Objective:Radical prostatectomy(RP)is considered the gold standard treatment for patients with localized prostate cancer(PCa).All patients undergoing RP,either open,laparoscopic,or robotic,are at risk of developing ur...Objective:Radical prostatectomy(RP)is considered the gold standard treatment for patients with localized prostate cancer(PCa).All patients undergoing RP,either open,laparoscopic,or robotic,are at risk of developing urinary incontinence after RP.Our study aimed to analyze possible predictors of early postoperative(within 3 months)urinary continence(UC)outcomes following extraperitoneal single-site robot-assisted RP(ss-RARP)for localized PCa.Methods:We retrospectively reviewed data from 113 patients with localized PCa who were operated on by a highly experienced surgeon between September 2022 and December 2023.Patient characteristics(age,body mass index,prostate volume,prostate dimensions,preoperative and postoperative membranous urethral length,and percentage of membranous urethra removed)were analyzed using logistic regression to determine the independent factors contributing to short-term UC recovery after extraperitoneal ss-RARP.From the time of urinary catheter removal after surgery,the recovery of UC was followed up every month,and UC was defined as using≤1 safety pad daily,known as social continence.Results:The proportions of continent patients immediately after urinary catheter removal,1 month,and 3 months after extraperitoneal ss-RARP were 22%,49%,and 82%,respectively.The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the percentage of membranous urethra removed(p=0.016)and prostate volume(p=0.049)were associated with social UC recovery immediately after urinary catheter removal,and craniocaudal dimension of the prostate(p=0.042)and age(p=0.014)were associated with social UC recovery 1 month and 3 months after extraperitoneal ss-RARP,respectively.Conclusion:The percentage of membranous urethra removed,prostate volume,craniocaudal dimension of the prostate,and age are independent risk factors for social UC early after extraperitoneal ss-RARP.展开更多
Objective:Bladder neck contracture and vesicourethral anastomotic stenosis are difficult to manage endoscopically,and open repair is associated with high rates of incontinence.In recent years,there have been increasin...Objective:Bladder neck contracture and vesicourethral anastomotic stenosis are difficult to manage endoscopically,and open repair is associated with high rates of incontinence.In recent years,there have been increasing reports of robotic-assisted bladder neck reconstruction in the literature.However,existing studies are small,heterogeneous case series.The objective of this study was to perform a systematic review of robotic-assisted bladder neck reconstruction to better evaluate patency and incontinence outcomes.Methods:We performed a systematic review of PubMed from first available date to May 2023 for all studies evaluating robotic-assisted reconstructive surgery of the bladder neck in adult men.Articles in non-English,author replies,editorials,pediatric-based studies,and reviews were excluded.Outcomes of interest were patency and incontinence rates,which were pooled when appropriate.Results:After identifying 158 articles on initial search,we included only ten studies that fit all aforementioned criteria for robotic-assisted bladder neck reconstruction.All were case series published from March 2018 to March 2022 ranging from six to 32 men,with the median follow-up of 5e23 months.A total of 119 patients were included in our analysis.A variety of etiologies and surgical techniques were described.Patency rates ranged from 50%to 100%,and pooled patency was 80%(95/119).De novo incontinence rates ranged from 0%to 33%,and pooled incontinence was 17%(8/47).Our findings were limited by small sample sizes,relatively short follow-ups,and heterogeneity between studies.展开更多
Pelvic floor muscle exercise(PFME)is the most common con servative manageme nt for urinary incon tine nee(Ul)after radical prostatectomy(RP).However,whether the PFME guided by a therapist(G-PFME)can contribute to the ...Pelvic floor muscle exercise(PFME)is the most common con servative manageme nt for urinary incon tine nee(Ul)after radical prostatectomy(RP).However,whether the PFME guided by a therapist(G-PFME)can contribute to the recovery of urinary continenee for patients after RP is still controversial.We performed this meta-analysis to investigate the effectiveness of G-PFME on Ul after RP and to explore whether the additional preoperative G-PFME is superior to postoperative G-PFME alone.Literature search was con ducted on Cochra ne Library,Embase,Web of Scie nee,and PubMed,to obtai n all re leva nt randomized controlled trials published before March 1,2018.Outcome data were pooled and an a lyzed with Review Man ager 5.3 to compare the conti nence rates of G-PFME with control and to compare additional preoperative G-PFME with postoperative G-PFME.Twenty-two articles with 2647 patients were included.The conti nence rates of G?PFME were all superior to con trol at d iff ere nt follow-up time points,with the odds ratio(OR)(95%confidence interval[Cl])of 2.79(1.53-5.07),2.80(1.87-4.19),2.93(1.19-7.22),4.11(2.24-7.55),and 2.41(1.33-4.36)at 1 mon th,3 months,4 months,6 months,and 12 months after surgery,respectively.However,there was no difference between additional preoperative G-PFME and postoperative G-PFME,with the OR(95%Cl)of 1.70(0.56-5.11)and 1.35(0.41-4.40)at 1 month and 3 months after RP,respectively.G-PFME could improve the recovery of urinary continence at both early and Iong-term stages.Starting the PFME preoperatively might not produce extra benefits for patients at early stage,compared with postoperative PFME.展开更多
Wound ostomy continence nurses(WOC nurses),developed as an important part of clinical nurse specialists play an indispensable role in the management of ostomy,all kinds of chronic wounds and incontinent dermatitis.How...Wound ostomy continence nurses(WOC nurses),developed as an important part of clinical nurse specialists play an indispensable role in the management of ostomy,all kinds of chronic wounds and incontinent dermatitis.However,there exists a gap compared with developed countries and regions.This paper provides an overview of WOC nurses in China including origin and development,training and accreditation system,roles,values and management,in order to provide references for the development of WOC nurses in China.展开更多
AIM:To investigate the role of anal cushions in hemorrhoidectomy and its effect on anal continence of the patients.METHODS:Seventy-six consecutive patients(33 men and 43 women) with a mean age of 44 years were include...AIM:To investigate the role of anal cushions in hemorrhoidectomy and its effect on anal continence of the patients.METHODS:Seventy-six consecutive patients(33 men and 43 women) with a mean age of 44 years were included.They underwent Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy because of symptomatic third-and fourth-degree hemorrhoids and failure in conservative treatment for years.Wexner score was recorded and liquid continence test was performed for each patient before and two months after operation using the techniques described in our previous work.The speed-constant rectal lavage apparatus was prepared in our laboratory.The device could output a pulsed and speed-constant saline stream with a high pressure,which is capable of overcoming any rectal resistance change.The patients were divided into three groups,group A(< 900 mL),group B(900-1200 mL) and group C(> 1200 mL) according to the results of the preoperative liquid continence test.RESULTS:All the patients completed the study.The average number of hemorrhoidal masses excised was 2.4.Most patients presented with hemorrhoidal symptoms for more than one year,including a mean duration of incontinence of 5.2 years.The most common symptoms before surgery were anal bleeding(n = 55),prolapsed lesion(n = 34),anal pain(n = 12) and constipation(n = 17).There were grade Ⅲ hemorrhoids in 39(51.3%) patients,and grade Ⅳ in 37(48.7%) patients according to Goligher classification.Five patients had experienced hemorrhoid surgery at least once.Compared with postoperative results,the retained volume in the preoperative liquid continence test was higher in 40 patients,lower in 27 patients,and similar in the other 9 patients.The overall preoperative retained volume in the liquid continence test was 1130.61 ± 78.35 mL,and postoperative volume was slightly decreased(991.27 ± 42.77 mL),but there was no significant difference(P = 0.057).Difference was significant in the test value before and after hemorrhoidectomy in group A(858.24 ± 32.01 mL vs 574.18 ± 60.28 mL,P = 0.011),but no obvious difference was noted in group B or group C.There was no significant difference in Wexner score before and after operation(1.68 ± 0.13 vs 2.10 ± 0.17,P = 0.064).By further stratified analysis,there was significant difference before and 2 months after operation in group A(2.71 ± 0.30 vs 3.58 ± 0.40,P = 0.003).In contrast,there were no significant differences in group B or group C(1.89 ± 0.15 vs 2.11 ± 0.19,P = 0.179;0.98 ± 0.11 vs 1.34 ± 0.19,P = 0.123).CONCLUSION:There is no difference in the continence status of patients before and after Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy.However,patients with preoperative compromised continence may have further deterioration of their continence,hence Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy should be avoided in such patients.展开更多
Penile prosthesis implant(PPI)remains an effective and safe treatment option for men with erectile dysfunction(ED).However,PPI surgery can be associated with a higher risk of complications in certain populations.This ...Penile prosthesis implant(PPI)remains an effective and safe treatment option for men with erectile dysfunction(ED).However,PPI surgery can be associated with a higher risk of complications in certain populations.This article provides a critical review of relevant publications pertaining to PPI in men with diabetes,significant corporal fibrosis,spinal cord injury,concurrent continence surgery,and complex salvage cases.The discussion of each category of special populations includes a brief review of the surgical challenges and a practical action-based set of recommendations.While specific patient populations posed considerable challenges in PPI surgery,strict pre-and postoperative management coupled with safe surgical practice is a prerequisite to achieving excellent clinical outcomes and high patient satisfaction rate.展开更多
Objective:To evaluate the efficacy and user satisfaction of the MAIA^(TM)telemedicine platform for postoperative telemonitoring and telerehabilitation in patients undergoing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy(RARP)....Objective:To evaluate the efficacy and user satisfaction of the MAIA^(TM)telemedicine platform for postoperative telemonitoring and telerehabilitation in patients undergoing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy(RARP).Methods:Patients undergoing RARP(from April 2022 to January 2023)were divided into Group A,following the standard rehabilitation protocol,and Group B using the MAIA^(TM)platform for the first 30-day post-intervention period.Perioperative,pathological,and functional variables(continence and potency rates,assessed via validated questionnaires)were collected and telerehabilitation protocol’s adherence was monitored.The telerehabilitation system included an online platform for medical providers and a patient application,facilitating data acquisition,management,treatment planning,and monitoring.Patient and provider satisfactionwere evaluated using the visual analogue scale score and validated telemedicine satisfaction questionnaire.Results:Totally,227 patients were enrolled.No differences in perioperative or pathological variables were found.Group B had higher potency recovery rates than Group A(p=0.031);the potency recovery rates at 1 month and 3 months for Group B were 45%and 57%,respectively,and in Group A were 34%and 48%,respectively.At the multivariate analysis,MAIA^(TM)use and the nerve-sparing(NS)were independent predictors of erectile function at both 1 month(MAIA^(TM)use:odd ratio[OR]2.03,95%confidence interval[CI]1.13-3.63,p=0.018;NS:OR 2.08,95%CI 1.06-4.12,p=0.034)and 3 months(MAIA^(TM)use:OR 1.89,95%CI 1.07-3.34,p=0.028;NS:OR 1.90;95%CI 1.02-3.54,p=0.044).Adherencemonitoring revealed 4.6%of patients in Group B reported exercise issues due to pelvic pain onset and 10%did not take oral phosphodiesterase 5-inhibitors due to myalgia.All those patients restarted the rehabilitation program after televisit to address the causing problem,allowing restarting of a rehabilitation program.Patients reported high satisfaction with the MAIA^(TM)platform use(mean visual analogue scale score:88.7).Conclusion:The MAIA^(TM)telemedicine platform seems to have a role in optimizing early potency recovery after RARP.Patient and provider satisfaction levels were high,emphasizing the user-friendliness of the platform.展开更多
Patients may present with anal incontinence(AI)following repair of a congenital anorectal anomaly years previously,or require total anorectal reconstruction(TAR)following radical rectal extirpation,most commonly for r...Patients may present with anal incontinence(AI)following repair of a congenital anorectal anomaly years previously,or require total anorectal reconstruction(TAR)following radical rectal extirpation,most commonly for rectal cancer.Others may require removal of their colostomy following sphincter excision for Fournier’s gangrene,or in cases of severe perineal trauma.Most of the data pertaining to antegrade continence enema(the ACE or Malone procedure)comes from the pediatric literature in the management of children with AI,but also with supervening chronic constipation,where the quality of life and compliance with this technique appears superior to retrograde colonic washouts.Total anorectal reconstruction requires an anatomical or physical supplement to the performance of a perineal colostomy,which may include an extrinsic muscle interposition(which may or may not be‘dynamized’),construction of a neorectal reservoir,implantation of an incremental artificial bowel sphincter or creation of a terminal,smooth-muscle neosphincter.The advantages and disadvantages of these techniques and their outcome are presented here.展开更多
Background The technique of intersphincteric resection of tumors combined with coloanal anastomosis has been used to avoid permanent colostomy for patients with a rectal cancer located 〈5 cm from the anal verge. This...Background The technique of intersphincteric resection of tumors combined with coloanal anastomosis has been used to avoid permanent colostomy for patients with a rectal cancer located 〈5 cm from the anal verge. This study aimed at assessing the preservation of continence function of the residual rectum and the clinical prognosis of patients with lower rectal cancer after intersphincteric resection using a prolapsing technique. Methods This study included patients with the following inclusion criteria： （1） pathological evidence of rectal cancer and the tumors within distal margins located 5 cm or less from the anus by preoperative endoscopic examination; （2） no evidence by MRI of infiltration of either the external sphincter, puborectalis or the levator muscle; （3） the patients are eligible for intersphincteric resection and lower coloanal anastomosis with a preoperative biopsy showing the tumors with well-to-moderate differentiation. From January 2000 to June 2004, 23 patients with low rectal cancer were included in this study. We used the standard abdominoperineal approach to perform radical resection of tumors with excision of the mesorectum and total or part of the internal sphincters. The patients were followed for assessment of the function of the residual rectum and of cancer recurrence after the operations. Results The median tumor distance from the anal margin was 4.5 （range 3.5-5.0） cm and the mean distal surgical margin 1.6 （range 1.0-2.0） cm. Cancer was classified into Stage Ⅰ （30.4%）, Stage Ⅱ （47.8%）, and Stage Ⅲ （21.7%） according to the TNM classification. Two patients developed anastomotic fistula after the surgical resection and 2 patients （8.7%） developed later stages of anastomotic stricture at the site of coloanal anastomosis. The median follow-up period was 31.5 months （range 12-54） and 2 patients （8.7%） developed local recurrence. Three deaths were associated with distal organ metastasis. Twenty patients （87.0%） have maintained competence to control solid or liquid stool and the capacity of flatus continence after the surgery. Among these patients, 2 patients were able to control solid stool and occasionally lose continence of liquid stool. And only 1 patient （4.4%） has retained partial rectum function with good continence of solid stool but not liquid after the operations. Average times of defecation per day of 3, 6, 12, 24 and 36 months after the surgery were 13.1, 4.7, 3.1, 2.9, and 3.2 times/day. Anal manometer measurements showed a decrease of pressure during the resting time after intersphincteric resection and this change remained during the period of follow-up. The maximum squeeze pressure was improved after an initial decrease after the surgery. Conclusions More residual rectum function after the surgery may be preserved by intersphincteric resection of low rectum cancer. At the same time this technique is safe with few postoperative complication and low tumor recurrence after the surgery.展开更多
1 Three hundred years ago,merchants from Shanxi Province exported tea to foreign countries on the Eurasian continent,and in turn they brought back the secrets of glassware manufacturing.Luo Qinqin,a 40‑year‑old native...1 Three hundred years ago,merchants from Shanxi Province exported tea to foreign countries on the Eurasian continent,and in turn they brought back the secrets of glassware manufacturing.Luo Qinqin,a 40‑year‑old native of Qixian county in Shanxi,is a skilled glass worker in Shanxi.She is one of the few female artisans who have mastered the craft of glass pulling.展开更多
It’s that time of the year again when we find ourselves reflecting on the year that was and the year ahead.On the African continent,many countries are still recovering from the aftershocks of the COVID-19 pandemic an...It’s that time of the year again when we find ourselves reflecting on the year that was and the year ahead.On the African continent,many countries are still recovering from the aftershocks of the COVID-19 pandemic and are doing so amid a fraught geopolitical environment.These tensions have,to some extent,created hurdles in the path of Africa’s recovery.The African Development Bank has attributed the economic slowdown on the continent toastronomical inflation caused by soaring food andenergy prices. These issues have been aggravatedby the current geopolitical chaos and climatechange. Nevertheless, the continent is projectedto grow at a steady rate of 4.3 percent in 2025.This means that Africa will retain its positionas the fastest-growing region after Asia. This isdriven by several positive factors.展开更多
The Madden-Julian Oscillation(MJO)is a key atmospheric component connecting global weather and climate.It func-tions as a primary source for subseasonal forecasts.Previous studies have highlighted the vital impact of ...The Madden-Julian Oscillation(MJO)is a key atmospheric component connecting global weather and climate.It func-tions as a primary source for subseasonal forecasts.Previous studies have highlighted the vital impact of oceanic processes on MJO propagation.However,few existing MJO prediction approaches adequately consider these factors.This study determines the critical region for the oceanic processes affecting MJO propagation by utilizing 22-year Climate Forecast System Reanalysis data.By intro-ducing surface and subsurface oceanic temperature within this critical region into a lagged multiple linear regression model,the MJO forecasting skill is considerably optimized.This optimization leads to a 12 h enhancement in the forecasting skill of the first principal component and efficiently decreases prediction errors for the total predictions.Further analysis suggests that,during the years in which MJO events propagate across the Maritime Continent over a more southerly path,the optimized statistical forecasting model obtains better improvements in MJO prediction.展开更多
Fragments of Proto-Tethyan oceanic lithosphere are well-preserved along the southern belt of the North Qilian suture,and the origin and emplacement of these ophiolites have become subjects of intense debate.In this st...Fragments of Proto-Tethyan oceanic lithosphere are well-preserved along the southern belt of the North Qilian suture,and the origin and emplacement of these ophiolites have become subjects of intense debate.In this study,we integrate field observations,mineralogical and geochemical analyses,zircon U-Pb dating,and isotopic data to investigate the Yanglong ophiolite.The Yanglong ophiolitic rocks are found as tectonic slices resting on the Neoproterozoic sedimentary and volcanic rocks.These rocks are composed of Cambrian serpentinized peridotite,gabbro,dolerite,and rodingite.The spinels in the serpentinized peridotites have variable Cr^(#)values(21,38-46,and 59-61)and display affinity to those in abyssal and forearc peridotites.The dolerites show slight enrichment in Th and have elevated(La/Sm)_(N) ratios(1.19-2.01),indicating a subduction-related geochemical affinity.The Yanglong ophiolitic rocks have positive zirconεHf(t)values(+10.3 to+18.4)and whole-rockεNd(t)values(+5.3 to+6.7)indicating derivation from partial melting of a depleted mantle source.These results,together with the regional geology,collectively suggest that the Yanglong ophiolite was generated in a forearc setting during the Early Cambrian northward intra-oceanic subduction.It was emplaced onto the Central Qilian Block during the subsequent arc-continent collision,no later than the Early Ordovician.展开更多
Objective: Radical cystectomy(RC)is a standard treatment for localized muscle invasive bladder cancer and high-risk or very high-risk non-muscle invasive bladder cancer not responding to adequate endovesical therapy.I...Objective: Radical cystectomy(RC)is a standard treatment for localized muscle invasive bladder cancer and high-risk or very high-risk non-muscle invasive bladder cancer not responding to adequate endovesical therapy.In women,traditionally RC is performed with hystero-adnexectomy and resection of the anterior vaginal wall,often resulting in sexual disorders.Vaginal-sparing techniques have been developed to improve functional outcomes.The present study explores the safety and the functional outcome of vaginal-sparing techniques.Methods: We retrospectively analyzed all consecutive female patients undergoing robot-assisted RC(RARC)with neobladder diversion between October 2017 and February 2022.The indications for vaginal-sparing RC were absence of tumor on bladder neck or urethra and no sign of infiltration of posterior bladder wall at the preoperative MRI.Functional results were evaluated with the aid of five questions out of the Bladder Cancer Index questionnaire.Complications were reported according to the Clavien–Dindo classification and cancer control was evaluated by recurrence-free and cancer-specific survival.Results: A total of 22 female patients underwent RARC with neobladder diversion.Neoadjuvant chemotherapy was given in 17(77%)cases.Clavien–Dindo grades III–IV complications occurred in four(18%)cases.After a mean follow-up of 29(interquartile range 16–44)months,six(27.3%)patients developed distant metastases,and one(4.5%)woman loco-regional relapse.Sexual-sparing surgery was performed in 19(86%)patients,and in the others the anterior vaginal wall was resected,but neobladder was still performed.During daytime,no patients reported total incontinence and 73%(11/15)reported total continence or only occasional leaks.Sexual results showed that seven of 15(47%)women regained sexual activity after surgery,with a quality reported as“good”or“very good”in 40%of all 19 cases.Conclusion: RARC in female with anterior vaginal wall preservation is feasible.The approach showed a good safety profile,with satisfying results on continence and sexual activity.Sexual-sparing approaches should be carried out after correct patient selection.展开更多
The USMTArray was completed on June 27,2024,comprising a network of 1779 transportable long-period magnetotelluric(MT)stations(Fig.1)with nominal 70-km grid spacing spanning the conterminous United States,an area of 8...The USMTArray was completed on June 27,2024,comprising a network of 1779 transportable long-period magnetotelluric(MT)stations(Fig.1)with nominal 70-km grid spacing spanning the conterminous United States,an area of 8.1×10^(6)km^(2).Each station operated for weeksto-months,as required to meet data quality standards over the period band of 10–10000 s.The USMTArray shares similarities with the planned SinoProbe-II MT Array,with its 1-degree station spacing(~111 km in the latitudinal direction)spanning an area of 9.6×10^(6)km^(2).展开更多
Deep Earth exploration is a multi-disciplinary, complex activity aimed at understanding the structure, dynamics and evolution of the continents and their margins. Interaction between Earth's tectonic plates create...Deep Earth exploration is a multi-disciplinary, complex activity aimed at understanding the structure, dynamics and evolution of the continents and their margins. Interaction between Earth's tectonic plates created the continents and oceans that characterise our planet, while forming the mineral and other resources that support our living lives in modern society. Active tectonic processes are also responsible for devastating hazards such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, and control Earth's surface topography which fundamentally affects the climate and environment. Therefore, it is of common interest to society worldwide to study the interior of the Earth and to gain fundamental insight into how our planet operates.展开更多
This study investigates the dominant modes of interannual variability of snowfall frequency over the Eurasian continent during autumn and winter,and explores the underlying physical mechanisms.The first EOF mode(EOF1)...This study investigates the dominant modes of interannual variability of snowfall frequency over the Eurasian continent during autumn and winter,and explores the underlying physical mechanisms.The first EOF mode(EOF1)of snowfall frequency during autumn is mainly characterized by positive anomalies over the Central Siberian Plateau(CSP)and Europe,with opposite anomalies over Central Asia(CA).EOF1 during winter is characterized by positive anomalies in Siberia and negative anomalies in Europe and East Asia(EA).During autumn,EOF1 is associated with the anomalous sea ice in the Kara–Laptev seas(KLS)and sea surface temperature(SST)over the North Atlantic.Increased sea ice in the KLS may cause an increase in the meridional air temperature gradient,resulting in increased synoptic-scale wave activity,thereby inducing increased snowfall frequency over Europe and the CSP.Anomalous increases of both sea ice in the KLS and SST in the North Atlantic may stimulate downstream propagation of Rossby waves and induce an anomalous high in CA corresponding to decreased snowfall frequency.In contrast,EOF1 is mainly affected by the anomalous atmospheric circulation during winter.In the positive phase of the North Atlantic Oscillation(NAO),an anomalous deep cold low(warm high)occurs over Siberia(Europe)leading to increased(decreased)snowfall frequency over Siberia(Europe).The synoptic-scale wave activity excited by the positive NAO can induce downstream Rossby wave propagation and contribute to an anomalous high and descending motion over EA,which may inhibit snowfall.The NAO in winter may be modulated by the Indian Ocean dipole and sea ice in the Barents-Kara-Laptev Seas in autumn.展开更多
The idea of the hypothetical Magellanica Continent(Terra Australis Incognita)was introduced into China by the Jesuit missionaries during the seventeenth century.While not accepted by the Chinese government,it was affi...The idea of the hypothetical Magellanica Continent(Terra Australis Incognita)was introduced into China by the Jesuit missionaries during the seventeenth century.While not accepted by the Chinese government,it was affirmed and transmitted to the public by a few Chinese scholars,including Feng Yingjing,Cheng Bai'er,Zhang Huang,Xiong Mingyu,Xiong Renlin,You Yi,Zhou Yuqi,Jie Xuan,Wang Honghan,and Ye Zipei.Most of them communicated closely with the Jesuit missionaries,and several even helped the missionaries compose the maps.The concept was updated progressively by Matteo Ricci,Giulio Aleni,Johann Adam Schall von Bell,Francesco Sambiasi,and Ferdinand Verbiest.Chinese scholars copied the missionaries'relevant maps and textual introductions without much modification.However,they paid little attention to advancements in the idea,and many of them circulated outdated knowledge.It was not until the middle-and late-nineteenth century that Chinese scholars reexamined the correctness of this hypothetical continent.展开更多
The CALPHAD thermodynamic databases are very useful to analyze the complex chemical reactions happening in high temperature material process.The FactSage thermodynamic database can be used to calculate complex phase d...The CALPHAD thermodynamic databases are very useful to analyze the complex chemical reactions happening in high temperature material process.The FactSage thermodynamic database can be used to calculate complex phase diagrams and equilibrium phases involving refractories in industrial process.In this study,the FactSage thermodynamic database relevant to ZrO_(2)-based refractories was reviewed and the application of the database to understanding the corrosion of continuous casting nozzle refractories in steelmaking was presented.展开更多
Around 71% of the Earth’s surface is covered by oceans with depths that exceed several kilometers, while continents are geographically enclosed by these vast bodies of water. The principle of fluid mechanics stipulat...Around 71% of the Earth’s surface is covered by oceans with depths that exceed several kilometers, while continents are geographically enclosed by these vast bodies of water. The principle of fluid mechanics stipulates that water yields pressure everywhere in the container that holds it, and the water pressure against the wall of container generates force. Ocean basins are naturally gigantic containers of water, in which continents form the walls of the containers. In this study, we present that the ocean water pressure against the walls of continents generates enormous force, and determine the distribution of this force around continents and estimate its amplitude to be of the order of 1017 N per kilometer of continent width. Our modelling suggests that the stresses yielded by this force are mostly concentrated on the upper part of the continental crust, and their magnitudes reach up to 2.0 - 6.0 MPa. Our results suggest that the force may have significantly impacted the dynamics of continent (lithospheric plate) and its evolution.展开更多
文摘Objective:Radical prostatectomy(RP)is considered the gold standard treatment for patients with localized prostate cancer(PCa).All patients undergoing RP,either open,laparoscopic,or robotic,are at risk of developing urinary incontinence after RP.Our study aimed to analyze possible predictors of early postoperative(within 3 months)urinary continence(UC)outcomes following extraperitoneal single-site robot-assisted RP(ss-RARP)for localized PCa.Methods:We retrospectively reviewed data from 113 patients with localized PCa who were operated on by a highly experienced surgeon between September 2022 and December 2023.Patient characteristics(age,body mass index,prostate volume,prostate dimensions,preoperative and postoperative membranous urethral length,and percentage of membranous urethra removed)were analyzed using logistic regression to determine the independent factors contributing to short-term UC recovery after extraperitoneal ss-RARP.From the time of urinary catheter removal after surgery,the recovery of UC was followed up every month,and UC was defined as using≤1 safety pad daily,known as social continence.Results:The proportions of continent patients immediately after urinary catheter removal,1 month,and 3 months after extraperitoneal ss-RARP were 22%,49%,and 82%,respectively.The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the percentage of membranous urethra removed(p=0.016)and prostate volume(p=0.049)were associated with social UC recovery immediately after urinary catheter removal,and craniocaudal dimension of the prostate(p=0.042)and age(p=0.014)were associated with social UC recovery 1 month and 3 months after extraperitoneal ss-RARP,respectively.Conclusion:The percentage of membranous urethra removed,prostate volume,craniocaudal dimension of the prostate,and age are independent risk factors for social UC early after extraperitoneal ss-RARP.
文摘Objective:Bladder neck contracture and vesicourethral anastomotic stenosis are difficult to manage endoscopically,and open repair is associated with high rates of incontinence.In recent years,there have been increasing reports of robotic-assisted bladder neck reconstruction in the literature.However,existing studies are small,heterogeneous case series.The objective of this study was to perform a systematic review of robotic-assisted bladder neck reconstruction to better evaluate patency and incontinence outcomes.Methods:We performed a systematic review of PubMed from first available date to May 2023 for all studies evaluating robotic-assisted reconstructive surgery of the bladder neck in adult men.Articles in non-English,author replies,editorials,pediatric-based studies,and reviews were excluded.Outcomes of interest were patency and incontinence rates,which were pooled when appropriate.Results:After identifying 158 articles on initial search,we included only ten studies that fit all aforementioned criteria for robotic-assisted bladder neck reconstruction.All were case series published from March 2018 to March 2022 ranging from six to 32 men,with the median follow-up of 5e23 months.A total of 119 patients were included in our analysis.A variety of etiologies and surgical techniques were described.Patency rates ranged from 50%to 100%,and pooled patency was 80%(95/119).De novo incontinence rates ranged from 0%to 33%,and pooled incontinence was 17%(8/47).Our findings were limited by small sample sizes,relatively short follow-ups,and heterogeneity between studies.
基金a grant from the Natural Science Foundation of China(No.71573097).
文摘Pelvic floor muscle exercise(PFME)is the most common con servative manageme nt for urinary incon tine nee(Ul)after radical prostatectomy(RP).However,whether the PFME guided by a therapist(G-PFME)can contribute to the recovery of urinary continenee for patients after RP is still controversial.We performed this meta-analysis to investigate the effectiveness of G-PFME on Ul after RP and to explore whether the additional preoperative G-PFME is superior to postoperative G-PFME alone.Literature search was con ducted on Cochra ne Library,Embase,Web of Scie nee,and PubMed,to obtai n all re leva nt randomized controlled trials published before March 1,2018.Outcome data were pooled and an a lyzed with Review Man ager 5.3 to compare the conti nence rates of G-PFME with control and to compare additional preoperative G-PFME with postoperative G-PFME.Twenty-two articles with 2647 patients were included.The conti nence rates of G?PFME were all superior to con trol at d iff ere nt follow-up time points,with the odds ratio(OR)(95%confidence interval[Cl])of 2.79(1.53-5.07),2.80(1.87-4.19),2.93(1.19-7.22),4.11(2.24-7.55),and 2.41(1.33-4.36)at 1 mon th,3 months,4 months,6 months,and 12 months after surgery,respectively.However,there was no difference between additional preoperative G-PFME and postoperative G-PFME,with the OR(95%Cl)of 1.70(0.56-5.11)and 1.35(0.41-4.40)at 1 month and 3 months after RP,respectively.G-PFME could improve the recovery of urinary continence at both early and Iong-term stages.Starting the PFME preoperatively might not produce extra benefits for patients at early stage,compared with postoperative PFME.
文摘Wound ostomy continence nurses(WOC nurses),developed as an important part of clinical nurse specialists play an indispensable role in the management of ostomy,all kinds of chronic wounds and incontinent dermatitis.However,there exists a gap compared with developed countries and regions.This paper provides an overview of WOC nurses in China including origin and development,training and accreditation system,roles,values and management,in order to provide references for the development of WOC nurses in China.
文摘AIM:To investigate the role of anal cushions in hemorrhoidectomy and its effect on anal continence of the patients.METHODS:Seventy-six consecutive patients(33 men and 43 women) with a mean age of 44 years were included.They underwent Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy because of symptomatic third-and fourth-degree hemorrhoids and failure in conservative treatment for years.Wexner score was recorded and liquid continence test was performed for each patient before and two months after operation using the techniques described in our previous work.The speed-constant rectal lavage apparatus was prepared in our laboratory.The device could output a pulsed and speed-constant saline stream with a high pressure,which is capable of overcoming any rectal resistance change.The patients were divided into three groups,group A(< 900 mL),group B(900-1200 mL) and group C(> 1200 mL) according to the results of the preoperative liquid continence test.RESULTS:All the patients completed the study.The average number of hemorrhoidal masses excised was 2.4.Most patients presented with hemorrhoidal symptoms for more than one year,including a mean duration of incontinence of 5.2 years.The most common symptoms before surgery were anal bleeding(n = 55),prolapsed lesion(n = 34),anal pain(n = 12) and constipation(n = 17).There were grade Ⅲ hemorrhoids in 39(51.3%) patients,and grade Ⅳ in 37(48.7%) patients according to Goligher classification.Five patients had experienced hemorrhoid surgery at least once.Compared with postoperative results,the retained volume in the preoperative liquid continence test was higher in 40 patients,lower in 27 patients,and similar in the other 9 patients.The overall preoperative retained volume in the liquid continence test was 1130.61 ± 78.35 mL,and postoperative volume was slightly decreased(991.27 ± 42.77 mL),but there was no significant difference(P = 0.057).Difference was significant in the test value before and after hemorrhoidectomy in group A(858.24 ± 32.01 mL vs 574.18 ± 60.28 mL,P = 0.011),but no obvious difference was noted in group B or group C.There was no significant difference in Wexner score before and after operation(1.68 ± 0.13 vs 2.10 ± 0.17,P = 0.064).By further stratified analysis,there was significant difference before and 2 months after operation in group A(2.71 ± 0.30 vs 3.58 ± 0.40,P = 0.003).In contrast,there were no significant differences in group B or group C(1.89 ± 0.15 vs 2.11 ± 0.19,P = 0.179;0.98 ± 0.11 vs 1.34 ± 0.19,P = 0.123).CONCLUSION:There is no difference in the continence status of patients before and after Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy.However,patients with preoperative compromised continence may have further deterioration of their continence,hence Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy should be avoided in such patients.
文摘Penile prosthesis implant(PPI)remains an effective and safe treatment option for men with erectile dysfunction(ED).However,PPI surgery can be associated with a higher risk of complications in certain populations.This article provides a critical review of relevant publications pertaining to PPI in men with diabetes,significant corporal fibrosis,spinal cord injury,concurrent continence surgery,and complex salvage cases.The discussion of each category of special populations includes a brief review of the surgical challenges and a practical action-based set of recommendations.While specific patient populations posed considerable challenges in PPI surgery,strict pre-and postoperative management coupled with safe surgical practice is a prerequisite to achieving excellent clinical outcomes and high patient satisfaction rate.
文摘Objective:To evaluate the efficacy and user satisfaction of the MAIA^(TM)telemedicine platform for postoperative telemonitoring and telerehabilitation in patients undergoing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy(RARP).Methods:Patients undergoing RARP(from April 2022 to January 2023)were divided into Group A,following the standard rehabilitation protocol,and Group B using the MAIA^(TM)platform for the first 30-day post-intervention period.Perioperative,pathological,and functional variables(continence and potency rates,assessed via validated questionnaires)were collected and telerehabilitation protocol’s adherence was monitored.The telerehabilitation system included an online platform for medical providers and a patient application,facilitating data acquisition,management,treatment planning,and monitoring.Patient and provider satisfactionwere evaluated using the visual analogue scale score and validated telemedicine satisfaction questionnaire.Results:Totally,227 patients were enrolled.No differences in perioperative or pathological variables were found.Group B had higher potency recovery rates than Group A(p=0.031);the potency recovery rates at 1 month and 3 months for Group B were 45%and 57%,respectively,and in Group A were 34%and 48%,respectively.At the multivariate analysis,MAIA^(TM)use and the nerve-sparing(NS)were independent predictors of erectile function at both 1 month(MAIA^(TM)use:odd ratio[OR]2.03,95%confidence interval[CI]1.13-3.63,p=0.018;NS:OR 2.08,95%CI 1.06-4.12,p=0.034)and 3 months(MAIA^(TM)use:OR 1.89,95%CI 1.07-3.34,p=0.028;NS:OR 1.90;95%CI 1.02-3.54,p=0.044).Adherencemonitoring revealed 4.6%of patients in Group B reported exercise issues due to pelvic pain onset and 10%did not take oral phosphodiesterase 5-inhibitors due to myalgia.All those patients restarted the rehabilitation program after televisit to address the causing problem,allowing restarting of a rehabilitation program.Patients reported high satisfaction with the MAIA^(TM)platform use(mean visual analogue scale score:88.7).Conclusion:The MAIA^(TM)telemedicine platform seems to have a role in optimizing early potency recovery after RARP.Patient and provider satisfaction levels were high,emphasizing the user-friendliness of the platform.
文摘Patients may present with anal incontinence(AI)following repair of a congenital anorectal anomaly years previously,or require total anorectal reconstruction(TAR)following radical rectal extirpation,most commonly for rectal cancer.Others may require removal of their colostomy following sphincter excision for Fournier’s gangrene,or in cases of severe perineal trauma.Most of the data pertaining to antegrade continence enema(the ACE or Malone procedure)comes from the pediatric literature in the management of children with AI,but also with supervening chronic constipation,where the quality of life and compliance with this technique appears superior to retrograde colonic washouts.Total anorectal reconstruction requires an anatomical or physical supplement to the performance of a perineal colostomy,which may include an extrinsic muscle interposition(which may or may not be‘dynamized’),construction of a neorectal reservoir,implantation of an incremental artificial bowel sphincter or creation of a terminal,smooth-muscle neosphincter.The advantages and disadvantages of these techniques and their outcome are presented here.
文摘Background The technique of intersphincteric resection of tumors combined with coloanal anastomosis has been used to avoid permanent colostomy for patients with a rectal cancer located 〈5 cm from the anal verge. This study aimed at assessing the preservation of continence function of the residual rectum and the clinical prognosis of patients with lower rectal cancer after intersphincteric resection using a prolapsing technique. Methods This study included patients with the following inclusion criteria： （1） pathological evidence of rectal cancer and the tumors within distal margins located 5 cm or less from the anus by preoperative endoscopic examination; （2） no evidence by MRI of infiltration of either the external sphincter, puborectalis or the levator muscle; （3） the patients are eligible for intersphincteric resection and lower coloanal anastomosis with a preoperative biopsy showing the tumors with well-to-moderate differentiation. From January 2000 to June 2004, 23 patients with low rectal cancer were included in this study. We used the standard abdominoperineal approach to perform radical resection of tumors with excision of the mesorectum and total or part of the internal sphincters. The patients were followed for assessment of the function of the residual rectum and of cancer recurrence after the operations. Results The median tumor distance from the anal margin was 4.5 （range 3.5-5.0） cm and the mean distal surgical margin 1.6 （range 1.0-2.0） cm. Cancer was classified into Stage Ⅰ （30.4%）, Stage Ⅱ （47.8%）, and Stage Ⅲ （21.7%） according to the TNM classification. Two patients developed anastomotic fistula after the surgical resection and 2 patients （8.7%） developed later stages of anastomotic stricture at the site of coloanal anastomosis. The median follow-up period was 31.5 months （range 12-54） and 2 patients （8.7%） developed local recurrence. Three deaths were associated with distal organ metastasis. Twenty patients （87.0%） have maintained competence to control solid or liquid stool and the capacity of flatus continence after the surgery. Among these patients, 2 patients were able to control solid stool and occasionally lose continence of liquid stool. And only 1 patient （4.4%） has retained partial rectum function with good continence of solid stool but not liquid after the operations. Average times of defecation per day of 3, 6, 12, 24 and 36 months after the surgery were 13.1, 4.7, 3.1, 2.9, and 3.2 times/day. Anal manometer measurements showed a decrease of pressure during the resting time after intersphincteric resection and this change remained during the period of follow-up. The maximum squeeze pressure was improved after an initial decrease after the surgery. Conclusions More residual rectum function after the surgery may be preserved by intersphincteric resection of low rectum cancer. At the same time this technique is safe with few postoperative complication and low tumor recurrence after the surgery.
文摘1 Three hundred years ago,merchants from Shanxi Province exported tea to foreign countries on the Eurasian continent,and in turn they brought back the secrets of glassware manufacturing.Luo Qinqin,a 40‑year‑old native of Qixian county in Shanxi,is a skilled glass worker in Shanxi.She is one of the few female artisans who have mastered the craft of glass pulling.
文摘It’s that time of the year again when we find ourselves reflecting on the year that was and the year ahead.On the African continent,many countries are still recovering from the aftershocks of the COVID-19 pandemic and are doing so amid a fraught geopolitical environment.These tensions have,to some extent,created hurdles in the path of Africa’s recovery.The African Development Bank has attributed the economic slowdown on the continent toastronomical inflation caused by soaring food andenergy prices. These issues have been aggravatedby the current geopolitical chaos and climatechange. Nevertheless, the continent is projectedto grow at a steady rate of 4.3 percent in 2025.This means that Africa will retain its positionas the fastest-growing region after Asia. This isdriven by several positive factors.
基金supported by the National Key Program for Developing Basic Science(Nos.2022YFF0801702 and 2022YFE0106600)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.42175060 and 42175021)the Jiangsu Province Science Foundation(No.BK20250200302).
文摘The Madden-Julian Oscillation(MJO)is a key atmospheric component connecting global weather and climate.It func-tions as a primary source for subseasonal forecasts.Previous studies have highlighted the vital impact of oceanic processes on MJO propagation.However,few existing MJO prediction approaches adequately consider these factors.This study determines the critical region for the oceanic processes affecting MJO propagation by utilizing 22-year Climate Forecast System Reanalysis data.By intro-ducing surface and subsurface oceanic temperature within this critical region into a lagged multiple linear regression model,the MJO forecasting skill is considerably optimized.This optimization leads to a 12 h enhancement in the forecasting skill of the first principal component and efficiently decreases prediction errors for the total predictions.Further analysis suggests that,during the years in which MJO events propagate across the Maritime Continent over a more southerly path,the optimized statistical forecasting model obtains better improvements in MJO prediction.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.42230308,42072266,42102032,42362006)Bureau of Geological Exploration and Development of Qinghai Province(Grant Nos.[2023]33,[2022]32)China Geological Survey(Grant Nos.DD20221649,DD20242935,12120114079701).
文摘Fragments of Proto-Tethyan oceanic lithosphere are well-preserved along the southern belt of the North Qilian suture,and the origin and emplacement of these ophiolites have become subjects of intense debate.In this study,we integrate field observations,mineralogical and geochemical analyses,zircon U-Pb dating,and isotopic data to investigate the Yanglong ophiolite.The Yanglong ophiolitic rocks are found as tectonic slices resting on the Neoproterozoic sedimentary and volcanic rocks.These rocks are composed of Cambrian serpentinized peridotite,gabbro,dolerite,and rodingite.The spinels in the serpentinized peridotites have variable Cr^(#)values(21,38-46,and 59-61)and display affinity to those in abyssal and forearc peridotites.The dolerites show slight enrichment in Th and have elevated(La/Sm)_(N) ratios(1.19-2.01),indicating a subduction-related geochemical affinity.The Yanglong ophiolitic rocks have positive zirconεHf(t)values(+10.3 to+18.4)and whole-rockεNd(t)values(+5.3 to+6.7)indicating derivation from partial melting of a depleted mantle source.These results,together with the regional geology,collectively suggest that the Yanglong ophiolite was generated in a forearc setting during the Early Cambrian northward intra-oceanic subduction.It was emplaced onto the Central Qilian Block during the subsequent arc-continent collision,no later than the Early Ordovician.
文摘Objective: Radical cystectomy(RC)is a standard treatment for localized muscle invasive bladder cancer and high-risk or very high-risk non-muscle invasive bladder cancer not responding to adequate endovesical therapy.In women,traditionally RC is performed with hystero-adnexectomy and resection of the anterior vaginal wall,often resulting in sexual disorders.Vaginal-sparing techniques have been developed to improve functional outcomes.The present study explores the safety and the functional outcome of vaginal-sparing techniques.Methods: We retrospectively analyzed all consecutive female patients undergoing robot-assisted RC(RARC)with neobladder diversion between October 2017 and February 2022.The indications for vaginal-sparing RC were absence of tumor on bladder neck or urethra and no sign of infiltration of posterior bladder wall at the preoperative MRI.Functional results were evaluated with the aid of five questions out of the Bladder Cancer Index questionnaire.Complications were reported according to the Clavien–Dindo classification and cancer control was evaluated by recurrence-free and cancer-specific survival.Results: A total of 22 female patients underwent RARC with neobladder diversion.Neoadjuvant chemotherapy was given in 17(77%)cases.Clavien–Dindo grades III–IV complications occurred in four(18%)cases.After a mean follow-up of 29(interquartile range 16–44)months,six(27.3%)patients developed distant metastases,and one(4.5%)woman loco-regional relapse.Sexual-sparing surgery was performed in 19(86%)patients,and in the others the anterior vaginal wall was resected,but neobladder was still performed.During daytime,no patients reported total incontinence and 73%(11/15)reported total continence or only occasional leaks.Sexual results showed that seven of 15(47%)women regained sexual activity after surgery,with a quality reported as“good”or“very good”in 40%of all 19 cases.Conclusion: RARC in female with anterior vaginal wall preservation is feasible.The approach showed a good safety profile,with satisfying results on continence and sexual activity.Sexual-sparing approaches should be carried out after correct patient selection.
文摘The USMTArray was completed on June 27,2024,comprising a network of 1779 transportable long-period magnetotelluric(MT)stations(Fig.1)with nominal 70-km grid spacing spanning the conterminous United States,an area of 8.1×10^(6)km^(2).Each station operated for weeksto-months,as required to meet data quality standards over the period band of 10–10000 s.The USMTArray shares similarities with the planned SinoProbe-II MT Array,with its 1-degree station spacing(~111 km in the latitudinal direction)spanning an area of 9.6×10^(6)km^(2).
文摘Deep Earth exploration is a multi-disciplinary, complex activity aimed at understanding the structure, dynamics and evolution of the continents and their margins. Interaction between Earth's tectonic plates created the continents and oceans that characterise our planet, while forming the mineral and other resources that support our living lives in modern society. Active tectonic processes are also responsible for devastating hazards such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, and control Earth's surface topography which fundamentally affects the climate and environment. Therefore, it is of common interest to society worldwide to study the interior of the Earth and to gain fundamental insight into how our planet operates.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.41991283).
文摘This study investigates the dominant modes of interannual variability of snowfall frequency over the Eurasian continent during autumn and winter,and explores the underlying physical mechanisms.The first EOF mode(EOF1)of snowfall frequency during autumn is mainly characterized by positive anomalies over the Central Siberian Plateau(CSP)and Europe,with opposite anomalies over Central Asia(CA).EOF1 during winter is characterized by positive anomalies in Siberia and negative anomalies in Europe and East Asia(EA).During autumn,EOF1 is associated with the anomalous sea ice in the Kara–Laptev seas(KLS)and sea surface temperature(SST)over the North Atlantic.Increased sea ice in the KLS may cause an increase in the meridional air temperature gradient,resulting in increased synoptic-scale wave activity,thereby inducing increased snowfall frequency over Europe and the CSP.Anomalous increases of both sea ice in the KLS and SST in the North Atlantic may stimulate downstream propagation of Rossby waves and induce an anomalous high in CA corresponding to decreased snowfall frequency.In contrast,EOF1 is mainly affected by the anomalous atmospheric circulation during winter.In the positive phase of the North Atlantic Oscillation(NAO),an anomalous deep cold low(warm high)occurs over Siberia(Europe)leading to increased(decreased)snowfall frequency over Siberia(Europe).The synoptic-scale wave activity excited by the positive NAO can induce downstream Rossby wave propagation and contribute to an anomalous high and descending motion over EA,which may inhibit snowfall.The NAO in winter may be modulated by the Indian Ocean dipole and sea ice in the Barents-Kara-Laptev Seas in autumn.
文摘The idea of the hypothetical Magellanica Continent(Terra Australis Incognita)was introduced into China by the Jesuit missionaries during the seventeenth century.While not accepted by the Chinese government,it was affirmed and transmitted to the public by a few Chinese scholars,including Feng Yingjing,Cheng Bai'er,Zhang Huang,Xiong Mingyu,Xiong Renlin,You Yi,Zhou Yuqi,Jie Xuan,Wang Honghan,and Ye Zipei.Most of them communicated closely with the Jesuit missionaries,and several even helped the missionaries compose the maps.The concept was updated progressively by Matteo Ricci,Giulio Aleni,Johann Adam Schall von Bell,Francesco Sambiasi,and Ferdinand Verbiest.Chinese scholars copied the missionaries'relevant maps and textual introductions without much modification.However,they paid little attention to advancements in the idea,and many of them circulated outdated knowledge.It was not until the middle-and late-nineteenth century that Chinese scholars reexamined the correctness of this hypothetical continent.
基金Tata Steel Netherlands,Posco,Hyundai Steel,Nucor Steel,RioTinto,Nippon Steel Corp.,JFE Steel,Voestalpine,RHi-Magnesita,Doosan Enerbility,Seah Besteel,Umicore,Vesuvius and Schott AG are gratefully acknowledged.
文摘The CALPHAD thermodynamic databases are very useful to analyze the complex chemical reactions happening in high temperature material process.The FactSage thermodynamic database can be used to calculate complex phase diagrams and equilibrium phases involving refractories in industrial process.In this study,the FactSage thermodynamic database relevant to ZrO_(2)-based refractories was reviewed and the application of the database to understanding the corrosion of continuous casting nozzle refractories in steelmaking was presented.
文摘Around 71% of the Earth’s surface is covered by oceans with depths that exceed several kilometers, while continents are geographically enclosed by these vast bodies of water. The principle of fluid mechanics stipulates that water yields pressure everywhere in the container that holds it, and the water pressure against the wall of container generates force. Ocean basins are naturally gigantic containers of water, in which continents form the walls of the containers. In this study, we present that the ocean water pressure against the walls of continents generates enormous force, and determine the distribution of this force around continents and estimate its amplitude to be of the order of 1017 N per kilometer of continent width. Our modelling suggests that the stresses yielded by this force are mostly concentrated on the upper part of the continental crust, and their magnitudes reach up to 2.0 - 6.0 MPa. Our results suggest that the force may have significantly impacted the dynamics of continent (lithospheric plate) and its evolution.
