Continuous Trend Research Articles

Dynamic QTc interval changes observed in real-world patients with implanted insertable cardiac monitors taking class III antiarrhythmic drugs

Abstract Background QT prolongation can lead to sustained ventricular arrhythmias . Class III Antiarrhythmic drugs (AAD) are known to cause QT prolongation. Insertable cardiac monitors (ICM) have the capability to continuously monitor and detect dynamic changes in QT. Purpose To investigate the characteristics of QTc interval changes before and after antiarrhythmic drug loading in real-world ICM patients administered with Sotalol, Amiodarone, and Dofetilide in hospital. Methods The QT detection algorithm detects the T-waves and determines the QTc intervals for every beat, thus providing continuous long-term QTc trends from ICM ECG. Real-world patients from de-identified Electronic Health Record (EHR) database linked with ICM device data warehouse with implanted ICM being administered sotalol, amiodarone or dofetilide AAD for the first time in the hospital were analyzed. The patients were broken down into groups based on the AAD taken. Patients not taking AAD were selected as control. QTc intervals 7-days pre and post administered AAD are reported, and a random 14-day period was used for control patients. The paired difference in median QTc 7 days pre and post administered AAD were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed rank test. The Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used to analyze QTc between the different groups. Results A total of 487 patients with ICM were included in this analysis: 56 sotalol patients (avg. age: 67±10 years, 50% male), 100 amiodarone patients (avg. age: 72±10 years, 50% male), 52 dofetilide patients (avg. age: 66±12 years, 50% male), and 248 control patients (avg. age: 70±13 years, 50% male). Sotalol, amiodarone, and dofetilide patients showed significant increase in QTc 1-7 days post AAD compared to 1-7 days pre AAD (figure 1). For sotalol (post AAD median[IQR] = 426.5[408.8,446.6] msec, pre AAD median[IQR] = 415.9[391,437.3] msec, p=0.004); Dofetilide (post median[IQR] = 432.4[413,458.7] msec; pre median[IQR] = 409.3[397.5,435.2] msec, p<0.001); Amiodarone (post median[IQR] = 426.3[400.9,449] msec, pre median[IQR] = 415.5[397.5,435.2] msec, p = 0.037). The QTc 1-7 days pre AAD compared to 1-7 days post AAD for control patients was insignificant p>0.05. The median change in QTc 1-7 days post AAD from 1-7 days pre AAD was 13.0, 7.5, 21.25 and -1.0 msec for sotalol, amiodarone, dofetilide, and control patients respectively (figure 2). Dofetilide patients had a significantly higher change in QTc compared to the amiodarone patients, p=0.018. QTc for all three AAD groups when compared to control group post AAD were significantly higher, p<0.001. QTc was also higher pre AAD compared to control, p=0.003, p<0.001, p=0.009 for sotalol, amiodarone, and dofetilide respectively. Conclusions There is a significant increase in QTc detected by ICM in patients receiving index drug loading of Sotalol, amiodarone and dofetilide. QTc monitoring via ICM can detect these dynamic changes in QTc allowing for early intervention.Figure 1Figure 2

Temporal trends of thyroid cancer in China and globally from 1990 to 2021: an analysis of the global burden of Disease Study 2021

The incidence of thyroid cancer (TC) is increasing annually worldwide, with a growing burden. This study aims to analyze temporal trends in the burden of TC by age and sex in China and globally from 1990 to 2021, including incidence, prevalence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) rates, and to predict future trends. We obtained data on TC in China and globally from 1990 to 2021 from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) database. Using the Joinpoint regression model, we calculated and analyzed the trends in age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR), age-standardized prevalence rate (ASPR), age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR), and age-standardized DALYs rate (ASDR). Specifically, we estimated the annual percent change (APC), the average annual percent change (AAPC), and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) for each metric. Additionally, we conducted a decomposition analysis to investigate the impact of aging, population growth, and epidemiological factors on the incidence and mortality rates of TC. Furthermore, the autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model was employed to predict the burden of TC from 2022 to 2036. From 1990 to 2021, the ASIR for TC in China increased from 1.249 (95% uncertainty interval [UI]: 1.009–1.473) per 100,000 to 2.473 (95% UI: 1.993–3.088) per 100,000. Conversely, the ASMR decreased from 0.473 (95% UI: 0.403–0.550) per 100,000 to 0.387 (95% UI: 0.307–0.472) per 100,000. Both males and females demonstrated an upward trajectory in ASIR. However, while the ASMR for females decreased, that for males showed an overall increase despite a decline in the last decade. The age of peak onset for TC ranged from 30 to 79 years, whereas the age of peak mortality was between 50 and 89 years. The analysis using the AAPC indicates that the growth in the ASIR (AAPC = 2.242, 95% CI: 2.112–2.371) and ASPR (AAPC = 2.975, 95% CI: 2.833–3.117) in China exceeds the global rate. Furthermore, the reduction in ASMR (AAPC = -0.651, 95% CI: -0.824 - -0.479) and ASDR (AAPC = -0.590, 95% CI: -0.787 - -0.392) in China is also more pronounced than globally. Decomposition analysis indicates that the increasing TC burden in China is primarily driven by population aging, whereas globally, population growth plays a more significant role. Projections based on predictive models suggest that from 2021 to 2036, the ASIR for both China and the global population is expected to continue rising, while the ASMR is anticipated to decline further. The incidence rates of TC in China and globally have shown a continuous upward trend, which is expected to persist over the next 15 years. Additionally, although the number of male TC cases is relatively lower compared to females, the overall ASMR and ASDR for males have shown an upward trend, despite a slight decline in recent years. This highlights the need to enhance prevention, diagnosis, and treatment measures, and to develop differentiated screening and treatment strategies based on age and sex.

Exploring the spatiotemporal trends and influencing factors of human settlement suitability in Hunan province traditional villages

The conservation and sustainable development of traditional villages have raised global attention in the context of rapid urbanization and modernization. Taking 703 traditional villages in Hunan Province as an example, this study first constructed a Traditional Village Human Settlement Suitability (TVHSS) evaluation system based on the Pressure-State-Response (PSR) model. Then, the entropy weighting method was used to assess the spatiotemporal evolution of TVHSS from 2005 to 2020, while the Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) model was employed to analyze the influencing factors. The results indicate that the overall TVHSS score increased from 0.521 to 0.776 from 2005 to 2020, with a spatial distribution characterized by lower suitability in the northwest and higher suitability in the southeast. During this period, the pressure subsystem experienced an increase, peaking at 0.058 in 2015 before declining to 0.055 in 2020. Meanwhile, the state subsystem remained relatively stable, with scores slightly decreasing from 0.040 in 2005 to 0.033 in 2020. In contrast, the response subsystem showed a continuous upward trend, rising from 0.430 in 2005 to 0.688 in 2020. The distance to educational institutions, degree of relief, distance to water, and distance on intangible cultural heritage sites have the highest effects on TVHSS. These findings provide a scientific basis for the conservation and sustainable development of traditional villages and offer a replicable analytical framework for similar contexts globally. By addressing the complex interactions between environmental, social, and economic factors, this study contributes to the global discourse on rural sustainability, offering insights that can inform policy-making and guide the preservation of cultural heritage in the face of modernization pressures.

Developmental trajectories and heterogeneity of social engagement among Chinese older adults: a growth mixture model

BackgroundSocial engagement is closely related to well-being among older adults. However, studies on the changing trajectory and influencing factors (especially time-varying factors) of social engagement are limited. This study aimed to examine the social engagement trajectory of older Chinese adults and explore its time-fixed and time-varying factors, thus providing evidence for the development of strategies to promote a rational implementation for healthy aging.MethodsThis study included 2,195 participants from a subset of four surveys from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey conducted from 2008 to 2018 (with the latest survey completed in 2018), with follow-ups conducted approximately every three years. Growth mixture modeling was used to explore the social engagement trajectory of older adults and the effects of time-varying variables. In addition, multinomial logistic regression was employed to analyze the association between time-fixed variables and latent classes.ResultsThree distinct trajectories of social engagement among older adults in China were identified: slow declining (n = 204; 9.3%), which meant social engagement score decreased continuously, but social engagement level improved; slow rising (n = 1,039; 47.3%), marked by an increased score of social engagement, but with an depressed engagement level; and middle stabilizing (n = 952; 43.4%), which meant social engagement score and engagement level remained quite stable. A time-fixed analysis indicated that age, marital status, educational level, and annual family income had a significant impact on social engagement (P < 0.05). In contrast, the time-varying analysis showed that a decline in functional ability, insufficient exercise (means no exercise at present), deteriorating self-reported health and quality of life, negative mood, monotonous diet, and reduced community services were closely related to the reduction in social engagement levels (P < 0.05).ConclusionThree trends were observed at the social engagement level. Older adults with initially high levels of social engagement exhibited a continuous upward trend, whereas those with initially low levels experienced a decline in their social engagement, and those with initially intermediate levels remained quite stable. Considering the primary heterogeneous factors, it is imperative for governments to enhance basic services and prioritize the well-being of older adults. Additionally, families should diligently monitor the emotional well-being of older adults and make appropriate arrangements for meals.

In‐use dissipation of technology‐critical elements from vehicles and renewable energy technologies in Vienna, Austria: A public health matter?

AbstractThe rollout of electric vehicles and photovoltaic panels is essential to mitigate climate change. However, they depend on technology‐critical elements (TCEs), which can be harmful to human health and whose use is rapidly expanding, while recycling is lacking. While mining has received substantial attention, in‐use dissipation in urban areas has so far not been assessed, for example, corrosion and abrasion of vehicle components and weather‐related effects affecting thin‐film photovoltaic panels. Therefore, the question arises to which extent TCEs dissipate during use and which potential non‐occupational human health impacts could occur. We assessed the available information on urban in‐use dissipation and human health concerns and conducted exploratory modeling of in‐use technology stocks, in‐ and outflows, and in‐use dissipation of neodymium, dysprosium, lanthanum, praseodymium, cerium, gallium, germanium, and tellurium contained in 21 vehicle and renewable energy technologies, for Vienna, Austria. In prospective scenarios, TCE dynamics in a trend‐continuation vis à vis official city policy plans and a more ambitious transition scenario were then assessed. We find that electrifying the vehicle fleet without demand‐reduction is the main driver of TCE consumption, effectively doubling cumulative end‐of‐life outflows to 3,073 [2,452–3,966] t and cumulative in‐use dissipation to 9.3 [5.2–15.7] t by the year 2060. Sufficiency‐based measures could reduce demand and in‐use dissipation well below levels with continued trends, thus highlighting the need to combine decarbonization with demand‐reducing measures. These results help assess potential future in‐use dissipation dynamics and inform discussions about potential public health hazards associated with exposure to TCEs accumulating in the urban environment.

Mangroves Invaded by Spartina alterniflora Loisel: A Remote Sensing-Based Comparison for Two Protected Areas in China

Mangroves are one of the world’s most productive and ecologically important ecosystems, and they are threatened by the widespread invasion of Spartina alterniflora Loisel in China. As few studies have examined the spatial pattern differences of S. alterniflora invasion and the nearby mangroves in different latitudes, we chose the Zhangjiang Estuary and the Dandou Sea, two representative mangrove–salt marsh ecotones in the north and south of the Tropic of Cancer, as the study areas for comparison. The object-based image analysis and visual interpretation methods were combined to construct fine-scale mangrove and S. alterniflora maps using high-resolution satellite imagery from 2005 to 2019. We applied spatial analysis, centroid migration, and landscape indexes to analyze the spatio–temporal distribution changes of mangroves and S. alterniflora in these two ecotones over time. We used the landscape expansion index to investigate the S. alterniflora invasion process and expansion patterns. The annual change rates of mangrove and S. alterniflora areas in the Zhangjiang Estuary showed a continuous growth trend. However, the mangrove areas in the Dandou Sea showed a fluctuating trend of increasing, decreasing, and then increasing again, while S. alterniflora areas kept rising from 2005 to 2019. Spartina alterniflora showed larger annual change rates compared with mangroves, indicating rapid S. alterniflora invasion in the intertidal zones. The opposite centroid migration directions of mangroves and S. alterniflora and the decreasing distances between the mangrove and S. alterniflora centroids indirectly revealed the fierce competition between mangroves and S. alterniflora for habitat resources. Both regions saw a decrease in mangrove patch integrality and connectivity. The integrality of mangrove patches in the Zhangjiang Estuary was always higher than those in the Dandou Sea. We observed the growth stage (2011–2014) and outbreak stage (2014–2019) of S. alterniflora expansion in the Zhangjiang Estuary and the outbreak stage (2005–2009) and plateau stage (2009–2019) of S. alterniflora expansion in the Dandou Sea. The expansion pattern of S. alterniflora varies in time and place. Since the expansion of S. alterniflora in the outbreak stage is rapid, with a large annual change rate, early warning of S. alterniflora invasion is quite important for the efficient and economical removal of the invasive plant. Continuous and accurate monitoring of S. alterniflora is highly necessary and beneficial for the scientific management and sustainable development of coastal wetlands.

Spatiotemporal Evolution Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Industrial Carbon Emissions in the Yellow River Basin

Scientific assessment of industrial carbon emissions in the Yellow River Basin and identification of its influencing factors are of great importance for promoting green transformation, ecological protection, and high-quality development of the Yellow River Basin. Considering nine provinces in the Yellow River Basin as the research objects； using relevant data on industrial development and energy consumption in the Yellow River Basin from 2000 to 2019； and with the help of IPCC carbon emission measurement, spatial autocorrelation, and LMDI decomposition, the spatial and temporal evolution characteristics and influencing factors of carbon emissions from industries and industrial sectors in the Yellow River Basin were analyzed. Reasonable suggestions were put forward for reducing the carbon emissions from industries in the Yellow River Basin. The results showed that： ① From 2000 to 2019, industrial carbon emissions in the Yellow River Basin showed a fluctuating growth trend, with a decreasing growth rate. The spatial pattern changed from "low in the upstream and high in the middle and downstream" to "high and low value distribution," and the spatial difference gradually expanded. ② The high carbon industry was the most important source of industrial carbon emissions in the Yellow River Basin, accounting for 96.35% of the carbon emissions between the industries with a continuous growth trend, which was a significant difference. The middle and low carbon industry carbon emissions and the total proportion was low, showing different fluctuations； nine provinces and nine industrial industries had significant spatial variability. ③ Energy structure intensity, economic scale, and population scale promoted the increase in industrial carbon emissions in the Yellow River Basin and energy consumption intensity had an inhibitory effect on the increase in carbon emissions. The economic scale effect was positive and significant, which offset the negative effect of energy consumption intensity. Spatial variability was observed in the contribution value of the influence effect of the factors affecting the carbon emissions of the industry in nine provinces.

Urban Planning Perspective on Food Resilience Assessment and Practice in the Zhengzhou Metropolitan Area, China

This study aims to assess and analyze the urban food resilience of the Zhengzhou metropolitan area, proposing innovative assessment frameworks and methodologies. Utilizing a dual-level analysis approach that combines long-term planning impact analysis (2000–2020) with short-term resilience assessment (2018–2022), the study integrates public government data and Geographic Information System (GIS) data, employing spatial analysis, Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation techniques. Findings from 2000 to 2020 indicate that urban planning within the metropolitan area has significantly impacted the food system. Urbanization has led to reduced agricultural land, but improvements in infrastructure have enhanced the efficiency of the food supply chain. Woodland and grassland areas have remained relatively stable, providing an ecological buffer for the food system. Building on this, the short-term assessment from 2018 to 2022 reveals significant dynamic changes and a continuous improvement trend in food resilience, though there is still room for enhancement. Food supply chain management and emergency preparedness and management contributed the most to overall resilience. Notably, extreme events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the “7.20 Flood Disaster” prompted the adoption of innovative measures to enhance food resilience. The study develops a multidimensional theoretical framework and assessment system for urban food resilience, offering new perspectives and methods for understanding and enhancing urban food resilience. The results highlight the critical role of urban planning in enhancing food resilience, recommending the integration of the food system into comprehensive urban planning, strengthening regional collaboration, and enhancing public engagement. These findings provide an important basis for policymaking and practice aimed at improving the long-term adaptability and short-term recovery capabilities of urban food systems.

Real-world molecular testing patterns in primary advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer (pA/rEC) in the US.

395 Background: Targeted therapy can improve outcomes in women with pA/rEC, but real-world biomarker testing rates are unknown. This study estimated the real-world proportion of patients receiving biomarker testing (within ≤6 months of advanced/recurrent diagnosis) and characterized testing according to sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. Methods: We used the US Flatiron Health electronic health record–derived deidentified database. Records from 1/1/2013 to 8/31/2023 for women ≥18 years old with advanced/recurrent EC were searched to identify testing for DNA mismatch repair/microsatellite instability (MMR/MSI), HER2, and estrogen or progesterone receptors (ER/PR); a subsample dataset from 4/1/2013 to 11/30/2022 was analyzed for additional biomarkers. The subsample has information on additional biomarker testing and was used to evaluate the frequency of testing for these biomarkers. Testing rates were evaluated using descriptive statistics; characteristics associated with testing were identified by multivariate logistic regression. Results: Among persons meeting eligibility criteria (n=2982), the mean age was 65 years; the majority were non-Hispanic White (56%), had commercial insurance (79%), and received care in a community setting (73%). The subsample (n=509) had similar characteristics to the full cohort. Between 2013-2022, 73% (n=2165) of patients received testing for any biomarker. Testing rates for individual biomarkers are shown in the Table. From 2013 to 2021, testing increased for MMR/MSI (17% to 81%), ER/PR (45% to 62%), and HER2 (15% to 43%). The likelihood of testing was higher among patients with primary advanced EC (OR, 1.45; 95% CI, 1.03-2.06), endometrioid carcinoma histology (1.39; 1.01-1.93), commercial insurance (1.51; 1.18-1.93), at an academic facility (1.70; 1.37-2.11), and with no prior surgery (2.29; 1.83-2.86) relative to other attributes. Conclusions: Molecular testing has increased over time, indicating a continuous trend toward personalized treatment decisions. Several factors associated with an increased likelihood of biomarker testing were identified. Understanding these factors can inform approaches to increase access to molecular testing and increase testing rates. Biomarker testing rates, 2013-2022. Biomarker, n (%) 2013 2021 Overall MMR/MSI a 35 (15) 238 (80) 1604 (54) HER2 a 31 (14) 121 (41) 612 (21) ER/PR a 99 (43) 177 (59) 1465 (49) p53/ TP53 b 13 (36) 31 (74) 260 (51) TMB b 3 (8) 14 (33) 91 (18) CTNNB1 b 4 (11) 12 (29) 88 (17) ARID1A b 4 (11) 15 (36) 91 (18) CDK4/6 b 5 (14) 14 (33) 110 (22) POLE b 4 (11) 17 (40) 110 (22) ARID1A, AT-rich interactive domain-containing protein 1A; CDK4/6, cyclin-dependent kinases 4 and 6; CTNNB1, catenin beta-1; POLE, polymerase-epsilon; TMB, tumor mutation burden. a 2013, n=228; 2021, n=298; overall, n=2982. b Rates from subsample dataset (4/1/2013 to 11/30/2022); 2013, n=36; 2021, n=42; overall, n=509.

Należności publicznoprawne jako przedmiot egzekucji sądowej w Polsce i w Austrii

The paper presents results of benchmarking legal solutions adopted in Poland and in Austria with respect to methods of enforcing public-legal receivables. A starting point were the relationships between court and administrative enforcement in the Austrian system, indicating the parallel nature of both ways of claiming financial dues. In the next part of the study, the evolution of Polish regulations was presented in this regard. Initially, like in Austria, they established the equivalency of court and administrative enforcement proceedings, gradually including more and more deviations from this concept, until the complete separation of both proceedings, which took place finally in 2001, as a result of granting the right to carry out enforcement against real properties to administrative enforcement authorities. In the present legal system, public-legal receivables are subject to court enforcement in exceptional cases only, under a special regulation, but even in such instances the court mode of enforcement proceedings is not exclusive. This proves the existence in the Polish legislation of a continuous trend to separate court enforcement proceedings from administrative ones, attributing a predominant role in enforcement of public-legal receivables to the latter. Keywords: administrative enforcement, court enforcement, public-legal receivables, administrative enforcement title, Austrian enforcement law

Trends in Postpartum Hemorrhage Prevalence and Comorbidity Burden: Insights from the ENACT Network Aggregated Electronic Health Record Data.

The goal of this study was to assess trends in postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), its risk factors, and maternal comorbidity burden in the United States using aggregate data from the Evolve to Next-Gen Accrual to Clinical Trials (ENACT) network. This federated network employs interactive querying of electronic health record data repositories in academic medical centers nationwide. We conducted repeated annual cross-sectional analyses to evaluate PPH occurrence and comorbidities across various ethnoracial and sociodemographic groups, starting with a large cohort of 1,287,675 unique delivery hospitalizations collected from 22 ENACT sites between 2005 and 2022. During this time, there was a statistically significant increasing trend in the prevalence of PPH, rising from 5,634 to 10,504 PPH per 100,000 deliveries (P trend <0.001). Our findings revealed a continuous upward trend in PPH rates that remained consistent among women with ≥ 1 comorbid conditions (P trend <0.001) and those with ≥ 1 maternal risk factor (P trend <0.001). This result aligns with prior studies and extends beyond the time periods previously reported. Overall, Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander women had the highest PPH prevalence (~ 13%), followed by Asian (9.8%), American Indian or Alaska Native (8.9%), multirace (8.6%), Black or African American (8.4%) and White (7.4%) women. The top PPH risk factor identified was placenta previa or accreta, while the top comorbidity was antepartum hemorrhage / placental abruption. The most common cause of PPH, namely uterine atony, was prevalent in ENACT data. Our analysis highlights significant ethnoracial disparities and underscores the need for targeted preventative interventions.

Fluid overprints and mineralization of the Zhuguangshan granite-related U district in China: Recorded by cathodoluminescence textures and chemistry of quartz

Most high-grade U ores are mined from quartz veins hosted in granites. The veins formed at shallow depths during episodic hydrothermal activity, however, the evolution of multiple stage fluids is not well constrained. In this study, we collected 56 quartz samples from the world-class, granite-related, Zhuguangshan U district (>17,000 t U from seven deposits) in southern China. Their textures and compositions were analyzed using scanning electron microscope cathodoluminescence (SEM-CL, n = 98) and laser ablation-induction coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA–ICP–MS, n = 643). Four types of quartz were identified, including magmatic quartz, early hydrothermal euhedral quartz, ore stage hydrothermal quartz (U-rich), and late hydrothermal quartz. New quartz textures and chemical compositions show that the transition of early hydrothermal quartz from the magmatic to hydrothermal stages is discontinuous, unlike the continuous trend observed in most magmatic-hydrothermal systems. Ore stage quartz is CL dark (with a peak at 650 nm), occurs as rims on early barren quartz, and has high contents of Mn, Al, and Sb. Altered textures of magmatic quartz developed through fluid-rock reactions at low temperatures, while rimmed textures of hydrothermal quartz formed during subsequent late-stage U-bearing fluid events, which played a crucial role in U mineralization. Quartz in the Zhuguangshan U district has distinct features compared to other magmatic-hydrothermal systems that can guide exploration for high-grade ore in this, and perhaps other, granite-related U systems.

Molecular analysis of St. Augustinegrass cultivar mixtures composition over time and latitude

AbstractSt. Augustinegrass [Stenotaphrum secundatum (Walt.) Kuntze] is commonly planted in residential and commercial landscapes as a cultivar monoculture predisposing this lawn to pest invasion and high‐maintenance inputs. Researchers have suggested that increasing genetic diversity by growing cultivars in mixtures may increase turfgrass stress resilience. However, the stability and uniformity of those mixtures has not been studied. The present study was carried out to evaluate the stability of St. Augustinegrass cultivars mixtures over time and across three latitudes. The study was conducted in Citra and Fort Lauderdale, FL, and Jackson Springs, NC. Simple‐sequence repeats markers were used to genotype leaf samples of St. Augustinegrass cultivars planted in two‐ and four‐cultivar mixtures. Leaf samples were collected 1 and 3 years after establishment. In all locations, cultivar richness and evenness declined over time. Similarly, the relative abundance of the least persistent cultivars decreased approximately 50%–100% depending on cultivar and location. Differences in growth patterns among cultivars resulted in cultivar displacement and the predominance of a single cultivar. Cultivars that covered the ground faster or formed dense canopies early after establishment were dominant at the end of the study. Locally developed cultivars tended to be more dominant in their original latitude. The use of cultivar mixtures may help the identification of vigorous, competitive, and stress tolerant cultivars in turfgrass breeding programs. However, their commercial use remains challenging as if the patterns observed here for 3 years are representative of a continuous trend, and they do not persist over time.

Quantifying future carbon emissions uncertainties under stochastic modeling and Monte Carlo simulation: Insights for environmental policy consideration for the Belt and Road Initiative Region

This study critically examines future carbon (CO2) emissions in the Belt & Road Initiative (BRI) region, considering factors such as energy consumption, economic growth, population growth, and population density. The objective of this study is to identify critical areas of higher emissions, which require policy intervention capable of strengthening sustainability in the BRI compact. A combined approach of stochastic modeling and Monte Carlo simulations was employed, utilizing panel data from 45 countries in the BRI region from 1990 to 2021. Results confirm that emissions are higher in all scenarios in direct proportion to electric power consumption, population growth, and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth. In scenarios with high emissions, a continuous and significant upward trend in CO2 emissions was observe. The medium emissions scenario exhibited a more moderated rise in emissions, suggesting a balance between economic development and environmental considerations. Critical areas for future environmental policy-making resides in electric power consumption, population growth, and GDP growth. The study strongly recommends for a shift from the current focus on road and railway infrastructure to renewable energy infrastructure, green innovations and efficient technology transfer to member countries. Without this, the BRI region is likely to face increased emissions, posing significant challenges to future sustainable development and global environmental sustainability.

Mapping the research of mitochondria and Parkinson's disease: a bibliometric analysis.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a chronic, progressive neurodegenerative disorder primarily affecting the elderly. Relevant studies suggest a significant connection between the mitochondria and PD. Publications exploring this connection have steadily increased in recent years. This study employs a bibliometric approach to comprehensively analyze the current status and future directions of the research on mitochondria and PD. We retrieved data from the Web of Science database and used CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and "Bibliometrix" software to visually analyze various aspects of the research field. These aspects included the number of published papers, contributing countries and institutions, authors, publishing journals, cited references, and keywords. Our analysis identified a total of 3,291 publications involving 14,670 authors from 2,836 organizations across 78 countries. The publication volume exhibited a continuous upward trend from 1999 to 2023. The United States emerged as the leading force in this research area, contributing the highest number of high-quality publications. Notably, the United States collaborated extensively with Germany and the United Kingdom. The University of Pittsburgh stood out as the most prolific institution. Harvard University had the highest academic influence and closely cooperated with the University of Pittsburgh, Juntendo University, and McGill University. Dr. Hattori Nobutaka was identified as the most prolific author, while Dr. Youle, Richard J emerged as the most influential author based on the highest average citation frequency. The Journal of Neurochemistry was the most published journal. The most co-cited paper was titled "Hereditary early-onset Parkinson's disease caused by mutations in PINK1." The major keywords included oxidative stress, alpha-synuclein, pink1, mitophagy, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Mitofusin 2, ubiquitin, and mitochondrial quality control have been identified as new research hotspots in recent years. Mitochondria-PD research is experiencing a steady increase in activity, fueled by increasing close collaboration between countries and different institutions. However, there is a need to further strengthen collaboration and communication between developed and developing nations. Current research has focused on the specific mechanisms of mitochondrial dysfunction and their relationship with PD. Mitofusin 2, ubiquitin, and mitochondrial quality control are positioned to be the hotspots and future research directions.

PM2.5 exposure disparities persist despite strict vehicle emissions controls in California.

As policymakers increasingly focus on environmental justice, a key question is whether emissions reductions aimed at addressing air quality or climate change can also ameliorate persistent air pollution exposure disparities. We examine evidence from California's aggressive vehicle emissions control policy from 2000 to 2019. We find a 65% reduction in modeled statewide average exposure to PM2.5 from on-road vehicles, yet for people of color and overburdened community residents, relative exposure disparities increased. Light-duty vehicle emissions are the main driver of the exposure and exposure disparity, although smaller contributions from heavy-duty vehicles especially affect some overburdened groups. Our findings suggest that a continued trend of emissions reductions will likely reduce concentrations and absolute disparity but may not reduce relative disparities without greater attention to the systemic factors leading to this disparity.

Spatio-Temporal Diversification of per Capita Carbon Emissions in China: 2000–2020

Exploring the low-carbon transition in China can offer profound guidance for governments to develop relevant environmental policies and regulations within the context of the 2060 carbon neutrality target. Previous studies have extensively explored the promotion of low-carbon development in China, yet no studies have completely explained the mechanisms of the low-carbon transition in China from the perspective of per capita carbon emissions (PCEs). Based on the statistics and carbon emissions data of 367 prefecture level cities in China from 2000 to 2020, this study employed markov chain, kernel density analysis, hotspots analysis, and spatial regression models to reveal the spatiotemporal distribution patterns, future trends, and driving factors of PCEs in China. The results showed that China’s PCEs in 2000, 2010, and 2020 were 0.72 ton/persons, 1.72 ton/persons, and 1.91 ton/persons, respectively, exhibiting a continuous upward trend, with evident regional heterogeneity. PCEs in northern China and the eastern coastal region were higher than those of southern China and the central and southwestern regions. The PCEs in China showed obvious spatial clustering, with hot spots mainly concentrated in Inner Mongolia and Xinjiang, while cold spots were mainly in some provinces in southern China. The transition of PCEs in China exhibited a strong stability and a ‘club convergence’ phenomenon. A regression analysis revealed that the urbanization level and latitude had negative effects on PCEs, while the regional economic development level, average elevation, average slope, and longitude showed positive effects on PCEs. These findings have important implications for the promotion of the low-carbon transition and the effective achievement of the “dual carbon” goal.

The Impact of the Expansion and Contraction of China Cities on Carbon Emissions, 2002–2021, Evidence from Integrated Nighttime Light Data and City Attributes

Exploring the impact of urbanization on carbon emissions is crucial for formulating effective emission reduction policies. Using nighttime light data and attribute data from 68 Chinese cities (2002–2021), this paper develops an urban development evaluation system with the entropy method. The Lasso method is employed to select key factors affecting carbon emissions, and hierarchical regression models are utilized to analyze these factors across different city types. The results show the following: (1) The extraction of built-up areas using integrated nighttime light data yields an overall accuracy ranging from 70.90% to 98.87%, reflecting high precision. (2) Expanding cities have predominated over the past two decades, indicating a continued upward trend in urbanization in China. (3) Urban development is influenced by internal characteristics and geographic location: contracting cities are mainly inland heavy industrial centers, while expanding cities are located in economically advanced coastal regions. Additionally, it is also impacted by the growth of surrounding cities, exemplified by the imbalance between central cities and their peripheries within metropolitan areas. (4) The expansion of built-up areas is a significant factor affecting carbon emissions across all city types. For expanding cities, managing population growth and promoting tertiary sector development are recommended, while contracting cities should focus on judicious economic planning and virescence area protection.

Research on the coupling coordination of digital economy and urban green development in the Yangtze River Delta of China

Digital economy has become an important engine for promoting green development.The existing literature mainly analyzed the impact of digital economy on green development, but rarely examines the coordinated development relationship between the two. This study contributes to the literature by constructing a research framework for the coupling coordination of digital economy and urban green development, using entropy method, coupling coordination model, and spatial auto-correlation to examine the coordinated development relationship between the two.The results show that:(1) During the research period, the comprehensive level of digital economy and urban green development in the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) both showed an upward and consistent trend. The level of digital economy was significantly lower than that of green development, but the gap between the two continued to narrow. (2) The overall coupling coordination level between digital economy and green development in the 41 cities of YRD was relatively low but showing a continuous upward trend. It has undergone a transition from near imbalance to primary coordination, still with a long way to realize high-quality coordination. (3) The coupling coordination level of digital economy and urban green development in different regions of YRD showed spatial differences, the order from high to low was Shanghai, Zhejiang, Jiangsu and Anhui province respectively. (4) The coupling coordination of digital economy and urban green development in the YRD exhibited significant spatial positive correlation and spatial dependence characteristics. The research results can provide a new perspective to promote the positive interaction between green development and digital economy.

The Ecological Risks in Arid Zones from a Production–Living–Ecological Space Perspective: A Case Study of the Tuha Region in Xinjiang, China

The ecological and environmental problems of arid zones have become an urgent global concern. Current research on ecological risk is based mainly on the dominant functions of land use, with a primary focus on land use landscape projections and less consideration of potential risks to ecosystems, system resilience and interactions between nature and future sustainable development. In this study, a potential–connectivity–resilience ecological risk assessment model based on the SDGs was constructed using multisource data to spatially quantify indicators at the grid scale in the Turpan and Hami regions of Xinjiang, China. This model was used as a basis for studying ecological risk in arid zones from a production–living–ecological space (PLES) perspective. The results revealed that, during the period 2000–2020, PLESs in the Turpan and Hami regions presented significant spatial similarity, with an increasing trend in overall risk. The production space in the Turpan and Hami regions showed a parabolic trend of increasing and then decreasing, whereas the living space and ecological space in the Hami region showed continuous linear upward trends. The state of ecological security in the Turpan and Hami regions is gradually deteriorating, and comprehensive ecological protection and restoration measures are urgently needed to rationally allocate the structure and layout of the production-–living-–ecological space. The study of ecological risk from a PLES perspective not only helps in fully understanding the development trend of the arid zone; it also provides new ideas and methods for evaluating regional ecological environmental safety and scientific references for formulating regional sustainable development, ecological risk prevention and control and the rational allocation of resources.