bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Another Method for Proving Certain Reduction Formulas for the Humbert Function ψ2 Due to Brychkov et al. with an Application
Authors: Mohammed Asmaa O. , Kilicman Adem , Awad Mohamed M. , Rathie Arjun K. , Rakha Medhat A.
Published: April 2022

Recently, Brychkov et al. established several new and interesting reduction formulas for the Humbert functions (the confluent hypergeometric functions of two variables). The primary objective of this study was to provide an alternative and simple approach for proving four reduction formulas for the Humbert function ψ2. We construct intriguing series comprising the product of two confluent hypergeometric functions as an application. Numerous intriguing new and previously known outcomes are also achieved as specific instances of our primary discoveries. It is well-known that the hypergeometric functions in one and two variables and their confluent forms occur naturally in a wide variety of problems in applied mathematics, statistics, operations research, physics (theoretical and mathematical) and engineering mathematics, so the results established in this paper may be potentially useful in the above fields. Symmetry arises spontaneously in the abovementioned functions.
Effect of Inter-Reader Variability on Diffusion-Weighted MRI Apparent Diffusion Coefficient Measurements and Prediction of Pathologic Complete Response for Breast Cancer
Authors: Le Nu N. , Li Wen , Onishi Natsuko , Newitt David C. , Gibbs Jessica E. , Wilmes Lisa J. , Kornak John , Partridge Savannah C. , LeStage Barbara , Price Elissa R. , Joe Bonnie N. , Esserman Laura J. , Hylton Nola M.
Published: April 2022

This study evaluated the inter-reader agreement of tumor apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) measurements performed on breast diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) for assessing treatment response in a multi-center clinical trial of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) for breast cancer. DWIs from 103 breast cancer patients (mean age: 46 ± 11 years) acquired at baseline and after 3 weeks of treatment were evaluated independently by two readers. Three types of tumor regions of interests (ROIs) were delineated: multiple-slice restricted, single-slice restricted and single-slice tumor ROIs. Compared to tumor ROIs, restricted ROIs were limited to low ADC areas of enhancing tumor only. We found excellent agreement (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] ranged from 0.94 to 0.98) for mean ADC. Higher ICCs were observed in multiple-slice restricted ROIs (range: 0.97 to 0.98) than in other two ROI types (both in the range of 0.94 to 0.98). Among the three ROI types, the highest area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs) were observed for mean ADC of multiple-slice restricted ROIs (0.65, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.52–0.79 and 0.67, 95% CI: 0.53–0.81 for Reader 1 and Reader 2, respectively). In conclusion, mean ADC values of multiple-slice restricted ROI showed excellent agreement and similar predictive performance for pathologic complete response between the two readers.
Pesticide Exposure and Risk of Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Chittrakul Jiraporn , Sapbamrer Ratana , Sirikul Wachiranun
Published: April 2022

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a disease that affects people all over the world and can be caused by a variety of factors. Exposure to pesticides is one of the risk factors for the development of RA. However, the evidence of exposure to pesticides linked with the development of RA is still controversial. This study aimed to investigate the association between exposure to pesticides and RA by a systematic review of relevant literature and a meta-analysis. Full-text articles published in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar between 1956 and 2021 were reviewed and evaluated. A total of eight studies were eligible for inclusion (two cohort studies, four case-control studies, and two cross-sectional studies). The adjusted odds ratio for pesticide exposure on RA was 1.20 for insecticides (95% CI = 1.12–1.28), 0.98 for herbicides (95% CI = 0.89–1.08), 1.04 for fungicides (95% CI = 0.86–1.27), and 1.15 in for non-specific pesticides (95% CI = 1.09–1.21). There is some evidence to suggest that exposure to insecticides (especially fonofos, carbaryl, and guanidines) contributes to an increased risk of RA. However, the evidence is limited because of a small number of studies. Therefore, further epidemiological studies are needed to substantiate this conclusion.
Photocatalytic Degradation of Dielectric Mineral Oil with PCBs Content Coupled with Algae Treatment
Authors: Suárez Andrés F. , Camargo Carlos E. , Esteso Miguel A. , Romero Carmen M.
Published: April 2022

Insulating oil contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) is an environmentally important pollutant. This research focused on the establishment of the optimum conditions under which photocatalytic oxidation can be used together with biotreatment using the Nostoc sp. microorganism to degrade PCBs present in used dielectric oils. Among the optimal conditions studied were PCB concentration, initial pH, and titanium dioxide (TiO2) concentration for the photocatalytic step, and PCB concentration and photoperiod for the biotreatment step. The results indicate that the optimal conditions necessary for photocatalytic degradation were a pH of 6.10, 113 mg/L TiO2, and 765 mg/L PCBs, achieving close to 90% removal. For the biotreatment step, the results showed that PCBs progressively inhibited the microbiological growth, with the lowest cellular growth observed in the medium with the highest PCB concentration.
Preliminary Investigation of Biogenic Amines in Type I Sourdoughs Produced at Home and Bakery Level
Authors: Mannino Giuseppe , Cirlincione Fortunato , Gaglio Raimondo , Franciosi Elena , Francesca Nicola , Moschetti Giancarlo , Asteggiano Alberto , Medana Claudio , Gentile Carla , Settanni Luca
Published: April 2022

During a survey for isolating sourdough lactic acid bacteria (LAB), 20 dough samples produced at the bakery level (BL) or home-made (HM) were collected. An enzyme-based colorimetric method revealed a total biogenic amines (BAs) concentration in the range 41.4–251.8 ppm for six (three BL and three HM) sourdoughs characterised by unpleasant odours. Eight BAs generally investigated in foods were identified and quantified from these six samples by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC–MS/MS). Only one HM sample contained almost all analysed BAs. Tryptamine was exclusively detected in HM sourdoughs (0.71–24.1 ppm). Putrescine, tryptamine, spermidine, and spermine were the only BAs detected in BL sourdoughs. MiSeq Illumina analysis was applied to study the total bacterial community of sourdoughs. LAB accounted from 67.89 to 92.17% of total bacterial diversity, and Levilactobacillus brevis was identified in all six sourdoughs. Leuconostoc, Pediococcus, and Weissella were also dominant. Plate counts detected neither the presence of Pseudomonas nor members of the Enterobacteriaceae family, and LAB levels were, on average, barely 5.89 Log CFU/g for BL, and 7.33 Log CFU/g for HM sourdoughs. Data suggested that the microorganisms mainly imputable of BAs formation in sourdough are members of the LAB community.
Effects of Ethanol Extracts of Origanum vulgare and Thymus vulgaris on the Mycotoxin Concentrations and the Hygienic Quality of Maize (Zea mays L.) Silage
Authors: Vaičiulienė Gintarė , Bakutis Bronius , Jovaišienė Jurgita , Falkauskas Rimvydas , Gerulis Gediminas , Bartkienė Elena , Klupšaitė Dovilė , Klementavičiūtė Jolita , Baliukonienė Violeta
Published: April 2022

The aim of this study was to assess the usefulness of oregano (Origanum vulgare L.) and thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.) extracts to decrease mycotoxin contents and improve the hygienic quality of maize (Zea mays L.) silage. Under laboratory conditions, maize silage samples were fermented with oregano (OE), thyme (TE), oregano and thyme mixture (MIX), and two commercial inoculants. After 90 days of fermentation, silos were opened and silage samples were taken for evaluation of mycotoxin concentrations and for hygienic quality analysis: assessment of fermentation parameters, the content of biogenic amines, and microbiological status. It was determined that the mycotoxin concentrations decreased differentially: ochratoxin A concentration was below the detection limit after treatment with the TE and MIX extracts, the lowest zearalenone and deoxynivalenol concentrations were achieved with the OE extract treatment, T-2 toxin concentration was significantly lower after treatment with the TE extract, and HT-2 toxin concentration was lower after treatment with the MIX extract. The lowest content of biogenic amines in maize silage was established with the MIX extract. Concerning the silage hygienic quality, the best results of fermentation parameters and microbiological status were also achieved with the MIX extract. The present study indicated that oregano and thyme herbal plant extracts can be used to decrease mycotoxin concentrations and improve the hygienic quality of maize silage.
2.5 Million Annual Deaths—Are Neonates in Low- and Middle-Income Countries Too Small to Be Seen? A Bottom-Up Overview on Neonatal Morbi-Mortality
Authors: Rosa-Mangeret Flavia , Benski Anne-Caroline , Golaz Anne , Zala Persis Z. , Kyokan Michiko , Wagner Noémie , Muhe Lulu M. , Pfister Riccardo E.
Published: April 2022

(1) Background: Every year, 2.5 million neonates die, mostly in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), in total disregard of their fundamental human rights. Many of these deaths are preventable. For decades, the leading causes of neonatal mortality (prematurity, perinatal hypoxia, and infection) have been known, so why does neonatal mortality fail to diminish effectively? A bottom-up understanding of neonatal morbi-mortality and neonatal rights is essential to achieve adequate progress, and so is increased visibility. (2) Methods: We performed an overview on the leading causes of neonatal morbi-mortality and analyzed the key interventions to reduce it with a bottom-up approach: from the clinician in the field to the policy maker. (3) Results and Conclusions: Overall, more than half of neonatal deaths in LMIC are avoidable through established and well-known cost-effective interventions, good quality antenatal and intrapartum care, neonatal resuscitation, thermal care, nasal CPAP, infection control and prevention, and antibiotic stewardship. Implementing these requires education and training, particularly at the bottom of the healthcare pyramid, and advocacy at the highest levels of government for health policies supporting better newborn care. Moreover, to plan and follow interventions, better-quality data are paramount. For healthcare developments and improvement, neonates must be acknowledged as humans entitled to rights and freedoms, as stipulated by international law. Most importantly, they deserve more respectful care.
Cosmological Parameter Estimation Using Current and Future Observations of Strong Gravitational Lensing
Authors: Qi Jing-Zhao , Hu Wei-Hong , Cui Yu , Zhang Jing-Fei , Zhang Xin
Published: April 2022

The remarkable development of cosmology benefits from the increasingly improved measurements of cosmic distances, including absolute distances and relative distances. In recent years, however, the emerged cosmological tensions have motivated us to explore independent and precise late-universe probes. The two observational effects of strong gravitational lensing (SGL), the velocity dispersions of lens galaxies and the time delays between multiple images can provide measurements of relative and absolute distances, respectively, and their combination makes it possible to break the degeneracies between cosmological parameters and enable tight constraints on them. In this paper, we combine the observed 130 SGL systems with velocity-dispersion measurements and 7 SGL systems with time-delay measurements to constrain dark-energy cosmological models. It is found that the combination of the two effects does not significantly break the degeneracies between cosmological parameters as expected. However, with the simulations of 8000 SGL systems with well-measured velocity dispersions and 55 SGL systems with well-measured time delays based on the forthcoming LSST survey, we find that the combination of two effects can significantly break the parameter degeneracies, and make the constraint precision of cosmological parameters meet the standard of precision cosmology. We conclude that the observations of SGL will become a useful late-universe probe for precisely measuring cosmological parameters.
The Spatiality of COVID-19 in Kermanshah Metropolis, Iran
Authors: Zanganeh Alireza , Yenneti Komali , Teimouri Raziyeh , Saeidi Shahram , Najafi Farid , Shakiba Ebrahim , Moghadam Shahrzad , Shadmani Fatemeh Khosravi
Published: April 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic is a severe ongoing health crisisworldwide. Studying the socio-economic impacts of COVID-19 can help policymakers develop successful pandemic management plans. This paper focuses on the spatial epidemiology of COVID-19 among different social classes in the Kermanshah metropolis, Iran. This cross-sectional study uses the data of people infected with COVID-19 in the Kermanshah metropolis in 2020, acquired from the official COVID-19 Registry of Kermanshah. The results show that 2013 people were infected with COVID-19 (male = 1164 and female = 849). The mean age of the patients was 45 ± 18.69. The Moran’s I show that COVID-19 in different social classes was clustered across the neighbourhoods in the Kermanshah metropolis. The mean ages of men and women were 44.51 ± 18.62 and 45.69 ± 18.76, respectively. Importantly, COVID-19 was highly prevalent in the middle-class groups. Age group comparisons indicate that older people were the most infected in poorer neighbourhoods. In the middle-classtheage group of 0–14 years and in the rich neighbourhoods the age group of 15–64 years were the most exposed to the disease. The findings of this study suggest that older people and lower socioeconomic classes should be prioritised while developing and implementing preventative programs for COVID-19 and similar pandemics.
Using Artificial Intelligence for the Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer: The Paper of Yuichiro Oishi et al. Is a Step Forward on the Way of Precision Medicine
Authors: Rizzo Michele , Liguori Giovanni , Trombetta Carlo
Published: April 2022

Yuichiro Oishi et al [...]
Delta Variant of SARS-CoV-2 Replacement in Brazil: A National Epidemiologic Surveillance Program
Authors: Silva Joice P. , de Lima Aline B. , Alvim Luige B. , Malta Frederico S. V. , Mendonça Cristiane P. T. B. , Fonseca Paula L. C. , Moreira Filipe R. R. , Queiroz Daniel C. , Ferreira Jorge G. G. , Ferreira Alessandro C. S. , Souza Renan P. , Aguiar Renato S. , Zauli Danielle A. G.
Published: April 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused immeasurable impacts on the health and socioeconomic system. The real-time identification and characterization of new Variants of Concern (VOCs) are critical to comprehend its emergence and spread worldwide. In this sense, we carried out a national epidemiological surveillance program in Brazil from April to October 2021. Genotyping by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and sequencing were performed to monitor the dynamics and dissemination of VOCs in samples from 15 federative units. Delta VOC was first detected on June 2021 and took sixteen weeks to replace Gamma. To assess the transmissibility potential of Gamma and Delta VOCs, we studied the dynamics of RT-qPCR cycle threshold (Ct) score in the dominance period of each variant. The data suggest that Delta VOC has a higher transmission rate than Gamma VOC. We also compared relevant symptom patterns in individuals infected with both VOCs. The Delta-infected subjects were less likely to have low oxygen saturation or fatigue, altered results on chest computed tomography, and a propensity for altered X-rays. Altogether, we described the replacement of Gamma by Delta, Delta enhanced transmissibility, and differences in symptom presentation.
The World of Antiherpetic Vaccines and Drugs, 2022
Authors: Margulies Barry J.
Published: April 2022

The world of antiherpetics has grown by leaps and bounds since the discovery of what would become the first antiherpetic drug in 1964 [...]
Comparison of Patients Monoinfected with Hepatitis C Virus and Coinfected with Hepatitis B/C in the Amazon Region of Brazil
Authors: Sampaio Regiane M. A. , Dantas Paola Eduarda F. , da Silva Maria Inês C. , da Silva Joseane R. , Nunes Patrícia F. , Gomes Amanda C. , Martins Luisa C.
Published: April 2022

Hepatitis B and C are the most common causes of liver disease worldwide. The two infections share many similarities such as a global distribution, the same routes of transmission, hepatotropism, and the ability to cause chronic infection. The consequences of HBV/HCV coinfection are still being studied. The aim of this study is to describe and compare the epidemiological and laboratory profile and the degree of hepatic fibrosis between HCV-monoinfected and HBV/HCV-coinfected patients in the Brazilian Amazon region. ELISA tests were used for the investigation of HBV and HCV serological markers, and molecular tests were used for the detection and genotyping of these viruses. Additionally, transaminases were measured, and a FibroScan was performed for the analysis of liver function. A total of 328 patients with HCV participated in the study. The serological prevalence of HCV/HBV coinfection was 10.77%. A comparison of risk factors between the monoinfected and coinfected groups showed that illicit drug use, sharing sharp instruments, and tattooing/piercing are significantly associated with coinfection. The monoinfected patients had a higher HCV load than the coinfected patients. A viral interaction was observed in this study in which the presence of a coinfection with HBV appears to influence HCV replication. Further studies are necessary to better understand this interaction.
Pathogenic Mechanism of a Highly Virulent Infectious Hematopoietic Necrosis Virus in Head Kidney of Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) Analyzed by RNA-Seq Transcriptome Profiling
Authors: Kim Jinwoo , Cho Miyoung , Lim Jongwon , Choi Hyeseong , Hong Suhee
Published: April 2022

Infectious hematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV) is a pathogen that causes high rates of mortality in salmonid fishes. Therefore, an RNA-seq-based transcriptome analysis was performed in the head kidney of rainbow trout infected with a highly virulent IHNV strain to understand the pathogenesis of and defense strategies for IHNV infection in rainbow trout. The results showed that the numbers of DEGs were 618, 2626, and 774 (control vs. IHNV) on days 1, 3, and 5, respectively. Furthermore, the enrichment analysis of gene ontology (GO) annotations to classify DEGs showed that GO terms considerably associated with DEGs were gluconeogenesis, inflammatory response, and cell adhesion in the Biological Process (BP) category, apical plasma membrane, extracellular matrix (ECM) in the Cellular Component category, and transporter activity, integrin binding, and protein homodimerization activity in the Molecular Function category, on days 1, 3, and 5, respectively. Notably, GO terms in the BP category, including the negative regulation of type I interferon production and positive regulation of interleukin-1β secretion, were commonly identified at all time points. In the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis, complement and coagulation cascades were commonly identified at all time points. Importantly, the widely recognized GO terms and KEGG pathways extensively linked to DEGs were related to energy metabolism on day 1, the immune response on day 3, and cell proliferation on day 5. Furthermore, protein–protein interaction networks and centrality analysis showed that the metabolism and signaling transduction pathways were majorly upregulated. Conclusively, the virulent IHNV infection drives pathogenesis by activating the metabolic energy pathway for energy use for viral replication, facilitating necrosis through autophagy, and causing a shutoff response of the host immune system through the downregulation of type I IFN at the initial stage of infection.
Virome of Three Termite Species from Southern Vietnam
Authors: Litov Alexander G. , Zueva Anna I. , Tiunov Alexei V. , Van Thinh Nguyen , Belyaeva Natalia V. , Karganova Galina G.
Published: April 2022

Modern metagenomic approaches enable the effective discovery of novel viruses in previously unexplored organisms. Termites are significant ecosystem converters and influencers. As with the majority of tropical forest insects, termites are studied insufficiently, and termite virome remains especially understudied. Here, we studied the virome of lichenophagous and mycophagous termites (Hospitalitermes bicolor, Macrotermes carbonarius and Odontotermes wallonensis) collected in the Cat Tien National Park (Vietnam). We assembled four full genomes of novel viruses related to Solemoviridae, Lispiviridae, Polycipiviridae and Kolmioviridae. We also found several contigs with relation to Chuviridae and Deltaflexiviridae that did not correspond to complete virus genomes. All the novel viruses clustered phylogenetically with previously identified viruses of the termites. Deltaflexi-like contigs were identified in the fungi-cultivating M. carbonarius and showed homology with viruses recently discovered in the edible basidiomycete mushrooms.
Special Issue “State-of-the-Art Plant–Virus Interactions in Asia”
Authors: Hsu Yau-Heiu
Published: April 2022

As rivals over the long history of co-evolution, viruses and host plants have each developed specialized strategies and machineries to cope with the rivalry [...]
Reply to Zrelovs et al. PVJ1 Is Not the First Tailed Temperate Phage Infecting Bacteria from Genus Psychrobacillus. Comment on “Liu et al. Isolation and Characterization of the First Temperate Virus Infecting Psychrobacillus from Marine Sediments. Viruses 2022, 14, 108”
Authors: Liu Wang , Zheng Xiaowei , Dai Xin , Zhang Zhenfeng , Zhang Wenyan , Xiao Tian , Huang Li
Published: April 2022

We thank Zrelovs et al. [...]
Rotaviruses: From Pathogenesis to Disease Control—A Critical Review
Authors: Omatola Cornelius A. , Olaniran Ademola O.
Published: April 2022

Since their first recognition in human cases about four decades ago, rotaviruses have remained the leading cause of acute severe dehydrating diarrhea among infants and young children worldwide. The WHO prequalification of oral rotavirus vaccines (ORV) a decade ago and its introduction in many countries have yielded a significant decline in the global burden of the disease, although not without challenges to achieving global effectiveness. Poised by the unending malady of rotavirus diarrhea and the attributable death cases in developing countries, we provide detailed insights into rotavirus biology, exposure pathways, cellular receptors and pathogenesis, host immune response, epidemiology, and vaccination. Additionally, recent developments on the various host, viral and environmental associated factors impacting ORV performance in low-and middle-income countries (LMIC) are reviewed and their significance assessed. In addition, we review the advances in nonvaccine strategies (probiotics, candidate anti-rotaviral drugs, breastfeeding) to disease prevention and management.
NF-κB-Induced R-Loops and Genomic Instability in HTLV-1-Infected and Adult T-Cell Leukemia Cells
Authors: Giam Chou-Zen , Pasupala Nagesh
Published: April 2022

Human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is a human delta retrovirus that causes adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL) in 3–5% of the infected population after decades of clinical latency. HTLV-1 Tax is a potent activator of IKK/NF-κB and a clastogen. While NF-κB activities are associated with cell survival and proliferation, constitutive NF-κB activation (NF-κB hyperactivation) by Tax leads to senescence and oncogenesis. Until recently, the mechanisms underlying the DNA damage and senescence induced by Tax and NF-κB were unknown. Current data indicate that NF-κB hyperactivation by Tax causes the accumulation of a nucleic acid structure known as an R-loop. R-loop excision by the transcription-coupled nucleotide excision repair (TC-NER) endonucleases, Xeroderma pigmentosum F (XPF), and XPG, in turn, promotes DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs). NF-κB blockade prevents Tax-induced R-loop accumulation, DNA damage, and senescence. In the same vein, the silencing of XPF and XPG mitigates Tax senescence, while deficiency in either or both frequently occurs in ATL of all types. ATL cells maintain constitutively active NF-κB, accumulate R-loops, and resist Tax-induced senescence. These results suggest that ATL cells must have acquired adaptive changes to prevent senescence and benefit from the survival and proliferation advantages conferred by Tax and NF-κB. In this review, the roles of R-loops in Tax- and NF-κB-induced DNA DSBs, senescence, and ATL development, and the epigenetic and genetic alterations that arise in ATL to reduce R-loop-associated DNA damage and avert senescence will be discussed.
Recombinant ASF Live Attenuated Virus Strains as Experimental Vaccine Candidates
Authors: Gladue Douglas P. , Borca Manuel V.
Published: April 2022

African swine fever (ASF) is causing a pandemic affecting swine in a large geographical area of the Eastern Hemisphere, from Central Europe to East and Southeast Asia, and recently in the Americas, the Dominican Republic and Haiti. The etiological agent, ASF virus (ASFV), infects both domestic and wild swine and produces a variety of clinical presentations depending on the virus strain and the genetics of the pigs infected. No commercial vaccines are currently available, although experimental recombinant live attenuated vaccine candidates have been shown to be efficacious in protecting animals against disease when challenged with homologous virulent strains. This review attempts to systematically provide an overview of all the live attenuated strains that have been shown to be experimental vaccine candidates. Moreover, it aims to analyze the development of these vaccine candidates, obtained by deleting specific genes or group of genes, and their efficacy in preventing virus infection and clinical disease after being challenged with virulent isolates. This report summarizes all the experimental vaccine strains that have shown promise against the contemporary pandemic strain of African swine fever.
Genetic Associations and Differential mRNA Expression Levels of Host Genes Suggest a Viral Trigger for Endemic Pemphigus Foliaceus
Authors: Hoch Valéria Bumiller-Bini , Kohler Ana Flávia , Augusto Danillo G. , Lobo-Alves Sara Cristina , Malheiros Danielle , Cipolla Gabriel Adelman , Boldt Angelica Beate Winter , Braun-Prado Karin , Wittig Michael , Franke Andre , Pföhler Claudia , Worm Margitta , van Beek Nina , Goebeler Matthias , Sárdy Miklós , Ibrahim Saleh , Busch Hauke , Schmidt Enno , Hundt Jennifer Elisabeth , Araujo-Souza Patrícia Savio de , Petzl-Erler Maria Luiza
Published: April 2022

The long search for the environmental trigger of the endemic pemphigus foliaceus (EPF, fogo selvagem) has not yet resulted in any tangible findings. Here, we searched for genetic associations and the differential expression of host genes involved in early viral infections and innate antiviral defense. Genetic variants could alter the structure, expression sites, or levels of the gene products, impacting their functions. By analyzing 3063 variants of 166 candidate genes in 227 EPF patients and 194 controls, we found 12 variants within 11 genes associated with differential susceptibility (p < 0.005) to EPF. The products of genes TRIM5, TPCN2, EIF4E, EIF4E3, NUP37, NUP50, NUP88, TPR, USP15, IRF8, and JAK1 are involved in different mechanisms of viral control, for example, the regulation of viral entry into the host cell or recognition of viral nucleic acids and proteins. Only two of nine variants were also associated in an independent German cohort of sporadic PF (75 patients, 150 controls), aligning with our hypothesis that antiviral host genes play a major role in EPF due to a specific virus–human interaction in the endemic region. Moreover, CCL5, P4HB, and APOBEC3G mRNA levels were increased (p < 0.001) in CD4+ T lymphocytes of EPF patients. Because there is limited or no evidence that these genes are involved in autoimmunity, their crucial role in antiviral responses and the associations that we observed support the hypothesis of a viral trigger for EPF, presumably a still unnoticed flavivirus. This work opens new frontiers in searching for the trigger of EPF, with the potential to advance translational research that aims for disease prevention and treatment.
Vaccines against Infectious Diseases and Cancer
Authors: Sousa Ângela , Soares Christiane P. , Venuti Aldo
Published: April 2022

We live on a planet marked by remarkable health disparities [...]
Identification of Barriers Limiting the Use of Preventive Vaccinations against Influenza among the Elderly Population: A Cross-Sectional Analysis
Authors: Pietraszek Alicja , Sobieszczańska Małgorzata , Makuch Sebastian , Dróżdż Mateusz , Mazur Grzegorz , Agrawal Siddarth
Published: April 2022

Older adults are at a high risk of experiencing severe complications of influenza. Receiving a vaccination is a beneficial strategy to prevent the disease and reduce the severity of influenza illnesses. This cross-sectional questionnaire-based study aimed to evaluate the influence of sociodemographic, clinical, and mental parameters as well as other potential risk factors on refusal to vaccinate against influenza among the elderly population in Poland. Furthermore, due to the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic, we put efforts into finding any statistical correlations between the fear of COVID-19 infection in patients and their attitudes toward receiving an influenza vaccination. The study was conducted in November–December 2020 in Poland on a representative nationwide sample of 500 individuals aged > 60. Of the respondents, 62 (12.4%) and 51 (10.2%) underwent influenza vaccination in 2019 and 2020, respectively. Out of ten different factors analyzed in this study, three were significantly associated with attitudes towards influenza vaccination. Participants with net income below the national average of PLN 3000 (OR = 2.37, CI 95% [1.26–4.47]), compared to those earning more than PLN 3000, had significantly higher odds of having a negative attitude towards influenza vaccination. Furthermore, respondents with <174 cm height (OR = 2.56, CI 95% [1.51–4.33]) and those with strong fear of COVID-19 infection (OR = 1.65, CI95% [1.02–2.66]) were also more likely to refrain from influenza vaccination. We believe the identification of factors limiting the willingness to receive influenza vaccination is an effective way to help clinicians focus their efforts on educating the groups of patients with the highest odds of refusing to receive the vaccine. Moreover, it may aid the design and enforcement of national solutions or the implementation of novel legislative measures and preventive programs, increasing public confidence and promoting vaccination, especially among groups at high risk of developing this disease.
Willingness to Receive a COVID-19 Vaccine and Associated Factors among Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Survey in Shanghai, China
Authors: Wu Linlin , Wang Xiaolan , Li Ruiping , Huang Zhuoying , Guo Xiang , Liu Jiechen , Yan Han , Sun Xiaodong
Published: April 2022

Background: Older individuals have a high risk of morbidity and mortality due to COVID-19, and one of the most effective ways to prevent COVID-19 is vaccination. Little is known about older people’s willingness to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the acceptance of and factors influencing the intention to receive a COVID-19 vaccination among older adults in Shanghai, China. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among older adults (≥60 years old) in Shanghai. Face-to-face interviews with a questionnaire were conducted in community health service centers, recording several parameters: demographic information, health-related factors; perceived likelihood, severity, and burden of COVID-19; perceived safety, effectiveness, necessity, and benefit of the COVID-19 vaccine, as well as their trust in the vaccine delivery system and doctors; willingness to receive a COVID-19 vaccination. Bivariate analysis between several survey items and the willingness to receive a COVID-19 vaccination was conducted using a chi-square test. Logistic regression was used to assess to what degree each variable affected the willingness to receive a COVID-19 vaccination. Results: Of the 1067 participants, 90.91% (970/1067) confirmed that they were willing to receive a COVID-19 vaccination. The participants were more likely to be willing to be vaccinated if they were immigrants (OR = 1.988, 95%CI = 1.062–3.717), had an education level of junior high school (OR = 2.724, 95%CI = 1.000–7.423) or high school or above (OR = 3.993, 95%CI = 1.576–10.119), and had a monthly income of CNY 3000–5000 (OR = 32.770, 95%CI = 1.144–6.711) or CNY >5000 (OR = 2.309, 95%CI = 1.003–5.319). The participants were also more likely to be willing to be vaccinated if they had received a pneumonia vaccination previously (OR = 2.138, 95%CI = 1.016–4.500), perceived the safety of the COVID-19 vaccine (OR = 1.508, 95%CI = 1.073–2.119), perceived the necessity of the COVID-19 vaccine (OR = 2.604, 95%CI = 1.946–3.484), or trusted the suggestions of doctors (OR = 1.706, 95%CI = 1.115–2.618). The participants were less likely to be willing to be vaccinated if they were aged ≥76 years (OR = 0.498, 95%CI = 0.264–0.939), reported a physical health condition of bad or below (OR = 0.229, 95% CI = 0.095–0.549), or were worried about the adverse effects of a COVID-19 vaccination (OR = 0.503, 95%CI = 0.364–0.695). Conclusions: Under the free vaccination policy for COVID-19, older adults have a high intention to be vaccinated to prevent COVID-19 in Shanghai, China. Widely publicizing the safety and necessity of COVID-19 vaccination is necessary.
Clinical and Immunologic Efficacy of the Recombinant Adenovirus Type-5-Vectored (CanSino Bio) Vaccine in University Professors during the COVID-19 Delta Wave
Authors: Guzmán-López Santos , Darwich-Salazar Armine , Bocanegra-Ibarias Paola , Salas-Treviño Daniel , Flores-Treviño Samantha , Pérez-Alba Eduardo , Nuzzolo-Shihadeh Laura M. , Pérez-Rodríguez Edelmiro , Camacho-Ortiz Adrián
Published: April 2022

Information regarding the efficacy of the recombinant adenovirus type-5-vectored (CanSino Bio) vaccine against the COVID-19 disease in a real-life setting is limited. A retrospective cohort study was carried out in the teaching university community of the metropolitan area of Monterrey, Mexico, through a four-section survey, and during the COVID-19 delta wave. Determination of IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein was performed in a subset of participants vaccinated with CanSino Bio. A total of 7468 teachers responded to the survey, and 6695 of them were fully vaccinated. Of those, 72.7% had CanSino Bio, 10.3% Pfizer, 8.4% AstraZeneca, 1.2% Moderna, and 2.7% others. Symptomatic breakthrough infections were recorded in those vaccinated with CanSino Bio (4.1%), AstraZeneca (2.1%), and Pfizer (2.2%). No difference was found between CanSino Bio and other vaccines regarding hospitalization, the need for mechanical ventilation, and death. For CanSino Bio recipients, anti-S antibodies were >50 AU/mL in 73.2%. In conclusion, primary breakthrough symptomatic infections were higher in the CanSino vaccinated group compared to other brands. Individuals with a previous infection had higher antibody levels than those who were reinfected and without infection. A boosted dose of CanSino is recommended for those individuals without a previous infection.
Analyses of Public Attention and Sentiments towards Different COVID-19 Vaccines Using Data Mining Techniques
Authors: Mushtaq Muhammad Faheem , Fareed Mian Muhammad Sadiq , Almutairi Mubarak , Ullah Saleem , Ahmed Gulnaz , Munir Kashif
Published: April 2022

COVID-19 is a widely spread disease, and in order to overcome its spread, vaccination is necessary. Different vaccines are available in the market and people have different sentiments about different vaccines. This study aims to identify variations and explore temporal trends in the sentiments of tweets related to different COVID-19 vaccines (Covaxin, Moderna, Pfizer, and Sinopharm). We used the Valence Aware Dictionary and Sentiment Reasoner (VADER) tool to analyze the public sentiments related to each vaccine separately and identify whether the sentiments are positive (compound ≥ 0.05), negative (compound ≤ −0.05), or neutral (−0.05 < compound < 0.05). Then, we analyzed tweets related to each vaccine further to find the time trends and geographical distribution of sentiments in different regions. According to our data, overall sentiments about each vaccine are neutral. Covaxin is associated with 28% positive sentiments and Moderna with 37% positive sentiments. In the temporal analysis, we found that tweets related to each vaccine increased in different time frames. Pfizer- and Sinopharm-related tweets increased in August 2021, whereas tweets related to Covaxin increased in July 2021. Geographically, the highest sentiment score (0.9682) is for Covaxin from India, while Moderna has the highest sentiment score (0.9638) from the USA. Overall, this study shows that public sentiments about COVID-19 vaccines have changed over time and geographically. The sentiment analysis can give insights into time trends that can help policymakers to develop their policies according to the requirements and enhance vaccination programs.
Effectiveness of COVID-19 Vaccines in the General Population of an Italian Region before and during the Omicron Wave
Authors: Acuti Martellucci Cecilia , Flacco Maria Elena , Soldato Graziella , Di Martino Giuseppe , Carota Roberto , Caponetti Antonio , Manzoli Lamberto
Published: April 2022

We performed a cohort analysis of the entire population of Abruzzo, Italy, to evaluate the real-world effectiveness of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines against infection, COVID-19 hospitalization or death, over time and during the Omicron wave. All resident or domiciled subjects were included, and official vaccination, COVID-19, demographic, hospital and co-pay exemption datasets were extracted up to 18 February 2022. Multivariable analyses were adjusted for age, gender, hypertension, diabetes, major cardio- and cerebrovascular events, COPD, kidney diseases, and cancer. During the follow-up (average 244 days), 252,365 subjects received three vaccine doses (of BNT162b2, ChAdOx1 nCoV-19, mRNA-1273 or JNJ-78436735), 684,860 two doses, 29,401 one dose, and 313,068 no dose. Overall, 13.4% of the individuals were infected with SARS-CoV-2 (n = 170,761); 1.1% of them had severe COVID-19, and 0.6% died. Compared with the unvaccinated, those receiving two or three vaccine doses showed an 80% to 90% lower risk of COVID-19 hospitalization or death. Protection decreased during the Omicron wave and six months after the last dose, but it remained substantial. Lethal disease was uncommon during the Omicron wave and in the young population, even among the unvaccinated. Some of the current policies may need a re-evaluation in light of these findings. The results from the Omicron wave will inevitably require confirmation.
Immunological Cross-Protection between Different Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Viruses—Implications for Rabbit Biocontrol and Vaccine Development
Authors: O’Connor Tiffany W. , Read Andrew J. , Hall Robyn N. , Strive Tanja , Kirkland Peter D.
Published: April 2022

The use of rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV) as a biocontrol agent to control feral rabbit populations in Australia, in combination with circulating endemic strains, provides a unique environment to observe the interactions between different lagoviruses competing for the same host. Following the arrival of RHDV2 (GI.2) in Australia, it became necessary to investigate the potential for immunological cross-protection between different variants, and the implications of this for biocontrol programs and vaccine development. Laboratory rabbits of various immune status—(1) rabbits with no detectable immunity against RHDV; (2) rabbits with experimentally acquired immunity after laboratory challenge; (3) rabbits immunised with a GI.2-specific or a multivalent RHDV inactivated virus prototype vaccine; or (4) rabbits with naturally acquired immunity—were challenged with one of three different RHDV variants (GI.1c, GI.1a or GI.2). The degree of cross-protection observed in immune rabbits was associated with the variant used for challenge, infectious dose of the virus and age, or time since acquisition of the immunity, at challenge. The immune status of feral rabbit populations should be determined prior to intentional RHDV release because of the high survival proportions in rabbits with pre-existing immunity. In addition, to protect domestic rabbits in Australia, a multivalent RHDV vaccine should be considered because of the limited cross-protection observed in rabbits given monovalent vaccines.
Influenza Vaccine Utilization: A Comparison between Urban and Rural Counties in Florida
Authors: Alalwan Abdullah A.
Published: April 2022

(1) Background: The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that every person aged six months and over receive the influenza vaccine every year. Previous studies indicate that rural-area residents have less access to preventative health care services. This study aims to examine the variation in influenza vaccine use among rural and urban counties in Florida. (2) Methods: The study studied 24,116 participants from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System database. The study included only patients who live in Florida. We performed logistic regression analysis using survey procedures available in SAS®. Our regression model assessed the association between receiving the influenza vaccine and county status, age, income level, education level, and health coverage. We used ArcGIS software to create prevalence and vaccination maps. (3) Results: Of the total number of the study participants, 45.31% were residents of rural counties, and 54.69% were residents of urban counties. The logistic regression model showed no significant association between residing in rural counties and not receiving influenza vaccine in the past year (−0.05560, p-value = 0.0549). However, we found significant associations between not receiving influenza vaccine and age, high education level, and not having health care coverage (−0.0412, p-value < 0.0001; −0.04462, p-value = 0.0139; and 0.4956, p-value < 0.0001, respectively). (4)Conclusions: Our study did not find an association between influenza vaccine use among rural and urban residence. Increasing age, higher education, and having health care insurance had positive associations with influenza vaccine use.
Acceptance or Rejection of the COVID-19 Vaccine: A Study on Iranian People’s Opinions toward the COVID-19 Vaccine
Authors: Nakhostin-Ansari Amin , Zimet Gregory D. , Khonji Mohammad Saeid , Aghajani Faezeh , Teymourzadeh Azin , Rastegar Kazerooni Amir Ali , Pirayandeh Pendar , Aghajani Reyhaneh , Safari Sepideh , Khalaj Kamand , Memari Amir Hossein
Published: April 2022

We aimed to assess the Iranian people’s attitude and confidence in the COVID-19 vaccine, their concerns about the safety of vaccines, and their reasons for accepting or rejecting the COVID-19 vaccine. We conducted a web-based cross-sectional study with a mixed qualitative–quantitative approach from December 2020 to February 2021. Our questionnaire consisted of a COVID-19 vaccine attitude questionnaire, a COVID-19 vaccine confidence inventory, a modified vaccine safety scale, and questions about participants’ decision to accept or refuse the COVID-19 vaccine, and their explanations for their decisions. The research included 1928 people with an average age of 34.88 years with 1236 (64.1%) being female. A total of 1330 participants desired to have the COVID-19 vaccine (69%). Female gender, lower educational levels, following COVID-19 news through sources other than websites and social media, not following COVID-19 news, and loss of a first-degree relative due to COVID-19 were all associated with a more negative attitude toward the COVID-19 vaccine (p < 0.01). To conclude, the acceptance rate of the COVID-19 vaccine among Iranians is comparable to the international average; however, it is still unfavorable. There are serious challenges to the vaccination program in Iran, such as older adults’ lower intention to undergo the COVID-19 vaccine and misinformation.
Rothia nasimurium as a Cause of Disease: First Isolation from Farmed Geese
Authors: Kang Yuhui , Zhou Hongshan , Jin Wenjie
Published: April 2022

Rothia nasimurium was known previously as an opportunistic pathogen of animals. However, there are few reports regarding the pathogenicity of Rothia nasimurium. In September 2020, geese contracted a disease of unknown cause which brought economic losses to a farm in Jiangsu Province, China, prompting a series of investigations. The bacterium was isolated, cultured, and purified, and then identified using Gram staining, biochemical tests, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry, and 16S rRNA sequence analysis. After determining the obtained bacteria species, antibiotic susceptibility tests and animal regression experiments were carried out. A strain of bacterium was successfully isolated from the livers of the diseased geese, which was identified as a strain of the Gram-positive bacterium Rothia nasimurium according to the 16S rRNA sequencing results. By indexing references, no goose was reported to have been infected with Rothia nasimurium. The antibiotic susceptibility testing showed that only four antibiotics (amikacin, cefazolin, fosfomycin, and ampicillin/sulbactam) could effectively inhibit the growth of the Rothia nasimurium strain. The animal regression experiments showed that the novel isolated strain could infect goslings, and it also causes serious depilation of goslings. The results of the manuscript expanded the range of pathogenic microorganisms in geese, which is helpful to develop methods for avian endemic control.