bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Continued Circulation of Highly Pathogenic H5 Influenza Viruses in Vietnamese Live Bird Markets in 2018–2021
Authors: Guan Lizheng , Babujee Lavanya , Browning Victoria L. , Presler Robert , Pattinson David , Nguyen Hang Le Khanh , Hoang Vu Mai Phuong , Le Mai Quynh , van Bakel Harm , Neumann Gabriele , Kawaoka Yoshihiro
Published: July 2023

We isolated 77 highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses during routine surveillance in live poultry markets in northern provinces of Vietnam from 2018 to 2021. These viruses are of the H5N6 subtype and belong to HA clades 2.3.4.4g and 2.3.4.4h. Interestingly, we did not detect viruses of clade 2.3.4.4b, which in recent years have dominated in different parts of the world. The viruses isolated in this current study do not encode major determinants of mammalian adaptation (e.g., PB2-E627K or PB1-D701N) but possess amino acid substitutions that may affect viral receptor-binding, replication, or the responses to human antiviral factors. Several of the highly pathogenic H5N6 virus samples contained other influenza viruses, providing an opportunity for reassortment. Collectively, our study demonstrates that the highly pathogenic H5 viruses circulating in Vietnam in 2018–2021 were different from those in other parts of the world, and that the Vietnamese H5 viruses continue to evolve through mutations and reassortment.
Cerebrovascular Disease in COVID-19
Authors: Siegler James E. , Dasgupta Savanna , Abdalkader Mohamad , Penckofer Mary , Yaghi Shadi , Nguyen Thanh N.
Published: July 2023

Not in the history of transmissible illnesses has there been an infection as strongly associated with acute cerebrovascular disease as the novel human coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. While the risk of stroke has known associations with other viral infections, such as influenza and human immunodeficiency virus, the risk of ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke related to SARS-CoV-2 is unprecedented. Furthermore, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has so profoundly impacted psychosocial behaviors and modern medical care that we have witnessed shifts in epidemiology and have adapted our treatment practices to reduce transmission, address delayed diagnoses, and mitigate gaps in healthcare. In this narrative review, we summarize the history and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cerebrovascular disease, and lessons learned regarding the management of patients as we endure this period of human history.
Rescue of a Live-Attenuated Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus HSGP Strain Using a Virulent Strain and a Partially Attenuated Strain
Authors: Song Sok , Park Gyu-Nam , Shin Jihye , Kim Ki-Sun , An Byung-Hyun , Choe SeEun , Kim Song-Yi , Hyun Bang-Hun , An Dong-Jun
Published: July 2023

In South Korea in 2013, the G1-based vaccine failed to prevent an outbreak of G2b-type porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), which is more pathogenic than the traditional G1-type strain, thereby allowing the virus to spread. In 2017 and 2018, field samples were cultured sequentially on Vero cells to isolate HS (virulent) and SGP-M1 (partially attenuated) strains, respectively, of the G2b type. The HS strain harbors a single amino acid (aa) change and two aa deletions in the N-terminal domain of S1 (55I56G57E→55K56Δ57Δ). The SGP-M1 strain harbors a seven aa deletion in the C-terminal domain of S2 (1380~1386ΔFEKVHVQ). By co-infecting various animal cells with these two strains (HS and SGP-M1), we succeeded in cloning strain HSGP, which harbors the mutations present in the two original viruses. The CPE pattern of the HSGP strain was different from that of the HS and SGP-M1 strains, with higher viral titers. Studies in piglets showed attenuated pathogenicity of the HSGP strain, with no clinical symptoms or viral shedding, and histopathologic lesions similar to those in negative controls. These findings confirm that deletion of specific sequences from the S gene attenuates the pathogenicity of PEDV. In addition, HSGP strains created by combining two different strains have the potential for use as novel attenuated live vaccine candidates.
Porcine Circovirus 2 Increases the Frequency of Transforming Growth Factor-β via the C35, S36 and V39 Amino Acids of the ORF4
Authors: Han Cheng , Xu Weicheng , Wang Jianfang , Hou Xiaolin , Zhou Shuanghai , Song Qinye , Liu Xuewei , Li Huanrong
Published: July 2023

Porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) is one of the most important endemic swine pathogens, inducing immunosuppression in pigs and predisposing them to secondary bacterial or viral infections. Our previous studies show that PCV2 infection stimulated pig intestinal epithelial cells (IPEC-J2) to produce the secretory transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), which, in turn, caused CD4+ T cells to differentiate into regulatory T cells (Tregs). This may be one of the key mechanisms by which PCV2 induces immunosuppression. Here, we attempt to identify the viral proteins that affect the TGF-β secretion, as well as the key amino acids that are primarily responsible for this occurrence. The three amino acids C35, S36 and V39 of the ORF4 protein are the key sites at which PCV2 induces a large amount of TGF-β production in IPEC-J2 and influences the frequency of Tregs. This may elucidate the regulatory effect of PCV2 on the Tregs differentiation from the perspective of virus structure and intestinal epithelial cell interaction, laying a theoretical foundation for improving the molecular mechanism of PCV2-induced intestinal mucosal immunosuppression in piglets.
Unveiling the Impact of the Omicron Variant: Insights from Genomic Surveillance in Mato Grosso do Sul, Midwest Brazil
Authors: de Mello Almeida Maziero Lívia , Giovanetti Marta , Fonseca Vagner , Zardin Marina Castilhos Souza Umaki , de Castro Lichs Gislene Garcia , de Rezende Romera Grazielli Rocha , Tsuha Daniel Henrique , Frias Danila Fernanda Rodrigues , Escandolhero Valdir Castanho , Demarchi Luiz Henrique , Domingues Castilho Larissa , Barbosa Karine Ferreira , Tebet Danielle Galindo Martins , Xavier Joilson , Fritsch Hegger , Lima Mauricio , de Oliveira Carla , Santos Elaine Vieira , Kashima Simone , Said Rodrigo Fabiano do Carmo , Rosewell Alexander , Croda Julio , Alcantara Luiz Carlos Junior , Cavalheiro Maymone Gonçalves Crhistinne
Published: July 2023

Genomic surveillance has emerged as a crucial tool in monitoring and understanding the dynamics of viral variants during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the Midwest region of Brazil, Mato Grosso do Sul has faced a significant burden from the SARS-CoV-2 epidemic, with a total of 613,000 confirmed cases as of June 2023. In collaboration with the Central Public Health Laboratory in the capital city of Campo Grande, we conducted a portable whole-genome sequencing and phylodynamic analysis to investigate the circulation of the Omicron variant in the region. The study aimed to uncover the genomic landscape and provide valuable insights into the prevalence and transmission patterns of this highly transmissible variant. Our findings revealed an increase in the number of cases within the region during 2022, followed by a gradual decline as a result of the successful impact of the vaccination program together with the capacity of this unpredictable and very transmissible variant to quickly affect the proportion of susceptible population. Genomic data indicated multiple introduction events, suggesting that human mobility played a differential role in the variant’s dispersion dynamics throughout the state. These findings emphasize the significance of implementing public health interventions to mitigate further spread and highlight the powerful role of genomic monitoring in promptly tracking and uncovering the circulation of viral strains. Together those results underscore the importance of proactive surveillance, rapid genomic sequencing, and data sharing to facilitate timely public health responses.
Rhinovirus Genotypes Circulating in Bulgaria, 2018–2021
Authors: Georgieva Irina , Stoyanova Asya , Angelova Svetla , Korsun Neli , Stoitsova Savina , Nikolaeva-Glomb Lubomira
Published: July 2023

Rhinoviruses (RV) are one of the most common causative agents of respiratory infections, with significant socioeconomic impact. RV infections are not notifiable in Bulgaria, and little is known about the different RV genotypes circulating in the country. This study aims to investigate the diversity of RV genotypes that were circulating in Bulgaria in the period 2018–2021 in samples from ILI/ARI patients. Genotype assignment was based on sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of the 5′ untranslated region and the VP4-VP2 region. Out of a total of 1385 nasopharyngeal swabs tested, 166 were RV-positive (RV detection rate: 11.99% (166/1385)). Those with a cycle threshold <25 were selected for genotyping (n = 63). RV isolates were successfully genotyped and classified into 34 genotypes within Rhinovirus A (RV-A), Rhinovirus B (RV-B) and Rhinovirus C (RV-C) species. Presumptive recombination events between the 5′UTR and VP4-VP2 regions were detected in three of the isolates. RV-A and RV-C were the prevalent RV species, with significantly more frequent detections of RV-A in the years before the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the post-pandemic period, when RV-C prevailed. The present study is the first to determine RV genotypes in Bulgaria and the circulation of RV-C has been described for the first time in the country.
Nonenveloped Avian Reoviruses Released with Small Extracellular Vesicles Are Highly Infectious
Authors: Wang Zuopei , He Menghan , He Han , Kilby Kyle , Antueno Roberto de , Castle Elizabeth , McMullen Nichole , Qian Zhuoyu , Zeev-Ben-Mordehai Tzviya , Duncan Roy , Pan Chungen
Published: July 2023

Vesicle-encapsulated nonenveloped viruses are a recently recognized alternate form of nonenveloped viruses that can avoid immune detection and potentially increase systemic transmission. Avian orthoreoviruses (ARVs) are the leading cause of various disease conditions among birds and poultry. However, whether ARVs use cellular vesicle trafficking routes for egress and cell-to-cell transmission is still poorly understood. We demonstrated that fusogenic ARV-infected quail cells generated small (~100 nm diameter) extracellular vesicles (EVs) that contained electron-dense material when observed by transmission electron microscope. Cryo-EM tomography indicated that these vesicles did not contain ARV virions or core particles, but the EV fractions of OptiPrep gradients did contain a small percent of the ARV virions released from cells. Western blotting of detergent-treated EVs revealed that soluble virus proteins and the fusogenic p10 FAST protein were contained within the EVs. Notably, virus particles mixed with the EVs were up to 50 times more infectious than virions alone. These results suggest that EVs and perhaps fusogenic FAST-EVs could contribute to ARV virulence.
Widespread Reassortment Contributes to Antigenic Shift in Bluetongue Viruses from South Africa
Authors: Van Schalkwyk Antoinette , Coetzee Peter , Ebersohn Karen , Von Teichman Beate , Venter Estelle
Published: July 2023

Bluetongue (BT), a viral disease of ruminants, is endemic throughout South Africa, where outbreaks of different serotypes occur. The predominant serotypes can differ annually due to herd immunity provided by annual vaccinations using a live attenuated vaccine (LAV). This has led to both wild-type and vaccine strains co-circulating in the field, potentially leading to novel viral strains due to reassortment and recombination. Little is known about the molecular evolution of the virus in the field in South Africa. The purpose of this study was to investigate the genetic diversity of field strains of BTV in South Africa and to provide an initial assessment of the evolutionary processes shaping BTV genetic diversity in the field. Complete genomes of 35 field viruses belonging to 11 serotypes, collected from different regions of the country between 2011 and 2017, were sequenced. The sequences were phylogenetically analysed in relation to all the BTV sequences available from GenBank, including the LAVs and reference strains, resulting in the analyses and reassortment detection of 305 BTVs. Phylogenomic analysis indicated a geographical selection of the genome segments, irrespective of the serotype. Based on the initial assessment of the current genomic clades that circulate in South Africa, the selection for specific clades is prevalent in directing genome segment reassortment, which seems to exclude the vaccine strains and in multiple cases involves Segment-2 resulting in antigenic shift.
Fatty Acids Composition and HIV Infection: Altered Levels of n-6 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Are Associated with Disease Progression
Authors: Ueland Thor , Waagsbø Bjørn , Berge Rolf K. , Trøseid Marius , Aukrust Pål , Damås Jan K.
Published: July 2023

Fatty acids (FAs) are important regulators of immune responses and innate defense mechanisms. We hypothesized that disturbed FA metabolism could contribute to the progression of HIV infection. Plasma levels of 45 FAs were analyzed with gas chromatography in healthy controls and HIV-infected patients with regard to Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infection. In vitro, we assessed MAC-PPD-induced release of inflammatory cytokines in peripheral and bone marrow mononuclear cells (PBMC and BMMC) according to levels of n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). While plasma saturated FAs were higher in HIV infection, PUFAs, and in particular the n-6 PUFA arachidonic acid (AA), were lower in patients with advanced disease. The ratio between AA and precursor dihomo-γ-linolenic acid, reflecting Δ5-desaturase activity, was markedly lower and inversely correlated with plasma HIV RNA levels in these patients. Depletion of AA was observed prior to MAC infection, and MAC-PPD-induced release of TNF and IL-6 in PBMC and BMMC was lower in patients with low plasma AA. Our findings suggest that dysregulated metabolism of n-6 PUFAs may play a role in the progression of HIV infection. While high AA may contribute to chronic inflammation in asymptomatic HIV-infected patients, low AA seems to increase the susceptibility to MAC infection in patients with advanced disease.
Optimizing Anaerobic Digestion at Ambient Temperatures: Energy Efficiency and Cost Reduction Potential in Panama
Authors: Deago Euclides , Ramírez Marian , Espino Kleveer , Nieto Daniel , Barragán Maudi , García Max , Guevara-Cedeño Jessica
Published: July 2023

Anaerobic digestion (AD) is usually carried out at mesophilic temperatures (25–45 °C) in most countries, whether in temperate or tropical climates, which results in the need for heat injection and consequently increases costs. In this regard, batch AD tests were conducted at 25, 28, and 35 °C, with 25 °C being the lowest ambient temperature in Panama, using thickened secondary sludge (TSS) and digested secondary sludge (DSS) from the Juan Diaz wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) to determine the Biochemical Methane Potential (BMP). The AD study generated maximum mean BMP values of 163 mL CH4/g VS for DSS and 289.72 mL CH4/g VS for codigestion at 25 °C. The BMP value of DSS at 25 °C showed that it can still be used for energy generation, using the lowest ambient temperature recorded in Panama City. Likewise, trials at 25 °C showed a 43.48% reduction in the electrical energy produced compared to that generated at 38 °C in WWTP. This results in a reduction in energy, as the use of heat could be omitted and the energy costs required for the process are covered. In this regard, the novelty of this work lies in its investigation of anaerobic digestion at ambient temperatures, which represents a departure from conventional practices that typically require higher temperatures. By exploring the feasibility of anaerobic digestion within the temperature range of 25–35 °C, this study offers a novel approach to optimizing energy efficiency and reducing costs associated with elevated temperatures.
The Effect of Gravel and Sand Mining on Groundwater and Surface Water Regimes—A Case Study of the Velika Morava River, Serbia
Authors: Kresojević Milan , Ristić Vakanjac Vesna , Trifković Dragan , Nikolić Jugoslav , Vakanjac Boris , Polomčić Dušan , Bajić Dragoljub
Published: July 2023

This paper describes how uncontrolled and illegal mining of sand and gravel can affect surface water and groundwater regimes in places where there is a hydraulic connection between them, based on a case study of the Velika Morava River in Serbia. Also, a change in cross-profile geometry, as a result of anthropogenic and natural factors, hinders the preparation of this river for inclusion among Serbia’s waterways. The Velika Morava River’s navigability would enable the development of waterborne transportation for both merchant ships and vessels of the Serbian Armed Forces River Flotilla. Correlations between water levels at gauging stations, as well as correlations between groundwater levels and river water levels at gauging stations, are used to show the dependence of these parameters on the change in the river bed profile after sand and gravel mining at the locations near gauging stations. In addition, the homogeneity of time-series of average annual elevations and the variance of the water levels of the Velika Morava River, measured in gauging stations during different periods, are statistically analyzed. The deepening of the Velika Morava riverbed where it was indiscriminately excavated in the 1980s led to the disruption of the groundwater regime and the hydraulic connection with the river, which lowered the water table of the aquifer used for the public water supply, as well as causing a number of other negative consequences.
The Transformation of Coastal Governance, from Human Ecology to Local State, in the Jimei Peninsula, Xiamen, China
Authors: Zou Zhe , Zhang Yu-Yan , Lee Su-Hsin , Tsai Shu-Chen
Published: July 2023

The coastal zone, situated at the sensitive interface between land and sea, serves as a pivotal area of human economic activities. As one of China’s economic special zones, Xiamen exemplifies the comprehensive trajectory of coastal governance in China. However, there are still research gaps in the human ecological transitions in coastal governance. This study adopts the research approach of scale politics and the local state, with the purpose of explaining the governance model of the coastal zone transformation. Sources include interviews with fishers, direct observation, participant observation, and content analysis. The study demonstrates how local governments strive to maximize the profits of scenic tourism, by (1) appropriating the international scale, absorbing international aid and technical assistance; (2) confiscating the access rights of the coastal zone; and (3) vertically integrating all relationships from local to international organizations to create new governance patterns. Xiamen’s coastal landscape not only presents the meltdown of human ecology under local state governance but also demonstrates a keen adaptation to the shifting dynamics of the international tourism market. From the theoretical perspective of the local state, this paper effectively points out the political characteristics of local government and bridges the loss of cultural ecology in the transformation of governance patterns.
Water Pollution Indexes Proposal for a High Andean River Using Multivariate Statistics: Case of Chumbao River, Andahuaylas, Apurímac
Authors: Ramos-Pacheco Betsy S. , Choque-Quispe David , Ligarda-Samanez Carlos A. , Solano-Reynoso Aydeé M. , Choque-Quispe Yudith , Aguirre Landa John Peter , Agreda Cerna Henrry W. , Palomino-Rincón Henry , Taipe-Pardo Fredy , Zamalloa-Puma Miluska M. , Zamalloa-Puma Lourdes Magaly , Mescco Cáceres Edwin , Sumarriva-Bustinza Liliana A. , Choque-Quispe Katia
Published: July 2023

Pollution indexes are instruments that allow a quick interpretation of water quality, combining physical, chemical, and microbiological parameters to generate a numerical value. Our aim was to evaluate spatial and temporal-spatial water quality and propose a water pollution index (WPI) for high Andean rivers using multivariate statistics. Data on physical, chemical, and microbiological parameters were collected from the river water of the Chumbao sub-basin during the rainy and dry seasons at eight sampling points. The laboratory and field analysis methods were developed following the methodology proposed by the APHA. Spearman’s correlation, cluster analysis, and discriminate analysis were applied to evaluate water quality’s spatial and temporal variation and principal component analysis/factor analysis to identify critical parameters to formulate the Water Pollution Index (WPI). The parameters with the most incidence in water quality were color, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, biochemical demand oxygen, ammonia, total phosphorus, lead, chromium, and thermotolerant coliforms. The inorganic pollution index (IPI) was obtained from conductivity, lead, and chromium, reporting pollution levels for the river water between “none” to “high”; and the organic pollution index (OPI) was obtained from dissolved oxygen, biochemical demand oxygen, ammonia, total phosphorus, color, and thermotolerant coliforms, with levels of “low” to “very high” pollution. The proposed pollution indexes are water management instruments that evaluate water quality.
Impact of Elevated Atmospheric CO2 in Spartina maritima Rhizosphere Extracellular Enzymatic Activities
Authors: Duarte Bernardo , Baeta Alexandra , Marques João Carlos , Caçador Isabel
Published: July 2023

Atmospheric CO2 enrichment, which is caused to a large extent by anthropogenic activities, is known to interfere with sediment microbial communities via plant rhizospheres. The present work aimed to evaluate this interaction in Spartina maritima ((Curtis) Fernald.) rhizosediments, aiming to depict the impacts of atmospheric CO2 increase in the biogeochemical processes occurring in the rhizosphere of this pioneer and highly abundant Mediterranean halophyte. For this purpose, mesocosms trials were conducted, exposing salt marsh cores with S. maritima and its sediments to 410 and 700 ppm of CO2 while assessing rhizosediment extracellular enzymatic activities. An evident increase in dehydrogenase activity was observed and directly linked to microbial activity, indicating a priming effect in the rhizosphere community under increased CO2. Phosphatase showed a marked increase in rhizosediments exposed to elevated CO2, denoting a higher requirement of phosphate for maintaining higher biological activity rates. High sulphatase activity suggests a possible S-limitation (microbial or plant) due to elevated CO2, probably due to higher sulphur needs for protein synthesis, thus increasing the need to acquire more labile forms of sulphur. With this need to acquire and synthesize amino acids, a marked decrease in protease activity was detected. Most carbon-related enzymes suffered an increase under increased CO2. Overall, a shift in sediment extracellular enzymatic activity could be observed upon CO2 fertilization, mostly due to priming effects and not due to changes in the quality of carbon substrates, as shown by the sediment stable isotope signatures. The altered recycling activity of organic C, N, and P compounds may lead to an unbalance of these biogeochemical cycles, shifting the rhizosphere ecosystem function, with inevitable changes in the ecosystem services level.
Electric Vehicle Charging Transaction Model Based on Alliance Blockchain
Authors: Cui Dongjun , He Jinghan , Cheng Xiaochun , Liu Zhao
Published: July 2023

With the increasing demand for electric vehicle (EV) charging, there are cases of complicated trading between EV users and charging operators or electrical utilities. This paper proposes a new trading model based on consortium blockchain. Firstly, mutual trust interconnected transaction networks and channels between charging operators are established. The PBFT consensus algorithm is used to verify EV charging transactions, and smart contracts are used to complete the process. In this model, charging station nodes of each company can verify transactions, the interconnection and independent management of charging transactions are realized, users’ charging methods are enriched, and the flexibility of charging services is improved. Finally, this paper uses hyperledger fabric to build an experimental environment. The feasibility of the above method is verified with an actual distribution scenario of some charging stations in Beijing.
Parallel Power Sharing Control of Multi-Controllable Rectifiers in a High-Power DC Fast Charging Station
Authors: Xiao Zhao-Xia , Cao Jia-Ning , Zhu Hong-Chi , Li Pan , Xue Hao-Fei , Zheng Guo-Xi , Jia Jiang-Wei
Published: July 2023

The increase in demand for the fast charging of electric vehicles (EVs) has promoted research and the application of high-power direct current (DC) fast charging stations, and research on the stability control of charging stations with a parallel structure of multi-controllable rectifier modules is of great significance. Taking into account the dynamic and steady-state performance, the parameters of the dual-loop controller based on virtual impedance control are designed to realize the power sharing of multi-controllable rectifier modules. The constant power load model of EV charging at a constant current is established, and the load capacity of the cascaded system of converters is studied by using the impedance analysis method. The experimental and simulation results verify the effectiveness and correctness of the power sharing control strategy and the cascaded system stability analysis.
An Economic Velocity Planning Strategy Based on Driving Style and Improved Dynamic Programming for a Hybrid Electric Truck
Authors: Li Yuting , Yang Rong , Wu Zhengteng , Huang Wei , Xu Minmin
Published: July 2023

The power coupling equation and energy consumption model for enhancing the fuel economy and power performance of plug-in hybrid electric trucks (PHETs) are proposed based on the economic velocity planning strategy (EVPS-DSIDP), which takes into account the driving style and an improved dynamic programming (IDP) algorithm. This strategy employs a fuzzy controller to identify the driving style, and optimizes the efficiency and accuracy of the conventional dynamic programming (DP) algorithm by associating decision variables, dynamically adjusting the discretization step size, and restricting the state space. Additionally, a penalty function is introduced to enhance the robustness of the DP algorithm. Under our EVPS-DSIDP, the variation of velocity is liberated from the constraints of fixed driving conditions, and directly correlates with road information and driving styles, which is of significant importance for addressing energy management issues in real-time traffic conditions. Moreover, the proposed IDP algorithm can improve computational efficiency while ensuring calculation accuracy, thereby greatly enhancing the potential for the practical application of this algorithm in real-world vehicle scenarios. The simulation results demonstrate that compared to the rule-based control strategy, the application of the proposed EVPS-DSIDP in the economy velocity planning strategy can achieve an average reduction of 2.88% in economic costs and 10.6% in travel time across different driving styles. This approach offers a more comprehensive optimization of both fuel economy and power performance.
A Comprehensive Review for Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) Drive Circuits Technology, Operations, and Challenges
Authors: Ntombela Mlungisi , Musasa Kabeya , Moloi Katleho
Published: July 2023

Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining more and more traction as a viable option in the automotive sector. This mode of transportation is currently on track, according to current trends, to totally replace internal combustion engine (ICE) cars in the not-too-distant future. The economic system, the energy infrastructure, and the environment are just a few of the areas where electric vehicles could have a major impact. The transportation industry produces the second-most carbon dioxide gas from the combustion of fossil fuels, making it the second-highest contributor to global warming. A lot of people are looking to EVs, or electric vehicles, as a possible game-changing answer to this problem. Since an electric motor drives the electric vehicle’s propeller instead of an internal combustion engine, electric vehicles can reduce their carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions compared to traditional automobiles. If coupled with renewable energy sources, EVs might theoretically become emission-free automobiles. In this paper, we will examine the various EV drive circuit types, including their construction and the benefits and drawbacks of employing each. This article discusses the current state of battery technology with an emphasis on EV batteries. This article discusses the best electric motor for EVs in terms of efficiency, power density, fault tolerance, dependability, cost, and more. Next, we conduct in-depth research into the difficulties and potential rewards of EV adoption in the future. While improvements in areas like charging times and battery performance are encouraging, government regulation of EVs remains a big non-technical barrier.
A Szent Korona készítésének rekonstrukciója
Authors: Barabássy Miklós
Published: July 2023

Egy műtárgy elkészítési helyének és idejének a meghatározása az archeometriai vizsgálatokkal kezdődik. A Szent Korona vizsgálatának célja a korona részeinek – váz, filigránok és foglalatok, tehát a fémrészek – és díszítéseinek (zománcképek, ékkövek, gyöngyök) a részletes jellemzése, az anyagok összetételének pontos meghatározása és a származási helyének felderítése. Az archeometria része a műtárgyak technikai és technológiai folyamatainak rekonstruálása is. A készítés abszolút korának a meghatározása a szerves anyagok, például a ragasztóanyagok segítségével lehetséges. Mindez alapvetően természettudományi terület. Ha bevonjuk a segédtudományokat – a fotóoptikai adatrögzítést, a 3D-s modellkészítést, ami számítógépen engedi folytatni a tanulmányozást –, úgy az iparművészeti párhuzamok, paleográfia stb. segítségével lehetőség nyílik a koronarészek keletkezési idejének és helyének relatív meghatározására. Mindmáig nem létezik rendszerszintű archeometriai vizsgálata a Szent Koronának. Történtek viszont fényképezések, ötvösök és mérnökök részéről geometriai mérések, vizuális vizsgálatok és leírások is, ha tehát természettudományos összefoglalót szeretnénk írni, akkor van mire támaszkodni. A jelen cikk is egy ilyen összefoglaló, amelyben megkíséreljük a Szent Korona technológiájának rekonstruálását, azzal a céllal, hogy rámutassunk: mennyire szükséges lenne egy teljes archeometriai vizsgálat elvégzése.
A fémfröccsöntés paramétereinek hatása a gyártott alkatrészekre
Authors: Ledniczky György , Weltsch Zoltán
Published: July 2023

A cikk egy innovatív gyártási eljárással foglalkozik, amit poralapú fémfröccsöntésnek hívnak, amely a hagyományos műanyagfröccsöntés és a porkohászat kombinációja. Ezzel az eljárással komplex geometriájú fém alkatrészek előállítása lehetséges nagy sorozatban. A felhasználható anyagok tekintetében rendkívül nagy a választék, leginkább acél-, réz-, titán- vagy nikkelalapú ötvözetek használhatóak. Jelen kutatás során a felhasznált anyag 17-4PH típusú, martenzites korrózióálló acél, mivel ez széles körben elterjedt alapanyag, sok kutatásban ezt vizsgálják, valamint az iparban is elterjedt; ezért célszerű a további összehasonlíthatóság érdekében ilyen típusú anyagot használni. A szakirodalomban kevés információt lehet találni a fröccsöntési paraméterekről és azok hatásairól, ezért a kutatásunk erre fókuszál, másrészt ezek az adatok az ipar számára is hasznos információként szolgálhatnak. Az ún. zöldtermék előállítása során, a fontosabb paraméterek változtatásával mértük a termék zsugorodását, és e paraméterek hatásait hasonlítjuk össze a hagyományos műanyagfröccsöntéssel.
Effect of Vitamin D Supplementation on Cardiometabolic Indices and the Severity of Symptoms in Male Patients With Chronic Schizophrenia
Authors: Kalejahi Parinaz , Kheirouri Sorayya , Noorazar Seyed Gholamreza
Published: July 2023

Objectives: Hypovitaminosis D is suggested to be related to the high risk of metabolic disorders and symptoms of schizophrenia. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of vitamin D supplementation on cardio-metabolic indices and the severity of symptoms in schizophrenic patients. Materials and Methods: Patients with schizophrenia (N=42) were randomly assigned to 2 groups, i.e., intervention (2000 IU of vitamin D daily; n=21) and placebo groups (n=21). The intervention was administered for 8 weeks. Anthropometric, clinical, and laboratory measures were assessed at both baseline and end of the trial. The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) was performed to assess the schizophrenia symptoms. Results: Vitamin D supplementation leads to a significant decrease in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels (P=0.006). In addition, a significant improvement was found in the PANSS negative subscale score (PANSS-NSS) and PANSS total score (PANSS-TS; P=0.005 and P=0.015, respectively). At the baseline, there was a significant negative correlation between PANSS-NSS, PANSS positive subscale score (PANSS-PSS), and PANSS-TS with serum levels of vitamin D (r=-0.42, P=0.010; r=-0.34, P=0.041; and r=-0.47, P=0.004, respectively). Conclusions: Vitamin D supplementation may have helpful efficacy on some cardio-metabolic indices and schizophrenia severity.
The Effect of Carvacrol Plus Treadmill Exercise on Testis Structure and Oxidative Stress in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Bradaran Bagheri Ramesh , Shadman Jamal , Khaki Amir Afshin
Published: July 2023

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of carvacrol and treadmill exercise on oxidative stress and testis structure in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, the diabetes was induced using a single intraperitoneal (IP) injection of STZ (50 mg/kg). The rats were assigned to five groups, namely a control group, a diabetic control group, a diabetic group receiving daily carvacrol at a dose of 75 mg/kg, diabetic groups performing treadmill exercise, and a diabetic group performing daily treadmill exercise and receiving carvacrol. After covering the treatment period, all rats were anesthetized and their blood sample were taken. Then the serum levels of oxidative stress markers were measured, the testicles and epididymis were removed, and the sperm parameters were assessed. Results: The treatment of diabetic rats with carvacrol and treadmill exercise effectively improved testis tissue damage, sperm parameters, glucose, and insulin plasma levels (P=0.001). In diabetic rats, the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) increased while the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) enzymes decreased in the testes tissue (P=0.001). However, when carvacrol administration (75 mg/kg) was combined with treadmill exercise, these parameters were significantly rectified (P<0.05). Conclusion: In sum, administering carvacrol and performing treadmill exercise were effective in improving the sperm parameters and testicular oxidative damage caused by diabetes.
Factors Associated With In-Hospital Death Among Pneumonia Patients in US Hospitals From 2016~2019
Authors: Kim Sun Jung , Medina Mar , Zhong Lixian , Chang Jongwha
Published: July 2023

Background: Pneumonia is one of the leading causes of hospital admission in the United States with a global health burden of about 6.8 million hospitalizations and 1.1 million deaths in patients over 65 years old in 2015. This study aimed to identify possible patient and hospital-related risk factors for in-hospital pneumonia death across US hospitals. Methods: The National Inpatient Sample (NIS) was used to identify nationwide pneumonia patients (n=374 766, weighted n=1 873 828) from 2016 to 2019. We examined the characteristics of the study sample and their association with in-hospital death. Multivariate survey logistic regression models were used to identify risk factors. Results: During the study periods, in-hospital death rates continuously decreased (2.45% in 2016 to 2.19% in 2019). Descriptive statistics showed that patient and hospital factors had varied in-hospital death rates. Survey logistic regression results suggested that male, very low income, non-Medicare, government hospitals, rural hospitals, and specific hospital regions were associated with higher in-hospital death rates than their reference groups. Conclusion: Socioeconomic factors, including income and insurance, are associated with pneumonia mortality. Census region, hospital ownership, and rural location are also related to in-hospital mortality. Such findings in underserved, impoverished, and rural areas to identify possible health disparities.
Let’s Talk About it: The Utility of Formalized Support for Medical Residents
Authors: Gifford Rachel , van Rossum Tiuri R. , Fleuren Bram , Westra Daan
Published: July 2023

Medical residents are significantly impacted by burnout and depression. Recent events have only further increased the pressure and demands on the healthcare sector, intensifying the burden facing residents and posing a threat to residents’ well-being. As a result, significant efforts are being made to provide formalized support and well-being programs. Yet, emergent evidence indicates that residents do not sufficiently utilize this form of support. Considering the organizational investment and focus on formalized support programs, we conducted a mixed-method study to investigate residents’ utilization of formalized well-being support, and potential reasons for non-use. Our study was conducted during a period of increased work burden and stress for medical residents, where formalized support was specifically offered and targeted to medical staff. Our findings confirm earlier results of low support utilization and point to the importance of informal support mechanisms, in particular peer support. We conclude by discussing the role of managers and educational programs in facilitating a positive cultural shift to promote and support residents in seeking support.
Health Science Research at a Regional Level: Insights From South America Comment on "The Roles of Regional Organisations in Strengthening Health Research Systems in Africa: Activities, Gaps, and Future Perspectives"
Authors: Herrero María Belén , de Oliveira Beatriz Nascimento Lins
Published: July 2023

The article seeks to shed light on the role of regional organizations in strengthening health research systems in Africa, how they operate and how they work, as well as debts and future challenges. As can be observed also in South America, the continued strengthening of health research requires strategic thinking about the roles, comparative advantages, and capacity of regional organizations to facilitate the flourishing of health research systems. Health research is a strategic field for the transformation of socio-health inequalities on the one hand and the reduction of regional asymmetries on the other. Thus, regional organizations represent key actors in strengthening health research systems and the regional research agenda reinforces its sovereign condition in the autonomous definition of relevant topics and financing. In this process, integration mechanisms face a great challenge, as shown by the recent pandemic, not only in Africa but also in South America.
Analisis Faktor Yang Berhubungan Dengan Perencanaan Keluarga Berencana Sebagai Pencegahan Penularan HIV/AIDS Pada Ibu Hamil
Authors: Susanti Susanti , Nugroho Ikhwan Wahyu
Published: July 2023

ABSTRAKSalah satu upaya untuk menurunkan angka kematian ibu (AKI) dan menekan angka pertumbuhan penduduk yakni melalui program Keluarga Berencana (KB). Selain menjadi upaya menurunkan AKI metode kontrasepsi juga menjadi salah satu upaya pencegahan penularan HIV dari ibu ke Anak (PPIA). Pada ibu hamil HIV merupakan ancaman bagi keselamatan jiwa ibu dan ancaman bagi anak yang dikandungnya karena bisa terjadi penularan HIV dari ibu ke bayinya. Tujuan menganalisis Faktor Yang Berhubungan Dengan Perencanaan Keluarga Berencana Sebagai Pencegahan Penularan HIV/AIDS Pada Ibu Hamil di Wilayah Puskesmas Cilacap Selatan. Penelitian menggunakan deskriptif analitik dengan pendekatan cross sectional dengan sampel dalam penelitian ini adalah 45 ibu hamil yang periksa di Wilayah Puskesmas Cilacap Selatan I yang memenuhi kriteria inklusi. Hasil penelitian tidak terdapat hubungan antara usia, paritas, tingkat pengetahuan dan sikap dengan perencanaan metode kontrasepsi sebagai pencegahan penularan HIV/AIDS pada ibu Hhmil  di Wilayah Puskesmas Cilacap Selatan dengan nilai p > 0.05. Kata Kunci :  HIV/AIDS; Metode Kontrasepsi; Ibu Hamil ABSTRACT One of the efforts to reduce the maternal mortality rate (MMR) and reduce the population growth rate is through the Family Planning program. Apart from being an effort to reduce MMR, the contraceptive method is also an effort to prevent HIV transmission from mother to child. In pregnant women HIV is a threat to the safety of the mother's soul and a threat to the child she is carrying because HIV transmission can occur from mother to baby. The aim of this study was to analyse factors related to family planning as a prevention of HIV/AIDS transmission in pregnant women in the South Cilacap Health Center area. The research used descriptive analytic with a cross-sectional approach with the sample in this study were 45 pregnant women who checked in the Cilacap Selatan I Community Health Center area who met the inclusion criteria. The results of the study found no relationship between age, parity, level of knowledge and attitudes with planning contraceptive methods as prevention of HIV/AIDS transmission in Hhmil women in the South Cilacap Health Center area with a p value > 0.05. Keywords: HIV/AIDS; Contraceptive Methods; Pregnant mother
English Phonological Interference by Indonesian Speakers in a MoFA’s Media Briefing
Authors: Yatmikasari Ika , Richa Noer Hidayati  , Dedi Sulaeman
Published: July 2023

Phonological interference occurs when a speaker reproduces the sound in the second language system but the use of the first language system is still recognized. This phenomenon is frequently found in the speech or utterances of second language speakers such as that of presented in a video from Indonesian Minister of Foreign Affair’s (hence MoFA) YouTube channel entitled “Media Briefing of Covid-19 Vaccine Development in Indonesia”. Thus, this study focuses on the phonological interference in the video by investigating its types based on particular characteristics of the categories. This research applies Weinreich’s theory of phonological interference (1968) as the grand theory to answer the research problem and qualitative descriptive method as the research. The data collected are obtained by recording technique to combine the equivalence of the video recording and the transcript. The results show the findings on four types of phonological interference. They are under-differentiation of phonemes, over-differentiation of phonemes, reinterpretation of distinctions, and actual phone substitution.
Gas Chromatography with Modified pH‐sensitive Pellets in Evaluating the Activity of Some Enzymes Attributed with a Change in the Medium pH
Authors: Alzweiri Muhammed
Published: July 2023

A new evaluation method based on gas chromatography (GC) is considered for the screening of the inhibitory activity of various compounds against certain enzymes using immobilized pH-sensitive matrix pellets. This approach of analysis is being utilized in developing sensitive GC methods for enzymes attributed to pH change in their media. Particularly, for those which require accurate and sensitive assay methods. The method has been implemented in drug discovery research related to antagonism of carbonic anhydrase, isozyme 3 (CAIII). This isozyme has a strong potential in treating obesity, hyperlipidemia and cancer. The method was also used in investigation of various peptide derivatives with an epoxide warhead for their anti-lipase activity. Recently, the method has been used in evaluating some tacrine analogues for their inhibition against acetylcholinesterase enzyme. The latter is important in treating Alzheimer’s disease (AD) which is a worldwide mental disorder manifested with dementia symptoms and anticipated to be the second causality of deaths by 2040.
Community Pharmacists’ Perspectives toward Continuing Professional Development: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Hjazeen Rima
Published: July 2023

Objectives: This study's principal aim was to investigate community pharmacists' views of continuing professional development (CPD) and to explore pharmacists' perceptions of the most common facilitators and barriers to participation in continuing education (CE).

Methods: A series of seven focus group sessions were undertaken with groups of four to seven community pharmacists. Focus group transcripts were thematically analyzed using a qualitative data analysis method.

Results:  Four key themes were identified: (1) community pharmacists' attitudes toward CPD; (2) perceived motivating factors for CPD; (3) experienced barriers to CPD; (4) and potential strategies for improving pharmacists' CPD.

 Conclusion: Practicing pharmacists need support now, and changes to undergraduate education are warranted to keep abreast of current developments and changes to practice. Despite limitations, the distinctive nature of this study would have a valuable contribution to the field of professional development. It can inform theory, policy, and practice relating to pharmacists' CPD at both a professional level and governmentally, helping the relevant parties make informed decisions.
Recent Advancements in the Management of Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Hamdan Anas , Galvez Rafael
Published: July 2023

Neuropathic pain is defined as ‘pain arising as a direct consequence of a lesion or disease affecting the Somatosensory system, regarding the most important aspects of analgesic treatment in NP its strongly advised to make use of a confirmatory questionnaire for NP Dx, such as DN4 or LANSS, as the Screening Tools. Administer analgesic medications in accordance with the strong evidence presented in NP. Keep in mind the medications that have been given the approval for NP. Tricyclic antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs; duloxetine, venlafaxine), and gabapentinoids; pregabalin and gabapentin; alone or in combination with topical (lidocaine patch, capsaicin patch) are all indicated as first-line analgesics for patients with peripheral NP. If a medication from the first line is unsuccessful, try another medication from the same group or move on to the second line. Tramadol and oxycodone are both considered to be analgesics of the second line. Tapentadol as a replacement drug in cases of persistent pain, it may be necessary to mix medications that work via distinct mechanisms of action. Alternatively, in the event that pharmacology is unsuccessful, analgesic invasive treatments may be combined with drugs.
Ética docente frente a la Revolución Tecnológica (CRI). Una perspectiva hermenéutica - analógica
Authors: Luna Martínez Alfonso
Published: July 2023

En este trabajo se aborda el tema de la ética en general y la ética docente, en tiempos de la Revolución tecnológica o Cuarta Revolución Industrial (CRI)[1]. Este abordaje se plantea desde una perspectiva hermenéutica analógica, principalmente aquella que proponen Mauricio Beuchot, Gadamer y Foucault. El presente trabajo inicia con un abordaje teórico y filosófico sobre la ética, para definir la manera en que se le conceptualiza para efectos del mismo, esto desde la perspectiva de autores como Mauricio Beuchot, Michel Foucault y Sigmund Bauman. Sigo con el abordaje de la CRI,desde sus aspectos más amplios, hasta su particularidad en la revolución de los datos o Big Data, que tiene centralidad en este ensayo. Continuo planteando algunos dilemas éticos relevantes ante este cambio tecnológico e industrial, para concluir con una propuesta ética analógica en el sentido formativo o educativo.