A new report from Jeanologia highlights theurgent need for the denim industry to adopt saferalternatives to harmful chemicals.The study alsostresses reducing excessive water use in garmentfinishing.The report,compiled...A new report from Jeanologia highlights theurgent need for the denim industry to adopt saferalternatives to harmful chemicals.The study alsostresses reducing excessive water use in garmentfinishing.The report,compiled in 2024,analyzed datafrom more than ll5,000 dentm finishing processes.lt found that 24%of denim finishing processes stilluse hazardous chemicals,posing risks to both theenvironment and the health of workers.展开更多
The number of newborns born with diseases is increasing recently.Thyroid hormones(THs)are closely related to the growth and development of the newborn in the mother's womb and to the carriage of related diseases a...The number of newborns born with diseases is increasing recently.Thyroid hormones(THs)are closely related to the growth and development of the newborn in the mother's womb and to the carriage of related diseases after birth.Environmental endocrine-disrupting compounds(EDCs)have been proven to harm THs in newborns.Phthalates(PAEs),a typical class of EDCs,are commonly used in toys,childcare materials,and food contact materials,which have been closely connected with neonatal thyroid dysfunction and thyroid-related diseases.As restrictions on PAEs becomemore stringent in neonatal field,numerous PAE alternatives are emerging.Associations between exposure to PAEs and their alternatives and dysfunctions in THs have been explored.Hence,we summarized the body burdens and regional characteristics of PAEs and their alternatives in neonatal urine,cord blood,and meconium.Subsequently,the influences of PAEs and their alternatives on thyroid dysfunction,prematurity,low birth weight,fetal growth restriction,respiratory dysfunction,immune disorders,neurological disorders,and reproductive disorders in newborns were evaluated.Furthermore,we scrutinized the effects of PAEs and their alternatives on the neonatal thyroid from signaling,substance transport,and hormone production to explore the underlying mechanisms of action on neonatal thyroid and thyroid-related disorders.As the declining global trends of healthy newborns and the potential impacts of PAEs and their alternatives on thyroid function,a more comprehensive study is needed to discuss their effects on newborns and their underlying mechanisms.This review facilitates attention to the effects of PAEs and their alternatives on thyroid and thyroid-related disorders in newborns.展开更多
Over the past century,advancements in chemistry have significantly propelled human innovation,enhancing both industrial and consumer products.However,this rapid progression has resulted in chemical pollution increasin...Over the past century,advancements in chemistry have significantly propelled human innovation,enhancing both industrial and consumer products.However,this rapid progression has resulted in chemical pollution increasingly surpassing planetary boundaries,as production and release rates have outpaced our monitoring capabilities.To catalyze more impactful efforts,this study transitions from traditional chemical assessment to inverse chemical design,introducing a generative graph latent diffusion model aimed at discovering safer alternatives.In a case study on the design of green solvents for cyclohexane/benzene extraction distillation,we constructed a design database encompassing functional,environmental hazards,and process constraints.Virtual screening of previous design dataset revealed distinct trade-off trends between these design requirements.Based on the screening outcomes,an unconstrained generative model was developed,which covered a broader chemical space and demonstrated superior capabilities for structural interpolation and extrapolation.To further optimize molecular generation towards desired properties,a multi-objective latent diffusion method was applied,yielding 19 candidate molecules.Of these,7 were identified in PubChem as the most viable green solvent candidates,while the remaining 12 as potential novel candidates.Overall,this study effectively designed green solvent candidates for safer and more sustainable industrial production,setting a promising precedent for the development of environmentally friendly alternatives in other areas of chemical research.展开更多
Dicofol was listed by International POPs Elimination Network (IPEN) as requiring immediate and urgent considera-tion and thus was considered as a new candidate by Persistent Organic Pollutant Review Committee (POPRC) ...Dicofol was listed by International POPs Elimination Network (IPEN) as requiring immediate and urgent considera-tion and thus was considered as a new candidate by Persistent Organic Pollutant Review Committee (POPRC) as a possible persistent organic pollutant (POP). Dicofol is structurally similar to DDT. It is persistent in food and water, highly toxic to aquatic life and causes egg-shell thinning in some bird species. High concern, due to the lack of dicofol measurements in the Arctic, proving long range transport and bioaccumulation in wild life species, supports further impact assessment of this product. Under Stockholm Convention, substances identified as POPs are regulated with the objective to protect the environment and the human health. According to this objective, the search of environmental and healthy alternatives is helpful. This paper discusses the use of three groups of chemicals currently applied as alternatives to dicofol. An exhaustive review of the synthesis of dicofol, starting from DDT, and compared to possible substitutes is presented: 1) active principle with fluoralkenyl are proposed as an environmental and healthy alternative to dicofol, 2) inhibitor agents of mitochondrial electron transport as chlorfenapyr, hydramethylnon and pyridaben and 3) pesticides commonly applied in agricultural practices as oxythioquinox, fenbutatin-oxide and formetanate hydrochloride.展开更多
China is the only nation that uses DDT in antifouling pain at present, approximately 5% of DDT is applied as the additive of the antifouling paint production. Therefore, actions shall be taken urgently for banning the...China is the only nation that uses DDT in antifouling pain at present, approximately 5% of DDT is applied as the additive of the antifouling paint production. Therefore, actions shall be taken urgently for banning the use of DDT and substituting with non-POPs alternatives in antifouling paints. The paper researches the social and economic backgrounds of DDT booster antifouling paint production and usage, analyzes the social and economic impact assessment of the alternatives to DDT usage for antifouling paint. The implementation of the project of alternatives will completely eliminate the adverse impact of DDT booster antifouling paint on terrestrial, marine ecosystem and human health. The broad use of alkali silicate and pepper alkali as substitutes will be feasible if appropriate measures will be taken to encourage their development, and the social and economic risk will be reduced to accepted levels.展开更多
Rank reversals appearing in AHP are discussed. It is proved with examples that they are in certain degree universal in the process of decision making. The mechanism of rank reversal is expounded. It is believed that...Rank reversals appearing in AHP are discussed. It is proved with examples that they are in certain degree universal in the process of decision making. The mechanism of rank reversal is expounded. It is believed that rank reversal can not deny the reasonableness of AHP and the axioms of independences of irrelevant alternatives.展开更多
In the US Federal government, an analysis of alternatives (AoA) is required for a significant investment of resources. The AoA yields the recommended alternative from a set of viable alternatives for the investment de...In the US Federal government, an analysis of alternatives (AoA) is required for a significant investment of resources. The AoA yields the recommended alternative from a set of viable alternatives for the investment decision. This paper presents an integrated AoA and project management framework for analyzing new or emerging alternatives (e.g., Cloud computing), as may be driven by an information system strategy that incorporates a methodology for analyzing the costs, benefits, and risks of each viable alternative. The case study in this paper, about a business improvement project to provide public health and safety services to citizens in a US Federal agency, is a practical application of this integrated framework and reveals the benefits of this integrated approach for an investment decision. The decision making process in the framework—as an integrated, organized, and adaptable set of management and control practices—offers a defensible recommendation and provides accountability to stakeholders.展开更多
Background: More than 80 million Americans may be at risk of a chemical exposure because they live near one of the 101 most hazardous chemical facilities or near routes used to transport hazardous chemicals. One appro...Background: More than 80 million Americans may be at risk of a chemical exposure because they live near one of the 101 most hazardous chemical facilities or near routes used to transport hazardous chemicals. One approach to hazard reduction is to use less toxic alternatives. Chlorine, one of the chemicals posing the greatest public health danger, has several alternatives depending on the application. Methods: We analyzed data collected during 1993-2008 by 17 state health departments participating in the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry’s (ATSDR) active chemical incident surveillance program. We conducted descriptive analyses to evaluate whether five chlorine alternatives (calcium hypochlorite, hydrogen peroxide, sodium chlorate, sodium hydrosulfite, and sodium hypochlorite) resulted in less severe incidents. We used chi square and z-score analyses to test significance, where appropriate. Results: During 1993-2008, 2040 incidents involved chlorine, and 1246 incidents involved chlorine alternatives. Nearly 30% of chlorine releases resulted in injured persons, as compared to 13% of chlorine alternatives that resulted in injury. Although similar proportions of persons injured in chlorine or chlorine alternative releases were treated on scene (18% and 14%, respectively) and at a hospital (58% and 60%, respectively), there was a greater proportion of hospital admissions following chlorine releases than there was following releases of chlorine alternatives (10 % vs. 4%) (p Conclusion: Exposures to these five potential chlorine alternatives resulted in a lower proportion of exposed persons requiring hospital admission. To reduce acute public health injuries associated with chemical exposures, users should consider a chlorine alternative when such a substitution is reasonable.展开更多
We previously proposed a method for creating product maps with SOM （Self-Organizing Maps） to be used during purchase decision making. In that study, we first established two class boundaries, which divide the area b...We previously proposed a method for creating product maps with SOM （Self-Organizing Maps） to be used during purchase decision making. In that study, we first established two class boundaries, which divide the area between the minimum and maximum range of an input feature value into three equal parts. Then, we produced self-organizing product maps using classification data inputs. Finally, we applied our method to five product types and confirmed its effectiveness. In this paper, we propose a method for selecting alternatives from a product map, in which we have located a favorite several examples of selecting alternatives and making decisions using cluster, and/or from a favorite component map. We then show the AHP （Analytic Hierarchy Process）.展开更多
Mg alloys are emerging as potential and very promising alternatives for replacing permanent metallic implant materials such as steels and titanium in applications where the implants need to be removed following healin...Mg alloys are emerging as potential and very promising alternatives for replacing permanent metallic implant materials such as steels and titanium in applications where the implants need to be removed following healing through revision surgery.Use of Mg alloys for implant application is seen as a game changer and Mg alloys are almost perfect materials for the future in both engineering and biomedical applications.Present review therefore focuses on highlighting significance of Mg alloys in biomedical field and risks of using permanent metallic implants particularly when the implants are no longer required after the injury is healed.In this review,importance of orthopedic implants in present scenario,serious concern related to accidents that are causing permanent disabilities,demand in orthopedic implant market worldwide,potential applications of Mg based materials and their compatibility in biological environment is presented and discussed.In addition,degradation rate,major reactions associated with Mg based materials and effect of alloying elements on implant performance are also discussed based on in-vivo results.Recent advances in development of Mg alloys through various techniques and their performance in in-vitro conditions are also outlined.Possible ways to eliminate the limitations of Mg alloys include alloying,melt purification,surface alterations,surface modifications,chemical treatment,secondary processing etc.are discussed.Challenges and opportunities for Mg alloys to become ideal implant material is also addressed.展开更多
An eigenvector method for ranking alternatives whose measurements are given as vague values is provided. Firstly, a positive matrix is constructed which is defined as evaluation information matrix （EIM）. Based on fo...An eigenvector method for ranking alternatives whose measurements are given as vague values is provided. Firstly, a positive matrix is constructed which is defined as evaluation information matrix （EIM）. Based on four assumptions for evaluating alternatives, a ranking eigenvector is defined. And then it is proved, based on positive matrix theory, that the EIM＇s eigenvector corresponding to the maximal eigenvalue is the ranking vector. For alternatives whose characteristics are presented by vague sets, the proposed techniques can evaluate the degree of suitability to which an alternative satisfies the decision-maker＇ s requirement efficiently.展开更多
Clostridioides difficile(C.difficile)is a gram-positive,anaerobic spore-forming bacterium and a major cause of antibiotic-associated diarrhea.Humans are naturally resistant to C.difficile infection(CDI)owing to the pr...Clostridioides difficile(C.difficile)is a gram-positive,anaerobic spore-forming bacterium and a major cause of antibiotic-associated diarrhea.Humans are naturally resistant to C.difficile infection(CDI)owing to the protection provided by healthy gut microbiota.When the gut microbiota is disturbed,C.difficile can colonize,produce toxins,and manifest clinical symptoms,ranging from asymptomatic diarrhea and colitis to death.Despite the steady-if not risingprevalence of CDI,it will certainly become more problematic in a world of antibiotic overuse and the post-antibiotic era.C.difficile is naturally resistant to most of the currently used antibiotics as it uses multiple resistance mechanisms.Therefore,current CDI treatment regimens are extremely limited to only a few antibiotics,which include vancomycin,fidaxomicin,and metronidazole.Therefore,one of the main challenges experienced by the scientific community is the development of alternative approaches to control and treat CDI.In this Frontier article,we collectively summarize recent advances in alternative treatment approaches for CDI.Over the past few years,several studies have reported on natural product-derived compounds,drug repurposing,highthroughput library screening,phage therapy,and fecal microbiota transplantation.We also include an update on vaccine development,pre-and probiotics for CDI,and toxin antidote approaches.These measures tackle CDI at every stage of disease pathology via multiple mechanisms.We also discuss the gaps and concerns in these developments.The next epidemic of CDI is not a matter of if but a matter of when.Therefore,being well-equipped with a collection of alternative therapeutics is necessary and should be prioritized.展开更多
This minireview describes the strategies for synthesis of fluorinated surfactants potentially non- bioaccumulable. Various strategies have been focused on （Ⅰ） reducing the length of the perfluorocarbon chain, （Ⅱ...This minireview describes the strategies for synthesis of fluorinated surfactants potentially non- bioaccumulable. Various strategies have been focused on （Ⅰ） reducing the length of the perfluorocarbon chain, （Ⅱ） introducing hereto atoms into the fluorocarbon chain, （Ⅲ） introducing branch （herein and after branch means the fluoro-carbon chain section is not straight）. In most cases, the surface tensions versus the surfactant concentrations have been assessed. These above strategies led to various highly fluorinated （perfluorinated or not perfluorinated） surfactants whose chemical changes enabled to obtain novel alternatives to perfluorooctanoic acid （PFOA） and perfluorooctane sulphonate （PFOS）.展开更多
Since 2009,the Mine Safety and Health Administration(MSHA)has required mines to install refuge alternatives(RAs)in underground coal mines.One of the biggest concerns with occupied RAs is the possible severity of the r...Since 2009,the Mine Safety and Health Administration(MSHA)has required mines to install refuge alternatives(RAs)in underground coal mines.One of the biggest concerns with occupied RAs is the possible severity of the resulting thermal environment.In 30 CFR 7.504,the maximum allowable apparent temperature(AT)for an occupied RA is specified as 35℃(95°F).Manufacturers must conduct heat/humidity tests to demonstrate that their RAs meet the 35℃(95°F)AT limit.For these tests,heat input devices are used to input the metabolic heat of actual miners.A wide variety of test methods,sensors,and heat input devices could be used when conducting such tests.Since 2012,the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health(NIOSH)has conducted over thirty 96-hour heat/humidity tests on four different RAs.This paper discusses the test equipment and procedures used during these investigations.This information is useful for RA manufacturers conducting RA heat/humidity tests,for other researchers investigating RA heat/humidity buildup,and for those who need to assess the thermal environment of any confined space where people may be trapped or are seeking refuge.展开更多
Biliodigestive anastomosis between the extrahepatic bile duct and the intestine for bile duct disease is a gastrointestinal reconstruction that abolishes duodenal papilla function and frequently causes retrograde chol...Biliodigestive anastomosis between the extrahepatic bile duct and the intestine for bile duct disease is a gastrointestinal reconstruction that abolishes duodenal papilla function and frequently causes retrograde cholangitis.This chronic inflammation can cause liver dysfunction,liver abscess,and even bile duct cancer.Although research has been conducted for over 100 years to directly repair bile duct defects with alternatives,no bile duct substitute(BDS)has been developed.This narrative review confirms our understanding of why bile duct alternatives have not been developed and explains the clinical applicability of BDSs in the near future.We searched the PubMed electronic database to identify studies conducted to develop BDSs until December 2021 and identified studies in English.Two independent reviewers reviewed studies on large animals with 8 or more cases.Four types of BDSs prevail:Autologous tissue,non-bioabsorbable material,bioabsorbable material,and others(decellularized tissue,3D-printed structures,etc.).In most studies,BDSs failed due to obstruction of the lumen or stenosis of the anastomosis with the native bile duct.BDS has not been developed primarily because control of bile duct wound healing and regeneration has not been elucidated.A BDS expected to be clinically applied in the near future incorporates a bioabsorbable material that allows for regeneration of the bile duct outside the BDS.展开更多
Current abdominal surgery has several approaches for biliary reconstruction.However,the creation of functional and clinically applicable bile duct substitutes still represents an unmet need.In the paper by Miyazawa an...Current abdominal surgery has several approaches for biliary reconstruction.However,the creation of functional and clinically applicable bile duct substitutes still represents an unmet need.In the paper by Miyazawa and colleagues,approaches to the creation of bile duct alternatives were summarized,and the reasons for the lack of development in this area were explained.The history of bile duct surgery since the nineteenth century was also traced,leading to the conclusion that the use of bioabsorbable materials holds promise for the creation of bile duct substitutes in the future.We suggest three ideas that may stimulate progress in the field of bile duct substitute creation.First,a systematic analysis of the causative factors leading to failure or success in the creation of bile duct substitutes may help to develop more effective approaches.Second,the regeneration of a bile duct is delicately balanced between epithelialization and subsequent submucosal maturation within limited time frames,which may be more apparent when using quantitative models to estimate outcomes.Third,the utilization of the organism’s endogenous regeneration abilities may enhance the creation of bile duct substitutes.We are convinced that an interdisciplinary approach,including quantitative methods,machine learning,and deep retrospective analysis of the causes that led to success and failure in studies on the creation of bile duct substitutes,holds great value.Additionally,more attention should be directed towards the balance of epithelialization and submucosal maturation rates,as well as induced angiogenesis.These ideas deserve further investigation to pave the way for bile duct restoration with physiologically relevant outcomes.展开更多
Feedbacks given by teachers is possibly a common instruction in second language writing classes, to help students makeprogress in writing. At one time, feedback was almost entirely at a superficial level--identifying ...Feedbacks given by teachers is possibly a common instruction in second language writing classes, to help students makeprogress in writing. At one time, feedback was almost entirely at a superficial level--identifying the grammatical errors and givingthe correct form. However, recently, this type of feedback has begun to be challenged by some researchers(eg.,Krashen, 1984, Trus-cott, 1996),who argue that teachers should be more concerned with the content of essay instead of grammatical errors. This essaywill discuss some research surrounding feedback to students' writing and will try to find the answer to the question whether the er-ror corrective feedback should be abandoned. In order to find the answer, the essay will elaborate on two parts: some literary reviewabout the issue and some suggested solutions to the issue.展开更多
the world population is projected to be over 9 billion by the year 2050,which poses a major challenge in terms of food security.it is essential to develop and produce protein foods that are more efficient and sustaina...the world population is projected to be over 9 billion by the year 2050,which poses a major challenge in terms of food security.it is essential to develop and produce protein foods that are more efficient and sustainable than animal protein to ensure future food security.Several options have been studied,including promising protein alternatives such as plant sources,insects,edible mushrooms,and algae.Due to their resource efficiency and nutritional value,these alternatives could contribute to feeding the next generation.this paper reviews different approaches to alternative proteins,describes each alternative and analyzes the protein composition,and highlights the potential that each alternative protein source must address the challenge of food security.展开更多
The use of antibiotics in animal production raises great public safety concerns;therefore,there is an urgent need for the development of substitutes for antibiotics.In recent decades,plant-derived feed additives have ...The use of antibiotics in animal production raises great public safety concerns;therefore,there is an urgent need for the development of substitutes for antibiotics.In recent decades,plant-derived feed additives have been widely investigated as antibiotic alternatives for use in animal health and production because they exert multiple biological functions and are less likely to induce resistance development.This review summarizes the research history and classification of phytogenic feed additives and their main functions,potential modes of action,influencing factors,and potential negative effects.Further,we highlight the challenges in developing sustainable,safe,and affordable plant-derived antibiotic alter-natives for use in livestock production.展开更多
文摘A new report from Jeanologia highlights theurgent need for the denim industry to adopt saferalternatives to harmful chemicals.The study alsostresses reducing excessive water use in garmentfinishing.The report,compiled in 2024,analyzed datafrom more than ll5,000 dentm finishing processes.lt found that 24%of denim finishing processes stilluse hazardous chemicals,posing risks to both theenvironment and the health of workers.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.22225605)the National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2023YFC3706600)the Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(No.XDB0750200).
文摘The number of newborns born with diseases is increasing recently.Thyroid hormones(THs)are closely related to the growth and development of the newborn in the mother's womb and to the carriage of related diseases after birth.Environmental endocrine-disrupting compounds(EDCs)have been proven to harm THs in newborns.Phthalates(PAEs),a typical class of EDCs,are commonly used in toys,childcare materials,and food contact materials,which have been closely connected with neonatal thyroid dysfunction and thyroid-related diseases.As restrictions on PAEs becomemore stringent in neonatal field,numerous PAE alternatives are emerging.Associations between exposure to PAEs and their alternatives and dysfunctions in THs have been explored.Hence,we summarized the body burdens and regional characteristics of PAEs and their alternatives in neonatal urine,cord blood,and meconium.Subsequently,the influences of PAEs and their alternatives on thyroid dysfunction,prematurity,low birth weight,fetal growth restriction,respiratory dysfunction,immune disorders,neurological disorders,and reproductive disorders in newborns were evaluated.Furthermore,we scrutinized the effects of PAEs and their alternatives on the neonatal thyroid from signaling,substance transport,and hormone production to explore the underlying mechanisms of action on neonatal thyroid and thyroid-related disorders.As the declining global trends of healthy newborns and the potential impacts of PAEs and their alternatives on thyroid function,a more comprehensive study is needed to discuss their effects on newborns and their underlying mechanisms.This review facilitates attention to the effects of PAEs and their alternatives on thyroid and thyroid-related disorders in newborns.
基金supported by Shanghai Science and Technology Commission Project(No.21DZ1201502)Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Ecology and Environment(Shanghai Environ-mental Science[2023]No.40)+1 种基金the Interdisciplinary Joint Research Project of Tongji University(No.2022-4-YB-12)Shanghai Science and Technology Commission Project(No.22DZ2200200).
文摘Over the past century,advancements in chemistry have significantly propelled human innovation,enhancing both industrial and consumer products.However,this rapid progression has resulted in chemical pollution increasingly surpassing planetary boundaries,as production and release rates have outpaced our monitoring capabilities.To catalyze more impactful efforts,this study transitions from traditional chemical assessment to inverse chemical design,introducing a generative graph latent diffusion model aimed at discovering safer alternatives.In a case study on the design of green solvents for cyclohexane/benzene extraction distillation,we constructed a design database encompassing functional,environmental hazards,and process constraints.Virtual screening of previous design dataset revealed distinct trade-off trends between these design requirements.Based on the screening outcomes,an unconstrained generative model was developed,which covered a broader chemical space and demonstrated superior capabilities for structural interpolation and extrapolation.To further optimize molecular generation towards desired properties,a multi-objective latent diffusion method was applied,yielding 19 candidate molecules.Of these,7 were identified in PubChem as the most viable green solvent candidates,while the remaining 12 as potential novel candidates.Overall,this study effectively designed green solvent candidates for safer and more sustainable industrial production,setting a promising precedent for the development of environmentally friendly alternatives in other areas of chemical research.
文摘Dicofol was listed by International POPs Elimination Network (IPEN) as requiring immediate and urgent considera-tion and thus was considered as a new candidate by Persistent Organic Pollutant Review Committee (POPRC) as a possible persistent organic pollutant (POP). Dicofol is structurally similar to DDT. It is persistent in food and water, highly toxic to aquatic life and causes egg-shell thinning in some bird species. High concern, due to the lack of dicofol measurements in the Arctic, proving long range transport and bioaccumulation in wild life species, supports further impact assessment of this product. Under Stockholm Convention, substances identified as POPs are regulated with the objective to protect the environment and the human health. According to this objective, the search of environmental and healthy alternatives is helpful. This paper discusses the use of three groups of chemicals currently applied as alternatives to dicofol. An exhaustive review of the synthesis of dicofol, starting from DDT, and compared to possible substitutes is presented: 1) active principle with fluoralkenyl are proposed as an environmental and healthy alternative to dicofol, 2) inhibitor agents of mitochondrial electron transport as chlorfenapyr, hydramethylnon and pyridaben and 3) pesticides commonly applied in agricultural practices as oxythioquinox, fenbutatin-oxide and formetanate hydrochloride.
文摘China is the only nation that uses DDT in antifouling pain at present, approximately 5% of DDT is applied as the additive of the antifouling paint production. Therefore, actions shall be taken urgently for banning the use of DDT and substituting with non-POPs alternatives in antifouling paints. The paper researches the social and economic backgrounds of DDT booster antifouling paint production and usage, analyzes the social and economic impact assessment of the alternatives to DDT usage for antifouling paint. The implementation of the project of alternatives will completely eliminate the adverse impact of DDT booster antifouling paint on terrestrial, marine ecosystem and human health. The broad use of alkali silicate and pepper alkali as substitutes will be feasible if appropriate measures will be taken to encourage their development, and the social and economic risk will be reduced to accepted levels.
文摘Rank reversals appearing in AHP are discussed. It is proved with examples that they are in certain degree universal in the process of decision making. The mechanism of rank reversal is expounded. It is believed that rank reversal can not deny the reasonableness of AHP and the axioms of independences of irrelevant alternatives.
文摘In the US Federal government, an analysis of alternatives (AoA) is required for a significant investment of resources. The AoA yields the recommended alternative from a set of viable alternatives for the investment decision. This paper presents an integrated AoA and project management framework for analyzing new or emerging alternatives (e.g., Cloud computing), as may be driven by an information system strategy that incorporates a methodology for analyzing the costs, benefits, and risks of each viable alternative. The case study in this paper, about a business improvement project to provide public health and safety services to citizens in a US Federal agency, is a practical application of this integrated framework and reveals the benefits of this integrated approach for an investment decision. The decision making process in the framework—as an integrated, organized, and adaptable set of management and control practices—offers a defensible recommendation and provides accountability to stakeholders.
文摘Background: More than 80 million Americans may be at risk of a chemical exposure because they live near one of the 101 most hazardous chemical facilities or near routes used to transport hazardous chemicals. One approach to hazard reduction is to use less toxic alternatives. Chlorine, one of the chemicals posing the greatest public health danger, has several alternatives depending on the application. Methods: We analyzed data collected during 1993-2008 by 17 state health departments participating in the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry’s (ATSDR) active chemical incident surveillance program. We conducted descriptive analyses to evaluate whether five chlorine alternatives (calcium hypochlorite, hydrogen peroxide, sodium chlorate, sodium hydrosulfite, and sodium hypochlorite) resulted in less severe incidents. We used chi square and z-score analyses to test significance, where appropriate. Results: During 1993-2008, 2040 incidents involved chlorine, and 1246 incidents involved chlorine alternatives. Nearly 30% of chlorine releases resulted in injured persons, as compared to 13% of chlorine alternatives that resulted in injury. Although similar proportions of persons injured in chlorine or chlorine alternative releases were treated on scene (18% and 14%, respectively) and at a hospital (58% and 60%, respectively), there was a greater proportion of hospital admissions following chlorine releases than there was following releases of chlorine alternatives (10 % vs. 4%) (p Conclusion: Exposures to these five potential chlorine alternatives resulted in a lower proportion of exposed persons requiring hospital admission. To reduce acute public health injuries associated with chemical exposures, users should consider a chlorine alternative when such a substitution is reasonable.
文摘We previously proposed a method for creating product maps with SOM （Self-Organizing Maps） to be used during purchase decision making. In that study, we first established two class boundaries, which divide the area between the minimum and maximum range of an input feature value into three equal parts. Then, we produced self-organizing product maps using classification data inputs. Finally, we applied our method to five product types and confirmed its effectiveness. In this paper, we propose a method for selecting alternatives from a product map, in which we have located a favorite several examples of selecting alternatives and making decisions using cluster, and/or from a favorite component map. We then show the AHP （Analytic Hierarchy Process）.
文摘Mg alloys are emerging as potential and very promising alternatives for replacing permanent metallic implant materials such as steels and titanium in applications where the implants need to be removed following healing through revision surgery.Use of Mg alloys for implant application is seen as a game changer and Mg alloys are almost perfect materials for the future in both engineering and biomedical applications.Present review therefore focuses on highlighting significance of Mg alloys in biomedical field and risks of using permanent metallic implants particularly when the implants are no longer required after the injury is healed.In this review,importance of orthopedic implants in present scenario,serious concern related to accidents that are causing permanent disabilities,demand in orthopedic implant market worldwide,potential applications of Mg based materials and their compatibility in biological environment is presented and discussed.In addition,degradation rate,major reactions associated with Mg based materials and effect of alloying elements on implant performance are also discussed based on in-vivo results.Recent advances in development of Mg alloys through various techniques and their performance in in-vitro conditions are also outlined.Possible ways to eliminate the limitations of Mg alloys include alloying,melt purification,surface alterations,surface modifications,chemical treatment,secondary processing etc.are discussed.Challenges and opportunities for Mg alloys to become ideal implant material is also addressed.
基金Sponsored by the Basic Research Foundation of Beijing Institute of Technology(BIT-UBF-20070842009)
文摘An eigenvector method for ranking alternatives whose measurements are given as vague values is provided. Firstly, a positive matrix is constructed which is defined as evaluation information matrix （EIM）. Based on four assumptions for evaluating alternatives, a ranking eigenvector is defined. And then it is proved, based on positive matrix theory, that the EIM＇s eigenvector corresponding to the maximal eigenvalue is the ranking vector. For alternatives whose characteristics are presented by vague sets, the proposed techniques can evaluate the degree of suitability to which an alternative satisfies the decision-maker＇ s requirement efficiently.
基金by Research Cluster(Multi-generation Researchers)Grant,Mahidol University,No.MRC-MGR 02/2563.
文摘Clostridioides difficile(C.difficile)is a gram-positive,anaerobic spore-forming bacterium and a major cause of antibiotic-associated diarrhea.Humans are naturally resistant to C.difficile infection(CDI)owing to the protection provided by healthy gut microbiota.When the gut microbiota is disturbed,C.difficile can colonize,produce toxins,and manifest clinical symptoms,ranging from asymptomatic diarrhea and colitis to death.Despite the steady-if not risingprevalence of CDI,it will certainly become more problematic in a world of antibiotic overuse and the post-antibiotic era.C.difficile is naturally resistant to most of the currently used antibiotics as it uses multiple resistance mechanisms.Therefore,current CDI treatment regimens are extremely limited to only a few antibiotics,which include vancomycin,fidaxomicin,and metronidazole.Therefore,one of the main challenges experienced by the scientific community is the development of alternative approaches to control and treat CDI.In this Frontier article,we collectively summarize recent advances in alternative treatment approaches for CDI.Over the past few years,several studies have reported on natural product-derived compounds,drug repurposing,highthroughput library screening,phage therapy,and fecal microbiota transplantation.We also include an update on vaccine development,pre-and probiotics for CDI,and toxin antidote approaches.These measures tackle CDI at every stage of disease pathology via multiple mechanisms.We also discuss the gaps and concerns in these developments.The next epidemic of CDI is not a matter of if but a matter of when.Therefore,being well-equipped with a collection of alternative therapeutics is necessary and should be prioritized.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.21102167)the Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality(No.12DZ1930902)Shanghai Green Chemical Engineering Technology Research Center and the Knowledge Innovation Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences
文摘This minireview describes the strategies for synthesis of fluorinated surfactants potentially non- bioaccumulable. Various strategies have been focused on （Ⅰ） reducing the length of the perfluorocarbon chain, （Ⅱ） introducing hereto atoms into the fluorocarbon chain, （Ⅲ） introducing branch （herein and after branch means the fluoro-carbon chain section is not straight）. In most cases, the surface tensions versus the surfactant concentrations have been assessed. These above strategies led to various highly fluorinated （perfluorinated or not perfluorinated） surfactants whose chemical changes enabled to obtain novel alternatives to perfluorooctanoic acid （PFOA） and perfluorooctane sulphonate （PFOS）.
文摘Since 2009,the Mine Safety and Health Administration(MSHA)has required mines to install refuge alternatives(RAs)in underground coal mines.One of the biggest concerns with occupied RAs is the possible severity of the resulting thermal environment.In 30 CFR 7.504,the maximum allowable apparent temperature(AT)for an occupied RA is specified as 35℃(95°F).Manufacturers must conduct heat/humidity tests to demonstrate that their RAs meet the 35℃(95°F)AT limit.For these tests,heat input devices are used to input the metabolic heat of actual miners.A wide variety of test methods,sensors,and heat input devices could be used when conducting such tests.Since 2012,the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health(NIOSH)has conducted over thirty 96-hour heat/humidity tests on four different RAs.This paper discusses the test equipment and procedures used during these investigations.This information is useful for RA manufacturers conducting RA heat/humidity tests,for other researchers investigating RA heat/humidity buildup,and for those who need to assess the thermal environment of any confined space where people may be trapped or are seeking refuge.
基金Supported by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science,No.21K08786。
文摘Biliodigestive anastomosis between the extrahepatic bile duct and the intestine for bile duct disease is a gastrointestinal reconstruction that abolishes duodenal papilla function and frequently causes retrograde cholangitis.This chronic inflammation can cause liver dysfunction,liver abscess,and even bile duct cancer.Although research has been conducted for over 100 years to directly repair bile duct defects with alternatives,no bile duct substitute(BDS)has been developed.This narrative review confirms our understanding of why bile duct alternatives have not been developed and explains the clinical applicability of BDSs in the near future.We searched the PubMed electronic database to identify studies conducted to develop BDSs until December 2021 and identified studies in English.Two independent reviewers reviewed studies on large animals with 8 or more cases.Four types of BDSs prevail:Autologous tissue,non-bioabsorbable material,bioabsorbable material,and others(decellularized tissue,3D-printed structures,etc.).In most studies,BDSs failed due to obstruction of the lumen or stenosis of the anastomosis with the native bile duct.BDS has not been developed primarily because control of bile duct wound healing and regeneration has not been elucidated.A BDS expected to be clinically applied in the near future incorporates a bioabsorbable material that allows for regeneration of the bile duct outside the BDS.
文摘Current abdominal surgery has several approaches for biliary reconstruction.However,the creation of functional and clinically applicable bile duct substitutes still represents an unmet need.In the paper by Miyazawa and colleagues,approaches to the creation of bile duct alternatives were summarized,and the reasons for the lack of development in this area were explained.The history of bile duct surgery since the nineteenth century was also traced,leading to the conclusion that the use of bioabsorbable materials holds promise for the creation of bile duct substitutes in the future.We suggest three ideas that may stimulate progress in the field of bile duct substitute creation.First,a systematic analysis of the causative factors leading to failure or success in the creation of bile duct substitutes may help to develop more effective approaches.Second,the regeneration of a bile duct is delicately balanced between epithelialization and subsequent submucosal maturation within limited time frames,which may be more apparent when using quantitative models to estimate outcomes.Third,the utilization of the organism’s endogenous regeneration abilities may enhance the creation of bile duct substitutes.We are convinced that an interdisciplinary approach,including quantitative methods,machine learning,and deep retrospective analysis of the causes that led to success and failure in studies on the creation of bile duct substitutes,holds great value.Additionally,more attention should be directed towards the balance of epithelialization and submucosal maturation rates,as well as induced angiogenesis.These ideas deserve further investigation to pave the way for bile duct restoration with physiologically relevant outcomes.
文摘Feedbacks given by teachers is possibly a common instruction in second language writing classes, to help students makeprogress in writing. At one time, feedback was almost entirely at a superficial level--identifying the grammatical errors and givingthe correct form. However, recently, this type of feedback has begun to be challenged by some researchers(eg.,Krashen, 1984, Trus-cott, 1996),who argue that teachers should be more concerned with the content of essay instead of grammatical errors. This essaywill discuss some research surrounding feedback to students' writing and will try to find the answer to the question whether the er-ror corrective feedback should be abandoned. In order to find the answer, the essay will elaborate on two parts: some literary reviewabout the issue and some suggested solutions to the issue.
基金the grant for his postgraduate scholarship(1238436)provided by National Council for the Humanities,Sciences and technologies(CoNAHCYt)México.
文摘the world population is projected to be over 9 billion by the year 2050,which poses a major challenge in terms of food security.it is essential to develop and produce protein foods that are more efficient and sustainable than animal protein to ensure future food security.Several options have been studied,including promising protein alternatives such as plant sources,insects,edible mushrooms,and algae.Due to their resource efficiency and nutritional value,these alternatives could contribute to feeding the next generation.this paper reviews different approaches to alternative proteins,describes each alternative and analyzes the protein composition,and highlights the potential that each alternative protein source must address the challenge of food security.
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(grant No.2022YFD130040311)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(grant No.31972576,31972575)+1 种基金the Special Program on Science and Technology Innovation Capacity Building of BAAFS(grant No.KJCX 20240339)the innovation and development project of the Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine,Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences(grant No.XMS202303).
文摘The use of antibiotics in animal production raises great public safety concerns;therefore,there is an urgent need for the development of substitutes for antibiotics.In recent decades,plant-derived feed additives have been widely investigated as antibiotic alternatives for use in animal health and production because they exert multiple biological functions and are less likely to induce resistance development.This review summarizes the research history and classification of phytogenic feed additives and their main functions,potential modes of action,influencing factors,and potential negative effects.Further,we highlight the challenges in developing sustainable,safe,and affordable plant-derived antibiotic alter-natives for use in livestock production.
