This study examines the molecular and isotopic composition of 193 gas samples collected from oil and gas fields across Colombia's onshore basins with active hydrocarbon production.Comparative analyses were conduct...This study examines the molecular and isotopic composition of 193 gas samples collected from oil and gas fields across Colombia's onshore basins with active hydrocarbon production.Comparative analyses were conducted on both isotopic and molecular compositions across the Lower Magdalena Basin(LMB),Middle Magdalena Basin(MMB),Upper Magdalena Basin(UMB),Putumayo Cagu an Basin(PUTCAB),Catatumbo Basin(CATB),Eastern Llanos Basin(LLAB),and Eastern Cordillera Basin(ECB).The primary objectives were to classify the gases produced,characterize their origins,assess transformation processes such as biodegradation and migration,and analyze the statistical distribution patterns of their components.This geochemical characterization aims to support the discovery of new reserves for both natural gas(NG)and liquefied petroleum gas(LPG),given Colombia's potential risk of diminished energy selfsufficiency in gas resources.The basins under study produce dry gas,wet gas,and liquefied petroleum gas(LPG/C_(3+)),all associated with oil and gas fields of commercial hydrocarbon production.Notably,the LLAB contains the highest proportions of heavy isotopic carbon and C_(3+)(LPG)concentrations,whereas LMB is characterized by isotopically lighter methane,indicative of dry gas predominance.Results suggest a predominantly thermogenic origin for the gases studied,generated within the oil and gas windows,with several samples originating from secondary oil cracking,while some samples from LMB display a likely biogenic origin.Additionally,evidence of gas migration and biodegradation was observed in a significant subset of samples.The analysis of statistical distributions and compositional trends reveals a prevalent high methane content,with substantial C_(2)-C_(5)(C_(2+))gas concentrations across all basins studied.This composition underscores the potential for both natural gas(NG)and LPG production.The C_(3+)(LPG)content varies between 1%and 92%,with 35%of the samples containing less than 5%LPG.High original gas-in-place(OGIP)volumes and substantial LPG content in the Eastern Llanos foothills,encompassing fields such as Cusiana and Cupiagua,highlight the prospective potential of this region.Near-field exploration could further add reserves of both NG and LPG.展开更多
Over the last century,the Mediterranean basin has been widely affected by the abandonment of farming activities,leading to a natural succession towards forested ecosystems.This process is resulting in a carbon(C)stock...Over the last century,the Mediterranean basin has been widely affected by the abandonment of farming activities,leading to a natural succession towards forested ecosystems.This process is resulting in a carbon(C)stock increase at an ecosystem level,often assessed through the measurement of aboveground biomass,while the contribution of soil organic carbon(SOC)remains unclear.We investigated C changes caused by secondary succession on previously grazed areas in central Italy,specifically focusing on the SOC pool.The natural succession is described through a chronosequence approach over four successional stages:pastures,shrublands,young and mature forests.Eight replicates per stage were studied,and C stock was estimated in the mineral soil down to a 30-cm depth,and in all other ecosystem C pools:aboveground and belowground biomass,deadwood and litter.In the mature forests,SOC stock was significantly higher(p<0.05)than in pastures by 40±8 Mg ha^(-1),corresponding to 28%of the total ecosystem C stock gain.The same trend was observed for aboveground biomass,the pool that increased the most(62±23 Mg ha^(-1)),with a 43%contribution to total ecosystem gain.Our results point to a substantial contribution of SOC to overall C stock during secondary succession in Mediterranean ecosystems.展开更多
In this study, we explore the application of ACP (asymptotic curve based and proportionality oriented) Alpha Beta (αβ) Nonlinear Math to analyze arithmetic and radiation transmission data. Specifically, we investiga...In this study, we explore the application of ACP (asymptotic curve based and proportionality oriented) Alpha Beta (αβ) Nonlinear Math to analyze arithmetic and radiation transmission data. Specifically, we investigate the relationship between two variables. The novel approach involves collecting elementary “y” data and subsequently analyzing the asymptotic cumulative or demulative (opposite of cumulative) Y data. In part I, we examine the connection between the common linear numbers and ideal nonlinear numbers. In part II, we delve into the relationship between X-ray energy and the radiation transmission for various thin film materials. The fundamental physical law asserts that the nonlinear change in continuous variable Y is negatively proportional to the nonlinear change in continuous variable X, expressed mathematically as dα = −Kdβ. Here: dα {Y, Yu, Yb} represents the change in Y, with Yu and Yb denoting the upper and baseline asymptote of Y. dβ {X, Xu, Xb} represents the change in X, with Xu and Xb denoting the upper and baseline asymptote of X. K represents the proportionality constant or rate constant, which varies based on equation arrangement. K is the key inferential factor for describing physical phenomena.展开更多
Analyses of astrophysics and electrostatic separation data were illustrated with the Asymptotic Curve Based and Proportionality Oriented (ACP) nonlinear math for relating two physical variables. The fundamental physic...Analyses of astrophysics and electrostatic separation data were illustrated with the Asymptotic Curve Based and Proportionality Oriented (ACP) nonlinear math for relating two physical variables. The fundamental physical law asserts that the nonlinear change of continuous variable Y is proportional to the nonlinear change in continuous variable X. Mathematically, this is expressed as dα{Y, Yu, Yb} = −Kdβ{X, Xu, Xb}, with Yu, Yb, Xu, and Xb representing the upper and baseline asymptotes of Y and X. Y is the continuous cumulative numbers of the elementary y and X is the continuous cumulative numbers of elementary x. K is the proportionality constant or equally is the rate constant.展开更多
Hydrogen technologies and fuel cells offer an alternative and improved solution for a decarbonised energy future.Fuel cells are electrochemical converters;transforming hydrogen (or energy sources containing hydrogen) ...Hydrogen technologies and fuel cells offer an alternative and improved solution for a decarbonised energy future.Fuel cells are electrochemical converters;transforming hydrogen (or energy sources containing hydrogen) and oxygen directly into electricity.The hydrogen fuel cell,invented in 1839,permits the generation of electrical energy with high efficiency through a non-combustion,electrochemical process and,importantly,without the emission ofits point of use.Hitherto,despite numerous efforts to exploit the obvious attractions of hydrogen technologies and hydrogen fuel cells,various challenges have been encountered,some of which are reviewed here.Now,however,given the exigent need to urgently seek low-carbon paths for humankind’s energy future,numerous countries are advancing the deployment of hydrogen technologies and hydrogen fuel cells not only for transport,but also as a means of the storage of excess renewable energy from,for example,wind and solar farms.Furthermore,hydrogen is also being blended into the natural gas supplies used in domestic heating and targeted in the decarbonisation of critical,large-scale industrial processes such as steel making.We briefly review specific examples in countries such as Japan,South Korea and the People’s Republic of China,as well as selected examples from Europe and North America in the utilization of hydrogen technologies and hydrogen fuel cells.展开更多
Determination of site quality is a basic tool for proper selection of locations and species, in management of forest plantations. Throughout the Caribbean studies of site quality are few and are hampered by statistica...Determination of site quality is a basic tool for proper selection of locations and species, in management of forest plantations. Throughout the Caribbean studies of site quality are few and are hampered by statistical limitations, inappropriate growth models, and limited data. We fitted growth curves for dominant height to evaluate and clas- sify site quality ofteak （Tectona grandis） plantations by using data from 44 permanent sample plots established since 1990 in 3--22 years old teak plantations in the Colombian Caribbean region. We used Korf＇s and yon Bertalanffy＇s models to fit curves as non-linear effects models. Both models, with a single random parameter, were considered as adequate for dominant height growth modelling, but Korf＇s model was superior. The resulting curves were anamorphic and closely reflected high variability in site quality. Five site classes were clarified： at a base age of 12 years old, teak reached a mean dominant height of 24.8 m on the best sites, 9.8 m in the worst sites, and in the averages sites, 15.8-18.8 m. Using this model, we identified the best and the worst sites for teak plantations in the Caribbean region. This model proved a useful tool, not only for site quality evaluation, but also for improved teak plantation planning and management.展开更多
Coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)deaths per million population in the countries of the West had often exceeded those in the countries of the East by factor of 100 by May 2021.In this paper,we refer to the West as rep...Coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)deaths per million population in the countries of the West had often exceeded those in the countries of the East by factor of 100 by May 2021.In this paper,we refer to the West as represented by the United States plus the five most populous countries of Western Europe(France,Germany,Italy,Spain,and the United Kingdom),and the East as the 15 countries in East Asia and Oceania that are members of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership,RCEP(Australia,Brunei,Cambodia,China,Indonesia,Japan,the Republic of Korea,Laos,Malaysia,Myanmar,New Zealand,Philippines,Singapore,Thailand,and Vietnam).This paper argues that currently available information points to the factors most responsible for the East–West divide.Warnings by early January 2020 about an atypical viral pneumonia in Wuhan,China,prompted rapid responses in many jurisdictions in East Asia.Publication of the virus’s genome on 10 January 2020 provided essential information for making diagnostic tests and launching vaccine development.China’s lockdown of Wuhan on 23 January 2020 provided a final,decisive signal of the danger of the new disease.By late March 2020,China had fully controlled its epidemic,and many other RCEP countries had taken early and decisive measures,including restrictions on travel,that aborted serious outcomes.Inaction during the critical month of February 2020 in the United States and most other Western countries allowed the disease to take hold and spread.In both the East and the West,stringent population-wide non-pharmaceutical interventions were widely implemented at great cost to societies,economies,and school systems.Without these measures,the outcomes could have been even worse.Most countries in the East also implemented tightly focused policies to isolate infectious individuals.Even today,most countries in the West allow infectious individuals to mingle with their families,coworkers,and communities.Much of the East–West divide plausibly results from failure in the West to implement the basic public health policies of early action and the isolation of infectious individuals.Widespread immunization in some RCEP and high-income countries will soon attenuate their outbreaks,while the slow rollout of vaccines in lower income countries is replacing the East–West divide in outcomes with a North–South one.The South is thus replacing the West as the breeding ground for more dangerous variants as exemplified by the highly contagious Delta variant,which may undermine hitherto successful control strategies in many countries.展开更多
Inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)incidence has been increasing steadily,most dramatically in the Western developed countries.Treatment often includes lifelong immunosuppressive therapy and surgery.There is a critical ne...Inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)incidence has been increasing steadily,most dramatically in the Western developed countries.Treatment often includes lifelong immunosuppressive therapy and surgery.There is a critical need to reduce the burden of IBD and to discover medical therapies with better efficacy and fewer potential side-effects.Repurposing of treatments originally studied in other diseases with similar pathogenesis is less costly and time intensive than de novo drug discovery.This study used a treatment repurposing methodology,the literature-related discovery and innovation(LRDI)text mining system,to identify potential treatments(developed for non-IBD diseases)with sufficient promise for extrapolation to treatment of IBD.By searching for desirable patterns of twenty key biomarkers relevant to IBD(e.g.,inflammation,reactive oxygen species,autophagy,barrier function),the LRDI-based query retrieved approximately 9500 records from Medline.The most recent 350 records were further analyzed for proof-of-concept.Approximately 18%(64/350)met the criteria for discovery(not previously studied in IBD human or animal models)and relevance for application to IBD treatment.Many of the treatments were compounds derived from herbal remedies,and the majority of treatments were being studied in cancer,diabetes,and central nervous system disease,such as depression and dementia.As further validation of the search strategy,the query identified ten treatments that have just recently begun testing in IBD models in the last three years.Literature-related discovery and innovation text mining contains a unique search strategy with tremendous potential to identify treatments for repurposing.A more comprehensive query with additional key biomarkers would have retrieved many thousands more records,further increasing the yield of IBD treatment repurposing discovery.展开更多
The loss factors and their effects on the magnitude and frequency of resonance peaks in various mechanical sys-tems are reviewed for acoustic,vibration,and vibration fatigue applications.The main trends and relationsh...The loss factors and their effects on the magnitude and frequency of resonance peaks in various mechanical sys-tems are reviewed for acoustic,vibration,and vibration fatigue applications.The main trends and relationships were obtained for linear mechanical models with hysteresis damping.The well-known features(complex module of elasticity,total loss factor,etc.)are clarified for practical engineers and students,and new results are presented(in particular,for 2-DOF in-series models with hysteresis friction).The results are of both educational and prac-tical interest and may be applied for NVH analysis and testing,mechanical and aeromechanical design,and noise and vibration control in buildings.展开更多
BACKGROUND The differences in histopathology and molecular biology between right colon cancer(RCC)and left colon cancer(LCC)were first reported in the literature by Bufill in 1990.Since then,a large number of studies ...BACKGROUND The differences in histopathology and molecular biology between right colon cancer(RCC)and left colon cancer(LCC)were first reported in the literature by Bufill in 1990.Since then,a large number of studies have confirmed their differences in epidemiology,clinical presentation,comorbidities and biological behaviours,which may be related to the difference in prognosis and overall survival(OS)between the two groups.AIM To investigate statistically significant differences between Greek patients with LCC and RCC.METHODS The present observational study included 144 patients diagnosed with colon cancer of any stage who received chemotherapy in a Greek tertiary oncology hospital during a 2.5-year period.Clinical information,comorbidities,histopathologic characteristics and molecular biomarkers were collected from the patients’medical records retrospectively,while administered chemotherapy regimens,targeted agents,progression-free survival(PFS)periods with first-and second-line chemotherapy and OS were recorded retroactively and prospectively.Data analysis was performed with the SPSS statistical package.RESULTS Eighty-six males and 58 females participated in the study.One hundred(69.4%)patients had a primary lesion in the left colon,and 44(30.6%)patients had a primary lesion in the right colon.Patients with RCC were more likely to display anaemia than patients with LCC[odds ratio(OR)=3.09],while LCC patients were more likely to develop rectal bleeding(OR=3.37)and a feeling of incomplete evacuation(OR=2.78)than RCC patients.Considering comorbidities,RCC patients were more likely to suffer from diabetes(OR=3.31)and coronary artery disease(P=0.056)than LCC patients.The mucinous differentiation rate was higher in the right-sided group than in the left-sided group(OR=4.49),as was the number of infiltrated lymph nodes(P=0.039),while the percentage of high-grade differentiation was higher in the group of patients with left-sided colon cancer than in RCC patients(OR=2.78).RAS wild-type patients who received anti-epidermal growth factor receptor(EGFR):Treatment experienced greater benefit(PFS:16.5 mo)than those who received anti-vascular endothelial growth factor treatment(PFS:13.7 mo)(P=0.05),while among RAS wild-type patients who received anti-EGFR treatment,LCC patients experienced greater benefit(PFS:15.8 mo)than the RCC subgroup(PFS:5.5 mo)in the first-line chemotherapy setting(P=0.034).BRAF-mutant patients had shorter PFS(9.3 mo)than BRAF wild-type patients(14.5 mo)(P=0.033).RCC patients showed a shorter tumour recurrence period(7.7 mo)than those with LCC(14.5 mo)(P<0.001),as well as shorter(OS)(58.4 mo for RCC patients;82.4 mo for LCC patients)(P=0.018).CONCLUSION RCC patients present more comorbidities,worse histological and molecular characteristics and a consequently higher probability of tumour recurrence,poor response to targeted therapy and shorter OS than LCC patients.展开更多
AIM： To review evidence relating passive smoking to lung cancer risk in never smokers, considering various major sources of bias.METHODS： Epidemiological prospective or case-control studies were identifed which prov...AIM： To review evidence relating passive smoking to lung cancer risk in never smokers, considering various major sources of bias.METHODS： Epidemiological prospective or case-control studies were identifed which provide estimates of relative risk （RR） and 95%CI for never smokers for one or more of seven different indices of exposure to environmental tobacco smoke （ETS）： The spouse; household; workplace; childhood; travel; social and other; and total. A wide range of study details were entered into a database, and the RRs for each study, including descriptions of the comparisons made, were entered into a linked database. RRs were derived where necessary. Results were entered, where available, for all lung cancer, and for squamous cell cancer and adenocarcinoma. “Most adjusted” results were entered based on results available, adjusted for the greatest number of potential confounding variables. “Least adjusted” results were also entered, with a preference for results adjusted at least for age for prospective studies. A pre-planned series of fxed-effects and random-effects meta-analyses were conducted. Overall analyses and analyses by continent were run for each exposure index,with results for spousal smoking given by sex, and results for childhood exposure given by source of ETS exposure. For spousal exposure, more extensive analyses provide results by various aspects of study design and defnition of the RR. For smoking by the husband （or nearest equivalent）, additional analyses were carried out both for overall risk, and for risk per 10 cigarettes per day smoked by the husband. These adjusted for uncontrolled confounding by four factors （fruit, vegetable and dietary fat consumption, and education）, and corrected for misclassification of smoking status of the wife. For the confounding adjustment, estimates for never smoking women were derived from publications on the relationship of the four factors to both lung cancer risk and at home ETS exposure, and on the correlations between the factors. The bias due to misclassifcation was calculated on the basis that the proportion of ever smokers denying smoking is 10% in Asian studies and 2.5% elsewhere, and that those who deny smoking have the same risk as those who admit it. This approach, justifed in previous work, balances higher true denial rates and lower risk in deniers compared to non-deniers.RESULTS： One hundred and two studies were identifed for inclusion, published in 1981 onwards, 45 in Asia, 31 in North America, 21 in Europe, and fve elsewhere. Eighty-fve were of case-control design and 17 were prospective. Significant （P 〈 0.05） associations were noted, with random-effects of （RR = 1.22, 95%CI： 1.14-1.31, n = 93） for smoking by the husband （RR = 1.14, 95%CI： 1.01-1.29, n = 45） for smoking by the wife （RR = 1.22, 95%CI： 1.15-1.30, n = 47） for workplace exposure （RR = 1.15, 95%CI： 1.02-1.29, n = 41） for childhood exposure, and （RR = 1.31, 95%CI： 1.19-1.45, n = 48） for total exposure. No signifcant association was seen for ETS exposure in travel （RR = 1.34, 95%CI： 0.94-1.93, n = 8） or in social situations （RR = 1.01, 95%CI： 0.82-1.24, n = 15）. A signifcant negative association （RR = 0.78, 95%CI： 0.64-0.94, n = 8） was seen for ETS exposure in childhood, specifically from the parents. Significant associations were also seen for spousal smoking for both squamous cell carcinoma （RR = 1.44, 95%CI： 1.15-1.80, n = 24） and adenocarcinoma （RR = 1.33,95%CI： 1.17-1.51, n = 30）. Results generally showed marked heterogeneity between studies. For smoking by either the husband or wife, where 119 RR estimates gave an overall estimate of （RR = 1.21, 95%CI： 1.14-1.29）, the heterogeneity was highly significant （P 〈 0.001）, with evidence that the largest RRs were seen in studies published in 1981-89, in small studies （1-49 cases）, and for estimates unadjusted by age. For smoking by the husband, the additional analyses showed that adjustment for the four factors reduced the overall （RR = 1.22, 95%CI： 1.14-1.31） based on 93 estimates to （RR = 1.14, 95%CI： 1.06-1.22）, implying bias due to uncontrolled confounding of 7%. Further correction for misclassification reduced the estimate to a marginally non-signifcant （RR = 1.08, 95%CI： 0.999-1.16）. In the fully adjusted and corrected analyses, there was evidence of an increase in Asia （RR = 1.18, 95%CI： 1.07-1.30, n = 44）, but not in other regions （RR = 0.96, 95%CI： 0.86-1.07, n = 49）. Studies published in the 1980’s, studies providing dose-response data, and studies only providing results unadjusted for age showed elevated RRs, but later published studies, studies not providing dose-response data, and studies adjusting for age did not. The pattern of results for RRs per 10 cigs/d was similar, with no signifcant association in the adjusted and corrected results （RR = 1.03, 95%CI： 0.994-1.07）.CONCLUSION： Most, if not all, of the ETS/lung cancer association can be explained by confounding adjustment and misclassifcation correction. Any causal relationship is not convincingly demonstrated.展开更多
Little is known about the productive performance of Mexican turkey, so the objective of the present study was to characterize growth performance curves of backyard turkey under a confined system. Forty fertile eggs we...Little is known about the productive performance of Mexican turkey, so the objective of the present study was to characterize growth performance curves of backyard turkey under a confined system. Forty fertile eggs were artificially incubated and turkey weight was recorded at hatch. During growth performance weekly weight was measured until 385 days of age. Turkey commercial feed and water were offered ad libitum. To characterize growth curves, a fourth degree polynomial model regression and a Richards biological model were used, which were compared by determination coefficient (r2), to reach the best fit model. The best fit model was the fourth degree polynomial regression model from a mathematical standpoint of view. It was found that maximum tom growth was reached at 15.7 weeks with a weight gain of 259.3 g/week and in hens at 12.4 weeks with a weight gain of 112.0 g/week. Body weight reached by toms at 40 weeks was 6 kg and hens at 35 weeks with 3.6 kg.展开更多
We present major and trace element compositions of mineral concentrates comprising garnet xenocrysts,ilmenite,phlogopite,spinel,zircon,and uncommon minerals(titanite,calzirtite,anatase,baddeleyite and pyrochlore)of a ...We present major and trace element compositions of mineral concentrates comprising garnet xenocrysts,ilmenite,phlogopite,spinel,zircon,and uncommon minerals(titanite,calzirtite,anatase,baddeleyite and pyrochlore)of a newly discovered Late Cretaceous kimberlite(U-Pb zircon age 90.0±1.3 Ma;2σ)named Osvaldo Franca 1,located in the Alto Paranaíba Igneous Province(APIP),southeastern Brazil.Pyrope grains are lherzolitic(Lherz-1,Lherz-2 and Lherz-3),harzburgitic(Harz-3)and wehrlitic(Wehr-2).The pyrope xenocrysts cover a wide mantle column in the subcratonic lithosphere(66–143 km;20–43 kbar)at relatively low temperatures(811–875°C).The shallowest part of this mantle is represented by Lherz-1 pyropes(20–32 kbar),which have low-Cr(Cr_(2)O_(3)=1.74–6.89 wt.%)and fractionated middle to heavy rare earth elements(MREE-HREE)pattern.The deepest samples are represented by Lherz-2,Lherz-3,Harz-3,and Wehr-2 pyropes(36–43 kbar).They contain high-Cr contents(Cr_(2)O_(3)=7.36–11.19 wt.%)and are characterized by sinusoidal(Lherz-2 and Wehr-2)and spoon-like(Lherz-3 and Harz-3)REE patterns.According to their REE and trace elements,pyrope xenocrysts have enriched nature(e.g.,Ce and Yb vs.Cr_(2)O_(3)),indicating that the cratonic lithosphere has been affected by a silicate melt with subalkaline/tholeiite composition due to their low Zr,Ti and Y concentrations.Besides minerals with typical kimberlitic signatures,such as ilmenite and zircon,the exotic compositions of phlogopite and ulvöspinel suggest an enriched component in the magma source.The formation of rare mineral phases with strong enrichment of light-REE(LREE)and high field strength elements(HFSE)is attributed to the late-stage kimberlitic melt.We propose a tectonic model where a thermal anomaly,represented by the low-velocity seismic anomaly observed in P-wave seismic tomography images,supplied heat to activate the alkaline magmatism from a metasomatized cratonic mantle source during the late-stages of Gondwana fragmentation and consequent South Atlantic Ocean opening.The metasomatism recorded by mineral phases is a product of long-lived recycling of subducted oceanic plates since the Neoproterozoic(Brasiliano Orogeny)or even older collisional events,contributing to the exotic character of the Osvaldo Fran?a 1 kimberlite,as well as to the cratonic lithospheric mantle.展开更多
Pets’ growing role in family dynamics creates questions about resources pets may provide in parenthood motivation. Pet ownership has been suggested in the literature as an antecedent to parenthood in terms of develop...Pets’ growing role in family dynamics creates questions about resources pets may provide in parenthood motivation. Pet ownership has been suggested in the literature as an antecedent to parenthood in terms of developing skills needed to rear offspring, nurturance, and responsibility. Participants (N = 118) who were pet owners, completed an online survey that recorded demographics and consisted of loneliness, pet attitude, and parenthood motivation scales. Results supported that loneliness and pet attitude were positively related to parenthood motivation (all p’s < 0.05). Loneliness and parenthood motivation did not vary by pet species. Pet attitude varied by pet species;dog owners had the most positive attitude. Pets were shown to be a valuable resource in alleviating feelings of loneliness and parenthood preparation in this sample. Implications for nursing practice and future research are discussed.展开更多
Republic of Kosovo has 1,304 settlements from which only 37 are urban and 1,267 are rural. Shown in percentage, only 39.2% （765,125） of inhabitants live in urban areas. The focus is to work and find the best and che...Republic of Kosovo has 1,304 settlements from which only 37 are urban and 1,267 are rural. Shown in percentage, only 39.2% （765,125） of inhabitants live in urban areas. The focus is to work and find the best and cheap solutions for the 60.8% （1,173,370） of inhabitants of the country which live in rural areas. From this number only 42% of them have access to the sewage network while 60.8% of them have implemented individual solutions （latrines） without any treatment, leading to a large pollution of the water bodies. The existing rural sewage networks are built only with septic tanks, poorly designed and do not fulfill the wastewater treatment criteria. Regarding this issue, the Kosovan legislation concerns only urban areas （settlements of more than 2,000 inhabitants） and is expected to be completed in 2014 for rural areas according to the EU （European Union） directive for wastewater discharge. As a pilot project, the CDI （community development initiatives） started with WWTP （waste water treatment plants） based on the Vertical Constructed Wetland option （french model） as it appears to be the most adapted option in this rolling, rural, and temperate climate context, implementing this kind of treatment in 3 villages for the first time in Kosovo. Through this, it is interesting to take a perspective on all the phases of these projects starting from feasibility reports, project design to concept and modalities of implementation and options for operation and maintenance, in order to assess how this technical option is feasible and replicable in the country at a large scale. It finally appears that the potential for constructed wetland in the Balkan region is promising as it provides a simple solution for most of the regional constraints, but requires skills to be developed locally for designing and building as well as a deeper consideration in the national regulation.展开更多
X-ray-induced acoustic computed tomography(XACT)is a hybrid imaging modality for detecting X-ray absorption distribution via ultrasound emission.It facilitates imaging from a single projection X-ray illumination,thus ...X-ray-induced acoustic computed tomography(XACT)is a hybrid imaging modality for detecting X-ray absorption distribution via ultrasound emission.It facilitates imaging from a single projection X-ray illumination,thus reducing the radiation exposure and improving imaging speed.Nonuniform detector response caused by the interference between multichannel data acquisition for ring array transducers and amplifier systems yields ring artifacts in the reconstructed XACT images,which compromises the image quality.We propose model-based algorithms for ring artifacts corrected XACT imaging and demonstrate their effcacy on numerical and experimental measurements.The corrected reconstructions indicate significantly reduced ring artifacts as compared to their conventional counterparts.展开更多
One of gurus in the field of acoustics and vibration was Leo Beranek,an engineer and scientist born in the family of a farmer who came to USA from Bohemia(now a part of the Czech Republic).Several generations of vibro...One of gurus in the field of acoustics and vibration was Leo Beranek,an engineer and scientist born in the family of a farmer who came to USA from Bohemia(now a part of the Czech Republic).Several generations of vibroacoustic engineers studied a lot from his books and utilized the measurement techniques invented and implemented by him.展开更多
1 Introduction Non-lethal weapons are mainly used to disperse illegal demonstrations and street riots without inflicting serious physical injuries on the law violators.The development of non-lethal weapons complies wi...1 Introduction Non-lethal weapons are mainly used to disperse illegal demonstrations and street riots without inflicting serious physical injuries on the law violators.The development of non-lethal weapons complies with the civilized standards aimed to protect the law-abiding population from violent crowds with no casualties and injuries.It is noteworthy that tasers and pepper sprays are already in widespread use for personal self-defense.Thunder and lightning are the simplest natural examples of non-lethal and lethal weapon.Thunders sound frightening but they do not kill,lightnings can kill.展开更多
文摘This study examines the molecular and isotopic composition of 193 gas samples collected from oil and gas fields across Colombia's onshore basins with active hydrocarbon production.Comparative analyses were conducted on both isotopic and molecular compositions across the Lower Magdalena Basin(LMB),Middle Magdalena Basin(MMB),Upper Magdalena Basin(UMB),Putumayo Cagu an Basin(PUTCAB),Catatumbo Basin(CATB),Eastern Llanos Basin(LLAB),and Eastern Cordillera Basin(ECB).The primary objectives were to classify the gases produced,characterize their origins,assess transformation processes such as biodegradation and migration,and analyze the statistical distribution patterns of their components.This geochemical characterization aims to support the discovery of new reserves for both natural gas(NG)and liquefied petroleum gas(LPG),given Colombia's potential risk of diminished energy selfsufficiency in gas resources.The basins under study produce dry gas,wet gas,and liquefied petroleum gas(LPG/C_(3+)),all associated with oil and gas fields of commercial hydrocarbon production.Notably,the LLAB contains the highest proportions of heavy isotopic carbon and C_(3+)(LPG)concentrations,whereas LMB is characterized by isotopically lighter methane,indicative of dry gas predominance.Results suggest a predominantly thermogenic origin for the gases studied,generated within the oil and gas windows,with several samples originating from secondary oil cracking,while some samples from LMB display a likely biogenic origin.Additionally,evidence of gas migration and biodegradation was observed in a significant subset of samples.The analysis of statistical distributions and compositional trends reveals a prevalent high methane content,with substantial C_(2)-C_(5)(C_(2+))gas concentrations across all basins studied.This composition underscores the potential for both natural gas(NG)and LPG production.The C_(3+)(LPG)content varies between 1%and 92%,with 35%of the samples containing less than 5%LPG.High original gas-in-place(OGIP)volumes and substantial LPG content in the Eastern Llanos foothills,encompassing fields such as Cusiana and Cupiagua,highlight the prospective potential of this region.Near-field exploration could further add reserves of both NG and LPG.
基金supported by the European Union-Next Generation EU,Mission 4 Component 2 CUP J83 C22000860007.
文摘Over the last century,the Mediterranean basin has been widely affected by the abandonment of farming activities,leading to a natural succession towards forested ecosystems.This process is resulting in a carbon(C)stock increase at an ecosystem level,often assessed through the measurement of aboveground biomass,while the contribution of soil organic carbon(SOC)remains unclear.We investigated C changes caused by secondary succession on previously grazed areas in central Italy,specifically focusing on the SOC pool.The natural succession is described through a chronosequence approach over four successional stages:pastures,shrublands,young and mature forests.Eight replicates per stage were studied,and C stock was estimated in the mineral soil down to a 30-cm depth,and in all other ecosystem C pools:aboveground and belowground biomass,deadwood and litter.In the mature forests,SOC stock was significantly higher(p<0.05)than in pastures by 40±8 Mg ha^(-1),corresponding to 28%of the total ecosystem C stock gain.The same trend was observed for aboveground biomass,the pool that increased the most(62±23 Mg ha^(-1)),with a 43%contribution to total ecosystem gain.Our results point to a substantial contribution of SOC to overall C stock during secondary succession in Mediterranean ecosystems.
文摘In this study, we explore the application of ACP (asymptotic curve based and proportionality oriented) Alpha Beta (αβ) Nonlinear Math to analyze arithmetic and radiation transmission data. Specifically, we investigate the relationship between two variables. The novel approach involves collecting elementary “y” data and subsequently analyzing the asymptotic cumulative or demulative (opposite of cumulative) Y data. In part I, we examine the connection between the common linear numbers and ideal nonlinear numbers. In part II, we delve into the relationship between X-ray energy and the radiation transmission for various thin film materials. The fundamental physical law asserts that the nonlinear change in continuous variable Y is negatively proportional to the nonlinear change in continuous variable X, expressed mathematically as dα = −Kdβ. Here: dα {Y, Yu, Yb} represents the change in Y, with Yu and Yb denoting the upper and baseline asymptote of Y. dβ {X, Xu, Xb} represents the change in X, with Xu and Xb denoting the upper and baseline asymptote of X. K represents the proportionality constant or rate constant, which varies based on equation arrangement. K is the key inferential factor for describing physical phenomena.
文摘Analyses of astrophysics and electrostatic separation data were illustrated with the Asymptotic Curve Based and Proportionality Oriented (ACP) nonlinear math for relating two physical variables. The fundamental physical law asserts that the nonlinear change of continuous variable Y is proportional to the nonlinear change in continuous variable X. Mathematically, this is expressed as dα{Y, Yu, Yb} = −Kdβ{X, Xu, Xb}, with Yu, Yb, Xu, and Xb representing the upper and baseline asymptotes of Y and X. Y is the continuous cumulative numbers of the elementary y and X is the continuous cumulative numbers of elementary x. K is the proportionality constant or equally is the rate constant.
基金Professor Sir John Meurig Thomas FRS FREng,Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy,University of Cambridge.He is one of the founders of solid-state chemistry and the surface and materials chemistry of solids.He was one of the first chemists in the world to use electron microscopy as a chemical tool,which he initiated in the University of Wales(Bangor)in 1964.He has made numerous studies in heterogeneous catalysis and made significant contributions to the study of minerals,especially silicates,zeolites and clays as well as graphite and diamond.For his contributions to geochemistry,a new mineral,Meurigite,was named in his honour.He was once head of Physical Chemistry in the University of Cambridge and Director of the Royal Institution of Great BritainCorresponding author::Peter P.Edwards FRS ML holds the Statutory Chair of Inorganic Chemistry at Oxford and is the Co-Director of the KACST-Oxford Centre of Excellence in Petrochemicals,also at Oxford.He has previously held positions at Birmingham(Professor of Chemistry and of Materials),Cambridge(Lecturer in Chemistry and Director of Studies in Chemistry,Jesus College)and Cornell(British Fulbright Scholar and National Science Foundation Fellow).He was Co-Founder of the firstever UK Interdisciplinary Research Centre,that in Superconductivity at Cambridge and the UK Sustainable Hydrogen Energy Consortium(UKSHEC).He has been Chair of the European Research Council Advanced Investigators Award Panel on Chemical Synthesis and Advanced Materials.Edwards is Fellow of the Royal Society+1 种基金Einstein Professor of the Chinese Academy of SciencesMember,German Academy of Sciences,International Honorary Member of the US Academy of Arts and Sciences,International Member of the American Philosophical Society,and Member of the Academia Europaea.His current major interests include:Targeted reconstruction of plastic waste to hydrogen and starting monomers,converting carbon dioxide to carbon-neutral fuels and Green hydrogen from fossil hydrocarbon fuels,E-mail address:peter.edwards@chem.ox.ac.uk。
文摘Hydrogen technologies and fuel cells offer an alternative and improved solution for a decarbonised energy future.Fuel cells are electrochemical converters;transforming hydrogen (or energy sources containing hydrogen) and oxygen directly into electricity.The hydrogen fuel cell,invented in 1839,permits the generation of electrical energy with high efficiency through a non-combustion,electrochemical process and,importantly,without the emission ofits point of use.Hitherto,despite numerous efforts to exploit the obvious attractions of hydrogen technologies and hydrogen fuel cells,various challenges have been encountered,some of which are reviewed here.Now,however,given the exigent need to urgently seek low-carbon paths for humankind’s energy future,numerous countries are advancing the deployment of hydrogen technologies and hydrogen fuel cells not only for transport,but also as a means of the storage of excess renewable energy from,for example,wind and solar farms.Furthermore,hydrogen is also being blended into the natural gas supplies used in domestic heating and targeted in the decarbonisation of critical,large-scale industrial processes such as steel making.We briefly review specific examples in countries such as Japan,South Korea and the People’s Republic of China,as well as selected examples from Europe and North America in the utilization of hydrogen technologies and hydrogen fuel cells.
基金Reforestadora del Caribe S.A and the DIME (Research Direction of the National University of Colombia, Medellin Branch) for providing the funds for this project
文摘Determination of site quality is a basic tool for proper selection of locations and species, in management of forest plantations. Throughout the Caribbean studies of site quality are few and are hampered by statistical limitations, inappropriate growth models, and limited data. We fitted growth curves for dominant height to evaluate and clas- sify site quality ofteak （Tectona grandis） plantations by using data from 44 permanent sample plots established since 1990 in 3--22 years old teak plantations in the Colombian Caribbean region. We used Korf＇s and yon Bertalanffy＇s models to fit curves as non-linear effects models. Both models, with a single random parameter, were considered as adequate for dominant height growth modelling, but Korf＇s model was superior. The resulting curves were anamorphic and closely reflected high variability in site quality. Five site classes were clarified： at a base age of 12 years old, teak reached a mean dominant height of 24.8 m on the best sites, 9.8 m in the worst sites, and in the averages sites, 15.8-18.8 m. Using this model, we identified the best and the worst sites for teak plantations in the Caribbean region. This model proved a useful tool, not only for site quality evaluation, but also for improved teak plantation planning and management.
基金supported through grants from the Trond Mohn Foundation,Norway(BF2019MT02)the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation(Norad),Norway(RAF-18/0009)the Bergen Centre for Ethics and Priority Setting.
文摘Coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)deaths per million population in the countries of the West had often exceeded those in the countries of the East by factor of 100 by May 2021.In this paper,we refer to the West as represented by the United States plus the five most populous countries of Western Europe(France,Germany,Italy,Spain,and the United Kingdom),and the East as the 15 countries in East Asia and Oceania that are members of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership,RCEP(Australia,Brunei,Cambodia,China,Indonesia,Japan,the Republic of Korea,Laos,Malaysia,Myanmar,New Zealand,Philippines,Singapore,Thailand,and Vietnam).This paper argues that currently available information points to the factors most responsible for the East–West divide.Warnings by early January 2020 about an atypical viral pneumonia in Wuhan,China,prompted rapid responses in many jurisdictions in East Asia.Publication of the virus’s genome on 10 January 2020 provided essential information for making diagnostic tests and launching vaccine development.China’s lockdown of Wuhan on 23 January 2020 provided a final,decisive signal of the danger of the new disease.By late March 2020,China had fully controlled its epidemic,and many other RCEP countries had taken early and decisive measures,including restrictions on travel,that aborted serious outcomes.Inaction during the critical month of February 2020 in the United States and most other Western countries allowed the disease to take hold and spread.In both the East and the West,stringent population-wide non-pharmaceutical interventions were widely implemented at great cost to societies,economies,and school systems.Without these measures,the outcomes could have been even worse.Most countries in the East also implemented tightly focused policies to isolate infectious individuals.Even today,most countries in the West allow infectious individuals to mingle with their families,coworkers,and communities.Much of the East–West divide plausibly results from failure in the West to implement the basic public health policies of early action and the isolation of infectious individuals.Widespread immunization in some RCEP and high-income countries will soon attenuate their outbreaks,while the slow rollout of vaccines in lower income countries is replacing the East–West divide in outcomes with a North–South one.The South is thus replacing the West as the breeding ground for more dangerous variants as exemplified by the highly contagious Delta variant,which may undermine hitherto successful control strategies in many countries.
文摘Inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)incidence has been increasing steadily,most dramatically in the Western developed countries.Treatment often includes lifelong immunosuppressive therapy and surgery.There is a critical need to reduce the burden of IBD and to discover medical therapies with better efficacy and fewer potential side-effects.Repurposing of treatments originally studied in other diseases with similar pathogenesis is less costly and time intensive than de novo drug discovery.This study used a treatment repurposing methodology,the literature-related discovery and innovation(LRDI)text mining system,to identify potential treatments(developed for non-IBD diseases)with sufficient promise for extrapolation to treatment of IBD.By searching for desirable patterns of twenty key biomarkers relevant to IBD(e.g.,inflammation,reactive oxygen species,autophagy,barrier function),the LRDI-based query retrieved approximately 9500 records from Medline.The most recent 350 records were further analyzed for proof-of-concept.Approximately 18%(64/350)met the criteria for discovery(not previously studied in IBD human or animal models)and relevance for application to IBD treatment.Many of the treatments were compounds derived from herbal remedies,and the majority of treatments were being studied in cancer,diabetes,and central nervous system disease,such as depression and dementia.As further validation of the search strategy,the query identified ten treatments that have just recently begun testing in IBD models in the last three years.Literature-related discovery and innovation text mining contains a unique search strategy with tremendous potential to identify treatments for repurposing.A more comprehensive query with additional key biomarkers would have retrieved many thousands more records,further increasing the yield of IBD treatment repurposing discovery.
文摘The loss factors and their effects on the magnitude and frequency of resonance peaks in various mechanical sys-tems are reviewed for acoustic,vibration,and vibration fatigue applications.The main trends and relationships were obtained for linear mechanical models with hysteresis damping.The well-known features(complex module of elasticity,total loss factor,etc.)are clarified for practical engineers and students,and new results are presented(in particular,for 2-DOF in-series models with hysteresis friction).The results are of both educational and prac-tical interest and may be applied for NVH analysis and testing,mechanical and aeromechanical design,and noise and vibration control in buildings.
文摘BACKGROUND The differences in histopathology and molecular biology between right colon cancer(RCC)and left colon cancer(LCC)were first reported in the literature by Bufill in 1990.Since then,a large number of studies have confirmed their differences in epidemiology,clinical presentation,comorbidities and biological behaviours,which may be related to the difference in prognosis and overall survival(OS)between the two groups.AIM To investigate statistically significant differences between Greek patients with LCC and RCC.METHODS The present observational study included 144 patients diagnosed with colon cancer of any stage who received chemotherapy in a Greek tertiary oncology hospital during a 2.5-year period.Clinical information,comorbidities,histopathologic characteristics and molecular biomarkers were collected from the patients’medical records retrospectively,while administered chemotherapy regimens,targeted agents,progression-free survival(PFS)periods with first-and second-line chemotherapy and OS were recorded retroactively and prospectively.Data analysis was performed with the SPSS statistical package.RESULTS Eighty-six males and 58 females participated in the study.One hundred(69.4%)patients had a primary lesion in the left colon,and 44(30.6%)patients had a primary lesion in the right colon.Patients with RCC were more likely to display anaemia than patients with LCC[odds ratio(OR)=3.09],while LCC patients were more likely to develop rectal bleeding(OR=3.37)and a feeling of incomplete evacuation(OR=2.78)than RCC patients.Considering comorbidities,RCC patients were more likely to suffer from diabetes(OR=3.31)and coronary artery disease(P=0.056)than LCC patients.The mucinous differentiation rate was higher in the right-sided group than in the left-sided group(OR=4.49),as was the number of infiltrated lymph nodes(P=0.039),while the percentage of high-grade differentiation was higher in the group of patients with left-sided colon cancer than in RCC patients(OR=2.78).RAS wild-type patients who received anti-epidermal growth factor receptor(EGFR):Treatment experienced greater benefit(PFS:16.5 mo)than those who received anti-vascular endothelial growth factor treatment(PFS:13.7 mo)(P=0.05),while among RAS wild-type patients who received anti-EGFR treatment,LCC patients experienced greater benefit(PFS:15.8 mo)than the RCC subgroup(PFS:5.5 mo)in the first-line chemotherapy setting(P=0.034).BRAF-mutant patients had shorter PFS(9.3 mo)than BRAF wild-type patients(14.5 mo)(P=0.033).RCC patients showed a shorter tumour recurrence period(7.7 mo)than those with LCC(14.5 mo)(P<0.001),as well as shorter(OS)(58.4 mo for RCC patients;82.4 mo for LCC patients)(P=0.018).CONCLUSION RCC patients present more comorbidities,worse histological and molecular characteristics and a consequently higher probability of tumour recurrence,poor response to targeted therapy and shorter OS than LCC patients.
文摘AIM： To review evidence relating passive smoking to lung cancer risk in never smokers, considering various major sources of bias.METHODS： Epidemiological prospective or case-control studies were identifed which provide estimates of relative risk （RR） and 95%CI for never smokers for one or more of seven different indices of exposure to environmental tobacco smoke （ETS）： The spouse; household; workplace; childhood; travel; social and other; and total. A wide range of study details were entered into a database, and the RRs for each study, including descriptions of the comparisons made, were entered into a linked database. RRs were derived where necessary. Results were entered, where available, for all lung cancer, and for squamous cell cancer and adenocarcinoma. “Most adjusted” results were entered based on results available, adjusted for the greatest number of potential confounding variables. “Least adjusted” results were also entered, with a preference for results adjusted at least for age for prospective studies. A pre-planned series of fxed-effects and random-effects meta-analyses were conducted. Overall analyses and analyses by continent were run for each exposure index,with results for spousal smoking given by sex, and results for childhood exposure given by source of ETS exposure. For spousal exposure, more extensive analyses provide results by various aspects of study design and defnition of the RR. For smoking by the husband （or nearest equivalent）, additional analyses were carried out both for overall risk, and for risk per 10 cigarettes per day smoked by the husband. These adjusted for uncontrolled confounding by four factors （fruit, vegetable and dietary fat consumption, and education）, and corrected for misclassification of smoking status of the wife. For the confounding adjustment, estimates for never smoking women were derived from publications on the relationship of the four factors to both lung cancer risk and at home ETS exposure, and on the correlations between the factors. The bias due to misclassifcation was calculated on the basis that the proportion of ever smokers denying smoking is 10% in Asian studies and 2.5% elsewhere, and that those who deny smoking have the same risk as those who admit it. This approach, justifed in previous work, balances higher true denial rates and lower risk in deniers compared to non-deniers.RESULTS： One hundred and two studies were identifed for inclusion, published in 1981 onwards, 45 in Asia, 31 in North America, 21 in Europe, and fve elsewhere. Eighty-fve were of case-control design and 17 were prospective. Significant （P 〈 0.05） associations were noted, with random-effects of （RR = 1.22, 95%CI： 1.14-1.31, n = 93） for smoking by the husband （RR = 1.14, 95%CI： 1.01-1.29, n = 45） for smoking by the wife （RR = 1.22, 95%CI： 1.15-1.30, n = 47） for workplace exposure （RR = 1.15, 95%CI： 1.02-1.29, n = 41） for childhood exposure, and （RR = 1.31, 95%CI： 1.19-1.45, n = 48） for total exposure. No signifcant association was seen for ETS exposure in travel （RR = 1.34, 95%CI： 0.94-1.93, n = 8） or in social situations （RR = 1.01, 95%CI： 0.82-1.24, n = 15）. A signifcant negative association （RR = 0.78, 95%CI： 0.64-0.94, n = 8） was seen for ETS exposure in childhood, specifically from the parents. Significant associations were also seen for spousal smoking for both squamous cell carcinoma （RR = 1.44, 95%CI： 1.15-1.80, n = 24） and adenocarcinoma （RR = 1.33,95%CI： 1.17-1.51, n = 30）. Results generally showed marked heterogeneity between studies. For smoking by either the husband or wife, where 119 RR estimates gave an overall estimate of （RR = 1.21, 95%CI： 1.14-1.29）, the heterogeneity was highly significant （P 〈 0.001）, with evidence that the largest RRs were seen in studies published in 1981-89, in small studies （1-49 cases）, and for estimates unadjusted by age. For smoking by the husband, the additional analyses showed that adjustment for the four factors reduced the overall （RR = 1.22, 95%CI： 1.14-1.31） based on 93 estimates to （RR = 1.14, 95%CI： 1.06-1.22）, implying bias due to uncontrolled confounding of 7%. Further correction for misclassification reduced the estimate to a marginally non-signifcant （RR = 1.08, 95%CI： 0.999-1.16）. In the fully adjusted and corrected analyses, there was evidence of an increase in Asia （RR = 1.18, 95%CI： 1.07-1.30, n = 44）, but not in other regions （RR = 0.96, 95%CI： 0.86-1.07, n = 49）. Studies published in the 1980’s, studies providing dose-response data, and studies only providing results unadjusted for age showed elevated RRs, but later published studies, studies not providing dose-response data, and studies adjusting for age did not. The pattern of results for RRs per 10 cigs/d was similar, with no signifcant association in the adjusted and corrected results （RR = 1.03, 95%CI： 0.994-1.07）.CONCLUSION： Most, if not all, of the ETS/lung cancer association can be explained by confounding adjustment and misclassifcation correction. Any causal relationship is not convincingly demonstrated.
文摘Little is known about the productive performance of Mexican turkey, so the objective of the present study was to characterize growth performance curves of backyard turkey under a confined system. Forty fertile eggs were artificially incubated and turkey weight was recorded at hatch. During growth performance weekly weight was measured until 385 days of age. Turkey commercial feed and water were offered ad libitum. To characterize growth curves, a fourth degree polynomial model regression and a Richards biological model were used, which were compared by determination coefficient (r2), to reach the best fit model. The best fit model was the fourth degree polynomial regression model from a mathematical standpoint of view. It was found that maximum tom growth was reached at 15.7 weeks with a weight gain of 259.3 g/week and in hens at 12.4 weeks with a weight gain of 112.0 g/week. Body weight reached by toms at 40 weeks was 6 kg and hens at 35 weeks with 3.6 kg.
文摘We present major and trace element compositions of mineral concentrates comprising garnet xenocrysts,ilmenite,phlogopite,spinel,zircon,and uncommon minerals(titanite,calzirtite,anatase,baddeleyite and pyrochlore)of a newly discovered Late Cretaceous kimberlite(U-Pb zircon age 90.0±1.3 Ma;2σ)named Osvaldo Franca 1,located in the Alto Paranaíba Igneous Province(APIP),southeastern Brazil.Pyrope grains are lherzolitic(Lherz-1,Lherz-2 and Lherz-3),harzburgitic(Harz-3)and wehrlitic(Wehr-2).The pyrope xenocrysts cover a wide mantle column in the subcratonic lithosphere(66–143 km;20–43 kbar)at relatively low temperatures(811–875°C).The shallowest part of this mantle is represented by Lherz-1 pyropes(20–32 kbar),which have low-Cr(Cr_(2)O_(3)=1.74–6.89 wt.%)and fractionated middle to heavy rare earth elements(MREE-HREE)pattern.The deepest samples are represented by Lherz-2,Lherz-3,Harz-3,and Wehr-2 pyropes(36–43 kbar).They contain high-Cr contents(Cr_(2)O_(3)=7.36–11.19 wt.%)and are characterized by sinusoidal(Lherz-2 and Wehr-2)and spoon-like(Lherz-3 and Harz-3)REE patterns.According to their REE and trace elements,pyrope xenocrysts have enriched nature(e.g.,Ce and Yb vs.Cr_(2)O_(3)),indicating that the cratonic lithosphere has been affected by a silicate melt with subalkaline/tholeiite composition due to their low Zr,Ti and Y concentrations.Besides minerals with typical kimberlitic signatures,such as ilmenite and zircon,the exotic compositions of phlogopite and ulvöspinel suggest an enriched component in the magma source.The formation of rare mineral phases with strong enrichment of light-REE(LREE)and high field strength elements(HFSE)is attributed to the late-stage kimberlitic melt.We propose a tectonic model where a thermal anomaly,represented by the low-velocity seismic anomaly observed in P-wave seismic tomography images,supplied heat to activate the alkaline magmatism from a metasomatized cratonic mantle source during the late-stages of Gondwana fragmentation and consequent South Atlantic Ocean opening.The metasomatism recorded by mineral phases is a product of long-lived recycling of subducted oceanic plates since the Neoproterozoic(Brasiliano Orogeny)or even older collisional events,contributing to the exotic character of the Osvaldo Fran?a 1 kimberlite,as well as to the cratonic lithospheric mantle.
文摘Pets’ growing role in family dynamics creates questions about resources pets may provide in parenthood motivation. Pet ownership has been suggested in the literature as an antecedent to parenthood in terms of developing skills needed to rear offspring, nurturance, and responsibility. Participants (N = 118) who were pet owners, completed an online survey that recorded demographics and consisted of loneliness, pet attitude, and parenthood motivation scales. Results supported that loneliness and pet attitude were positively related to parenthood motivation (all p’s < 0.05). Loneliness and parenthood motivation did not vary by pet species. Pet attitude varied by pet species;dog owners had the most positive attitude. Pets were shown to be a valuable resource in alleviating feelings of loneliness and parenthood preparation in this sample. Implications for nursing practice and future research are discussed.
文摘Republic of Kosovo has 1,304 settlements from which only 37 are urban and 1,267 are rural. Shown in percentage, only 39.2% （765,125） of inhabitants live in urban areas. The focus is to work and find the best and cheap solutions for the 60.8% （1,173,370） of inhabitants of the country which live in rural areas. From this number only 42% of them have access to the sewage network while 60.8% of them have implemented individual solutions （latrines） without any treatment, leading to a large pollution of the water bodies. The existing rural sewage networks are built only with septic tanks, poorly designed and do not fulfill the wastewater treatment criteria. Regarding this issue, the Kosovan legislation concerns only urban areas （settlements of more than 2,000 inhabitants） and is expected to be completed in 2014 for rural areas according to the EU （European Union） directive for wastewater discharge. As a pilot project, the CDI （community development initiatives） started with WWTP （waste water treatment plants） based on the Vertical Constructed Wetland option （french model） as it appears to be the most adapted option in this rolling, rural, and temperate climate context, implementing this kind of treatment in 3 villages for the first time in Kosovo. Through this, it is interesting to take a perspective on all the phases of these projects starting from feasibility reports, project design to concept and modalities of implementation and options for operation and maintenance, in order to assess how this technical option is feasible and replicable in the country at a large scale. It finally appears that the potential for constructed wetland in the Balkan region is promising as it provides a simple solution for most of the regional constraints, but requires skills to be developed locally for designing and building as well as a deeper consideration in the national regulation.
基金supported by the National Cancer Institute of the National Institutes of Health under Award No.(R37CA240806).
文摘X-ray-induced acoustic computed tomography(XACT)is a hybrid imaging modality for detecting X-ray absorption distribution via ultrasound emission.It facilitates imaging from a single projection X-ray illumination,thus reducing the radiation exposure and improving imaging speed.Nonuniform detector response caused by the interference between multichannel data acquisition for ring array transducers and amplifier systems yields ring artifacts in the reconstructed XACT images,which compromises the image quality.We propose model-based algorithms for ring artifacts corrected XACT imaging and demonstrate their effcacy on numerical and experimental measurements.The corrected reconstructions indicate significantly reduced ring artifacts as compared to their conventional counterparts.
文摘One of gurus in the field of acoustics and vibration was Leo Beranek,an engineer and scientist born in the family of a farmer who came to USA from Bohemia(now a part of the Czech Republic).Several generations of vibroacoustic engineers studied a lot from his books and utilized the measurement techniques invented and implemented by him.
文摘1 Introduction Non-lethal weapons are mainly used to disperse illegal demonstrations and street riots without inflicting serious physical injuries on the law violators.The development of non-lethal weapons complies with the civilized standards aimed to protect the law-abiding population from violent crowds with no casualties and injuries.It is noteworthy that tasers and pepper sprays are already in widespread use for personal self-defense.Thunder and lightning are the simplest natural examples of non-lethal and lethal weapon.Thunders sound frightening but they do not kill,lightnings can kill.
