNA(OR 0.23, 95%CI 0.16–0.35) compared to those with NADCs. ART did not affect spectrum of NADCs, but affect that of ADCs (between patients with detectable and undetectable HIVRNA). ADCs remain frequent in China, and NADCs play an important role in morbidity and mortality of HIV positive population.
Common and diet-specific metabolic pathways underlying residual feed intake in fattening Charolais yearling bulls
Authors: Jorge-Smeding Ezequiel , Bonnet Muriel , Renand Gilles , Taussat Sébastien , Graulet Benoit , Ortigues-Marty Isabelle , Cantalapiedra-Hijar Gonzalo
Published: December 2021

Residual feed intake (RFI) is one of the preferred traits for feed efficiency animal breeding. However, RFI measurement is expensive and time-consuming and animal ranking may depend on the nature of the diets. We aimed to explore RFI plasma biomarkers and to unravel the underlying metabolic pathways in yearling bulls fed either a corn-silage diet rich in starch (corn diet) or a grass-silage diet rich in fiber (grass diet). Forty-eight extreme RFI animals (Low-RFI, n = 24, versus High-RFI, n = 24, balanced per diet) were selected from a population of 364 Charolais bulls and their plasma was subjected to a targeted LC-MS metabolomic approach together with classical metabolite and hormonal plasma analyses. Greater lean body mass and nitrogen use efficiency, and lower protein turnover were identified as common mechanisms underlying RFI irrespective of the diet. On the other hand, greater adiposity and plasma concentrations of branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) together with lower insulin sensitivity in High-RFI animals were only observed with corn diet. Conversely, greater plasma concentrations of BCAA and total triglycerides, but similar insulin concentrations were noted in efficient RFI cattle with grass diet. Our data suggest that there are diet-specific mechanisms explaining RFI differences in fattening Charolais yearling bulls.
Machine-learning algorithms for forecast-informed reservoir operation (FIRO) to reduce flood damages
Authors: Zarei Manizhe , Bozorg-Haddad Omid , Baghban Sahar , Delpasand Mohammad , Goharian Erfan , Loáiciga Hugo A.
Published: December 2021

Water is stored in reservoirs for various purposes, including regular distribution, flood control, hydropower generation, and meeting the environmental demands of downstream habitats and ecosystems. However, these objectives are often in conflict with each other and make the operation of reservoirs a complex task, particularly during flood periods. An accurate forecast of reservoir inflows is required to evaluate water releases from a reservoir seeking to provide safe space for capturing high flows without having to resort to hazardous and damaging releases. This study aims to improve the informed decisions for reservoirs management and water prerelease before a flood occurs by means of a method for forecasting reservoirs inflow. The forecasting method applies 1- and 2-month time-lag patterns with several Machine Learning (ML) algorithms, namely Support Vector Machine (SVM), Artificial Neural Network (ANN), Regression Tree (RT), and Genetic Programming (GP). The proposed method is applied to evaluate the performance of the algorithms in forecasting inflows into the Dez, Karkheh, and Gotvand reservoirs located in Iran during the flood of 2019. Results show that RT, with an average error of 0.43% in forecasting the largest reservoirs inflows in 2019, is superior to the other algorithms, with the Dez and Karkheh reservoir inflows forecasts obtained with the 2-month time-lag pattern, and the Gotvand reservoir inflow forecasts obtained with the 1-month time-lag pattern featuring the best forecasting accuracy. The proposed method exhibits accurate inflow forecasting using SVM and RT. The development of accurate flood-forecasting capability is valuable to reservoir operators and decision-makers who must deal with streamflow forecasts in their quest to reduce flood damages.
Fractal–fractional and stochastic analysis of norovirus transmission epidemic model with vaccination effects
Authors: Cui Ting , Liu Peijiang , Din Anwarud
Published: December 2021

In this paper, we investigate an norovirus (NoV) epidemic model with stochastic perturbation and the new definition of a nonlocal fractal–fractional derivative in the Atangana–Baleanu–Caputo (ABC) sense. First we present some basic properties including equilibria and the basic reproduction number of the model. Further, we analyze that the proposed stochastic system has a unique global positive solution. Next, the sufficient conditions of the extinction and the existence of a stationary probability measure for the disease are established. Furthermore, the fractal–fractional dynamics of the proposed model under Atangana–Baleanu–Caputo (ABC) derivative of fractional order “$${p}$$
p
” and fractal dimension “$${q}$$
q
” have also been addressed. Besides, coupling the non-linear functional analysis with fixed point theory, the qualitative analysis of the proposed model has been performed. The numerical simulations are carried out to demonstrate the analytical results. It is believed that this study will comprehensively strengthen the theoretical basis for comprehending the dynamics of the worldwide contagious diseases.
Geoinformation-based landslide susceptibility mapping in subtropical area
Authors: Zhou Xiaoting , Wu Weicheng , Qin Yaozu , Fu Xiao
Published: December 2021

Mapping susceptibility of landslide disaster is essential in subtropical area, where abundant rainfall may trigger landslide and mudflow, causing damages to human society. The purpose of this paper is to propose an integrated methodology to achieve such a mapping work with improved prediction results using hybrid modeling taking Chongren, Jiangxi as an example. The methodology is composed of the optimal discretization of the continuous geo-environmental factors based on entropy, weight of evidence (WoE) calculation and application of the known machine learning (ML) models, e.g., Random Forest (RF), Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Logistic Regression (LR). The results show the effectiveness of the proposed hybrid modeling for landslide hazard mapping in which the prediction accuracy vs the validation set reach 82.35–91.02% with an AUC [area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve] of 0.912–0.970. The RF algorithm performs best among the observed three ML algorithms and WoE-based RF modeling will be recommended for the similar landslide risk prediction elsewhere. We believe that our research can provide an operational reference for predicting the landslide hazard in the subtropical area and serve for disaster reduction and prevention action of the local governments.
Proposing a new solution for marine debris by utilizing on-board low-temperature eco-friendly pulverization system
Authors: Lee Dong-Ha , Park Sungkyun , Kim Hee-Tae , Kim Jeong-Dae , Kim Jeong-Hyeon , Kim Seul-Kee , Seo Jung-Kwan , Song Pung-Keun , Oh Jeong-Eun , Youn BuHyun , Choi Gyung-Min , Lim Dong-Ha , Lee Jae-Myung
Published: December 2021

Developing an effective and efficient recycling process for marine debris (MD) is one of the most urgent issues to maintain environmental sustainability on Earth. However, restricted storage capacities and secondary pollution (e.g., microbial adhesion, putrefaction) limit the proper MD recycling. Here, we proposed a complete eco-friendly low-temperature MD pulverizing system that utilizes excessive liquefied natural gas (LNG) cold energy (LCE) in an LNG propulsion ship to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of MD recycling. The prototype design of the low-temperature pulverization (LTP) system showed that consumable refrigerant (liquid nitrogen) up to 2831 kg per hour could be substituted. Furthermore, with a 20% ship output, 1250 kg of MD could be treated with 363 kg of additional refrigerant. In addition, LTP systems utilizing LCE could increase the storage capacity by more than 10 times compared to bulk MD while minimizing the required energy consumption. To determine the feasibility of LTP for MD recycling, four types of plastics obtained from actual MD from a coastal area in Busan, Korea were classified and tested.
Near infrared photothermoelectric effect in transparent AZO/ITO/Ag/ITO thin films
Authors: Bianchi C. , Marques A. C. , da Silva R. C. , Calmeiro T. , Ferreira I.
Published: December 2021

A new concept of oxide-metal-oxide structures that combine photothermoelectric effect with high reflectance (~ 80%) at wavelengths in the infrared (> 1100 nm) and high transmittance in the visible range is reported here. This was observed in optimized ITO/Ag/ITO structure, 20 nm of Silver (Ag) and 40 nm of Indium Tin Oxide (ITO), deposited on Aluminum doped Zinc Oxide (AZO) thin film. These layers show high energy saving efficiency by keeping the temperature constant inside a glazed compartment under solar radiation, but additionally they also show a photothermoelectric effect. Under uniform heating of the sample a thermoelectric effect is observed (S = 40 mV/K), but when irradiated, a potential proportional to the intensity of the radiation is also observed. Therefore, in addition to thermal control in windows, these low emission coatings can be applied as transparent photothermoelectric devices.
Durable nanocomposite face masks with high particulate filtration and rapid inactivation of coronaviruses
Authors: Gonzalez Andrew , Aboubakr Hamada A. , Brockgreitens John , Hao Weixing , Wang Yang , Goyal Sagar M. , Abbas Abdennour
Published: December 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic presents a unique challenge to the healthcare community due to the high infectivity rate and need for effective personal protective equipment. Zinc oxide nanoparticles have shown promising antimicrobial properties and are recognized as a safe additive in many food and cosmetic products. This work presents a novel nanocomposite synthesis approach, which allows zinc oxide nanoparticles to be grown within textile and face mask materials, including melt-blown polypropylene and nylon-cotton. The resulting nanocomposite achieves greater than 3 log10 reduction (≥ 99.9%) in coronavirus titer within a contact time of 10 min, by disintegrating the viral envelope. The new nanocomposite textile retains activity even after 100 laundry cycles and has been dermatologist tested as non-irritant and hypoallergenic. Various face mask designs were tested to improve filtration efficiency and breathability while offering antiviral protection, with Claros’ design reporting higher filtration efficiency than surgical masks (> 50%) for particles ranged 200 nm to 5 µm in size.
Health-related quality of life and insulin resistance over a 10-year follow-up
Authors: Kazukauskiene Nijole , Podlipskyte Aurelija , Varoneckas Giedrius , Mickuviene Narseta
Published: December 2021

The aim of the study was to investigate the association between insulin resistance (IR) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among citizens of Palanga in a 10-year follow-up. A randomized epidemiological study was performed with 835 subjects. The following data were examined using questionnaires: sociodemographic characteristics, behavioural factors, HRQoL and self-perceived health. Fasting blood samples were drawn from all participants, and biochemical tests were performed for glucose and insulin. IR was evaluated by the homeostasis model assessment of IR (HOMA-IR). In subjects with IR, after adjusting for various factors, logistic regression analysis showed that within 10 years, there was a significantly higher chance of deteriorating HRQoL in the areas of physical functioning (odds ratio [OR] = 1.15, p < 0.001), emotional role limitations (OR = 1.07, p = 0.034), social functioning (OR = 1.26, p = 0.004), pain (OR = 1.09, p = 0.005) and general health perception (OR = 1.07, p = 0.022). People with IR have a worse HRQoL, and as they age, they are significantly more likely to have a deterioration in their HRQoL than people without IR in the areas of physical functioning, emotional role limitations, social functioning, pain and general health perception.