bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nature Connection: Providing a Pathway from Personal to Planetary Health
Authors: Zelenski John , Warber Sara , Robinson Jake , Logan Alan , Prescott Susan
Published: March 2023

The vast and growing challenges for human health and all life on Earth require urgent and deep structural changes to the way in which we live. Broken relationships with nature are at the core of both the modern health crisis and the erosion of planetary health. A declining connection to nature has been implicated in the exploitative attitudes that underpin the degradation of both physical and social environments and almost all aspects of personal physical, mental, and spiritual health. It is increasingly clear that the entwined challenges of biodiversity loss, climate change, and human health cannot be addressed without addressing selfishness, greed, apathy, and the value systems that created these global problems. Calls for a spiritual and cultural transformation recognize that “inner” development is important and necessary for meaningful “outward” transitions with a shared purpose for wiser, more sustainable societies. Many of these emotional and spiritual assets appear to be facilitated by a connection to nature, which is also strongly associated with community cohesion, prosocial attitudes, and pro-environmental actions. Restoring the human connection to nature may therefore provide a critical common pathway to promote the physical and spiritual wellbeing of individuals and communities as well as personal and social environmental responsibility. In this paper, we summarize and reflect on the discussions of the Nova Network planetary health community with respect to nature-based solutions as pathways to promote both personal and planetary health with a more mutualistic mindset. These discussions spanned biological to psychological interactions with nature—including the critical relationships with environmental microbes that influence the physical, emotional, and behavioral aspects of health. We consider the ways in which stronger relationships with nature promote “inner assets” to support “outward actions” for personal and planetary health.
Graphite/β-PbO2 Composite Inert Anode Synthesis Using Electrochemical Methods
Authors: Selpiana Selpiana , Haryati Sri , Bustan Muhammad Djoni
Published: March 2023

The anode material is one of the determining factors for the success of the electrowinning process. This study aims to coat the graphite substrate with β-PbO2 to produce an inert graphite/β-PbO2 composite material with low cost and good quality. The graphite/β-PbO2 synthesis is expected to be used as an anode for inert composites for electrowinning processes. The β-PbO2 deposition layer was prepared on the surface of the graphite substrate by an electrodeposition process using a sulfuric acid electrolyte. The effect of electrolyte concentration and voltage on graphite/β-PbO2 synthesis was investigated using a potentiodynamic polarization test through Tafel analysis. Experimental data have shown that there is an increase in the current density value at the beginning of the process and then a decrease due to passivation; this is due to anodic polarization in the graphite/β-PbO2 synthesis process. Suitable conditions can effectively increase the rate of formation of β-PbO2. The results of scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopic analysis of the formed crystal structure showed that the β-PbO2 deposition layer obtained had a well-formed tetragonal structure at a voltage of 9 V.
Niche Applications of MXene Materials in Photothermal Catalysis
Authors: Wu Zhiyi , Shen Jiahui , Li Chaoran , Zhang Chengcheng , Wu Chunpeng , Li Zimu , An Xingda , He Le
Published: March 2023

MXene materials have found emerging applications as catalysts for chemical reactions due to their intriguing physical and chemical applications. In particular, their broad light response and strong photothermal conversion capabilities are likely to render MXenes promising candidates for photothermal catalysis, which is drawing increasing attention in both academic research and industrial applications. MXenes are likely to satisfy all three criteria of a desirable photothermal catalyst: strong light absorption, effective heat management, and versatile surface reactivity. However, their specific functionalities are largely dependent on their structure and composition, which makes understandings of the structure–function relationship of crucial significance. In this review, we mainly focus on the recent progress of MXene–based photothermal catalysts, emphasizing the functionalities and potential applications of MXene materials in fields of photothermal catalysis, and provide insights on design principles of highly efficient MXene–based photothermal catalysts from the atomic scale. This review provides a relatively thorough understanding of MXene–based materials for photothermal catalysis, as well as an in–depth investigation of emerging high-prospect applications in photothermal catalysis.
Relations between Positive Parenting Behavior during Play and Child Language Development at Early Ages
Authors: Rivero Magda , Vilaseca Rosa , Cantero María-José , Valls-Vidal Clara , Leiva David
Published: March 2023

Parental behavior in interactions with children has been related to child language development. Our study contributes to the literature about relations between the characteristics of parent–child interactions during play and a child’s language development in typically developing children at early ages, with data from mothers and fathers from the same families in Spain. Our aim was to analyze the relation between positive parenting behaviors assessed with the Spanish version of the Parenting Interactions with Children: Checklist of Observations Linked to Outcomes (PICCOLO) and child language development assessed with the Bayley-III scales. We controlled for some sociodemographic variables. The participants were 90 children aged 15–31 months and their mothers and fathers. Bivariate analysis showed significant positive relations between mothers’ responsive, encouraging and teaching behaviors and a child’s language scores. Relations were found between fathers’ encouraging and teaching behaviors and a child’s language. Regression models indicate that maternal and paternal encouraging behaviors predicted 18% of the variability in the child’s receptive language, and maternal responsive and teaching behaviors predicted 16% of the variability in the child’s expressive language and total language scores. The study provides new data that support the relevance of positive parental behaviors to improve a child’s linguistic development.
Child Weight Status: The Role of Feeding Styles and Highly Motivated Eating in Children
Authors: Papaioannou Maria A. , Power Thomas G. , O’Connor Teresia M. , Fisher Jennifer O. , Micheli Nilda E. , Hughes Sheryl O.
Published: March 2023

Although parental feeding plays an important role in child eating and weight status, high food motivation among children may also be a factor shaping how feeding impacts child weight. This study explored whether individual differences in preschool children’s food motivation interacted with mothers’ feeding styles in predicting subsequent child weight status. Participants included 129 Hispanic Head Start mother/child dyads. Data were collected at ages 4–5 years (Time 1) and 7–9 (Time 3). Staff measured heights/weights and observed children in an eating in the absence of hunger task. Mothers reported on feeding styles/practices and children’s eating behaviors. A principal components analysis derived a measure of highly motivated eating in children. Multiple regressions predicted Time 3 child BMI z-scores. Time 3 BMI z-scores were positively predicted by authoritative and indulgent feeding styles and negatively predicted by monitoring. Since feeding style interacted with highly motivated eating, separate regressions were run for high and low food motivation in children. Unexpectedly, results showed that authoritative feeding positively predicted Time 3 child BMI z-scores only for children showing low levels of food motivation. Characterizing differential parental feeding and child eating phenotypes may assist in tailoring childhood obesity prevention programs for the target populations.
Management of Children and Adolescents with Chest Trauma in Pediatric and Non-Pediatric Departments—A Claims Data Analysis
Authors: Zimmermann Peter , Kraemer Sebastian , Pardey Nicolas , Bassler Stefan , Stahmeyer Jona T. , Lacher Martin , Zeidler Jan
Published: March 2023

Background: To investigate the management of children and adolescents with isolated and combined chest trauma in pediatric (PD) and non-pediatric departments (non-PD). Methods: Anonymized claims data were provided by two large German statutory health insurance funds, covering 6.3 million clients over a 10-year period (2010–2019). Data were extracted for patients who had an inpatient ICD diagnosis of section S20–S29 (injuries to the thorax) and were ≤18 years of age. Demographic and clinical data were analyzed. Results: A total of 4064 children and adolescents with chest trauma were included (mean age 12.0 ± 5.0 years; 55% male). In 1928 cases (47.4%), treatment was provided at PD. Patients admitted to PD underwent CT imaging less frequently (8.1%; non-PD: 23.1%; p < 0.0001). Children with a chest drain treated at university/maximum care hospitals (UM) showed more injuries involving multiple body regions compared with non-UM (25.8% vs. 4.5%; p = 0.0061) without a difference in the length of hospital stay. Conclusion: Children and adolescents with chest trauma are treated almost equally often in pediatric and adult departments. CT is significantly less frequently used in pediatric departments. Patients with a chest drain treated at a UM showed more concomitant injuries without a longer hospital stay. However, the clinical validity of this finding is questionable.
Parenting Stress in Mothers of Children with Permanent Hearing Impairment
Authors: Continisio Grazia Isabella , D’Errico Domenico , Toscano Silvia , Maldonato Nelson Mauro , De Falco Raffaella , Nunziata Francesco , Rodio Angelica , Casarella Antonio , Del Vecchio Valeria , Fetoni Anna Rita , Malesci Rita
Published: March 2023

Permanent childhood hearing impairment (PCHI) represents the most frequent sensory pathology at birth. PCHI has a relevant psychological impact on the life of both the affected children and their families. Thus, the aim of this work is to explore the degree of parental distress felt by mothers of a deaf or hard-of-hearing child, to determine if this stress is associated with variables related to the children’s health (e.g., the severity of hearing loss, presence of other conditions, difficulty with treatment options, difficulty with rehabilitation) or family characteristics such as socio-economic and educational status. The study used the Parenting Stress Index–Short Form (PSI-SF) questionnaire administered to mothers. The results were analyzed in relation to variables such as parents’ education level, number of children, severity of hearing loss, presence of other chronic conditions, presence of cognitive delay, familiarity with hearing loss, time of diagnosis, use of prosthetics, and start in a rehabilitation program. The data indicate a correlation between maternal stress levels and low-educational levels, as well as the presence of congenital infections and cognitive delay. These results highlight the need for a comprehensive physical and psychological approach for hearing-impaired children, as stress factors can affect the adherence to effective rehabilitation.
Characteristics of Compound Climate Extremes and Impacts in Singapore, 1985–2020
Authors: Yu Jianjun , Kumar Anupam , Pattnayak Kanhu Charan , Obbard Jeff , Moise Aurel Florian
Published: March 2023

Compound weather and climate extremes have amplified impacts on natural and socioeconomic systems across the world, including Singapore. To better understand the spatial and temporal characteristics of compound climate extremes, including concurrent rainfall and wind speed, as well as dry and hot conditions, we analyzed long-term observations from 11 selected meteorological stations over the period 1985–2020. The results revealed that the north and northeastern parts of Singapore were focal points for both types of compound extremes, with a higher frequency of occurrence than the southwest of the island. Concurrent rainfall and wind speed extremes were the most prominent in December and January thanks to the northeast monsoon, while dry and hot extremes were distributed mainly in the inter-monsoon season, with peaks in March and April. A notable upward trend was also detected for mild and moderate levels of both compound climate extremes over time. According to our review of the impacts, Singapore has benefited from investments in enhanced water infrastructure; water resource availability was less affected; and flash floods were not proportionally related to the severity of climate extremes. The forests in the urban landscape of Singapore also exhibit resilience to drought.
Cut-Off Lows over South Africa: A Review
Authors: Xulu Nkosinathi G. , Chikoore Hector , Bopape Mary-Jane M. , Ndarana Thando , Muofhe Tshimbiluni P. , Mbokodo Innocent L. , Munyai Rendani B. , Singo Mukovhe V. , Mohomi Tumelo , Mbatha Sifiso M. S. , Mdoka Marshall L.
Published: March 2023

Every year, cut-off low (COL) pressure systems produce severe weather conditions and heavy rainfall, often leading to flooding, devastation and disruption of socio-economic activities in South Africa. COLs are defined as cold-cored synoptic-scale mid-tropospheric low-pressure systems which occur in the mid-latitudes and cause persistent heavy rainfall. As they occur throughout the year, these weather systems are important rainfall producing systems that are also associated with extreme cold conditions and snowfalls. An in-depth review of COLs is critical due to their high impacts which affect some parts of the country regularly, affecting lives and livelihoods. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the literature on COLs over the South African domain, whilst also comparing them with their Southern Hemisphere counterparts occurring in South America and Australia. We focus on the occurrence, development, propagation, dynamical processes and impacts of COLs on society and the environment. We also seek to understand stratospheric–tropospheric exchanges resulting from tropopause folding during the occurrence of COLs. Sometimes, COLs may extend to the surface, creating conditions conducive to extreme rainfall and high floods over South Africa, especially when impinged on the coastal escarpment. The slow propagation of COLs appears to be largely modulated by a quasi-stationary high-pressure system downstream acting as a blocking system. We also reviewed two severe COL events that occurred over the south and east coasts and found that in both cases, interactions of the low-level flow with the escarpment enhanced lifting and deep convection. It was also determined from the literature that several numerical weather prediction models struggle with placement and amounts of rainfall associated with COLs, both near the coast and on the interior plateau. Our study provides the single most comprehensive treatise that deals with COL characteristics affecting the South African domain.
Reviewing the Status of Droughts, Early Warning Systems and Climate Services in South India: Experiences Learned
Authors: Dhanya Punnoli , Geethalakshmi Vellingiri
Published: March 2023

Drought is one of the most challenging disasters that impact the natural and cultural ecosystems across the world, especially in the climate dependent sectors of arid and semi-arid areas. The aim of this article is to share the experiences gained and enhance the readers’ awareness on the status of drought and process of the early warning systems (EWS) in south India. Drought status of three agroecologically different states is included in this article, such as Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Telangana. As far as Tamil Nadu is concerned, Karur, Thuthukudi, Krishnagiri, Namakkal, Trichy and Thirunelveli districts are water scarce compared to other districts in the state. The districts such as Wayanad, Thiruvananthapuram, Idukki and Palakkad in Kerala have received lesser rainfall compared to the other parts of the state during the period 1981 to 2019. In Telangana, the mandals such as Nagarkurnool, Jogulamba-Gadwal, Wanaparthy, Mahabubnagar Nalgonda and Yedadri are frequently hit by dry spells and droughts. As a case study, weather early warning dissemination, carried out at Parambikulam Aliyar basin, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, during Khariff and Rabi seasons, using IMDs medium and extended range forecast is also elaborated in particular in the article. As far as the accuracy of forecast is concerned, probability of false detection (false alarm rate) was found to be 0.81 for Khariff and 0.30 for Rabi season, indicating the need for better performance in the accuracy of dry spell early warning, disaster preparedness and response. In-spite of this, access to early warning has supported the farmers during harvest and land preparation with a utility score of 72% and 59%, respectively. In Parambikulam Aliyar basin, remote sensing products such as MODIS-NDVI, NDWI and TWI was also used to identify the real-time progression of monthly vegetative condition for Kharif and Rabi seasons. NDVI values were used to monitor the district level vegetation condition and compared it with the drought year 2016, the difference in area under barren land was 76% less during Khariff, 2021 and 44% during Rabi, 2021.This study is a compilation of lessons learned from different states and the existing knowledge and practice in early warnings, and recommends the need for a holistic approach in drought and dry spell monitoring along with better accuracy and dissemination to minimize climate-related shocks in agriculture.
Superhydrophobic and Superoleophobic Surfaces: Key Points, Challenges and Applications
Authors: Karapanagiotis Ioannis
Published: March 2023

Non-wettable surfaces have been uninterruptedly studied during the 20th century [...]
NiCo Prussian-Blue-Derived Cobalt–Nickel-Layered Double Hydroxide with High Electrochemical Performance for Supercapacitor Electrodes
Authors: Yin Qihao , Gao Bo , Fu Haiyang , Hu Liang
Published: March 2023

High-performance electrode materials are crucial to the improvement of the supercapacitor performance index. Ni2Co1HCF@CoNi-LDH composites with a core–shell structure were prepared by a combination of coprecipitation and constant potential electrodeposition, and the microscopic morphology and phase composition of the composites were characterized by XRD, SEM, FTIR and XPS. The results showed that the NiCo Prussian blue (Ni2Co1HCF) was grown on the nickel foam (NF) substrate by in situ etching, while the nickel–cobalt double hydroxide (CoNi-LDH) was covered on the NiCo Prussian blue surface by electrodeposition, and the composite still retained the cubic skeleton morphology of the NiCo Prussian blue. The electrochemical properties of the composites were investigated using a three-electrode system in 2 M KOH. The results showed that their discharge specific capacity was as high as 1937 F·g−1 at a current density of 1 A·g−1 and still had 81.3% capacity retention at 10 A·g−1, and they exhibited an excellent rate capability. The capacity retention rate was 87.1% after 1000 cycles at 5 A·g−1 and, thus, the composite material has good application prospects as a supercapacitor electrode material.
Optimization of the Mung Bean Seed Coating with Alginate in a Bottom-Sprayed Wurster Fluidized Bed Coater
Authors: Trica Bogdan , Tritean Naomi , Constantinescu-Aruxandei Diana , Oancea Florin
Published: March 2023

Seed coating is used to improve seed handling or target the delivery of different active ingredients: (micro)nutrients and biofortifying minerals, plant biostimulants, and plant protection compounds. One type of coating is based on using film-forming biopolymers. The coating could be applied using various equipment, including the Wurster fluidized-bed coater. Deterministic models have been proposed to predict the coating process performance in the Wurster fluidized-bed coater. However, such deterministic models do not closely match real behavior. This paper proposes a statistical model approach to optimize the mung bean seed coating with a mixture of alginate/glycerol in a Wurster fluidized bed coating process. The process was optimized for a specific case through a factorial experimental design for the following parameters: the liquid flow rate, the mass of seeds, the backpressure period, and the nozzle pressure. The statistical analysis was done using Design-Expert 11®. The formed film was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. Finally, the germination percentage (GP), germination energy (GE), germination rate (GR), mean germination time (MGT), and vigor index (VI) were determined for the coated mung bean seeds. An algorithm is proposed to identify the optimal coating conditions in a bottom-spray Wurster fluidized-bed coater for any coating solution or seed pair.
Photocatalytic Properties of PbMoO4 Nanocrystals against Cationic and Anionic Dyes in Several Experimental Conditions
Authors: Nobre Francisco , Trindade Jairo , do Nascimento Marcus , Souza Giancarlo , Mendes Otoniel , Albuquerque Anderson , Sambrano Júlio , Couceiro Paulo , Brito Walter , Ruiz Yurimiler Leyet , De Matos José Milton
Published: March 2023

This paper reports easy and fast synthesis of PbMoO4 nanocrystals by microwave-assisted hydrothermal (MH) method at different synthesis times (1, 10, 30 and 60 min) at 100 °C. X-ray diffraction, Rietveld refinement and Raman spectroscopy confirm all characteristics of diffraction peaks and active vibrational modes of the pure scheelite structure (tetragonal, I41/a) for all synthesized PbMoO4 nanocrystals. The optical bandgap calculated directly from the samples is close to 3.5 eV. The images collected by scanning electron microscopy show particles with mean length from 159.90(8) nm to 303.02(3) nm with greater exposure of planes (111), (100), (011) and (110). The photocatalytic activity of PbMoO4 nanocrystals against RhB and RBBR dyes resulted in successful degradation in short time intervals using ultraviolet light, where the best performance was achieved for the PbMoO4-10 sample, which was 29.2 and 51.8 times more effective than photolysis. The contribution of oxidant species was monitored by radical scavengers, which confirms that holes (h+) are the main oxidative species in photodegradation of RhB and RBBR dyes, while reuse of the catalyst against RhB and RBBR dyes confirms high stability of the catalyst, although recycled four times.
Artificial Intelligence Model Based on Grey Clustering to Access Quality of Industrial Hygiene: A Case Study in Peru
Authors: Delgado Alexi , Condori Ruth , Hernández Miluska , Lee Huamani Enrique , Andrade-Arenas Laberiano
Published: March 2023

Industrial hygiene is a preventive technique that tries to avoid professional illnesses and damage to health caused by several possible toxic agents. The purpose of this study is to simultaneously analyze different risk factors (body vibration, lighting, heat stress and noise), to obtain an overall risk assessment of these factors and to classify them on a scale of levels of Unacceptable, Not recommended or Acceptable. In this work, an artificial intelligence model based on the grey clustering method was applied to evaluate the quality of industrial hygiene. The grey clustering method was selected, as it enables the integration of objective factors related to hazards present in the workplace with subjective employee evaluations. A case study, in the three warehouses of a beer industry in Peru, was developed. The results obtained showed that the warehouses have an acceptable level of quality. These results could help industries to make decisions about conducting evaluations of the different occupational agents and determine whether the quality of hygiene represents a risk, as well as give certain recommendations with respect to the factors presented.
Theoretical Understanding of Convolutional Neural Network: Concepts, Architectures, Applications, Future Directions
Authors: Taye Mohammad Mustafa
Published: March 2023

Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) are one of the main types of neural networks used for image recognition and classification. CNNs have several uses, some of which are object recognition, image processing, computer vision, and face recognition. Input for convolutional neural networks is provided through images. Convolutional neural networks are used to automatically learn a hierarchy of features that can then be utilized for classification, as opposed to manually creating features. In achieving this, a hierarchy of feature maps is constructed by iteratively convolving the input image with learned filters. Because of the hierarchical method, higher layers can learn more intricate features that are also distortion and translation invariant. The main goals of this study are to help academics understand where there are research gaps and to talk in-depth about CNN’s building blocks, their roles, and other vital issues.
Exploring the Ultrafast Charge-Transfer and Redox Dynamics in Layered Transition Metal Oxides
Authors: Qian Guannan , Huang Xiaobiao , Lee Jun-Sik , Pianetta Piero , Liu Yijin
Published: March 2023

The rapid development and broad deployment of rechargeable batteries have fundamentally transformed modern society by revolutionizing the sectors of consumer electronics, transportation, and grid energy storage. Redox reactions in active battery cathode materials are ubiquitous, complicated, and functionally very important. While a lot of effort has been devoted to investigating redox heterogeneity and its progressive evolution upon prolonged battery cycling, the ultrafast dynamics in these systems are largely unexplored. In this article, we discuss the potential significance of understanding redox dynamics in battery cathodes in the ultrafast time regime. Here, we outline a conceptual experimental design for investigating the ultrafast electron transport in an industry-relevant layered transition metal oxide battery cathode using a plasma-acceleration-based X-ray free-electron laser (FEL) facility. Going beyond the proposed experiment, we provide our perspectives on the use of compact FEL sources for applied research, which, in our view, is an area of tremendous potential.
Effect of Transverse Confinement on a Quasi-One-Dimensional Dipolar Bose Gas
Authors: De Palo Stefania , Orignac Edmond , Citro Roberta , Salasnich Luca
Published: March 2023

We study a gas of bosonic dipolar atoms in the presence of a transverse harmonic trapping potential by using an improved variational Bethe ansatz, which includes the transverse width of the atomic cloud as a variational parameter. Our calculations show that the system behavior evolves from quasi-one dimensional to a strictly one-dimensional one by changing the atom–atom interaction, or the axial density, or the frequency of the transverse confinement. Quite remarkably, in the droplet phase induced by the attractive dipolar interaction the system becomes sub-one dimensional when the transverse width is smaller than the characteristic length of the transverse harmonic confinement.
Q-Switched Nd:YAG Laser to Manage Hyperpigmentation in Asians: A Multicenter Study
Authors: Cannarozzo Giovanni , Del Re Chiara , Negosanti Francesca , Bennardo Stefano , Amoruso Giuseppe Fabrizio , Nisticò Steven Paul , Bennardo Luigi
Published: March 2023

(1) Introduction: In cosmetic dermatology, benign hyperpigmentation is a prevalent issue. Solar lentigo and other melanoses are bringing patients to the attention of physicians more and more often. The Q-switched 1064/532-nanometer (nm) laser is the gold standard device to treat these conditions. A new generation of these machines, able to shorten pulse duration to hundreds of picoseconds, has emerged showing better preliminary results. In order to treat hypermelanoses in Asians, we used a Q-switched laser with a picosecond pulse. (2) Methods: A retrospective recruitment of 31 Asian individuals requesting treatment for melanosis was conducted at Catanzaro’s Magna Graecia University, University of Rome Tor Vergata and Villa Bella Antiaging. Although they might have varied, the treatment settings were typically as follows: for dermic lesions, a pulse wavelength of 1064 nm with a duration of 450 picoseconds (ps) was used, and for epidermal lesions, a pulse wavelength of 532 nm with a duration of 370 ps was used. Up to four laser treatments were carried out, each at least 30 days apart. During a three-month follow-up after the final session, patient satisfaction was evaluated using a visual analogue scale (VAS). Images taken prior to laser treatments and thereafter were compared, and the aesthetic effect was scored on a five-point scale by two blinded specialists. (3) Results: Of the 31 patients recruited, 25 (80.6%) were female and 6 were male (19.4%). The average stated age was 48.96 ± 13.68. During the dermatological examination, all patients were found to have nearly completely removed melanosis, with a mean VAS score of 7.03 ± 1.35 and a five-point evaluation scale of 2.71 ± 0.78. Conclusions: The Q-switched 1064/532 nm laser can be seen as a safe and effective option to treat benign hypermelanosis in Asian patients. Compared to other technologies, the use of a picosecond pulse appears to promise superior outcomes. To validate the results of this investigation, however, a clinical trial comparing the many commercially accessible therapy options is required.
A Decentralized COVID-19 Vaccine Tracking System Using Blockchain Technology
Authors: Koyama Atsuki , Tran Van Chuong , Fujimoto Manato , Bao Vo Nguyen Quoc , Tran Thi Hong
Published: March 2023

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines play a crucial role in preventing the spread of the disease. However, the circulation of low-quality and counterfeit vaccines seriously affects human health and the reputation of real vaccine manufacturers (VMs) and increases the amount of fear concerning vaccination. In this study, we address this problem by developing a blockchain-based COVID-19 vaccine tracking system called “Vacchain”. Our Vacchain allows users (USERs) to track and trace the route of vaccines. We propose three mechanisms, namely, a system manager (SYS-MAN), a mutual agreement concerning vaccine ownership, and vaccine passports, to enhance the security and reliability of data recorded in the Vacchain ledger. We develop this system on the Substrate platform with the Rust language. Our implementation, evaluation, and analysis have shown that Vacchain can trace and track vaccines smoothly. In addition, data security and reliability are enhanced by the abovementioned three mechanisms. The proposed system is expected to contribute to preventing the spread of COVID-19.
Two-Dimensional Carbon Networks with a Negative Poisson’s Ratio
Authors: Yuan Hao , Huang Guan , Qin Guangzhao , Zhang Lichuan , Xie Yuee , Chen Yuanping
Published: March 2023

Low-dimensional materials with a negative Poisson’s ratio (NPR) have attracted lots of attention for their potential applications in aerospace, defense, etc. Although graphene and monolayer h-BN have been reported to have NPR behavior under external strains, the mechanism is not clear, and the critical strains of the occurrence of a NPR are relatively larger. Here, we propose that the origination of the NPR phenomena in the 2D honeycomb structures can be explained by the variation of the zigzag chains under strains. Our calculations clarify that a NPR occurs along the armchair-chain direction rather than the zigzag-chain direction in these materials. Furthermore, a series of two-dimensional carbon networks including zigzag chains have demonstrated that there is NPR phenomena in them. In some of the networks, a NPR can be found under a small external strain. Our study not only deepens the understanding of the origin of NPR in honeycomb systems but also offers guidance to design auxetic nanostructures.
Investigating the Electrochemical Properties of a Semiconductor Heterostructure Composite Based on WO3-CaFe2O4 Particles Planted on Porous Ni-Foam for Fuel Cell Applications
Authors: Li Junjiao , Qiu Fei , Alomar Muneerah , Alqarni Areej S. , Mushtaq Naveed , Yousaf Shah M. A. K. , Qi Fenghua , Yan Senlin , Lu Yuzheng
Published: March 2023

There is tremendous potential for both small- and large-scale applications of low-temperature operational ceramic fuel cells (LT-CFCs), which operate between 350 °C and 550 °C. Unfortunately, the low operating temperature of CFCs was hampered by inadequate oxygen reduction electrocatalysts. In this work, the electrochemical characteristics of a semiconductor heterostructure composite based on WO3-CaFe2O4 deposited over porous Ni-foam are investigated. At low working temperatures of 450–500 °C, the developed WO3-CaFe2O4 pasted on porous Ni–foam heterostructure composite cathode exhibits very low area-specific resistance (0.78 Ω cm2) and high oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity. For button-sized SOFCs with H2 and atmospheric air fuels, we have demonstrated high-power densities of 508 mW cm−2 running at 550 °C, and even potential operation at 450 °C, using WO3-CaFe2O4 seeded on porous Ni-foam cathode. Moreover, WO3-CaFe2O4 composite heterostructure with Ni foam paste exhibits very low activation energy compared to both WO3 and CaFe2O4 alone, which supports ORR activity. To comprehend the enhanced ORR electrocatalytic activity of WO3-CaFe2O4 pasted on porous Ni-foam heterostructure composite, several spectroscopic tests including X-ray diffraction (XRD), photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were used. The findings may also aid in the creation of useful cobalt-free electrocatalysts for LT-SOFCs.
Gemological and Chemical Characterization of Varicolored Gem-Grade Spinel from Mogok, Myanmar
Authors: Zhao Yi , Xu Bo , Zhao Zheyi , Xu Qian , Li Zhaoyi
Published: March 2023

Spinel is a precious gem with a long history, but people are far less familiar with it. Previous studies on Mogok spinel from Myanmar focused on inclusion analysis, chromogenic mechanism with a single-color gemstone and heat treatment, whereas systematic studies on varicolored gem-grade spinel are lacking. In this study, the gemological and geochemical analysis of four colors of spinel samples from Mogok were carried out for basic gemology, inclusion morphology and identification, spectroscopy and geochemistry. The aim was to explore the occupation of elements of spinels in the crystal structure, as well as the chromogenic mechanism of varicolored spinels and the geological and geodynamic conditions of the formation. Mogok spinel samples are characterized by octahedral negative crystals filled with calcite and chondrodite inclusions, indicating that they are derived from a marble metamorphic-type deposit. The spinel samples of four colors are magnesia–alumina spinel (MgAl2O4). The contents of V and Cr in Mogok spinel are generally high, with a significant high content of Zn being the most characteristic, and trace elements vary greatly. The infrared spectra of spinel samples in different colors are basically similar. According to the UV–Vis spectrum, pink and red samples are mainly colored by Cr and/or V, whereas orange samples are mainly colored by V. Two wide absorption bands in the range 300~600 nm are mainly attributed to the spin-allowed transition and spin-forbidden transition of Cr3+ and/or V3+. The purple samples are mainly colored by Fe and the UV–Vis spectrum is mainly attributed to the spin-forbidden transition of TFe2+. This study is a favorable supplement to the research on Mogok spinels of various colors from multiple perspectives.
Size Effect on the Thermal Conductivity of a Type-I Clathrate
Authors: Lužnik Monika , Lientschnig Günther , Taupin Mathieu , Steiger-Thirsfeld Andreas , Prokofiev Andrey , Paschen Silke
Published: March 2023

Clathrates are a materials class with an extremely low phonon thermal conductivity, which is a key ingredient for a high thermoelectric conversion efficiency. Here, we present a study on the type-I clathrate La1.2Ba6.8Au5.8Si38.8□1.4 directed at lowering the phonon thermal conductivity even further by forming mesoscopic wires out of it. Our hypothesis is that the interaction of the low-energy rattling modes of the guest atoms (La and Ba) with the acoustic modes, which originate mainly from the type-I clathrate framework (formed by Au and Si atoms, with some vacancies □), cuts off their dispersion and thereby tilts the balance of phonons relevant for thermal transport to long-wavelength ones. Thus, size effects are expected to set in at relatively long length scales. The structuring was carried out using a top-down approach, where the wires, ranging from 1260 nm to 630 nm in diameter, were cut from a piece of single crystal using a focused ion beam technique. Measurements of the thermal conductivity were performed with a self-heating 3ω technique down to 80 K. Indeed, they reveal a reduction of the room-temperature phonon thermal conductivity by a sizable fraction of ∼40 % for our thinnest wire, thereby confirming our hypothesis.
The Raman Spectra of Co-, Fe-, and Mn-doped Bi2Se3 Single Crystals
Authors: Liu Ligang , Zhang Min , Liu Qiya
Published: March 2023

In this study, single crystals of TrxBi2Se3 (Tr = Co, Fe, and Mn) were produced via a melt-grown reaction. All crystals are c-axis oriented with an excellent single crystalline phase. The smaller ionic radius of the transition metal elements makes the QLs of Bi2Se3 thinner. Their abundant magnetism will provide spin–phonon coupling channels when the phonons are scattering in the system. Both Stokes and anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy were performed for the three optical phonon modes of the Bi2Se3 crystals. These peaks were centered at 74.5 cm−1, 133.4 cm−1, and 175.2 cm−1 and were attributable to the A1g(1), Eg(2), and A1g(2) modes, respectively. With an increase in the doping concentration, the magnetic and compressive strains induced by impurities dominate the phonon dynamics of materials. The results provide an effective scheme to regulate the thermoelectric properties of a Bi2Se3 system.
Phylogeographic and Morphological Analysis of Botrylloides niger Herdman, 1886 from the Northeastern Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Temiz Berivan , Öztürk Esra , Blanchoud Simon , Karahan Arzu
Published: March 2023

Botrylloides niger (class Ascidiacea) is an invasive marine filter-feeding invertebrate that is believed to originate from the West Atlantic region. This species of colonial tunicate has been observed in several locations along the coasts of Israel and around the Suez Canal, but it has not yet been reported on the coasts of the Northeastern Mediterranean Sea (NEMS), suggesting an ongoing Lessepsian migration. However, the extent of this invasion might be concealed by reports of other potentially misidentified species of Botrylloides, given that the strong morphological similarities within this genus renders taxonomical identification particularly challenging. In this study, we performed a phylogeographic and morphological analysis of B. niger in the NEMS. We collected 238 samples from 8 sampling stations covering 824 km of the coastlines of NEMS. We reported 14 different morphotypes, of which the orange-brown, orange, and brown-striped morphs were the most abundant. Using the mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase I (COI) as a DNA barcode marker, we identified 4 haplotypes. The COI haplotypes clustered with the reference B. niger sequences from GenBank and differed significantly from the sister Botrylloides species. We confirmed our identification using three additional barcoding markers (Histone 3, 18S rRNA, and 28S rRNA), which all matched with over 99% similarity to reference sequences. In addition, we monitored a station for a year and conducted a temporal analysis of the collected colonies. The colonies were absent during the winter and spring, while new colonies were established in the summer and expanded during autumn. We performed demographic population analysis on our spatial data that identified a possible population subdivision at a sampling site, which might have been caused by local freshwater input. Herein, we present the first report on the presence of Botrylloides niger in the NEMS. This study represents a key step toward understanding the diversity and the propagation of this highly invasive species of colonial ascidians, both within the Mediterranean basin as well as globally.
The Relationship between Inbreeding and Fitness Is Different between Two Genetic Lines of European Bison
Authors: Olech Wanda
Published: March 2023

The pedigree data for European bison are published in the European Bison Pedigree Book, established one hundred years ago. The species passed a serious bottleneck and was kept in captivity for more than 30 years. After reintroduction, some individuals were captured and moved to enclosures, which caused gaps in pedigree data. To prevent the underestimation of inbreeding value, only animals with a fully known pedigree were used in the analysis. European bison were divided into two genetic lines, Lowland-Caucasian (LC) and Lowland (LB), with different numbers of founders (all 12 vs. 7 of them). The relation between inbreeding and survival up to one month of age, calculated using logistic regression, gave different results for every genetic line. In the LC line (N = 5441), the average inbreeding level was equal to 0.253 and the influence into survival was negative (exp(B) = 0.190), but in the LB line (N = 1227), the inbreeding level was much higher (0.410) but the influence into survival was positive (exp(B) = 6.596). It could be assumed that the difference between lines is a result of purging in the first period of species restitution.
Classification of Wetland Forests and Scrub in the Western Balkans
Authors: Koljanin Dragan , Brujić Jugoslav , Čarni Andraž , Milanović Đorđije , Škvorc Željko , Stupar Vladimir
Published: March 2023

Wetland forests and scrub (WFS) are conditioned by the strong impact of water. They consist of various vegetation types, depending on many factors such as type and duration of flooding, water table level and its fluctuation, river current strength, substrate ability to retain water, etc. WFS vegetation has been insufficiently studied in the Balkan Peninsula, especially in Bosnia and Herzegovina. By means of numerical classification, we aimed to classify Western Balkans WFS at the alliance level, and to identify the main underlying ecological gradients driving the variation in species composition. The dataset containing all published and available unpublished relevés from Slovenia, Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina was first classified using the EuroVegChecklist Expert System in Juice software in order to assign the corresponding class to each of the relevés. Relevés were subsequently analyzed within each of the four WFS classes (Alno glutinosae-Populetea albae, Salicetea purpureae, Alnetea glutinosae and Franguletea). Cluster analysis resulted in eight alliances, Salicion albae, Salicion triandrae, Salicion eleagno-daphnoidis, Alno-Quercion, Alnion incanae, Alnion glutinosae, Betulion pubescentis and Salicion cinereae, while one cluster could not be assigned with certainty. Edafic factors were found to be the most important factors determining the floristic composition and syntaxa differentiation of WFS in the study area.
From Abundance to Extinction: Evolutionary History of European Aedemonini (Curculionidae) with a Description of the First Representative from Rovno Amber
Authors: Legalov Andrei A. , Vasilenko Dmitry V. , Perkovsky Evgeny E.
Published: March 2023

Fossil weevils of the subfamily Molytinae are currently represented by 103 species in 42 genera from 14 tribes. Fossil records of the tribe Aedemonini are known from the Eocene of Europe. This tribe makes up 22% of the London Clay weevil specimens identified to the genus level and 16% of the Curculionidae genera. At present, the distribution of this tribe is mainly paleotropical, but it was very prominent in the paratropical biota of the London Clay in the early Eocene, and it was still represented in the biota of the amber forests of Europe that retained some tropical elements in the Priabonian. A new species, Electrorhinus vlaskini n. sp., from the tribe Aedemonini of the subfamily Molytinae, is described from Rovno amber. It differs from E. friedhelmi in the smaller body size, finely faceted eyes, a coarser rugose pronotum, and sparser scales on the body. A list of the fossil Molytinae is compiled. This is the first record of a weevil of the subfamily Molytinae in Rovno amber, and the second finding of a representative of the genus Electrorhinus in the late Eocene and the third record of a species of Aedemonini preserved as a fossil. A key to European species of Molytinae with a rostral channel from Europe is given.
Learned Sorted Table Search and Static Indexes in Small-Space Data Models
Authors: Amato Domenico , Giancarlo Raffaele , Lo Bosco Giosué
Published: March 2023

Machine-learning techniques, properly combined with data structures, have resulted in Learned Static Indexes, innovative and powerful tools that speed up Binary Searches with the use of additional space with respect to the table being searched into. Such space is devoted to the machine-learning models. Although in their infancy, these are methodologically and practically important, due to the pervasiveness of Sorted Table Search procedures. In modern applications, model space is a key factor, and a major open question concerning this area is to assess to what extent one can enjoy the speeding up of Binary Searches achieved by Learned Indexes while using constant or nearly constant-space models. In this paper, we investigate the mentioned question by (a) introducing two new models, i.e., the Learned k-ary Search Model and the Synoptic Recursive Model Index; and (b) systematically exploring the time–space trade-offs of a hierarchy of existing models, i.e., the ones in the reference software platform Searching on Sorted Data, together with the new ones proposed here. We document a novel and rather complex time–space trade-off picture, which is informative for users as well as designers of Learned Indexing data structures. By adhering to and extending the current benchmarking methodology, we experimentally show that the Learned k-ary Search Model is competitive in time with respect to Binary Search in constant additional space. Our second model, together with the bi-criteria Piece-wise Geometric Model Index, can achieve speeding up of Binary Search with a model space of 0.05% more than the one taken by the table, thereby, being competitive in terms of the time–space trade-off with existing proposals. The Synoptic Recursive Model Index and the bi-criteria Piece-wise Geometric Model complement each other quite well across the various levels of the internal memory hierarchy. Finally, our findings stimulate research in this area since they highlight the need for further studies regarding the time–space relation in Learned Indexes.