bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metallurgical Wastes as Resources for Sustainability of the Steel Industry
Authors: Iluţiu-Varvara Dana-Adriana , Aciu Claudiu
Published: May 2022

The industrial pollution caused by metallurgical waste accumulation has a negative impact on the three environmental factors: soil, air and water. Therefore, the correct management of these wastes would lead to: protection of the environmental factors, the saving of natural resources and sustainability of the steel industry. The purpose of this paper is to assess the chemical and mineralogical compositions of metallurgical wastes landfilled in the Păgida slag dump (Alba County, Romania), for sustainability of the steel industry and metal conservation. The chemical compositions of the two waste samples were analyzed by the XRF (X-ray fluorescence) technique. According to the chemical characterization, magnesium oxide (MgO) has potential to be used as an additional and raw material in the cement industry. The presence of oxides such as CaO, SiO2 FeO and Al2O3 in the compositions of the metallurgical waste samples indicate that they have the potential for use as clinker materials in cement production. The iron and manganese contents from metallurgical wastes can be reused in the iron and steel industry. The presence of V2O5 and TiO2 is connected with the making of stainless steel, and for this reason they have the potential to be reused in the stainless steel industry. The predominant chemical compounds are SiO2, Fetotal, Cao and MgO. The mineralogical compositions were analyzed by the XRD (X-ray diffraction) technique. The mineralogical compounds presenting reuse potential in different domains are Fayalite, Magnetite, Magnesioferrite and Periclase. The mineralogical compounds from metallurgical wastes can be reused as: raw and/or additional materials in the process from which they originate (steelmaking); raw and/or additional materials in road construction and concrete production; pigments in paints; micronutrients in fertilizers; ore of iron, etc. Then, the theoretical assessments of the recovery potentials of the metals were estimated for slag dumps. Copper (Cu), vanadium (V), molybdenum (Mo) and nickel (Ni) have high recovery potential. The total economic value of the recovery potential of metals from slag dumps was assessed to be USD 1175.7440 million.
Social Media and the Pandemic: Consumption Habits of the Spanish Population before and during the COVID-19 Lockdown
Authors: Gudiño Diego , Fernández-Sánchez María Jesús , Becerra-Traver María Teresa , Sánchez Susana
Published: May 2022

The confinement of the Spanish population due to the COVID-19 pandemic triggered a change in patterns of electronic device usage, leading to an increase in internet traffic. This study sought to evaluate the use of social media by the Spanish population before and during the COVID-19 lockdown. An extensive ad hoc questionnaire was prepared and distributed to a total of 397 people of different ages from different Spanish provinces. The questionnaire was previously validated and was found to be reliable. The results showed that during the lockdown, the most frequently used social networks were WhatsApp and Facebook, although others, such as Telegram and TikTok, also experienced a significant increase in user registrations. There was also an increase in the number of hours spent per week using social media, especially Facebook, WhatsApp and YouTube, to share images, videos and audio messages, with a significant increase in document sharing and knowledge acquisition. The final section discusses some of the results and concludes by highlighting the importance of analyzing social behavior in times of crisis in order to design more effective and personalized communication strategies.
The Effect of High, Partial, and Low Multisensory Congruity between Light and Scent on Consumer Evaluations and Approach Behavior
Authors: Doucé Lieve
Published: May 2022

Ambient light is inherent in the store environment, making research on the interaction effects between light and other atmospheric cues crucial to understanding how the store environment can affect consumers. This study extends existing research on multisensory congruity effects between atmospheric cues by examining whether multiple sensory associations (i.e., warmth and brightness) of ambient cues (i.e., light and scent) must match to create positive effects on consumer evaluations and behavior or whether a match of only one sensory association is sufficient. Previous research operationalized multisensory congruity primarily via the match on one specific association; however, the results of our two studies show that matching ambient light and scent (compared to a mismatch between the stimuli or compared to only one ambient cue) only led to enhanced evaluations and approach behavior when these stimuli were matched on both their perceived association with a warm or cold temperature and with a dim or bright illuminance level. Our research supports the importance of perceiving the store environment holistically and suggests that the description and selection of an atmospheric cue to create positive congruity effects on consumer evaluations and behavior is quite complex.
About the New Methodology and XAI-Based Software Toolkit for Risk Assessment
Authors: Meskauskas Zygimantas , Kazanavicius Egidijus
Published: May 2022

There are different approaches in different areas of what the risk is. ISO 31000 risk management standards describe risk as the effect of uncertainty on objectives. Many existing risk assessment procedures are based on the assumption that risk is the amount of any damage or loss multiplied by the probability of an event that could cause the damage. We are proposing a new risk approach, based on Hillson’s positive risk philosophy, that risk is not just a threat but also a composition of new opportunities, efforts that need to be put in, and uncertainty. For this approach, we composed a risk formula and a methodology based on that formula. A prototypical software tool was developed, and an experiment was performed using this tool to evaluate the risk of several interconnected projects and validate the developed risk assessment methodology. It should be mentioned that, in the methodology, the decision-making process is performed traceably; therefore, it can be stated that it has explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) traits.
Characteristics of Cyclist Crashes Using Polytomous Latent Class Analysis and Bias-Reduced Logistic Regression
Authors: Sekiguchi Yuta , Tanishita Masayoshi , Sunaga Daisuke
Published: May 2022

Although the number of cyclist crashes is decreasing in Japan, the fatality rate is not. Thus, reducing their severity is a major challenge. We used a polytomous latent class analysis to understand their characteristics and bias-reduced logistic regression to analyze their severity. Specifically, 90,696 combinations and 139,955 cyclist accidents were divided into 17 classes. The variable contributing the most to the classification was the crash location. Common fatality risks included older age groups and rural areas, whereas other factors differed among crash locations. Median strips, stop signs, and boundaries between the sidewalk and roadway affected the severity of crashes at intersections. Moreover, the existence of a median strip, collision partner, and time period affected the severity of crashes between intersections. On the sidewalks, the fatality risk was higher when the front part of the bicycle was subjected to the collision.
On the Use of Radar and Optical Satellite Imagery for the Monitoring of Flood Hazards on Heritage Sites in Southern Sinai, Egypt
Authors: Attia Wael , Ragab Dina , Abdel-Hamid Atef M. , Marghani Aly M. , Elfadaly Abdelaziz , Lasaponara Rosa
Published: May 2022

This study focuses on the use of radar and optical satellite imagery for flood hazard mapping and monitoring around the archaeological sites of the Wadi Baba area, situated at Sinai (Egypt) and well known for its heritage treasures belonging to diverse historical periods and civilizations from the Pharaonic, Nabateans, Christian, and Islamic eras. Although this area is located in an arid to semi-arid climatic region, it is intermittently flooded due to torrential rainstorms. To assess the amount of rainfall expected and its impacts on heritage sites, satellite Sentinel-1 (C-Band) and Tropical Rainfall Monitoring Mission (TRMM) data were jointly used with measurements from meteorological stations and the Digital Elevation Model (DEM) from Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM). Envi5.1, ArcGIS 10.4.1, Snap 6.0, and the GEE platform were used to process optical and radar data, which were further analysed using the ArcHydro model. In this study, the TRMM accumulated rainfall data acquired on 17 January 2010, Sentinel-1 radar images between 2017 and 2019, and Sentinel-1 data captured from 1 to 30 March 2020 processed by GEE platform were chosen to assess the effects of flood events on the archaeological sites in the study area. The results indicated that the study area is exposed to flood risk that significantly threatens these heritage sites. Based on that, mitigation strategies were devised and recommended to mitigate the flood hazard impact around the archaeological areas.
Evaluation of Water Level in Flowing Channels Using Ultrasonic Sensors
Authors: Pereira Tatiane Souza Rodrigues , de Carvalho Thiago Pires , Mendes Thiago Augusto , Formiga Klebber Teodomiro Martins
Published: May 2022

Monitoring flow in channels is difficult, expensive, and potentially dangerous; hence, alternatives minimizing these factors are sought and indirect methods to measure the flow based on water-level information, among others, are employed. Ultrasonic sensors along with Arduino are widely used to monitor levels in reservoirs; however, the accuracy of this method in turbulent flow regimes has not been evaluated. Therefore, in this study, we evaluated the level of open channel flows using a combination of Arduino and ultrasonic sensors whilst considering turbulence. Additionally, we statistically compared the simultaneous measurements of levels obtained using five ultrasonic sensors with those of five rulers filmed individually along an artificial channel, for four permanent and two transient regimes. The results showed that the errors in measurements increased with increasing turbulence. These errors were within the range of hydraulic measurements (<0.020 m), indicating that the procedure is valid for experienced conditions. Therefore, the combination of Arduino and ultrasonic sensors is a technically and economically viable alternative. However, calibrating and validating the sensors for distances greater than 0.400 m should be performed with care because the bench tests performed in static conditions were limitedly accurate in measuring distances greater than 0.200 m.
Exploring Current Status and Evolutionary Trends on the Paid Use of State-Owned Forest Resources in China: A Bibliometric Perspective
Authors: Wei Xue , Liang Chen , Chen Wenhui
Published: May 2022

State-owned forest resources occupy an important position in China, and the development of their paid use will help to improve the economic benefits of these resources. For this study, 451 journal documents involving the paid use of state-owned forest resources in the CNKI database of China from 2008 to 2021 were selected as samples. Combining qualitative reviews with quantitative analysis, statistical analysis software was used as an analytical tool. The knowledge maps can be visualized by cluster analysis, multidimensional scaling (MDS), and co-occurrence network analysis. The change laws of this research in the time dimension were obtained using developing trend analysis. The results are as follows: 1. The number of research documents on the paid use of state-owned forest resources is increasing. 2. The core authors account for 29.27%; the research impact is relatively scattered. 3. Research institutions are primarily colleges and universities. 4. The support of provincially funded projects accounts for the highest proportion. 5. There is a relatively stable number of journals in this research field. Forestry Economy, Green Science and Technology and China Forestry Economy are the top three journals in terms of citation impact. 6. The existing research topics mainly focus on the development status of paid use, forest tourism and forest health, and the under-forestry economy (under-forestry planting, breeding, and product processing). 7. The intermediary centralities of state-owned forest farms and under-forestry economy are the highest, followed by forest tourism and forest experience, etc. With time and the promulgation of policies, the research focus in this field has gradually shifted from forest assets and forestry economics to ecotourism and forest health, and research on forest carbon sequestration is a technical branch worthy of attention in the future.
ORC Technology Based on Advanced Li-Br Absorption Refrigerator with Solar Collectors and a Contact Heat Exchanger for Greenhouse Gas Capture
Authors: Osintsev Konstantin , Aliukov Sergei
Published: May 2022

Agricultural and agro-processing production facilities, storage warehouses and logistics centers for the distribution of products require an increase in the efficiency of generation and energy consumption. The authors suggested using ORC technology based on an advanced Li-Br absorption refrigerator with solar collectors and a contact heat exchanger for greenhouse gas capture. The work was devoted to the option of intensifying heat exchange processes in convective chimneys, which will reduce the consumption of natural gas, increase the share of using unconventional and circulating energy resources and reduce the amount of harmful emissions into the atmosphere. The authors showed that the development and application of the technology of energy-technological combination of existing power systems on organic fuel and environmentally friendly “green” technologies for the utilization of the heat of condensation of water vapor of exhaust gases at a certain partial pressure are becoming relevant. The results of the study can also be used to increase the productivity of gas-piston and gas-turbine mini-CHP (combined heat and power) plants and boiler houses of agricultural enterprises. In this article, it is proposed to increase the energy characteristics of steam and hot water boilers while simultaneously improving the environmental situation in agricultural complexes by reducing greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere. Most of the triatomic vapors go into the environment, and the disposal of these gases is a complex procedure. In order to increase efficiency, a research methodology was developed, and an analysis of the flue gas cooling method was carried out. The methodology for assessing the possibility of using a flue gas utilization system, in particular contact heat exchangers, Li-Br absorption refrigerating machines, heat pumps and the organic Rankine cycle, in agricultural systems with high energy consumption, as well as at low-power mini-CHP plants, is presented for the first time. This technique is interesting because it can be integrated into the exergoeconomical analysis of the efficiency of using the heat of the soil and groundwater as an energy source.
Approximate Solution of Nonlinear Time-Fractional Klein-Gordon Equations Using Yang Transform
Authors: Liu Jinxing , Nadeem Muhammad , Habib Mustafa , Akgül Ali
Published: May 2022

The algebras of the symmetry operators for the Klein–Gordon equation are important for a charged test particle, moving in an external electromagnetic field in a space time manifold on the isotropic hydrosulphate. In this paper, we develop an analytical and numerical approach for providing the solution to a class of linear and nonlinear fractional Klein–Gordon equations arising in classical relativistic and quantum mechanics. We study the Yang homotopy perturbation transform method (YHPTM), which is associated with the Yang transform (YT) and the homotopy perturbation method (HPM), where the fractional derivative is taken in a Caputo–Fabrizio (CF) sense. This technique provides the solution very accurately and efficiently in the form of a series with easily computable coefficients. The behavior of the approximate series solution for different fractional-order ℘ values has been shown graphically. Our numerical investigations indicate that YHPTM is a simple and powerful mathematical tool to deal with the complexity of such problems.
Comparison of 3D Printout Quality from FDM and MSLA Technology in Unit Production
Authors: Orzeł Bartosz , Stecuła Kinga
Published: May 2022

The paper presents research on the comparison of printouts from two different additive technologies: FDM and MSLA. Two printers were from the same producer. The paper describes the successive steps of the research and the final results. The study was carried out to determine the strengths and weaknesses of the FDM and MSLA technologies, as well as their suitability for use in unit and hobby production. The research consists of the following steps: conceptualization and design of 3D models (in Autodesk Fusion 360 2.0.12670 software), development of the survey questionnaire, expert selection, setting the printing parameters for two printers, printing process, evaluation of the printouts, and finally calculating and analyzing surveys results. The authors designed eight models; therefore, they get sixteen printouts that were the subject of comparison for experts. All cube-based models were symmetric about point, axis, and plane. The research included ten experts who were chosen on the basis of specific criteria. The research was referring to unit production. The symmetrical layout of each model on the 3D printer worktable was to verify the operation of the nozzle of this machine in relation to all axes. Moreover, the symmetry of the models made it possible to check the quality of the printouts on each side in three planes. The sum of all collected data from the surveys was 2400.
A Matheuristic Approach for the No-Wait Flowshop Scheduling Problem with Makespan Criterion
Authors: Gao Yu , Wang Ziyue , Gao Liang , Li Xinyu
Published: May 2022

The No-wait Flowshop Scheduling Problem (NWFSP) has always been a research hotspot because of its importance in various industries. This paper uses a matheuristic approach that combines exact and heuristic algorithms to solve it with the objective to minimize the makespan. Firstly, according to the symmetry characteristics in NWFSP, a local search method is designed, where the first job and the last job in the symmetrical position remain unchanged, and then, a three-level neighborhood division method and the corresponding rapid evaluation method at each level are given. The two proposed heuristic algorithms are built on them, which can effectively avoid al-ready searched areas, so as to quickly obtain the local optimal solutions, and even directly obtain the optimal solutions for small-scale instances. Secondly, using the equivalence of this problem and the Asymmetric Traveling Salesman Problem (ATSP), an exact method for solving NWFSP is constructed. Importing the results of the heuristics into the model, the efficiency of the Mil-ler-Tucker-Zemlin (MTZ) model for solving small-scale NWFSP can be improved. Thirdly, the matheuristic algorithm is used to test 141 instances of the Tailard and Reeves benchmarks, and each optimal solution can be obtained within 134 s, which verifies the stability and effectiveness of the algorithm.
Continuous Limit, Rational Solutions, and Asymptotic State Analysis for the Generalized Toda Lattice Equation Associated with 3 × 3 Lax Pair
Authors: Liu Xue-Ke , Wen Xiao-Yong
Published: May 2022

Discrete integrable nonlinear differential difference equations (NDDEs) have various mathematical structures and properties, such as Lax pair, infinitely many conservation laws, Hamiltonian structure, and different kinds of symmetries, including Lie point symmetry, generalized Lie bäcklund symmetry, and master symmetry. Symmetry is one of the very effective methods used to study the exact solutions and integrability of NDDEs. The Toda lattice equation is a famous example of NDDEs, which may be used to simulate the motions of particles in lattices. In this paper, we investigated the generalized Toda lattice equation related to 3×3 matrix linear spectral problem. This discrete equation is related to continuous linear and nonlinear partial differential equations under the continuous limit. Based on the known 3×3 Lax pair of this equation, the discrete generalized (m,3N−m)-fold Darboux transformation was constructed for the first time and extended from the 2×2 Lax pair to the 3×3 Lax pair to give its rational solutions. Furthermore, the limit states of such rational solutions are discussed via the asymptotic analysis technique. Finally, the exponential–rational mixed solutions of the generalized Toda lattice equation are obtained in the form of determinants.
On Sandwich-Type Results for a Subclass of Certain Univalent Functions Using a New Hadamard Product Operator
Authors: Sabri Mustafa A. , Atshan Waggas Galib , El-Seidy Essam
Published: May 2022

This paper is concerned with studying some results by introducing a new Hadamard product Mγ,b,v,δC,η operator for differential subordination and superordination for certain univalent functions in the open unit disc U. Firstly, we state some basic definitions and required theorems. Furthermore. Some sandwich theorems are derived. The differential subordination theory’s features and outcomes are symmetric to those derived using the differential superordination theory.
Post-Translational Modifications of Histones Are Versatile Regulators of Fungal Development and Secondary Metabolism
Authors: Etier Aurelie , Dumetz Fabien , Chéreau Sylvain , Ponts Nadia
Published: May 2022

Chromatin structure is a major regulator of DNA-associated processes, such as transcription, DNA repair, and replication. Histone post-translational modifications, or PTMs, play a key role on chromatin dynamics. PTMs are involved in a wide range of biological processes in eukaryotes, including fungal species. Their deposition/removal and their underlying functions have been extensively investigated in yeasts but much less in other fungi. Nonetheless, the major role of histone PTMs in regulating primary and secondary metabolisms of filamentous fungi, including human and plant pathogens, has been pinpointed. In this review, an overview of major identified PTMs and their respective functions in fungi is provided, with a focus on filamentous fungi when knowledge is available. To date, most of these studies investigated histone acetylations and methylations, but the development of new methodologies and technologies increasingly allows the wider exploration of other PTMs, such as phosphorylation, ubiquitylation, sumoylation, and acylation. Considering the increasing number of known PTMs and the full range of their possible interactions, investigations of the subsequent Histone Code, i.e., the biological consequence of the combinatorial language of all histone PTMs, from a functional point of view, are exponentially complex. Better knowledge about histone PTMs would make it possible to efficiently fight plant or human contamination, avoid the production of toxic secondary metabolites, or optimize the industrial biosynthesis of certain beneficial compounds.
Botulinum Toxin Injection for the Treatment of Upper Esophageal Sphincter Dysfunction
Authors: Wei Pengxu
Published: May 2022

Dysphagia associated with upper esophageal sphincter (UES) dysfunction remarkably affects the quality of life of patients. UES injection of botulinum toxin is an effective treatment for dysphagia. In comparison with skeletal muscles of the limb and trunk, the UES is a special therapeutic target of botulinum toxin injection, owing to its several anatomical, physiological, and pathophysiological features. This review focuses on (1) the anatomy and function of the UES and the pathophysiology of UES dysfunction in dysphagia and why the entire UES rather than the cricopharyngeal muscle before/during botulinum toxin injection should be examined and targeted; (2) the therapeutic mechanisms of botulinum toxin for UES dysfunction, including the choice of injection sites, dose, and volume; (3) the strengths and weaknesses of guiding techniques, including electromyography, ultrasound, computed tomography, and balloon catheter dilation for botulinum toxin injection of the UES.
Evaluation of Toxicant-Associated Fatty Liver Disease and Liver Neoplastic Progress in Sprague-Dawley Rats Treated with Low Doses of Aflatoxin B1 Alone or in Combination with Extremely Low Frequency Electromagnetic Fields
Authors: Vornoli Andrea , Tibaldi Eva , Gnudi Federica , Sgargi Daria , Manservisi Fabiana , Belpoggi Fiorella , Tovoli Francesco , Mandrioli Daniele
Published: May 2022

The term toxicant-associated fatty liver disease (TAFLD) has been proposed to describe fatty liver diseases connected to toxicants other than alcohol. Aflatoxins are mycotoxins commonly found as contaminants in foods and feeds, which are known liver toxicants and potential candidates as potential causes of TAFLD. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) was administered at low doses to Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, alone or in combination with S-50 Hz an extremely low frequency electromagnetic field (ELFEMF), to study the evolution of TAFLD, preneoplastic and neoplastic lesions of the liver and the potential enhancing effect of lifespan exposure to ELFEMF. Steatosis, inflammation and foci of different types were significantly increased in both aflatoxin-treated males and females, which is consistent with a pattern of TAFLD. A significant increase in adenomas, cystic dilation of biliary ducts, hepatocellular hyperplasia and hypertrophy and oval cell hyperplasia were also observed in treated females only. The administration of low doses of AFB1 caused TAFLD in SD rats, inducing liver lesions encompassing fatty infiltration, foci of different types and adenomas. Furthermore, the pattern of change observed in preneoplastic liver lesions often included liver steatosis and steatohepatitis (TASH). ELFEMF did not result in any enhancing or toxic effect in the liver of SD rats.
The Toxicity of Eichhornia crassipes Fractionated Extracts against Aphis craccivora and Its Safety in Albino Rats
Authors: Abdelkhalek Sara Taha , Abdelgayed Sherein Saied , Jiang Hong , Wang Man-Qun
Published: May 2022

Eichhornia crassipes were evaluated in order to investigate the insecticidal activity towards Aphis craccivora adults. The LC50 values were promising and reflected the bio-efficacy of the tested extracts (39 and 42 mg/L), respectively, and reduced the fecundity markedly. Using GC/MS analysis, the major components were n-hexadecanoic, linolenic, hexadecenoic, myristic, stearic acids, linolelaidic acid, methyl ester and some terpenoids, alkaloids, and hydrocarbons. A safety assessment of non-target organisms is essential for the development of new pesticides. In order to guide the rational use of the most potential insecticidal extracts AcF and EtF, the effect of these extracts on body weight, hematological indices, biochemical indicators, and histopathology of some relevant organs of albino rats (as a model for mammals) was investigated. The research outcomes revealed that the LC50 of AcF and EtF extracts had gradually raised body weight for 14 days (p > 0.05). Similarly, there were no remarkable alternations in the complete blood count (CBC); only a slight decrease in the monocytes count (612 ± 159.80 × 103 µL) in the EtF-treated group. There was a notable increase in alanine transferase (ALT) activity (36.73 ± 1.44 IU/L) in the AcF-treated group. No destructive changes were noted with the remaining biochemical parameters. Cholesterol and triglycerides non-significantly increased in the EtF group, whereas, cholesterol levels decreased significantly in the AcF group. In addition, histopathological examination reflected minor changes in AcF and EtF groups in the form of mild inflammation in the lungs and mild vacuolar degeneration in the kidneys, while no lesions were detected in the heart and liver in the same groups. Thus, the present research suggested that AcF and EtF extracts of E. crassipes are safe green insecticides for insect control strategies.
Virome of Ixodes ricinus, Dermacentor reticulatus, and Haemaphysalis concinna Ticks from Croatia
Authors: Sameroff Stephen , Tokarz Rafal , Vucelja Marko , Jain Komal , Oleynik Alexandra , Boljfetić Marko , Bjedov Linda , Yates Rachel A. , Margaletić Josip , Oura Christopher A. L. , Lipkin Walter Ian , Cvetko Krajinović Lidija , Markotić Alemka
Published: May 2022

Tick-borne diseases are a serious threat to both public and veterinary health. In this study, we used high-throughput sequencing to characterize the virome of three tick species implicated in the spread of vector-borne disease throughout Croatia. Ten viruses were identified, including seven potential novel species within the viral families Flaviviridae, Nyamiviridae, Rhabdoviridae, Peribunyaviridae, Phenuiviridae, and Nairoviridae.
Epidemiological Features of COVID-19 in Northwest Russia in 2021
Authors: Gladkikh Anna , Dedkov Vladimir , Sharova Alena , Klyuchnikova Ekaterina , Sbarzaglia Valeriya , Kanaeva Olga , Arbuzova Tatyana , Tsyganova Nadezhda , Popova Anna , Ramsay Edward , Totolian Areg
Published: May 2022

Appearing in Wuhan (China) and quickly spreading across the globe, the novel coronavirus infection quickly became a significant threat to global health. The year 2021 was characterized by both increases and decreases in COVID-19 incidence, and Russia was no exception. In this work, we describe regional features in the Northwestern federal district (FD) of Russia of the pandemic in 2021 based on Rospotrebnadzor statistics and data from SARS-CoV-2 genetic monitoring provided by the Saint Petersburg Pasteur Institute as a part of epidemiological surveillance. The epidemiological situation in the studied region was complicated by the presence of the megacity Saint Petersburg, featuring a high population density and its status as an international transport hub. COVID-19 incidence in the Northwestern FD fluctuated throughout the year, with two characteristic maxima in January and November. An analysis of fluctuations in the age structure, severity of morbidity, mortality rates, and the level of population vaccination in the region during the year is given. Assessment of epidemiological indicators was carried out in relation to changes in locally circulating genetic variants. It was seen that, during 2021, so-called variants of concern (VOC) circulated in the region (Alpha, Beta, Delta, Omicron), with Delta variant strains dominating from June to December. They successively replaced the variants of lines 20A and 20B circulating at the beginning of the year. An epidemiological feature of the northwestern region is the AT.1 variant, which was identified for the first time and later spread throughout the region and beyond its borders. Its share of the regional viral population reached 28.2% in May, and sporadic cases were observed until September. It has been shown that genetic variants of AT.1 lineages distributed in Russia and Northern Europe represent a single phylogenetic group at the base of the 20B branch on the global phylogenetic tree of SARS-CoV-2 strains. The progression of the COVID-19 pandemic occurred against the background of a vaccination campaign. The findings highlight the impact of vaccination on lowering severe COVID-19 case numbers and the mortality rate, despite ongoing changes in circulating SARS-CoV-2 genetic variants.
A Short Series of Case Reports of COVID-19 in Immunocompromised Patients
Authors: Mishra Mitali , Zahra Aleena , Chauhan Lokendra V. , Thakkar Riddhi , Ng James , Joshi Shreyas , Spitzer Eric D. , Marcos Luis A. , Lipkin W. Ian , Mishra Nischay
Published: May 2022

Immunocompromised individuals are at risk of prolonged SARS-CoV-2 infection due to weaker immunity, co-morbidities, and lowered vaccine effectiveness, which may evolve highly mutated variants of SARS-CoV-2. Nonetheless, limited data are available on the immune responses elicited by SARS-CoV-2 infection, reinfections, and vaccinations with emerging variants in immunocompromised patients. We analyzed clinical samples that were opportunistically collected from eight immunocompromised individuals for mutations in SARS-CoV-2 genomes, neutralizing antibody (NAb) titers against different SARS-CoV-2 variants, and the identification of immunoreactive epitopes using a high-throughput coronavirus peptide array. The viral genome analysis revealed two SARS-CoV-2 variants (20A from a deceased patient and an Alpha variant from a recovered patient) with an eight amino-acid (aa) deletion within the N-terminal domain (NTD) of the surface glycoprotein. A higher NAb titer was present against the prototypic USA/WA1/2020 strain in vaccinated immunocompromised patients. NAb titer was absent against the Omicron variant and the cultured virus of the 20A variant with eight aa deletions in non-vaccinated patients. Our data suggest that fatal SARS-CoV-2 infections may occur in immunocompromised individuals even with high titers of NAb post-vaccination. Moreover, persistent SARS-CoV-2 infection may lead to the emergence of newer variants with additional mutations favoring the survival and fitness of the pathogen that include deletions in NAb binding sites in the SARS-CoV-2 surface glycoprotein.
Calicivirus Infection in Cats
Authors: Hofmann-Lehmann Regina , Hosie Margaret J. , Hartmann Katrin , Egberink Herman , Truyen Uwe , Tasker Séverine , Belák Sándor , Boucraut-Baralon Corine , Frymus Tadeusz , Lloret Albert , Marsilio Fulvio , Pennisi Maria Grazia , Addie Diane D. , Lutz Hans , Thiry Etienne , Radford Alan D. , Möstl Karin
Published: May 2022

Feline calicivirus (FCV) is a common pathogen in domestic cats that is highly contagious, resistant to many disinfectants and demonstrates a high genetic variability. FCV infection can lead to serious or even fatal diseases. In this review, the European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases (ABCD), a scientifically independent board of experts in feline medicine from 11 European countries, presents the current knowledge of FCV infection and fills gaps with expert opinions. FCV infections are particularly problematic in multicat environments. FCV-infected cats often show painful erosions in the mouth and mild upper respiratory disease and, particularly in kittens, even fatal pneumonia. However, infection can be associated with chronic gingivostomatitis. Rarely, highly virulent FCV variants can induce severe systemic disease with epizootic spread and high mortality. FCV can best be detected by reverse-transcriptase PCR. However, a negative result does not rule out FCV infection and healthy cats can test positive. All cats should be vaccinated against FCV (core vaccine); however, vaccination protects cats from disease but not from infection. Considering the high variability of FCV, changing to different vaccine strain(s) may be of benefit if disease occurs in fully vaccinated cats. Infection-induced immunity is not life-long and does not protect against all strains; therefore, vaccination of cats that have recovered from caliciviral disease is recommended.
Changes in Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG Subclasses over Time and in Association with Disease Severity
Authors: Korobova Zoia R. , Zueva Elena V. , Arsentieva Natalia A. , Batsunov Oleg K. , Liubimova Natalia E. , Khamitova Irina V. , Kuznetsova Raisa N. , Rubinstein Artem A. , Savin Tikhon V. , Stanevich Oksana V. , Kulikov Alexandr N. , Pevtsov Dmitry E. , Totolian Areg A.
Published: May 2022

IgG is the most prominent marker of post-COVID-19 immunity. Not only does this subtype mark the late stages of infection, but it also stays in the body for a timespan of at least 6 months. However, different IgG subclasses have different properties, and their roles in specific anti-COVID-19 responses have yet to be determined. We assessed the concentrations of IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, and IgG4 against different SARS-CoV-2 antigens (N protein, S protein RBD) using a specifically designed method and samples from 348 COVID-19 patients. We noted a statistically significant association between severity of COVID-19 infection and IgG concentrations (both total and subclasses). When assessing anti-N protein and anti-RBD IgG subclasses, we noted the importance of IgG3 as a subclass. Since it is often associated with early antiviral response, we presumed that the IgG3 subclass is the first high-affinity IgG antibody to be produced during COVID-19 infection.
Can Virus-like Particles Be Used as Synergistic Agent in Pest Management?
Authors: Deshayes Caroline , Gosselin-Grenet Anne-Sophie , Ogliastro Mylène , Lapied Bruno , Apaire-Marchais Véronique
Published: May 2022

Among novel strategies proposed in pest management, synergistic agents are used to improve insecticide efficacy through an elevation of intracellular calcium concentration that activates the calcium-dependent intracellular pathway. This leads to a changed target site conformation and to increased sensitivity to insecticides while reducing their concentrations. Because virus-like particles (VLPs) increase the intracellular calcium concentration, they can be used as a synergistic agent to synergize the effect of insecticides. VLPs are self-assembled viral protein complexes, and by contrast to entomopathogen viruses, they are devoid of genetic material, which makes them non-infectious and safer than viruses. Although VLPs are well-known to be used in human health, we propose in this study the development of a promising strategy based on the use of VLPs as synergistic agents in pest management. This will lead to increased insecticides efficacy while reducing their concentrations.
Comparison of Six Serological Immunoassays for the Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Neutralizing Antibody Levels in the Vaccinated Population
Authors: Lee Hee-Jung , Jung Jin , Lee Ji Hyun , Lee Dong-Gun , Kim Young Bong , Oh Eun-Jee
Published: May 2022

Neutralizing antibody (NAb) detection is critical for evaluating herd immunity and monitoring the efficacy of vaccines against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). In this study, quantitative SARS-CoV-2 antibody levels after vaccination were measured by chemiluminescent immunoassays, enzyme immunoassays, and surrogate virus neutralization tests (sVNTs), as well as plaque reduction neutralization tests (PRNT). Sequential blood samples were collected before and 1 and 3 months after vaccination in 30 healthy participants (two doses of Oxford-AstraZeneca [AZ] or Pfizer-BioNTech [BNT]). After vaccination, all sera tested positive for PRNT, with NAb titers ranging from 1:10 to 1:723. Median NAb titers were higher in the BNT vaccine group than in the AZ vaccine group at both one and three months post-vaccination. Excellent overall concordance rates were observed between serological assays and PRNT. In a quantitative correlation analysis, the results of sVNTs showed a strong correlation with those of PRNT. Results of the four binding antibody assays showed a significant correlation with those of PRNT. The serologic assays evaluated in this study could be used as sVNTs to evaluate the efficacy of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines.
Beta HPV Deregulates Double-Strand Break Repair
Authors: Hu Changkun , Wallace Nicholas
Published: May 2022

Beta human papillomavirus (beta HPV) infections are common in adults. Certain types of beta HPVs are associated with nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) in immunocompromised individuals. However, whether beta HPV infections promote NMSC in the immunocompetent population is unclear. They have been hypothesized to increase genomic instability stemming from ultraviolet light exposure by disrupting DNA damage responses. Implicit in this hypothesis is that the virus encodes one or more proteins that impair DNA repair signaling. Fluorescence-based reporters, next-generation sequencing, and animal models have been used to test this primarily in cells expressing beta HPV E6/E7. Of the two, beta HPV E6 appears to have the greatest ability to increase UV mutagenesis, by attenuating two major double-strand break (DSB) repair pathways, homologous recombination, and non-homologous end-joining. Here, we review this dysregulation of DSB repair and emerging approaches that can be used to further these efforts.
Andrias davidianus Ranavirus (ADRV) Genome Replicate Efficiently by Engaging Cellular Mismatch Repair Protein MSH2
Authors: Ke Fei , Wang Renbao , Wang Zihao , Zhang Qiya
Published: May 2022

As nucleocytoplasmic large DNA viruses, replication of ranaviruses (genus Ranavirus, family Iridoviridae) involves a series of viral and host proteins. We have described that the replication and transcription machinery of Andrias davidianus ranavirus (ADRV) which was isolated from the Chinese giant salamander contained host factors. Here, a new host factor, the MutS homolog 2 (MSH2), was proved as an important protein that participated in ADRV infection. Expression of MSH2 was stable during ADRV infection in cultured cells and it localized at the cytoplasmic viral factories and colocalized with virus nascent DNA, indicating its possible role in virus genome replication. Investigation of the viral proteins that interacted with MSH2 by co-immunoprecipitation showed that A. davidianus MSH2 can interact with ADRV-35L (possible components associated with virus transcription), ADRV-47L (virus DNA polymerase), and ADRV-98R. Further knockdown MSH2 expression by RNAi significantly reduced the late gene expression of ADRV. Additionally, MSH2 knockout by CRISPR/Cas9 significantly reduced viral titers, genome replication, and late gene transcription of ADRV. Thus, the current study proved that ADRV can engage cellular MSH2 for its efficient genome replication and late gene transcription, which provided new information for understanding the roles of host factors in ranavirus replication and transcription.
Pseudorabies Virus ICP0 Abolishes Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha-Induced NF-κB Activation by Degrading P65
Authors: Zhang Xiangbo , Xie Jingying , Gao Ming , Yan Zhenfang , Chen Lei , Wei Suocheng , Feng Ruofei
Published: May 2022

Nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) is involved in a wide range of innate immune activities in host cells and serves as an important component of a host’s immunity system. To survive in infected cells, viruses have evolved intricate strategies to evade the host immune response. Pseudorabies virus (PRV) is a member of the alpha herpesvirus family and is capable of causing reproductive and neurological dysfunction in pigs. PRV has a large DNA genome and therefore has the ability to encode numerous proteins that modulate host innate immune responses. In the present study, we demonstrated that the PRV-encoded immediate early protein ICP0 inhibits the tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α)-mediated NF-κB signaling pathway. An in-depth study showed that ICP0 protein was able to limit NF-κB activation and decreased the expression of inflammatory cytokines interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin 8 (IL-8). In addition, ICP0 blocked the activation of NF-κB through interacting with p65, degrading its protein expression and limiting its phosphorylation. PRV protein ICP0 is shown for the first time to enable escape from innate immune response through the regulation of NF-κB during PRV infection. These results illustrate that PRV ICP0 is able to block NF-κB activation. This mechanism may represent a critical role in the early events leading to PRV infection.
Change in Hydrological Regimes and Extremes from the Impact of Climate Change in the Largest Tributary of the Tonle Sap Lake Basin
Authors: Sok Ty , Ich Ilan , Tes Davin , Chan Ratboren , Try Sophal , Song Layheang , Ket Pinnara , Khem Sothea , Oeurng Chantha
Published: May 2022

The Tonle Sap Lake (TSL) Basins of the Lower Mekong are one of the world’s most productive ecosystems and have recently been disturbed by climate change. The SWAT (Soil & Water Assessment Tool) hydrological model is utilized to investigate the effect of future climate scenarios. This study focused on two climate scenarios (RCP2.6 and RCP8.5) with three GCMs (GFDL-CM3, GISS-E2-R-CC, and IPSL-CM5A-MR) and their impact on the hydrological process and extremes in the Sen River Basin, the largest tributary of the TSL basin. The annual precipitation, surface runoff, lateral flow, groundwater flow, and total water yield are projected to decrease in both the near-future (2020–2040) and mid-future period (2050–2070), while actual evapotranspiration is projected to increase by 3.3% and 5.3%. Monthly precipitation is projected to increase by 11.2% during the rainy season and decrease by 7.5% during the dry season. Two climate models (GISS and IPSL model) lead to decreases in 1-day, 3-day, 7-day, 30-day, and 90-day maximum flows and minimum flows flow. Thus, the prediction results depend on the climate model used.
Inferring Population Structure from Early Life Stage: The Case of the European Anchovy in the Sicilian and Maltese Shelves
Authors: Cuttitta Angela , Patti Bernardo , Musco Marianna , Masullo Tiziana , Placenti Francesco , Quinci Enza Maria , Falco Francesca , Bennici Carmelo Daniele , Di Natale Marilena , Pipitone Vito , Cammarata Matteo , Maneiro Isabel , Russo Stefania , Torri Marco
Published: May 2022

The European anchovy is an important fishing resource in the Sicilian Channel that supports a high recruitment success variability. The presence of two spawning areas, the drifting of the larvae along the currents and the different oceanographic conditions within the region suggest the presence of different larvae subpopulations. Morphometric and biochemical approaches have been used to analyze the differences among larvae collected. The amino acid composition discriminates two larval groups closely related to the spawning regions: Adventure Bank and the shelf between the South of Sicily and Malta. In addition, there are morphometric and growth differences between recently hatched larvae in these two regions, reinforcing the hypothesis of two larval subpopulations and suggesting differences in the parental reproduction effort. Between the South of Sicily and Malta there are growth and biochemical composition differences since larvae from the Maltese coast present a higher protein content and a bigger growth rate than those from Sicily, pointing out that Malta is an area with a better nutritional condition environment. No differences in the growth rate have been observed between the Adventure Bank area and the Maltese shelf, therefore, a diverse nutritional condition cannot be suggested between these two areas despite the Maltese larvae having a higher protein content present.