bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does Internet Infrastructure Construction Improve Corporate Green Innovation? Evidence from China
Authors: Qiu Lingyue
Published: January 2023

Green technology innovation has become a breakthrough topic in the coordinated development of economic growth and environmental protection. Although the Internet is likely to become a key driver of transformative environmental change and innovation, studies on the impact of internet infrastructure on green innovation and analyses of the paths are still extremely scarce. Based on a sample of China’s listed companies from 2009 to 2019, this paper treats the Broadband China pilot strategy as a quasi-natural experiment and adopts the time-varying difference-in-differences (DID) model to explore the effect and the transmission path of internet infrastructure construction on green innovation. The study finds that Broadband China significantly promotes green innovation, and the result remains consistent after a series of robustness tests. The transmission path test proves that internet infrastructure construction affects green innovation by improving the degree of informatization, human capital, and internet media reports and by reducing financing constraints. Furthermore, considering the heterogeneity effect, the Broadband China strategy has a greater stimulating effect on state-owned, large-scale, high-tech enterprises; enterprises in low-competition industries; enterprises in growth and mature stages; and enterprises registered in the central and eastern regions. This paper systematically analyzes the effects of internet infrastructure on the green innovation of enterprises based on economic informatics theory, providing new insights for improving internet infrastructure and green innovation in practice.
LED Traffic Signal Repair and Replacement Practices
Authors: Westbrook Morgan , Rasdorf William
Published: January 2023

Upgrading traffic signal systems from incandescent bulbs to LED modules over the last two decades has vastly improved the sustainability of this ubiquitous transportation asset. Recent technological upgrades have extended the warrantied life of these assets from 5 years to 15 years. With these advancements, it is vital that prioritization be given to sustainable operations and maintenance strategies which take advantage of the extended lifespan and continued reduction in energy consumption of LED modules. One major limiting factor in determining these strategies is that the service life of new 15-year-warrantied LED modules is currently unknown. Through available literature, this paper identifies the expected service life of 5-year-warrantied LED modules, commonly used from the early 2000s to 2022, as a baseline for comparison. Literature also provides insight into current Inspection, Repair, and Replacement practices. Interviews with manufacturers provide insight into current and future lifespan expectations. Finally, feedback from active transportation agencies provides examples of current practices in the absence of official national guidance, of which there is little. Understanding the current state of practice and expectations for the future will allow for the development of a repair and replacement guideline, ultimately taking maximum advantage of these advancements in sustainable technology.
Two Terminal Instantaneous Power-Based Fault Classification and Location Techniques for Transmission Lines
Authors: Muzzammel Raheel , Arshad Rabia , Raza Ali , Sobahi Nebras , Alqasemi Umar
Published: January 2023

Transmission lines are an important part of the power system, as they are the carriers of power from one end to another. In the event of a fault, the power transferring process is disturbed and can even damage the equipment, which is attached to the generation end as well as the user end. Most of the power systems are connected to the transmission lines, so it is very important to make the transmission lines secure. For protection purposes, relays are used, but relays only trip in the event of a fault and do not tell us about the location of the fault. The power system requires a speedy protection system. For a speedy protection system, quick and fast fault analysis and classification are required. An effective approach for the analysis of the transmission line with three sources is proposed. This method is quite effective and accurate for locating the fault and classifying its types. This technique needs power measurement from both ends simultaneously for fault diagnosis. Instantaneous power and sign power values are used for fault detection and classification. A voltage profile is used to identify the fault location. For three-phase transmission lines, voltage profiles are built up at different segment points to locate the fault. The IEEE-9 bus system is simulated for this technique. MATLAB is employed for simulation purposes. The test system is simulated with different types of faults at different locations. Relay operation has not affected the accuracy of the system. This technique has an accuracy of more than 97%. This method is quite effective for the analysis of power transmission lines. It can discriminate the fault type, identify the faulty phase of the line, and locate the point of the fault. Faults are located with errors not more than 0.45%. Moreover, the time difference between the actual fault and the calculated fault obtained from the estimated location is not more than 0.004 s. Simulations are claimed to be executed in less computational time, ensuring effective and rapid protection against faults.
Almost Riemann Solitons with Vertical Potential on Conformal Cosymplectic Contact Complex Riemannian Manifolds
Authors: Manev Mancho
Published: January 2023

Almost-Riemann solitons are introduced and studied on an almost contact complex Riemannian manifold, i.e., an almost-contact B-metric manifold, which is obtained from a cosymplectic manifold of the considered type by means of a contact conformal transformation of the Reeb vector field, its dual contact 1-form, the B-metric, and its associated B-metric. The potential of the studied soliton is assumed to be in the vertical distribution, i.e., it is collinear to the Reeb vector field. In this way, manifolds from the four main classes of the studied manifolds are obtained. The curvature properties of the resulting manifolds are derived. An explicit example of dimension five is constructed. The Bochner curvature tensor is used (for a dimension of at least seven) as a conformal invariant to obtain these properties and to construct an explicit example in relation to the obtained results.
Editorial for Special Issue Symmetry in Physics of Plasma Technologies
Authors: Kukushkin Alexander B.
Published: January 2023

This Special Issue collected papers on hot topics in the field of controlled thermonuclear fusion (CTF), including review papers and research articles [...]
Graphs of Wajsberg Algebras via Complement Annihilating
Authors: Kırcalı Gürsoy Necla
Published: January 2023

In this paper, W-graph, called the notion of graphs on Wajsberg algebras, is introduced such that the vertices of the graph are the elements of Wajsberg algebra and the edges are the association of two vertices. In addition to this, commutative W-graphs are also symmetric graphs. Moreover, a graph of equivalence classes of Wajsberg algebra is constructed. Meanwhile, new definitions as complement annihilator and ∆-connection operator on Wajsberg algebras are presented. Lemmas and theorems on these notions are proved, and some associated results depending on the graph’s algebraic properties are presented, and supporting examples are given. Furthermore, the algorithms for determining and constructing all these new notions in each section are generated.
A Genetic Algorithm for the Waitable Time-Varying Multi-Depot Green Vehicle Routing Problem
Authors: Chen Chien-Ming , Lv Shi , Ning Jirsen , Wu Jimmy Ming-Tai
Published: January 2023

In an era where people in the world are concerned about environmental issues, companies must reduce distribution costs while minimizing the pollution generated during the distribution process. For today’s multi-depot problem, a mixed-integer programming model is proposed in this paper to minimize all costs incurred in the entire transportation process, considering the impact of time-varying speed, loading, and waiting time on costs. Time is directional; hence, the problems considered in this study are modeled based on asymmetry, making the problem-solving more complex. This paper proposes a genetic algorithm combined with simulated annealing to solve this issue, with the inner and outer layers solving for the optimal waiting time and path planning problem, respectively. The mutation operator is replaced in the outer layer by a neighbor search approach using a solution acceptance mechanism similar to simulated annealing to avoid a local optimum solution. This study extends the path distribution problem (vehicle-routing problem) and provides an alternative approach for solving time-varying networks.
Generalized Interval-Valued q-Rung Orthopair Hesitant Fuzzy Choquet Operators and Their Application
Authors: Zhang Guofang , Yuan Guoqiang
Published: January 2023

Hesitant fuzzy evaluation strategy related to the interval-valued membership and nonmembership degrees should be an appropriate choice due to the lack of experience, ability and knowledge of some decision experts. In addition, it is important to reasonably model the interrelationship of these experts. In this work, firstly, the generalized interval-valued q-rung orthopair hesitant fuzzy sets (GIVqROHFSs) are defined, and some operational rules with respect to GIVqROF numbers are discussed. Secondly, two types of operators, which are denoted as GIVqROHFCA and GIVqROHFCGM, are developed. Thirdly, the desired properties and relationships of two operators are studied. Furthermore, a new multiple attributes group decision making (MAGDM) approach is proposed. Finally, three experiments are completed to illustrate the rationality of the developed method and the monotonicity of this approach concerning the parameter in the GIVqROHFCGM operator and the GIVqROHFCA operator which meets symmetrical characteristics, and shows the superiority and reliability of this new method in solving the GIVqROHF problems. The main advantages of this work include three points: (1) extending hesitant fuzzy sets to the interval-valued q-rung orthopair fuzzy case and proposing two types of aggregation operators for the GIVqROHF information; (2) considering the interaction among decision makers and among attributes in decision problems, and dealing with this interrelationship by fuzzy measure; (3) introducing the new decision method for the GIVqROHF environment and enriching the mathematical tools to solve multiple attributes decision-making problems.
Pharmacokinetic Study of rhIL-18BP and Its Effect on Radiation-Induced Cytokine Changes in Mouse Serum and Intestine
Authors: Cui Wanchang , Hull Lisa , Zizzo Alex , Wang Li , Lin Bin , Zhai Min , Xiao Mang
Published: January 2023

Administration of recombinant human IL-18 binding protein (rhIL-18BP), a natural antagonist of IL-18, significantly increased mouse survival after lethal doses of irradiation. To further understand the roles of IL-18BP in radiation mitigation, we studied the pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters of rhIL-18BP, and the serum and intestinal cytokine changes in CD2F1 mice treated with vehicle or rhIL-18BP after 9.0 Gy total body irradiation (TBI). For the PK study, non-compartmental pharmacokinetic analysis was performed using PKsolver. Serum and intestine specimens were collected to measure 44-cytokine levels. Principal component analysis showed a clear separation of the non-irradiated samples from the irradiated samples; and partial separation with or without rhIL-18BP treatment. Cytokine clusters that were significantly correlated in the serum or intestine, respectively were identified. On the individual cytokine levels, serum and intestinal cytokines that were significantly changed by irradiation and rhIL-18BP treatment were identified. Finally, cytokines that were significantly correlated between their serum and intestinal levels were identified. The current study established the PK parameters of rhIL-18BP in mice, identified significantly changed cytokines in mouse serum and intestine after radiation exposure and rhIL-18BP treatment. Current data provide critical insights into IL-18BP’s mechanism of action as a radiation mitigator.
The Influence of Photodynamic Antimicrobial Chemotherapy on the Microbiome, Neuroendocrine and Immune System of Crustacean Post Larvae
Authors: Abdulaziz Anas , Pramodh Athira Vengalil , Sukumaran Vrinda , Raj Devika , John Ann Mary Valathuparambil Baby
Published: January 2023

Photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy (PACT), employing a combination of light and natural photosensitizer molecules such as curcumin, has been accepted as a safe modality for removing aquatic pathogens which cause diseases such as cholera in humans and vibriosis in aquatic animals. Curcumin and its photodegradation products are generally considered as safe to animals, but the impact of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by these products on the growth and survival of organisms at a cellular level has not been studied in detail. The ROS generated by curcumin on photoexcitation using blue light (λmax 405 nm, 10 mW cm−2) disinfects more than 80% of free-living Vibrio spp. in the rearing water of Penaeus monodon. However, it is less effective against Vibrio spp. colonized inside P. monodon because the carapace of the animal prevents the transmission of more than 70% of light at the 400–450 nm range and thus reduces the formation of ROS. The influence of curcumin and photoexcited curcumin on the microbiome of P. monodon were revealed by nanopore sequencing. The photoexcited curcumin induced irregular expression of genes coding the moult-inhibiting hormone (MIH), Crustacean hyperglycaemic hormone (CHH)), prophenoloxidase (ProPO), and crustin, which indicates toxic effects of ROS generated by photoexcited curcumin on the neuroendocrine and immune systems of crustaceans, which could alter their growth and survival in aquaculture settings. The study proposed the cautious use of photodynamic therapy in aquaculture systems, and care must be taken to avoid photoexcitation when animals are experiencing moulting or environmental stress.
Freshwater Fish Siberian Dace Ingest Microplastics in the Remote Yenisei Tributary
Authors: Frank Yulia , Vorobiev Danil , Mandal Abhishek , Lemeshko Yana , Rakhmatullina Svetlana , Darbha Gopala Krishna
Published: January 2023

This study analyzed microplastics in the gastrointestinal tract of Siberian dace (Leuciscus leuciscus subsp. baicalensis (Dybowski, 1874)) in the remote Yenisei tributary of the Nizhnyaya (Lower) Tunguska River (Siberia, Russia). µRaman analysis showed that 60% of the fish from two different sites had ingested plastic microparticles (on average, 1.55 ± 1.95 items per individual). The most common type of microplastic were fibers, and the most abundant size category was 300 to 1000 µm. In the studied population, no significant differences in the MP content between the two sites or between males and females were found (p > 0.05). The tendency for higher MP ingestion by Siberian dace at earlier ages (2+ and 3+) compared to later (4+ and 5+) was observed, which may be connected to the features of the fish biology and ecology.
Trace Elements and Contaminants Concentrations in Tissues of Caspian Seals (Pusa caspica) along the Iranian Coast
Authors: Hoseini Seyedeh Malihe , Namroodi Somayeh , Sayadshirazi Amir , Zaccaroni Annalisa
Published: January 2023

The Caspian seal (Pusa caspica) is an endangered species that only lives in the Caspian Sea. Little information is available on its exposure to contaminants, and no data exists for Southern sub-populations. From 2011 to 2016, tissues samples were collected from 20 Caspian seals to (i) Define the concentration of trace elements in five different matrices and the concentration of 30 pesticides in their blubber; (ii) Determine whether differences in contaminant concentrations are age- or sex-related; (iii) Evaluate if detected concentrations can represent a risk to the species. Age- and sex-related variations were detected for Zn and Hg in the blubber and Fe in the kidney by age only. Exceptionally high Hg concentrations and low levels of hepatic Zn were detected, raising some concern about the reproductive health of seals. Similarly, the DDTs levels detected were in the range of adverse reproductive effects in marine mammals. Based on these results, potentially adverse effects on the immune and endocrine systems of the Caspian seal cannot be ruled out. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance that pollutant monitoring becomes an integral component of conservation strategies for the Caspian seal.
Atypical Fentanyl Transdermal Patch Consumption and Fatalities: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Manetti Federico , David Maria Chiara , Gariglio Sara , Consalvo Francesca , Padovano Martina , Scopetti Matteo , Grande Antonio , Santurro Alessandro
Published: January 2023

Fentanyl is a synthetic L-opioid receptor agonist, approximately 100 times more potent than morphine, that is experiencing an upward trend in the field of abuse. Fentanyl patches’ abusive consumption can occur either by transdermal absorption or through other atypical and ingenious routes. In the present case, a 29-year-old man with a history of illicit drug use was found dead in a suburban neighborhood of an Italian city. At autopsy, lungs appeared increased in weight and showed minute subpleural hemorrhages. Airways contained abundant reddish foamy material; in addition, a fentanyl patch protective film was found inside the left main bronchus. Toxicological analysis revealed the presence of morphine, fentanyl, BEG and ethyl alcohol in peripheric blood; 6-MAM was also revealed in urine. Findings collected during post-mortem investigations allowed us to identify fentanyl consumption as the cause of death. Fentanyl consumption presumably took place by chewing of a transdermal patch, with subsequent aspiration of the protective film. The pathophysiology of death can be identified as combined respiratory failure—both central suppression and a fentanyl-induced increase in muscular stiffness; a further minor contribution may be identified in the mechanical airflow obstruction caused by the presence of the protective film at the bronchial level.
A Feasibility Study into the Production of a Mussel Matrix Reference Material for the Cyanobacterial Toxins Microcystins and Nodularins
Authors: Turner Andrew D. , Beach Daniel G. , Foss Amanda , Samdal Ingunn A. , Løvberg Kjersti L. E. , Waack Julia , Edwards Christine , Lawton Linda A. , Dean Karl J. , Maskrey Benjamin H. , Lewis Adam M.
Published: January 2023

Microcystins and nodularins, produced naturally by certain species of cyanobacteria, have been found to accumulate in aquatic foodstuffs such as fish and shellfish, resulting in a risk to the health of the seafood consumer. Monitoring of toxins in such organisms for risk management purposes requires the availability of certified matrix reference materials to aid method development, validation and routine quality assurance. This study consequently targeted the preparation of a mussel tissue reference material incurred with a range of microcystin analogues and nodularins. Nine targeted analogues were incorporated into the material as confirmed through liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), with an additional 15 analogues detected using LC coupled to non-targeted high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS). Toxins in the reference material and additional source tissues were quantified using LC-MS/MS, two different enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) methods and with an oxidative-cleavage method quantifying 3-methoxy-2-methyl-4-phenylbutyric acid (MMPB). Correlations between the concentrations quantified using the different methods were variable, likely relating to differences in assay cross-reactivities and differences in the abilities of each method to detect bound toxins. A consensus concentration of total soluble toxins determined from the four independent test methods was 2425 ± 575 µg/kg wet weight. A mean 43 ± 9% of bound toxins were present in addition to the freely extractable soluble form (57 ± 9%). The reference material produced was homogenous and stable when stored in the freezer for six months without any post-production stabilization applied. Consequently, a cyanotoxin shellfish reference material has been produced which demonstrates the feasibility of developing certified seafood matrix reference materials for a large range of cyanotoxins and could provide a valuable future resource for cyanotoxin risk monitoring, management and mitigation.
Sustained Efficacy, Safety and High Adherence Rate of Onabotulinum Toxin Type A in Chronic Migraine Patients: A Multicentric Prospective Real-Life Study
Authors: Corbelli Ilenia , Verzina Angela , Leone De Magistris Ilaria , De Vanna Gioacchino , Eusebi Paolo , Mataluni Giorgia , Pisani Antonio , Prudenzano Addolorata Maria Pia , Trojano Maria , Delussi Marianna , De Tommaso Marina , Russo Antonio , Silvestro Marcello , Tedeschi Gioacchino , Calabresi Paolo , Sarchielli Paola
Published: January 2023

Guidelines regarding long-term use with onabotulinumtoxinA (onaBT-A) in chronic migraine (CM) prophylaxis are lacking. This multicentric prospective real-life study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of a long-term treatment. A total of 195 chronic migraine patients were treated with onaBT-A, every 3 months for 5 cycles (Phase 1). In the Phase 2 of the study, depending on response rate, patients were divided into “responders” (R), “partially responders” (PR) and “non-responders” (NR). Then, we proposed to R and PR patients to continue with an additional 12 months of treatment (additional 4 sessions). Response to treatment and adverse events were collected for the entire duration of the study. Of the 195 patients included (females 82.1%, mean age 47.4 ± 12.4), at the end of Phase 1 there were 52.3% of R patients, 17.9% of PR patients, 15.4% of NR patients and 14.4% drop-outs. During Phase 2 of treatment, R patients presented a maintenance of the improvement achieved during the first year of treatment, as well as PR patients. Except for three serious adverse events not related to treatment, all other adverse events were mild or moderate in severity and resolved without sequelae. In the literature, adherence to oral migraine-preventive medications among patients with CM was found to be less than 25%. The results of this prospective real-life multicenter study show efficacy, safety and adherence to a long-term treatment with onaBT-A.
Biological Activities of Ribosome-Inactivating Proteins
Authors: Citores Lucía , Ferreras José M.
Published: January 2023

After more than 50 years of research, studies on the structure and biological activities of ribosome-inactivating proteins (RIPs) continue to provide a field of great interest within the scientific community, both for the health risks they pose and their applications in medicine and biotechnology [...]
Genetic Variability in the E6, E7, and L1 Genes of Human Papillomavirus Types 16 and 18 among Women in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alsanea Madain , Alsaleh Asma , Obeid Dalia , Alhadeq Faten , Alahideb Basma , Alhamlan Fatimah
Published: January 2023

Cervical cancer is the eighth most frequent cancer in Saudi Arabia, and most cases are associated with human papillomavirus (HPV) types 16 and 18. HPV-induced carcinogenesis may be associated with the intra-type variant, genetic mutation, or the continuous expression of viral oncogenes E6 and E7. Infection efficiency and virus antigenicity may be affected by changes in the L1 gene. Thus, this retrospective cohort study analyzed E6, E7, and L1 gene mutations in cervical specimens collected from Saudi women positive for HPV16 or HPV18 infection. HPV16 and HPV18 lineages in these specimens were predominantly from Europe. The L83V mutation in the E6 gene of HPV16 showed sufficient oncogenic potential for progression to cervical cancer. By contrast, the L28F mutation in the E7 gene of HPV16 was associated with a low risk of cervical cancer. Other specific HPV16 and HPV18 mutations were associated with an increased risk of cancer, cancer progression, viral load, and age. Four novel mutations, K53T, K53N, R365P, and K443N, were identified in the L1 gene of HPV16. These findings for HPV16 and HPV18 lineages and mutations in the E6, E7, and L1 genes among women in Saudi Arabia may inform the design and development of effective molecular diagnostic tests and vaccination strategies for the Saudi population.
Stress Exposure of Evolved Bacteriophages under Laboratory versus Food Processing Conditions Highlights Challenges in Translatability
Authors: Gomez Mellissa , Szewczyk Alexandra , Szamosi Jake , Leung Vincent , Filipe Carlos , Hosseinidoust Zeinab
Published: January 2023

Bacterial viruses, or bacteriophages, are highly potent, target-specific antimicrobials. Bacteriophages can be safely applied along the food production chain to aid control of foodborne pathogens. However, bacteriophages are often sensitive to the environments encountered in food matrices and under processing conditions, thus limiting their applicability. We sought to address this challenge by exposing commercially available Listeria monocytogenes bacteriophage, P100, to three stress conditions: desiccation, elevated temperature, and low pH, to select for stress-resistant bacteriophages. The stressed bacteriophage populations lost up to 5.1 log10 in infectivity; however, the surviving subpopulation retained their stress-resistant phenotype through five passages with a maximum of 2.0 log10 loss in infectivity when exposed to the same stressor. Sequencing identified key mutation regions but did not reveal a clear mechanism of resistance. The stress-selected bacteriophage populations effectively suppressed L. monocytogenes growth at a modest multiplicity of infection of 0.35–0.43, indicating no trade-off in lytic ability in return for improved survivability. The stressed subpopulations were tested for survival on food grade stainless steel, during milk pasteurization, and within acidic beverages. Interestingly, air drying on stainless steel and pasteurization in milk led to significantly less stress and titer loss in bacteriophage compared to similar stress under model lab conditions. This led to a diminished benefit for stress-selection, thus highlighting a major challenge in real-life translatability of bacteriophage adaptational evolution.
Immunohistochemistry Staining-Proven Cytomegalovirus Colitis in Living Donor Liver Transplantation
Authors: Lin Shu-Hsien , Wu Kun-Ta , Wang Chih-Chi , Liu Ting-Ting , Eng Hock-Liew , Chiu King-Wah
Published: January 2023

Background and Aims: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is a common occurrence in liver transplantation (LT) even in an era of preventive strategies. However, the diagnosis of CMV colitis remains challenging. This study aimed to focus on the clinical significance of endoscopic biopsy-proven CMV colitis in patients following living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). Methods: From January 2007 to December 2021, a total of 55 CMV colitis cases were retrospectively enrolled and divided into a non-LDLT group in 53 and an LDLT group in 2 cases. Clinical demographics, diagnostic measurement, histopathology, and anti-viral therapy were investigated. Results: There were 1630 cases undergoing LDLT in the period 2007–2021, with only 2 recipients being confirmed to have CMV colitis in 2021 (2/114, 1-year incidence: 1.75%). Comparisons between the 53 non-LDLT cases and 2 LDLT cases are as follows: Serum anti-CMV immunoglobulin M (IgM) was shown to be positive (n = 3, 5.5% vs. n = 0, p = 1.0) and negative (n = 20, 37.7% vs. n = 2, 100%, p = 0.16); anti-CMV immunoglobulin G (IgG) was positive (n = 19, 35.8% vs. n = 2, 100%, p = 0.14) and none were negative; CMV DNAemia was shown to be detectable (n = 14, 26.4% vs. n = 1, 50%, p = 0.47) and undetectable (n = 14, 26.4% vs. n = 1, 50%, p = 0.47). Among the two recipients with CMV colitis, one had CMV DNAemia and the other had no CMV DNAemia upon the development of symptoms; negative anti-CMV-IgM and positive anti-CMV-IgG were observed both pre-transplant and post-transplant; finally, CMV colitis was documented based on the presence of inclusion bodies and positive immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining in histology. Conclusion: Patients with immunocompromised status, in particular organ transplantation, may have positive serum anti-CMV IgM/IgG antibodies both before and after transplantation. This study emphasized the fact that endoscopic biopsy with IHC staining may be a more powerful tool for making an accurate diagnosis of CMV colitis in the setting of living donor liver transplantation.
Clinical Severity in Different Waves of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Sicily: A Model of Smith’s “Law of Declining Virulence” from Real-World Data
Authors: Amodio Emanuele , Genovese Dario , Fallucca Alessandra , Ferro Patrizia , Sparacia Benedetta , D’Azzo Luciano , Fertitta Angelo , Maida Carmelo Massimo , Vitale Francesco
Published: January 2023

Background: The COVID-19 epidemic had a rapid spread worldwide with a continuous and fast mutation of the virus, resulting in the emergence of several variants of concern (VOC). The aim of this study was to evaluate the severity of each VOC among SARS-CoV-2 infected subjects by investigating deaths, ICU admissions, intubations, and severe critical symptoms. Methods: An ecological observational study was performed to evaluate mortality rates and clinical characteristics of 321,490 unvaccinated Sicilian SARS-CoV-2 cases observed from 2 March 2020 to 27 March 2022. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated by multivariate logistic regression analysis evaluating factors determining a clinical worsening. Results: Delta (adj-OR 3.00, 95% Cls 2.70–3.33) and wild-type (adj-OR 2.41, 95% Cls 2.2–2.62) variants had a higher risk than the Omicron strain for developing critical COVID-19 necessitating intubation and eventually undergoing death. Moreover, males appeared to be significantly more susceptible to developing the worst clinical outcome considered, as did older subjects. Conclusions: The present study provides evidence of factors implicated in the worsening of SARS-CoV-2-infection-related clinical outcomes. The study highlighted the different roles of VOC, in particular Delta and wild-type, and being male and elderly in the development of a worse clinical outcome.
Development and Validation of a Rapid Screening Test for HTLV-I IgG Antibodies
Authors: Herrera Bobby Brooke , Mayoral Rafaela , Brites Carlos
Published: January 2023

Initial diagnosis of human T cell lymphotropic virus (HTLV) infections is mainly based by detecting antibodies in plasma or serum using laboratory-based methods. The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate a rapid screening test for HTLV-I antibodies. Our rapid screening test uses HTLV-I p24 antigen conjugated to gold nanoparticles and an anti-human IgG antibody immobilized to a nitrocellulose strip to detect human HTLV-I p24-specific IgG antibodies via immunochromatography. Performance of the rapid screening test for HTLV-I was conducted on a total of 118 serum specimens collected in Salvador, Bahia, the epicenter for HTLV-1 infection in Brazil. Using a Western blot test as the comparator, 55 serum specimens were HTLV-I positive, 5 were HTLV-I and HTLV-II positive, and 58 were negative. The sensitivity of the rapid screening test for HTLV-1 was 96.7% and the specificity was 100%. The rapid screening test did not show cross-reaction with serum specimens from individuals with potentially interfering infections including those caused by HTLV-II, HIV-I, HIV-II, hepatitis A virus, hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, herpes simplex virus, Epstein–Barr virus, SARS-CoV-2, Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Treponema pallidum, Toxoplasma gondii, and Plasmodium falciparum. The rapid screening test also did not show cross-reaction with potentially interfering substances. Strategies for HTLV diagnosis in non- and high-endemic areas can be improved with low-cost, rapid screening tests.
Monoclonal Antibodies Specific for SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Suitable for Multiple Applications for Current Variants of Concern
Authors: Morgan Mahali S. , Yan Kexin , Le Thuy T. , Johnston Ryan A. , Amarilla Alberto A. , Muller David A. , McMillan Christopher L. D. , Modhiran Naphak , Watterson Daniel , Potter James R. , Sng Julian D.J. , Lor Mary , Paramitha Devina , Isaacs Ariel , Khromykh Alexander A. , Hall Roy A. , Suhrbier Andreas , Rawle Daniel J. , Hobson-Peters Jody
Published: January 2023

The global coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has spawned an ongoing demand for new research reagents and interventions. Herein we describe a panel of monoclonal antibodies raised against SARS-CoV-2. One antibody showed excellent utility for immunohistochemistry, clearly staining infected cells in formalin-fixed and paraffin embedded lungs and brains of mice infected with the original and the omicron variants of SARS-CoV-2. We demonstrate the reactivity to multiple variants of concern using ELISAs and describe the use of the antibodies in indirect immunofluorescence assays, Western blots, and rapid antigen tests. Finally, we illustrate the ability of two antibodies to reduce significantly viral tissue titers in K18-hACE2 transgenic mice infected with the original and an omicron isolate of SARS-CoV-2.
The BCG Moreau Vaccine Upregulates In Vitro the Expression of TLR4, B7-1, Dectin-1 and EP2 on Human Monocytes
Authors: Antas Paulo R. Z. , da Silva Andreon S. M. , Albuquerque Lawrence H. P. , Almeida Matheus R. , Pereira Evelyn N. G. S. , Castello-Branco Luiz R. R. , de Ponte Carlos G. G.
Published: January 2023

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) is currently the second greatest killer worldwide and is caused by a single infectious agent. Since Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) is the only vaccine currently in use against TB, studies addressing the protective role of BCG in the context of inducible surface biomarkers are urgently required for TB control. Methods: In this study, groups of HIV-negative adult healthy donors (HD; n = 22) and neonate samples (UCB; n = 48) were voluntarily enrolled. The BCG Moreau strain was used for the in vitro mononuclear cell infections. Subsequently, phenotyping tools were used for surface biomarker detection. Monocytes were assayed for TLR4, B7-1, Dectin-1, EP2, and TIM-3 expression levels. Results: At 48 h, the BCG Moreau induced the highest TLR4, B7-1, and Dectin-1 levels in the HD group only (p-value < 0.05). TIM-3 expression failed to be modulated after BCG infection. At 72 h, BCG Moreau equally induced the highest EP2 levels in the HD group (p-value < 0.005), and higher levels were also found in HD when compared with the UCB group (p-value < 0.05). Conclusions: This study uncovers critical roles for biomarkers after the instruction of host monocyte activation patterns. Understanding the regulation of human innate immune responses is critical for vaccine development and for treating infectious diseases.
Comorbid Asthma Increased the Risk for COVID-19 Mortality in Asia: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Shi Liqin , Ren Jiahao , Wang Yujia , Feng Huifen , Liu Fang , Yang Haiyan
Published: January 2023

We aimed to explore the influence of comorbid asthma on the risk for mortality among patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Asia by using a meta-analysis. Electronic databases were systematically searched for eligible studies. The pooled odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was estimated by using a random-effect model. An inconsistency index (I2) was utilized to assess the statistical heterogeneity. A total of 103 eligible studies with 198,078 COVID-19 patients were enrolled in the meta-analysis; our results demonstrated that comorbid asthma was significantly related to an increased risk for COVID-19 mortality in Asia (pooled OR = 1.42, 95% CI: 1.20–1.68; I2 = 70%, p < 0.01). Subgroup analyses by the proportion of males, setting, and sample sizes generated consistent findings. Meta-regression indicated that male proportion might be the possible sources of heterogeneity. A sensitivity analysis exhibited the reliability and stability of the overall results. Both Begg’s analysis (p = 0.835) and Egger’s analysis (p = 0.847) revealed that publication bias might not exist. In conclusion, COVID-19 patients with comorbid asthma might bear a higher risk for mortality in Asia, at least among non-elderly individuals.
Monkeypox Cross-Sectional Survey of Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices, and Willingness to Vaccinate among University Students in Pakistan
Authors: Kumar Narendar , Ahmed Fatima , Raza Muhammad Sauban , Rajpoot Pushp Lata , Rehman Wajiha , Khatri Shoaib Alam , Mohammed Mustapha , Muhammad Shaib , Ahmad Rabbiya
Published: January 2023

This study aimed to explore knowledge, attitude, perceptions, and willingness regarding vaccination among university students in Pakistan. This cross-sectional study was carried out using an open online self-administered survey via Google Forms. The survey data were collected between the 15 to 30 of October 2022. A total of 946 respondents participated in the study, of which the majority were female (514, 54.3%). Most students belonged to a medical background, specifically pharmaceutical sciences. Most of the respondents did not know about monkeypox before 2022 (646, 68.3%). Regarding overall knowledge of monkeypox, most of the respondents had average knowledge (726, 76.7%), with very few having good knowledge (60, 6.3%). Regarding overall attitudes towards monkeypox, most of the respondents had neutral attitudes (648, 68.5%). There was a significant association between knowledge of Monkeypox with the type of academic degree (p < 0.001), type of discipline (p < 0.001), and region of respondents (p < 0.001). The willingness to vaccinate among the population was (67.7%). The current study pointed out that the overall knowledge of monkeypox was average in most respondents, with considerable knowledge gaps in most aspects. The overall attitude towards monkeypox was neutral. Further, the knowledge about monkeypox was strongly associated with academic degree, study discipline, and region of respondents. Our findings emphasize the need to raise public awareness by educating students on the monkeypox virus. This will improve adherence to preventative recommendations.
Updated Insights into the T Cell-Mediated Immune Response against SARS-CoV-2: A Step towards Efficient and Reliable Vaccines
Authors: Dhawan Manish , Rabaan Ali A. , Fawarah Mahmoud M. Al , Almuthree Souad A. , Alsubki Roua A. , Alfaraj Amal H. , Mashraqi Mutaib M. , Alshamrani Saleh A. , Abduljabbar Wesam A. , Alwashmi Ameen S. S. , Ibrahim Fatimah Al , Alsaleh Abdulmonem A. , Khamis Faryal , Alsalman Jameela , Sharma Manish , Emran Talha Bin
Published: January 2023

The emergence of novel variants of SARS-CoV-2 and their abilities to evade the immune response elicited through presently available vaccination makes it essential to recognize the mechanisms through which SARS-CoV-2 interacts with the human immune response. It is essential not only to comprehend the infection mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 but also for the generation of effective and reliable vaccines against COVID-19. The effectiveness of the vaccine is supported by the adaptive immune response, which mainly consists of B and T cells, which play a critical role in deciding the prognosis of the COVID-19 disease. T cells are essential for reducing the viral load and containing the infection. A plethora of viral proteins can be recognized by T cells and provide a broad range of protection, especially amid the emergence of novel variants of SARS-CoV-2. However, the hyperactivation of the effector T cells and reduced number of lymphocytes have been found to be the key characteristics of the severe disease. Notably, excessive T cell activation may cause acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) by producing unwarranted and excessive amounts of cytokines and chemokines. Nevertheless, it is still unknown how T-cell-mediated immune responses function in determining the prognosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Additionally, it is unknown how the functional perturbations in the T cells lead to the severe form of the disease and to reduced protection not only against SARS-CoV-2 but many other viral infections. Hence, an updated review has been developed to understand the involvement of T cells in the infection mechanism, which in turn determines the prognosis of the disease. Importantly, we have also focused on the T cells’ exhaustion under certain conditions and how these functional perturbations can be modulated for an effective immune response against SARS-CoV-2. Additionally, a range of therapeutic strategies has been discussed that can elevate the T cell-mediated immune response either directly or indirectly.
Tracking HPV Infection, Associated Cancer Development, and Recent Treatment Efforts—A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Malik Shiza , Sah Ranjit , Muhammad Khalid , Waheed Yasir
Published: January 2023

Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are high-risk causative factors for HPV infection. This infection does not come alone; it is often seen with co-infection with other viruses and acts as a causative agent for several malignancies. The major purpose of this comprehensive study was to highlight some recent advances in biotechnology associated with HPV infection, including understanding its host interactions and cancerous progression. A systematic research strategy was used to gather data from recent, and the most advanced published electronic sources. The compiled data explain the recent understanding of biology, host–viral interaction cycles, co-infection with other viral diseases, and cellular transformation toward malignancies associated with HPV. In recent years, some vaccination protocols have been introduced in the form of live attenuated, subunit, and DNA-based vaccines. Moreover, some strategies of nanotechnology are being employed to synthesize drugs and vaccines with a whole new approach of plant-based products. The data are immense for the proposed research question, yet the need is to implement modern follow-up screening and modern therapeutics at the clinical level and to conduct wide-scale public awareness to lessen the HPV-related disease burden.
Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir and Ritonavir) Use in Pregnant and Lactating Woman: Current Evidence and Practice Guidelines—A Scoping Review
Authors: Chourasia Prabal , Maringanti Babu Sriram , Edwards-Fligner Morgan , Gangu Karthik , Bobba Aniesh , Sheikh Abu Baker , Shekhar Rahul
Published: January 2023

COVID-19 virus, since the detection of the first case in Wuhan in 2019, has caused a worldwide pandemic with significant human, economic and social costs. Fortunately, several vaccines and treatments, both IV and oral, are currently approved against the COVID-19 virus. Paxlovid is an oral treatment option for patients with mild-to-moderate disease, and it effectively reduces disease severity in high-risk patients. Paxlovid is an oral antiviral that consists of a combination of nirmatrelvir and ritonavi. As an oral medication suitable for outpatient treatment, it reduces the cost, hospitalization and mortality associated with COVID-19 infection. The pregnant population is a high-risk category for COVID-19 disease. Given their exclusion in clinical trials, there is limited data regarding Paxlovid use in pregnant and lactating women. Indirect evidence from ritonavir use as part of HAART therapy in the pregnant and lactating population with HIV has shown no significant teratogenicity. Moreover, animal studies on the use of nirmatrelvir do not suggest teratogenicity. This article summarizes the available data on ritonavir and nirmatrelvir use during pregnancy and in ongoing clinical trials. We also review the recommendations of major societies worldwide regarding Paxlovid use in pregnant and breastfeeding patients.
Outcomes of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) for COVID-19 Patients: A Multi-Institutional Analysis
Authors: Makhoul Maged , Keizman Eitan , Carmi Uri , Galante Ori , Ilgiyaev Eduard , Matan Moshe , Słomka Artur , Sviri Sigal , Eden Arieh , Soroksky Arie , Fink Danny , Sternik Leonid , Bolotin Gil , Lorusso Roberto , Kassif Yigal
Published: January 2023

Background: In March 2020, COVID-19 was announced as a global pandemic. The first COVID-19 patient was connected to an ECMO device in Israel during that time. Since then, over 200 patients have required ECMO support due to COVID-19 infection. The present study is a multi-institutional analysis of all COVID-19 patients requiring veno-venous (VV) ECMO in Israel. The aim was to characterize and compare the survivors and deceased patients as well as establish risk factors for mortality. Methods: This retrospective multi-institutional study was conducted from March 2020 to March 2021 in eleven of twelve ECMO centers operating in Israel. All COVID-19 patients on VV ECMO support were included in the cohort. The patients were analyzed based on their comorbidities, procedural data, adverse event on ECMO, and outcomes. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to compare the deceased and the surviving patients. Results: The study included 197 patients, of which 150 (76%) were males, and the mean age was 50.7 ± 12 years. Overall mortality was 106 (54%). Compared with the deceased subjects, survivors were significantly younger (48 ± 11 vs. 53 ± 12 years), suffered less from ischemic heart disease (IHD) (3% vs. 12%), and were ventilated for a significantly shorter period (≤4 days) prior to cannulation (77% vs. 63%). Patients in the deceased group experienced more kidney failure and sepsis. Rates of other complications were comparable between groups. Conclusions: Based on this study, we conclude that early cannulation (≤4 days) of younger patients (≤55 years) may improve overall survival and that a history of IHD might indicate a reduced prognosis.
Disseminated Nocardiosis Caused by Nocardia farcinica in Two Puppy Siblings
Authors: Zendri Flavia , Richards-Rios Peter , Maciuca Iuliana , Ricci Emanuele , Timofte Dorina
Published: January 2023

Systemic nocardiosis due to Nocardia farcinica has not been reported in canine outbreaks. Two 14-week-old female Dogue de Bordeaux siblings presented with fever and severe, acute onset limb lameness; traumatic lesions with evidence of infection were identified over the lame limbs of both dogs. The patients were euthanised owing to lack of therapeutic response and rapid escalation to systemic infection with central nervous system manifestations. The post-mortem changes consisted of multiple disseminated abscesses, mainly affecting the skin and subcutis at the limb traumatic injuries, local and hilar lymph nodes, lung, kidney and brain. Bacterial culture and identification via MALDI-TOF and 16S rRNA sequencing revealed Nocardia farcinica from several of these sites in both dogs. Clinical significance of the isolate was supported by cytology of the post-mortem organs’ impression smears showing numerous branching filamentous bacteria associated with inflammation. The organism displayed marked multidrug-resistance. No history of immunosuppression was available, and immunohistochemistry ruled out viral pathogens as canine distemper and parvovirus. N. farcinica should be considered as a potential differential cause of sudden lameness and systemic infection in dogs with traumatic skin lesions over the limbs. This is the first reported small-scale outbreak of systemic nocardiosis in dogs due to N. farcinica.