Pronounced Negative Correlation Research Articles

Increasing WNP tropical cyclone-related extreme precipitation over East Asia during boreal summer associated with PDO shift

Over the past two decades, there has been a significant shift in tropical cyclone (TC) activity in the western North Pacific (WNP) basin during the boreal summer. Our analysis of data spanning from 1979 to 2021 reveals significant shifts in the WNP TC characteristics and rainfall pattern variation. To deepen our understanding of TC-related precipitation dynamics, we expressly address the difference between TC-related core precipitation (TCP) and remote precipitation (TRP). The results show that TRP significantly impacts the East Asian (EA) continent, especially on the Korean Peninsula. Notably, TCP exhibits decadal variability, with a pronounced negative correlation identified between it and the Pacific decadal oscillation (PDO) following a strong climate shift. This pivotal shift was marked by the PDO first transitioning to its negative phase in 1997, a notable change since 1979, resulting in a marked increase in TC-related extreme rainfall over the EA area. Concurrently, the rising sea surface temperatures (SSTs) over the WNP have intensified the western Pacific subtropical high (WPSH) circulation. The easterly steering flow associated with the WPSH then strengthened, leading to the continental migration of TC trajectories, thereby intensifying TC-related extreme precipitation.

Exploring leisure constraints and participation among urban women through the lens of ambivalent sexism theory

ABSTRACT Through the lens of ambivalent sexism theory, this study explores the relationship between leisure constraints, gender bias, and leisure participation among urban women. We confirmed a pronounced negative correlation between leisure constraints and participation. Our findings further validate the pronounced influence of intrapersonal and structural constraints on participation, underscoring the importance of developing safe and private leisure venues tailored for women. A key insight from our research is the moderating effect of gender bias, notably hostile sexism, on the relationship between leisure constraints and participation. This highlights the pressing need to challenge and counteract male-centric ideologies. Our study suggests that policymakers and urban planners should prioritise the creation of women-friendly leisure spaces that are both safe and accessible. Public awareness campaigns may also be beneficial in challenging prevailing sexist ideologies that contribute to leisure constraints for women. Collectively, our findings not only contribute to the theoretical discourse in leisure studies but also provide pragmatic insights to champion gender equity in leisure participation.

Temporal patterns of carbon-water coupling of a subalpine peatland in subtropics: Insights from a seven-year eddy covariance monitoring

Study regionA well-preserved subalpine peatland in the subtropics, the Dajiuhu peatland, in Shennongjia, Hubei Province, China. Study focusOver a seven-year period, constant in-situ carbon flux monitoring was conducted using the eddy covariance method. The patterns of CO2 and H2O fluxes were analyzed, encompassing both daytime and nocturnal period observations, spanning both growing and non-growing seasons, and the interconnection between carbon and water within the Dajiuhu peatland. Furthermore, this investigation identified meteorological parameters shaping these flux dynamics. New hydrological insights for the regionThe water source function was more resilient to the effects of extreme weather events and showed higher stability when compared to the carbon sink function. Daytime carbon-water coupling presented a pronounced negative correlation during the growing season, contrasting with a more complex trinomial relationship evident during the non-growing season; however, nocturnal periods did not reveal any apparent correlation. Relative humidity (RH), water table depth (WTD), and evapotranspiration (ET) emerged as key variables impacting jointly on both CO2 and H2O fluxes. Furthermore, net radiation (Rn) magnifies the hysteresis loops associated with net ecosystem exchanges of CO2 (NEE) during the growing season, with WTD being the prime determinant influencing seasonal fluctuations in hysteresis related to H2O fluxes. These findings exemplify the complexities inherent in the management of carbon and water resources within subalpine peatlands, underscored by their intricately intertwined and inseparable relationship.

Experimental insights and modeling innovations: Deciphering Fe(VI) oxidation in imidazole ionic liquids through QSAR and RFR

In this investigation, we conducted a detailed analysis of the oxidation of 16 imidazole ionic liquid variants by Fe(VI) under uniform experimental setups, thereby securing a dataset of second-order reaction rate constants (kobs). This methodology ensures superior data consistency and comparability over traditional methods that amalgamate disparate data from varied studies. Utilizing 16 chemical structural parameters obtained via Density Functional Theory (DFT) as descriptors, we developed a Quantitative Structure Activity Relationship (QSAR) model. Through rigorous correlation analysis, Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Multiple Linear Regression (MLR), and Applicability Domain (AD) evaluation, we identified a pronounced negative correlation between the molecular orbital gap energy (Egap) and kobs. MLR analysis further underscored Egap as a pivotal predictive variable, with its lower values indicating heightened oxidative reactivity towards Fe(VI) in the ionic liquids, leading the QSAR model to achieve a predictive accuracy of 0.95. Furthermore, we integrated an advanced machine learning approach - Random Forest Regression (RFR), which adeptly highlighted the critical factors influencing the oxidation efficiency of imidazole ionic liquids by Fe(VI) through elaborate decision trees, feature importance assessment, Recursive Feature Elimination (RFE), and cross-validation strategies. The RFR model demonstrated a remarkable predictive performance of 0.98. Both QSAR and RFR models pinpointed Egap as a key descriptor significantly affecting oxidation efficiency, with the RFR model presenting lower root mean square errors, establishing it as a more reliable predictive tool. The application of the RFR model in this study significantly improved the model's stability and the intuitive display of key influencing factors, introducing promising advanced analytical tools to the field of environmental chemistry.

Exploring the mediating influence of acceptance of change: A study on gerontechnology acceptance, mental well-being, and urban–rural disparities among older adults

BackgroundThe global aging population necessitates leveraging technology for older adults' independence and mental well-being. Gerontechnology, tailored for older users, thrives when accessible and accepted, with the pivotal role of acceptance of change shaping its adoption. AimsThis study investigates the mediating role of acceptance of change in the relationship between gerontechnology acceptance and mental well-being among older adults and explores disparities in urban and rural settings Design & MethodsA cross-sectional, correlational design adhering to STROBE guidelines collected data through an interview survey from 802 older adults. Instruments included the Older Adult Structured Survey, Short Version of Senior Technology Acceptance, Acceptance of Change Scale, and the World Health Organization Well-Being Index. ResultsThe results underscore a significant correlation between technology adoption, adaptability, and mental well-being among 60-year-olds and older. Notably, an individual's openness to change significantly influences the technology-mental well-being relationship, emphasizing its impact on overall health. Urban areas exhibit a stronger positive correlation between technology acceptance and mental well-being, whereas rural regions demonstrate a more pronounced negative correlation. ConclusionThis research contributes valuable knowledge for addressing the unique challenges older adults face in diverse geographic settings, paving the way for targeted and effective initiatives. ImplicationsNurses should prioritize understanding the nexus between gerontechnology acceptance, change adaptability, and mental wellness, integrating technology education and culturally sensitive interventions to enhance care strategies for older adults in diverse geographic settings. This study lays the groundwork for developing person-centered geriatric nursing care plans, underscoring the importance of harnessing technology for improved mental well-being.

Corporate digital transformation and financing constraints: The moderating effect of institutional investors

In the age of digitization, digital transformation has emerged as a crucial pathway for companies to achieve sustainable development. In a sample of 24,103 firm-year observations from 3,508 listed companies in China's A-share market between 2007 and 2020, we investigate the relationship between corporate digital transformation and financing constraints based on dynamic capability theory. The proportion of intangible assets dedicated to digital technology is employed as a measure of the degree of digital transformation, and the SA index is utilized to assess the level of financing constraints. The findings demonstrate that digital transformation plays a significant role in alleviating financing constraints. In addition, greater institutional ownership leads to a pronounced negative correlation between digital transformation and financing constraints. From the perspective of dynamic capability theory, this study provides empirical evidence supporting research on economic consequences associated with digital transformation. Our results may contribute towards government formulation and implementation of policies promoting digital transformation to create a supportive external environment for businesses. Companies must seize opportunities associated with digital transformation to mitigate financing constraints.

Climate impacts on high-intensity sapling mortality: Comparative study and future warnings for Larix kaempferi, Abies sachalinensis, and Picea glehnii

Climate change profoundly affects plant viability and forest dynamics, creating uncertainty in future forest management. Post-planting, high-intensity sapling mortality may require costly replanting, disrupting plans, and risking forest management goals. Therefore, this study focused on high-intensity sapling mortality (mortality rates exceeding 30 %) in Larix kaempferi, Abies sachalinensis, and Picea glehnii planted in northern Japan attributed to summer drought. Utilizing a dataset spanning approximately three decades, the correlation between high-intensity mortality occurrence and climatic stress was explored employing a Bayesian approach. Additionally, the probability of high-intensity mortality occurrence by the end of this century was predicted based on two representative climate scenarios (RCP2.6 and RCP8.5). The predictive accuracy of high-intensity mortality occurrence probabilities exceeded 70 % after comprehensive consideration of climatic stress factors, thereby accentuating the robustness of the proposed model. These encompass the antecedent precipitation index (API), which serves as a soil drought indicator; 30-day mean daily maximum temperature (MaxTMP̅); 30-day mean daily total solar radiation (TSR̅); and day of year (DOY). All sapling species manifested a pronounced negative correlation between API and the probability of high-intensity mortality occurrence, whereas TSR̅ exhibited a positive impact on this probability. Additionally, MaxTMP̅ positively influenced this probability for L. kaempferi and A. sachalinensis. Delving into interspecific differentials, API exhibited the most pronounced impact on P. glehnii in comparison to the other two tree species, whereas TSR̅ exerted a substantial influence on A. sachalinensis and P. glehnii. The susceptibility to MaxTMP̅ was hierarchically ordered as L. kaempferi >A. sachalinensis >P. glehnii. DOY, used to assess phenological effects like leaf morphology, negatively affected the probability of high-intensity mortality occurrence exclusively for L. kaempferi. The median probability of high-intensity mortality occurrence in Hokkaido, calculated from the estimated probabilities across all regions of Hokkaido (encompassing non-forested areas but excluding remote islands), at a 1 km resolution, was 0.37 for L. kaempferi, 0.57 for A. sachalinensis, and 0.41 for P. glehnii under RCP2.6 by the century’s end. These probabilities have decreased in comparison to those observed in 2018–2022. In stark contrast, under RCP8.5, the probabilities soared to 0.91, 0.87, and 0.56, representing an increase of 2.12 times for L. kaempferi, 1.36 times for A. sachalinensis, and 1.14 times for P. glehnii in comparison to 2018–2022. Even the least affected species, P. glehnii, witnessed a increase in mortality probability. This study underscores the importance of forest management and adaptation to climate change.

Revealing the urban heat Island: Investigating spatiotemporal surface temperature dynamics, modeling, and interactions with controllable and non-controllable factors

The unchecked growth of urban populations has spurred rapid and unsustainable urban expansion, exacerbating environmental degradation both locally and globally. This research offers a comprehensive analysis of the Urban Heat Island (UHI) phenomenon in Bangalore and Hyderabad, India, focusing on its spatial and temporal distribution and its correlation with air pollutants. Conducted over the course of summer and winter seasons from 2001 to 2021, this study advances our understanding of UHI dynamics in rapidly urbanizing regions, shedding light on the complex interplay between urbanization, climate, and air quality. The primary objective of this study is to assess and compare the predictive performance of baseline Random Forest (RF) and Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) models for forecasting Land Surface Temperature (LST) in Hyderabad, India, while examining the impact of integrating spatial information into these models. Incorporating an extensive array of input variables, ranging from spectral indices to terrain features, land use/land cover (LULC) data, atmospheric parameters, and spatial data, the analysis reveals significant relationships between LST and various factors. Notably, Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) and Normalized Difference Built-up Index (NDBI) exhibit strong positive correlations with LST, while Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) demonstrates a pronounced negative correlation. Similarly, Modified Normalized Difference Water Index (MNDWI) displays the strongest positive correlation with LST (r = 0.49), whereas EVI exhibits the most notable negative correlation (r = −0.67). Additionally, Modified Bare Soil Index (MBI) demonstrates a noteworthy negative correlation (r = −0.48) with LST for Bangalore. Atmospheric components such as CO, NO2, and O3 also show significant positive correlations with LST, with NO2 displaying the highest correlation during winter in urban areas. XGBoost emerges as the superior model, achieving high R2 values of 0.84 for Bangalore and 0.88 for Hyderabad. Integration of spatial information consistently enhances the performance of both RF and XGBoost models, resulting in reduced Mean Squared Error (MSE) and Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) values. However, predictions over water bodies tend to be underestimated. The study underscores the importance of incorporating spatial data for accurate LST prediction, with implications for environmental monitoring and management. Despite the advancements made, further research is needed to elucidate the specific mechanisms through which spatial information improves model performance, suggesting avenues for future investigation and refinement of modeling methodologies. At the intersection of rapid urban growth and environmental conservation, these findings are poised to inform policymakers, urban planners, and researchers, guiding them towards innovative and sustainable urban development strategies aimed at mitigating the adverse impacts of rapid urban expansion while promoting ecosystem well-being. The study contributes to spatial modeling strategies and refines LST prediction methodologies, offering valuable insights for addressing the challenges posed by urbanization and climate change in rapidly urbanizing regions.

The correlation between coagulation biomarkers, bone turnover markers, and bone mineral density in Chinese adults aged ≥ 50 years

IntroductionOsteoporosis patients undergoing surgery often have significant bleeding, which is closely related to coagulation function. This study aimed to assess the correlation between bone turnover markers (BTMs), bone mineral density (BMD), and coagulation biomarkers.Material and methodsCases meeting the inclusion criteria were included from our center from January 2020 to December 2021. The relationships between coagulation biomarkers, BTMs, and BMD were investigated by Spearman correlation analysis and canonical correlation analysis (CCA). Consequently, age, bone mass stage, 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-(OH)D), and BMD were included as independent variables in the logistic regression model. Furthermore, the international normalized ratio (INR), fibrinogen, platelets, and D-dimer levels were set as dependent variables in the regression analysis. Finally, multivariable regressions were conducted to adjust for differences in demographics and comorbidities among groups.ResultsA total of 306 patients were included in the study. Significant differences were observed in prothrombin time, fibrinogen, INR, D-dimer, and platelets (p < 0.05). D-dimer exhibited the most significant positive association with age and the most pronounced negative correlation with the BMD of Ward’s triangle (r = 0.322, p < 0.001; r = –0.298, p < 0.001; respectively). 25-(OH)D and calcium were related to coagulation biomarkers. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that age was positively associated with D-dimer levels (odd ratio [OR] = 1.046, p = 0.007), while the BMD of Ward’s triangle was negatively related to D-dimer levels (OR = 0.004, p = 0.0017).ConclusionsFor the Chinese population aged 50 and above, attention should be paid to alterations in coagulation biomarkers.

Spatio-Temporal Relationship between Land Use Carbon Emissions and Ecosystem Service Value in Guanzhong, China

In the context of escalating global concerns for “carbon neutrality and peak carbon” and the urgent need for ecological conservation, deciphering the spatiotemporal interactions between carbon emissions and the ecosystem service value (ESV) in relation to land use changes becomes critically significant. Identifying areas to bolster ecosystem services and curtail carbon emissions, especially within the Guanzhong urban agglomeration, is crucial for advancing sustainable and low-carbon regional development. The study focuses on the urban agglomeration of Guanzhong, using land use and socio-economic data from three periods between 2010 and 2020. Methods such as grid analysis and bivariate spatial autocorrelation models are employed to explore the temporal and spatial evolution characteristics and interaction patterns of carbon emissions and ESV in relation to land use. The findings reveal: (1) during 2010–2020, the Guanzhong urban agglomeration experienced varied transitions in land use types, marked by a significant net decrease in arable land and net increases in grasslands and urban construction areas. (2) The ESV in the Guanzhong urban agglomeration witnessed a consistent rise, exhibiting a spatial distribution pattern with higher values in the southwest and lower in the northeast. Among the categorized ecosystem service functions, services related to hydrological and climate regulation stood out. (3) The Guanzhong urban agglomeration observed an average annual growth rate of 5.03% in carbon emissions due to land use, with a spatial trend that was higher in the center and tapered towards the periphery. Predominant carbon sources included arable lands and urban construction areas, while forests accounted for 94% of carbon sequestration. (4) A pronounced negative correlation between the ESV and carbon emissions was discerned in Guanzhong. Regions with a stronger correlation were primarily centered in Guanzhong, notably around Xi’an and Baoji. The results emphasize the pivotal role of the primary sector’s qualitative development in harmonizing the ESV and carbon emission dynamics in the Guanzhong urban agglomeration. This research provides valuable insights for optimizing land resource management, aligned with the rural revitalization strategy, streamlining carbon dynamics, bolstering ESV, augmenting carbon sequestration efficiency, and guiding ecological spatial planning.

The Siberian Storm Track Weakens the Warm Arctic–Cold Eurasia Pattern

Abstract With a particular focus on the Siberian storm track, this study provides new insights into variations in the warm Arctic–cold Eurasia (WACE) temperature anomaly pattern by using reanalysis data. The results show that the Siberian storm track has a significant out-of-phase relationship with both the WACE pattern and Ural blocking on the interannual time scale. The strengthened WACE pattern can weaken the Siberian storm track through a suppression of the low-level atmospheric baroclinicity over midlatitude Eurasia. The weakened Siberian storm track can contribute to the WACE pattern through feedback forcing from synoptic-scale eddies, which can also create favorable conditions for the development of Ural blocking. Composite temporal evolution reveals that the strongest cold Arctic–warm Eurasia pattern is preceded by the peak of the Siberian storm track. The Ural cyclonic circulation reaches its maximum amplitude on the peak day of the Siberian storm track strength and continues to persist for one day with the maximum amplitude due to the feedback forcing resulting from the Siberian storm track. On the intraseasonal time scale, the occurrence of the Siberian storm track activity can serve as an early indication of the diminished Ural blocking and WACE pattern. Significance Statement Because of the high impacts of the warm Arctic–cold Eurasia (WACE) pattern on public safety, socioeconomic development, and the economy, it is crucial to enhance our understanding of variations in the WACE pattern. This paper specifically investigates the impact of internal atmospheric variability on the WACE pattern, focusing on a pronounced negative correlation between the Siberian storm track and the WACE pattern. Daily composites also reveal that Siberian storm track activities can promote a strong cold Arctic–warm Eurasia pattern by maintaining the strength of the quasi-stationary Ural cyclonic circulation. As such, paying close attention to Siberian storm track activities may hold the promise to improve the prediction of the strength of the WACE pattern.

Laboratory investigation on the properties of warm mixing-recycled asphalt containing waste oil and plastics

ABSTRACT The integration of warm-mix and regeneration technologies is gaining momentum due to its dual advantages: enhancing the utilization of recycled asphalt and promoting environmental sustainability. In this study, these technologies by leveraging waste materials were synergized. Specifically, kitchen waste oil underwent chemical treatment to serve as a rejuvenator, while waste low-density polyethylene was transformed into pyrolysis wax, a beneficial additive for the asphalt mix. Utilizing these waste components, a sustainable warm mixing-recycled asphalt blend was formulated. This blend’s efficacy was meticulously evaluated through viscosity tests, rheological assessments, four-component analyses, and FT-IR evaluations. Optimal results emerged when incorporating 5% waste pyrolysis wax and 3.3% waste oil into warm recycled asphalt, notably improving viscosity reduction, high-temperature performance, rutting resistance, and fatigue life at 25 °C. Moreover, the four-component test shows the component of aged asphalt after adding the optimal combination is basically consistent with that of the neat asphalt. Importantly, FT-IR tests affirmed that pyrolysis wax bolstered the blend’s oxidation resistance. Through gray correlation analysis, we deduced that asphalt’s component changes are intricately linked with rheological property variations. Notably, the carbonyl index exhibited a pronounced negative correlation with rutting and fatigue life.

Elevation-Dependent Contribution of the Response and Sensitivity of Vegetation Greenness to Hydrothermal Conditions on the Grasslands of Tibet Plateau from 2000 to 2021

The interrelation between grassland vegetation greenness and hydrothermal conditions on the Tibetan Plateau demonstrates a significant correlation. However, understanding the spatial patterns and the degree of this correlation, especially in relation to minimum and maximum air temperatures across various vertical gradient zones of the Plateau, necessitates further examination. Utilizing the normalized difference phenology index (NDPI) and considering four distinct hydrothermal conditions (minimum, maximum, mean temperature, and precipitation) during the growing season, an analysis was conducted on the correlation of NDPI with hydrothermal conditions across plateau elevations from 2000 to 2021. Results indicate that the correlation between vegetation greenness and hydrothermal conditions on the Tibetan Plateau grasslands is spatially varied. There is a pronounced negative correlation of greenness to maximum temperature and precipitation in the northeastern plateau, while areas exhibit stronger positive correlations to mean temperature. Additionally, as elevation increases, the positive correlation and sensitivity of alpine grassland vegetation greenness to minimum temperature significantly intensify, contrary to the effects observed with maximum temperature. The correlations between greenness and mean temperature in relation to elevational changes primarily exhibit a unimodal pattern across the Tibetan Plateau. These findings emphasize that the correlation and sensitivity of grassland vegetation greenness to hydrothermal conditions are both elevation-dependent and spatially distinct.

Better Life's Essential 8 contributes to slowing the biological aging process: a cross-sectional study based on NHANES 2007-2010 data.

To investigate the relationship between Life's Essential 8 (LE8) and Phenotypic Age Acceleration (PhenoAgeAccel) in United States adults and to explore the impact of LE8 on phenotypic biological aging, thereby providing references for public health policies and health education. Utilizing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted between 2007 and 2010, this cross-sectional study analyzed 7,339 adults aged 20 and above. Comprehensive assessments of LE8, PhenoAgeAccel, and research covariates were achieved through the integration of Demographics Data, Dietary Data, Laboratory Data, and Questionnaire Data derived from NHANES. Weighted generalized linear regression models and restricted cubic spline plots were employed to analyze the linear and non-linear associations between LE8 and PhenoAgeAccel, along with gender subgroup analysis and interaction effect testing. (1) Dividing the 2007-2010 NHANES cohort into quartiles based on LE8 unveiled significant disparities in age, gender, race, body mass index, education level, marital status, poverty-income ratio, smoking and drinking statuses, diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, phenotypic age, PhenoAgeAccel, and various biological markers (p < 0.05). Mean cell volume demonstrated no intergroup differences (p > 0.05). (2) The generalized linear regression weighted models revealed a more pronounced negative correlation between higher quartiles of LE8 (Q2, Q3, and Q4) and PhenoAgeAccel compared to the lowest LE8 quartile in both crude and fully adjusted models (p < 0.05). This trend was statistically significant (p < 0.001) in the full adjustment model. Gender subgroup analysis within the fully adjusted models exhibited a significant negative relationship between LE8 and PhenoAgeAccel in both male and female participants, with trend tests demonstrating significant results (p < 0.001 for males and p = 0.001 for females). (3) Restricted cubic spline (RCS) plots elucidated no significant non-linear trends between LE8 and PhenoAgeAccel overall and in gender subgroups (p for non-linear > 0.05). (4) Interaction effect tests denoted no interaction effects between the studied stratified variables such as age, gender, race, education level, and marital status on the relationship between LE8 and PhenoAgeAccel (p for interaction > 0.05). However, body mass index and diabetes manifested interaction effects (p for interaction < 0.05), suggesting that the influence of LE8 on PhenoAgeAccel might vary depending on an individual's BMI and diabetes status. This study, based on NHANES data from 2007-2010, has revealed a significant negative correlation between LE8 and PhenoAgeAccel, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle in slowing down the biological aging process. Despite the limitations posed by the study's design and geographical constraints, these findings provide a scientific basis for the development of public health policies focused on healthy lifestyle practices. Future research should further investigate the causal mechanisms underlying the relationship between LE8 and PhenoAgeAccel and consider cross-cultural comparisons to enhance our understanding of healthy aging.

Temporal and spatial variation characteristics of major air pollutants in Shanghai from 2019 to 2022

To inlustrate the spatio-temporal distribution and trends of six major air pollutants (PM2.5, PM10, O3, NO2, SO2, and CO), a comprehensive analysis of atmospheric pollution data in Shanghai from 2019 to 2022 was conducted. The results showed that all the six air pollutant except O3, decreased yearly, with PM2.5 experiencing a roughly 24.3% decrease and NO2 showing a reduction of approximately 35.8% from 2019 to 2022. However, O3 concentrations exhibited a significant increase in 2022, rising by 13.1% compared to 2021. Seasonal variations indicate severe ozone pollution in summer and significant particulate matter pollution in autumn and winter. Spatial distribution characteristics highlight higher PM2.5 concentrations in the western regions of Shanghai compared to the eastern regions, possibly linked to predominant wind directions and pollutant source distribution. Correlation studies indicate a strong positive correlation between PM2.5 and PM10 in Shanghai’s atmosphere, while a pronounced negative correlation exists between O3 and NO2. In January 2022, prevailing airflow from the northeast, transported atmospheric pollutants and particulate matter southward, adversely elevating concentrations of PM2.5 and other pollutants for that month. In May 2022, airflow from both the east and southwest likely transported O3 and its precursors from diverse sources to Shanghai, aiding in explaining the elevated O3 concentration during that month.

Цитокиновый профиль интраокулярных жидкостей в прогнозировании макулярного отека при хирургическом лечении регматогенной отслойки сетчатки

Purpose. Based on the study of cytokines content in the vitreous body and subsilicone fluid (SSF), to evaluate risk factors for the development of macular edema in patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) after endovitreal surgery. Material and methods. An analysis of the treatment of 28 patients (28 eyes) with RRD complicated by PVR Sr type 1–4 involving the macular area was carried out. Patients underwent vitrectomy or vitrectomy combined with circumferential scleral indentation and silicone oil tamponade. During the initial intervention, the vitreous humor was collected, and upon completion of the silicone tamponade, the CVS was taken. In both obtained samples, the quantitative content of the following cytokines was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA): GIF1α, interleukins (IL) – 4, 6, 17, TGF-β1, VEGF and TNF-α. Besides standard ophthalmological examination, all patients underwent optical coherence tomography in the postoperative period with assessment of the thickness and volume of the macular retinal area. Results. Connection between the quantitative content of cytokines in the vitreous body and preoperative indices showed significant negative correlation between TNF-a content and the number of detached quadrants as well as between the «visual field on the sum of 8 meridians» index and VEGF content. The values of TNF-αquantitative content had a pronounced negative correlation with the index «visual field on the sum of 8 meridians» after surgery, and positive correlation with the time of silicon oil finding in the vitreous cavity and the number of detached quadrants before treatment. We also found that IL-6 content had a significant positive correlation with the thickness of the central retinal zone and a negative correlation with the total visual field at the stage of treatment completion. The data obtained by comparing quantitative content of cytokines in CSF in patients with and without macular edema showed a statistically significant positive correlation between the risk of macular edema and content of IL-6, as well as TNF-α. Conclusion. Significant correlations were determined between the risks of macular edema and cytokines concentration in subsilicon-oil fluid that have proinflammatory properties (TNF-αand IL-6). Quantitative TNF-αcontent in sub-silicone fluid has a direct correlation with the time of silicone oil presence in the vitreous cavity, which may determine early completion of tamponade. Quantitative content of the cytokines studied in the vitreous body cannot be a predictor of macular edema development in the postoperative period. Key words: cytokine profile, regmatogenous retinal detachment, subsilicone fluid, intraocular fluid, macular edema

Economic policy uncertainty and green innovation: Does corporate social responsibility matter?

This research examines the relationship between economic policy uncertainty and green innovation, highlighting the mediating effect of corporate social responsibility. The results indicate a pronounced negative correlation between the two, with firms reducing green efforts during periods of heightened policy uncertainty. However, higher corporate social responsibility ratings moderate this effect, highlighting firms' unwavering commitment to green initiatives in the face of uncertainty. The findings advocate for prudent policymaking and promotion of corporate social responsibility to support green efforts amidst fluctuating economic scenarios.

Zinc and cadmium isotopic constraints on metal sources of the Xitieshan Pb-Zn deposit, NW China

Over the past two decades, Zn-Cd isotopes in sphalerite have been employed to study ore formation processes, identify ore metal sources, and investigate post-ore metamorphism and deformation in metallic ore deposits. In this study, we examine the Zn-Cd isotope compositions of the Xitieshan intrusion-related carbonate-replacement Pb-Zn deposit situated in Qinghai Province, at the northern edge of the Tibet Plateau in Northwestern China. This deposit primarily contains two types of ore bodies, one embedded in marble and the other in schist. The ore body within the marble remains unaltered, while the sulfides in the schist exhibit distinct signs of metamorphism and deformation. Zn-Cd isotopes were analyzed in both the undeformed and the deformed sphalerite. The δ66Zn values (relative to JMC Lyon) ranged from 0.15 ‰ to 0.39 ‰ for the undeformed sphalerite and from 0.03 ‰ to 0.19 ‰ for the altered sphalerite. Likewise, the δ114/110Cd values (relative to NIST 3108) ranged from −0.10 ‰ to + 0.02 ‰ and −0.06 ‰ to −0.01 ‰, respectively. The undeformed sphalerite (Sp1) displayed a significant positive correlation between δ66Zn values and altitude, suggesting Rayleigh fractionation as a dominant factor. Conversely, the deformed sphalerite (Sp2) exhibited a pronounced negative correlation, possibly attributed to the involvement of sulfide melts during syntectonic remobilization. Additionally, we observed a decoupling of Cd isotopes from Zn isotopes, indicating a potential divergence in their sources. While the Zn in the deposit primarily originated from magmatic hydrothermal fluids, a minor fraction of the Cd might be derived from the surrounding carbonate rocks. For ore deposits that have undergone metamorphism and deformation, Cd isotopes might experience minimal or negligible fractionation during these processes, potentially preserving valuable information about the source characteristics. In contrast, Zn isotopes are more likely to undergo fractionation during metamorphism and deformation, which should be used with caution for tracing the metal sources.

Correlation Between COSMIC Rayn Intensity and Geomagnetic Activity Indices

This study conducts an extensive analysis to explore the correlation between the monthly average cosmic ray intensity (CRI) and indicators of geomagnetic activity, primarily focusing on the Ap and Kp indices. The study covers two distinct time intervals, 1996-2008 and 2009-2019. By analyzing the correlation between CRI and geomagnetic indices, we constructed linear graphs depicting their associations. The results consistently reveal a noticeable inverse correlation between monthly average CRI and the Ap index. Correlation coefficients were computed to quantify these relationships using established statistical methods. Between 1996 and 2008, a strong negative correlation of -0.89 was observed between CRI and the Ap index. Similarly, during 2009-2019, a significant negative correlation of -0.39 was noted. The monthly average CRI exhibited a negative correlation of -0.72 with the Kp index during 1996-2008, and a more pronounced negative correlation of -0.70 during 2009-2019. These findings underscore the intricate interplay between cosmic ray intensity and geomagnetic activity, offering insights into the broader understanding of space weather phenomenon

Associations of Arterial Stiffness and Bone Mineral Density in Postmenopausal Women

Aim. To study associations between arterial stiffness and bone mineral density in postmenopausal women.Material and methods. The intima-media thickness (IMT), the presence and number of atherosclerotic plaques (AP) were studied using duplex scanning. Pulse wave velocity (PWV), augmentation index (AI) were measured by applanation. The Bone mineral density (BMD) of the spine, hip neck (HN) and proximal hip (PH) was measured using double energy x-ray absorptiometry.Results. A significant correlation of PWV with age, duration of menopause was revealed, a more pronounced correlation was noted with blood pressure (BP), maximum IMT thickness. There was no significant correlation between PWV and BMD. AI showed a statistically significant but weak negative correlation with the HN (rs=0.12, p&lt;0.05); a more pronounced negative correlation was obtained for BMD (rs=0.16, p&lt;0.01). For indicators characterizing the degree of bone mass increased, there is a significant correlation with age (rs=-0.4, p&lt;0.01), weight (rs=0.4, p&lt;0.01), Quetelet index (rs=0.3, p&lt;0.01) and the presence of AP (rs=-0.12, p&lt;0.05). According to the results of multivariate regression analysis, the most significant predictors of arterial stiffness were indicators reflecting obesity and diastolic BP. The relationship between BMD and age-adjusted vascular stiffness was not statistically significant.Conclusion. In our study, postmenopausal women have increased arterial stiffness, suggesting a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. The relationship between bone mineral density and vascular wall stiffness was insignificant. To a greater extent, arterial stiffness depended on age, increased blood pressure, and the presence of atherosclerotic changes.