The Kandi basin is located in northeast Benin (West Africa). This study is focused on the estimation of water fluxes exchanged between the river Niger (and its tributaries) and the transboundary Iullemeden Aquifer Sys...The Kandi basin is located in northeast Benin (West Africa). This study is focused on the estimation of water fluxes exchanged between the river Niger (and its tributaries) and the transboundary Iullemeden Aquifer System. In that framework, an innovative approach based on the application of the Bayesian Mixing Model (MixSIAR) analysis on water isotopes (oxygen-18, deuterium and tritium) was performed. Moreover, to assess the relevance of the model outputs, Pearson’s correlation and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) have been done. A complex relationship between surface water and groundwater has been found. Sixty percent (60%) of groundwater samples are made of more than 70% river water and rainwater;while 31.25% of surface water samples are made of about 84% groundwater. To safeguard sustainable water resources for the well-being of the local communities, surface water and groundwater must be managed as a unique component in the Kandi basin.展开更多
This work focused on determining the physico-chemical characteristics (pH, carbon and nitrogen) and trace metal elements (TMEs) content (As, Sb, Cd, Hg, Ni, Pb, Cr, Zn) of soils in the Brazzaville city. Soil samples w...This work focused on determining the physico-chemical characteristics (pH, carbon and nitrogen) and trace metal elements (TMEs) content (As, Sb, Cd, Hg, Ni, Pb, Cr, Zn) of soils in the Brazzaville city. Soil samples were taken from a depth of 0 to 20 cm using a hand auger on both banks of five tributaries of the Congo River (Djoué, Mfilou, Mfoa, Tsiémé, Djiri) that flow through the city of Brazzaville. 90 sampling points were defined, with 3 points 250 m apart on the banks and located, for each river, at three sites: upstream, midstream and downstream. Finally, 15 composite samples representative of the study area were taken. The average pH values of the water varied between 6.5 and 7.5. These pH values show that the soils studied are neutral. Total carbon content varied between 0.7% (Djiri) and 1.6% (Djoué). Total nitrogen content ranged from 0.08% (Djiri) to 0.12% (Djoué). TMEs contents varied from 0.5 to 1.8 mg/kg for Sb, from 0.5 to 2.5 mg/kg for As, from 0.1 to 0.18 mg/kg for Cd, from 4.2 to 11.3 mg/kg for Cr, from 0.07 to 0.27 mg/kg for Hg, from 0.7 to 2.4 mg/kg for Ni, from 0 to 158 mg/kg for Pb and from 16 to 105 mg/kg for Zn. The lowest TMEs levels were observed in the soils of the Djiri river, while the highest levels were observed in the soils of the Djoué and Tsiémé rivers. The ANOVA and Bonferroni test did not show significant differences in the means of the parameters measured (p > 0.05). The TMEs levels were below the accepted standards (NF U44-041), with the exception of Pb, which had high levels downstream of the Djoué. According to the pollution index values calculated using soil TME content, the soils on the banks of the Djoué river are considered polluted, while those on the banks of the Tsiémé river are moderately polluted, those on the banks of the Mfoa and Mfilou rivers are slightly polluted, and the soils on the banks of Djiri river are unpolluted.展开更多
Renewable energies are highly dependent on local weather conditions, with photovoltaic energy being particularly affected by intermittent clouds. Anticipating the impact of cloud shadows on power plants is crucial, as...Renewable energies are highly dependent on local weather conditions, with photovoltaic energy being particularly affected by intermittent clouds. Anticipating the impact of cloud shadows on power plants is crucial, as clouds can cause partial shading, excessive irradiation, and operational issues. This study focuses on analyzing cloud tracking methods for short-term forecasts, aiming to mitigate such impacts. We conducted a systematic literature review, highlighting the most significant articles on cloud tracking from ground-based observations. We explore both traditional image processing techniques and advances in deep learning models. Additionally, we discuss current challenges and future research directions in this rapidly evolving field, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview of the state of the art and identify opportunities for significant advancements in the next generation of cloud tracking systems based on computer vision and deep learning.展开更多
Groundwater resources are the main sources of water used to supply drinking water to the population of the Ouémé Delta via the Continental Terminal aquifer. Urbanization, population growth, and agricultural ...Groundwater resources are the main sources of water used to supply drinking water to the population of the Ouémé Delta via the Continental Terminal aquifer. Urbanization, population growth, and agricultural and industrial activities have resulted in a deterioration in the quality of these resources. To assess the quality of the delta’s groundwater and its suitability for human consumption and irrigation, a total of fourteen (14) physico-chemical parameters were analyzed in some forty existing water points between September 2020 and March 2021, using standard water analysis techniques. The values obtained were compared with the potability standards recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Republic of Benin and were subjected to statistical analysis (principal component analysis (PCA)). In addition, methods for determining the suitability of water for irrigation were used. The results showed that the waters are acidic to slightly neutral and influenced by ambient temperature. In addition, the waters are moderately mineralized, with conductivities (24 - 1205 μS/cm) in line with WHO standards. A comparison of the analytical results of the WHO (2017) and Benin (2001) standards indicates that the majority of the waters studied are of good quality for all the chemical parameters considered. Nevertheless, some samples show levels of nitrates (21%), potassium (14% to 16%), calcium (13%), ammonium (12%), nitrites (8%) and bicarbonates (10%) over their respective standards. The Wilcox and Riverside diagrams indicate that the majority of waters (90%) have excellent suitability for irrigation and no negative effect on soil fertilization.展开更多
Accessing drinking water is a global issue. This study aims to contribute to the assessment of groundwater quality in the municipality of Za-Kpota (southern Benin) using remote sensing and Machine Learning. The method...Accessing drinking water is a global issue. This study aims to contribute to the assessment of groundwater quality in the municipality of Za-Kpota (southern Benin) using remote sensing and Machine Learning. The methodological approach used consisted in linking groundwater physico-chemical parameter data collected in the field and in the laboratory using AFNOR 1994 standardized methods to satellite data (Landsat) in order to sketch out a groundwater quality prediction model. The data was processed using QGis (Semi-Automatic Plugin: SCP) and Python (Jupyter Netebook: Prediction) softwares. The results of water analysis from the sampled wells and boreholes indicated that most of the water is acidic (pH varying between 5.59 and 7.83). The water was moderately mineralized, with conductivity values of less than 1500 μs/cm overall (59 µS/cm to 1344 µS/cm), with high concentrations of nitrates and phosphates in places. The dynamics of groundwater quality in the municipality of Za-Kpota between 2008 and 2022 are also marked by a regression in land use units (a regression in vegetation and marshland formation in favor of built-up areas, bare soil, crops and fallow land) revealed by the diachronic analysis of satellite images from 2008, 2013, 2018 and 2022. Surveys of local residents revealed the use of herbicides and pesticides in agricultural fields, which are the main drivers contributing to the groundwater quality deterioration observed in the study area. Field surveys revealed the use of herbicides and pesticides in agricultural fields, which are factors contributing to the deterioration in groundwater quality observed in the study area. The results of the groundwater quality prediction models (ANN, RF and LR) developed led to the conclusion that the model based on Artificial Neural Networks (ANN: R2 = 0.97 and RMSE = 0) is the best for groundwater quality changes modelling in the Za-Kpota municipality.展开更多
Groundwater is the main source of drinking water for large cities in most African countries. In Moundou, for example, the conventional groundwater supply system is failing. To compensate for this state failure, the po...Groundwater is the main source of drinking water for large cities in most African countries. In Moundou, for example, the conventional groundwater supply system is failing. To compensate for this state failure, the population is building boreholes and wells, most of which tap the surface water table, generally referred to as the “water table”. The aim of this study is to characterize these waters in order to assess their level of contamination and, by extension, the degree of pollution of the water table. Major elements such as: Chloride (Cl<sup>-</sup>), Sulfate (SO<sub>4</sub><sup>2-</sup>), Nitrate (NO<sub>3</sub><sup>-</sup>), Calcium (Ca<sup>2+</sup>), magnesium (Mg<sup>2+</sup>), sodium (Na<sup>+</sup>) and potassium (K<sup>+</sup>) were analysed by Liquid Chromatography and the Bicarbonate ion (HCO<sub>3</sub><sup>-</sup>) was determined by the titrimetric method. The methodology applied is based on a combination of hydrochemical techniques and statistical analysis (PCA and CHA). A sampling campaign was carried out during high-water periods. The results of the physico-chemical analyses show mineralization ranging from 7.29 to 3670 μS/cm, with an average of 487.44 μS/cm. The groundwater studied is generally acidic, with a pH ranging from 3.26 to 6.41. Based on their anions, they are classified into four main hydrochemical facies: chloride and sulphate facies, calcium and magnesium facies, sodium and potassium facies and bicarbonate facies. The various correlations between major ions and statistical analyses have enabled us to identify three hydrogeochemical processes involved in water mineralization. The dominant process is silicate hydrolysis, followed by cation exchange, then anthropogenic input, which influences mineralization by polluting the water.展开更多
An enzyme-stimulating catalyst( PTL) with copper ions( Cu^(2+)) as the activation center and aminophosphonate as ligand was developed and applied in low-temperature scouring/bleaching of cotton knits. The optimal weig...An enzyme-stimulating catalyst( PTL) with copper ions( Cu^(2+)) as the activation center and aminophosphonate as ligand was developed and applied in low-temperature scouring/bleaching of cotton knits. The optimal weight ratio of Cu^(2+) to aminophosphonate was 1 ∶75. Via orthodox and single-factor experiments,the most efficient formula for low-temperature scouring/bleaching was composed of 0. 4 g/L high-efficiency degreaser DM-1130,1. 5 g/L PTL,2. 0 g/L sodium hydroxide( NaOH),and 7. 0 g/L 30% hydrogen peroxide( H_2O_2). The PTL could not only increase the whiteness of cotton knits,but also remove pectin to enhance capillary effect.展开更多
This paper aims to explore the application of Extreme Value Theory (EVT) in estimating the conditional extreme quantile for time-to-event outcomes by examining the functional relationship between ambulatory blood pres...This paper aims to explore the application of Extreme Value Theory (EVT) in estimating the conditional extreme quantile for time-to-event outcomes by examining the functional relationship between ambulatory blood pressure trajectories and clinical outcomes in stroke patients. The study utilizes EVT to analyze the functional connection between ambulatory blood pressure trajectories and clinical outcomes in a sample of 297 stroke patients. The 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure measurement curves for every 15 minutes are considered, acknowledging a censored rate of 40%. The findings reveal that the sample mean excess function exhibits a positive gradient above a specific threshold, confirming the heavy-tailed distribution of data in stroke patients with a positive extreme value index. Consequently, the estimated conditional extreme quantile indicates that stroke patients with higher blood pressure measurements face an elevated risk of recurrent stroke occurrence at an early stage. This research contributes to the understanding of the relationship between ambulatory blood pressure and recurrent stroke, providing valuable insights for clinical considerations and potential interventions in stroke management.展开更多
Based on 2022 and 2023 hydrometric data and satellite images (Sentinel 2022, SPOT 2010), this study aims to present the Nokoué Lake and its channels’ re-cent hydromorphological characteristics. Integrating flow,...Based on 2022 and 2023 hydrometric data and satellite images (Sentinel 2022, SPOT 2010), this study aims to present the Nokoué Lake and its channels’ re-cent hydromorphological characteristics. Integrating flow, tributary morphology, and topography data determined specific power values along the axes studied. The values obtained range from 2.69 to 12.92 W/m2 for Ouémé River and 2.46 to 10.99 W/m2 for Sô River. The resulting water erosion on banks and bottoms is of linear, areolar, or gully and claw types. Lake bathymetry varies from -0.5 to -2.6 m (low flow period) and -1 to -4 m;in the Ouémé, Sô, and Totchè rivers, it varies from -5 m to -7 m, reaching -10 m at the Cotonou channel entrance (flood period). Bathymetric profiles reveal varied “U”, “V” and “Intermediate” bottom morphologies, influenced by erosion/sedimentation processes and human activities. The flow facies identified are lentic in the northern tributaries and lotic in the Cotonou and Totchè canals. Spatial analysis identified nine (09) thematic classes. In 2022, the surface area of the water body has increased from 274 km2 at low water to 280 km2 at high water, whereas in 2010 (a recent year of exceptional flooding), the surface area was 270 km2 at low water and 277 km2 at high water. Significant changes in land use are observed between 2010 and 2022. The floodplain area decreased slightly, from 421 km2 in 2010 (year of exceptional flooding) to 419 km2 in 2022. The evolution of land use shows a progressive expansion of the urban environment to the detriment of the natural environment. In the medium to long term, this trend could threaten the hydromorphological balance and even the existence of this important lagoon ecosystem.展开更多
The hydrologic and hydraulic changings on the behavior of Mono river are the result of the stress involved by human activities, on one hand and the construction of the dam of Nangbéto and the exploitation of sand...The hydrologic and hydraulic changings on the behavior of Mono river are the result of the stress involved by human activities, on one hand and the construction of the dam of Nangbéto and the exploitation of sand in downstream of the dam by the population, between Athiémé and Agbanankin on other hand. That effect had also affected the shape of the sections of the river in the context of climate variability. It shows consequently that area is also a trapping area of sediments eroded in downstream of the dam and is responsible for the trapping of sediments in the river. The slope and the flow rate are the main factors of the real capacity of transport of a watercourse. They also determine the transport of solid flows from upstream to downstream. This drawing model established by taking into account the bathymetry of a transversal section of the Mono river at Athiémé, is the first step of a global investigation of the solid flow transport in the basin of Mono river and the boundary condition for the characterization of its hydro-sedimentary dynamics study. It aims to take into account sections and the used technique which consist to measure on one located section as the representative section of the river at Athiémé, by moving the boat used for bathymetry.展开更多
The objective of the study was to characterize the clays of the Lama depression in Benin. Macroscopic examination of hand soundings, dynamic penetration test and stratigraphic correlation of water borehole logs, as we...The objective of the study was to characterize the clays of the Lama depression in Benin. Macroscopic examination of hand soundings, dynamic penetration test and stratigraphic correlation of water borehole logs, as well as scanning electron microscopy (SEM) combined with energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis (EDX) method were made on compact or stratified clays. The large grains are embedded in a sintered matrix. The texture is heterogeneous and open, including quartz, carbonates and organic matter. The fine fraction is dominated by mineral paragenesis characterizing Kaolinite-Quartz-Calcite-Gypsum dioctahedral smectites composed of: Oxygen, Silica, Carbon, Aluminum, Iron, Zinc, Titanium and Magnesium. This smectic and regular structure includes coarse grains of the order of 800 μm. The pore diameters vary from 130 μm to 1.14 μm. The inter-particle porosity is poorly developed unlike the inter-aggregate pores larger than 0.05 μm. The texture is laminar and shows elongated turbo static particles with more or less rounded edges and honeycomb particles. Quartz and carbonates induce an increase in heterogeneities which develop mechanical sensitivity and hydraulic conductivity. High contents of silica, iron or aluminum and low contents of calcium and magnesium, as well as the presence of other trace elements suggest an alumino-ferriferous clay resulting from the hydrothermal alteration of the acid granite massif. These heterogeneities promote less tortuous pores or paths, making these clays more permeable. Finally, other stabilization studies and improvements to hydraulic products and binders should favor the use of the studied clay as improved backfill or drilling muds.展开更多
One important aspect of solar energy generation especially in inter-tropical sites is the local variability of clouds. Satellite images do not have temporal resolution enough to nowcast its impacts on solar plants, th...One important aspect of solar energy generation especially in inter-tropical sites is the local variability of clouds. Satellite images do not have temporal resolution enough to nowcast its impacts on solar plants, this monitoring is made by local cameras. However, cloud detection and monitoring are not trivial due to cloud shape dynamics, the camera is a linear and self-adjusting device, with fish-eye lenses generating a flat image that distorts images near the horizon. The present work focuses on cloud identification to predict its effects on solar plants that are distinct for every site’s climatology and geography. We used RASPBERY-PI-based cameras pointed at the horizon to allow observation of clouds’ vertical distribution, not possible with a unique fish-eye lens. A large number of cloud image identification analyses led the researchers to use deep learning methods such as U-net, HRnet, and Detectron. We use transfer learning with weights trained over the “2012 ILSVRC ImageNet” data set and architecture configurations like Resnet, Efficient, and Detectron2. While cloud identification proved a difficult task, we achieved the best results by using Jaccard Coefficient as a validation metric, with the best model being a U-net with Resnet18 using 486 × 648 resolution. This model had an average IoU of 0.6, indicating a satisfactory performance in cloud segmentation. We also observed that the data imbalance affected the overall performance of all models, with the tree class creating a favorable bias. The HRNet model, which works with different resolutions, showed promising results with a more refined segmentation at the pixel level, but it was not necessary to detect the most predominant clouds in the sky. We are currently working on balancing the dataset and mapping out data augmentation transformations for our next experiments. Our ultimate goal is to use such models to predict cloud motion and forecast the impact it will have on solar power generation. The present work has contributed to a better understanding of what techniques work best for cloud identification and paves the way for future studies on the development of a better overall cloud classification model.展开更多
The filling of rivers generated by carried solid deposit is a factor for the raising of height of rivers and thus activates the floods and inundations. The quantification of carried solid flow charges through their ch...The filling of rivers generated by carried solid deposit is a factor for the raising of height of rivers and thus activates the floods and inundations. The quantification of carried solid flow charges through their characterization and the analysis of hydrosedimentary dynamics is the second step of the investigation of the solid flow transport in the Mono river. This study aims to quantify the volume of trapped sediments in function of the variation of the geometry of the shape of sections of the river depending of the slope and the flow rate therefore to evaluate the capacity of transport of eroded solid flows of a watercourse from upstream to downstream. Consequently, the decreasing percentage of deposited alluvium from upstream to downstream is calculated along Mono river. Thus the drawn granulometric curve of sediments and the determinate granulometric characteristics of sediments permit to quantify the carried sediment charges at each chosen section with Engelund-Hansen model in Mono river.展开更多
The coastal sedimentary basin in southern Benin consists of monoclinal layers divided into two plateau zones (North and South) which are separated by a longitudinal depression ESE-WNW. The valleys of the main N-S-orie...The coastal sedimentary basin in southern Benin consists of monoclinal layers divided into two plateau zones (North and South) which are separated by a longitudinal depression ESE-WNW. The valleys of the main N-S-oriented rivers (Ouémé, Couffo and Mono) set the bondaries of the different plateau of the BSC (Coastal Sedimentary Basin). The present study, based on geology, hydrochemistry, temperature and log data available on boreholes, makes a physico-chemical characterization of the waters of the gushing aquifers of the coastal sedimentary basin of Benin. The gushing water boreholes are shared between the valleys of the main rivers of the BSC. Some of these boreholes are </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">thermal with a water temperature between 38 and 69 degrees Celsius. The</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> hydrogeological correlations established in the BSC in accordance to the North-</span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:""> </span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">South direction in the valleys of the main streams (Couffo and Ouémé) reveal that the captured aquifers are sands, marls and limestones that respond either </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">in major discordance (northern zone) or above the sedimentation gaps</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> (southern zone). Chemical analyses have shown that gushing thermal waters are mineralized in the south with a neutral to basic pH and are highly concentrated with bicarbonate, calcium and magnesium ions. In the North, on the other hand, thermal waters are acidic with a pH ranging from 4.8 to 5.9. The acidic nature of the northern waters is influenced by the crystalline base while the southern neutral to basic waters are influenced by the lithological nature (limestone and marl) of the aquifer. The random distribution of thermal water boreholes in the valleys of the main BSC streams is believed to be related to tectonic events.展开更多
Pesticide residues are either natural or synthetic and are found in most edible products such as fresh fruits, vegetables, meat and other processed products. Excess of these pesticides’ residues is unsafe for consump...Pesticide residues are either natural or synthetic and are found in most edible products such as fresh fruits, vegetables, meat and other processed products. Excess of these pesticides’ residues is unsafe for consumption due to regulatory measures. Thus, it is beneficial to assess the level of residues of pesticides in the food diet in order to improve the standard of living of the population. This study intends to assess the pesticide usage and residue levels of selected pesticides in fresh tomatoes in the supply chain of Rwanda. The results of the study confirm that there are around 10 brands of pesticides used in Rwanda. 58.97% of the surveyed people around the country are males and 71.79% of farmers apply rockets as the main pesticide. More than 22% of surveyed farmers affirmed to consume the raw or/and unwashed tomatoes. This study revealed that the residues of the active ingredients contained in the pesticides are accumulated in unwashed tomatoes and the quantity of such residues is shown in this study. Deltamethrin was 0.64 ± 0. 009 mg·kg<sup>?</sup><sup>1</sup> in tomatoes collected in Rusizi district, cypermethrin 1.1435 ± 0. 0375 mg·kg<sup>?1</sup> in tomatoes collected from Gisagara District, mancozeb residues was 0.620 ± 0.000 mg·kg<sup>?1</sup> in tomatoes collected from Rusizi district. The results of the study also show that pesticide residues are not found in the washed tomatoes. Therefore, the detection of pesticide residues in unwashed tomatoes in some samples indicates the malpractice of residues among farmers in Rwanda. Also, consumers eating the unwashed fresh tomatoes are recommended to wash the tomatoes before use.展开更多
This study focuses on the assessment of the level of contamination in metallic trace elements (cadmium, copper, zinc and lead) in the waters of lake Azili in the municipality of Zangnanado. The methodology adopted to ...This study focuses on the assessment of the level of contamination in metallic trace elements (cadmium, copper, zinc and lead) in the waters of lake Azili in the municipality of Zangnanado. The methodology adopted to achieve these results is the method of molecular absorption spectrophotometry. Four sites were sampled at the beginning of November 2020 (period of the long dry season). The results obtained show that the copper content varies between 1.04 mg/l and 1.67 mg/l. The zinc content between 0.2 mg/l to 0.62 mg/l and those of lead recorded are all above 0.05 mg/l. As for their cadmium concentration, they are all above 0.001 mg/l. These results from water analysis of Azili lake show that the sources of this type contamination of the lake are due on the one hand to human activities (dumps of household waste, use of motorized boats) and others other hand to the contributions of the effluents of the lake carrying pesticides. The water quality of Lake Azili is therefore influenced by these various metallic trace elements found there. These results show that the waters of lake Azili are at their beginning of pollution even if it is not yet alarming at the time of our study. Under these conditions, if nothing is done to mitigate it, the pollution will be critical over time.展开更多
文摘The Kandi basin is located in northeast Benin (West Africa). This study is focused on the estimation of water fluxes exchanged between the river Niger (and its tributaries) and the transboundary Iullemeden Aquifer System. In that framework, an innovative approach based on the application of the Bayesian Mixing Model (MixSIAR) analysis on water isotopes (oxygen-18, deuterium and tritium) was performed. Moreover, to assess the relevance of the model outputs, Pearson’s correlation and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) have been done. A complex relationship between surface water and groundwater has been found. Sixty percent (60%) of groundwater samples are made of more than 70% river water and rainwater;while 31.25% of surface water samples are made of about 84% groundwater. To safeguard sustainable water resources for the well-being of the local communities, surface water and groundwater must be managed as a unique component in the Kandi basin.
文摘This work focused on determining the physico-chemical characteristics (pH, carbon and nitrogen) and trace metal elements (TMEs) content (As, Sb, Cd, Hg, Ni, Pb, Cr, Zn) of soils in the Brazzaville city. Soil samples were taken from a depth of 0 to 20 cm using a hand auger on both banks of five tributaries of the Congo River (Djoué, Mfilou, Mfoa, Tsiémé, Djiri) that flow through the city of Brazzaville. 90 sampling points were defined, with 3 points 250 m apart on the banks and located, for each river, at three sites: upstream, midstream and downstream. Finally, 15 composite samples representative of the study area were taken. The average pH values of the water varied between 6.5 and 7.5. These pH values show that the soils studied are neutral. Total carbon content varied between 0.7% (Djiri) and 1.6% (Djoué). Total nitrogen content ranged from 0.08% (Djiri) to 0.12% (Djoué). TMEs contents varied from 0.5 to 1.8 mg/kg for Sb, from 0.5 to 2.5 mg/kg for As, from 0.1 to 0.18 mg/kg for Cd, from 4.2 to 11.3 mg/kg for Cr, from 0.07 to 0.27 mg/kg for Hg, from 0.7 to 2.4 mg/kg for Ni, from 0 to 158 mg/kg for Pb and from 16 to 105 mg/kg for Zn. The lowest TMEs levels were observed in the soils of the Djiri river, while the highest levels were observed in the soils of the Djoué and Tsiémé rivers. The ANOVA and Bonferroni test did not show significant differences in the means of the parameters measured (p > 0.05). The TMEs levels were below the accepted standards (NF U44-041), with the exception of Pb, which had high levels downstream of the Djoué. According to the pollution index values calculated using soil TME content, the soils on the banks of the Djoué river are considered polluted, while those on the banks of the Tsiémé river are moderately polluted, those on the banks of the Mfoa and Mfilou rivers are slightly polluted, and the soils on the banks of Djiri river are unpolluted.
文摘Renewable energies are highly dependent on local weather conditions, with photovoltaic energy being particularly affected by intermittent clouds. Anticipating the impact of cloud shadows on power plants is crucial, as clouds can cause partial shading, excessive irradiation, and operational issues. This study focuses on analyzing cloud tracking methods for short-term forecasts, aiming to mitigate such impacts. We conducted a systematic literature review, highlighting the most significant articles on cloud tracking from ground-based observations. We explore both traditional image processing techniques and advances in deep learning models. Additionally, we discuss current challenges and future research directions in this rapidly evolving field, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview of the state of the art and identify opportunities for significant advancements in the next generation of cloud tracking systems based on computer vision and deep learning.
文摘Groundwater resources are the main sources of water used to supply drinking water to the population of the Ouémé Delta via the Continental Terminal aquifer. Urbanization, population growth, and agricultural and industrial activities have resulted in a deterioration in the quality of these resources. To assess the quality of the delta’s groundwater and its suitability for human consumption and irrigation, a total of fourteen (14) physico-chemical parameters were analyzed in some forty existing water points between September 2020 and March 2021, using standard water analysis techniques. The values obtained were compared with the potability standards recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Republic of Benin and were subjected to statistical analysis (principal component analysis (PCA)). In addition, methods for determining the suitability of water for irrigation were used. The results showed that the waters are acidic to slightly neutral and influenced by ambient temperature. In addition, the waters are moderately mineralized, with conductivities (24 - 1205 μS/cm) in line with WHO standards. A comparison of the analytical results of the WHO (2017) and Benin (2001) standards indicates that the majority of the waters studied are of good quality for all the chemical parameters considered. Nevertheless, some samples show levels of nitrates (21%), potassium (14% to 16%), calcium (13%), ammonium (12%), nitrites (8%) and bicarbonates (10%) over their respective standards. The Wilcox and Riverside diagrams indicate that the majority of waters (90%) have excellent suitability for irrigation and no negative effect on soil fertilization.
文摘Accessing drinking water is a global issue. This study aims to contribute to the assessment of groundwater quality in the municipality of Za-Kpota (southern Benin) using remote sensing and Machine Learning. The methodological approach used consisted in linking groundwater physico-chemical parameter data collected in the field and in the laboratory using AFNOR 1994 standardized methods to satellite data (Landsat) in order to sketch out a groundwater quality prediction model. The data was processed using QGis (Semi-Automatic Plugin: SCP) and Python (Jupyter Netebook: Prediction) softwares. The results of water analysis from the sampled wells and boreholes indicated that most of the water is acidic (pH varying between 5.59 and 7.83). The water was moderately mineralized, with conductivity values of less than 1500 μs/cm overall (59 µS/cm to 1344 µS/cm), with high concentrations of nitrates and phosphates in places. The dynamics of groundwater quality in the municipality of Za-Kpota between 2008 and 2022 are also marked by a regression in land use units (a regression in vegetation and marshland formation in favor of built-up areas, bare soil, crops and fallow land) revealed by the diachronic analysis of satellite images from 2008, 2013, 2018 and 2022. Surveys of local residents revealed the use of herbicides and pesticides in agricultural fields, which are the main drivers contributing to the groundwater quality deterioration observed in the study area. Field surveys revealed the use of herbicides and pesticides in agricultural fields, which are factors contributing to the deterioration in groundwater quality observed in the study area. The results of the groundwater quality prediction models (ANN, RF and LR) developed led to the conclusion that the model based on Artificial Neural Networks (ANN: R2 = 0.97 and RMSE = 0) is the best for groundwater quality changes modelling in the Za-Kpota municipality.
文摘Groundwater is the main source of drinking water for large cities in most African countries. In Moundou, for example, the conventional groundwater supply system is failing. To compensate for this state failure, the population is building boreholes and wells, most of which tap the surface water table, generally referred to as the “water table”. The aim of this study is to characterize these waters in order to assess their level of contamination and, by extension, the degree of pollution of the water table. Major elements such as: Chloride (Cl<sup>-</sup>), Sulfate (SO<sub>4</sub><sup>2-</sup>), Nitrate (NO<sub>3</sub><sup>-</sup>), Calcium (Ca<sup>2+</sup>), magnesium (Mg<sup>2+</sup>), sodium (Na<sup>+</sup>) and potassium (K<sup>+</sup>) were analysed by Liquid Chromatography and the Bicarbonate ion (HCO<sub>3</sub><sup>-</sup>) was determined by the titrimetric method. The methodology applied is based on a combination of hydrochemical techniques and statistical analysis (PCA and CHA). A sampling campaign was carried out during high-water periods. The results of the physico-chemical analyses show mineralization ranging from 7.29 to 3670 μS/cm, with an average of 487.44 μS/cm. The groundwater studied is generally acidic, with a pH ranging from 3.26 to 6.41. Based on their anions, they are classified into four main hydrochemical facies: chloride and sulphate facies, calcium and magnesium facies, sodium and potassium facies and bicarbonate facies. The various correlations between major ions and statistical analyses have enabled us to identify three hydrogeochemical processes involved in water mineralization. The dominant process is silicate hydrolysis, followed by cation exchange, then anthropogenic input, which influences mineralization by polluting the water.
基金South Wisdom Valley Innovative Research Team Program(No.2013CXTD05)
文摘An enzyme-stimulating catalyst( PTL) with copper ions( Cu^(2+)) as the activation center and aminophosphonate as ligand was developed and applied in low-temperature scouring/bleaching of cotton knits. The optimal weight ratio of Cu^(2+) to aminophosphonate was 1 ∶75. Via orthodox and single-factor experiments,the most efficient formula for low-temperature scouring/bleaching was composed of 0. 4 g/L high-efficiency degreaser DM-1130,1. 5 g/L PTL,2. 0 g/L sodium hydroxide( NaOH),and 7. 0 g/L 30% hydrogen peroxide( H_2O_2). The PTL could not only increase the whiteness of cotton knits,but also remove pectin to enhance capillary effect.
文摘This paper aims to explore the application of Extreme Value Theory (EVT) in estimating the conditional extreme quantile for time-to-event outcomes by examining the functional relationship between ambulatory blood pressure trajectories and clinical outcomes in stroke patients. The study utilizes EVT to analyze the functional connection between ambulatory blood pressure trajectories and clinical outcomes in a sample of 297 stroke patients. The 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure measurement curves for every 15 minutes are considered, acknowledging a censored rate of 40%. The findings reveal that the sample mean excess function exhibits a positive gradient above a specific threshold, confirming the heavy-tailed distribution of data in stroke patients with a positive extreme value index. Consequently, the estimated conditional extreme quantile indicates that stroke patients with higher blood pressure measurements face an elevated risk of recurrent stroke occurrence at an early stage. This research contributes to the understanding of the relationship between ambulatory blood pressure and recurrent stroke, providing valuable insights for clinical considerations and potential interventions in stroke management.
文摘Based on 2022 and 2023 hydrometric data and satellite images (Sentinel 2022, SPOT 2010), this study aims to present the Nokoué Lake and its channels’ re-cent hydromorphological characteristics. Integrating flow, tributary morphology, and topography data determined specific power values along the axes studied. The values obtained range from 2.69 to 12.92 W/m2 for Ouémé River and 2.46 to 10.99 W/m2 for Sô River. The resulting water erosion on banks and bottoms is of linear, areolar, or gully and claw types. Lake bathymetry varies from -0.5 to -2.6 m (low flow period) and -1 to -4 m;in the Ouémé, Sô, and Totchè rivers, it varies from -5 m to -7 m, reaching -10 m at the Cotonou channel entrance (flood period). Bathymetric profiles reveal varied “U”, “V” and “Intermediate” bottom morphologies, influenced by erosion/sedimentation processes and human activities. The flow facies identified are lentic in the northern tributaries and lotic in the Cotonou and Totchè canals. Spatial analysis identified nine (09) thematic classes. In 2022, the surface area of the water body has increased from 274 km2 at low water to 280 km2 at high water, whereas in 2010 (a recent year of exceptional flooding), the surface area was 270 km2 at low water and 277 km2 at high water. Significant changes in land use are observed between 2010 and 2022. The floodplain area decreased slightly, from 421 km2 in 2010 (year of exceptional flooding) to 419 km2 in 2022. The evolution of land use shows a progressive expansion of the urban environment to the detriment of the natural environment. In the medium to long term, this trend could threaten the hydromorphological balance and even the existence of this important lagoon ecosystem.
文摘The hydrologic and hydraulic changings on the behavior of Mono river are the result of the stress involved by human activities, on one hand and the construction of the dam of Nangbéto and the exploitation of sand in downstream of the dam by the population, between Athiémé and Agbanankin on other hand. That effect had also affected the shape of the sections of the river in the context of climate variability. It shows consequently that area is also a trapping area of sediments eroded in downstream of the dam and is responsible for the trapping of sediments in the river. The slope and the flow rate are the main factors of the real capacity of transport of a watercourse. They also determine the transport of solid flows from upstream to downstream. This drawing model established by taking into account the bathymetry of a transversal section of the Mono river at Athiémé, is the first step of a global investigation of the solid flow transport in the basin of Mono river and the boundary condition for the characterization of its hydro-sedimentary dynamics study. It aims to take into account sections and the used technique which consist to measure on one located section as the representative section of the river at Athiémé, by moving the boat used for bathymetry.
文摘The objective of the study was to characterize the clays of the Lama depression in Benin. Macroscopic examination of hand soundings, dynamic penetration test and stratigraphic correlation of water borehole logs, as well as scanning electron microscopy (SEM) combined with energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis (EDX) method were made on compact or stratified clays. The large grains are embedded in a sintered matrix. The texture is heterogeneous and open, including quartz, carbonates and organic matter. The fine fraction is dominated by mineral paragenesis characterizing Kaolinite-Quartz-Calcite-Gypsum dioctahedral smectites composed of: Oxygen, Silica, Carbon, Aluminum, Iron, Zinc, Titanium and Magnesium. This smectic and regular structure includes coarse grains of the order of 800 μm. The pore diameters vary from 130 μm to 1.14 μm. The inter-particle porosity is poorly developed unlike the inter-aggregate pores larger than 0.05 μm. The texture is laminar and shows elongated turbo static particles with more or less rounded edges and honeycomb particles. Quartz and carbonates induce an increase in heterogeneities which develop mechanical sensitivity and hydraulic conductivity. High contents of silica, iron or aluminum and low contents of calcium and magnesium, as well as the presence of other trace elements suggest an alumino-ferriferous clay resulting from the hydrothermal alteration of the acid granite massif. These heterogeneities promote less tortuous pores or paths, making these clays more permeable. Finally, other stabilization studies and improvements to hydraulic products and binders should favor the use of the studied clay as improved backfill or drilling muds.
文摘One important aspect of solar energy generation especially in inter-tropical sites is the local variability of clouds. Satellite images do not have temporal resolution enough to nowcast its impacts on solar plants, this monitoring is made by local cameras. However, cloud detection and monitoring are not trivial due to cloud shape dynamics, the camera is a linear and self-adjusting device, with fish-eye lenses generating a flat image that distorts images near the horizon. The present work focuses on cloud identification to predict its effects on solar plants that are distinct for every site’s climatology and geography. We used RASPBERY-PI-based cameras pointed at the horizon to allow observation of clouds’ vertical distribution, not possible with a unique fish-eye lens. A large number of cloud image identification analyses led the researchers to use deep learning methods such as U-net, HRnet, and Detectron. We use transfer learning with weights trained over the “2012 ILSVRC ImageNet” data set and architecture configurations like Resnet, Efficient, and Detectron2. While cloud identification proved a difficult task, we achieved the best results by using Jaccard Coefficient as a validation metric, with the best model being a U-net with Resnet18 using 486 × 648 resolution. This model had an average IoU of 0.6, indicating a satisfactory performance in cloud segmentation. We also observed that the data imbalance affected the overall performance of all models, with the tree class creating a favorable bias. The HRNet model, which works with different resolutions, showed promising results with a more refined segmentation at the pixel level, but it was not necessary to detect the most predominant clouds in the sky. We are currently working on balancing the dataset and mapping out data augmentation transformations for our next experiments. Our ultimate goal is to use such models to predict cloud motion and forecast the impact it will have on solar power generation. The present work has contributed to a better understanding of what techniques work best for cloud identification and paves the way for future studies on the development of a better overall cloud classification model.
文摘The filling of rivers generated by carried solid deposit is a factor for the raising of height of rivers and thus activates the floods and inundations. The quantification of carried solid flow charges through their characterization and the analysis of hydrosedimentary dynamics is the second step of the investigation of the solid flow transport in the Mono river. This study aims to quantify the volume of trapped sediments in function of the variation of the geometry of the shape of sections of the river depending of the slope and the flow rate therefore to evaluate the capacity of transport of eroded solid flows of a watercourse from upstream to downstream. Consequently, the decreasing percentage of deposited alluvium from upstream to downstream is calculated along Mono river. Thus the drawn granulometric curve of sediments and the determinate granulometric characteristics of sediments permit to quantify the carried sediment charges at each chosen section with Engelund-Hansen model in Mono river.
文摘The coastal sedimentary basin in southern Benin consists of monoclinal layers divided into two plateau zones (North and South) which are separated by a longitudinal depression ESE-WNW. The valleys of the main N-S-oriented rivers (Ouémé, Couffo and Mono) set the bondaries of the different plateau of the BSC (Coastal Sedimentary Basin). The present study, based on geology, hydrochemistry, temperature and log data available on boreholes, makes a physico-chemical characterization of the waters of the gushing aquifers of the coastal sedimentary basin of Benin. The gushing water boreholes are shared between the valleys of the main rivers of the BSC. Some of these boreholes are </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">thermal with a water temperature between 38 and 69 degrees Celsius. The</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> hydrogeological correlations established in the BSC in accordance to the North-</span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:""> </span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">South direction in the valleys of the main streams (Couffo and Ouémé) reveal that the captured aquifers are sands, marls and limestones that respond either </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">in major discordance (northern zone) or above the sedimentation gaps</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> (southern zone). Chemical analyses have shown that gushing thermal waters are mineralized in the south with a neutral to basic pH and are highly concentrated with bicarbonate, calcium and magnesium ions. In the North, on the other hand, thermal waters are acidic with a pH ranging from 4.8 to 5.9. The acidic nature of the northern waters is influenced by the crystalline base while the southern neutral to basic waters are influenced by the lithological nature (limestone and marl) of the aquifer. The random distribution of thermal water boreholes in the valleys of the main BSC streams is believed to be related to tectonic events.
文摘Pesticide residues are either natural or synthetic and are found in most edible products such as fresh fruits, vegetables, meat and other processed products. Excess of these pesticides’ residues is unsafe for consumption due to regulatory measures. Thus, it is beneficial to assess the level of residues of pesticides in the food diet in order to improve the standard of living of the population. This study intends to assess the pesticide usage and residue levels of selected pesticides in fresh tomatoes in the supply chain of Rwanda. The results of the study confirm that there are around 10 brands of pesticides used in Rwanda. 58.97% of the surveyed people around the country are males and 71.79% of farmers apply rockets as the main pesticide. More than 22% of surveyed farmers affirmed to consume the raw or/and unwashed tomatoes. This study revealed that the residues of the active ingredients contained in the pesticides are accumulated in unwashed tomatoes and the quantity of such residues is shown in this study. Deltamethrin was 0.64 ± 0. 009 mg·kg<sup>?</sup><sup>1</sup> in tomatoes collected in Rusizi district, cypermethrin 1.1435 ± 0. 0375 mg·kg<sup>?1</sup> in tomatoes collected from Gisagara District, mancozeb residues was 0.620 ± 0.000 mg·kg<sup>?1</sup> in tomatoes collected from Rusizi district. The results of the study also show that pesticide residues are not found in the washed tomatoes. Therefore, the detection of pesticide residues in unwashed tomatoes in some samples indicates the malpractice of residues among farmers in Rwanda. Also, consumers eating the unwashed fresh tomatoes are recommended to wash the tomatoes before use.
文摘This study focuses on the assessment of the level of contamination in metallic trace elements (cadmium, copper, zinc and lead) in the waters of lake Azili in the municipality of Zangnanado. The methodology adopted to achieve these results is the method of molecular absorption spectrophotometry. Four sites were sampled at the beginning of November 2020 (period of the long dry season). The results obtained show that the copper content varies between 1.04 mg/l and 1.67 mg/l. The zinc content between 0.2 mg/l to 0.62 mg/l and those of lead recorded are all above 0.05 mg/l. As for their cadmium concentration, they are all above 0.001 mg/l. These results from water analysis of Azili lake show that the sources of this type contamination of the lake are due on the one hand to human activities (dumps of household waste, use of motorized boats) and others other hand to the contributions of the effluents of the lake carrying pesticides. The water quality of Lake Azili is therefore influenced by these various metallic trace elements found there. These results show that the waters of lake Azili are at their beginning of pollution even if it is not yet alarming at the time of our study. Under these conditions, if nothing is done to mitigate it, the pollution will be critical over time.
