Protective Value Research Articles

The importance of forests in the environment

The importance of forests in the environment

Physiological Mechanisms of Bretschneidera sinensis Hemsl. Seed Dormancy Release and Germination

Bretschneidera sinensis, the sole species of Bretschneidera, belonging to the family Akaniaceae, is a tertiary paleotropical flora. It is considered an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). It has an important protective and scientific value. The study of its seed dormancy and germination mechanisms contributes to better protection. In this study, the dormancy of fresh mature B. sinensis seeds released via low-temperature wet stratification was studied. In addition, the endogenous phytohormone levels, antioxidant enzyme activity, soluble sugar content, and the key metabolic enzyme activities of seeds at different stratification time nodes were determined. The goal was to analyze the mechanisms of seed dormancy release and germination comprehensively. Results show that low-temperature wet stratification under 5 °C can release seed dormancy effectively. During the seed dormancy release, the seed germination rate was positively correlated with soluble sugar, GA3, and IAA levels, as well as G-6-PDH, SOD, POD, CAT, and APX activity, but it was negatively correlated with MDH activity and ABA content. These imply that dormancy release might be attributed to the degradation of endogenous ABA and the oxidation of reactive oxygen species induced by low-temperature wet stratification. GA3, IAA, and the metabolism of energy substrates may be correlated with the induction and promotion of germination.

A shift from individual species to ecosystem services effect: Introducing the Eco-indicator Sensitivity Distribution (EcoSD) as an ecosystem services approach to redefining the species sensitivity distribution (SSD) for soil ecological risk assessment.

Incorporating the ecosystem services (ES) approach into soil ecological risk assessment (ERA) has been advocated over the years, but implementing the approach in ERA faces some challenges. However, several researchers have made significant improvements to the soil ERA, such as applying the species sensitivity distribution (SSD) to discern chemical effects on the soil ecosystem. Despite the considerable contributions of SSD to ERA, SSD fails to relate chemical impact on individual species to ES and account for functional redundancy as well as soil ecosystem complexity. Here, we introduce the Eco-indicator Sensitivity Distribution (EcoSD). An EcoSD fits ecological functional groups and soil processes, termed "eco-indicators," instead of individual species responses to a statistical distribution. These eco-indicators are related directly to critical ecosystem functions that drive ES. We derived an EcoSD for cadmium as a model chemical and estimated a soil ecosystem protection value (EcoPVSoil) based on the eco-indicator dataset for cadmium from the literature. The EcoSD identified nitrogen cycling as the critical process disrupted by cadmium. A key advantage of EcoSD is that it identifies key ecological and chemical indicators of an ES effect. In doing so, it links chemical monitoring results to sensitive ecological functions. The estimated EcoPVSoil for cadmium was slightly more protective of the soil ecosystem than most regional soil values derived from this study's dataset and soil guideline values from the literature. Thus, EcoSD has proven to be a practical and valuable ES concept with the potential to serve as an initial step of the tiered ERA approach. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:1166-1179. © 2023 SETAC.

Uncertainties and discrepancies in the representation of recent storm surges in a non-tidal semi-enclosed basin: a hindcast ensemble for the Baltic Sea

Abstract. Extreme sea level events, such as storm surges, pose a threat to coastlines around the globe. Many tide gauges have been measuring the sea level and recording these extreme events for decades, some for over a century. The data from these gauges often serve as the basis for evaluating the extreme sea level statistics, which are used to extrapolate sea levels that serve as design values for coastal protection. Hydrodynamic models often have difficulty in correctly reproducing extreme sea levels and, consequently, extreme sea level statistics and trends. In this study, we generate a 13-member hindcast ensemble for the non-tidal Baltic Sea from 1979 to 2018 using the coastal ocean model GETM (General Estuarine Transport Model). In order to cope with mean biases in maximum water levels in the simulations, we include both simulations with and those without wind-speed adjustments in the ensemble. We evaluate the uncertainties in the extreme value statistics and recent trends of annual maximum sea levels. Although the ensemble mean shows good agreement with observations regarding return levels and trends, we still find large variability and uncertainty within the ensemble (95 % confidence levels up to 60 cm for the 30-year return level). We argue that biases and uncertainties in the atmospheric reanalyses, e.g. variability in the representation of storms, translate directly into uncertainty within the ensemble. The translation of the variability of the 99th percentile wind speeds into the sea level elevation is in the order of the variability of the ensemble spread of the modelled maximum sea levels. Our results emphasise that 13 members are insufficient and that regionally large ensembles should be created to minimise uncertainties. This should improve the ability of the models to correctly reproduce the underlying extreme value statistics and thus provide robust estimates of climate change-induced changes in the future.

ANALISIS SPASIAL TINGKAT KERAWANAN BANJIR DI DESA PENYANGGA TAMAN NASIONAL LORE LINDU

Lore Lindu National Park (TNLL) has an important role as a conservation area with important values as endemic animal protection, water management, cultural and historical values, representative of the Sulawesi mountain rainforest ecosystem, local wisdom values, and landscape cohesiveness. Flooding in several buffer villages occurs almost every year. The cause of flooding in this area is an accumulation of several factors, such as global warming, climatological characteristics, hydrology, and the physical condition of the area. This study aims to map the level of flood vulnerability in TNLL buffer villages using Geographic Information System (GIS)-based spatial analysis with scoring and overlay. The research parameters consisted of rainfall, elevation, slope, soil type, land cover/use and distance from the river. This research was conducted in 86 villages buffering TNLL which are divided into 13 sub-districts, because these areas experience flooding every year. The results of the classification of flood vulnerability levels are divided into 4 (four) categories, namely not vulnerable, moderately vulnerable, vulnerable, and very vulnerable. The results of the analysis show that areas that are very prone to flooding have an area of 408 Ha (3.81%), prone category 5,647.03 Ha (1.19%), somewhat prone 52,141.46 Ha (10.95%), moderately prone 162,163.04 Ha (34.05%), and not prone 256,287.66 Ha (53.81%). Areas in the prone to highly prone to flooding zones are areas that have low elevations with gentle to flat slopes and most of the land use is dominated by built-up land, water bodies, mining, rice fields, and open land without vegetation and close to rivers.

Design, synthesis, and anti–tobacco mosaic virus activity evaluation of quinazolinone derivatives containing purine moieties

In this study, a series of quinazolinone derivatives containing purine molecules were designed and synthesized, and their structures were characterized by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance, 13C nuclear magnetic resonance, and HRMS (High Resolution Mass Spectrometer). Antiviral bioassays against plant viruses indicated that some target compounds exhibited higher in vivo antiviral activity against tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) than the commercial drug ribavirin. At a concentration of 500 mg/L, compound A2 exhibited good activity against TMV, with therapeutic and protective activity values of 65.2 % and 60.2 %, respectively, and these values were superior to those of ribavirin (50.1 % and 57.2 %, respectively). Among these compounds, A2 demonstrated significant therapeutic bioactivity against TMV in vivo, with an EC50 (half-maximum effective concentration) value of 162.3 mg/L, which was superior to that of ribavirin (314.4 mg/L). In conclusion, quinazolinone derivatives containing purine molecules may provide a basis for further research on antiviral drugs.

Exploratory graph analysis on the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC) among older adults in China

It is important for healthy aging to understand resilience in depth. This study aims to examine the dimensional structure underlying the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC) among Chinese older adults. Exploratory Graph Analysis (EGA) was used to evaluate the dimensional structure of CD-RISC in two large samples: training sample (n = 11,493) and cross-validation sample (n = 7662). Then, Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was used to compare the fit of the theoretical dimensions with the EGA dimensions. Finially, Generalized Linear Model was used to examine the association between resilience scores and self-rated health (SRH) after controlling other covariates in order to evaluate the predictive value of the EGA dimensions. The EGA indicated two demensions(named foresight and self-adjustment) of the 25-item CD-RISC. The CFA comparison found that the two-demension structure of CD-RISC fit significantly better than the theoretical three-demension structure. After controlling for sociodemographic characteristics, generalized linear model showed that the EGA dimensions has better protective value with SRH. Compared with older adults with lowest quartile of foresight, those with second (odds ratio, OR = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.62 ~ 0.75), third (OR = 0.50, 95% CI = 0.45 ~ 0.56) and fourth quartile (OR = 0.42, 95% CI = 0.37 ~ 0.48) of foresight had lower odds ratio of poor SRH. Similarly, older adults with the second (OR = 1.11, 95% CI = 1.01 ~ 1.23) and fourth (OR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.69 ~ 0.90) quartile of self-adjustment also had lower OR of poor SRH than those with lowest quartile of self-adjustment. These findings show that EGA outperforms the traditional methods, which may be helpful to understand resilience deeply. CD-RISC should be interpreted into two aspects among community-dwelling older adults in China, highlighting the significance of the practical value and cultural context of resilience.

Crypsis by background matching and disruptive coloration as drivers of substrate occupation in sympatric Amazonian bark praying mantises

Background matching and disruptive coloration are common camouflage strategies in nature, but few studies have accurately measured their protective value in living organisms. Amazon's Bark praying mantises exhibit colour patterns matching whitish and greenish-brown tree trunks. We tested the functional significance of background matching and disruptive coloration of different praying mantis morphospecies (white, grey and green) detected by DNA barcoding. Through image analysis, avian visual models and field experiments using humans as potential predators, we explored whether the background occupation of mantises provides camouflage against predation. Data were obtained for individuals against their occupied tree trunks (whitish or greenish-brown) and microhabitats (lichen or bryophyte patches), compared to non-occupied trunks. White and grey mantises showed lower colour contrasts against occupied trunks at the scale of tree trunk, with no differences in luminance contrasts. Conversely, green mantises showed lower colour and luminance contrasts against microhabitats and also exhibited high edge disruption against greenish-brown trunks. The camouflage of white and green mantis models against colour-matching trunks increased search time and reduced encounter distance of human predators. We highlight the importance of camouflage strategies at different spatial scales to enhance individual survival against predators. Specifically, we present a stunning study system to investigate the relationship of phylogenetically related species that use camouflage in sympatry.

Toward a Methodology for Social Sustainability Assessment: a Review of Existing Frameworks and a Proposal for a Catalog of Criteria

Social sustainability and, in particular, its measurement and reporting are gaining importance in society, politics and business but are facing major challenges. This is because there are no standardized and uniform approaches or frameworks. The existing approaches cover social issues, but no systematic presentation has been proposed. Moreover, there is no approach that can be applied in both management accounting and financial reporting. The aim of this paper is to present a catalog of criteria for addressing this issue and thus to close the research gap. For this purpose, frameworks utilizing catalogs of criteria for social sustainability assessment and reporting are analyzed and critically reviewed. One major weakness found is that all frameworks are oriented around only socially protected values in their catalogs. As social sustainability is focused on the impact on stakeholders, these are frequently missed. One solution to this problem is to adopt a 1:1 ratio of socially protected values to stakeholders, which is developed and described in this paper via a catalog of criteria. Furthermore, a systematic presentation of social issues using a four-level structure is proposed. Social indicators are, in turn, assigned to subcategories, to supercategories, and finally to stakeholders. This not only improves transparency and comprehensibility but also simplifies decision-making. A procedure model for the application of the catalog is also suggested. Such a catalog has not been described in previous research.

Impact of project risk allocation on PPP housing project delivery in Nigeria: partial least square structural equation modeling approach

Purpose This paper aims to help understand how adopting risk allocation criteria impacts the delivery of public–private partnership (PPP) mass housing in Nigeria with the view of promoting the adoption of PPP housing scheme in Nigeria. Design/methodology/approach The research design adopts the census sampling approach by using well-structured questionnaires distributed to stakeholders involved in PPP-procured mass housing projects, i.e. consultants, in-house professionals, contractors and the organized private sector, registered with PPP departments in the Federal Capital Territory Development Authority, Abuja, Nigeria. Sixty-three risk factors, nine risk allocation criteria and nine project delivery indices were submitted for the respondents to rank on a Likert scale of 7. Two hypotheses were formulated to test whether the risk allocation criteria impacted PPP mass housing delivery or otherwise. The study adopts partial least square-structural equation modeling to model the effect of risk on risk allocation criteria on project delivery indices and risk severity. Findings The finding shows that project risk allocation criteria have less effect on project delivery indices than on risk severity. The study concludes that risk allocation principles do not directly affect the delivery of PPP-procured mass housing projects. This is evident by the path coefficient of 0.724 values, which is not statistically significant at a 5% alpha protection value. The study concludes that allocating critical risk factors influences the performance of PPP-procured mass housing projects, as the path coefficient of 0.360 is also not significantly far from 0 and at a 5% alpha protection value. Originality/value The study is one of the recent studies conducted in PPP-procured mass housing projects in Nigeria owing to the novelty of procurement option in the sector. It highlights the risk factors that can jeopardize the PPP-procured mass housing project objectives. The study is of immense value to PPP actors in the sector by providing the necessary information required to formulate risk response methods to minimize the impact of the risk factors in PPP mass housing projects.

Healthy vascular ageing protects community dwelling elderly from all-cause mortality: 5-year evidence from the North Shanghai Study

Abstract Background Healthy vascular ageing (HVA) defined by normal pulse wave velocity (PWV) has been recognized as a valuable indicator of vascular status. And HVA strongly correlates with preclinical targeted organ damage (TOD). While the long-term benefit of HVA remains to be investigated. Aims To investigate the long-term outcome of population with HVA based on large registered North Shanghai Study. Methods Since Jun. 2014, 3363 community-dwelling elderly Chinese (age ≥65 years) were enrolled in the Northern Shanghai Study. HVA was defined as normal carotid femoral PWV that stratified by age and blood pressure. TOD was measured and categorized as vascular TOD indicated by carotid-femoral PWV and ankle-brachial index, cardiac TOD indicated by left ventricular hypertrophy and diastolic dysfunction, and renal TOD indicated by estimated glomerular filtration rate and urinary albumin/creatinine ratio. Follow-up outcome including all-cause mortality, cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular mortalities were evaluated. Results 1016 participants (30.2%) with HVA were identified. Compared with non-HVA group, although no gender difference, HVA group had younger age, lower blood pressure, lower body mass index (BMI), and milder TODs. Through a follow-up period of 5.7±1.8 years, 233 (6.9%) all-cause deaths, including 94 (2.8%) cardiovascular deaths were observed. Participants with HVA showed significantly higher survival from all-cause deaths (Log-rank P=0.002) and cardiovascular deaths (Log-rank P=0.003), but statistically non-significant survival from non-cardiovascular deaths (Log-rank P=0.098).Subgroup analysis showed that HVA was a significant protective factor in female (HR 0.412 (0.245, 0.692), P=0.002), participants aged 65-70 (HR 0.417 (0.194, 0.897), P=0.025), participants with BMI<25 (0.570 (0.386, 0.842) P=0.005), and participants with at least 1 TOD (HR 0.634 (0.444, 0.907), P=0.013). Moreover, the protective value of HVA was only significant in participants without cardiac TOD (0.681, (0.464, 0.998), P=0.049), participants with renal TOD (0.547, (0.354, 0.844), P=0.006), and participants with vascular TOD (0.461 (0.251, 0.848), P=0.013). Conclusion In community-dwelling elderly, HVA could be a significant protective factor for all-cause deaths, especially in subpopulation of female, age 65-70, BMI<25 and with renal and/or vascular TOD.

Abstract 13859: The Omics Signature of Human Pericardial Fluid Exosomes Reveals the Therapeutic Potential of APAF-1 Inhibition in Ischemic Heart Disease

Background: The human pericardial fluid (PF) contains heart-derived small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) able to induce vascular responses via microRNA (miR) transfer. People with diabetes (DM) are particularly at risk of severe ischemic heart disease (IHD) and might require personalized therapeutic treatment. Hypothesis: The PF-sEVs molecular profiling supports the identification of clinical-relevant therapeutic targets. Aims: 1) To characterize PF-sEVs of IHD patients with/out type-2 DM (T2DM) in comparison to controls; 2) to validate the emerging therapeutic target candidates. Methods: PF samples (n=12/group) were collected during cardiac surgeries, namely CABG (for IHD with/out DM groups) and mitral valve repair (non-IHD, non-DM control group). sEVs were prepared (SEC), quality controlled (Nanosight and Exoview) and submitted to untargeted proteomics and microRNA array (Exiqon) or validation experiments. miRNA-target prediction methods and integration of proteomics and transcriptomics via networks identified differentially expressed pathogenic proteins and their putative endogenous miRNA regulators. The emerging dysregulated miRNA/protein axis was investigated in vitro and in mice with myocardial infarction (MI) and with/out diet-induced T2DM. Results: the PF-EVs of IHD patients with DM showed increased APAF-1 and reduced let-7b-5p, a miR which we have demonstrated to repress APAF-1 by direct 3’-UTR-binding. Exposure of endothelial cells (ECs) to DM and IHD-mimicking culture conditions increases APAF-1 level, triggering apoptosis and reducing angiogenesis. The phenotype of ECs kept under disease-mimicking conditions was rescued by APAF-1 silencing (siRNAs) and by supplementation with either healthy PF-EV or LNPs carrying let-7b-5p as sole miR cargo. The synthetic APAF-1 inhibitor ZYZ-488 improved post-MI cardiac function (Vevo3100 echocardiography), increased capillary density and reduced EC apoptosis in the peri-infarct area of diabetic and non-diabetic mice of both sexes. Conclusions: PF-EVs represent a novel and privileged source for the discovery of clinical-relevant therapeutic targets. APAF-1 inhibition holds value for post-ischemic cardiac protection and repair, including in diabetic people.

Evaluation of Resistance Properties of Selected Surface Treatments on Medium Density Fibreboards

The protection and decorative value of raw wood-based boards with various coatings can be enhanced during the service life of furniture using surface treatment techniques. In this study, selected transparent, pigmented polyurethane email finish and thin foils, commonly used in furniture, were used for surface treatments of medium-density fibreboards with a thickness of 18 mm. Water-borne finish with polyurethane–acrylate resin, solvent-borne finish with polyacrylate resin, and finish based on native oil and waxes, as well as pigmented polyurethane email finish, were used on veneered medium-density fibreboards. The thin foils (polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, and lacquered acryl film) were used for raw medium-density fibreboards. Several resistance surface properties were investigated. It was found that the hardness and resistance to impact were very much related to the interactions between the coating film or thin foil and the substrate. The type of surface finish had a substantial impact on the coating and foil’s resistance qualities, such as resistance to mould and cold liquids.

Cognitive computing and 3D facial tracking method to explore the ethical implication associated with the detection of fraudulent system in online examination

Following the Covid-19 pandemic, the rapid spread of online education and tests demanded the implementation of cheating detection tools to ensure academic integrity. While advances in technology such as face recognition, face expression recognition, head posture analysis, eye gaze tracking, network data traffic analysis, and IP spoofing detection have shown promising results in detecting fraudulent behavior, their integration raises ethical concerns that must be carefully considered. This work presents a cognitive computing strategy for investigating the ethical implications of using cheating detection systems in online tests. This study attempts to examine the potential impact on students’ privacy, fairness, and trust in the examination process by employing cognitive computing, which models human cognitive capacities. A thorough literature review is used in the process to uncover existing ethical norms and regulatory frameworks linked to online assessments and cheating detection. Soft computing approaches are also used to evaluate the effectiveness and dependability of the aforementioned cheating detection strategies. The study looks into how far facial recognition and expression analysis can go in terms of privacy, as well as the possibility of bias in head posture analysis and eye gaze tracking algorithms. Furthermore, it investigates the ethical implications of monitoring network data traffic and detecting IP spoofing, with a focus on data security and user permission. The cognitive computing model, based on the analysis, presents a comprehensive framework for ethical decision-making when installing cheating detection technologies. The findings of this study contribute to the continuing discussion about the ethical concerns of using modern technologies to identify cheating in online exams. It provides educational institutions and policymakers with practical ideas for striking a balance between academic integrity and protecting students’ rights and dignity. By emphasizing ethical issues, this study aims to ensure that the implementation of cheating detection systems adheres to values of fairness, transparency, and privacy protection, promoting a trusting and supportive online learning environment for all parties involved.

Network Based Intrusion Detection System Using Weighted Product Model (WPM)

A security technology called a network-based intrusion detection system (NIDS) was created to safeguard computer networks against unauthorised access and criminal activity. This technology works by analysing network traffic, spotting potential risks, and informing administrators of any possible incursions or attacks. NIDS research ensures that intrusion detection systems are built to minimise the gathering and storage of sensitive data by taking into account the value of privacy and data protection .In general, network-based intrusion detection system research has a major impact on how well these security measures operate, how efficiently they perform, and how adaptable they are.By addressing the evolving challenges posed by cyber threats, NIDS research helps organizations enhance their network security posture, protect sensitive information, and defend against potential intrusions and attacks." The weighted product model (WPM), a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) technique, is used to evaluate and rank solutions based on a variety of distinct criteria. It provides a methodical approach to decision-making by considering the relative importance of each attribute and the performance of other solutions in relation to those criteria. The WPM normalises the data, weights the criteria, and gives a weighted score for each alternative. The option with the greatest score is regarded as the ideal option. The weighted product model offers a structured framework for making decisions by taking into account many factors and their varying degrees of importance. It enables decision-makers to assess and contrast options using a wide range of criteria, resulting in more informed and unbiased choices. It's crucial to check nonetheless that the model's weights and normalisation techniques appropriately capture the decision-maker's preferences as well as the features of the choice problem.J48, Random Forest, JRIP, RIDOR, PART. The definition of true positive, false positive, true negative and false negative rates has already been established. These metrics for measuring the effectiveness of classification algorithms, anomaly detection systems, and binary decision-making processes are accurately presented. As can be seen from the results, J48 received the highest rank, while PART received the lowest .In order to increase the security of computer networks, network-based intrusion detection systems (NIDS) are essential. They provide real-time monitoring and analysis of network traffic to identify suspected breaches and malicious activities, enabling appropriate action to be taken. However, it is important to recognize that NIDS can have limitations and are not infallible.

Wage-based Dowry Legal Paradigm: Perspectives of Muslim Generation Z in Surabaya

This paper traces the perception of Generation Z Muslims in Surabaya about marriage dowry. Data was obtained from questionnaires distributed to them, and finally received 174 respondents. Two things that were tracked were their perception of the Regional Minimum Wage-based dowry quality and quantity standards and their legal paradigm towards the idea of wage-based dowry. This study shows two important things. First, most of them disagree with wage-based dowry in the context of quantity. On the other hand, in the context of quality, they agree that dowry should be of productive value. At this point, they display a unique position because productivity is interpreted dually, wage-based standards and not. Second, they respond to this issue using four paradigms: sociological, normative, anthropological, and juridical. Sociological and juridical paradigms create the value of reciprocal protection, male and female. The normative paradigm establishes the importance of patriarchal protection. While the anthropological paradigm is more binding on the preservation of tradition. Here, it can be seen that the paradigm influence of protection on women in the context of wage-based dowry standards is quite strong, although sometimes women are trapped in a patriarchal paradigm.

Social Support Networks, Coping Mechanisms, and Mental Health Outcomes in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Patients in Yogyakarta

In Yogyakarta, Indonesia, this study examines the complex interactions that exist between coping strategies, social support networks, and mental health outcomes in people with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The study uses regression and correlation analysis on a broad sample to determine the links between coping techniques, perceived social support, and the severity of PTSD symptoms. In line with previous research, the results emphasize the protective value of emotional support and proactive social support-seeking. But the surprising positive relationship that was found between avoidance and the severity of symptoms presents a fresh angle that calls for more research on the cultural dynamics of coping strategies. This study establishes the foundation for further research on PTSD in the particular sociocultural environment of Yogyakarta and offers subtle insights for customized therapies.

Evaluation of air quality changes in a Chinese megacity over a 15-year period (2006–2021) using PM2.5 receptor modelling

Air quality impairment has a massive impact on human health, with atmospheric particulate matter (PM) playing a major role. The People's Republic of China experienced a trend of increasing PM2.5 concentrations from 2000 to 2013. However, after the application of the Air Pollution Prevention and Control Action Plan and other related control measures, sharp decreases in air pollutant concentrations were particularly evident in the city of Wuhan (central China). This study analysed major changes in PM2.5 concentrations, composition and source apportionment (using receptor modelling) based on Wuhan's PM2.5 chemical speciation datasets from 2006 to 2007, 2019–2021 and contemporaneous gaseous pollutant values. Average SO2 concentrations decreased by 88%, from the first to the second period, mostly due to measures that reduced coal combustion. However, NO2 only declined by 25%, with policy measures likely being undermined by an increased number of vehicles. PM2.5 concentrations decreased by 65%, with the PM constituents each being affected differently. Coal combustion-related element concentrations, OC, SO42−, NH4+, EC, Cl−, Al, Ca, Cu, Fe, Co and NO3− decreased by 22–90%. Secondary inorganic aerosol (SIA) was initially dominated by (NH4)2SO4 (73%) in 2006, but later dominated by NH4NO3 (52%) in 2021. Receptor modelling identified major sources contributing to PM2.5: Mineral, road and desert dust (MRDD), Secondary sulphate (SECS), Secondary nitrate (SECN), Tungsten industry (W), Toxic Elements of Coal (TEC), Iron and Steel (IRONS), Coal Combustion (CC), Residential Heating (RH), Refinery (REF) and Traffic (TRF). In relative proportions, TEC (−83%), SECS (−64%) and SECN (−48%) reduced their contributions to PM2.5 whilst MRDD increased (+62.5%). Thus, the results indicate not only a drastic abatement of PM pollution in Wuhan but also a change in the sources of pollution, which requires further actions to reduce PM2.5 concentrations to health protective values. Secondary PM and fugitive emissions are key components to abate.

Turning words into action: pro-environmental interest and personal commitment of different groups

Abstract Background Numerous models point to notable discrepancies between internal attitudes and environmental protection behaviour. Especially in regards to the high social value of climate protection, the question arises to what extent the commitment to environmental protection is not just a socially desirable “lip service”. A snap survey was conducted among participants of climate demonstrations in Vienna to find out whether they differ from other groups not only in their interest in environmental issues, but in particular in their personal commitment. Methods A total of 331 participants (below 16y) were surveyed (177 Fridays4Future participants, 41 visitors of non-climate-related mass events, 113 medical students). The survey regarding interest in climate and personal commitment to environmental protection was conducted using an 11-point Likert scale. Results Participants of the climate demonstrations described higher values regarding their interest in climate protection, their interest in environmental protection as well as their personal commitment to environmental protection. All differences between the pairwise mean-group comparisons were significant in the expected direction (lowest values: visitors of non-climate-related events; p < 0.017). Results concerning flight renunciations already made showed large differences between the groups (Pearson Chi-Square: 71.913; df = 4; p < 0.001): Around 5 times more participants of climate demonstrations than visitors to other mass events reported that they had already refrained from flying in the past year. In contrast, there were no differences with regard to the statement that they had not yet renounced flights, but intended to do so in the future. Discussions Differences with regard to renunciations already made indicate that values expressed by the groups are also mirrored in actual behaviour. Considering the magnitude of differences and control response our results are unlikely to be explained by socially desired response behaviour. Key messages • First short survey on to quantify group differences regarding refrainment of air travels. • Climate activists showed considerably higher commitment regarding personal sacrifices.

Mechanochemical synthesis and anticonvulsant activity of 3-aminopyrrolidine-2,5-dione derivatives

A series of 3-aminopyrrolidine-2,5-dione derivatives was synthesized and tested for anticonvulsant activity. Succinimide derivatives were obtained from a simple solvent-based reaction and a mechanochemical aza-Michael reaction of maleimide or its N-substituted derivatives with selected amines. The structure of the compounds was confirmed by spectroscopic methods (NMR, FT-IR, HPLC, ESI-MS, EA and XRD for four compounds). The cytotoxic activity of the succinimide derivatives was evaluated using HepG2 cells for hepatocytotoxicity and SH-SY5Y cells for neurocytotoxicity. None of the studied compounds showed hepatocytotoxicity and two showed neurocytotoxicity. Initial anticonvulsant screening was performed in mice using the psychomotor seizure test (6 Hz, 32 mA). The selected compounds were evaluated in the following acute models of epilepsy: the maximal electroshock test, psychomotor seizure test (6 Hz, 44 mA), subcutaneous pentylenetetrazole seizure test, and acute neurotoxicity (rotarod test). The most active compound 3-((4-chlorophenyl)amino)pyrrolidine-2,5-dione revealed antiseizure activity in all seizure models (including pharmacoresistant seizures) and showed better median effective doses (ED50) and protective index values than the reference compound, ethosuximide. Furthermore, 3-(benzylamino)pyrrolidine-2,5-dione and 3-(phenylamino)pyrrolidine-2,5-dione exhibited antiseizure activity in the 6 Hz and MES tests, and 3-(butylamino)−1-phenylpyrrolidine-2,5-dione and 3-(benzylamino)−1-phenylpyrrolidine-2,5-dione exhibited antiseizure activity in the 6 Hz test. All active compounds demonstrated low in vivo neurotoxicity in the rotarod test and yielded favourable protective indices.