bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inactivation of the UL37 Deamidase Enhances Virus Replication and Spread of the HSV-1(VC2) Oncolytic Vaccine Strain and Secretion of GM-CSF
Authors: Clark Carolyn M. , Jambunathan Nithya , Collantes Therese M. A. , Kousoulas Konstantin G.
Published: January 2023

The HSV-1 (VC2) live-attenuated vaccine strain was engineered with specific deletions in the amino termini of glycoprotein K (gK) and membrane protein UL20, rendering the virus unable to enter neurons and establish latency. VC2 replicates efficiently in epithelial cell culture but produces lower viral titers and smaller viral plaques than its parental HSV-1 (F) wild-type virus. VC2 is an effective live-attenuated vaccine against HSV-1 and HSV-2 infections in mice and guinea pigs and an anti-tumor immunotherapeutic and oncolytic virus against melanoma and breast cancer in mouse models. Previously, we reported that the gK/UL20 complex interacts with the UL37 tegument protein, and this interaction is essential for virion intracellular envelopment and egress. To investigate the potential role of the UL37 deamidase functions, the recombinant virus FC819S and VC2C819S were constructed with a C819S substitution to inactivate the UL37 predicted deamidase active site on an HSV-1(F) and HSV-1(VC2) genetic background, respectively. FC819S replicated to similar levels with HSV-1(F) and produced similar size viral plaques. In contrast, VC2C819S replication was enhanced, and viral plaques increased in size, approaching those of the wild-type HSV-1(F) virus. FC819S infection of cell cultures caused enhanced GM-CSF secretion in comparison to HSV-1(F) across several cell lines, including HEp2 cells and cancer cell lines, DU145 (prostate) and Panc 04.03 (pancreas), and primary mouse peritoneal cells. VC2 infection of these cell lines caused GM-CSF secretion at similar levels to FC819S infection. However, the VC2C819S virus did not exhibit any further enhancement of GM-CSF secretion compared to the VC2 virus. These results suggest that the UL37 deamidation functions in conjunction with the gK/UL20 complex to facilitate virus replication and GM-CSF secretion.
Mapping the Antibody Repertoires in Ferrets with Repeated Influenza A/H3 Infections: Is Original Antigenic Sin Really “Sinful”?
Authors: Einav Tal , Kosikova Martina , Radvak Peter , Kuo Yuan-Chia , Kwon Hyung Joon , Xie Hang
Published: January 2023

The influenza-specific antibody repertoire is continuously reshaped by infection and vaccination. The host immune response to contemporary viruses can be redirected to preferentially boost antibodies specific for viruses encountered early in life, a phenomenon called original antigenic sin (OAS) that is suggested to be responsible for diminished vaccine effectiveness after repeated seasonal vaccination. Using a new computational tool called Neutralization Landscapes, we tracked the progression of hemagglutination inhibition antibodies within ferret antisera elicited by repeated influenza A/H3 infections and deciphered the influence of prior exposures on the de novo antibody response to evolved viruses. The results indicate that a broadly neutralizing antibody signature can nevertheless be induced by repeated exposures despite OAS induction. Our study offers a new way to visualize how immune history shapes individual antibodies within a repertoire, which may help to inform future universal influenza vaccine design.
Isopeptide Bonding In Planta Allows Functionalization of Elongated Flexuous Proteinaceous Viral Nanoparticles, including Non-Viable Constructs by Other Means
Authors: Truchado Daniel A. , Rincón Sara , Zurita Lucía , Sánchez Flora , Ponz Fernando
Published: January 2023

Plant viral nanoparticles (VNPs) have become an attractive platform for the development of novel nanotools in the last years because of their safety, inexpensive production, and straightforward functionalization. Turnip mosaic virus (TuMV) is one example of a plant-based VNP used as a nanobiotechnological platform either as virions or as virus-like particles (VLPs). Their functionalization mainly consists of coating their surface with the molecules of interest via chemical conjugation or genetic fusion. However, because of their limitations, these two methods sometimes result in non-viable constructs. In this paper, we applied the SpyTag/SpyCatcher technology as an alternative for the functionalization of TuMV VLPs with peptides and proteins. We chose as molecules of interest the green fluorescent protein (GFP) because of its good traceability, as well as the vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), given the previous unsuccessful attempts to functionalize TuMV VNPs by other methods. The successful conjugation of VLPs to GFP and VIP using SpyTag/SpyCatcher was confirmed through Western blot and electron microscopy. Moreover, the isopeptide bond between SpyTag and SpyCatcher occurred in vivo in co-agroinfiltrated Nicotiana benthamiana plants. These results demonstrated that SpyTag/SpyCatcher improves TuMV functionalization compared with previous approaches, thus implying the expansion of the application of the technology to elongated flexuous VNPs.
Virtual Screening-Based Peptides Targeting Spike Protein to Inhibit Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus (PEDV) Infection
Authors: Xu Qian , Wang Fangyu , Jiao Wenqiang , Zhang Mengting , Xing Guangxu , Feng Hua , Sun Xuefeng , Hu Man , Zhang Gaiping
Published: January 2023

Due to the rapid mutation of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), existing vaccines cannot provide sufficient immune protection for pigs. Therefore, it is urgent to design the affinity peptides for the prevention and control of this disease. In this study, we made use of a molecular docking technology for virtual screening of affinity peptides that specifically recognized the PEDV S1 C-terminal domain (CTD) protein for the first time. Experimentally, the affinity, cross-reactivity and sensitivity of the peptides were identified by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) test, separately. Subsequently, Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), Western blot and indirect immunofluorescence were used to further study the antiviral effect of different concentrations of peptide 110766 in PEDV. Our results showed that the P/N value of peptide 110766 at 450 nm reached 167, with a KD value of 216 nM. The cytotoxic test indicated that peptide 110766 was not toxic to vero cells. Results of the absolute quantitative PCR revealed that different concentrations (3.125 μM, 6.25 μM, 12.5 μM, 25 μM, 50 μM, 100 μM, 200 μM) of peptide 110766 could significantly reduce the viral load of PEDV compared with the virus group (p < 0.0001). Similarly, results of Western blot and indirect immunofluorescence also suggested that the antiviral effect of peptide 110766 at 3.125 is still significant. Based on the above research, high-affinity peptide 110766 binding to the PEDV S1-CTD protein was attained by a molecular docking technology. Therefore, designing, screening, and identifying affinity peptides can provide a new method for the development of antiviral drugs for PEDV.
Antiviral Effect of Manganese against Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus Both in PK15 Cells and Mice
Authors: Zhang Zhixiong , Zhang Rui , Yin Juanbin , Zhao Shuaiyang , Qin Xiaodong , Chen Fei , Yang Yang , Bai Ling , Guo Zijing , Wu Yongshu , Li Yanmin , Zhang Zhidong
Published: January 2023

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is an acute contagious disease of cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, pigs, and sheep. Current emergency FMD vaccines are of limited use for early protection because their protective effect starts 7 days after vaccination. Therefore, antiviral drugs or additives are used to rapidly stop the spread of the virus during FMD outbreaks. Manganese (Mn2+) was recently found to be an important substance necessary for the host to protect against DNA viruses. However, its antiviral effect against RNA viruses remains unknown. In this study, we found that Mn2+ has antiviral effects on the FMD virus (FMDV) both in PK15 cells and mice. The inhibitory effect of Mn2+ on FMDV involves NF-κB activation and up-regulation of interferon-stimulated genes. Animal experiments showed that Mn2+ can be highly effective in protecting C57BL/6N mice from being infected with FMDV. Overall, we suggest Mn2+ as an effective antiviral additive for controlling FMDV infection.
Evaluation of Vaccine Strains Developed for Efficient, Broad-Range Protection against Foot-and-Mouth Disease Type O
Authors: Hwang Seong Yun , Shin Sung Ho , Kim Hyun Mi , Shin SeHee , Lee Min Ja , Kim Su-Mi , Lee Jong-Soo , Park Jong-Hyeon
Published: January 2023

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) type O includes 11 genetic topotypes. The Southeast Asia (SEA), Middle East–South Asia (ME-SA), and Cathay topotypes belong to FMD type O and occur frequently in Asia. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a potent vaccine strain with a broad antigenic coverage in order to provide complete protection against these three topotypes. In this study, an experimental vaccine was produced using chimeric vaccine strains (JC-VP1 or PA2-VP1) that contained VP4, VP2, and VP3 of the ME-SA topotype (O Manisa) and VP1 of the SEA topotype (Mya98 lineage; O/SKR/Jincheon/2014) or ME-SA topotype (PanAsia2 lineage; O/PAK/44). Mice were immunized with the experimental vaccines, and they were fully protected against the three topotypes. The neutralizing antibody titers of PA2-VP1 were significantly higher than those of JC-VP1 in the early vaccination phase in pigs. Here, we confirmed complete protection in pigs vaccinated with JC-VP1 or PA2-VP1, when challenged against the SEA (O/SKR/Jincheon/2014), ME-SA (O/SKR/Boeun/2017) and Cathay (O/Taiwan/97) topotype viruses, with moderately higher protection provided by PA2-VP1 than by JC-VP1.
Vaccines against Group B Coxsackieviruses and Their Importance
Authors: Mone Kiruthiga , Lasrado Ninaad , Sur Meghna , Reddy Jay
Published: January 2023

The group B coxsackieviruses (CVBs) exist in six serotypes (CVB1 to CVB6). Disease associations have been reported for most serotypes, and multiple serotypes can cause similar diseases. For example, CVB1, CVB3, and CVB5 are generally implicated in the causation of myocarditis, whereas CVB1 and CVB4 could accelerate the development of type 1 diabetes (T1D). Yet, no vaccines against these viruses are currently available. In this review, we have analyzed the attributes of experimentally tested vaccines and discussed their merits and demerits or limitations, as well as their impact in preventing infections, most importantly myocarditis and T1D.
Effect of CpG-Oligonucleotide in Enhancing Recombinant Herpes Virus of Turkey-Laryngotracheitis Vaccine-Induced Immune Responses in One-Day-Old Broiler Chickens
Authors: Gaghan Carissa , Browning Matthew , Cortes Aneg L. , Gimeno Isabel M. , Kulkarni Raveendra R.
Published: January 2023

Infectious laryngotracheitis (ILT) is an economically important disease of chickens. While the recombinant vaccines can reduce clinical disease severity, the associated drawbacks are poor immunogenicity and delayed onset of immunity. Here, we used CpG-oligonucleotides (ODN) as an in ovo adjuvant in boosting recombinant herpesvirus of turkey-laryngotracheitis (rHVT-LT) vaccine-induced responses in one-day-old broiler chickens. Two CpG-ODN doses (5 and 10 μg/egg) with no adverse effect on the vaccine-virus replication or chick hatchability were selected for immune-response evaluation. Results showed that while CpG-ODN adjuvantation induced an increased transcription of splenic IFNγ and IL-1β, and lung IFNγ genes, the IL-1β gene expression in the lung was significantly downregulated compared to the control. Additionally, the transcription of toll-like receptor (TLR)21 in the spleen and lung and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in the spleen of all vaccinated groups was significantly reduced. Furthermore, splenic cellular immunophenotyping showed that the CpG-ODN-10μg adjuvanted vaccination induced a significantly higher number of macrophages, TCRγδ+, and CD4+ T cells as well as a higher frequency of activated T cells (CD4+CD44+) when compared to the control. Collectively, the findings suggested that CpG-ODN can boost rHVT-LT-induced immune responses in day-old chicks, which may help in anti-ILT defense during their later stages of life.
Combined Impact of Omicron Vaccination and Environmental Risk Exposure: A Thailand Case Study
Authors: Ounsaneha Weerawat , Laosee Orapin , Suksaroj Thunwadee Tachapattaworakul , Rattanapan Cheerawit
Published: January 2023

This research aimed to determine the levels of COVID-19 booster dose vaccinations in Thai populations in areas with environmental risk exposure during the Omicron outbreak. Five of twenty provinces in Thailand were selected by assessing environmental risk exposure for study settings. A total of 1038 people were interviewed by a structured questionnaire. The predicting factors of COVID-19 booster dose vaccinations were analyzed by univariate and multivariate analysis. The results showed that 69.4% (95% CI 66.5–72.1) of the population was vaccinated with COVID-19 booster doses. Multiple logistics regression revealed that the female gender (AOR 1.49, 95% CI 1.11–2.00), all age groups from 38 to 60 years old, all education levels of at least secondary school, high income (AOR 1.16, 95% CI 1.15–2.24), populations having experience with COVID-19 infection (AOR 2.27, 95% CI 2.05–3.76), knowledge of vaccine (AOR 1.78, 95% CI 1.11–2.83), and trusting attitude (AOR 1.76, 95% CI 1.32–2.36) were factors among those more likely to take COVID-19 booster dose vaccinations in high-environmental-risk-exposure areas. Therefore, an effective booster dose campaign with education programs to increase attitudes toward booster vaccinations should be implemented for the resilience of COVID-19 prevention and control.
A DNA Prime and MVA Boost Strategy Provides a Robust Immunity against Infectious Bronchitis Virus in Chickens
Authors: Chandrasekar Shaswath S. , Kingstad-Bakke Brock A. , Wu Chia-Wei , Phanse Yashdeep , Osorio Jorge E. , Talaat Adel M.
Published: January 2023

Infectious bronchitis (IB) is an acute respiratory disease of chickens caused by the avian coronavirus Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV). Modified Live Virus (MLV) vaccines used commercially can revert to virulence in the field, recombine with circulating serotypes, and cause tissue damage in vaccinated birds. Previously, we showed that a mucosal adjuvant system, QuilA-loaded Chitosan (QAC) nanoparticles encapsulating plasmid vaccine encoding for IBV nucleocapsid (N), is protective against IBV. Herein, we report a heterologous vaccination strategy against IBV, where QAC-encapsulated plasmid immunization is followed by Modified Vaccinia Ankara (MVA) immunization, both expressing the same IBV-N antigen. This strategy led to the initiation of robust T-cell responses. Birds immunized with the heterologous vaccine strategy had reduced clinical severity and >two-fold reduction in viral burden in lachrymal fluid and tracheal swabs post-challenge compared to priming and boosting with the MVA-vectored vaccine alone. The outcomes of this study indicate that the heterologous vaccine platform is more immunogenic and protective than a homologous MVA prime/boost vaccination strategy.
Evaluation of a Modular Filter Concept to Reduce Microplastics and Other Solids from Urban Stormwater Runoff
Authors: Venghaus Daniel , Neupert Johannes Wolfgang , Barjenbruch Matthias
Published: January 2023

This paper describes an innovative Decentralized Technical Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) concept, which is based on technical devices, such as sieves, sedimentation barriers, floating barriers and a magnetic module, which addresses, mainly, the fine matter. The SuDS is designed as a retrofit system so that no costly and time-consuming conversion measures are necessary. Due to the possibility of free configurability of individual modules in the three levels, road, gully and drain, a novel solution approach is presented, which is not available on the market, for a reduction in solids in general and microplastics in particular. The retention performance of selected modules and their combinations is demonstrated by means of bench tests according to the test procedure of the German Institute for Construction Engineering (DIBt) for the evaluation of decentralized treatment systems. Four different rain intensities, from light to medium up to heavy rain, are charged to the filter modules. Collected and fractionated road-deposited sediment (RDS) was selected as the test substance (10 kg). Additional tests with tyre powder, PE pellets, cigarette butts and candy wrappers helped to make clear the filter process of the particulate matter. The retention performance was determined by the mass balance between the defined dosage and at the outlet. For this purpose, the total volume flow of the effluent was passed over a stainless-steel sieve with a diameter of 600 mm and a mesh size of 20 µm. For the test substance, RDS retention rates up to 97% were measured. Very fine matter, particularly, was technically challenging to obtain; <63 µm up to 66% could be retained by the filter modules. Modules in the road space, such as porous asphalt or additional retention spaces, in the area of the curb as well as direct infiltration in the road drainage shaft are theoretically described and discussed. The outlook also addresses the potential of an intelligent network to reduce the input of pollution from urban stormwater runoff.
Results of Adding Sludge Micropowder for Microbial Structure and Partial Nitrification and Denitrification in a Filamentous AGS-SBR Using High-Ammonia Wastewater
Authors: Liu Jun , Xu Dong , He Weiqiang , He Qiulai , Chu Wenhai , Li Songbo , Li Jun
Published: January 2023

This work investigated the roles of sludge micropowder addition in microbial structure and partial nitrification and denitrification (PND) in an extended filamentous aerobic granular sludge-sequencing batch reactor (AGS-SBR) using high-ammonia wastewater. Type 1683 Acinetobacter with a high percentage became the dominant extended filaments, remarkably shifted and remained at a low level, acting as a framework for AGS recovery after micropowder addition. The sludge volume index (SVI5) decreased from 114 to 41.7 mL/g, mixed liquid suspended solids (MLSS) and extracellular polymers (EPS) both increased and balanced at 6836 mg/L and 113.4 mg/g•MLVSS, respectively. COD and NH4+-N were degraded to certain degrees in the end. However, the effluent NO2−-N accumulated to the peak value of 97.6 mg/L on day 100 (aeration stage), then decreased and remained at 45.3 mg/L with development of the stirring and micropowder supplemented in the SBR on day 160 (anoxic stage), while the influent NO2−-N always remained at zero. Interestingly, the influent/effluent NO3−-N both remained at zero throughout the whole experiment. These results demonstrated that PND was successfully obtained in this work. Sludge micropowder addition not only restrained the extended filaments’ overgrowth, but also contributed to PND realization with carbon released. Citrobacter and Thauera played an essential role in the PND process for high-ammonia wastewater treatment. Running condition, wastewater characteristic, and sludge structure played an important role in microbial composition.
Research on the Influence of Siltation Height of Check Dams the on Discharge Coefficient of Broad-Crested Weirs
Authors: Wang Zhijian , Gui Lili , Zhang Jiaxuan , Li Yongye
Published: January 2023

With the continuous operation of check dams, the silting elevation of the whole dam gradually increases. When the silting height is close to the elevation of the broad-crested weir, it will result in a large change in the hydraulic characteristics of the original flow pattern. For subsequent reinforcement work, it is necessary to know how excessive sediment deposition affects the overflow from the broad-crested weir into the spillway. However, few studies about discharge coefficients are available in the case of spillways with sediment. In this paper, the hydraulic characteristics and discharge coefficient of a broad-crested weir whose width is 270 mm are investigated with physical experiments under different siltation heights and discharges. The research shows that: (1) With the increase in siltation height, the water level on the weir decreases and the drop of the flow becomes smaller. The overall flow pattern tends to the open-channel flow pattern. (2) In the same siltation height condition, the water surface profile along the broad-crested weir rises with the increase in discharge, and the surface velocity of the water in front of the weir increases with the increase in discharge. However, in the same discharge condition, the water surface profile along the broad-crested weir decreases with the increase in siltation height, and the surface velocity of the water in front of the weir gradually increases, which reflects that the increase in siltation height improves the overflow capacity of the broad-crested weir. (3) The present empirical formulas for the discharge coefficient have large errors when there is sediment accumulation. Therefore, a new formula for the discharge coefficient with sediment deposition is obtained using experimental data and its maximum relative error is 4.02%, which can provide a theoretical basis for risk elimination and reinforcement work on check dams in the Loess Plateau.
A Hydrosuction Siphon System to Remove Particles Using Fan Blades
Authors: Rasool Mohammed Hamid , Zainol Mohd Remy Rozainy Mohd Arif , Noor Norazian Mohamed , Aziz Mohd Sharizal Abdul , Zawawi Mohd Hafiz , A. Wahab Muhammad Khairi , Abu Bakar Mohd Azmeer
Published: January 2023

Sedimentation in dam reservoirs can cause problems that lead to loss of storage capacity and decrease in the flood control volume. Hydrosuction sediment removal is one of the methods used to remove sediments from within a reservoir using the suction energy provided by the effective head. In this study, a new tool has been developed by attaching the reservoir to a suction pipe intake point and using a simple fan blade mechanism for the hydrosuction sediment removal system. This mechanism is used to create a vortex flow to suspend the settled particles. This paper investigated the effects of the fan blade angles, effective head, and inlet height from the surface of layer particles on the performance and efficiency of fan blades hydrosuction sediment removal (FBHSSR) and hydrosuction sediment removal (HSSR) systems based on the geometric scour hole parameters. Results from the experimental tests indicated the effectiveness of the FBHSSR system, with the fan blade angles of 30°, 45°, and 60° leading to approximately 800%, 200%, and 117%, respectively, removed particles greater than those of the HSSR system. Furthermore, the maximum depth and diameter of the scour hole were increased by 206%, 200%, and 137% and 135, 112%, and 117%, respectively, for each angle. The effective head or experiment time also enhanced system performance by increasing the suction discharge, but no change was observed in terms of efficiency. The critical inlet heights for the FBHSSR and HSSR systems are 1 time and 2.54 times, respectively, more than the diameter of the suction pipe. Thus, it can be concluded that using fan blades in HSSR systems is a good approach to improve the properties of the scour hole.
Integration of Transcriptomics and Metabolomics for Evaluating Changes in the Liver of Zebrafish Exposed to a Sublethal Dose of Cyantraniliprole
Authors: Zhao Lijuan , Zhang Hong , Niu Zhidan , Wei Dandan , Yan Suyue , Bai Jianhua , Zhang Lei , Shi Xiaojing
Published: January 2023

Diamide insecticides are a class of insecticides with high efficiency, a broad spectrum, and environmental and ecological safety. However, their effect on the environment cannot be ignored, especially the chronic environmental effects of sublethal doses. In this study, we evaluated the influence of cyantraniliprole on zebrafish and provided data for evaluating the risk of cyantraniliprole in water. An acute toxicity test was used to obtain LC50, while 1/10 LC50 was selected to study the toxicity of the sublethal dose of cyantraniliprole on the transcription and metabolism of zebrafish liver. Our results showed that after exposure to a sublethal dose of cyantraniliprole for 30 days, the expression of various functional genes (elovl6, cpt1ab, eci1, fabp6, etc.) was abnormal and the content of various metabolites (Taurine, 1-Acyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine, phosphatidylserine, betaine, sarcosine, etc.) was altered. In addition, transcriptional and metabolic correlation analysis revealed that sublethal doses of cyanobacteria could affect the fatty acid metabolism-related pathways of zebrafish liver (fatty acid elongation, metabolism, and degradation), as well as the PPAR pathway related to fat and the ABC pathway related to drug metabolism and transport. In conclusion, sublethal doses of cyantraniliprole caused abnormal liver metabolism in zebrafish by affecting fatty acid metabolism, up-regulating the PPAR pathway and down-regulating related genes and metabolites in the ABC pathway, which eventually led to liver damage.
The Role of Oxygenated Functional Groups on Cadmium Removal using Pyrochar and Hydrochar Derived from Guadua angustifolia Residues
Authors: Navas-Cárdenas Carlos , Caetano Manuel , Endara Diana , Jiménez Rocío , Lozada Ana B. , Manangón Lucía E. , Navarrete Angélica , Reinoso Carlos , Sommer-Márquez Alicia E. , Villasana Yanet
Published: January 2023

In the Ecuadorian Amazonia, there is a concern about the presence of high concentrations of cadmium (Cd) in rivers and sediments because of changes in land use and anthropogenic activities, e.g., mining and oil exploitation. Hence, the research related to water treatment processes to meet environmental standards has gained relevance. The use of biochar (BC) as adsorbent is considered a promising and low-cost alternative to improve the water quality in developing countries. In this work, lignocellulosic wastes from Guadua angustifolia were transformed through thermochemical treatments, into a promising carbonaceous material, such as BC. BC samples were prepared by pyrolysis (termed pyrochar, PC) and hydrothermal carbonization (termed hydrochar, HC). Their physicochemical properties were correlated with the Cd adsorption removal performance, analyzing the effect of adsorbent dosage, initial solution pH, adsorption kinetics and adsorption isotherms. HC showed the highest Cd adsorption performance, due to the presence of a higher number of oxygenated functional groups, as confirmed by FTIR, XPS and Raman spectroscopy. This research has proposed a sustainable alternative for the recovery of an available waste, contributing to mitigate the effects of the presence of metals on the health and economy of the most vulnerable sectors of society.
A New Horizon-Scanning Tool to Identify Potential Aquatic Invasive Alien Species Introduced into the Baltic Sea by Shipping
Authors: Dobrzycka-Krahel Aldona , Medina-Villar Silvia
Published: January 2023

Some invasive alien species (IAS) may constitute an important threat to global biodiversity due to major ecological impacts. In 2014, the European Union (EU) introduced a regulation (EU) No 1143/201 on the prevention and management of the introduction and spread of IAS. EU member states are required to carry out an analysis of the introduction and spread of potential IAS in their territories. In the case of aquatic alien species, shipping is considered as the main pathway for their introduction. In this study, a horizon-scanning tool was applied for identifying potential aquatic IAS introduced by shipping into the EU Baltic Sea Region (BSR) countries. This tool has mostly been applied on a country level, but it is more reasonable to study the invasive potentiality at a regional scale, especially for aquatic species that generally disperse over long distances. Individual Baltic countries may also benefit from the results of this study. The result of the horizon-scanning method that we applied produced a list of 27 potential aquatic invaders for the EU BSR countries introduced by international marine and inland shipping. In order, Asia (34% of the species), North America (27% of the species), and Indo-Pacific (23% of the species) were the most frequently listed geographical origins of concern. Marine habitat was the most frequent of the potential IAS, accounting for 41% of the species. Fish (26% of the species), Mollusks (18% of the species), and Crustacea (15% of the species) were the most frequent taxonomic groups. The list of potential IAS was prioritized from highest to lowest probability of invasion (establishment, spread, and impact). Eight species reached the highest probability of invasion. One of the potential IAS, Mytilus galloprovincialis, is native to the Mediterranean Region. These results provide valuable information that policy makers can use to develop more efficient prevention strategies for IAS introduced by shipping into the Baltic Sea.
Analysis of the Effects of Reservoir Operating Scenarios on Downstream Flood Damage Risk Using an Integrated Monte Carlo Modelling Approach
Authors: Brigandì Giuseppina , Candela Angela , Aronica Giuseppe Tito
Published: January 2023

The aim of this study is to analyse the effects of reservoir operating scenarios, for flood damage evaluation downstream of a dam, using a Monte Carlo bivariate modelling chain. The proposed methodology involves a stochastic procedure to calculate flood hydrographs and the evaluation of the consequent flood inundation area by applying a 2D hydraulic model. These results are used to estimate the inundation risk and, as consequence, the relative damage evaluation under different water level conditions in an upstream reservoir. The modelling chain can be summarized as follows: single synthetic stochastic rainfall event generation by using a Monte Carlo procedure through a bivariate copulas analysis; synthetic bivariate stochastic inflow hydrograph derivation by using a conceptual fully distributed model starting from synthetic hyetographs above the derived; flood hydrographs routing through the reservoir taking in an account of the initial level in the reservoir; flood inundation mapping by applying a 2D hydraulic simulation and damage evaluation through the use of appropriate depth-damage curves. This allowed for the evaluation of the influence of initial water level on flood risk scenarios. The procedure was applied to the case study of the floodplain downstream from the Castello reservoir, within the Magazzolo river catchment, located in the southwestern part of Sicily (Italy).
Estimation of Public Charging Demand Using Cellphone Data and Points of Interest-Based Segmentation
Authors: Radermecker Victor , Vanhaverbeke Lieselot
Published: January 2023

The race for road electrification has started, and convincing drivers to switch from fuel-powered vehicles to electric vehicles requires robust Electric Vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. This article proposes an innovative EV charging demand estimation and segmentation method. First, we estimate the charging demand at a neighborhood granularity using aggregated cellular signaling data. Second, we propose a segmentation model to partition the total charging needs among different charging technology: normal, semi-rapid, and fast charging. The segmentation model, an approach based on the city’s points of interest, is a state-of-the-art method that derives useful trends applicable to city planning. A case study for the city of Brussels is proposed. Our demand estimation results heavily correlate with the government’s predictions under similar assumptions. The segmentation reveals clear city patterns, such as transportation hubs, commercial and industrial zones or residential districts, and stresses the importance of a deployment plan involving all available charging technologies.
Driving forces of GPs’ migration in Europe: an exploratory qualitative study
Authors: Velgan Marta , Vanderheyde Thierry , Kalda Ruth , Michels Nele
Published: January 2023

Background

The shortage of GPs is a worldwide phenomenon, which encourages the migration of GPs and consequently exacerbates the GP shortage. This shortage imposes a threat for the entire healthcare system.

Aim

To explore the driving forces of GPs' migration in Europe and their reasons to stay in the new country, to migrate further, or to return to their home country.

Design & setting

An exploratory, qualitative study of European GPs who have migrated within Europe.

Method

Individual interviews were conducted until data saturation and audio-recordings were transcribed. Thematic analysis was performed using NVivo.

Results

Fifteen interviews with GPs from eight different European countries were conducted. The reasons why European GPs migrate and decide to stay or to leave were grouped under the following three themes: professional development; personal reasons; and the situation in the home country or the organisation of health care. New professional challenges, better working environment, and higher quality training programmes were mentioned as the main reasons for migration. Personal reasons, such as family’s satisfaction with the living environment, closeness to other family members, and financial considerations, seemed to influence the decision to stay or leave the most.

Conclusion

Migration caused by dissatisfaction with the working and living environment is something countries could potentially work on in order to retain their GPs. As some countries in Europe rely more and more on international recruitment to combat the GP shortage, which in turn worsens the situation in other countries, a more unified Europe-wide approach to GP shortage and migration is needed.
Öğretmen Eğitiminde Yeni Bir Ders Önerisi: Eğitime Farklı Bakış
Authors: TURHAN TÜRKKAN Buket , DOĞANAY Ahmet
Published: January 2023

Araştırmanın amacı, öğretmen eğitimi programlarında mevcut durumda yer alan derslere ek olarak seçmeli olarak yer verilebilecek bir ders önerisine ilişkin ihtiyaç analizi yapılması ve bu derse yönelik düzenlenen program taslağının sunulmasıdır. Araştırma, durum çalışması yöntemiyle desenlenmiştir. İhtiyaç analizi kapsamında Türkiye’nin güneyinde bulunan bir devlet üniversitesinin sınıf öğretmenliği programında öğrenim gören 10 öğretmen adayıyla görüşmeler yapılmıştır. Bunun yanı sıra, uluslararası belge ve raporlar incelenmiştir. Araştırma verileri yarı yapılandırılmış görüşmeler ve doküman incelemesi aracılığıyla toplanmıştır. Verilerin analizinde, tümdengelimsel analiz yöntemi kullanılmıştır. Araştırma bulguları doğrultusunda, “Eğitime Farklı Bakış” dersine yönelik bir ihtiyaç olduğu belirlenmiştir. Araştırma sonuçları kapsamında, öğretmen adaylarının görüşlerine yönelik sonuçlara, uluslararası eğilimlere yönelik sonuçlara ve önerilen derse yönelik öğretim programı taslağına yer verilmiştir. Araştırma sonuçları doğrultusunda, uygulamaya ve ileride yapılacak araştırmalara yönelik çeşitli öneriler sunulmuştur.
Development of a Water Quality Management Model for Dry Rivers in Arid Regions: Application on Wadi Rumah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Hetari Mohammed , Haider Husnain , Ghumman Abdul Razzaq , Al-Salamah Ibrahim Saleh , Thabit Hussein , Shafiquzzaman Md.
Published: January 2023

In dry rivers, urban wastewater discharge forms a pond in the dry period, and surface runoff shapes a longer pond in the wet period. A water quality management model developed for dry rivers is applied on Wadi Rumah in Saudi Arabia. The sub-basin was delineated from 30-m × 30-m spatial resolution digital elevation model. Hydrologic loss, runoff rates, and time of concentration were determined using the soil conservation service curve number, soil conservation service unit hydrograph methods, and Kirpich formula. Hydrologic Engineering Center Hydrologic Modeling System estimated the wet weather flows for 10 low-to-medium rainfall events. A steady-state hydrodynamic model including river flows, effluent discharge, and evaporation and infiltration losses estimated the hydraulic retention time for the explicit case of ponding conditions of dry rivers. Mass balance and first-order kinetics modeled the physical (total dissolved solid and total suspended solid), chemical (biochemical oxygen demand, dissolved oxygen, chemical oxygen demand, NH3, PO4, and Cl2), and microbiological (total coliform and fecal coliform) parameters. The hydrodynamic model and biokinetic rate coefficients were calibrated with satellite images, reported literature, and field measurements. A water quality index compared the aggregated water quality against the standards for 4 intended uses. The study yields “very good” water quality for restricted and unrestricted irrigation for the dry period, “fair” for livestock drinking, and “marginal” for fishery and recreation for the dry period, while water quality remained “marginal” for all the uses in the wet period. Water quality management implies regular water quality monitoring, continuous improvement of treatment facilities, and flood plain management initiatives for the long-term sustainability of dry rivers in arid regions.
Information Technology Capability (ITC) Framework to Improve Learning Experience and Academic Achievement of Mathematics in Malaysia
Authors: Sook Ling Lew , Krishnasamy Sivapoorani
Published: January 2023

Poor mathematics performance was generally reported from international assessments such as Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) and Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) among Malaysian students. Malaysia is ranked 52nd and 48th in the assessments for 2012 and 2018 respectively, while Singapore, Japan, South Korea, and even Vietnam have consistently performed well and held the top spots among the 78 countries evaluated in the PISA. Although numerous new technologies have been introduced, developed and implemented for education, incorporation of IT capability (ITC) to teach and learn Mathematics where still lacking commonly. Additionally, learning Mathematics in the traditional teaching contents could not accomplish desired learning outcomes because of dry contents and dull teachers. Therefore, this study is to design an appropriate ITC framework for improving learning experience and academic achievement of learning Mathematics. This study has adopted the development model of Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation and Evaluation (ADDIE) and Mayer (2010)’s cognitive theory for multimedia instructional content design. This study developed a new Multimedia Probability and Statistics system (MMPASS) for a subject of Probability and Statistics. The developed topics were concepts of discrete random variables and probability distribution function which were puzzled by students from preliminary study. An experiment was conducted with both control and experimental groups. The developed MMPASS blended multiple influential multimedia elements in the learning contents. A quantitative method and proportional stratified sampling were used to collect data. The blended topics were used by the experimental group whilst the control group was solely learning using the existing learning contents. Questionnaires were distributed to both groups after the lessons. 66 students participated in this survey. The collected data was then analysed and an ITC model was formed. Results of this study show that Perceived System Quality, Perceived Information Content Quality and Perceived System Performance as independent variables significantly improved learning experience. The findings also reveal that the performances of the experimental group have a higher mean score (9.65/10.00) compared to the control group (8.03/10.00), indicating the use of MMPASS improved students’ learning performance in subjects that involve understanding of concepts. While there is a lack of established ITC framework and IT application for Mathematics education in Malaysia, this study has verified the use of ITC improving performance of learning Mathematics in Malaysia.
Determination Of Zoning Diameter With Length Vectör Additional Technique In Religious Facilitiy Zoning Islands
Authors: TAŞKAYA Selim
Published: January 2023

Zoning plans are the design work required for the correct use of space in terms of urbanization. While creating zoning plans, zoning islands are created together with various planning methods. Zoning islands are also named as having legends such as residential, subject + commercial, commercial, social areas, religious facility areas called places of worship, green areas. The important part is how the construction permit is given to the parcels that will coincide within the created islands. This process is the zoning diameter. Zoning diameters are the drawings made on the ground according to different methods. In our study of how to give the zoning diameter to religious facilities, it was aimed to add the lengths of the parcels, which we call length vector addition, to each other and to provide appropriate distances into them in a perpendicular or parallel way. It has been examined how the diameter of the zoning island will be given in terms of length according to the precedent and the amount of height processed in the plan.
New discoveries change existing views on the domestication of the horse and specify its role in human prehistory and history – a review
Authors: Kyselý René , Peške Lubomír
Published: January 2023

The great importance of the domestic horse in human history and culture has long made it a significant subject of research. The historical role of the horse and new studies and discoveries that are key to understanding its domestication provided the impetus for this paper. The review presents and discusses the current state of know ledge and ideas concerning the origins, domestication, early history, historical roles, and exploitation of this domestic animal from central European and global perspectives. Ecological, biological, phylogenetic, archaeological and historical aspects are combined to explore the issue in a comprehensive manner and to provide insights into various scientific fields and the different regions of Eurasia.
Sterilisasi Dan Penggunaan Zat Pengatur Tumbuh Bap (Benzile Amino Purin) Terhadap Pertumbuhan Eksplan Tunas Pisang Abaka (Musa Textilis Nee) Melalui Teknik In Vitro
Authors: Unsong Nathalia , Tilaar Wenny , Sumayku Bertje R. A.
Published: January 2023

This study aims to determine the most appropriate method and sterilization technique for the growth of abaca weevil shoot explants taken directly from the field and to determine the effect of the dose of growth regulator BAP (Benzile amino purine) on the growth of abaca feed. explants (Musa textilis Nee). through in vitro techniques. This study uses the multilevel sterilization method and the sterilization method using direct observation, namely when the explants have become shoots. The results showed that the appropriate sterilization method was a fixed sterilization method with bayclin treatment with a concentration of 30% for (30 minutes), 20% for (20 minutes), 10% for (10 minutes) with several techniques carried out so that the explant was successful. grow, namely in the 6th technique. Induction of shoots of abaka banana weevil explants in BAP treatment was best at 7 ppm treatment by producing 5 shoots. With the height of each shoot, namely: a (0.9 cm), b (0.3 cm), c (0.4 cm), d (0.4 cm), and e (0.5 cm).
Strategi Penyelesaian Konflik Tenurial Melalui Kemitraan Konservasi Di Taman Nasional Bunaken (Studi Kasus Pulau Mantehage)
Authors: Wijaya Pandu , Walangitan Hengki Djemie , Rotinsulu Wieske Chriesti
Published: January 2023

This research aims to analyze stakeholders for the implementation of conservation partnerships on Mantehage Island and formulate strategies for implementing conservation partnerships on Mantehage Island. This research was conducted from April to July 2022. The research method used a qualitative and quantitative descriptive approach. Primary data were obtained through direct interviews with managers of the Bunaken National Park area, village governments and community leaders on Mantehage Island. The questionnaire was conducted on the people on Mantehage Island with a total of 30 respondents who have plantation land on Mantehage Island. Secondary data was obtained from the Bunaken National Park Management Plan document for 2019-2028 as well as village monograph data. The results showed that there were seven stakeholders with the implementation of conservation partnerships on Mantehage Island, namely the Bunaken National Park Office, Local Communities, Village Governments and Non-Governmental Organizations as Key Players; Farmer's Group is located as Subject; Academics/Universities are located as Context Setters and Investors are located as Crowd. The results of the analysis related to the strategy of implementing conservation partnerships on Mantehage Island using the SWOT method show a position in quadrant I, namely supporting an aggressive strategy in which the implementation of conservation partnerships on Mantehage Island is supported by great strengths and opportunities.
Nakagami parametric image for evaluation of the degree of thermal denaturation inside porcine liver induced ex vivo by radiofrequency ablation
Authors: Takeuchi Michio , Sakai Toshihiko , Oshima Yusuke , Kojima Yasuhiro , Mori Kenji , Omura Masaaki , Nagaoka Ryo , Hasegawa Hideyuki
Published: January 2023

In an RF ablation procedure for treating hepatocellular carcinoma and metastatic liver cancer, plucking out an ablation antenna from incompletely cauterized tumor tissues can cause neoplastic seeding; hence, it is demanded to properly evaluate the thermal denaturation of tumor tissue before plucking out the antenna. In the present ex vivo study, we show that the degree of thermal denaturation inside porcine liver tissue induced with RF current heating can be evaluated by binarized two-dimensional Nakagami parametric image indicating the weighted average of the Nakagami shape parameter m. Moreover, we present that the pre-Rayleigh distribution is dominant in ultrasonic backscattered envelopes obtained from incompletely cauterized liver tissue, whereas the Rayleigh distribution is dominant in those obtained from completely cauterized liver tissue which has coagulative necrosis region. The result indicates that the change in scatterer distribution would be occurred inside liver tissue by coagulative necrosis caused by RF current heating in this study.
Colare a picco
Authors: Coveri Lorenzo
Published: January 2023

Un lettore ci chiede se sia corretto che il verbo colare, usato per descrivere il movimento di un liquido dall’alto verso il basso, nel caso dell’espressione colare a picco si riferisca al movimento verso il basso di un oggetto solido come una nave.