bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Preliminary Study to Classify Corn Silage for High or Low Mycotoxin Contamination by Using near Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Ghilardelli Francesca , Barbato Mario , Gallo Antonio
Published: May 2022

Mycotoxins should be monitored in order to properly evaluate corn silage safety quality. In the present study, corn silage samples (n = 115) were collected in a survey, characterized for concentrations of mycotoxins, and scanned by a NIR spectrometer. Random Forest classification models for NIR calibration were developed by applying different cut-offs to classify samples for concentration (i.e., μg/kg dry matter) or count (i.e., n) of (i) total detectable mycotoxins; (ii) regulated and emerging Fusarium toxins; (iii) emerging Fusarium toxins; (iv) Fumonisins and their metabolites; and (v) Penicillium toxins. An over- and under-sampling re-balancing technique was applied and performed 100 times. The best predictive model for total sum and count (i.e., accuracy mean ± standard deviation) was obtained by applying cut-offs of 10,000 µg/kg DM (i.e., 96.0 ± 2.7%) or 34 (i.e., 97.1 ± 1.8%), respectively. Regulated and emerging Fusarium mycotoxins achieved accuracies slightly less than 90%. For the Penicillium mycotoxin contamination category, an accuracy of 95.1 ± 2.8% was obtained by using a cut-off limit of 350 µg/kg DM as a total sum or 98.6 ± 1.3% for a cut-off limit of five as mycotoxin count. In conclusion, this work was a preliminary study to discriminate corn silage for high or low mycotoxin contamination by using NIR spectroscopy.
Mycotoxin Exposure in Children through Breakfast Cereal Consumption in Chile
Authors: Foerster Claudia , Monsalve Liliam , Ríos-Gajardo Gisela
Published: May 2022

Mycotoxins are unavoidable contaminants produced by fungi in food, especially grains. This study aimed to measure the occurrence and levels of total aflatoxins (AFs); ochratoxin A (OTA); zearalenone (ZEN); fumonisins B1, B2, and B3 (FUM); deoxynivalenol (DON); and T-2/HT-2 toxins in the four most commonly consumed breakfast cereals in Chile and to assess mycotoxin exposure and risk in children aged 2 to 13 years due to cereal consumption. In this study, a total of 110 batches with three subsamples of the four brands were sampled in supermarkets from November 2019 to June 2021. Samples were analyzed by Veratox® ELISA (Neogen). Exposure was assessed by estimated daily intake (EDI) considering the levels found in a modified lower bound (mLB) and upper bound (UB). Risk was estimated by margin of exposure (MOE) in the case of OTA and AFs and hazard quotient (HQ) for the rest of the mycotoxins. No T2/HT2 toxins were detected. Few samples had quantifiable levels of ZEN, FUM, and DON except for brand 1, with a mean (standard deviation, SD) of 54 (20), 1552 (351), and 706 (218) ng/g, respectively. In addition, three FUM samples and one DON sample had values over the Chilean regulation. Brands 2, 3, and 4 had quantifiable levels of AFs, with mean (SD) values of 1.3 (0.1), 2.1 (0.6), and 1.9 (0.4) ng/g, respectively. Brand 3 had quantifiable levels of OTA, with a mean (SD) of 2.3 (0.4) ng/g. Estimated exposure indicated a risk of AFs in all scenarios, and of FUM for brand 1 consumption, OTA and DON for brand 3 consumption, and OTA for brand 4 consumption in the mLB worst-case scenario. In general, mycotoxin levels were below the Chilean regulatory limits, but most of them were above the EU regulation for processed cereal-based food in young children. Because the risk was higher in the 2- to 5-year-old children, we recommend special regulations for this group in Chile.
Overview of Recent Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry-Based Methods for Natural Toxins Detection in Food Products
Authors: De Girolamo Annalisa , Lippolis Vincenzo , Pascale Michelangelo
Published: May 2022

Natural toxins include a wide range of toxic metabolites also occurring in food and products, thus representing a risk for consumer health. In the last few decades, several robust and sensitive analytical methods able to determine their occurrence in food have been developed. Liquid chromatography mass spectrometry is the most powerful tool for the simultaneous detection of these toxins due to its advantages in terms of sensitivity and selectivity. A comprehensive review on the most relevant papers on methods based on liquid chromatography mass spectrometry for the analysis of mycotoxins, alkaloids, marine toxins, glycoalkaloids, cyanogenic glycosides and furocoumarins in food is reported herein. Specifically, a literature search from 2011 to 2021 was carried out, selecting a total of 96 papers. Different approaches to sample preparation, chromatographic separation and detection mode are discussed. Particular attention is given to the analytical performance characteristics obtained in the validation process and the relevant application to real samples.
Long Noncoding RNA MIR122HG Inhibits MAVS-Mediated Antiviral Immune Response by Deriving miR-122 in Miiuy Croaker (Miichthys miiuy)
Authors: Cui Junxia , Zheng Weiwei , Xu Tianjun , Sun Yuena
Published: May 2022

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) function as micro regulators to impact gene expression after multiple pathogen infections, which have been largely studied in the last few years. Although lncRNA studies on lower vertebrates have received less attention than those on mammals, current studies suggest that lncRNA plays an important role in the immune response of fish to pathogen infections. Here, we studied the effect of MIR122HG as the host gene of miR-122 and indirectly negatively regulate MAVS-mediated antiviral immune responses in miiuy croaker (Miichthysmiiuy). We found that poly(I:C) significantly increases the host MIR122HG expression. The increased MIR122HG expression inhibited the production of the antiviral immune-related genes IFN-1, ISG15 and Viperin upon SCRV treatment. In addition, MIR122HG can act as a pivotally negative regulator involved in the MAVS-mediated NF-κB and IRF3 signaling pathways, which can effectively avoid an excessive immune response. Additionally, we found that MIR122HG can promote the replication of SCRV. Our study provides evidence about the involvement of lncRNAs in the antiviral immune response of fish and broadens the understanding of the function of lncRNAs as a precursor miRNA in teleost fish.
An Emerging Duck Egg-Reducing Syndrome Caused by a Novel Picornavirus Containing Seven Putative 2A Peptides
Authors: Su Xin , Shuo Dun , Luo Yanqiu , Pan Xue , Yan Dawei , Li Xuesong , Lin Weishan , Huang Dongming , Yang Jianmei , Yuan Chunxiu , Liu Qinfang , Teng Qiaoyang , Li Zejun
Published: May 2022

Since 2016, frequent outbreaks of egg-reducing syndromes caused by an unknown virus in duck farms have resulted in huge economic losses in China. The causative virus was isolated and identified as a novel species in Avihepatovirus of the picornavirus family according to the current guidelines of the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICVT), and was named the duck egg-reducing syndrome virus (DERSV). The DERSV was most closely related to wild duck avihepatovirus-like virus (WDALV) with 64.0%, 76.8%, 77.5%, and 70.7% of amino acid identities of P1, 2C, 3C, and 3D proteins, respectively. The DERSV had a typical picornavirus-like genomic structure, but with the longest 2A region in the reported picornaviruses so far. Importantly, the clinical symptoms were successfully observed by artificially infecting ducks with DERSV, even in the contact exposed ducks, which suggested that DERSV transmitted among ducks by direct contact. The antibody levels of DERSV were correlated with the emergence of the egg-reducing syndromes in ducks in field. These results indicate that DERSV is a novel emerging picornavirus causing egg-reducing syndrome in ducks.
Anomalous HIV-1 RNA, How Cap-Methylation Segregates Viral Transcripts by Form and Function
Authors: Boris-Lawrie Kathleen , Singh Gatikrushna , Osmer Patrick S. , Zucko Dora , Staller Seth , Heng Xiao
Published: May 2022

The acquisition of m7G-cap-binding proteins is now recognized as a major variable driving the form and function of host RNAs. This manuscript compares the 5′-cap-RNA binding proteins that engage HIV-1 precursor RNAs, host mRNAs, small nuclear (sn)- and small nucleolar (sno) RNAs and sort into disparate RNA-fate pathways. Before completion of the transcription cycle, the transcription start site of nascent class II RNAs is appended to a non-templated guanosine that is methylated (m7G-cap) and bound by hetero-dimeric CBP80-CBP20 cap binding complex (CBC). The CBC is a nexus for the co-transcriptional processing of precursor RNAs to mRNAs and the snRNA and snoRNA of spliceosomal and ribosomal ribonucleoproteins (RNPs). Just as sn/sno-RNAs experience hyper-methylation of m7G-cap to trimethylguanosine (TMG)-cap, so do select HIV RNAs and an emerging cohort of mRNAs. TMG-cap is blocked from Watson:Crick base pairing and disqualified from participating in secondary structure. The HIV TMG-cap has been shown to license select viral transcripts for specialized cap-dependent translation initiation without eIF4E that is dependent upon CBP80/NCBP3. The exceptional activity of HIV precursor RNAs secures their access to maturation pathways of sn/snoRNAs, canonical and non-canonical host mRNAs in proper stoichiometry to execute the retroviral replication cycle.
Henipavirus Immune Evasion and Pathogenesis Mechanisms: Lessons Learnt from Natural Infection and Animal Models
Authors: Lawrence Philip , Escudero-Pérez Beatriz
Published: May 2022

Nipah henipavirus (NiV) and Hendra henipavirus (HeV) are zoonotic emerging paramyxoviruses causing severe disease outbreaks in humans and livestock, mostly in Australia, India, Malaysia, Singapore and Bangladesh. Both are bat-borne viruses and in humans, their mortality rates can reach 60% in the case of HeV and 92% for NiV, thus being two of the deadliest viruses known for humans. Several factors, including a large cellular tropism and a wide zoonotic potential, con-tribute to their high pathogenicity. This review provides an overview of HeV and NiV pathogenicity mechanisms and provides a summary of their interactions with the immune systems of their different host species, including their natural hosts bats, spillover-hosts pigs, horses, and humans, as well as in experimental animal models. A better understanding of the interactions between henipaviruses and their hosts could facilitate the development of new therapeutic strategies and vaccine measures against these re-emerging viruses.
Molecular Characterization and Identification of Potential Inhibitors for ‘E’ Protein of Dengue Virus
Authors: Racherla Rishi Gowtham , Katari Sudheer Kumar , Mohan Alladi , Amineni Umamaheswari , Badur Manohar , Chaudhury Abhijit , Nagaraja Mudhigeti , Kodavala Sireesha , Kante Meenakshi , Kalawat Usha
Published: May 2022

Dengue is an arthropod-borne acute febrile illness caused by Dengue Virus (DENV), a member of Flaviviridae. Severity of the infection ranges from mild self-limiting illness to severe life-threatening hemorrhagic fever (DHF) and dengue shock syndrome (DSS). To date, there is no specific antiviral therapy established to treat the infection. The current study reports the epidemiology of DENV infections and potential inhibitors of DENV ‘E’ protein. Among the various serotypes, DENV-2 serotype was observed more frequently, followed by DENV-4, DENV-1, and DENV-3. New variants of existing genotypes were observed in DENV-1, 2, and 4 serotypes. Predominantly, the severe form of dengue was attributable to DENV-2 infections, and the incidence was more common in males and pediatric populations. Both the incidence and the disease severity were more common among the residents of non-urban environments. Due to the predominantly self-limiting nature of primary dengue infection and folk medicine practices of non-urban populations, we observed a greater number of secondary dengue cases than primary dengue cases. Hemorrhagic manifestations were more in secondary dengue in particularly in the pediatric group. Through different computational methods, ligands RGBLD1, RGBLD2, RGBLD3, and RGBLD4 are proposed as potential inhibitors in silico against DENV-1, -2, -3, and -4 serotypes.
Evolution of Neuroimaging Findings in Severe COVID-19 Patients with Initial Neurological Impairment: An Observational Study
Authors: Lersy François , Bund Caroline , Anheim Mathieu , Mondino Mary , Noblet Vincent , Lazzara Shirley , Phillipps Clelie , Collange Olivier , Oulehri Walid , Mertes Paul-Michel , Helms Julie , Merdji Hamid , Schenck Maleka , Schneider Francis , Pottecher Julien , Giraudeau Céline , Chammas Agathe , Ardellier François-Daniel , Baloglu Seyyid , Ambarki Khalid , Namer Izzie Jacques , Kremer Stéphane
Published: May 2022

Background and Objectives: Cerebral complications related to the COVID-19 were documented by brain MRIs during the acute phase. The purpose of the present study was to describe the evolution of these neuroimaging findings (MRI and FDG-PET/CT) and describe the neurocognitive outcomes of these patients. Methods: During the first wave of the COVID-19 outbreak between 1 March and 31 May 2020, 112 consecutive COVID-19 patients with neurologic manifestations underwent a brain MRI at Strasbourg University hospitals. After recovery, during follow-up, of these 112 patients, 31 (initially hospitalized in intensive care units) underwent additional imaging studies (at least one brain MRI). Results: Twenty-three men (74%) and eight women (26%) with a mean age of 61 years (range: 18–79) were included. Leptomeningeal enhancement, diffuse brain microhemorrhages, acute ischemic strokes, suspicion of cerebral vasculitis, and acute inflammatory demyelinating lesions were described on the initial brain MRIs. During follow-up, the evolution of the leptomeningeal enhancement was discordant, and the cerebral microhemorrhages were stable. We observed normalization of the vessel walls in all patients suspected of cerebral vasculitis. Four patients (13%) demonstrated new complications during follow-up (ischemic strokes, hypoglossal neuritis, marked increase in the white matter FLAIR hyperintensities with presumed vascular origin, and one suspected case of cerebral vasculitis). Concerning the grey matter volumetry, we observed a loss of volume of 3.2% during an average period of approximately five months. During follow-up, the more frequent FDG-PET/CT findings were hypometabolism in temporal and insular regions. Conclusion: A minority of initially severe COVID-19 patients demonstrated new complications on their brain MRIs during follow-up after recovery.
SARS-CoV-2 Virion Infectivity and Cytokine Production in Primary Human Airway Epithelial Cells
Authors: Do Thuc Nguyen Dan , Claes Sandra , Schols Dominique , Neyts Johan , Jochmans Dirk
Published: May 2022

The emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants and the replacement of preceding isolates have been observed through B.1.1.7, B.1.351, B.1.617.2, and B.1.1.529 lineages (corresponding to alpha, beta, delta, and omicron variants of concern (VoC), respectively). However, there is still a lack of biological evidence to which extent those VoC differ from the ancestral lineages. By exploiting human airway epithelial cell (HAEC) cultures, which closely resemble the human airway architecture and physiology, we report distinctive SARS-CoV-2 tropism in different respiratory tissues. In general, SARS-CoV-2 VoC predominantly infect and replicate in HAEC better than the progenitor USA-WA1 isolate or the BavPat1 isolate, which contains the D614G mutation, even though there is little to no difference between variants regarding their infectivity (i.e., virion-per-vRNA copy ratio). We also observe differential tissue-specific innate immunity activation between the upper and lower respiratory tissues in the presence of the virus. Our study provides better comprehension of the behavior of the different VoC in this physiologically relevant ex vivo model.
Functions of Papillomavirus E8^E2 Proteins in Tissue Culture and In Vivo
Authors: Kuehner Franziska , Stubenrauch Frank
Published: May 2022

Papillomaviruses (PV) replicate in undifferentiated keratinocytes at low levels and to high levels in differentiated cells. The restricted replication in undifferentiated cells is mainly due to the expression of the conserved viral E8^E2 repressor protein, a fusion protein consisting of E8 and the hinge, DNA-binding, and dimerization domain of E2. E8^E2 binds to viral genomes and represses viral transcription and genome replication by recruiting cellular NCoR/SMRT-HDAC3 corepressor complexes. Tissue culture experiments have revealed that E8^E2 modulates long-term maintenance of extrachromosomal genomes, productive replication, and immortalization properties in a virus type-dependent manner. Furthermore, in vivo experiments have indicated that Mus musculus PV1 E8^E2 is required for tumor formation in immune-deficient mice. In summary, E8^E2 is a crucial inhibitor whose levels might determine the outcome of PV infections.
Metagenomic Analysis Reveals High Abundance of Torque Teno Mini Virus in the Respiratory Tract of Children with Acute Respiratory Illness
Authors: Bal Antonin , Destras Gregory , Sabatier Marina , Pichon Maxime , Regue Hadrien , Oriol Guy , Gillet Yves , Lina Bruno , Brengel-Pesce Karen , Josset Laurence , Morfin Florence
Published: May 2022

Human Anelloviridae is a highly prevalent viral family, including three main genera—Alphatorquevirus (Torque teno virus, TTV), Betatorquevirus (Torque teno mini virus, TTMV), and Gammatorquevirus (Torque teno midi virus, TTMDV). To date, the characterization of Anelloviridae in the respiratory tract of children with acute respiratory infection (ARI) has been poorly reported and mainly focused on TTV. We performed a metagenomic analysis of eight respiratory samples collected from children with an ARI of unknown etiology (eight samples tested negative with a multiplex PCR assay, out of the 39 samples initially selected based on negative routine diagnostic testing). A total of 19 pediatric respiratory samples that tested positive for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV, n = 13) or influenza virus (n = 6) were also sequenced. Anelloviridae reads were detected in 16/27 samples, including 6/8 negative samples, 7/13 RSV samples and 3/6 influenza samples. For samples with a detection of at least one Anelloviridae genus, TTMV represented 87.1 (66.1–99.2)% of Anelloviridae reads, while TTV and TTMDV represented 0.8 (0.0–9.6)% and 0.7 (0.0–7.1)%, respectively (p < 0.001). Our findings highlight a high prevalence of TTMV in respiratory samples of children with an ARI of unknown etiology, as well as in samples with an RSV or influenza infection. Larger studies are needed to explore the role of TTMV in childhood respiratory diseases.
Can Individuals with Suboptimal Antibody Responses to Conventional Antiviral Vaccines Acquire Adequate Antibodies from SARS-CoV-2 mRNA Vaccination?
Authors: Ogura Wataru , Ohtsuka Kouki , Matsuura Sachiko , Okuyama Takahiro , Matsushima Satsuki , Yamasaki Satoko , Miyagi Hiroyuki , Sekiguchi Kumiko , Ohnishi Hiroaki , Watanabe Takashi
Published: May 2022

In Japan, healthcare workers (HCWs) are vaccinated against measles, rubella, chickenpox, mumps, and hepatitis B to prevent nosocomial infection; however, some do not produce sufficient antibodies (“suboptimal responders”). This study compared immune responses to a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2 mRNA) vaccine among HCWs with normal and suboptimal responses to conventional vaccines. In this prospective cohort study, 50 HCWs received two doses of BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine 3 weeks apart. SARS-CoV-2 anti-spike antibodies were measured 11 times, starting before the first vaccination and ending 5 months after the second vaccination. Antibody titers of four suboptimal and 46 normal responders were compared. SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibody activity was measured twice in suboptimal responders, 1 week/1 month and 5 months after the second vaccination. The SARS-CoV-2 anti-spike antibody was detectable in the samples from suboptimal and normal responders at each timepoint after vaccination. Suboptimal responders exhibited SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibody activity 1 week/1 month as well as 5 months after the second vaccination; however, activity was slightly reduced at 5 months. Our findings show that suboptimal responders do acquire adequate SARS-CoV-2 anti-spike and SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies from vaccination to prevent SARS-CoV-2. SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines should thus be recommended for both normal and suboptimal responders to conventional vaccines.
Evolutionary Dynamics of Mexican Lineage H5N2 Avian Influenza Viruses
Authors: Xu Wanhong , Navarro-López Roberto , Solis-Hernandez Mario , Liljehult-Fuentes Francisco , Molina-Montiel Miguel , Lagunas-Ayala María , Rocha-Martinez Marisol , Ferrara-Tijera Eduardo , Pérez de la Rosa Juan , Berhane Yohannes
Published: May 2022

We have demonstrated for the first time a comprehensive evolutionary analysis of the Mexican lineage H5N2 avian influenza virus (AIV) using complete genome sequences (n = 189), from its first isolation in 1993 until 2019. Our study showed that the Mexican lineage H5N2 AIV originated from the North American wild bird gene pool viruses around 1990 and is currently circulating in poultry populations of Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Taiwan. Since the implementation of vaccination in 1995, the highly pathogenic AIV (HPAIV) H5N2 virus was eradicated from Mexican poultry in mid-1995. However, the low pathogenic AIV (LPAIV) H5N2 virus has continued to circulate in domestic poultry populations in Mexico, eventually evolving into five distinct clades. In the current study, we demonstrate that the evolution of Mexican lineage H5N2 AIVs involves gene reassortments and mutations gained over time. The current circulating Mexican lineage H5N2 AIVs are classified as LPAIV based on the amino acid sequences of the hemagglutinin (HA) protein cleavage site motif as well as the results of the intravenous pathogenicity index (IVPI). The immune pressure from vaccinations most likely has played a significant role in the positive selection of antigenic drift mutants within the Mexican H5N2 AIVs. Most of the identified substitutions in these viruses are located on the critical antigenic residues of the HA protein and as a result, might have contributed to vaccine failures. This study highlights and stresses the need for vaccine updates while emphasizing the importance of continued molecular monitoring of the HA protein for its antigenic changes compared to the vaccines used.
Herpesvirus Replication Compartments: Dynamic Biomolecular Condensates?
Authors: Caragliano Enrico , Brune Wolfram , Bosse Jens B.
Published: May 2022

Recent progress has provided clear evidence that many RNA-viruses form cytoplasmic biomolecular condensates mediated by liquid–liquid phase separation to facilitate their replication. In contrast, seemingly contradictory data exist for herpesviruses, which replicate their DNA genomes in nuclear membrane-less replication compartments (RCs). Here, we review the current literature and comment on nuclear condensate formation by herpesviruses, specifically with regard to RC formation. Based on data obtained with human cytomegalovirus (human herpesvirus 5), we propose that liquid and homogenous early RCs convert into more heterogeneous RCs with complex properties over the course of infection. We highlight how the advent of DNA replication leads to the maturation of these biomolecular condensates, likely by adding an additional DNA scaffold.
Molecular Detection and Differentiation of Arthropod, Fungal, Protozoan, Bacterial and Viral Pathogens of Honeybees
Authors: Lannutti Lucas , Gonzales Fernanda Noemi , Dus Santos Maria José , Florin-Christensen Mónica , Schnittger Leonhard
Published: May 2022

The honeybee Apis mellifera is highly appreciated worldwide because of its products, but also as it is a pollinator of crops and wild plants. The beehive is vulnerable to infections due to arthropods, fungi, protozoa, bacteria and/or viruses that manage to by-pass the individual and social immune mechanisms of bees. Due to the close proximity of bees in the beehive and their foraging habits, infections easily spread within and between beehives. Moreover, international trade of bees has caused the global spread of infections, several of which result in significant losses for apiculture. Only in a few cases can infections be diagnosed with the naked eye, by direct observation of the pathogen in the case of some arthropods, or by pathogen-associated distinctive traits. Development of molecular methods based on the amplification and analysis of one or more genes or genomic segments has brought significant progress to the study of bee pathogens, allowing for: (i) the precise and sensitive identification of the infectious agent; (ii) the analysis of co-infections; (iii) the description of novel species; (iv) associations between geno- and pheno-types and (v) population structure studies. Sequencing of bee pathogen genomes has allowed for the identification of new molecular targets and the development of specific genotypification strategies.
ASIP Promoter Variants Predict the Sesame Coat Color in Shiba Inu Dogs
Authors: Belyakin Stepan N. , Maksimov Daniil A. , Pobedintseva Maria A. , Laktionov Petr P. , Voronova Dinara
Published: May 2022

Animals exhibit a wide variety of genetically determined coat colors and pigmentation patterns that serve important roles in adaptation and communication. Although the genetics of the main coat colors in dogs have been studied extensively, there are types of coat pigmentation that have not been explained yet. Recently, an association between the variants in the ASIP gene Ventral (VP) and Hair Cycle (HCP) promoters with different coat colors in dogs has been established. Here, we used the new findings as a basis to investigate the genetics of the red sesame coat color in Shiba Inu dogs. Our study revealed that red sesame dogs carry a specific heterozygous ASIP promoter diplotype, VP2-HCP1/VP2-HCP3, where VP2-HCP1 is responsible for the red coat with a dark overlay, and VP2-HCP3 for a tan point-like pattern. This finding explains the inheritance of this coat color pattern and can be used by breeders to produce dogs with this rare phenotype. A comparison of sesame dogs (VP2-HCP1/VP2-HCP3) to a dog homozygous for the VP2-HCP1 promoter haplotype suggests that the incomplete dominance between the ASIP alleles may be involved in the sesame coat formation. These results are in good agreement with the new model explaining how different levels of ASIP gene expression affect the regulation of pigment synthesis in melanocytes.
Occurrence of Microplastics from Plastic Fragments in Cultivated Soil of Sichuan Province: The Key Controls
Authors: Zhang Huiru , Jin Tuo , Geng Mengjiao , Cui Kuoshu , Peng Jianwei , Luo Gongwen , Núñez Delgado Avelino , Zhou Yaoyu , Liu Juan , Fei Jiangchi
Published: May 2022

With the continuous increase in the amount of mulch film, “white pollution” caused by plastic fragments (PF) has seriously affected agricultural production progress and poses a great threat to the safety and health of the agricultural environment. In the present study, PFs collected from 20 mulched agricultural farmlands in Sichuan Province were investigated. The PFs were separated and screened following the density flotation method. Optical microscopy was used to assess the fragments’ distribution, abundance, color, size, and morphology, and Raman spectroscopy was used to identify the types. In addition, through the analysis of a questionnaire survey, a random forest (RF) model was conducted to assess the effects of environmental factors on the amount of PF. The results showed that the abundance of PFs was the highest in Lade Town, Zigong City, reaching 1158.33 ± 52.04 particles kg−1. Meanwhile, PFs were less abundant in Foyin Town, Luzhou City, with 50.00 ± 25.00 particles kg−1; the morphology features of PF in the cultivated soil were mainly transparent (60.06%) and flaky-like (83.41%), with sizes < 5 mm (63.61%). In total, 75% of the representative PFs were PE PFs, while PVC PFs were 25%. The RF model indicated that there were significant effects due to the total mulch film amount, annual precipitation, and planting pattern on the number of derived residues (PF). This study provides data indicating the urgent need to prevent and control plastic pollution in mulch farming, specifically in the soils of Sichuan Province.
A New Urban Waterlogging Simulation Method Based on Multi-Factor Correlation
Authors: Yang Yue , Pan Cuilin , Fan Guangwei , Tian Maochun , Wang Junshu
Published: May 2022

Waterlogging simulation is a key technology for solving urban waterlogging problems. The current waterlogging modeling process is relatively complex and requires high basic data, which is not conducive to rapid modeling and popularization. In this study, we evaluated the correlation between rainfall and waterlogging water using the following factors: terrain, evaporation, infiltration, pipe drainage capacity, and river flood water level. By quantifying the influence value of each factor on rainfall, we established a simplified model for fast calculation of waterlogging depth through input rainfall. Waterlogging data was collected from Guangzhou, China to set up the multi-factor correlation model, and verify the simulation results of the model. After the original rainfall is added/deducted, the added/loss value, the relationship between net rainfall, and maximum water depth is better than that between original rainfall and maximum water depth. Establishing a stable multi-factor correlation model for a waterlogging point requires at least three historical waterlogging event data for parameter calibration by sensitivity analysis. Comparing the simulation of four waterlogging points, the multi-factor correlation model (error = −13%) presented the least error in simulating the maximum water volume, followed by the Mike Urban model (error = −19%), and finally the SWMM model (error = 20%). Furthermore, the multi-factor correlation model and SWMM model required the least calculation time (less than 1 s), followed by the Mike Urban model (About half a minute). By analyzing the waterlogging data of Guangzhou, 42 waterlogging points with modeling conditions were screened out to further validate the multi-factor correlation model. Each waterlogging point was modeled based on the historical field, and the last rainstorm was used for model verification. The mean error of the comparison between the simulated maximum waterlogging and the measured maximum waterlogging was 3%, and the R2 value was 0.718. In summary, the multi-factor correlation model requires fewer basic data, has a simple modeling process and wide applicability, and makes it easy to realize the intelligent parameter adjustment, which is more suitable for the urgent requirements of current urban waterlogging prediction. The model results may prove accurate and provide scientific decision support for the prevention and control of urban waterlogging.
Quantitative Stable Isotope Tracing of Water Uptake in Cynanchum sibiricum during Its Growth Period in Arid Areas of Northwest China
Authors: Dong Haibiao , Chen Zongyu , Hao Jing , Wang Jinzhe , Zhang Guanghui
Published: May 2022

Vegetation root water uptake plays a significant role in water transport processes and has multiple effects along the soil–vegetation–atmosphere interface, particularly in semi-arid and arid ecosystems. The objective of this study was to quantitatively examine the water uptake in Cynanchum sibiricum, a common desert rattan plant in arid regions, during its growth period, as well as to assess the relevance of the contributions of various water sources via a multivariate linear mixed model based on water-stable isotopes and eliminating the significant short-term impact of precipitation pulses on root water uptake. The results indicated that when the influence of a precipitation event was minimized, 0–10 cm soil water was the dominant water source for Cynanchum sibiricum in its growth phase, and that the species’ relative uptake of rainfall was positively proportional to that of 10–70 cm soil water while negatively proportional to that of 0–10 cm soil water. We concluded that Cynanchum sibiricum relies on its active roots extending transversely to extract water from shallow soil to survive under extreme drought conditions and would be inseparable from the symbiosis formed with other deep-rooted vegetation. Additional research into disentangling the water transport processes and studying the ecohydrological feedback along the soil–vegetation interface in arid ecosystems would be beneficial and could contribute to the evidence-based management of water resources for ecological protection.
Comparison of Adsorptive Removal of Fluoride from Water by Different Adsorbents under Laboratory and Real Conditions
Authors: Chiavola Agostina , D’Amato Emilio , Di Marcantonio Camilla
Published: May 2022

The fluoride removal capability of six different adsorbents (four commercial, i.e., titanium dioxide-TiO2, ArsenXPnp-A33E, granular activated carbon (GAC) and granular ferric hydroxide (GFH), and two laboratory media, i.e., nano-fine media and nano-granular media) was determined under batch conditions using synthetic and real contaminated water containing arsenic and vanadium. The kinetic and equilibrium characteristics of the adsorption process under different operating conditions (pH value, initial fluoride concentration, adsorbent dosage, water composition) were obtained. Among the tested adsorbents, TiO2 showed the highest adsorption capacity; it was also capable of reducing fluoride concentration below the limit set for drinking water without pH control. TiO2 still remained the best adsorbent in the treatment of real contaminated groundwater, where it was also capable of efficiently removing both arsenic and vanadium. The other adsorbents were capable of achieving the same fluoride reduction, although only for acid pH. The nano-sized laboratory media showed an adsorption removal efficiency below that of TiO2 but superior to that of A33E, GAC and GFH. Among the investigated parameters, the removal efficiency was mainly affected by adsorbent dosage and pH. The pseudo-second order model best fitted the kinetic experimental data of all the media. The maximum adsorption capacity predicted by this model was in the following decreasing order: TiO2 > A33E > GAC > GFH. The removal capability of all the media drastically decreased due to the presence of competitive ions and unfavorable pH conditions. The best isotherm model changed depending on the type of adsorbent and pH conditions.
Evaluation and Analysis of Influencing Factors of Ecosystem Service Value Change in Xinjiang under Different Land Use Types
Authors: Wang Yang , Shataer Remina , Zhang Zhichao , Zhen Hui , Xia Tingting
Published: May 2022

Based on the data on land-use change in Xinjiang from 1990 to 2020, this study uses a combination of land-use dynamics, the equivalence factor method, the sensitivity index, and a spatial correlation study to quantitatively analyze the spatial and temporal distribution of land-use change and ecosystem service values in the study area from 1990 to 2020. We also use a geographic probe model to explore the driving mechanism of the spatial variation of ecosystem service values in Xinjiang. The following conclusions were drawn: (1) land use in the Xinjiang region from 1990 to 2020 shows a more drastic change, with the main characteristics being an increase in the area of arable land and construction land, and a decrease in the area of forest and grassland, water, and unused land; and (2) with the change in the land-use types, the total value of the ESV in the Xinjiang region from 1990 to 2020 showed an increasing and then decreasing trend, with an average annual contribution value of about 13,730.33 × 108 yuan and a cumulative loss of about 1741.00 × 108 yuan in the last 30a. The value of each individual ecosystem service was dominated by functions such as waste treatment and water connotation. Based on the analysis of the geographic probe model, we found that the single factor influence degree of the ESV was HAI > NDVI > precipitation > GDP > temperature > elevation > population density > slope, and the overall ecosystem service value in the Xinjiang region showed a decreasing trend due to the interaction coefficients of natural factors and socio-economic factors.
Groundwater-Based Drinking Water Supply in Sri Lanka: Status and Perspectives
Authors: Indika Suresh , Wei Yuansong , Cooray Titus , Ritigala Tharindu , Jinadasa K. B. S. N. , Weragoda Sujithra K. , Weerasooriya Rohan
Published: May 2022

Drinking water is largely from groundwater in Sri Lanka, so quality management is of great concern. In order to achieve the 6th goal of United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), more efforts are being undertaken to secure drinking water quality. In this paper, the current status, challenges and opportunities of groundwater quality management and improvement in Sri Lanka were reviewed and discussed, based on previous studies. There are Ca-HCO3 type, Ca–Mg-HCO3 type and Na–SO4–Cl type groundwater dominated in the wet zone, intermediate and the dry zone, respectively. Elevated levels of hardness, fluoride, DOC, and alkalinity, and salinity are reported in the groundwater in the dry zone controlled by geology and arid climate. Although groundwater in some regions contain significant levels of nitrates, arsenic, cadmium and lead, the majority remain at acceptable levels for drinking purposes. As for treatment technologies, existing membrane-based drinking water treatment technologies such as RO (Reverse Osmosis) stations can produce safe and clean drinking water to the community, but this has still a limited coverage. To achieve a safe drinking water supply for all, especially in rural communities of Sri Lanka under the 6th goal of the UN SDG, more efforts in building up the infrastructure and man power are needed to monitor and assess groundwater quality regularly so as to develop management strategies. Research and development can be directed towards more cost-effective water treatment technologies. Protection of groundwater from being polluted, and educational and awareness programs for the stakeholders are also essential tasks in the future.
The Study on the Ballast Water Management of Mailiao Exclusive Industrial Harbor in Taiwan
Authors: Hung Hao-Nan , Yang Ray-Yeng
Published: May 2022

In 2004, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) adopted the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships Ballast Water and Sediments (BWM Convention). Taiwan’s government has been in line with the BWM Convention’s obligations by passing several administrative orders and adopted the 3 + 1 Port State Control (PSC) procedure. International trade ports in Taiwan include commercial ports and exclusive industrial harbors. The industrial harbor in Taiwan is unique in the world, so the 3 + 1 PSC procedure cannot be directly applied to the industrial harbor. Based on document analysis, this study discusses the similarities and differences between commercial ports and industrial harbors. The regulations and systems for ballast water management in Taiwan and how they can be applied to industrial harbors are also discussed. Judging from the results of this study of regulations, commercial ports and industrial harbors differ in applicable laws, competent authorities, and construction and management units. However, in operational practice, industrial harbors should be regarded as a commercial port whose use is restricted. Therefore, this study posits that industrial harbors should be classified as commercial ports in Taiwan’s ballast water management system. Classifying industrial harbors as falling outside commercial ports may cause management difficulties and may even cause trouble for international shipping. It is suggested that the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) first discusses with the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) and the Ocean Affairs Council (OAC) to confirm whether industrial harbors are inside or outside the category of commercial ports, and then decide on a management system and suitable laws and regulations for integrating industrial harbors with commercial ports and international affairs.
Evaluation of the Karst Collapse Susceptibility of Subgrade Based on the AHP Method of ArcGIS and Prevention Measures: A Case Study of the Quannan Expressway, Section K1379+300-K1471+920
Authors: Xie Yan-Hua , Zhang Bing-Hui , Liu Yu-Xin , Liu Bao-Chen , Zhang Chen-Fu , Lin Yu-Shan
Published: May 2022

In order to solve the problem of geological disasters caused by karst collapse in the K1379+300-K1471+920 section of the Quannan Expressway reconstruction and expansion, the evaluation of karst collapse susceptibility in the study area was carried out, and the corresponding prevention measures are put forward. Firstly, by identifying and determining the susceptible factors of karst collapse in the study area, three criterion layers, including the basic geological conditions, karst collapse impact, and human activities were selected, with a total of seven susceptible factors. The analytic hierarchy process (AHP) was used to assign values to each factor, and the evaluation model of karst collapse susceptibility in the study area was established. Then, using the spatial analysis function of ArcGIS, the seven susceptible factor partition maps were superimposed according to the evaluation model, and the evaluation map of the karst collapse susceptibility was obtained. The study area was divided into five levels of susceptibility: extremely susceptible areas (2.64–2.81), susceptible areas (2.43–2.64), somewhat susceptible areas (1.88–2.43), non-susceptible areas (1.04–1.88), and non-karst areas (0.51–1.04). The length of the extremely susceptible area is 11.90 km, 12.85% of the total length of the route, and the susceptible area, somewhat susceptible area, non-susceptible area, and non-karst area account for 25.05%, 39.54%, 11.01%, and 11.55% of the total length, respectively. The research results of the karst collapse susceptibility in the area are consistent with the actual situation. Finally, combined with the research results, prevention measures for karst collapse are put forward, which provide a reference for the prevention and mitigation of disaster in engineering construction.
Study of Condensate Absorption Capacity in Exposed Soil when Water Recedes at the Bottom of Hoh Xil Lake, Qinghai
Authors: Li Bei , Zhu Liang , Chen Xi , Liu Jingtao , Zhang Yuxi , Shi Wanpeng
Published: May 2022

In order to investigate the characteristics of the condensate absorption capacity in an exposed sandy bottom when water recedes, the characteristics of condensate variation, condensate formation time, condensate volume, and its absorption capacity were investigated in July 2021, using a micro-osmometer. The research area was the artificial water-retention layer and bare ground of the exposed sandy bottom, formed under the influence of the warming-wetting trend that occurs when water recedes in the salt-lake area of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, as well as two conditions: underpass and under sealed. According to the results, the time of condensation generation during the observation period in the salt-lake area of Hoh Xil begins at about 0:00 and ends at about 10:00 The artificial water-retention layer had little influence on the condensation generation time, and the trend of the condensation rate is the same. The unidirectional condensation of water in near-surface air is significantly better under artificial water-retention layer conditions than under bare ground conditions, with condensation occurring three times more frequently than under bare ground conditions. The amount of water condensation in the lower part of the soil under artificial aquifer conditions is 2.588 times greater than that in the near-ground air, while the amount of water condensation in the lower part of the soil under bare ground conditions is 1.783 times greater than that in the near-ground air. The total amount of bi-directional condensation under artificial water-retention layer conditions is slightly less than that in bare ground conditions, while the total amount of unidirectional condensation under artificial water-retention layer conditions is significantly higher, indicating that the artificial water-retention layer contributes to the absorption of water from near-surface air. Due to the presence of permafrost in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau region, the zero-flux surface transport of evanescent heat in the salt-lake area of Hoh Xil lies approximately within 30 cm from the surface to the ground. The analogous humidity coefficient characterizes the condensate absorption capacity coefficient as the storage capacity of condensate in the surface layer of the soil in a certain area, providing strong evidence that the condensate absorption capacity is higher under the artificial water-retention layer conditions than in bare ground, regardless of whether the condensation is bi-directional or unidirectional. The results of this study can provide a theoretical basis for condensate absorption capacity and vegetation restoration in the bare ecologically degraded areas of the lake bottom.
Are Fresh Water and Reclaimed Water Safe for Vegetable Irrigation? Empirical Evidence from Lebanon
Authors: Abi Saab Marie Therese , Jomaa Ihab , El Hage Rima , Skaf Sleiman , Fahed Salim , Rizk Ziad , Massaad Randa , Romanos Dany , Khairallah Yara , Azzi Valerie , Sleiman Rhend , Abi Saad Roula , Hajjar Celine , Sellami Mohamed Houssemeddine , Aziz Rodolph , Sfeir Rita , Nassif Marie Helene , Mateo-Sagasta Javier
Published: May 2022

The use of polluted water to irrigate is an increasing problem in the developing world. Lebanon is a case in point, with heavily polluted irrigation waters, particularly in the Litani River Basin. This study evaluated the potential health risks of irrigating vegetables (radishes, parsley, onions, and lettuce) using three water sources (groundwater, river water, and treated wastewater) and three irrigation methods (drip, sprinkler, and surface) over two growing seasons in 2019 and 2020. Water, crop, and soil samples were analyzed for physicochemical parameters, pathogens, and metals (Cu, Cd, Ni, Cr, and Zn). In addition, the bioaccumulation factor, estimated dietary intakes, health risk index, and target hazard quotients were calculated to assess the health risk associated with metal contamination. The study showed that, for water with less than 2 log E. coli CFU/100 mL, no pathogens (Escherichia coli, salmonella, parasite eggs) were detected in irrigated vegetables, irrespective of the irrigation method. With over 2 log E. coli CFU/100 mL in the water, 8.33% of the sprinkler-and surface-irrigated vegetables, and 2.78% of the drip-irrigated root crops (radishes and onions), showed some degree of parasitic contamination. E. coli appeared only on root crops when irrigated with water having over 3 log CFU/100 mL. The concentrations of most metals were significantly lower than the safe limits of the FAO/WHO of the Food Standards Programme Codex, except for zinc and chromium. The trends in the bioaccumulation factor and the estimated dietary intakes of metals were in the order of Cu < Cd < Ni < Cr < Zn. The target hazard quotient values for all metals were lower than 1.0. Under trial conditions, the adoption of drip irrigation with water with less than 3 log E. coli CFU/100 mL proved to be safe, even for vegetables consumed raw, except for root crops such as onions and radishes that should not be irrigated with water having over 2 log E. coli CFU/100 mL. Treated wastewater had no adverse effect on vegetable quality compared to vegetables irrigated with other water sources. These results support efforts to update the Lebanese standards for water reuse in agriculture; standards proposed in 2011 by the FAO, and currently being reviewed by the Lebanese Institution of Standards. This research will inform a sustainable water management policy aimed at protecting the Litani River watershed by monitoring water quality.