bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Qubit Regularization and Qubit Embedding Algebras
Authors: Liu Hanqing , Chandrasekharan Shailesh
Published: February 2022

Qubit regularization is a procedure to regularize the infinite dimensional local Hilbert space of bosonic fields to a finite dimensional one, which is a crucial step when trying to simulate lattice quantum field theories on a quantum computer. When the qubit-regularized lattice quantum fields preserve important symmetries of the original theory, qubit regularization naturally enforces certain algebraic structures on these quantum fields. We introduce the concept of qubit embedding algebras (QEAs) to characterize this algebraic structure associated with a qubit regularization scheme. We show a systematic procedure to derive QEAs for the O(N) lattice spin models and the SU(N) lattice gauge theories. While some of the QEAs we find were discovered earlier in the context of the D-theory approach, our method shows that QEAs are far richer. A more complete understanding of the QEAs could be helpful in recovering the fixed points of the desired quantum field theories.
Low-Energy Interactions of Mesons with Participation of the First Radially Excited States in U(3) × U(3) NJL Model
Authors: Volkov Mikhail Konstantinovich , Pivovarov Aleksey Aleksandrovich , Nurlan Kanat
Published: February 2022

The U(3)×U(3) chiral symmetric NJL model describing pseudoscalar, vector, and axial-vector mesons in both the ground state and first radially excited states is shortly presented in this review. In this model, it is possible to describe a large number of low-energy interactions of mesons, τ lepton decays into mesons, and processes of meson production in electron–positron annihilations in satisfactory agreement with the experiments. In describing a number of processes, it turned out to be necessary to take into account the interactions of mesons in the final state.
Conformer Selection by Electrostatic Hexapoles: A Theoretical Study on 1-Chloroethanol and 2-Chloroethanol
Authors: Caglioti Concetta , Nakamura Masaaki , Che Dock-Chil , Tsai Po-Yu , Palazzetti Federico
Published: February 2022

The electrostatic hexapole is a versatile device that has been used for many years in gas-phase experiments. Its inhomogeneous electric field has been employed for many purposes such as the selection of rotational states, the selection of clusters, the focusing of molecular beams, and molecular alignment as a precursor for molecular orientation. In the last few years, the hexapolar electric field has been demonstrated to be able to control the conformer composition of molecular beams. The key point is that conformers, where the component of the permanent electric dipole moment with respect to the largest of the principal axes of inertia is close to zero, require more intense hexapolar electric fields to be focused with respect to the other conformers. Here, we simulated the focusing curves of the conformers of 1-chloroethanol and 2-chloroethanol under hypothetical beam conditions, identical for all conformers, in a hypothetical and realistic experimental setup with three different hexapole lengths: 0.5, 1, and 2 m. The objective was to characterize this selection process to set up collision experiments on conformer-selected beams that provide information on the van der Waals clusters formed in collision processes.
A New Approach to Symmetry Reliability: Combination of Forward and Inverse Reliability Principle and Its Application to Frame Structures and Bamboo Bridges
Authors: Dong Fenghui , Gao Jie , Hao Aijin , Wei Yang , Huang Xin , Shi Feng , Zheng Kaiqi
Published: February 2022

Reliability theory is the core basis of engineering design, mainly including forward reliability theory and inverse reliability theory. Forward reliability theory is used to obtain the reliability index using the known design parameters, that is, it is a mapping function that translates the design parameters to the reliability index. Inverse reliability theory is used to obtain the design parameters using the known reliability index, that is, it is a mapping function that translates the reliability index to the design parameters. In other words, forward reliability theory and inverse reliability theory together constitute a method of dual mapping, which is the specific application of symmetry theory in the reliability field. In this paper, a new inverse reliability analysis method is proposed, which can satisfy the requirements of the target reliability index while obtaining the design parameters, without additional calculation and verification of reliability. The method simplifies the reliability inverse problem to the problem of the nonlinear equation, which is solved by identifying the design parameters, and finally obtains the design parameters by iterating the reliability index for each design parameter to gradually approach the target reliability index. For high-dimension and complex problems, the Levenberg–Marquardt method is introduced to avoid the problem of sensitivity to initial values and iterative divergence when identifying the design parameters. The implicit limit state function problem is solved by the interactive operation between ANSYS software and MATLAB software using finite element theory. The accuracy of the proposed method in this paper is verified by several numerical examples, the applicability of the implicit limit state function is verified by a single-story frame structure, and the engineering applicability of the proposed method is demonstrated with a bamboo bridge.
Resummed Relativistic Dissipative Hydrodynamics
Authors: Alalawi Huda , Alqahtani Mubarak , Strickland Michael
Published: February 2022

In this review, we present the motivation for using relativistic anisotropic hydrodynamics to study the physics of ultrarelativistic heavy-ion collisions. We then highlight the main ingredients of the 3+1D quasiparticle anisotropic hydrodynamics model including the underlying symmetry assumptions and present phenomenological comparisons with experimental data at different collision energies. These comparisons show that anisotropic hydrodynamics can describe many bulk observables of the quark-gluon plasma.
Uncertain Hypergraphs: A Conceptual Framework and Some Topological Characteristics Indexes
Authors: Peng Jin , Zhang Bo , Sugeng Kiki Ariyanti
Published: February 2022

In practical applications of hypergraph theory, we are usually surrounded by the state of indeterminacy. This paper employs uncertainty theory to address indeterministic information. We initially put forward the idea of an uncertain hypergraph by combining hypergraph theory with uncertainty theory in order to provide a useful tool to deal with a variety of uncertain complex systems and to create a new interdisciplinary research field. The main focus of this paper is to propose a conceptual framework of uncertain hypergraphs and to study the operations of uncertain hypergraphs. Moreover, some topological indexes are proposed to describe the characteristics of the structures of uncertain hypergraph. Additionally, some further research directions are discussed.
Influence of Liquid Hydrogen Diffusion on Nonlinear Mixed Convective Circulation around a Yawed Cylinder
Authors: Patil Prabhugouda M. , Shankar Hadapad F. , Sheremet Mikhail A.
Published: February 2022

A yawed cylinder is a cylinder inclined in the plane of a flowing liquid. The liquid flow past the yawed cylinder is important for practice, namely, for bubble suppression and control of the boundary layer transition in undersea applications. It should be noted that an inclined cylinder characterizes an asymmetrical behavior of fluid flow and heat transfer. Energy and mass transference characteristics of a steady nonlinear convective flow over the yawed cylinder by accounting for chemically reactive species and viscous dissipation are analyzed in this investigation. The differential equations defining the boundary layer parameters are then transformed into a dimensionless view, taking into account the non-similar transformation. It should be noted that the governing equations have been written using the conservation laws of mass, momentum, energy, and concentration. These considered equations allow the simulation of the analyzed phenomenon using numerical techniques. Further, quasilinearization and implicit finite difference approximation are used to work out the non-dimensional governing equations. A parametric investigation of all the pertinent characteristics accompanies this. A descriptive system of computation outcomes for the velocity, temperature, and concentration patterns, the drag coefficients, Nu and Sh, is demonstrated by graphs. Enhancing the magnitudes of the Eckert number raises the temperature pattern while energy transport strength is reduced. As the species concentration profile diminishes, the mass transfer characteristics are enhanced for raising magnitudes of the nonlinear chemical reaction parameter. Further, a velocity profile along the chordwise direction rises with enhancing magnitudes of nonlinear convection characteristics and yaw angle. Furthermore, the velocity pattern along the spanwise direction enhances with the growing magnitudes of yaw angle. For assisting buoyancy flow, the friction parameter at the border in the spanwise direction enhances with rising values of yaw angle.
Simulation of Cooperation Scenarios of BRI-Related Countries Based on a GVC Network
Authors: Wang Dawei , Guan Jun , Liu Chunxiu , Jiang Chuke , Xing Lizhi
Published: February 2022

The inter-country input–output table is appropriate for presenting sophisticated inter-industry dependencies from a global perspective. Using the above table one can perceive the amount of production resources that sectors obtain from their upstream ones, as well as the number of productive capacities that sectors provide for their downstream ones. In other words, competition/collaboration occurs when sectors share the same providers/consumers because all sectors’ products and services outputted to downstream ones are limited. Thus, inter-industry competition for inputs from upstream sectors, or collaboration on outputs to downstream sectors, may be quantified with input–output matrix transformation. In this paper, a novel analytical framework of inter-industry collaborative relations is established based on the bipartite graph theory and the resource allocation process. The Collaborative Opportunity Index and Collaborative Threat index are designed to quantitatively measure the industrial influence hidden in the topological structure of the global value chain (GVC) network. Scenario simulations are carried out to forecast the potential and trends of international capacity cooperation within Asian, European, and African nations related to the Belt and Road Initiative, respectively.
Reliable IoT-Based Monitoring and Control of Hydroponic Systems
Authors: Tatas Konstantinos , Al-Zoubi Ahmad , Christofides Nicholas , Zannettis Chrysostomos , Chrysostomou Michael , Panteli Stavros , Antoniou Anthony
Published: February 2022

This paper presents the design and implementation of iPONICS: an intelligent, low-cost IoT-based control and monitoring system for hydroponics greenhouses. The system is based on three types of sensor nodes. The main (master) node is responsible for controlling the pump, monitoring the quality of the water in the greenhouse and aggregating and transmitting the data from the slave nodes. Environment sensing slave nodes monitor the ambient conditions in the greenhouse and transmit the data to the main node. Security nodes monitor activity (movement in the area). The system monitors water quality and greenhouse temperature and humidity, ensuring that crops grow under optimal conditions according to hydroponics guidelines. Remote monitoring for the greenhouse keepers is facilitated by monitoring these parameters via connecting to a website. An innovative fuzzy inference engine determines the plant irrigation duration. The system is optimized for low power consumption in order to facilitate off-grid operation. Preliminary reliability analysis indicates that the system can tolerate various transient faults without requiring intervention.
Practical Demonstration of 5G NR Transport Over-Fiber System with Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Hadi Muhammad Usman
Published: February 2022

This study describes an experimental realization using digital predistortion (DPD) for a fifth generation (5G) multiband new radio (NR) optical front haul (OFH) based Radio over Fiber (RoF) link. For the performance enhancement and complexity reduction of RoF links, a novel Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) based DPD technique is proposed, followed by comparisons with the generalised memory polynomial (GMP) based DPD method. To support enhanced mobile broad band scenario, the experimental testbed uses the 5G NR waveforms at 10 GHz with 20 MHz bandwidth and a flexible-waveform signal at 3 GHz with 20 MHz bandwidth. For 10 km of typical single mode fiber, a Mach Zehnder Modulator with two distinct radio frequency waveforms modulates a 1310 nm optical carrier utilizing distributed feedback laser. The error vector magnitude and number of estimated coefficients, and multiplications are all used to describe the experimental outcomes. The goal of the research is to see if CNN-based DPD improves performance while lowering complexity levels to meet 3GPP Release 17 criteria.
Wireless Sensor Networks for Building Information Modeling
Authors: Kontaxis Dimitrios , Tsoulos George , Athanasiadou Georgia , Giannakis Giorgos
Published: February 2022

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a critical element for the “digitalization” of the construction industry and can be exploited for energy-driven renovation procedures of existing residences. Advancing beyond a BIM with data-capturing capabilities that are limited to building static information only requires sensor data streams related to indoor/outdoor ambient conditions, as well as to energy-consumption parameters of the residences. The data streams require the deployment of robust Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) that are able to capture and transmit real-time data to appropriate cloud-based renovation toolkits. The technology and topology of such networks are addressed herein. The paper sets the lines for similar installations that are required by the construction industry for collecting dynamic data, since it is based on the outcome of real-world WSN installations in pilot sites in three European countries, carried out in the context of a major collaborative BIM research project. An application example of the WSN data is also provided in the context of training occupant behavior models in order to demonstrate the use of the measured data.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Telecom in 2021
Authors:   Telecom Editorial Office
Published: February 2022

Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...]
Differential Uptake and Translocation of Cadmium and Lead by Quinoa: A Multivariate Comparison of Physiological and Oxidative Stress Responses
Authors: Bamagoos Atif A. , Alharby Hesham F. , Abbas Ghulam
Published: February 2022

Contamination of soils with cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) has emerged as a serious environmental issue that reduces crop productivity. However, the metals tolerance and accumulation potential of quinoa (Chenopodium Quinoa Willd) under the combined stress of Cd and Pb has not yet been explored. In the present hydroponic study, the physiological and biochemical characteristics of quinoa exposed to Cd and Pb were explored. Four-week-old plants of quinoa genotype ‘Puno’ were grown under different concentrations of Cd (0, 50 and 100 µM), Pb (0, 250 and 500 µM) alone as well as in combinations. The results showed that with increasing Cd and Pb levels in the nutrient solution, the plant biomass, stomatal conductance and chlorophyll contents were decreased. However, the concurrent application of higher concentrations of Cd (100 µM) and Pb (500 µM) caused even more reduction in the plant biomass (more than 50% than the control) and physiological attributes. The combined application of Pb and Cd caused oxidative stress through an overproduction of H2O2 (10-fold) and TBARS (12.5-fold), leading to decrease in membrane stability (52%). The oxidative stress was alleviated by a 7-fold, 10-fold and 9-fold overactivation of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT), respectively. An excessive uptake of Cd resulted in a limited uptake of Pb and K in the roots and shoots of quinoa plants. The Cd and Pb tolerance and uptake potential of Puno showed its ability to stabilize Cd and Pb in co-contaminated soils.
Removal of Polystyrene Microplastics from Aqueous Solution Using the Metal–Organic Framework Material of ZIF-67
Authors: Wan Hongyou , Wang Junkai , Sheng Xiaoyu , Yan Jingwei , Zhang Wei , Xu Ying
Published: February 2022

Due to the continuous and adverse effects of microplastics on the environment, an increasing number of studies have begun to focus on their migration patterns and removal from aquatic environments. Herein, our study innovatively evaluated the ability of the capacity of ZIF-67, a novel metal–organic framework (MOF) material, to adsorb polystyrene (PS) microplastics (MPs) from aqueous solutions, aiming to explore the potential of MOF materials to remove MPs from wastewater. The adsorption ratio of PSMPs (5 mg/L, 30 mL) by ZIF-67 reached up to 92.1%, and the PSMP adsorption equilibrium was achieved within 20 min at 298 K. The adsorption of PSMPs would be favored at a pH of 8, a PSMPs solution concentration of 5 mg/L, and a temperature of 298 K. Further analyses demonstrated that hydrogen bond interactions, π-π stacking, and electrostatic interactions played a crucial role in the adsorption of PSMPs by ZIF-67 in aqueous solutions. Our findings thus provide insight into novel methods to remove MPs from acidic and weakly alkaline aquatic environments and wastewater.
The Effects of E-Cigarette Aerosol on Oral Cavity Cells and Tissues: A Narrative Review
Authors: Szumilas Paweł , Wilk Aleksandra , Szumilas Kamila , Karakiewicz Beata
Published: February 2022

A wealth of research has comprehensively documented the harmful effects of traditional cigarette smoking and nicotine on human health. The lower rate of exposure to harmful chemicals and toxic substances offered by alternative electronic smoking devices (e-cigarettes, vaping, etc.) has made these methods of smoking popular, especially among adolescents and young adults, and they are regarded frequently as safer than regular cigarettes. During vaporization of these so-called e-liquids, toxins, carcinogens and various other chemical substances may be released and inhaled by the user. Data on the potential human health effect attendant on exposure to e-vapor are based mainly on animal and in vitro studies. The oral tissues are the first locus of direct interaction with the components of the inhaled vapor. However, the short-term as well as long-term effects of the exposure are not known. The aim of the review is to briefly present data on the effects of the chemical components and toxins of e-cigarette vapor on oral cavity cells and tissues of oral health.
Isolation of DiNP-Degrading Microbes from the Mouse Colon and the Influence DiNP Exposure Has on the Microbiota, Intestinal Integrity, and Immune Status of the Colon
Authors: Chiu Karen , Bashir Shah , Abdel-Hamid Ahmed , Clark Lindsay , Laws Mary , Cann Isaac , Nowak Romana , Flaws Jodi
Published: February 2022

Di-isononyl phthalate (DiNP) is a plasticizer used to impart flexibility or stability in a variety of products including polyvinyl chloride, cable coatings, artificial leather, and footwear. Previous studies have examined the impact of DiNP on gut integrity and the colonic immune microenvironment, but this study further expands the research by examining whether DiNP exposure alters the colonic microbiota and various immune markers. Previous studies have also revealed that environmental microbes degrade various phthalates, but no studies have examined whether anaerobic gut bacteria can degrade DiNP. Thus, this study tested the hypothesis that DiNP exposure alters the gut microbiota and immune-related factors, and that anaerobic bacteria in the gut can utilize DiNP as the sole carbon source. To test this hypothesis, adult female mice were orally dosed with corn oil or various doses of DiNP for 10–14 consecutive days. After the treatment period, mice were euthanized during diestrus. Colonic contents were collected for full-length 16S rRNA gene sequencing to identify the bacteria in the colon contents. Sanger sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene was used to identify bacteria that were able to grow in Bacteroides minimal media with DiNP as the sole carbon source. Colon tissues were collected for immunohistochemistry of immune(-related) factors. An environmentally relevant dose of DiNP (200 µg/kg) significantly increased a Lachnoclostridium taxon and decreased Blautia compared to the control. Collectively, minimal changes in the colonic microbiota were observed as indicated by non-significant beta-diversities between DiNP treatments and control. Furthermore, three strains of anaerobic bacteria derived from the colon were identified to use DiNP as the sole carbon source. Interestingly, DiNP exposure did not alter protein levels of interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor alpha, claudin-1, and mucin-1 compared to the control. Collectively, these findings show that DiNP exposure alters the gut microbiota and that the gut contains DiNP-degrading microbes.
Comparative Cytotoxic Effects and Possible Mechanisms of Deoxynivalenol, Zearalenone and T-2 Toxin Exposure to Porcine Leydig Cells In Vitro
Authors: Sun Lingwei , Dai Jianjun , Xu Jiehuan , Yang Junhua , Zhang Defu
Published: February 2022

Mycotoxins such as zearalenone (ZEN), deoxynivalenol (DON) and T-2 toxin (T-2) are the most poisonous biological toxins in food pollution. Mycotoxin contaminations are a global health issue. The aim of the current study was to use porcine Leydig cells as a model to explore the toxic effects and underlying mechanisms of ZEN, DON and T-2. The 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) of ZEN was 49.71 μM, and the IC50 values of DON and T-2 were 2.49 μM and 97.18 nM, respectively. Based on the values of IC50, ZEN, DON and T-2 exposure resulted in increased cell apoptosis, as well as disrupted mitochondria membrane potential and cell cycle distribution. The results also showed that ZEN and DON significantly reduced testosterone and progesterone secretion in Leydig cells, but T-2 only reduced testosterone secretion. Furthermore, the expression of steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) protein and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) were significantly decreased by ZEN, DON and T-2; whereas the protein expression of cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (CYP11A1) was only significantly decreased by ZEN. Altogether, these data suggest that the ZEN, DON and T-2 toxins resulted in reproductive toxicity involving the inhibition of steroidogenesis and cell proliferation, which contributes to the cellular apoptosis induced by mitochondrial injury in porcine Leydig cells.
Neutrino Flavor Conversions in High-Density Astrophysical and Cosmological Environments
Authors: Capozzi Francesco , Saviano Ninetta
Published: February 2022

Despite being a well understood phenomenon in the context of current terrestrial experiments, neutrino flavor conversions in dense astrophysical environments probably represent one of the most challenging open problems in neutrino physics. Apart from being theoretically interesting, such a problem has several phenomenological implications in cosmology and in astrophysics, including the primordial nucleosynthesis of light elements abundance and other cosmological observables, nucleosynthesis of heavy nuclei, and the explosion of massive stars. In this review, we briefly summarize the state of the art on this topic, focusing on three environments: early Universe, core-collapse supernovae, and compact binary mergers.
Responses of Mesosphere and Lower Thermosphere Temperature to the Geomagnetic Storm on 7–8 September 2017
Authors: Sun Meng , Li Zheng , Li Jingyuan , Lu Jianyong , Gu Chunli , Zhu Mengbin , Tian Yufeng
Published: February 2022

The variations of neutral temperature in the mesosphere and lower thermosphere (MLT) region, during the 7–8 September 2017 intense geomagnetic storm, are studied using observations by the Sounding of the Atmosphere using Broadband Emission Radiometry (SABER) instrument onboard the Thermosphere Ionosphere Mesosphere Energetics and Dynamics (TIMED) satellite. They are also studied using simulations by the Thermosphere-Ionosphere-Mesosphere-Electrodynamics General Circulation Model (TIMEGCM). The neutral temperature data cover the altitudes from 80 km to 110 km between 83° N and 52° S latitude, obtained from both SABER observations and model simulations. The SABER observations reveal that temperature increases (the maximum increase is larger than 35 K at ~108 km) and decreases (the maximum decrease is larger than 20 K at ~105 km) during the geomagnetic storm. The storm effects penetrate down to ~80 km. In observations, temperature variations corresponding to the storm show hemispheric asymmetry. That is, the variations of temperature are more prominent in the northern hemisphere than in the southern hemisphere. Conversely, the TIMEGCM outputs agree with the observations in general but overestimate the temperature increases and underestimate the temperature decreases at high and middle latitudes. Meanwhile, the simulations show stronger temperature decreases and weaker temperature increases than observations at low latitudes. After analyzing the temperature variations, we suggest that vertical winds may play an important role in inducing these significant variations of temperature in the MLT region.
Oscillations of Active Neutrinos at Short Baseline in the Model with Three Decaying Sterile Neutrinos
Authors: Khruschov Viacheslav , Fomichev Sergey
Published: February 2022

To study the oscillations of active neutrinos in the framework of the model with three active and three sterile neutrinos, the analytical expressions are obtained for the appearance and survival probabilities of different neutrino flavors taking into account the decaying sterile neutrinos contributions. In the framework of the considered phenomenological neutrino model, we make an interpretation of the experimentally detected XENON1T-excess of electronic recoil events in the energy range of 1–7 keV as a result of the radiative decay of a sterile neutrino with a mass of about 7 keV. Estimations of the decay parameters for the radiative decay of Majorana sterile neutrinos due to the magnetic dipole transitions into the active neutrino states are made. The value of the parameter of active and sterile neutrinos mixing has been derived from the Baksan Experiment on Sterile Transitions (BEST) experimental data. The graphical dependences for the probabilities of appearance and survival of muonic and electron neutrinos at short baseline (SBL) are presented with the use of that gained from the experimental data estimations of the model parameters.
Histories of Neutrino Oscillation of Consistency Induced by the Presence of Normal Matter
Authors: Khan Fazeel , Dajka Jerzy
Published: February 2022

Oscillation of two-flavour neutrinos is considered within a quantum mechanical framework of consistent (decoherent) dynamic histories. We investigate how consistency of selected three-time histories is affected by oscillation parameters. We show that the presence of normal matter is crucial to maintain consistency of certain classes of neutrinos’ dynamic histories and that the consistency does not depend on a Majorana phase and remains insensitive to a potential CP violation.
Smart City Thailand: Visioning and Design to Enhance Sustainability, Resiliency, and Community Wellbeing
Authors: Irvine K. N. , Suwanarit Asan , Likitswat Fa , Srilertchaipanij Hansa , Ingegno Massimo , Kaewlai Peeradorn , Boonkam Pranisa , Tontisirin Nij , Sahavacharin Alisa , Wongwatcharapaiboon Jitiporn , Janpathompong Shusak
Published: February 2022

A “Smart City” framework was used to investigate and develop visions of alternative futures for a peri-urban superblock north of Bangkok, Thailand. The Smart City framework considers seven smart pillars: environment, economy, energy, mobility, people, living, and governance, with a focus on community wellbeing that is supported by information and communication technology (ICT). A mixed-method approach that included: community and industry surveys, both online and face-to-face (total n = 770); in depth, semi-structured, stakeholder interviews; passive participant observation; and photo-documentation was used to inform and organize the project visions and designs. Several themes emerged from the community surveys and key stakeholder interviews: (i) connected green space is highly valued and effectively links multiple smart pillars, enhancing community wellbeing and resiliency to flooding; (ii) superblock mobility, connectivity, and sustainable development could be achieved through a seamless, integrated public-transit system following the principles of transit-oriented development (TOD); (iii) the superblock should prepare for the implementation of Thailand 4.0 through the improved programmatic and physical integration of local industry, community, and universities, including plans for a Digital Village and co-work space. Example designs that address these considerations and vision alternative futures for the superblock are presented in this Smart City case study.
Immunogenicity Following Administration of BNT162b2 and Ad26.COV2.S COVID-19 Vaccines in the Pregnant Population during the Third Trimester
Authors: Citu Ioana Mihaela , Citu Cosmin , Gorun Florin , Sas Ioan , Tomescu Larisa , Neamtu Radu , Motoc Andrei , Gorun Oana Maria , Burlea Bogdan , Bratosin Felix , Malita Daniel
Published: February 2022

Globally, COVID-19 vaccines are currently being used to prevent transmission and to reduce morbidity and death associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Current research reveals that vaccines such as BNT162b2 and Ad26.COV2.S are highly immunogenic and have high short-term effectiveness for most of the known viral variants. Clinical trials showed satisfying results in the general population, but the reluctance in testing and vaccinating pregnant women left this category with little evidence regarding the safety, efficacy, and immunogenicity following COVID-19 vaccination. With the worldwide incidence of COVID-19 remaining high and the possibility of new transmissible SARS-CoV-2 mutations, data on vaccination effectiveness and antibody dynamics in pregnant patients are critical for determining the need for special care or further booster doses. An observational study was developed to evaluate pregnant women receiving the complete COVID-19 vaccination scheme using the BNT162b2 and Ad26.COV2.S, and determine pregnancy-related outcomes in the mothers and their newborns, as well as determining adverse events after vaccination and immunogenicity of vaccines during four months. There were no abnormal findings in pregnancy and newborn characteristics comparing vaccinated versus unvaccinated pregnant women. COVID-19 seropositive pregnant women had significantly higher spike antibody titers than seronegative patients with similar characteristics, although they were more likely to develop fever and lymphadenopathy following vaccination. The same group of pregnant women showed no statistically significant differences in antibody titers during a 4-month period when compared with case-matched non-pregnant women. The BNT162b2 and Ad26.COV2.S vaccines are safe to administer during the third trimester of pregnancy, while their safety, efficacy, and immunogenicity remain similar to those of the general population.
Differential Dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 Binding and Functional Antibodies upon BNT162b2 Vaccine: A 6-Month Follow-Up
Authors: Matusali Giulia , Sberna Giuseppe , Meschi Silvia , Gramigna Giulia , Colavita Francesca , Lapa Daniele , Francalancia Massimo , Bettini Aurora , Capobianchi Maria R. , Puro Vincenzo , Castilletti Concetta , Vaia Francesco , Bordi Licia
Published: February 2022

To investigate the dynamic association among binding and functional antibodies in health-care-workers receiving two doses of BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19-vaccine, SARS-CoV-2 anti-RBD IgG, anti-Trimeric-S IgG, and neutralizing antibodies (Nabs) were measured in serum samples collected at 2 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months from full vaccination. Despite the high correlation, results for anti-RBD and anti-Trimeric S IgG were numerically different even after recalculation to BAU/mL following WHO standards indications. Moreover, after a peak response at 2 weeks, anti-RBD IgG levels showed a 4.5 and 13 fold decrease at 3 and 6 months, respectively, while the anti-Trimeric S IgG presented a less pronounced decay of 2.8 and 4.7 fold. Further different dynamics were observed for Nabs titers, resulting comparable at 3 and 6 months from vaccination. We also demonstrated that at NAbs titers ≥40, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve and the optimal cutoff point decreased with time from vaccination for both anti-RBD and anti-Trimeric S IgG. The mutating relation among the anti-RBD IgG, anti-Trimeric S IgG, and neutralizing antibodies are indicative of antibody maturation upon vaccination. The lack of standardized laboratory procedures is one factor interfering with the definition of a correlate of protection from COVID-19.
Comparison of the Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Surrogate Neutralization Assays by TECOmedical and DiaPROPH-Med with Samples from Vaccinated and Infected Individuals
Authors: Münsterkötter Lennart , Hollstein Moritz Maximilian , Hahn Andreas , Kröger Andrea , Schnelle Moritz , Erpenbeck Luise , Groß Uwe , Frickmann Hagen , Zautner Andreas Erich
Published: February 2022

Anti-SARS-CoV-2-specific serological responses are a topic of ongoing evaluation studies. In the study presented here, the anti-SARS-CoV-2 surrogate neutralization assays by TECOmedical and DiaPROPH -Med were assessed in a head-to-head comparison with serum samples of individuals after vaccination as well as after previous infection with SARS-CoV-2. In case of discordant results, a cell culture-based neutralization assay was applied as a reference standard. The TECOmedical assay showed sensitivity and specificity of 100% and 61.3%, respectively, the DiaPROPH-Med assay 95.0% and 48.4%, respectively. As a side finding of the study, differences in the likelihood of expressing neutralizing antibodies could be shown for different exposition types. So, 60 of 81 (74.07%) of the samples with only one vaccination showed an expression of neutralizing antibodies in contrast to 85.71% (60 of 70 samples) of the samples with two vaccinations and 100% (40 of 40) of the samples from previously infected individuals. In conclusion, the both assays showed results similar to previous assessments. While the measured diagnostic accuracy of both assays requires further technical improvement of this diagnostic approach, as the calculated specificity values of 61.3% and 48.4%, respectively, appear acceptable for diagnostic use only in populations with a high percentage of positive subjects, but not at expectedly low positivity rates.
Secondary Structure of Subgenomic RNA M of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Soszynska-Jozwiak Marta , Ruszkowska Agnieszka , Kierzek Ryszard , O’Leary Collin A. , Moss Walter N. , Kierzek Elzbieta
Published: February 2022

SARS-CoV-2 belongs to the Coronavirinae family. Like other coronaviruses, SARS-CoV-2 is enveloped and possesses a positive-sense, single-stranded RNA genome of ~30 kb. Genomic RNA is used as the template for replication and transcription. During these processes, positive-sense genomic RNA (gRNA) and subgenomic RNAs (sgRNAs) are created. Several studies presented the importance of the genomic RNA secondary structure in SARS-CoV-2 replication. However, the structure of sgRNAs has remained largely unsolved so far. In this study, we probed the sgRNA M model of SARS-CoV-2 in vitro. The presented model molecule includes 5′UTR and a coding sequence of gene M. This is the first experimentally informed secondary structure model of sgRNA M, which presents features likely to be important in sgRNA M function. The knowledge of sgRNA M structure provides insights to better understand virus biology and could be used for designing new therapeutics.
Comparison of SARS-CoV-2 Evolution in Paediatric Primary Airway Epithelial Cell Cultures Compared with Vero-Derived Cell Lines
Authors: Bamford Connor G. G. , Broadbent Lindsay , Aranday-Cortes Elihu , McCabe Mary , McKenna James , Courtney David G. , Touzelet Olivier , Ali Ahlam , Roberts Grace , Lopez Campos Guillermo , Simpson David , McCaughey Conall , Fairley Derek , Mills Ken , Power Ultan F. ,   on behalf of the Breathing Together Investigators
Published: February 2022

SARS-CoV-2 can efficiently infect both children and adults, albeit with morbidity and mortality positively associated with increasing host age and presence of co-morbidities. SARS-CoV-2 continues to adapt to the human population, resulting in several variants of concern (VOC) with novel properties, such as Alpha and Delta. However, factors driving SARS-CoV-2 fitness and evolution in paediatric cohorts remain poorly explored. Here, we provide evidence that both viral and host factors co-operate to shape SARS-CoV-2 genotypic and phenotypic change in primary airway cell cultures derived from children. Through viral whole-genome sequencing, we explored changes in genetic diversity over time of two pre-VOC clinical isolates of SARS-CoV-2 during passage in paediatric well-differentiated primary nasal epithelial cell (WD-PNEC) cultures and in parallel, in unmodified Vero-derived cell lines. We identified a consistent, rich genetic diversity arising in vitro, variants of which could rapidly rise to near fixation within two passages. Within isolates, SARS-CoV-2 evolution was dependent on host cells, with paediatric WD-PNECs showing a reduced diversity compared to Vero (E6) cells. However, mutations were not shared between strains. Furthermore, comparison of both Vero-grown isolates on WD-PNECs disclosed marked growth attenuation mapping to the loss of the polybasic cleavage site (PBCS) in Spike, while the strain with mutations in Nsp12 (T293I), Spike (P812R) and a truncation of Orf7a remained viable in WD-PNECs. Altogether, our work demonstrates that pre-VOC SARS-CoV-2 efficiently infects paediatric respiratory epithelial cells, and its evolution is restrained compared to Vero (E6) cells, similar to the case of adult cells. We highlight the significant genetic plasticity of SARS-CoV-2 while uncovering an influential role for collaboration between viral and host cell factors in shaping viral evolution and ultimately fitness in human respiratory epithelium.
Structural Insights into Alphavirus Assembly Revealed by the Cryo-EM Structure of Getah Virus
Authors: Wang Ming , Sun Zhenzhao , Cui Chenxi , Wang Shida , Yang Decheng , Shi Zhibin , Wei Xinyu , Wang Pengfei , Sun Weiyao , Zhu Jing , Li Jiaqi , Du Bingchen , Liu Zaisi , Wei Lili , Liu Chunguo , He Xijun , Wang Xiangxi , Zhang Xinzheng , Wang Jingfei
Published: February 2022

Getah virus (GETV) is a member of the alphavirus genus, and it infects a variety of animal species, including horses, pigs, cattle, and foxes. Human infection with this virus has also been reported. The structure of GETV has not yet been determined. In this study, we report the cryo-EM structure of GETV at a resolution of 3.5 Å. This structure reveals conformational polymorphism of the envelope glycoproteins E1 and E2 at icosahedral 3-fold and quasi-3-fold axes, which is believed to be a necessary organization in forming a curvature surface of virions. In our density map, three extra densities are identified, one of which is believed a “pocket factor”; the other two are located by domain D of E2, and they may maintain the stability of E1/E2 heterodimers. We also identify three N-glycosylations at E1 N141, E2 N200, and E2 N262, which might be associated with receptor binding and membrane fusion. The resolving of the structure of GETV provides new insights into the structure and assembly of alphaviruses and lays a basis for studying the differences of biology and pathogenicity between arthritogenic and encephalitic alphaviruses.
Reservoirs of Red-Spotted Grouper Nervous Necrosis Virus (RGNNV) in Squid and Shrimp Species of Northern Alboran Sea
Authors: Johnstone Carolina , Pérez Montse , Arizcun Marta , García-Ruiz Cristina , Chaves-Pozo Elena
Published: February 2022

The production of the aquaculture industry has increased to be equal to that of the world fisheries in recent years. However, aquaculture production faces threats such as infectious diseases. Betanodaviruses induce a neurological disease that affects fish species worldwide and is caused by nervous necrosis virus (NNV). NNV has a nude capsid protecting a bipartite RNA genome that consists of molecules RNA1 and RNA2. Four NNV strains distributed worldwide are discriminated according to sequence homology of the capsid protein encoded by RNA2. Since its first description over 30 years ago, the virus has expanded and reassortant strains have appeared. Preventive treatments prioritize the RGNNV (red-spotted grouper nervous necrosis virus) strain that has the highest optimum temperature for replication and the broadest range of susceptible species. There is strong concern about the spreading of NNV in the mariculture industry through contaminated diet. To surveil natural reservoirs of NNV in the western Mediterranean Sea, we collected invertebrate species in 2015 in the Alboran Sea. We report the detection of the RGNNV strain in two species of cephalopod mollusks (Alloteuthis media and Abralia veranyi), and in one decapod crustacean (Plesionika heterocarpus). According to RNA2 sequences obtained from invertebrate species and reported to date in the Mediterranean Sea, the strain RGNNV is predominant in this semienclosed sea. Neither an ecosystem- nor host-driven distribution of RGNNV were observed in the Mediterranean basin.
Strong SARS-CoV-2 N-Specific CD8+ T Immunity Induced by Engineered Extracellular Vesicles Associates with Protection from Lethal Infection in Mice
Authors: Ferrantelli Flavia , Chiozzini Chiara , Manfredi Francesco , Leone Patrizia , Spada Massimo , Di Virgilio Antonio , Giovannelli Andrea , Sanchez Massimo , Cara Andrea , Michelini Zuleika , Federico Maurizio
Published: February 2022

SARS-CoV-2-specific CD8+ T cell immunity is expected to counteract viral variants in both efficient and durable ways. We recently described a way to induce a potent SARS-CoV-2 CD8+ T immune response through the generation of engineered extracellular vesicles (EVs) emerging from muscle cells. This method relies on intramuscular injection of DNA vectors expressing different SARS-CoV-2 antigens fused at their N-terminus with the Nefmut protein, i.e., a very efficient EV-anchoring protein. However, quality, tissue distribution, and efficacy of these SARS-CoV-2-specific CD8+ T cells remained uninvestigated. To fill the gaps, antigen-specific CD8+ T lymphocytes induced by the immunization through the Nefmut-based method were characterized in terms of their polyfunctionality and localization at lung airways, i.e., the primary targets of SARS-CoV-2 infection. We found that injection of vectors expressing Nefmut/S1 and Nefmut/N generated polyfunctional CD8+ T lymphocytes in both spleens and bronchoalveolar lavage fluids (BALFs). When immunized mice were infected with 4.4 lethal doses of 50% of SARS-CoV-2, all S1-immunized mice succumbed, whereas those developing the highest percentages of N-specific CD8+ T lymphocytes resisted the lethal challenge. We also provide evidence that the N-specific immunization coupled with the development of antigen-specific CD8+ T-resident memory cells in lungs, supporting the idea that the Nefmut-based immunization can confer a long-lasting, lung-specific immune memory. In view of the limitations of current anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in terms of antibody waning and efficiency against variants, our CD8+ T cell-based platform could be considered for a new combination prophylactic strategy.
Characterization of a Novel Mycovirus from the Phytopathogenic Fungus Botryosphaeria dothidea
Authors: Wang Yanfen , Zhao Hang , Cao Jiayuan , Yin Xinming , Guo Yashuang , Guo Lihua , Wu Haiyan , Zhang Meng
Published: February 2022

Botryosphaeria dothidea is, globally, one of the most economically important phytopathogenic fungi worldwide, causing the canker and dieback of fruit trees. An increasing number of viruses infecting B. dothidea have lately been reported, several of which could confer hypovirulence. In this study, isolated from strain ZM170285-1 of B. dothidea, a novel double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) mycovirus, tentatively named Botryosphaeria dothidea partitivirus 2 (BdPV2), was identified well. The BdPV2 harbored three dsRNA segments (1–3) with lengths of 1751, 1568, and 1198 bp, which encoded an RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), a capsid protein (CP), and a hypothetical protein of unknown function, respectively. BLASTp searches revealed that the predicted protein sequences of dsRNA1 and dsRNA2 had the highest identities (74.95% and 61.01%) with the corresponding dsRNAs of Penicillium stoloniferum virus S (PsV-S), whereas dsRNA3 shared the highest identity (32.95%) with the dsRNA3 of Aspergillus ochraceous virus 1 (AoV1). Phylogenetic analysis indicated that BdPV2 belonged to the Gammapartitivirus genus and Partitiviridae family. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a Gammapartitivirus in B. dothidea.
Parents’ Knowledge and Attitude towards HPV and HPV Vaccination in Poland
Authors: Smolarczyk Katarzyna , Duszewska Anna , Drozd Slawomir , Majewski Slawomir
Published: February 2022

HPV is one of the diseases of civilization that causes cervical cancer, among other diseases. For this reason, a vaccination program has been introduced worldwide for preadolescent, sexually inactive seronegative girls. However, the decision to vaccinate young girls must be made by the parents. In Poland, vaccinations are recommended but not financed by the government, which affects their choices, and there is insufficient knowledge of the diseases caused by genital HPV types. In addition, there are cultural, social, and even religious factors to be considered. Therefore, the aim of the study was to analyze the state of knowledge about HPV and HPV vaccines among parents. Two hundred and eighty-eight parents participated in the study, but only 180 of them declared that they had ever heard of HPV (62.5%). Therefore, only these parents completed the entire questionnaire consisting of 34 questions. The parents’ answers were analyzed with the Fisher’s and chi-squared tests. The study showed that parents’ knowledge of HPV and HPV vaccination in Poland is low (49.4% of correct answers). Parents’ attitudes were only influenced by knowledge and education and not by other parameters such as age, gender, place of residence, and the number of children. This study indicates that parents need to be educated about the threats of HPV and the possibilities of prophylactic vaccination.