bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Saving or Seizing the City: Discursive Formations in Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Khan Firoz , Higgins Benedict Francis , Adonis Willan
Published: January 2022

‘Neoliberalism’ is the dominant theme pervading numerous studies of post-apartheid urban development in Cape Town. This often renders invisible the many nuances and complexities embedded within its transitions. Via critically examining the assumption of the neoliberal usurpation of urban governance in Cape Town’s policy formation, this paper highlights critical historical contingencies from 1994; contingencies framing a discursive formation as less the choreographies of global capitalism and more the committed and sincere mobilisation of a local, grassroots movement to ‘save’ the city from urban decline. Largely unacknowledged in the literature, its exploration is crucial to transiting from a putative and omnipotent neoliberalism as a bottomless well of explanation to admitting and appreciating subjective agency in the origins, evolution and trajectory of the city’s urban development. This, in turn, furnishes insights about the metamorphosis and mutation of the original—ostensibly sincere—discursive formation into the particularly powerful and potent form of market-led urban regeneration sponsored in Cape Town today.
A Performance Analysis of VANETs Propagation Models and Routing Protocols
Authors: Hota Lopamudra , Nayak Biraja Prasad , Kumar Arun , Sahoo Bibhudatta , Ali G. G. Md. Nawaz
Published: January 2022

Vehicular Ad hoc Networks (VANETs) thrive on providing a communication channel between vehicles and infrastructures that facilitate efficient and safe Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) as well as Vehicle-to-Infrastructure (V2I) communications. Reliable and efficient transmission amongst vehicles and Road Side Units (RSUs) is a prime concern of Intelligent Transportation System (ITS). One of the primary challenges involved in vehicular communication is designing an efficient routing mechanism for data dissemination from node to node via a reliable route. The harsh vehicular environment with varied road conditions and obstacles in the signal propagation path induces another challenge. Therefore, this paper presents a comparative analysis of existing routing protocols with propagation models to assist researchers in gaining insight into the existing propagation model and routing protocols. The study also optimizes routing and propagation models for reliable packet dissemination. This work uses a realistic scenario from Open Street Map (OSM), and simulations are performed using SUMO. The trace files generated from SUMO are used for further simulation in NS-3. The simulation results are presented and studied in detail. The results show that the Two-Ray Ground and FRIIS propagation model outperforms the compared models, and the routing protocol OLSR outperforms AODV and DSDV.
Network Analysis of Industrial Symbiosis in Chemical Industrial Parks: A Case Study of Nanjing Jiangbei New Materials High-Tech Park
Authors: Liu Kai , Wang Xingping , Yan Yiran
Published: January 2022

As the primary drivers of the chemical industry, chemical industrial parks should be characterized by industrial symbiosis, which is essential for realizing the worldwide transformation from linear to circular economies based on sustainable development. At present, a lack of sufficient attention is paid to analyzing the structural characteristics and interaction patterns of industrial symbiosis networks in chemical industrial parks, especially in large-scale specialized chemical industrial parks on a national scale. In this context, with Nanjing Jiangbei New Materials High-Tech Park as an example, this study applies a social-network analysis to empirically investigate the structural characteristics and interaction patterns of an industrial symbiosis network. The results revealed that the industrial symbiosis network of Nanjing Jiangbei New Materials High-Tech Park is currently in a state of low-level agglomeration with a poor transitivity index and that short-distance straight chains are the main connections between enterprises with few transverse connections. Recycling enterprises occupy the core position in the network, while chemical manufacturing enterprises are mostly located on the periphery of the network and fail to establish sufficient effective connections. In terms of individuals, stakeholders’ understanding and evaluation of industrial symbiosis are insufficient; in terms of enterprises, the obstruction of byproducts and waste information circulation and other factors are the main obstacles restricting the industrial symbiosis activities in Nanjing Jiangbei New Materials High-Tech Park. Some policy recommendations are proposed to improve the industrial symbiosis network in large-scale specialized chemical industrial parks on a national scale, and these include establishing industrial symbiosis information systems for the parks, fostering multiple central nodes, and advancing nested development among industrial chains.
Mapping Product Returns Processes in Multichannel Retailing: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Frei Regina , Jack Lisa , Krzyzaniak Sally-Ann
Published: January 2022

An increasing percentage of products in multichannel retail are being returned, yet many retailers and manufacturers are not aware of the importance and scale of this issue. Similarly, the literature on online returns is limited. Returns processes can be very complicated, contain many manual steps that have several variations, unclear decision-making rules and, at the handling stage, often involve low-wage third-party employees guided by patchy IT systems. This article maps the complexity of product returns processes, highlights challenges and identifies opportunities for improvement, thereby contributing to a deeper understanding of the emerging field of product returns research. It also concludes that it is essential for returns to be made a strategic priority at the senior management level, implementing a Lean approach to returns systems. The research was based on 4 case studies, 17 structured interviews and 3 retail community workshops, all with British and other Western European retailers. Through triangulation of individual data, a generic process map for retail returns was created and implications for sustainability, loss prevention and profit optimisation are examined.
Prospective Evaluation of Laparoscopic Sacrocolpopexy with Concomitant Laparoscopic-Assisted Total Vaginal Hysterectomy
Authors: Faehnle-Schiegg Ivo , Abgottspon Janine , Frey Janine , Krebs Joerg , Christmann-Schmid Corina
Published: January 2022

(1) Background: Sacrocolpopexy (SCP) with subtotal hysterectomy (SH) is a standard procedure for the treatment of utero-vaginal prolapse. Several disadvantages are associated with the remaining cervix; therefor, SCP with total hysterectomy (TH) may be preferred. According to some publications, SCP with concomitant TH is associated with higher rates of mesh extrusion. Our hypothesis is that mesh extrusion at the apex can be avoided through prevention of thermal injury and through vaginal cuff suturing when performing the laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy combined with a laparoscopic-assisted vaginal total hysterectomy (LAVH). (2) Methods: This prospective cohort study was performed from 2016 until January 2019 including women with a utero-vaginal prolapse undergoing laparoscopic SCP with LAVH. The SCP was performed utilizing a non-absorbable polypropylene macroporous mesh (EndoGYNious®). The primary outcome was the mesh extrusion rate after SCP with concomitant LAVH. The secondary outcome was the objective and functional outcome. (3) There were 50 women included in this prospective cohort. At follow up of 6–12 weeks postoperatively, no mesh extrusion was detected and objectified. Overall, all women showed excellent anatomical and functional outcome. The median time from surgery was 42 months. (4) Laparoscopic SCP with concomitant LAVH showed no increased risk of mesh extrusion and good objective and functional outcomes.
On the Modified Stokes Second Problem for Maxwell Fluids with Linear Dependence of Viscosity on the Pressure
Authors: Fetecau Constantin , Qureshi Tahir Mushtaq , Rauf Abdul , Vieru Dumitru
Published: January 2022

The modified Stokes second problem for incompressible upper-convected Maxwell (UCM) fluids with linear dependence of viscosity on the pressure is analytically and numerically investigated. The fluid motion, between infinite horizontal parallel plates, is generated by the lower wall, which oscillates in its plane. The movement region of the fluid is symmetric with respect to the median plane, but its motion is asymmetric due to the boundary conditions. Closed-form expressions are found for the steady-state components of start-up solutions for non-dimensional velocity and the corresponding non-trivial shear and normal stresses. Similar solutions for the simple Couette flow are obtained as limiting cases of the solutions corresponding to the motion due to cosine oscillations of the wall. For validation, it is graphically proved that the start-up solutions (numerical solutions) converge to their steady-state components. Solutions for motions of ordinary incompressible UCM fluids performing the same motions are obtained as special cases of present results using asymptotic approximations of standard Bessel functions. The time needed to reach the permanent or steady state is also determined. This time is higher for motions of ordinary fluids, compared with motions of liquids with pressure-dependent viscosity. The impact of physical parameters on the fluid motion and the spatial–temporal distribution of start-up solutions are graphically investigated and discussed. Ordinary fluids move slower than fluids with pressure-dependent viscosity.
Multi-Objective Path-Decision Model of Multimodal Transport Considering Uncertain Conditions and Carbon Emission Policies
Authors: Zhu Chao , Zhu Xiaoning
Published: January 2022

To develop low-carbon transport and promote sustainable economic development, this paper took the uncertainty in highway transport speed and transshipment time into account in the actual transport process and established multi-objective path-decision models of multimodal transport under different carbon policies. The expectation values of nonlinear uncertainties were estimated by Law of Large Numbers (LLN), and the models were solved by the K-shortest paths algorithm and non-dominated sorting algorithm (NSGA-II), whose advancement and effectiveness were verified through the comparison of SPEA2. Based on the Pareto theory, the optimally symmetrical compromise between the objectives and the influence of the transport speed uncertainty and carbon emission policies on path decisions were quantified and discussed. Taking the multimodal transport network of West Africa as the experimental background, the practicability of the path-decision results is analyzed, and a trade-off analysis is also conducted to provide the theoretical foundation for future freight transport planning.
Axial Compression Behavior of Symmetrical Full-Scale Concrete Filled Double Skin Steel Tube Stub Columns
Authors: Bai Wen , Li Yunhao , Ji Jing , Liu Yuchen , Zhang Lei , Wang Ruili , Jiang Liangqin , He Lingjie
Published: January 2022

To investigate the bearing behavior of symmetrical full-scale different strength concrete filled double skin steel tube (CFDST) stub columns, 19 full-scale specimens were designed, considering the slenderness ratio (λ); the compression strength of core concrete and sandwich concrete (fcki, fcko), the thickness of the inner and outer steel tubes (ti, to); the diameter of inner and outer steel tubes (Di, Do); and the tensile strength of the inner and outer steel tubes (fyki, fyko) as the main parameters. Nonlinear constitutive models for concrete considering constraint effect were adopted, and a finite element (FE) model was established using ABAQUS software. By comparing the results between simulations and experiments, the rationality of the modeling method was verified. Based on the FE model, the parameter analysis for CFDST columns were conducted, and the force mechanism, stress distribution, and deformation process were analyzed. The results showed that the axial compression bearing capacity (Nsu) increased significantly with an increase in fcki, to, Do, and fcko, while Nsu decreased gradually with an increase in λ. Finally, according to the calculated results of the specimens, the calculation formula for Nsu of full-scale composite columns was statistically regressed using 1stOpt software and showed a good agreement with the FE.
Neutron-Mirror Neutron Oscillations in Absorbing Matter
Authors: Kamyshkov Yuri , Ternullo James , Varriano Louis , Berezhiani Zurab
Published: January 2022

The possibility that a neutron can be transformed to a hidden sector particle remains intriguingly open. Proposed theoretical models conjecture that the hidden sector can be represented by a mirror sector, and the neutron n can oscillate into its sterile mirror twin n′, exactly or nearly degenerate in mass with n. Oscillations n−n′ can take place in vacuum or in an environment containing regular matter and a magnetic field, in which only the neutron will be subject to interactions with the environment. We describe the propagation of the oscillating n−n′ system in a cold neutron beam passing through dense absorbing materials in connection to the possible regeneration type of experiments, where the effect of n→n′→n transformation can be observed.
Proton Electromagnetic Form Factors in the Time-like Region through the Scan Technique
Authors: Xia Lei , Rosner Christoph , Wang Yadi , Zhou Xiaorong , Maas Frank E. , Ferroli Rinaldo Baldini , Hu Haiming , Huang Guangshun
Published: January 2022

For over 100 y, scientists have investigated the properties of the proton, which is one of the most abundant components of visible matter in the universe. Nevertheless, researchers do not fully understand many details about its internal structure and dynamics. Time-like electromagnetic form factors are some of the observable quantities that can help us achieve a deeper understanding. In this review article, we present an overview of the current experimental status in this field, consisting of measurements of the time-like reactions e+e−→pp¯ and pp¯→e+e− and future measurements of pp¯→μ+μ−. The focus is put on recent high-precision results of the reaction e+e−→pp¯ that have been obtained after analyzing 688.5 pb−1 of data taken at the BESIII experiment. They are compared to and put into perspective with results from previous measurements in this channel. We discuss the channels pp¯→e+e− and pp¯→μ+μ− in terms of the few existing, as well as future measurements, which the PANDA experiment will perform. Finally, we review several new theoretical models and phenomenological approaches inspired by the BESIII high-precision results and then discuss their implications for a deeper understanding of the proton’s structure and inner dynamics.
Symmetry GAN Detection Network: An Automatic One-Stage High-Accuracy Detection Network for Various Types of Lesions on CT Images
Authors: Zhang Yan , He Shupeng , Wa Shiyun , Zong Zhiqi , Lin Jingxian , Fan Dongchen , Fu Junqi , Lv Chunli
Published: January 2022

Computed tomography (CT) is the first modern slice-imaging modality. Recent years have witnessed its widespread application and improvement in detecting and diagnosing related lesions. Nonetheless, there are several difficulties in detecting lesions in CT images: (1) image quality degrades as the radiation dose is reduced to decrease radiational injury to the human body; (2) image quality is frequently hampered by noise interference; (3) because of the complicated circumstances of diseased tissue, lesion pictures typically show complex shapes; (4) the difference between the orientated object and the background is not discernible. This paper proposes a symmetry GAN detection network based on a one-stage detection network to tackle the challenges mentioned above. This paper employs the DeepLesion dataset, containing 10,594 CT scans (studies) of 4427 unique patients. The symmetry GANs proposed in this research consist of two distinct GAN models that serve different functions. A generative model is introduced ahead of the backbone to increase the input CT image series to address the typical problem of small sample size in medical datasets. Afterward, GAN models are added to the attention extraction module to generate attention masks. Furthermore, experimental data indicate that this strategy has significantly improved the model’s robustness. Eventually, the proposed method reaches 0.9720, 0.9858, and 0.9833 on P, R, and mAP, on the validation set. The experimental outcome shows that the suggested model outperforms other comparison models. In addition to this innovation, we are inspired by the innovation of the ResNet model in terms of network depth. Thus, we propose parallel multi-activation functions, an optimization method in the network width. It is theoretically proven that by adding coefficients to each base activation function and performing a softmax function on all coefficients, parallel multi-activation functions can express a single activation function, which is a unique ability compared to others. Ultimately, our model outperforms all comparison models in terms of P, R, and mAP, achieving 0.9737, 0.9845, and 0.9841. In addition, we encapsulate the model and build a related iOS application to make the model more applicable. The suggested model also won the second prize in the 2021 Chinese Collegiate Computing Competition.
A Steganalysis Classification Algorithm Based on Distinctive Texture Features
Authors: Hammad Baraa Tareq , Ahmed Ismail Taha , Jamil Norziana
Published: January 2022

Steganography is the technique for secretly hiding messages in media such as text, audio, image, and video without being discovered. Image is one of the most essential media for concealing data, making it hard to identify hidden data not visible to the human eye. In general, the cover image and the encrypted image are symmetrical in terms of dimension size, resolution, and qualities. This makes the difference difficult to perceive with the human eye. As a result, distinguishing between the two symmetric images required the development of methods. Steganalysis is a technique for identifying hidden messages embedded in digital material without having to know the embedding algorithm or the “non-stego” image. Due to their enormous feature vector dimension, which requires more time to calculate, the performance of most existing image steganalysis classification (ISC) techniques is still restricted. Therefore, in this research, we present a steganalysis classification method based on one of the texture features chosen, such as segmentation-based fractal texture analysis (SFTA), local binary pattern (LBP), and gray-level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM). The classifiers employed include Gaussian discriminant analysis (GDA) and naïve Bayes (NB). We used a public database in our proposed method and applied it to IStego100K datasets to be able to assess its performance. The experimental results reveal that in all classifiers, the SFTA feature surpassed all of the texture features, making it a great texture feature for image steganalysis classification. In terms of feature dimension and classification accuracy (CA), a comparison was made between the suggested SFTA-based GDA approach and various current ISC methods. The outcomes of the comparison are obvious show that the proposed method surpasses current methods.
Lie Symmetries and Conservation Laws of Fokas–Lenells Equation and Two Coupled Fokas–Lenells Equations by the Symmetry/Adjoint Symmetry Pair Method
Authors: Zhang Lihua , Wang Gangwei , Zhao Qianqian , Wang Lingshu
Published: January 2022

The Fokas–Lenells equation and its multi-component coupled forms have attracted the attention of many mathematical physicists. The Fokas–Lenells equation and two coupled Fokas–Lenells equations are investigated from the perspective of Lie symmetries and conservation laws. The three systems have been turned into real multi-component coupled systems by appropriate transformations. By procedures of symmetry analysis, Lie symmetries of the three real systems are obtained. Explicit conservation laws are constructed using the symmetry/adjoint symmetry pair method, which depends on Lie symmetries and adjoint symmetries. The relationships between the multiplier and the adjoint symmetry are investigated.
High-Resolution 3D versus Standard-Resolution 2D T2-Weighted Turbo Spin Echo MRI for the Assessment of Lumbar Nerve Root Compromise
Authors: Sartoretti Elisabeth , Sartoretti Thomas , Schwenk Árpád , Alfieri Alex , Czell David , Wyss Michael , Wildi Lukas , Binkert Christoph A. , Sartoretti-Schefer Sabine
Published: January 2022

Radiculopathy can be caused by nerve root irritation and nerve root compression at the level of the lateral recess or at the level of the intervertebral foramen. T2-weighted (T2w) MRI is considered essential to evaluate the nerve root and its course, starting at the lateral recess through the intervertebral foramen to the extraforaminal space. With the introduction of novel MRI acceleration techniques such as compressed SENSE, standard-resolution 2D T2w turbo spin echo (TSE) sequences with a slice-thickness of 3–4 mm can be replaced with high-resolution isotropic 3D T2w TSE sequences with sub-millimeter resolution without prolonging scan time. With high-resolution 3D MRI, the course of the nerve root can be visualized more precisely due to a detailed depiction of the anatomical situation and less partial volume effects, potentially allowing for a better detection of nerve root compromise. In this intra-individual comparison study, 55 patients with symptomatic unilateral singular nerve root radiculopathy underwent MRI with both 2D standard- and 3D high-resolution T2w TSE MRI sequences. Two readers graded the degree of lumbar lateral recess stenosis and lumbar foraminal stenosis twice on both image sets using previously validated grading systems in an effort to quantify the inter-readout and inter-sequence agreement of scores. Inter-readout agreement was high for both grading systems and for 2D and 3D imaging (Kappa = 0.823–0.945). Inter-sequence agreement was moderate for both lumbar lateral recess stenosis (Kappa = 0.55–0.577) and lumbar foraminal stenosis (Kappa = 0.543–0.572). The percentage of high degree stenosis with nerve root deformity increased from 16.4%/9.8% to 41.8–43.6%/34.1% from 2D to 3D images for lateral recess stenosis/foraminal stenosis, respectively. Therefore, we show that while inter-readout agreement of grading systems is high for both standard- and high-resolution imaging, the latter outperforms standard-resolution imaging for the visualization of lumbar nerve root compromise.
Effects of Cardiotoxins from Naja oxiana Cobra Venom on Rat Heart Muscle and Aorta: A Comparative Study of Toxin-Induced Contraction Mechanisms
Authors: Averin Alexey S. , Nenov Miroslav N. , Starkov Vladislav G. , Tsetlin Victor I. , Utkin Yuri N.
Published: January 2022

Cardiotoxins (CaTxs) are a group of snake toxins that affect the cardiovascular system (CVS). Two types (S and P) of CaTxs are known, but the exact differences in the effects of these types on CVS have not been thoroughly studied. We investigated cellular mechanisms of action on CVS for Naja oxiana cobra CaTxs CTX-1 (S-type) and CTX-2 (P-type) focusing on the papillary muscle (PM) contractility and contraction of aortic rings (AR) supplemented by pharmacological analysis. It was found that CTX-1 and CTX-2 exerted dose-dependent effects manifested in PM contracture and AR contraction. CTX-2 impaired functions of PM and AR more strongly than CTX-1. Effects of CaTxs on PM were significantly reduced by nifedipine, an L-type Ca2+ channel blocker, and by KB-R7943, an inhibitor of reverse-mode Na+/Ca2+ exchange. Furthermore, 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate, an inhibitor of store-operated calcium entry, partially restored PM contractility damaged by CaTxs. The CaTx influence on AR contracture was significantly reduced by nifedipine and KB-R7943. The involvement of reverse-mode Na+/Ca2+ exchange in the effect of CaTxs on the rat aorta was shown for the first time. The results obtained indicate that CaTx effects on CVS are mainly associated with disturbance of transporting systems responsible for the Ca2+ influx.
Olfactory Bulb D2/D3 Receptor Availability after Intrastriatal Botulinum Neurotoxin-A Injection in a Unilateral 6-OHDA Rat Model of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Alberts Teresa , Antipova Veronica , Holzmann Carsten , Hawlitschka Alexander , Schmitt Oliver , Kurth Jens , Stenzel Jan , Lindner Tobias , Krause Bernd J. , Wree Andreas , Witt Martin
Published: January 2022

Olfactory deficits occur as early non-motor symptoms of idiopathic Parkinson’s disease (PD) in humans. The first central relay of the olfactory pathway, the olfactory bulb (OB), depends, among other things, on an intact, functional crosstalk between dopaminergic interneurons and dopamine receptors (D2/D3R). In rats, hemiparkinsonism (hemi-PD) can be induced by unilateral injection of 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) into the medial forebrain bundle (MFB), disrupting dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc). In a previous study, we showed that subsequent injection of botulinum neurotoxin-A (BoNT-A) into the striatum can reverse most of the pathological motor symptoms and normalize the D2/D3R availability. To determine whether this rat model is suitable to explain olfactory deficits that occur in humans with PD, we examined the availability of D2/D3R by longitudinal [18F]fallypride-PET/CT, the density of tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactivity in the OB, olfactory performance by an orienting odor identification test adapted for rats, and a connectome analysis. PET/CT and immunohistochemical data remained largely unchanged after 6-OHDA lesion in experimental animals, suggesting that outcomes of the 6-OHDA hemi-PD rat model do not completely explain olfactory deficits in humans. However, after subsequent ipsilateral BoNT-A injection into the striatum, a significant 8.5% increase of the D2/D3R availability in the ipsilateral OB and concomitant improvement of olfactory performance were detectable. Based on tract-tracing meta-analysis, we speculate that this may be due to indirect connections between the striatum and the OB.
Estimating the Parameters of the Hybrid Palatini Gravity Model with the Schwarzschild Precession of S2, S38 and S55 Stars: Case of Bulk Mass Distribution
Authors: Borka Duško , Borka Jovanović Vesna , Nikolić Violeta N. , Lazarov Nenad Đ. , Jovanović Predrag
Published: January 2022

We estimate the parameters of the Hybrid Palatini gravity model with the Schwarzschild precession of S-stars, specifically of the S2, S38 and S55 stars. We also take into account the case of bulk mass distribution near the Galactic Center. We assume that the Schwarzschild orbital precession of mentioned S-stars is the same as in General Relativity (GR) in all studied cases. In 2020, the GRAVITY Collaboration detected the orbital precession of the S2 star around the supermassive black hole (SMBH) at the Galactic Center and showed that it is close to the GR prediction. The astronomical data analysis of S38 and S55 orbits showed that, also in these cases, the orbital precession is close to the GR prediction. Based on this observational fact, we evaluated the parameters of the Hybrid Palatini Gravity model with the Schwarzschild precession of the S2, S38 and S55 stars, and we estimated the range of parameters of the Hybrid Palatini gravity model for which the orbital precession is as in GR for all three stars. We also evaluated the parameters of the Hybrid Palatini Gravity model in the case of different values of bulk mass density distribution of extended matter. We believe that proposed method is a useful tool to evaluate parameters of the gravitational potential at the Galactic Center.
Performance Characteristics of Real-Time PCRs for African Swine Fever Virus Genome Detection—Comparison of Twelve Kits to an OIE-Recommended Method
Authors: Pikalo Jutta , Carrau Tessa , Deutschmann Paul , Fischer Melina , Schlottau Kore , Beer Martin , Blome Sandra
Published: January 2022

African swine fever (ASF) is a major threat to pig production, and real-time PCR (qPCR) protocols are an integral part of ASF laboratory diagnosis. With the pandemic spread of ASF, commercial kits have risen on the market. In Germany, the kits have to go through an approval process and thus, general validation can be assumed. However, they have never been compared to each other. In this study, 12 commercial PCR kits were compared to an OIE-recommended method. Samples representing different matrices, genome loads, and genotypes were included in a panel that was tested under diagnostic conditions. The comparison included user-friendliness, internal controls, and the time required. All qPCRs were able to detect ASFV genome in different matrices across all genotypes and disease courses. With one exception, there were no significant differences when comparing the overall mean. The overall specificity was 100% (95% CI 87.66–100), and the sensitivity was between 95% and 100% (95% CI 91.11–100). As can be expected, variability concerned samples with low genome load. To conclude, all tests were fit for purpose. The test system can therefore be chosen based on compatibility and prioritization of the internal control system.
Suspected Transmission of Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome Virus from a Cat to a Veterinarian by a Single Contact: A Case Report
Authors: Miyauchi Atsushi , Sada Ken-Ei , Yamamoto Hirotaka , Iriyoshi Hiroki , Touyama Yuji , Hashimoto Daisuke , Nojima Shigeru , Yamanaka Shingo , Ishijima Keita , Maeda Ken , Kawamura Masafumi
Published: January 2022

A 67-year-old male veterinarian presented with fatigue, anorexia, and diarrhea. Although there were no tick bite marks, we suspected severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) due to bicytopenia, mild disturbance of consciousness, and a history of outdoor activities. Thus, we started immunoglobulin therapy immediately. A serum reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test for SFTS virus (SFTSV) was positive. The patient had treated a cat with thrombocytopenia 10 days prior to admission. The cat’s serum SFTSV RT-PCR test result was positive, and the whole genome sequences of the patient’s and cat’s SFTSV were identical, suggesting the possibility of transmission from the cat to the patient. Other cases of direct cat-to-human SFTV transmission have been reported recently. Mucous membranes should be protected, including eye protection, in addition to standard precautions, when in contact with any cat with suspected SFTS.
Time-Dependent Proinflammatory Responses Shape Virus Interference during Coinfections of Influenza A Virus and Influenza D Virus
Authors: Guan Minhui , Blackmon Sherry , Olivier Alicia K. , Zhang Xiaojian , Liu Liyuan , Woolums Amelia , Crenshaw Mark A. , Liao Shengfa F. , Webby Richard , Epperson William , Wan Xiu-Feng
Published: January 2022

Both influenza A virus (IAV) and influenza D virus (IDV) are enzootic in pigs. IAV causes approximately 100% morbidity with low mortality, whereas IDV leads to only mild respiratory diseases in pigs. In this study, we performed a series of coinfection experiments in vitro and in vivo to understand how IAV and IDV interact and cause pathogenesis during coinfection. The results showed that IAV inhibited IDV replication when infecting swine tracheal epithelial cells (STECs) with IAV 24 or 48 h prior to IDV inoculation and that IDV suppressed IAV replication when IDV preceded IAV inoculation by 48 h. Virus interference was not identified during simultaneous IAV/IDV infections or with 6 h between the two viral infections, regardless of their order. The interference pattern at 24 and 48 h correlated with proinflammatory responses induced by the first infection, which, for IDV, was slower than for IAV by about 24 h. The viruses did not interfere with each other if both infected the cells before proinflammatory responses were induced. Coinfection in pigs further demonstrated that IAV interfered with both viral shedding and virus replication of IDV, especially in the upper respiratory tract. Clinically, coinfection of IDV and IAV did not show significant enhancement of disease pathogenesis, compared with the pigs infected with IAV alone. In summary, this study suggests that interference during coinfection of IAV and IDV is primarily due to the proinflammatory response; therefore, it is dependent on the time between infections and the order of infection. This study facilitates our understanding of virus epidemiology and pathogenesis associated with IAV and IDV coinfection.
Virome Analysis Reveals Diverse and Divergent RNA Viruses in Wild Insect Pollinators in Beijing, China
Authors: Li Nannan , Huang Yizhao , Li Wei , Xu Shufa
Published: January 2022

Insect pollinators provide major pollination services for wild plants and crops. Honeybee viruses can cause serious damage to honeybee colonies. However, viruses of other wild pollinating insects have yet to be fully explored. In the present study, we used RNA sequencing to investigate the viral diversity of 50 species of wild pollinating insects. A total of 3 pathogenic honeybee viruses, 8 previously reported viruses, and 26 novel viruses were identified in sequenced samples. Among these, 7 novel viruses were shown to be closely related to honeybee pathogenic viruses, and 4 were determined to have potential pathogenicity for their hosts. The viruses detected in wild insect pollinators were mainly from the order Picornavirales and the families Orthomyxoviridae, Sinhaliviridae, Rhabdoviridae, and Flaviviridae. Our study expanded the species range of known insect pollinator viruses, contributing to future efforts to protect economic honeybees and wild pollinating insects.
High SARS-CoV-2 Prevalence among Healthcare Workers in Cochabamba, Bolivia
Authors: Saba Villarroel Paola Mariela , Castro Soto María del Rosario , Undurraga Verónica , Sanz Heydi , Jaldín Ana María , Ninove Laetitia , Nurtop Elif , Pezzi Laura , Mohamed Ali Souand , Amroun Abdennour , Seston Morgan , de Lamballerie Xavier
Published: January 2022

Healthcare workers (HCWs) are at increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection. The aim of the study was to estimate the SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence among HCWs in Cochabamba, Bolivia and to determine the potential risk factors. In January 2021, a cross-sectional SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence study was conducted in 783 volunteer clinical and non-clinical HCWs in tertiary care facilities. It was based on IgG detection using ELISA, chemiluminiscence, and seroneutralisation tests from dried blood spots. Analysis revealed a high seroprevalence (43.4%) of SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies. The combination of anosmia and ageusia (OR: 68.11; 95%-CI 24.83–186.80) was predictive of seropositivity. Belonging to the cleaning staff (OR: 1.94; 95%-CI 1.09–3.45), having more than two children in the same house (OR: 1.74; 95%-CI 1.12–2.71), and having been in contact with a close relative with COVID-19 (OR: 3.53; 95%-CI 2.24–5.58) were identified as risk factors for seropositivity in a multivariate analysis. A total of 47.5% of participants had received medication for COVID-19 treatment or prevention, and only ~50% of symptomatic subjects accessed PCR or antigenic testing. This study confirms a massive SARS-CoV-2 attack rate among HCWs in Cochabamba by the end of January 2021. The main risk factors identified are having a low-skilled job, living with children, and having been in contact with an infected relative in the household.
Uncovering the Burden of Dengue in Africa: Considerations on Magnitude, Misdiagnosis, and Ancestry
Authors: Gainor Emily Mary , Harris Eva , LaBeaud A. Desiree
Published: January 2022

Dengue is a re-emerging neglected disease of major public health importance. This review highlights important considerations for dengue disease in Africa, including epidemiology and underestimation of disease burden in African countries, issues with malaria misdiagnosis and co-infections, and potential evidence of genetic protection from severe dengue disease in populations of African descent. The findings indicate that dengue virus prevalence in African countries and populations may be more widespread than reported data suggests, and that the Aedes mosquito vectors appear to be increasing in dissemination and number. Changes in climate, population, and plastic pollution are expected to worsen the dengue situation in Africa. Dengue misdiagnosis is also a problem in Africa, especially due to the typical non-specific clinical presentation of dengue leading to misdiagnosis as malaria. Finally, research suggests that a protective genetic component against severe dengue exists in African descent populations, but further studies should be conducted to strengthen this association in various populations, taking into consideration socioeconomic factors that may contribute to these findings. The main takeaway is that Africa should not be overlooked when it comes to dengue, and more attention and resources should be devoted to this disease in Africa.
HIV-1 Nucleocapsid Protein Binds Double-Stranded DNA in Multiple Modes to Regulate Compaction and Capsid Uncoating
Authors: Gien Helena , Morse Michael , McCauley Micah J. , Kitzrow Jonathan P. , Musier-Forsyth Karin , Gorelick Robert J. , Rouzina Ioulia , Williams Mark C.
Published: January 2022

The HIV-1 nucleocapsid protein (NC) is a multi-functional protein necessary for viral replication. Recent studies have demonstrated reverse transcription occurs inside the fully intact viral capsid and that the timing of reverse transcription and uncoating are correlated. How a nearly 10 kbp viral DNA genome is stably contained within a narrow capsid with diameter similar to the persistence length of double-stranded (ds) DNA, and the role of NC in this process, are not well understood. In this study, we use optical tweezers, fluorescence imaging, and atomic force microscopy to observe NC binding a single long DNA substrate in multiple modes. We find that NC binds and saturates the DNA substrate in a non-specific binding mode that triggers uniform DNA self-attraction, condensing the DNA into a tight globule at a constant force up to 10 pN. When NC is removed from solution, the globule dissipates over time, but specifically-bound NC maintains long-range DNA looping that is less compact but highly stable. Both binding modes are additionally observed using AFM imaging. These results suggest multiple binding modes of NC compact DNA into a conformation compatible with reverse transcription, regulating the genomic pressure on the capsid and preventing premature uncoating.
Editorial of Viruses Special Issue on Phage–Host Interactions 2021
Authors: Skurnik Mikael
Published: January 2022

Viruses has now published two Special Issues on phage–host interactions, the latest under the name Phage–Host Interactions 2021 [...]
β-Glucans from Trametes versicolor (L.) Lloyd Is Effective for Prevention of Influenza Virus Infection
Authors: Shi Shaohua , Yin Lei , Shen Xuehuai , Dai Yin , Wang Jieru , Yin Dongdong , Zhang Danjun , Pan Xiaocheng
Published: January 2022

Coriolus versicolor (C. versicolor) is a higher fungi or mushroom which is now known by its accepted scientific names as Trametes versicolor (L.) Lloyd. Many studies have shown that β-glucans from C. versicolor have various physiological activities, including activating macrophages to protect against Salmonella infection. However, whether β-glucans have antiviral effects has not been reported. Hence, the objective of this study was to confirm whether β-glucans could boost the immune response to combat influenza virus in mouse and chick models. The results show that β-glucans induced the expression of Dectin-1, costimulatory molecules (CD80/86) and cytokines IL-6, IL-1β, IFN-β and IL-10 in murine bone marrow dendritic cells (BMDCs). In addition, orally administered β-glucans reduced weight loss, mortality and viral titers in the lungs of mice infected with influenza virus and attenuated pathological lung damage caused by the virus in the mice. Orally administered β-glucans improved survival and reduced lung viral titers in chickens infected with H9N2 avian influenza virus. These results suggest that β-glucans have a significant antiviral effect. Therefore, β-glucans could become a potential immunomodulator against influenza virus.
Therapeutic DNA Vaccines against HPV-Related Malignancies: Promising Leads from Clinical Trials
Authors: Tang Jianming , Li Mingzhu , Zhao Chao , Shen Danhua , Liu Lei , Zhang Xiujun , Wei Lihui
Published: January 2022

In 2014 and 2021, two nucleic-acid vaccine candidates named MAV E2 and VGX-3100 completed phase III clinical trials in Mexico and U.S., respectively, for patients with human papillomavirus (HPV)-related, high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL). These well-tolerated but still unlicensed vaccines encode distinct HPV antigens (E2 versus E6+E7) to elicit cell-mediated immune responses; their clinical efficacy, as measured by HSIL regression or cure, was modest when compared with placebo or surgery (conization), but both proved highly effective in clearing HPV infection, which should help further optimize strategies for enhancing vaccine immunogenicity, toward an ultimate goal of preventing malignancies in millions of patients who are living with persistent, oncogenic HPV infection but are not expected to benefit from current, prophylactic vaccines. The major roadblocks to a highly efficacious and practical product remain challenging and can be classified into five categories: (i) getting the vaccines into the right cells for efficient expression and presentation of HPV antigens (fusion proteins or epitopes); (ii) having adequate coverage of oncogenic HPV types, beyond the current focus on HPV-16 and -18; (iii) directing immune protection to various epithelial niches, especially anogenital mucosa and upper aerodigestive tract where HPV-transformed cells wreak havoc; (iv) establishing the time window and vaccination regimen, including dosage, interval and even combination therapy, for achieving maximum efficacy; and (v) validating therapeutic efficacy in patients with poor prognosis because of advanced, recurrent or non-resectable malignancies. Overall, the room for improvements is still large enough that continuing efforts for research and development will very likely extend into the next decade.
Acyl-Coa Thioesterases: A Rheostat That Controls Activated Fatty Acids Modulates Dengue Virus Serotype 2 Replication
Authors: St Clair Laura A. , Mills Stephanie A. , Lian Elena , Soma Paul S. , Nag Aritra , Montgomery Caroline , Ramirez Gabriela , Chotiwan Nunya , Gullberg Rebekah C. , Perera Rushika
Published: January 2022

During infection with dengue viruses (DENVs), the lipid landscape within host cells is significantly altered to assemble membrane platforms that support viral replication and particle assembly. Fatty acyl-CoAs are key intermediates in the biosynthesis of complex lipids that form these membranes. They also function as key signaling lipids in the cell. Here, we carried out loss of function studies on acyl-CoA thioesterases (ACOTs), a family of enzymes that hydrolyze fatty acyl-CoAs to free fatty acids and coenzyme A, to understand their influence on the lifecycle of DENVs. The loss of function of the type I ACOTs 1 (cytoplasmic) and 2 (mitochondrial) together significantly increased DENV serotype 2 (DENV2) viral replication and infectious particle release. However, isolated knockdown of mitochondrial ACOT2 significantly decreased DENV2 protein translation, genome replication, and infectious virus release. Furthermore, loss of ACOT7 function, a mitochondrial type II ACOT, similarly suppressed DENV2. As ACOT1 and ACOT2 are splice variants, these data suggest that functional differences and substrate specificities due to the location (cytosol and mitochondria, respectively) of these proteins may account for the differences in DENV2 infection phenotype. Additionally, loss of mitochondrial ACOT2 and ACOT7 expression also altered the expression of several ACOTs located in multiple organelle compartments within the cell, highlighting a complex relationship between ACOTs in the DENV2 virus lifecycle.
Genome Analysis and Therapeutic Evaluation of a Novel Lytic Bacteriophage of Salmonella Typhimurium: Suggestive of a New Genus in the Subfamily Vequintavirinae
Authors: Sattar Sadia , Ullah Inam , Khanum Sofia , Bailie Marc , Shamsi Bushra , Ahmed Ibrar , Abbas Shah Tahir , Javed Sundus , Ghafoor Aamir , Pervaiz Amna , Sohail Fakiha , Imdad Kaleem , Tariq Aamira , Bostan Nazish , Ali Ijaz , Altermann Eric
Published: January 2022

Salmonella Typhimurium, a foodborne pathogen, is a major concern for food safety. Its MDR serovars of animal origin pose a serious threat to the human population. Phage therapy can be an alternative for the treatment of such MDR Salmonella serovars. In this study, we report on detailed genome analyses of a novel Salmonella phage (Salmonella-Phage-SSBI34) and evaluate its therapeutic potential. The phage was evaluated for latent time, burst size, host range, and bacterial growth reduction in liquid cultures. The phage stability was examined at various pH levels and temperatures. The genome analysis (141.095 Kb) indicated that its nucleotide sequence is novel, as it exhibited only 1–7% DNA coverage. The phage genome features 44% GC content, and 234 putative open reading frames were predicted. The genome was predicted to encode for 28 structural proteins and 40 enzymes related to nucleotide metabolism, DNA modification, and protein synthesis. Further, the genome features 11 tRNA genes for 10 different amino acids, indicating alternate codon usage, and hosts a unique hydrolase for bacterial lysis. This study provides new insights into the subfamily Vequintavirinae, of which SSBI34 may represent a new genus.
Seroepidemiological Survey of West Nile Virus Infections in Horses from Berlin/Brandenburg and North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
Authors: Bergmann Felicitas , Trachsel Dagmar S. , Stoeckle Sabita D. , Bernis Sierra Joke , Lübke Stephan , Groschup Martin H. , Gehlen Heidrun , Ziegler Ute
Published: January 2022

Following the introduction of the West Nile virus (WNV) into eastern Germany in 2018, increasing infections have been diagnosed in birds, equines, and humans over time, while the spread of WNV into western Germany remained unclear. We screened 437 equine sera from 2018 to 2020, excluding vaccinated horses, collected from convenience sampled patients in the eastern and western parts of Germany, for WNV-specific antibodies (ELISAs followed by virus/specific neutralization tests) and genomes (RT-qPCRs). Clinical presentations, final diagnoses, and demographic data were also recorded. In the eastern part, a total of eight horses were found WNV seropositive in 2019 (seroprevalence of 8.16%) and 27 in 2020 (13.77%). There were also two clinically unsuspected horses with WNV-specific antibodies in the western part from 2020 (2.63%), albeit travel history-related infections could not be excluded. None of the horse sera contained WNV-specific genomes. Eight horses in eastern Germany carried WNV-IgM antibodies, but only four of these showed typical clinical signs. These results underline the difficulty of detecting a WNV infection in a horse solely based on clinical signs. Thus, WNV circulation is established in the horse population in eastern Germany, but not yet in the western part.