bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Harris Hawks Optimization with Reservoir Simulation Model Considering Hedging Rule for Network Reservoir System
Authors: Techarungruengsakul Rapeepat , Kangrang Anongrit
Published: April 2022

This research aims to apply the Harris hawks optimization (HHO) technique connected with a reservoir simulation model to search optimal rule curves of the network reservoir system in Thailand. The downstream water demand from the network reservoir that required shared water discharge, hydrological data, and physical data were considered in the reservoir simulation model. A comparison of the situation of water shortage using optimal rule curves from HHO technique, genetic algorithm (GA), and wind-driven optimization (WDO) is presented. The results showed that the new rule curves derived from the HHO technique with network reservoir searching were able to alleviate the water shortage and over-flow situations better than the current rule curves. The efficiency of using rule curves from HHO technique compared to GA and WDO techniques showed that the HHO technique can provide a better solution that reduced water scarcity and average over-flow compared with the current rule curves by up to 4.80%, 4.70%, and 4.50%, respectively. In addition, HHO was efficient in converging rule curve solutions faster than GA and WDO techniques by 15.00% and 54.00%, respectively. In conclusion, the HHO technique can be used to search for optimal network reservoir rule curves solutions effectively.
Pancyclicity of the n-Generalized Prism over Skirted Graphs
Authors: Muaengwaeng Artchariya , Boonklurb Ratinan , Singhun Sirirat
Published: April 2022

A side skirt is a planar rooted tree T, T≠P2, where the root of T is a vertex of degree at least two, and all other vertices except the leaves are of degree at least three. A reduced Halin graph or a skirted graph is a plane graph G=T∪P, where T is a side skirt, and P is a path connecting the leaves of T in the order determined by the embedding of T. The structure of reduced Halin or skirted graphs contains both symmetry and asymmetry. For n≥2 and Pn=v1v2v3⋯vn as a path of length n−1, we call the Cartesian product of a graph G and a path Pn, the n-generalized prism over a graph G. We have known that the n-generalized prism over a skirted graph is Hamiltonian. To support the Bondy’s metaconjecture from 1971, we show that the n-generalized prism over a skirted graph is pancyclic.
Scalable Post-Processing of Large-Scale Numerical Simulations of Turbulent Fluid Flows
Authors: Lagares Christian , Rivera Wilson , Araya Guillermo
Published: April 2022

Military, space, and high-speed civilian applications will continue contributing to the renewed interest in compressible, high-speed turbulent boundary layers. To further complicate matters, these flows present complex computational challenges ranging from the pre-processing to the execution and subsequent post-processing of large-scale numerical simulations. Exploring more complex geometries at higher Reynolds numbers will demand scalable post-processing. Modern times have brought application developers and scientists the advent of increasingly more diversified and heterogeneous computing hardware, which significantly complicates the development of performance-portable applications. To address these challenges, we propose Aquila, a distributed, out-of-core, performance-portable post-processing library for large-scale simulations. It is designed to alleviate the burden of domain experts writing applications targeted at heterogeneous, high-performance computers with strong scaling performance. We provide two implementations, in C++ and Python; and demonstrate their strong scaling performance and ability to reach 60% of peak memory bandwidth and 98% of the peak filesystem bandwidth while operating out of core. We also present our approach to optimizing two-point correlations by exploiting symmetry in the Fourier space. A key distinction in the proposed design is the inclusion of an out-of-core data pre-fetcher to give the illusion of in-memory availability of files yielding up to 46% improvement in program runtime. Furthermore, we demonstrate a parallel efficiency greater than 70% for highly threaded workloads.
Analysis of Position, Pose and Force Decoupling Characteristics of a 4-UPS/1-RPS Parallel Grinding Robot
Authors: Wang Jun , Liang Fei , Zhou Hongjun , Yang Mingquan , Wang Quan
Published: April 2022

For the application of parallel robots in the grinding industry, a parallel robot equipped with a constant force actuator that produces a constant force for grinding is designed. To study the characteristics of the parallel robot’s spatial positions and poses, the inverse solutions of the moving platform’s spatial positions and poses as well as the workspace where objects were ground were established by using DH parameters and geometric methods. The experimental results showed that the workspace where objects were ground was a cylinder with a cross section similar to a symmetric circular sector. To analyze the characteristics of the forces produced by the parallel robotic system, the dynamics equation was established via the Newton–Euler method to verify the rationality of the force decoupling design. Theoretical calculation combined with simulation and experimental analyses confirmed the viability of the theoretical analyses which lay a theoretical foundation for the design, manufacture and control of the parallel robotic system proposed in this paper.
Dynamic Behavior of the Inertial Platform Related to the Research Facility Building Laser and Gamma at ELI-NP Bucharest
Authors: Bratu Polidor , Goanta Adrian Mihai , Dragan Nicusor , Vlase Sorin , Itu Calin , Nicolae George Lucian , Iacovescu Samir
Published: April 2022

This paper aims to study the vibration of the large inertial platform from the Laser + Gamma building that is part of the ELI-NP project. In order to ensure a precisely positioned radiation beam, it is necessary that the shocks and vibrations coming from the external environment are damped or absorbed until they reach the work installations. This is ensured by the platform on which the devices are positioned, a platform that is supported on spring batteries and shock absorbers. A rigid body model is developed in this regard and a comparison with the finite element model of the concrete platform is conducted. It has been found that low vibration modes can be obtained with the help of the rigid model, which also has the advantage of simplicity and very little time is required to obtain results.
On a Unique Solution of a Class of Stochastic Predator–Prey Models with Two-Choice Behavior of Predator Animals
Authors: George Reny , Mitrović Zoran D. , Turab Ali , Savić Ana , Ali Wajahat
Published: April 2022

Simple birth–death phenomena are frequently examined in mathematical modeling and probability theory courses since they serve as an excellent foundation for stochastic modeling. Such mechanisms are inherent stochastic extensions of the deterministic population paradigm for population expansion of a particular species in a habitat with constant resource availability and many other organisms. Most animal behavior research differentiates such circumstances into two different events when it comes to two-choice scenarios. On the other hand, in this kind of research, the reward serves a significant role, because, depending on the chosen side and food placement, such situations may be divided into four groups. This article presents a novel stochastic equation that may be used to describe the vast majority of models discussed in the current studies. It is noteworthy that they are connected to the symmetry of the progression of a solution of stochastic equations. The techniques of fixed point theory are employed to explore the existence, uniqueness, and stability of solutions to the proposed functional equation. Additionally, some examples are offered to emphasize the significance of our findings.
Privacy Preserving Data Aggregation for Smart Grid with User Anonymity and Designated Recipients
Authors: Wu Liang , Zhang Wenzheng , Zhao Wei
Published: April 2022

Smart grids integrate modern Internet of Things technologies with the traditional grid systems, aiming to achieve effective and reliable electricity distribution as well as promote clean energy development. Nowadays, it is an indispensable infrastructure for smart homes, wisdom medical, intelligent transportation, and various other services. However, when smart meters transmit users’ power consumption data to the control center, sensitive information may be leaked or tampered. Moreover, distributed architecture, fine-grained access control, and user anonymity are also desirable in real-world applications. In this paper, we propose a privacy-preserving data aggregation scheme for a smart grid with user anonymity and designated recipients. Smart meters collect users’ power consumption data, encrypt it using homomorphic re-encryption, and then transmit the ciphertexts anonymously. Afterward, proxies re-encrypt the aggregated data in a distributed fashion so that only the designated recipients can decrypt it. Therefore, our proposed scheme provides a more secure and flexible solution for privacy-preserving data aggregation in smart grids. Security analyses prove that our scheme achieves all the above-mentioned security requirements, and efficiency analyses demonstrate that it is efficient and suitable for real-world applications.
Construction and Demonstration of a 6–18 GHz Microwave Three-Wave Mixing Experiment Using Multiple Synchronized Arbitrary Waveform Generators
Authors: Moon Nicole T. , Woelk Klaus , Grubbs Garry S.
Published: April 2022

This manuscript details the construction and demonstration of the first known microwave three-wave mixing (M3WM) experiment utilizing multiple arbitrary waveform generators (AWGs) completely operable in the 6–18 GHz frequency range for use in chirality determination and quantification. Many M3WM techniques, which involve two orthogonal, subsequent Rabi π/2 and π microwave pulses, suffer from flexibility in pulse types and timings as well as frequency due to most instruments only using one, one-channel AWG and the M3WM probability decreasing with an increasing quantum number, J. In this work, we presented an M3WM instrument that allows that flexibility by introducing multiple, synchronized AWGs and adheres to the high probability transition loop pathways in carvone. The functionality and reliability of the instrument were demonstrated using a series of experiments and mixtures of the R and S enantiomers and determined to be of similar accuracy to other reported M3WM setups with the additional benefit of flexibility in pulsing schemes.
Decision-Makers’ Understanding of Cyber-Security’s Systemic and Dynamic Complexity: Insights from a Board Game for Bank Managers
Authors: Zeijlemaker Sander , Rouwette Etiënne A. J. A. , Cunico Giovanni , Armenia Stefano , von Kutzschenbach Michael
Published: April 2022

Cyber-security incidents show how difficult it is to make optimal strategic decisions in such a complex environment. Given that it is hard for researchers to observe organisations’ decision-making processes driving cyber-security strategy, we developed a board game that mimics this real-life environment and shows the challenges of decision-making. We observed cyber-security experts participating in the game. The results showed that decision-makers who performed poorly tended to employ heuristics, leading to fallacious decision approaches (overreaction strategies in place of proactive ones), and were not always aware of their poor performances. We advocate the need for decision support tools that capture this complex dynamic nature.
Modeling Emergency Logistics Location-Allocation Problem with Uncertain Parameters
Authors: Li Hui , Zhang Bo , Ge Xiangyu
Published: April 2022

In order to model the emergency facility location-allocation problem with uncertain parameters, an uncertain multi-objective model is developed within the framework of uncertainty theory. The proposed model minimizes time penalty cost, distribution cost and carbon dioxide emissions. The equivalents of the model are discussed via operational laws of uncertainty distribution. By employing the goal attainment technique, a series of Pareto-optimal solutions are generated that can be used for decision-making. Finally, several numerical experiments are presented to verify the validity of the proposed model and to illustrate decision-making strategy.
Perspectives Organize Information in Mind and Nature: Empirical Findings of Point-View Perspective (P) in Cognitive and Material Complexity
Authors: Cabrera Derek , Cabrera Laura , Cabrera Elena
Published: April 2022

The importance of perspective-taking crosses disciplines and is foundational to diverse phenomena such as point-of-view, scale, mindset, theory of mind, opinion, belief, empathy, compassion, analysis, and problem solving, etc. This publication gives predictions for and a formal description of point-view Perspectives (P) or the “P-rule”. This makes the P-rule foundational to systems, systems thinking and the consilience of knowledge. It is one of four universals of the organization of information as a whole. This paper presents nine empirical studies in which subjects were asked to complete a task and/or answer a question. The samples vary for each study (ranging from N = 407 to N = 34,398) and are generalizable to a normal distribution of the US population. As was evident in Cabrera, “These studies support—with high statistical significance—the predictions made by DSRP Theory (Distinctions, Systems Relationships, Perspectives) point-view Perspectives including its: universality as an observable phenomenon in both mind (cognitive complexity) and nature (material complexity) (i.e., parallelism); internal structures and dynamics; mutual dependencies on other universals (i.e., Distinctions, Systems, and Relationships); role in structural predictions; and, efficacy as a metacognitive skill”. These data suggest that point-view Perspectives (P) observably and empirically exist, and that universality, efficacy, and parallelism (between cognitive and material complexity) exist as well. The impact of this paper is that it provides empirical evidence for the phenomena of point-view perspective taking (“P-rule”) as a universal pattern/structure of systems thinking, a field in which scholarly debate is often based on invalidated opinioned frameworks; this sets the stage for theory building in the field.
High-Performance and Functional Fiber Materials—A Review of Properties, Scanning Electron Microscopy SEM and Electron Dispersive Spectroscopy EDS
Authors: Mahltig Boris , Grethe Thomas
Published: April 2022

This review supports an overview of selected high-performance fibers and functional fiber materials. A review of several properties and applications is given. For fiber materials and fabrics, microscopic images taken by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) are presented. As well as this, electron dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) is performed on the fiber materials and an overview of EDS spectra is presented. The features of SEM images and EDS spectra are discussed, especially with the aim of supporting people who are working in the field of fiber analytics. To support a complete view of both analytic methods—SEM and EDS—challenges and typical mistakes for SEM measurements on textiles are also described. Altogether, this review supports a useful overview of interesting high technology fiber materials and their investigation using the analytical methods SEM and EDS. Using these, material properties and their composition are presented and discussed. The composition of industrial fiber materials is investigated and discussed, as well as fiber treatments for the realization of functional fiber properties. Furthermore, it aims to support a helpful tool for fiber and textile analytics and identification.
Bacterial Secondary Metabolites as Biopigments for Textile Dyeing
Authors: Kramar Ana , Kostic Mirjana M.
Published: April 2022

In the past two decades, a growing body of research regarding the utilization of natural bacterial pigments or dyes for textile dyeing has emerged. Bacterial pigments are bacterial secondary metabolites that usually have bright colors and some special properties (e.g., antimicrobial, antioxidative, UV protective etc.). In addition to their high production yield, these special properties led scientists to research and develop methods for utilizing bacterial pigments in textile dyeing. This study presents the current state this field of research, with a focus on the dyeing potential of bacterial pigments for different types of textile material. The potential future directions of research in this area are also highlighted. In addition to the durable dyeing of textiles, bacterial pigments with special properties, such as antimicrobial activity, can add multifunctionality to dyed materials, thus increasing the value of the final product. This emerging field of research will also have a great impact on sustainability and the environment, contributing to the decreased usage of synthetic dyes in the textile industry.
Dermoid Cysts of the Asterion: An Unusual Location for Unusual Dermoids, Radiological Findings and Neurosurgical Implications
Authors: Guarnera Alessia , Trasimeni Guido , Romano Andrea , Stoppacciaro Antonella , Serio Mattia , Miscusi Massimo , Bozzao Alessandro
Published: April 2022

Asterion is an uncommon site for lesions, especially dermoid cysts. We report a case series of three asterional intracranial dermoid cysts, which, to the best of our knowledge, have never been described before. Patients presented with non-specific symptoms and underwent surgical excision of the lesions. It is crucial to correctly diagnose intracranial masses and to identify their relationships with surrounding anatomical structures, especially if the location is unusual as the asterion, to plan surgery. The challenge of this tumor location is to preserve the venous drainage system during surgical procedures, because of the contiguity between the asterion and the transverse–sigmoid junction. Rupturing or damaging of the venous drainage system have been proven to be catastrophic because they lengthen surgical time and present dire consequences for patients. In conclusion, it is crucial to familiarize with atypical dermoid presentation to ensure proper diagnoses and to perform adequate imaging for optimal surgical planning.
Multidetector Computed Tomography (MDCT) Findings of Complications of Acute Cholecystitis. A Pictorial Essay
Authors: Sandomenico Fabio , Sanduzzi Luca , La Verde Emilia , Vicenzo Emilio , Pirolo Luigi , Maione Salvatore , Setola Francesca Rosa , Macchia Valeria , Dello Iacono Umberto , Barbato Domenico , Peluso Gaia , Santangelo Michele , Brunetti Arturo
Published: April 2022

Acute cholecystitis stands out as one of the most common surgical pathologies that should always be considered in a right-upper abdominal pain emergency. For this, the importance of a correct diagnosis is well described. However, it has been demonstrated that the simple combination of clinical (pain, Murphy’s sign) and laboratory (leukocytosis) parameters alone does not provide for ruling in or ruling out the diagnosis of this condition, unless accompanied by a radiological exam. For a long time, and still today, ultrasonography (US) is by far the first-to-proceed radiologic exam to perform, thanks to its rapidity and very high sensibility and specificity for the diagnosis of simple acute cholecystitis. However, acute cholecystitis can undergo some complications that US struggles to find. In addition to that, studies suggest that multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) is superior in showing complicated forms of cholecystitis in relation to sensibility and specificity and for its capability of reformatting multiplanar (MPR) reconstructions that give a more detailed view of complications. They have shown to be useful for a precise evaluation of vascular complications, the anatomy of the biliary tree, and the extension of inflammation to surrounding structures (i.e., colitis). Therefore, based also on our experience, in patients with atypical presentation, or in cases with high suspicion for a complicated form, a MDCT abdomen scan is performed. In this review, the principal findings are listed and described to create a CT classification of acute complications based on anatomical and topographic criteria.
Synergistic and Antagonistic Effects of Aerosol Components on Its Oxidative Potential as Predictor of Particle Toxicity
Authors: Pietrogrande Maria Chiara , Romanato Luisa , Russo Mara
Published: April 2022

Quantifying the component-specific contribution to the oxidative potential (OP) of ambient particle matter (PM) is the key information to properly representing its acute health hazards. In this study, we investigated the interactions between the major contributors to OP, i.e., transition metals and quinones, to highlight the relative effects of these species to the total OP. Several synergistic and antagonistic interactions were found that significantly change the redox properties of their binary mixtures, increasing or decreasing the values computed by a simple additive model. Such results from the standard solutions were confirmed by extending the study to atmospheric PM2.5 samples collected in winter in the Lombardia region, a hot spot for air pollution in northern Italy. This work highlights that a solid estimation of oxidative properties of ambient PM requires an interaction-based approach accounting for the interaction effects between metals and quinones.
New Mutants of Epsilon Toxin from Clostridium perfringens with an Altered Receptor-Binding Site and Cell-Type Specificity
Authors: Dorca-Arévalo Jonatan , Gómez de Aranda Inmaculada , Blasi Juan
Published: April 2022

Epsilon toxin (Etx) from Clostridium perfringens is the third most potent toxin after the botulinum and tetanus toxins. Etx is the main agent of enterotoxemia in ruminants and is produced by Clostridium perfringens toxinotypes B and D, causing great economic losses. Etx selectively binds to target cells, oligomerizes and inserts into the plasma membrane, and forms pores. A series of mutants have been previously generated to understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms of the toxin and to obtain valid molecular tools for effective vaccination protocols. Here, two new non-toxic Etx mutants were generated by selective deletions in the binding (Etx-ΔS188-F196) or insertion (Etx-ΔV108-F135) domains of the toxin. As expected, our results showed that Etx-ΔS188-F196 did not exhibit the usual Etx binding pattern but surprisingly recognized specifically an O-glycoprotein present in the proximal tubules of the kidneys in a wide range of animals, including ruminants. Although diminished, Etx-ΔV108-F135 maintained the capacity for binding and even oligomerization, indicating that the mutation particularly affected the pore-forming ability of the toxin.
Surgical Registrars as Primary Operators Have Acceptable Outcomes for Trauma Laparotomy
Authors: Ko Jonathan , Kong Victor , Amey Janet , Clarke Damian , Ah Yen Damien , Christey Grant
Published: April 2022

Background: The literature has suggested that acceptable outcomes in elective general surgery can be achieved with registrars operating but is less clear with trauma surgery. Methods: This was a retrospective study of all laparotomies performed for adult trauma between 2012 and 2020 at a Level 1 Trauma Centre in New Zealand to identify potential differences in clinical outcomes between primary operators. The primary operator of each operation was identified, along with the presence or absence of a consultant and the clinical outcome. Results: During the 9-year study period, a total of 204 trauma laparotomies were performed at Waikato Hospital. The groups of the primary operators were: a registrar with a consultant present (27%), a registrar without a consultant present (22%), a registrar assisting a consultant (48%), and a consultant who operated without a registrar (3%). Direct comparison was made between the three groups where registrars were involved in the laparotomy. There was no significant difference in the clinical outcomes, whether a consultant was present or not. Conclusions: Surgical registrars have acceptable outcomes for trauma laparotomy in the appropriate patients. A consultant surgeon should still operate on patients with more significant physiological derangements.
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Temporally after COVID-19 Vaccination
Authors: Roncati Luca , Gravina Davide , Marra Caterina , Della Rosa Norman , Adani Roberto
Published: April 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is the most dramatic pandemic of the new millennium. To counter it, specific vaccines have been launched in record time under emergency use authorization or conditional marketing authorization and have been subjected to additional monitoring. The European Medicines Agency recommend reporting any suspected adverse reactions during this additional monitoring phase. For the first time in the available medical literature, we report a left cubital tunnel syndrome in a 28-year-old right-handed healthy male after seven days from the first dose of Spikevax® (formerly Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine). Histochemistry for Alcian Blue performed on the tissue harvested from the cubital site reveals myxoid degeneration of the small nerve collaterals, a clear sign of nerve injury. It still remains unclear why the syndrome occurs in a localized and not generalized form to all osteofibrous tunnels. Today, modified messenger ribonucleic acid vaccines as Spikevax® represent an avantgarde technological platform with a lot of potential, but one which needs careful monitoring in order to identify in advance those patients who may experience adverse events after their administration.
Maxwell’s Equations in Homogeneous Spaces for Admissible Electromagnetic Fields
Authors: Obukhov Valery V.
Published: April 2022

Maxwell’s vacuum equations are integrated for admissible electromagnetic fields in homogeneous spaces. Admissible electromagnetic fields are those for which the space group generates an algebra of symmetry operators (integrals of motion) that is isomorphic to the algebra of group operators. Two frames associated with the group of motions are used to obtain systems of ordinary differential equations to which Maxwell’s equations reduce. The solutions are obtained in quadratures. The potentials of the admissible electromagnetic fields and the metrics of the spaces contained in the obtained solutions depend on six arbitrary time functions, so it is possible to use them to integrate field equations in the theory of gravity.
Einstein Field Equation, Recursion Operators, Noether and Master Symmetries in Conformable Poisson Manifolds
Authors: Hounkonnou Mahouton Norbert , Landalidji Mahougnon Justin , Mitrović Melanija
Published: April 2022

We show that a Minkowski phase space endowed with a bracket relatively to a conformable differential realizes a Poisson algebra, confering a bi-Hamiltonian structure to the resulting manifold. We infer that the related Hamiltonian vector field is an infinitesimal Noether symmetry, and compute the corresponding deformed recursion operator. Besides, using the Hamiltonian–Jacobi separability, we construct recursion operators for Hamiltonian vector fields in conformable Poisson–Schwarzschild and Friedmann–Lemaître–Robertson–Walker (FLRW) manifolds, and derive the related constants of motion, Christoffel symbols, components of Riemann and Ricci tensors, Ricci constant and components of Einstein tensor. We highlight the existence of a hierarchy of bi-Hamiltonian structures in both the manifolds, and compute a family of recursion operators and master symmetries generating the constants of motion.
GRB 181110A: Constraining the Jet Structure, Circumburst Medium and the Initial Lorentz Factor
Authors: Han Song , Li Xinyu , Jiang Luyao , Jin Zhiping , He Haoning , Wang Yuanzhu , Wei Daming
Published: April 2022

The afterglow data of gamma ray bursts (GRBs) can be used to constrain the physical properties of the fireball (e.g., the jet structure and opening angle) and the circumburst medium. With the peak time of the early afterglow light curve being taken as the deceleration time, one can estimate the initial Lorentz factor of the fireball. In this work, we perform a comprehensive analysis on the prompt emission and the afterglow data of GRB 181110A, where a clear peak is detected by Swift UVOT and XRT in optical to X-ray bands. Prompt emission spectral analysis shows that the spectrum of GRB 181110A is soft, and both hard-to-soft and intensity-tracking spectral evolution are found. By fitting the afterglow light curve and building spectral energy distribution, we find that the standard external forward shock model with a constant circumburst medium is favored, and the jet structure of GRB 181110A tends to be uniform rather than structured. With the peak time of early afterglow emission, we estimate the initial fireball Lorentz factor of GRB 181110A to be Γ0=169−40+92. We also compare GRB 181110A with other typical long GRBs in a statistical context.
Six Novel Mycoviruses Containing Positive Single-Stranded RNA and Double-Stranded RNA Genomes Co-Infect a Single Strain of the Rhizoctonia solani AG-3 PT
Authors: Li Yuting , Li Siwei , Zhao Yumeng , Zhou Tao , Wu Xuehong , Zhao Can
Published: April 2022

Six novel mycoviruses that collectively represent the mycovirome of Rhizoctonia solani anastomosis group (AG)-3 PT strain ZJ-2H, which causes potato black scurf, were identified through metatranscriptome sequencing and putatively designated as Rhizoctonia solani fusarivirus 4 [RsFV4, positive single-stranded RNA (+ssRNA)], Rhizoctonia solani fusarivirus 5 (RsFV5, +ssRNA), Rhizoctonia solani mitovirus 40 (RsMV40, +ssRNA), Rhizoctonia solani partitivirus 10 [RsPV10, double-stranded RNA (dsRNA)], Rhizoctonia solani partitivirus 11 (RsPV11, dsRNA), and Rhizoctonia solani RNA virus 11 (RsRV11, dsRNA). Whole genome sequences of RsFV4, RsMV40, RsPV10, RsPV11, and RsRV11, as well as a partial genome sequence of RsFV5, were obtained. The 3’- and 5’- untranslated regions of the five mycoviruses with complete genome sequences were folded into stable stem-loop or panhandle secondary structures. RsFV4 and RsFV5 are most closely related to Rhizoctonia solani fusarivirus 1 (RsFV1), however, the first open reading frame (ORF) of RsFV4 and RsFV5 encode a hypothetical protein that differs from the first ORF of RsFV1, which encodes a helicase. We confirmed that RsPV10 and RsPV11 assemble into the spherical virus particles (approximately 30 nm in diameter) that were extracted from strain ZJ-2H. This is the first report that +ssRNA and dsRNA viruses co-infect a single strain of R. solani AG-3 PT.
Novel Compound Inhibitors of HIV-1NL4-3 Vpu
Authors: Robinson Carolyn A. , Lyddon Terri D. , Gil Hwi Min , Evans David T. , Kuzmichev Yury V. , Richard Jonathan , Finzi Andrés , Welbourn Sarah , Rasmussen Lynn , Nebane N. Miranda , Gupta Vandana V. , Ananthan Sam , Cai Zhaohui , Wonderlich Elizabeth R. , Augelli-Szafran Corinne E. , Bostwick Robert , Ptak Roger G. , Schader Susan M. , Johnson Marc C.
Published: April 2022

HIV-1 Vpu targets the host cell proteins CD4 and BST-2/Tetherin for degradation, ultimately resulting in enhanced virus spread and host immune evasion. The discovery and characterization of small molecules that antagonize Vpu would further elucidate the contribution of Vpu to pathogenesis and lay the foundation for the study of a new class of novel HIV-1 therapeutics. To identify novel compounds that block Vpu activity, we have developed a cell-based ‘gain of function’ assay that produces a positive signal in response to Vpu inhibition. To develop this assay, we took advantage of the viral glycoprotein, GaLV Env. In the presence of Vpu, GaLV Env is not incorporated into viral particles, resulting in non-infectious virions. Vpu inhibition restores infectious particle production. Using this assay, a high throughput screen of >650,000 compounds was performed to identify inhibitors that block the biological activity of Vpu. From this screen, we identified several positive hits but focused on two compounds from one structural family, SRI-41897 and SRI-42371. We developed independent counter-screens for off target interactions of the compounds and found no off target interactions. Additionally, these compounds block Vpu-mediated modulation of CD4, BST-2/Tetherin and antibody dependent cell-mediated toxicity (ADCC). Unfortunately, both SRI-41897 and SRI-42371 were shown to be specific to the N-terminal region of NL4-3 Vpu and did not function against other, more clinically relevant, strains of Vpu; however, this assay may be slightly modified to include more significant Vpu strains in the future.
Molecular Epidemiology and Evolution of Coxsackievirus A9
Authors: Zhao Hehe , Wang Jianxing , Chen Jianhua , Huang Ruifang , Zhang Yong , Xiao Jinbo , Song Yang , Ji Tianjiao , Yang Qian , Zhu Shuangli , Wang Dongyan , Lu Huanhuan , Han Zhenzhi , Zhang Guoyan , Li Jichen , Yan Dongmei
Published: April 2022

Nineteen CVA9 isolates were obtained between 2010 and 2019 from six provinces of mainland China, using the HFMD surveillance network established in China. Nucleotide sequencing revealed that the full-length VP1 of 19 CVA9 isolates was 906 bases encoding 302 amino acids. The combination of the thresholds of the phylogenetic tree and nucleotide divergence of different genotypes within the same serotype led to a value of 15–25%, and enabled CVA9 worldwide to be categorized into ten genotypes: A–J. The phylogenetic tree showed that the prototype strain was included in genotype A, and that the B, C, D, E, H, and J genotypes disappeared during virus evolution, whereas the F, I, and G genotypes showed co-circulation. Lineage G was the dominant genotype of CVA9 and included most of the strains from nine countries in Asia, North America, Oceania, and Europe. Most Chinese strains belonged to the G genotype, suggesting that the molecular epidemiology of China is consistent with that observed worldwide. The 165 partial VP1 strains (723 nt) showed a mean substitution rate of 3.27 × 10−3 substitution/site/year (95% HPD range 2.93–3.6 × 10−3), dating the tMRCA of CVA9 back to approximately 1922 (1911–1932). The spatiotemporal dynamics of CVA9 showed the spread of CVA9 obviously increased in recent years. Most CVA9 isolates originated in USA, but the epidemic areas of CVA9 are now concentrated in the Asia–Pacific region, European countries, and North America. Recombination analysis within the enterovirus B specie (59 serotypes) revealed eight recombination patterns in China at present, CVB4, CVB5, E30, CVB2, E11, HEV106, HEV85, and HEV75. E14, and E6 may act as recombinant donors in multiple regions. Comparison of temperature sensitivity revealed that temperature-insensitive strains have more amino acid substitutions in the RGD motif of the VP1 region, and the sites T283S, V284M, and R288K in the VP1 region may be related to the temperature tolerance of CVA9.
A Single Amino Acid Residue R144 of SNX16 Affects Its Ability to Inhibit the Replication of Influenza A Virus
Authors: Shi Wenjun , Jiang Li , Ye Miaomiao , Wang Bo , Chang Yu , Shan Zhibo , Wang Xuyuan , Hu Yuzhen , Chen Hualan , Li Chengjun
Published: April 2022

Influenza A virus (IAV) is an important zoonotic pathogen, posing a severe burden for the health of both animals and humans. Many host factors are involved in the life cycle of IAV to regulate its replication. Herein, we identified sorting nexin-16 (SNX16) as a new host factor that negatively modulates the replication of IAV. When transiently overexpressed in cells, SNX16 appears to be expressed as two obvious bands. Mutagenesis analysis indicated that the amino acid residue R144 of SNX16 was responsible for its two-band expression phenotype. We found that the R144A mutation of SNX16 changed its cellular distribution in A549 cells and partially weakened the inhibitory effect of SNX16 on IAV replication. Further investigation revealed that SNX16 could negatively regulate the early stage of the replication cycle of IAV. Taken together, our results demonstrated that SNX16 is a novel restriction host factor for the replication of IAV by engaging in the early stage of IAV life cycle, and a single amino acid residue at position 144 plays an important role in the cellular distribution and anti-influenza function of SNX16.
Investigations on SARS-CoV-2 Susceptibility of Domestic and Wild Animals Using Primary Cell Culture Models Derived from the Upper and Lower Respiratory Tract
Authors: Färber Iris , Krüger Johannes , Rocha Cheila , Armando Federico , von Köckritz-Blickwede Maren , Pöhlmann Stefan , Braun Armin , Baumgärtner Wolfgang , Runft Sandra , Krüger Nadine
Published: April 2022

Several animal species are susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection, as documented by case reports and serological and in vivo infection studies. However, the susceptibility of many animal species remains unknown. Furthermore, the expression patterns of SARS-CoV-2 entry factors, such as the receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), as well as transmembrane protease serine subtype 2 (TMPRSS2) and cathepsin L (CTSL), cellular proteases involved in SARS-CoV-2 spike protein activation, are largely unexplored in most species. Here, we generated primary cell cultures from the respiratory tract of domestic and wildlife animals to assess their susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Additionally, the presence of ACE2, TMPRSS2 and CTSL within respiratory tract compartments was investigated in a range of animals, some with unknown susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2. Productive viral replication was observed in the nasal mucosa explants and precision-cut lung slices from dogs and hamsters, whereas culture models from ferrets and multiple ungulate species were non-permissive to infection. Overall, whereas TMPRSS2 and CTSL were equally expressed in the respiratory tract, the expression levels of ACE2 were more variable, suggesting that a restricted availability of ACE2 may contribute to reduced susceptibility. Summarized, the experimental infection of primary respiratory tract cell cultures, as well as an analysis of entry-factor distribution, enable screening for SARS-CoV-2 animal reservoirs.
Evaluation of Molecular Test for the Discrimination of “Naked” DNA from Infectious Parvovirus B19 Particles in Serum and Bone Marrow Samples
Authors: Alves Arthur Daniel Rocha , Langella Barbara Barbosa , Lima Mariana Magaldi de Souza , Coelho Wagner Luís da Costa Nunes Pimentel , Cubel Garcia Rita de Cássia Nasser , Cardoso Claudete Aparecida Araújo , Marchevsky Renato Sergio , Pinto Marcelo Alves , Amado Luciane Almeida
Published: April 2022

Low levels of parvovirus B19 (B19V) DNA can be detected in the circulation and in different tissue of immunocompetent individuals for months or years, which has been linked to inflammatory diseases such as cardiomyopathy, rheumatoid arthritis, hepatitis, and vasculitis. However, the detection of B19V DNA does not necessarily imply that infectious virions are present. This study aimed to evaluate the method based on the Benzonase® treatment for differentiation between the infectious virions from “naked” DNA in serum and bone marrow (BM) samples to be useful for the B19V routine diagnosis. In addition, we estimated the period of viremia and DNAemia in the sera and bone marrow of nonhuman primates experimentally infected with B19V. Serum samples from ten patients and from four cynomolgus monkeys experimentally infected with B19V followed up for 60 days were used. Most of the human serum samples became negative after pretreatment; however, only decreased viral DNA loads were observed in four patients, indicating that these samples still contained the infectious virus. Reduced B19V DNA levels were observed in animals since 7th dpi. At approximately 45th dpi, B19V DNA levels were below 105 IU/mL after Benzonase® pretreatment, which was not a consequence of active B19V replication. The test based on Benzonase® pretreatment enabled the discrimination of “naked DNA” from B19V DNA encapsidated in virions. Therefore, this test can be used to clarify the role of B19V as an etiological agent associated with atypical clinical manifestations.
Comparative Analysis of the Simian Varicella Virus and Varicella Zoster Virus Genomes
Authors: Gray Wayne L.
Published: April 2022

Varicella zoster virus (VZV) and simian varicella virus (SVV) cause varicella (chickenpox) in children and nonhuman primates, respectively. After resolution of acute disease, the viruses establish latent infection in neural ganglia, after which they may reactivate to cause a secondary disease, such as herpes zoster. SVV infection of nonhuman primates provides a model to investigate VZV pathogenesis and antiviral strategies. The VZV and SVV genomes are similar in size and structure and share 70–75% DNA homology. SVV and VZV DNAs are co-linear in gene arrangement with the exception of the left end of the viral genomes. Viral gene expression is regulated into immediate early, early, and late transcription during in vitro and in vivo infection. During viral latency, VZV and SVV gene expression is limited to transcription of a viral latency-associated transcript (VLT). VZV and SVV are closely related alphaherpesviruses that likely arose from an ancestral varicella virus that evolved through cospeciation into species-specific viruses.
Special Issue “Innovative Techniques and Approaches in the Control and Prevention of Rabies Virus”
Authors: Gilbert Amy T. , Wallace Ryan M. , Rupprecht Charles E.
Published: April 2022

Rabies is an ancient lethal scourge that has plagued humankind for centuries [...]
High COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance among Eye Healthcare Workers in Uganda
Authors: Otiti-Sengeri Juliet , Andrew Omaido Blair , Lusobya Rebecca Claire , Atukunda Immaculate , Nalukenge Caroline , Kalinaki Abubakar , Mukisa John , Nakanjako Damalie , Colebunders Robert
Published: April 2022

Background: Protecting healthcare workers against COVID-19 disease is crucial, and COVID-19 vaccination is the most effective method to do so. Eye healthcare workers provide routine care in proximity, increasing infection risk, hence their need for full vaccination. This study determined COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and barriers to its uptake among eye healthcare workers practicing in Uganda. Methods: This was a cross-sectional online and telephone survey based on the health belief model (HBM), conducted in June–August 2021. A modified Poisson regression model with robust standard errors was used to determine the factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine acceptance. Results: In total, 300 (85%) of the 357 eye healthcare workers participated in the study with mean age 43 ± 8 years and 182 (60.7%) were men. Overall, 97.6% (95% CI: 95.9–99.4) had accepted and/or were willing to take the COVID-19 vaccine, 65.3% had received a shot of the COVID-19 vaccine, and 97 (32.3%) reported the intention to accept the vaccine when it became available. Among the HBM constructs, high perceived susceptibility and high perceived benefits were significantly associated with COVID-19 vaccine acceptance. Conclusions: The acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine among eye healthcare workers in Uganda is very high. There is a dire need to make vaccines available to developing nations like Uganda.
Efficacy and Effectiveness of the Meningococcal Conjugate Group A Vaccine MenAfriVac® in Preventing Recurrent Meningitis Epidemics in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Viviani Simonetta
Published: April 2022

For more than a century, epidemic meningococcal disease mainly caused by serogroup A Neisseria meningitidis has been an important public health problem in sub-Saharan Africa. To address this problem, an affordable meningococcal serogroup A conjugate vaccine, MenAfriVac®, was developed specifically for populations in the African meningitis belt countries. MenAfriVac® was licensed based on safety and immunogenicity data for a population aged 1–29 years. In particular, the surrogate markers of clinical efficacy were considered to be the higher immunogenicity and the ability to prime immunological memory in infants and young children compared to a polysaccharide vaccine. Because of the magnitude of serogroup A meningitis epidemics and the high morbidity and mortality burden, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended the MenAfriVac® deployment strategy, starting with mass vaccination campaigns for 1–29-year-olds to rapidly interrupt serogroup A person-to-person transmission and establish herd protection, followed by routine immunization of infants and toddlers to sustain protection and prevent epidemics. After licensure and WHO prequalification of MenAfriVac®, campaigns began in December 2010 in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. By the middle of 2011, it was clear that the vaccine was highly effective in preventing serogroup A carriage and disease. Post introduction meningitis surveillance revealed that serogroup A meningococcal disease had disappeared from all age groups, suggesting that robust herd immunity had been achieved.
COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Hesitancy (VBH) and Its Drivers in Algeria: National Cross-Sectional Survey-Based Study
Authors: Lounis Mohamed , Bencherit Djihad , Rais Mohammed Amir , Riad Abanoub
Published: April 2022

Due to the emergence of various highly contagious variants of SARS-CoV-2, vaccine boosters were adopted as a complementary strategy in different countries. This strategy has, however, posed another challenge for the national authorities to convince their population to receive the booster after the first challenge of COVID-19 primer dose vaccines. This study was conducted to determine COVID-19 vaccine booster acceptance and its associated factors in the general population in Algeria. Using social media platforms, an online self-administered questionnaire was distributed between 28 January and 5 March 2022 for all Algerian citizens who received COVID-19 vaccines. Overall, 787 respondents were included in this study. Among them, 51.6%, 25%, and 23.8% accepted, rejected, or were hesitant about the COVID-19 vaccine booster, respectively. However, only 13.2% declared receiving the booster dose. Additionally, while 58.2% of the respondents declared being relieved after primer vaccination, 11.4% among them declared that they regretted being vaccinated. The most common reasons for acceptance were experts’ recommendations (24.6%) and the belief that COVID-19 vaccine boosters were necessary and efficient, while rejection was mainly due to the belief that primer doses are sufficient (15.5%), or that vaccination in general is inefficient (8%). Males, older individuals, those with chronic comorbidities or a history of COVID-19 infection, non-healthcare workers, and those with low educational levels were associated with significantly higher odds for booster acceptance. Moreover, belief that booster doses were necessary and efficient, disagreeing with the notion that primer doses were not sufficient, experts’ recommendations, and the desire to travel abroad were significantly associated with higher odds of COVID-19 vaccine booster acceptance.