bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accuracy of CT-Guided Core-Needle Biopsy in Diagnosis of Thoracic Lesions Suspicious for Primitive Malignancy of the Lung: A Five-Year Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Baratella Elisa , Cernic Stefano , Minelli Pierluca , Furlan Giovanni , Crimì Filippo , Rocco Simone , Ruaro Barbara , Cova Maria Assunta
Published: November 2022

Background: Lung cancer represents a heterogeneous group of neoplasms, with the highest frequency and mortality in both sexes combined. In a clinical scenario characterized by the widespread of multidetector-row spiral CT, core-needle biopsy under tomographic guidance is one of the main and safest methods to obtain tissue specimens, even though there are relatively high rates of pneumothorax (0–60% incidence) and pulmonary hemorrhage (4–27% occurrence rates). The aim of this retrospective study is to assess the diagnostic accuracy of CT-guided core-needle biopsy in the diagnosis of primary lung malignancies and to compare our results with evidence from the literature. Materials and Methods: Our analysis included 350 thoracic biopsies, performed from 2017 to 2022 with a 64-row CT guidance and 16/18 G needles mounted on a biopsy gun. We included in the final cohort all samples with evidence of primary lung malignancies, precursor lesions, and atypia, as well as inconclusive and negative diagnoses. Results: There was sensitivity of 90.07% (95% CI 86.05–93.25%), accuracy of 98.87% (95% CI 98.12–99.69%), positive predictive value of 100%, and negative value of 98.74% (95% CI 98.23–99.10%). Specificity settled at 100% (93.84–100%). The AUC was 0.952 (95% CI 0.924–0.972). Only three patients experienced major complications after the procedure. Among minor complications, longer distances from the pleura, the presence of emphysema, and the lower dimensions of the lesions were correlated with the development of pneumothorax after the procedure, while longer distances from the pleura and the lower dimensions of the lesions were correlated with intra-alveolar hemorrhage. Immunohistochemistry analysis was performed in 51% of true positive cases, showing TTF-1, CK7, and p40 expression, respectively, in 26%, 24%, and 10% of analyzed samples. Conclusions: The CT-guided thoracic core-needle biopsy is an extremely accurate and safe diagnostic procedure for the histological diagnosis of lung cancer, a first-level interventional radiology exam for peripheral and subpleural lesions of the lung, which is also able to provide adequate samples for advanced pathologic assays (e.g., FISH, PCR) to assess molecular activity and genetic sequencing.
A Rare Case of Thymic Rosai-Dorfman Disease Mimicking Malignancy on 18F-FDG PET/CT
Authors: Jia Tongtong , Zhang Bin , Zhang Xiaoyi , Xu Xin , Sang Shibiao , Deng Shengming
Published: November 2022

Background Rosai-Dorfman disease (RDD), the massive lymphadenopathy characterized by the proliferation of sinus histiocytosis, is a relatively idiopathic benign disease with unknown etiology. We reported a rare case of thymic RDD detected by 18F-FDG PET/CT. A 23-year-old man with right-sided chest pain underwent 18F-FDG PET/CT scan, showing increased 18F-FDG uptake in an anterior mediastinal mass corresponding to a thymic lesion at an enhanced CT scan. The patient was referred to surgery with the clinical suspicion of thymic malignancy. The histological examination and immunohistochemical results confirmed RDD. Conclusions This was the first case report of RDD isolated to the thymus and initially presented with chest pain. Moreover, there was no characteristic painless neck lymphadenopathy at any stage of the disease course. Thus, for young patients with thymus mass, RDD should be considered a rare but possible diagnosis.
Potential Disruption of Systemic Hormone Transport by Tobacco Alkaloids Using Computational Approaches
Authors: Rehan Mohd , Zargar Ummer R. , Sheikh Ishfaq A. , Alharthy Saif A. , Almashjary Majed N. , Abuzenadah Adel M. , Beg Mohd A.
Published: November 2022

Tobacco/nicotine is one of the most toxic and addictive substances and continues to pose a significant threat to global public health. The harmful effects of smoking/nicotine affect every system in the human body. Nicotine has been associated with effects on endocrine homeostasis in humans such as the imbalance of gonadal steroid hormones, adrenal corticosteroid hormones, and thyroid hormones. The present study was conducted to characterize the structural binding interactions of nicotine and its three important metabolites, cotinine, trans-3′-hydroxycotinine, and 5′-hydroxycotinine, against circulatory hormone carrier proteins, i.e., sex-hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG), and thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG). Nicotine and its metabolites formed nonbonded contacts and/or hydrogen bonds with amino acid residues of the carrier proteins. For SHBG, Phe-67 and Met-139 were the most important amino acid residues for nicotine ligand binding showing the maximum number of interactions and maximum loss in ASA. For CBG, Trp-371 and Asn-264 were the most important amino acid residues, and for TBG, Ser-23, Leu-269, Lys-270, Asn-273, and Arg-381 were the most important amino acid residues. Most of the amino acid residues of carrier proteins interacting with nicotine ligands showed a commonality with the interacting residues for the native ligands of the proteins. Taken together, the results suggested that nicotine and its three metabolites competed with native ligands for binding to their carrier proteins. Thus, nicotine and its three metabolites may potentially interfere with the binding of testosterone, estradiol, cortisol, progesterone, thyroxine, and triiodothyronine to their carrier proteins and result in the disbalance of their transport and homeostasis in the blood circulation.
Pinus halepensis in Contaminated Mining Sites: Study of the Transfer of Metals in the Plant–Soil System Using the BCR Procedure
Authors: Kharazian Pegah , Fernández-Ondoño Emilia , Jiménez María , Sierra Aragón Manuel , Aguirre-Arcos Antonio , Bacchetta Gianluigi , Cappai Giovanna , De Giudici Giovanni
Published: November 2022

The study aimed at evaluating the geochemical fractions of Zn, Pb, Cd and their bioavailability in soil in-depth and around the root of Pinus halepensis grown on heavily contaminated mine tailing in south-western Sardinia, Italy. The contaminated substrates were partly investigated in a previous study and are composed of pyrite, dolomite, calcite, quartz, gypsum, barite, iron-sulfate and iron-oxide. The geochemical fractions and bioavailability of Zn, Pb and Cd were measured through the BCR extractions method. Cadmium in the superficial contaminated substrates was mainly found in the exchangeable BCR fraction. Zinc and lead were often found in the residual BCR fraction. PCA confirmed that the uppermost alkaline-calcareous layers of mine waste were different with respect to the deeper acidic layers. We demonstrated that Pb and Zn were less present in the exchangeable form around the roots of P. halepensis and in soil depth. This can be due to uptake or other beneficial effect of rhizospheres interaction processes. Further studies will shed light to confirm if P. halepensis is a good candidate to apply phytostabilization in mine tailing.
The Effect of “Production during Remediation” of Plants in Cd-Contaminated Soil
Authors: Li Lankun , Chang Huiqing
Published: November 2022

In order to find suitable plants for “production during remediation” in wheat fields moderately contaminated by cadmium (Cd), five plants—green amaranth, oil sunflower, broomcorn, maize, and waxy maize—were planted in pots to study their enrichment characteristics and remediation effects in Cd-contaminated soil. The results showed that the highest bioaccumulation and translocation factors were greater than 0.5 for oil sunflower, which had the strongest Cd-enrichment ability in Cd-contaminated soil, but its biomass was small, and the Cd content of the grain exceeded the standard (GB2762-2017). The Cd content in the grains of broomcorn, maize, and waxy maize was less than 0.1 mg∙kg−1, which is lower than the national food safety standard on limiting pollutants in food (GB2762-2017). Broomcorn accumulated 0.429 mg∙pot−1 for Cd, with a Cd-extraction efficiency of 1.73%, which were higher than other plants. Taking the risk-screening values in GB15618-2018 “Soil Environmental Quality Standard” as the target, it will take 80 years to remediate using broomcorn, which has the highest extraction efficiency, based on cultivating remediation plants once per year. However, in view of the scarcity of arable land resources in China and the objective of safe production during remediation, the use of broomcorn can be considered for production during remediation for the given degree of Cd contamination of the soil.
Gestational Exposure to Cyfluthrin through Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) Stress—Mediated PERK Signaling Pathway Impairs Placental Development
Authors: Ni Wensi , Gao Haoxuan , Wu Bing , Zhao Ji , Sun Jian , Song Yanan , Sun Yiping , Yang Huifang
Published: November 2022

Cyfluthrin, a typical type II pyrethroid pesticide, is widely used in house hygiene and agricultural pest control. Several epidemiological investigations have found that maternal pyrethroid exposure is connected to adverse pregnancy outcomes. However, the underlying mechanisms remain to be elucidated. Thus, we evaluated the effect of cyfluthrin exposure during pregnancy on placenta development in vivo. In the current study, Pregnant SD rats were randomly divided into four groups and administered 6.25, 12.5, and 25 mg/kg body weight cyfluthrin or an equivalent volume of corn oil by gavage from GD0 to GD19. The results have shown that gestational exposure to cyfluthrin exerted no effect on the fetal birth defect, survival to PND4, or fetal resorption and death. However, live fetuses and implantation sites significantly decreased in the high-dose cyfluthrin-treated group. Moreover, a significant reduction in placenta weight and diameter was observed in rats. Correspondingly, the fetal weight and crown-rump length from dams exposed to cyfluthrin were reduced. Cyfluthrin-treat groups, the total area of the placenta, spongiotrophoblast area, and labyrinth area had abnormal changes. Meanwhile, the area of blood sinusoid and CD34-positive blood vessel numbers in the placenta were considerably reduced, as well as abnormal expression of placental pro-angiogenic and anti-angiogenic factors in dams exposed to cyfluthrin. Further observation by transmission electron microscopy revealed significant changes in the ultrastructure of the medium-dose and high-dose groups. Additional experiments showed gestational exposure to cyfluthrin inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis of placentas, as decreased PCNA-positive cells and increased TUNEL-positive cells. Furthermore, western blot and qPCR analysis revealed that gestational exposure to medium-dose and high-dose cyfluthrin increased the expression of GRP78, and three downstream mRNA and proteins (p-eIF2α, ATF4, and CHOP) of the PERK signaling, indicating that endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-mediated PERK/eIF2α/ATF4/CHOP signaling pathway in rat placentas was activated. Our study demonstrated that gestational exposure to cyfluthrin leads to placental developmental disorder, which might be associated with ER stress-mediated PERK signaling pathway.
Screening and Analysis of Serum Protein Biomarkers Infected by Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
Authors: Feng Zhaomin , Pan Yang , Liu Yimeng , Zhao Jiachen , Peng Xiaomin , Lu Guilan , Shi Weixian , Zhang Daitao , Cui Shujuan
Published: November 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has spread widely around the world, and in-depth research on COVID-19 is necessary for biomarkers and target drug discovery. This analysis collected serum from six COVID-19-infected patients and six healthy people. The protein changes in the infected and healthy control serum samples were evaluated by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The differential protein signature in both groups was retrieved and analyzed by the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Gene and Genomes (KEGG), Gene ontology, COG/KOG, protein–protein interaction, and protein domain interactions tools. We shortlisted 24 differentially expressed proteins between both groups. Ten genes were significantly up-regulated in the infection group, and fourteen genes were significantly down-regulated. The GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis suggested that the chromosomal part and chromosome were the most enriched items. The oxytocin signaling pathway was the most enriched item of KEGG analysis. The netrin module (non-TIMP type) was the most enriched protein domain in this study. Functional analysis of S100A9, PIGR, C4B, IL-6R, IGLV3-19, IGLV3-1, and IGLV5-45 revealed that SARS-CoV-2 was closely related to immune response.
Inhibiting Human and Leishmania Arginases Using Cannabis sativa as a Potential Therapy for Cutaneous Leishmaniasis: A Molecular Docking Study
Authors: Assouab Aicha , El Filaly Hajar , Akarid Khadija
Published: November 2022

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL), a vector-borne parasitic disease caused by the Leishmania protozoan, is a serious public health problem in Morocco. The treatment of this disease is still based on pentavalent antimonials as the primary therapy, but these have associated side effects. Thus, the development of effective, risk-free alternative therapeutics based on natural compounds against leishmaniasis is urgent. Arginase, the key enzyme in the polyamine biosynthetic pathway, plays a critical role in leishmaniasis outcome and has emerged as a potential therapeutic target. The objective of this study was to test Cannabis sativa’s phytochemical components (cannabinoids and terpenoids) through molecular docking against Leishmania and human arginase enzymes. Our results showed that delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) possessed the best binding energies of −6.02 and −6.35 kcal/mol with active sites of Leishmania and human arginases, respectively. Delta-9-THC interacted with Leishmania arginase through various amino acids including His139 and His 154 and linked to human arginase via His 126. In addition to delta-9-THC, caryophyllene oxide and cannabidiol (CBD) also showed a good inhibition of Leishmania and human arginases, respectively. Overall, the studied components were found to inhibit both arginases active sites via hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions. These components may serve as therapeutic agents or in co-administrated therapy for leishmaniasis.
Evolution of Spin Period and Magnetic Field of the Crab Pulsar: Decay of the Braking Index by the Particle Wind Flow Torque
Authors: Zhang Cheng-Min , Cui Xiang-Han , Li Di , Wang De-Hua , Wang Shuang-Qiang , Wang Na , Zhang Jian-Wei , Peng Bo , Zhu Wei-Wei , Yang Yi-Yan , Pan Yuan-Yue
Published: November 2022

The evolutions of a neutron star’s rotation and magnetic field (B-field) have remained unsolved puzzles for over half a century. We ascribe the rotational braking torques of pulsar to both components, the standard magnetic dipole radiation (MDR) and particle wind flow (MDR + Wind, hereafter named MDRW), which we apply to the Crab pulsar (B0531 + 21), the only source with a known age and long-term continuous monitoring by radio telescope. Based on the above presumed simple spin-down torques, we obtain the exact analytic solution on the rotation evolution of the Crab pulsar, together with the related outcomes as described below: (1) unlike the constant characteristic B-field suggested by the MDR model, this value for the Crab pulsar increases by a hundred times in 50 kyr while its real B-field has no change; (2) the rotational braking index evolves from ∼3 to 1 in the long-term, however, it drops from 2.51 to 2.50 in ∼45 years at the present stage, while the particle flow contributes approximately 25% of the total rotational energy loss rate; (3) strikingly, the characteristic age has the maximum limit of ∼10 kyr, meaning that it is not always a good indicator of a real age. Furthermore, we discussed the evolutionary path of the Crab pulsar from the MDR to the wind domination by comparing with the possible wind braking candidate pulsar PSR J1734-3333.
Study of Anisotropic Fluid Distributed Hyperbolically in f(R,T,Q) Gravity
Authors: Asad Hamna , Yousaf Zeeshan
Published: November 2022

The core of this manuscript is to conduct a broad investigation into the features of static matter configurations with hyperbolical symmetry, which might possibly serve as formation of corresponding spacetime within the limits of f(R,T,Q) gravity, where (Q ≡ RασTασ). We recognize that such matter distributions can be anisotropic in pressure, with just two primary stresses unequal and a negative energy density. Usually, negative matter densities are suggested in extreme cosmological and astrophysical situations, particularly with regard to quantum occurrences that might occur within the horizon. Eventually, we construct a generic formalism that allows every static hyperbolically symmetric (HS) fluid solution to be expressed with respect to two generating functions (GFs).
Comparing In Vitro Faecal Fermentation Methods as Surrogates for Phage Therapy Application
Authors: Ács Norbert , Holohan Ross , Dunne Laura J. , Fernandes Adrian R. , Clooney Adam G. , Draper Lorraine A. , Ross R. Paul , Hill Colin
Published: November 2022

The human microbiome and its importance in health and disease have been the subject of numerous research articles. Most microbes reside in the digestive tract, with up to 1012 cells per gram of faecal material found in the colon. In terms of gene number, it has been estimated that the gut microbiome harbours >100 times more genes than the human genome. Several human intestinal diseases are strongly associated with disruptions in gut microbiome composition. Less studied components of the gut microbiome are the bacterial viruses called bacteriophages that may be present in numbers equal to or greater than the prokaryotes. Their potential to lyse their bacterial hosts, or to act as agents of horizontal gene transfer makes them important research targets. In this study in vitro faecal fermentation systems were developed and compared for their ability to act as surrogates for the human colon. Changes in bacterial and viral composition occurred after introducing a high-titre single phage preparation both with and without a known bacterial host during the 24 h-long fermentation. We also show that during this timeframe 50 mL plastic tubes can provide data similar to that generated in a sophisticated faecal fermenter system. This knowledge can guide us to a better understanding of the short-term impact of bacteriophage transplants on the bacteriomes and viromes of human recipients.
Dynamic Distribution of Infectious Pancreatic Necrosis Virus (IPNV) Strains of Genogroups 1, 5, and 7 after Intraperitoneal Administration in Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Shao Yizhi , Ren Guangming , Zhao Jingzhuang , Lu Tongyan , Liu Qi , Xu Liming
Published: November 2022

Infectious pancreatic necrosis virus (IPNV) is the causative agent of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) IPN and causes significant loss of fingerlings. The currently prevalent IPNV genogroups in China are genogroups 1 and 5. However, in this study, we isolated and identified a novel IPNV, IPNV-P202019, which belonged to genogroup 7. Here, a total of 200 specific-pathogen-free rainbow trout (10 g average weight) were divided randomly into four groups to investigate the distribution of different IPNV strains (genogroups 1, 5, and 7) in 9 tissues of rainbow trout by means of intraperitoneal (ip) injection. Fish in each group were monitored after 3-, 7-, 14-, 21- and 28- days post-infection (dpi). The study showed no mortality in all groups. The distribution of IPNV genogroups 1 and 5 was similar in different tissues and had a higher number of viral loads after 3, 7, or 14 dpi. However, the distribution of IPNV genogroup 7 was detected particularly in the spleen, head kidney, and feces and had a lower number of viral loads. The results of this study provide valid data for the distribution of IPNV in rainbow trout tissues and showed that IPNV genogroups 1 and 5 were still the prevalent genogroups of IPNV in China. Although rainbow trout carried IPNV genogroup 7, the viral load was too low to be pathogenic.
Overexpression Bombyx mori HEXIM1 Facilitates Immune Escape of Bombyx mori Nucleopolyhedrovirus by Suppressing BmRelish-Driven Immune Responses
Authors: Chen Guanping , Li Yuedong , Kong Xiangshuo , Zhao Shudi , Li Jiale , Wu Xiaofeng
Published: November 2022

Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV), a typical arthropod-specific enveloped DNA virus, is one of the most serious pathogens in silkworm farming, but the potential mechanisms of the evasion of innate immune responses from BmNPV infection are still poorly understood. HEXIM1 is an RNA-binding protein, best known as an inhibitor of positive transcription elongation factor b (P-TEFb), which controls transcription elongation by RNA polymerase II. In this study, Bombyx mori HEXIM1 (BmHEXIM1) was cloned and characterized, and its expression was found to be remarkably upregulated after BmNPV infection. Furthermore, BmHEXIM1 was detected to increase the proliferation of BmNPV, and its full length is essential for assisting BmNPV immune escape by suppressing BmRelish-driven immune responses. This study brought new insights into the mechanisms of immune escape of BmNPV and provided theoretical guidance for the breeding of BmNPV-resistant silkworm varieties.
Punica granatum Peel and Leaf Extracts as Promising Strategies for HSV-1 Treatment
Authors: EL-Aguel Asma , Pennisi Rosamaria , Smeriglio Antonella , Kallel Imen , Tamburello Maria Pia , D’Arrigo Manuela , Barreca Davide , Gargouri Ahmed , Trombetta Domenico , Mandalari Giuseppina , Sciortino Maria Teresa
Published: November 2022

Punica granatum is a rich source of bioactive compounds which exhibit various biological effects. In this study, pomegranate peel and leaf ethanolic crude extracts (PPE and PLE, respectively) were phytochemically characterized and screened for antioxidant, antimicrobial and antiviral activity. LC-PDA-ESI-MS analysis led to the identification of different compounds, including ellagitannins, flavonoids and phenolic acids. The low IC50 values, obtained by DPPH and FRAP assays, showed a noticeable antioxidant effect of PPE and PLE comparable to the reference standards. Both crude extracts and their main compounds (gallic acid, ellagic acid and punicalagin) were not toxic on Vero cells and exhibited a remarkable inhibitory effect on herpes simplex type 1 (HSV-1) viral plaques formation. Specifically, PPE inhibited HSV-1 adsorption to the cell surface more than PLE. Indeed, the viral DNA accumulation, the transcription of viral genes and the expression of viral proteins were significantly affected by PPE treatment. Amongst the compounds, punicalagin, which is abundant in PPE crude extract, inhibited HSV-1 replication, reducing viral DNA and transcripts accumulation, as well as proteins of all three phases of the viral replication cascade. In contrast, no antibacterial activity was detected. In conclusion, our findings indicate that Punica granatum peel and leaf extracts, especially punicalagin, could be a promising therapeutic candidate against HSV-1.
Broad-Spectrum Salmonella Phages PSE-D1 and PST-H1 Controls Salmonella in Foods
Authors: Cao Yajie , Ma Runwen , Li Ziyong , Mao Xinyu , Li Yinan , Wu Yuxin , Wang Leping , Han Kaiou , Li Lei , Ma Dongxin , Zhou Yuqing , Li Xun , Wang Xiaoye
Published: November 2022

Food contamination by Salmonella can lead to serious foodborne diseases that constantly threaten public health. Innovative and effective strategies are needed to control foodborne pathogenic contamination since the incidence of foodborne diseases has increased gradually. In the present study, two broad-spectrum phages named Salmonella phage PSE-D1 and Salmonella phage PST-H1 were isolated from sewage in China. Phages PSE-D1 and PST-H1 were obtained by enrichment with Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Enteritidis (S. Enteritidis) CVCC1806 and Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium) CVCC3384, respectively. They were able to lyse Salmonella, E. coli and K. pneumoniae and exhibited broad host range. Further study demonstrated that PSE-D1 and PST-H1 showed high pH and thermal tolerances. Phage PSE-D1 belongs to the Jiaodavirus genus, Tevenvirinae subfamily, while phage PST-H1 belongs to the Jerseyvirus genus, Guernseyvirinae subfamily according to morphology and phylogeny. The results of genome analysis showed that PSE-D1 and PST-H1 lack virulence and drug-resistance genes. The effects of PSE-D1 and PST-H1 on controlling S. Enteritidis CVCC1806 and S. Typhimurium CVCC3384 contamination in three kinds of foods (eggshells, sausages and milk) were further investigated, respectively. Our results showed that, compared to phage-free groups, PSE-D1 and PST-H1 inhibited the growth of their host strain significantly. A significant reduction of host bacteria titers (1.5 and 1.9 log10 CFU/sample, p < 0.001) on eggshells was observed under PSE-D1 and PST-H1 treatments, respectively. Furthermore, administration of PSE-D1 and PST-H1 decreased the counts of bacteria by 1.1 and 1.2 log10 CFU/cm2 (p < 0.001) in sausages as well as 1.5 and 1.8 log10 CFU/mL (p < 0.001) in milk, respectively. Interesting, the bacteriostasis efficacy of both phages exhibited more significantly at 4 °C than that at 28 °C in eggshells and milk and sausages. In sum, the purpose of our research was evaluating the counteracting effect of phage PSE-D1 and PST-H1 on the spread of Salmonella on contaminated foods products. Our results suggested that these two phage-based biocontrol treatments are promising strategies for controlling pathogenic Salmonella contaminated food.
Indirect ELISA Using Multi–Antigenic Dominants of p30, p54 and p72 Recombinant Proteins to Detect Antibodies against African Swine Fever Virus in Pigs
Authors: Li Dexin , Zhang Qin , Liu Yutian , Wang Miaoli , Zhang Lei , Han Liyuan , Chu Xuefei , Ding Guofei , Li Yingchao , Hou Yanmeng , Liu Sidang , Wang Zhiliang , Xiao Yihong
Published: November 2022

African swine fever (ASF) caused by ASF virus (ASFV) is a fatal disease in pigs and results in great economic losses. Due to the lack of available vaccines and treatments, serological diagnosis of ASF plays a key role in the surveillance program, but due to the lack of knowledge and the complexity of the ASFV genome, the candidate target viral proteins are still being researched. False negativity is still a big obstacle during the diagnostic process. In this study, the high antigenic viral proteins p30, p54 and p72 were screened to find the antigenic dominant domains and the tandem His–p30–54–72 was derived. An indirect enzyme–linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA) coated with His–p30–54–72 was developed with a cut–off value of 0.371. A total of 192 clinical samples were detected by His–p30–54–72–coated indirect ELISA (iELISA) and commercial ASFV antibody kits. The results showed that the positive rate of His–p30–54–72–coated iELISA was increased by 4.7% and 14.6% compared with a single viral protein–based commercial ASFV antibody kits. These results provide a platform for future ASFV clinical diagnosis and vaccine immune effect evaluation.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Adverse Effects and Allergic Reactions after COVID-19 Vaccines in a Mexican Population: An Analytical Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Granados Villalpando Jesús Maximiliano , Romero Tapia Sergio de Jesus , Baeza Flores Guadalupe del Carmen , Ble Castillo Jorge Luis , Juarez Rojop Isela Esther , Lopez Junco Frida Isabel , Olvera Hernández Viridiana , Quiroz Gomez Sergio , Ruiz Quiñones Jesús Arturo , Guzmán Priego Crystell Guadalupe
Published: November 2022

Vaccinations have helped to control the COVID-19 pandemic; however, few studies focus on the adverse effects and allergic reactions of these vaccines and fewer have a scope in the Latin American population. The objective of this study was to assess the associations between vaccinations, sex, age, allergic reactions, and adverse effects. This was an analytical cross-sectional study conducted between 1 July and 1 October 2022. The sample consisted of 443 surveyed participants, with a total of 1272 COVID-19 vaccine doses. Seven vaccines (Pfizer BioNTech, Oxford-AstraZeneca, CanSino, Moderna, Johnson and Johnson, Sinovac, and Sputnik V) were evaluated. A total of 12.6% of those surveyed had at least one allergic reaction posterior to vaccination, and females had a greater chance of developing one (p < 0.001, OR 3.1). The most common allergic reaction was chest pain, and Pfizer-BioNTech and Oxford-AstraZeneca were associated with the onset of allergic reactions (p < 0.005). A total of 54.6% of those surveyed developed adverse effects, the most common of which were myalgia, fever, cephalea, asthenia or adynamia, and arthralgia; moreover, older age was associated with the onset of adverse effects (p < 0.5). This study concludes that the BNT162b2 (Pfizer BioNTech) and ChAdOX1 nCOV-19 (Oxford-AstraZeneca) vaccines are strongly associated with the onset of allergic reactions, with ORs of 1.6 (CI 95%, 1.18 to 2.3) and 1.87 (CI 95%, 1.35 to 2.6), respectively. In addition, females have a greater chance of developing allergic reactions associated with COVID-19 vaccinations, and there was a relation found between older age and a greater prevalence of comorbidities, adverse effects after vaccination, and COVID-19 infection after vaccination.
Beliefs and Sociodemographic and Occupational Factors Associated with Vaccine Hesitancy among Health Workers
Authors: de Araújo Tânia Maria , Souza Fernanda de Oliveira , Pinho Paloma de Sousa , Werneck Guilherme Loureiro
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Vaccine hesitancy has been implicated in the low-vaccination coverage in several countries. Knowledge about vaccine hesitancy predictors in health workers is essential because they play a central role in communication about the importance and safety of vaccines. This study aimed to assess beliefs and sociodemographic and occupational factors associated with vaccine hesitancy in health workers. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study among 453 health workers in primary and medium complexity services in a municipality in the state of Bahia, Brazil. The variable vaccine hesitancy was operationalized based on the answers related to incomplete vaccination against hepatitis B, measles, mumps and rubella, and diphtheria and tetanus. Associations between variables were expressed as prevalence ratios (PR) and their respective 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: Endemic disease combat agents, administrative service workers, and support staff had the highest levels of vaccine hesitancy. Among the analyzed variables, the following were associated with vaccine hesitancy: working in secondary health care services (PR: 1.21; CI: 1.07–1.36), working as an endemic disease combat agent (PR = 1.42; 95% CI: 1.165–1.75), not sharing information about vaccines on social media (PR = 1.16; 95% CI: 1.05–1.28), distrusting information about vaccinations (PR: 0.86; CI: 0.75–0.99), and not feeling safe receiving new vaccines (PR = 1.16; 95% CI: 1.06–1.28). Conclusions: Strategies to enhance confidence in vaccination among health workers should consider differences in occupations and their working settings. Improving vaccination-related content in training and continuing education activities and facilitating access to onsite vaccinations at the workplace are crucial elements to reduce vaccine hesitancy among health workers.
Safety of Four COVID-19 Vaccines across Primary Doses 1, 2, 3 and Booster: A Prospective Cohort Study of Australian Community Pharmacy Vaccinations
Authors: Salter Sandra M. , Li Dani , Trentino Kevin , Nissen Lisa , Lee Kenneth , Orlemann Karin , Peters Ian , Murray Kevin , Leeb Alan , Deng Lucy
Published: November 2022

Four COVID-19 vaccines are approved for use in Australia: Pfizer-BioNTech BNT162b2 (Comirnaty), AstraZeneca ChAdOx1 (Vaxzevria), Moderna mRNA-1273 (Spikevax) and Novavax NVX-CoV2373 (Nuvaxovid). We sought to examine adverse events following immunisation (AEFI) at days 3 and 42 after primary doses 1, 2, 3 and booster. We conducted active vaccine safety surveillance from 130 community pharmacies in Australia integrated with AusVaxSafety, between August 2021–April 2022. Main outcomes: AEFI at 0–3 days post-vaccination; medical review/advice at 3 days and 42 days post-vaccination; SARS-CoV-2 breakthrough infection by day 42. Of 110,024 completed day 3 surveys (43.6% response rate), 50,367 (45.8%) reported any AEFI (highest proportions: Pfizer 42%, primary dose 3; AstraZeneca 58.3%, primary dose 1; Moderna 65.4% and Novavax 58.8%, both primary dose 2). The most common AEFI reported across all doses/vaccines were local reactions, systemic aches and fatigue/tiredness. Overall, 2172/110,024 (2.0%) and 1182/55,329 (2.1%) respondents sought medical review at days 3 and 42, respectively, and 931/42,318 (2.2%) reported breakthrough SARS-CoV-2 infection at day 42. We identified similar AEFI profiles but at lower proportions than previously reported for Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Moderna and Novavax COVID-19 vaccines. Moderna vaccine was the most reactogenic and associated with higher AEFI proportions across primary doses 2, 3, and booster.
Harnessing NK Cells to Control Metastasis
Authors: Deng Xuewen , Terunuma Hiroshi
Published: November 2022

In recent years, tumor immunotherapy has produced remarkable results in tumor treatment. Nevertheless, its effects are severely limited in patients with low or absent pre-existing T cell immunity. Accordingly, metastasis remains the major cause of tumor-associated death. On the other hand, natural killer (NK) cells have the unique ability to recognize and rapidly act against tumor cells and surveil tumor cell dissemination. The role of NK cells in metastasis prevention is undisputable as an increase in the number of these cells mostly leads to a favorable prognosis. Hence, it is reasonable to consider that successful metastasis involves evasion of NK-cell-mediated immunosurveillance. Therefore, harnessing NK cells to control metastasis is promising. Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are the seeds for distant metastasis, and the number of CTCs detected in the blood of patients with tumor is associated with a worse prognosis, whereas NK cells can eliminate highly motile CTCs especially in the blood. Here, we review the role of NK cells during metastasis, particularly the specific interactions of NK cells with CTCs, which may provide essential clues on how to harness the power of NK cells against tumor metastasis. As a result, a new way to prevent or treat metastatic tumor may be developed.
Maternal and Neonatal Immune Responses Following COVID-19 Infection and Vaccinations in Pregnancy
Authors: Toussia-Cohen Shlomi , Nir Omer , Peretz-Machluf Ravit , Bookstein-Peretz Shiran , Segal Omri , Asraf Keren , Doolman Ram , Regev-Yochay Gili , Yinon Yoav
Published: November 2022

The objective of the study was to compare the maternal and neonatal humoral immune responses among different groups of women, namely those vaccinated by the BNT162b2 vaccine, not vaccinated, and COVID-19-recovered parturient women at the time of delivery. This is a prospective cohort study of pregnant women, divided into four groups: Group A “Recovered”—recovered and not vaccinated. Group B “Second Vaccination”—first and second doses only. Group C “Third Vaccination”—third dose. Group D “No Third Vaccination”—women eligible for the third dose of the vaccine but did not receive it. Maternal and umbilical cord blood were sampled and tested for SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies on admittance to labor and immediately postpartum, respectively. Maternal serum SARS-CoV-2 IgG levels were significantly higher among Group C compared to Group B (741.6 (514.5–1069) vs. 333.5 (327–340.2), respectively). Both groups had higher antibody levels compared to Groups A and D (113.5 (61.62–209.1) and 57.99 (32.93–102.1), respectively). Similarly, umbilical cord blood SARS-CoV-2 IgG levels were also highest among Group C compared to the other three groups (1269 (953.4–1690) vs. Group B, 322.6 (305.6–340.5), Group A, 109 (49.01–242.6), and Group D, 103.9 (48.59–222), respectively). In conclusion, pregnant women who were fully vaccinated with three dosages before delivery generated the highest levels of maternal and neonatal SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies.
Potential Novel N-Glycosylation Patterns Associated with the Emergence of New Genetic Variants of PRRSV-2 in the U.S
Authors: Paploski Igor , Makau Dennis , Pamornchainavakul Nakarin , Baker Julia , Schroeder Declan , Rovira Albert , VanderWaal Kimberly
Published: November 2022

Glycosylation of proteins is a post-translational process where oligosaccharides are attached to proteins, potentially altering their folding, epitope availability, and immune recognition. In Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus-type 2 (PRRSV-2), positive selection pressure acts on amino acid sites potentially associated with immune escape through glycan shielding. Here, we describe the patterns of potential N-glycosylation sites over time and across different phylogenetic lineages of PRRSV-2 to better understand how these may contribute to patterns of coexistence and emergence of different lineages. We screened 19,179 PRRSV GP5 sequences (2004–2021) in silico for potential N-glycosylated sites. The emergence of novel combinations of N-glycosylated sites coincided with past PRRSV epidemics in the U.S. For lineage L1A, glycosylation at residues 32, 33, 44, 51, and 57 first appeared in 2012, but represented >62% of all L1A sequences by 2015, coinciding with the emergence of the L1A 1-7-4 strain that increased in prevalence from 8 to 86% of all L1A sequences from 2012 to 2015. The L1C 1-4-4 strain that emerged in 2020 also had a distinct N-glycosylation pattern (residues 32, 33, 44, and 51). From 2020 to 2021, this pattern was responsible for 44–47% of the L1C sequences, contrasting to <5% in years prior. Our findings support the hypothesis that antigenic evolution contributes to the sequential dominance of different PRRSV strains and that N-glycosylation patterns may partially account for antigenic differences amongst strains. Further studies on glycosylation and its effect on PRRSV GP5 folding are needed to further understand how glycosylation patterns shape PRRSV occurrence.
Monkeypox Knowledge and Vaccine Hesitancy of Czech Healthcare Workers: A Health Belief Model (HBM)-Based Study
Authors: Riad Abanoub , Drobov Anton , Rozmarinová Jana , Drapáčová Pavla , Klugarová Jitka , Dušek Ladislav , Pokorná Andrea , Klugar Miloslav
Published: November 2022

Background: The recent human monkeypox virus (HMPXV) outbreak in non-endemic countries that started in May 2022 has raised concerns among public health authorities worldwide. Healthcare workers (HCWs) play a decisive role during epidemics in transmitting accurate information to the public and motivating them to pursue protective behaviours, including immunisation. Methods: A cross-sectional survey-based study was conducted in the Czech Republic in September 2022 to evaluate HMPXV-related knowledge and vaccination perceptions among HCWs. The study utilised a digital self-administered questionnaire (SAQ) to collect data from the target population. The proposed SAQ inquired about participants’ sociodemographic and anamnestic characteristics, perceived knowledge of HMPXV, factual knowledge, and vaccination perceptions according to the health belief model (HBM). Results: A total of 341 participants were included in this study; most of them were females (88.9%), allied HCWs (89.4%), heterosexuals (87.1%), married (61.9%), and vaccinated against COVID-19 (91.2%). Only 8.8% of the participants agreed to receive vaccination against HMPXV; 44.9% rejected it, while 46.3% were hesitant. While digital news portals (47.5%) and social media (25.8%) were among the most utilised sources of information about HMPXV, the scientific journals (5.6%), ECDC (5%), and the U.S. CDC (1.5%) were the least common sources. The participants demonstrated suboptimal levels of factual knowledge, especially regarding HMPXV vaccines (1.5 ± 1.2 (0–4)) and treatments (0.9 ± 0.9 (0–4)). Additionally, several misconceptions were detectable among the participants, regarding topics such as the availability of effective vaccines and antivirals against HMPXV, the risk of vertical transmission, and homosexual stigmatisation. The HBM indicated that the cues to action and perceived susceptibility were the most important constructs to predict HMPXV vaccine acceptance. Conclusions: the findings of this study call upon public health practitioners and health policymakers in the Czech Republic to act accordingly in order to determine the drivers of vaccine hesitancy among Czech HCWs. Dedicated educational campaigns should aim to counter the HCWs’ misconceptions around HMPXV, and future studies should aim to explore the prevalence and drivers of HMPXV vaccine hesitancy among the general population.
The Relationship between COVID-19 Protection Behaviors and Pandemic-Related Knowledge, Perceptions, Worry Content, and Public Trust in a Turkish Sample
Authors: Kucukkarapinar Melike , Karadag Filiz , Budakoglu Irem , Aslan Selcuk , Ucar Onder , Pence Aysegul Yay , Timurcin Utku , Tumkaya Selim , Hocaoglu Cicek , Kiraz Ilknur
Published: November 2022

Background: This study aimed to explore the effect of knowledge, COVID-19-related perceptions, and public trust on protective behaviors in Turkish people. Methods: Data were collected from an online survey (Turkish COVID-19 Snapshot Monitoring) conducted between July 2020 and January 2021. The recommended protective behaviors (hand cleaning, wearing a face mask, and physical distancing) to prevent COVID-19 were examined. The impacts of the following variables on protective behaviors were investigated using logistic regression analysis: knowledge, cognitive and affective risk perception, pandemic-related worry content, public trust, conspiracy thinking, and COVID-19 vaccine willingness. Results: Out of a total of 4210 adult respondents, 13.8% reported nonadherence to protection behavior, and 86.2% reported full adherence. Males and young (aged 18–30 years) people tend to show less adherence. Perceived self-efficacy, susceptibility, and correct knowledge were positively related to more adherence to protective behavior. Perceptual and emotional factors explaining protective behavior were perceived proximity, stress level, and worrying about the relatives who depended on them. Trust in health professionals and vaccine willingness were positive predictors, while conspiracy thinking and acquiring less information (<2, daily) were negative predictors. Unexpectedly, trust in the Ministry of Health showed a weak but negative association with protection behavior. Conclusions: Perceived stress, altruistic worries, and public trust seem to shape protection behaviors in addition to individuals’ knowledge and cognitive risk perception in respondents. Males and young people may have a greater risk for nonadherence. Reliable, transparent, and culture-specific health communication that considers these issues is required.
Unbiased Identification of Dengue Virus Non-Structural Protein 1 Peptides for Use in Vaccine Design
Authors: Warner Nikole L. , Core Susan B. , Frietze Kathryn M.
Published: November 2022

Dengue virus (DENV) is a global health problem, with over half of the world’s population at risk for infection. Despite this, there is only one licensed vaccine available to prevent infection and safety concerns limit immunization to only a subset of individuals. Most dengue virus vaccine efforts attempt to evoke broadly neutralizing antibodies against structural proteins. However, eliciting antibodies to block the activity of viral proteins involved in pathogenesis could be a useful complementary approach. Studies suggest that non-structural protein 1, which participates in disruption of the endothelial barrier and is hypothesized to play a significant role in the progression to severe dengue, could be a promising target for vaccine efforts. Here, we used an unbiased approach to identify peptide epitopes of dengue virus non-structural protein 1 that could evoke antibodies that bind to NS1 from all 4 serotypes and also bind to DENV-infected cells. DENV-2 NS1 peptides were generated such that 35 overlapping 15 amino acid peptides represented the entire NS1 protein. These peptides were each chemically conjugated to bacteriophage virus-like particles (VLP) and used to immunize mice. Sera were then screened for IgG to cognate peptide as well as binding to recombinant hexameric NS1 from all four DENV serotypes as well as binding to DENV-2 infected cells by microscopy. From these data, we identified several peptides that were able to elicit antibodies that could bind to infected cells as well as DENV NS1. These peptides and their homologues in the corresponding NS1 of other DENV serotypes could be used as potential immunogens to elicit binding antibodies to NS1. Future studies will investigate the functional and protective capacities of antibodies elicited by these immunogens against DENV NS1.
COVID-19 Vaccination in Young People with Functional Neurological Disorder: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Lim Natalie , Wood Nicholas , Prasad Archana , Waters Karen , Singh-Grewal Davinder , Dale Russell C. , Elkadi Joseph , Scher Stephen , Kozlowska Kasia
Published: November 2022

Background: The emergence of acute-onset functional neurological symptoms, the focus of this study, is one of three stress responses related to immunisation. This case–control study documents the experience of 61 young people with past or current functional neurological disorder (FND) in relation to the COVID-19 vaccination program in Australia. Methods: Information about the young person’s/parent’s choice and response pertaining to COVID-19 vaccination was collected as part of routine clinical care or FND research program follow-up. Results: 61 young people treated for FND (47 females, mean age = 16.22 years) and 46 healthy controls (34 females, mean age = 16.37 years) were included in the study. Vaccination rates were high: 58/61 (95.1%) in the FND group and 45/46 (97.8%) in the control group. In the FND group, 2 young people (2/61, 3.3%) presented with new-onset FND following COVID-19 vaccination; two young people with resolved FND reported an FND relapse (2/36, 5.56%); and two young people with unresolved FND (2/20, 10.0%) reported an FND exacerbation. In the control group no FND symptoms were reported. Conclusions: Acute-onset FND symptoms following COVID-19 vaccination are uncommon in the general population. In young people prone to FND, COVID-19 vaccination can sometimes trigger new-onset FND, FND relapse, or FND exacerbation.