bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Relationship between Perceived Teacher Emotional Support, Online Academic Burnout, Academic Self-Efficacy, and Online English Academic Engagement of Chinese EFL Learners
Authors: He Li , Feng Lei , Ding Jie
Published: July 2024

This study explores the impact of college students’ perceived teacher emotional support on English academic engagement in technology-enhanced online learning contexts. It examined whether 450 Chinese students’ perceptions of teacher emotional support were related to students’ English academic engagement and mediated by students’ online academic burnout and academic self-efficacy. All of the sample students were recruited to complete an online questionnaire, and some students and teachers were invited to do a semi-structured interview. SPSS24 and PROCESS3.5 macro were utilized to undertake the descriptive, correlational, and mediation analyses. The findings showed that teachers’ perceived emotional support and student academic efficacy positively affect students’ online English academic engagement. In contrast, online academic burnout negatively affects students’ online English academic engagement. Student academic efficacy partially mediated the effects of perceived teacher emotional support and student academic engagement in online learning contexts. The interviews confirmed the findings, and the influences and roles of teachers’ emotional support were described in terms of teacher and student dimensions in an interview. Directions and further implications for researchers, teachers, and educators are presented at the end of the study.
Does Fulfilling ESG Responsibilities Curb Corporate Leverage Manipulation? Evidence from Chinese-Listed Companies
Authors: Mo Yalin , Wei Fenglan , Huang Yihan
Published: July 2024

Against the backdrop of economic transformation and sustainable development, this paper utilizes listed companies from the Shanghai and Shenzhen A-share markets from 2009 to 2021 as research samples, measures corporate leverage manipulation levels using the XLT-LEVM method, and employs a panel fixed effects model to empirically examine the impact of corporate ESG responsibility fulfillment on leverage manipulation behaviors and its underlying mechanisms. The results show that the performance of ESG responsibility can inhibit the leverage manipulation behavior of enterprises, and this effect is more obvious in enterprises with low analyst attention and excessive debt. Mechanism tests reveal that the fulfillment of ESG responsibilities by corporations exerts both reputational and informational effects, which, by mitigating financing constraints and enhancing information transparency, subsequently curtail corporate leverage manipulation. The analysis of economic consequences demonstrates that the inhibitory effect of ESG responsibility fulfillment on corporate leverage manipulation contributes to reducing the risk of corporate debt default. The research conclusions of this paper hold instructive significance for the positive governance role of ESG performance. Consequently, governments and regulatory bodies should guide and support enterprises in assuming ESG responsibilities, and corporations should increase their investments in ESG and enhance their ESG performance.
A Study on the Performance of Self-Leveling Mortar Utilizing Tungsten Tailings as the Aggregate
Authors: Zhang Wenyi , Yang Chen , Huang Lijinhong , Wang Zekai , Zeng Chaocong , Zhu Junzhen , Huang Wanfu
Published: July 2024

A significant quantity of tailings is produced during the development of different metal mines in China. In particular, fine-grained tailings pose challenges to the sustainable development of the mining industry. This study examines the utilization of finely ground tungsten tailings as a replacement for natural aggregates in self-leveling mortar (SLM). The study examined the impact of the aggregate-cement ratio, cement mix ratio, and varying substitution levels of different grain sizes of tungsten tailings on the flow properties, mechanical properties, and dimensional change rate of SLM. Additionally, the role of tungsten tailings in SLM was analyzed using XRD, FTIR, and SEM methods. The findings demonstrated that the utilization of sulphoaluminate cement (SAC) had a notable impact on improving the initial strength of the SLM. Additionally, a high aggregate-cement ratio negatively affected the fluidity of the SLM. The doping of tungsten tailings improved the grading relationship of the SLM. Substituting tungsten tailings of 38–75 μm grain size for natural aggregates in the preparation of SLM did not have a negative impact on its performance. In fact, substituting 60% tungsten tailings had a positive effect on the 28-day mechanical properties of the SLM. The compressive and flexural strengths of the SLM after 28 days were 26.53 MPa and 9.06 MPa, respectively, which were enhanced by 18.81% and 26% compared to the control group (C0). According to the environmental leaching test, SLM can effectively fix the heavy metal ions in tungsten tailings, and the leaching concentration of heavy metals is significantly reduced after long-term curing. The doping of finely fragmented tungsten tailings accelerated the process of hydration, resulting in the creation of hydrocalcium zeolite crystals in the latter phases of hydration. Furthermore, an increase in tailings substitution resulted in the production of a greater amount of hydration products, specifically C-S-H gels.
Future Innovation Unleashed for Sustainability in Longitudinal Research in Micro- and Small-Sized Enterprises
Authors: Brink Tove
Published: July 2024

The research reveals how micro- and small-sized enterprises can unleash future innovation to pursue sustainability. This empirical participatory action research is conducted from 2018 to 2022 in 18 multi-case micro- and small-sized enterprises. The findings reveal that these enterprises pursue sustainability through instrumental, moral and intrinsic value creation in combination. Despite the experienced uncertainty and resource limitations of the participating enterprises, they can pursue future innovation to create value for customers and society addressing, respectively, UN SDGs No. 3, 8, 9, 11, 12 and 17. None of the hitherto noted entrepreneurial literature branches can alone support micro- and small-sized enterprises to pursue future innovation. However, the literature branches illustrate individual useful strengths. Furthermore, they illustrate limitations for value creation. The illustrated useful strengths and the accompanying limitations call for context-dependent use in micro- and small- sized enterprises through the integration of the relevant specific extant literature branches to support their innovation aims, respectively, utilising opportunities, their own and others’ heterogeneous behaviours and reorganising resources to unleash future sustainable innovation in an action learning approach. Further collaborative participatory action research is needed to support and enable the practical implication potential for value creation in micro- and small-sized enterprises.
An Interdisciplinary Approach to Understand the Resilience of Agrosystems in the Sahel and West Africa
Authors: Descroix Luc , Luxereau Anne , Lambert Laurent A. , Ruë Olivier , Diedhiou Arona , Diongue-Niang Aïda , Dia Amadou Hamath , Gangneron Fabrice , Manga Sylvie Paméla , Diedhiou Ange B. , Andrieu Julien , Chevalier Patrick , Faty Bakary
Published: July 2024

Sub-Saharan African farmers have long been portrayed with very negative representations, at least since the beginning of coordinated European colonialism in the late 19th century. In the Sahel-Sudan area, agrosystems have been described as overgrazed, forests as endangered, and soils as overexploited, with local and traditional “archaic” practices. Against this background, the objective of this article is to focus on these agrosystems’ resilience, for which several criteria have been monitored. The approach used in this research was to synthesize observations from a large amount of material gathered over multiple years by the authors, drawing on our long-term commitment to, and inter-disciplinary study of, the evolution of surface hydrology, ecosystems, and agrosystems of West Africa. The positive trends in rainfall and streamflows, reinforced by farmer’s practices, confirm the overall regreening and reforestation of the Sahel-Sudan strip, especially in areas with high population densities, including the mangrove areas. The intensification of agricultural systems and the recovery of the water-holding capacity of soils and catchments explain the recorded general increase in terms of food self-sufficiency in the Sahel, as well as in crops yields and food production. Finally, we compare the neo-Malthusian discourse to the actual resilience of these agrosystems. The article concludes with a recommendation calling for the empowerment of smallholder farmers to take greater advantage of the current wet period. Overall, the speed of change in knowledge and know-how transfer and implementation, and the farmers’ ability to adapt to ecological and economic crises, must be highlighted. Far from being resistant to change, West African agriculturalists innovate, experiment, borrow, transform, and choose according to their situation, projects, and social issues.
Identification and Prioritization of Thermal Environment Regulation Hotspots in Chengdu
Authors: Cai Ziang , Gui Mengmeng , Chen Rui , Wang Shan , Zhao Dan , Peng Peihao , Wang Juan
Published: July 2024

Temperature condition in urban areas has a substantial impact on the well-being and safety of both urban residents and the ecosystems. Green spaces are crucial for mitigating urban heat impacts, and hence, their balanced supply and demand is essential. Due to rapid urbanization, Chengdu has had a significant increase in population, which has had an impact on the dynamic changes in its green space environment, making it a suitable case for our study. This study employs the high-temperature vulnerability framework to classify urban green spaces as entities that regulate the thermal environment. This classification is based on the analysis of ecosystem service supply and demand. The approach creates an assessment framework for managing the balance between the need for and availability of thermal environment regulation in urban green spaces. The study utilizes matching and a priority index to identify places in Chengdu where there are imbalances between supply and demand for services. Our findings suggest: (1) The demand for regulating the thermal environment in Chengdu’s green spaces is defined by three indices: thermal exposure, thermal sensitivity, and thermal adaptability. High-demand areas account for a relatively small proportion and exhibit a pattern of “global diffusion and local concentration”. (2) The supply capacity in Chengdu is determined by both the size of green spaces and the surface temperature. High-supply capacity areas are mainly located in the southeastern part of the city, and their distribution pattern is similar to that of green spaces. (3) The level of correspondence between the supply and demand in Chengdu varies significantly and can be classified into three categories: “insufficient supply and high demand”, “insufficient supply and low demand”, and “abundant supply and low demand”. Out of these, 32 units are located in the area with a shortage of supply, while 6 units are in the area with a significant imbalance of low supply and high demand. (4) The green space thermal environment regulation in Chengdu is categorized into four priority intervention levels: priority I, II, III, and IV zones. The priority IV zone, which has a high intervention priority level, consists of two units primarily located in the Inner Ring Qingyang, Inner Ring Jinjiang, Cuijiadian, Caotang, and Donghu, which are deemed crucial for needing prioritized regulation.
Application of Robust Super Twisting to Load Frequency Control of a Two-Area System Comprising Renewable Energy Resources
Authors: Abdelaal Ashraf K. , El-Hameed Mohamed A.
Published: July 2024

The main concern of the present article is to design a robust load frequency control for a two-area power system (TAPS) comprising renewable energy resources. Three different controllers are suggested. The first is based on a robust super twisting (ST) technique, which is an enhanced approach of the sliding mode control and is considered to be one of the most excellent control techniques. The second and the third are based on two recent metaheuristic techniques, namely the one-to-one based optimizer (OOBO) and hippopotamus optimizer (HO). The studied TAPS contains different energy resources, such as solar thermal, photovoltaic, wind energy, hydropower and energy storage in addition to other conventional sources. The OOBO and HO are used to determine the parameters of PI controllers, and the objective function is to minimize the integral square error of frequency and tie line power. The obtained results verify the high performance of the suggested three controllers with superiority to ST because of its intrinsic capability to cope with parameter changes.
Partitioned Simulation of Land Use Change Based on Carbon Neutrality Zoning and Its Multiscale Effect on Carbon Emissions in the Xia–Zhang–Quan Metropolitan Circle, China
Authors: Li Zhen , Wen Ding , Wang Bo , Li Ning
Published: July 2024

Urbanization significantly affects the global carbon balance. Therefore, clarifying the effect of urbanization-induced land use change on carbon emissions and proposing the zonal-based policy implementation became crucial. In this study, we estimated the future land use carbon emissions in three scenarios by adopting the partitioned Patch-generating Land Use Simulation Model (PLUS) in the Xiamen–Zhangzhou–Quanzhou (XZQ) metropolitan circle, China. The results showed that (1) the region could be divided into two sub-areas (carbon sink function zone and high-carbon optimization zone); the partitioned PLUS model had a higher accuracy in the developed areas, whereas it had a lower accuracy in the undeveloped areas; (2) the main characteristic of land use change was the construction on the land that was previously farmland, spanning 260.2 km2; the land used for construction would continue to expand, with 215.5 km2 (8.2%), 261.0 km2 (9.9%), and 129.5 km2 (4.9%) in the natural development scenario (ND), economic development scenario (ED), and carbon neutrality scenario (CN), respectively; (3) the amount of carbon emissions would increase by 196.2 × 104 tons and 235.4 × 104 tons in the ND and ED, respectively, whereas, it would decrease by 49.0 × 104 tons in the CN. This study made a beneficial attempt at partitioning based on carbon neutrality by improving the PLUS model simulation results and carbon emission assessment, which could provide methods and references for future similar studies. The findings suggest a method for the coordinated development between the carbon sink function zone and the high-carbon optimization zone. In addition, comprehensively understanding the land use change and its effects on carbon emissions, from this study, could provide important insights into carbon neutrality and regional sustainable development for urban planners and policymakers. In future research, the zoning research could be conducted at a finer scale, since the partition results were relatively coarse in this study.
Plant Cadmium Toxicity and Biomarkers Are Differentially Modulated by Degradable and Nondegradable Microplastics in Soil
Authors: Liu Jun , Yu Zihan , Song Ningning , Zong Haiying , Wang Fangli , Guo Rui , Li Shaojing
Published: July 2024

The impact of microplastics (MPs) as emerging pollutants on plant heavy metal toxicity has been extensively reported in vegetable–soil systems over recent years. However, little attention has been given to cultivar variations between degradable and non-degradable MPs. This study investigated the effects of degradable polylactic acid (PLA) and nondegradable polypropylene (PP) MPs on plant growth and biomarker (malonaldehyde (MDA) and antioxidant enzymes) performance in Cd-contaminated arable soil. The results show that both types of MPs significantly impacted plant biomass and biomarker contents across all three Cd levels. The degree of impact was significantly sensitive to both the type and dose of MPs, as they reduced the soil pH and cation exchange capacity (CEC) while increasing soil dissolved organic carbon (DOC), microbial biomass carbon, and nitrogen. PP exhibited greater root growth inhibition and phytotoxicity at higher doses of 1% and 5% compared to PLA. Specifically, the highest MDA contents were 1.44 and 2.20 mmol mg−1 protein for shoots and roots, respectively, in the 5% PLA treatment under a 10.1 mg kg−1 Cd level, which were 1.22 and 1.18 times higher than those in corresponding treatments of 5% PP. Overall, PLA had less significant effects on plant phytotoxicity, Cd availability, and soil properties compared to PP. Regression pathway analysis indicated that MPs increased shoot Cd uptake by altering both soil physical–chemical and microbial characteristics. Among the soil variables, pH, CEC, and Cd bioavailability were found to play vital roles. Yet, no single variable acts alone in the mechanism for plant Cd uptake. PLAs are suggested to replace conventional non-biodegradable plastics to control environmental MP pollution, particularly in agricultural systems with higher Cd contamination. However, the long-term effects of the by-products generated during the biodegradation process require further investigation.
Pollution and Health Risk Assessment of Potentially Toxic Elements in Groundwater in the Kǒnqi River Basin (NW China)
Authors: Hu Yonglong , Eziz Mamattursun , Wang Liling , Subi Xayida
Published: July 2024

Potentially toxic elements (PTEs) pose a significant threat to the groundwater system and human health. Pollution and the potential risks of PTEs in groundwater in the Kǒnqi River Basin (KRB) of the northwest arid zones of China are still unknown. A total of 53 groundwater samples containing eight PTEs (Al, As, Cd, Cu, Mn, Pb, Se, and Zn) were collected from the KRB, and the pollution levels and probabilistic health risks caused by PTEs were assessed based on the Nemerow Index (NI) method and the health risk assessment model. The results revealed that the mean contents of Al, As, and Mn in the groundwater surpassed the Class III threshold of the Standard for Groundwater Quality of China. The overall pollution levels of the investigated PTEs in the groundwater fall into the moderate pollution level. The spatial distributions of contents and pollution levels of different PTEs in the groundwater were different. Health risk assessment indicated that all the investigated PTEs in groundwater in the KRB may pose a probabilistic non-carcinogenic health risk for both adults and children. Moreover, As may pose a non-carcinogenic health risk, whereas the non-carcinogenic health risk posed by the other seven PTEs in groundwater will not have the non-carcinogenic risks. Furthermore, As falls into the low carcinogenic risk level, whereas Cd falls into the very low carcinogenic risk level. Overall, As was confirmed as the dominant pollution factor and health risk factor of groundwater in the KRB. Results of this study provide the scientific basis needed for the prevention and control of PTE pollution in groundwater.
Effects of Heavy Metal Pollution on the Element Distribution in Hydrobios
Authors: Hu Chengxin , Lai Chenghao , Yu Ruiyang , Chen Yangfan , Shen Zhixiao , Lu Wei , Yuan Xiaofeng
Published: July 2024

At a time when heavy metal pollution is increasing, assessing the levels of contamination and associated health risks is crucial. Samples of water, aquatic plants, and fish were collected from four key areas of heavy metal pollution prevention and control in Zhejiang Province. The levels of elements were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). A human health risk model was also developed. The study revealed that heavy metal pollution in the five industrial zones exceeded the national standard for Class V water. Elements like arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), and chromium (Cr) exceeded permissible levels in aquatic plants across all industrial zones; the exception was lead (Pb). Moreover, the heavy metal concentrations in subject fish tissues collected from each industrial area exceeded safe limits, especially in the gut. According to the human health risk evaluation model, the health risk (1.12 × 10−3) and children’s health risk (1.10 × 10−3) in these prevention and control zones surpassed the maximum acceptable human risk values. In conclusion, heavy metal elements, along with other pollutants, accumulate and become concentrated in the examined aquatic plants and fish. These pollutants move through the food chain, impacting the entire aquatic ecosystem and posing a health risk to nearby populations.
Toxic Peptides from the Mexican Scorpion Centruroides villegasi: Chemical Structure and Evaluation of Recognition by Human Single-Chain Antibodies
Authors: Riaño-Umbarila Lidia , Olamendi-Portugal Timoteo , Romero-Moreno José Alberto , Delgado-Prudencio Gustavo , Zamudio Fernando Z. , Becerril Baltazar , Possani Lourival D.
Published: July 2024

Alternative recombinant sources of antivenoms have been successfully generated. The application of such strategies requires the characterization of the venoms for the development of specific neutralizing molecules against the toxic components. Five toxic peptides to mammals from the Mexican scorpion Centruroides villegasi were isolated by chromatographic procedures by means of gel filtration on Sephadex G-50, followed by ion-exchange columns on carboxy-methyl-cellulose (CMC) resins and finally purified by high-performance chromatography (HPLC) columns. Their primary structures were determined by Edman degradation. They contain 66 amino acids and are maintained well packed by four disulfide bridges, with molecular mass from 7511.3 to 7750.1 Da. They are all relatively toxic and deadly to mice and show high sequence identity with known peptides that are specific modifiers of the gating mechanisms of Na+ ion channels of type beta-toxin (β-ScTx). They were named Cv1 to Cv5 and used to test their recognition by single-chain variable fragments (scFv) of antibodies, using surface plasmon resonance. Three different scFvs generated in our laboratory (10FG2, HV, LR) were tested for recognizing the various new peptides described here, paving the way for the development of a novel type of scorpion antivenom.
Long-Term Adherence to Onabotulinum Toxin-A Intradetrusor Injections for Neurogenic Dysfunction in Children—A Retrospective Single-Center Evaluation
Authors: Pellegrino Chiara , Forlini Valentina , Capitanucci Maria Luisa , Della Bella Gessica , Mosiello Giovanni
Published: July 2024

Onabotulinum Toxin-A (BTX-A) is a second-line treatment for neurogenic bladder (NB). It requires repeated injections over time, which is a possible limit for long-term adherence, especially in children, as general anesthesia is required. Almost 50% of adults discontinue therapy; few data on pediatric patients are present. The aim of this study is to share our long-term experience of BTX-A adherence in children. This study is a retrospective review of 230 refractory NB patients treated with BTX-A. The inclusion criteria were ≥3 treatments and the first injection performed ≥10 years before the study endpoint. Fifty-four patients were included. Mean follow-up was 10.2 years; mean treatment number was 6.4 for each patient. During follow-up, 7% did not need BTX-A anymore; 76% discontinued therapy, with a prevalence of acquired NB (64% acquired vs. 34% congenital; p = 0.03); sex-based and urodynamic findings did not influence the discontinuation rate (p = 0.6, p = 0.2, respectively). Considering those who withdrew from the therapy, 43% were lost to follow-up/died after a mean of 7.5 years (although 33% still experienced clinical efficacy); 33% changed therapy after a mean of 5.8 years (with reduced efficacy in 22%, persistent efficacy in 11%). BTX-A is a safe and effective therapy for pediatric patients. The treatment abandonment rate is higher for children than for adults; no specific reasons were highlighted. It is necessary to evaluate any age-specific factors to explain these data.
Further Study of the Relationship between Transient Effects in Energetic Proton and Cosmic Ray Fluxes Induced by Coronal Mass Ejections
Authors: Savić Mihailo , Veselinović Nikola , Maričić Darije , Šterc Filip , Banjanac Radomir , Travar Miloš , Dragić Aleksandar
Published: July 2024

The study and better understanding of energetic transient phenomena caused by disturbances occurring on our Sun are of great importance, primarily due to the potential negative effects those events can have on Earth’s environment. Here, we present the continuation of our previous work on understanding the connection between disturbances in the flux of energetic particles induced in the near-Earth environment by the passage of interplanetary coronal mass ejections and related Forbush decrease events. The relationship between the shape of fluence spectra of energetic protons measured by the instruments on the SOHO/ERNE probe at Lagrange point L1, Forbush decrease parameters measured by the worldwide network of neutron monitors, and coronal mass ejection parameters measured in situ is investigated. Various parameters used to characterize transient phenomena and their impact on the heliosphere, provided by the WIND spacecraft, were utilized to improve the accuracy of the calculation of the associated energetic proton fluence. The single and double power laws with exponential rollover were used to model the fluence spectra, and their effectiveness was compared. Correlation analysis between exponents used to characterize the shape of fluence spectra and Forbush decrease parameters is presented, and the results obtained by the two models are discussed.
X17: Status and Perspectives
Authors: Gustavino Carlo
Published: July 2024

Recently, a group directed by A. J. Krasznahorkay observed an anomaly in the emission of electron–positron pairs in three different nuclear reactions, namely, the  3H(p,e −e +) 4He,  7Li(p,e −e +) 8Be, and  11B(p,e −e +) 12C processes. Kinematics indicate that this anomaly might be due to the de-excitation of  4He,  8Be, and  12C nuclei with the emission of a boson with a mass of about 17 MeV, rapidly decaying into e −e + pairs. The result of the experiments performed with the singletron accelerator of ATOMKI is reviewed, and the consequences of the so-called X17 boson in particle physics and in cosmology are discussed. Forthcoming experiments designed to shed light on the possible existence of the X17 boson are also reported.
Energetic Particles and High-Energy Processes in Cosmological Filaments and Their Astronomical Implications
Authors: Wu Kinwah , Owen Ellis R. , Han Qin , Inoue Yoshiyuki , Luo Lilian
Published: July 2024

Large-scale cosmic filaments connect galaxies, clusters, and voids. They are permeated by magnetic fields with a variety of topologies. Cosmic rays with energies up to 1020eV can be produced in astrophysical environments associated with star-formation and AGN activities. The fate of these cosmic rays in filaments, which cannot be directly observed on Earth, are rarely studied. We investigate the high-energy processes associated with energetic particles (cosmic rays) in filaments, adopting an ecological approach that includes galaxies, clusters/superclusters, and voids as key cosmological structures in the filament ecosystem. We derive the phenomenology for modelling interfaces between filaments and these structures, and investigate how the transfer and fate of energetic cosmic ray protons are affected by the magnetism of the interfaces. We consider different magnetic field configurations in filaments and assess the implications for cosmic ray confinement and survival against hadronic pion-producing and photo-pair interactions. Our analysis shows that the fate of the particles depends on the location of their origin within a filament ecosystem, and that filaments act as ‘highways’, channelling cosmic rays between galaxies, galaxy clusters, and superclusters. Filaments can also operate as cosmic ‘fly paper’, capturing cosmic ray protons with energies up to 1018eV from cosmic voids. Our analysis predicts the presence of a population of ∼1012–1016eV cosmic ray protons in filaments and voids accumulated continually over cosmic time. These protons do not suffer significant energy losses through photo-pair or pion production, nor can they be cooled efficiently. Instead, they form a cosmic ray fossil record of the power generation history of the Universe.
Protein C Pretreatment Protects Endothelial Cells from SARS-CoV-2-Induced Activation
Authors: Silva Bruna Rafaela dos Santos , Sidarta-Oliveira Davi , Morari Joseane , Bombassaro Bruna , Jara Carlos Poblete , Simeoni Camila Lopes , Parise Pierina Lorencini , Proenca-Modena José Luiz , Velloso Licio A. , Velander William H. , Araújo Eliana P.
Published: July 2024

SARS-CoV-2 can induce vascular dysfunction and thrombotic events in patients with severe COVID-19; however, the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind these effects remain largely unknown. In this study, we used a combination of experimental and in silico approaches to investigate the role of PC in vascular and thrombotic events in COVID-19. Single-cell RNA-sequencing data from patients with COVID-19 and healthy subjects were obtained from the publicly available Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) repository. In addition, HUVECs were treated with inactive protein C before exposure to SARS-CoV-2 infection or a severe COVID-19 serum. An RT-qPCR array containing 84 related genes was used, and the candidate genes obtained were evaluated. Activated protein C levels were measured using an ELISA kit. We identified at the single-cell level the expression of several pro-inflammatory and pro-coagulation genes in endothelial cells from the patients with COVID-19. Furthermore, we demonstrated that exposure to SARS-CoV-2 promoted transcriptional changes in HUVECs that were partly reversed by the activated protein C pretreatment. We also observed that the serum of severe COVID-19 had a significant amount of activated protein C that could protect endothelial cells from serum-induced activation. In conclusion, activated protein C protects endothelial cells from pro-inflammatory and pro-coagulant effects during exposure to the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
First Isolation and Molecular Characterization of Umatilla Virus (Sedoreoviridae, Orbivirus) in Brazil
Authors: Barros Landeson , Silva Sandro , Cruz Ana Cecília , da Silva Eliana , Wanzeller Ana Lúcia , Carvalho Valéria , Chiang Jannifer , Martins Lívia
Published: July 2024

In this study, we provide a genomic description of the first isolation of the Umattila virus (UMAV) in Brazil. The virus was obtained from the blood of a bird (Turdus fumigatus) and isolated in a C6/36 cell culture. The viral genome contains ten segments, and its organization is characteristic of viruses of the genus Orbivirus (family Sedoreoviridae). The coding region of each segment was sequenced, demonstrating the nucleotide identity with UMAV. The phylogenetic inference results were in line with these findings and demonstrated the formation of two distinct monophyletic clades containing strains isolated around the world, where our isolate, belonging to the same clade as the prototype strain, was allocated to a different subclade, highlighting the genetic divergence between them. This work reports the first isolation of UMAV in Brazil, and due to the scarcity of information on this viral agent in the scientific literature, it is essential to carry out further studies to better understand its epidemiology, dispersion, and, in particular, its interactions with vertebrate hosts, vectors, and the environment.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa Bacteriophages and Their Clinical Applications
Authors: Alipour-Khezri Elaheh , Skurnik Mikael , Zarrini Gholamreza
Published: July 2024

Antimicrobial resistance poses a serious risk to contemporary healthcare since it reduces the number of bacterial illnesses that may be treated with antibiotics, particularly for patients with long-term conditions like cystic fibrosis (CF). People with a genetic predisposition to CF often have recurrent bacterial infections in their lungs due to a buildup of sticky mucus, necessitating long-term antibiotic treatment. Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections are a major cause of CF lung illness, and P. aeruginosa airway isolates are frequently resistant to many antibiotics. Bacteriophages (also known as phages), viruses that infect bacteria, are a viable substitute for antimicrobials to treat P. aeruginosa infections in individuals with CF. Here, we reviewed the utilization of P. aeruginosa bacteriophages both in vivo and in vitro, as well as in the treatment of illnesses and diseases, and the outcomes of the latter.
Avian Orthoreoviruses: A Systematic Review of Their Distribution, Dissemination Patterns, and Genotypic Clustering
Authors: Rafique Saba , Rashid Farooq , Wei You , Zeng Tingting , Xie Liji , Xie Zhixun
Published: July 2024

Avian orthoreviruses have become a global challenge to the poultry industry, causing significant economic impacts on commercial poultry. Avian reoviruses (ARVs) are resistant to heat, proteolytic enzymes, a wide range of pH values, and disinfectants, so keeping chicken farms free of ARV infections is difficult. This review focuses on the global prevalence of ARVs and associated clinical signs and symptoms. The most common signs and symptoms include tenosynovitis/arthritis, malabsorption syndrome, runting–stunting syndrome, and respiratory diseases. Moreover, this review also focused on the characterization of ARVs in genotypic clusters (I–VI) and their relation to tissue tropism or viral distribution. The prevailing strains of ARV in Africa belong to all genotypic clusters (GCs) except for GC VI, whereas all GCs are present in Asia and the Americas. In addition, all ARV strains are associated with or belong to GC I-VI in Europe. Moreover, in Oceania, only GC V and VI are prevalent. This review also showed that, regardless of the genotypic cluster, tenosynovitis/arthritis was the predominant clinical manifestation, indicating its universal occurrence across all clusters. Globally, most avian reovirus infections can be prevented by vaccination against four major strains: S1133, 1733, 2408, and 2177. Nevertheless, these vaccines may not a provide sufficient defense against field isolates. Due to the increase in the number of ARV variants, classical vaccine approaches are being developed depending on the degree of antigenic similarity between the vaccine and field strains, which determines how successful the vaccination will be. Moreover, there is a need to look more closely at the antigenic and pathogenic properties of reported ARV strains. The information acquired will aid in the selection of more effective vaccine strains in combination with biosecurity and farm management methods to prevent ARV infections.
Detection and Genomic Characterization of Torque Teno Virus in Pneumoconiosis Patients in China
Authors: Yu Xiao-Wei , Wang Qiong , Liu Lang , Zhou Zhi-Jian , Cai Tuo , Yuan Hua-Ming , Tang Mei-An , Peng Jian , Ye Sheng-Bao , Yang Xiu-Hong , Deng Xiao-Bin , Ge Xing-Yi
Published: July 2024

Pneumoconiosis is a common occupational disease that can worsen with accompanying infection. Torque teno virus (TTV) is a prevalent human virus with multiple genotypes that can chronically and persistently infect individuals. However, the prevalence of TTV in pneumoconiosis patients is still unclear. This research aims to detect the presence and prevalence of TTV in the alveolar lavage fluid of pneumoconiosis patients in the Hunan Province of China using PCR. As a result, a 65.5% positive rate (19 out of 29) of TTV was detected. The TTV detection rate varies among different stages of silicosis and different pneumoconiosis patient ages. Nine novel TTV genomes ranging in size from 3719 to 3908 nt, named TTV HNPP1, HNPP2, HNPP3, HNPP4, HNPP5, HNPP6-1, HNPP6-2, HNPP7-1 and HNPP7-2, were identified. A genomic comparison and phylogenetic analysis indicated that these nine TTVs represent five different species with high genetic diversity which belong to the genus Alphatorquevirus. HNPP6-1 and HNPP6-2 belong to TTV3, HNPP5 belongs to TTV13, HNPP1 belongs to TTV24, HNPP4 belongs to TTV20, and the others belong to TTV19. The genomes of TTV HNPP1, HNPP6-1, and HNPP6-2 contain three putative open reading frames (ORFs) coding for proteins, ORF1, ORF2, and ORF3, while the other six TTV genomes contain two ORFs coding for proteins, ORF1 and ORF2. These results provide the first description of TTV epidemiology in pneumoconiosis patients in China. The newly identified TTV genome sequences reveal the high genetic diversity of TTV in pneumoconiosis patients and could contribute to a deeper understanding of TTV retention and infection in humans.
Assessing the Efficacy of Three Hatchery Disinfectants for the Inactivation of a Lake Sturgeon Herpesvirus (Family: Alloherpesviridae)
Authors: Johnston Amber E. , Shavalier Megan A. , Scribner Kim T. , Soto Esteban , Yun Susan , Loch Thomas P.
Published: July 2024

Infectious diseases are a leading cause of losses in the aquaculture industry and conservation programs globally. Simultaneously, infectious diseases pose a substantial risk to fish being hatchery-reared and released into natural habitats for conservation purposes, including the Great Lakes lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens, i.e., GL-LST). Recently, an alloherpesvirus (lake sturgeon herpesvirus 2, i.e., LSHV-2) capable of inducing disease and/or mortality in adult and juvenile GL-LSTs was detected in two adult GL-LST populations. To begin developing disease prevention and/or control methods, in vitro experiments were designed to determine the susceptibility of LSHV-2 to disinfectants commonly used in hatchery and aquaculture facilities (Virkon®-Aquatic: potassium peroxymonosulfate; Ovadine®: polyvinylpyrrolidone iodine complex; and Perox-Aid®: hydrogen peroxide). Cultured LSHV-2 was exposed to each disinfectant at two concentrations (Virkon®-Aquatic: 0.5% and 1%; Ovadine®: 50 and 100 ppm; and Perox-Aid®: 500 and 1000 ppm) in duplicate for durations of 1, 10, and 30 min. Following exposure, the disinfectant was neutralized, and after a 14-day incubation period on a white sturgeon × lake sturgeon hybrid cell line (WSxLS), percent reduction was calculated by comparing the 50% tissue culture infectious doses (TCID50/mL) of the virus with and without disinfectant exposure. When exposed to Perox-Aid®, LSHV-2 percent reduction ranged from 58.7% to 99.5%. When exposed to Ovadine®, the percent reduction ranged from 99.4% to 100%. Lastly, the percent reduction when exposed to Virkon®-Aquatic was 100% for both concentrations and all timepoints. The results herein provide evidence that both Virkon®-Aquatic and Ovadine® are virucidal to LSHV-2 and may represent a means to reduce virus transmission risk under field settings.
Flagellin Restricts HIV-1 Infection of Macrophages through Modulation of Viral Entry Receptors and CC Chemokines
Authors: Zhou Lina , Wang Xu , Xiao Qianhao , Khan Shazheb , Ho Wen-Zhe
Published: July 2024

Both bacteria product flagellin and macrophages are implicated in HIV-1 infection/disease progression. However, the impact of their interaction on HIV-1 infection and the associated mechanisms remain to be determined. We thus examined the effect of the flagellins on HIV-1 infection of primary human macrophages. We observed that the pretreatment of macrophages with the flagellins from the different bacteria significantly inhibited HIV-1 infection. The mechanistic investigation showed that the flagellin treatment of macrophages downregulated the major HIV-1 entry receptors (CD4 and CCR5) and upregulated the CC chemokines (MIP-1α, MIP-1β and RANTES), the ligands of CCR5. These effects of the flagellin could be compromised by a toll-like receptor 5 (TLR5) antagonist. Given the important role of flagellin as a vaccine adjuvant in TLR5 activation-mediated immune regulation and in HIV-1 infection of macrophages, future investigations are necessary to determine the in vivo impact of flagellin–TLR5 interaction on macrophage-mediated innate immunity against HIV-1 infection and the effectiveness of flagellin adjuvant-based vaccines studies.
Long-Term Effect of Intra-Articular Adipose-Derived Stromal Vascular Fraction and Platelet-Rich Plasma in Dogs with Elbow Joint Disease—A Pilot Study
Authors: Bergström Annika , Kjörk Granström Miriam , Roepstorff Lars , Alipour Mohammad J. , Pettersson Kjerstin , Ljungvall Ingrid
Published: July 2024

(1) Background: The aim of the current pilot study was to describe the long-term effects of a single intra-articular injection of autologous stromal vascular fraction (SVF) with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in dogs with confirmed elbow OA, using orthopedic lameness scoring and kinetic and kinematic gait analysis. For comparison of normal long-term variation of gait over time, a group of healthy control dogs (CDs) was also evaluated. (2) Methods: A prospective longitudinal clinical pilot study investigating 19 client-owned dogs with elbow OA (OADs) treated with SVF and PRP and eight CDs not receiving treatment. The OAD and CD groups were evaluated before and after 6 and at least 12 months following treatment with SVF and PRP (OAD group) and twice with a six-month interval (CD group), respectively, through orthopedic examinations, goniometry, and kinetic and kinematic analyses (seven variables). (3) Results: The OAD had an increase in fore–hind peak force symmetry ≥12 months after treatment (p < 0.05), but no other objective variables changed over time. Orthopedic consensus scores had improved at ≥six months follow-up evaluation (p < 0.05). None of the investigated gait variables had changed at ≥six months follow-up evaluation in the CD group. (4) Conclusions: The current study could not confirm a significant benefit from SVF and PRP treatment in OADs, but future studies should be conducted in order to fully evaluate the potential of the treatment. The improvement seen in fore–hindlimb symmetry may represent an improvement in gait or an incidental finding.
The Impact of Novel BMPR1B Mutations on Litter Size in Short-Tailed Gobi Sheep and Larger-Tailed Ujimqin Sheep
Authors: Bai Yanyu , Wang Shenyuan , Wu Kaifeng , Zhang Ming , Alatan Suhe , Cang Ming , Cao Guifang , Jin Hai , Li Changqing , Tong Bin
Published: July 2024

The significant deposition of tail fat in sheep has a profound impact on the economic benefits of animal husbandry. Furthermore, increasing the litter size is a crucial means of enhancing economic benefits. The BMPR1B and T/Brachyury genes are considered major functional genes that could affect sheep litter size and tail bone number, respectively. In this study, we employed direct sequencing to identify specific mutations of the BMPR1B gene in Gobi short tail sheep and carried out genotyping using MassARRAY technology for each variant of both the BMPR1B and T genes. Significant associations were demonstrated between the c.687G>A mutation of BMPR1B and the litter size in both the Gobi short tail sheep and Ujimqin sheep breeds. Meanwhile, the g.30058882_30058873GCAGATTAAAIndel mutation was significantly associated with the litter size in Gobi short tail sheep. These findings may provide valuable genetic markers for expanding sheep litter size. In addition, we also confirmed that the frequency of tail-bone-number-related T alleles was significantly higher in Gobi short tail sheep than in longer-tailed Ujimqin sheep.
Monitoring of the Icing Process and Simulation of Its Formation Mechanism in the Cut Slope of Beihei Highway
Authors: Shan Wei , Hou Peijie , Xu Guangchao , Du Helong , Guo Ying , Zhang Chengcheng
Published: July 2024

Icing in cut slopes is a serious risk to transportation safety in cold regions. Research on the occurrence process and mechanism of icing is a prerequisite for proposing effective management measures. We took the cut slopes of the K162 section of the Beihei Highway as the research object. We used a combination of field investigation, geological exploration, monitoring, and simulation to study and analyze the power source, occurrence process, and triggering mechanism of icing in cut slopes. The results show that the geologic type of this cut slope is a mudstone–sandstone interaction stratum. Abundant shallow groundwater is the source of water for icing. The excavation of cut slopes extends the effect of negative temperatures on groundwater flow during the winter period. The process of ice formation in cut slopes can be described as follows: As the environmental temperature drops, the surface soil begins to freeze, resulting in a gradual narrowing of the water channel; then, the groundwater flow is blocked, so that the internal pressure begins to rise. When the internal pressure of the pressurized groundwater exceeds the strength of the frozen soil, groundwater overflows from the sandstone layer to the surface, forming icing. The high pore water pressure inside the cut slope is the precursor for the occurrence of icing. The dynamic pressure of the pore water pressure is the main driving force for the formation of icing in cut slopes. The obstruction of the water channel due to ground freezing is the triggering condition for ice formation in cut slopes.
Spatial–Temporal and Risk Assessment of Microplastics in the Surface Water of the Qinhuai River during Different Rainfall Seasons in Nanjing City, China
Authors: Wang Luming , Huang Juan , Wu Yufeng , Chen Xuan , Chen Ming , Jin Hui , Yao Jiawei , Wang Xinyue
Published: July 2024

Microplastics (MPs) are increasingly becoming recognized as worldwide environmental contaminants, exerting a substantial impact on the safety of city rivers. This study explored the temporal variance in MPs in different rainfall seasons, including spring, plum, and autumn rains. The Qinhuai River has large spatial fluctuations in MPs at six sampling sites, with an average concentration of 466.62 ± 153.69 items/L, and higher MP abundance was found downstream of spring rain and upstream of autumn rain. Among the different rainfall seasons, the variations in microplastics at various sampling sites were more stable in the plum rain season, with an average concentration of 473.67 ± 105.17 items/L, while the concentrations of TP and TN in the plum rain season were higher than those in other rain seasons. Transparent MPs had the highest abundance at many sampling sites in all seasons, and large-sized MPs (270–5000 μm) occurred more in the autumn rain season. PVC was more prevalent in autumn, but PET decreased in the plum rain season. Interestingly, more fibers, PET, and large-sized MPs were found in the autumn rain. The index of hazard scores of plastic polymers (H) revealed that the studied river was at a severe pollution level (IV), which was highly influenced by PVC and PC. In addition, the pollution load index (PLI) value in different rain seasons indicated slight pollution (I). At the same time, it was higher in autumn rains than in other seasons due to the higher variance in MPs. Therefore, the ecological risk of microplastics in the Qinhuai River should be seriously considered, along with seasonal variance and the PVC and PC polymers. Our research is expected to provide valuable assistance in improving the management of urban rivers.