bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Hybrid Multimodal Emotion Recognition Framework for UX Evaluation Using Generalized Mixture Functions
Authors: Razzaq Muhammad Asif , Hussain Jamil , Bang Jaehun , Hua Cam-Hao , Satti Fahad Ahmed , Rehman Ubaid Ur , Bilal Hafiz Syed Muhammad , Kim Seong Tae , Lee Sungyoung
Published: April 2023

Multimodal emotion recognition has gained much traction in the field of affective computing, human–computer interaction (HCI), artificial intelligence (AI), and user experience (UX). There is growing demand to automate analysis of user emotion towards HCI, AI, and UX evaluation applications for providing affective services. Emotions are increasingly being used, obtained through the videos, audio, text or physiological signals. This has led to process emotions from multiple modalities, usually combined through ensemble-based systems with static weights. Due to numerous limitations like missing modality data, inter-class variations, and intra-class similarities, an effective weighting scheme is thus required to improve the aforementioned discrimination between modalities. This article takes into account the importance of difference between multiple modalities and assigns dynamic weights to them by adapting a more efficient combination process with the application of generalized mixture (GM) functions. Therefore, we present a hybrid multimodal emotion recognition (H-MMER) framework using multi-view learning approach for unimodal emotion recognition and introducing multimodal feature fusion level, and decision level fusion using GM functions. In an experimental study, we evaluated the ability of our proposed framework to model a set of four different emotional states (Happiness, Neutral, Sadness, and Anger) and found that most of them can be modeled well with significantly high accuracy using GM functions. The experiment shows that the proposed framework can model emotional states with an average accuracy of 98.19% and indicates significant gain in terms of performance in contrast to traditional approaches. The overall evaluation results indicate that we can identify emotional states with high accuracy and increase the robustness of an emotion classification system required for UX measurement.
A Multi-Layer Intrusion Detection System for SOME/IP-Based In-Vehicle Network
Authors: Luo Feng , Yang Zhenyu , Zhang Zhaojing , Wang Zitong , Wang Bowen , Wu Mingzhi
Published: April 2023

The automotive Ethernet is gradually replacing the traditional controller area network (CAN) as the backbone network of the vehicle. As an essential protocol to solve service-based communication, Scalable service-Oriented MiddlewarE over IP (SOME/IP) is expected to be applied to an in-vehicle network (IVN). The increasing number of external attack interfaces and the protocol’s vulnerability makes SOME/IP in-vehicle networks vulnerable to intrusion. This paper proposes a multi-layer intrusion detection system (IDS) architecture, including rule-based and artificial intelligence (AI)-based modules. The rule-based module is used to detect the SOME/IP header, SOME/IP-SD message, message interval, and communication process. The AI-based module acts on the payload. We propose a SOME/IP dataset establishment method to evaluate the performance of the proposed multi-layer IDS. Experiments are carried out on a Jetson Xavier NX, showing that the accuracy of AI-based detection reached 99.7761% and that of rule-based detection was 100%. The average detection time per packet is 0.3958 ms with graphics processing unit (GPU) acceleration and 0.6669 ms with only a central processing unit (CPU). After vehicle-level real-time analyses, the proposed IDS can be deployed for distributed or select critical advanced driving assistance system (ADAS) traffic for detection in a centralized layout.
Cluster-Locating Algorithm Based on Deep Learning for Silicon Pixel Sensors
Authors: Mai Fatai , Yang Haibo , Wang Dong , Chen Gang , Gao Ruxin , Chen Xurong , Zhao Chengxin
Published: April 2023

The application of silicon pixel sensors provides an excellent signal-to-noise ratio, spatial resolution, and readout speed in particle physics experiments. Therefore, high-performance cluster-locating technology is highly required in CMOS-sensor-based systems to compress the data volume and improve the accuracy and speed of particle detection. Object detection techniques using deep learning technology demonstrate significant potential for achieving high-performance particle cluster location. In this study, we constructed and compared the performance of one-stage detection algorithms with the representative YOLO (You Only Look Once) framework and two-stage detection algorithms with an RCNN (region-based convolutional neural network). In addition, we also compared transformer-based backbones and CNN-based backbones. The dataset was obtained from a heavy-ion test on a Topmetal-M silicon pixel sensor at HIRFL. Heavy-ion tests were performed on the Topmetal-M silicon pixel sensor to establish the dataset for training and validation. In general, we achieved state-of-the-art results: 68.0% AP (average precision) at a speed of 10.04 FPS (Frames Per Second) on Tesla V100. In addition, the detection efficiency is on the same level as that of the traditional Selective Search approach, but the speed is higher.
Analyzing Reporting on Ransomware Incidents: A Case Study
Authors: Greubel André , Andres Daniela , Hennecke Martin
Published: April 2023

Knowledge about ransomware is important for protecting sensitive data and for participating in public debates about suitable regulation regarding its security. However, as of now, this topic has received little to no attention in most school curricula. As such, it is desirable to analyze what citizens can learn about this topic outside of formal education, e.g., from news articles. This analysis is both relevant to analyzing the public discourse about ransomware, as well as to identify what aspects of this topic should be included in the limited time available for this topic in formal education. Thus, this paper was motivated both by educational and media research. The central goal is to explore how the media reports on this topic and, additionally, to identify potential misconceptions that could stem from this reporting. To do so, we conducted an exploratory case study into the reporting of 109 media articles regarding a high-impact ransomware event: the shutdown of the Colonial Pipeline (located in the east of the USA). We analyzed how the articles introduced central terminology, what details were provided, what details were not, and what (mis-)conceptions readers might receive from them. Our results show that an introduction of the terminology and technical concepts of security is insufficient for a complete understanding of the incident. Most importantly, the articles may lead to four misconceptions about ransomware that are likely to lead to misleading conclusions about the responsibility for the incident and possible political and technical options to prevent such attacks in the future.
Growing ‘Genovese’ and ‘Valentino’ Basil in Pots Using Peat Substrate Combined with Phytoremediated Sediment: Effects on Yield and Nutraceutical Content
Authors: Nin Stefania , Bini Lorenzo , Antonetti Maurizio , Manzi Davide , Bonetti Daniele
Published: April 2023

Climate change is causing a decline in the availability of crucial resources such as water and fertile soil, leading to a detrimental impact on crop yields. Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.), an annual aromatic plant used worldwide for culinary, cosmetic, and medicinal purposes, is especially at risk due to its high water demand and specific growing requirements typical of the Mediterranean climate. In Italy, basil is an essential part of any herb garden and is also commonly found in households as a potted plant. Nowadays, the conventional practice of growing basil in pots with peat as the primary medium is not environmentally sustainable, which underscores the need for alternative and sustainable cultivation techniques to ensure the continued growth of this majestic king of herbs. A greenhouse factorial experiment was conducted to study the impact of peat replacement and reduced water supply on the growth and biochemical traits of basil plants. The study included two cultivars (‘Genovese’ and ‘Valentino’), three substrate mixes with phytoremediated dredged sediment (TS) at varying volume percentages (0%, 12.5%, and 25%), and three levels of water irrigation (normal, reduced by 25%, and reduced by 37.8%). Increasing the TS percentage resulted in higher germination rates and greater biomass production in both cultivars compared with the control. ‘Valentino’ potted plants produced a higher yield than those of ‘Genovese’, while the latter had higher pigment contents due to its genetic characteristics. All combinations of substrates mixed with the highest water amounts of irrigation positively impacted seed germination and biomass-based outputs, while control peat with reduced water availability led to lower plant yields and germination capacity. Substrates with TS had suitable physicochemical characteristics for plant development. Our findings suggest that using peat–TS mixtures can produce quality results comparable to or even better than conventional soilless culture using only peat. Thus, replacing peat with moderate percentages of TS can be an effective and sustainable practice for recycling phytoremediated sediments.
A Fully Integrated Biorefinery Process for the Valorization of Ulva fasciata into Different Green and Sustainable Value-Added Products
Authors: El-Gendy Nour Sh. , Nassar Hussein N. , Ismail Abdallah R. , Ali Hager R. , Ali Basma Ahmed , Abdelsalam Khaled M. , Mubarak Manal
Published: April 2023

In the framework of a sustainable marine bioeconomy, the present work describes an advanced, eco-friendly, fully integrated biorefinery process for marine Ulva fasciata macroalgae. That would serve as a solution for ecosystem bioremediation, an effective utilization of marine macroalgal resources, and a new initiative to promote a green and low-carbon economy. Ulva fasciata biomass can be utilized as an organic fertilizer with total N, P2O5, and K2O contents of 3.17% and a C/N ratio of 11.71. It can also be used as a solid biofuel with a sufficient calorific value of 15.19 MJ/kg. It has high carbohydrate content and low lignin content of approximately 44.85% and 1.5%, respectively, which recommend its applicability in bioethanol and biobutanol production. Its protein, fiber, lipid, and ash contents of approximately 13.13%, 9.9%, 3.27%, and 21%, respectively with relatively high concentrations of omega-3 fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) and omega-9 fatty acids (n-9 MUFAs) and relatively low omega-6 fatty acids (n-6 PUFAs) and a n-6/n-3 ratio of 0.13 also recommend its applicability as food additives and animal feeders. Moreover, the suggested sequential zero-waste biomass residue process yielded 34.89% mineral-rich water extract (MRWE), 2.61% chlorophylla,b, 0.41% carotenoids, 12.55% starch, 3.27% lipids, 22.24% ulvan, 13.37% proteins, and 10.66% cellulose of Ulva fasciata dry weight. The efficient biocidal activity of extracted ulvan against pathogenic microorganisms and sulfate-reducing bacteria recommends its application for medical purposes, water densification, and mitigation of microbially induced corrosion in the oil and gas industry.
Analysis of the Influence of Entrepreneurial Apprehension and Entrepreneurial Strategic Orientation on Breakthrough Innovation
Authors: Wang Qiliang , Jiang Qingquan , Yu Hongxia
Published: April 2023

At present, there are few studies on breakthrough innovation (BI) involving entrepreneurial apprehension (EA). The purpose of this study is to identify how entrepreneurial apprehension affects breakthrough innovation. Based on the theory of planned behavior, the paper constructs a theoretical conceptual model of the influence of entrepreneurial apprehension and entrepreneurial strategic orientation (ESO) on breakthrough innovation and proposes corresponding research hypotheses, while using SPSS to conduct regression analysis of 216 valid questionnaires from high-tech enterprises in Yangtze River Delta. The results show that entrepreneurial apprehension can promote breakthrough innovation, but that entrepreneurial strategic orientation plays a partially mediating role in the process of entrepreneurial apprehension influencing breakthrough innovation. The incorporation of entrepreneurial apprehension into the study of breakthrough innovation complements and improves on the theory of entrepreneurial motivation for breakthrough innovation, and the study of entrepreneurial apprehension effectively expands the content of entrepreneurship theory. The paper concludes with the most important managerial implications and outlook for future research.
Modified Cuttlefish Swarm Optimization with Machine Learning-Based Sustainable Application of Solid Waste Management in IoT
Authors: Al Duhayyim Mesfer
Published: April 2023

The internet of things (IoT) paradigm roles an important play in enhancing smart city tracking applications and managing city procedures in real time. The most important problem connected to smart city applications has been solid waste management, which can have adverse effects on society’s health and environment. Waste management has developed a challenge faced by not only evolving nations but also established and developed counties. Solid waste management is an important and stimulating problem for environments across the entire world. Therefore, there is the need to develop an effective technique that will remove these problems, or at least decreases them to a minimal level. This study develops a modified cuttlefish swarm optimization with machine learning-based solid waste management (MCSOML-SWM) in smart cities. The MCSOML-SWM technique aims to recognize different categories of solid wastes and enable smart waste management. In the MCSOML-SWM model, a single shot detector (SSD) model allows effectual recognition of objects. Then, a deep convolutional neural network-based MixNet model was exploited to produce feature vectors. Since trial-and-error hyperparameter tuning is a tedious process, the MCSO algorithm was applied for automated hyperparameter tuning. For accurate waste classification, the MCSOML-SWM technique applies support vector machine (SVM) in this study. A comprehensive set of simulations demonstrate the improved classification performance of the MCSOML-SWM model with maximum accuracy of 99.34%.
A Time Series Forecast of COVID-19 Infections, Recoveries and Fatalities in Nigeria
Authors: Inegbedion Henry Egbezien
Published: April 2023

The study investigated COVID-19 pandemic infections, recoveries, and fatalities in Nigeria to forecast future values of infections, recoveries, and fatalities and thus ascertain the extent to which the pandemic appeared to be converging with time. The prediction of COVID-19 infections, recoveries, and fatalities was necessitated by the impact that the pandemic had exerted in world economies since its outbreak in late 2019. The quantitative method was employed, and a longitudinal research design was applied. Data were obtained from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). The least-squares test and autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) tests were performed to forecast infections, recoveries, and fatalities. The results of the predicted infections for the last five months of the year (August–December 2020) shows that the cases of infections will narrow down within the period. The need for policymakers to implement complete unlocking of the economy for speedy economic recovery was suggested, among others.
An Investigation of a Floor Treatment Plan for In-Pit Dumps with an Underlying Weak Layer
Authors: Jia Lan , Fang Linhao , Gao Shisong , Jiang Juyu , Xia Dong
Published: April 2023

To effectively manage the stability of in-pit dumps with an underlying weak layer, a new plan for the treatment of a staged floor during the life of a mine was proposed in this study. Based on direct shear test results, the shear properties of contact surfaces between the weak layer, dumped spoil, and mudstone were determined. Taking the Baiyinhua No.1 Open-pit Mine as an example, a direct shear test of the contact surface between the spoil and the mudstone determined its cohesion to be 25.78 kPa, and the internal friction angle was 17.58°. The cohesion of the contact surface between the spoil and the weak layer was 7.50 kPa, and the internal friction angle was 9.72°. Different floor treatment rates were subsequently determined based on discontinuous structural surface and limit equilibrium theories. The in-pit dump plan was divided into stages based on a 10-year mine plan; a “safety reserve coefficient” was used as the conditional factor to calculate the minimum floor treatment rate. The results of a numerical simulation analysis of the slope stability of the untreated and treated inner dumps showed good agreement with results obtained by the limit equilibrium method. The position and shape of the sliding surface were also found to be similar, indicating the validity of the established numerical simulation model and the reliability of the calculated results. Based on field application and economic effect analysis, it was found that this proposed method can minimize the floor treatment rate effectively while maintaining a sufficient factor of safety. The direct economic benefit of this method was approximately 1,694,259 dollars at the Baiyinhua No.1 Coal Mine. This method is of great significance to safe and efficient production, and can be widely applied.
Grape Maturity Estimation for Personalized Agrobot Harvest by Fuzzy Lattice Reasoning (FLR) on an Ontology of Constraints
Authors: Lytridis Chris , Siavalas George , Pachidis Theodore , Theocharis Serafeim , Moschou Eirini , Kaburlasos Vassilis G.
Published: April 2023

Sustainable agricultural production, under the current world population explosion, calls for agricultural robot operations that are personalized, i.e., locally adjusted, rather than en masse. This work proposes implementing such operations based on logic in order to ensure that a reasonable operation is applied locally. In particular, the interest here is in grape harvesting, where a binary decision has to be taken regarding the maturity of a grape in order to harvest it or not. A Boolean lattice ontology of inequalities is considered regarding three grape maturity indices. Then, the established fuzzy lattice reasoning (FLR) is applied by the FLRule method. Comparative experimental results on real-world data demonstrate a good maturity prediction. Other advantages of the proposed method include being parametrically tunable, as well as exhibiting explainable decision-making with either crisp or ambiguous input measurements. New mathematical results are also presented.
Spatial Differentiation of Multi-Airport Logistics in Four Urban Agglomerations in China
Authors: Shen Danyang , Li Xiudi , Zhao Haoran
Published: April 2023

A Multi-airport Logistics System (MLS) involves the logistics development of multiple airports in an urban agglomeration. Calculating spatial differentiation in MLS and examining its characteristics have theoretical and practical value. Based on MLS, we established an index system and applied the entropy-criteria importance through the intercriteria correlation weighting method to data from 2019 to evaluate the development and spatial differentiation of multi-airport logistics in four Chinese urban agglomerations in three dimensions: logistics resources, service chains, and market demand. The results showed the following: (1) The Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area showed logistics resource-type development. (2) Given its considerable market demand and service support, the Yangtze River Delta ranked first in the service-chain aspect. (3) The market-demand performance of the Chengdu–Chongqing Double Cities Economic Circle was poor. (4) Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei showed mediocre performance in all three aspects. Based on the findings, we make suggestions for MLS development in urban agglomerations for the purpose of achieving high-quality development and supporting China’s overall national transportation network.
Statistical and Mathematical Modeling for Predicting Caffeine Removal from Aqueous Media by Rice Husk-Derived Activated Carbon
Authors: Bahrami Mehdi , Amiri Mohammad Javad , Mahmoudi Mohammad Reza , Zare Anahita
Published: April 2023

One of the solutions to deal with water crisis problems is using agricultural residue capabilities as low-cost and the most abundant adsorbents for the elimination of pollutants from aqueous media. This research assessed the potential of activated carbon obtained from rice husk (RHAC) to eliminate caffeine from aqueous media. For this, the impact of diverse parameters, including initial caffeine concentration (C0), RHAC dosage (Cs), contact time (t), and solution pH, was considered on adsorption capacity. The maximum caffeine uptake capacity of 239.67 mg/g was obtained under the optimum conditions at an RHAC dose of 0.5 g, solution pH of 6, contact time of 120 min, and initial concentration of 80 mg/L. The best fit of adsorption process data on pseudo-first-order kinetics and Freundlich isotherm indicated the presence of heterogeneous and varying pores of the RHAC, multilayer adsorption, and adsorption at local sites without any interaction. Additionally, modeling the adsorption by using statistical and mathematical models, including classification and regression tree (CART), multiple linear regression (MLR), random forest regression (RFR), Bayesian multiple linear regression (BMLR), lasso regression (LR), and ridge regression (RR), revealed the greater impact of C0 and Cs in predicting adsorption capacity. Moreover, the RFR model performs better than other models due to the highest determination coefficient (R2 = 0.9517) and the slightest error (RMSE = 2.28).
Farmers’ Endowments, Technology Perception and Green Production Technology Adoption Behavior
Authors: Sui Yunlong , Gao Qiang
Published: April 2023

The motivation of this paper is to explore the influence of farmers’ endowments and technology perceptions on farmers’ green production technology adoption behaviors. Based on a survey of 471 grain farmers in the main grain-producing areas of Shandong Province, the Heckman model was used to empirically analyze the influence of farmers’ endowments on their adoption behavior of green production technologies, and the moderating effect of technology perception on the relationship between the two was further investigated. The study showed that: (1) More than half of the farmers adopted more than three green production technologies, and only 11.5% did not adopt them. In terms of adoption structure, the adoption rate of green pest control technology was the highest at 67.7%, while the adoption rate of moderate deep pine technology was the lowest at 32.7%. The adoption structure should be further optimized. (2) After controlling for sample selection bias, farmers’ endowments have a significant positive effect on farmers’ green production technology adoption behaviors. The ordinary least square regression overestimates the main effect of farmers’ endowments by 8.5% compared with the Heckman model. (3) Technology cognition can effectively promote the positive effect of farmers’ endowments on green production technology adoption, in which the moderating effect of technology–economic cognition is higher than that of technology–environmental cognition. (4) There is heterogeneity in the effects of farmers’ endowments and technology cognition on different adoption subjects and technology types. The above findings provide an in-depth explanation for activating the endogenous drivers of green agriculture development.
Accounting for Weather Variability in Farm Management Resource Allocation in Northern Ghana: An Integrated Modeling Approach
Authors: Adelesi Opeyemi Obafemi , Kim Yean-Uk , Webber Heidi , Zander Peter , Schuler Johannes , Hosseini-Yekani Seyed-Ali , MacCarthy Dilys Sefakor , Abdulai Alhassan Lansah , van der Wiel Karin , Traore Pierre C. Sibiry , Adiku Samuel Godfried Kwasi
Published: April 2023

Smallholder farmers in Northern Ghana face challenges due to weather variability and market volatility, hindering their ability to invest in sustainable intensification options. Modeling can help understand the relationships between productivity, environmental, and economical aspects, but few models have explored the effects of weather variability on crop management and resource allocation. This study introduces an integrated modeling approach to optimize resource allocation for smallholder mixed crop and livestock farming systems in Northern Ghana. The model combines a process-based crop model, farm simulation model, and annual optimization model. Crop model simulations are driven by a large ensemble of weather time series for two scenarios: good and bad weather. The model accounts for the effects of climate risks on farm management decisions, which can help in supporting investments in sustainable intensification practices, thereby bringing smallholder farmers out of poverty traps. The model was simulated for three different farm types represented in the region. The results suggest that farmers could increase their income by allocating more than 80% of their land to cash crops such as rice, groundnut, and soybeans. The optimized cropping patterns have an over 50% probability of increasing farm income, particularly under bad weather scenarios, compared with current cropping systems.
Forward Greedy Searching to κ-Reduct Based on Granular Ball
Authors: Song Minhui , Chen Jianjun , Song Jingjing , Xu Taihua , Fan Yan
Published: April 2023

As a key part of data preprocessing, namely attribute reduction, is effectively applied in the rough set field. The purpose of attribute reduction is to prevent too many attributes from affecting classifier operations and reduce the dimensionality of data space. Presently, in order to further improve the simplification performance of attribute reduction, numerous researchers have proposed a variety of methods. However, given the current findings, the challenges are: to reasonably compress the search space of candidate attributes; to fulfill multi-perspective evaluation; and to actualize attribute reduction based on guidance. In view of this, forward greedy searching to κ-reduct based on granular ball is proposed, which has the following advantages: (1) forming symmetrical granular balls to actualize the grouping of the universe; (2) continuously merging small universes to provide guidance for subsequent calculations; and (3) combining supervised and unsupervised perspectives to enrich the viewpoint of attribute evaluation and better improve the capability of attribute reduction. Finally, based on three classifiers, 16 UCI datasets are used to compare our proposed method with six advanced algorithms about attribute reduction and an algorithm without applying any attribute reduction algorithms. The experimental results indicate that our method can not only ensure the result of reduction has considerable performance in the classification test, but also improve the stability of attribute reduction to a certain degree.
Surfaces with Constant Negative Curvature
Authors: Nurkan Semra Kaya , Gürgil İbrahim
Published: April 2023

In this paper, we have considered surfaces with constant negative Gaussian curvature in the simply isotropic 3-Space by defined Sauer and Strubeckerr. Firstly, we have studied the isotropic II-flat, isotropic minimal and isotropic II-minimal, the constant second Gaussian curvature, and the constant mean curvature of surfaces with constant negative curvature (SCNC) in the simply isotropic 3-space. Surfaces with symmetry are obtained when the mean curvatures are equal. Further, we have investigated the constant Casorati, the tangential and the amalgamatic curvatures of SCNC.
Exploratory Students’ Behavior towards Massive Open Online Courses: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach
Authors: Almufarreh Ahmad , Arshad Muhammad
Published: April 2023

Since the evolution of massive online open courses (MOOCs) as an Ed-Tech solution to various educational problems, learners have registered themselves for various MOOCs offered by various universities and MOOC platforms. However, it has been observed that many learners who register need to complete the course and progress further. Thus, the present research aims to study the learners’ lack of continuance of MOOCs. The research is based upon a quantitative research design in which a conceptual model is developed and tested empirically by employing a survey questionnaire as a tool for data collection. The data was collected from 377 respondents who were university students from Saudi Arabia studying at Jazan University, and partial least square-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used as a tool for data analysis. The results of PLS-SEM show that learner continuance behavior depends on three elements: perceived career success, perceived training opportunity, and satisfaction with MOOCs. The results further show that content vividness, interactivity, and intellectual curiosity are antecedents of satisfaction with MOOCs. The present research has argued that user gratification will yield continuance with technology products. It argues that rational aspects such as career success and acquisition of tangible skills can also yield continuance with technology products and services.
A Novel Recognition by the E3 Ubiquitin Ligase of HSV-1 ICP0 Enhances the Degradation of PML Isoform I to Prevent ND10 Reformation in Late Infection
Authors: Jan Fada Behdokht , Guha Udayan , Zheng Yi , Reward Eleazar , Kaadi Elie , Dourra Ayette , Gu Haidong
Published: April 2023

Upon viral entry, components of ND10 nuclear bodies converge with incoming DNA to repress viral expression. The infected cell protein 0 (ICP0) of herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) contains a RING-type E3 ubiquitin ligase that targets the ND10 organizer, PML, for proteasomal degradation. Consequently, ND10 components are dispersed and viral genes are activated. Previously, we reported that ICP0 E3 differentiates two similar substrates, PML isoforms I and II, and demonstrated that SUMO-interaction has profound regulatory effects on PML II degradation. In the present study, we investigated elements that regulate the PML I degradation and found that: (i) two regions of ICP0 flanking the RING redundantly facilitate the degradation of PML I; (ii) downstream of the RING, the SUMO-interaction motif located at residues 362–364 (SIM362–364) targets the SUMOylated PML I in the same manner as that of PML II; (iii) upstream of the RING, the N-terminal residues 1–83 mediate PML I degradation regardless of its SUMOylation status or subcellular localization; (iv) the reposition of residues 1–83 to downstream of the RING does not affect its function in PML I degradation; and (v) the deletion of 1–83 allows the resurgence of PML I and reformation of ND10-like structures late in HSV-1 infection. Taken together, we identified a novel substrate recognition specific for PML I, by which ICP0 E3 enforces a continuous PML I degradation throughout the infection to prevent the ND10 reformation.
Phylogenetic Reconstructions Reveal the Circulation of a Novel Dengue Virus-1V Clade and the Persistence of a Dengue Virus-2 III Genotype in Northeast Brazil
Authors: Fritsch Hegger , Moreno Keldenn , Lima Italo Andrade Barbosa , Santos Cleiton Silva , Costa Bernardo Gratival Gouvea , de Almeida Breno Lima , dos Santos Ronald Alves , Francisco Marcos Vinicius Lima de Oliveira , Sampaio Maria Paula Souza , de Lima Maricelia Maia , Pereira Felicidade Mota , Fonseca Vagner , Tosta Stephane , Xavier Joilson , de Oliveira Carla , Adelino Talita , de Mello Arabela Leal e Silva , Gräf Tiago , Alcantara Luiz Carlos Junior , Giovanetti Marta , de Siqueira Isadora Cristina
Published: April 2023

Dengue fever is among the most significant public health concerns in Brazil. To date, the highest number of Dengue notifications in the Americas has been reported in Brazil, with cases accounting for a total number of 3,418,796 reported cases as of mid-December 2022. Furthermore, the northeastern region of Brazil registered the second-highest incidence of Dengue fever in 2022. Due to the alarming epidemiological scenario, in this study, we used a combination of portable whole-genome sequencing, phylodynamic, and epidemiological analyses to reveal a novel DENV-1 genotype V clade and the persistence of DENV-2 genotype III in the region. We further report the presence of non-synonymous mutations associated with non-structural domains, especially the NS2A (non-structural protein 2A), as well as describe synonymous mutations in envelope and membrane proteins, distributed differently between clades. However, the absence of clinical data at the time of collection and notification, as well as the impossibility of monitoring patients in order to observe worsening or death, restricts our possibility of correlating mutational findings with possible clinical prognoses. Together, these results reinforce the crucial role of genomic surveillance to follow the evolution of circulating DENV strains and understand their spread across the region through inter-regional importation events, likely mediated by human mobility, and also the possible impacts on public health and outbreak management.
Mpox Person-to-Person Transmission—Where Have We Got So Far? A Systematic Review
Authors: Pinto Pedro , Costa Miguel Alves , Gonçalves Micael F. M. , Rodrigues Acácio Gonçalves , Lisboa Carmen
Published: April 2023

The recent multi-country outbreak of Mpox (Monkeypox disease) constituted a public health emergency. Although animal-to-human transmission is known to be the primary way of transmission, an increasing number of cases transmitted by person-to-person contact have been reported. During the recent Mpox outbreak sexual or intimate contact has been considered the most important way of transmission. However, other routes of transmission must not be ignored. The knowledge of how the Monkeypox Virus (MPXV) spreads is crucial to implement adequate measures to contain the spread of the disease. Therefore, this systematic review aimed to collect scientific data published concerning other implicated sources of infection beyond sexual interaction, such as the involvement of respiratory particles, contact with contaminated surfaces and skin-to-skin contact. The current study was performed using the guidelines of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Publications analyzing contacts of Mpox index cases and their outcome after contact were included. A total of 7319 person-to-person contacts were surveyed and 273 of them became positive cases. Positive secondary transmission of MPXV was verified after contact with people cohabiting in the same household, with family members, with healthcare workers, or within healthcare facilities, and sexual contact or contact with contaminated surfaces. Using the same cup, sharing the same dishes, and sleeping in the same room or bed were also positively associated with transmission. Five studies showed no evidence of transmission despite contact with surfaces, skin-to-skin contact, or through airway particles within healthcare facilities where containment measures were taken. These records support the case for person-to-person transmission and suggest that other types of contact beyond sexual contact pose a significant risk of acquiring the infection. Further investigation is crucial to elucidate MPXV transmission dynamics, and to implement adequate measures to contain the spread of the infection.
Ebolavirus Species-Specific Interferon Antagonism Mediated by VP24
Authors: Ramanathan Palaniappan , Tigabu Bersabeh , Santos Rodrigo I. , Ilinykh Philipp A. , Kuzmina Natalia , Vogel Olivia A. , Thakur Naveen , Ahmed Hamza , Wu Chao , Amarasinghe Gaya K. , Basler Christopher F. , Bukreyev Alexander
Published: April 2023

Members of the Ebolavirus genus demonstrate a marked differences in pathogenicity in humans with Ebola (EBOV) being the most pathogenic, Bundibugyo (BDBV) less pathogenic, and Reston (RESTV) is not known to cause a disease in humans. The VP24 protein encoded by members of the Ebolavirus genus blocks type I interferon (IFN-I) signaling through interaction with host karyopherin alpha nuclear transporters, potentially contributing to virulence. Previously, we demonstrated that BDBV VP24 (bVP24) binds with lower affinities to karyopherin alpha proteins relative to EBOV VP24 (eVP24), and this correlated with a reduced inhibition in IFN-I signaling. We hypothesized that modification of eVP24-karyopherin alpha interface to make it similar to bVP24 would attenuate the ability to antagonize IFN-I response. We generated a panel of recombinant EBOVs containing single or combinations of point mutations in the eVP24-karyopherin alpha interface. Most of the viruses appeared to be attenuated in both IFN-I-competent 769-P and IFN-I-deficient Vero-E6 cells in the presence of IFNs. However, the R140A mutant grew at reduced levels even in the absence of IFNs in both cell lines, as well as in U3A STAT1 knockout cells. Both the R140A mutation and its combination with the N135A mutation greatly reduced the amounts of viral genomic RNA and mRNA suggesting that these mutations attenuate the virus in an IFN-I-independent attenuation. Additionally, we found that unlike eVP24, bVP24 does not inhibit interferon lambda 1 (IFN-λ1), interferon beta (IFN-β), and ISG15, which potentially explains the lower pathogenicity of BDBV relative to EBOV. Thus, the VP24 residues binding karyopherin alpha attenuates the virus by IFN-I-dependent and independent mechanisms.
A Recombinant Chimeric Cedar Virus-Based Surrogate Neutralization Assay Platform for Pathogenic Henipaviruses
Authors: Amaya Moushimi , Yin Randy , Yan Lianying , Borisevich Viktoriya , Adhikari Bishwo N. , Bennett Andrew , Malagon Francisco , Cer Regina Z. , Bishop-Lilly Kimberly A. , Dimitrov Antony S. , Cross Robert W. , Geisbert Thomas W. , Broder Christopher C.
Published: April 2023

The henipaviruses, Nipah virus (NiV), and Hendra virus (HeV) can cause fatal diseases in humans and animals, whereas Cedar virus is a nonpathogenic henipavirus. Here, using a recombinant Cedar virus (rCedV) reverse genetics platform, the fusion (F) and attachment (G) glycoprotein genes of rCedV were replaced with those of NiV-Bangladesh (NiV-B) or HeV, generating replication-competent chimeric viruses (rCedV-NiV-B and rCedV-HeV), both with and without green fluorescent protein (GFP) or luciferase protein genes. The rCedV chimeras induced a Type I interferon response and utilized only ephrin-B2 and ephrin-B3 as entry receptors compared to rCedV. The neutralizing potencies of well-characterized cross-reactive NiV/HeV F and G specific monoclonal antibodies against rCedV-NiV-B-GFP and rCedV-HeV-GFP highly correlated with measurements obtained using authentic NiV-B and HeV when tested in parallel by plaque reduction neutralization tests (PRNT). A rapid, high-throughput, and quantitative fluorescence reduction neutralization test (FRNT) using the GFP-encoding chimeras was established, and monoclonal antibody neutralization data derived by FRNT highly correlated with data derived by PRNT. The FRNT assay could also measure serum neutralization titers from henipavirus G glycoprotein immunized animals. These rCedV chimeras are an authentic henipavirus-based surrogate neutralization assay that is rapid, cost-effective, and can be utilized outside high containment.
Early Phase of Specific Cellular Immune Status Associates with HCV Infection Outcomes in Marmosets
Authors: Liu Bochao , Zhang Enhui , Ma Xiaorui , Luo Shengxue , Wang Chong , Zhang Ling , Wang Wenjing , Fu Yongshui , Allain Jean-Pierre , Li Chengyao , Li Tingting
Published: April 2023

The major mechanism for determination of HCV infection outcomes has not been fully described, particularly in the early phase of the “window-period” of infection. Based on two groups of marmosets infected with HCV-CE1E2p7/GBV-B chimeric virus (HCV chimera) or GBV-B, the immune mechanism correlating with the different outcomes of virus infections was explored in this study. HCV chimera containing the entire HCV core and envelope proteins (CE1E2p7) and GBV-B RNA were intrahepatically injected into four marmosets in each group, respectively. Blood samples were taken from individual animals in an interval of 2 weeks. Viral load and specific T cell responses were detected in two groups of HCV chimera- and GBV-B-infected marmosets. HCV chimera-infected marmosets appeared to have a virally persistent infection over 6 months post inoculation of the virus. Of these, the specific IFN-γ-secretion T cell response slowly developed over 13 to 19 weeks and was maintained at a relatively low level with 40–70 SFC/106 PBMCs, while the specific Treg cell response was rapidly activated over 3 weeks and was maintained at a high level around 5% among lymphocytes. In contrast, GBV-B-infected marmosets presented spontaneous viral clearance within 6 months; the specific IFN-γ-secretion T cell response was quickly established over 5 to 7 weeks and was maintained at a high level with 50–130 SFC/106 PBMCs, while the specific Treg cell response was inactivated and maintained at a baseline below 3% among lymphocytes. In conclusion, the HCV structural proteins inducing immune suppression in the early phase of HCV infection contributed to the viral persistence, of which the activation of Treg cells might play an important role in the inhibition of an effective T cell antiviral response.
Vaccine Confidence and Uptake of the Omicron Bivalent Booster in Tennessee: Implications for Vulnerable Populations
Authors: Alcendor Donald J. , Matthews-Juarez Patricia , Smoot Duane , Edwards Alexis , Hildreth James E. K. , Juarez Paul D.
Published: April 2023

The COVID-19 Omicron variant and its subvariants are now the dominant variants circulating in the US. Therefore, the original COVID-19 vaccine cannot offer full protection. Instead, vaccines that target the spike proteins of the Omicron variants are warranted. Hence, the FDA recommended the development of a bivalent booster. Unfortunately, despite the safety and immunogenicity of the Omicron bivalent boosters from Pfizer and Moderna, uptake in the US has been poor. At this time, only 15.8% of individuals in the US aged five and older have received the Omicron bivalent booster (OBB). The rate is 18% for those aged 18 and older. Poor vaccine confidence and booster uptake are often fueled by misinformation and vaccine fatigue. These result in more problems associated with vaccine hesitancy, which are particular prevalent in Southern states in the US. In Tennessee, the OBB vaccination rate for eligible recipients is only 5.88% at time of writing (16 February 2023). In this review, we discuss (1) the rationale for developing the OBBs; (2) the efficacy and safety of the bivalent boosters; (3) the adverse events associated with these boosters; (4) vaccine hesitancy associated with the OBBs uptake in Tennessee; (5) implications for vulnerable populations, disparities in uptake of OBBs in Tennessee, and strategies to improve vaccine confidence and OBB uptake. In support of public health, it is essential that we continue to provide education, awareness, and vaccine access to the vulnerable and medically underserved populations in Tennessee. Receiving the OBBs is the most effective method to date of protecting the public against severe COVID disease, hospitalization, and death.
The Psychology of COVID-19 Booster Hesitancy, Acceptance and Resistance in Australia
Authors: Kleitman Sabina , Fullerton Dayna J. , Law Marvin K. H. , Blanchard Matthew D. , Campbell Rachel , Tait Margaret-Ann , Schulz Jennifer , Lee Jihyun , Stankov Lazar , King Madeleine T.
Published: April 2023

COVID-19 booster vaccinations have been recommended as a primary line of defence against serious illness and hospitalisation. This study identifies and characterises distinct profiles of attitudes towards vaccination, particularly the willingness to get a booster dose. A sample of 582 adults from Australia completed an online survey capturing COVID-related behaviours, beliefs and attitudes and a range of sociodemographic, psychological, political, social and cultural variables. Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) identified three subgroups: Acceptant (61%), Hesitant (30%) and Resistant (9%). Compared to the Acceptant group, the Hesitant and Resistant groups were less worried about catching COVID-19, used fewer official COVID-19 information sources, checked the news less, were lower on the agreeableness personality dimension and reported more conservatism, persecutory thinking, amoral attitudes and need for chaos. The Hesitant group also reported checking the legitimacy of information sources less, scored lower on the openness to new experiences personality dimension and were more likely than the Resistant and Acceptant groups to report regaining freedoms (e.g., travel) and work requirements or external pressures as reasons to get a booster. The Resistant group were higher on reactance, held more conspiratorial beliefs and rated their culture as being less tolerant of deviance than the Hesitant and Acceptant groups. This research can inform tailored approaches to increasing booster uptake and optimal strategies for public health messaging.
Role of Healthcare Professionals and Sociodemographic Characteristics in COVID-19 Vaccination Acceptance among Uro-Oncology Patients: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study
Authors: Nikic Predrag , Stankovic Branko , Santric Veljko , Vukovic Ivan , Babic Uros , Radovanovic Milan , Bojanic Nebojsa , Acimovic Miodrag , Kovacevic Luka , Prijovic Nebojsa
Published: April 2023

At the time when mass COVID-19 vaccination began, providing appropriate vaccination advice to uro-oncology patients became a challenge. This was a single-center cross-sectional observational study aimed to investigate the rate of COVID-19 vaccination among uro-oncology patients receiving systemic therapy for metastatic renal cell carcinoma and metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. Furthermore, we aimed to assess patients’ attitudes and identify factors influencing their decision to vaccinate against COVID-19. Data on patients’ sociodemographic characteristics, vaccination status, and awareness and attitudes about COVID-19 vaccination were collected from questionnaires completed by the patients. A total of 173 patients were enrolled in this study, and 124 (71.7%) of them completed the COVID-19 vaccination. Significantly higher vaccination rates were found in male patients, and also in older patients, highly educated patients, and those who lived with one household member. Furthermore, we found significantly higher vaccination rates in patients who had consulted with doctors involved in their treatment, particularly with urologists. A significant association was observed between COVID-19 vaccination and doctor’s advice, family member influence, and personal beliefs toward the vaccination. Our study showed multiple associations of patients’ sociodemographic characteristics with vaccination rates. Furthermore, consultation with doctors who are particularly involved in oncology treatment and advice received from them were associated with significantly higher vaccination rates among uro-oncology patients.
Antimicrobial Use and Resistance in Animals from a One Health Perspective
Authors: Rhouma Mohamed , Archambault Marie , Butaye Patrick
Published: April 2023

Among the many global health issues, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one that exemplifies the One Health approach, defined as a joint effort in which multiple disciplines collaborate to provide solutions for human, animal, and environmental health [...]