bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating Adaptation to Climate Change into Sustainable Development Policy and Planning
Authors: Serra Vittorio , Ledda Antonio , Ruiu Maria , Calia Giovanna , De Montis Andrea
Published: June 2022

Adaptation to climate change and sustainable development have become core elements of international, European, and national policies and strategies. At worst, adaptation to climate change can trigger negative responses—maladaptation—in terms of raising greenhouse-gas emissions and exacerbating the vulnerability of specific groups of people, which both run counter to sustainable development principles. Thus, the integration of sustainable climate change adaptation objectives into a sustainable development framework can pave the way for planning scenarios, in which resilience intertwines with sustainability. Studies concerning this issue are quite lacking, and methods useful for assessing the relationship ‘adaptation-sustainable development’ are scarcely investigated. In this study, we focus on environmental sustainability and aim at proposing and applying a method for assessing the coherence between climate change adaptation objectives and sustainable development objectives (i.e., national strategic goals) included in the Italian National Adaptation Plan to Climate Change and, respectively, in the National Sustainable Development Strategy. We found that most adaptation objectives appear to be unrelated with national strategic goals, while none of them clearly hinder environmental sustainability, that is, the adaptation objectives are not inclined to promote maladaptation. There is still plenty of room to work on sustainable adaptation objectives to be consistent with sustainable development ones.
The Solvability of a System of Quaternion Matrix Equations Involving ϕ-Skew-Hermicity
Authors: He Zhuo-Heng , Zhang Xiao-Na , Zhao Yun-Fan , Yu Shao-Wen
Published: June 2022

Let H be the real quaternion algebra and Hm×n denote the set of all m×n matrices over H. For A∈Hm×n, we denote by Aϕ the n×m matrix obtained by applying ϕ entrywise to the transposed matrix AT, where ϕ is a non-standard involution of H. A∈Hn×n is said to be ϕ-skew-Hermicity if A=−Aϕ. In this paper, we provide some necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of a ϕ-skew-Hermitian solution to the system of quaternion matrix equations with four unknowns AiXi(Ai)ϕ+BiXi+1(Bi)ϕ=Ci,(i=1,2,3),A4X4(A4)ϕ=C4.
Analysis of Solutions to a Parabolic System with Absorption
Authors: Lu Haihua , Wu Jiayuan , Liu Wenjun
Published: June 2022

In this paper, we investigate the blow-up rate and global existence of solutions to a parabolic system with absorption under the homogeneous Dirichlet boundary. By using the comparison principle and super-sub solution method, we obtain some sufficient conditions for the global existence and blow-up in finite time of solutions and establish some estimates of the upper and lower bounds of the blow-up rates. For the special case, if the domain is symmetric, for example, if it is a ball, the results of this paper also hold.
Distributed Integrated Synthetic Adaptive Multi-Objective Reactive Power Optimization
Authors: Song Jiayin , Lu Chao , Ma Qiang , Zhou Hongwei , Yue Qi , Zhu Qinglin , Zhao Yue , Fan Yiming , Huang Qiqi
Published: June 2022

Reactive power is the core problem of voltage stability and economical operation in power systems. Aiming at the problem that multi-objective normalization reactive power optimization function is dependent on weight, an integrated synthesis of adaptive multi-objective particle swarm optimization (ISAMOPSO) is proposed to achieve weight adaptive. Through seven test functions and three algorithm comparison experiments, it is proved that the ISAMOPSO algorithm has stronger global search capability and better convergence. Considering the optimal access position and capacity of distributed generation (DG), the ISAMOPSO algorithm is used for three-objective reactive power optimization. Finally, the results indicate that the ISAMOPSO algorithm can not only provide a variety of optimization schemes to meet different needs, but also realize dynamic reactive power optimization, which further proves that the algorithm can provide effective technical support for solving reactive power optimization problems in practical engineering.
An Ensemble Framework to Forest Optimization Based Reduct Searching
Authors: Wang Jin , Liu Yuxin , Chen Jianjun , Yang Xibei
Published: June 2022

Essentially, the solution to an attribute reduction problem can be viewed as a reduct searching process. Currently, among various searching strategies, meta-heuristic searching has received extensive attention. As a new emerging meta-heuristic approach, the forest optimization algorithm (FOA) is introduced to the problem solving of attribute reduction in this study. To further improve the classification performance of selected attributes in reduct, an ensemble framework is also developed: firstly, multiple reducts are obtained by FOA and data perturbation, and the structure of those multiple reducts is symmetrical, which indicates that no order exists among those reducts; secondly, multiple reducts are used to execute voting classification over testing samples. Finally, comprehensive experiments on over 20 UCI datasets clearly validated the effectiveness of our framework: it is not only beneficial to output reducts with superior classification accuracies and classification stabilities but also suitable for data pre-processing with noise. This improvement work we have performed makes the FOA obtain better benefits in the data processing of life, health, medical and other fields.
Thinking Outside the Box: Numerical Relativity with Particles
Authors: Rosswog Stephan , Diener Peter , Torsello Francesco
Published: June 2022

The observation of gravitational waves from compact objects has now become an active part of observational astronomy. For a sound interpretation, one needs to compare such observations against detailed Numerical Relativity simulations, which are essential tools to explore the dynamics and physics of compact binary mergers. To date, essentially all simulation codes that solve the full set of Einstein’s equations are performed in the framework of Eulerian hydrodynamics. The exception is our recently developed Numerical Relativity code SPHINCS_BSSN which solves the commonly used BSSN formulation of the Einstein equations on a structured mesh and the matter equations via Lagrangian particles. We show here, for the first time, SPHINCS_BSSN neutron star merger simulations with piecewise polytropic approximations to four nuclear matter equations of state. In this set of neutron star merger simulations, we focus on perfectly symmetric binary systems that are irrotational and have 1.3 M⊙ masses. We introduce some further methodological refinements (a new way of steering dissipation, an improved particle–mesh mapping), and we explore the impact of the exponent that enters in the calculation of the thermal pressure contribution. We find that it leaves a noticeable imprint on the gravitational wave amplitude (calculated via both quadrupole approximation and the Ψ4 formalism) and has a noticeable impact on the amount of dynamic ejecta. Consistent with earlier findings, we only find a few times 10−3M⊙ as dynamic ejecta in the studied equal mass binary systems, with softer equations of state (which are more prone to shock formation) ejecting larger amounts of matter. In all of the cases, we see a credible high-velocity (∼0.5…0.7c) ejecta component of ∼10−4M⊙ that is launched at contact from the interface between the two neutron stars. Such a high-velocity component has been suggested to produce an early, blue precursor to the main kilonova emission, and it could also potentially cause a kilonova afterglow.
Visualization of the Preacceleration Process for High-Harmonic Generation in Solids
Authors: Gao Fangyan , He Yonglin , Zhang Lingyu , Zhou Shengpeng , Guo Jing
Published: June 2022

The high-order harmonic generation (HHG) in ZnO is investigated by numerically solving semiconductor Bloch equations (SBEs), which can be explained well by a four-step model. In this model, preacceleration is the first step, in which the electron is accelerated in the valence band until it reaches the point of the minimum band gap. To prove the existence of the preacceleration process, SBE-based k-resolved harmonic spectra and the transient conduction-band population are presented. The results show that the contribution of crystal-momentum channels away from the minimum band gap via preacceleration is non-negligible. Furthermore, the X-shaped distribution in the k-resolved spectra can be described well by the preacceleration process. Based on the above analysis, we can conclude that the preacceleration process plays an important role in HHG.
What Features on Routine Panoramic Radiographs Could Help Orthodontists to Estimate the Occurrence of Condylar Hyperplasia from Other Mandibular Asymmetries—Retrospective Analysis Study
Authors: Nelke Kamil , Łuczak Klaudiusz , Janeczek Maciej , Pasicka Edyta , Barnaś Szczepan , Dobrzyński Maciej
Published: June 2022

Hemimandibular hyperplasia (HH) and elongation (HE) are the most common pathologies present in the mandible. Presented condylar hyperplasias have their own radiological and clinical features. In most cases, patients suffer from various forms of malocclusion. From a total of 150 asymmetrical jaw radiographs evaluated, 46 were evaluated and included in this study. A retrospective study on the data of 46 selected patients treated, diagnosed, and consulted from various forms of mandibular and skeletal asymmetry based on routine diagnostic panoramic radiographs evaluated typical and atypical radiological and anatomical symptoms of condylar hyperplasia. The presented evaluation focused on mandibular, maxillary, and other bones, in order to distinguish condylar hyperplasia from other forms of mandibular asymmetry. The degree of maxillary downward growth followed by the occurrence of an open bite on the affected side estimate the degree/presence or cessation of growth in the affected condyle. Mandibular asymmetry with incisor teeth inclination remains the most typical characteristic of condylar hyperplasia. Increased height of mandibular ramus differentiates between condylar hyperplasia and elongation, which also influences the position of the inferior alveolar nerve. Mentioned symptoms, described as the acronym “Go Moira!”, are useful in a quick and simple “glimpse of an eye” differential diagnostic approach. It is possible to quickly and accurately establish the first diagnosis simply by a careful evaluation of patients’ panoramic radiographs.
Shoot Development in Members of an Ancient Aquatic Angiosperm Lineage, Ceratophyllaceae: A New Interpretation Facilitates Comparisons with Chloranthaceae
Authors: Sokoloff Dmitry , El Elena , Remizowa Margarita
Published: June 2022

Ceratophyllum is an ancient and phylogenetically isolated angiosperm lineage. Comparisons between Ceratophyllum and other angiosperms are hampered by uncertainty in inferring organ homologies in this genus of specialized aquatics. Interpretation of shoot morphology is especially problematic in Ceratophyllum. Each node has several leaf-like appendages interpreted as verticillate leaves, modified parts of one and the same leaf or parts of two leaves under decussate phyllotaxis. Vegetative branches are axillary, but reproductive units (interpreted as flowers or inflorescences) are commonly viewed as developing from collateral accessory buds. We studied shoot development in Ceratophyllum submersum, C. tanaiticum, and C. demersum using scanning electron microscopy to clarify shoot morphology and branching patterns. Our data support the idea that the phyllotaxis is essentially decussate with appendages of stipular origin resembling leaf blades. We conclude that a leaf axil of Ceratophyllum possesses a complex of two serial buds, the lower one producing a vegetative branch and the upper one developing a reproductive unit. The reproductive unit is congenitally displaced to the subsequent node, a phenomenon known as concaulescence. Either member of the serial bud complex may be absent. There is a theory based on a synthesis of molecular and morphological data that Chloranthaceae are the closest extant relatives of Ceratophyllum. Serial buds and concaulescence are known in Hedyosmum (Chloranthaceae). Our new interpretation facilitates morphological comparisons between Hedyosmum and Ceratophyllum.
Rational Form of Amplitude and Its Asymptotic Factorization
Authors: Troshin Sergey Mikhailovich , Tyurin Nikolai Evgenjevich
Published: June 2022

We provide arguments for the use of the rational form of unitarization, its relation with the diffraction peak shrinkage and asymptotics of the inelastic cross-section. The particular problems of the Regge model and the exponential form of unitarization with a factorized eikonal are discussed as well. A central role belongs to the asymptotic amplitude factorization resulting from Mandelstam analyticity and its symmetry over the scattering variables.
Some New Anderson Type h and q Integral Inequalities in Quantum Calculus
Authors: Abbas Munawwar Ali , Chen Li , Khan Asif R. , Muhammad Ghulam , Sun Bo , Hussain Sadaqat , Hussain Javed , Rasool Adeeb Ur
Published: June 2022

The calculus in the absence of limits is known as quantum calculus. With a difference operator, it substitutes the classical derivative, which permits dealing with sets of functions that are non-differentiations. The theory of integral inequality in quantum calculus is a field of mathematics that has been gaining considerable attention recently. Despite the fact of its application in discrete calculus, it can be applied in fractional calculus as well. In this paper, some new Anderson type q-integral and h-integral inequalities are given using a Feng Qi integral inequality in quantum calculus. These findings are highly beneficial for basic frontier theories, and the techniques offered by technology are extremely useful for those who can stimulate research interest in exploring mathematical applications. Due to the interesting properties in the field of mathematics, integral inequalities have a tied correlation with symmetric convex and convex functions. There exist strong correlations and expansive properties between the different fields of convexity and symmetric function, including probability theory, convex functions, and the geometry of convex functions on convex sets. The main advantage of these essential inequalities is that they can be converted into time-scale calculus. This kind of inevitable inequality can be very helpful in various fields where coordination plays an important role.
Diagonals of Rational Functions: From Differential Algebra to Effective Algebraic Geometry
Authors: Abdelaziz Youssef , Boukraa Salah , Koutschan Christoph , Maillard Jean-Marie
Published: June 2022

We show that the results we had previously obtained on diagonals of 9- and 10-parameter families of rational functions in three variables x, y, and z, using creative telescoping, yielding modular forms expressed as pullbacked 2F1 hypergeometric functions, can be obtained much more efficiently by calculating the j-invariant of an elliptic curve canonically associated with the denominator of the rational functions. These results can be drastically generalized by changing the parameters into arbitrary rational functions of the product p=xyz. In other cases where creative telescoping yields pullbacked 2F1 hypergeometric functions, we extend this algebraic geometry approach to other families of rational functions in three or more variables. In particular, we generalize this approach to rational functions in more than three variables when the denominator can be associated to an algebraic variety corresponding to products of elliptic curves, or foliations in elliptic curves. We also extend this approach to rational functions in three variables when the denominator is associated with a genus-two curve such that its Jacobian is a split Jacobian, corresponding to the product of two elliptic curves. We sketch the situation where the denominator of the rational function is associated with algebraic varieties that are not of the general type, having an infinite set of birational automorphisms. We finally provide some examples of rational functions in more than three variables, where the telescopers have pullbacked 2F1 hypergeometric solutions, because the denominator corresponds to an algebraic variety that has a selected elliptic curve.
Tuberculosis of the Heart: A Diagnostic Challenge
Authors: Das Karuna M. , Mansoori Taleb Al , Alattar Yousef Habeeb , Gorkom Klaus V. , Shamisi Ali , Melethil Anisha Pulinchani , Alkoteesh Jamal Aldeen
Published: June 2022

Tuberculosis of the heart is relatively rare and presents a significant diagnostic difficulty for physicians. It is the leading cause of death from infectious illness. It is one of the top 10 leading causes of death worldwide, with a disproportionate impact in low- and middle-income nations. The radiologist plays a pivotal role as CMR is a non-invasive radiological method that can aid in identifying potential overlap and differential diagnosis between tuberculosis, mass lesions, pericarditis, and myocarditis. Regardless of similarities or overlap in observations, the combination of clinical and certain particular radiological features, which are also detected by comparison to earlier and follow-up CMR scans, may aid in the differential diagnosis. CMR offers a significant advantage over echocardiography for detecting, characterizing, and assessing cardiovascular abnormalities. In conjunction with clinical presentation, knowledge of LGE, feature tracking, and parametric imaging in CMR may help in the early detection of tuberculous myopericarditis and serve as a surrogate for endomyocardial biopsy resulting in a quicker diagnosis and therapy. This article aims to explain the current state of cardiac tuberculosis, the diagnostic utility of CMR in tuberculosis (TB) patients, and offer an overview of the various imaging and laboratory procedures used to detect cardiac tuberculosis.
Characterization of Two Dehydrogenases from Gluconobacter oxydans Involved in the Transformation of Patulin to Ascladiol
Authors: Chan Edicon T. S. , Zhu Yan , Li Xiu-Zhen , Zhou Ting , Seah Stephen Y. K.
Published: June 2022

Patulin is a mycotoxin that primarily contaminate apples and apple products. Whole cell or cell-free extracts of Gluconobacter oxydans ATCC 621 were able to transform patulin to E-ascladiol. Proteins from cell-free extracts were separated by anion exchange chromatography and fractions with patulin transformation activity were subjected to peptide mass fingerprinting, enabling the identification of two NADPH dependent short chain dehydrogenases, GOX0525 and GOX1899, with the requisite activity. The genes encoding these enzymes were expressed in E. coli and purified. Kinetic parameters for patulin reduction, as well as pH profiles and thermostability were established to provide further insight on the potential application of these enzymes for patulin detoxification.
Discovery of the Relationship between Distribution and Aflatoxin Production Capacity of Aspergillusspecies and Soil Types in Peanut Planting Areas
Authors: Zhang Shujuan , Wang Xue , Wang Dun , Chu Qianmei , Zhang Qian , Yue Xiaofeng , Zhu Mengjie , Dong Jing , Li Li , Jiang Xiangguo , Yang Qing , Zhang Qi
Published: June 2022

In order to study the relationship between the distribution and aflatoxin production capacity of Aspergillus species and soil types, 35 soil samples were collected from the main peanut planting areas in Xiangyang, which has 19.7 thousand square kilometers and is located in a special area with different soil types. The soil types of peanut planting areas in Xiangyang are mainly sandy loam and clay loam, and most of the soil is acidic, providing unique nature conditions for this study. The results showed that the Aspergillus sp. population in clay loam (9050 cfu/g) was significantly larger than that in sandy loam (3080 cfu/g). The percentage of atoxigenic Aspergillus strains isolated from sandy loam samples was higher than that from clay loam samples, reaching 58.5%. Meanwhile the proportion of high toxin-producing strains from clay loam (39.7%) was much higher than that from sandy loam (7.3%). Under suitable culture conditions, the average aflatoxin production capacity of Aspergillus isolates from clay loam samples (236.97 μg/L) was higher than that of strains from sandy loam samples (80.01 μg/L). The results inferred that under the same regional climate conditions, the density and aflatoxin production capacity of Aspergillus sp. in clay loam soil were significantly higher than that in sandy loam soil. Therefore, peanuts from these planting areas are at a relatively higher risk of contamination by Aspergillus sp. and aflatoxins.
FfCOX17 is Involved in Fumonisins Production, Growth, Asexual Reproduction, and Fungicide Sensitivity in Fusarium fujikuroi
Authors: Mao Xuewei , Wu Zhiwen , Chen Furong , Zhou Mingguo , Hou Yiping
Published: June 2022

Fusarium fujikuroi, a causal agent of Rice Bakanae Disease, produces secondary metabolites such as gibberellin, pigments bikaverin, and mycotoxins fumonisins. Fumonisins produced by F. fujikuroi pose a severe threat to human and animal health. The copper chaperone protein plays a critical role in different growth stages of plants, fungi, and yeasts, but their functions and regulation in fumonisin biosynthesis are still unclear. Here, a copper chaperone protein, FfCOX17, was identified in F. fujikuroi. The FfCOX17 deletion mutant (∆FfCOX17) exhibited decreased vegetative growth and asexual reproduction. The transcriptional level of the FfFUM2 gene was significantly induced in ∆FfCOX17, and the fumonisin production in ∆FfCOX17 mutants was significantly increased compared to wild-type F. fujikuroi, but the pathogenicity of ∆FfCOX17 mutants was unaffected, which may be caused by the no significantly changed gibberellin content. ∆FfCOX17 showed decreased sensitivity to oxidative stress, osmotic stress, and increased sensitivity to cell wall stress, heat shock stress, and high concentration glucose. In addition, ∆FfCOX17 also showed increased sensitivity to fungicide fluazinam and fludioxonil, and decreased sensitivity to phenamacril and prochloraz. Taken together, this study suggested that FfCOX17 is critical for fumonisin production, vegetative growth, asexual reproduction, and fungicide sensitivity, but is not required for the virulence function of F. fujikuroi on rice.
Melittin Tryptophan Substitution with a Fluorescent Amino Acid Reveals the Structural Basis of Selective Antitumor Effect and Subcellular Localization in Tumor Cells
Authors: Lv Yonghui , Chen Xu , Chen Zhidong , Shang Zhanjun , Li Yongxiao , Xu Wanting , Mo Yuan , Wang Xinpei , Xu Daiyun , Li Shengbin , Wang Zhe , Wu Meiying , Wang Junqing
Published: June 2022

Melittin is a membrane-active peptide with strong anticancer activity against various cancers. Despite decades of research, the role of the singular Trp in the anticancer activity and selectivity of melittin remains poorly understood. Here, we propose a theranostic solution based on the substitution of Trp19 with a noncanonical fluorescent amino acid (DapAMCA). The introduction of DapAMCA residue in melittin stabilized the helical structure of the peptide, as evaluated by circular dichroism spectra and molecular dynamics simulations. In vitro hemolytic and anticancer activity assays revealed that introducing DapAMCA residue in melittin changed its mode of action with the cell membrane, resulting in reduced hemolytic toxicity and an improved the selectivity index (SI), with up to a five-fold increase compared to melittin. In vitro fluorescence imaging of DapAMCA-labeled melittin (MELFL) in cancer cells demonstrated high membrane-penetrating activity, with strong nuclear and nucleolar localization ability. These findings provide implications for novel anticancer therapies based on Trp-substituted designs and nuclear/nucleolar targeted therapy.
Entomological Surveillance of Aedes Mosquitoes: Comparison of Different Collection Methods in an Endemic Area in RIO de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Câmara Daniel Cardoso Portela , Codeço Claudia Torres , Ayllón Tania , Nobre Aline Araújo , Azevedo Renata Campos , Ferreira Davis Fernandes , da Silva Pinel Célio , Rocha Gláucio Pereira , Honório Nildimar Alves
Published: June 2022

Using collection methods for Aedes adults as surveillance tools provides reliable indices and arbovirus detection possibilities. This study compared the effectiveness of different methods for collecting Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus and detecting arboviruses circulating in field-caught female specimens. Collection sites were defined in urban, peri-urban, and rural landscapes in two Brazilian cities. Collections were performed using Adultraps (ADT), BG-Sentinel (BGS), CDC-like traps (CDC), and indoor (ASP-I) and outdoor (ASP-O) aspiration during the rainy and dry seasons of 2015 and 2016. Generalized linear mixed models were used to model the effectiveness of each collection method. A total of 434 Ae. aegypti and 393 Ae. albopictus were collected. In total, 64 Ae. aegypti and sixteen Ae. albopictus female pools were tested for DENV, CHIKV, ZIKV, or YFV; none were positive. Positivity and density were linear at low densities (<1 specimen); thereafter, the relationship became non-linear. For Ae. aegypti, ADT and CDC were less effective, and ASP-I and ASP-O were as effective as BGS. For Ae. albopictus, all collection methods were less effective than BGS. This study highlights the need for an integrated surveillance method as an effective tool for monitoring Aedes vectors.
Novel Bacteriophage Specific against Staphylococcus epidermidis and with Antibiofilm Activity
Authors: Fanaei Pirlar Rima , Wagemans Jeroen , Ponce Benavente Luis , Lavigne Rob , Trampuz Andrej , Gonzalez Moreno Mercedes
Published: June 2022

Staphylococcus epidermidis has emerged as the most important pathogen in infections related to indwelling medical devices, and although these infections are not life-threatening, their frequency and the fact that they are extremely difficult to treat represent a serious burden on the public health system. Treatment is complicated by specific antibiotic resistance genes and the formation of biofilms. Hence, novel therapeutic strategies are needed to fight these infections. A novel bacteriophage CUB-EPI_14 specific to the bacterial species S. epidermidis was isolated from sewage and characterized genomically and phenotypically. Its genome contains a total of 46,098 bp and 63 predicted genes, among which some have been associated with packaging and lysis-associated proteins, structural proteins, or DNA- and metabolism-associated proteins. No lysogeny-associated proteins or known virulence proteins were identified in the phage genome. CUB-EPI_14 showed stability over a wide range of temperatures (from −20 °C to 50 °C) and pH values (pH 3–pH 12) and a narrow host range against S. epidermidis. Potent antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities were observed when the phage was tested against a highly susceptible bacterial isolate. These encouraging results open the door to new therapeutic opportunities in the fight against resilient biofilm-associated infections caused by S. epidermidis.
The Potyviral Protein 6K1 Reduces Plant Proteases Activity during Turnip mosaic virus Infection
Authors: Bera Sayanta , Arena Gabriella D. , Ray Swayamjit , Flannigan Sydney , Casteel Clare L.
Published: June 2022

Potyviral genomes encode just 11 major proteins and multifunctionality is associated with most of these proteins at different stages of the virus infection cycle. Some potyviral proteins modulate phytohormones and protein degradation pathways and have either pro- or anti-viral/insect vector functions. Our previous work demonstrated that the potyviral protein 6K1 has an antagonistic effect on vectors when expressed transiently in host plants, suggesting plant defenses are regulated. However, to our knowledge the mechanisms of how 6K1 alters plant defenses and how 6K1 functions are regulated are still limited. Here we show that the 6K1 from Turnip mosaic virus (TuMV) reduces the abundance of transcripts related to jasmonic acid biosynthesis and cysteine protease inhibitors when expressed in Nicotiana benthamiana relative to controls. 6K1 stability increased when cysteine protease activity was inhibited chemically, showing a mechanism to the rapid turnover of 6K1 when expressed in trans. Using RNAseq, qRT-PCR, and enzymatic assays, we demonstrate TuMV reprograms plant protein degradation pathways on the transcriptional level and increases 6K1 stability at later stages in the infection process. Moreover, we show 6K1 decreases plant protease activity in infected plants and increases TuMV accumulation in systemic leaves compared to controls. These results suggest 6K1 has a pro-viral function in addition to the anti-insect vector function we observed previously. Although the host targets of 6K1 and the impacts of 6K1-induced changes in protease activity on insect vectors are still unknown, this study enhances our understanding of the complex interactions occurring between plants, potyviruses, and vectors.
The Viral Susceptibility of the Haloferax Species
Authors: Aguirre Sourrouille Zaloa , Schwarzer Sabine , Lequime Sebastian , Oksanen Hanna M. , Quax Tessa E. F.
Published: June 2022

Viruses can infect members of all three domains of life. However, little is known about viruses infecting archaea and the mechanisms that determine their host interactions are poorly understood. Investigations of molecular mechanisms of viral infection rely on genetically accessible virus–host model systems. Euryarchaea belonging to the genus Haloferax are interesting models, as a reliable genetic system and versatile microscopy methods are available. However, only one virus infecting the Haloferax species is currently available. In this study, we tested ~100 haloarchaeal virus isolates for their infectivity on 14 Haloferax strains. From this, we identified 10 virus isolates in total capable of infecting Haloferax strains, which represented myovirus or siphovirus morphotypes. Surprisingly, the only susceptible strain of all 14 tested was Haloferax gibbonsii LR2-5, which serves as an auspicious host for all of these 10 viruses. By applying comparative genomics, we shed light on factors determining the host range of haloarchaeal viruses on Haloferax. We anticipate our study to be a starting point in the study of haloarchaeal virus–host interactions.
Broadly Applicable, Virus-Free Dual Reporter Assay to Identify Compounds Interfering with Membrane Fusion: Performance for HSV-1 and SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Classen Nica , Ulrich Diana , Hofemeier Arne , Hennies Marc Tim , Hafezi Wali , Pettke Aleksandra , Romberg Marie-Luise , Lorentzen Eva U. , Hensel Andreas , Kühn Joachim E.
Published: June 2022

Membrane fusion constitutes an essential step in the replication cycle of numerous viral pathogens, hence it represents an important druggable target. In the present study, we established a virus-free, stable reporter fusion inhibition assay (SRFIA) specifically designed to identify compounds interfering with virus-induced membrane fusion. The dual reporter assay is based on two stable Vero cell lines harboring the third-generation tetracycline (Tet3G) transactivator and a bicistronic reporter gene cassette under the control of the tetracycline responsive element (TRE3G), respectively. Cell–cell fusion by the transient transfection of viral fusogens in the presence of doxycycline results in the expression of the reporter enzyme secreted alkaline phosphatase (SEAP) and the fluorescent nuclear localization marker EYFPNuc. A constitutively expressed, secreted form of nanoluciferase (secNLuc) functioned as the internal control. The performance of the SRFIA was tested for the quantification of SARS-CoV-2- and HSV-1-induced cell–cell fusion, respectively, showing high sensitivity and specificity, as well as the reliable identification of known fusion inhibitors. Parallel quantification of secNLuc enabled the detection of cytotoxic compounds or insufficient transfection efficacy. In conclusion, the SRFIA reported here is well suited for high-throughput screening for new antiviral agents and essentially will be applicable to all viral fusogens causing cell–cell fusion in Vero cells.
Development and Validation of Indirect Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assays for Detecting Antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in Cattle, Swine, and Chicken
Authors: Gontu Abhinay , Marlin Erika A. , Ramasamy Santhamani , Neerukonda Sabarinath , Anil Gayatri , Morgan Jasmine , Quraishi Meysoon , Chen Chen , Boorla Veda Sheersh , Nissly Ruth H. , Jakka Padmaja , Chothe Shubhada K. , Ravichandran Abirami , Kodali Nishitha , Amirthalingam Saranya , LaBella Lindsey , Kelly Kathleen , Natesan Pazhanivel , Minns Allen M. , Rossi Randall M. , Werner Jacob R. , Hovingh Ernest , Lindner Scott E. , Tewari Deepanker , Kapur Vivek , Vandegrift Kurt J. , Maranas Costas D. , Surendran Nair Meera , Kuchipudi Suresh V.
Published: June 2022

Multiple domestic and wild animal species are susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Cattle and swine are susceptible to experimental SARS-CoV-2 infection. The unchecked transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in animal hosts could lead to virus adaptation and the emergence of novel variants. In addition, the spillover and subsequent adaptation of SARS-CoV-2 in livestock could significantly impact food security as well as animal and public health. Therefore, it is essential to monitor livestock species for SARS-CoV-2 spillover. We developed and optimized species-specific indirect ELISAs (iELISAs) to detect anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in cattle, swine, and chickens using the spike protein receptor-binding domain (RBD) antigen. Serum samples collected prior to the COVID-19 pandemic were used to determine the cut-off threshold. RBD hyperimmunized sera from cattle (n = 3), swine (n = 6), and chicken (n = 3) were used as the positive controls. The iELISAs were evaluated compared to a live virus neutralization test using cattle (n = 150), swine (n = 150), and chicken (n = 150) serum samples collected during the COVID-19 pandemic. The iELISAs for cattle, swine, and chicken were found to have 100% sensitivity and specificity. These tools facilitate the surveillance that is necessary to quickly identify spillovers into the three most important agricultural species worldwide.
Transmission of Diverse Variants of Strawberry Viruses Is Governed by a Vector Species
Authors: Koloniuk Igor , Matyášová Alena , Brázdová Sára , Veselá Jana , Přibylová Jaroslava , Fránová Jana , Elena Santiago F.
Published: June 2022

Advances in high-throughput sequencing methods have boosted the discovery of multistrain viral infections in diverse plant systems. This phenomenon appears to be pervasive for certain viral species. However, our knowledge of the transmission aspects leading to the establishment of such mixed infections is limited. Recently, we reported a mixed infection of a single strawberry plant with strawberry mottle virus (SMoV), strawberry crinkle virus (SCV) and strawberry virus 1 (StrV-1). While SCV and StrV-1 are represented by two and three molecular variants, respectively, SmoV has three different RNA1 and RNA2 segments. In this study, we focus on virus acquisition by individual adult aphids of the Aphis gossypii, Aphis forbesi and Chaetosiphon fragaefolii species. Single-aphid transmission trials are performed under experimental conditions. Both different viruses and individual virus strains show varying performances in single aphid acquisition. The obtained data suggests that numerous individual transmission events lead to the establishment of multistrain infections. These data will be important for the development of epidemiological models in plant virology.
Urinary Cytology: Potential Role in Canine Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Lippi Ilaria , Habermaass Verena , Gori Eleonora , Ebani Valentina Virginia , Pierini Alessio , Marchetti Veronica
Published: June 2022

The diagnosis of urinary tract infections (UTIs) requires a concomitant evaluation of clinical signs and urine culture, which is of fundamental to start an appropriate antibiotic treatment. Several factors, such as subclinical bacteriuria or pre-analytical errors, may make the interpretation of urine culture difficult. The aim of the study was to evaluate the association between the finding of neutrophils and bacteria in unstained and stained canine urine sediment and the presence of clinical signs and positive urine culture. Urine samples from 35 dogs with clinical signs of UTI and 55 asymptomatic dogs with risk factors for UTI were prospectively collected by cystocentesis, divided into three aliquots, and submitted for: (1) physical and chemical Dipstick analysis and unstained urinary sediment (casts, crystals, bacteria, leucocytes, cells, parasites); (2) stained urinary sediment (extra/intracellular bacteria, degenerated and non-degenerated neutrophils); (3) qualitative and quantitative urine culture and antimicrobial sensitivity-test. The association between unstained and stained findings of urinary sediment and urine culture was tested. Sensibility, specificity, and positive/negative predictive values in diagnosing positive urine cultures of bacteria at unstained and stained evaluation were compared. Both wet-mount bacteriuria and the cytological presence of intracellular and extracellular bacteria, neutrophils, and degenerated neutrophils were successively associated with positive urine culture (p < 0.001). The presence of intracellular bacteria was the only independent predictor of positive urine culture. Total bacterial count did not differ significantly between symptomatic and asymptomatic dogs. Detection of extracellular and intracellular bacteriuria at stained urinary sediment significantly improved the sensibility of predicting positive urine culture. Cytologic evaluation of urinary sediment may be helpful in detecting signs of active inflammation, thus enhancing the clinical relevance of a positive urine culture.
Validation of a Commercial Indirect ELISA Kit for the Detection of Bovine alphaherpesvirus1 (BoHV-1)-Specific Glycoprotein E Antibodies in Bulk Milk Samples of Dairy Cows
Authors: Righi Cecilia , Iscaro Carmen , Ferroni Laura , Rosati Sergio , Pellegrini Claudia , Nogarol Chiara , Rossi Elisabetta , Dettori Annalisa , Feliziani Francesco , Petrini Stefano
Published: June 2022

In this study, we validated a commercial indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect antibodies to glycoprotein E (gE) of Bovine alphaherpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1) in bulk milk (BM) samples using the OIE Manual of Diagnostic Tests and Vaccines for Terrestrial Animals. The assay performance characteristics were evaluated using a panel of positive (n = 36) and negative (n = 80) samples with known infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR) status. The assay showed adequate repeatability (within-run and between-run), with a coefficient of variability (CV%) of replicates below 30%; only two 1:40 diluted samples had a CV% above 20%. Additionally, an agreement analysis of the qualitative results of replicates led to a Gwet’s agreement coefficient of 0.99 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.96–1.00, p < 0.001). The estimated diagnostic sensitivity (DSe) and diagnostic specificity (DSp) were 100% (95% CI: 90.3–100%) and 97.5% (95% CI: 91.3–99.7%), respectively. Overall, a good level of agreement was observed between the assay results and the true IBR status of samples (weighted Cohen’s κ: 0.96, 95% CI: 0.78–1.00). The findings demonstrate that the indirect ELISA kit validated here is an easy-to-use and economical method to differentiate infected and gE-deleted marker vaccine-immunised animals using BM samples.
A Systematic Review of Clinical Practice Guidelines for Cataract: Evidence to Support the Development of the WHO Package of Eye Care Interventions
Authors: Zhang Justine H. , Ramke Jacqueline , Lee Chan Ning , Gordon Iris , Safi Sare , Lingham Gareth , Evans Jennifer R. , Keel Stuart
Published: June 2022

The World Health Organization (WHO) is developing a Package of Eye Care Interventions (PECI) to facilitate the integration of eye care into Universal Health Coverage. This paper presents the results of a systematic review of clinical practice guidelines for cataract in adults, to help inform PECI development. We searched academic and guideline databases, and websites of professional associations, for guidelines published between January 2010 and April 2020. Guidelines were excluded if there was commercial funding or unmanaged conflicts of interest. Quality appraisal was conducted using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) II tool. We identified 3778 reports, 35 related to cataract guidelines, four of which met the inclusion criteria (United Kingdom: 2, United States: 1, Iran: 1). The recommendations across the four guidelines covered pre-operative (43%), intra-operative (37%), and post-operative interventions (20%). Most ‘strong’ recommendations were supported by good quality evidence. Differences in recommendations across guidelines may be attributable to time of publication or regional differences in surgical practice. Few guidelines met the quality criteria, and only three countries were represented. The results of this step of the PECI development process will inform subsequent phases for development of the WHO’s package of evidence-based eye care interventions for cataract.
Hydrodynamic Model Ensembles for Climate Change Projections in Estuarine Regions
Authors: Iglesias Isabel , Bio Ana , Melo Willian , Avilez-Valente Paulo , Pinho José , Cruz Mariana , Gomes Ana , Vieira José , Bastos Luísa , Veloso-Gomes Fernando
Published: June 2022

In the current context of climate change, understanding the effects of the changing conditions on estuaries is of utmost importance to protect populations and ecosystems. Given the diversity of impacts depending on the region, there is a need for local and dedicated studies to understand and mitigate the risks. Numerical models can provide forecasts of extreme floods and sea-level rise (SLR). However, they can present inaccuracies. In this work, the ensemble technique was applied to improve the numerical modeling forecasting for estuaries by considering scenarios of extreme river flow discharges (EFDs) and SLR scenarios for 2050 and 2100. The simulations were performed for two different estuarine regions in northern Portugal, and the superensemble was constructed with the results of two different numerical models. The results differed per estuary, highlighting the importance of a local approach. For the Douro estuary dynamics, the results showed that for the EFD, the effects of the SLR were not noticeable, indicating that, in this estuary, the river component was more important than the maritime component. In contrast, the Minho estuary dynamics were found to be affected by the SLR along the whole estuarine region, indicating a maritime influence and a worsening of the flood conditions for future scenarios.
Long-Term Evolution of Rainfall and Its Consequences on Water Resources: Application to the Watershed of the Kara River (Northern Togo)
Authors: Ani Mozimwè , Jaunat Jessy , Marin Béatrice , Barel Marie , Gnandi Kissao
Published: June 2022

The Kara River watershed (KRW), northern Togo, is facing climate-change impacts that have never been clearly characterized. Six decades of rainfall data (1961–2020) from six measuring stations ideally distributed across the watershed were used in this study. The flow records from two stations situated in contrasting locations on the KRW were also used. Statistical tests were conducted to assess the spatial and temporal variability of the rainfall and to detect tendencies within these meteorological series. The water balance method and calculation of the dry-off coefficient and of the groundwater volume drained by rivers allowed evaluating the impact of climatic evolution on surface flow and on groundwater volumes during the six decades studied. The results showed contrasting spatiotemporal variability of rainfall (and of aquifer recharge) over the watershed with a decreasing tendency upstream and an increasing one downstream. At the same time, the water volume drained by the aquifer to sustain the river’s base flow decreased from −22% to −36% depending on the measuring station. These results constitute a decision-making tool for Togolese water resource managers and are of primary importance for characterizing the fate of water resources worldwide in regions subject to severe droughts.
Hydroelectricity, Environmental Governance and Anti-Reflexivity: Lessons from Muskrat Falls
Authors: Stoddart Mark C. J. , Atlin Cole
Published: June 2022

Hydroelectric projects are often pursued on the promise of economic development and environmental co-benefits as a source of low-carbon energy. We analyse the case of the Muskrat Falls hydropower mega-project (located in Labrador, Canada) to understand why this project failed to live up to its promised benefits, but instead delivered a double disaster of economic cost and environmental risk. The key concepts of anti-reflexivity and deep stories help us understand why the project assumed an aura of inevitability in political and public discourse until it was too late to change course. Drawing on publicly available data and secondary sources, we identify the constellation of social forces that maintained political anti-reflexivity about the economic and environmental risks of the project and led to a double economic and environmental disaster. Our analysis identifies vital lessons for countering anti-reflexivity and improving environmental governance related to energy mega-projects.
Numerical Modeling and Simulation of the Effectiveness of Groundwater Source Protection Management Plans: Riverbank Filtration Case Study in Serbia
Authors: Polomčić Dušan , Bajić Dragoljub , Hajdin Bojan , Pamučar Dragan
Published: June 2022

The paper describes the establishment and testing of an algorithm for developing sustainable management plans associated with groundwater source protection against potential pollutants and discusses the effectiveness of individual systems. The applied methodology pertains to groundwater resource management, particularly those cases that involve riverbank filtration. Namely, groundwater (numerical) modeling is employed to examine the groundwater regime and balance, as well as to create protection systems and illustrate their effectiveness. Particle tracking analysis is used to study pollutants’ travel and residence time. On the other hand, PEST with regularization is employed to estimate the numerical model parameters. The proposed method is used in a real case study, which examines the application of the developed algorithm to the protection of a drinking water supply source from an industrial zone, which is a potential source of pollution. The research presented in the paper opens new avenues for future studies involving mathematical multicriteria optimization and decision making about optimal groundwater source protection management plans.