bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Finned PV Natural Cooling Using Water-Based TiO2 Nanofluid
Authors: Al Aboushi Ahmad , Abdelhafez Eman , Hamdan Mohammad
Published: October 2022

The efficiency of PV (photovoltaic) modules is highly dependent on the operating temperature. The objective of this work is to enhance the performance of PV by passive cooling using aluminum fins that have been nanocoated (like those on an automobile radiator). A rise in the cell temperature of the module PV leads to a decrease in its performance. As a result, an effective cooling mechanism is required. In this work, the performance of the PV module has been improved using natural convection, which was achieved by placing three similar PV modules next to each other in order to test them simultaneously. The first panel will be the base panel and will be used for comparison purposes. An automotive radiator (with aluminum fins) was firmly fixed onto the rear of the other two PV modules, and the fins of the third PV panel had titanium oxide (TiO2) water-based nanofluid applied to them. The power produced by the PV modules, as well as their rear side temperatures, were recorded every 30 min over four months. A temperature reduction of 4.0 °C was attained when TiO2 water-based nanofluid was sprayed onto the panel’s finned rear side. This was followed by the scenario where the rear side was only finned, with a temperature drop of 1.0 °C. As a result of the temperature reduction, the percentage of power produced by the coated-finned PV and the finned PV increased by 5.8 and 1.5 percent, respectively. This caused an increase in PV efficiency of 1.1 percent for coated-finned panels and 0.4 percent for finned PV.
Innovation Efficiency of Chinese Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Industry from the Perspective of Innovation Ecosystem
Authors: Guan Xueling , Chen Lijiang , Xia Qing , Qin Zhaohui
Published: October 2022

Improving innovation efficiency is of great significance to the sustainable development of the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry as well as the regional economy. To measure the efficiency of the innovation process from the perspective of the ecosystem, a model, including three head-to-tail stages, namely the innovative production process, innovative integration process, and innovative application process, is established. The DEA-Malmquist index is used to evaluate the static and dynamic innovation efficiency of the Chinese pharmaceutical manufacturing industry from 2009 to 2020. The results show that the overall innovation efficiency of the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry fluctuated, and the industry has not yet achieved steady growth in innovation efficiency during 2009–2020. Cross-sectional data comparisons found that there are significant differences in innovation efficiency among provinces. To improve the innovation efficiency of the Chinese pharmaceutical manufacturing industry, several suggestions are proposed, such as improving the technical efficiency, improving the efficiency of the whole process in innovative ways, and bridging the gap in innovation efficiency across regions.
A Holistic Review of GM/IM Selection Methods from a Structural Performance-Based Perspective
Authors: Zaker Esteghamati Mohsen
Published: October 2022

Current fully probabilistic approaches to performance-based earthquake engineering describe structures’ behavior under a wide range of seismic hazard levels. These approaches require a detailed representation of ground motion (GM) uncertainty at all considered hazard levels, yet different GM selection methods lead to different estimations of structural performance. This paper presents a holistic review of the current practices in GM representation and selection for structural demand analysis through a performance-based lens. The multidisciplinary nature of GM selection, ranging from earth science to engineering seismology and statistics, has created a preponderance of literature to find the best practice for probabilistic assessment of structures in terms of computational efficiency and statistical accuracy. Many of these studies focus individually on GM selection or structural analysis, and the relatively scarce review papers either focus on code-based GM selection or do not specifically address risk-based evaluations by overlooking the interaction between GM selection and structural analysis. This paper aims to aid researchers in selecting appropriate GMs as part of a statistically valid and robust probabilistic demand analysis without performing an exhaustive literature review. Discussion on the available computational tools and their trade-offs for risk-based assessment of single structures is provided. While the problem-specific nature of GM selection means that no pre-selected set of GM/IM is applicable to all cases, the comprehensive narrative of this paper is expected to aid analysts in reaching a more informed decision.
A SLAM Method Based on Multi-Robot Cooperation for Pipeline Environments Underground
Authors: Lu Dongfeng , Zhang Yunwei , Gong Zewu , Wu Tiannan
Published: October 2022

SLAM (simultaneous localization and mapping) technology has recently shown considerable forward progress; however, most of the mainstream SLAM technologies are currently based on laser- and vision-based fusion strategies. However, there are problems (e.g., a lack of geometric structure, no significant feature points in the surrounding environment, LiDAR degradation, and the longitudinal loss of constraints, as well as missing GPS signals within the pipeline) in special circumstances (e.g., in underground pipelines and tunnels), thus making it difficult to apply laser or vision SLAM techniques. To solve this issue, a multi-robot cooperation-based SLAM method is proposed in this study for pipeline environments, based on LIO-SAM. The proposed method can effectively perform SLAM tasks in spaces with high environmental similarity (e.g., tunnels), thus overcoming the limitation that existing SLAM methods have been poorly applied in pipeline environments due to the high environmental similarity. In this study, the laser-matching part of the LIO-SAM is removed, and a high-precision differential odometer, IMU inertial navigation sensor, and an ultrasonic sensor, which are not easily affected by the high similarity of the environment, are employed as the major sources of positioning information. Moreover, a front-to-back queue of two robots is trained in the pipeline environment; a unique period-creep method has been designed as a cooperation strategy between the two robots, and a multi-robot pose constraint factor (ultrasonic range factor) is built to constrain the robots’ relative poses. On that basis, the robot queue can provide a mutual reference when traveling through the pipeline and fulfill its pose correction with high quality, thus achieving high positioning accuracy. To validate the method presented in this study, four experiments were designed, and SLAM testing was performed in common environments, as well as simple and complex urban pipeline environments. Next, error analysis was conducted using EVO. The experimental results suggest that the method proposed in this study is less susceptible to environmental effects than the existing methods due to the benefits of multi-robot cooperation. This applies to a common environment (e.g., a room) and can achieve a good performance; this means that a wide variety of piping environments can be established with high similarity. The average error of SLAM in the pipeline was 0.047 m, and the maximum error was 0.713 m, such that the proposed method shows the advantages of controllable cumulative error, high reliability, and robustness with an increase in the scale of the pipeline and with an extension of the operation time.
The Influences of Experiential Marketing Factors on Brand Trust, Brand Attachment, and Behavioral Intention: Focused on Integrated Resort Tourists
Authors: Xu Wenjie , Jung Hyejin , Han Jangheon
Published: October 2022

Given the fierce competition and changes in the market environment, the integrated resort industry must devote more efforts to understanding tourists’ behavioral characteristics to develop appropriate marketing strategies. Thus, this study established an integrated model to examine the impacts of experiential marketing factors on brand trust, brand attachment, and behavioral intention to promote the sustainable development of the integrated resort business. An online survey on Korean tourists with integrated resort experience was conducted, and a total of 526 valid responses were obtained. The proposed model was investigated with SmartPLS 3.3.9 software. Results show that sense, feel, think, and relate affected brand trust, whereas only sense, think, and relate affected brand attachment. Moreover, behavioral intention was found to be influenced by both brand trust and brand attachment. The research findings hold practical and theoretical contributions for the integrated resort context.
The Role of Supervisory Board Heterogeneity on Corporate Irregularity: New Insights and Management Opportunities
Authors: Chen Yang , Xu Jian
Published: October 2022

By structural equation modeling (SEM), this paper analyzes and explores the four Potential Characteristics of the supervisory board. They are: Individual Heterogeneity of the Supervisory Member (Internal Heterogeneity), Organization Size of the Supervisory Board (Organization Size), Structural Characteristics of the Supervisory Board (Structural Characteristics) and Identity Background of the Supervisory Board (Identity Background). Then, it constructs a path analysis and theoretical model of the influence of supervisory board heterogeneity on corporate irregularities, and verifies each influencing factor and observation index. The results show that individual factor Professional heterogeneity is the most effective indicator of Internal Heterogeneity, but such Internal Heterogeneity has a very limited effect on the occurrence of corporate irregularities. Organization Size has a significant impact on corporate misbehavior, and Number of people is an important factor in constructing Organization Size, yet the frequency of staff Turnover is not significant. Although the Average Age, Party Member Ratio, and Female Ratio can well conceptualize the Structural Characteristics, their effects on supervision performance are not obvious. Identity Background, including factors such as Average Education, Government/University Experience, or External Supervisors, does not improve supervisory performance and reduce the occurrence of irregularities. The above findings provide a foundation for further analysis and integration of multiple heterogeneous factors, as well as further study of the “combined effectiveness” of the supervisory board, and deeper investigation of the actual impact of the supervisory board on irregularities.
Evaluation Analysis of the Operational Efficiency and Total Factor Productivity of Container Terminals in China
Authors: Li Zhuyuan , Wang Xiaolong , Zheng Run , Na Sanggyun , Liu Chang
Published: October 2022

As crucial international trade and global logistics players, container terminals worldwide handle more than 80% of the global merchandise trade. After analyzing and summarizing the previous studies, we use container terminal companies as the research object to fill the gap left by previous studies. Based on the above research status, this study analyzes the operational efficiency and total factor productivity of 32 container terminal companies in China using the super -efficiency DEA–SBM model and the Malmquist index method. The results show that (1) the operational efficiency level of 32 container terminals in China from 2017 to 2020 has a huge gap, and 15 container terminal companies have operational efficiency below 0.6, which indicates that most container terminals have excess inputs and a waste of resources. (2) The container terminals in the Bohai Rim, Pearl River Delta and Yangtze River Delta regions have higher operational efficiency. This shows that the development of container terminals cannot be separated from the economic hinterland of the cities where the ports are located. (3) The Malmquist index analysis shows a 2.8% decrease in total factor productivity, a 3.2% increase in the composite technical efficiency index and a 5.8% decrease in the technological progress index, which indicates that most container terminal companies have imperfect management practices and decision making. Based on the study’s results, this research provides relevant and feasible recommendations for policymakers who formulate policies for the development of the shipping industry to promote high quality and sustainable development of the shipping industry and the economy.
Evolutionary Game Analysis of Non-Governmental Organizations Participating in Garbage Management under the Background of Internet of Things
Authors: Cui Ning , Li Jiaxuan , Tu Jun , Zhou Maochun
Published: October 2022

In the context of the information age, due to the development trend of information technology and the increasingly prominent position of economic activities, Internet of Things technology, as an important part of the new generation of information technology, stands out in the management of municipal solid waste collection and transportation management. At the same time, it has also become an efficient management means to realize waste treatment and construct high-quality urban green infrastructure in the environmental protection industry. Under this reality, environmental non-governmental organizations are becoming increasingly important as an organized social force in limiting national environmental power. It has become a crucial force in municipal solid waste management. Within this context, this study aimed to evaluate the strategic choice relationship among environmental non-governmental organizations, local governments, and garbage disposal enterprises, as well as the impact of environmental non-governmental organizations participating in the supervision of the implementation of information waste classification and management systems. In this study, the game theory method is used to construct the tripartite evolutionary game model of local governments, garbage disposal enterprises, and environmental non-governmental organizations, and the Matlab simulation model is established. The results of model analysis and simulation show that direct supervision, financial support, and punishment from non-governmental organizations, as well as pressure measures by non-governmental organizations, can promote the implementation of Internet of Things technology behavior. High-intensity financial support, low-intensity punishment and pressure measures, and moderate direct supervision have the most significant effect on the implementation of Internet of Things technology.
The Effect of the Addition of Selected Fruit Pomace Powders and Pectin as Carrier Agents on the Nutritional Value of Freeze-Dried Snacks
Authors: Karwacka Magdalena , Rybak Katarzyna , Świeca Michał , Galus Sabina , Janowicz Monika
Published: October 2022

This study was conducted to analyze the effect of the addition of powdered apple and blackcurrant pomace on the nutritional value, bioaccessibility of polyphenols, and antioxidant activity of freeze-dried fruit and vegetable snacks in comparison to low-methoxyl pectin as a traditional carrier agent. We evaluated sugars, protein, fat, ash, and total dietary fiber contents, as well as content and potential bioaccessibility of polyphenols and antiradical properties. In comparison to snacks with pectin, those with apple pomace powder were richer in carbohydrates and sugars, while snacks with blackcurrant pomace featured significantly higher (p ≤ 0.05) protein, ash, and fat contents. The material with pectin had the highest content of total dietary fiber. The addition of blackcurrant pomace powder increased the content of potentially bioaccessible polyphenols and enhanced the antiradical properties of the products. The blackcurrant pomace exhibited a more beneficial effect on the nutritional value of the freeze-dried snacks than other carrier agents applied. Nonetheless, further research is needed to determine the effect of the addition of various amounts of pomace powders on some crucial properties, such as dietary fiber and bioactive compounds contents, as well as physicochemical characteristics.
Guided Biopsy of a Radiopaque Lesion Simultaneous with Dental Implants’ Placement: A Multidisciplinary Approach
Authors: Parise Diana , Sartorato Federica , Fabris Enrico , Scarpa Andrea , Baesso Tiziano , Sbricoli Luca , Abdelwahab Omnia , Fedrigo Marny , Bacci Christian
Published: October 2022

Background: New technologies and techniques allow us to offer better solutions for patients’ needs. Specifically, guided surgery is usually flapless, and the resulting prosthetic rehabilitation often includes immediate loading. Thus, bleeding risk is controlled, and more comfortable prosthetic procedures are performed. Guided surgery decreases surgical risks and is less invasive. The aim of this article is to present a case of guided osteotomy for bone biopsy and implant placement. Methods: CBCT was performed for the patient’s bone examination, an optical scanner was used for intra-oral images, and surgical certified software was applied for the osteotomy planning and the surgeon’s guide realization. Case report: The patient’s question is about left maxilla prosthetic rehabilitation. During the oral cavity and X-ray examination, a radiopacity with a feathered edge was found; in order to detect the finding, a CBCT was performed, and the surgery was planned. A bone biopsy was performed simultaneously with the implant’s placement through a drill guide. The specimen sent for histological exam showed osteosclerosis. Conclusions: It is the opinion of the authors that by involving and combining close collaboration and communication, several professional specializations (clinicians and radiologists) can improve the treatments for better patient care.
Fractional View Analysis of Fornberg–Whitham Equations by Using Elzaki Transform
Authors: Haroon Faisal , Mukhtar Safyan , Shah Rasool
Published: October 2022

We present analytical solutions of the Fornberg–Whitham equations with the aid of two well-known methods: Adomian decomposition transform and variational iteration transform involving fractional-order derivatives with the Atangana–Baleanu–Caputo derivative. The Elzaki transformation is used in the Atangana–Baleanu–Caputo derivative to find the solution to the Fornberg–Whitham equations. Using certain exemplary situations, the proposed method’s viability is assessed. Comparative analysis for both integer and fractional-order results is established. For validation, the solutions of the suggested methods are compared with the actual results available in the literature. Two examples are considered to check the accuracy and effectiveness of the proposed techniques.
Corynebacterium sp. 2-TD Mediated Toxicity of 2-Tridecanone to Helicoverpa armigera
Authors: Gu Meng , Xue Zhaoxiang , Lv Shenglan , Cai Yuhao , Zhang Lei , Gao Xiwu
Published: October 2022

Cotton bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera) is a Lepidopteran noctuid pest with a global distribution. It has a wide range of host plants and can harm cotton, tomato, tobacco, and corn, as well as other crops. H. armigera larvae damage the flower buds, flowers, and fruits of tomato and cause serious losses to tomato production. Tomato uses the allelochemical 2-tridecanone to defend against this damage. So far, there have been no reports on whether the adaptation of H. armigera to 2-tridecanone is related to its symbiotic microorganisms. Our study found that Corynebacterium sp. 2-TD, symbiotic bacteria in H. armigera, mediates the toxicity of the 2-tridecanone to H. armigera. Corynebacterium sp. 2-TD, which was identified by 16S rDNA gene sequence analysis, was screened out using a basal salt medium containing a unique carbon source of 2-tridecanone. Then, Corynebacterium sp. 2-TD was confirmed to be distributed in the gut of H. armigera by quantitative PCR (qPCR) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). The survival rate of H. armigera increased by 38.3% under 2-tridecanone stress after inoculation with Corynebacterium sp. 2-TD. The degradation effect of Corynebacterium sp. 2-TD on 2-tridecanone was verified by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC). Our study is the first to report the isolation of gut bacteria that degrade 2-tridecanone from the important agricultural pest H. armigera and to confirm bacterial involvement in host adaptation to 2-tridecanone, which provides new insights into the adaptive mechanism of agricultural pests to host plants.
Development of an Effective Double Antigen Sandwich ELISA Based on p30 Protein to Detect Antibodies against African Swine Fever Virus
Authors: Wang Mengxiang , Song Jinxing , Sun Junru , Du Yongkun , Qin Xiaodong , Xia Lu , Wu Yanan , Zhang Gaiping
Published: October 2022

African swine fever (ASF), the highly lethal swine infectious disease caused by the African swine fever virus (ASFV), is a great threat to the swine industry. There is no effective vaccine or diagnostic method to prevent and control this disease currently. The p30 protein of ASFV is an important target for serological diagnosis, expressed in the early stage of viral replication and has high immunogenicity and sequence conservatism. Here, the CP204L gene was cloned into the expression vector pET-30a (+), and the soluble p30 protein was successfully expressed in the E. coli prokaryotic expression system and then labeled with horseradish peroxidase (HRP) to be the enzyme-labeled antigen. Using the purified recombinant p30 protein, a double-antigen sandwich ELISA for ASFV antibody detection was developed. This method exhibits excellent specificity, sensitivity and reproducibility in clinical sample detection with lower cost and shorter production cycles. Taken together, this study provides technical support for antibody detection for ASFV.
Characterization and Pathogenicity of Two Novel PRRSVs Recombined by NADC30-like and NADC34-like Strains in China
Authors: Wu Yu , Peng Ouyang , Xu Qiuping , Li Qunhui , Li Wei , Lin Limiao , Zhou Qingfeng , Cai Xinbin , Hu Guangli , He Zuyong , Chen Yaosheng , Zhang Hao
Published: October 2022

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome viruses (PRRSVs) pose a serious threat to the swine industry in China, which has caused great difficulties for porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) immune prevention and control, due to its easily mutable and recombinant nature. In this study, two novel PRRSV strains, which were named GD-H1 and GD-F1, were isolated and fully sequenced from pig farms in Guangdong province, China. The phylogenetic analysis and recombination analysis revealed that the GD-H1 and GD-F1 were generated by the recombination of NADC30-like and NADC34-like strains which were different from the previously prevalent strain. Further pathogenic studies on piglets and sows found that the recombinant strains could cause piglets high fever, loss of appetite and lung lesions, but no piglets died. However, the recombinant strains could cause acute death and abortion in pregnant sow infection models together with average survival rates of 62.5% and 37.5% abortion rates, respectively. These findings indicated that the recombinant strains were extremely pathogenic to sows. Therefore, we report two clinical novel recombinant strains of PRRSV that are different from the traditional epidemic strains in China, which may provide early warning and support for PRRS immune prevention and control.
Activation of Host Cellular Signaling and Mechanism of Enterovirus 71 Viral Proteins Associated with Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
Authors: Swain Subrat Kumar , Panda Subhasmita , Sahu Basanta Pravas , Sarangi Rachita
Published: October 2022

Enteroviruses are members of the Picornaviridae family consisting of human enterovirus groups A, B, C, and D as well as nonhuman enteroviruses. Human enterovirus type 71 (EV71) has emerged as a major cause of viral encephalitis, known as hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD), in children worldwide, especially in the Asia-Pacific region. EV71 and coxsackievirus A16 are the two viruses responsible for HFMD which are members of group A enteroviruses. The identified EV71 receptors provide useful information for understanding viral replication and tissue tropism. Host factors interact with the internal ribosome entry site (IRES) of EV71 to regulate viral translation. However, the specific molecular features of the respective viral genome that determine virulence remain unclear. Although a vaccine is currently approved, there is no effective therapy for treating EV71-infected patients. Therefore, understanding the host-pathogen interaction could provide knowledge in viral pathogenesis and further benefits to anti-viral therapy development. The aim of this study was to investigate the latest findings about the interaction of viral ligands with the host receptors as well as the activation of immunerelated signaling pathways for innate immunity and the involvement of different cytokines and chemokines during host-pathogen interaction. The study also examined the roles of viral proteins, mainly 2A and 3C protease, interferons production and their inhibitory effects.
A Syntenin Inhibitor Blocks Endosomal Entry of SARS-CoV-2 and a Panel of RNA Viruses
Authors: Lindqvist Richard , Benz Caroline , Sereikaite Vita , Maassen Lars , Laursen Louise , Jemth Per , Strømgaard Kristian , Ivarsson Ylva , Överby Anna K.
Published: October 2022

Viruses are dependent on host factors in order to efficiently establish an infection and replicate. Targeting the interactions of such host factors provides an attractive strategy to develop novel antivirals. Syntenin is a protein known to regulate the architecture of cellular membranes by its involvement in protein trafficking and has previously been shown to be important for human papilloma virus (HPV) infection. Here, we show that a highly potent and metabolically stable peptide inhibitor that binds to the PDZ1 domain of syntenin inhibits severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection by blocking the endosomal entry of the virus. Furthermore, we found that the inhibitor also hampered chikungunya infection and strongly reduced flavivirus infection, which is completely dependent on receptor-mediated endocytosis for their entry. In conclusion, we have identified a novel broad spectrum antiviral inhibitor that efficiently targets a broad range of RNA viruses.
Sand Flies and Pathogens in the Lowlands of Emilia-Romagna (Northern Italy)
Authors: Calzolari Mattia , Romeo Giuseppe , Munari Martina , Bonilauri Paolo , Taddei Roberta , Sampieri Maria , Bariselli Simone , Rugna Gianluca , Dottori Michele
Published: October 2022

Cases of sand fly-borne diseases in the Emilia-Romagna region, such as meningitis caused by Toscana virus and human leishmaniasis, are reported annually through dedicated surveillance systems. Sand flies are abundant in the hilly part of the region, while the lowland is unsuitable habitat for sand flies, which are found in lower numbers in this environment with respect to the hilly areas. In this study, we retrieved sand flies collected during entomological surveillance of the West Nile virus (from 2018 to 2021) to assess their abundance and screen them for the presence of pathogens. Over the four-year period, we collected 3022 sand flies, more than half in 2021. The most abundant sand fly species was Phlebotomus (Ph.) perfiliewi, followed by Ph. perniciosus; while more rarely sampled species were Ph. papatasi, Ph. mascittii and Sergentomyia minuta. Sand flies were collected from the end of May to the end of September. The pattern of distribution of the species is characterized by an abundant number of Ph. perfiliewi in the eastern part of the region, which then falls to almost none in the western part of the region, while Ph. perniciosus seems more uniformly distributed throughout. We tested more than 1500 female sand flies in 54 pools to detect phleboviruses and Leishmania species using different PCR protocols. Toscana virus and Leishmania infantum, both human pathogens, were detected in 5 pools and 7 pools, respectively. We also detected Fermo virus, a phlebovirus uncharacterized in terms of relevance to public health, in 4 pools. We recorded different sand fly abundance in different seasons in Emilia-Romagna. During the season more favorable for sand flies, we also detected pathogens transmitted by these insects. This finding implies a health risk linked to sand fly-borne pathogens in the surveyed area in lowland, despite being considered a less suitable habitat for sand flies with respect to the hilly areas.
Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor (MIF) Promotes Increased Proportions of the Highly Permissive Th17-like Cell Profile during HIV Infection
Authors: Trifone César , Baquero Lucía , Czernikier Alejandro , Benencio Paula , Leng Lin , Laufer Natalia , Quiroga María , Bucala Richard , Ghiglione Yanina , Turk Gabriela
Published: October 2022

In this study, we evaluate the role of the MIF/CD74 axis in the functionality of CD4+ T lymphocytes (CD4TL) during HIV infection. MDMs from healthy donors were infected with a R5-tropic or Transmitted/Founder (T/F) HIV strain. At day 11 post-MDM infection, allogeneic co-cultures with uninfected CD4TLs plus MIF stimulus were performed. Cytokine production was evaluated by ELISA. MIF plasma levels of people with HIV (PWH) were evaluated by ELISA. The phenotype and infection rate of CD4TLs from PWH were analyzed after MIF stimulus. Intracellular cytokines and transcription factors were evaluated by flow cytometry. Data were analyzed by parametric or non-parametric methods. The MIF stimulation of HIV-infected MDMs induced an increased expression of IL-6, IL-1β and IL-8. In CD4TL/MDM co-cultures, the MIF treatment increased IL-17A/RORγt-expressing CD4TLs. Higher concentrations of IL-17A in supernatants were also observed. These results were recapitulated using transmitted/founder (T/F) HIV-1 strains. The MIF treatment appeared to affect memory CD4TLs more than naïve CD4TLs. MIF blocking showed a negative impact on IL17A+CD4TL proportions. Higher MIF concentrations in PWH-derived plasma were correlated with higher IL-17A+CD4TL percentages. Finally, MIF stimulation in PWH-derived PBMCs led to an increase in Th17-like population. MIF may contribute to viral pathogenesis by generating a microenvironment enriched in activating mediators and Th17-like CD4TLs, which are known to be highly susceptible to HIV-1 infection and relevant to viral persistence. These observations establish a basis for considering MIF as a possible therapeutic target.
The Relative Roles of Ambient Temperature and Mobility Patterns in Shaping the Transmission Heterogeneity of SARS-CoV-2 in Japan
Authors: Wagatsuma Keita , Koolhof Iain S. , Saito Reiko
Published: October 2022

We assess the effects of ambient temperature and mobility patterns on the transmissibility of COVID-19 during the epidemiological years of the pandemic in Japan. The prefecture-specific daily time-series of confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases, meteorological variables, levels of retail and recreation mobility (e.g., activities, going to restaurants, cafes, and shopping centers), and the number of vaccinations were collected for six prefectures in Japan from 1 May 2020 to 31 March 2022. We combined standard time-series generalized additive models (GAMs) with a distributed lag non-linear model (DLNM) to determine the exposure–lag–response association between the time-varying effective reproductive number (Rt), ambient temperature, and retail and recreation mobility, while controlling for a wide range of potential confounders. Utilizing a statistical model, the first distribution of the mean ambient temperature (i.e., −4.9 °C) was associated with an 11.6% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 5.9–17.7%) increase in Rt compared to the optimum ambient temperature (i.e., 18.5 °C). A retail and recreation mobility of 10.0% (99th percentile) was associated with a 19.6% (95% CI: 12.6–27.1%) increase in Rt over the optimal level (i.e., −16.0%). Our findings provide a better understanding of how ambient temperature and mobility patterns shape severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmission. These findings provide valuable epidemiological insights for public health policies in controlling disease transmission.
Diversity and Genetic Characteristics of Astroviruses from Animals in Yunnan Province
Authors: Huang Xingyu , Zhou Jiuxuan , Hou Yutong , Wang Rui , Li Qian , Wang Yixuan , Yuan Ruiling , Chen Peng , Wang Binghui , Xia Xueshan
Published: October 2022

Astroviruses (AstVs) are single-stranded RNA viruses, including two main genera: Mamastroviruses (MAstVs) and Avastroviruses (AAstVs). AstVs have been detected in more than 80 different mammals and birds, with the characteristics of multiple cross-species transmission and gene recombination. All these have accelerated the process of virus mutation and posed a potential threat to human beings and animal husbandry. Yunnan province is a global hotspot with rich biodiversity and abundant animal resources and an important area with significance for public health and security because it neighbors a few Southeast Asian countries. This study collected 860 samples from 13 species of animals in Yunnan province for AstVs detection. The results showed that the positive rate of AstVs was 6.05%, and its extremely high genetic diversity was observed in different animal species. Potential cross-species transmission events were also detected from rodents to birds. Therefore, AstVs, which are widely distributed with highly diverse genes and the risk of cross-species transmission to people, deserve more attention in this region.
Impact of Transportation Electrification on the Electricity Grid—A Review
Authors: Bayani Reza , Soofi Arash F. , Waseem Muhammad , Manshadi Saeed D.
Published: October 2022

Transportation electrification is a pivotal factor in accelerating the transition to sustainable energy. Electric vehicles (EVs) can operate either as loads or distributed power resources in vehicle-to-grid (V2G) or vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) linkage. This paper reviews the status quo and the implications of transportation electrification in regard to environmental benefits, consumer side impacts, battery technologies, sustainability of batteries, technology trends, utility side impacts, self-driving technologies, and socio-economic benefits. These are crucial subject matters that have not received appropriate research focus in the relevant literature and this review paper aims to explore them. Our findings suggest that transitioning toward cleaner sources of electricity generation should be considered along with transportation electrification. In addition, the lower cost of EV ownership is correlated with higher EV adoption and increased social justice. It is also found that EVs suffer from a higher mile-per-hour charging rate than conventional vehicles, which is an open technological challenge. Literature indicates that electric vehicle penetration will not affect the power grid in short term but charging management is required for higher vehicle penetration in the long-term scenario. The bi-directional power flow in a V2G linkage enhances the efficiency, security, reliability, scalability, and sustainability of the electricity grid. Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) charging/discharging has also been found to be effective to offload the distribution system in presence of high EV loads.
Injury Criteria for Vehicle Safety Assessment: A Review with a Focus Using Human Body Models
Authors: Germanetti Filippo , Fiumarella Dario , Belingardi Giovanni , Scattina Alessandro
Published: October 2022

This paper aims at providing an overview of the most used injury criteria (IC) and injury metrics for the study of the passive safety of vehicles. In particular, the work is focused on the injury criteria that can be adopted when finite element simulations and Human Body Models (HBMs) are used. The HBMs will result in a fundamental instrument for studying the occupant’s safety in Autonomous Vehicles (AVs) since they allow the analysis of a larger variety of configurations compared to the limitations related to the traditional experimental dummies. In this work, the most relevant IC are reported and classified based on the body segments. In particular, the head, the torso, the spine, the internal organs, and the lower limbs are here considered. The applicability of the injury metrics to the analyses carried out with the HBMs is also discussed. The paper offers a global overview of the injury assessment useful to choose the injury criteria for the study of vehicle passive safety. To this aim, tables of the presented criteria are also reported to provide the available metrics for the considered body damage.
Transferability of Safety Performance Functions: The Case of Urban Four-Lane Divided Roadways in Muscat
Authors: Alkaaf Khalid Ahmed , Abdel-Aty Mohamed
Published: October 2022

The Highway Safety Manual (HSM) initial version provides several safety performances functions (SPFs) that can be used to predict collisions on a roadway network. The calibration of the HSM SPFs for Fatal and Injury (FI), Property Damage Only (PDO), and Total crashes for Urban Four-lane Divided Roadway Segments (U4D) in Muscat, Sultanate of Oman, and the development of new SPFs were investigated in this paper. The HSM SPFs were calibrated first with the HSM methodology, and then new forms of specific SPFs were evaluated for Muscat urban roads to determine the best model using the Poisson-Gamma regression technique. The results of this study show that the HSM calibrated SPFs provide the best fit of the data used in this study and would be the best SPFs for predicting collisions in the City of Muscat. The developed collision model describes the mean crash frequency as a function of the natural logarithm of the annual average daily traffic, segment length, and speed limit. Overall, this study provides an important foundation for the implementation of HSM methods in Muscat city, and it may aid in making SPFs established in more developed countries adaptable for use in less developed countries.
The Impact of Selective Dry Cow Therapy Adopted in a Brazilian Farm on Bacterial Diversity and the Abundance of Quarter Milk
Authors: Goncalves Juliano L. , Young Juliana , Leite Renata de F. , Fidelis Carlos E. , Trevisoli Priscila A. , Coutinho Luiz L. , Silva Nathália C. C. , Cue Roger I. , Rall Vera Lucia Mores , dos Santos Marcos V.
Published: October 2022

We aimed to evaluate the impact of selective dry cow therapy (SDCT) (protocol 1: antimicrobial combined with internal teat sealant (ITS); vs. protocol 2: ITS alone) on bacterial diversity and the abundance of quarter milk. Eighty high production cows (parity ≤ 3 and an average milk yield of 36.5 kg/cow/day) from the largest Brazilian dairy herd available were randomly selected; milk quarter samples were collected for microbiological culture (MC) on the day of drying-off (n = 313) and on day 7 post-calving (n = 313). Based on the results of the MC before and after calving, 240 quarters out of 313 were considered healthy, 38 were cured, 29 showed new infections and 6 had persistent infections. Mammary quarters were randomly selected based on intramammary information status and SDCT protocols for bacterial diversity analyses. The bacterial diversity was similar when comparing both healthy and cured quarters submitted to both drying-off protocols. Despite healthy cows that were treated at dry-off using only teat sealant showing no alteration in the alpha and beta bacterial diversity, they did show a higher abundance of bacterial groups that may be beneficial to or commensals of the mammary gland, which implies that antibiotic therapy should be reserved for mammary quarters with a history of mastitis.
Clinical and Pathological Diagnosis of Hereditary Gastrointestinal Polyposis in Jack Russell Terriers
Authors: Yoneji Wakana , Yoshizaki Kyoko , Hirata Akihiro , Yoneji Kensuke , Sakai Hiroki
Published: October 2022

Hereditary GI polyposis in JRTs is a novel hereditary disease characterized by the development of solitary and multiple polypoid tumors, predominantly in the stomach and/or colorectum. Our recent study indicated that JRTs with GI neoplastic polyps harbor an identical germline variant in the APC gene, c.[462_463delinsTT], in a heterozygous state. Unlike sporadic cases, dogs afflicted with hereditary GI polyposis can be expected to have a prolonged survival time, as hereditary tumors are noninvasive. Since the discovery of this disease, the number of newly diagnosed cases in Japan has increased, allowing us to update the clinical and pathological features and provide a large number of diagnostic images. The present clinical case series study employing various diagnostic imaging techniques revealed that some of the cases harbored tumors in the small intestine in addition to the stomach and colorectum. Moreover, although rare, hereditary GI cancers can progress to the advanced stage and develop systemic metastasis, similar to sporadic GI tumors. These findings indicate that there is a wider range of variation in disease severity than was initially recognized. Our results can contribute to the accurate diagnosis of hereditary GI polyposis in clinical practice, pathological examinations, and future research.
Explorative Field Study on the Use of Oral Fluids for the Surveillance of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae Infections in Fattening Farms by an Apx-Real-Time PCR
Authors: Kleinmans Michael , Fiebig Kerstin , Tabeling Robert , Swam Hanny , Duivelshof-Crienen Annelies , Ritzmann Mathias , Eddicks Matthias
Published: October 2022

Oral fluids (OFs) represent a cost effective and reliable tool for surveillance purposes, mostly regarding viruses. In the present study, we evaluated the suitability of OFs for surveillance purposes concerning Actinobacillus (A.) pleuropneumoniae infections in fattening pigs under field conditions. OFs were examined with an Apx-toxin real-time PCR that detects the genes encoding for Apx I-, Apx III-, and Apx IV-toxin. For this purpose, we conducted a pen-wise collection of OFs over one fattening period from fattening pigs of two farms (farm A and B) with a known history of A. pleuropneumoniae infection. Lung lesions were determined at slaughter to estimate the extend of pulmonary lesions and pleural affection. Apx III- and Apx IV-toxin DNA were present in the OFs of both farms whereas Apx I-toxin DNA was present on farm A only. We were able to detect Apx I-, Apx III-, and Apx IV-toxin DNA in different patterns directly after introduction of the new pigs in the farms and over the entire study period. In summary, or results indicate the suitability of OFS for the early detection and surveillance of A. pleuropneumoniae in fattening farms.
Equine Anthelmintic Resistance: Horse Owner and Yard Manager Perception of the Barriers Affecting Strategic Control Measures in England
Authors: McTigue Faye E. , Mansbridge Stephen C. , Pyatt Alison Z.
Published: October 2022

Equine anthelmintic resistance poses a threat to the health and welfare of horses worldwide. With no new imminent anthelmintic classes, it is vital to decrease the resistance rate and preserve available classes. Traditional indiscriminate anthelmintic use is not synonymous with a strategic control ideology; however, many continue to implement outdated practices. In comparison to livestock farmers, there have been few social science studies examining horse owner behaviours. This study aimed to understand the perceived barriers faced by horse owners and yard managers to adopting a strategic approach to helminth control, and to explore their experiences. Semi-structured interviews permitted the exploration of the stakeholders’ beliefs, opinions, experiences, attitudes, and behaviours. Personal resources, internal influences, and external influences were identified by participants as the barriers to adoption of strategic controls. Two further themes impacting effective implementation of strategic controls emerged surrounding helminth information and source, as well as accurate dosing. Challenges associated with anthelmintic administration and bodyweight estimation suggest that inaccurate dosing is prevalent. Industry-wide implementation of a single ‘best practice’ could support prescriber decision-making to encourage uptake of effective strategic helminth controls. The barriers identified in this study could help influence guidance given to horse owners through a better understanding of their beliefs and behaviours.
An Experimental Investigation of the Displacement Transmissibility for a Two-Stage HSLD Stiffness System
Authors: Habegger Janik , Hassan Marwan , Oliver Michele
Published: October 2022

Vibration isolation across the frequency spectrum is a challenge in many applications, particularly at low frequencies where linear oscillators amplify excitation forces. To overcome this, nonlinear high static low dynamic (HSLD) stiffness oscillators have been proposed with the aim of reducing the resonant frequency while maintaining the high load capacities of much stiffer linear systems. A two-degree of freedom (2DOF) HSLD stiffness system is proposed to investigate the effectiveness of such systems. Experiments reveal that a 2DOF non-linear HSLD stiffness system outperforms a similar single-degree of freedom (SDOF) HSLD stiffness system, as well as similar SDOF and 2DOF linear systems. Three performance criteria are used to assess these systems, including (1) minimizing the resonant frequency and maximizing the isolation zone, (2) minimizing the magnitude of amplification at resonance, and (3) maximizing the ability to isolate large input frequencies. Exact numerical and approximate analytical simulations are validated using these experimental data. A sensitivity analysis of system parameters reveals that it is necessary to incorporate adjustability into the geometry of a design to counteract unavoidable manufacturing tolerances. Changes of less than 2% to the stiffness or geometry of a system can drastically change its dynamic response.
Effects of Coal Gangue on the Hydrochemical Components under Different Types of Site Karst Water in Closed Mines
Authors: Jiang Bin-bin , Ji Kai-ming , Xu Dong-jing , Cao Zhi-guo , Wen Shao-kun , Song Kun , Ma Li
Published: October 2022

In order to explore the potential effects of abandoned coal mines on the water quality of Ordovician limestone aquifers, water-rock interaction simulations were conducted. After the closure of the coal mine, the karst water in the goaf area and the waste gangue had a geochemical reaction, and the above-mentioned water-rock process was simulated by an indoor static immersion experiment to explore the differences in the effect of different types of karst water on the dissolution of gangue. The basic water quality parameters pH, EC (electrical conductance), and ORP (oxidation-reduction potential) showed different trends in karst hydro-immersion solution and ultra-pure hydro-immersion solution; pH and EC had greater fluctuations in two sets of ultrapure hydro-immersion solutions, while ORP fluctuated more widely in three groups of karst hydro-immersion solutions. In addition, gangue minerals dissolved more significantly in bodies of water where limestone was added. The results of chemical component clustering showed that TDS (total dissolved solids) and EC were homopolymerized in each immersion solution, and subsequent correlation analysis showed that TDS and EC clusters were more significantly affected by mineral properties in ultrapure water-immersion solutions, and more affected by dominant ions in karst water-immersion solutions.