bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New Trend Pattern-Matching Method of Interactive Case-Based Reasoning for Stock Price Predictions
Authors: Chun Se-Hak , Jang Jae-Won
Published: January 2022

In this paper, we suggest a new case-based reasoning method for stock price predictions using the knowledge of traders to select similar past patterns among nearest neighbors obtained from a traditional case-based reasoning machine. Thus, this method overcomes the limitation of conventional case-based reasoning, which does not consider how to retrieve similar neighbors from previous patterns in terms of a graphical pattern. In this paper, we show how the proposed method can be used when traders find similar time series patterns among nearest cases. For this, we suggest an interactive prediction system where traders can select similar patterns with individual knowledge among automatically recommended neighbors by case-based reasoning. In this paper, we demonstrate how traders can use their knowledge to select similar patterns using a graphical interface, serving as an exemplar for the target. These concepts are investigated against the backdrop of a practical application involving the prediction of three individual stock prices, i.e., Zoom, Airbnb, and Twitter, as well as the prediction of the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA). The verification of the prediction results is compared with a random walk model based on the RMSE and Hit ratio. The results show that the proposed technique is more effective than the random walk model but it does not statistically surpass the random walk model.
Korean EFL Students Building and Sustaining New Perspectives through Global Literary Texts
Authors: Kim Jungyin
Published: January 2022

Using a qualitative approach, this study examines ways in which reading global literary texts and communicating with native English-speaking teachers informed a group of Korean university students’ English language learning and intercultural awareness. The students chose the pre-selected illustrative books, created short video clips, produced electronic books, prepared power point presentations, participated in creative writing sessions, and engaged in small group talk. The main data in this study include English group discussions from the Korean students, observation notes of the students’ group discussion and presentations, samples of the students’ work, and individual interviews regarding the students’ perception of their participation with extensive learning through encounters with cross-national discussions and global literary texts. Findings showed that the students were able to gain and sustain knowledge about and respect for various cultures and cultivate a critical understanding of and appreciation for ways local experiences can be impacted by broader global patterns, and vice versa. Reading global illustrative texts and participating in discussion about the texts helped the students in critically reflecting on their own cultures and those of others. The students further gained a deeper interest in global literary texts and developed their English language skills by communicating with native English-speaking teachers. Pedagogical implications for language and literacy educators are provided.
Bond Behavior of Basalt Fiber Reinforced Polymer Bars in Recycled Coarse Aggregate Concrete
Authors: Godat Ahmed , Alghafri Ebtesam , Al Tamimi Noura , Aljaberi Hamda , Aldaweela Shaima
Published: January 2022

This study is an experimental investigation of the bond stress–slip behavior of BFRP bars in recycled coarse aggregate concrete using the pull-out experiment. The experimental program contains twenty-three BFRP specimens and twelve specimens with GFRP bars. The pull-out test results of the BFRP and GFRP specimens in recycled coarse aggregate concrete are balanced to those of normal coarse aggregate concrete, which are used as a benchmark. In this study, the influence of major parameters on the BFRP bond performance are investigated: concrete strengths (30, 45, and 60 MPa), bar diameter (8, 10, and 12 mm), and bar bond length (5, 10, and 15d, where d is the diameter of the bar). The effect of the parameters considered is determined on the basis of the increase in the bond resistance. The test findings showed that the bond resistance of BFRP bars in recycled coarse aggregate concrete is highly comparable to that of normal aggregate concrete. In addition, the BFRP bar pull-out failure is not governing when a bar bond length of 10 or 15d, or high concrete strength of 45 or 60 MPa, is utilized. Theoretical equations from the literature that predict the bond resistance and bond stress–slip performance for FRP reinforced concrete are compared to the experimental results of this study. It is found that the equation described by Orangun and colleagues can accurately predict the bond resistance for BFRP bars in recycled coarse aggregate concrete with an average of 86% compared to the experimental results.
The Impact of Automation and Knowledge Workers on Employees’ Outcomes: Mediating Role of Knowledge Transfer
Authors: Itoe Mote Ndingi Junior , Karadas Georgiana
Published: January 2022

While there are existing empirical reviews regarding the relation between knowledge workers (KW) and knowledge transfer (KT), no study has examined the association of automation and knowledge transfer. The study describes knowledge workers as employees embedded with special abilities and having the main role of transfering their abilities to other workers in the organization. Additionally, automation (AUT) is described in the study as a technological process embedded with tacit knowledge. Therefore, using knowledge worker productivity theory and the technology acceptance model, this study aims to recommend and test a research model which examines the mediating role of knowledge transfer between automation, knowledge workers, and employee outcomes (employee creativity (EC) and innovative performance (IP)). The study evaluates the significant influence of knowledge transfer on innovative performance and creativity of other employees within the organization. This study applied a judgmental non-probability sampling research strategy to gather data from employees at an industrial firm in Japan by administering a questionnaire via Google Form. The data were analyzed with partial least squares based on structural equation modeling aimed at testing the predictive power and relationships of the model estimates. The results found support for the mediating role of knowledge transfer between automation and employee creativity as well as between automation and innovative performance. However, the study found partial support that knowledge transfer mediates the relationship between knowledge worker and employee creativity, as well as knowledge worker and innovative performance. In the same, automation and knowledge workers have significant impacts on knowledge transfer. Knowledge transfer has a significant impact on employee creativity and innovative performance.
The Impact of Institutional Creativity and Innovation Capability on Innovation Performance of Public Sector Organizations in Ghana
Authors: Azamela John Coffie , Tang Zhiwei , Owusu Ackah , Egala Sulemana Bankuoru , Bruce Emmanuel
Published: January 2022

The public sector continues to be under intense pressure to improve its innovation performance. Consequently, stakeholders are calling for more empirical studies on the antecedents of innovation, especially from a developing country’s perspective. Motivated by this call, we investigate the impact of institutional creativity and institutional innovation capacity on public innovation performance in the context of Ghana. Key to our model is that, institutional creativity and institutional innovation capacity are also enabled by inter-agency collaborations, institutional leadership, and stakeholder pressure. The partial least squares structural equation model is employed to estimate the survey responses of 195 respondents from fifty public sector institutions. The empirical analysis confirms that organizational creativity has a positive and significant impact on innovation performance, innovation capacity has a negative and insignificant impact on innovation performance, and inter-agency collaboration and institutional leadership contribute positively to institutional creativity and innovation capacity. However, stakeholder pressure negatively impacts both institutional creativity and innovation performance. This study contributes to knowledge on the antecedents of public innovation performance from a developing country’s perspective. It also advances theories on public innovation performance.
Complexity of Molecular Nets: Topological Approach and Descriptive Statistics
Authors: Banaru Alexander M. , Aksenov Sergey M.
Published: January 2022

The molecular net complexity (HmolNet) is an extension of the combinatorial complexity (Hmol) of a crystal structure introduced by Krivovichev. It was calculated for a set of 4152 molecular crystal structures with the composition of CxHyOz characterized by the structural class P21/c, Z = 4 (1). The molecular nets were derived from the molecular Voronoi–Dirichlet Polyhedra (VDPmol). The values of the molecular coordination number (CNmol) and critical coordination number (CNcrit) are discussed in relation with the complexity of the crystal structures. A statistical distribution of the set of molecular crystals based on the values of CNmol, CNcrit, and the complexity parameters is obtained. More than a half of the considered structures has CNmol = 14 and CNmol′ = 9 with the Wyckoff set of edges e5dcba. The average multiplicity of intermolecular contacts statistically significantly decreases from 1.58 to 1.51 upon excluding all contacts except those bearing the molecular net. The normalized value of HmolNet is of the logistic distribution type and is distributed near 0.85HmolNet with a small standard deviation. The contribution of Hmol into HmolNet ranges from 35 to 95% (mean 79%, SD 6%), and the subset of bearing intermolecular contacts accounts for 41 to 100% (mean 62%, SD 11%) of the complexity of the full set of intermolecular contacts.
Polyazulene Based Materials for Heavy Metal Ions Detection. 4. Search for Conditions for Thiophen-Vinyl-Pyridine-Azulene Based CMEs Preparation
Authors: Ungureanu Eleonora-Mihaela , Anăstăsoaie Veronica , Bujduveanu Magdalena-Rodica , Brotea Alina-Giorgiana , Isopescu Raluca , Stanciu Gabriela
Published: January 2022

The present work is connected to the study of electrode conditioning issues for the chemically modified electrodes (CMEs) prepared based on 2,6-bis((E)-2-(thiophen-2-yl)vinyl)-4-(5-isopropyl- 3,8-dimethylazulen-1-yl) pyridine (L). L is irreversibly electrooxidized to polymers leading to L-CMEs. The recognition experiments are the final test of chosen parameters (electropolymerization potential and charge in controlled potential electrolysis (CPE), anodic limit of the overoxidation cycles (OC), number of OC, anodic limit of the equilibration cycles (EC), number of EC, pH of the buffer solutions for HMs accumulation, complexation time, potential and time of reduction). The evidence of film deposition resulted by the change of ferrocene symmetrical signal characteristics on bare electrode in ferrocene solution was the simplest way to prove the formation of L-CMEs. However, finding the best electrode equilibration conditions turned out to be a source of increasing the analytical performance for the CMEs, especially those dedicated to the detection of Pb. The paper underlines the importance of understanding the role of each varied parameter, and of carrying out a systematic study of each possible variable. Optimum conditions for Pb ions analysis, using this new thiophen-vinyl-pyridine-azulene based CMEs, have been established, in order to get the best conditions for its detection in water.
Equiauxetic Hinged Archimedean Tilings
Authors: Tarnai Tibor , Fowler Patrick W. , Guest Simon D. , Kovács Flórián
Published: January 2022

There is increasing interest in two-dimensional and quasi-two-dimensional materials and metamaterials for applications in chemistry, physics and engineering. Some of these applications are driven by the possible auxetic properties of such materials. Auxetic frameworks expand along one direction when subjected to a perpendicular stretching force. An equiauxetic framework has a unique mechanism of expansion (an equiauxetic mode) where the symmetry forces a Poisson’s ratio of −1. Hinged tilings offer opportunities for the design of auxetic and equiauxetic frameworks in 2D, and generic auxetic behaviour can often be detected using a symmetry extension of the scalar counting rule for mobility of periodic body-bar systems. Hinged frameworks based on Archimedean tilings of the plane are considered here. It is known that the regular hexagonal tiling, {63}, leads to an equiauxetic framework for both single-link and double-link connections between the tiles. For single-link connections, three Archimedean tilings considered as hinged body-bar frameworks are found here to be equiauxetic: these are {3.122}, {4.6.12}, and {4.82}. For double-link connections, three Archimedean tilings considered as hinged body-bar frameworks are found to be equiauxetic: these are {34.6}, {32.4.3.4}, and {3.6.3.6}.
On the External Positivity of SISO Linear Dynamic Systems under a Class of Nonzero and Possibly Negative Initial Conditions Eventually Subject to Incommensurate Point Internal and External Delays
Authors: De la Sen Manuel
Published: January 2022

The property of external positivity of dynamic systems is commonly defined as the non-negativity of the output for all time under zero initial conditions and any given non-negative input for all time. This paper investigates the extension of that property for a structured class of initial conditions of a single-input single-output (SISO) linear dynamic system which can include, in general, certain negative initial conditions. The above class of initial conditions is characterized analytically based on the structure of the transfer function. The basic study is performed in the delay-free case, but extensions are then given for systems subject to a finite number of internal and external, in general incommensurate, point delays and for the closed-loop dynamic systems which incorporate a feedback compensator. The formulation relies on calculating the output based on the impulse responses by considering the relation of the mentioned sets of structured initial conditions with the zero-state response which allows to keep the non-negativity of the zero-input response and that of the total response provided the non-negativity for all time of the zero-state response.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Taxonomy in 2021
Authors:   Taxonomy Editorial Office
Published: January 2022

Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...]
Self-Organizing and Self-Explaining Pervasive Environments by Connecting Smart Objects and Applications
Authors: Kordts Börge , Gerlach Bennet , Schrader Andreas
Published: January 2022

In the past decade, pervasive environments have progressed from promising research concepts to available products present in our everyday lives. By connecting multiple smart objects, device ensembles can be formed to assist users in performing tasks. Furthermore, smart objects can be used to control applications, that, in turn, can be used to control other smart objects. As manual configuration is often time-consuming, an automatic connection of the components may present a useful tool, which should take various aspects into account. While dynamically connecting these components allows for solutions tailored to the needs and respective tasks of a user, it obfuscates the handling and ultimately may decrease usability. Self-descriptions have been proposed to overcome this issue for ensembles of smart objects. For a more extensive approach, descriptions of applications in pervasive environments need to be addressed as well. Based on previous research in the context of self-explainability of smart objects, we propose a description language as well as a framework to support self-explaining ambient applications (applications that are used within smart environments). The framework can be used to manually or automatically connect smart objects as well as ambient applications and to realize self-explainability for these interconnected device and application ensembles.
Developmental Phenotypic and Transcriptomic Effects of Exposure to Nanomolar Levels of 4-Nonylphenol, Triclosan, and Triclocarban in Zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Phillips Jessica , Haimbaugh Alex S. , Akemann Camille , Shields Jeremiah N. , Wu Chia-Chen , Meyer Danielle N. , Baker Bridget B. , Siddiqua Zoha , Pitts David K. , Baker Tracie R.
Published: January 2022

Triclosan, triclocarban and 4-nonylphenol are all chemicals of emerging concern found in a wide variety of consumer products that have exhibited a wide range of endocrine-disrupting effects and are present in increasing amounts in groundwater worldwide. Results of the present study indicate that exposure to these chemicals at critical developmental periods, whether long-term or short-term in duration, leads to significant mortality, morphologic, behavioral and transcriptomic effects in zebrafish (Danio rerio). These effects range from total mortality with either long- or short-term exposure at 100 and 1000 nM of triclosan, to abnormalities in uninflated swim bladder seen with long-term exposure to triclocarban and short-term exposure to 4-nonylphenol, and cardiac edema seen with short-term 4-nonylphenol exposure. Additionally, a significant number of genes involved in neurological and cardiovascular development were differentially expressed after the exposures, as well as lipid metabolism genes and metabolic pathways after exposure to each chemical. Such changes in behavior, gene expression, and pathway abnormalities caused by these three known endocrine disruptors have the potential to impact not only the local ecosystem, but human health as well.
Determination of Prenatal Substance Exposure Using Meconium and Orbitrap Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Hernandez Atakan , Lacroze Valerie , Doudka Natalia , Becam Jenny , Pourriere-Fabiani Carole , Lacarelle Bruno , Solas Caroline , Fabresse Nicolas
Published: January 2022

The aim of this study was to develop and to validate a toxicological untargeted screening relying on LC-HRMS in meconium including the detection of the four main classes of drugs of abuse (DoA; amphetamines, cannabinoids, opioids and cocaine). The method was then applied to 29 real samples. Analyses were performed with a liquid chromatography system coupled to a benchtop Orbitrap operating in a data-dependent analysis. The sample amount was 300 mg of meconium extracted twice by solid phase extraction following two distinct procedures. Raw data were processed using the Compound Discoverer 3.2 software (Thermo). The method was evaluated and validated on 15 compounds (6-MAM, morphine, buprenorphine, norbuprenorphine, methadone, EDDP, amphetamine, MDA, MDMA, methamphetamine, cocaine, benzoylecgonine, THC, 11-OH-THC, THC-COOH). Limits of detection were between 0.5 and 5 pg/mg and limits of identification between 5 and 50 pg/mg. Mean matrix effect was between −79 and −19% (n = 6) and mean overall recovery between 18 and 73% (n = 6) at 100 pg/mg. The application allows the detection of 88 substances, including 47 pharmaceuticals and 15 pharmaceutical metabolites, cocaine and its metabolites, THC and its metabolites, and natural (morphine, codeine) and synthetic (methadone, buprenorphine, tramadol, norfentanyl) opioids. This method is now used routinely for toxicological screening in high-risk pregnancies
Characteristics of Snakebite-Related Infection in French Guiana
Authors: Houcke Stéphanie , Resiere Dabor , Lontsingoula Guy Roger , Cook Fabrice , Lafouasse Pierre , Pujo Jean Marc , Demar Magalie , Matheus Severine , Hommel Didier , Kallel Hatem
Published: January 2022

Wound infection is frequently reported following snakebite (SB). This study is retrospective. It was conducted in the emergency department and the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of Cayenne General Hospital between 1 January 2016 and 31 July 2021. We included 172 consecutive patients hospitalized for SB envenoming. All patients were monitored for wound infection. Sixty-three patients received antibiotics at admission (36.6%). The main antibiotic used was amoxicillin–clavulanate (92.1%). Wound infection was recorded in 55 cases (32%). It was 19% in grade 1, 35% in grade 2, and 53% in grade 3. It included abscess (69.1%), necrotizing fasciitis (16.4%), and cellulitis (21.8%). The time from SB to wound infection was 6 days (IQR: 3–8). The main isolated microorganisms were A. hydrophila and M. morganii (37.5% and 18.8% of isolated organisms). Surgery was required in 48 patients (28.1%), and a necrosectomy was performed on 16 of them (33.3%). The independent factors associated with snakebite-associated infection were necrosis (p < 0.001, OR 13.15, 95% CI: 4.04–42.84), thrombocytopenia (p = 0.002, OR: 3.37, 95% CI: 1.59–7.16), and rhabdomyolysis (p = 0.046, OR: 2.29, 95% CI: 1.02–5.19). In conclusion, wound infection following SB is frequent, mainly in grade 2 and 3 envenomed patients, especially those with necrosis, thrombocytopenia, and rhabdomyolysis. The main involved bacteria are A. hydrophila and M. morganii.
Deoxynivalenol: Toxicology, Degradation by Bacteria, and Phylogenetic Analysis
Authors: Pinto Anne Caroline Schoch Marques , De Pierri Camilla Reginatto , Evangelista Alberto Gonçalves , Gomes Ana Silvia de Lara Pires Batista , Luciano Fernando Bittencourt
Published: January 2022

Deoxynivalenol (DON) is a toxic secondary metabolite produced by fungi that contaminates many crops, mainly wheat, maize, and barley. It affects animal health, causing intestinal barrier impairment and immunostimulatory effect in low doses and emesis, reduction in feed conversion rate, and immunosuppression in high doses. As it is very hard to completely avoid DON’s production in the field, mitigatory methods have been developed. Biodegradation has become a promising method as new microorganisms are studied and new enzymatic routes are described. Understanding the common root of bacteria with DON degradation capability and the relationship with their place of isolation may bring insights for more effective ways to find DON-degrading microorganisms. The purpose of this review is to bring an overview of the occurrence, regulation, metabolism, and toxicology of DON as addressed in recent publications focusing on animal production, as well as to explore the enzymatic routes described for DON’s degradation by microorganisms and the phylogenetic relationship among them.
Hydrogen-Deuterium Exchange Mass Spectrometry Reveals a Novel Binding Region of a Neutralizing Fully Human Monoclonal Antibody to Anthrax Protective Antigen
Authors: Fang Mulin , Wang Zhe , Norris Kathleen , James Judith A. , Wu Si , Smith Kenneth
Published: January 2022

Anthrax vaccine adsorbed (AVA) containing protective antigen (PA) is the only FDA-approved anthrax vaccine in the United States. Characterization of the binding of AVA-induced anti-PA human antibodies against the PA antigen after vaccination is crucial to understanding mechanisms of the AVA-elicited humoral immune response. Hydrogen deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (HDX-MS) is often coupled with a short liquid chromatography gradient (e.g., 5–10 min) for the characterization of protein interactions. We recently developed a long-gradient (e.g., 90 min), sub-zero temperature, ultra-high performance liquid chromatography HDX-MS (UPLC-HDX-MS) platform that has significantly increased separation power and limited back-exchange for the analysis of protein samples with high complexity. In this study, we demonstrated the utility of this platform for mapping antibody–antigen epitopes by examining four fully human monoclonal antibodies to anthrax PA. Antibody p1C03, with limited neutralizing activity in vivo, bound to a region on domain 1A of PA. p6C04 and p1A06, with no neutralizing activities, bound to the same helix on domain 3 to prevent oligomerization of PA. We found p6C01 strongly bound to domain 3 on a different helix region. We also identified a secondary epitope for p6C01, which likely leads to the blocking of furin cleavage of PA after p6C01 binding. This novel binding of p6C01 results in highly neutralizing activity. This is the first report of this distinct binding mechanism for a highly neutralizing fully human antibody to anthrax protective antigen. Studying such epitopes can facilitate the development of novel therapeutics against anthrax.
Detection and Quantification of the Harmful Dinoflagellate Margalefidinium polykrikoides (East Asian Ribotype) in the Coastal Waters of China
Authors: Hu Jiarong , Guo Ruoyu , Lu Douding , Dai Xinfeng , Zhu Yuanli , Park Bum Soo , Wang Pengbin
Published: January 2022

As a marine ichthyotoxic dinoflagellate, Margalefidinium polykrikoides, previously named Cochlodinium polykrikoides, have caused mass mortalities of fish worldwide during blooms. Rapid detection of target species is a prerequisite for the timely monitoring and early warning of harmful algal blooms (HABs). However, it is difficult to achieve rapid identification with traditional methods. The technology of using quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) to detect and quantify microalgae is relatively mature. Based on the accuracy, rapidity, and sensitivity of qPCR technology, it can be used in the monitoring and development of early warning systems for HABs. From 2017 to 2020, samples were collected from 15 locations off the Chinese coast or from local sea areas. Based on the qPCR detection and analysis, the target species, M. polykrikoides (East Asian ribotype, EAr), was found in samples from Tianjin, Yangtze River estuary, and offshore Fujian (East China Sea). This is the first time that M. polykrikoides (EAr) was detected in the coastal waters of Tianjin. The results reveal a distributive pattern of M. polykrikoides (EAr) along Chinese coastal waters. It is helpful to predict the future diffusion trend of M. polykrikoides (EAr) in the China Sea and provides a practical case for the future construction of monitoring and warning systems for M. polykrikoides and HABs.
Secondary Metabolite Gene Regulation in Mycotoxigenic Fusarium Species: A Focus on Chromatin
Authors: Atanasoff-Kardjalieff Anna Katharina , Studt Lena
Published: January 2022

Fusarium is a species-rich group of mycotoxigenic plant pathogens that ranks as one of the most economically important fungal genera in the world. During growth and infection, they are able to produce a vast spectrum of low-molecular-weight compounds, so-called secondary metabolites (SMs). SMs often comprise toxic compounds (i.e., mycotoxins) that contaminate precious food and feed sources and cause adverse health effects in humans and livestock. In this context, understanding the regulation of their biosynthesis is crucial for the development of cropping strategies that aim at minimizing mycotoxin contamination in the field. Nevertheless, currently, only a fraction of SMs have been identified, and even fewer are considered for regular monitoring by regulatory authorities. Limitations to exploit their full chemical potential arise from the fact that the genes involved in their biosynthesis are often silent under standard laboratory conditions and only induced upon specific stimuli mimicking natural conditions in which biosynthesis of the respective SM becomes advantageous for the producer. This implies a complex regulatory network. Several components of these gene networks have been studied in the past, thereby greatly advancing the understanding of SM gene regulation and mycotoxin biosynthesis in general. This review aims at summarizing the latest advances in SM research in these notorious plant pathogens with a focus on chromatin structure.
Prevalence and Characterization of PVL-Positive Staphylococcus aureus Isolated from Raw Cow’s Milk
Authors: Sadat Asmaa , Shata Radwa Reda , Farag Alshimaa M. M. , Ramadan Hazem , Alkhedaide Adel , Soliman Mohamed Mohamed , Elbadawy Mohamed , Abugomaa Amira , Awad Amal
Published: January 2022

The present study aimed to investigate the prevalence, antibiotic susceptibility profiles, and some toxin genes of Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL)-positive Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) in unpasteurized raw cow’s milk collected from retail outlets located at Mansoura, Dakahliya governorate, Egypt. In that context, a total of 700 raw cow’s milk samples were investigated for the presence of S. aureus, which was identified in 41.1% (288/700) of the samples. Among the S. aureus isolates, 113 PVL-positive S. aureus were identified and subjected for further analysis. The PVL-positive S. aureus were investigated for the existence of toxin-related genes, including hemolysin (hla), toxic shock syndrome toxin-1 (tst), and enterotoxins (sea, seb, sec, see, seg, sei, and selj). Genotypic resistance of PVL-positive strains was performed for the detection of blaZ and mecA genes. Among the PVL-positive S. aureus, sea, seb, and sec were detected in 44.2, 6.2%, and 0.9%, respectively, while the hla and tst genes were identified in 54.9% and 0.9%, respectively. The blaZ and mecA genes were successfully identified in 84.9 (96/113) and 32.7% (37/113) of the total evaluated S. aureus isolates, respectively. PVL-positive S. aureus displayed a high level of resistance to penicillin, ampicillin, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Multidrug resistance (resistant to ≥3 antimicrobial classes) was displayed by all methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and 38.2% of methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (MSSA) isolates. The obtained findings are raising the alarm of virulent PVL-positive MRSA clones in retail milk in Egypt, suggesting the requirement for limiting the use of β-lactam drugs in food-producing animals and the importance of implementing strong hygiene procedures in dairy farms and processing plants.
Hyperendemic Dengue and Possible Zika Circulation in the Westernmost Region of the Indonesian Archipelago
Authors: Harapan Harapan , Panta Kritu , Michie Alice , Ernst Timo , McCarthy Suzi , Muhsin Muhsin , Safarianti Safarianti , Zanaria Tjut Mariam , Mudatsir Mudatsir , Sasmono R. Tedjo , Imrie Allison
Published: January 2022

The transmission of dengue and other medically important mosquito-borne viruses in the westernmost region of Indonesia is not well described. We assessed dengue and Zika virus seroprevalence in Aceh province, the westernmost area of the Indonesian archipelago. Serum samples collected from 199 randomly sampled healthy residents of Aceh Jaya in 2017 were analyzed for neutralizing antibodies by plaque reduction neutralization test (PRNT). Almost all study participants (198/199; 99.5%) presented with multitypic profiles of neutralizing antibodies to two or more DENV serotypes, indicating transmission of multiple DENV in the region prior to 2017. All residents were exposed to one or more DENV serotypes by the age of 30 years. The highest geometric mean titers were measured for DENV-4, followed by DENV-1, DENV-2 and DENV-3. Among a subset of 116 sera, 27 neutralized ZIKV with a high stringency (20 with PRNT90 > 10 and 7 with PRNT90 > 40). This study showed that DENV is hyperendemic in the westernmost region of the Indonesian archipelago and suggested that ZIKV may have circulated prior to 2017.
Functional Characterization of Replication-Associated Proteins Encoded by Alphasatellites Identified in Yunnan Province, China
Authors: Zhao Liling , Che Xuan , Wang Zhanqi , Zhou Xueping , Xie Yan
Published: January 2022

Alphasatellites, which encode only a replication-associated protein (alpha-Rep), are frequently found to be non-essential satellite components associated with begomovirus/betasatellite complexes, and their presence can modulate disease symptoms and/or viral DNA accumulation during infection. Our previous study has shown that there are three types of alphasatellites associated with begomovirus/betasatellite complexes in Yunnan province in China and they encode three corresponding types of alpha-Rep proteins. However, the biological functions of alpha-Reps remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the biological functions of alpha-Reps in post-transcriptional gene silencing (PTGS) and transcriptional gene silencing (TGS) using 16c and 16-TGS transgenic Nicotiana benthamiana plants. Results showed that all the three types of alpha-Rep proteins were capable of suppressing the PTGS and reversing the TGS. Among them, the alpha-Rep of Y10DNA1 has the strongest PTGS and TGS suppressor activities. We also found that the alpha-Rep proteins were able to increase the accumulation of their helper virus during coinfection. These results suggest that the alpha-Reps may have a role in overcoming host defense, which provides a possible explanation for the selective advantage provided by the association of alphasatellites with begomovirus/betasatellite complexes.
Characterization of a Broadly Neutralizing Monoclonal Antibody against SARS-CoV-2 Variants
Authors: Zakir Tasnim Saifudin , Meng Tao , Carmen Lee Ching Pei , Chu Justin Jang Hann , Lin Raymond Tzer Pin , Prabakaran Mookkan
Published: January 2022

The constant mutation of SARS-CoV-2 has led to the emergence of new variants, which call for urgent effective therapeutic interventions. The trimeric spike (S) protein of SARS-CoV-2 is highly immunogenic with the receptor-binding domain (RBD) that binds first to the cellular receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and is therefore the target of many neutralizing antibodies. In this study, we characterized a broadly neutralizing monoclonal antibody (mAb) 9G8, which shows potent neutralization against the authentic SARS-CoV-2 wild-type (WT), Alpha (B.1.1.7), and Delta (1.617.2) viruses. Furthermore, mAb 9G8 also displayed a prominent neutralizing efficacy in the SARS-CoV-2 surrogate virus neutralization test (sVNT) against the Epsilon (B.1.429/7), Kappa (B.1.617.1), Gamma (P.1), Beta (B.1.351), and Delta Plus (1.617.2.1) RBD variants in addition to the variants mentioned above. Based on our in vitro escape mutant studies, we proved that the mutations V483F and Y489H within the RBD were involved in ACE2 binding and caused the neutralizing evasion of the virus from mAb 9G8. The development of such a cross-reactive neutralizing antibody against majority of the SARS-CoV-2 variants provides an important insight into pursuing future therapeutic agents for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19.
Different but Not Unique: Deciphering the Immunity of the Jamaican Fruit Bat by Studying Its Viriome
Authors: David Quinnlan , Schountz Tony , Schwemmle Martin , Ciminski Kevin
Published: January 2022

A specialized and fine-tuned immune response of bats upon infection with viruses is believed to provide the basis for a “friendly” coexistence with these pathogens, which are often lethal for humans and other mammals. First insights into the immunity of bats suggest that bats have evolved to possess their own strategies to cope with viral infections. Yet, the molecular details for this innocuous coexistence remain poorly described and bat infection models are the key to unveiling these secrets. In Jamaican fruit bats (Artibeus jamaicensis), a New World bat species, infection experiments with its (putative) natural viral pathogens Tacaribe virus (TCRV), rabies virus (RABV), and the bat influenza A virus (IAV) H18N11, have contributed to an accurate, though still incomplete, representation of the bat-imposed immunity. Surprisingly, though many aspects of their innate and adaptive immune responses differ from that of the human immune response, such as a contraction of the IFN locus and reduction in the number of immunoglobulin subclasses, variations could also be observed between Jamaican fruit bats and other bat species.
Current Understanding of the Role of T Cells in Chikungunya, Dengue and Zika Infections
Authors: Mapalagamage Maheshi , Weiskopf Daniela , Sette Alessandro , De Silva Aruna Dharshan
Published: January 2022

Arboviral infections such as Chikungunya (CHIKV), Dengue (DENV) and Zika (ZIKV) are a major disease burden in tropical and sub-tropical countries, and there are no effective vaccinations or therapeutic drugs available at this time. Understanding the role of the T cell response is very important when designing effective vaccines. Currently, comprehensive identification of T cell epitopes during a DENV infection shows that CD8 and CD4 T cells and their specific phenotypes play protective and pathogenic roles. The protective role of CD8 T cells in DENV is carried out through the killing of infected cells and the production of proinflammatory cytokines, as CD4 T cells enhance B cell and CD8 T cell activities. A limited number of studies attempted to identify the involvement of T cells in CHIKV and ZIKV infection. The identification of human immunodominant ZIKV viral epitopes responsive to specific T cells is scarce, and none have been identified for CHIKV. In CHIKV infection, CD8 T cells are activated during the acute phase in the lymph nodes/blood, and CD4 T cells are activated during the chronic phase in the joints/muscles. Studies on the role of T cells in ZIKV-neuropathogenesis are limited and need to be explored. Many studies have shown the modulating actions of T cells due to cross-reactivity between DENV-ZIKV co-infections and have repeated heterologous/homologous DENV infection, which is an important factor to consider when developing an effective vaccine.
Bacteriophages Roam the Wheat Phyllosphere
Authors: Forero-Junco Laura Milena , Alanin Katrine Wacenius Skov , Djurhuus Amaru Miranda , Kot Witold , Gobbi Alex , Hansen Lars Hestbjerg
Published: January 2022

The phyllosphere microbiome plays an important role in plant fitness. Recently, bacteriophages have been shown to play a role in shaping the bacterial community composition of the phyllosphere. However, no studies on the diversity and abundance of phyllosphere bacteriophage communities have been carried out until now. In this study, we extracted, sequenced, and characterized the dsDNA and ssDNA viral community from a phyllosphere for the first time. We sampled leaves from winter wheat (Triticum aestivum), where we identified a total of 876 virus operational taxonomic units (vOTUs), mostly predicted to be bacteriophages with a lytic lifestyle. Remarkably, 848 of these vOTUs corresponded to new viral species, and we estimated a minimum of 2.0 × 106 viral particles per leaf. These results suggest that the wheat phyllosphere harbors a large and active community of novel bacterial viruses. Phylloviruses have potential applications as biocontrol agents against phytopathogenic bacteria or as microbiome modulators to increase plant growth-promoting bacteria.
Waning of Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Spike Antibody Levels 100 to 200 Days after the Second Dose of the BNT162b2 Vaccine
Authors: Matsunaga Hidenori , Takeuchi Hidefumi , Oba Yuichiro , Fujimi Satoshi , Honda Tomoyuki , Tomonaga Keizo
Published: January 2022

Anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies of 444 vaccinated hospital employees in Japan were measured 94–109 days and 199–212 days after receiving the second BNT162b2 vaccine dose to evaluate the intensity and duration of antibody response in our own cohort. Among uninfected participants, anti-S antibody levels were greatly decreased 199–212 days after the second vaccination compared to the levels measured 94–109 days after the second vaccination (median levels: 830 AU/mL and 2425 AU/mL, respectively; p < 0.001). The rate of decrease between the two testing periods was lower in infected participants than in uninfected participants (median: 47.7% and 33.9%, respectively; p < 0.001). Anti-S antibody levels were significantly higher in females (median: females, 2546 AU/mL; males, 2041 AU/mL; p = 0.002 during the first test period). The peak body temperature after vaccination was higher in females than in males (median: females, 37.4 °C; males: 37.1 °C; p = 0.044). Older males tended to have lower antibody levels. In conclusion, the duration of the anti-S antibody response to the BNT162b2 vaccine was short-lived, particularly in males. Anti-S antibody levels of 1000 AU/mL or lower according to SARS-CoV-2 IgG II Quant (Abbott) might indicate insufficient prevention against the delta variant, and the majority of participants appeared to have lost their protection 200 days after vaccination.
Comparison of Social Inequality in Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination among Teenagers with Parental Reports and Healthcare Providers’ Records in the 2019 National Immunization Survey-Teen
Authors: Choi Sol Seo , Choi BongKyoo
Published: January 2022

Background: Relatively little is known about social inequality in human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination among teenagers in the United States. This study aims to investigate whether there is a social disparity in HPV vaccination among teenagers and if so, whether it can differ according to the source of teen vaccination information (parental reports and provider records). Methods: We used the data from the 2019 National Immunization Survey-Teen (NIS-Teen; 42,668 teenagers, aged 13–17) including parent-reported vaccination status. Among them, 18,877 teenagers had adequate provider-reported vaccination records. Two socioeconomic status (SES) measures were used: mother’s education and annual family income. Multivariate logistic analyses were conducted. Results: False negatives of parental reports against provider records were more than two times higher (p < 0.001) in low-SES teens than in high-SES teens. In both SES measures, the proportion of HPV-unvaccinated teenagers was lowest at the highest SES level in analyses with parental reports. However, it was the opposite in analyses with provider records. Interestingly, regardless of the vaccination information source, the HPV unvaccinated rate was highest in the middle-SES teens (>12 years, non-college graduates; above poverty level, but not >USD 75 K). Conclusions: Significant social inequality in HPV vaccination among teenagers exists in the United States. The pattern of social inequality in HPV vaccination can be distorted when only parent-reported vaccination information is used.
Low Neutralizing Antibody Titers against the Mu Variant of SARS-CoV-2 in 31 BNT162b2 Vaccinated Individuals in Colombia
Authors: Álvarez-Díaz Diego A. , Muñoz Ana Luisa , Tavera-Rodríguez Pilar , Herrera-Sepúlveda María T. , Ruiz-Moreno Hector Alejandro , Laiton-Donato Katherine , Franco-Muñoz Carlos , Pelaez-Carvajal Dioselina , Cuellar Diego , Muñoz-Suarez Alejandra M. , Galindo Marisol , Arias-Ramírez Edgar J. , Mercado-Reyes Marcela
Published: January 2022

Global surveillance programs for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are showing the emergence of variants with mutations in the spike protein. Genomic and laboratory surveillance are important to determine if these variants may be more infectious or less susceptible to antiviral treatments and vaccine-induced antibodies. Three of the most predominant SARS-CoV-2 variants in Colombia during the epidemiological peaks of 2021 were isolated: Mu, a variant of interest; Gamma, a variant of concern; B.1.111, which lacks genetic markers associated with greater virulence. Microneutralization assays were performed by incubating 120 mean tissue culture infectious doses (TCID50) of each SARS-CoV-2 isolate with five two-fold serial dilutions of sera from 31 BNT162b2-vaccinated volunteers. The mean neutralization titer (MN50) was calculated by the Reed–Muench method. At the end of August, Mu represented 49% of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in Colombia, followed by 25% of Gamma. In contrast, B.1.111 became almost undetectable. The evaluation of neutralizing antibodies suggests that patients vaccinated with BNT162b2 generate neutralizing antibody titers against the Mu variant at significantly lower concentrations relative to B.1.111 and Gamma. This study shows the importance of continuing surveillance programs of emerging variants, as well as the need to evaluate the neutralizing antibody response induced by other vaccines.
Persistence of Immunity in Adults after 1, 5 and 10 Years with Recombinant Hepatitis B Vaccine in Beijing in 2010–2020
Authors: Shen Sijia , Ge Shen , Zhang Zheng , Ma Jianxin , Jiao Yang , Li Qian , Liang Yan , Li Shuming
Published: January 2022

The persistence of immunity after hepatitis B vaccination is still under investigation in adults. In Chaoyang District, Beijing, people who were aged ≥ 18 years and completely immunized with HBV vaccine according to the standard procedure (0–1–6 months) were enrolled. Three groups were set for 1 (Y1), 5 (Y5) and 10 (Y10) years after the hepatitis B vaccination. The following data was collected and analyzed: antibody against hepatitis B virus surface antigen(anti-HBs) positive rates and geometric mean concentration (GMC) between the different compared groups through questionnaires and laboratory detection, including hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBsAg), anti-HBs and antibody against hepatitis B virus core antigen(anti-HBc). All 600 subjects completed the questionnaires and serological tests. Among all subjects, the positive rates of HBsAg, anti-HBs and anti-HBc were 0, 70.5% (423/600) and 2.5% (15/600), respectively. The anti-HBs positive rates in Y1, Y5 and Y10 groups were 86.5% (173/200), 71.0% (142/200) and 54.0% (108/200) (χ2 = 50.8, p < 0.001) and showed a linear decreasing trend year by year (trend χ2 = 50.7, p < 0.001). The GMC in Y1, Y5 and Y10 groups were 296.6 mIU/mL, 51.6 mIU/mL and 25.5 mIU/mL (H = 64.8, p < 0.001), respectively. The anti-HBs positive rates and GMC decreased rapidly after the vaccination of adults against hepatitis B. Screening after 5–10 years and booster vaccination for the unprotected population is recommended.
Evaluation of HSV-2 gE Binding to IgG-Fc and Application for Vaccine Development
Authors: Galli Jennifer D. , Horton Melanie , Durr Eberhard , Heidecker Gwendolyn J. , Freed Daniel , Fridman Arthur , Wang Dai , Zhang Lan
Published: January 2022

Glycoprotein E (gE) and glycoprotein I (gI) are expressed as a heterodimer on the surface of Herpes simplex virus (HSV). Glycoprotein E binds Fc domain of immunoglobulin G (IgG) and inhibits activities mediated by the IgG Fc domain, contributing to immune evasion by HSV. It has been reported that HSV type 1 gE (gE-1) is capable of binding IgG Fc as a monomer and in a heterodimeric complex with gI, with the heterodimer having 50- to100-fold greater affinity for Fc than gE alone. We report the production of both a soluble form of HSV type 2 gE (gE-2) and a soluble HSV-2 gE/gI heterodimer (gE-2/gI-2). Characterization of soluble gE-2 by surface plasmon resonance (SPR) demonstrates that it is incapable of binding human IgG or the IgG Fc domain. Co-expression with HSV-2 gI (gI-2) and purification of the gE-2/gI-2 heterodimer enable gE-2 to bind human IgG through its Fc domain. We hypothesize that functional epitopes of wildtype gE-2 may be masked by plasma IgG Fc and affect the immunogenicity of the gE-2/gI-2 heterodimer as a vaccine antigen. A series of gE-2 mutations within the surface-exposed Fc:gE-2 interface was designed, and gE-2 mutants were co-expressed with gI-2. Evaluation of twelve gE-2 mutant heterodimers by SPR assay identified nine gE-2 mutations which abrogated or reduced Fc binding while maintaining heterodimer formation with gI. Vaccinating rabbits with the four most Fc-binding deficient gE-2/gI-2 heterodimers elicited comparable anti-heterodimer binding antibody titers and statistically significantly higher serum neutralization antibody levels than wildtype heterodimers. Taken together, these data support the concept of rational antigen design for improved vaccine candidates.