Background:Medical artificial intelligence(MAI)is a synthesis of medical science and artificial intelligence development,serving as a crucial field in the current advancement and application of AI.In the process of de...Background:Medical artificial intelligence(MAI)is a synthesis of medical science and artificial intelligence development,serving as a crucial field in the current advancement and application of AI.In the process of developing medical AI,there may arise not only legal risks such as infringement of privacy rights and health rights but also ethical risks stemming from violations of the principles of beneficence and non-maleficence.Methods:To effectively address the damages caused by MAI in the future,it is necessary to establish a hierarchical governance system with MAI.This paper examines the systematic collection of local practices in China and the induction and integration of legal remedies for the damage of MAI.Results:To effectively address the ethical and legal challenges of medical artificial intelligence,a hierarchical regulatory system should be established,which based on the impact of intervention measures on natural rights and differences in intervention timing.This paper finally obtains a legal hierarchical governance system corresponding to the ethical risks and legal risks of MAI in China.Conclusion:The Chinese government has formed a multi-agent governance system based on the impact of risks on rights and the timing of legal intervention,which provides a reference for other countries to follow up on the research on MAI risk management.展开更多
Agricultural soil is related to food security and human health,antibiotics and heavy metals(HMs),as two typical pollutants,possess a high coexistence rate in the environmental medium,which is extremely prone to induci...Agricultural soil is related to food security and human health,antibiotics and heavy metals(HMs),as two typical pollutants,possess a high coexistence rate in the environmental medium,which is extremely prone to inducing antibiotic-HMs combined pollution.Recently,frequent human activities have led to more prominent antibiotics-HMs combined contamination in agricultural soils,especially the production and spread of antibiotic resistance genes(ARGs),heavy metal resistance genes(MRGs),antibiotic resistant bacteria(ARB),and antibiotics-HMs complexes(AMCs),which seriously threaten soil ecology and human health.This review describes the main sources(Intrinsic and manmade sources),composite mechanisms(co-selective resistance,oxidative stress,and Joint toxicity mechanism),environmental fate and the potential risks(soil ecological and human health risks)of antibiotics and HMs in agricultural soils.Finally,the current effective source blocking,transmission control,and attenuation strategies are classified for discussion,such as the application of additives and barrier materials,as well as plant and animal remediation and bioremediation,etc.,pointing out that future research should focus on the whole chain process of“source-processterminal”,intending to provide a theoretical basis and decision-making reference for future research.展开更多
Nitrate contamination of groundwater is a worldwide problem, particularly in agricultural countries. Exposure to high levels of nitrates in groundwater can have adverse effects on the health of residents who use groun...Nitrate contamination of groundwater is a worldwide problem, particularly in agricultural countries. Exposure to high levels of nitrates in groundwater can have adverse effects on the health of residents who use groundwater for drinking. This study aims to assess the health risk associated with the ingestion of nitrates in well water in the town of M’bahiakro. Health risk maps were created on the basis of hazard quotients (HQ) using the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) health risk assessment model. The results indicate that residents of the Koko, Dougouba and Baoulekro neighbourhoods, whatever their age, are potentially exposed to the toxic effects of NO3−during their daily intake of nitrate-contaminated well water, with reference to hazard quotients (HQ) greater than 1. Nitrate concentrations in the groundwater should therefore be controlled in order to prevent their harmful effects on the health of the population and guarantee its use in rice-growing activities in M’Bahiakro.展开更多
The complexity of coupled risks,which refer to the compounded effects of interacting uncertainties across multiple interdependent objectives,is inherent to cities functioning as dynamic,interdependent systems.A disrup...The complexity of coupled risks,which refer to the compounded effects of interacting uncertainties across multiple interdependent objectives,is inherent to cities functioning as dynamic,interdependent systems.A disruption in one domain ripples across various urban systems,often with unforeseen consequences.Central to this complexity are people,whose behaviors,needs,and vulnerabilities shape risk evolution and response effectiveness.Realizing cities as complex systems centered on human needs and behaviors is essential to understanding the complexities of coupled urban risks.This paper adopts a complex systems perspective to examine the intricacies of coupled urban risks,emphasizing the critical role of human decisions and behavior in shaping these dynamics.We focus on two key dimensions:cascading hazards in urban environments and cascading failures across interdependent exposed systems in cities.Existing risk assessment models often fail to capture the complexity of these processes,particularly when factoring in human decision-making.To tackle these challenges,we advocate for a standardized taxonomy of cascading hazards,urban components,and their interactions.At its core is a people-centric perspective,emphasizing the bidirectional interactions between people and the systems that serve them.Building on this foundation,we argue the need for an integrated,people-centric risk assessment framework that evaluates event impacts in relation to the hierarchical needs of people and incorporates their preparedness and response capacities.By leveraging real-time data,advanced simulations,and innovative validation methods,this framework aims to enhance the accuracy of coupled urban risk modeling.To effectively manage coupled urban risks,cities can draw from proven strategies in real complex systems.However,given the escalating uncertainties and complexities associated with climate change,prioritizing people-centric strategies is crucial.This approach will empower cities to build resilience not only against known hazards but also against evolving and unforeseen challenges in an increasingly uncertain world.展开更多
To assess the effect of mining activity on heavy metal pollution and associated health risks in tin mining regions,water and soil sampling was conducted near a tin mining site in Hunan Province.The content and distrib...To assess the effect of mining activity on heavy metal pollution and associated health risks in tin mining regions,water and soil sampling was conducted near a tin mining site in Hunan Province.The content and distribution of heavy metals were determined.Pollution,ecological risks,and potential health hazards were evaluated using the ground accumulation index,potential ecological risk index,and health risk assessment models,respectively.The results indicated elevated levels of heavy metals in water and soil samples compared to acceptable background values.Ground accumulation index assessment revealed extreme pollution of soil with As and Cd and moderate pollution with Cu,Pb,and Zn.Cr and Hg were categorized as non-pollutants.Water samples exhibited extreme pollution levels of Hg,Cr,Cd,and As;moderate pollution levels of Pb;and moderate to high pollution levels of Cu and Zn.The tin mining area demonstrated a significantly high level of potential ecological risk,where As and Cd were the primary risk elements in soil,whereas Cr,Cd,and As contributed predominantly to water ecological risk.The human health risk assessment highlighted As,Cd,Cr,Hg,Pb,and Cu in water and As and Pb in soil as the principal non-carcinogenic factors.The primary carcinogenic factors were As,Cr,and Cd in water and As in soil,with As posing the greatest risk for non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic effects.Furthermore,oral intake was the primary exposure route,with children being particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of heavy metal pollution.展开更多
This study investigates the dark side of the non-fungible token(NFT)marketplace,with a focus on understanding the risks,and underlying factors driving fraud in the NFT ecosystem.Using the fraud triangle framework,this...This study investigates the dark side of the non-fungible token(NFT)marketplace,with a focus on understanding the risks,and underlying factors driving fraud in the NFT ecosystem.Using the fraud triangle framework,this study examines pressure,opportunity,and rationalization from individual and organizational perspectives.The research provides a comprehensive understanding of the contributing factors to NFT marketplace fraud by analyzing the reasons behind fraudulent actions.A conceptual framework is developed that includes ten propositions to aid in understanding the complexity of this issue.This study’s outcomes will assist policymakers in crafting efficient approaches to mitigate fraud within the NFT marketplace.展开更多
Fish constitutes the main protein source for the Amazonian population.However,the impact of different anthropogenic activities on trace element and metal accumulation in fish and their risks for human health at a regi...Fish constitutes the main protein source for the Amazonian population.However,the impact of different anthropogenic activities on trace element and metal accumulation in fish and their risks for human health at a regional scale remain largely unexplored.Here we assessed exposure levels of 10 trace elements andmetals(Cr,Mn,Fe,Ni,Cu,Zn,As,Cd,Pb,and Hg)in 56 samples belonging to 11 different species of fish from the Brazilian Amazon.We studied the relationship between exposure levels,fish origin,and fish feeding habits,and assessed toxicological and carcinogenic risks for the Amazonian population.No significant correlation was found between sampling site and exposure levels to the studied elements,but a significant difference was found between the accumulation of some metals and the position of the fish species in the food chain.The concentrations of Cr and Hg in fish flesh were found to exceed the Brazilian limits for human consumption.This study shows that current fish consumption patterns can lead to estimated daily intakes of Hg,As and Cr that exceed the oral reference dose,thus posing a toxicological concern.Furthermore,carcinogenic risks may be expected due to the continued exposure to Cr and As.The results of this study show that the consumption of wild caught fish in the Amazon region should be controlled.Moreover,continued monitoring of trace element and metal contamination in fish and on the health of the Amazonian population is recommended,particularly for riverine and indigenous communities.展开更多
Excessive concentrations of toxic metals are a global threat to aquatic systems.Taking a typical tributary(Zijiang River,ZR)of the midstream of the Yangtze River as the research area,the concentration distribution and...Excessive concentrations of toxic metals are a global threat to aquatic systems.Taking a typical tributary(Zijiang River,ZR)of the midstream of the Yangtze River as the research area,the concentration distribution and chemical fractions occurrence characteristics of five toxic metals(Cd,Cr,Cu,Pb,and Zn)were analyzed,their potential sources were explored,and their contamination and ecological risk was assessed.In the surface waters and sediments,there were high concentrations of Zn,a low concentration of Cd,and small spatial differences in concentration among the upstream,midstream,and downstream.In terms of speciation,Cd mainly existed in the acid-soluble fraction,Pb mainly existed in the reducible fraction,and Cr,Cu,and Zn mainly existed in the residue fraction.The potential sources in surface waters and sediments were determined to be industrial emissions and agricultural non-point sources through the absolute principal component scores–multiple linear regression model(APCS–MLR).Based on the assessment results of total concentration and speciation,Cd was the typical contamination element in ZR sediments.In addition,the secondary phase enrichment factor(SPEF)based on speciation underestimates the degree of Pb contamination,and the ecological risk of Zn assessed by the ratio of secondary phase and primary phase(RSP)and the risk assessment code(RAC)was higher than that of Cr,which was inconsistent with the results based on total concentrations.SOM and Al/Fe/Mn cycles in sediments influenced the geochemical behavior of toxic metals.展开更多
The application of generative artificial intelligence(GAI)in the judicial domain represents an innovative approach to achieving digital justice.GAI’s functionalities are primarily exhibited in the enhancement of judi...The application of generative artificial intelligence(GAI)in the judicial domain represents an innovative approach to achieving digital justice.GAI’s functionalities are primarily exhibited in the enhancement of judicial efficiency,improving the accuracy and fairness of adjudications,promoting the uniform application of the law,and enhancing transparency and engagement in judicial processes.However,these advancements are accompanied by potential risks and challenges in technology,adjudication,and ethics.It is thus essential to strengthen privacy protection during the processing and transmission of data,ensure data security and confidentiality,and establish and refine clear legal norms regarding the roles,responsibilities,and legal obligations of GAI in judicial settings.In addition,ethical guidelines that delineate the behavioral boundaries and value orientations of GAI need to be formulated.Collectively,these elements can form a trinary model of technical controls,legal norms,and ethical constraints,to facilitate the modernization and intelligent development of the judicial system.展开更多
Against the backdrop of the new era,artificial intelligence(AI),as a key driver for industrial transformation and upgrading,is accelerating innovation and development in the field of education.Obviously,it undoubtedly...Against the backdrop of the new era,artificial intelligence(AI),as a key driver for industrial transformation and upgrading,is accelerating innovation and development in the field of education.Obviously,it undoubtedly brings new challenges to university governance.Based on this,this paper mainly conducts relevant analysis and research on the risks and countermeasures of AI empowering university governance.The purpose is to further promote the digital development of universities,thereby providing students with better education and management services,and hoping to offer some references for peers.展开更多
This paper is focused on discussing the case of Las Loras UNESCO Global Geopark,in Spain,as an example to show the contribution of Geoparks to the dissemination of science and the relevance of preserving geoheritage b...This paper is focused on discussing the case of Las Loras UNESCO Global Geopark,in Spain,as an example to show the contribution of Geoparks to the dissemination of science and the relevance of preserving geoheritage by implementing simple measures based on communication and prevention.Natural and anthropic hazards derived from climate change are endangering heritage and the well-ness of the society.Geoheritage is vulnerable.Nowadays we are witnessing the destruction of monuments with high emotional significance due to wars,but climate change is also contributing to the loss of the same cultural heritage.Prevention is often the best way to protect geoheritage from disappearing and society is the best agent to implement preventive measures.Citizens are often unaware of the important treasures they have around them.Geoparks have been a great tool to bring awareness in society,since by involving the public in the whole process of recognition and promotion,they protect the space and the cultural and economic values associated with them.It is important to communicate the initiatives taking place in the Geoparks to explain the importance of geology and the risk of losing the geoheritage if natural hazards increase.Las Loras study is a good practice to implement in other Geoparks.展开更多
Innovation in the period product category has experienced a boost in recent years as part of the growing interest in women’s health products.Disruptive brands,start-ups and the area of Fem Tech are key areas to watch...Innovation in the period product category has experienced a boost in recent years as part of the growing interest in women’s health products.Disruptive brands,start-ups and the area of Fem Tech are key areas to watch.Collectively they are destigmatizing this category,and we can finally use the word“period”in marketing,as well as talking about the issues women deal with.Simultaneously,there has been an explosion in products in the sexual health category and a move away from outdated,reserved language.展开更多
This review examines the critical risks,barriers,and success factors in achieving sustainable affordable housing(SAH)by addressing environmental,economic,social and technical dimensions of sustainability.The aim of th...This review examines the critical risks,barriers,and success factors in achieving sustainable affordable housing(SAH)by addressing environmental,economic,social and technical dimensions of sustainability.The aim of this study is to identify different critical risks and barriers to the development of the Sustainable Affordable Housing(SAH)CSF framework.The objectives of this research are to define SAH(Sustainable Affordable Housing)and important factors for achieving SAH and to develop SAH Critical Success Factors(CSFs)frameworks.To achieve these objectives,there are two methods for reviewing and analyzing documents,i.e.,systematic review and bibliographic review.The years of publication are limited to 2014 to 2023 in the English language and restricted to open access.A total of 63 articles were retrieved and screened for relevance identified as directly relevant to our topic using the PRISMA systematic review process.The growth pattern aligns strongly with an exponential growth model,as evidenced by a high R^(2) value of 0.9133 indicating a robust correlation and demonstrating the accelerating interest in the field over the past decade.This comprehensive analysis led to the development of the sustainable affordable housing(SAH)critical success framework,providing a structured approach to understanding and implementing critical factors for sustainable and affordable housing initiatives.The findings emphasize the need for integrated policy reforms,innovative construction technologies,and collaborative stakeholder engagement to advance the SAH agenda.Future research directions include conducting longitudinal studies to assess the long-term impacts of SAH policies,comparative analyses of international best practices,and explorations into emerging construction technologies.展开更多
Rapid technological advancements are driving embodied intelligent robots from laboratories to real-life applications to serve as a key force reshaping the future way of life.Like many other revolutionary technologies,...Rapid technological advancements are driving embodied intelligent robots from laboratories to real-life applications to serve as a key force reshaping the future way of life.Like many other revolutionary technologies,while sparking utopian visions of the future,the development of embodied intelligence has aroused concerns about safety risks, emotional ethics, and socio-cultural implications.展开更多
Animal medicines,which boast a lengthy history as treasures of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM),frequently encounter safety challenges stemming from the accumulation of heavy metals and harmful elements,such as arsen...Animal medicines,which boast a lengthy history as treasures of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM),frequently encounter safety challenges stemming from the accumulation of heavy metals and harmful elements,such as arsenic(As)[1].The toxicity of As differs by species,especially inorganic arsenic(iAs),and current methods for assessing herbal risks based on total arsenic(tAs)content are insufficient[2].To address this,studies have focused on As contamination in TCMs,especially leeches.Widely used for anticoagulant and other pharmacological activities,leeches are susceptible to water contamination and high As levels due to immature farming technology[3].The aim of this study was to comprehensively analyze the distribution of tAs and toxic elements in leeches from multiple sources and batches.We used advanced analytical techniques(e.g.,liquid chromatography-inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry(LC-ICPMS))to accurately identify As forms.This study aims to investigate the biological effects at the exposure point through in vitro experiments(simulating physiological conditions)and assess the potential clinical risks associated with iAs.展开更多
Background Ischemic heart disease(IHD) represents the most significant disease burden among all cardiovascular diseases(CVDs). The increasing prevalence of metabolic risks in the 21st century has a profound impact on ...Background Ischemic heart disease(IHD) represents the most significant disease burden among all cardiovascular diseases(CVDs). The increasing prevalence of metabolic risks in the 21st century has a profound impact on the disease burden associated with IHD. We analyzed the global, regional, and national burdens of IHD attributable to metabolic risks from 1990 to 2021.Methods The data were taken from Global Burden of Disease(GBD) study 2021. Deaths, disability-adjusted life years(DALYs),the average annual percent change(AAPC), age-standardized death rates per 100,000 persons(ASDR) and age-standardized rate per 100,000 persons(ASR) of DALYs ranging from 1990 to 2021, were extracted and stratified according to region, nationality, socio-demographic index(SDI), sex, and age. Additionally, the global future trends were predicted using Nordpred prediction model.Results Compared to 1990, in 2021, the number of death and DALYs from metabolic risk-attributed IHD increased globally by67.35% and 59.91%, respectively;whereas ASDR and ASR of DALYs showed a decreasing trend and the most severe impact was observed in male and elderly populations. In addition, the burden of disease showed an inverted V-shaped relationship with SDI from 1990 to 2021. AAPC showed a significant increase in developing countries and a decrease in developed countries. We also analyzed the effects of different risk factors including metabolic risk factors on IHD in different SDI regions and genders. The prediction of future disease burden showed that the number of death and DALYs will keep rising, while ASDR and ASR of DALYs will maintain a certain downward trend.Conclusions The results of this study highlighted the need for screening and intervention for metabolic risk factors in specific regions and populations, this should call for increased collaboration between developing and developed countries to reduce the burden of disease and improve the prognosis of patients with IHD.展开更多
Non-obstructive azoospermia is a common condition associated with significant health risks,including increased mortality,cancer,and chronic diseases such as metabolic and cardiovascular disorders.This review aims to h...Non-obstructive azoospermia is a common condition associated with significant health risks,including increased mortality,cancer,and chronic diseases such as metabolic and cardiovascular disorders.This review aims to highlight the potential health challenges faced by men with this condition compared to fertile counterparts.Through a comprehensive bibliographic search on PubMed,using the following algorithm:(“infertility,male”[MeSH Terms]OR“azoospermia”[MeSH Terms])AND(“mortality”[MeSH Terms]OR“neoplasms”[MeSH Terms]OR“chronic disease”[MeSH Terms]OR“diabetes mellitus”[MeSH Terms]OR“heart diseases”[MeSH Terms]),we analyzed existing literature to explore the associations between infertility,specifically azoospermia,and adverse health outcomes.Findings indicate that infertile men are at a higher risk of death,various cancers(particularly testicular cancer),metabolic syndrome,diabetes,hypogonadism,and cardiovascular disease.Although research specifically addressing azoospermia is limited,available studies support the notion that men with this condition may experience heightened health vulnerabilities.Given these risks,it is imperative for healthcare professionals,especially urologists,to conduct thorough health assessments for men diagnosed with azoospermia.Informing patients of these potential health issues and integrating comprehensive evaluations into their care can facilitate early detection and intervention for life-threatening conditions.Ultimately,men with azoospermia should receive ongoing monitoring to address their specific health concerns,thus improving their long-term health outcomes.展开更多
Given the existence of real estate market bubbles and risks arising from high government debt,countries are faced with the challenge of preventing systemic risks.This study investigates the macroeconomic dynamics of t...Given the existence of real estate market bubbles and risks arising from high government debt,countries are faced with the challenge of preventing systemic risks.This study investigates the macroeconomic dynamics of the real estate market and local government debt risk from the perspective of liquidity constraints.We build a dynamic stochastic general equilibrium model with real estate and local government debt risk based on the New Keynesian-Dynamic Stochastic General Equilibrium Model(NK-DSGE)model to investigate the transmission path of local government debt risk under real estate regulation.In addition,we analyze the risk transmission between the real estate market and local government under different tax systems and investigate the shock to household welfare from a local government debt default.The results show monetary policy can effectively control the scale of local government debt to reduce default risk.An increase in property taxes that restrains housing demand can effectively regulate the real estate market.Although reducing taxes can increase macroeconomic output,reducing tax rates on consumption,capital,and labor weakens the liquidity of household assets.Further,lowering taxes increases local government default risk,which reduces household welfare and makes it more difficult for local governments to deleverage.Our findings provide important insights for countries seeking an effective real estate regulation mechanism to curb local government default risk.展开更多
Fifty agricultural soil samples collected from Fuzhou,southeast China,were first investigated for the occurrence,distribution,and potential risks of twelve organophosphate esters(OPEs).The total concentration of OPEs(...Fifty agricultural soil samples collected from Fuzhou,southeast China,were first investigated for the occurrence,distribution,and potential risks of twelve organophosphate esters(OPEs).The total concentration of OPEs(ΣOPEs)in soil ranged from 1.33 to 96.5 ng/g dry weight(dw),with an average value of 17.1 ng/g dw.Especially,halogenated-OPEs were the predominant group with amean level of 9.75 ng/g dw,and tris(1-chloro-2-propyl)phosphate(TCIPP)was the most abundant OPEs,accounting for 51.1%ofΣOPEs.The concentrations of TCIPP andΣOPEs were found to be significantly higher(P<0.05)in soils of urban areas than those in suburban areas.In addition,the use of agricultural plastic films and total organic carbon had a positive effect on the occurrence of OPE in this study.The positive matrix factorization model suggested complex sources of OPEs in agricultural soils from Fuzhou.The ecological risk assessment demonstrated that tricresyl phosphate presented a medium risk to land-based organisms(0.1≤risk quotient<1.0).Nevertheless,the carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic risks for human exposure to OPEs through soil ingestion and dermal absorption were negligible.These findings would facilitate further investigations into the pollution management and risk control of OPEs.展开更多
基金funded by China Law Society 2025 Annual Legal Research,Project grant number:CLS(2025)Y04.
文摘Background:Medical artificial intelligence(MAI)is a synthesis of medical science and artificial intelligence development,serving as a crucial field in the current advancement and application of AI.In the process of developing medical AI,there may arise not only legal risks such as infringement of privacy rights and health rights but also ethical risks stemming from violations of the principles of beneficence and non-maleficence.Methods:To effectively address the damages caused by MAI in the future,it is necessary to establish a hierarchical governance system with MAI.This paper examines the systematic collection of local practices in China and the induction and integration of legal remedies for the damage of MAI.Results:To effectively address the ethical and legal challenges of medical artificial intelligence,a hierarchical regulatory system should be established,which based on the impact of intervention measures on natural rights and differences in intervention timing.This paper finally obtains a legal hierarchical governance system corresponding to the ethical risks and legal risks of MAI in China.Conclusion:The Chinese government has formed a multi-agent governance system based on the impact of risks on rights and the timing of legal intervention,which provides a reference for other countries to follow up on the research on MAI risk management.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.32171615)the National Key R&D Program of China(2019YFC1804102)。
文摘Agricultural soil is related to food security and human health,antibiotics and heavy metals(HMs),as two typical pollutants,possess a high coexistence rate in the environmental medium,which is extremely prone to inducing antibiotic-HMs combined pollution.Recently,frequent human activities have led to more prominent antibiotics-HMs combined contamination in agricultural soils,especially the production and spread of antibiotic resistance genes(ARGs),heavy metal resistance genes(MRGs),antibiotic resistant bacteria(ARB),and antibiotics-HMs complexes(AMCs),which seriously threaten soil ecology and human health.This review describes the main sources(Intrinsic and manmade sources),composite mechanisms(co-selective resistance,oxidative stress,and Joint toxicity mechanism),environmental fate and the potential risks(soil ecological and human health risks)of antibiotics and HMs in agricultural soils.Finally,the current effective source blocking,transmission control,and attenuation strategies are classified for discussion,such as the application of additives and barrier materials,as well as plant and animal remediation and bioremediation,etc.,pointing out that future research should focus on the whole chain process of“source-processterminal”,intending to provide a theoretical basis and decision-making reference for future research.
文摘Nitrate contamination of groundwater is a worldwide problem, particularly in agricultural countries. Exposure to high levels of nitrates in groundwater can have adverse effects on the health of residents who use groundwater for drinking. This study aims to assess the health risk associated with the ingestion of nitrates in well water in the town of M’bahiakro. Health risk maps were created on the basis of hazard quotients (HQ) using the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) health risk assessment model. The results indicate that residents of the Koko, Dougouba and Baoulekro neighbourhoods, whatever their age, are potentially exposed to the toxic effects of NO3−during their daily intake of nitrate-contaminated well water, with reference to hazard quotients (HQ) greater than 1. Nitrate concentrations in the groundwater should therefore be controlled in order to prevent their harmful effects on the health of the population and guarantee its use in rice-growing activities in M’Bahiakro.
基金jointly supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(71821001,72371109,72071088,72074089,and 51938004)Strategic Study Project of Chinese Academy of Engineering(2022-JB-02)Project of Interdisciplinary Research Support Program in Huazhong University of Science and Technology(2023-32)。
文摘The complexity of coupled risks,which refer to the compounded effects of interacting uncertainties across multiple interdependent objectives,is inherent to cities functioning as dynamic,interdependent systems.A disruption in one domain ripples across various urban systems,often with unforeseen consequences.Central to this complexity are people,whose behaviors,needs,and vulnerabilities shape risk evolution and response effectiveness.Realizing cities as complex systems centered on human needs and behaviors is essential to understanding the complexities of coupled urban risks.This paper adopts a complex systems perspective to examine the intricacies of coupled urban risks,emphasizing the critical role of human decisions and behavior in shaping these dynamics.We focus on two key dimensions:cascading hazards in urban environments and cascading failures across interdependent exposed systems in cities.Existing risk assessment models often fail to capture the complexity of these processes,particularly when factoring in human decision-making.To tackle these challenges,we advocate for a standardized taxonomy of cascading hazards,urban components,and their interactions.At its core is a people-centric perspective,emphasizing the bidirectional interactions between people and the systems that serve them.Building on this foundation,we argue the need for an integrated,people-centric risk assessment framework that evaluates event impacts in relation to the hierarchical needs of people and incorporates their preparedness and response capacities.By leveraging real-time data,advanced simulations,and innovative validation methods,this framework aims to enhance the accuracy of coupled urban risk modeling.To effectively manage coupled urban risks,cities can draw from proven strategies in real complex systems.However,given the escalating uncertainties and complexities associated with climate change,prioritizing people-centric strategies is crucial.This approach will empower cities to build resilience not only against known hazards but also against evolving and unforeseen challenges in an increasingly uncertain world.
基金supported by the Open Fund of the Granite Formation Research Center of China Geological Survey(grant numbers PMGR202009,PMGR202108,PMGR202115)the Geological Survey of China(grant number DD20190154).
文摘To assess the effect of mining activity on heavy metal pollution and associated health risks in tin mining regions,water and soil sampling was conducted near a tin mining site in Hunan Province.The content and distribution of heavy metals were determined.Pollution,ecological risks,and potential health hazards were evaluated using the ground accumulation index,potential ecological risk index,and health risk assessment models,respectively.The results indicated elevated levels of heavy metals in water and soil samples compared to acceptable background values.Ground accumulation index assessment revealed extreme pollution of soil with As and Cd and moderate pollution with Cu,Pb,and Zn.Cr and Hg were categorized as non-pollutants.Water samples exhibited extreme pollution levels of Hg,Cr,Cd,and As;moderate pollution levels of Pb;and moderate to high pollution levels of Cu and Zn.The tin mining area demonstrated a significantly high level of potential ecological risk,where As and Cd were the primary risk elements in soil,whereas Cr,Cd,and As contributed predominantly to water ecological risk.The human health risk assessment highlighted As,Cd,Cr,Hg,Pb,and Cu in water and As and Pb in soil as the principal non-carcinogenic factors.The primary carcinogenic factors were As,Cr,and Cd in water and As in soil,with As posing the greatest risk for non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic effects.Furthermore,oral intake was the primary exposure route,with children being particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of heavy metal pollution.
文摘This study investigates the dark side of the non-fungible token(NFT)marketplace,with a focus on understanding the risks,and underlying factors driving fraud in the NFT ecosystem.Using the fraud triangle framework,this study examines pressure,opportunity,and rationalization from individual and organizational perspectives.The research provides a comprehensive understanding of the contributing factors to NFT marketplace fraud by analyzing the reasons behind fraudulent actions.A conceptual framework is developed that includes ten propositions to aid in understanding the complexity of this issue.This study’s outcomes will assist policymakers in crafting efficient approaches to mitigate fraud within the NFT marketplace.
基金supported by the National Geographic Society through an early career grant to A.Rico (EC-59809C-19)Support Programme-PlanGenT (CIDEGENT/2020/043)of the Generalitat ValencianaR.Oliveira acknowledges"Fundacao de Amparo a Pesquisa do Estado de Sao Paulo"-FAPESP (Project 2018/03108-0).
文摘Fish constitutes the main protein source for the Amazonian population.However,the impact of different anthropogenic activities on trace element and metal accumulation in fish and their risks for human health at a regional scale remain largely unexplored.Here we assessed exposure levels of 10 trace elements andmetals(Cr,Mn,Fe,Ni,Cu,Zn,As,Cd,Pb,and Hg)in 56 samples belonging to 11 different species of fish from the Brazilian Amazon.We studied the relationship between exposure levels,fish origin,and fish feeding habits,and assessed toxicological and carcinogenic risks for the Amazonian population.No significant correlation was found between sampling site and exposure levels to the studied elements,but a significant difference was found between the accumulation of some metals and the position of the fish species in the food chain.The concentrations of Cr and Hg in fish flesh were found to exceed the Brazilian limits for human consumption.This study shows that current fish consumption patterns can lead to estimated daily intakes of Hg,As and Cr that exceed the oral reference dose,thus posing a toxicological concern.Furthermore,carcinogenic risks may be expected due to the continued exposure to Cr and As.The results of this study show that the consumption of wild caught fish in the Amazon region should be controlled.Moreover,continued monitoring of trace element and metal contamination in fish and on the health of the Amazonian population is recommended,particularly for riverine and indigenous communities.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.42030706).
文摘Excessive concentrations of toxic metals are a global threat to aquatic systems.Taking a typical tributary(Zijiang River,ZR)of the midstream of the Yangtze River as the research area,the concentration distribution and chemical fractions occurrence characteristics of five toxic metals(Cd,Cr,Cu,Pb,and Zn)were analyzed,their potential sources were explored,and their contamination and ecological risk was assessed.In the surface waters and sediments,there were high concentrations of Zn,a low concentration of Cd,and small spatial differences in concentration among the upstream,midstream,and downstream.In terms of speciation,Cd mainly existed in the acid-soluble fraction,Pb mainly existed in the reducible fraction,and Cr,Cu,and Zn mainly existed in the residue fraction.The potential sources in surface waters and sediments were determined to be industrial emissions and agricultural non-point sources through the absolute principal component scores–multiple linear regression model(APCS–MLR).Based on the assessment results of total concentration and speciation,Cd was the typical contamination element in ZR sediments.In addition,the secondary phase enrichment factor(SPEF)based on speciation underestimates the degree of Pb contamination,and the ecological risk of Zn assessed by the ratio of secondary phase and primary phase(RSP)and the risk assessment code(RAC)was higher than that of Cr,which was inconsistent with the results based on total concentrations.SOM and Al/Fe/Mn cycles in sediments influenced the geochemical behavior of toxic metals.
文摘The application of generative artificial intelligence(GAI)in the judicial domain represents an innovative approach to achieving digital justice.GAI’s functionalities are primarily exhibited in the enhancement of judicial efficiency,improving the accuracy and fairness of adjudications,promoting the uniform application of the law,and enhancing transparency and engagement in judicial processes.However,these advancements are accompanied by potential risks and challenges in technology,adjudication,and ethics.It is thus essential to strengthen privacy protection during the processing and transmission of data,ensure data security and confidentiality,and establish and refine clear legal norms regarding the roles,responsibilities,and legal obligations of GAI in judicial settings.In addition,ethical guidelines that delineate the behavioral boundaries and value orientations of GAI need to be formulated.Collectively,these elements can form a trinary model of technical controls,legal norms,and ethical constraints,to facilitate the modernization and intelligent development of the judicial system.
文摘Against the backdrop of the new era,artificial intelligence(AI),as a key driver for industrial transformation and upgrading,is accelerating innovation and development in the field of education.Obviously,it undoubtedly brings new challenges to university governance.Based on this,this paper mainly conducts relevant analysis and research on the risks and countermeasures of AI empowering university governance.The purpose is to further promote the digital development of universities,thereby providing students with better education and management services,and hoping to offer some references for peers.
文摘This paper is focused on discussing the case of Las Loras UNESCO Global Geopark,in Spain,as an example to show the contribution of Geoparks to the dissemination of science and the relevance of preserving geoheritage by implementing simple measures based on communication and prevention.Natural and anthropic hazards derived from climate change are endangering heritage and the well-ness of the society.Geoheritage is vulnerable.Nowadays we are witnessing the destruction of monuments with high emotional significance due to wars,but climate change is also contributing to the loss of the same cultural heritage.Prevention is often the best way to protect geoheritage from disappearing and society is the best agent to implement preventive measures.Citizens are often unaware of the important treasures they have around them.Geoparks have been a great tool to bring awareness in society,since by involving the public in the whole process of recognition and promotion,they protect the space and the cultural and economic values associated with them.It is important to communicate the initiatives taking place in the Geoparks to explain the importance of geology and the risk of losing the geoheritage if natural hazards increase.Las Loras study is a good practice to implement in other Geoparks.
文摘Innovation in the period product category has experienced a boost in recent years as part of the growing interest in women’s health products.Disruptive brands,start-ups and the area of Fem Tech are key areas to watch.Collectively they are destigmatizing this category,and we can finally use the word“period”in marketing,as well as talking about the issues women deal with.Simultaneously,there has been an explosion in products in the sexual health category and a move away from outdated,reserved language.
文摘This review examines the critical risks,barriers,and success factors in achieving sustainable affordable housing(SAH)by addressing environmental,economic,social and technical dimensions of sustainability.The aim of this study is to identify different critical risks and barriers to the development of the Sustainable Affordable Housing(SAH)CSF framework.The objectives of this research are to define SAH(Sustainable Affordable Housing)and important factors for achieving SAH and to develop SAH Critical Success Factors(CSFs)frameworks.To achieve these objectives,there are two methods for reviewing and analyzing documents,i.e.,systematic review and bibliographic review.The years of publication are limited to 2014 to 2023 in the English language and restricted to open access.A total of 63 articles were retrieved and screened for relevance identified as directly relevant to our topic using the PRISMA systematic review process.The growth pattern aligns strongly with an exponential growth model,as evidenced by a high R^(2) value of 0.9133 indicating a robust correlation and demonstrating the accelerating interest in the field over the past decade.This comprehensive analysis led to the development of the sustainable affordable housing(SAH)critical success framework,providing a structured approach to understanding and implementing critical factors for sustainable and affordable housing initiatives.The findings emphasize the need for integrated policy reforms,innovative construction technologies,and collaborative stakeholder engagement to advance the SAH agenda.Future research directions include conducting longitudinal studies to assess the long-term impacts of SAH policies,comparative analyses of international best practices,and explorations into emerging construction technologies.
文摘Rapid technological advancements are driving embodied intelligent robots from laboratories to real-life applications to serve as a key force reshaping the future way of life.Like many other revolutionary technologies,while sparking utopian visions of the future,the development of embodied intelligence has aroused concerns about safety risks, emotional ethics, and socio-cultural implications.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.:82404856)the National Key Research and Development Program of China(Grant No.:2023YFC3504100)the Key projects for Building a Scientific System for Drug Regulation,China(Project No.:RS2024Z006).
文摘Animal medicines,which boast a lengthy history as treasures of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM),frequently encounter safety challenges stemming from the accumulation of heavy metals and harmful elements,such as arsenic(As)[1].The toxicity of As differs by species,especially inorganic arsenic(iAs),and current methods for assessing herbal risks based on total arsenic(tAs)content are insufficient[2].To address this,studies have focused on As contamination in TCMs,especially leeches.Widely used for anticoagulant and other pharmacological activities,leeches are susceptible to water contamination and high As levels due to immature farming technology[3].The aim of this study was to comprehensively analyze the distribution of tAs and toxic elements in leeches from multiple sources and batches.We used advanced analytical techniques(e.g.,liquid chromatography-inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry(LC-ICPMS))to accurately identify As forms.This study aims to investigate the biological effects at the exposure point through in vitro experiments(simulating physiological conditions)and assess the potential clinical risks associated with iAs.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (82070055 and 82470054)the Project Program of National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders (Xiangya Hospital, Grant No.2023LNJJ18)。
文摘Background Ischemic heart disease(IHD) represents the most significant disease burden among all cardiovascular diseases(CVDs). The increasing prevalence of metabolic risks in the 21st century has a profound impact on the disease burden associated with IHD. We analyzed the global, regional, and national burdens of IHD attributable to metabolic risks from 1990 to 2021.Methods The data were taken from Global Burden of Disease(GBD) study 2021. Deaths, disability-adjusted life years(DALYs),the average annual percent change(AAPC), age-standardized death rates per 100,000 persons(ASDR) and age-standardized rate per 100,000 persons(ASR) of DALYs ranging from 1990 to 2021, were extracted and stratified according to region, nationality, socio-demographic index(SDI), sex, and age. Additionally, the global future trends were predicted using Nordpred prediction model.Results Compared to 1990, in 2021, the number of death and DALYs from metabolic risk-attributed IHD increased globally by67.35% and 59.91%, respectively;whereas ASDR and ASR of DALYs showed a decreasing trend and the most severe impact was observed in male and elderly populations. In addition, the burden of disease showed an inverted V-shaped relationship with SDI from 1990 to 2021. AAPC showed a significant increase in developing countries and a decrease in developed countries. We also analyzed the effects of different risk factors including metabolic risk factors on IHD in different SDI regions and genders. The prediction of future disease burden showed that the number of death and DALYs will keep rising, while ASDR and ASR of DALYs will maintain a certain downward trend.Conclusions The results of this study highlighted the need for screening and intervention for metabolic risk factors in specific regions and populations, this should call for increased collaboration between developing and developed countries to reduce the burden of disease and improve the prognosis of patients with IHD.
文摘Non-obstructive azoospermia is a common condition associated with significant health risks,including increased mortality,cancer,and chronic diseases such as metabolic and cardiovascular disorders.This review aims to highlight the potential health challenges faced by men with this condition compared to fertile counterparts.Through a comprehensive bibliographic search on PubMed,using the following algorithm:(“infertility,male”[MeSH Terms]OR“azoospermia”[MeSH Terms])AND(“mortality”[MeSH Terms]OR“neoplasms”[MeSH Terms]OR“chronic disease”[MeSH Terms]OR“diabetes mellitus”[MeSH Terms]OR“heart diseases”[MeSH Terms]),we analyzed existing literature to explore the associations between infertility,specifically azoospermia,and adverse health outcomes.Findings indicate that infertile men are at a higher risk of death,various cancers(particularly testicular cancer),metabolic syndrome,diabetes,hypogonadism,and cardiovascular disease.Although research specifically addressing azoospermia is limited,available studies support the notion that men with this condition may experience heightened health vulnerabilities.Given these risks,it is imperative for healthcare professionals,especially urologists,to conduct thorough health assessments for men diagnosed with azoospermia.Informing patients of these potential health issues and integrating comprehensive evaluations into their care can facilitate early detection and intervention for life-threatening conditions.Ultimately,men with azoospermia should receive ongoing monitoring to address their specific health concerns,thus improving their long-term health outcomes.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.72271135,72141304,71901130)National Social Science Fund of China(22&ZD117)+3 种基金Laboratory of Computation and Analytics of Complex Management Systems(Tianjin University)Special Funds for Taishan Scholars(tsqn202211120)2024 Qingdao Finance Society Key Project2024 Qingdao Social Science Planning Project.
文摘Given the existence of real estate market bubbles and risks arising from high government debt,countries are faced with the challenge of preventing systemic risks.This study investigates the macroeconomic dynamics of the real estate market and local government debt risk from the perspective of liquidity constraints.We build a dynamic stochastic general equilibrium model with real estate and local government debt risk based on the New Keynesian-Dynamic Stochastic General Equilibrium Model(NK-DSGE)model to investigate the transmission path of local government debt risk under real estate regulation.In addition,we analyze the risk transmission between the real estate market and local government under different tax systems and investigate the shock to household welfare from a local government debt default.The results show monetary policy can effectively control the scale of local government debt to reduce default risk.An increase in property taxes that restrains housing demand can effectively regulate the real estate market.Although reducing taxes can increase macroeconomic output,reducing tax rates on consumption,capital,and labor weakens the liquidity of household assets.Further,lowering taxes increases local government default risk,which reduces household welfare and makes it more difficult for local governments to deleverage.Our findings provide important insights for countries seeking an effective real estate regulation mechanism to curb local government default risk.
基金supported by the Open Fund of the Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes,Ministry of Education,Peking University,Beijing,China,and the Cultivation Fund Program for Excellent Dissertation in Fujian Normal University,China(No.LWPYS202315)the Research Start-up Fund of Fujian Normal University,China(No.Y0720304X13).
文摘Fifty agricultural soil samples collected from Fuzhou,southeast China,were first investigated for the occurrence,distribution,and potential risks of twelve organophosphate esters(OPEs).The total concentration of OPEs(ΣOPEs)in soil ranged from 1.33 to 96.5 ng/g dry weight(dw),with an average value of 17.1 ng/g dw.Especially,halogenated-OPEs were the predominant group with amean level of 9.75 ng/g dw,and tris(1-chloro-2-propyl)phosphate(TCIPP)was the most abundant OPEs,accounting for 51.1%ofΣOPEs.The concentrations of TCIPP andΣOPEs were found to be significantly higher(P<0.05)in soils of urban areas than those in suburban areas.In addition,the use of agricultural plastic films and total organic carbon had a positive effect on the occurrence of OPE in this study.The positive matrix factorization model suggested complex sources of OPEs in agricultural soils from Fuzhou.The ecological risk assessment demonstrated that tricresyl phosphate presented a medium risk to land-based organisms(0.1≤risk quotient<1.0).Nevertheless,the carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic risks for human exposure to OPEs through soil ingestion and dermal absorption were negligible.These findings would facilitate further investigations into the pollution management and risk control of OPEs.
