Search

BACKGROUND Human health is closely related to the geological environment. There’re various geological environment factors affecting human health in a composite way. Geological background characteristics, including tectonic structure, lithologic features, and landform configuration shape the living conditions of human being. Climate conditions and the spatial and temporal variation characteristics influence the comfortable level for habitation. More importantly, the direct and indirect impacts of elements and chemicals in rock, soil, water, and air and biosphere on human health are comprehensive and significant. In addition, various human activities have increasingly influenced geological substances and geological processes since the Industrial Revolution, which together with natural geological factors contribute to the unique public health characteristics of a region. (Fig.1). Quantifying the impact of geological environment on human health has always been a hot topic in the study of environment, geology, and other disciplines. In terms of environmental health impact assessment, many scholars or organizations have developed different evaluation indicator systems from different research perspectives. Existing studies focus on assessing health risks from a single perspective, such as chemical substances or engineering construction, while comprehensive evaluation of the health impact of the geological environment from the perspective of the earth system is still rare. In today’s world of rapid socio-economic development, the relationship between human health and geological environment is even more complex, and single methods of evaluating environmental and population health are increasingly inadequate to cope with the increasingly complex health factors. The study of the suitability of geological environment for human health is rapidly progressing under a new theoretical framework. RESULTS (1) The evaluation index system. A comprehensive geological environmental health suitability evaluation index system was developed based on a composite perspective, taking into account multiple dimensions such as environmental geochemistry, regional geological background, climate conditions, and intensity of human activities. The rock strata, topography, climate conditions, as well as the geochemical quality of multiple media such as soil, water, and crops in a certain area, shape the specific lifestyle and behavioral habits of the regional population, resulting in unique regional health characteristics. (2) GHI evaluation method. The geological health index (GHI) evaluation method was established, which divides the health suitability of regional geological environments into five grades based on GHI scores: excellent (85 points or above), good (75-85), fair (60-75), poor (50-60), and very poor, representing the conditions of extremely suitable, suitable, moderately suitable, possibly suitable, and unsuitable for human health. (3) Case study. A case study was conducted in Anji and Longyou counties of Zhejiang Province using the GHI method. The overall GHI scores of the two regions indicated that the health suitability of the geological environment in Anji county was rated as “good” (78.16), while Longyou county was rated as “excellent” (85.50). The evaluation results reflected the health suitability of the regional geological environment, and could provide guidance for rational utilization of geological resources beneficial to health and avoidance of geological risks adverse to health. DISCUSSION (1) Principles for choosing indicators. The assessment index system was established following scientific principles, making sure the indicators are representative for general geological environment and closely related to human health. The influence of each indicator on health should be based on evidence, which can objectively reflect the difference of geological environment on population health. Furthermore, the indicators should be available in most settings and be simple to calculate. It is beneficial to have the current environmental industry or health industry standards as a reference. (2) Composition of the index system. The GHI index system included 15 specific indicators, which were listed in Table 1. Four sub-indexes were classified to represent the influencing factors of geological environment on human health, which were climate, geological background, environmental geochemistry characteristics and human activities. Two indicators of human comfort level, representing integrated influence of air temperature, humidity and wind, and incidence of extreme weather, were used to characterize the climate factors that affect human health. Four indicators, including regional crustal stability, natural environmental radioactivity, altitude and vegetation coverage, which were closely related to population health, were extracted to characterize the suitability of spatial characteristics of structure, rock, strata and epigenetic systems to population health. Seven indicators including environmental air quality, drinking water quality, irrigation water quality, cultivated land soil quality, agricultural product quality, water resource quantity and land resource quantity were used to characterize the environmental geochemical elements that have an important impact on population health. Human activities have influenced and changed the natural substances at global and regional scales, which have brought about significant impacts on the survival of organisms and human health. In this study, population density and per capita gross industrial and agricultural product were used to characterize the intensity of human activities. (3) GHI evaluation method. The evaluation of the health suitability of the geological environment was performed following the processes of data standardization, weight assignment, index score calculation and evaluation level classification. A two-step method was proposed to standardize data processing to complete the evaluation process of health suitability of the geological environment. Firstly, the environmental quality level corresponding to all indicators was determined by comparing with the national average level, national and industrial standards and specifications. Secondly, the impact of different levels of geological environmental quality on population health was evaluated with reference to literature, world and national health standards, and the degree of impact is measured with 0-100 points. The weights were assigned to each indicator according to analytic hierarchy procedure (AHP). The scores of each sub-index and total GHI index were calculated according to corresponding equation. Finally, the health suitability of regional geological environment is divided into five levels: excellent (85 points and above), good (75-85), general (60-75), poor (50-60) and bad (below 50), which respectively represent the state of extremely suitable, suitable, relatively suitable, possibly suitable and unsuitable to population health in certain regional geological environment. (4) Case study. A case study was conducted in Anji and Longyou counties of Zhejiang Province using the GHI method. The results showed that the two regions scored similarly in the three sub-indices of “climate conditions”, “geological background”, and “human activity intensity”, while there was a significant difference in the sub-index of “environmental geochemistry”. This was because the agricultural products in the selenium-enriched area of Anji were severely contaminated with heavy metals, while there was no such phenomenon in the selenium-enriched land of Longyou County. The overall GHI scores of the two regions indicated that the health suitability of the geological environment in Anji county was rated as “good” (78.16), while Longyou County was rated as “excellent” (85.50). However, the investigation found little difference in the health status of the residents in the two areas, with the average life expectancy of the residents in both areas higher than the national average. This suggests that although the geological environment in Anji County has high geochemical characteristics of Cd and Ni, the selenium-enriched environment has played a certain compensatory role, and Anji County still maintains an overall level of “suitable” for human health. (5) Limitations and future research prospects. With the rapid development of global society and economy, the relationship between population health and geological environment is complicated, and the evaluation method with single dimension is difficult to adapt to the increasingly complicated situation of health influencing factors. In this study, the GHI method is proposed to evaluate the health suitability of geological environment. Based on the multi-dimension of environmental geochemistry, regional geological background, climate condition and human activity intensity, the evaluation index system and evaluation method of geological environmental health suitability are studied from a composite perspective. The GHI evaluation method could be used for regional geological environment evaluation and zoning, and the evaluation results could help manage a more habitable environment and improve the health level of the population. However, there are still some limitations to this approach: ①There is no grouping of the target population. ②The exposure time is not considered. ③The actual intake of water and food is not confirmed. To sum up, the method will be continuously improved by refining the index system, to develop a health suitability assessment method with greater spatial heterogeneity that could meet the needs of the public and government to the greatest extent.

Accurate and timely forecasting of critical components is pivotal in intelligent transportation systems and traffic management, crucially mitigating congestion and enhancing safety. This paper aims to comprehensively review deep learning algorithms and classical models employed in traffic forecasting. Spanning diverse traffic datasets, the study encompasses various scenarios, offering a nuanced understanding of traffic forecasting methods. Reviewing 111 seminal research works since the 1980s, encompassing both deep learning and classical models, the paper begins by detailing the data sources utilized in transportation systems. Subsequently, it delves into the theoretical underpinnings of prevalent deep learning algorithms and classical models prevalent in traffic forecasting. Furthermore, it investigates the application of these algorithms and models in forecasting key traffic characteristics, informed by their utility in transport and traffic analyses. Finally, the study elucidates the merits and drawbacks of proposed models through applied research in traffic forecasting. Findings indicate that while deep learning algorithms and classic models serve as valuable tools, their suitability varies across contexts, necessitating careful consideration in future studies. The study underscores research opportunities in road traffic forecasting, providing a comprehensive guide for future endeavors in this domain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citrus huanglongbing (HLB), which is caused by the phloem-colonizing bacteria Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas), poses a significant threat to citrus production worldwide. The pathogenicity mechanism of HLB remains poorly understood. SEC-dependent effectors (SDEs) have been suggested to play critical roles in the interaction between citrus and CLas. Here, we explored the function of CLIBASIA_05320 (SDE19), a core SDE from CLas, and its interaction with its host target. Our data revealed that SDE19 is expressed at higher level during infection of citrus than that during infection of the Asian citrus psyllid. Subcellular localization assays showed that SDE19 is localized in the nucleus and cytoplasm and is capable of moving from cell to cell in Nicotiana benthamiana. To investigate whether SDE19 facilitates pathogen infection, we generated transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana and citrus plants overexpressing SDE19. Transgenic A. thaliana and citrus plants were more susceptible to Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato (Pst) and Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri (Xcc), respectively. In addition, RNA-seq analysis demonstrated that overexpression of SDE19 resulted in a reprogramming of expression of genes related to biotic stimulus responses. SDE19 interacts with Citrus sinensis Sec12, a guanine nucleotide exchange factor responsible for the assembly of plant COPII (coat protein II)-coated vesicles, which mediate vesicle trafficking from the ER to the Golgi. SDE19 colocalizes with Sec12 in the ER by binding to its N-terminal catalytic region, affecting the stability of Sec12 through the 26S proteasome. This interaction hinders the secretion of apoplastic defense-related proteins such as PR1, P69B, GmGIP1, and RCR3. Furthermore, the secretion of PR1 and callose deposition is decreased in SDE19-transgenic A. thaliana. Taken together, SDE19 is a novel virulent SDE secreted by CLas that interacts with Sec12 to disrupt vesicle trafficking, inhibit defense-related proteins secretion, and promote bacterial infection. This study sheds light on how CLas manipulates the host vesicle trafficking pathway to suppress the secretion of defense-related proteins and interfere with plant immunity. Author summary: SEC-dependent effectors play a crucial role in the infection process of Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas) in plants. However, the specific functions of most SDEs remain poorly understood. Here, we conducted functional analyses of SDE19, a core SDE, and revealed that it suppresses plant immunity and interferes with vesicle trafficking. We found that SDE19 is able to move intercellularly within plants and suppress the expression of defense-related genes and callose deposition to suppress plant immunity. Furthermore, overexpression of SDE19 enhances susceptibility of transgenic plants to bacterial infection. Specifically, SDE19 targets and destabilizes a citrus guanine nucleotide exchange factor, to interfere with host vesicle trafficking and inhibit the secretion of defense-related proteins. Our study revealed a new mechanism by which CLas suppresses plant immunity via interfering with vesicle trafficking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brake friction material reinforced with coconut fiber and dypsis lutescens fiber was designed and prepared in this study. Specimens incorporating 0–8 wt.% of coconut fibers or dypsis lutescens fibers were fabricated. The effect of the content of these reinforcing fibers on the overall properties of brake friction materials was systematically investigated. The results indicate that the inclusion of reinforcing fibers in the formulation of brake friction materials can improve the physical properties and friction and wear properties of brake friction materials. The specimen incorporating 6 wt.% plant fiber obtained the optimal comprehensive performance with excellent fade resistance and recovery properties, and better wear resistance. In order to further investigate their performance, nine hybrid fiber brake friction materials were designed using the golden section method and orthogonal test method. The study indicated that the F-6 hybrid fiber-reinforced brake friction materials have better physical properties, thermal degradation resistance, recovery properties, and abrasion resistance than the single-fiber-reinforced brake friction materials. This study provides new concepts for the preparation of fiber-reinforced brake friction materials as well as formulation optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atmospheric volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as olefins and aromatics, released from synthetic chemical pesticide sprays can increase regional air pollution, public health risks, and food security risks. However, significant uncertainties remain regarding the measurement methods and chemical profiles of VOC emissions. Using an agricultural city, Changchun City in Northeast China, as a case study, we quantified real-time concentration and composition data based on online monitoring instruments for the year 2023. This study optimized data collection methods for emission factors and activity levels and developed a high-precision emission inventory of VOCs in pesticides at the city scale. The emission factors for VOCs from the seven categories of pesticides were estimated as follows: 78 g/kg (nicosulfuron and atrazine, oil-dispersible [OD] and suspension emulsion [SE], respectively), 4 g/kg (chlorpyrifos and indoxair conditioningarb, suspension concentrate [SC]), 5 g/kg (fluopicolide and propamocarb hydrochloride, SC), 217 g/kg (MCPA-dimethylammonium, aqueous solution [AS]), 34 g/kg (glyphosate, AS), 575 g/kg (beta-cypermethrin and malathion, emulsifiable concentrate [EC]), and 122 g/kg (copper abietate, emulsion in water [EW]), depending on the pesticide formulation components and formulation types. The orchard insecticide exhibited the highest emission factors among all pesticides owing to its emulsifiable concentrate formulation and 80% content of inactive ingredients (both factors contribute to the high content of organic solvents in the pesticide). The major components of VOC emissions from pesticide spraying were halocarbons (27–44%), oxygenated VOCs (OVOCs) (25–38%), and aromatic hydrocarbons (15–28%). The total VOC emissions from pesticide spraying in the Changchun region accounted for 10.6 t, with Yushu City contributing 28% of the VOC emissions and Gongzhuling City and Dehui City contributing 18.7% and 16.0%, respectively. Herbicides were the main contributors to VOC emissions because of their high emission factors and extensive use in fields (used for spraying maize and rice, the main crops in Changchun City). May and June exhibited the highest VOC emissions from pesticide application, with May accounting for 57.0% of annual pesticide emissions, predominantly from herbicides (95.1%), followed by insecticides (4.9%). June accounted for 30.1% of the annual pesticide emissions, with herbicides being the largest contributor of VOC emissions. An emission inventory of VOC with a monthly scale and spatial grid resolutions of 0.083° and 0.5° in 2023 was developed. These emission factors and inventories of pesticide applications provide valuable information for air quality modeling. This study also provides an important scientific basis for enhancing regional air quality and mitigating the environmental impact of pesticide use in major grain-producing areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Our study investigated the molecular mechanism of co-cultivated Citrus sinensis in diminishing the resistance of Poncirus trifoliata to the Asian Citrus Psyllid (ACP). The presence of C. sinensis was found to weaken the resistance of P. trifoliata to ACP, shown by a significant increase in ACP survival after 14 days of incubation. RNA-seq analysis revealed differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between control samples and those under co-cultivation with C. sinensis, with significant changes in metabolic processes. Further analysis indicated that P. trifoliata co-cultivation with C. sinensis significantly impacted the expression of many genes, including those involved in polysaccharide metabolic processes, metabolic pathways, biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis. The study also identified a hub gene, Ptrif_0004s_1029, a NAC gene from transcription factor genes, appearing crucial in transcriptional regulation related to potential ACP resistance. Additionally, DEGs related to ACP feeding were also identified. Our research has elucidated the molecular mechanisms that underlie the resistance of P. trifoliata to the ACP and identified potential genes associated with this resistance. Citrus huanglongbing (HLB) is a devastating disease for citrus production, largely caused by the Asian citrus psyllid (ACP). Poncirus trifoliata exhibits high resistance to ACP; however, this resistance is weakened when C. sinensis is co-cultivated. This study aimed to identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) during ACP feeding and to uncover potential ACP resistance genes in P. trifoliata. In comparison to independent cultivation, 1247 and 205 DEGs were identified in P. trifoliata when co-cultivated with C. sinensis after 7 and 14 days, respectively. Analysis of enriched Gene Ontology categories revealed that DEGs were significantly associated with the cell wall, glucometabolic activities, and secondary metabolites. Additionally, these genes were found to be involved in phytohormone signaling, cell wall metabolism, redox state homeostasis, and secondary metabolites, as well as a number of transcription factor genes (TFs). Furthermore, we examined the impact of the ACP feeding factor on the gene expression patterns in P. trifoliata. Results showed an increase in the JA signaling pathway and various TFs. The RNA-seq results were verified using reverse transcription quantitative PCR. Our findings shed light on the molecular basis of ACP resistance in P. trifoliata and identified potential genes associated with this resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rainstorm and the induced flood disaster often cause serious damage to transportation system, resulting in the loss of life and property. To improve the resilience of transportation system, this study proposes a framework for assessing the impacts of rainstorm and flood disaster on road network based on GPS data. The change ratio of traffic flow and congestion index are used to evaluate the disrupted and detour road sections caused by rainstorm. A method based on the change of traffic flow compared to the normal circumstances is proposed to identify the flood‐damaged road sections. A case study in Beijing verifies the feasibility and practicality of the proposed framework, which can effectively assess the impacts of rainstorm from multiple spatial and temporal dimensions, identify the flood‐damaged road sections, and supplement existing research. Research findings can provide scientific basis for the emergency management departments to accurately identify the roads affected by rainstorm and improve the resilience of transportation system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different phenolic resins have a direct impact on the properties of aramid paper honeycombs. It is important to study the relationship between phenolic resin and honeycomb properties. Two different phenolic resins are used to prepare aramid paper honeycomb core materials, and the compression properties, shear properties, flame retardancy and dielectric properties of the prepared honeycomb core material are tested. Combining the observation of resin end face resin distribution and contact angle measurement, the reasons for the difference in performance of honeycomb core materials prepared by two kinds of resins are analyzed. The results show that the temperature resistance of the resin itself directly affects the temperature resistance of the honeycomb and the volatilization rate of solvent water in the resin and the surface tension between the resin and the aramid paper affect the resin distribution of the resin on the honeycomb wall. When the content of the honeycomb core resin is the same, the resin rubber column at the end of the joint is beneficial to increase the compressive strength of the honeycomb core material, but the accumulation of the resin at the end of the node reduces the wall thickness of the honeycomb, resulting in a decrease in the shear strength and modulus of the honeycomb.

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) have significant potential for large energy storage systems because of their high energy density, cost-effectiveness and environmental friendliness. However, the limited voltage window, poor reaction kinetics and structural instability of cathode materials are current bottlenecks which contain the further development of ZIBs. In this work, we rationally design a Ni-doped V2O5@3D Ni core/shell composite on a carbon cloth electrode (Ni-V2O5@3D Ni@CC) by growing Ni-V2O5 on free-standing 3D Ni metal nanonets for high-voltage and high-capacity ZIBs. Impressively, embedded Ni doping increases the interlayer spacing of V2O5, extending the working voltage and improving the zinc-ion (Zn302+) reaction kinetics of the cathode materials; at the same time, the 3D structure, with its high specific surface area and superior electronic conductivity, aids in fast Zn302+ transport. Consequently, the as-designed Ni-V2O5@3D Ni@CC cathodes can operate within a wide voltage window from 0.3 to 1.8 V vs. Zn30/Zn302+ and deliver a high capacity of 270 mAh g−1 (~1050 mAh cm−3) at a high current density of 0.8 A g−1. In addition, reversible Zn2+ (de)incorporation reaction mechanisms in the Ni-V2O5@3D Ni@CC cathodes are investigated through multiple characterization methods (SEM, TEM, XRD, XPS, etc.). As a result, we achieved significant progress toward practical applications of ZIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]