If one considers the number of language learners that are worldwide,the number of classroom-based language assessments(CBLAs)that are given each year,and the number of decisions that are made on the basis of these,it ...If one considers the number of language learners that are worldwide,the number of classroom-based language assessments(CBLAs)that are given each year,and the number of decisions that are made on the basis of these,it is obvious that in terms of sheer numbers,more students are affected by CBLAs per year than by those based on large-scale language assessments.Because of this,it is essential that classroom teachers have the knowledge,skills,and tools to enable them to develop and use CBLAs that they can justify to stakeholders,e.g.,students,parents,and school authorities.In this paper we describe the approach to CBLAs that we have developed.First,we discuss the role of assessment in teaching and learning,the kinds of decisions that classroom teachers need to make,and the different modes of CBLAs.We then describe the process of using CBLAs to help teachers make decisions that will have beneficial consequences.Next,we discuss fairness and accountability in assessment and the process of assessment justification,including an assessment use argument.Finally,we discuss the process of developing CBLAs,using an example of a classroom-based language assessment to illustrate this.展开更多
Arbitration is a key non-litigation commercial mechanism for the resolution of disputes, and the quality and credibility of its awards depend largely on the competency of the arbitrators. However, the selection and ev...Arbitration is a key non-litigation commercial mechanism for the resolution of disputes, and the quality and credibility of its awards depend largely on the competency of the arbitrators. However, the selection and evaluation systems for arbitrators in China have long faced challenges such as the vague criteria for competency and an unclear professionalization path for arbitrators. To address these issues, this study is grounded in the context of actual Chinese arbitration practice and based on the competency iceberg model. Through a methodological approach encompassing literature reviews, behavioral event interviews, expert revisions, and questionnaire surveys, a Chinese Arbitrator Competency Scale was developed and validated in this study. Examination of the findings indicated that the scale needed to consist of five dimensions—communication and coordination, cognitive skills, ethical conduct, work motivation, and personality traits—and possess a total of 28 specific indicators. Confirmatory analysis of the factors demonstrates a good fit for the five-dimensional model, with each of the dimensions exhibiting high reliability and validity. This scale is innovative in integrating the competency elements with Chinese characteristics, such as commercial acumen, crosscultural mediation skills, and adaptability to the local rule of law. This research not only enriches the competency theory in regard to the field of human resource management but also provides a scientific framework of standards and measurement tools for the selection, training, and evaluation of arbitrators. It thus has significant practical value for enhancing the professionalism and international competitiveness of China's arbitration system.展开更多
Excessive levels of Fluoride(F−)and Cadmium(Cd)in drinking groundwater may pose health risks.This study assessed the health risks associated with F−and Cd contamination in rural drinking groundwater sources in Wutai C...Excessive levels of Fluoride(F−)and Cadmium(Cd)in drinking groundwater may pose health risks.This study assessed the health risks associated with F−and Cd contamination in rural drinking groundwater sources in Wutai County,Shanxi Province,China,to support population health protection,water resource management,and environmental decision-making.Groundwater samples were collected and analyzed,and a Human Health Risk Model(HHRA)was applied to evaluate groundwater quality.The results showed that both contents of F−and Cd in groundwater exceeded the Class III limits of China's national groundwater quality standard(GB/T 14848—2024).Fluoride levels met the Class V threshold,with enrichment area mainly located in the east part of the study area.Cadmium levels reached Class IV,with elevated concentrations primarily observed in the western and northwestern regions.Correlation analysis revealed that F−showed weak or no correlation with other measured substances,indicating independent sources.Health risk assessment results indicated that F−poses potential health risks to rural residents,while cadmium,due to its relatively low concentrations,does not currently present a significant health risk.Among different demographic groups,the health risk levels of F−exposure followed the order:Infants>children>adult females>adult males.The findings highlight that fluoride is the primary contributor to health risks associated with groundwater consumption in the study area.Strengthened monitoring and prevention of F−contamination are urgently needed.This research provides a scientific basis for the prevention and control of fluoride pollution in groundwater and offers practical guidance for safeguarding drinking water safety in rural China.展开更多
Nitrogen(N)and phosphorus(P)are essential nutrients and can significantly impact primary productivity of the ecosystem causing water environmental problems.However,their cycling mechanisms are not well understood in a...Nitrogen(N)and phosphorus(P)are essential nutrients and can significantly impact primary productivity of the ecosystem causing water environmental problems.However,their cycling mechanisms are not well understood in alpine mountains with climate change.Hence,94 samples of river water were collected from 2018 to 2020 in the headwaters of the Shule River Basin to assess the nutrients spatiotemporal distribution and combined ap-proach of water quality index to assess water quality and potential sources.The findings depict that high nutrient concentrations were found to coincide with snowmelt and glacial meltwater and rainfall recharge periods,while total flux peaked from June to September due to increased runoff.Notably,total nitrogen(TN)concentrations were significantly higher near the town,primarily attributed to the replenishment of nitrate(NO_(3)^(‒)-N)from live-stock manure.The high total P(TP)was near the glacier,which was attributed to the transportation of glacial sediments into the river,and pH was another critical factor.N was the primary nutrient limiting factor for the growth of phytoplankton in river water.Although the migration and transport of nutrients have altered with climate change,river water quality is good in alpine mountains based on an overall evaluation.These findings contribute to enriching nutrient datasets and highlight the importance of water resource management and water quality assessment in sensitive and fragile alpine mountains.展开更多
This study compares the environmental sustainability of five alternatives for the remediation of marine sediments of one of the most polluted coastal sites in Europe(Bagnoli-Coroglio bay,Mediterranean Sea),using the L...This study compares the environmental sustainability of five alternatives for the remediation of marine sediments of one of the most polluted coastal sites in Europe(Bagnoli-Coroglio bay,Mediterranean Sea),using the Life Cycle Assessment(LCA)methodology.The treatments are either in-situ or exsitu,the latter requiring an initial dredging to transport the contaminated sediments to the management site.More in detail,four ex-situ remediation technologies based on landfilling,bioremediation,electrokinetic technique and soil washing were identified.These technologies are compared to an in-situ strategy currently under validation for enhancing bioremediation of the polluted sediments of the Bagnoli-Coroglio site.Our results indicate that the disposal in landfilling site is the worst option in most categories(e.g.,650 kg CO_(2) eq./t of treated sediment,considering the nearest landfilling site),followed by the bioremediation,mainly due to the high energy demand.Electrokinetic remediation,soil washing,and innovative in-situ technology represent the most sustainable options.In particular,the new in-situ technology appears to be the least impacting in all categories(e.g.,54 kg CO_(2) eq./t of treated sediment),although it is expected to require longer treatment time(estimated up to 12 months based on its potential efficiency).It can reduce the impact on climate change more than 12 times compared to the disposal and 7 times compared to bioremediation in addition to the possibility to avoid/reduce the dredging operations and the consequent dispersion of pollutants.The results open relevant perspectives towards more eco-sustainable and costly effective actions for the reclamation of contaminated marine sediments.展开更多
Plants constitute nearly 80%of the planet’s total biomass(Bar-On et al.,2018);however,this vital group is experiencing severe threats,and recent evaluations indicate that approximately 45%of the world's described...Plants constitute nearly 80%of the planet’s total biomass(Bar-On et al.,2018);however,this vital group is experiencing severe threats,and recent evaluations indicate that approximately 45%of the world's described plant species are at risk of extinction(Bachman et al.,2024).The number of plant extinctions has increased by 60%in the last 100 years(Di Marco et al.,2017).Over the past 250 years,571 plant species have gone extinct—more than twice the combined total of extinct birds,mammals,and amphibians(217 species)(Briggs,2019).展开更多
Compared with traditional energy sources,wind power has a lower environmental impact.However,emissions are still generated across the life cycle of wind turbines,from production to recycling.As wind power rapidly deve...Compared with traditional energy sources,wind power has a lower environmental impact.However,emissions are still generated across the life cycle of wind turbines,from production to recycling.As wind power rapidly develops and deployment increases,these impacts are becoming increasingly evident.A comprehensive understanding of these impacts is crucial for sustainable development.Based on the harmonization of previous detailed life cycle assessment(LCA)studies,this study develops a simplified LCA model that estimates the life cycle environmental impacts of wind turbines based on their nominal power.Using this simplified LCA model,we assess the global warming potential(GWP),acidification potential(AP),and cumulative energy demand(CED)of wind power at the regional scale for 2022 and under three future scenarios(high-power wind turbine promotion,reduced wind curtailment,and a comprehensive development scenario).The results indicate that in 2022,the life cycle GWP,AP,and CED of wind power in western China were 10.76 g CO_(2) eq/kWh,0.177 g SO_(2) eq/kWh,and 17.6 kJ/kWh,respectively.Scenario simulations suggest that reducing wind curtailment is the most effective approach for reducing emissions in Inner Mongolia,Gansu,Qinghai,Ningxia,and Xinjiang,producing average decreases of 8.64%in GWP,8.39%in AP,and 9.26%in CED.In contrast,for Guangxi,Chongqing,Sichuan,Guizhou,Yunnan,Xizang,and Shaanxi,the promotion of high-power wind turbines provides greater environmental benefits than reducing curtailment,producing average decreases of 3.45%,3.09%,and 4.29%in GWP,AP,and CED,respectively.These findings help clarify the environmental impact of wind power across its life cycle at the regional scale and provide theoretical references for the direction of future wind power development and the formulation of related policies.展开更多
Despite the widespread presence and frequent detection of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons(PAHs)in various aspects of life,there is limited research on their exposure levels in pregnant women and cumulative exposure f...Despite the widespread presence and frequent detection of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons(PAHs)in various aspects of life,there is limited research on their exposure levels in pregnant women and cumulative exposure from the living environment.This study included 1311 women in late pregnancy from the Zunyi birth cohort and measured the urinary concentrations of 10 hydroxylated PAH metabolites(OH-PAHs).Risk assessment was conducted based on the estimated daily intake to calculate the hazard quotient and hazard index(HI).A linear regression model was used to analyze the relationship between creatinine-adjusted OH-PAHs concentrations and living environment and lifestyle factors,while principal component analysis was applied to trace the sources of PAHs exposure.1-OHPYR was detected in all participants’urine,with naphthalene metabolites having the highest concentrations among creatinine-adjusted PAHs.OH-PAHs concentrations were associated with housing type,room number,cooking frequency,household size,exercise frequency,fuel type,distance from main road,and drinking water source.Pregnant women using traditional fuels and living in bungalows had higher health risks than those using clean energy and living in buildings.Those living within 100 m of a main road had higher HI than those farther away.Coal combustion was identified as the primary source of PAHs exposure.The study emphasizes the importance of reducing PAHs exposure,especially for pregnant women living in polluted environments.It recommends public health interventions such as improving indoor ventilation and providing clean energy to reduce related health risks.展开更多
Sustained and spatially explicit monitoring of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is critical for effectively tracking progress toward the global Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs).Although la...Sustained and spatially explicit monitoring of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is critical for effectively tracking progress toward the global Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs).Although land cover information has long been recognized as an essential component for monitoring SDGs,a standardized scientific framework for identifying and prioritizing land cover related essential variables does not exist.Therefore,we propose a novel expert-and data-driven framework for identifying,refining,and selecting a priority list of Essential Land cover-related Variables for SDGs(ELcV4SDGs).This framework integrates methods including expert knowledge-based analysis,clustering of variables with similar attributes,and quantified index calculation to establish the priority list.Applying the framework to 15 specific SDG indicators,we found that the ELcV4SDGs priority list comprises three main categories,type and structure,pattern and intensity,and process and evolution of land cover,which are further divided into 19 subcategories and ultimately encompass 50 general variables.The ELcV4SDGs will support detailed spatial monitoring and enhance their scientific applications for SDG monitoring and assessment,thereby guiding future SDG priority actions and informing decision-making to advance the 2030 SDGs agenda at local,national,and global levels.展开更多
Integrated environmental management is important for sustainable development.Under China’s“Three Lines One Permit”(TLOP)policy,three types of management zones—priority protection,critical control,and general contr...Integrated environmental management is important for sustainable development.Under China’s“Three Lines One Permit”(TLOP)policy,three types of management zones—priority protection,critical control,and general control zones—are established based on the ecological red line,the lower-limit line for environmental quality,and the resource use line.Human activities are regulated through a permit system.Integrated and multifactorial protection of soil,plant,hydrological,and atmospheric elements is promoted at the regional level.A follow-up assessment contributes to the improvement of policy implementation and effectiveness.This study demonstrates the achievements of the TLOP policy in Sichuan Province.Results show that(1)276 protection zones have been established under the ecological red line,covering key ecosystems and protected areas to ensure environmental security.Under the lower-limit line,1,626 functional(priority,key,and general control)zones have been designated to regulate air,water,and soil quality,enhancing environmental capacity and pollution control.(2)Through the integration and merging of the three lines,1,128 integrated management zones have been established,including 375,625,and 128 priority protection,critical control,and general control zones,respectively.Each zone has its own list of environmental permits to regulate human activities according to different environmental protection and natural resource development regimes.(3)The design of the follow-up assessment index system was informed by regional primary functions and industrial structure.The index system for provinces and cities is structured around three primary indicators—implementation updating,application,and guarantees—and 15 secondary indicators.The system for critical control zones is structured around environmental access,management,and effectiveness and 14 secondary indicators.A stringent environmental zoning system has been established through the TLOP policy,thereby safeguarding environmental security,promoting harmonious existence between humans and nature,and supporting the vision of Beautiful China.展开更多
Rock mass stability is significantly influenced by the heterogeneity of rock joint roughness and shear strength.While modern technology facilitates assessing roughness heterogeneity,evaluating shear strength heterogen...Rock mass stability is significantly influenced by the heterogeneity of rock joint roughness and shear strength.While modern technology facilitates assessing roughness heterogeneity,evaluating shear strength heterogeneity remains challenging.To address this,this study first captures the morphology of large-scale(1000 mm × 1000 mm) slate and granite joints via 3D laser scanning.Analysis of these surfaces and corresponding push/pull tests on carved specimens revealed a potential correlation between the heterogeneity of roughness and shear strength.A comparative evaluation of five statistical metrics identified information entropy(Hs) as the most robust indicator for quantifying rock joint heterogeneity.Further analysis using Hsreveals that the heterogeneity is anisotropic and,critically,that shear strength heterogeneity is governed not only by roughness heterogeneity but is also significantly influenced by the mean roughness value,normal stress,and intact rock tensile strength.Consequently,a simple comparison of roughness Hsvalues is insufficient for reliably comparing shear strength heterogeneity.To overcome this limitation,a theoretical framework is developed to explicitly map fundamental roughness statistics(mean and heterogeneity) to shear strength heterogeneity.This framework culminates in a practical workflow that allows for the rapid,field-based assessment of shear strength heterogeneity using readily obtainable rock joint roughness data.展开更多
Correction to:Journal of Forestry Research(2025)36:124 https://doi.org/10.1007/s11676-025-01918-8 In this article the author’s name Yasutomo Hoshika was incorrectly written as Yasutoma Hoshika.The original article ha...Correction to:Journal of Forestry Research(2025)36:124 https://doi.org/10.1007/s11676-025-01918-8 In this article the author’s name Yasutomo Hoshika was incorrectly written as Yasutoma Hoshika.The original article has been corrected.展开更多
This study developed a modeling methodology for statistical optimization-based geologic hazard susceptibility assessment,aiming to enhance the comprehensive performance and classification accuracy of the assessment mo...This study developed a modeling methodology for statistical optimization-based geologic hazard susceptibility assessment,aiming to enhance the comprehensive performance and classification accuracy of the assessment models.First,the cumulative probability method revealed that a low probability(15%)of geologic hazards between any two geologic hazard points occurred outside a buffer zone with a radius of 2297 m(i.e.,the distance threshold).The training dataset was established,consisting of negative samples(non-hazard points)randomly generated based on the distance threshold,positive samples(i.e.,historical hazards),and 13 conditioning factors.Then,models were built using five machine learning algorithms,namely random forest(RF),gradient boosting decision tree(GBDT),naive Bayes(NB),logistic regression(LR),and support vector machine(SVM).The comprehensive performance of the models was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve(AUC)and overall accuracy(OA)as indicators,revealing that RF exhibited the best performance,with OA and AUC values of 2.7127 and 0.981,respectively.Furthermore,the machine learning models constructed by considering the distance threshold outperformed those built using the unoptimized dataset.The characteristic factors were ranked using the mutual information method,with their scores decreasing in the order of rainfall(0.1616),altitude(0.06),normalized difference vegetation index(NDVI;0.04),and distance from roads(0.03).Finally,the geologic hazard susceptibility classification was assessed using the natural breaks method combined with a clustering algorithm.The results indicate that the clustering algorithm exhibited higher classification accuracy than the natural breaks method.The findings of this study demonstrate that the proposed model optimization scheme can provide a scientific basis for the prevention and control of geologic hazards.展开更多
For mission-oriented unmanned aerial vehicle(UAV)swarms,mission capability assessment provides an important reference in the design and development process,and is a precondition for mission success.For this multi-crit...For mission-oriented unmanned aerial vehicle(UAV)swarms,mission capability assessment provides an important reference in the design and development process,and is a precondition for mission success.For this multi-criteria decisionmaking(MCDM)problem,the current literature lacks a way to unambiguously present criteria and the popular fuzzy analytic network process(ANP)approaches neglect the hesitancy of subjective judgments.To fill these research gaps,an MCDM method based on unified architecture framework(UAF)and interval-valued spherical fuzzy ANP(IVSF-ANP)is proposed in this paper.Firstly,selected viewpoints in UAF are extended to construct criteria models with standardized representation.Secondly,interval-valued spherical fuzzy sets are introduced to ANP to weight interdependent criteria,handling fuzziness and hesitancy in pairwise comparisons.A method of adjusting weights of experts based on their decision similarities is also included in this process to reduce ambiguity brought by multiple experts.Next,performance characteristics are non-linearly transformed regarding to expectations to get final results.This proposition is applied to assess the mission capability of UAV swarms to search and strike surface vessels.Comparative analysis shows that the proposed method is valid and reasonable.展开更多
Practical activities are an indispensable piece of science education.As such,assessment of these practical activities is vital for continually enhancing the quality of science instruction.This article presents a tenta...Practical activities are an indispensable piece of science education.As such,assessment of these practical activities is vital for continually enhancing the quality of science instruction.This article presents a tentative framework structured for assessing practical activities in science education.The proposed framework is built upon seven components:engagement and participation,relational thinking,stepwise mastery,contextualization,multidimensional integration,empowerment,and scientific articulacy.The framework might provide science educators with an alternative lens through which to enhance the effectiveness of practical activities,promote student engagement,and better prepare learners for the future.This framework is designed to be additive and complementary to existing assessment approaches and can be adapted and customized to suit specific local contexts and varying grade levels by science educators in the pursuit of excellence in an ever-evolving science education landscape.展开更多
Background There is scarce data about comparisons between geriatric assessment tools in patients with aortic stenosis(AS).We aimed to describe the geriatric profile of patients with AS undergoing transcatheter aortic ...Background There is scarce data about comparisons between geriatric assessment tools in patients with aortic stenosis(AS).We aimed to describe the geriatric profile of patients with AS undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation(TAVI)and to analyze the ability of different tools for predicting clinical outcomes in this context.Methods This was a single center retrospective registry including patients with AS undergoing TAVI and surviving to hospital discharge.The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality or need for urgent readmission one year after TAVI.Results A total of 377 patients were included(mean age of 80.4 years).Most patients were independent or mildly dependent,with an optimal cognitive status.The proportion of frailty ranged from 17.6%to 49.8%.A total of 20 patients(5.3%)died and 110/377 patients(29.2%)died or were readmitted during follow up.Overall,most components of the geriatric assessment showed an association with clinical outcomes.Disability for instrumental activities showed a significant association with mortality and a strong association with the rate of mortality or readmission.The association between frailty and clinical outcomes was higher for short physical performance battery(SPPB),essential frailty toolset(EFT)and the frailty index based on comprehensive geriatric assessment(IF-VIG)and lower for Fried criteria and FRAIL scale.Conclusions AS patients from this series presented a good physical performance,optimal cognitive status and a reasonably low prevalence of frailty.The best predictive ability was observed for disability for instrumental activities and frailty as measured by the EFT,SPPB and the IF-VIG.展开更多
INTRODUCTION On March 28,2025,at 06:20:52 UTC,a shallow,magnitude M_(w)7.7 earthquake struck Myanmar(Burma)with an epicenter near the major city of Mandalay.This event,the strongest seismic activity recorded in Myanma...INTRODUCTION On March 28,2025,at 06:20:52 UTC,a shallow,magnitude M_(w)7.7 earthquake struck Myanmar(Burma)with an epicenter near the major city of Mandalay.This event,the strongest seismic activity recorded in Myanmar since 1950,generated intense shaking across much of the country,extended into regions of Thailand,and was felt in China's Yunnan and Guangxi provinces.展开更多
Road condition assessment involves evaluating the physical state of roadways to determine necessary maintenance and rehabilitation,while traffic assessment focuses on analyzing vehicle flow patterns to improve traffic...Road condition assessment involves evaluating the physical state of roadways to determine necessary maintenance and rehabilitation,while traffic assessment focuses on analyzing vehicle flow patterns to improve traffic management.This study employs Geographic Information Systems(GIS)to assess and evaluate road conditions and traffic dynamics in the ruralmunicipality ofOdiongan,Romblon,Philippines.GISmapping enabled a spatially detailed classification of road conditions,identifying areas categorized as excellent,good,fair,or poor,and highlighted sections requiring maintenance or rehabilitation.These assessments are crucial for enhancing the transportation framework amid escalating developmental and demographic demands.Concurrently,GIS was used to visualize and analyze traffic composition and flow,with the study measuring the Level of Service(LOS)for traffic,emphasizing vehicle composition during peak and off-peak periods.Findings revealed amix of good to fair road conditions across most ofOdiongan,with twelve(12)barangays suffering from poor conditions necessitating rehabilitation.Traffic composition was dominated by motorcycles and tricycles,experiencing a significant uptick in volume during peak hours.The GIS-based evaluation pointed out an unsatisfactory LOS(ranging from C to F)at all stations,underscoring the need for enhanced signalization and intersection upgrades.By leveraging GIS to provide a comprehensive understanding of road and traffic conditions,this study lays the groundwork for an integrated transportationmanagement plan to bolster the efficiency and safety of the municipality’s transportation network amidst ongoing rural development.展开更多
Erratum to:Journal of Earth Science https://doi.org/10.1007/s12583-025-0187-4 The original version of this article unfortunately contained one mistake.The presentation in Page2384 was incorrect.The corrected one is gi...Erratum to:Journal of Earth Science https://doi.org/10.1007/s12583-025-0187-4 The original version of this article unfortunately contained one mistake.The presentation in Page2384 was incorrect.The corrected one is given below.The NTL loss ratio(Figure 4a)was calculated as the variation between pre-earthquake(March 27)and post-earthquake(March 28)radiance values in cloud-free areas.展开更多
This paper deeply analyzes the characteristics of core courses of the traffic engineering specialty and the problems existing in traditional assessment methods,and proposes a series of reform measures for the assessme...This paper deeply analyzes the characteristics of core courses of the traffic engineering specialty and the problems existing in traditional assessment methods,and proposes a series of reform measures for the assessment methods of core courses of the traffic engineering specialty.By introducing diversified assessment methods,focusing on process assessment,and strengthening the assessment of practical abilities,the aim is to improve students’learning enthusiasm and initiative,and cultivate students’innovation ability and practical ability to meet the needs of traffic engineering professionals in the new era.展开更多
文摘If one considers the number of language learners that are worldwide,the number of classroom-based language assessments(CBLAs)that are given each year,and the number of decisions that are made on the basis of these,it is obvious that in terms of sheer numbers,more students are affected by CBLAs per year than by those based on large-scale language assessments.Because of this,it is essential that classroom teachers have the knowledge,skills,and tools to enable them to develop and use CBLAs that they can justify to stakeholders,e.g.,students,parents,and school authorities.In this paper we describe the approach to CBLAs that we have developed.First,we discuss the role of assessment in teaching and learning,the kinds of decisions that classroom teachers need to make,and the different modes of CBLAs.We then describe the process of using CBLAs to help teachers make decisions that will have beneficial consequences.Next,we discuss fairness and accountability in assessment and the process of assessment justification,including an assessment use argument.Finally,we discuss the process of developing CBLAs,using an example of a classroom-based language assessment to illustrate this.
基金Research on Problems and Countermeasures in Building the Capacity of the Grassroots International Chambers of Commerce in the Context of High-Quality Development (W2024H03841)a key research project of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade in 2025。
文摘Arbitration is a key non-litigation commercial mechanism for the resolution of disputes, and the quality and credibility of its awards depend largely on the competency of the arbitrators. However, the selection and evaluation systems for arbitrators in China have long faced challenges such as the vague criteria for competency and an unclear professionalization path for arbitrators. To address these issues, this study is grounded in the context of actual Chinese arbitration practice and based on the competency iceberg model. Through a methodological approach encompassing literature reviews, behavioral event interviews, expert revisions, and questionnaire surveys, a Chinese Arbitrator Competency Scale was developed and validated in this study. Examination of the findings indicated that the scale needed to consist of five dimensions—communication and coordination, cognitive skills, ethical conduct, work motivation, and personality traits—and possess a total of 28 specific indicators. Confirmatory analysis of the factors demonstrates a good fit for the five-dimensional model, with each of the dimensions exhibiting high reliability and validity. This scale is innovative in integrating the competency elements with Chinese characteristics, such as commercial acumen, crosscultural mediation skills, and adaptability to the local rule of law. This research not only enriches the competency theory in regard to the field of human resource management but also provides a scientific framework of standards and measurement tools for the selection, training, and evaluation of arbitrators. It thus has significant practical value for enhancing the professionalism and international competitiveness of China's arbitration system.
基金supported by the Northeast Geological Science and Technology Innovation Center of China Geological Survey(Grant NO.QCJJ2022-43)the Natural Resources Comprehensive Survey Project(Grant Nos.DD20230470,DD20230508)the National Groundwater Monitoring Network Operation and Maintenance Program(Grant No.DD20251300109).
文摘Excessive levels of Fluoride(F−)and Cadmium(Cd)in drinking groundwater may pose health risks.This study assessed the health risks associated with F−and Cd contamination in rural drinking groundwater sources in Wutai County,Shanxi Province,China,to support population health protection,water resource management,and environmental decision-making.Groundwater samples were collected and analyzed,and a Human Health Risk Model(HHRA)was applied to evaluate groundwater quality.The results showed that both contents of F−and Cd in groundwater exceeded the Class III limits of China's national groundwater quality standard(GB/T 14848—2024).Fluoride levels met the Class V threshold,with enrichment area mainly located in the east part of the study area.Cadmium levels reached Class IV,with elevated concentrations primarily observed in the western and northwestern regions.Correlation analysis revealed that F−showed weak or no correlation with other measured substances,indicating independent sources.Health risk assessment results indicated that F−poses potential health risks to rural residents,while cadmium,due to its relatively low concentrations,does not currently present a significant health risk.Among different demographic groups,the health risk levels of F−exposure followed the order:Infants>children>adult females>adult males.The findings highlight that fluoride is the primary contributor to health risks associated with groundwater consumption in the study area.Strengthened monitoring and prevention of F−contamination are urgently needed.This research provides a scientific basis for the prevention and control of fluoride pollution in groundwater and offers practical guidance for safeguarding drinking water safety in rural China.
基金supported by the Second Tibetan Plateau Scientific Expedition and Research Program(STEP)(No.2019QZKK0208)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.42171148 and 42330512)the Key R&D Project from the Science and Technology Department of Tibet(No.XZ202501ZY0030).
文摘Nitrogen(N)and phosphorus(P)are essential nutrients and can significantly impact primary productivity of the ecosystem causing water environmental problems.However,their cycling mechanisms are not well understood in alpine mountains with climate change.Hence,94 samples of river water were collected from 2018 to 2020 in the headwaters of the Shule River Basin to assess the nutrients spatiotemporal distribution and combined ap-proach of water quality index to assess water quality and potential sources.The findings depict that high nutrient concentrations were found to coincide with snowmelt and glacial meltwater and rainfall recharge periods,while total flux peaked from June to September due to increased runoff.Notably,total nitrogen(TN)concentrations were significantly higher near the town,primarily attributed to the replenishment of nitrate(NO_(3)^(‒)-N)from live-stock manure.The high total P(TP)was near the glacier,which was attributed to the transportation of glacial sediments into the river,and pH was another critical factor.N was the primary nutrient limiting factor for the growth of phytoplankton in river water.Although the migration and transport of nutrients have altered with climate change,river water quality is good in alpine mountains based on an overall evaluation.These findings contribute to enriching nutrient datasets and highlight the importance of water resource management and water quality assessment in sensitive and fragile alpine mountains.
基金support in the literature analysis.This study has been carried out in the framework of the project funded by EU entitled“Bioremediation of contaminated sediments in coastal areas of exindustrial sites-LIFE SEDREMED”(No.LIFE20 ENV/IT/000572).
文摘This study compares the environmental sustainability of five alternatives for the remediation of marine sediments of one of the most polluted coastal sites in Europe(Bagnoli-Coroglio bay,Mediterranean Sea),using the Life Cycle Assessment(LCA)methodology.The treatments are either in-situ or exsitu,the latter requiring an initial dredging to transport the contaminated sediments to the management site.More in detail,four ex-situ remediation technologies based on landfilling,bioremediation,electrokinetic technique and soil washing were identified.These technologies are compared to an in-situ strategy currently under validation for enhancing bioremediation of the polluted sediments of the Bagnoli-Coroglio site.Our results indicate that the disposal in landfilling site is the worst option in most categories(e.g.,650 kg CO_(2) eq./t of treated sediment,considering the nearest landfilling site),followed by the bioremediation,mainly due to the high energy demand.Electrokinetic remediation,soil washing,and innovative in-situ technology represent the most sustainable options.In particular,the new in-situ technology appears to be the least impacting in all categories(e.g.,54 kg CO_(2) eq./t of treated sediment),although it is expected to require longer treatment time(estimated up to 12 months based on its potential efficiency).It can reduce the impact on climate change more than 12 times compared to the disposal and 7 times compared to bioremediation in addition to the possibility to avoid/reduce the dredging operations and the consequent dispersion of pollutants.The results open relevant perspectives towards more eco-sustainable and costly effective actions for the reclamation of contaminated marine sediments.
基金support of the ORG.one project of Oxford Nanopore Technologies(ONT),the Rufford Grants(45249-1)the Idea Wild Grants(Project ID-KJOSINDI0125-00)the Mohamed Bin Zyed Species Conservation(MBZ)(GEF Grant no-240535253)Funds in our efforts to conserve threatened trees in the Western Ghats Biodiversity Hotspot Forest regions.
文摘Plants constitute nearly 80%of the planet’s total biomass(Bar-On et al.,2018);however,this vital group is experiencing severe threats,and recent evaluations indicate that approximately 45%of the world's described plant species are at risk of extinction(Bachman et al.,2024).The number of plant extinctions has increased by 60%in the last 100 years(Di Marco et al.,2017).Over the past 250 years,571 plant species have gone extinct—more than twice the combined total of extinct birds,mammals,and amphibians(217 species)(Briggs,2019).
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(Grant No.2022YFF1303405).
文摘Compared with traditional energy sources,wind power has a lower environmental impact.However,emissions are still generated across the life cycle of wind turbines,from production to recycling.As wind power rapidly develops and deployment increases,these impacts are becoming increasingly evident.A comprehensive understanding of these impacts is crucial for sustainable development.Based on the harmonization of previous detailed life cycle assessment(LCA)studies,this study develops a simplified LCA model that estimates the life cycle environmental impacts of wind turbines based on their nominal power.Using this simplified LCA model,we assess the global warming potential(GWP),acidification potential(AP),and cumulative energy demand(CED)of wind power at the regional scale for 2022 and under three future scenarios(high-power wind turbine promotion,reduced wind curtailment,and a comprehensive development scenario).The results indicate that in 2022,the life cycle GWP,AP,and CED of wind power in western China were 10.76 g CO_(2) eq/kWh,0.177 g SO_(2) eq/kWh,and 17.6 kJ/kWh,respectively.Scenario simulations suggest that reducing wind curtailment is the most effective approach for reducing emissions in Inner Mongolia,Gansu,Qinghai,Ningxia,and Xinjiang,producing average decreases of 8.64%in GWP,8.39%in AP,and 9.26%in CED.In contrast,for Guangxi,Chongqing,Sichuan,Guizhou,Yunnan,Xizang,and Shaanxi,the promotion of high-power wind turbines provides greater environmental benefits than reducing curtailment,producing average decreases of 3.45%,3.09%,and 4.29%in GWP,AP,and CED,respectively.These findings help clarify the environmental impact of wind power across its life cycle at the regional scale and provide theoretical references for the direction of future wind power development and the formulation of related policies.
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(Nos.2018YFC1004300 and 2018YFC1004302)the Science&Technology Program of Guizhou Province(Nos.QKHHBZ[2020]3002,QKHPTRC-GCC[2022]039-1 and QKHPTRCCXTD[2022]014)the Scientific Research Program of Guizhou Provincial Department of Education(No.QJJ[2023]019).
文摘Despite the widespread presence and frequent detection of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons(PAHs)in various aspects of life,there is limited research on their exposure levels in pregnant women and cumulative exposure from the living environment.This study included 1311 women in late pregnancy from the Zunyi birth cohort and measured the urinary concentrations of 10 hydroxylated PAH metabolites(OH-PAHs).Risk assessment was conducted based on the estimated daily intake to calculate the hazard quotient and hazard index(HI).A linear regression model was used to analyze the relationship between creatinine-adjusted OH-PAHs concentrations and living environment and lifestyle factors,while principal component analysis was applied to trace the sources of PAHs exposure.1-OHPYR was detected in all participants’urine,with naphthalene metabolites having the highest concentrations among creatinine-adjusted PAHs.OH-PAHs concentrations were associated with housing type,room number,cooking frequency,household size,exercise frequency,fuel type,distance from main road,and drinking water source.Pregnant women using traditional fuels and living in bungalows had higher health risks than those using clean energy and living in buildings.Those living within 100 m of a main road had higher HI than those farther away.Coal combustion was identified as the primary source of PAHs exposure.The study emphasizes the importance of reducing PAHs exposure,especially for pregnant women living in polluted environments.It recommends public health interventions such as improving indoor ventilation and providing clean energy to reduce related health risks.
基金supported by the Key Program of National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.41930650)Young Scientists Fund of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.42301310).
文摘Sustained and spatially explicit monitoring of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is critical for effectively tracking progress toward the global Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs).Although land cover information has long been recognized as an essential component for monitoring SDGs,a standardized scientific framework for identifying and prioritizing land cover related essential variables does not exist.Therefore,we propose a novel expert-and data-driven framework for identifying,refining,and selecting a priority list of Essential Land cover-related Variables for SDGs(ELcV4SDGs).This framework integrates methods including expert knowledge-based analysis,clustering of variables with similar attributes,and quantified index calculation to establish the priority list.Applying the framework to 15 specific SDG indicators,we found that the ELcV4SDGs priority list comprises three main categories,type and structure,pattern and intensity,and process and evolution of land cover,which are further divided into 19 subcategories and ultimately encompass 50 general variables.The ELcV4SDGs will support detailed spatial monitoring and enhance their scientific applications for SDG monitoring and assessment,thereby guiding future SDG priority actions and informing decision-making to advance the 2030 SDGs agenda at local,national,and global levels.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(grant numbers 42171085)and the National Key R&D Program of China(Grant No.2024YFF1307801,2024YFF1307804).
文摘Integrated environmental management is important for sustainable development.Under China’s“Three Lines One Permit”(TLOP)policy,three types of management zones—priority protection,critical control,and general control zones—are established based on the ecological red line,the lower-limit line for environmental quality,and the resource use line.Human activities are regulated through a permit system.Integrated and multifactorial protection of soil,plant,hydrological,and atmospheric elements is promoted at the regional level.A follow-up assessment contributes to the improvement of policy implementation and effectiveness.This study demonstrates the achievements of the TLOP policy in Sichuan Province.Results show that(1)276 protection zones have been established under the ecological red line,covering key ecosystems and protected areas to ensure environmental security.Under the lower-limit line,1,626 functional(priority,key,and general control)zones have been designated to regulate air,water,and soil quality,enhancing environmental capacity and pollution control.(2)Through the integration and merging of the three lines,1,128 integrated management zones have been established,including 375,625,and 128 priority protection,critical control,and general control zones,respectively.Each zone has its own list of environmental permits to regulate human activities according to different environmental protection and natural resource development regimes.(3)The design of the follow-up assessment index system was informed by regional primary functions and industrial structure.The index system for provinces and cities is structured around three primary indicators—implementation updating,application,and guarantees—and 15 secondary indicators.The system for critical control zones is structured around environmental access,management,and effectiveness and 14 secondary indicators.A stringent environmental zoning system has been established through the TLOP policy,thereby safeguarding environmental security,promoting harmonious existence between humans and nature,and supporting the vision of Beautiful China.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos.42422705,42207175,42177117 and 42577170)the Ningbo Youth Leading Talent Project (No.2024QL051)+1 种基金the Chinese Academy of Engineering Science and Technology Strategy Consulting Project (No.2025-XZ-57)the Central Government Funding Program for Guiding Local Science and Technology Development (No.2025ZY01028)。
文摘Rock mass stability is significantly influenced by the heterogeneity of rock joint roughness and shear strength.While modern technology facilitates assessing roughness heterogeneity,evaluating shear strength heterogeneity remains challenging.To address this,this study first captures the morphology of large-scale(1000 mm × 1000 mm) slate and granite joints via 3D laser scanning.Analysis of these surfaces and corresponding push/pull tests on carved specimens revealed a potential correlation between the heterogeneity of roughness and shear strength.A comparative evaluation of five statistical metrics identified information entropy(Hs) as the most robust indicator for quantifying rock joint heterogeneity.Further analysis using Hsreveals that the heterogeneity is anisotropic and,critically,that shear strength heterogeneity is governed not only by roughness heterogeneity but is also significantly influenced by the mean roughness value,normal stress,and intact rock tensile strength.Consequently,a simple comparison of roughness Hsvalues is insufficient for reliably comparing shear strength heterogeneity.To overcome this limitation,a theoretical framework is developed to explicitly map fundamental roughness statistics(mean and heterogeneity) to shear strength heterogeneity.This framework culminates in a practical workflow that allows for the rapid,field-based assessment of shear strength heterogeneity using readily obtainable rock joint roughness data.
文摘Correction to:Journal of Forestry Research(2025)36:124 https://doi.org/10.1007/s11676-025-01918-8 In this article the author’s name Yasutomo Hoshika was incorrectly written as Yasutoma Hoshika.The original article has been corrected.
基金supported by a project entitled Loess Plateau Region-Watershed-Slope Geological Hazard Multi-Scale Collaborative Intelligent Early Warning System of the National Key R&D Program of China(2022YFC3003404)a project of the Shaanxi Youth Science and Technology Star(2021KJXX-87)public welfare geological survey projects of Shaanxi Institute of Geologic Survey(20180301,201918,202103,and 202413)。
文摘This study developed a modeling methodology for statistical optimization-based geologic hazard susceptibility assessment,aiming to enhance the comprehensive performance and classification accuracy of the assessment models.First,the cumulative probability method revealed that a low probability(15%)of geologic hazards between any two geologic hazard points occurred outside a buffer zone with a radius of 2297 m(i.e.,the distance threshold).The training dataset was established,consisting of negative samples(non-hazard points)randomly generated based on the distance threshold,positive samples(i.e.,historical hazards),and 13 conditioning factors.Then,models were built using five machine learning algorithms,namely random forest(RF),gradient boosting decision tree(GBDT),naive Bayes(NB),logistic regression(LR),and support vector machine(SVM).The comprehensive performance of the models was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve(AUC)and overall accuracy(OA)as indicators,revealing that RF exhibited the best performance,with OA and AUC values of 2.7127 and 0.981,respectively.Furthermore,the machine learning models constructed by considering the distance threshold outperformed those built using the unoptimized dataset.The characteristic factors were ranked using the mutual information method,with their scores decreasing in the order of rainfall(0.1616),altitude(0.06),normalized difference vegetation index(NDVI;0.04),and distance from roads(0.03).Finally,the geologic hazard susceptibility classification was assessed using the natural breaks method combined with a clustering algorithm.The results indicate that the clustering algorithm exhibited higher classification accuracy than the natural breaks method.The findings of this study demonstrate that the proposed model optimization scheme can provide a scientific basis for the prevention and control of geologic hazards.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(62073267,61903305)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(HXGJXM202214)。
文摘For mission-oriented unmanned aerial vehicle(UAV)swarms,mission capability assessment provides an important reference in the design and development process,and is a precondition for mission success.For this multi-criteria decisionmaking(MCDM)problem,the current literature lacks a way to unambiguously present criteria and the popular fuzzy analytic network process(ANP)approaches neglect the hesitancy of subjective judgments.To fill these research gaps,an MCDM method based on unified architecture framework(UAF)and interval-valued spherical fuzzy ANP(IVSF-ANP)is proposed in this paper.Firstly,selected viewpoints in UAF are extended to construct criteria models with standardized representation.Secondly,interval-valued spherical fuzzy sets are introduced to ANP to weight interdependent criteria,handling fuzziness and hesitancy in pairwise comparisons.A method of adjusting weights of experts based on their decision similarities is also included in this process to reduce ambiguity brought by multiple experts.Next,performance characteristics are non-linearly transformed regarding to expectations to get final results.This proposition is applied to assess the mission capability of UAV swarms to search and strike surface vessels.Comparative analysis shows that the proposed method is valid and reasonable.
基金supported by the Scientific Research Program of Hefei Normal University(2024KY71)the Partnership Program of Hefei Normal University(HXXM2022094).
文摘Practical activities are an indispensable piece of science education.As such,assessment of these practical activities is vital for continually enhancing the quality of science instruction.This article presents a tentative framework structured for assessing practical activities in science education.The proposed framework is built upon seven components:engagement and participation,relational thinking,stepwise mastery,contextualization,multidimensional integration,empowerment,and scientific articulacy.The framework might provide science educators with an alternative lens through which to enhance the effectiveness of practical activities,promote student engagement,and better prepare learners for the future.This framework is designed to be additive and complementary to existing assessment approaches and can be adapted and customized to suit specific local contexts and varying grade levels by science educators in the pursuit of excellence in an ever-evolving science education landscape.
文摘Background There is scarce data about comparisons between geriatric assessment tools in patients with aortic stenosis(AS).We aimed to describe the geriatric profile of patients with AS undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation(TAVI)and to analyze the ability of different tools for predicting clinical outcomes in this context.Methods This was a single center retrospective registry including patients with AS undergoing TAVI and surviving to hospital discharge.The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality or need for urgent readmission one year after TAVI.Results A total of 377 patients were included(mean age of 80.4 years).Most patients were independent or mildly dependent,with an optimal cognitive status.The proportion of frailty ranged from 17.6%to 49.8%.A total of 20 patients(5.3%)died and 110/377 patients(29.2%)died or were readmitted during follow up.Overall,most components of the geriatric assessment showed an association with clinical outcomes.Disability for instrumental activities showed a significant association with mortality and a strong association with the rate of mortality or readmission.The association between frailty and clinical outcomes was higher for short physical performance battery(SPPB),essential frailty toolset(EFT)and the frailty index based on comprehensive geriatric assessment(IF-VIG)and lower for Fried criteria and FRAIL scale.Conclusions AS patients from this series presented a good physical performance,optimal cognitive status and a reasonably low prevalence of frailty.The best predictive ability was observed for disability for instrumental activities and frailty as measured by the EFT,SPPB and the IF-VIG.
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of the Republic of China(Nos.2023YFC3007303,2017YFB0504104)the Science and Technology Projects of Gansu Provincial(No.24JRRA1188)。
文摘INTRODUCTION On March 28,2025,at 06:20:52 UTC,a shallow,magnitude M_(w)7.7 earthquake struck Myanmar(Burma)with an epicenter near the major city of Mandalay.This event,the strongest seismic activity recorded in Myanmar since 1950,generated intense shaking across much of the country,extended into regions of Thailand,and was felt in China's Yunnan and Guangxi provinces.
文摘Road condition assessment involves evaluating the physical state of roadways to determine necessary maintenance and rehabilitation,while traffic assessment focuses on analyzing vehicle flow patterns to improve traffic management.This study employs Geographic Information Systems(GIS)to assess and evaluate road conditions and traffic dynamics in the ruralmunicipality ofOdiongan,Romblon,Philippines.GISmapping enabled a spatially detailed classification of road conditions,identifying areas categorized as excellent,good,fair,or poor,and highlighted sections requiring maintenance or rehabilitation.These assessments are crucial for enhancing the transportation framework amid escalating developmental and demographic demands.Concurrently,GIS was used to visualize and analyze traffic composition and flow,with the study measuring the Level of Service(LOS)for traffic,emphasizing vehicle composition during peak and off-peak periods.Findings revealed amix of good to fair road conditions across most ofOdiongan,with twelve(12)barangays suffering from poor conditions necessitating rehabilitation.Traffic composition was dominated by motorcycles and tricycles,experiencing a significant uptick in volume during peak hours.The GIS-based evaluation pointed out an unsatisfactory LOS(ranging from C to F)at all stations,underscoring the need for enhanced signalization and intersection upgrades.By leveraging GIS to provide a comprehensive understanding of road and traffic conditions,this study lays the groundwork for an integrated transportationmanagement plan to bolster the efficiency and safety of the municipality’s transportation network amidst ongoing rural development.
文摘Erratum to:Journal of Earth Science https://doi.org/10.1007/s12583-025-0187-4 The original version of this article unfortunately contained one mistake.The presentation in Page2384 was incorrect.The corrected one is given below.The NTL loss ratio(Figure 4a)was calculated as the variation between pre-earthquake(March 27)and post-earthquake(March 28)radiance values in cloud-free areas.
基金Key Project of Educational Science of China Association for Transportation Education and Research(Class B)(JT2024ZD077)。
文摘This paper deeply analyzes the characteristics of core courses of the traffic engineering specialty and the problems existing in traditional assessment methods,and proposes a series of reform measures for the assessment methods of core courses of the traffic engineering specialty.By introducing diversified assessment methods,focusing on process assessment,and strengthening the assessment of practical abilities,the aim is to improve students’learning enthusiasm and initiative,and cultivate students’innovation ability and practical ability to meet the needs of traffic engineering professionals in the new era.
