bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Orbital and Epicyclic Frequencies in Axially Symmetric and Stationary Spacetime
Authors: Turimov Bobur , Rahimov Ozodbek
Published: September 2022

Motivated by observational evidence of the electromagnetic signal from the X-ray binary system known as quasi-periodic oscillations in the light curves of astrophysical black holes or neutron stars, we examined the general relativity and alternative theory of gravity in the strong gravity regime. The orbital and epicyclic motion of test particles in general axially symmetric spacetime was investigated. We provide a general description to derive the exact analytical expressions for the fundamental frequencies, namely, Keplerian epicyclic (radial and vertical) frequencies of test particles in an arbitrary axisymmetric and stationary spacetime. The detailed derivation of the expressions for the orbital and epicyclic frequencies of test particles orbiting around the Kerr–Newman-NUT black hole is also shown.
Characterizing Disabilities in Preschool Aged Children with Congenital Zika Virus Syndrome with the ICF Model
Authors: de Souza Laura Cristina Machado Ribeiro , Ribeiro Carla Trevisan Martins , Hamanaka Tatiana , Ribeiro Luciana Castaneda , de Souza Nathália Crsitina Oliveira , Pone Sheila Moura , Nielsen-Saines Karin , Brickley Elizabeth B. , Moreira Maria Elisabeth Lopes , da Silva Pone Marcos Vinicius
Published: September 2022

Understanding functioning and disabilities in children with Congenital Zika Syndrome (CZS) is essential for health planning. We describe disabilities present in children with CZS followed in a reference hospital in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, based on the biopsychosocial model of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF). This was a cohort study of children >3 years of age with CZS. Disability was characterized through outcomes related to ICF components assessed via clinical and motor development evaluations. Among 50 children, with a median age of 40 months, 47 (94%) presented with severe impairment and 46 (92%) had microcephaly. Damage to the head and neck was found in most children, with abnormal central nervous system imaging universally present. Most children had cognitive impairment (92%), muscle tone problems (90%), and speech deficits (94%). We found movement limitations in all categories but more pervasively (80–94%), in postural transfers and displacements. The main environmental factors identified in the ICF model were the use of products or substances for personal consumption and access to health services. Children with CZS have extremely high rates of disability beyond aged 3 years, particularly regarding motor activity. ICF-based models can contribute to the assessment of health domains.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Update
Authors: Krilov Leonard R. , Roberts Norbert J.
Published: September 2022

Since the initial identification of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in 1956, much has been learned about the epidemiological impact and clinical manifestations of RSV infections [...]
The Interaction between B87 Vaccine Strain and BC6/85 of Infectious Bursa Disease Virus in SPF Chickens
Authors: Chen Ling , Yang Xiaoyue , Song Yafen , Jiang Taozhen
Published: September 2022

This study was initiated to determine the interaction between two infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) strains in the early stages of infection by detection and quantification of IBDV RNA in lymphoid and non-lymphoid tissues. SPF chickens were inoculated with single infection or dual infection by the mild strain B87 followed by the pathogenic strain BC6/85 at 0, 1, 2, and 3 days post-inoculation (dpi) with B87. Real-time RT-PCR assays were developed to examine the viral loads of the tissues collected at various time intervals. The results reveal that B87 could delay the time point of positive detection of the BC6/85 strain in the bursa of Fabricius from 1 dpi to 3 dpi, indicating that B87 interfered with the replication of BC6/85. The interference occurred when BC6/85 was inoculated at 2 dpi and 3 dpi with the B87 strain. Moreover, BC6/85 could affect the proliferation and duration of B87 in SPF chickens. The rates of positive detection for B87 decreased significantly during dual infection. The investigation of the interaction between the two strains is important for the implementation of appropriate control measures.
A Cellular Assay for Spike/ACE2 Fusion: Quantification of Fusion-Inhibitory Antibodies after COVID-19 and Vaccination
Authors: Abdul Fabien , Ribaux Pascale , Caillon Aurélie , Malézieux-Picard Astrid , Prendki Virginie , Vernaz Nathalie , Zhukovsky Nikolay , Delhaes Flavien , Krause Karl-Heinz , Preynat-Seauve Olivier
Published: September 2022

Not all antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 inhibit viral entry, and hence, infection. Neutralizing antibodies are more likely to reflect real immunity; however, certain tests investigate protein/protein interaction rather than the fusion event. Viral and pseudoviral entry assays detect functionally active antibodies but are limited by biosafety and standardization issues. We have developed a Spike/ACE2-dependent fusion assay, based on a split luciferase. Hela cells stably transduced with Spike and a large fragment of luciferase were co-cultured with Hela cells transduced with ACE2 and the complementary small fragment of luciferase. Cell fusion occurred rapidly allowing the measurement of luminescence. Light emission was abolished in the absence of Spike and reduced in the presence of proteases. Sera from COVID-19-negative, non-vaccinated individuals or from patients at the moment of first symptoms did not lead to a significant reduction of fusion. Sera from COVID-19-positive patients as well as from vaccinated individuals reduced the fusion. This assay was more correlated to pseudotyped-based entry assay rather than serology or competitive ELISA. In conclusion, we report a new method measuring fusion-inhibitory antibodies in serum, combining the advantage of a complete Spike/ACE2 interaction active on entry with a high degree of standardization, easily allowing automation in a standard bio-safety environment.
Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus: Molecular Interplays with IFN Response and the Importance of the Model
Authors: Sarry Morgan , Vitour Damien , Zientara Stephan , Bakkali Kassimi Labib , Blaise-Boisseau Sandra
Published: September 2022

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease of cloven-hoofed animals with a significant socioeconomic impact. One of the issues related to this disease is the ability of its etiological agent, foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV), to persist in the organism of its hosts via underlying mechanisms that remain to be elucidated. The establishment of a virus–host equilibrium via protein–protein interactions could contribute to explaining these phenomena. FMDV has indeed developed numerous strategies to evade the immune response, especially the type I interferon response. Viral proteins target this innate antiviral response at different levels, ranging from blocking the detection of viral RNAs to inhibiting the expression of ISGs. The large diversity of impacts of these interactions must be considered in the light of the in vitro models that have been used to demonstrate them, some being sometimes far from biological systems. In this review, we have therefore listed the interactions between FMDV and the interferon response as exhaustively as possible, focusing on both their biological effect and the study models used.
Molecular Mechanisms of MmuPV1 E6 and E7 and Implications for Human Disease
Authors: Romero-Masters James C. , Lambert Paul F. , Munger Karl
Published: September 2022

Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) cause a substantial amount of human disease from benign disease such as warts to malignant cancers including cervical carcinoma, head and neck cancer, and non-melanoma skin cancer. Our ability to model HPV-induced malignant disease has been impeded by species specific barriers and pre-clinical animal models have been challenging to develop. The recent discovery of a murine papillomavirus, MmuPV1, that infects laboratory mice and causes the same range of malignancies caused by HPVs provides the papillomavirus field the opportunity to test mechanistic hypotheses in a genetically manipulatable laboratory animal species in the context of natural infections. The E6 and E7 proteins encoded by high-risk HPVs, which are the HPV genotypes associated with human cancers, are multifunctional proteins that contribute to HPV-induced cancers in multiple ways. In this review, we describe the known activities of the MmuPV1-encoded E6 and E7 proteins and how those activities relate to the activities of HPV E6 and E7 oncoproteins encoded by mucosal and cutaneous high-risk HPV genotypes.
An Overview of the Infectious Cycle of Bunyaviruses
Authors: Boshra Hani
Published: September 2022

Bunyaviruses represent the largest group of RNA viruses and are the causative agent of a variety of febrile and hemorrhagic illnesses. Originally characterized as a single serotype in Africa, the number of described bunyaviruses now exceeds over 500, with its presence detected around the world. These predominantly tri-segmented, single-stranded RNA viruses are transmitted primarily through arthropod and rodent vectors and can infect a wide variety of animals and plants. Although encoding for a small number of proteins, these viruses can inflict potentially fatal disease outcomes and have even developed strategies to suppress the innate antiviral immune mechanisms of the infected host. This short review will attempt to provide an overall description of the order Bunyavirales, describing the mechanisms behind their infection, replication, and their evasion of the host immune response. Furthermore, the historical context of these viruses will be presented, starting from their original discovery almost 80 years ago to the most recent research pertaining to viral replication and host immune response.
Proteome Analysis of Swine Macrophages after Infection with Two Genotype II African Swine Fever Isolates of Different Pathogenicity
Authors: Wöhnke Elisabeth , Cackett Gwenny , Werner Finn , Blome Sandra , Mettenleiter Thomas C. , Karger Axel
Published: September 2022

Since the introduction of a highly pathogenic genotype II isolate of the African swine fever virus (ASFV) into Georgia in 2007, African swine fever (ASF) has gone panzootic. Outbreaks have been reported in Europe, Asia and, more recently, Latin America. Thus, ASFV has become a major threat to the pig industry worldwide, as broadly applicable vaccines are not available. While the majority of ASFV strains show high virulence in domestic pigs and wild boar, variations within the ASFV genome have resulted in the emergence of attenuated strains with low or moderate virulence. However, the molecular basis of the differences in virulence has not yet been discovered. To reveal virulence-associated protein expression patterns, we analysed the proteomes of the natural target cells of ASFV, primary porcine macrophages, after infection with two genotype II ASFV strains displaying high (Armenia 2008) and moderate (Estonia 2014) virulence using quantitative mass spectrometry. Very similar expression patterns were observed for the viral genes, and any differences were limited to the deletions within the Estonia 2014 genome. In addition to the canonical ASFV proteins, twelve novel protein products from recently described transcripts were confirmed in both isolates. Pathway analyses showed that both isolates evoked a similar host proteome response, despite their difference in virulence. However, subtle differences in the manipulation of the proteins involved in the proinflammatory response mediated by the MAPK14/p38 signalling cascade were observed
Geographic Transmission and Epidemic History of HIV-1 CRF01_AE, CRF07_BC, and HCV Subtype-6w among Taiwanese Persons Who Inject Drugs
Authors: Chen Yen-Ju , Huang Jason C. , Tsai Hung-Chin , Lin Yu-Hui , Hsu Kuo-Feng , Liu Hsin-Fu
Published: September 2022

Persons who inject drugs (PWID) and their risk-related behaviors (e.g., unprotected sex and sharing needles/syringes/other injection equipment) have caused severe public health problems, especially in the rapid spread of HIV-1 and HCV. Here, we reconstructed the epidemic history of HIV-1 circulating recombinant form (CRF) 01_AE, CRF07_BC, and HCV subtype-6w among Taiwanese PWID. The timescales were estimated using phylogenetic and Bayesian coalescent analyses. The results revealed that CRF01_AE started to circulate in the Taiwanese PWID population in central Taiwan at 1992.5 (95% credible region: 1988.8–1995.9) and spread to other regions of Taiwan, while CRF07_BC was first identified in southern Taiwan at 2000.0 (95% CR: 1997.8–2002.2) and then spread northward to central-northern Taiwan. All HCV-6 strains were from Asia (that is, China, Myanmar, Taiwan, and Vietnam) and originated in 1928.1 (95% CR: 1890.2–1966.0). Furthermore, subtype-6w isolates from different regions of Taiwan appeared to share a common source that existed in the mid-1990s (95% CR: 1985.0–2001.8) or thereabouts. The routes of drug trafficking and the resulting high prevalence of HIV-1/HCV co-infections among PWID might have contributed to the virus transmission and promoted its spread worldwide. Long-term monitoring and policy implementation in at-risk populations would be useful for disease control.
The Deletion of US3 Gene of Pseudorabies Virus (PRV) ΔgE/TK Strain Induces Increased Immunogenicity in Mice
Authors: Deng Meng-Meng , Sun Ya-Wei , Ding Chen-Meng , Xu Xi-Ya , Guo Zi-Yi , Han Zi-Wei , Lv Chen-Zhe , Qi Jiang-Kun , Li Yong-Tao , Yang Xia , Yu Lin-Yang , Chen Lu
Published: September 2022

Re-emerging pseudorabies (PR) caused by pseudorabies virus (PRV) variant has been prevailing among immunized herds in China since 2011, indicating that commercially available PR vaccine strains couldn’t provide complete protection against novel, epidemic PRV variant. Before this study, a gE/TK-gene-deleted virus (PRV ΔgE/TK) was constructed from PRV QYY2012 variant through homologous recombination and Cre/LoxP system. Here, PRV ΔgE/TK/US3 strain was generated by deleting US3 gene based on PRV ΔgE/TK strain using the same method. The growth characteristics of PRV ΔgE/TK/US3 were analogous to that of PRV ΔgE/TK. Moreover, the deletion of US3 gene could promote apoptosis, upregulate the level of swine leukocyte antigen class I molecule (SLA-I) in vitro, and relieve inflammatory response in inoculated BALB/c mice. Subsequently, the safety and immunogenicity of PRV ΔgE/TK/US3 was evaluated as a vaccine candidate in mice. The results revealed that PRV ΔgE/TK/US3 was safe for mice, and mice vaccinated with PRV ΔgE/TK/US3 could induce a higher level of PRV-specific neutralizing antibodies and cytokines, including IFN-γ, IL-2 and IL-4, also higher level of CD8+ CD69+ Tissue-Resident Memory T cells (TRM). The results show that the deletion of US3 gene of PRV ΔgE/TK strain could induce increased immunogenicity, indicating that the PRV ΔgE/TK/US3 strain is a promising vaccine candidate for preventing and controlling of the epidemic PR in China.
Knowledge and Acceptance of the COVID-19 Vaccine for COVID-19 Disease Prevention among the Indian Population: A Mixed-Method Study
Authors: Taneja Pratibha , Marya Charu Mohan , Kashyap Parul , Kataria Sakshi , Nagpal Ruchi , Karobari Mohmed Isaqali , Marya Anand
Published: September 2022

Aim: To assess the Knowledge and Acceptance of the COVID vaccine among the Indian population. Materials and methods: The present mixed-method study was conducted in two phases. The first phase: quantitative assessment of knowledge and acceptance for the COVID-19 vaccine using an E survey (N = 606). The second phase: qualitative assessment using semi-structured face-to-face interviews with the study participants (N = 30) and assessment was done using a thematic approach. Study participants were selected using the convenience sampling method. Results: It was found that a large proportion of subjects in the 16–25 year of age group knew the cause of disease. But knowledge about its transmission process was found to be more in >60 years of age gap and almost all the participants in all the age group preferred Covishield. The vaccine acceptance rate was found to be low as compared to the knowledge. Conclusion: Most study participants were found to have satisfactory knowledge, but acceptance rate was comparatively lesser. Hence, more information and awareness campaigns must be launched reassuring the population about vaccine safety.
Knowledge of SARS-CoV-2 Epitopes and Population HLA Types Is Important in the Design of COVID-19 Vaccines
Authors: Lani Rafidah , Senin Nurul Aqidah , AbuBakar Sazaly , Hassandarvish Pouya
Published: September 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused extensive loss of lives and economic hardship. In response, infectious disease experts and vaccine developers promptly responded by bringing forth candidate vaccines, some of which have been listed in the World Health Organization’s Emergency Use Listing. Notwithstanding the diverse worldwide population genetics, the vaccines thus far developed are generic in nature for use worldwide. Differences in the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) in different populations, variation of the T cell epitopes, and the propensity of SARS-CoV-2 genetic mutations left room for improvement of the vaccines. Here, we discussed the implications of COVID-19 vaccination and SARS-CoV-2 infection by taking into consideration SARS-CoV-2 mutations, T cell epitopes, risk factors, and current platforms of candidate vaccines based on the HLA types that are commonly present in Peninsular Malaysia Chinese, Indian, and Malay populations. The HLA types associated with protection against and susceptibility to severe SARS-CoV-2 infection were identified based on reported case-control and cohort studies. The relevance of including the non-spike SARS-CoV-2 proteins in the future COVID-19 vaccines is also highlighted. This review is meant to trigger researchers to acknowledge the importance of investigating the possible relationships between the HLA haplotype and the SARS-CoV-2 strains circulating in different populations.
New Insights into SARS-CoV-2 and Cancer Cross-Talk: Does a Novel Oncogenesis Driver Emerge?
Authors: Rapti Vasiliki , Tsaganos Thomas , Vathiotis Ioannis , Syrigos Nikolaos , Li Peifeng , Poulakou Garyfallia
Published: September 2022

Since the pandemic’s onset, a growing population of individuals has recovered from SARS-CoV-2 infection and its long-term effects in some of the convalescents are gradually being reported. Although the precise etiopathogenesis of post-acute COVID-19 sequelae (PACS) remains elusive, the mainly accepted rationale is that SARS-CoV-2 exerts long-lasting immunomodulatory effects, promotes chronic low-grade inflammation, and causes irreversible tissue damage. So far, several viruses have been causally linked to human oncogenesis, whereas chronic inflammation and immune escape are thought to be the leading oncogenic mechanisms. Excessive cytokine release, impaired T-cell responses, aberrant activation of regulatory signaling pathways (e.g., JAK-STAT, MAPK, NF-kB), and tissue damage, hallmarks of COVID-19 disease course, are also present in the tumor microenvironment. Therefore, the intersection of COVID-19 and cancer is partially recognized and the long-term effects of the virus on oncogenesis and cancer progression have not been explored yet. Herein, we present an up-to-date review of the current literature regarding COVID-19 and cancer cross-talk, as well as the oncogenic pathways stimulated by SARS-CoV-2.
Comparison of Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG Antibody Responses Generated by the Administration of Ad26.COV2.S, AZD1222, BNT162b2, or CoronaVac: Longitudinal Prospective Cohort Study in the Colombian Population, 2021/2022
Authors: Malagón-Rojas Jeadran , Mercado-Reyes Marcela , Toloza-Pérez Yesith G. , Galindo Marisol , Palma Ruth M. , Catama Jenssy , Bedoya Juan F. , Parra-Barrera Eliana L. , Meneses Ximena , Barbosa Juliana , Tavera-Rodríguez Pilar , Bermúdez-Forero Andrea , Ospina-Martínez Martha Lucía
Published: September 2022

To mitigate the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), vaccines have been rapidly developed and introduced in many countries. In Colombia, the population was vaccinated with four vaccines. Therefore, this research aimed to determine the ability of the vaccines introduced in the National Vaccination Plan to prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection and induce seroconversion and sought to investigate the longevity of antibodies in the blood. We conducted a prospective, nonprobabilistic, consecutive cross-sectional cohort study in a population with access to vaccination with CoronaVac, Ad26.COV2.S, AZD1222, and BNT162b2 from March 2021 to March 2022. The study included 1327 vaccinated people. A plurality of participants were vaccinated with BNT162b2 (36.1%; n = 480), followed by Ad26.COV2.S (26.9%; n = 358), CoronaVac (24%; n = 331), and AZD1222 (11.9%; n = 158). The crude seroprevalence on day zero varied between 18.1% and 57.8%. Participants who received BNT162b2 had a lower risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection than those who received the other vaccines. Participants who were immunized with BNT162b2 and AZD1222 had a higher probability of losing reactivity on day 210 after receiving the vaccine.
Influenza Vaccine Uptake in the United States before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: McGovern Ian , Bogdanov Alina , Cappell Katherine , Whipple Sam , Haag Mendel
Published: September 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic, along with disruptions to routine medical care, brought renewed urgency to public health messaging about the importance of influenza vaccination. This retrospective cohort study used a database of linked claims and electronic medical record data to evaluate clinical and demographic characteristics and influenza vaccination history associated with changes in influenza vaccine uptake following the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Influenza vaccine uptake was examined in six seasons (2015–2016 through 2020–2021). Individuals were grouped by vaccination history in the five seasons before 2020–2021. Characteristics of 2020–2021 vaccinated vs. unvaccinated individuals were compared, stratified by vaccination history. Overall influenza vaccination uptake was highest in 2020–2021 (35.4%), following a trend of increasing uptake since 2016–2017 (31.4%). Uptake in 2020–2021 was observed in all age groups except ≥65 years, and the increase was particularly notable in individuals <18 years. In the previous five seasons, individuals ≤17 and >65 years, White, and Asian individuals were most likely, while 18-to-49-year-olds and those with fewer comorbidities were least likely, to be consistently vaccinated. Influenza vaccination status in 2020–2021 aligned with vaccination history; few differences in patient characteristics (age, comorbidities, state of residence) were observed when stratified by vaccination history.
Allergic Reactions to COVID-19 Vaccination in High-Risk Allergic Patients: The Experience of Trieste University Hospital (North-Eastern Italy)
Authors: Filon Francesca Larese , Lazzarato Ilaria , Patriarca Emilia , Iavernig Thomas , Peratoner Alberto , Perri Giuseppe , Ponis Giuliano , Rocco Giulio , Cegolon Luca
Published: September 2022

Background. Allergic patients may develop reactions following COVID-19 vaccination more frequently than non-allergic individuals. The aim of our study was to assess the risk of reactions in high-risk allergic patients vaccinated for COVID-19 at the University Health Agency Giuliano-Isontina (ASUGI) of Trieste (northeastern Italy). Methods. Patients were considered at high risk for allergic reactions in case of: prior anaphylactic reaction to any drug/vaccine; multiple drug allergy; intolerance to polyethylene glycol (PEG) or polysorbate 80 (PS80) containing drugs; and mast cell disorders. High-risk allergic patients were immunized in hospital by a dedicated allergy team supported by resuscitation staff. Patients were interviewed over the phone one month after vaccination to complete a structured questionnaire investigating signs and symptoms developed after immunization. Results. From March 2021 to February 2022, 269 patients with a history of severe allergic reactions were assessed, of whom 208 (77.3%) eventually received COVID-19 vaccination, 50 (18.6%) refused to be immunized, 10 (3.7%) were deferred for medical reasons and one was declared exempted due to testing positive for PS80. Mild reactions (urticaria, angioedema, rhinitis, erythema) to COVID-19 vaccines were reported by 30.3% of patients, 8.7% within 4 h and 21.6% > 4 h after immunization. No anaphylactic events were observed. Although they were 80 times (3.8%) more prevalent than in COVID-19 vaccinees from the general population (0.047%), vaccine allergic reactions in high-risk patients were mainly mild and late, more likely affecting women (OR = 3.05; 95% CI 1.22–7.65). Conclusions. High-risk allergic patients with urticaria and angioedema may experience mild flare-ups of mast cell activation-like symptoms following COVID-19 vaccination, supporting antihistamine premedication before vaccination and to be continued for one week afterwards.
Acetylsalicylic Acid and Salicylic Acid Inhibit SARS-CoV-2 Replication in Precision-Cut Lung Slices
Authors: Geiger Nina , König Eva-Maria , Oberwinkler Heike , Roll Valeria , Diesendorf Viktoria , Fähr Sofie , Obernolte Helena , Sewald Katherina , Wronski Sabine , Steinke Maria , Bodem Jochen
Published: September 2022

Aspirin, with its active compound acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), shows antiviral activity against rhino- and influenza viruses at high concentrations. We sought to investigate whether ASA and its metabolite salicylic acid (SA) inhibit SARS-CoV-2 since it might use similar pathways to influenza viruses. The compound-treated cells were infected with SARS-CoV-2. Viral replication was analysed by RTqPCR. The compounds suppressed SARS-CoV-2 replication in cell culture cells and a patient-near replication system using human precision-cut lung slices by two orders of magnitude. While the compounds did not interfere with viral entry, it led to lower viral RNA expression after 24 h, indicating that post-entry pathways were inhibited by the compounds.
Systems Vaccinology in HIV Vaccine Development
Authors: Zhang Jielin , Askenase Philip , Crumpacker Clyde S.
Published: September 2022

Themes of discussions in the Special Issue of T Cell Immunity and HIV-1 Pathogenicity are outlined here [...]
Glaucoma Cases Following SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination: A VAERS Database Analysis
Authors: Singh Rohan Bir , Parmar Uday Pratap Singh , Cho Wonkyung , Ichhpujani Parul
Published: September 2022

Background: To counter the rapidly spreading severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), global vaccination efforts were initiated in December 2020. We assess the risk of glaucoma following SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and evaluate its onset interval and clinical presentations in patients. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of the glaucoma cases reported to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) database between 16 December 2020, and 30 April 2022. We assessed the crude reporting rate of glaucoma, clinical presentations, onset duration, and associated risk factors. Results: During this period, 161 glaucoma cases were reported, with crude reporting rates (per million doses) of 0.09, 0.06, and 0.07 for BNT162b2, mRNA-1273, and Ad26.COV2.S, respectively. The mean age of the patients was 60.41 ± 17.56 years, and 67.7% were women. More than half (56.6%) of the cases were reported within the first week of vaccination. The cumulative-incidence analysis showed a higher risk of glaucoma in patients who received the BNT162b2 vaccines compared with mRNA-1273 (p = 0.05). Conclusions: The incidence of glaucoma following vaccination with BNT162b2, mRNA-1273, or Ad26.COV2.S is extremely rare. Amongst the patients diagnosed with glaucoma, the onset interval of adverse events was shorter among those who received the BNT162b2 and rAd26.COV2.S vaccines compared with mRNA-1273. Most glaucoma cases were reported within the first week following vaccination in female patients and from the fifth to seventh decade. This study provides insights into the possible temporal association between reported glaucoma events and SARS-CoV-2 vaccines; however, further investigations are required to identify the potential causality link and pathological mechanisms.
Modelling the Transmission of Coxiella burnetii within a UK Dairy Herd: Investigating the Interconnected Relationship between the Parturition Cycle and Environment Contamination
Authors: Patsatzis Dimitrios G. , Wheelhouse Nick , Tingas Efstathios-Al.
Published: September 2022

Q fever infection in dairy herds is introduced through the transmission of the bacterium Coxiella burnetii, resulting in multiple detrimental effects such as reduction of lactation, abortions and chronic infection. Particularly in the UK, recent evidence suggests that the infection is endemic in dairy cattle. In this work, we investigate the dynamics of the disease with the aim to disentangle the relationship between the heterogeneity in the shedding routes and their effect on the environmental contamination. We develop a mathematical model for the transmission of Q fever within UK cattle herds by coupling the within-herd infection cycle of the disease with farm demographics and environmental effects, introduced by either the indoor or outdoor environment. Special focus is given on the mechanism of transmission in nulliparous heifers and multiparous cattle. We calibrate the model based on available knowledge on various epidemiological aspects of the disease and on data regarding farm demographics available in the UK DEFRA. The resulting model is able to reproduce the reported prevalence levels by field and in silico studies, as well as their evolution in time. In addition, it is built in an manner that allows the investigation of different housing techniques, farm management styles and a variety of interventions. Sensitivity analysis further reveals the parameters having the major effect in maintaining high prevalence levels of seropositive and shedding cattle. The present analysis aims also to indicate the gaps in the available data required to optimise the proposed model or future models that will developed on the basis of the one proposed herein. Finally, the developed model can serve as mathematical proof for the assessment of various interventions for controlling the dynamics of Q fever infection.
Expression of Sex Hormone Receptors in Canine Osteosarcoma
Authors: Dilley Kristyn N. , Wong Alice , Kent Michael S. , Steffey Michele A. , Yellowley Clare E.
Published: September 2022

Sex steroids regulate bone metabolism directly and indirectly through receptors on bone. Estrogen receptors (ER-∝, ER-β), progesterone receptor (PR), and androgen receptor (AR), have been previously identified on human osteosarcoma (OSA) cells, and are considered to influence tumor growth, but their expression and role in canine OSA is unknown. The aim of this study was to characterize sex hormone receptor expression levels in naturally occurring OSA tissue and in three canine OSA cell lines. The expression of ER-α, ER-β, PR, and AR was investigated using RT-PCR. PR expression levels were also quantified in OSA cells cultured under hypoxic conditions or in the presence of estradiol. The effects of progesterone on cell proliferation were quantified. Results demonstrated varying expression levels of these receptors in five OSA subtypes. OSA cell lines demonstrated high gene expression levels of PR and low gene expression levels of ER-α and ER-β and no gene expression of AR. PR expression was increased in OSA cells cultured under hypoxic conditions in a HIF-∝ independent manner. Interestingly, one cell line expressed very high levels of PR, expression of which decreased in response to estradiol. In addition, progesterone decreased OSA cell proliferation in this particular cell line. Further investigation of the role of sex steroids, particularly PR and its ligands, in regulation of canine OSA is recommended.
Exploring a Possible Link between the Fecal Microbiota and the Production Performance of Pigs
Authors: Cao Yanan , Wang Fei , Wang Haifei , Wu Shenglong , Bao Wenbin
Published: September 2022

The backfat thickness of pigs not only affects the physical properties and taste of meat, but it also closely relates to the reproduction performance of sows. Accumulating evidence indicates that, apart from genetic factors, gut microbiota can also modulate the fat deposition and muscle growth. However, the differential microbiota in pigs with different backfat thickness, and whether microbiota affects backfat thickness, remains elusive. Firstly, 16S ribosomal RNA (16S rRNA) gene sequencing was performed on 62 fecal samples from pigs with different backfat thicknesses, and the compositions of microbiota among different groups with different backfat thicknesses were different. The abundance of Lactobacillus. reuteri (L. reuteri) and Prevotella sp RS2 was significantly higher in pigs with low-backfat thickness than that in pigs with middle and high-backfat thickness; meanwhile, the abundance of Desulfovibrio piger was significantly lower (p < 0.05) in pigs with low-backfat thickness. Furthermore, the functional profiling of microbial communities suggested that the abundance of isoquinoline alkaloid biosynthesis and styrene degradation were significantly lower (p < 0.05) in the low-backfat thickness group than that in middle and high-backfat thickness groups. Finally, L. reuteri fed to Meishan piglets was capable of improving the production performance and had the potential to reduce backfat thickness. This study provides new evidence that microbiota can regulate the phenotype of the host, and dietary supplementation with L. reuteri can improve the production performance of piglets.
Detection of Porcine Circovirus Type 2a and Pasteurella multocida Capsular Serotype D in Growing Pigs Suffering from Respiratory Disease
Authors: Du Shuailong , Xu Fan , Lin Yidan , Wang Yawen , Zhang Yanan , Su Kai , Li Tanqing , Li Huanrong , Song Qinye
Published: September 2022

In order to diagnose a respiratory disease in a pig farm, the lungs, spleen, and lymph nodes of three dead pigs were collected for pathogen detection by PCR and isolation on the basis of preliminary clinical diagnosis. The virus isolate was identified by gene sequence analysis and Immunoperoxidase monolayer assay (IPMA). The bacterial isolate was identified by biochemical tests, 16S rDNA sequence analysis, and species- and serotype-specific PCR, and the pathogenicity was analyzed. Porcine circovirus type 2a (PCV2a) genotype from the lungs, spleen, and lymph nodes and Pasteurella (P.) multocida capsular serotypes D from the lungs were found. The PCV2a isolates could specifically bound the anti-PCV2-Cap polyclonal antibody. The 16S rDNA sequence of P. multocida isolates had 99.9% identity with that of the strain from cattle, and the isolate was highly pathogenic to mice. The results showed that the co-infection of PCV2a and P. Multocida capsular serotypes D should be responsible for the disease. The uncommon PCV2a is still prevalent in some pig farms besides the dominant PCV2d genotype. This study could provide important etiological information for effective control and treatment of the disease in pig farms.
Effect and Mechanism of siRNAs Targeting IL-1β/TNF-α Combined with BMSCs Transplantation in Ameliorating Rheumatoid Arthritis in Rats
Authors: Pan Shifeng , Wang Lijun , Wu Bingxing , Xing Hua
Published: September 2022

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) have multilineage differentiation and anti-inflammatory potential, and small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) can inhibit the target gene expression, which make them suitable for ameliorating RA. The current study was aimed to explore the effect and potential mechanisms of siRNAs targeting IL-1β/TNF-α combined with BMSCs transplantation in ameliorating RA in rats. Methods: Collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) model rats were randomly divided into five groups: PBS (Model control group), methotrexate (Positive drug treatment group), BMSCs (BMSCs transplantation group), siRNA (IL-1β/TNF-α siRNAs injection group), siRNA + BMSCs (Both IL-1β/TNF-α siRNAs injection and BMSCs transplantation group). After treatment for 0, 7, 14, 21, 28 days, the ameliorating effect was comprehensively assessed through results of the body weight, toe swelling value, the immobility time of forced swimming, the serum concentrations of IL-1β and TNF-α, knee joint DR-X imaging and pathological analysis as well as of IL-1β, TNF-α and NF-κB mRNA expression in spleen tissue. Furthermore, the potential underlying mechanism involving the NF-κB signaling pathways was also explored. Results: Compared with the PBS group, BMSCs, siRNA, siRNA + BMSCs treatment groups showed significant lower toe swelling value, immobility time, spleen index, serum contents of IL-1β and TNF-α. In addition, the DR-X results showed that the knee carton surface tended to smoothing without bone hyperplasia, suggesting that these three treatments were all able to successfully ameliorate RA symptoms. In addition, compared with the PBS group, the protein expression of p-NF-κB-p65 was significantly reduced in the knees of siRNA + BMSCs rats. BMSCs labeled with BrdU were also found in the knees of rats. Moreover, the mRNA expression of IL-1β, TNF-α and NF-κB-P65 in spleen tissue of siRNA + BMSCs rats were all significantly inhibited. Conclusions: Our results demonstrated for the first time that siRNA + BMSCs was able to ameliorate RA inflammation by inhibiting the activation of NF-κB signaling pathways and reducing the erosion of articular cartilage, and siRNA + BMSCs treatment showed synergism effects in helping ameliorating the inflammation and cartilage repair of RA rats. Therefore, the results of our present study provide a new idea for gene and stem cell therapy for RA.
Emerging Roles of Micrornas in Veterinary Cardiology
Authors: Reis-Ferreira Ana , Neto-Mendes Joana , Brás-Silva Carmen , Lobo Luís , Fontes-Sousa Ana Patrícia
Published: September 2022

Over the last years, the importance of microRNAs (miRNAs) has increasingly been recognised. Each miRNA is a short sequence of non-coding RNA that influences countless genes’ expression and, thereby, contributes to several physiological pathways and diseases. It has been demonstrated that miRNAs participate in the development of many cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This review synopsises the most recent studies emphasising miRNA’s influence in several CVDs affecting dogs and cats. It provides a concise outline of miRNA’s biology and function, the diagnostic potential of circulating miRNAs as biomarkers, and their role in different CVDs. It also discusses known and future roles for miRNAs as potential clinical biomarkers and therapeutic targets. So, this review gives a comprehensive outline of the most relevant miRNAs related to CVDs in Veterinary Medicine.
Current Trends in Diagnosis, Treatment and Prognosis of Canine Insulinoma
Authors: Buishand Floryne O.
Published: September 2022

The most common pancreatic tumour in dogs is the insulinoma. Canine insulinomas are considered to be malignant in more than 95% of the cases because they almost always tend to metastasise. The diagnosis of an insulinoma requires the demonstration of the simultaneous occurrence of hypoglycaemia and blood insulin levels that are within or above the high end of the reference interval. The staging of canine insulinomas is preferably conducted by contrast-enhanced computed tomography. In general, surgical treatment is the most effective because of it results in long survival times, but many dogs also require medical treatment at some point. The prognosis of canine insulinomas is guarded as clinical hypoglycaemia almost always returns due to metastasis or tumour regrowth. This review aims to provide a summary and update the current recommendations in the veterinary literature for the diagnosis, treatment and prognostication of canine insulinomas.
Site Investigation and Remediation of Sulfate-Contaminated Groundwater Using Integrated Hydraulic Capture Techniques
Authors: Zhou Nianqing , Lu Shuaishuai , Cai Yi , Zhao Shan
Published: September 2022

Inorganic pollution is widespread in groundwater, and sulfate pollution is one of the important types, which has an important impact on the ecological environment and human health. Elevated concentrations of sulfate ion pollutants often come from the sewage discharge of chemical plants. This study takes a sulfate-contaminated site in Dongying City, Shandong Province, China, as the research object. Nine boreholes were arranged along the sewage discharge ditches in the site to collect and analyze soil samples and groundwater samples in layers. The concentration of pollutants and the change with depths were determined; the maximum concentration of sulfate ion was 10,330 mg L−1 in groundwater, and the maximum pollution depth was no more than 8 m. A hydraulic barrier was carried out to cut off the pollution sources. Based on a comprehensive understanding of the hydrogeological conditions and pollution degree of the site, the hydraulic capture technique was used to control the water pumping and injection volume, so that the scope of the pollution plume was gradually reduced. The pumping wells were arranged in the polluted area, and the water injection wells were arranged at the outer edge of the pollution zone. According to the calculation of the single well water inflow and influence radius, 28 pumping wells and 66 water injection wells were needed to be arranged on the site. The treatment process was divided into four stages according to the following steps: water pumping, water injection, stoppage of water injection, stoppage of water pumping, collecting water samples after the water level recovered, and the completion stage of treatment. The above process was repeated twice. Chemical precipitation was employed in the last step. The results of the remediation showed that the sulfate concentrations in 54 percent of the samples decreased significantly to less than 100 mg L−1, and the rest were between 100 and 200 mg L−1 after the treatment process. Two pumping wells with serious pollution were selected as long-term monitoring wells, and two-year continuous monitoring results showed that sulfate concentrations in the monitoring wells ranged from 110 to 220 mg L−1, indicating that integrated groundwater remediation techniques are more effective and more reliable than one single technique.
Flexible Electroflotocoagulation Reactor: New Design and Testing in Treatment of Real Surface Water
Authors: Vasilie Sergiu , Vitan Liviu-Danut , Tudoran Constantin-Adrian , Manea Florica
Published: September 2022

A novel continuous and flexible electroflotocoagulation (EFC) reactor was built using concentric cylindrical Al and Fe electrodes, which can be operated either as anodes or cathodes linked to a DC connection. The reactor was operationally assessed related to various cell configurations that assured the required stages of coagulant dosage, mixing, reaction, and settling or flotation. The effects of several design variables and operational parameters (such as the electrode position that determines the reactor configuration, current density (i), flow rate (F), and the electrode area-treated volume ratio (Sel/V)) on the specific energy consumption versus the aluminum dose and charge loading rate were investigated. The most energy-efficient cell configuration using an aluminum anode and iron cathode was tested for the treatment of surface water (Bega river, Timisoara city, Romania) rich in hydrophobic natural organic matter (8.3 mg C∙L−1 and specific UV absorbance parameter of 3.9 L∙m−1∙mg−1) and with a high turbidity of 92 NTU, under flood conditions. The best results that assured 97% turbidity removal, 87% for absorbance recorded at 254 nm, and 60% for DOC removal, through enhanced electroflotocoagulation, were achieved for an operational current density of 10 A∙m−2 with specific energy and electrode consumption of 0.1 kW h∙m−3 and 0.017 kg Al∙m−3, respectively.
Analysis of Surface Water Quality and Sediments Content on Danube Basin in Djerdap-Iron Gate Protected Areas
Authors: Popescu Francisc , Trumić Milan , Cioabla Adrian Eugen , Vujić Bogdana , Stoica Virgil , Trumić Maja , Opris Carmen , Bogdanović Grozdanka , Trif-Tordai Gavrila
Published: September 2022

As water is essential to life and is an indispensable resource for ecosystems and their services and for nearly all human activities, the goal of this research was to evaluate the surface water quality of the Danube as it passes through the Romania–Serbia border in the nature reservations Djerdap and Iron Gate. The study aimed to assess the oxygen regime, nutrients and heavy metals contamination of the surface waters of the Danube on a length of about 240 km, between Bazias and Iron Gate II. Reference sampling and analytical methods (UV-VIS and AAS) were deployed to reach this goal. In addition, sediments were analyzed through back scattered SEM-EDAX for the elemental analysis of the sediment surface. Results obtained show a low environmental impact of heavy metals, while the Danube’s oxygen regime is under stress due to nutrients’ (nitrites and orthophosphates) significant concentration in the Danube surface water in the analyzed sector. Our approach can be applied to other water bodies in the area, to increase available scientific data together with societal awareness of the Danube’s environmental risks.