bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phylogenetic Placement of the Plesioclytini (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae: Cerambycinae)
Authors: Sutherland Laura N. , Schnepp Kyle E. , Powell Gareth S. , Bybee Seth M.
Published: November 2021

The tribe Plesioclytini was recently erected for a single genus of cerambycine longhorn beetle. The group was diagnosed from a proposed sister lineage, the diverse Clytini; however, a formal phylogenetic analysis was not performed due to limitations in data availability. Here, we present a phylogenetic reconstruction from five loci, that Plesioclytini is not sister to Clytini, but is instead only distantly related. Subsequent morphological investigations provide additional support for this placement.
Long-Term Patterns of Amphibian Diversity, Abundance and Nutrient Export from Small, Isolated Wetlands
Authors: Atkinson Carla L. , Knapp Daniel D. , Smith Lora L.
Published: November 2021

Seasonally inundated wetlands contribute to biodiversity support and ecosystem function at the landscape scale. These temporally dynamic ecosystems contain unique assemblages of animals adapted to cyclically wet–dry habitats. As a result of the high variation in environmental conditions, wetlands serve as hotspots for animal movement and potentially hotspots of biogeochemical activity and migratory transport of nutrient subsidies. Most amphibians are semi-aquatic and migrate between isolated wetlands and the surrounding terrestrial system to complete their life cycle, with rainfall and other environmental factors affecting the timing and magnitude of wetland export of juveniles. Here we used a long-term drift fence study coupled with system-specific nutrient content data of amphibians from two small wetlands in southeastern Georgia, USA. We couple environmental data with count data of juveniles exiting wetlands to explore the controls of amphibian diversity, production and export and the amphibian life-history traits associated with export over varying environmental conditions. Our results highlight the high degree of spatial and temporal variability in amphibian flux with hydroperiod length and temperature driving community composition and overall biomass and nutrient fluxes. Additionally, specific life-history traits, such as development time and body size, were associated with longer hydroperiods. Our findings underscore the key role of small, isolated wetlands and their hydroperiod characteristics in maintaining amphibian productivity and community dynamics.
Salinity Affects Freshwater Invertebrate Traits and Litter Decomposition
Authors: Abelho Manuela , Ribeiro Rui , Moreira-Santos Matilde
Published: November 2021

We evaluated the effect of seawater intrusion in coastal ecosystems on the freshwater invertebrate community and on leaf litter decomposition under realistic scenarios in six outdoor freshwater mesocosms containing fauna and flora, to which increasing volumes of seawater were added. The resulting salinity values were 0.28 (control, freshwater only), 2.0, 3.3, 5.5, 9.3, and 15.3 mS cm−1. The effect of salinity was assessed for 65 days after seawater intrusion, by computing the deviation of values in each treatment in relation to the control. Our results show that seawater intrusion into freshwaters will affect the invertebrate communities and organic matter decomposition, with salinities of up to 3.3–5.5 mS cm−1 having opposite effects to salinities of more than 9.3 mS cm−1. There was a net negative effect of the two highest salinities on mass loss and richness of the invertebrates associated with the decomposing leaves. Regarding the invertebrate communities of the mesocosms, there was a net negative effect of the intermediate salinity levels on abundance and richness. Invertebrate life cycle traits conferring resilience and resistance tended to increase with low and decrease with high salinity values, while avoidance traits showed an opposite trend, and these responses were more pronounced on the later stage community. These wave-like responses of the invertebrate species traits to increasing salinity suggest that the life-history and physiological adaptations most suitable to cope with osmotic stress will differ between low and high salinity levels.
Studies on Algae from the Order Synurales (Chrysophyceae) in Northern Vietnam
Authors: Gusev Evgeniy , Martynenko Nikita , Tran Hoan
Published: November 2021

The present paper focuses on the flora of synuralean algae from four northern provinces in Vietnam: Bac Kan, Hanoi, Ninh Binh, and Thanh Hoa. Fifty-five water bodies were studied, including territories within national parks Ba Be, Ba Vi, Cuc Phuong, Ben En, and Trang An Wetland—The World Cultural and Natural Heritage and Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve. Samples were obtained from natural lakes and wetlands, artificial reservoirs and ponds, and small temporary water bodies. Electron microscopy allowed for the discovery of 39 taxa, 37 of which belonged to the genus Mallomonas and two to the genus Synura. Six taxa of the genus Mallomonas and two taxa from the genus Synura were not identified to the lower rank. Five taxa are reported for the first time in Vietnam. The most diverse flora was observed in natural protected water bodies. Eutrophic and hypereutrophic water bodies, which were prevalent in the study area, had a reduced number of selected species.
Integrative Descriptions of Two New Mesobiotus Species (Tardigrada, Eutardigrada, Macrobiotidae) from Vietnam
Authors: Stec Daniel
Published: November 2021

To date, 34 tardigrade taxa have been recorded from Vietnam and this includes only two macrobiotid species belonging to the genus Mesobiotus. In this paper, two additional species of this genus, one of the M. harmsworthi group and one of the M. furciger group, are reported and described as new for science (Mesobiotus imperialis sp. nov., Mesobiotus marmoreus sp. nov.). Both descriptions have an integrative character providing detailed morphological and morphometric data collected by phase contrast and scanning electron microscopy that are linked to genetic data. The latter constitute DNA sequences of molecular markers that are commonly used in tardigrade taxonomy. The genus phylogeny is also provided, elucidating the phylogenetic position of the newly discovered taxa.
Migration of Cefquinome Antibiotic Residues from Milk to Dairy Products
Authors: Di Rocco Melissa , Scollard Johann , Sayers Riona , Furey Ambrose , Danaher Martin , Jordan Kieran , Lourenco Antonio
Published: November 2021

The aim of this study was to investigate the distribution of cefquinome in different dairy products during the processing of naturally contaminated milk or spiked milk. The analysis of cefquinome residues in milk, skimmed milk, buttermilk, whey, cream, butter, curd, and cheese samples was performed using a water:acetonitrile solvent extraction and C18 dispersive solid-phase extraction (d-SPE) clean-up, followed by ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC–MS/MS) determination. The target concentration of cefquinome was achieved in the spiked milk (100 µg kg−1). During its processing, the antibiotic migrated primarily with the skimmed milk as opposed to cream (ratios of 3.6:1 and 2.8:1 for experiments A and B, respectively), and with the buttermilk during butter manufacture (ratios of 6.9:1 and 4.6:1), but was equal in the curd and whey during the manufacture of cheese. In the milk collected from treated animals, the measured concentration of cefquinome was considerably high (approx. 5000 µg kg−1). The results obtained from the dairy products were similar to those obtained in the spiked study (ratios of 8.2:1 and 3.1:1 for experiments A and B, respectively, during the separation of skimmed milk and cream; 6.0:1 and 5.0:1 for A and B, respectively, during the separation of buttermilk and butter). However, during cheesemaking, cefquinome migrated with the whey after cutting the curd, with ratios of 0.54:1 and 0.44:1 for experiments A and B, respectively. The difference in the migration of cefquinome between curd and whey in spiked and animal studies is probably due to the different concentration levels in the two different experiments. The results of this study showed that, in dairy products manufactured from milk containing cefquinome residues, the drug migrated primarily with the high-water-containing fractions.
Determination of Specific IgG to Identify Possible Food Intolerance in Athletes Using ELISA
Authors: Malsagova Kristina , Stepanov Alexander , Sinitsyna Alexandra A. , Izotov Alexander , Klyuchnikov Mikhail S. , Kopylov Arthur T. , Kaysheva Anna L.
Published: November 2021

Nutrition is considered one of the foundations of athletic performance, and post-workout nutritional recommendations are fundamental to the effectiveness of the recovery and adaptive processes. Therefore, at present, new directions in dietetics are being formed, focused on the creation of personalized diets. To identify the probable risk of somatic and allergic reactions upon contact with food antigens, we used the method of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the quantitative determination of IgG antibodies in the blood plasma of athletes against protein–peptide antigens accommodated in food. The study enrolled 40 athletes of boating and fighting sport disciplines. We found that the majority of the studied participants were characterized by an elevated IgG level against one or two food allergens (barley, almond, strawberry, etc.). Comparative analysis of the semiquantitative levels of IgG antibodies in athletes engaged in boating and fighting did not reveal significant differences between these groups. As a result, foods that are likely to cause the most pronounced immune response amongst the studied participants can be identified, which may indicate the presence of food intolerances. An athlete’s diet is influenced by both external and internal factors that can reduce or worsen the symptoms of a food intolerance/allergy associated with exercise. The range of foods is wide, and the effectiveness of a diet depends on the time, the place, and environmental factors. Therefore, during the recovery period (the post-competition period), athletes are advised to follow the instructions of doctors and nutritionists. An effective, comprehensive recovery strategy during the recovery period may enhance the adaptive response to fatigue, improving muscle function and increasing exercise tolerance. The data obtained may be useful for guiding the development of a new personalized approach and dietary recommendations covering the composition of athletes’ diet and the prevalence of food intolerance.
Intrinsic Entropy of Squeezed Quantum Fields and Nonequilibrium Quantum Dynamics of Cosmological Perturbations
Authors: Hsiang Jen-Tsung , Hu Bei-Lok
Published: November 2021

Density contrasts in the universe are governed by scalar cosmological perturbations which, when expressed in terms of gauge-invariant variables, contain a classical component from scalar metric perturbations and a quantum component from inflaton field fluctuations. It has long been known that the effect of cosmological expansion on a quantum field amounts to squeezing. Thus, the entropy of cosmological perturbations can be studied by treating them in the framework of squeezed quantum systems. Entropy of a free quantum field is a seemingly simple yet subtle issue. In this paper, different from previous treatments, we tackle this issue with a fully developed nonequilibrium quantum field theory formalism for such systems. We compute the covariance matrix elements of the parametric quantum field and solve for the evolution of the density matrix elements and the Wigner functions, and, from them, derive the von Neumann entropy. We then show explicitly why the entropy for the squeezed yet closed system is zero, but is proportional to the particle number produced upon coarse-graining out the correlation between the particle pairs. We also construct the bridge between our quantum field-theoretic results and those using the probability distribution of classical stochastic fields by earlier authors, preserving some important quantum properties, such as entanglement and coherence, of the quantum field.
Geometric Analysis of a System with Chemical Interactions
Authors: Gromov Dmitry , Toikka Alexander
Published: November 2021

In this paper, we present some initial results aimed at defining a framework for the analysis of thermodynamic systems with additional restrictions imposed on the intensive parameters. Specifically, for the case of chemical reactions, we considered the states of constant affinity that form isoffine submanifolds of the thermodynamic phase space. Wer discuss the problem of extending the previously obtained stability conditions to the considered class of systems.
Numerical Analysis of Electrohydrodynamic Flow in a Circular Cylindrical Conduit by Using Neuro Evolutionary Technique
Authors: Khan Naveed Ahmad , Sulaiman Muhammad , Tavera Romero Carlos Andrés , Alarfaj Fawaz Khaled
Published: November 2021

This paper analyzes the mathematical model of electrohydrodynamic (EHD) fluid flow in a circular cylindrical conduit with an ion drag configuration. The phenomenon was modelled as a nonlinear differential equation. Furthermore, an application of artificial neural networks (ANNs) with a generalized normal distribution optimization algorithm (GNDO) and sequential quadratic programming (SQP) were utilized to suggest approximate solutions for the velocity, displacements, and acceleration profiles of the fluid by varying the Hartmann electric number (Ha2) and the strength of nonlinearity (α). ANNs were used to model the fitness function for the governing equation in terms of mean square error (MSE), which was further optimized initially by GNDO to exploit the global search. Then SQP was implemented to complement its local convergence. Numerical solutions obtained by the design scheme were compared with RK-4, the least square method (LSM), and the orthonormal Bernstein collocation method (OBCM). Stability, convergence, and robustness of the proposed algorithm were endorsed by the statistics and analysis on results of absolute errors, mean absolute deviation (MAD), Theil’s inequality coefficient (TIC), and error in Nash Sutcliffe efficiency (ENSE).
Modified Analytical Approach for PV-DGs Integration into a Radial Distribution Network Considering Loss Sensitivity and Voltage Stability
Authors: Adewuyi Oludamilare , Adeagbo Ayooluwa , Adebayo Isaiah , Howlader Harun , Sun Yanxia
Published: November 2021

Achieving the goals of distribution systems operation often involves taking vital decisions with adequate consideration for several but often contradictory technical and economic criteria. Hence, this paper presents a modified analytical approach for optimal location and sizing of solar PV-based DG units into radial distribution network (RDN) considering strategic combination of important power system planning criteria. The considered criteria are total planning cost, active power loss and voltage stability, under credible distribution network operation constraints. The optimal DG placement approach is derived from the modification of the analytical approach for DG placement using line-loss sensitivity factor and the multiobjective constriction factor-based particle swarm optimization is adopted for optimal sizing. The effectiveness of the proposed procedure is tested on the IEEE 33-bus system modeled using Matlab considering three scenarios. The results are compared with existing reports presented in the literature and the results obtained from the proposed approach shows credible improvement in the RDN steady-state operation performance for line-loss reduction, voltage profile improvement and voltage stability improvement.
Seismostratigraphic Interpretation of Upper Cretaceous Reservoir from the Carpathian Foreland, Southern Poland
Authors: Urbaniec Andrzej , Łaba-Biel Anna , Kwietniak Anna , Fashagba Imoleayo
Published: November 2021

The Upper Cretaceous complex in the central part of the Carpathian Foreland (southern Poland) is relatively poorly recognized and described. Its formations can be classified as unconventional reservoir due to poor reservoir properties as well as a low recovery factor. The main aim of the article is to expand knowledge with conclusions resulting from the analysis of the latest seismic data with the application of seismic sequence stratigraphy. Moreover, the seismic attributes analysis was utilized. The depositional architecture recognition based on both chronostratigraphic horizons and Wheeler diagram interpretations was of paramount importance. A further result was the possibility of using the chronostratigraphic image for tectonostratigraphic interpretation. Two distinguished tectonostratigraphic units corresponding to megasequences were recognized. A tectonic setting of the analyzed interval is associated with global processes noticed by other authors in other parts of the central European Late Cretaceous basin, but also locally accompanied by evidence of small-scale tectonics. This study fills the gap on the issue of paleogeography in the Late Cretaceous sedimentary basin of the Carpathian Foreland. It presents the first results of detailed reconstruction of the basin paleogeography and an attempt to determine the impact of both eustatic and tectonic factors on sedimentation processes.
Determinants of Energy Efficient Innovation: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Šūmakaris Paulius , Korsakienė Renata , Ščeulovs Deniss
Published: November 2021

Engaging firms to generate and adopt energy efficient innovation is crucial for balancing energy needs for sustainable development. In addition, a reduction in energy consumption can address environmental problems and lower production costs by reducing materials and/or energy costs and costs related to compliance with regulations. Considering the lack of systematic reviews focused on the determinants of energy efficient innovation, we address this gap and set forth to enhance the body of knowledge in the field of energy efficient innovation. To achieve the research aim, a systematic literature review and qualitative content analysis were conducted. This study offers two contributions. First, the study distinguishes the determinants of energy efficient innovation in three levels: micro-level, meso-level, and macro-level. According to the findings, the following determinants of energy efficient innovation are highlighted at the micro-level: (1) cost savings; (2) previous experience; (3) technological capabilities; (4) green capabilities; (5) innovation capabilities; (6) knowledge development; (7) organizational innovations; (8) financial resources; (9) investment in tangible assets. Meanwhile, the determinants are distinguished at the meso-level: (1) competitive pressure; (2) customer and provider pressure; (3) external knowledge cooperation; (4) social pressure; (5) voluntary agreements. Finally, the determinants are disclosed at the macro-level: (1) government subsidies; (2) current or future regulation. Second, the study provides insights on the determinants of energy efficient innovation and sets an agenda for future research. The study demonstrates the need for further investigations on the drivers of energy efficient innovation as compared to general eco-innovation.
How Much Should We Spend to Fight against Climate Change? The Value of Backstop Technologies in a Simplified Model
Authors: Pretel Carlos , Linares Pedro
Published: November 2021

The estimation of the social cost of climate change is typically carried out with complex, difficult to interpret, integrated assessment models (IAMs). Instead, this paper presents a simple, tractable model with which to estimate the willingness to pay of societies against climate change. The model is based on an already comprehensive and intuitive one developed by Besley and Dixit, which has been modified by including a backstop technology (e.g., a renewable energy technology). This improved formulation allows for a more realistic representation of the climate change problem in that it is able to include the decoupling of economic growth and GHG emissions. The model allows us to understand the implications of different assumptions, such as the rate of growth of the economy, or the damages expected from climate change, on the willingness to pay against it. Our results show that, for a baseline scenario, the willingness to pay (WTP) is 0.52% of annual GDP, lower than that obtained by Besley and Dixit, which shows the significant benefits of developing competitive mitigation technologies. Our results also show the benefits of international collaboration, or of devoting more resources to R&D, as efficient ways to fight against climate change.
Selection of Electric Vehicles for the Needs of Sustainable Transport under Conditions of Uncertainty—A Comparative Study on Fuzzy MCDA Methods
Authors: Ziemba Paweł
Published: November 2021

All over the world, including Poland, authorities are taking steps to increase consumer interest in electric vehicles and sustainable transport as a way to reduce environmental pollution. For this reason, the electric vehicle market is dynamically and constantly developing, more and more modern vehicles are introduced to it, and purchases are often subsidized by the government. The aim of the article is to analyse the A–C segments of the Polish electric vehicle market and to recommend the most attractive vehicle from the perspective of sustainable transport. The aim of the research was achieved with the use of three multi-criteria decision aid (MCDA) methods, which deal well with the uncertainty and imprecision of data that occur in the case of many different parameters of electric vehicles. In particular, the following methods were used: the fuzzy technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS), the fuzzy simple additive weighting (SAW) method, and the new easy approach to fuzzy preference ranking organization method for enrichment evaluation II (NEAT F-PROMETHEE II). Electric vehicle rankings obtained using each method were compared and verified by stochastic analysis. The conducted analyses and comparisons allowed us to identify the most interesting electric vehicles, which currently appear to be the Volkswagen ID.3 Pro S and Nissan LEAF e+.
A Strategy for Planned Product Aging in View of Sustainable Development Challenges
Authors: Niklewicz-Pijaczyńska Małgorzata , Stańczyk Elżbieta , Gardocka-Jałowiec Anna , Gródek-Szostak Zofia , Niemczyk Agata , Szalonka Katarzyna , Homa Magdalena
Published: November 2021

In this paper, the issue of the deliberate aging of products by manufacturers is discussed. Deliberate aging consists in intentionally planning or designing a product with an artificially limited lifetime in order to force consumers to replace it faster. The resulting rapid acceleration of the cycle of obtaining and utilizing consumer goods has serious consequences in the form of negative externalities. For this reason, the conscious aging of products is now recognized as the cause of unjustified consumption, generating huge economic and social costs and leading to the devastation of the natural environment and excessive exploitation of natural resources. Thus, it is in clear contradiction to the model of sustainable development. The aim of this paper was to identify the purchasing attitudes of buyers in the durable goods market. For its implementation, a pilot questionnaire study, which covered a representative group of 354 respondents, was carried out. The results indicate that the factors that influence the purchase of restitution goods depend on the type of product and the consumer’s income. At the same time, about two thirds of the respondents recognized the problem of the deliberate aging of products. In their opinion, the goods produced in the autarkic economy were more durable and their life cycle was much longer. The results obtained require further empirical verification carried out in comparative studies.
Morphospecies Abundance of Above-Ground Invertebrates in Agricultural Systems under Glyphosate and Microplastics in South-Eastern Mexico
Authors: Hernández-Gutiérrez Edilberto , Rendón-von Osten Jaime , Escalona-Segura Griselda , Mendoza-Vega Jorge , Dzul-Caamal Ricardo , Posthumus Sita , Vastenhouw Rianne , Yang Xiaomei , Geissen Violette , Huerta-Lwanga Esperanza
Published: November 2021

Soil invertebrates are important for diverse soil ecosystem services, which are jeopardized by pesticides and microplastics. In the present study, we aimed to assess above-ground invertebrates’ morphospecies abundance in the presence of glyphosate (GLY), its main metabolite aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA), and microplastics (MPs). Three land-use systems were analyzed: agricultural systems with and without plastic mulch and pesticides (AwPM, AwoPM) and natural unmanaged farming systems (UF). Soil GLY, AMPA, MP concentrations and above-ground invertebrates were quantified. GLY concentrations were also assessed inside invertebrate tissues. GLY, AMPA and the highest concentration of GLY in invertebrates’ tissue were found only in AwoPM at 0.14–0.45 mg kg−1, 0.12–0.94 mg kg−1 and 0.03–0.26 mg kg−1, respectively. MPs were present as follows: AwPM system (100%, 400–2000 particles kg−1) > AwoPM (70.8%, 200–1000 particles kg−1) > UF (37.5%, 200–400 particles kg−1). No significant correlations were found between soil MPs, GLY and AMPA. There was a significant correlation between MPs and morphospecies from the order Entomobrymorpha (Collembola, R = 0.61, p < 0.05). Limnophila, Mesogastropoda (Gastropoda) and Siphonaptera morphospecies were only present in the UF system. GLY in invertebrate tissue was inversely correlated with soil GLY (R = −0.73, p < 0.05) and AMPA (R = −0.59, p < 0.05). Further investigations are required to understand these phenomena.
Predictors for Actual COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake and Intended Booster Dosage among Medical Students of an Osteopathic Medical School in New York
Authors: Al Janabi Taysir , Pino Maria
Published: November 2021

Exploring future physicians’ attitudes toward vaccination is crucial as physicians’ recommendation is the top predictor for individuals to receive vaccines. This study explored the uptake of COVID-19 vaccines and the intention for future booster dose uptake among students at the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine (NYITCOM). Predictors for actual vaccine and intended booster uptake were also examined. An electronic survey was distributed to Osteopathic Medical Students (OMS I-IV) in the Spring of 2021. A total of 1331 students received the survey, with 316 responses received (24%). In total, 95.3% (301/316) of the respondents reported that they already received vaccines, while 3.1% (13/316) reported that they had not yet received a vaccine. Moreover, 88.9% of the respondents (281/316) were in favor of a booster dose, which was a strong predictor for actual vaccine uptake. We identified that the Asian race, pharmaceutical mistrust, building immunity via vaccines, adequate vaccine testing, and willingness to get non-U.S. manufactured vaccines are the most significant predictors for willingness to accept a booster dose. A very high COVID-19 vaccine uptake among NYITCOM OMS was found in our study. The study also observed a high acceptance of an additional dose of the COVID-19 vaccine in the future.
Feasibility Research on Fish Pose Estimation Based on Rotating Box Object Detection
Authors: Lin Bin , Jiang Kailin , Xu Zhiqi , Li Feiyi , Li Jiao , Mou Chaoli , Gong Xinyao , Duan Xuliang
Published: November 2021

A video-based method to quantify animal posture movement is a powerful way to analyze animal behavior. Both humans and fish can judge the physiological state through the skeleton framework. However, it is challenging for farmers to judge the breeding state in the complex underwater environment. Therefore, images can be transmitted by the underwater camera and monitored by a computer vision model. However, it lacks datasets in artificial intelligence and is unable to train deep neural networks. The main contributions of this paper include: (1) the world’s first fish posture database is established. 10 key points of each fish are manually marked. The fish flock images were taken in the experimental tank and 1000 single fish images were separated from the fish flock. (2) A two-stage attitude estimation model is used to detect fish key points. The evaluation of the algorithm performance indicates the precision of detection reaches 90.61%, F1-score reaches 90%, and Fps also reaches 23.26. We made a preliminary exploration on the pose estimation of fish and provided a feasible idea for fish pose estimation.
Challenges for Upcycled Foods: Definition, Inclusion in the Food Waste Management Hierarchy and Public Acceptability
Authors: Moshtaghian Hanieh , Bolton Kim , Rousta Kamran
Published: November 2021

Upcycled foods contain unmarketable ingredients (e.g., damaged food produce, by-products and scraps from food preparation) that otherwise would not be directed for human consumption. Upcycled food is a new food category and thus faces several challenges, such as definition development, inclusion in the food waste management hierarchy and public acceptability. This review provides an overview of these three challenges. The upcycled food definitions have been developed for research, food manufacturers, and multi-stakeholders use. Thus, there is a need for a consumer-friendly definition for the general public. A simplified definition is proposed to introduce these foods as environmentally friendly foods containing safe ingredients that otherwise would not have gone to human consumption such as damaged food produce, by-products and scraps from food preparation. Moreover, an updated version of the food waste management hierarchy has been proposed by including the production of upcycled foods as a separate waste management action that is less preferable than redistribution but more favourable than producing animal feed. Furthermore, consumer sociodemographic characteristics and beliefs, as well as food quality cues and attributes, were identified as crucial factors for the public acceptability of these foods. Future research should address these challenges to facilitate the introduction of upcycled foods.
How Are Red and Blue Quasars Different? The Radio Properties
Authors: Fawcett Victoria A. , Alexander David M. , Rosario David J. , Klindt Lizelke
Published: November 2021

A non-negligible fraction of quasars are red at optical wavelengths, indicating (in the majority of cases) that the accretion disc is obscured by a column of dust which extinguishes the shorter-wavelength blue emission. In this paper, we summarize recent work by our group, where we find fundamental differences in the radio properties of SDSS optically-selected red quasars. We also present new analyses, using a consistent color-selected quasar parent sample matched to four radio surveys (FIRST, VLA Stripe 82, VLA COSMOS 3 GHz, and LoTSS DR1) across a frequency range 144 MHz–3 GHz and four orders of magnitude in radio flux. We show that red quasars have enhanced small-scale radio emission (∼kpc) that peaks around the radio-quiet threshold (defined as the ratio of 1.4 GHz luminosity to 6 μm luminosity) across the four radio samples. Exploring the potential mechanisms behind this enhancement, we rule out star-formation and propose either small-scale synchrotron jets, frustrated jets, or dusty winds interacting with the interstellar medium; the latter two scenarios would provide a more direct connection between opacity (dust; gas) and the production of the radio emission. In our future study, using new multi-band uGMRT data, we aim to robustly distinguish between these scenarios.
Media, Trust in Government, and Risk Perception of COVID-19 in the Early Stage of Epidemic: An Analysis Based on Moderating Effect
Authors: Xu Tao
Published: November 2021

Previous research has revealed that environmental, social, and cultural factors affect people’s risk perception of COVID-19, especially the influence of media and trust, while the dynamics of how they affect it is still not clear. Through the analysis of online survey data, this article shows that there are two opposed paths of action. Trust in the government will enhance people’s confidence in controlling COVID-19. It then moderates and decreases the effects of people’s level and frequency of concernon the risk perception (both cognition and worries) of COVID-19, on the contrary, obtaining information from unofficial channels also moderates and increases the effects of the people’s level and frequency of concern on the second dimension (worries) of risk perception of COVID-19 rather than the first dimension (cognition). These conclusions have important policy implications for the control of the COVID-19 epidemic all over the world.
Nondestructive Analysis of Wall Paintings at Ostia Antica
Authors: Blümich Bernhard , Del Federico Eleonora , Jaschtschuk Denis , Küppers Markus , Fallon Katelin , Steinfeld Adelaide , Tomassini Paolo
Published: November 2021

Roman wall paintings at Ostia Antica were studied for the first time in situ in an integrated approach using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) depth profiling, portable X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and visible induced luminescence (VIL) in order to explore the materials used in their construction and gain insight into the evolution of the Roman painting technique over time. NMR revealed the signatures of covered wall paintings through details of the structure of the top painted mortar layers, and the loss of this information that can be encountered when paintings are detached from the wall for preservation purposes. XRF provided information about the pigment composition of the paintings, and VIL was used to identify Egyptian Blue. Egyptian Blue was only found in the earlier wall paintings studied dating from 1st century B.C.E. to the 1st century C.E. The pigment palette seems to become limited to iron-based pigments in the later paintings, whereas the palette of the earlier paintings appears to be more varied including mercury, lead, and copper-based pigments.
History and Its “Losers”
Authors: Liebich Andre
Published: November 2021

This article considers the historiography of the British Jacobites and American loyalists. It argues that they have been treated unfairly by history. In short, their importance has been minimized out of regard for dominant narratives. The article looks at older and newer historical accounts that reinterpret events in 17th and 18th century Britain and in revolutionary America to give Jacobites and loyalists a fairer share in these events. In conclusion, the article states that historiography will soon have to integrate the experience of these hitherto neglected currents into its main narrative.
Somatic Embryogenesis in Vitis for Genome Editing: Optimization of Protocols for Recalcitrant Genotypes
Authors: Forleo Lucia Rosaria , D’Amico Margherita , Basile Teodora , Marsico Antonio Domenico , Cardone Maria Francesca , Maggiolini Flavia Angela Maria , Velasco Riccardo , Bergamini Carlo
Published: November 2021

New Plant Breeding Techniques (NPBTs) protocols have been developed to produce new grape varieties with improved quantitative and qualitative characteristics. Reliable transformation protocols for grapes are based on the generation/induction of embryogenic callus cells that are then transformed. Varieties such as Italia have proven to be very recalcitrant to regeneration via somatic embryogenesis. In this work, the development of a protocol for improved production of embryogenic calluses is described. Two sterilization protocols were tested: (a) a lower active chlorine concentration for a longer time (LS); and (b) a higher chlorine concentration for a shorter time (HS), in combination with the absence or presence of citric acid in the growing substrate in the first growth media. The embryogenic calluses formation in Chardonnay, a cv. with a high embryogenic response, was significantly higher in presence of citric acid in the initial growing substrate regardless of the sterilization protocol. In Aglianico, a cv. with a lower embryogenic response, no significant differences were observed. Instead, in a recalcitrant cv. as Italia, we obtained a 13-fold increase in embryogenic calluses formation performing sterilization of flowers with the HS protocol compared to LS.
Solid-State Hydrogen Storage for a Decarbonized Society
Authors: Pistidda Claudio
Published: November 2021

Humanity is confronted with one of the most significant challenges in its history. The excessive use of fossil fuel energy sources is causing extreme climate change, which threatens our way of life and poses huge social and technological problems. It is imperative to look for alternate energy sources that can replace environmentally destructive fossil fuels. In this scenario, hydrogen is seen as a potential energy vector capable of enabling the better and synergic exploitation of renewable energy sources. A brief review of the use of hydrogen as a tool for decarbonizing our society is given in this work. Special emphasis is placed on the possibility of storing hydrogen in solid-state form (in hydride species), on the potential fields of application of solid-state hydrogen storage, and on the technological challenges solid-state hydrogen storage faces. A potential approach to reduce the carbon footprint of hydrogen storage materials is presented in the concluding section of this paper.
Refugee Children’s Social–Emotional Capacities: Links to Mental Health upon Resettlement and Buffering Effects on Pre-Migratory Adversity
Authors: Speidel Ruth , Galarneau Emma , Elsayed Danah , Mahhouk Shahdah , Filippelli Joanne , Colasante Tyler , Malti Tina
Published: November 2021

Refugee children who experience severe pre-migratory adversity often show varying levels of mental health upon resettlement. Thus, it is critical to identify the factors that explain which refugee children experience more vs. less healthy outcomes. The present study assessed child social–emotional capacities (i.e., emotion regulation, sympathy, optimism, and trust) as potential moderators of associations between child, parental, and familial pre-migratory adversities and child mental health (i.e., internalizing and externalizing symptoms) upon resettlement. Participants were N = 123 five- to 12-year-old Syrian refugee children and their mothers living in Canada. Children and mothers reported their pre-migratory adverse life experiences, and mothers reported their children’s current social–emotional capacities, internalizing symptoms, and externalizing symptoms. Greater familial (i.e., the sum of children’s and their mother’s) pre-migratory adversity was associated with higher child internalizing and externalizing symptoms upon resettlement. Higher emotion regulation and optimism were associated with lower internalizing and externalizing symptoms, and higher sympathy was associated with lower externalizing symptoms. In contrast, higher trust was associated with higher internalizing symptoms. Finally, higher child optimism buffered against the positive association between familial pre-migratory adversity and child internalizing symptoms. In sum, select social–emotional capacities may serve as potential protective factors that support mental health and buffer against the deleterious effects of pre-migratory adversity in refugee children.
A Review of Influencing Factors on Spatial Spread of COVID-19 Based on Geographical Perspective
Authors: Xie Zhixiang , Zhao Rongqin , Ding Minglei , Zhang Zhiqiang
Published: November 2021

The COVID-19 outbreak is a manifestation of the contradiction between man and land. Geography plays an important role in epidemic prevention and control with its cross-sectional characteristics and spatial perspective. Based on a systematic review of previous studies, this paper summarizes the research progress on factors influencing the spatial spread of COVID-19 from the research content and method and proposes the main development direction of geography in epidemic prevention and control research in the future. Overall, current studies have explored the factors influencing the epidemic spread on different scales, including global, national, regional and urban. Research methods are mainly composed of quantitative analysis. In addition to the traditional regression analysis and correlation analysis, the spatial lag model, the spatial error model, the geographically weighted regression model and the geographic detector have been widely used. The impact of natural environment and economic and social factors on the epidemic spread is mainly reflected in temperature, humidity, wind speed, air pollutants, population movement, economic development level and medical and health facilities. In the future, new technologies, new methods and new means should be used to reveal the driving mechanism of the epidemic spread in a specific geographical space, which is refined, multi-scale and systematic, with emphasis on exploring the factors influencing the epidemic spread from the perspective of spatial and behavioral interaction, and establish a spatial database platform that combines the information of residents’ cases, the natural environment and economic society. This is of great significance to further play the role of geography in epidemic prevention and control.
Behavioral Factors Associated with COVID-19 Risk: A Cross-Sectional Survey in Japan
Authors: Ochi Sae , So Mirai , Hashimoto Sora , Denda Kenzo , Sekizawa Yoichi
Published: November 2021

Background: Behaviors to avoid infection are key to minimizing casualties of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to avoid excessive interventions that are less effective. This study aims to identify behavioral patterns associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection in the real world. Methods: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted targeting a research panel of NTTCom Online Marketing Solutions Corporation or its affiliates. Data were extracted so that their demographic composition ratios matched the population estimates. Individuals who answered with consistency to have been diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 at a medical facility were categorized into a SARS-CoV-2 group. Differences in lifestyles were compared using multiple regression and inverse probability weighing. Results: In total 13,277 participants were included, of whom 44 (0.33%) were categorized as the SARS-CoV-2 group. Diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 was negatively correlated with crowd avoidance, mask wearing, and hand-washing behavior. On the contrary, the diagnosis was positively correlated with some behaviors that appear to be preventive actions against the infection, such as changing clothes frequently, sanitizing belongings, and remote working. Conclusions: It is important to conduct evidence-based intervention on people’s behaviors and to avoid excessive interventions that are less effective, so that people can minimize the indirect harm, such as exhaustion and economic loss.
Numerical Investigations through ANNs for Solving COVID-19 Model
Authors: Umar Muhammad , Sabir Zulqurnain , Raja Muhammad Asif Zahoor , Javeed Shumaila , Ahmad Hijaz , Elagen Sayed K. , Khames Ahmed
Published: November 2021

The current investigations of the COVID-19 spreading model are presented through the artificial neuron networks (ANNs) with training of the Levenberg-Marquardt backpropagation (LMB), i.e., ANNs-LMB. The ANNs-LMB scheme is used in different variations of the sample data for training, validation, and testing with 80%, 10%, and 10%, respectively. The approximate numerical solutions of the COVID-19 spreading model have been calculated using the ANNs-LMB and compared viably using the reference dataset based on the Runge-Kutta scheme. The obtained performance of the solution dynamics of the COVID-19 spreading model are presented based on the ANNs-LMB to minimize the values of fitness on mean square error (M.S.E), along with error histograms, regression, and correlation analysis.
How Does Air Pollution Influence Housing Prices in the Bay Area?
Authors: Tang Minmeng , Niemeier Deb
Published: November 2021

In this paper we examine the effects of localized air pollution measurements on the housing prices in Oakland, CA. With high-resolution air pollution measurements for NO, NO2, and BC, we can assess the ambient air quality on a parcel-by-parcel basis within the study domain. We combine a spatial lag model with an instrumental variable method to consider both the spatial autocorrelation and endogeneity effects between housing prices and air pollution concentrations. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work in this field that combines both spatial autocorrelation and endogeneity effects in one model with accurate air pollution concentration measurements for each individual parcel. We found a positive spatial autocorrelation with housing prices using Moral’s I (value of 0.276) with the total sample number of 26,386. Somewhat surprisingly, we found a positive relationship between air pollution and housing prices. There are several possible explanations for this finding. Homeowners in high demand, low-stock housing areas, such as our study, may be insensitive to air pollution when the overall ambient air quality is relatively good. It is also possible that under clean air conditions, low variability in pollutant concentrations has little effect on property values. These hypotheses could be verified with more high-resolution air pollution measurements with a diversity of regions.
Transient and Recurrent Vision Loss in a High-Altitude Porter from Pakistan on a Polish Winter Karakoram Expedition
Authors: Szymczak Robert K. , Sawicka Magdalena
Published: November 2021

Visual sensations appear in most migraine auras, but binocular blindness is uncommon. We described a case of multiple transient losses of vision in a man on a winter expedition to K2. His symptoms were later diagnosed as recurrent visual auras without pain. Sojourns at altitude can induce migraine attack; therefore, susceptible individuals should avoid factors that might provoke migraines at high altitude, such as improper acclimatization, dehydration and an inadequate sleep regime.
Critical Characteristics of Housing and Housing Supports for Individuals with Concurrent Traumatic Brain Injury and Mental Health and/or Substance Use Challenges: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Estrella Maria Jennifer , Kirsh Bonnie , Kontos Pia , Grigorovich Alisa , Colantonio Angela , Chan Vincy , Nalder Emily Joan
Published: November 2021

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) and mental health and/or substance use challenges (MHSU) are commonly co-occurring and prevalent in individuals experiencing homelessness; however, evidence suggests that systems of care are siloed and organized around clinical diagnoses. Research is needed to understand how housing and housing supports are provided to this complex and understudied group in the context of siloed service systems. This study aimed to describe critical characteristics of housing and housing supports for individuals with concurrent TBI and MHSU from the perspectives of service users with TBI and MHSU and housing service providers. Using basic qualitative description, in-depth interviews were conducted with 16 service users and 15 service providers. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis techniques. Themes capture core processes in finding and maintaining housing and the critical housing supports that enabled them: (1) overcoming structural barriers through service coordination, education and awareness raising, and partnerships and collaborations; and (2) enabling engagement in meaningful activity and social connection through creating opportunities, training and skills development, and design of home and neighborhood environments. Implications for practice, including the urgent need for formalized TBI and MHSU education, support for service providers, and potential interventions to further enable core housing processes are discussed.