bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modification of Vibrational Parameters of a D∞h-Symmetric Triatomic Molecule in a Laser Plasma
Authors: Kornev Aleksei S. , Chernov Vladislav E. , Kubelík Petr , Ferus Martin
Published: November 2022

We estimate theoretically the strong-field-modified vibrational parameters of three-atomic ABA molecules with D∞h symmetry in a laser-induced plasma. The linear CO2 and CS2 molecules in the X1Σg state are considered as examples. We show that double degeneracy of the Πu mode is removed due to reduction of the ABA molecule symmetry by the laser field. The linear form of ABA molecule is preserved, the bond length being elongated.
Analytical Formulas Using Affine Transformation for Pricing Generalized Swaps in Commodity Markets with Stochastic Convenience Yields
Authors: Duangpan Ampol , Boonklurb Ratinan , Rakwongwan Udomsak , Sutthimat Phiraphat
Published: November 2022

This paper presents analytical formulas for pricing generalized swaps, including the moment swap, gamma swap, entropy swap and self-quantoed variance swap. The formulas are based on closed-form formulas for the conditional expectations of the product of the price and its logarithm and the product of the price and the convenience yield obtained by solving a partial differential equation corresponding to the infinitesimal generator for the two-dimensional diffusion process. In this respect, the formulas obtained are combinatorial in nature and are solved via an affine transformation involving the complete Bell polynomials. The formulas are quite suitable for practical usage with symmetric and skew-symmetric properties, i.e., they are simpler and more compact compared with those existing in the literature. Moreover, for moments swaps, we show in general that the strike price does not depend on the initial spot price but depends only on the initial convenience yield, which highlights the resulting versatility in this respect.
Thermal Conductivity Study of an Orthotropic Medium Containing a Cylindrical Cavity
Authors: Abbas Ibrahim , Marin Marin , Hobiny Aatef , Vlase Sorin
Published: November 2022

An interesting feature that appears in the thermoelastic interaction in an orthotropic material containing cylindrical cavities is addressed in this study. For this purpose, the Finite Element Method is applied to analyze a generalized thermoelasticity theory with a relaxation time. For the development of the model, a thermal conductivity that is dependent on the temperature of the orthotropic medium was considered. The boundary condition for the internal surface of a cylindrical hollow is defined by the thermal shocks and the traction on the free surface. The nonlinear formulations of thermoelastic based on thermal relaxation time in orthotropic mediums are abbreviated using the Finite Element Method. The nonlinear equations without Kirchhoff’s transformations are presented. The results are graphically represented to demonstrate how changing thermal conductivity affects all physical values.
One-Parameter Statistical Methods to Recognize DDoS Attacks
Authors: Hajtmanek Roman , Kontšek Martin , Smieško Juraj , Uramová Jana
Published: November 2022

Within our academic high-speed network infrastructure which is used for connecting all universities and high schools in our country to the Internet, there are thousands of cybersecurity attacks occurring every day. That is why, within our SANET II project, an effort has been made to create a self-learning system without a teacher, which would be able to quickly adapt to arbitrary traffic and recognize DDoS attacks on time, even in high-speed networks, with a potential simple implementation into a hardware probe. In the article, we deal with the Hurst and autoregression coefficients and the coefficient of variation. We test the coefficients on simulated data and on real records of attacks. For early machine recognition of the attack, we propose the so-called predicting σ-tunnel. The obtained results can lead to the investigation of other prediction methods that would improve the early recognition of an attack.
Extraction of Exact Solutions of Higher Order Sasa-Satsuma Equation in the Sense of Beta Derivative
Authors: Fadhal Emad , Akbulut Arzu , Kaplan Melike , Awadalla Muath , Abuasbeh Kinda
Published: November 2022

Nearly every area of mathematics, natural, social, and engineering now includes research into finding exact answers to nonlinear fractional differential equations (NFDES). In order to discover the exact solutions to the higher order Sasa-Satsuma equation in the sense of the beta derivative, the paper will discuss the modified simple equation (MSE) and exponential rational function (ERF) approaches. In general, symmetry and travelling wave solutions of the Sasa-Satsuma equation have a common correlation with each other, thus we reduce equations from wave transformations to ordinary differential equations with the help of Lie symmetries. Actually, we can say that wave moves are symmetrical. The considered procedures are effective, accurate, simple, and straightforward to compute. In order to highlight the physical characteristics of the solutions, we also provide 2D and 3D plots of the results.
Study on Water Jet Characteristics of Square Nozzle Based on CFD and Particle Image Velocimetry
Authors: Fu Zhuo , Li Kun , Pang Yongjun , Ma Liyong , Wang Zhanying , Jiang Bin
Published: November 2022

Water jet technology is widely used in various fields, in which the nozzle is an important element to form the jet. To solve the problem of low water jet operation efficiency of square nozzles, the internal flow channel structure of the nozzle of the key jet device is studied. Through the combination of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and particle image velocimetry (PIV) experiments, the influence of main structural parameters such as the contraction angle and length-to-diameter ratio of the inner flow channel on the velocity and length of the constant-velocity core region is explored. Since the jet flow structure is a symmetrical structure along the axial direction, the model of the jet flow structure was built half of the model along the axial direction. The results show that a smaller length-to-diameter ratio and a smaller contraction angle of the nozzle result in better jet cohesion and lower dynamic pressure in the constant-velocity core area, which is more suitable for long-distance, low-pressure water jet operations.
Co-Saliency Detection of RGBD Image Based on Superpixel and Hypergraph
Authors: Wei Weiyi , Chen Wenxia , Xu Mengyu
Published: November 2022

For the co-saliency detection algorithm of an RGBD image that may have incomplete detection of common salient regions and unclear boundaries, we proposed an improved co-saliency detection method of RGBD images based on superpixels and hypergraphs. First, we optimized the depth map based on edge consistency, and introduced the optimized depth map into the SLIC algorithm to obtain the better superpixel segmentation results of RGBD images. Second, the color features, optimized depth features and global spatial features of superpixels were extracted to construct a weighted hypergraph model to generate saliency maps. Finally, we constructed a weighted hypergraph model for co-saliency detection based on the relationship of color features, global spatial features, optimized depth features and saliency features among images. In addition, in order to verify the impact of the symmetry of the optimized depth information on the co-saliency detection results, we compared the proposed method with two types of models, which included considering depth information and not considering depth information. The experimental results on Cosal150 and Coseg183 datasets showed that our improved algorithm had the advantages of suppressing the background and detecting the integrity of the common salient region, and outperformed other algorithms on the metrics of P-R curve, F-measure and MAE.
Determination of Aerodynamic Losses of Electric Motors
Authors: Gebauer Marek , Blejchař Tomáš , Brzobohatý Tomáš , Karásek Tomáš , Nevřela Miroslav
Published: November 2022

The energy efficiency of machines is nowadays an intensively studied problem. The efficiency of the induction motor is dominantly influenced by the rotor’s and stator winding’s temperature. The main goal of the research presented in this paper is to develop a methodology based on Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis of internal and external aerodynamics, which is necessary for the optimisation of cooling of the induction motors. In this paper, the theoretical, as well as the numerical study of the internal and external aerodynamics of the induction motor, is described and verified by the experimental measurements. In the CFD-based numerical study, the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) turbulence modelling approach was applied to the flow field simulations inside and outside the induction motor. The complexity of the solved problem is increased not only by the geometric asymmetry but also by the flow’s asymmetric character caused by the fan’s rotation to cool the motor casing. This increases demand, especially on computational resources, as it is impossible to create a simplified numerical model incorporating symmetry. The volume flow of the cooling air and velocity between ribs was measured for the experimental study. Comparing the results of the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations and data obtained from the experimental measurement, we concluded that the results of CFD simulations are in good relationship with the results of experimental measurement and analytical approximations. An experimentally validated CFD model of the induction motor, the so-called digital twin, will be in the future used for virtual optimisation of the new designs concerning minimising losses and maximising efficiency, respectively.
Cross-Gramian-Based Model Reduction for Descriptor Systems
Authors: Lin Yiqin
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we explore model order reduction for large-scale square descriptor systems. A balancing-free square-root method is proposed. The balancing-free square-root method is based on two cross Gramians, one of which is known as the proper cross Gramian and the other as the improper cross Gramian. The proper cross Gramian is the unique solution of a projected generalized continuous-time Sylvester equation, and the improper cross Gramian solves a projected generalized discrete-time Sylvester equation. In order to compute the low-rank factors of these two cross Gramians, we extend the low-rank iteration of the alternating direction implicit method and the Smith method to the projected generalized Sylvester equations. We illustrate the effectiveness of the balance truncation method with one numerical example.
Inclusive Charged-Particle Kinematic Distributions at LHC Energies: Data versus Theory
Authors: Ajaz Muhammad , Waqas Muhammad , Khan Rashid , Adil Khan Muhammad , Li Li-Li , Alrebdi Haifa I. , Abdel-Aty Abdel-Haleem
Published: November 2022

The transverse momentum distributions of inclusive charged particles in pseudorapidity bins with a width of 0.2 are reported for a simulation study of PYTHIA8, Sibyll, and EPOS. The models’ predictions are compared with the experimental measurements reported by the CMS experiment in symmetric pp collisions, allowing the maximum energy for new particle production at s = 0.9, 2.36, and 7 TeV. While comparing the models’ predictions with the data, we found that the default module of the PYTHIA model reproduced a good prediction of the data because it tuned the lower cut-off phase space parameter of the transverse momentum. In the second place, the EPOS model reproduced predictions that were close to the data, while the Sibyll model reproduced the data in a narrow region of the pT distributions. In addition to that, the fit of the pT distribution of the data by the standard distribution function was used to obtain the effective temperature of the hadronic medium. The effective temperature increased with an increase in the pseudorapidity and had a more significant value at higher center-of-mass energies, which may indicate a change in the reaction mechanism or possible formation of a different phase of hadronic matter.
A Numerical Computation for an Impulsive Fractional Differential Equation with a Deviated Argument
Authors: Algehyne Ebrahem A. , Khatoon Areefa , Raheem Abdur , Alamer Ahmed
Published: November 2022

Symmetry analysis is an effective tool for understanding differential equations, particularly when analyzing equations derived from mathematical concepts. This paper is concerned with an impulsive fractional differential equation (IFDE) with a deviated argument. We implement two techniques, the Adomian decomposition method (ADM) and the fractional differential transform method (FDTM), for solving IFDEs. In these schemes, we obtain the solutions in the form of a convergent power series with easily computed components. This paper also discusses the existence and uniqueness of solutions using the Banach contraction principle. This paper presents a numerical comparison between the two methods for solving IFDEs. We illustrate the proposed methods with a few examples and find their numerical solutions. Moreover, we show the graph of numerical solutions via MATLAB. The numerical results demonstrate that the ADM approach is quite accurate and readily implemented.
On ve-Degree Irregularity Index of Graphs and Its Applications as Molecular Descriptor
Authors: Das Kinkar Chandra , Mondal Sourav
Published: November 2022

Most of the molecular graphs in the area of mathematical chemistry are irregular. Therefore, irregularity measure is a crucial parameter in chemical graph theory. One such measure that has recently been proposed is the ve-degree irregularity index (irrve). Quantitative structure property relationship (QSPR) analysis explores the capability of an index to model numerous properties of molecules. We investigate the usefulness of the irrve index in predicting different physico-chemical properties by carrying out QSPR analysis. It is established that the irrve index is efficient to explain the acentric factor and boiling point of molecules with powerful accuracy. An upper bound of irrve for the class of all trees is computed with identifying extremal graphs. We noticed that the result is not correct. In this report, we provide a counter example to justify our argument and determine the correct outcome.
Multi-Category Innovation and Encroachment Strategy Evolution of Composite E-Commerce Platform Based on Multi-Agent Simulation
Authors: Wang Ziyan , Yang Tianjian
Published: November 2022

An in-depth study of the product encroachment behavior on the composite e-commerce platform is of great significance to standardize the platform economy. This paper studies product encroachment behavior of composite e-commerce platforms with double-differentiated multi-product competition and constructs a game model of product innovation by an independent seller and product encroachment by the platform owner. Using multi-agent simulation, we simulate the bounded rational decision-making and interaction process of multiple agents in multiple periods and analyze the main parameters’ influence. Results indicate the following: (1) In dual-differentiated multi-product competition, the third-party seller is more willing to invest in innovating high-quality category P, and the profit-driven platform owner only encroaches on the new variants of category P. (2) The larger consumers’ platform owner preference can encourage the third-party seller to innovate high-quality new products. The increase in vertical differentiation of categories can enhance the third-party seller’s innovation motivation for the traffic-attracting category. (3) A reasonable commission rate set by the platform owner can ensure the variety of variants of various categories, thereby expanding the sales scope of the composite e-commerce platform. Diseconomies of scale of category diversity management costs hinder the growth of product variety in the online marketplace.
Improvement of an In-Duct Two-Stage Electrostatic Precipitator via Diffusion Charging
Authors: Kim Ye-Sle , Lee Yeawan , Kim Yong-Jin , Han Bangwoo , Kim Hak-Joon
Published: November 2022

An in-duct two-stage electrostatic precipitator (ESP) improved by ion diffusion effect was studied. We increased the collection efficiency of a two-stage electrostatic precipitator without additional energy input by adjusting the space arrangement of the charger and the collector, which increased the particle diffusion charging time. The collection efficiency and the particle charge were systematically investigated according to the occurrence of diffusion charging and electric field charging in the charger as generated by the negative ions. The collection efficiency of the separated two-stage ESP was 39% higher, on average, than the theoretical efficiency at the same power consumption. Through simulation, it was verified that the ions generated in the carbon fiber ionizer penetrated the charger. We proposed a modified charging mechanism assuming that the penetrated ions cause additional particle charge. The optimal separation distance between the charger and the collector, which showed the maximum collection efficiency, was derived through the modified charging model. Therefore, the in-duct two-stage ESP developed in this study is a promising energy-efficient and cost-saving design for indoor air management.
Occurrence and Determination of Alternaria Mycotoxins Alternariol, Alternariol Monomethyl Ether, and Tentoxin in Wheat Grains by QuEChERS Method
Authors: Puvača Nikola , Avantaggiato Giuseppina , Merkuri Jordan , Vuković Gorica , Bursić Vojislava , Cara Magdalena
Published: November 2022

The Alternaria mycotoxins such as alternariol (AOH), alternariol monomethyl ether (AME), and tentoxin (TEN) are mycotoxins, which can contaminate cereal-based raw materials. Today, wheat is one of the most important crops in temperate zones, and it is in increasing demand in the Western Balkans countries that are urbanizing and industrializing. This research aimed to investigate the occurrence and determine the concentration of Alternaria mycotoxins AOH, AME, and TEN in wheat samples from the Republic of Serbia and the Republic of Albania, harvested in the year 2020 in the period between 15 June and 15 July. A total of 80 wheat grain samples, 40 from each country, were analyzed by an QuEChERS (quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe) method. From the obtained results, it can be seen that the mean concentration of AOH was 3.3 µg/kg and AME was 2.2 µg/kg in wheat samples from Serbia, while TEN from both Serbia and Albania was under the limit of quantification (<LOQ). The maximum of AOH and AME mycotoxins was recorded only in wheat grain samples collected in the Republic of Serbia (5.3 and 2.3 µg/kg). In conclusion, Alternaria mycotoxins have concentrations above the LOQ, which could be potentially considered a health hazard to both humans and animals.
Global Real-World Evidence of Sofosbuvir/Velpatasvir as a Highly Effective Treatment and Elimination Tool in People with Hepatitis C Infection Experiencing Mental Health Disorders
Authors: Wedemeyer Heiner , Di Marco Vito , Garcia-Retortillo Montserrat , Teti Elisabetta , Fraser Chris , Morano Amado Luis Enrique , Rodriguez-Tajes Sergio , Acosta-López Silvia , O’Loan Joss , Milella Michele , Buti Maria , Guerra-Veloz María Fernanda , Ramji Alnoor , Fenech Mary , Martins Alexandra , Borgia Sergio M. , Vanstraelen Kim , Mertens Michael , Hernández Cándido , Ntalla Ioanna , Ramroth Heribert , Milligan Scott
Published: November 2022

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is prevalent in people with mental health disorders, a priority population to diagnose and cure in order to achieve HCV elimination. This integrated analysis pooled data from 20 cohorts in seven countries to evaluate the real-world effectiveness of the pangenotypic direct-acting antiviral (DAA) sofosbuvir/velpatasvir (SOF/VEL) in people with mental health disorders. HCV-infected patients diagnosed with mental health disorders who were treated with SOF/VEL for 12 weeks without ribavirin as part of routine clinical practice were included. The primary outcome was sustained virological response (SVR) in the effectiveness population (EP), defined as patients with an available SVR assessment. Secondary outcomes were reasons for not achieving SVR, characteristics of patients with non-virological failures, adherence, and time from HCV RNA diagnosis to SOF/VEL treatment initiation. A total of 1209 patients were included; 142 did not achieve an SVR for non-virological reasons (n = 112; 83 lost to follow-up, 20 early treatment discontinuations) or unknown reasons (n = 30). Of the 1067 patients in the EP, 97.4% achieved SVR. SVR rates in the EP were ≥95% when stratified by type of mental health disorder and other complicating baseline characteristics, including active injection drug use and antipsychotic drug use. Of 461 patients with data available in the EP, only 2% had an adherence level < 90% and 1% had an adherence level < 80%; all achieved SVR. Patients with mental health disorders can be cured of HCV using a well-tolerated, pangenotypic, protease inhibitor-free SOF/VEL regimen. This DAA allows the implementation of a simple treatment algorithm, with minimal monitoring requirements and fewer interactions with central nervous system drugs compared with protease-inhibitor DAA regimens.
G-Quadruplex DNA and Other Non-Canonical B-Form DNA Motifs Influence Productive and Latent HIV-1 Integration and Reactivation Potential
Authors: Ajoge Hannah O. , Kohio Hinissan P. , Paparisto Ermela , Coleman Macon D. , Wong Kemen , Tom Sean K. , Bain Katie L. , Berry Charles C. , Arts Eric J. , Barr Stephen D.
Published: November 2022

The integration of the HIV-1 genome into the host genome is an essential step in the life cycle of the virus and it plays a critical role in the expression, long-term persistence, and reactivation of HIV expression. To better understand the local genomic environment surrounding HIV-1 proviruses, we assessed the influence of non-canonical B-form DNA (non-B DNA) on the HIV-1 integration site selection. We showed that productively and latently infected cells exhibit different integration site biases towards non-B DNA motifs. We identified a correlation between the integration sites of the latent proviruses and non-B DNA features known to potently influence gene expression (e.g., cruciform, guanine-quadruplex (G4), triplex, and Z-DNA). The reactivation potential of latent proviruses with latency reversal agents also correlated with their proximity to specific non-B DNA motifs. The perturbation of G4 structures in vitro using G4 structure-destabilizing or -stabilizing ligands resulted in a significant reduction in integration within 100 base pairs of G4 motifs. The stabilization of G4 structures increased the integration within 300–500 base pairs from G4 motifs, increased integration near transcription start sites, and increased the proportion of latently infected cells. Moreover, we showed that host lens epithelium-derived growth factor (LEDGF)/p75 and cleavage and polyadenylation specificity factor 6 (CPSF6) influenced the distribution of integration sites near several non-B DNA motifs, especially G4 DNA. Our findings identify non-B DNA motifs as important factors that influence productive and latent HIV-1 integration and the reactivation potential of latent proviruses.
Novel Aeromonas Phage Ahy-Yong1 and Its Protective Effects against Aeromonas hydrophila in Brocade Carp (Cyprinus aka Koi)
Authors: Pan Lingting , Li Dengfeng , Lin Wei , Liu Wencai , Qu Chenxin , Qian Minhua , Cai Ruqian , Zhou Qin , Wang Fei , Tong Yigang
Published: November 2022

Aeromonas hydrophila is a zoonotic pathogen and an important fish pathogen. A new lytic phage, Ahy-yong1, against multi-antibiotic-resistant pathogen A. hydrophila was isolated, identified, and tentatively used in therapy. Ahy-yong1 possesses a head of approximately 66 nm in diameter and a short tail of approximately 26 nm in length and 32 nm in width. Its complete dsDNA genome is 43,374 bp with a G + C content of 59.4%, containing 52 predicted opening reading frames (ORFs). Taxonomic analysis indicated Ahy-yong1 as a new species of the Ahphunavirus genus of the Autographiviridae family of the Caudoviricetes class. Ahy-yong1 was active only against its indicator host strain among the 35 strains tested. It is stable at 30–40 °C and at pH 2–12. Aeromonas phage Ahy-yong1 revealed an effective biofilm removal capacity and an obvious protective effect in brocade carp (Cyprinus aka Koi). The average cumulative mortality for the brocade carp in the blank groups intraperitoneally injected with PBS was 1.7% ± 2.4%;for the control groups treated with A. hydrophila (108 CFU/fish) via intraperitoneal injection, it was 100.00%;and for the test group I, successively treated with A. hydrophila (108 CFU/fish) and Aeromonas phage Ahy-yong1 (107 PFU/fish) via intraperitoneal injection witha time interval of 2 hours, it was only 43.4% ± 4.7%. Furthermore, the cumulative mortality of the test group II, successively treated with Aeromonas phage Ahy-yong1 (107 PFU/fish) and A. hydrophila (108 CFU/fish), was only 20.0% ± 8.2%, and that of the test group III, simultaneously treated with Aeromonas phage Ahy-yong1 (107 PFU/fish) and A. hydrophila (108 CFU/fish), was only 30.0% ± 8.2%. The results demonstrated that phage Ahy-yong1 was very effective in the therapies against A. hydrophila A18, prophylaxis was more effective than rescue, and earlier treatment was better for the reduction of mortality. This study enriches knowledge about Aeromonas phages.
The Characterization of Three Novel Insect-Specific Viruses Discovered in the Bean Bug, Riptortus pedestris
Authors: Guo Chunyun , Ye Zhuangxin , Hu Biao , Shan Shiqi , Chen Jianping , Sun Zongtao , Li Junmin , Wei Zhongyan
Published: November 2022

Insect-specific virus (ISV) is one of the most promising agents for the biological control of insects, which is abundantly distributed in hematophagous insects. However, few ISVs have been reported in Riptortus pedestris (Fabricius), one of the major pests threatening soybeans and causing great losses in yield and quality. In this work, field Riptortus pedestris was collected from six soybean-producing regions in China, and their virome was analyzed with the metatranscriptomic approach. Altogether, seven new insect RNA viruses were identified, three of which had complete RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) and nearly full-length genome sequences, which were named Riptortus pedestris alphadrosrha-like virus 1 (RpALv1), Riptortus pedestris alphadrosrha-like virus 2 (RpALv2) and Riptortus pedestris almendra-like virus (RiALv). The three identified novel ISVs belonged to the family Rhabdoviridae, and phylogenetic tree analysis indicated that they were clustered into new distinct clades. Interestingly, the analysis of virus-derived small-interfering RNAs (vsiRNAs) indicated that only RiALv-derived siRNAs exhibited 22 nt length preference, whereas no clear 21 or 22 nt peaks were observed for RpALv1 and RpALv2, suggesting the complexity of siRNA-based antiviral immunity in R. pedestris. In conclusion, this study contributes to a better understanding of the microenvironment in R. pedestris and provides viral information for the development of potential soybean insect-specific biocontrol agents.
Integrated Omics Reveal Time-Resolved Insights into T4 Phage Infection of E. coli on Proteome and Transcriptome Levels
Authors: Wolfram-Schauerte Maik , Pozhydaieva Nadiia , Viering Madita , Glatter Timo , Höfer Katharina
Published: November 2022

Bacteriophages are highly abundant viruses of bacteria. The major role of phages in shaping bacterial communities and their emerging medical potential as antibacterial agents has triggered a rebirth of phage research. To understand the molecular mechanisms by which phages hijack their host, omics technologies can provide novel insights into the organization of transcriptional and translational events occurring during the infection process. In this study, we apply transcriptomics and proteomics to characterize the temporal patterns of transcription and protein synthesis during the T4 phage infection of E. coli. We investigated the stability of E. coli-originated transcripts and proteins in the course of infection, identifying the degradation of E. coli transcripts and the preservation of the host proteome. Moreover, the correlation between the phage transcriptome and proteome reveals specific T4 phage mRNAs and proteins that are temporally decoupled, suggesting post-transcriptional and translational regulation mechanisms. This study provides the first comprehensive insights into the molecular takeover of E. coli by bacteriophage T4. This data set represents a valuable resource for future studies seeking to study molecular and regulatory events during infection. We created a user-friendly online tool, POTATO4, which is available to the scientific community and allows access to gene expression patterns for E. coli and T4 genes.
Modulation of HERV Expression by Four Different Encephalitic Arboviruses during Infection of Human Primary Astrocytes
Authors: Castro Fernando Luz de , Brustolini Otávio José Bernandes , Geddes Victor Emmanuel Viana , Souza Jorge Paes Barreto Marcondes de , Alves-Leon Soniza Vieira , Aguiar Renato Santana , Vasconcelos Ana Tereza Ribeiro
Published: November 2022

Human retroelements (HERVs) are retroviral origin sequences fixed in the human genome. HERVs induction is associated with neurogenesis, cellular development, immune activation, and neurological disorders. Arboviruses are often associated with the development of encephalitis. The interplay between these viruses and HERVs has not been fully elucidated. In this work, we analyzed RNAseq data derived from infected human primary astrocytes by Zika (ZikV), Mayaro (MayV), Oropouche (OroV) and Chikungunya (ChikV) viruses, and evaluated the modulation of HERVs and their nearby genes. Our data show common HERVs expression modulation by both alphaviruses, suggesting conserved evolutionary routes of transcription regulation. A total of 15 HERVs were co-modulated by the four arboviruses, including the highly upregulated HERV4_4q22. Data on the upregulation of genes nearby to these elements in ChikV, MayV and OroV infections were also obtained, and interaction networks were built. The upregulation of 14 genes common among all viruses was observed in the networks, and 93 genes between MayV and ChikV. These genes are related to cellular processes such as cellular replication, cytoskeleton, cell vesicle traffic and antiviral response. Together, our results support the role of HERVs induction in the transcription regulation process of genes during arboviral infections.
Comparison of the Virulence of Korean African Swine Fever Isolates from Pig Farms during 2019–2021
Authors: Cho Ki-Hyun , Hong Seong-Keun , Jang Min-Kyung , Ryu Ji-Hyoung , Kim Hyun-Jeong , Lee Yu-Ran , Roh In-Soon , Sohn Hyun-Joo , Kang Hae-Eun , Park Jee-Yong
Published: November 2022

African swine fever (ASF) was first reported in South Korea in September 2019, and as of 31 December 2021, a total of 21 cases in domestic pig farms and 1875 ASFV-infected wild boars have been confirmed in the country. With the continued circulation of ASF in wild boars, and subsequent outbreaks in domestic pigs, concerns were raised about the possible changes in virulence occurring among African swine fever viruses (ASFV) circulating in South Korea. In this study, four Korean ASFV strains isolated from domestic pig farms at different time points between 2019 and 2021 were chosen, and used to experimentally infect domestic pigs by intramuscular inoculation to compare their virulence. All challenged pigs died at 4–9 days post-inoculation, with many showing clinical symptoms of fever, depression, loss of appetite, and recumbency. Gross lesions observed at necropsy included enlargement and hemorrhage of the lymph nodes and hydropericardium. The study showed that all four Korean ASFV isolates caused acute forms of illness, which supports the view that virulence among the circulating ASFV isolates in South Korea remained unchanged and highly virulent during this period.
Immunopeptidomic Analysis of BoLA-I and BoLA-DR Presented Peptides from Theileria parva Infected Cells
Authors: Connelley Timothy , Nicastri Annalisa , Sheldrake Tara , Vrettou Christina , Fisch Andressa , Reynisson Birkir , Buus Soren , Hill Adrian , Morrison Ivan , Nielsen Morten , Ternette Nicola
Published: November 2022

The apicomplexan parasite Theileria parva is the causative agent of East Coast fever, usually a fatal disease for cattle, which is prevalent in large areas of eastern, central, and southern Africa. Protective immunity against T. parva is mediated by CD8+ T cells, with CD4+ T-cells thought to be important in facilitating the full maturation and development of the CD8+ T-cell response. T. parva has a large proteome, with >4000 protein-coding genes, making T-cell antigen identification using conventional screening approaches laborious and expensive. To date, only a limited number of T-cell antigens have been described. Novel approaches for identifying candidate antigens for T. parva are required to replace and/or complement those currently employed. In this study, we report on the use of immunopeptidomics to study the repertoire of T. parva peptides presented by both BoLA-I and BoLA-DR molecules on infected cells. The study reports on peptides identified from the analysis of 13 BoLA-I and 6 BoLA-DR datasets covering a range of different BoLA genotypes. This represents the most comprehensive immunopeptidomic dataset available for any eukaryotic pathogen to date. Examination of the immunopeptidome data suggested the presence of a large number of coprecipitated and non-MHC-binding peptides. As part of the work, a pipeline to curate the datasets to remove these peptides was developed and used to generate a final list of 74 BoLA-I and 15 BoLA-DR-presented peptides. Together, the data demonstrated the utility of immunopeptidomics as a method to identify novel T-cell antigens for T. parva and the importance of careful curation and the application of high-quality immunoinformatics to parse the data generated.
Prophylactic Human Papillomavirus Vaccination: From the Origin to the Current State
Authors: Akhatova Ayazhan , Azizan Azliyati , Atageldiyeva Kuralay , Ashimkhanova Aiymkul , Marat Aizada , Iztleuov Yerbolat , Suleimenova Assem , Shamkeeva Saikal , Aimagambetova Gulzhanat
Published: November 2022

Immunization is the most successful method in preventing and controlling infectious diseases, which has helped saving millions of lives worldwide. The discovery of the human papillomavirus (HPV) infection being associated with a variety of benign conditions and cancers has driven the development of prophylactic HPV vaccines. Currently, four HPV vaccines are available on the pharmaceutical market: Cervarix, Gardasil, Gardasil-9, and the recently developed Cecolin. Multiple studies have proven the HPV vaccines’ safety and efficacy in preventing HPV-related diseases. Since 2006, when the first HPV vaccine was approved, more than 100 World Health Organization member countries reported the implementation of HPV immunization. However, HPV vaccination dread, concerns about its safety, and associated adverse outcomes have a significant impact on the HPV vaccine implementation campaigns all over the world. Many developed countries have successfully implemented HPV immunization and achieved tremendous progress in preventing HPV-related conditions. However, there are still many countries worldwide which have not created, or have not yet implemented, HPV vaccination campaigns, or have failed due to deficient realization plans associated with establishing successful HPV vaccination programs. Lack of proper HPV information campaigns, negative media reflection, and numerous myths and fake information have led to HPV vaccine rejection in many states. Thus, context-specific health educational interventions on HPV vaccination safety, effectiveness, and benefits are important to increase the vaccines’ acceptance for efficacious prevention of HPV-associated conditions.
Digital Media Exposure and Health Beliefs Influencing Influenza Vaccination Intentions: An Empirical Research in China
Authors: Zhao Qingting , Yin Hao , Guo Difan
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether/how digital media exposure influences people’s intention to influenza vaccination. Through an anonymous online survey, we collected data on Chinese people’s exposure to influenza and influenza vaccine information on digital media platforms and their attitudes toward influenza vaccines (N = 600). The structural equation model analysis results strongly support to the research hypotheses and the proposed model. The findings reveal three major themes: (1) digital media exposure significantly influence the susceptibility and severity of influenza. (2) After exposure to digital media, it is helpful to understand the vaccine’s benefits, reduce the barriers to vaccination, and finally improve the intention to vaccination. (3) Users receive cues to action from digital media, and their vaccination intention tends to be positive. These findings explore how digital media exposure influences influenza vaccination intention and may provide insights into vaccine promotion efforts in countries. Research has shown that digital media exposure contributes to getting vaccinated against influenza.
Antigen Coverage Presented by MHC Class I Has a Negative Correlation with SARS-CoV-2-Induced Mortality
Authors: Park Ji Soo , Kim Kwoneel
Published: November 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a health crisis worldwide; therefore, it is necessary to understand the factors related to its prognosis. In this study, we hypothesized that SARS-CoV-2-derived antigens presented by MHC class I may correlate with mortality in COVID-19 because they induce adaptive immune responses. Antigen coverage at the national level was inferred using country-specific HLA allele frequencies and relative predictions of binding antigens. We performed regression analysis between antigen coverage and the death rate due to COVID-19 across countries and found a negative correlation, although it was statistically significant only in HLA-B. This negative correlation was corroborated in multiple regression analysis with known risk factors, such as the prevalence of underlying disease. Furthermore, we analyzed antigen coverage in accordance with SARS-CoV-2 domains and identified a significant negative correlation when it was derived from the spike domain, which is reported to be favorable for COVID-19 prognosis. Taken together, the results indicate that the antigen coverage of SARS-CoV-2 specifically presented by HLA-B may act as a favorable factor when explaining COVID-19-induced mortality
Vaccination Strategies Based on Bacterial Self-Assembling Proteins as Antigen Delivery Nanoscaffolds
Authors: Lamontagne Félix , Khatri Vinay , St-Louis Philippe , Bourgault Steve , Archambault Denis
Published: November 2022

Vaccination has saved billions of human lives and has considerably reduced the economic burden associated with pandemic and endemic infectious diseases. Notwithstanding major advancements in recent decades, multitude diseases remain with no available effective vaccine. While subunit-based vaccines have shown great potential to address the safety concerns of live-attenuated vaccines, their limited immunogenicity remains a major drawback that still needs to be addressed for their use fighting infectious illnesses, autoimmune disorders, and/or cancer. Among the adjuvants and delivery systems for antigens, bacterial proteinaceous supramolecular structures have recently received considerable attention. The use of bacterial proteins with self-assembling properties to deliver antigens offers several advantages, including biocompatibility, stability, molecular specificity, symmetrical organization, and multivalency. Bacterial protein nanoassemblies closely simulate most invading pathogens, acting as an alarm signal for the immune system to mount an effective adaptive immune response. Their nanoscale architecture can be precisely controlled at the atomic level to produce a variety of nanostructures, allowing for infinite possibilities of organized antigen display. For the bottom-up design of the proteinaceous antigen delivery scaffolds, it is essential to understand how the structural and physicochemical properties of the nanoassemblies modulate the strength and polarization of the immune responses. The present review first describes the relationships between structure and the generated immune responses, before discussing potential and current clinical applications.
COVID-19 Mortality in Vaccinated vs. Unvaccinated Liver & Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Single-Center United States Propensity Score Matching Study on Historical Data
Authors: Hardgrave Hailey , Wells Allison , Nigh Joseph , Klutts Garrett , Krinock Derek , Osborn Tamara , Bhusal Sushma , Rude Mary K. , Burdine Lyle , Giorgakis Emmanouil
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Existing studies report variable impact of vaccination on Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) morbidity and mortality in solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients. This study aimed to perform a propensity score matching (PSM) analysis on COVID-19 survival of vaccinated and unvaccinated SOT patients who contracted the disease at a single US academic transplant center. Methods: All consecutive COVID-19 positive cases on adult liver, kidney or combined liver-kidney recipients were identified and demographics, comorbidities, immunosuppression, COVID-19 treatment and hospitalization status, COVID-19 vaccination status, and early mortality recorded. PSM study was performed on age and sex for completed vaccination status at time of infection, followed by multivariable analysis and survival curve plotting. Results: 144 SOT patients were diagnosed with COVID-19, with 98 unvaccinated. PSM reduced study number to 101. Matched data multivariable analysis for 60-day mortality identified age and post-kidney transplant status to significantly increase 60-day mortality odds (OR 1.22, p < 0.001 and OR 40.93, p < 0.001, respectively). Kaplan–Meier analysis showed inferior post-infection survival in the unvaccinated group [(30 days; vaccinated vs. unvaccinated 97.8% vs. 89.1%, respectively; p = 0.089) (60 days; 97.8% vs. 83.6%, respectively; p = 0.019)]. Conclusions: Matched data survival analysis demonstrated inferior survival in the unvaccinated group, supporting COVID-19 vaccination in SOT recipients.
The Four Ws of the Fourth Dose COVID-19 Vaccines: Why, Who, When and What
Authors: Khong Ka-Wa , Zhang Ruiqi , Hung Ivan Fan-Ngai
Published: November 2022

With the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants, vaccine breakthrough is a major public health concern. With evidence of reduced neutralizing antibody activity against Omicron variants and fading antibody level after the third-dose booster vaccine, there are suggestions of a fourth-dose booster vaccine. In this review, the benefits of a fourth-dose booster is evaluated from four perspectives, including the effectiveness of the booster dose against virus variants (Why), susceptible groups of individuals who may benefit from additional booster dose (Who), selection of vaccine platforms to better enhance immunity (What) and appropriate intervals between the third and fourth booster dose (When). In summary, a fourth dose can temporarily boost the immune response against SARS-CoV-2 variants and can be considered for specific groups of individuals. A heterologous vaccine strategy using mRNA vaccine in individuals primed with inactivated vaccine may boost immunity against variants. The timing of the fourth dose should be individualized but an interval of 4 months after the third-dose booster is appropriate. A universal fourth booster dose is not necessary.
Visual Field Loss: Integrating Overlayed Information to Increase the Effective Field of View
Authors: Asher Jordi M. , Hibbard Paul B.
Published: November 2022

Visual field loss is a debilitating impairment that can impact normal daily activities. The advancement of augmented and virtual realities brings opportunities for potential substitutive technologies for visual field loss. Here we outline a conceptual approach to increasing the amount of useful information by overlaying the blind field into the sighted field. In this proof-of-concept experiment, 33 observers were allocated to either a left or right blind condition (with a simulated scotoma). All observers completed a line bisection task in all three conditions (baseline, scotoma, manipulation), with the baseline condition always completed first. The scotoma condition (baseline with the addition of a simulated scotoma) and the manipulated condition (baseline with the addition of a simulated scotoma, and a “minified window overlay”) were randomised in order of presentation. Predictably, our results show that a simulated scotoma impaired performance on the task. However, observers were able to make use the overlay to improve their estimation of the line’s midpoint. Our results show that a substitutive augmentation of this type improved accuracy in estimating the midpoint of a line with a (simulated) scotoma.
Water and Hydropower—Challenges for the Economy and Enterprises in Times of Climate Change in Africa and Europe
Authors: Borowski Piotr F.
Published: November 2022

Hydropower is an important element of the power system and has a positive impact both on economic development and on slowing down climate change. However, apart from the advantages, there are also disadvantages mainly related to environmental impact. The article discusses these issues and shows the problems and challenges that companies producing energy from water are currently facing, both in Africa and in Europe, especially in Poland. An important aspect discussed in the article is a new look at the installed capacity in terms of per capita and the presentation of insufficient generation capacity in African countries, and the constant problem of energy poverty. In Poland, on the other hand, attention was paid to the low production capacity resulting from the geographical location (mainly lowlands) and the occurring climatic phenomena (insufficient rainfall and the appearance of droughts).
Investigating Landfill Leachate Influence on Soil Microbial Biodiversity and Its Cytotoxicity
Authors: Wydro Urszula , Wołejko Elżbieta , Sokołowska Gabriela , Leszczyński Jacek , Jabłońska-Trypuć Agata
Published: November 2022

The most important problem related to the collection of waste in landfills is the presence of harmful substances contained in leachate resulting from the flow of atmospheric precipitation through the deposited waste, which may end up in the soil. As a result, the soil’s chemical degradation occurs, which may result in a change in the structure and activity of microorganisms. In addition, leachate can end up in groundwater that may be hazardous to human health. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of landfill leachate on selected physicochemical, biological and biochemical properties of soils. The cytotoxicity of soil filtrates (SF) in human cell lines and their effect on apoptosis were also analyzed. In the pot experiment, leachate was added to the soil in two doses: 50LL (50% of the N dose) and 100LL (100% of the N dose). Selected physicochemical properties, activity of enzymes, diversity of bacteria and fungi by the T-RFLP approach were determined in soil samples. As a result of the analyses, it was found that LL causes an increase in the activity of dehydrogenases and a decrease in β-glucosidase. In the soils treated with LL, bacterial T-RF (144) bp, (179) bp and (413) bp were specific, while fungal were T-RF (390) bp, (441) bp and (595) bp. Potentially cytotoxic effects of SF and reduction in apoptosis in neoplastic cells were found in in vitro tests. LL and SF are complex matrices with a variable composition, which means that their impact on the soil environment must be constantly monitored.