bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Double Diffusive Magneto-Free-Convection Flow of Oldroyd-B Fluid over a Vertical Plate with Heat and Mass Flux
Authors: Riaz Muhammad Bilal , Rehman Aziz Ur , Awrejcewicz Jan , Jarad Fahd
Published: January 2022

The purpose of this research is to analyze the general equations of double diffusive magneto-free convection in an Oldroyd-B fluid flow based on the fundamental symmetry that are presented in non-dimensional form and are applied to a moving heated vertical plate as the boundary layer flow up, with the existence of an external magnetic field that is either moving or fixed consistent with the plate. The thermal transport phenomenon in the presence of constant concentration, coupled with a first order chemical reaction under the exponential heating of the symmetry of fluid flow, is analyzed. The Laplace transform method is applied symmetrically to tackle the non-dimensional partial differential equations for velocity, mass and energy. The contribution of mass, thermal and mechanical components on the dynamics of fluid are presented and discussed independently. An interesting property regarding the behavior of the fluid velocity is found when the movement is observed in the magnetic intensity along with the plate. In that situation, the fluid velocity is not zero when it is far and away from the plate. Moreover, the heat transfer aspects, flow dynamics and their credence on the parameters are drawn out by graphical illustrations. Furthermore, some special cases for the movement of the plate are also studied.
Identification of Influential Nodes in Industrial Networks Based on Structure Analysis
Authors: Wang Tianyu , Zeng Peng , Zhao Jianming , Liu Xianda , Zhang Bowen
Published: January 2022

Industrial network systems are facing various new challenges, such as increasing functional failure factors, the accelerating penetration of information threats, and complex and diverse attack methods. Industrial networks are often vulnerable to natural or intentional disasters; therefore, it is highly invaluable to research to identify the influential nodes. Most of the state-of-the-art evaluates the importance of the nodes according to one or more network metrics. Moreover, there are no metrics reflecting all the properties of the network. In this paper, a novel method (Structure-based Identification Method, SIM) to identify the influential nodes in industrial networks is proposed based on the network structure, which goes beyond the use of network metrics. The SIM method extracts the weakly connected components, which are more likely to survive after the important nodes are attacked in the network. Evaluation results show that the SIM method obtains better results than the state-of-the-art methods to identify influential nodes in real-world industrial networks and has a good prospect to be applied in industrial application.
Nonlinearity of Boolean Functions: An Algorithmic Approach Based on Multivariate Polynomials
Authors: Bellini Emanuele , Sala Massimiliano , Simonetti Ilaria
Published: January 2022

We review and compare three algebraic methods to compute the nonlinearity of Boolean functions. Two of them are based on Gröbner basis techniques: the first one is defined over the binary field, while the second one over the rationals. The third method improves the second one by avoiding the Gröbner basis computation. We also estimate the complexity of the algorithms, and, in particular, we show that the third method reaches an asymptotic worst-case complexity of O(n2n) operations over the integers, that is, sums and doublings. This way, with a different approach, the same asymptotic complexity of established algorithms, such as those based on the fast Walsh transform, is reached.
On Nonuniqueness of Quantum Channel for Fixed Input-Output States: Case of Decoherence Channel
Authors: Ou Congjie , Abe Sumiyoshi
Published: January 2022

For a fixed pair of input and output states in the space HA of a system A, a quantum channel, i.e., a linear, completely positive and trace-preserving map, between them is not unique, in general. Here, this point is discussed specifically for a decoherence channel, which maps from a pure input state to a completely decoherent state like the thermal state. In particular, decoherence channels of two different types are analyzed: one is unital and the other is not, and both of them can be constructed through reduction of B in the total extended space HA⊗HB, where HB is the space of an ancillary system B that is a replica of A. The nonuniqueness is seen to have its origin in the unitary symmetry in the extended space. It is shown in an example of a two-qubit system how such symmetry is broken in the objective subspace HA due to entanglement between A and B. A comment is made on possible relevance of the present work to nanothermodynamics in view of quantum Darwinism.
Studies of Deformed Halo Structures of 39Na and 42Mg
Authors: Chai Qingzhen , Chen Hongxing , Zha Minghao , Pei Junchen , Xu Furong
Published: January 2022

Background: The recent experimental discovery of drip-line nucleus 39Na has attracted great interest in theoretical studies of exotic nuclear structures in this mass region. Methods: We solve the Skyrme–Hartree–Fock–Bogoliubov (Skyrme-HFB) equation within deformed coordinate-spaces. The present approach is suitable for descriptions of weakly bound deformed nuclei with continuum effects and deformed halo structures. Results: The systematical two-neutron separation energies are obtained with the SkMext1* and UNEDF0ext1 forces for Na and Mg isotopes close to the neutron drip line. The density distributions show that 39Na and 42Mg have deformed halo structures. Furthermore, there are significant influences of various pairing interactions on halo shapes at large distances. Conclusions: Both 39Na and 42Mg are very weakly bound with well prolate deformed cores. However, their surface halo structures are dependent on the choices of pairing interactions. The volume-type pairing interaction tends to predict a prolate deformed halo, while the halo deformations at large distances are reduced by adopting the surface pairing. We demonstrate that 39Na and 42Mg are promising candidates for two-neutron deformed halo nuclei.
E-Liquids from Seven European Countries–Warnings Analysis and Freebase Nicotine Content
Authors: Bębenek Patryk , Gholap Vinit , Halquist Matthew , Sobczak Andrzej , Kośmider Leon
Published: January 2022

Electronic cigarettes are available in a variety of devices with e-liquids also available in many flavors, and nicotine concentrations, albeit less than 20 mg/mL in Europe. Given the dynamics of these products, it is important to evaluate product content, including labeling, nicotine content versus labeled claim, nicotine form, and other aspects that may help policy decisions and align with the Tobacco Product Directive (TPD). Herein, we performed a study on 86 e-liquids from seven European countries (Croatia, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, and the United Kingdom) with 34 different liquid brands and 57 different flavors. Nicotine content versus labeled claim, labeling, volume, pH, and nicotine form (i.e., freebase nicotine) were evaluated. From all tested products, eight of them from Germany, Poland, and UK (from 3 to 18 mg/mL), met the ±2% criteria. The ±10% criteria was fulfilled by 50 (58.1%) liquids from all countries. Among 71 liquids which contained nicotine, (one e-liquid labeled as 6 mg/mL had no nicotine level quantified), the amount of freebase nicotine differed from 0 to 97.8%, with a mean value 56.5 ± 35.7. None of the tested liquids had nicotine salt listed in the ingredients. Therefore, a low level of freebase nicotine in some liquids was most likely achieved by added flavorings. All tested liquids presented in this study met the basic requirements of the TPD. There were differences in the scope of information about harmfulness, type of warnings on packaging, attaching leaflets, placing graphic symbols, and discrepancies between the declared and quantified nicotine concentrations.
Cytolysin A (ClyA): A Bacterial Virulence Factor with Potential Applications in Nanopore Technology, Vaccine Development, and Tumor Therapy
Authors: Murase Kazunori
Published: January 2022

Cytolysin A (ClyA) is a pore-forming toxin that is produced by some bacteria from the Enterobacteriaceae family. This review provides an overview of the current state of knowledge regarding ClyA, including the prevalence of the encoding gene and its transcriptional regulation, the secretion pathway used by the protein, and the mechanism of protein assembly, and highlights potential applications of ClyA in biotechnology. ClyA expression is regulated at the transcriptional level, primarily in response to environmental stressors, and ClyA can exist stably both as a soluble monomer and as an oligomeric membrane complex. At high concentrations, ClyA induces cytolysis, whereas at low concentrations ClyA can affect intracellular signaling. ClyA is secreted in outer membrane vesicles (OMVs), which has important implications for biotechnology applications. For example, the native pore-forming ability of ClyA suggests that it could be used as a component of nanopore-based technologies, such as sequencing platforms. ClyA has also been exploited in vaccine development owing to its ability to present antigens on the OMV surface and provoke a robust immune response. In addition, ClyA alone or OMVs carrying ClyA fusion proteins have been investigated for their potential use as anti-tumor agents.
Use of Mustard Extracts Fermented by Lactic Acid Bacteria to Mitigate the Production of Fumonisin B1 and B2 by Fusarium verticillioides in Corn Ears
Authors: Torrijos Raquel , de Melo Nazareth Tiago , Vila-Donat Pilar , Mañes Jordi , Meca Giuseppe
Published: January 2022

Corn (Zea mays) is a worldwide crop subjected to infection by toxigenic fungi such as Fusarium verticillioides during the pre-harvest stage. Fusarium contamination can lead to the synthesis of highly toxic mycotoxins, such as Fumonisin B1 (FB1) and Fumonisin B2 (FB2), which compromises human and animal health. The work aimed to study the antifungal properties of fermented yellow and oriental mustard extracts using nine lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in vitro. Moreover, a chemical characterization of the main phenolic compounds and organic acids were carried out in the extracts. The results highlighted that the yellow mustard, fermented by Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strains, avoided the growth of Fusarium spp. in vitro, showing Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Fungicidal Concentration (MFC) values, ranging from 7.8 to 15.6 g/L and 15.6 to 31.3 g/L, respectively. Then, the lyophilized yellow mustard fermented extract by L. plantarum TR71 was applied through spray-on corn ears contaminated with F. verticillioides to study the antimycotoxigenic activity. After 14 days of incubation, the control contained 14.71 mg/kg of FB1, while the treatment reduced the content to 1.09 mg/kg (92.6% reduction). Moreover, no FB2 was observed in the treated samples. The chemical characterization showed that lactic acid, 3-phenyllactic acid, and benzoic acid were the antifungal metabolites quantified in higher concentrations in the yellow mustard fermented extract with L. plantarum TR71. The results obtained confirmed the potential application of fermented mustard extracts as a solution to reduce the incidence of mycotoxins in corn ears.
Tissular Genomic Responses to Oral FB1 Exposure in Pigs
Authors: Dopavogui Léonie , Polizzi Arnaud , Fougerat Anne , Gourbeyre Pascal , Terciolo Chloé , Klement Wendy , Pinton Philippe , Laffite Joëlle , Cossalter Anne-Marie , Bailly Jean-Denis , Puel Olivier , Lippi Yannick , Naylies Claire , Guillou Hervé , Oswald Isabelle P. , Loiseau Nicolas
Published: January 2022

Fumonisin B1 (FB1) is a widespread mycotoxin produced by fungal Fusarium species—mainly in maize, one of the plants most commonly used for food and feed. Pigs and horses are the animal species most susceptible to this mycotoxin. FB1 exposure can cause highly diverse clinical symptoms, including hepatotoxicity, immunotoxicity, and intestinal barrier function disturbance. Inhibition of ceramide synthetase is a well-understood ubiquitous molecular mechanism of FB1 toxicity, but other more tissue-specific effects remain to be elucidated. To investigate the effects of FB1 in different exposed tissues, we cross-analyzed the transcriptomes of fours organs: liver, jejunum, jejunal Peyer’s patches, and spleen. During a four-week study period, pigs were fed a control diet or a FB1-contaminated diet (10 mg/kg feed). In response to oral FB1 exposure, we observed common biological processes in the four organs, including predominant and recurrent processes (extracellular matrix organization, integrin activation, granulocyte chemotaxis, neutrophil migration, and lipid and sterol homeostasis), as well as more tissue-specific processes that appeared to be related to lipid outcomes (cell cycle regulation in jejunum, and gluconeogenesis in liver).
An Updated Review of Bioactive Peptides from Mushrooms in a Well-Defined Molecular Weight Range
Authors: Landi Nicola , Clemente Angela , Pedone Paolo V. , Ragucci Sara , Di Maro Antimo
Published: January 2022

Here, we report the current status of the bioactive peptides isolated and characterized from mushrooms during the last 20 years, considering ‘peptide’ a succession from to 2 to 100 amino acid residues. According to this accepted biochemical definition, we adopt ~10 kDa as the upper limit of molecular weight for a peptide. In light of this, a careful revision of data reported in the literature was carried out. The search revealed that in the works describing the characterization of bioactive peptides from mushrooms, not all the peptides have been correctly classified according to their molecular weight, considering that some fungal proteins (>10 kDa MW) have been improperly classified as ‘peptides’. Moreover, the biological action of each of these peptides, the principles of their isolation as well as the source/mushroom species were summarized. Finally, this review highlighted that these peptides possess antihypertensive, antifungal, antibiotic and antimicrobial, anticancer, antiviral, antioxidant and ACE inhibitory properties.
PBH Formation from Spherically Symmetric Hydrodynamical Perturbations: A Review
Authors: Escrivà Albert
Published: January 2022

Primordial black holes, which could have been formed in the very early Universe due to the collapse of large curvature fluctuations, are currently one of the most attractive and fascinating research areas in cosmology for their possible theoretical and observational implications. This review article presents the current results and developments on the conditions for primordial black hole formation from the collapse of curvature fluctuations in spherical symmetry on a Friedman–Lemaître–Robertson–Walker background and its numerical simulation. We review the appropriate formalism for the conditions of primordial black hole formation, and we detail a numerical implementation. We then focus on different results regarding the threshold and the black hole mass using different sets of curvature fluctuations. Finally, we present the current state of analytical estimations for the primordial black hole formation threshold, contrasted with numerical simulations.
Fluctuations of Initial State and Event-by-Event Pseudo-Rapidity Correlations in High Energy Nuclear Collisions
Authors: Burtebayev Nassurlla , Fedosimova Anastasiya , Lebedev Igor , Dmitriyeva Elena , Ibraimova Sayora , Bondar Ekaterina
Published: January 2022

The initial state, about which there is usually very little direct experimental information, leads to significant fluctuations in the distribution of secondary particles and fragments. In this paper, to estimate the initial state the fragmentation parameters of interacting nuclei are analyzed. To investigate the correlations, the Hurst method is used. A detailed study of event-by-event pseudo-rapidity correlations in terms of the Hurst index, multiplicity of secondary particles and target dependence has been carried out for heavy (AgBr) and light (HCNO) targets present in the nuclear emulsion (NIKFI BR-2) using Au-197 projectiles at 10.6 A GeV. Evidences of short-range particle correlations and cluster formation in the pseudo-rapidity space are found from our analysis. The total ensemble of events has been divided into four classes depending on the behavior of Hurst index: uncorrelated, with short-range correlations, with long-range correlations and mixed. Events of various types differ significantly in the multiplicity of secondary particles, fragmentation of the projectile nucleus, and have significant differences in the pseudo-rapidity distribution of secondary particles.
On the Conformal Frames in f(R) Gravity
Authors: Shtanov Yuri
Published: January 2022

We discuss gravitational physics in the Jordan and Einstein frames of f(R) gravity coupled to the Standard Model. We elucidate the way in which the observed gravitational coupling arises in the Einstein frame for generic f(R). We point out that the effect of “running units” in the Einstein frame is related to the fact that the explicit and implicit quantum parameters of the Standard Model, such as the Higgs vacuum expectation value and the parameter ΛQCD, are modified by the conformal transformation of the metric and matter fields and become scalaron-dependent. Considering the scalaron of f(R) gravity describing dark matter, we show that the effect of running units in this case is extremely weak, making two frames practically equivalent.
Phi 6 Bacteriophage Inactivation by Metal Salts, Metal Powders, and Metal Surfaces
Authors: Molan Katja , Rahmani Ramin , Krklec Daniel , Brojan Miha , Stopar David
Published: January 2022

The interaction of phages with abiotic environmental surfaces is usually an understudied field of phage ecology. In this study, we investigated the virucidal potential of different metal salts, metal and ceramic powders doped with Ag and Cu ions, and newly fabricated ceramic and metal surfaces against Phi6 bacteriophage. The new materials were fabricated by spark plasma sintering (SPS) and/or selective laser melting (SLM) techniques and had different surface free energies and infiltration features. We show that inactivation of Phi6 in solutions with Ag and Cu ions can be as effective as inactivation by pH, temperature, or UV. Adding powder to Ag and Cu ion solutions decreased their virucidal effect. The newly fabricated ceramic and metal surfaces showed very good virucidal activity. In particular, 45%TiO2 + 5%Ag + 45%ZrO2 + 5%Cu, in addition to virus adhesion, showed virucidal and infiltration properties. The results indicate that more than 99.99% of viruses deposited on the new ceramic surface were inactivated or irreversibly attached to it.
Genetic and Pathogenic Characterization of a New Iridovirus Isolated from Cage-Cultured Large Yellow Croaker (Larimichthys crocea) in China
Authors: Wang Gengshen , Luan Yingjia , Wei Jinping , Li Yunfeng , Shi Hui , Cheng Haoxue , Bai Aixu , Xie Jianjun , Xu Wenjun , Qin Pan
Published: January 2022

Iridoviruses are an important pathogen of ectothermic vertebrates and are considered a significant threat to aquacultural fish production. Recently, one of the most economically important marine species in China, the large yellow croaker (Larimichthys crocea), has been increasingly reported to be the victim of iridovirus disease. In this study, we isolated and identified a novel iridovirus, LYCIV-ZS-2020, from cage-cultured large yellow croaker farms in Zhoushan island, China. Genome sequencing and subsequent phylogenetic analyses showed that LYCIV-ZS-2020 belongs to the genus Megalocytivirus and is closely related to the Pompano iridoviruses isolated in the Dominican Republic. LYCIV-ZS-2020 enriched from selected tissues of naturally infected large yellow croaker was used in an artificial infection trial and the results proved its pathogenicity in large yellow croaker. This is the first systematic research on the genetic and pathogenic characterization of iridovirus in large yellow croakers, which expanded our knowledge of the iridovirus.
Divergent Rhabdovirus Discovered in a Patient with New-Onset Nodding Syndrome
Authors: Edridge Arthur W. D. , Abd-Elfarag Gasim , Deijs Martin , Jebbink Maarten F. , Boele van Hensbroek Michael , van der Hoek Lia
Published: January 2022

A divergent rhabdovirus was discovered in the bloodstream of a 15-year-old girl with Nodding syndrome from Mundri West County in South Sudan. Nodding syndrome is a progressive degenerative neuropathy of unknown cause affecting thousands of individuals in Sub-Saharan Africa. The index case was previously healthy until she developed head-nodding seizures four months prior to presentation. Virus discovery by VIDISCA-NGS on the patient’s plasma detected multiple sequence reads belonging to a divergent rhabdovirus. The viral load was 3.85 × 103 copies/mL in the patient’s plasma and undetectable in her cerebrospinal fluid. Further genome walking allowed for the characterization of full coding sequences of all the viral proteins (N, P, M, U1, U2, G, U3, and L). We tentatively named the virus “Mundri virus” (MUNV) and classified it as a novel virus species based on the high divergence from other known viruses (all proteins had less than 43% amino acid identity). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that MUNV forms a monophyletic clade with several human-infecting tibroviruses prevalent in Central Africa. A bioinformatic machine-learning algorithm predicted MUNV to be an arbovirus (bagged prediction strength (BPS) of 0.9) transmitted by midges (BPS 0.4) with an artiodactyl host reservoir (BPS 0.9). An association between MUNV infection and Nodding syndrome was evaluated in a case–control study of 72 patients with Nodding syndrome (including the index case) matched to 65 healthy households and 48 community controls. No subject, besides the index case, was positive for MUNV RNA in their plasma. A serological assay detecting MUNV anti-nucleocapsid found, respectively, in 28%, 22%, and 16% of cases, household controls and community controls to be seropositive with no significant differences between cases and either control group. This suggests that MUNV commonly infects children in South Sudan yet may not be causally associated with Nodding syndrome.
Detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus H5N1 Clade 2.3.4.4b in Great Skuas: A Species of Conservation Concern in Great Britain
Authors: Banyard Ashley C. , Lean Fabian Z. X. , Robinson Caroline , Howie Fiona , Tyler Glen , Nisbet Craig , Seekings James , Meyer Stephanie , Whittard Elliot , Ashpitel Henry F. , Bas Mehmet , Byrne Alexander M. P. , Lewis Tom , James Joe , Stephan Levon , Lewis Nicola S. , Brown Ian H. , Hansen Rowena D. E. , Reid Scott M.
Published: January 2022

The UK and Europe have seen successive outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza across the 2020/21 and 2021/22 autumn/winter seasons. Understanding both the epidemiology and transmission of these viruses in different species is critical to aid mitigating measures where outbreaks cause extensive mortalities in both land- and waterfowl. Infection of different species can result in mild or asymptomatic outcomes, or acute infections that result in high morbidity and mortality levels. Definition of disease outcome in different species is of great importance to understanding the role different species play in the maintenance and transmission of these pathogens. Further, the infection of species that have conservation value is also important to recognise and characterise to understand the impact on what might be limited wild populations. Highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b has been detected in great skuas (Stercorarius skua) across different colonies on islands off the shore of Scotland, Great Britain during summer 2021. A large number of great skuas were observed as developing severe clinical disease and dying during the epizootic and mortalities were estimated to be high where monitored. Of eight skuas submitted for post-mortem examination, seven were confirmed as being infected with this virus using a range of diagnostic assays. Here we overview the outbreak event that occurred in this species, listed as species of conservation concern in Great Britain and outline the importance of this finding with respect to virus transmission and maintenance.
Inspecting the Ribozyme Region of Hepatitis Delta Virus Genotype 1: Conservation and Variability
Authors: Pacin-Ruiz Beatriz , Cortese María Francesca , Tabernero David , Sopena Sara , Gregori Josep , García-García Selene , Casillas Rosario , Najarro Adrián , Aldama Unai , Palom Adriana , Rando-Segura Ariadna , Galán Anna , Vila Marta , Riveiro-Barciela Mar , Quer Josep , González-Aseguinolaza Gloria , Buti María , Rodríguez-Frías Francisco
Published: January 2022

The hepatitis delta virus (HDV) genome has an autocatalytic region called the ribozyme, which is essential for viral replication. The aim of this study was to use next-generation sequencing (NGS) to analyze the ribozyme quasispecies (QS) in order to study its evolution and identify highly conserved regions potentially suitable for a gene-silencing strategy. HDV RNA was extracted from 2 longitudinal samples of chronic HDV patients and the ribozyme (nucleotide, nt 688–771) was analyzed using NGS. QS conservation, variability and genetic distance were analyzed. Mutations were identified by aligning sequences with their specific genotype consensus. The main relevant mutations were tested in vitro. The ribozyme was conserved overall, with a hyper-conserved region between nt 715–745. No difference in QS was observed over time. The most variable region was between nt 739–769. Thirteen mutations were observed, with three showing a higher frequency: T23C, T69C and C64 deletion. This last strongly reduced HDV replication by more than 1 log in vitro. HDV Ribozyme QS was generally highly conserved and was maintained during follow-up. The most conserved portion may be a valuable target for a gene-silencing strategy. The presence of the C64 deletion may strongly impair viral replication, as it is a potential mechanism of viral persistence.
Aetiological Characteristics of Infectious Diarrhea in Yantai City, Shandong Province, China in 2017
Authors: Sun Zhenlu , Xu Jinjie , Niu Peihua , Jin Miao , Gao Qiao , Zhang Ruiqing , Wang Ji , Zhang Yong , Ma Xuejun
Published: January 2022

This study aimed to analyse the pathogenic spectrum and epidemiological characteristics of infectious diarrhea in Yantai City, Shandong Province, China and provide a reference for its prevention and control. A total of 713 stool specimens collected within 3 days of diarrhea onset from January to December 2017 at secondary or higher hospitals in Yantai City were tested for 10 causative pathogens, using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The top two rotaviruses and norovirus were analysed for typing and geographical distribution. The total positive rate was 46.56% (332/713), and 268 of 713 specimens contained at least one pathogen; 64 had at least two pathogens, accounting for 19.28% of the positive specimens (64/332). The positivity rates of rotavirus (RV), norovirus (NoVs) GI, norovirus (NoVs) GII, enterovirus universal (EV), enteric adenoviruses (EAdV), sapovirus (SaV), astrovirus (Astv), Salmonella (SE), Listeria monocytogenes (LiMo), and Vibrio parahaemolyticus (VP) were 20.06% (143/713), 1.82% (13/713), 12.84% (89/713), 10.66% (76/713), 4.07% (29/713), 0.42% (3/713), 2.38% (17/713), 1.54% (11/713), 1.82% (13/713), and 1.54% (11/713), respectively. Infectious diarrhea showed a high prevalence in young children aged 1-5 years, accounting for 48.6% of the total number of cases. Bacterial diarrhea was predominant in summer, and viral diarrhea was distributed throughout the year, without a significant seasonal pattern. Rotavirus is dominated by G9P, accounting for 81.82%, while norovirus is dominated by the GII type and has diverse characteristics. The aetiology of infectious diarrhea in Yantai is mainly viral, with RV, NoVs, EV, EAdV, and Astv being the most frequent pathogens. Continuous surveillance of infectious diarrhea diseases can help us understand its epidemiological and pathogenic characteristics, thereby taking targeted preventive and control measures in different seasons.
The Safety and Immunogenicity of the BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 Vaccine in Japanese Patients after Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Watanabe Marika , Yakushijin Kimikazu , Funakoshi Yohei , Ohji Goh , Hojo Wataru , Sakai Hironori , Saeki Miki , Hirakawa Yuri , Matsumoto Sakuya , Sakai Rina , Nagao Shigeki , Kitao Akihito , Miyata Yoshiharu , Koyama Taiji , Saito Yasuyuki , Kawamoto Shinichiro , Ito Mitsuhiro , Murayama Tohru , Matsuoka Hiroshi , Minami Hironobu
Published: January 2022

Patients who have undergone hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) for hematological disease experience high mortality when infected by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, the safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine in HSCT patients remain to be investigated. We prospectively evaluated the safety and immunogenicity of the BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 vaccine (Pfizer BioNTech) in 25 Japanese allogeneic HSCT patients in comparison with 19 healthy volunteers. While anti-S1 antibody titers in almost all healthy volunteers after the second dose were higher than the cut-off value reported previously, levels in HSCT patients after the second dose were diverse. Nineteen patients (76%) had seroconversion of anti-S1 IgG. The median optical density of antibody levels in HSCT patients with low IgG levels (<600 mg/dL), steroid treatment, or low lymphocytes (<1000/μL) was significantly lower than that in the other HSCT patients. There were no serious adverse events (>Grade 3) and no new development or exacerbation of graft-versus-host disease after vaccination. We concluded that the BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine is safe and effective in Japanese allogeneic HSCT patients.
Vaccine Coverage against Influenza and SARS-CoV-2 in Health Sciences Students during COVID-19 Pandemic in Spain
Authors: Ajejas Bazán María Julia , Del Gallego-Lastra Ramón , Marques-Vieira Cristina Maria Alves , López-López Candelas , Domínguez-Fernández Silvia , Rico-Blázquez Milagros , Pérez-Rivas Francisco Javier
Published: January 2022

Vaccination against influenza and SARS-CoV-2 is recommended in health sciences students to reduce the risk of acquiring these diseases and transmitting them to patients. The aim of the study was to evaluate how the pandemic influenced the modification of influenza vaccination coverage during the 2019/2020 and 2021/2022 campaigns and to analyze the vaccination coverage against SARS-CoV-2 in health sciences students. A cross-sectional study was conducted among students of the Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podiatry of the Complutense University of Madrid. A questionnaire was administered in two stages, the first, Q1, before the start of the pandemic, where we analyzed influenza coverage during the 2019/2020 campaign and a second, Q2, 18 months after the start of the pandemic where we analyzed influenza coverage during the 2021/2022 campaign and coverage against SARS-CoV-2. A total of 1894 students (58.78% of the total of those enrolled) participated. Flu vaccination coverage increased from 26.7% in Q1 to 35.0% in Q2 (p < 0.05), being higher in the age group older than 21 years, who studied nursing, were in their fourth year and lived with people at risk. Vaccination coverage against SARS-CoV-2 was very high (97.8%), especially in students vaccinated against influenza. Coverage of the influenza vaccine in health sciences students increased from 2019–2020 to 2021–2022, being higher in the age group older than 21 years, who studied nursing, were in their first and fourth year and lived with people at risk. Coverage of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine in health sciences students was very high, especially in those vaccinated against influenza.
Antibody Response of Combination of BNT162b2 and CoronaVac Platforms of COVID-19 Vaccines against Omicron Variant
Authors: Khong Ka-Wa , Liu Danlei , Leung Ka-Yi , Lu Lu , Lam Hoi-Yan , Chen Linlei , Chan Pui-Chun , Lam Ho-Ming , Xie Xiaochun , Zhang Ruiqi , Fan Yujing , To Kelvin Kai-Wang , Chen Honglin , Yuen Kwok-Yung , Chan Kwok-Hung , Hung Ivan Fan-Ngai
Published: January 2022

By vaccinating SARS-CoV-2 naïve individuals who have already received two doses of COVID-19 vaccines, we aimed to investigate whether a heterologous prime-boost strategy, using vaccines of different platforms as the booster dose, can enhance the immune response against SARS-CoV-2 virus variants. Participants were assigned into four groups, each receiving different combination of vaccinations: two doses of BNT162b2 followed by one dose of BNT162b2 booster (B-B-B); Combination of BNT162b2 (first dose) and CoronaVac (second dose) followed by one dose of BNT162b2 booster (B-C-B); two doses of CoronaVac followed by one dose of CoronaVac booster (C-C-C); two doses of CoronaVac followed by one dose of BNT162b2 booster (C-C-B). The neutralizing antibody in sera against the virus was determined with live virus microneutralization assay (vMN). The B-B-B group and C-C-B group demonstrated significantly higher immunogenicity against SARS-CoV-2 Wild type (WT), Beta variant (BV) and Delta variant (DV). In addition, the B-B-B group and C-C-B group showed reduced but existing protection against Omicron variant (OV). Moreover, A persistent rise in vMN titre against OV was observed 3 days after booster dose. Regarding safety, a heterologous prime-boost vaccine strategy is well tolerated. In this study, it was demonstrated that using vaccines of different platforms as booster dose can enhance protection against SARS-CoV-2 variants, offering potent neutralizing activity against wild-type virus (WT), Beta variant (BV), Delta variant (DV) and some protection against the Omicron variant (OV). In addition, a booster mRNA vaccine results in a more potent immune response than inactivated vaccine regardless of which platform was used for prime doses.
Vaccine Hesitancy and Anti-Vaccination Attitudes during the Start of COVID-19 Vaccination Program: A Content Analysis on Twitter Data
Authors: Küçükali Hüseyin , Ataç Ömer , Palteki Ayşe Seval , Tokaç Ayşe Zülal , Hayran Osman
Published: January 2022

Twitter is a useful source for detecting anti-vaccine content due to the increasing prevalence of these arguments on social media. We aimed to identify the prominent themes about vaccine hesitancy and refusal on social media posts in Turkish during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this qualitative study, we collected public tweets (n = 551,245) that contained a vaccine-related keyword and had been published between 9 December 2020 and 8 January 2021 through the Twitter API. A random sample of tweets (n = 1041) was selected and analyzed by four researchers with the content analysis method. We found that 90.5% of the tweets were about vaccines, 22.6% (n = 213) of the tweets mentioned at least one COVID-19 vaccine by name, and the most frequently mentioned COVID-19 vaccine was CoronaVac (51.2%). We found that 22.0% (n = 207) of the tweets included at least one anti-vaccination theme. Poor scientific processes (21.7%), conspiracy theories (16.4%), and suspicions towards manufacturers (15.5%) were the most frequently mentioned themes. The most co-occurring themes were “poor scientific process” with “suspicion towards manufacturers” (n = 9), and “suspicion towards health authorities” (n = 5). This study may be helpful for health managers, assisting them to identify the major concerns of the population and organize preventive measures through the significant role of social media in early spread of information about vaccine hesitancy and anti-vaccination attitudes.
Selection of an Optimal Recombinant Egyptian H9N2 Avian Influenza Vaccine Strain for Poultry with High Antigenicity and Safety
Authors: An Se-Hee , Son Seung-Eun , Song Jin-Ha , Hong Seung-Min , Lee Chung-Young , Lee Nak-Hyung , Jeong Young-Ju , Choi Jun-Gu , Lee Youn-Jeong , Kang Hyun-Mi , Choi Kang-Seuk , Kwon Hyuk-Joon
Published: January 2022

For the development of an optimized Egyptian H9N2 vaccine candidate virus for poultry, various recombinant Egyptian H9N2 viruses generated by a PR8-based reverse genetics system were compared in terms of their productivity and biosafety since Egyptian H9N2 avian influenza viruses already possess mammalian pathogenicity-related mutations in the hemagglutinin (HA), neuraminidase (NA), and PB2 genes. The Egyptian HA and NA genes were more compatible with PR8 than with H9N2 AIV (01310) internal genes, and the 01310-derived recombinant H9N2 strains acquired the L226Q reverse mutation in HA after passages in eggs. Additionally, the introduction of a strong promoter at the 3′-ends of PB2 and PB1 genes induced an additional mutation of P221S. When recombinant Egyptian H9N2 viruses with intact or reverse mutated HA (L226Q and P221S) and NA (prototypic 2SBS) were compared, the virus with HA and NA mutations had high productivity in ECES but was lower in antigenicity when used as an inactivated vaccine due to its high binding affinity into non-specific inhibitors in eggs. Finally, we substituted the PB2 gene of PR8 with 01310 to remove the replication ability in mammalian hosts and successfully generated the best recombinant vaccine candidate in terms of immunogenicity, antigenicity, and biosafety.
Active Humoral Response Reverts Tumorigenicity through Disruption of Key Signaling Pathway
Authors: Yong Tracer , Chang Ko-Keng , Wang Yi-Sheng , Ma Che
Published: January 2022

Immune checkpoint inhibitors such as monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are amongst the most important breakthroughs in cancer therapeutics. However, high cost and short acting time limits its affordability and clinical application. Therefore, an economical and durable alternative is urgently needed. Previously, we identified an IL-17RB targeting mAb which intercepts IL-17B/IL-17RB signal transduction and suppresses tumorigenesis in many types of cancer. We reason that active immunity against the antigenic epitope of IL-17RB can reproduce the anti-cancer effect of mAbs with better sustainability. Here, we present a cancer vaccine composed of multiple synthesized epitope peptides chemically conjugated onto CRM197, a highly immunogenic carrier protein. Combining mass spectrometry with immunoassay, we standardized hapten density determination and optimized vaccine design. Furthermore, orthotopically transplanted syngeneic mouse tumor 4T1 showed that administration of this vaccine therapeutically mitigates primary cancer growth as well as distance metastasis. In conclusion, we demonstrate preparation, characterization and pre-clinical application of a novel peptide cancer vaccine.
COVID-19 Vaccination in Cancer Patients Older Than 70 Years Undergoing Active Treatment. Seroconversion Rate and Safety
Authors: Cavanna Luigi , Proietto Manuela , Citterio Chiara , Anselmi Elisa , Zaffignani Elena , Stroppa Elisa Maria , Borsotti Maria Teresa , Contini Andrea , Di Girolamo Gabriella , Quitadamo Vincenzo Matteo , Bacchetta Nicoletta , Muroni Monica , Brescia Maria Grazia , Delledonne Marco
Published: January 2022

Patients with cancer have a high risk of intubation, intensive care unit admission, or death from the coronavirus disease (COVID-19); age and comorbidities are additional risk factors. Vaccination is effective against COVID-19; however, patients with cancer have been excluded from pivotal clinical trials for COVID-19 vaccines. Data on COVID-19 vaccination in cancer patients who are older are lacking. This observational study was conducted to evaluate the seropositivity rate and safety of a two-dose regimen of the BNT162b2 or mRNA1273 vaccine in older patients (age ≥ 70 years) with solid tumors or with hematological malignances who are undergoing active anticancer treatment or whose treatment has been terminated within 6 months of vaccination. The control group was composed of healthy volunteers that were age-matched with the patient group. The primary endpoint was the seropositivity rate, and the secondary endpoints were safety, the factors influencing seroconversion, the IgG titers of patients versus healthy volunteers, and post-vaccine COVID-19 infection between 20 March 2021 and 14 July 2021. At our Institution (Oncology and Hematology Department, Hospital of Piacenza, North Italy), 443 patients with cancer underwent a program for COVID-19 vaccination; 115 (25.95%) were older than 70 (range 71–86 years) and form the basis of this study. All 115 patients accepted the vaccination. There were 64 female patients (55.65%), 94 patients (81.74%) with solid tumors, and 21 patients (18.26%) with hematological malignances. The primary endpoint of seropositivity was observed in 75 patients (65.22%)—70.21% in patients with solid tumors and 42.86% in patients with hematological malignances—versus in 100% of patients in the control group. Of the secondary endpoints, no grade 3–4 side effects and no COVID-19 infections were reported. The factor influencing seroconversion was the type of cancer. The patients’ median IgG titers were significantly lower than in the control groups. The COVID-19 vaccines BNT162b2 and mRNA1273 were effective and safe among older patients with cancer when administered in real-world conditions.
Serum Level of Anti-Nucleocapsid, but Not Anti-Spike Antibody, Is Associated with Improvement of Long COVID Symptoms
Authors: Varnai Reka , Molnar Tihamer , Zavori Laszlo , Tőkés-Füzesi Margit , Illes Zsolt , Kanizsai Andrea , Csecsei Peter
Published: January 2022

Background: Long COVID is a condition characterized by long-term sequelae persisting after the typical convalescence period of COVID-19. Previous reports have suggested the role of an unsatisfactory immune response and impaired viral clearance in the pathogenesis of long COVID syndrome. We focused on potential associations between post-vaccination changes of antibody titers and the severity of long COVID symptoms and factors influencing the state of remission observed in patients with long COVID after vaccination. Methods: The severity of long COVID symptoms and serum anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike (S-Ig) and nucleocapsid (NC-Ig) levels were assessed in 107 post-COVID subjects at two time points: at baseline, and 17–24 weeks later. Besides, vaccination status was also assessed. Symptoms were evaluated based on the Chalder fatigue scale (CFQ-11) and visual analogue scale (VAS). Results: Serum level of S-Ig and NC-Ig at baseline were significantly higher in the patients with non-severe fatigue than those with severe fatigue, and this difference remained significant at follow-up in the case of NC-Ig. NC-Ig level above median was as an independent predictor for complete remission at follow-up. The difference in NC-Ig levels in subgroup analyses (severe fatigue vs. non-severe fatigue; complete remission vs. incomplete remission or progression) was found to be significant only in patients who received vaccination. Conclusions: The immune response against the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid may play a more important role than the spike in the course of long-term COVID syndrome.
COVID-19 Infection in Pregnancy: Obstetrical Risk Factors and Neonatal Outcomes—A Monocentric, Single-Cohort Study
Authors: Vimercati Antonella , De Nola Rosalba , Trerotoli Paolo , Metta Maria Elvira , Cazzato Gerardo , Resta Leonardo , Malvasi Antonio , Lepera Archiropita , Ricci Ilaria , Capozza Manuela , Laforgia Nicola , Cicinelli Ettore
Published: January 2022

The effects of coronavirus disease 2019 caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 on pregnant women and neonates are mainly unknown, since limited data are available in the literature. We conducted a monocentric and cross-sectional study enrolling 122 un-vaccinated pregnant women with COVID-19 infection tested by RT-PCR nasopharyngeal swab. Only 4.1% of the patients had severe COVID-19 symptoms together with major respiratory symptoms and intensive care unit admission, whereas 35.25% of women had comorbidities and two-thirds of them were overweight or obese. COVID-19 was detected mainly in the third trimester (98.36%) and multiparous women (59.02%). The mode of delivery was influenced by mild–severe COVID-19 symptoms, with a higher number of urgent or emergent cesarean sections than spontaneous or operative vaginal births. Preterm births were associated with high BMI, mode of delivery (higher among cesarean sections), nulliparity, and severe COVID-19 symptoms. In cases of severe COVID-19 symptoms, there was a higher rate of respiratory distress syndrome among newborns. In the end, only the presence of a severe COVID-19 infection worsened the obstetrical and neonatal outcomes, with higher rates of urgent or emergent cesarean section, preterm births, and neonatal respiratory distress syndrome.
Immunization of Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) Broodstock with Tilapia Lake Virus (TiLV) Inactivated Vaccines Elicits Protective Antibody and Passive Maternal Antibody Transfer
Authors: Mai Thao Thu , Kayansamruaj Pattanapon , Soontara Chayanit , Kerddee Pattarawit , Nguyen Dinh-Hung , Senapin Saengchan , Costa Janina Z. , del-Pozo Jorge , Thompson Kim D. , Rodkhum Channarong , Dong Ha Thanh
Published: January 2022

Tilapia lake virus (TiLV), a major pathogen of farmed tilapia, is known to be vertically transmitted. Here, we hypothesize that Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) broodstock immunized with a TiLV inactivated vaccine can mount a protective antibody response and passively transfer maternal antibodies to their fertilized eggs and larvae. To test this hypothesis, three groups of tilapia broodstock, each containing four males and eight females, were immunized with either a heat-killed TiLV vaccine (HKV), a formalin-killed TiLV vaccine (FKV) (both administered at 3.6 × 106 TCID50 per fish), or with L15 medium. Booster vaccination with the same vaccines was given 3 weeks later, and mating took place 1 week thereafter. Broodstock blood sera, fertilized eggs and larvae were collected from 6–14 weeks post-primary vaccination for measurement of TiLV-specific antibody (anti-TiLV IgM) levels. In parallel, passive immunization using sera from the immunized female broodstock was administered to naïve tilapia juveniles to assess if antibodies induced in immunized broodstock were protective. The results showed that anti-TiLV IgM was produced in the majority of both male and female broodstock vaccinated with either the HKV or FKV and that these antibodies could be detected in the fertilized eggs and larvae from vaccinated broodstock. Higher levels of maternal antibody were observed in fertilized eggs from broodstock vaccinated with HKV than those vaccinated with FKV. Low levels of TiLV-IgM were detected in some of the 1–3 day old larvae but were undetectable in 7–14 day old larvae from the vaccinated broodstock, indicating a short persistence of TiLV-IgM in larvae. Moreover, passive immunization proved that antibodies elicited by TiLV vaccination were able to confer 85% to 90% protection against TiLV challenge in naïve juvenile tilapia. In conclusion, immunization of tilapia broodstock with TiLV vaccines could be a potential strategy for the prevention of TiLV in tilapia fertilized eggs and larvae, with HKV appearing to be more promising than FKV for maternal vaccination.