bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Material Properties and Device Output Performance of a Miniaturized Flexible Thermoelectric Generator Using Scalable Synthesis of Bi2Se3 Nanoflakes
Authors: Yuan Zicheng , Zhao Xueke , Wang Canhui , Hang Shuang , Li Mengyao , Liu Yu
Published: June 2023

Environmental heat-to-electric energy conversion presents a promising solution for powering sensors in wearable and portable devices. However, the availability of near-room temperature thermoelectric (TE) materials is highly limited, posing a significant challenge in this field. Bi2Se3, as a room-temperature TE material, has attracted much attention. Here, we demonstrate a large-scale synthesis of Bi2Se3 nanoflakes used for the microflexible TE generator. A high-performance micro-TE generator module, utilizing a flexible printed circuit, has been designed and fabricated through the process of screen printing. The TE generator configuration comprises five pairs of PN TE legs. The p-type TE leg utilizes commercially available Sb2Te3 powder, while the n-type TE leg employs Bi2Se3 nanoflakes synthesized in this study. For comparative purposes, we also incorporate commercially available Bi2Se3 powder as an alternative n-type TE leg. The optimal performance of the single-layer microflexible TE generator, employing Bi2Se3 nanoflakes as the active material, is achieved when operating at a temperature differential of 109.5 K, the open-circuit voltage (VOC) is 0.11 V, the short circuit current (ISC) is 0.34 mA, and the maximum output power (PMAX) is 9.5 μW, much higher than the generator consisting of commercial Bi2Se3 powder, which is expected to provide an energy supply for flexible electronic devices.
Have Diagnostics, Therapies, and Vaccines Made the Difference in the Pandemic Evolution of COVID-19 in Comparison with “Spanish Flu”?
Authors: Lista Florigio , Peragallo Mario Stefano , Biselli Roberto , De Santis Riccardo , Mariotti Sabrina , Nisini Roberto , D’Amelio Raffaele
Published: June 2023

In 1918 many countries, but not Spain, were fighting World War I. Spanish press could report about the diffusion and severity of a new infection without censorship for the first-time, so that this pandemic is commonly defined as “Spanish flu”, even though Spain was not its place of origin. “Spanish flu” was one of the deadliest pandemics in history and has been frequently compared with the coronavirus disease (COVID)-19 pandemic. These pandemics share similarities, being both caused by highly variable and transmissible respiratory RNA viruses, and diversity, represented by diagnostics, therapies, and especially vaccines, which were made rapidly available for COVID-19, but not for “Spanish flu”. Most comparison studies have been carried out in the first period of COVID-19, when these resources were either not yet available or their use had not long started. Conversely, we wanted to analyze the role that the advanced diagnostics, anti-viral agents, including monoclonal antibodies, and innovative COVID-19 vaccines, may have had in the pandemic containment. Early diagnosis, therapies, and anti-COVID-19 vaccines have markedly reduced the pandemic severity and mortality, thus preventing the collapse of the public health services. However, their influence on the reduction of infections and re-infections, thus on the transition from pandemic to endemic condition, appears to be of minor relevance. The high viral variability of influenza and coronavirus may probably be contained by the development of universal vaccines, which are not easy to be obtained. The only effective weapon still remains the disease prevention, to be achieved with the reduction of promiscuity between the animal reservoirs of these zoonotic diseases and humans.
Quantitative Risk Assessment of Oocyst Versus Bradyzoite Foodborne Transmission of Toxoplasma gondii in Brazil
Authors: Zhu Sophie , VanWormer Elizabeth , Martínez-López Beatriz , Bahia-Oliveira Lílian Maria Garcia , DaMatta Renato Augusto , Rodrigues Pedro Souto , Shapiro Karen
Published: June 2023

Toxoplasma gondii is a globally distributed zoonotic protozoan parasite. Infection with T. gondii can cause congenital toxoplasmosis in developing fetuses and acute outbreaks in the general population, and the disease burden is especially high in South America. Prior studies found that the environmental stage of T. gondii, oocysts, is an important source of infection in Brazil; however, no studies have quantified this risk relative to other parasite stages. We developed a Bayesian quantitative risk assessment (QRA) to estimate the relative attribution of the two primary parasite stages (bradyzoite and oocyst) that can be transmitted in foods to people in Brazil. Oocyst contamination in fruits and greens contributed significantly more to overall estimated T. gondii infections than bradyzoite-contaminated foods (beef, pork, poultry). In sensitivity analysis, treatment, i.e., cooking temperature for meat and washing efficiency for produce, most strongly affected the estimated toxoplasmosis incidence rate. Due to the lack of regional food contamination prevalence data and the high level of uncertainty in many model parameters, this analysis provides an initial estimate of the relative importance of food products. Important knowledge gaps for oocyst-borne infections were identified and can drive future studies to improve risk assessments and effective policy actions to reduce human toxoplasmosis in Brazil.
Optical Helicity of Light in the Tight Focus
Authors: Kovalev Alexey A. , Kotlyar Victor V. , Telegin Alexey M.
Published: June 2023

Using the Richards–Wolf formalism, we obtain explicit analytical expressions for the optical helicity density at the tight focus of four different light beams: a linearly polarized optical vortex, an optical vortex with right-handed circular polarization, superposition of a cylindrical vector beam and a linearly polarized beam, and a beam with hybrid circular-azimuthal polarization. We show that, in all four cases, the helicity density at the focus is nonzero and has different signs in different focal plane areas. If the helicity density changes sign, then the full helicity of the beam (averaged over the beam cross section at the focus) is zero and is conserved upon propagation. We reveal that the full helicity is zero when the full longitudinal component of the spin angular momentum is zero. If the helicity density does not change sign at the focus, such as in a circularly polarized optical vortex, then it is equal to the intensity in the focus, with the full helicity being equal to the beam power and conserving upon propagation. Although the helicity is related to the polarization state distribution across the beam at the focus, the expressions for the helicity density are found to be different from those for the longitudinal component of the spin angular momentum for the beams of interest.
Peculiarities of the Resonant Response of a Subwavelength Double Grating with Optical PT-Symmetry
Authors: Krylov Igor R. , Prokhorova Uliana V. , Stolyarov Vasiliy A. , Efremova Ekaterina A. , Zinchik Alexander A. , Shalymov Egor V. , Shoev Vladislav I. , Masygin Dmitriy V. , Venediktov Vladimir Yu.
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we study the features of the resonant response of a system consisting of two subwavelength one-dimensional periodic structures, considering the dispersion of the refractive index in the presence of optical PT-symmetry for TM polarization. For the considered structure in the green wavelength range, two possible resonance lines were identified at 514.86 nm and 518.5 nm. Ultra-narrow resonances (FWHM of 0.00015 nm) have been obtained for transmitted and reflected waves, and a significant enhancement of the resonant response has been achieved (up to 105 times). The dependence of the system’s optical response on the relative position of its two sub-wavelength gratings and the magnitude of the amplification coefficient of the active part was investigated. This can be used to tune the spectral characteristics of filters, modulate the optical radiation, and create optomechanical sensors such as strain gauges.
A Novel Hybrid Retinal Blood Vessel Segmentation Algorithm for Enlarging the Measuring Range of Dual-Wavelength Retinal Oximetry
Authors: Xian Yongli , Zhao Guangxin , Wang Congzheng , Chen Xuejian , Dai Yun
Published: June 2023

The non-invasive measurement of hemoglobin oxygen saturation (SO2) in retinal vessels is based on spectrophotometry and the absorption spectral characteristics of the tissue. The dual-wavelength retinal images are simultaneously captured via retinal oximetry. SO2 is calculated by processing a series of images and by calculating the optic density ratio of two images. However, existing SO2 research is focused on the thick vessels in the high-clarity region of retinal images. However, the thin vessels in the low-clarity region could provide significant information for the detection and diagnosis of neovascular diseases. To this end, we proposed a novel hybrid vessel segmentation algorithm. Firstly, a median filter was employed for image denoising. Secondly, high- and low-clarity region segmentation was carried out based on a clarity histogram. The vessels in the high-clarity areas were segmented after implementing a Gaussian filter, a matched filter, and morphological segmentation. Additionally, the vessels in the low-clarity areas were segmented using a guided filter, matched filtering, and dynamic threshold segmentation. Finally, the results were obtained through image merger and morphological operations. The experimental results and analysis show that the proposed method can effectively segment thick and thin vessels and can extend the measuring range of dual-wavelength retinal oximetry.
General Astigmatism of Structured LG Beams: Evolution and Transformations of the OAM Super-Bursts
Authors: Volyar Alexander , Abramochkin Eugeny , Bretsko Mikhail , Khalilov Server , Akimova Yana
Published: June 2023

We have developed a structured beams theory, computer simulation and experiment that have lost rotational symmetry and propagate in a medium with a general astigmatism. It transpires that the astigmatic medium brings to light such hidden properties of the structured beams as a sharp growing of the orbital angular momentum exceeding the sum of the radial and azimuth numbers, as well as the effect of the beam structure following the cylindrical lens rotation.
Soybean Response to Seed Inoculation or Coating with Bradyrhizobium japonicum and Foliar Fertilization with Molybdenum
Authors: Jarecki Wacław
Published: June 2023

Soybean is one of the most important legumes in the world, and its advantages and disadvantages are well known. As a result of symbiosis with the bacterium Bradyrhizobium japonicum, soybean can assimilate nitrogen from the air and is therefore not fertilized with this element, or if it is, only at small doses. In soybean agriculture practice, an important treatment is the inoculation of seeds with symbiotic bacteria and optimal fertilization with selected nutrients. Therefore, a three-year (2019–2021) field experiment was carried out to investigate the effects of soybean in the field to a seed Rhizobium inoculation or coating and molybdenum foliar fertilization. There were no significant interactions between the tested treatments over the years. It was demonstrated that the best variant was seed inoculation before sowing in combination with foliar molybdenum application. As a result of this treatment, a significant increase in nodulation, soil plant analysis development (SPAD) index, leaf area index (LAI) and seed yield (by 0.61 t·ha−1) was obtained compared to the control. In addition, the content of total protein in the seeds increased, while the content of crude fat decreased, which significantly modified the yield of both components. Sowing coated seeds in the Fix Fertig technology was less effective compared to inoculation, but it was significantly better than that in the control. Coating seeds with B. japonicum, in combination with foliar fertilization with molybdenum, could be recommended for agricultural practice, which was confirmed by economic calculations. Future experiments will assess the soybean’s response to seed inoculation or coating and fertilization with other micronutrients.
Improving Seed Morphology and Germination Potential in Australian Native Grasses Using Seed Enhancement Technologies
Authors: Berto Bianca , Erickson Todd E. , Ritchie Alison L.
Published: June 2023

Difficult to handle seed material and poor germination commonly limit the uptake of native grasses in restoration and commercial-scale seeding efforts. Seed enhancement technologies (SETs) offer valuable solutions for improving the handling of seed material and optimising germination. This study considered eight widespread Australian native grasses; two representative of Mediterranean to temperate climates (‘cool-climate’ species) and six representative of arid to subtropical climates (‘warm-climate’ species). Through a series of experiments, this study logically selected and applied SET treatments to improve seed handling and germination for each study species. Seed handling was prioritised and addressed using flash flaming and/or acid digestion, while hydropriming was used following seed-handling treatments to enhance germination. Flash flaming and acid digestion were both applied to successfully reduce or remove bulky floret structures while maintaining or improving germination. Flaming at 110 ± 10 °C with continuous exposure for 10 min and acid digestion concentrations of 75–80% with exposure times of 1–2.5 min were generally successful. Sub-optimal concentrations of sulphuric acid often compromised germination. Hydropriming did not improve germination outcomes when applied following flaming or acid digestion. Optimising SETs for germination, emergence and establishment in different environments, and the viability and costs of application on larger seed batches are key considerations for the implementation and upscaling of SETs in the future.
Reproductive Capacity and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) Analyses of the Micromorphological Surfaces of Three Endemic Satureja Species from Bulgaria
Authors: Semerdjieva Ivanka , Yankova-Tsvetkova Elina , Zheljazkov Valtcho D. , Koleva-Valkova Lyubka H. , Nikolova Rozalia
Published: June 2023

Satureja pilosa Velen., S. coerulea Janka and S. kitaibelii Wierzb. ex Heuff. are Balkan endemic species, and they are distributed in restricted territories, primarily found in dry grasslands, rocky slopes, and stony habitats. This study presents the results of the first embryological and micromorphological analyses of three Satureja species (S. pilosa, S. kitaibelii, and S. coerulea) from the Bulgarian flora. The aim of this study was to establish the features of the male and female reproductive sphere, as well as surface characteristics of leaves, stem, and calyx in order to understand the mode of reproduction, character, size and state of species populations and delimitation. For the embryological study, flowers and flower buds in different developmental stages were collected from plants of natural populations and treated with the classic paraffin method. Reproductive capacity was assessed using the following approaches: (1) acetocarmine test for pollen viability, (2) tetrazolium test (TTZ) for seed viability, and (3) germination test. The surfaces characteristics of leaves, stem, and calyx were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). As a result, the study revealed the structures of the male (M) and female (F) generative spheres as well as the processes of gamete development, pollination, and endosperm and embryo formation. It was found that the three Satureja species exhibited a high pollen viability but low seed viability and germination. The SEM analysis showed both common and distinct micromorphology features regarding epidermis, calyx and stem surfaces among the three Satureja species. Notably, the S. coerulea surfaces (leaves, calyx, stem) were clearly distinguishable from the other two Satureja species. Regarding the nutlet surfaces, it was observed that the exocarp surfaces of S. coerulea and S. kitaibelii have a reticulate convex type surface and comprise two types of cells: (1) highly bulging, bubble-like cells; and (2) flat cells with numerous striations. On the other hand, the exocarp of S. pilosa displayed rectangular or polygonal shapes without bubble-like cells, and it had a tabular to slightly convex type surface. Additionally, nutlets (seeds) of both S. coerulea and S. pilosa exhibited distinct papilla formations resembling non-glandular trichomes seen on the ends of the nutlets for S. coerulea and over the entire surface for S. pilosa. The characteristics of the embryological structures and processes, along with the absence of apomixis, characterized the three studied Satureja species as sexually reproducing. The established balanced processes and stable structures contribute to their high reproductive potential and population stability. However, these traits may also decrease their adaptability to environmental changes.
Curvature Analysis of Seed Silhouettes in Silene L.
Authors: Cervantes Emilio , Rodríguez-Lorenzo José Luis , Martín-Gómez José Javier , Tocino Ángel
Published: June 2023

The application of seed morphology to descriptive systematics requires methods for shape analysis and quantification. The complexity of lateral and dorsal views of seeds of Silene species is investigated here by the application of the Elliptic Fourier Transform (EFT) to representative seeds of four morphological types: smooth, rugose, echinate and papillose. The silhouettes of seed images in the lateral and dorsal views are converted to trigonometric functions, whose graphical representations reproduce them with different levels of accuracy depending on the number of harmonics. A general definition of seed shape in Silene species is obtained by equations based on 40 points and 20 harmonics, while the detailed representation of individual tubercles in each seed image requires between 100 and 200 points and 60–80 harmonics depending on their number and complexity. Smooth-type seeds are accurately represented with a low number of harmonics, while rugose, echinate and papillose seeds require a higher number. Fourier equations provide information about tubercle number and distribution and allow the analysis of curvature. Further estimation of curvature values in individual tubercles reveals differences between seeds, with higher values of curvature in S. latifolia, representative of echinate seeds, and lower in S. chlorifolia with rugose seeds.
Foliar Spraying of NaHS Alleviates Cucumber Salt Stress by Maintaining N+/K+ Balance and Activating Salt Tolerance Signaling Pathways
Authors: Luo Shilei , Liu Zeci , Wan Zilong , He Xianxia , Lv Jian , Yu Jihua , Zhang Guobin
Published: June 2023

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is involved in the regulation of plant salt stress as a potential signaling molecule. This work investigated the effect of H2S on cucumber growth, photosynthesis, antioxidation, ion balance, and other salt tolerance pathways. The plant height, stem diameter, leaf area and photosynthesis of cucumber seedlings were significantly inhibited by 50 mmol·L−1 NaCl. Moreover, NaCl treatment induced superoxide anion (O2·−) and Na+ accumulation and affected the absorption of other mineral ions. On the contrary, exogenous spraying of 200 μmol·L−1 sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS) maintained the growth of cucumber seedlings, increased photosynthesis, enhanced the ascorbate–glutathione cycle (AsA–GSH), and promoted the absorption of mineral ions under salt stress. Meanwhile, NaHS upregulated SOS1, SOS2, SOS3, NHX1, and AKT1 genes to maintain Na+/K+ balance and increased the relative expression of MAPK3, MAPK4, MAPK6, and MAPK9 genes to enhance salt tolerance. These positive effects of H2S could be reversed by 150 mmol·L−1 propargylglycine (PAG, a specific inhibitor of H2S biosynthesis). These results indicated that H2S could mitigate salt damage in cucumber, mainly by improving photosynthesis, enhancing the AsA–GSH cycle, reducing the Na+/K+ ratio, and inducing the SOS pathway and MAPK pathway.
Enhancing Hydrophobicity and Oxygen Barrier of Xylan/PVOH Composite Film by 1,2,3,4-Butane Tetracarboxylic Acid Crosslinking
Authors: Liu Guoshuai , Shi Kang , Sun Hui , Yang Biao , Weng Yunxuan
Published: June 2023

Hemicellulose has potential advantages in food packaging because of its abundant reserves, degradability and regeneration. However, compared with fossil-derived plastic films, hemicellulose-based films show inferior hydrophobicity and barrier properties because of their low degree of polymerization and strong hydrophilicity. Focusing on such issues, this work covers the modification of a xylan/polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) film using 1,2,3,4-butane tetracarboxylic acid (BTCA) as esterifying agent. The thus prepared composite film was more compact owing to the esterification reaction with xylan and PVOH forming a crosslinked network structure and reducing the distance between molecular chains. The results showed that BTCA had a positive effect on the oxygen barrier, hydrophobicity and mechanical properties of the composite film. The tensile strength of the xylan/PVOH composite film with 10% BTCA content increased from 11.19 MPa to 13.99 MPa. A 20% BTCA loading resulted in an increase in the contact angle of the composite film from 87.1° to 108.2°, and a decrease in the oxygen permeability from 2.11 to 0.43 (cm3·µm)/(m2·d·kPa), corresponding to increase in the contact angle by 24% and a decrease in oxygen permeability by 80%. The overall performance enhancement indicates the potential application of such composites as food packaging.
The Evaluation and Application of SmartGel for Deepwater Loss-Circulation Control
Authors: Liu Zhiqin , Xu Jiafang , Peng Wei , Yu Xiaodong , Chen Jie
Published: June 2023

In view of the problem that the formation of deepwater wells in the study area leak easily, the mechanism of loss-circulation was studied in depth, and the loss-circulation plugging material SmartGel was developed with guar gum and its derivatives as the main synthetic raw materials. The gel process could be controlled by adjusting the dosage and temperature of gel accelerators. In order to adjust the gelling speed of SmartGel, GelRetarder and GelAccelerant were developed. The extrusion strength of SmartGel increased with the increase in SmartGel dose and decreased with the increase in temperature. As for the plugging performance of SmartGel, the sand bed test confirmed that the pressure capacity of SmartGel in the 80 °C sand bed can reach at least 7 MPa, which can meet the requirements of site construction. The PPT sand tray test and core flow meter simulation pore test showed that SmartGel has good bearing performance. As for the gel-breaking of SmartGel, low-temperature gel-breaking was achieved by adding the biological gel-breaking agent S100. The gel-breaking time was shortened by increasing the dose of S100; the higher the temperature, the more obvious the effect. To facilitate high-temperature gel-breaking, the post-gel-breaking method was adopted since the enzyme gel-breaking agent cannot play a role above 60 °C. The test showed that after adding 5% gel-breaking agent PF-JPC, due to gel-breaking at 80 °C, the SmartGel gel completely reduced the viscosity within 48 h. We successfully used SmartGel + 0.2% GelRetarder to stop the loss-circulation in well A and used a cored well wall to show a good gel-breaking effect.
Voltage Drop Estimation during Shore Connection with the Use of Motor Drives Modified as Static Frequency Converters
Authors: Vrzala Matouš , Goňo Radomír , Stacho Břetislav , Lukianov Semen
Published: June 2023

Ship-to-shore connection is an important technological element that reduces air pollution in ports. Therefore, ports install facilities that allow mooring ships to connect to the port distribution network. By 2025, this will be mandatory for all ports in Europe. This can be a challenging task in most ports due to the different frequency of the network and ship frequency. This problem can be solved by the use of grid-forming static frequency converters. This solution also brings some other advantages: The ship is not threatened by high shore short-circuit currents, and the port distribution network is not affected by the character of the ship load. However, frequency converter software must include a droop control algorithm to ensure that voltage deviations do not exceed the allowed limits during transients. Typical frequency converters used for shore connection are those developed as static frequency converters (SFCs). However, those converters were not developed for large power outputs, which are needed to power large vessels, such as ferries or cruise ships. This paper proposes motor drives that were modified to operate as SFCs. This approach has quite a lot of advantages which are described in this article. This paper describes both a standard shore connection system without a frequency converter and a solution that includes static frequency converters. The paper then focusses on voltage deviation estimations during connection/disconnection of large load (ferry or cruise ship) to static frequency converters. In this work, a high-voltage shore connection (HVSC) simulation model is developed, including a frequency converter, a shoreside transformer, medium-voltage (MV) connection cables, and a power system of the ship, to analyze in detail the behavior of the system in the case of connection or disconnection of the ship load. The model was made in DIgSILENT PowerFactory for the case of a commercial port in southern France. The model gives credible estimations of voltage drops/surges during transient and steady states.
Towards Others: Confucian Shu’s (Due Consideration) Three Types of Gongfu (Practice)
Authors: Tang Yan , Yu Zhiping
Published: June 2023

The Confucian philosophy of the Dao of due consideration 恕 (shu) and of “Do not impose upon others what you yourself do not desire ” 己所不欲，勿施於人 undoubtedly involves the question of “others” and addresses the spiritual pursuit of individual equality, mutual agreement, and communality. Confucianism’s theory of practice 工夫 (gongfu), while emphasizing the establishment and success of oneself, also requires the ability to make others established and successful. There are basically three paths for the virtuous subject to reach others: “taking what is near at hand as an analogy ” 能近取譬 (neng jin qu pi), the “measure” 度 (duo) of considering other people’s emotions on the basis of one’s own emotions 將心比心 (jiang xin bi xin), and putting oneself in the place of others 推己及人 (tui ji ji ren). The present study, drawing on the long commentarial tradition, will fully explicate them as gongfu, that is, as concrete processes of moral practice, revealing the three paths of the Dao of due consideration from self to others, and interpreting them in relation to the dimension of the other in Confucian ethical philosophy. All three are unified and highly practical and are effective means of realizing Confucian benevolence 仁 (ren). They do not exist in a sequential ascending relationship. Through diligent moral practice, people can “help others to take their stand” 立人 (liren) and “help others to realize themselves” 達人 (daren) by following any one of the three types of gongfu.
Velocity-Based Strength Training: The Validity and Personal Monitoring of Barbell Velocity with the Apple Watch
Authors: Achermann Basil , Oberhofer Katja , Ferguson Stephen J. , Lorenzetti Silvio R.
Published: June 2023

Velocity-based training (VBT) is a method to monitor resistance training based on measured kinematics. Often, measurement devices are too expensive for non-professional use. The purpose of this study was to determine the accuracy and precision of the Apple Watch 7 and the Enode Pro device for measuring mean, peak, and propulsive velocity during the free-weighted back squat (in comparison to Vicon as the criterion). Velocity parameters from Vicon optical motion capture and the Apple Watch were derived by processing the motion data in an automated Python workflow. For the mean velocity, the barbell-mounted Apple Watch (r = 0.971–0.979, SEE = 0.049), wrist-worn Apple Watch (r = 0.952–0.965, SEE = 0.064) and barbell-mounted Enode Pro (r = 0.959–0.971, SEE = 0.059) showed an equal level of validity. The barbell-mounted Apple Watch (Vpeak: r = 0.952–0.965, SEE = 0.092; Vprop: r = 0.973–0.981, SEE = 0.05) was found to be the most valid for assessing propulsive and peak lifting velocity. The present results on the validity of the Apple Watch are very promising, and may pave the way for the inclusion of VBT applications in mainstream consumer wearables.
Correction of the Mathematical Method for Studying a Cathode Lens with Two Planes of Symmetry
Authors: Ibrayev Alpamys T.
Published: June 2023

The article is devoted to the theoretical problems of studying cathode lenses with two planes of symmetry. It is noted that the classical methods of studying conventional electron lenses are unsuitable for a detailed study of the focusing properties of cathode lenses because these methods do not take into account the specificity of the initial conditions of cathode lenses. For a cathode lens, it is inaccurate to assume that the trajectories of charged particles throughout have a small inclination to the main optical axis. In addition, in single and immersion lenses, the condition of the smallness of the spread of charged particle energies with respect to the values of the axial potential is satisfied throughout, while in the cathode lens, this condition is not satisfied in the cathode region. The method proposed in the article is based on the study of the parameters of the trajectory of an arbitrary particle in a beam of charged particles relative to the parameters of the trajectory of an axial particle with zero initial energy, the trajectory of which is chosen as a scalar motion. The results obtained in the article will expand the scope of the application of cathode lenses with two planes of symmetry.
Analysis of Omni-Channel Evolution Game Strategy for E-Commerce Enterprises in the Context of Online and Offline Integration
Authors: Cheng Yingying , Xie Bo , An Keyu
Published: June 2023

With the upgrading of people’s consumption patterns, the omni-channel supply chain becomes the mainstream form of e-commerce platform enterprise development. Aiming at two different e-commerce enterprises, we construct an evolutionary game model for enterprises’ “online+offline” omni-channel construction strategy by self-build or cooperating with brick-and-mortar stores. It is based on the Stackelberg and Cournot competition model, combined with the omni-channel pricing strategy, using the theory of perfect rationality and bounded rationality, and combing the non-cooperative game and evolutionary game to realize. Moreover, the evolutionary game process is simulated. Through the dynamic changes of the system, the strategy selection behavior mechanism of the retail channel subjects is deeply analyzed. It is found that enterprises’ strategy choices are influenced by both competitors and profits, and evolutionary stabilization strategies are not unique. In addition, changes in consumer loyalty, physical feelings, and sharing ratio during the evolutionary process will affect the stability rate of enterprises’ behavioral choices.
Research Progress and New Ideas on the Theory and Methodology of Water Quality Criteria for the Protection of Aquatic Organisms
Authors: Feng Chenglian , Huang Wenjie , Qiao Yu , Liu Daqing , Li Huixian
Published: June 2023

Water quality criteria (WQC) for the protection of aquatic organisms mainly focus on the maximum threshold values of the pollutants that do not have harmful effects on aquatic organisms. The WQC value is the result obtained based on scientific experiments in the laboratory and data fitting extrapolation and is the limit of the threshold value of pollutants or other harmful factors in the water environment. Until now, many studies have been carried out on WQC for the protection of aquatic organisms internationally, and several countries have also issued their own relevant technical guidelines. Thus, the WQC method for the protection of aquatic organisms has been basically formed, with species sensitivity distribution (SSD) as the main method and the assessment factor (AF) as the auxiliary method. In addition, in terms of the case studies on WQC, many scholars have conducted relevant case studies on various pollutants. At the national level, several countries have also released WQC values for typical pollutants. This study systematically discusses the general situation, theoretical methodology and research progress of WQC for the protection of aquatic organisms, and deeply analyzes the key scientific issues that need to be considered in the research of WQC. Furthermore, combined with the specific characteristics of the emerging pollutants, some new ideas and directions for future WQC research for the protection of aquatic organisms are also proposed.
A Case Study of European Collaboration between the Veterinary and Human Field for the Development of RSV Vaccines
Authors: Janse Marga , Sesa Giulia , van de Burgwal Linda
Published: June 2023

The One Health (OH) approach describes the interconnection between the health of animals, humans, and the environment. The need for collaboration between the veterinary and human fields is increasing due to the rise in several infectious diseases that cross human–animal barriers and need to be addressed jointly. However, such collaboration is not evident in practice, especially for non-zoonotic diseases. A qualitative research approach was used to explore the barriers and enablers influencing collaborative efforts on the development of vaccines for the non-zoonotic RSV virus. It was found that in the European context, most veterinary and human health professionals involved in RSV vaccine development see themselves as belonging to two distinct groups, indicating a lack of a common goal for collaboration. Next to this, the different conceptualizations of the OH approach, and the fact that RSV is not a zoonotic disease, strengthens the opinion that there is no shared need for collaboration. This paper adds insights on how, for a non-zoonotic situation, collaboration between human and veterinary professionals shaped the development of vaccines in both areas; thus, improving public health requires awareness, mutual appreciation, and shared goal setting.
COVID-19 Vaccination Rate under Different Political Incentive: A Counterfactual Trend Approach Using Nationwide Data
Authors: Mongin Denis , Buclin Clement P. , Cullati Stephane , Courvoisier Delphine S.
Published: June 2023

(1) Background: France implemented a COVID-19 certificate in July 2021 to incentivize the population to uptake COVID-19 vaccines. However, little is known about the variation in its impact across age groups and its dependence on socio-demographic, economic, logistic, or political factors. (2) Methods: Using France’s weekly first dose vaccination rate, a counterfactual trend approach allowed for the estimation of the vaccination rate across age groups at a small geographical level before and after the implementation of the health pass. The effect of the health pass was operationalized as the vaccination rate among those who would not be vaccinated without it. (3) Results: Vaccination before the health pass varied greatly among age groups and was mainly influenced by territory (lower in rural and overseas territories when compared to urban and metropolitan ones), political beliefs, and socio-economic disparities. Vaccine logistics played a minor but significant role, while the impact of COVID-19 did not affect the vaccination rate. The health pass increased the vaccination overall but with varying efficiency across groups. It convinced mainly young people politically close to the governmental vaccination strategy and living in urban metropolitan areas with low socio-economical discrepancies. The selected variables explained most of the variability of the vaccination rate before the health pass; they explained, at most, a third of the variation in the health pass effect on vaccination. (4) Conclusions: From a public health perspective, the French health pass increased the overall vaccination, but failed to promote preventive behaviours in all segments of society, particularly in vulnerable communities.
Factors within A Veterinarian-Cattle Farmer Relationship That May Impact on Biosecurity Being Carried out on Farms: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Grant Nikisha , Buchanan Heather , Brennan Marnie L.
Published: June 2023

Veterinarians (vets) appear to be one of the main gateways to biosecurity information for cattle farmers, and therefore are likely to affect the implementation of these measures. The aim of this study was to explore factors within the vet–farmer relationship that may impact on biosecurity being carried out on cattle farms in England. Interviews were conducted with cattle farmers and large-animal vets, with a focus on individuals deemed to implement good levels of biosecurity or those working with said individuals. The questions explored how each stakeholder felt the communication occurred between the groups and the perceived consequential influence each had on the other. Inductive Thematic analysis was used to explore participants’ experience of vet–farmer interactions with a focus on areas of reciprocity between the two groups. Five primary themes were identified. Factors within the vet–cattle farmer relationship, such as trust and familiarity, which were interconnected with time spent with each other, appeared to influence the uptake of biosecurity measures on cattle farms. These factors purportedly impacted the ability of vet–farmer pairs to have cooperative discussions and enter into shared decision-making. In order to enhance animal and human health and welfare, these relationship factors might be key to the development of sustainable optimisation frameworks.
Molecular Characteristics of Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus Strains Isolated from Persistently Infected Cattle
Authors: Wu Yinghao , Zhang Guangzhi , Jiang Hui , Xin Ting , Jia Li , Zhang Yichen , Yang Yifei , Qin Tong , Xu Chuang , Cao Jie , Ameni Gobena , Ahmad Arfan , Ding Jiabo , Li Limin , Ma Yuzhong , Fan Xuezheng
Published: June 2023

In this study, we reported the isolation, identification, and molecular characteristics of nine BVDV strains that were isolated from the serum of persistently infected cattle. The new strains were designated as BVDV TJ2101, TJ2102, TJ2103, TJ2104, TJ2105, TJ2106, TJ2107, TJ2108 and TJ2109. The TJ2102 and TJ2104 strains were found to be cytopathic BVDV, and the other strains were non-cytopathic BVDV. An alignment and phylogenetic analysis showed that the new isolates share 92.2–96.3% homology with the CP7 strain and, thus, were classified as the BVDV-1b subgenotype. A recombination analysis of the genome sequences showed that the new strains could be recombined by the major parent BVDV-1a NADL strain and the minor parent BVDV-1m SD-15 strain. Some genome variations or unique amino acid mutations were found in 5′-UTR, E0 and E2 of these new isolates. In addition, a potential linear B cell epitopes prediction showed that the potential linear B cell epitope at positions 56–61 is highly variable in BVDV-1b. In conclusion, the present study has identified nine strains of BVDV from persistently infected cattle in China. Further studies on the virulence and pathogenesis of these new strains are recommended.
Risk of Death among Dialysis Patients Treated at Hospital-Affiliated versus Free-Standing Facilities in the United States
Authors: Zhang Lucy Y. , Amaral Sandra , McCulloch Charles E. , Grimes Barbara , Ku Elaine
Published: June 2023

Key Points

Receipt of dialysis at hospital-affiliated facilities was associated with a higher risk of mortality compared with treatment at free-standing dialysis facilities.

The differential mortality risk in free-standing versus hospital-affiliated facilities was more pronounced in non-Hispanic Black and Asian patients compared with other racial/ethnic groups.
Utility of the Living (Well Through) Intergenerational Fitness and Exercise Program as a County-Delivered Extension Program
Authors: Sowle Ashleigh , Francis Sarah , Margrett Jennifer , Franke Warren
Published: June 2023

Rural-residing older adults are not participating in regular physical activity. Extension is in an excellent position to fill this programming void through transdisciplinary programming such as the Living (well through) Intergenerational Fitness and Exercise (LIFE) program. Qualitative evaluation was conducted to assess the LIFE program's utility as an Extension-delivered program. Nearly all LIFE program managers were satisfied with the program and were likely to recommend it to others. Best liked program features and attributes were the ready-to-use curriculum, corresponding training, and intergenerational and rural focuses. These results suggest that the LIFE program is viewed as appropriate for delivery by Extension.
Using Youth Participatory Evaluation to Improve a Bullying Prevention Program
Authors: Duke Adrienne , Sollie Donna , Silva Kelcie
Published: June 2023

We conducted a youth participatory evaluation of a bullying prevention curriculum before the curriculum was implemented in communities. We partnered with youths from a young women leaders' program to reduce the number of lessons in an existing curriculum and determine which activities were likely to have the greatest impact. To evaluate the curriculum, we used star-sticker surveys and written feedback provided by the youths and observational field notes recorded by adults. We found that the youths endorsed activities involving active learning approaches, we should include summaries at the beginnings of lessons, and we should include wording alternatives for implementers to use to improve understanding of complex ideas. We also reduced 26 lessons to eight lessons.
Realization of Quantum Secure Direct Communication with Continuous Variable
Authors: Cao Zhengwen , Lu Yuan , Chai Geng , Yu Hao , Liang Kexin , Wang Lei
Published: June 2023

With the progress of theoretical and applied technologies, the communication system based on the classical encryption is seriously threatened by quantum computing and distributed computing. A communication method that directly loads confidential information on the quantum state, quantum secure direct communication (QSDC), came into being for resisting security threats. Here, we report the first continuous-variable QSDC (CV-QSDC) experimental demonstration for verifying the feasibility and effectiveness of the CV-QSDC protocol based on Gaussian mapping and propose a parameter estimation for signal classification under the actual channels. In our experiment, we provided 4 × 10
2
blocks, where each block contains 10
5
data for direct information transmission. For the transmission distance of 5 km in our experiment, the excess noise is 0.0035 SNU, where SNU represents the unit of shot-noise units. The 4.08 × 10
5
bit per second experimental results firmly demonstrated the feasibility of CV-QSDC under the fiber channel. The proposed grading judgment method based on parameter estimation provides a practical and available message processing scheme for CV-QSDC in a practical fiber channel and lays the groundwork for the grading reconciliation.
Analysis of Essential Oil Composition of Endemic Marrubium parviflorum subsp. oligodon Grown in Turkey by Using SPME with GC/MS
Authors: SARAL Özlem , KARAKÖSE Mustafa
Published: June 2023

The aim of the study is to determine the essential oil profile and antioxidant activity of endemic Marrubium parviflorum subsp. oligodon. The essential oil contents were analyzed by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) using Solid Phase Microextraction (SPME). In addition, total phenolic content and the capacity of antioxidant activity measured by DPPH• and FRAP assays were determined. Twenty-three (64.12%) essential oil components were determined. Pentadecanolide was found to be the major essential oil and palmitic acid was determined as main fatty acid in Marrubium parviflorum subsp. oligodon. Total phenolic content was found to be 39.9±0.31 mg GAE/g sample. FRAP value was found to be 48.91±0.33 µmol Fe/g sample and DPPH• scavenging activity was found to be 0.76±0.03 mg/mL. This study is the first report in which the essential oil content of Marrubium parviflorum subsp. oligodon was determined by SPME.
Marmara Denizi’nde (Kapıdağ Yarımadası ve Adalar Bölgesi) Kaybolan Av Araçlarının Tespitine Yönelik Çalışma
Authors: UÇAR Fulden , ÖZTEKİN Alkan
Published: June 2023

Bu çalışma Marmara Denizi’nde (Kapıdağ Yarımadası ve Adalar Bölgesi) hayalet ağların yerini ve miktarını belirleyerek, uygun dalış limitleri içerisindeki kaybolan av araçlarını çıkarmak için gerçekleştirilmiştir. Bu amaçla, bölgede faaliyet gösteren balıkçılar ve balıkçı kooperatifi başkanları ile 168 adet anket yapılmış olup bunların 42 tanesi tarafından kaybolan ağların yerleri ile ilgili geri dönüş alınmıştır. Dalışa uygun 10 istasyonda 32 dalış operasyonu gerçekleştirilmiş olup, toplam 20 saat dip zamanı harcanmış ve 43500 m2 alan taranarak, 1 adet trol takımı, 1 adet algarna takımı, 18, 500m2 gırgır ağı, 200m uzatma ağı, 2 adet paragat takımı, 8 adet gemi çapası, 500m marya ağı, 1 adet ahtapot oltası ve parça uzatma ağları ile olta iğneleri çıkarılmıştır. Anket sonuçları değerlendirildiğinde, dalış yapılarak çıkarılan bu av araçlarının Marmara Denizi’nde (Kapıdağ Yarımadası ve Adalar Bölgesi) kaybolan av araçlarının sadece %1‘lik kısmı olduğu tahmin edilmiştir.
Las comunidades amazónicas de El Cenepa y su batalla contra la minería ilegal y la contaminación ambiental: propuesta de intervención con enfoque de diálogo y transformación del conflicto
Authors: Flores Heredia Gladys
Published: June 2023

La minería ilegal es una actividad extractiva frecuente en el territorio peruano; sin embargo, por su desarrollo irresponsable está directamente asociada con la deforestación, la contaminación medioambiental y el envenenamiento de los ríos y sus afluentes con cianuro y mercurio, los mismos que, por el flujo natural de la cadena trófica alimenticia, llegan al organismo de los pobladores que habitan las zonas aledañas. Las comunidades amazónicas, como víctimas directas de los estragos de la contaminación ambiental que acarrea la proliferación de actividades mineras ilegales, han emprendido una serie de acciones para combatir este enemigo de sus vidas y de su hábitat. El presente artículo presenta una reflexión sobre el problema de la minería ilegal, para lo cual se describe sucintamente las motivaciones del conflicto, se analiza la problemática, los actores que participan en el mismo y se propone el enfoque del diálogo como intervención para transformar el conflicto en una oportunidad de gestión de la convivencia armoniosa y sostenida.
Development of articulate storyline-based interactive learning media on arithmetic sequences and series
Authors: Jannah Ayustika Raudatul , Setiawani Susi , Prihandini Rafiantika Megahnia
Published: June 2023

Research in learning media development is driven by the common problem of student disengagement, which hinders their understanding of the material. The specific problem addressed in this research is students' lack of attention and comprehension while studying arithmetic sequences and series. The purpose of this study is to document the process and outcomes of developing interactive learning media using Articulate Storyline specifically for the material on sequences and arithmetic series. The research follows the Research and Development (R&D) approach, employing the Thiagarajan model (Model 4-D) consisting of four stages: 1) the definition stage (define), 2) the design stage (design), 3) the development stage (development), and 4) the dissemination stage (disseminate). The research was conducted with a sample of 31 students from class X B at SMA Tunas Luhur. The results of the media validity test showed a score of 4.82, indicating high validity. Furthermore, the practicality and effectiveness tests conducted with both small and large groups achieved a perfect score of 100% in all aspects. This research indicates that the interactive learning media for arithmetic sequences and series based on Articulate Storyline meet the criteria of validity, practicality, and effectiveness.