bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial-Temporal Evolution and Driving Mechanism of Urban Land Use Efficiency Based on T-DEA Model: A Case Study of Anhui Province, China
Authors: Ma Ming , Liu Yuge , Wang Bingyi , Yan Xinyu , Li Haotian
Published: June 2023

As China’s urbanization has shifted from high-speed to high-quality development, Urban Land Use Efficiency (ULUE) has become an important scale for evaluating urban connotative development. However, existing research has paid less attention to errors caused by different urban environmental factors and random disturbances in ULUE. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to eliminate the impact of environmental factors and random disturbances on ULUE measurement results by placing different cities under the same environmental conditions. First, a three-stage DEA envelopment analysis (T-DEA) model is introduced to calculate the ULUE of 16 prefecture-level cities in Anhui Province from 2001 to 2020. On this basis, the kernel density estimation model, gravity center model, and geographic detector models are used to study the spatial and temporal evolution and driving factors. The results show that (1) the ULUE increases nonlinearly with time, with an increase of 12.74%; (2) the overall peak of ULUE is on the rise, and changes from a single peak to a multi-peak, indicating that ULUE is constantly improving and that there is multi-level differentiation between different cities; (3) during the study period, the center of gravity of the ULUE value moved 22.66 km to the northwest; the overall moving distance was small, and the moving rate was slow; and (4) the influence of the interaction of double driving factors on ULUE is significantly greater than that of a single driving factor, and the factors of urban built-up area and degree of openness, as the key driving factors affecting ULUE, also have a degree of duality. In addition, to achieve efficient urban land use and to coordinate the environmental differences faced by different cities, the government must formulate systematic policies and development strategies considering the spatial characteristics of urban land use efficiency and the complexity of the driving factors.
Towards a Politics of Recognition: Exploring the Symbolic Contexts of Material Agroecological Transitions
Authors: López-García Daniel , Vázquez-Macías Gabriela , García-Fernández Javier , Schmitt Maggie , Ortega-Faura Paula , Espluga-Trenc Josep Lluís
Published: June 2023

Scientific debates on agroecology highlight the relevance of appropriate narratives as a means to widen and amplify agroecological transitions in the material world. However, it is actually far-right discourses—often linked to populist political proposals—which, though not majoritarian, are reaching broad and growing diffusion among both rural communities and farmers. Research focusing on the symbolic mechanisms around food systems’ transitions are scarce. In order to address this gap, an exploratory research project was developed to identify responses to different messages and audiovisual languages favorable to agroecological transitions, through the dissemination of three brief audiovisual pieces among specific socio-professional profiles linked to food systems, together with an online survey. The results obtained (n = 524) show significant differences in the responses to open questions collected, regarding socio-economic diversity expressed in the axes male/female, urban/rural, farmer/not farmer and organic/conventional farming. Responses from conventional farmers express a need for developing a “politics of recognition” and repair that would acknowledge the unfair, subordinated role that farmers and rural communities feel in the current globalized food system. The paper shows the need for further empirical research on the issue, covering different territories and socio-economic and cultural profiles, in order to fully understand the symbolic mechanisms underlying material, agroecological transitions.
Knowledge Sharing among Students in Social Media: The Mediating Role of Family and Technology Supports in the Academic Development Nexus in an Emerging Country
Authors: Haque Md. Armanul , Zhang Xiaojuan , Akanda A. K. M. Eamin Ali , Hasan Md. Nazmul , Islam Md. Mahbubul , Saha Amitav , Hossain Md. Ikbal , Rahman Zihadur
Published: June 2023

Social networking has opened up new avenues for learning and knowledge sharing. Because of its document exchange, virtual communication, and knowledge production capabilities, social media is a helpful tool for learning and teaching. This research embraces multiple goals. First, this study examines Bangladeshi university students’ social value, communication and collaboration, trust, and the perceived benefits of knowledge sharing through social media in academic advancement. The second goal is to examine how families and technology support mediate those aspects of social media knowledge sharing with student academic development. This study uses the Technology Acceptance Model and Social Exchange Theory as an example of how knowledge sharing through social media with the help of family and technology impacts academic progress among Bangladeshi university students. This paper uses PLS-SEM on the survey data from 737 Bangladeshi students to test the model with the help of SmartPLS 4. Social value, communication and collaboration, trust, and the perceived benefits of sharing knowledge through social media significantly enhance Bangladeshi students’ academic growth. In the case of mediation, family and technological support mediate the relationship between communication and collaboration, trust, perceived benefits and academic development. However, there is no mediation between the social value of knowledge sharing in social media and students’ academic development. The article concludes with implications, limitations, and future research.
Between Fast and Sustainable Fashion: The Attitude of Young Lithuanian Designers to the Circular Economy
Authors: Bartkutė Rasa , Streimikiene Dalia , Kačerauskas Tomas
Published: June 2023

The textile and fashion industry is the second industry (after aviation) that pollutes the planet the most, and it uses natural and human resources excessively and irresponsibly. Fast fashion harms the environment. Fast fashion stands for low quality, low prices, constantly updated supplies, and high consumption of natural resources and chemicals. Nowadays, however, the evolution in the fashion industry from fast and unsustainable models to sustainability and a circular economy is firmly established. Fashion industry representatives are paying more and more attention to corporate social responsibility, business ethics, the implementation of circular economy principles, and the technological transition from linear production to a circular economy. The aim of this article is to evaluate the attitude of young Lithuanian designers towards the implementation of circular economy principles in the fashion industry. A problematic question is raised: how do young Lithuanian designers perceive sustainable fashion in the context of a circular economy? A qualitative semi-structured interview was used to collect data for the empirical study. The analysis has shown that the transition of the textile and fashion industry to a circular economy is a rather complex process that requires knowledge, significant financial investment in technological change, and greater consumer purchasing power in the production of products based on a circular economy. Moreover, new brands in the fashion industry do not always have enough information to start a business in the fashion industry based on a circular economy. A qualitative study conducted in Lithuania using the interview method showed that young Lithuanian fashion designers are very positive about sustainability solutions in the fashion industry and try to link their developing fashion brand with sustainability, but this is done fragmentarily rather than consistently. Young fashion designers state that they lack the in-depth knowledge and money to develop a brand in a circular economy. In conclusion, young Lithuanian fashion designers strive to create a sustainable fashion brand and link their development activities to a circular economy in a fragmentary way. Even after the research has been conducted, the question of how to get fast fashion manufacturers to produce sustainable fashion in Lithuania remains open.
Residual Agroforestry Biomass Supply Chain Simulation Insights and Directions: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Chidozie Bernardine Chigozie , Ramos Ana Luísa , Ferreira José Vasconcelos , Ferreira Luís Pinto
Published: June 2023

Residual biomass is a reliable source of energy and hence requires effective supply chain management for optimal performance and sustainability. While there are various studies on this recent trend, a comprehensive review of the literature on simulation-based modeling of the supply chain for residual agroforestry biomass is lacking. This study aims to present a systematic review of relevant literature surrounding residual agroforestry supply chain simulation insights and directions. The systematic literature review was carried out in accordance with PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) 2020 standards and intends to answer the research questions based on (1) Key Performance Indicators (KPI); (2) Simulation techniques; and (3) Efficient supply chain. A search of the Science Direct, SCOPUS, and UA EBSCO databases was conducted using the appropriate keywords combination. The databases were searched, and a total of 1617 papers were appraised automatically. Subsequently, the titles, keywords, and abstracts of 172 papers were examined. Following the full-text analysis, 20 papers in addition to 27 articles taken from other sources matched the requirements for study inclusion. The publications accessed reveals that simulation-based techniques will optimize the supply chain for residual biomass when applied.
Effectiveness of Cooperative Learning Instructional Models in Training In-Service Physical Education Teachers in Southwest China
Authors: Jiang Man , Yu Hongli , He Juan , Qian Guoping , Bialas Marcin
Published: June 2023

The provision of advanced specialized content knowledge (SCK) that facilitates in-service teachers’ pedagogical content knowledge (PCK) is one aspect of physical education (PE) worth attention. To some extent, instructional models for training PE teachers on PCK implementation have been studied internationally. Cooperative learning (CL) is rarely reported in China, where direct instruction (DI) is commonly used to assist PE teachers. This study fills in the gaps and investigates whether PE in-service teachers receive proper training during short sessions to improve their PCK. We examined the effect of scaffolding procedures on in-service PE teachers’ PCK, skills, and self-efficacy compared to CL and DI. Hence, the question arose as to whether this support training provided by the instructor would assist in-service teachers in their perception of their efficacy as PE teachers. We deliberately selected 72 in-service PE teachers from twelve middle schools in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China (23, 22, and 27 teachers for CL with scaffolding, CL, and DI conditions, respectively). CL and CLS participants were divided into mixed-sex teams using the CL procedure (Jigsaw) during the training session, while DI participants practiced the same training session in tandem. Pre- and post-tests were used to measure PE in-service teachers’ SCK, skills, and self-efficacy improvements. Additionally, PCK was also examined in the post-test. The mean scores for teaching self-efficacy, performance, and knowledge of practice for all three training conditions (CLS, CL, and DI) were similar at baseline. These parameters significantly differed between the three groups at the pre- and post-test. Post hoc tests revealed that participants in CLS programs improved their performance scores more from pre-test to post-test than participants in DI programs. Among CLS and CL participants, post hoc analyses indicated that their scores improved more significantly than those of DI participants between the pre- and post-tests. The correlation analysis showed positive correlations between post-test performance, PCK, and teaching self-efficacy in each condition. Direct access to teacher intervention information would be the key to developing instructional knowledge. CL training designs should incorporate scaffolding to help in-service teachers develop self-efficacy through physical activities.
Waste Generation Modeling Using System Dynamics with Seasonal and Educational Considerations
Authors: Eslami Sanaalsadat , Kabir Golam , Ng Kelvin Tsun Wai
Published: June 2023

Effective waste management is critical to environmental sustainability and public health. Various dynamics, such as seasonal changes and waste education programs, influence solid waste generation, increasing the complexity of prediction. This is important, as the proper prediction of waste quantity is necessary to develop a sustainable waste management system. In this study, municipal solid waste (MSW) management is examined in Regina, the capital city of Saskatchewan, Canada. A system dynamics (SD) model is developed to evaluate garbage and recyclable waste generation behaviours in Regina across four seasons. Three years of Regina landfill waste generation records (2016–2018) are considered to analyze and predict seasonal waste-generation trends. The effect of various factors, such as gross domestic product (GDP), population, and education attainment on the amount of waste generation is considered in the SD model. The SD model is designed as a stock-flow diagram to illustrate the relationships between variables and predict the next three years of waste trends. This finding highlights the importance of waste education and awareness program and seasonal effects on the accuracy of SD waste modeling.
Green Space at New Housing Estates: Flat Price Versus Accessibility to Good Quality Greenery
Authors: Szczepańska Magdalena , Gałecka-Drozda Anna , Wilkaniec Agnieszka
Published: June 2023

Green areas positively affect human health. It applies in particular to greenery in a direct neighbourhood of the housing. We analysed new housing estates in Poznan, Poland. Greenery quality was assessed according to developed factors, based on data about the area of the greenery in comparison with the area covered by hardscapes within the site; pre-existing greenery inventories; new greenery inventories; green area functions and accessibility. In the second stage of research, we compared data about greenery quality to information concerning economic value of the statistic flat in the estate. The average area of greenery in relation to the area of the plot was 40.16% for prestigious investments and 41.62% for less prestigious ones. The median value of WU (‘Socialisation rate’ indicator designed for this research) for prestigious investments was 0.035 and for less prestigious investments it was 0.226. The research showed that the price of flats does not affect the quality of residential greenery. Less prestigious (cheaper) flats have the same or even better access and quality of greenery in the estate. Developers do not take actual actions in the field of environmental compensation, which leads to lowering of the quality of greenery and public space.
Structural Stability of γ-Boron under High Pressure up to 126 GPa with Fine Pressure Increments
Authors: Zhong Cheng , Mai Di , Li Xiangdong , Wang Junke , Dai Rucheng , Wang Zhongping , Sun Xiaoyu , Zhang Zengming
Published: June 2023

The structural stability of γ-boron is investigated using Raman spectra and DFT calculations under high pressures, up to 126 GPa, at ambient temperature. The pressure dependence of all the Raman-active modes of the γ-boron is reported. We also observe amusing changes within the B3g and B1g Raman-active vibrational modes, which result in the phenomenon of first merging and then separating the Raman peaks. In addition to the Raman measurements, the changes in crystal structure and force constants are calculated to reasonably explain the discrepancy between the two Raman modes in response to pressure. The results of the continuous shifts for all Raman modes and the unit-cell parameters, as well as volume with increasing pressure, indicate that there is no structural transformation of γ-boron below this pressure value, with no changes in either symmetry or structure.
Research on Manufacturers’ Logistics Strategy Selection in the Context of E-Commerce
Authors: Liu Hao , Zhao Yanan
Published: June 2023

This paper explores the logistics strategy selection of a manufacturer that uses two sales channels (resale and agency channels) to sell the same product through an E-commerce platform. The agency channel offers two logistic strategies, low-quality logistics services provided by third-party enterprises (Strategy N) and high-quality logistics services provided by the platform (Strategy S). When the manufacturer opts for Strategy S, a portion of the market share of the resale channel shifts to the agency channel, which results in the platform logistics effect. We developed a game-theoretic model to investigate the equilibrium results of a manufacturer under different logistics strategies. The results show that there exists a threshold for the platform logistics effect. When the platform logistics effect is lower than this threshold, the manufacturer prefers Strategy N. Otherwise, the manufacturer prefers Strategy S. However, when the platform logistics price reaches a certain level, the manufacturer will always prefer Strategy N. Our study provides valuable insights for manufacturers and e-commerce platforms to optimize their operational decisions based on different logistics strategies. It also helps manufacturers make rational choices about logistics strategies.
Identification of Customer Churn Considering Difficult Case Mining
Authors: Li Jianfeng , Bai Xue , Xu Qian , Yang Dexiang
Published: June 2023

In the process of user churn modeling, due to the imbalance between lost users and retained users, the use of traditional classification models often cannot accurately and comprehensively identify users with churn tendency. To address this issue, it is not sufficient to simply increase the misclassification cost of minority class samples in cost-sensitive methods. This paper proposes using the Focal Loss hard example mining technique to add the class weight α and the focus parameter γ to the cross-entropy loss function of LightGBM. In addition, it emphasizes the identification of customers at risk of churning and raises the cost of misclassification for minority and difficult-to-classify samples. On the basis of the preceding ideas, the FocalLoss_LightGBM model is proposed, along with random forests, SVM, XGBoost, and LightGBM. Empirical analysis based on a dataset of credit card users publicly available on the Kaggle website. The AUC, TPR, and G-mean index values were superior to the existing model, which can effectively improve the accuracy and stability of potential lost users.
NativeVRF: A Simplified Decentralized Random Number Generator on EVM Blockchains
Authors: Werapun Warodom , Karode Tanakorn , Suaboot Jakapan , Arpornthip Tanwa , Sangiamkul Esther
Published: June 2023

Smart contracts refer to small programs that run in a decentralized blockchain infrastructure. The blockchain system is trustless, and the determination of common variables is done by consensus between peers. Developing applications that require generating random variables becomes significantly challenging—for instance, lotteries, games, and random assignments. Many random number generators (RNGs) for smart contracts have been developed for the decentralized environment. The methods can be classified into three categories: on-chain RNG, Verifiable Random Function (VRF), and the Commit–reveal scheme. Although the existing methods offer different strengths and weaknesses, none achieves the three important requirements for an ideal RNG solution: security, applicability, and cost efficiency. This paper proposes a novel RNG approach called Native VRF, which offers application development simplicity and cost efficiency while maintaining strong RNG security properties. Experimental results show that Native VRF has the same security properties as the widely used RNG methods, i.e., Randao and Chainlink VRF. On top of that, our work offers a much simpler setup process and lower hardware resources and developer expertise requirements. Most importantly, the proposed Native VRF is compatible with all Ethereum virtual machine (EVM) blockchains, contributing to the overall growth of the blockchain ecosystem.
Sources, Ionic Composition and Acidic Properties of Bulk and Wet Atmospheric Deposition in the Eastern Middle Adriatic Region
Authors: Gluščić Valentina , Žužul Silva , Pehnec Gordana , Jakovljević Ivana , Smoljo Iva , Godec Ranka , Bešlić Ivan , Milinković Andrea , Alempijević Saranda Bakija , Frka Sanja
Published: June 2023

Atmospheric bulk and wet deposition samples were collected simultaneously at the background coastal site in the Eastern Middle Adriatic region in order to assess the impact of major ions (Cl−, NO3−, SO42−, Na+, K+, NH4+, Mg2+, Ca2+) on deposition acidity and distinguish the main sources. Higher ion levels were observed during the cold period, especially for Cl−, Na+, Mg2+ and K+. Dust intrusion caused significant increases in levels of Ca2+, Mg2+ and K+, while open-fire events increased the levels of K+. Deposition acidity showed seasonal differences as well as the influence of dust intrusion. Low ionic balance ratios indicated acidic deposition properties and the presence of organic anions. The highest neutralization ability was found for Ca2+, Na+ and NH4+. Several natural (marine, crustal) and anthropogenic sources were determined, as well as the formation of secondary aerosols. Wet deposition was characterized by higher contribution of sea salt fraction compared to bulk deposition and lower contribution of crustal fraction.
Regulation of Clostridial Toxin Gene Expression: A Pasteurian Tradition
Authors: Dupuy Bruno
Published: June 2023

The alarming symptoms attributed to several potent clostridial toxins enabled the early identification of the causative agent of tetanus, botulism, and gas gangrene diseases, which belongs to the most famous species of pathogenic clostridia. Although Clostridioides difficile was identified early in the 20th century as producing important toxins, it was identified only 40 years later as the causative agent of important nosocomial diseases upon the advent of antibiotic therapies in hospital settings. Today, C. difficile is a leading public health issue, as it is the major cause of antibiotic-associated diarrhea in adults. In particular, severe symptoms within the spectrum of C. difficile infections are directly related to the levels of toxins produced in the host. This highlights the importance of understanding the regulation of toxin synthesis in the pathogenicity process of C. difficile, whose regulatory factors in response to the gut environment were first identified at the Institut Pasteur. Subsequently, the work of other groups in the field contributed to further deciphering the complex mechanisms controlling toxin production triggered by the intestinal dysbiosis states during infection. This review summarizes the Pasteurian contribution to clostridial toxin regulation studies.
The Correction of Quantum Tunneling Rate and Entropy of Non-Stationary Spherically Symmetric Black Hole by Lorentz Breaking
Authors: Liu Yu-Zhen , Tan Xia , Zhang Jie , Li Ran , Yang Shu-Zheng
Published: June 2023

With the introduction of CFJ correction term, Chiral correction term, and aether-like correction term, based on Lorentz breaking, WKB approximate, and quantum tunneling radiation theory of black holes, the modified fermion dynamics equation is studied in the general non-stationary spherically symmetric black hole space-time, and the new modified expressions of the fermion tunneling rate, the Hawking temperature, and the Bekenstein–Hawking entropy of the black hole are obtained. This black hole has both thermal and non-thermal radiation. In this article, the influence of Lorentz breaking on the energy levels of Dirac particles was also studied, and the distribution characteristics of Dirac energy levels in the space-time and the maximum value of the crossing of positive and negative energy levels were obtained. The necessary discussion and the explanation of the corresponding results are made.
Subjective Perception of Recovery and Measured Olfactory Function in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Cancellieri Emilia , Hernandez Anna Kristina , Degkwitz Helena , Kahre Elisabeth , Blankenburg Judith , Horst Theresa S. , Czyborra Paula , Boscolo-Rizzo Paolo , Hummel Thomas
Published: June 2023

This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate self-rated olfactory dysfunction in relation to measured olfactory function after partial or complete subjective recovery in individuals with a history of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection. A total of 186 individuals (aged 5–62 years) with a history of COVID-19 infection were included. Visual analogue scale (VAS) ratings for olfactory function (before, during, and after infection) and age-appropriate psychophysical olfactory test scores (odor threshold and odor identification: “Sniffin’ Sticks” for adults and both “Sniffin’ Sticks” and “U-Sniff” for children) were determined. Participants were assigned to four “age groups” and three “recovery classes” (incomplete recovery, complete recovery, no smell loss). Surprisingly, there were no significant differences in odor threshold and adult identification scores between the “recovery classes”. However, children with “incomplete recovery” had lower identification scores than those with “complete recovery” (p = 0.033) and those with “no smell loss” (p = 0.022). The pediatric age groups had significantly higher VAS ratings during and after COVID-19 compared to older participants. Older individuals experienced greater magnitude of changes in their sense of smell after COVID-19 infection, but those with parosmia were 3.5 times more likely to report “incomplete recovery" of olfaction after COVID-19. The general prognosis for olfactory recovery after COVID-19 is good but appears to be particularly confounded by the presence of parosmia, leading patients to subjectively report incomplete olfactory recovery. Although it is of high significance to monitor recovery using validated psychophysical olfactory tests, subjective measures of olfaction help provide specific insight, especially for qualitative olfactory dysfunction.
Antiviral Activity of an Endogenous Parvoviral Element
Authors: Bravo Angelica , Fernández-García Leandro , Ibarra-Karmy Rodrigo , Mardones Gonzalo A. , Mercado Luis , Bustos Fernando J. , Gifford Robert J. , Arriagada Gloria
Published: June 2023

Endogenous viral elements (EVEs) are genomic DNA sequences derived from viruses. Some EVEs have open reading frames (ORFs) that can express proteins with physiological roles in their host. Furthermore, some EVEs exhibit a protective role against exogenous viral infection in their host. Endogenous parvoviral elements (EPVs) are highly represented in mammalian genomes, and although some of them contain ORFs, their function is unknown. We have shown that the locus EPV-Dependo.43-ODegus, an EPV with an intact ORF, is transcribed in Octodon degus (degu). Here we examine the antiviral activity of the protein encoded in this EPV, named DeRep. DeRep was produced in bacteria and used to generate antibodies that recognize DeRep in western blots of degu tissue. To test if DeRep could protect against exogenous parvovirus, we challenged cells with the minute virus of mice (MVM), a model autonomous parvovirus. We observed that MVM protein expression, DNA damage induced by replication, viral DNA, and cytopathic effects are reduced when DeRep is expressed in cells. The results of this study demonstrate that DeRep is expressed in degu and can inhibit parvovirus replication. This is the first time that an EPV has been shown to have antiviral activity against an exogenous virus.
Pellino Proteins in Viral Immunity and Pathogenesis
Authors: Jensen Liselotte E.
Published: June 2023

Pellino proteins are a family of evolutionarily conserved ubiquitin ligases involved in intracellular signaling in a wide range of cell types. They are essential for microbe detection and the initiation of innate and adaptive immune responses. Some viruses specifically target the Pellino proteins as part of their immune evasion strategies. Through studies of mouse models of viral infections in the central nervous system, heart, lungs, and skin, the Pellino proteins have been linked to both beneficial and detrimental immune responses. Only in recent years have some of the involved mechanisms been identified. The objective of this review is to highlight the many diverse aspects of viral immunity and pathogenesis that the Pellino proteins have been associated with, in order to promote further research into their functions. After a brief introduction to the cellular signaling mechanisms involving Pellino proteins, their physiological roles in the initiation of immune responses, pathogenesis through excess inflammation, immune regulation, and cell death are presented. Known viral immune evasion strategies are also described. Throughout, areas that require more in-depth investigation are identified. Future research into the functions of the Pellino protein family may reveal fundamental insights into how our immune system works. Such knowledge may be leveraged in the fight against viral infections and their sequala.
Transcriptome Profiling of Vero E6 Cells during Original Parental or Cell-Attenuated Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus Infection
Authors: Peng Ouyang , Wu Yu , Hu Fangyu , Xia Yu , Geng Rui , Huang Yihui , Zeng Siying , Hu Guangli , Xue Chunyi , Zhang Hao , Cao Yongchang
Published: June 2023

Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) has led to significant economic losses in the global porcine industry since the emergence of variant strains in 2010. The high mutability of coronaviruses endows PEDV with the ability to evade the host immune response, which impairs the effectiveness of vaccines. In our previous study, we generated a highly cell-passaged PEDV strain, CT-P120, which showed promise as a live attenuated vaccine candidate by providing satisfactory protection against variant PEDV infection in piglets. However, the mechanism by which the attenuated CT-P120 adapts to cells during passage, resulting in increased replication efficiency, remains unclear. To address this question, we conducted a comparative transcriptomic analysis of Vero E6 cells infected with either the original parental strain (CT-P10) or the cell-attenuated strain (CT-P120) of PEDV at 6, 12, and 24 h post-infection. Compared to CT-P10, CT-P120 infection resulted in a significant decrease in the number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) at each time point. Functional enrichment analysis of genes revealed the activation of various innate immune-related pathways by CT-P10, notably attenuated during CT-P120 infection. To validate these results, we selected eight genes (TRAF3, IRF3, IFNL1, ISG15, NFKB1, MAP2K3, IL1A, and CCL2) involved in antiviral processes and confirmed their mRNA expression patterns using RT-qPCR, in line with the transcriptomic data. Subsequent protein-level analysis of selected genes via Western blotting and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay corroborated these results, reinforcing the robustness of our findings. Collectively, our research elucidates the strategies underpinning PEDV attenuation and immune evasion, providing invaluable insights for the development of effective PEDV vaccines.
Transcriptional Landscapes of Herelleviridae Bacteriophages and Staphylococcus aureus during Phage Infection: An Overview
Authors: Kornienko Maria , Bespiatykh Dmitry , Gorodnichev Roman , Abdraimova Narina , Shitikov Egor
Published: June 2023

The issue of antibiotic resistance in healthcare worldwide has led to a pressing need to explore and develop alternative approaches to combat infectious diseases. Among these methods, phage therapy has emerged as a potential solution to tackle this growing challenge. Virulent phages of the Herelleviridae family, known for their ability to cause lysis of Staphylococcus aureus, a clinically significant pathogen frequently associated with multidrug resistance, have proven to be one of the most effective viruses utilized in phage therapy. In order to utilize phages for therapeutic purposes effectively, a thorough investigation into their physiology and mechanisms of action on infected cells is essential. The use of omics technologies, particularly total RNA sequencing, is a promising approach for analyzing the interaction between phages and their hosts, allowing for the assessment of both the behavior of the phage during infection and the cell’s response. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the physiology of the Herelleviridae family, utilizing existing analyses of their total phage transcriptomes. Additionally, it sheds light on the changes that occur in the metabolism of S. aureus when infected with virulent bacteriophages, contributing to a deeper understanding of the phage–host interaction.
Acetate-encapsulated Linolenic Acid Liposomes Reduce SARS-CoV-2 and RSV Infection
Authors: McGill Andrew R. , Markoutsa Eleni , Mayilsamy Karthick , Green Ryan , Sivakumar Kavya , Mohapatra Subhra , Mohapatra Shyam S.
Published: June 2023

Emergent Coronaviridae viruses, such as SARS-CoV-1 in 2003, MERS-CoV in 2012, and SARS-CoV-2 (CoV-2) in 2019, have caused millions of deaths. These viruses have added to the existing respiratory infection burden along with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza. There are limited therapies for respiratory viruses, with broad-spectrum treatment remaining an unmet need. Since gut fermentation of fiber produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) with antiviral potential, developing a fatty acid-based broad-spectrum antiviral was investigated. Molecular docking of fatty acids showed α-linolenic acid (ALA) is likely to interact with CoV-2-S, NL63-CoV-S, and RSV-F, and an ALA-containing liposome interacted with CoV-2 directly, degrading the particle. Furthermore, a combination of ALA and a SCFA-acetate synergistically inhibited CoV2-N expression and significantly reduced viral plaque formation and IL-6 and IL-1β transcript expression in Calu-3 cells, while increasing the expression of IFN-β. A similar effect was also observed in RSV-infected A549 cells. Moreover, mice infected with a murine-adapted SARS-CoV-2 (MA10) and treated with an ALA–liposome encapsulating acetate showed significant reductions in plaque-forming units present in lung tissue and in infection-associated lung inflammation and cytokines. Taken together, these results demonstrate that the ALA liposome-encapsulating acetate can be a promising broad antiviral therapy against respiratory infections.
IGF2BP1—An Oncofetal RNA-Binding Protein Fuels Tumor Virus Propagation
Authors: Glaß Markus , Hüttelmaier Stefan
Published: June 2023

The oncofetal RNA-binding protein IGF2BP1 has been reported to be a driver of tumor progression in a multitude of cancer entities. Its main function is the stabilization of target transcripts by shielding these from miRNA-mediated degradation. However, there is growing evidence that several virus species recruit IGF2BP1 to promote their propagation. In particular, tumor-promoting viruses, such as hepatitis B/C and human papillomaviruses, benefit from IGF2BP1. Moreover, recent evidence suggests that non-oncogenic viruses, such as SARS-CoV-2, also take advantage of IGF2BP1. The only virus inhibited by IGF2BP1 reported to date is HIV-1. This review summarizes the current knowledge about the interactions between IGF2BP1 and different virus species. It further recapitulates several findings by presenting analyses from publicly available high-throughput datasets.
Differential Genome Replication of a Unique Single-Amino-Acid Mutation in the Adenovirus-4 Component of the Live Oral Adenovirus Type 4 and Type 7 Vaccine
Authors: Collins Natalie D. , Beaty Shannon , Wallace Elana , Li Yuanzhang , Sanborn Mark , Yang Yu , Adhikari Anima , Shabram Paul , Warfield Kelly , Karasavvas Nicos , Kuschner Robert A. , Hang Jun
Published: June 2023

The FDA-approved Adenovirus Type 4 and Type 7 Vaccine, Live, Oral is highly effective and essential in preventing acute respiratory diseases (ARDs) in U.S. military recruits. Our study revealed the presence of a previously undetected mutation, not found in the wild-type human adenovirus type 4 (HAdV-4) component of the licensed vaccine, which contains an amino acid substitution (P388T) in the pre-terminal protein (pTP). This study demonstrated that replication of the T388 HAdV-4 vaccine mutant virus is favored over the wild type in WI-38 cells, the cell type utilized in vaccine manufacturing. However, results from serial human stool specimens of vaccine recipients support differential genome replication in the gastrointestinal tract (GI), demonstrated by the steady decline of the percentage of mutant T388 vaccine virus. Since vaccine efficacy depends upon GI replication and the subsequent immune response, the mutation can potentially impact vaccine efficacy.
Epidemiological Characterization of African Swine Fever Dynamics in Ukraine, 2012–2023
Authors: Bezymennyi Maksym , Tarasov Oleksandr , Kyivska Ganna V. , Mezhenska Nataliia A. , Mandyhra Svitlana , Kovalenko Ganna , Sushko Mykola , Hudz Nataliia , Skorokhod Serhii V. , Datsenko Roman , Muzykina Larysa , Milton Elaina , Sapachova Maryna A. , Nychyk Serhii , Halka Ihor , Frant Maciej , Huettmann Falk , Drown Devin M. , Gerilovych Anton , Mezhenskyi Andrii A. , Bortz Eric , Lange Christian E.
Published: June 2023

African swine fever (ASF) is a viral disease, endemic to Africa, that causes high mortality when introduced into domestic pig populations. Since the emergence of p72-genotype II African swine fever virus (ASFV) in Georgia in 2007, an ASF epidemic has been spreading across Europe and many countries in Asia. The epidemic first reached Ukraine in 2012. To better understand the dynamics of spread of ASF in Ukraine, we analyzed spatial and temporal outbreak data reported in Ukraine between 2012 and mid-2023. The highest numbers of outbreaks were reported in 2017 (N = 163) and 2018 (N = 145), with overall peak numbers of ASF outbreaks reported in August (domestic pigs) and January (wild boars). While cases were reported from most of Ukraine, we found a directional spread from the eastern and northern borders towards the western and southern regions of Ukraine. Many of the early outbreaks (before 2016) were adjacent to the border, which is again true for more recent outbreaks in wild boar, but not for recent outbreaks in domestic pigs. Outbreaks prior to 2016 also occurred predominantly in areas with a below average domestic pig density. This new analysis suggests that wild boars may have played an important role in the introduction and early spread of ASF in Ukraine. However, in later years, the dynamic suggests human activity as the predominant driver of spread and a separation of ASF epizootics between domestic pigs and in wild boars. The decline in outbreaks since 2019 suggests that the implemented mitigation strategies are effective, even though long-term control or eradication remain challenging and will require continued intensive surveillance of ASF outbreak patterns.
Fatigue Potentially Reduces the Effect of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation on Depression Following COVID-19 and Its Vaccination
Authors: Kamamuta Ayane , Takagi Yuki , Takahashi Mizuki , Kurihara Kana , Shibata Hibiki , Tanaka Kanata , Hata Katsuhiko
Published: June 2023

COVID-19’s long-term effects, known as Long-COVID, present psychiatric and physical challenges in recovered patients. Similarly, rare long-term post-vaccination side effects, resembling Long-COVID, are emerging (called Post-Vaccine). However, effective treatments for both conditions are scarce. Our clinical experience suggests that transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) often aids recovery in Long-COVID and Post-Vaccine patients. However, its effectiveness is reduced in patients with severe fatigue. Therefore, we retrospectively analysed Tokyo TMS Clinic’s outpatient records (60 in total; mean age, 38 years) to compare Long-COVID and post-vaccine patients’ characteristics and symptoms, assess the impact of TMS on their symptoms, and investigate the role of fatigue in depression recovery with TMS. The primary outcome was the regression coefficient of the initial fatigue score on depression score improvement using TMS. Secondary outcomes included psychiatric/physical scores before and after TMS and their improvement rates. We found no differences in the initial symptoms and background factors between Long-COVID and Post-Vaccine patients. After ten TMS sessions, all psychiatric and physical symptom scores improved significantly. TMS improves depression, insomnia, anxiety, and related neuropsychiatric symptoms, which were the primary complaints in this study. Thus, we conclude that TMS improves depression and anxiety. The effectiveness of TMS in treating depression in Long-COVID and Post-Vaccine patients decreased as fatigue severity increased. In conclusion, TMS relieved depressive symptoms following COVID-19 and vaccination; however, fatigue may hinder its effectiveness.
Artificial Intelligence in Public Health: Revolutionizing Epidemiological Surveillance for Pandemic Preparedness and Equitable Vaccine Access
Authors: Anjaria Pranav , Asediya Varun , Bhavsar Prakrutik , Pathak Abhishek , Desai Dhruv , Patil Veerupaxagouda
Published: June 2023

Epidemiological surveillance involves systematic gathering, analysis, interpretation, and sharing of health data, with the goal of preventing and controlling diseases [...]
Antimicrobial Efficacy of Phyto-L, Thiosulfonate from Allium spp. Containing Supplement, against Escherichia Coli Strains from Rabbits
Authors: D’Amico Francesco , Casalino Gaia , Dinardo Francesca Rita , Schiavitto Michele , Camarda Antonio , Romito Diana , Bove Antonella , Circella Elena
Published: June 2023

Colibacillosis, caused by enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC), is one of the most common diseases in rabbit farms, resulting in economic losses due to mortality and decrease in production. Until recently, antimicrobials were used to both treat and prevent disease on livestock farms, leading to the possible risk of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and the selection of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria. Therefore, interest in alternative control methods, such as the use of natural substances, has increased in the scientific community. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of Phyto-L (Pro Tech s.r.l.), a product containing organosulfur compounds (OSCs) such as propyl propane thiosulfonate (PTSO) from Allium spp., against 108 strains of E. coli isolated from rabbits with colibacillosis from 19 farms. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of Phyto-L were assessed. Bacterial suspensions with a charge of 108 CFU/mL, corresponding to those found in the rabbit gut under pathologic conditions, were tested with different concentrations from 20 to 0.15 μL/mL of Phyto-L. For each strain, the MIC and concentrations above the MIC were plated on Tryptic Soy agar (TSA) without Phyto-L to assess the MBCs. MIC and MBC values ranged from 1.25 to 5 μL/mL and 1.25 to 20 μL/mL, respectively, depending on the strain tested. The data showed an interesting antibacterial activity of Phyto-L against EPEC strains. Therefore, this product could be effective in preventing colibacillosis in field application, especially considering that 104–105 CFU/g of feces is the amount of E. coli usually found in the gut contents of rabbits under physiological condition.
Effect and Mechanism of Applying Myriophyllum Verticillatum for Reclaimed Water Purification in Urban Rivers
Authors: Zhu Liping , Lin Xiaohu , Li Shiyi , Sun Danyan , Fang Haifeng , Xu Jingcheng , Huang Juwen , Li Guangming
Published: June 2023

Reclaimed water produced via the advanced treatment of domestic wastewater has broad application prospects for reuse in urban rivers, while the nutrients in reclaimed water, especially nitrogen and phosphorus, lead to eutrophication or ecological impacts. Submerged plants are preferred as an enhanced technology used at reclaimed water recharge sites for both water quality improvement purposes and ecological conservation functions. In this study, which adopted the typical submerged plant Myriophyllum verticillatum (M. verticillatum) as its experimental object, experiments were carried out in an illumination incubator without a substrate and under hydrostatic conditions to investigate the water purification effects and mechanisms of action of M. verticillatum at different planting densities. The analysis showed that the group with a wet weight of 2.5 g L−1 had the best growth status and the best overall performance with respect to improvements in water quality indicators, including COD, nitrogen, and phosphorus, as well as demonstrating excellent uptake and synergistic effects in the process of removing nitrogen and phosphorus. The contributions of natural effects, the uptake and enrichment by M. verticillatum itself, and the synergistic effects during the nitrogen and phosphorus removal process were quantified. Furthermore, 16S rRNA gene sequencing was used to determine the surface-attached bacterial colonies of M. verticillatum, to analyze their population diversity, and to identify environmental functional genera. In conclusion, an appropriate density of M. verticillatum can improve water quality and provide a suitable environment for the survival and growth of relevant environmentally functional microorganisms, effectively removing nitrogen and phosphorus through its own absorption and synergistic effects.
Hydrogeologic Constraints for Drinking Water Security in Southwest Coastal Bangladesh: Implications for Sustainable Development Goal 6.1
Authors: Akhter Tanjila , Naz Maheen , Salehin Mashfiqus , Arif Sharif Tanjim , Hoque Sonia Ferdous , Hope Robert , Rahman Mohammad Rezaur
Published: June 2023

Transitioning from the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) is a big challenge, particularly for SDG 6.1, as the effective delivery of drinking water services drops due to more stringent indicators, especially for water quality constraints. Salinity in groundwater has received less attention compared to arsenic and E. Coli in the MDG era, while its presence and widespread variability has considerable implications in larger coastal areas for achieving SDG 6.1 targets. This article analyzes drinking water security in southwest coastal Bangladesh, through an in-depth field investigation. It reveals that the exponential growth of groundwater-based technologies, such as tube wells, does not necessarily indicate the actual safe drinking water coverage in coastal areas, due to complex hydrogeology with the high spatial variability of groundwater salinity risks. The spatial variability of hydrogeologic constraints and groundwater salinity risks also reinforces concerns of access, reliability, and affordability with different water supply technologies. National estimates can be misleading as the presence of salinity substantially lowers the effective drinking water coverage. Infrastructural investments for drinking water supply need to consider a sound knowledge of hydrogeologic heterogeneity, and the monitoring of water quality, if the SDG 6.1 targets are to be met.