Message from the New Editor-in-Chief

In this era,filled with challenges and opportunities,we pay tribute to the illustrious history of our esteemed journal,Biomedical and Environmental Sciences(BES),since its inception.In 1988,amid rapid socioeconomic development,China was taking nascent steps towards reform and opening-up with a heightened emphasis on environmental health hazards and increasing frequency of international academic exchanges.

Pushing the high-k scalability limit with a superparaelectric gate layer

To meet the expectation set by Moore’s law on transistors,the search for thickness-scalable high dielectric constant(k)gate layers has become an emergent research frontier.Previous investigations have failed to solve the“polarizability–scalability–insulation robustness”trilemma.In this work,we show that this trilemma can be solved by using a gate layer of a high k ferroelectric oxide in its superparaelectric(SPE)state.In the SPE,its polar order becomes local and is dispersed in an amorphous matrix with a crystalline size down to a few nanometers,leading to an excellent dimensional scalability and a good field-stability of the k value.As an example,a stable high k value(37±3)is shown in ultrathin SPE films of(Ba_(0.95),Sr_(0.05))(Zr_(0.2),Ti_(0.8))O_(3)deposited on LaNiO_(3)-buffered Pt/Ti/SiO_(2)/(100)Si down to a 4 nm thickness,leading to a small equivalent oxide thickness of~0.46 nm.The aforementioned characteristic microstructure endows the SPE film a high breakdown strength(~10.5 MV·cm^(−1)for the 4 nm film),and hence ensures a low leakage current for the operation of the complementary metal oxide semiconductor(CMOS)gate.Lastly,a high electrical fatigue resistance is displayed by the SPE films.These results reveal a great potential of superparaelectric materials as gate dielectrics in the next-generation microelectronics.

Experimental study on the mechanical properties and consolidation mechanism of microbial grouted backfill

Backfill mining technology is the practice of returning waste materials underground for both disposal and geotechnical stability,however,a challenge with current technologies is that they commonly require cement-based binders which have a relatively high environmental impact.Finding alternatives to cement-based binders can improve environmental performance and this paper proposes microbial grouted backfill(MGB)as a potential solution.In this paper,the effects of the cementation solution concentration(CSC),volume ratio of bacterial solution to cementation solution(VRBC),particle sizes of the aggregates,and the number of grouting batches on the mechanical properties of MGB are studied.The experimental results show that MGB strength increased,up to a peak value,as CSC was increased,before decreasing as CSC was increased further.The results also show that MGB strength increased,up to a peak value,as VRBC decreased,before decreasing as the VRBC was decreased further.The peak strength was achieved at a CSC of 2 mol/L and a VRBC of 1:9.The strength of the MGB also increased as the number of grouting batches increased.Graded MGB samples showed the highest UCS,25.12 MPa,at particle sizes of 0.2 to 0.8 mm,while full(non-graded)MGB samples displayed mean UCS values ranging from1.56 MPa when the maximum particle size was 0.2 mm,up to 13 MPa when the maximum particle size was 1.2 mm.MGB samples are consolidated by the calcium carbonate that is precipitated during microbial metabolism,and the strength of MGB increases linearly as calcium carbonate content increases.The calcium carbonate minerals produced in MGB materials are primarily calcite,with secondary amounts of vaterite.

Facilities for Centralized Isolation and Quarantine for the Observation and Treatment of Patients with COVID-19

The coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic increased the burden on many healthcare systems and in the process,exposed the need for medical resources and physical space.While few studies discussed the efficient utilization of medical resources and physical space so far.Therefore,this study aimed to summarize experiences related to facilities used for centralized isolation for medical observation and treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic in China and to provide suggestions to further improve the management of confirmed cases,suspected cases,and close contacts.In China,three types of facilities for centralized isolation(Fangcang shelter hospitals,refitted non-designated hospitals,and quarantine hotels)underwent retrofitting for the treatment and isolation of confirmed and suspected cases.These facilities mitigated the immediate high demand for space.Moreover,in order to minimize infection risks in these facilities,regulators and governmental agencies implemented new designs,management measures,and precautionary measures to minimize infection risk.Other countries and regions could refer to China’s experience in optimally allocating social resources in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.As a conclusion,government should allocate social resources and construct centralized isolation and quarantine facilities for an emergency response,health authorities should issue regulations for centralized isolation facilities and pay strict attention to the daily management of these facilities,a multidisciplinary administration team is required to support the daily operation of a centralized isolation facility,in-depth studies and international collaboration on the centralized isolation policy are encouraged.

Environmental health perspectives for low- and middle-income countries

In recent decades, the ecological environment has been increasingly challenged by the development of global industrialization and urbanization all over the world, even as global attention for health has raised dramatically. Common global environmental issues, such as air pollution and noise pollution, are associated with lasting impacts on health and contribute significantly to the overall burden of disease. Moreover, a global disparity exists between the burden of such environmental health issues and the global resources available to address this issue. To alleviate the environmental health impacts and ensure a sustainable future for human beings, China has made an important contribution to improving access to ecological protection, environmental governance, patriotic health campaigns, smart city construction, and so on. Experiences gained in China may be useful for some other countries, particularly the low- and middle-income countries with limited sources.

The Relationship Between Physical Activity and All-Cause Mortality Among Older Adults--China, 1998–2018

Summary What is already known about this topic?Previous research indicates that non-occupational physical activity can reduce mortality risk.Nevertheless,the relationship between occupational physical activity and health improvements has not been consistently established.What is added by this report?The study found that regular exercise and leisure activities reduced the risk of all-cause mortality.However,the combination of exercise and leisure activities demonstrated more substantial benefits.Additionally,no meaningful association was identified between physical work and mortality risk within the older population.

An overview for monitoring and prediction of pathogenic microorganisms in the atmosphere

Corona virus disease 2019(COVID-19)has exerted a profound adverse impact on human health.Studies have demonstrated that aerosol transmission is one of the major transmission routes of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2).Pathogenic microorganisms such as SARS-CoV-2 can survive in the air and cause widespread infection among people.Early monitoring of pathogenic microorganism transmission in the atmosphere and accurate epidemic prediction are the frontier guarantee for preventing large-scale epidemic outbreaks.Monitoring of pathogenic microorganisms in the air,especially in densely populated areas,may raise the possibility to detect viruses before people are widely infected and contain the epidemic at an earlier stage.The multi-scale coupled accurate epidemic prediction system can provide support for governments to analyze the epidemic situation,allocate health resources,and formulate epidemic response policies.This review first elaborates on the effects of the atmospheric environment on pathogenic microorganism transmission,which lays a theoretical foundation for the monitoring and prediction of epidemic development.Secondly,the monitoring technique development and the necessity of monitoring pathogenic microorganisms in the atmosphere are summarized and emphasized.Subsequently,this review introduces the major epidemic prediction methods and highlights the significance to realize a multi-scale coupled epidemic prediction system by strengthening the multidisciplinary cooperation of epidemiology,atmospheric sciences,environmental sciences,sociology,demography,etc.By summarizing the achievements and challenges in monitoring and prediction of pathogenic microorganism transmission in the atmosphere,this review proposes suggestions for epidemic response,namely,the establishment of an integrated monitoring and prediction platform for pathogenic microorganism transmission in the atmosphere.

Association of Thallium Exposure with Decreased Renal Function among Chinese Adults—China,2017-2018

Summary What is already known about this topic?Thallium(Tl)is significantly more toxic than heavy metals such as lead,cadmium,and mercury.However,previous studies examining the relationship between Tl exposure and the risk of chronic kidney disease(CKD)have yielded inconsistent results.What is added by this report?

Acute Effects of Exposure to Fine Particulate Matter and Its Constituents on Sex Hormone Among Postmenopausal Women — Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei PLADs, China, 2018–2019

What is already known on this topic?Exposure to fine particulate matter(PM_(2.5))was linked to endocrine hormone disruption in the reproductive system.Nonetheless,it was unclear which specific components of PM_(2.5) were primarily responsible for these associations.What is added by this report?The study presented the initial epidemiological evidence that brief exposure to PM_(2.5) can elevate estradiol levels in postmenopausal women.Various particle components had unique effects,with watersoluble ions and specific inorganic elements like Ag,As,Cd,Hg,Ni,Sb,Se,Sn,and Tl potentially playing significant roles in increasing estradiol levels.What are the implications for public health practice?The study established that the prevalence of air pollution,along with its specific components,has been recognized as a novel risk factor affecting the balance of sex hormones.

A Prospective Cohort Study of Antimony Exposure and Cognitive Impairment in Older Adults—China,2017–2021

What is already known about this topic?Antimony(Sb)has been identified as a new neurotoxicant that impacts neurological functions in animal studies.However,its effects on the human population remain unknown.What is added by this report?The study reveals that there is an association between exposure to Sb and a higher incidence of cognitive impairment in older adults.The dose-response curve demonstrates that the risk of cognitive impairment consistently increased with higher levels of Sb exposure without a discernible threshold.What are the implications for public health practice?Reducing exposure to Sb may have a beneficial effect in delaying or preventing the onset of cognitive impairment.This intervention has the potential to significantly decrease the disease burden associated with cognitive impairment,ultimately contributing to social development.

Ambient fine particulate matter and cardiopulmonary health risks in China

In China, the level of ambient fine particulate matter (PM_(2.5)) pollution far exceeds the air quality standards recommended by the World Health Organization. Moreover, the health effects of PM_(2.5) exposure have become a major public health issue. More than half of PM_(2.5)-related excess deaths are caused by cardiopulmonary disease, which has become a major health risk associated with PM_(2.5) pollution. In this review, we discussed the latest epidemiological advances relating to the health effects of PM_(2.5) on cardiopulmonary diseases in China, including studies relating to the effects of PM_(2.5) on mortality, morbidity, and risk factors for cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. These data provided important evidence to highlight the cardiopulmonary risk associated with PM_(2.5) across the world. In the future, further studies need to be carried out to investigate the specific relationship between the constituents and sources of PM_(2.5) and cardiopulmonary disease. These studies provided scientific evidence for precise reduction measurement of pollution sources and public health risks. It is also necessary to identify effective biomarkers and elucidate the biological mechanisms and pathways involved;this may help us to take steps to reduce PM_(2.5) pollution and reduce the incidence of cardiopulmonary disease.

The Standards for Drinking Water Quality of China(2022 Edition)Will Take Effect

Safe drinking water is a valuable public health resource that affects people’s livelihood and is essential for human health,making it an international concern for drinking water quality improvement.The Standards for Drinking Water Quality of China(China SDWQ)is a legal document approved and issued by the Standardization Administration of the People’s Republic of China that serves as a starting point for protecting public health and ensuring the quality of human life.There are three versions of China SDWQ,including the 1985 edition,2006 edition,and 2022 edition.China SDWQ(2022 edition)sets a wide variety of indices covering biological,chemical,physical,and other risk factors in drinking water.Additionally,it establishes management requirements for the entire water supply process,providing a technical basis and criteria for ensuring drinking water safety and a scientific basis for developing drinking water safety policies and proposing targeted public health protection measures.

Combating with extremely noisy samples in weakly supervised slot filling for automatic diagnosis

Slot filling,to extract entities for specific types of information(slot),is a vitally important modular of dialogue systems for automatic diagnosis.Doctor responses can be regarded as the weak supervision of patient queries.In this way,a large amount of weakly labeled data can be obtained from unlabeled diagnosis dialogue,alleviating the problem of costly and time-consuming data annotation.However,weakly labeled data suffers from extremely noisy samples.To alleviate the problem,we propose a simple and effective Co-WeakTeaching method.The method trains two slot filling models simultaneously.These two models learn from two different weakly labeled data,ensuring learning from two aspects.Then,one model utilizes selected weakly labeled data generated by the other,iteratively.The model,obtained by the Co-WeakTeaching on weakly labeled data,can be directly tested on testing data or sequentially fine-tuned on a small amount of human-annotated data.Experimental results on these two settings illustrate the effectiveness of the method with an increase of 8.03%and 14.74%in micro and macro f1 scores,respectively.

Associations Between Specific Diets, Dietary Diversity, and Cognitive Frailty in Older Adults — China, 2002–2018

Summary What is already known about this topic?The relationship between specific dietary patterns and dietary diversity with cognitive frailty continues to be a subject of ambiguity.What is added by this report?This research revealed that regular consumption of fruit,meat,bean products,garlic,and tea was connected to a decreased risk of cognitive frailty.Compared to participants with dietary diversity score(DDS)≤6 points,those with DDS of 9–10,11–12,and≥12 had a lower risk of cognitive frailty.

Addressing Environmental Health Challenges for Sustainable Development in China

On May 5,2023,the World Health Organization(WHO)declared that the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)no longer posed a public health emergency of international concern(1).As restrictions associated with the epidemic are relaxed and a fresh policy cycle commences,China’s economy is expected to serve as a key driver of global economic postpandemic recovery.

Population Attributable Fractions for Modifiable Factors of Longevity and Healthy Longevity Among the Late-Elderly Aged 75 Years or Older—China,1998-2018

Summary What is already known about this topic?Limited evidence on healthy longevity was provided in the world,and no studies investigated the fractions of healthy longevity attributed to modifiable factors.What is added by this report?Incidences of longevity and healthy longevity in China are provided.It reveals that the total weighted population attributable fractions for lifestyles and all modifiable factors were 32.8% and 83.7% for longevity,respectively,and 30.4% and 73.4% for healthy longevity,respectively.What are the implications for public health practice?China has a high potential for longevity and healthy longevity.Strategies may be targeted at education and residence in early life as well as healthy lifestyles,disease prevention,and functional optimization in late life.

Disparities of Heatwave-Related Preterm Birth in Climate Types—China,2012-2019

What is already known about this topic?An association between prenatal heatwave exposure and the risk of preterm birth was found.However,the disparities in heatwave-related preterm birth across different climate types have not been examined.What is added by this report?This nationwide case-crossover study investigated the association between heatwave exposure and preterm birth across different Köppen-Geiger climate types.Among pregnant women residing in the arid-desertcold climate type,exposure to compound heatwaves was found to be associated with a significantly higher risk of preterm birth{adjusted odds ratios(AORs)ranged from 1.55[95%confidence interval(CI):1.21-1.97]to 2.11(95%CI:1.35-3.31)}.In contrast,among pregnant women residing in the tropical monsoonal climate type,exposure to daytime-only heatwaves was associated with an increased risk of preterm birth[AORs ranged from 1.25(95%CI:1.03-1.51)to 1.37(95%CI:1.05-1.77)].

当前应对气候变化的力度决定未来中国的公众健康水平

越来越多的科学证据表明,气候变化会通过多条路径损害人群健康[1,2].气候变化对人群健康的直接影响包括高温暴露造成的生理疾病,增加呼吸道、心血管等非传染性疾病的发病率,以及干旱、洪水、风暴、野火等极端天气事件造成的伤亡等.气候变化也会通过影响生态系统,如粮食减产、增加气候敏感型传染病的传播,以及影响社会经济结构,如造成人口流离失所、气候移民和冲突等,间接危害人群健康.

Gut microbes in cardiovascular diseases and their potential therapeutic applications

Microbial ecosystem comprises a complex community in which bacteria interact with each other. The potential roles of the intestinal microbiome play in human health have gained considerable attention. The imbalance of gut microbial community has been looked to multiple chronic diseases. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are leading causes of morbidity worldwide and are influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Recent advances have provided scientific evidence that CVD may also be attributed to gut microbiome. In this review, we highlight the complex interplay between microbes, their metabolites, and the potential influence on the generation and development of CVDs. The therapeutic potential of using intestinal microbiomes to treat CVD is also discussed. It is quite possible that gut microbes may be used for clinical treatments of CVD in the near future.

PM_(2.5) exposure associated with microbiota gut-brain axis:Multi-omics mechanistic implications from the BAPE study

Recent studies have shown that PM_(2.5) may activate the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal(HPA)axis by inducing hormonal changes,potentially explaining the increase in neurological and cardiovascular risks.In addition,an association between PM_(2.5) and gut microbiota and metabolites was established.The above evidence represents crucial parts of the gut-brain axis(GBA).In view of this evidence.