bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Urban Development on Wetland Conservation
Authors: Li Zhaobin , Ma Lei , Gou Dongmei , Hong Qianqian , Fai Leungkam , Xiong Bo
Published: October 2022

Wetland is an integrated ecosystem which includes ecosystems such as hydrology, soil, vegetation, and biological environments. At present, the urbanization rate of China’s national economic development process is rapidly increasing, and by the end of 2021, the urbanization rate of China’s resident population will be 64.72%. This paper analyzes the hydrological effects of urbanization, the impact of water resources, climate change, and biodiversity on wetland ecosystems, and also analyzes the role of wetlands on the ecological environment, especially in terms of ecological and cultural values. The economic and social benefits of the whole society are also analyzed. The ecological and social benefits of urban wetlands have made their conservation and sustainable development increasingly important worldwide. Based on the current situation of China’s urban wetland protection and restoration, we put forward countermeasures and suggestions for China’s urban wetland protection. This is conducive to promoting the sustainable development of the urban wetland ecosystem, promoting the operation of the market, realizing the optimal allocation of ecological resources, improving the benefits of ecological environmental protection, and promoting the coordinated development of the ecological environment. This paper provides a reference for the better development of wetland conservation under urbanization development conditions.
Impact of the Transforming and Upgrading of China’s Labor-Intensive Manufacturing Industry on the Labor Market
Authors: Dai Zhihui , Niu Yue , Zhang Hongru , Niu Xiaodi
Published: October 2022

The transforming and upgrading of China’s labor-intensive manufacturing sector is profoundly affecting the low-end labor market. However, there are few empirical studies that focus on labor-intensive manufacturing industries and that explore the impact of their transforming and upgrading on the labor market. Based on the wage and quantity of employment in the labor market, this paper examines the impact and the mechanism of the transforming and upgrading of China’s labor-intensive manufacturing industry on the labor market, using industry panel data from 2011 to 2019. The results show that the transforming and upgrading of labor-intensive manufacturing: (1) significantly improves the average wage of labor, but reduces the quantity of employment, and that this effect varies for different industry segments; (2) improves the average wage of labor through human capital factors and reduces the quantity of employment through labor productivity. The results suggest that we should focus on the impact of the transforming and upgrading of labor-intensive manufacturing on employment to achieve the synergistic development of employment quantity and quality, and ultimately promote sustainable labor market development.
Scenario Analysis of a Coal Reduction Share in the Power Generation in Bosnia and Herzegovina until 2050
Authors: Husika Azrudin , Zecevic Nurin , Numic Ilham , Dzaferovic Ejub
Published: October 2022

This paper is effectively a scenario analysis of the energy system of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) from the perspective of the possible future reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the power generation sector, with the aim to become climate neutral by 2050, in compliance with the Green Agenda for the Western Balkan. According to the data from 2016, the share of power generation in the total GHG emissions in BiH was approximately 50%. By using the LEAP (Long-range Energy Alternatives Planning) energy model, two scenarios—the “gradual transition scenario” and the “climate neutral” scenario—have been analyzed for the period 2018–2050, and each scenario included decarbonization measures such as the extensive use of Renewable Energy Sources (RES). Unlike the climate neutral scenario, the gradual transition scenario includes the replacement of certain parts of the old, currently-in-operation Coal-fired Power Plants (CFPPs) with the new CFPP, which is more efficient. In the climate-neutral scenario, that part of the existing CFPPs is replaced by a mix of RESs. The results from the first scenario suggest that the share of CFPPs in electricity generation has gradually decreased from 69.3% to 16.3% in 2050, and CO2 emissions from the power generation sector in 2050 will be 2.2 million tons—roughly 83.5% less than in 2014. According to the second scenario, the emphasis is strongly on the growth and promotion of RESs, which have significantly taken over the roles of major producers of electricity, encouraging the low-carbon development of BiH. Analysis results show that, in 2050, there will be no CO2 emissions from power generation. It can be concluded that specifically designed energy models for the optimization of capacities and CO2 emissions through convergence towards RESs could be an optimistic and promising option for BiH to become climate neutral while meeting increasing energy demands. The results show the required RES capacities needed for achieving climate-neutral power generation by 2050, with the current rate level of power generation. Based on the results, RES investment needs can be estimated. Overall, the results of the scenarios can be used for the strategic planning of the power generation sector in BiH until 2050.
Determinants of the Entrepreneurial Initiative during a Pandemic: The Case of Plovdiv
Authors: Angelova Mina Nikolaeva , Pastarmadzhieva Daniela Dobreva , Naydenov Aleksandar Tsvetanov
Published: October 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic is a trying time for both businesses and citizens. The measures and restrictions were devastating for the economy. As different countries had their strengths and challenges in dealing with the pandemic, there no unified approach applicable to every context. However, the entrepreneurial initiative is what boosts the economic development in each free market economy. The current paper’s goal is to evaluate how the pandemic affects entrepreneurial initiatives and to determine the degree to which three sets of elements influence these initiatives. The scope of the research is enterprises, working in the city of Plovdiv, Bulgaria, and the focus is the entrepreneurial initiative among them. The research with the enterprises is based only on a quantitative method—a survey across a representative sample of the general population of the enterprises whose headquarters are registered in the territory of the city of Plovdiv. The representative sample was selected as a random sample of 1000 companies (with an assumed response rate of about 10%), stratified by the size of the enterprise (number of employees) and by the field of economic activity. Statistical analysis was performed using the software product IBM SPSS version 26. The results show that the personal characteristics of the respondents are more relevant to the results rather than the specifics of the enterprise. The relevance of both work experience and ownership of the enterprise as preconditions that create opportunities for entrepreneurial initiatives during the global crisis offers a further empirical contribution. A key theoretical contribution of this study lies in finding evidence that innovativeness has a significant direct effect on behavioral intention to acquire new opportunities during crisis conditions.
Foreign Direct Investment and Air Pollution: Re-Estimating the “Pollution Haven Hypothesis” in China
Authors: Chang Rongping , Wang Bei , Zhang Yan , Zhao Lingxue
Published: October 2022

This paper focuses on the relationship between foreign direct investment (FDI) and air pollution. Based on the relaxation of China’s FDI regulation policy as well as the “China Environmentally Extended Input-Output” database, we utilize a difference-in-differences methodology and investigate the casual effects of FDI liberalization on air pollution intensity. The empirical results demonstrate that FDI reduces the air pollution intensity. However, it is more pronounced in sectors with higher levels of absorption ability and human capital. The reduction in air pollution is mainly driven by technical effects through the enhancement of total factor productivity and technological efficiency. FDI can help achieve the green development goals in developing countries with a more liberalized policy.
Gender Diversity and Environmental Performance: New Evidence from China
Authors: Liu Zijian , Cai Lian , Zhang Yabin
Published: October 2022

Although existing work has found that increased director gender diversity can help improve corporate environmental performance, few of them tried to examine whether this improvement is affected by the degree of gender diversity and ownership structure. Using data on Chinese listed companies, this paper contributes to prior work by investigating the extent to which the degree of gender diversity and ownership structure affect the improvement. The findings are twofold: On the one hand, as the proportion of female directors increases, the improvements they bring to firms’ environmental performance fade gradually. On the other hand, the relationship between director gender diversity and a firm’s environmental performance is stronger in state-owned enterprises. The results of this paper have theoretical and practical implications and the results keep steady after a series of econometric tests. We also interpret our findings by relying on insights from different theories (i.e., agency, resource dependence, token hire and ownership theories).
Analysis of the Impact of Policy Instruments on Payment for Grasslands Ecosystem Services (PGES) Implementation: A Case Study from Northwest China
Authors: Fan Shengyue , Zhao Chenxi , Zha Shuai
Published: October 2022

The implementation of payment for grassland ecosystem services (PGES) is the result of cooperative games between farmers and the local government. However, there are currently many studies on the willingness behavior of farmers to participate in payment for grassland ecosystem services, although there is a lack of research on the impact of the willingness behavior of local governments on the implementation of payment for grassland ecosystem services. Based on the theory of planned behavior, in this study, the impact of government policy instruments on PGES implementation outcomes was taken as the primary research objective, and the following findings were derived from the three secondary objectives of constructing a model, using structural equations to measure and quantitatively decompose the policy instruments: (1) policy instruments have a significant impact on policy implementation; (2) policy instruments play an important guiding role in farmers’ participation in PGES; and (3) the amount of ecological compensation and the degree of policy implementation have a significant impact on policy instruments. Reasonable adjustments can effectively improve the effect of policy implementation. This study incorporated the implementation willingness and interaction of farmers and local governments into the analysis model of the implementation of payment for grassland ecosystem services, providing a theoretical basis for improving the performance of payment for grassland ecosystem services from the perspective of government policy instruments.
Water, Energy, and Food Nexus in Pakistan: Parametric and Non-Parametric Analysis
Authors: Ali Majid , Anjum Muhammad Naveed , Shangguan Donghui , Hussain Safdar
Published: October 2022

Analyzing the efficiency of the water, energy, and food (WEF) nexus is critical for effective governance strategies. Therefore, three-stage data envelopment analysis (DEA) was used to measure the efficiency level of WEF in the 36 districts of Punjab, Pakistan, for the period from 2015 to 2021. Furthermore, the stochastic frontier was used to analyze the effect of external environmental factors on these efficiency scores of the WEF nexus. The results of the DEA showed that the number of frontier efficiency districts decreased, and most districts experienced rank change over time. Overall, the performance of 50% of the districts declined over time. The relative decline in efficiency was found to be higher in districts Bahwalnaghar and Rahim Yar Khan. The performance of districts Multan and Sheikhupura increased over time, while districts Vehari and Sargodha were the most complete and efficient in actual performance. According to the SFA’s findings, the WEF nexus efficiency of South Punjab districts was negatively impacted by external environmental factors (urbanization rate, manufactured industry output, population), leading to severe stress across WEF sectors. Districts in central and southern Punjab, however, were more likely to have lower rankings because of the positive impact of external environmental factors on the efficiency of the WEF nexus. The substantial rise of external environmental variables focused on scale expansion rather than quality improvement, which created a wide gap in WEF inputs and, hence, reduced the efficiency of the WEF nexus in the districts. The findings of this study provide valuable insights for developing governance strategies based on external environmental factors and WEF resource endowment, and they complement the efficiency calculation of WEF nexus research. Future research should focus on the Baluchistan region, the most deprived area in terms of water, energy, and food.
Can Fulfillment of Social Responsibility Enable Enterprises to Innovate? The Role of Corporate Financialization and Agency Costs
Authors: Zhu Huiping , Gu Haifeng , Halepoto Habiba
Published: October 2022

This study constructs a panel model to conduct an empirical analysis on the influence of fulfillment of social responsibility on corporate innovation and its mechanism based on the annual data of A-share listed companies in China from 2010 to 2020. Research results show that (1) fulfillment of social responsibility has a positive effect on corporate innovation. Compared with enterprises with high economic policy uncertainty and low equity balance and non-state-owned enterprises, the implementation of social responsibility has a larger impact on the innovation of enterprises with low economic policy uncertainty and high equity balance and state-owned enterprises. (2) Corporate financialization and agency costs play a mediating role in the relationship between fulfillment of social responsibility and corporate innovation. Fulfillment of social responsibility can promote enterprise innovation by alleviating the capital-crowding effect caused by enterprise financialization and reducing agency costs. (3) Commercial credit has a positive moderating effect on the relationship between fulfillment of social responsibility and enterprise innovation. (4) Institutional investors have a negative moderating effect on the relationship between the fulfillment of social responsibility and enterprise innovation. The results can provide important theoretical guidance and serve as a decision-making reference for standardizing corporate social responsibility behavior and realizing the high-quality development of the Chinese economy.
High-Order Topology-Enhanced Graph Convolutional Networks for Dynamic Graphs
Authors: Zhu Jiawei , Li Bo , Zhang Zhenshi , Zhao Ling , Li Haifeng
Published: October 2022

Understanding the evolutionary mechanisms of dynamic graphs is crucial since dynamic is a basic characteristic of real-world networks. The challenges of modeling dynamic graphs are as follows: (1) Real-world dynamics are frequently characterized by group effects, which essentially emerge from high-order interactions involving groups of entities. Therefore, the pairwise interactions revealed by the edges of graphs are insufficient to describe complex systems. (2) The graph data obtained from real systems are often noisy, and the spurious edges can interfere with the stability and efficiency of models. To address these issues, we propose a high-order topology-enhanced graph convolutional network for modeling dynamic graphs. The rationale behind it is that the symmetric substructure in a graph, called the maximal clique, can reflect group impacts from high-order interactions on the one hand, while not being readily disturbed by spurious links on the other hand. Then, we utilize two independent branches to model the distinct influence mechanisms of the two effects. Learnable parameters are used to tune the relative importance of the two effects during the process. We conduct link predictions on real-world datasets, including one social network and two citation networks. Results show that the average improvements of the high-order enhanced methods are 68%, 15%, and 280% over the corresponding backbones across datasets. The ablation study and perturbation analysis validate the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed method. Our research reveals that high-order structures provide new perspectives for studying the dynamics of graphs and highlight the necessity of employing higher-order topologies in the future.
Sandwich Theorems for a New Class of Complete Homogeneous Symmetric Functions by Using Cyclic Operator
Authors: Kadum Intissar Abdulhur , Atshan Waggas Galib , Hameed Areej Tawfeeq
Published: October 2022

In this paper, we discuss and introduce a new study on the connection between geometric function theory, especially sandwich theorems, and Viete’s theorem in elementary algebra. We obtain some conclusions for differential subordination and superordination for a new formula of complete homogeneous symmetric functions class involving an ordered cyclic operator. In addition, certain sandwich theorems are found.
Thermal Buckling and Postbuckling Behaviors of Couple Stress and Surface Energy-Enriched FG-CNTR Nanobeams
Authors: Kong Liulin , Zhang Bo , Li Cheng
Published: October 2022

Small-sized structural elements such as beams, plates, and shells are usually used as nanomechanical resonators, nanoscale mass sensors, nanoelectromechanical actuators, and nanoenergy harvesters. At the nanoscale, the structures usually possess a high surface area-to-bulk volume ratio, leading to the free energy related to surface atoms becoming considerable compared to that of the bulk part. Earlier reports indicated several physical reasons for size-dependent phenomena, e.g., nonlocal stress, surface energy, and couple stress. To provide an in-depth insight into the mechanical behavior of small-scale structures, size-dependent continuum models including two or more physical factors have attracted the attention of the academic community. This research analyzes the thermal buckling and postbuckling characteristics of functionally graded carbon nanotube-reinforced (FG-CNTR) nanobeams with a tri-parameter, nonlinear elastic foundation and subjected to a uniform temperature rise. Chen-Yao’s surface energy theory and Yang’s symmetrical couple stress theory are combined to capture two types of size effects in nanobeams. The postbuckling model is formulated based on the Euler–Bernoulli deformation hypothesis and Euler–Lagrange equation. Using a two-step perturbation technique, the related postbuckling equilibrium path is determined. In numerical analysis, the impacts of surface energy, couple stress, elastic foundation, boundary conditions, geometric factor, layout type, and volume fraction of CNTs on the thermal buckling and postbuckling behaviors of nanobeams are revealed. It is indicated that considering couple stress or surface energy can lead to a significant increase in the postbuckling stability of nanobeams compared to the case in which it is not considered. In addition, there is a reverse competition between couple stress or surface energy effects on the thermal buckling responses of nanobeams. As the temperature rise will cause the material elastic moduli softening, the thermal buckling load–deflection curves of nanobeams with the temperature-independent case are much higher than those with the temperature-dependent cases.
A Study of the Optical and Structural Properties of SnO2 Nanoparticles Synthesized with Tilia cordata Applied in Methylene Blue Degradation
Authors: González Eduardo , Medina Eder , Robles Reina , Gálvez Horacio , Lopez Yolanda , Viveros Eunice , Molina Ferdinanda , Nestor Alfredo , Morales Priscy
Published: October 2022

Water contamination is one of the most worrisome problems in the world. Industrial dyes are discharged without previous treatment, promoting water pollution and affecting the environment. In this paper, semiconductor SnO2 nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized using Tilia cordata extract, as a reducing agent, at different concentrations, 1%, 2%, and 4% (weight/volume; w/v). These NPs were used as photocatalysts characterize an alternative for degrading wastewater compounds. Nanoparticle symmetry is an important factor for understanding the properties that provide tools for further treatments. Additionally, the structural, morphological, and optical properties of the green-synthesized SnO2 NPs were studied. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) showed the characteristic absorption band of Sn–O centered at 609 cm−1. Meanwhile, X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed a tetragonal rutile-type crystalline phase without impurities whose crystallite size increased from 15.96 nm and 16.38 nm to 21.51 nm for SnO2-1%, SnO2-2%, and SnO2-4%, respectively, as extract concentration was increased. NPs with a quasi-spherical morphology with agglomerations were observed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM). On the other hand, the bandgap remained at ~3.6 eV throughout all samples, even at variable extract concentrations. The NPs yielded great photocatalytic activity capable of degrading methylene blue (MB) dye under ultraviolet radiation and solar radiation, achieving degradation percentages of 90% and 83% of MB under UV and solar radiation at 90 and 180 min, respectively.
Surface Terminations of MXene: Synthesis, Characterization, and Properties
Authors: Tang Mengrao , Li Jiaming , Wang Yu , Han Wenjuan , Xu Shichong , Lu Ming , Zhang Wei , Li Haibo
Published: October 2022

MXene, 2D transition metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides with a unique 2D structure, inspired a series of function applications related to energy storage and conversion, biometrics and sensing, lighting, purification, and separation. Its surface terminations are confined by the adjacent MXene layers, and form the 2D planar space with symmetrical surfaces, which is similar to a 2D nanoreactor that can be utilized and determined MXene’s function. Based on the working principle, surface and interface play critical roles in the ion intercalation, physical/chemical adsorption, and chemical reaction process, and show significant effects on MXene’s properties and functions. Although there have been some reviews on MXene, less attention has been paid to the underlying principle of the involved surface chemistry, controllable design, and resultant properties. Herein, the regulation methods, characterization techniques, and the effects on properties of MXene surface terminations were summarized to understand the surface effects, and the relationship between the terminations and properties. We expected this review can offer the route for a series of ongoing studies to address the MXene surface environment and the guidelines for MXene’s application.
Bayesian Inference of System Reliability for Multicomponent Stress-Strength Model under Marshall-Olkin Weibull Distribution
Authors: Zhang Liming , Xu Ancha , An Liuting , Li Min
Published: October 2022

Industrial systems often have redundant structures for improving reliability and avoiding sudden failures, and a parallel system is one of the special redundant systems. In this paper, we consider the problem of reliability estimation for a parallel system when one stress variable is involved, which is called the multicomponent stress-strength model. The parallel system contains two components, and their joint lifetime follows a Marshall–Olkin bivariate Weibull distribution, while the stress variable is assumed to be the Weibull distribution. Due to the complicated form of the likelihood function, a data augmentation method is proposed, and then the Gibbs sampling algorithm is constructed to obtain the Bayesian estimation of the system reliability. The proposed method is evaluated by a simulated dataset and Monte Carlo simulation study. The simulation results show that the proposed method performs well in terms of relative bias, mean squared error and frequentist coverage probability.
Radiation Dose Reduction Opportunities in Vascular Imaging
Authors: Summerlin David , Willis Joseph , Boggs Robert , Johnson Loretta M. , Porter Kristin K.
Published: October 2022

Computed tomography angiography (CTA) has been the gold standard imaging modality for vascular imaging due to a variety of factors, including the widespread availability of computed tomography (CT) scanners, the ease and speed of image acquisition, and the high sensitivity of CTA for vascular pathology. However, the radiation dose experienced by the patient during imaging has long been a concern of this image acquisition method. Advancements in CT image acquisition techniques in combination with advancements in non-ionizing radiation imaging techniques including magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) present growing opportunities to reduce total radiation dose to patients. This review provides an overview of advancements in imaging technology and acquisition techniques that are helping to minimize radiation dose associated with vascular imaging.
Pt-N Co-Modified TiO2 Nanotube Electrode Photoelectrocatalytic Degradation of Oxytetracycline in Simulated Wastewater
Authors: Wang Liming , Li Mengyao , Pei Liang , Liu Tingting , Zhang Tian , Ao Dong
Published: October 2022

Using photodeposition and plasma, Pt-N co-modified TiO2 nanotube electrodes were created. Several techniques, such as SEM, XRD, UV-VIS-DRS, XPS, and PL, were used to analyze the electrode shape, crystalline structure, light absorption range, elemental composition, and photogenerated carrier recombination efficiency. Using the electrochemical workstation, EIS and I-t were utilized to examine the electrochemical characteristics. The results indicated that the diameter of the TiO2 nanotube tubes was around 90 nm, and that the photodeposition duration affected the amount of Pt particles deposited. The deposited Pt particles efficiently reduced the photogenerated carrier complexation rate of the N-TiO2 nanotube electrode, contributing to the separation of electron-hole pairs and light utilization. Electrochemical studies indicated that Pt-N co-modified TiO2 increased the electrode’s oxidation and electrical conductivity, as well as its photoelectrocatalytic capacity. Oxytetracycline degradation in simulated wastewater by a Pt-N co-modified TiO2 nanotube electrode revealed the exceptional PEC activity, and the oxytetracycline degradation processes followed primary kinetics. •O2− and •OH played a significant role in the photoelectrocatalytic degradation of oxytetracycline, resulting in a novel method for oxytetracycline degradation.
The Relative Contributions of Different Wheat Leaves to the Grain Cadmium Accumulation
Authors: Ma Chuang , Lin Lin , Yang Jun , Zhang Hongzhong
Published: October 2022

In the context of increasing atmospheric particles pollution, wheat cadmium (Cd) pollution caused by atmospheric deposition in agro-ecosystems has attracted increasing attention. However, the relative contribution of different wheat leaves-to-grain Cd accumulation is still unclear. We assessed the roles of different wheat leaves on grain Cd accumulation with field-comparative experiments during the filling stage. Results show that wheat leaves can direct uptake atmospheric Cd through stomata, and the flag leaf exhibited a higher Cd concentration compared to other leaves. The relative contribution of the leaves-to-grain Cd accumulation decreased gradually during the grain-filling period, from 34.44% reaching 14.48%, indicating that the early grain-filling period is the critical period for leaf Cd contributions. Moreover, the relative contribution of flag leaves (7.27%) to grain Cd accumulation was larger than that of the sum of other leaves (7.21%) at maturity. Therefore, the flag leaf is the key leaf involved in grain Cd accumulation, and controlling the transport of Cd from leaves to grains at the early filling period, particularly flag leaf, could help to ensure wheat grain safety, thus ensuring the safety of food production.
Smp24, a Scorpion-Venom Peptide, Exhibits Potent Antitumor Effects against Hepatoma HepG2 Cells via Multi-Mechanisms In Vivo and In Vitro
Authors: Nguyen Tienthanh , Guo Ruiyin , Chai Jinwei , Wu Jiena , Liu Junfang , Chen Xin , Abdel-Rahman Mohamed A. , Xia Hu , Xu Xueqing
Published: October 2022

Scorpion-venom-derived peptides have become a promising anticancer agent due to their cytotoxicity against tumor cells via multiple mechanisms. The suppressive effect of the cationic antimicrobial peptide Smp24, which is derived from the venom of Scorpio Maurus palmatus, on the proliferation of the hepatoma cell line HepG2 has been reported earlier. However, its mode of action against HepG2 hepatoma cells remains unclear. In the current research, Smp24 was discovered to suppress the viability of HepG2 cells while having a minor effect on normal LO2 cells. Moreover, endocytosis and pore formation were demonstrated to be involved in the uptake of Smp24 into HepG2 cells, which subsequently interacted with the mitochondrial membrane and caused the decrease in its potential, cytoskeleton reorganization, ROS accumulation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and alteration of apoptosis- and autophagy-related signaling pathways. The protecting activity of Smp24 in the HepG2 xenograft mice model was also demonstrated. Therefore, our data suggest that the antitumor effect of Smp24 is closely related to the induction of cell apoptosis, cycle arrest, and autophagy via cell membrane disruption and mitochondrial dysfunction, suggesting a potential alternative in hepatocellular carcinoma treatment.
Cytotoxic Effects of Cannabidiol on Neonatal Rat Cortical Neurons and Astrocytes: Potential Danger to Brain Development
Authors: Jurič Damijana Mojca , Bulc Rozman Klara , Lipnik-Štangelj Metoda , Šuput Dušan , Brvar Miran
Published: October 2022

The influence of cannabidiol (CBD) on brain development is inadequately understood. Since CBD is considered a non-intoxicating drug, it has attracted great interest concerning its potential medical applicability, including in pregnant women and children. Here, we elucidated the response of perinatal rat cortical neurons and astrocytes to CBD at submicromolar (0.1, 0.5, 1, 5 µM) concentrations attainable in humans. The effect of CBD was concentration- and time-dependent and cell-specific. In neurons, 0.1 µM CBD induced an early and transient change in mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), ATP depletion, and caspase-8 activation, followed by rapid ATP recovery and progressive activation of caspase-9 and caspase-3/7, resulting in early apoptotic cell death with reduction and shortening of dendrites, cell shrinkage, and chromatin condensation. The decrease in neuronal viability, ATP depletion, and caspase activation due to CBD exposure was prevented by transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) antagonist. In astrocytes, 0.5 µM CBD caused an immediate short-term dysregulation of ΔΨm, followed by ATP depletion with transient activation of caspase-8 and progressive activation of caspase-9 and caspase-3/7, leading to early apoptosis and subsequent necroptosis. In astrocytes, both TRPV1 and cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) antagonists protected viability and prevented apoptosis. Given that CBD is a non-intoxicating drug, our results clearly show that this is not the case during critical periods of brain development when it can significantly interfere with the endogenous cannabinoid system.
Peptides Isolated from Amphibian Skin Secretions with Emphasis on Antimicrobial Peptides
Authors: Chen Xi , Liu Songcai , Fang Jiayuan , Zheng Shuo , Wang Zhaoguo , Jiao Yingying , Xia Peijun , Wu Hongyan , Ma Ze , Hao Linlin
Published: October 2022

The skin of amphibians is a tissue with biological functions, such as defense, respiration, and excretion. In recent years, researchers have discovered a large number of peptides in the skin secretions of amphibians, including antimicrobial peptides, antioxidant peptides, bradykinins, insulin-releasing peptides, and other peptides. This review focuses on the origin, primary structure, secondary structure, length, and functions of peptides secreted from amphibians’ skin. We hope that this review will provide further information and promote the further study of amphibian skin secretions, in order to provide reference for expanding the research and application of amphibian bioactive peptides.
Risk of Poisoning from Garden Plants: Misidentification between Laurel and Cherry Laurel
Authors: Malaspina Paola , Betuzzi Federica , Ingegneri Mariarosaria , Smeriglio Antonella , Cornara Laura , Trombetta Domenico
Published: October 2022

The misidentification between edible and poisonous plants is an increasing problem because of the new trend to collect wild plants, especially by amateur collectors who do not have the botanical skills to distinguish between edible and toxic species. Moreover, morphologically similar species are sometimes responsible for accidental contamination or used in the intentional adulteration of products for human and animal consumption. Laurus nobilis L. (laurel) and Prunus laurocerasus L. (cherry laurel) are typical ornamental shrubs of the Mediterranean region. Laurel is considered a non-toxic plant, widely used as flavorings. Conversely, cherry laurel leaves, morphologically similar to those of laurel, contain toxic cyanogenic glycosides. Considering this, the aim of this study was to carry out an in-depth evaluation of laurel and cherry laurel leaves by using light and scanning electron microscopy coupled with three step phytochemical analyses (qualitative and quantitative colorimetric assays and liquid chromatography). This allowed to highlight the distinguishing features of plant species investigated features such as the venation pattern, presence/absence of nectaries, calcium oxalate crystals, secretory idioblasts, and cyanogenic glycosides. Concluding, this multidisciplinary approach can be useful for the identification of plants but also fragments or pruning residues containing cyanogenic glycosides, in quality control tests, intoxications, and criminal cases.
Crimean–Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus Survey in Humans, Ticks, and Livestock in Agnam (Northeastern Senegal) from February 2021 to March 2022
Authors: Mhamadi Moufid , Badji Aminata , Dieng Idrissa , Gaye Alioune , Ndiaye El Hadji , Ndiaye Mignane , Mhamadi Moundhir , Touré Cheikh Talibouya , Mbaye Mouhamed Rassoul , Barry Mamadou Aliou , Ndiaye Oumar , Faye Babacar , Ba Fatimata Amadou , Diop Boly , Ndiaye Mamadou , Fall Mathioro , Sagne Samba Niang , Fall Gamou , Loucoubar Cheikh , Fausther-Bovendo Hugues , Sall Amadou Alpha , Kobinger Gary , Faye Ousmane , Diallo Mawlouth , Faye Oumar
Published: October 2022

Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) is widespread in Asia, Europe, and Africa. In Senegal, sporadic cases of CCHFV have been reported since 1960. Bordering Mauritania in northeastern Senegal, Agnam is an arid area in the region of Matam where CCHFV is endemic, which harbors a pastoralist community. Given the drought conditions of Agnam, inhabitants are in constant movement with their animals in search of pasture, which brings them into contact with pathogens such as arboviruses. To identify CCHFV in this area, we established a One Health site in order to analyze animal livestock, ticks and human samples collected over a one-year period by qRT-PCR and ELISA. Our analysis showed one (1/364) patient carried anti-CCHFV IgM and thirty-seven carried anti-CCHFV IgG (37/364). In livestock, anti-CCHFV IgG was detected in 13 (38.24%) of 34 sentinel sheep. The risk of CCHFV infection increased significatively with age in humans (p-value = 0.00117) and sheep (p-value = 1.18 × 10−11). Additional risk factors for CCHFV infection in sheep were dry seasons (p-value = 0.004) and time of exposure (p-value = 0.007). Furthermore, we detected a total of three samples with CCHFV RNA within Rhipicephalus evertsi evertsi and Rhipicephalus guilhoni tick species. Our results highlighted the usefulness of a One Health survey of CCHFV in pastoral communities at risk of arboviruses.
A PeVatron Candidate: Modeling the Boomerang Nebula in X-ray Band
Authors: Liang Xuan-Han , Li Chao-Ming , Wu Qi-Zuo , Pan Jia-Shu , Liu Ruo-Yu
Published: October 2022

Pulsar wind nebula (PWN) Boomerang and the associated supernova remnant (SNR) G106.3+2.7 are among candidates for the ultra-high-energy (UHE) gamma-ray counterparts published by LHAASO. Although the centroid of the extended source, LHAASO J2226+6057, deviates from the pulsar’s position by about 0.3∘, the source partially covers the PWN. Therefore, we cannot totally exclude the possibility that part of the UHE emission comes from the PWN. Previous studies mainly focus on whether the SNR is a PeVatron, while neglecting the energetic PWN. Here, we explore the possibility of the Boomerang Nebula being a PeVatron candidate by studying its X-ray radiation. By modeling the diffusion of relativistic electrons injected in the PWN, we fit the radial profiles of X-ray surface brightness and photon index. The solution with a magnetic field B=140μG can well reproduce the observed profiles and implies a severe suppression of IC scattering of electrons. Hence, if future observations reveal part of the UHE emission originating from the PWN, we propose to introduce a proton component to account for the UHE emission in light of the recent LHAASO measurement on Crab Nebula. In this sense, Boomerang Nebula would be a hadronic PeVatron.
Magnetized and Magnetically Charged Particles Motion around Regular Bardeen Black Hole in 4D Einstein Gauss–Bonnet Gravity
Authors: Rayimbaev Javlon , Bardiev Dilshodbek , Abdulxamidov Farrux , Abdujabbarov Ahmadjon , Ahmedov Bobomurat
Published: October 2022

In this paper, we study the horizon properties and scalar invariants of the spacetime around a regular black hole (BH) in 4D Einstein Gauss-Bonnet (4D EGB) gravity. It is observed that the presence of both Gauss-Bonnet (GB) coupling and magnetic charge parameters causes the shrinking of the outer horizon. We find that the range of the GB parameter α/M2∈(−0.15869,1), and the extreme value of magnetic charge reaches up to gextr=0.886M, which allows for the existence of a BH horizon, while it is gextr=0.7698M for pure Bardeen BH. We also investigate the dynamics of magnetized particles around the magnetically charged Bardeen BH, assuming the particle’s motion occurs in the equatorial plane in the proper observation frame, and the direction of the magnetic dipole moment of the particles is always kept radially and its magnitude is constant. Moreover, the dynamics of magnetically charged particles are also studied, and it is shown that both the energy and angular momentum of the particles corresponding to circular orbits increases with the increase of their magnetic charge. Finally, we also study collisions of magnetized, electrically neutral, and magnetically charged particles around the Bardeen BHs, where we provide analyses of critical angular momentum that may allow collision of the particles near-horizon radius, producing enormous values of center of mass energy of the collisions.
Physical Properties of Three Eclipsing Binaries of V Crt, WY Cnc and CG Cyg with Radio Radiation
Authors: Cheng Yao , Zhang Liyun , Pi Qingfeng , Zhu Zhongzhong , Han Xianming L. , Misra Prabhakar , Yang Zilu , Li Baoda , Jiang Linyan
Published: October 2022

Radio radiation has been detected across the Hertzsprung Russell diagram. We selected three objects with radio radiation (a semi-detached eclipsing binary V Crt, and two detached binaries WY Cnc and CG Cyg) that show magnetic activity. We made new photometric observations using a SARA 60 cm and NAOC 85 cm optical telescopes. Then, we obtained their orbital and starspot parameters by analyzing our light curves and published radial velocities using the updated Wilson-Devinney program. We revised the ephemeris information for V Crt and WY Cnc by analyzing the orbital minimum times. The orbital periods increased by 2.8 (±2.1) ×10−9 d yr−1 for V Crt, which maybe caused by mass transfer. The orbital periods decreased by −8.641 (±0.004) ×10−8 d yr−1 for WY Cnc. Orbital period change for CG Cyg was also found and we used a third-body of M3 of 0.14 M⊙ and a period of approximately 59.20 (0.36) yr to explain that. We also analysed the possible second period oscillation of CG Cyg with a cycle about 18.31 (0.06) yr. The long period changes of WY Cnc and CG Cyg might be caused by magnetic activity or stellar wind, rather than mass transfer.
Impact of Early Pandemic SARS-CoV-2 Lineages Replacement with the Variant of Concern P.1 (Gamma) in Western Bahia, Brazil
Authors: Pinheiro Josilene R. , dos Reis Esther C. , Farias Jéssica P. , Fogaça Mayanna M. C. , da Silva Patrícia de S. , Santana Itana Vivian R. , Rocha Ana Luiza S. , Vidal Paloma O. , Simões Rafael da C. , Luiz Wilson B. , Birbrair Alexander , de Aguiar Renato S. , de Souza Renan P. , Azevedo Vasco A. de C. , Chaves Gepoliano , Belmok Aline , Durães-Carvalho Ricardo , Melo Fernando L. , Ribeiro Bergmann M. , Amorim Jaime Henrique
Published: October 2022

Background: The correct understanding of the epidemiological dynamics of COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2, is essential for formulating public policies of disease containment. Methods: In this study, we constructed a picture of the epidemiological dynamics of COVID-19 in a Brazilian population of almost 17000 patients in 15 months. We specifically studied the fluctuations of COVID-19 cases and deaths due to COVID-19 over time according to host gender, age, viral load, and genetic variants. Results: As the main results, we observed that the numbers of COVID-19 cases and deaths due to COVID-19 fluctuated over time and that men were the most affected by deaths, as well as those of 60 or more years old. We also observed that individuals between 30- and 44-years old were the most affected by COVID-19 cases. In addition, the viral loads in the patients’ nasopharynx were higher in the early symptomatic period. We found that early pandemic SARS-CoV-2 lineages were replaced by the variant of concern (VOC) P.1 (Gamma) in the second half of the study period, which led to a significant increase in the number of deaths. Conclusions: The results presented in this study are helpful for future formulations of efficient public policies of COVID-19 containment.
Increased Polymerase Activity of Zoonotic H7N9 Allows Partial Escape from MxA
Authors: Petric Philipp P. , King Jacqueline , Graf Laura , Pohlmann Anne , Beer Martin , Schwemmle Martin
Published: October 2022

The interferon-induced myxovirus resistance protein A (MxA) is a potent restriction factor that prevents zoonotic infection from influenza A virus (IAV) subtype H7N9. Individuals expressing antivirally inactive MxA variants are highly susceptible to these infections. However, human-adapted IAVs have acquired specific mutations in the viral nucleoprotein (NP) that allow escape from MxA-mediated restriction but that have not been observed in MxA-sensitive, human H7N9 isolates. To date, it is unknown whether H7N9 can adapt to escape MxA-mediated restriction. To study this, we infected Rag2-knockout (Rag2−/−) mice with a defect in T and B cell maturation carrying a human MxA transgene (MxAtg/−Rag2−/−). In these mice, the virus could replicate for several weeks facilitating host adaptation. In MxAtg/−Rag2−/−, but not in Rag2−/− mice, the well-described mammalian adaptation E627K in the viral polymerase subunit PB2 was acquired, but no variants with MxA escape mutations in NP were detected. Utilizing reverse genetics, we could show that acquisition of PB2 E627K allowed partial evasion from MxA restriction in MxAtg/tg mice. However, pretreatment with type I interferon decreased viral replication in these mice, suggesting that PB2 E627K is not a true MxA escape mutation. Based on these results, we speculate that it might be difficult for H7N9 to acquire MxA escape mutations in the viral NP. This is consistent with previous findings showing that MxA escape mutations cause severe attenuation of IAVs of avian origin.
Genomic Transcriptome Benefits and Potential Harms of COVID-19 Vaccines Indicated from Optimized Genomic Biomarkers
Authors: Zhang Zhengjun
Published: October 2022

COVID-19 vaccines can be the tugboats for preventing SARS-CoV-2 infections when they are practical and, more importantly, without adverse effects. However, the reality is that they may result in short-term or long-term impacts on COVID-19-related diseases and even trigger the formation of new variants of SARS-CoV-2. Using published data, we use a set of optimized-performance COVID-19 genomic biomarkers (MND1, CDC6, ZNF282) to study the benefits and adverse effects of the BNT162b2 vaccine. We found that the vaccine lowered the expression values of genes MND1 and CDC6 while heightening the expression values of ZNF282 in individuals who are SARS-CoV-2 naïve, which is expected and satisfies the biological equivalence between the COVID-19 disease and the genomic signature patterns established in the literature. However, we also found that COVID-19-convalescent octogenarians responded reversely. The vaccine heightened the expression values of MND1 and CDC6. In addition, it lowered the expression values of ZNF282. Such adverse effects raise outstanding concerns about whether or not COVID-19-convalescent individuals should take the current vaccine or when they can take it. These findings are new at the genomic level and can provide insights into developing next-generation vaccines, antiviral drugs, and pandemic management guidance.
What Contributes to COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy? A Systematic Review of the Psychological Factors Associated with COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy
Authors: Romate John , Rajkumar Eslavath , Gopi Aswathy , Abraham John , Rages John , Lakshmi R. , Jesline Joshy , Bhogle Sudha
Published: October 2022

Vaccine hesitancy plays a crucial role in worldwide pandemic-control efforts. The multifaceted nature of vaccine hesitancy entails many psychological factors that are widely discussed in the literature, although few studies specifically compile these factors. Thus, this systematic review aims to synthesize the psychological factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy. As per the PRISMA (preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses) guidelines, a systematic search was conducted on electronic databases PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, PsycNET, and Web of Science, and a manual search was conducted on Google Scholar. Out of the 2289 articles obtained, 79 studies that met the inclusion criteria were deemed eligible for the review. The findings highlight appraisals of the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccine safety and side effects, vaccine confidence/trust, trust in government and healthcare professionals, scepticism around vaccine production, conspiracy beliefs, emotions, and information and knowledge about the vaccine as the major psychological factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy. Concerningly, misinformation on COVID-19 vaccination spread through social media platforms, increasing vaccine hesitancy. Recommendations for government authorities, healthcare professionals, and implications for future research are also outlined.