bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improvement of Autonomy, Efficiency, and Stress of Fuel Cell Hybrid Electric Vehicle System Using Robust Controller
Authors: Benhammou Aissa , Hartani Mohammed Amine , Tedjini Hamza , Rezk Hegazy , Al-Dhaifallah Mujahed
Published: March 2023

Among issues facing the transportation sector today is the limited autonomy of electric vehicles, which are highly reliant upon energy storage systems. Considering this issue as the current research gap, researchers seek to prolong vehicle dependability through renewable-free and sustainable energy that tackles negative environmental impacts. This research exploits the electric vehicle’s kinetic energy to improve its performance and reliability. It uses fuel-cell resources and supercapacitors hybridized with lithium-ion batteries, in addition to DC generators connected to front wheels that convert their rotations into energy contributing to the vehicle’s overall power balance. A state machine-based energy management strategy computes fuel-cell setpoint power, while a dual-loop structure uses a super-twisting controller for DC bus voltage regulation and recovery, in addition to tracking banks’ setpoint currents. A speed controller-based artificial intelligence is proposed to reduce power losses and enable accurate tracking of running trajectory to improve vehicle mechanisms. The simulation results using Matlab Simulink software proved the proposed vehicle’s feasibility by adopting the free kinetic energy of additional DC generators that provided 28% of its total power requirements, resulting in superior supply efficiency reaching 98%. Thus, the stress on FC and battery was minimized by 21% and 10%, respectively, in addition to reducing fuel consumption by 39%, so the vehicle autonomy was extended, and its reliability was enhanced and supported, as targeted.
Digital Economy and 3E Efficiency Performance: Evidence from EU Countries
Authors: Li Shuangjie , Wang Wei , Wang Liming , Wang Ge
Published: March 2023

Nowadays, sustainability has become an important and widely accepted concept. Energy conservation and emission reduction are closely related to sustainable economic development. Therefore, a 3E efficiency approach, based on the “Energy–Environmental–Economic” (3E) system, can assess the coordination relationships among these three factors from the perspective of energy conservation and emission reduction. The digital economy is a new driving force for economic growth, but few studies have dealt with the question on whether it affects 3E efficiency. The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between the digital economy and 3E efficiency in EU countries. The empirical results indicate that: (1) overall 3E efficiency of EU countries showed an upward trend from 2011 to 2019; (2) in terms of the relationship between the digital economy and 3E efficiency, the digital economy has direct and indirect (through economic growth) impacts on 3E efficiency; when GDP per capita exceeds EUR 15,580, the influence coefficient of the digital economy on 3E efficiency changes from negative to positive. This suggests that EU countries with different levels of economic development should adopt different strategies to ensure the simultaneous development of their digital economy and 3E efficiency.
Performance of Generator Translation and Rotation on Stroke Length Drive of the Two-Rod Mechanism in Renewable Energy Power Plant
Authors: Hendra Hendra , Satria Dhimas , Hernadewita Hernadewita , Yozerizal Yozerizal , Hardian Frengki , Galal Ahmed M.
Published: March 2023

Generators are the main components in renewable energy power plants, especially in plants powered by ocean waves. The generator consists of two components of translational and rotational motion. Generators of translational and rotational motion can produce electric power from renewable energy sources such as water, wind, sea waves, biomass, and others. The voltage and electric power are the performance values of the translational and rotational generators which are affected by the type of magnet, the number of coil windings, the distance between the magnet and the coil winding and rotation, the geometry of the drive components, the type of drive, the length of the generator drive stroke, and so on. The types of translational and rotational generator drives can be found in the use of pneumatic motion mechanisms, two-rod motion, crankshaft motion, and others. A common problem in older power plants was that generator components were heavy, easy to break, less rigid, and had low rotation speed. Therefore, to overcome this problem, a generator with a two-rod mechanism is used in this research. In this paper, the generator drive step using a two-rod motion mechanism is used to run the generator. The length of the piston stroke is used to determine the performance of the generator, set at a length of 170–270 mm. The results show that the generator with two-rod motion mechanism rotating at 100–250 rpm can produce 30.9–55 volts at a frequency of 6.9–63.7 Hz with a maximum power of 0.377 w. By setting a piston stroke length of 170 mm, we obtained a rotation of 100–191 rpm and an electrical voltage of 30.9−35 volts. At a piston stroke length of 230 rpm, a rotation of 78–172 rpm is obtained with an electrical voltage of 47.7–55.5 volts. A piston stroke length of 270 mm produces a rotation of 172–256.5 rpm with a mains voltage of 39.9–55.5 volts. Testing the generators of translational and rotational motion using a two-rod motion mechanism in series and parallel with a stroke length of 270 mm produced a rotation from 179.2 to 242.3 rpm and an electric voltage from 57.4 to 79.5 volts and become constant at 35.6 volts by using a parallel mechanism. These results show that the generator translation and rotation motion can produce electric power by using renewable energy resources.
Effects of Connected Autonomous Vehicles on the Energy Performance of Signal-Controlled Junctions
Authors: Wen Yiqing , Wang Yibing , Zhang Zhao , Wu Jiaxin , Zhong Liangxia , Papageorgiou Markos , Zheng Pengjun
Published: March 2023

This study proposes an optimal control method for connected autonomous vehicles (CAVs) through signalized intersections to reduce the energy consumption of mixed human-driven vehicles (HDVs) and CAV traffic. A real-time optimal control model was developed to optimize the trajectory of each CAV by minimizing energy consumption during the control period while ensuring traffic efficiency and safety. The control conditions of the CAVs were analyzed under different driving scenarios considering the impact of signal phase timing and preceding vehicles. Additionally, a method is proposed for CAVs to guide other vehicles directly and reduce the energy consumption of the entire signalized intersection. Simulation experiments using MATLAB and SUMO were conducted to evaluate the performance of the proposed method under various traffic conditions, such as different levels of saturation, market penetration rates (MPRs), and the green ratio. The performance was measured using average energy consumption and an average time delay. The results show that the proposed method can effectively reduce vehicle energy consumption without compromising traffic efficiency under various conditions. Moreover, under traffic saturation, the proposed method performs better at a high MPR and green ratio, especially at 40–60% MPR.
Insulation Performance of Building Components and Effect on the Cooling Load of Homes in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Abduljabbar Abdulhamid , Al-Mogbel Majid , Danish Syed Noman , El-Leathy Abdelrahman
Published: March 2023

A common practice in the construction of residential and commercial buildings in Saudi Arabia is to insulate the outer walls and windows only. Other building components such as the roof, columns and slabs, and doors are usually neglected. Moreover, vital components such as the roof and windows are especially neglected in commercially built residential and commercial buildings. The aim of this study is to put this common impression and practice to the test by quantifying the contribution of every building component to the overall air-conditioning load of the building. The hypothesis evaluated in this paper is that despite the common practices, there could be an optimum selection of insulators for the building components that yields the lowest energy consumption and maximum savings not only in energy costs but also installation costs. The required air-conditioning load is determined using manual calculations and the HAP software package for 1022 possible configurations. The findings of the analysis point to the importance of the roof, as it is the major contributor to the thermal load, followed closely by columns and slabs, with 44.2% of the overall cooling load. It is found that a single wall consisting of 2 cm of cement plaster, 20 cm of cement–polyurethane brick, and 2 cm of cement plaster is less expensive and has higher thermal resistance than any of the more expensive double walls. The study found one scenario of possible configurations with the optimized selection of building materials and their insulation materials that provides the most effective insulation at the lowest cost.
Study on the Affecting Factors of Land Circulation in Minority Areas of Ledong County, Hainan Province, China
Authors: Liu Minpei , Jia Peihong , Liu Kouyuan , Yang Lingyu , Yan Hongping
Published: March 2023

Land circulation can promote large-scale operations, improve land-use efficiency, and increase farmers’ income. Taking 186 rural households in Ledong County in Hainan Province, the study uses binary logistic regression to analyze the factors affecting farmers’ willingness to transfer land. The results show that age, education level, and family labor force were negatively correlated with farmers’ willingness to accept land circulation. Meanwhile, gender, nonagricultural population, source of family income, annual family income, infrastructure, and understanding of policy were positively correlated with willingness to transfer. Recommendations regarding strengthening the training and education of farmers, increasing publicity, improving farmers’ awareness of land circulation, promoting market supervision, enhancing the land circulation market mechanism, and improving the rural security system are proposed. Ledong should also strengthen policy support regarding the cultivation of new agricultural business entities, and establish an intermediary service platform for land circulation. This study, therefore, aims to provide a theoretical and practical basis for a farmland circulation mechanism and the large-scale operation of agricultural land in Ledong County.
Biochemical Response of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) to Selenium (Se) under Drought Stress
Authors: Ali Jawad , Jan Ibadullah , Ullah Hidayat , Fahad Shah , Saud Shah , Adnan Muhammad , Ali Baber , Liu Ke , Harrison Matthew Tom , Hassan Shah , Kumar Sunjeet , Khan Muhammad Amjad , Kamran Muhammad , Alwahibi Mona S. , S. Elshikh Mohamed
Published: March 2023

Drought stress restricts the growth of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) by disrupting its biochemical and physiological functions. The current study was conducted to evaluate the role of selenium (0, 1, 2, and 3 mg Se L−1 as a foliar application) in improving okra tolerance to drought (control (100% field capacity-FC), mild stress (70% FC), and severe stress (35% FC)) imposed 30 days after sowing (DAS). Drought (severe) markedly decreased chlorophyll (32.21%) and carotenoid (39.6%) contents but increased anthocyanin (40%), proline (46.8%), peroxidase (POD by 12.5%), ascorbate peroxidase (APX by 11.9%), and catalase (CAT by 14%) activities. Overall, Se application significantly alleviated drought stress-related biochemical disturbances in okra. Mainly, 3 mg Se L−1 significantly increased chlorophyll (21%) as well as anthocyanin (15.14%), proline (18.16%), and antioxidant activities both under drought and control conditions. Selenium played a beneficial role in reducing damage caused by oxidative stress, enhancing chlorophyll and antioxidants contents, and improved plant tolerance to drought stress. Therefore, crops including okra especially, must be supplemented with 3 mg L−1 foliar Se for obtaining optimum yield in arid and semiarid drought-affected areas.
Modeling and Pilot-Scale Experiment of Hydrodynamic Regulation to Improve the Water Quality of a Plain Urban River Network: A Case Study of Changzhou, China
Authors: Ma Jingtian , Liu Yang , Liu Jiaying , Fei Guosong , Fan Ziwu
Published: March 2023

One-dimensional modeling of the hydrodynamic river networks of plain urban rivers has been employed to optimize operating regulations in these river networks. However, pilot-scale experiments are still lacking for the validation of hydrodynamics obtained by modeling to improve water quality. In this study, a pilot-scale experiment combined with theoretical calculation was conducted to determine both the hydrodynamics and water quality in the Hutang area of Changzhou, China. The simulation results showed that using high-performance pumps on the border to drain the river beyond it could increase the frequency of water replenishment. The results of the pilot-scale experiment are consistent with the simulation. Moreover, only in condition (c) does the water of the Wuyi canal flow into the Wunan river. With the exception of turbidity, the highest number of rivers with improved water quality tables occurred in this condition. Based on the response mechanism between the flow rate and the water quality, a flow rate within the range of 0.12 m/s to 0.28 m/s can help reduce comprehensive pollution. This study successfully enhanced the hydrodynamic regulation and water quality of the rivers in the Hutang region using technologies combined with simulation and pilot-scale experiments.
Designing of Intelligent Video-Surveillance Systems in Road Tunnels Using Software Tools
Authors: Loveček Tomáš , Boroš Martin , Mäkká Katarína , Mariš Ladislav
Published: March 2023

Video Surveillance Systems (VSSs) are integral parts of road tunnels. Currently, they perform a number of functions, such as ensuring the protection of tunnel technologies, monitoring tunnel operation, or recognising license plates. If VSSs are to be designed to protect the tunnel and its technologies from unauthorised intentional human activity, it is necessary to ensure that they are designed in such a way as to meet the essential functionality requirement of the physical protection system (PPS). In this case, the VSS, as one of the alarm systems, should perform the function of early intrusion detection. The verification of the functionality of the PPS is possible using a software tool to model and simulate various intrusion scenarios. This article provides an example of the use of the SATANO software evaluation tool. The VSS enables multiple applications, such as monitoring, detection, knowledge, and identification. In this paper, the defined current standardised requirements for the design of VSSs in tunnels are considered from the point of view of their possible use for intelligent video analysis, enabling the recognition of various risk situations (e.g., faults or accidents of vehicles). Using the software tool, IP Video Design Tool, the requirements for the design of cameras in tunnels are assessed and adapted from the perspective of the use of intelligent video analysis. In the event that there is a requirement to use the VSS during emergency situations (e.g., fire), it is necessary to assess the operating conditions and period of time through which the VSS would operate in a given tunnel. This article presents the results of the simulation of the spread of a fire in a tunnel and its impact on the operation of the VSS.
Geomorphological Heritage in Viñales National Park (Aspiring UNESCO Geopark): Geomatic Tools Applied to Geotourism in Pinar del Río, Cuba
Authors: Goy José Luis , Corvea Jose Luis , de Bustamante Irene , Martínez-Graña Antonio Miguel , Díaz-Guanche Carlos , Zazo Caridad , Dabrio Cristino J. , González-Delgado José Ángel , Blanco Alberto , Nieto Carlos E.
Published: March 2023

A detailed analysis of the Viñales National Park (VNP) was carried out to evaluate the main geosites of geomorphological interest inside the park. This allowed the selection of areas (AIG) and localities (LIG) with 20 geosites of geological interest (PIG) suitable to evaluate their importance as geoheritage. Moreover, three field trips and one virtual itinerary encompassing the park aimed to improve the geological–geomorphological knowledge to be used in geotouristic and preservation issues. The methodology included preparing five maps: relief, drainage pattern, slopes, lithology and geomorphology (forms and structures) and representing them on a digital terrain model (DTM) for a better visualisation and selecting the geosites (poljes, valleys and mountain fronts). The evaluation of the selected PIG is based on the criteria proposed by Spanish Institute of Geology and Mining, grouping them in places and areas of interest. The virtual itinerary favour real-time usage of web sites and geoportals. As a result, this paper presents map layers and geomorphological descriptions of the AIG and LIG with the most relevant aspects and valuations of the PIG, AIG and LIG. The PIG reached values between 1050 (Viñales Valley) and 365 (La Jutia Valley). The AIG and LIG ranged between 2190 (Santo Tomás Polje) and 675 (La Cuevita Polje).
Industry 5.0 and Triple Bottom Line Approach in Supply Chain Management: The State-of-the-Art
Authors: Varriale Vincenzo , Cammarano Antonello , Michelino Francesca , Caputo Mauro
Published: March 2023

Digital technologies could be key to solving several open issues in the context of supply chain management (SCM) and sustainable development. The purpose of this article is to investigate the linkage between digital technologies and sustainable practices in SCM. Through a systematic literature review, the article aims to identify which technologies favour sustainable emerging practices considering the triple bottom line (3BL) perspective. In particular, the following 11 technologies were considered: 3D printing, artificial intelligence, blockchain, computing, digital applications, geospatial technologies, Internet of Things, immersive environments, open and crowd-based platforms, proximity technologies and robotics. For the purpose of this research, 5011 peer-reviewed scientific articles were analysed and a comprehensive overview of the use of digital technologies in SCM to favour sustainable emerging practices was proposed. Therefore, four indices that measure the environmental, social, economic and total 3BL sustainability of each technology were used to assess sustainable emerging practices. This study could be useful for both academics and practitioners. For the former, it provides a comprehensive understanding of the application of digital technologies in sustainable emerging practices for SCM. It highlights potential research gaps by proposing scenarios of future research developments. For the latter, the article aims to identify opportunities for the implementation of digital technologies within own company to improve operations management and, at the same time, promote sustainable development.
Carrier-Envelope Phase-Controlled Residual Current in Semiconductors
Authors: Wu Tong , Yuan Guanglu , Wang Zishao , Zhang Xiangyu , Yu Chao , Lu Ruifeng
Published: March 2023

With the purpose of achieving current control by using intense laser field manipulation, we investigate the effect of carrier-envelope phase (CEP) on residual current in SiO2 crystals. By solving semiconductor Bloch equations, we found that the CEP can strongly influence the carrier population of the conduction band, which means that it can act as a simple, but useful, tool to control residual current. That is, the resultant asymmetric distribution in the first Brillouin zone gave rise to non-zero residual current. Additionally, we further consider the two-color laser scheme to achieve better control of residual current, showing that asymmetric two-color laser fields can induce the maximum residual current.
A Transition Model in f(R,T) Theory via Observational Constraints
Authors: Tiwari Rishi Kumar , Shukla Bhupendra Kumar , Sofuoğlu Değer , Kösem Dilay
Published: March 2023

A particular form of the time-dependent deceleration parameter is used to examine the accelerated expansion of the universe and the phase transition in this expansion in the context of f(R,T) gravity theory for the flat FRW model. The modified field equations are solved under the choice of f(R,T)=R+2f(T). The best fit values of the model parameters that would be consistent with the recent observational datasets that are estimated. For this estimation, 57 points from Cosmic Chronometers (CC) datasets and 1048 points from Pantheon supernovae datasets are used. Bayesian analysis and likelihood function are applied together with Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) method at 1σ and 2σ confidence levels. Then, the physical behavior of parameters such as density, pressure and cosmographic parameters corresponding to these constrained values of the model parameters are analyzed. Looking at the deceleration parameter, it is seen that the universe has passed from a decelerating expansion phase to an accelerating phase. As a result, it has been shown that the cosmological model f(R,T) that we discussed can explain the accelerating expansion of the late universe well without resorting to any dark energy component in the energy-momentum tensor.
Facial Asymmetry of Italian Children: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Three-Dimensional Stereophotogrammetric Reference Values
Authors: Cappella Annalisa , Solazzo Riccardo , Yang Joshua , Hassan Noha Mohamed , Dolci Claudia , Gibelli Daniele , Tartaglia Gianluca , Sforza Chiarella
Published: March 2023

Reference data on the asymmetry of facial thirds of children is still scarce, although it can offer meaningful comparative information for clinical studies. This study aims to provide reference data on the facial asymmetry of Italian children using a 3D analysis of facial thirds divided according to the trigeminal nerve distribution (upper, middle, and lower). A 3D surface-based approach was conducted on the digital models of the faces of 135 children (74 M, 61 F), acquired by stereophotogrammetry. In addition to sex, two different age classes were analyzed (4–8 years and 9–12 years). For each facial third, the asymmetry was expressed as root-mean-square distance (RMS) by calculating the point-to-point distances between the original and the reflected 3D models. A 3-way ANOVA test verified significant differences between the two sexes, the two age classes, and the three facial thirds (p-value < 0.05), and also their interaction. Significant differences were found between the sexes (females were more symmetric, p = 0.005) and the two age groups (younger were more symmetric p < 0.001). According to Tukey’s HSD post-hoc test, among the thirds, the middle one proved to be significantly more symmetrical (p < 0.001). No significant interaction impacting the asymmetry was found when the main factors were considered in any combination. Reference data on the “normal” facial asymmetry of Italian children was provided for further clinical purposes. Normal children have low average RMS values (0.30–0.51 mm) and younger, in particular females, proved more symmetrical than older children, while among the facial surfaces, the middle proved most symmetrical in both sexes, although with little clinical relevance. Since there is no consensus on the amount of symmetry deemed clinically acceptable, further studies on larger randomized samples are auspicial.
Continuum Energy Eigenstates via the Factorization Method
Authors: Freericks James K. , Mathews Jr. Wesley N.
Published: March 2023

The factorization method was introduced by Schrödinger in 1940. Its use in bound-state problems is widely known, including in supersymmetric quantum mechanics; one can create a factorization chain, which simultaneously solves a sequence of auxiliary Hamiltonians that share common eigenvalues with their adjacent Hamiltonians in the chain, except for the lowest eigenvalue. In this work, we generalize the factorization method to continuum energy eigenstates. Here, one does not generically have a factorization chain—instead all energies are solved using a “single-shot factorization”, enabled by writing the superpotential in a form that includes the logarithmic derivative of a confluent hypergeometric function. The single-shot factorization approach is an alternative to the conventional method of “deriving a differential equation and looking up its solution”, but it does require some working knowledge of confluent hypergeometric functions. This can also be viewed as a method for solving the Ricatti equation needed to construct the superpotential.
Textural Features of Mouse Glioma Models Measured by Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced MR Images with 3D Isotropic Resolution
Authors: Kiser Karl , Zhang Jin , Kim Sungheon Gene
Published: March 2023

This paper investigates the effect of anisotropic resolution on the image textural features of pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters of a murine glioma model using dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) MR images acquired with an isotropic resolution at 7T with pre-contrast T1 mapping. The PK parameter maps of whole tumors at isotropic resolution were generated using the two-compartment exchange model combined with the three-site-two-exchange model. The textural features of these isotropic images were compared with those of simulated, thick-slice, anisotropic images to assess the influence of anisotropic voxel resolution on the textural features of tumors. The isotropic images and parameter maps captured distributions of high pixel intensity that were absent in the corresponding anisotropic images with thick slices. A significant difference was observed in 33% of the histogram and textural features extracted from anisotropic images and parameter maps, compared to those extracted from corresponding isotropic images. Anisotropic images in different orthogonal orientations demonstrated 42.1% of the histogram and textural features to be significantly different from those of isotropic images. This study demonstrates that the anisotropy of voxel resolution needs to be carefully considered when comparing the textual features of tumor PK parameters and contrast-enhanced images.
Spatial and Temporal Variations of Heavy Metals’ Bioavailability in Soils Regulated by a Combined Material of Calcium Sulfate and Ferric Oxide
Authors: Zhang Chi , Li Jie , Dai Yuxia , Gustave Williamson , Zhai Weiwei , Zhong Zhong , Chen Jianmeng
Published: March 2023

Heavy metal pollution in soils threatens food safety and human health. Calcium sulfate and ferric oxide are commonly used to immobilize heavy metals in soils. However, the spatial and temporal variations of the heavy metals’ bioavailability in soils regulated by a combined material of calcium sulfate and ferric oxide (CSF) remain unclear. In this work, two soil column experiments were conducted to investigate the spatial and temporal variations of CSF immobilized Cd, Pb, and As. In the horizontal soil column, the results showed that CSF’s immobilization range for Cd increased over time, and adding CSF in the center of the soil column decreased the concentrations of bioavailable Cd significantly, up to 8 cm away by day 100. The CSF immobilization effect on Pb and As only existed in the center of the soil column. The CSF’s immobilization depths for Cd and Pb in the vertical soil column increased over time and extended to 20 cm deep by day 100. However, the CSF’s immobilization depths for As only extended to between 5 and 10 cm deep after 100 days of incubation. Overall, the results from this study can serve as a guide to determine the CSF application frequency and spacing distance for the in-situ immobilization of heavy metals in soils.
Harzianic Acid Activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Its Role in Calcium Regulation
Authors: Staropoli Alessia , Cuomo Paola , Salvatore Maria Michela , De Tommaso Gaetano , Iuliano Mauro , Andolfi Anna , Tenore Gian Carlo , Capparelli Rosanna , Vinale Francesco
Published: March 2023

Staphylococcus aureus is a Gram-positive bacterium, which can be found, as a commensal microorganism, on the skin surface or in the nasal mucosa of the human population. However, S. aureus may become pathogenic and cause severe infections, especially in hospitalized patients. As an opportunistic pathogen, in fact, S. aureus interferes with the host Ca2+ signaling, favoring the spread of the infection and tissue destruction. The identification of novel strategies to restore calcium homeostasis and prevent the associated clinical outcomes is an emerging challenge. Here, we investigate whether harzianic acid, a bioactive metabolite derived from fungi of the genus Trichoderma, could control S. aureus-induced Ca2+ movements. First, we show the capability of harzianic acid to complex calcium divalent cations, using mass spectrometric, potentiometric, spectrophotometric, and nuclear magnetic resonance techniques. Then, we demonstrate that harzianic acid significantly modulates Ca2+ increase in HaCaT (human keratinocytes) cells incubated with S. aureus. In conclusion, this study suggests harzianic acid as a promising therapeutical alternative against diseases associated with Ca2+ homeostasis alteration.
Scorpion Peptides and Ion Channels: An Insightful Review of Mechanisms and Drug Development
Authors: Mendes Lais Campelo , Viana Gabriela Magnólia Melo , Nencioni Ana Leonor Abrahão , Pimenta Daniel Carvalho , Beraldo-Neto Emidio
Published: March 2023

The Buthidae family of scorpions consists of arthropods with significant medical relevance, as their venom contains a diverse range of biomolecules, including neurotoxins that selectively target ion channels in cell membranes. These ion channels play a crucial role in regulating physiological processes, and any disturbance in their activity can result in channelopathies, which can lead to various diseases such as autoimmune, cardiovascular, immunological, neurological, and neoplastic conditions. Given the importance of ion channels, scorpion peptides represent a valuable resource for developing drugs with targeted specificity for these channels. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the structure and classification of ion channels, the action of scorpion toxins on these channels, and potential avenues for future research. Overall, this review highlights the significance of scorpion venom as a promising source for discovering novel drugs with therapeutic potential for treating channelopathies.
Dynamics of Antibody Responses after Asymptomatic and Mild to Moderate SARS-CoV-2 Infections: Real-World Data in a Resource-Limited Country
Authors: Sayabovorn Naruemit , Phisalprapa Pochamana , Srivanichakorn Weerachai , Chaisathaphol Thanet , Washirasaksiri Chaiwat , Sitasuwan Tullaya , Tinmanee Rungsima , Kositamongkol Chayanis , Nimitpunya Pongpol , Mepramoon Euarat , Ariyakunaphan Pinyapat , Woradetsittichai Diana , Chayakulkeeree Methee , Phoompoung Pakpoom , Mayurasakorn Korapat , Sookrung Nitat , Tungtrongchitr Anchalee , Wanitphakdeedecha Rungsima , Muangman Saipin , Senawong Sansnee , Tangjittipokin Watip , Sanpawitayakul Gornmigar , Nopmaneejumruslers Cherdchai , Vamvanij Visit , Auesomwang Chonticha
Published: March 2023

The dynamics of humoral immune responses of patients after SARS-CoV-2 infection is unclear. This study prospectively observed changes in anti-receptor binding domain immunoglobulin G (anti-RBD IgG) and neutralizing antibodies against the Wuhan and Delta strains at 1, 3, and 6 months postinfection between October 2021 and May 2022. Demographic data, clinical characteristics, baseline parameters, and blood samples of participants were collected. Of 5059 SARS-CoV-2 infected adult patients, only 600 underwent assessment at least once between 3 and 6 months after symptom onset. Patients were categorized as immunocompetent (n = 566), immunocompromised (n = 14), or reinfected (n = 20). A booster dose of a COVID-19 vaccine was strongly associated with maintained or increased COVID-19 antibody levels. The booster dose was also more strongly associated with antibody responses than the primary vaccination series. Among patients receiving a booster dose of a mRNA vaccine or a heterologous regimen, antibody levels remained steady or even increased for 3 to 6 months after symptom onset compared with inactivated or viral vector vaccines. There was a strong correlation between anti-RBD IgG and neutralizing antibodies against the Delta variant. This study is relevant to resource-limited countries for administering COVID-19 vaccines 3 to 6 months after infection.
Collaborative Referral Model for Hepatitis C Screening and Treatment in a Remote Mountainous Region of Taiwan during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Tai Chi-Ming , Bair Ming-Jong , Chen Tzu-Haw , Tseng Cheng-Hao , Chen Chih-Cheng , Lam Hung , Yu Ming-Lung
Published: March 2023

Community-based screening for the hepatitis C virus (HCV) decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic. We developed a collaborative referral model between a primary clinic (Liouguei District Public Health Center, LDPHC) and a tertiary referral center to increase HCV screening and treatment uptake in a mountainous region of Taiwan. Once-in-a-lifetime hepatitis B and C screening services established by the Taiwan National Health Insurance were performed at LDPHC. Antibody-to-HCV (anti-HCV)-seropositive patients received scheduled referrals and took a shuttle bus to E-Da hospital for HCV RNA testing on their first visit. Direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) were prescribed for HCV-viremic patients on their second visit. From October 2020 to September 2022, of 3835 residents eligible for HCV screening in Liouguei District, 1879 (49%) received anti-HCV testing at LDPHC. The overall HCV screening coverage rate increased from 40% before referral to 69.4% after referral. Of the 79 anti-HCV-seropositive patients, 70 (88.6%) were successfully referred. Of the 38 HCV-viremic patients, 35 (92.1%) received DAA therapy, and 32 (91.4%) achieved sustained virological response. The collaborative referral model demonstrates a good model for HCV screening and access to care and treatment in a Taiwan mountainous region, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sustained referral is possible using this routine referral model.
Alphavirus Evasion of Zinc Finger Antiviral Protein (ZAP) Correlates with CpG Suppression in a Specific Viral nsP2 Gene Sequence
Authors: Nguyen LeAnn P. , Aldana Kelly S. , Yang Emily , Yao Zhenlan , Li Melody M. H.
Published: March 2023

Certain re-emerging alphaviruses, such as chikungunya virus (CHIKV), cause serious disease and widespread epidemics. To develop virus-specific therapies, it is critical to understand the determinants of alphavirus pathogenesis and virulence. One major determinant is viral evasion of the host interferon response, which upregulates antiviral effectors, including zinc finger antiviral protein (ZAP). Here, we demonstrated that Old World alphaviruses show differential sensitivity to endogenous ZAP in 293T cells: Ross River virus (RRV) and Sindbis virus (SINV) are more sensitive to ZAP than o’nyong’nyong virus (ONNV) and CHIKV. We hypothesized that the more ZAP-resistant alphaviruses evade ZAP binding to their RNA. However, we did not find a correlation between ZAP sensitivity and binding to alphavirus genomic RNA. Using a chimeric virus, we found the ZAP sensitivity determinant lies mainly within the alphavirus non-structural protein (nsP) gene region. Surprisingly, we also did not find a correlation between alphavirus ZAP sensitivity and binding to nsP RNA, suggesting ZAP targeting of specific regions in the nsP RNA. Since ZAP can preferentially bind CpG dinucleotides in viral RNA, we identified three 500-bp sequences in the nsP region where CpG content correlates with ZAP sensitivity. Interestingly, ZAP binding to one of these sequences in the nsP2 gene correlated to sensitivity, and we confirmed that this binding is CpG-dependent. Our results demonstrate a potential strategy of alphavirus virulence by localized CpG suppression to evade ZAP recognition.
Genomic Analysis of a New Freshwater Cyanophage Lbo240-yong1 Suggests a New Taxonomic Family of Bacteriophages
Authors: Zhou Qin , Li Dengfeng , Lin Wei , Pan Linting , Qian Minhua , Wang Fei , Cai Ruqian , Qu Chenxin , Tong Yigang
Published: March 2023

A worldwide ecological issue, cyanobacterial blooms in marine and freshwater have caused enormous losses in both the economy and the environment. Virulent cyanophages—specifically, infecting and lysing cyanobacteria—are key ecological factors involved in limiting the overall extent of the population development of cyanobacteria. Over the past three decades, reports have mainly focused on marine Prochlorococcus and Synechococcus cyanophages, while information on freshwater cyanophages remained largely unknown. In this study, a novel freshwater cyanophage, named Lbo240-yong1, was isolated via the double-layer agar plate method using Leptolyngbya boryana FACHB-240 as a host. Transmission electron microscopy observation illustrated the icosahedral head (50 ± 5 nm in diameter) and short tail (20 ± 5 nm in length) of Lbo240-yong1. Experimental infection against 37 cyanobacterial strains revealed that host-strain-specific Lbo240-yong1 could only lyse FACHB-240. The complete genome of Lbo240-yong1 is a double-stranded DNA of 39,740 bp with a G+C content of 51.99%, and it harbors 44 predicted open reading frames (ORFs). A Lbo240-yong1 ORF shared the highest identity with a gene of a filamentous cyanobacterium, hinting at a gene exchange between the cyanophage and cyanobacteria. A BLASTn search illustrated that Lbo240-yong1 had the highest sequence similarity with the Phormidium cyanophage Pf-WMP4 (89.67% identity, 84% query coverage). In the proteomic tree based on genome-wide sequence similarities, Lbo240-yong1, three Phormidium cyanophages (Pf-WMP4, Pf-WMP3, and PP), one Anabaena phage (A-4L), and one unclassified Arthronema cyanophage (Aa-TR020) formed a monophyletic group that was more deeply diverging than several other families. Pf-WMP4 is the only member of the independent genus Wumpquatrovirus that belongs to the Caudovircetes class. Pf-WMP3 and PP formed the independent genus Wumptrevirus. Anabaena phage A-4L is the only member of the independent Kozyakovvirus genus. The six cyanopodoviruses share similar gene arrangements. Eight core genes were found in them. We propose, here, to set up a new taxonomic family comprising the six freshwater cyanopodoviruses infecting filamentous cyanobacteria. This study enriched the field’s knowledge of freshwater cyanophages.
A Longitudinal Study in Turkiye of Host Ability to Produce Antibodies following a Third Homologous BNT162b2 Vaccination
Authors: Erdem Mustafa Genco , Unlu Ozge , Demirci Mehmet
Published: March 2023

Obesity is a multifaceted, complex condition that has negative impacts on one’s health. There are conflicting reports regarding the COVID-19 vaccine’s ability to induce antibody formation in obese people. Our study aimed to determine anti-S-RBD IgG and surrogate neutralizing antibody (snAb) levels before and after the third Pfizer–BioNTech (BNT162b2) vaccination (at 15, 60, 90, and 120 days) in normal-weight adults, overweight, and obese individuals without any comorbidity or previous SARS-CoV-2 infection history, but it did not evaluate the response to the first two doses. In this longitudinal prospective study in Istanbul, Turkey, a total of 323 consecutive adult individuals (141 normal weight, 108 overweight, and 74 patients with obesity) were included. Peripheral blood samples were collected. Anti-S-RBD IgG and surrogate neutralizing antibody levels were detected using the ELISA method. After the third dose of BNT162b2 vaccination, obese patients had significantly lower levels of snAb against SARS-CoV-2 compared with normal-weight controls, but the levels otherwise did not differ between the study groups. Across all individuals in our cohort, titers peaked about a month after this third vaccination and then gradually faded. Anti-S-RBD IgG and snAb IH% levels against SARS-CoV-2 were not correlated with IL-6 and TNF-α levels. In conclusion, anti-S-RBD IgG titers and snAb IH% levels against SARS-CoV-2 were determined longitudinally for 120 days after the third homologous BNT162b2 vaccination. Although there were no significant differences in anti-S-RBD IgG, we found significant differences in the snAb IH% levels against SARS-CoV-2 between obese and healthy control subjects.
Past and Future Influenza Vaccine Uptake Motivation: A Cross-Sectional Analysis among Italian Health Sciences Students
Authors: Stefanizzi Pasquale , Provenzano Sandro , Santangelo Omar Enzo , Dallagiacoma Giulia , Gianfredi Vincenza
Published: March 2023

Despite its effectiveness in the prevention of seasonal flu, influenza vaccination uptake remains low, even among healthcare workers (HCWs), despite their occupational risk. The aim of this study was to explore the association between main reasons for accepting or refusing influenza vaccination and the decision to receive the vaccination during both previous and following year among health sciences students. A multi-center, cross-sectional study was performed using a validated online questionnaire. Data were analyzed by performing univariable and multivariable logistic analysis. Data from over 3000 participants showed that avoiding the spread of infection to family members and the general population (aOR: 43.55), as well as to patients (aOR: 16.56) were the main reasons associated with the highest probability of taking the influenza vaccination the following year. On the contrary, not considering influenza as a severe disease was the reason associated with the lowest probability for past (aOR: 0.17) and future vaccination (aOR: 0.01). Therefore, the importance of vaccination to protect others should always be the core of vaccination campaigns for health sciences students, together with tools to increase their awareness of the severity of this disease.
Tetracycline, Sulfonamide, and Erythromycin Residues in Beef, Eggs, and Honey Sold as “Antibiotic-Free” Products in East Tennessee (USA) Farmers’ Markets
Authors: Sarkar Shamim , Souza Marcy J. , Martin-Jimenez Tomas , Abouelkhair Mohamed A. , Kania Stephen A. , Okafor Chika C.
Published: March 2023

Foods that contain antibiotic residues have potential adverse health effects on consumers and provide selective pressure for the threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This study’s objective was to measure tetracycline, sulfonamide, and erythromycin residues in beef, eggs, and honey sold as “antibiotic-free” at farmers’ markets in East Tennessee (East TN) in the United States (U.S.). Between July and September 2020, 36 “antibiotic-free” food products (9 beef, 18 egg, and 9 honey products) were purchased from East TN farmers’ markets and tested for tetracycline, sulfonamide, and erythromycin residues using competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (cELISA). All beef, egg, and honey products had tetracycline residue; the median concentrations were 51.75, 30.25, and 77.86 µg/kg, respectively. Sulfonamide residue was present in every sample of beef. Of 18 eggs, 11 eggs had detectable sulfonamide residue; the median concentrations were 3.50 and 1.22 µg/kg in beef and eggs, respectively. Each sample of beef and honey contained erythromycin residue; the median concentrations were 3.67 and 0.68 µg/kg, respectively. Overall, the median concentrations of tetracycline, sulfonamide, and erythromycin residues were below the maximum residue levels (MRLs) set in the U.S. for beef and eggs. Thus, the beef and eggs sold as “antibiotic-free” in East TN farmers’ markets can be considered safe for consumption. Safety determination for honey could not be made because MRLs have not been set for honey in the U.S. Because these residues should not be expected in “antibiotic-free” food products, it is important to further investigate the potential sources of these residues in these products.
Development and Application of a Methodology for the Identification of Potential Groundwater Recharge Zones: A Case Study in the Virvini Micro-Basin, Tiraque, Bolivia
Authors: Rodriguez-Levy Inti E. , Centellas-Levy Miguel A. , Ferreira Wanderley J. , Mustafa Syed Md Touhidul , Rivera-Rodriguez Lilian , Gonzales Amaya Andres , Huysmans Marijke
Published: March 2023

Groundwater plays a vital role in human consumption and irrigation in many parts of Bolivia; yet, the absence of policies to regulate its extraction and protect groundwater recharge areas has led to a decline in water tables and threatened food security. Some municipal initiatives have been implemented to develop regulations, but the lack of reliable hydrogeological data (such as aquifer geometry, groundwater level data, location of potential groundwater recharge zones, and flow dynamics) hinders their effective implementation. The case study presented herein focuses on a municipal policy in Tiraque, Bolivia, aimed at protecting groundwater recharge zones, in addition to the need for a reliable methodology for their technical identification. The EARLI approach (an acronym for “Enhanced Algorithm for Recharge based on the Rainfall and Land cover Inclusion”) is suggested as a participatory-simplified multi-criteria decision method to address the absence of hydrogeological data. This approach was adjusted to the basin’s specific conditions, including local vegetation communities and their influence on infiltration, and was applied as a pilot study in the Virvini micro-basin. The EARLI model emphasizes the spatial distribution of rainfall as an input indicator for potential recharge in addition to the biophysical characteristics of the catchment area. The methodology successfully mapped the degree of groundwater recharge potential and was validated by traditional hydrogeological models, field infiltration measurements, and the local community’s application of the tool. Therefore, the results of this study provide the necessary technical bases for groundwater-integrated management in Tiraque.
A High-Robust Displacement Prediction Model for Super-High Arch Dams Integrating Wavelet De-Noising and Improved Random Forest
Authors: Gu Chongshi , Wu Binqing , Chen Yijun
Published: March 2023

We present a novel deformation prediction model for super-high arch dams based on the prototype monitoring displacement field. The noise reduction processing of the monitoring data is conducted by a wavelet technique. The performance-improved random forest intelligent regression approach is then established for constructing the arch dam deformation statistical models, whose hyper-parameters are intelligently optimized in terms of the improved salp swarm algorithm. In total, three enhancement strategies are developed into the standard salp swarm algorithm to improve the global searching ability and the phenomenon of convergence precocious, including the elite opposition-based learning strategy, the difference strategy, and the Gaussian mutation strategy. A prediction example for super-high arch dams is presented to confirm the feasibility and applicability of the prediction model based on five evaluation criteria. The prediction results show that the proposed model is superior to other standard models, and exhibits high-prediction accuracy and excellent generalization performance. The stability of the proposed prediction model is investigated by artificially introducing noise strategies, which demonstrates the high-robust prediction features and provides a promising tool for predicting carbon emissions, epidemics, and so forth.