The increasing production and release of synthetic organic chemicals,including pharmaceuticals,into our envi-ronment has allowed these substances to accumulate in our surface water systems.Current purification technol...The increasing production and release of synthetic organic chemicals,including pharmaceuticals,into our envi-ronment has allowed these substances to accumulate in our surface water systems.Current purification technolo-gies have been unable to eliminate these pollutants,resulting in their ongoing release into aquatic ecosystems.This study focuses on cloperastine(CPS),a cough suppressant and antihistamine medication.The environmental impact of CPS usage has become a concern,mainly due to its increased detection during the COVID-19 pandemic.CPS has been found in wastewater treatment facilities,effluents from senior living residences,river waters,and sewage sludge.However,the photosensitivity of CPS and its photodegradation profile remain largely unknown.This study investigates the photodegradation process of CPS under simulated tertiary treatment conditions using UV photolysis,a method commonly applied in some wastewater treatment plants.Several transformation prod-ucts were identified,evaluating their kinetic profiles using chemometric approaches(i.e.,curve fitting and the hard-soft multivariate curve resolution-alternating least squares(HS-MCR-ALS)algorithm)and calculating the reaction quantum yield.As a result,three different transformation products have been detected and correctly identified.In addition,a comprehensive description of the kinetic pathway involved in the photodegradation process of the CPS drug has been provided,including observed kinetic rate constants.展开更多
Viral diseases are an important threat to crop yield,as they are responsible for losses greater than US$30 billion annually.Thus,understanding the dynamics of virus propagation within plant cells is essential for devi...Viral diseases are an important threat to crop yield,as they are responsible for losses greater than US$30 billion annually.Thus,understanding the dynamics of virus propagation within plant cells is essential for devising effective control strategies.However,viruses are complex to propagate and quantify.Existing methodologies for viral quantification tend to be expensive and time-consuming.Here,we present a rapid cost-effective approach to quantify viral propagation using an engineered virus expressing a fluorescent reporter.Using a microplate reader,we measured viral protein levels and we validated our findings through comparison by western blot analysis of viral coat protein,the most common approach to quantify viral titer.Our proposed methodology provides a practical and accessible approach to studying virus-host interactions and could contribute to enhancing our understanding of plant virology.展开更多
Nowadays,multivalent batteries are not widely commercialized in contrast with monovalent batteries because their development faces more obstacles,which partly derive from the typically higher charge density of multiva...Nowadays,multivalent batteries are not widely commercialized in contrast with monovalent batteries because their development faces more obstacles,which partly derive from the typically higher charge density of multivalent ions.This property results in poor capacity retention and reversibility,and low coulombic efficiency since the insertion of multivalent ions strongly destabilizes the host structure.To overcome these issues,a close-to-amorphous cathode material has been prepared containing cations(Ca)larger than those to be inserted(Mg).Specifically,low-crystallinity CaMn_(2)O_(4)(CMO)has been prepared and tested as a cathode for aqueous magnesium and calcium batteries.Employing XPS and ICP-OES,calcium and magnesium ions are shown to be inserted-extracted into-from the cathode,the performance being better for magnesium insertion because of its higher diffusion coefficient.In situ Raman analysis reveals that CMO evolves into a birnessite-type structure during the initial electrochemical cycles in both aqueous magnesium and calcium media.The gravimetric capacity obtained for cycle 50 at 263 mA g^(-1)in aqueous 1.0 M Mg(NO_(3))_(2)has a value of 93 mAh g^(-1),while for aqueous 1.0 M Ca(NO_(3))_(2),it is only of 46 mAh g^(-1).The results obtained for the magnesium electrolyte compare well with other cathode materials based on manganese oxides.展开更多
Liquid crystal elastomers(LCEs)exhibit exceptional reversible deformation and unique physical properties owing to their order-disorder phase transition under external stimuli.Among these deformations,helical structure...Liquid crystal elastomers(LCEs)exhibit exceptional reversible deformation and unique physical properties owing to their order-disorder phase transition under external stimuli.Among these deformations,helical structures have attracted attention owing to their distinctive configurations and promising applications in biomimetics and microelectronics.However,the helical deformation behavior of fiber actuators is critically influenced by their morphologies and alignments;yet,the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood.Through a two-step azaMichael addition reaction and direct ink writing(DIW)4D printing technology,fiber-based LCE actuators with a core-sheath alignment structure were fabricated and exhibited reversible helical deformation upon heating.By adjusting the printing parameters,the filament number,width,thickness,and core-sheath structure of the fiber actuators can be precisely controlled,resulting in deformation behaviors,such as contraction,bending,and helical twisting.Finite element simulations were performed to investigate the deformation behaviors of the fiber actuators,providing insights into the variations in stress and strain during the shape-changing process,which can be used to explain the shape-morphing mechanism.These findings demonstrate that the precise tuning of printing parameters enables the controllable construction of LCE actuator morphology and customization of their functional properties,paving the way for advanced applications in smart fabrics,biomedical engineering,and flexible electronics.展开更多
The quality of the software product is a crucial factor that contributes to its success. Therefore, it is important to specify the right software quality requirements that will establish the basis for desired quality ...The quality of the software product is a crucial factor that contributes to its success. Therefore, it is important to specify the right software quality requirements that will establish the basis for desired quality of the final system/software product. There are several known methodologies/ processes that support the specification of the system/software functional requirements starting from the user needs to finally obtain the system requirements that the developers can implement through their development process. System/software quality requirements are interdependent with functional requirements, which means that the system/software quality requirements are meant to be specified in parallel with the latter. The ISO/IEC 25000 [1] SQuaRE series of standards include the standard ISO/IEC 25030—Software engineering—Software Quality Requirements and Evaluation—Quality requirements [2], which has as main goal to help specify software quality requirements. As to date, this standard does not offer clear and concise steps that a software quality engineer could follow in order to specify them. This article presents modifications recommended for ISO/IEC 25030 standard, with, among the others, a new requirements definition process that allows for specifying the system/software quality requirements taking into account the existing published system and software quality model ISO/IEC 25010 [3] as well as all the stake- holders of the project.展开更多
Agricultural management practices influence soil health.In this study,agricultural lands of cold arid Hanna village,Balochistan,Pakistan,were studied to assess soil properties and the abundance of soil macrofauna spec...Agricultural management practices influence soil health.In this study,agricultural lands of cold arid Hanna village,Balochistan,Pakistan,were studied to assess soil properties and the abundance of soil macrofauna species.Five orchards,five tree-based intercropping(TBI)systems,two croplands and a barren unprotected rangeland were sampled.Soil properties,such as texture,concentrations of organic matter(SOM),organic carbon(SOC),mineral nitrogen and bioavailable phosphorus,pH and electrical conductivity were analyzed.The abundance and species of soil surface-dwelling and upper soil layer-dwelling(0-5 cm)macrofauna were also measured.Orchards and croplands were older than TBI systems.than the same agricultural systems(cropland or orchards),which were under intense tillage practice or receiving no fertilizer input.Our results demonstrate that the diversified cropping systems with the reduced(shallow)tillage and the amendment of both synthetic and organic fertilizers,promoted soil quality in this cold-winter desert.This study is a source of evidence for the farmers of this region,which highlights the importance of conservation agriculture and crop diversification under TBI system for improving soil quality.It warrants further investigation to evaluate biological indicators of soil health(soil microbial biomass,microbial diversity,microfauna,mesofauna and macrofauna)being influenced by various management practices in this region.Furthermore,the relationship between soil quality and crop production under various management practices in this region needs to be evaluated.Such an extensive study will further help encourage farmers to adopt the best management practice in their fields.展开更多
AIM:To assess the effect of the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic on the wait times and severity of surgical glaucoma cases in a single tertiary referral center in Quebec,Canada.METHODS:Preoperative severity ...AIM:To assess the effect of the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic on the wait times and severity of surgical glaucoma cases in a single tertiary referral center in Quebec,Canada.METHODS:Preoperative severity data included mean visual field(VF)deficit,intraocular pressure(IOP),the number of topical glaucoma medication classes,and preoperative best corrected visual acuity(BCVA).The times from referral to procedure(referral time)and from listing date to procedure(waitlisting time)were calculated.RESULTS:This retrospective cohort study involved 181 eyes of patients undergoing glaucoma surgery from March 1 to June 30,2019(pre-pandemic period),and 201 eyes in the same timeframe in 2021(pandemic period)at Saint-Sacrement Hospital in Quebec City.There was no significant difference in the severity data of surgical glaucoma across both periods(VF deficit:P=0.48;IOP:P=0.14;BCVA:P=0.24;topical medication classes:P=0.27).The number of patients referred with oral glaucoma medication increased slightly from 45 to 70 in 2019 and 2021 respectively(P=0.08).Delay data were also comparable.Mean referral time was 122±120d in 2019 versus 144±136d in 2021(P=0.09),whereas waitlisting time before the pandemic was 43±44.5 versus 39±41.8d in 2021(P=0.13).CONCLUSION:Despite North America’s strictest pandemic restrictions,limited negative impact is observed on waitlisting delays and the severity of glaucoma cases presenting at our center.A larger subset of patients is treated with oral medications indicating a possible increase in advanced glaucoma.展开更多
The underhand cut-and-fill mining method is widely employed in underground mines,especially when the quality of surrounding rock mass or ore body is inferior or subjected to high stresses.Such a method typically requi...The underhand cut-and-fill mining method is widely employed in underground mines,especially when the quality of surrounding rock mass or ore body is inferior or subjected to high stresses.Such a method typically requires the construction of sill mats with cemented backfill to provide operators with safe artificial roofs.Accurate estimation of the minimum required strength of the sill mat is crucial to minimize binder consumption and ensure its stability upon base exposure.Over the years,only a few publications were devoted to determining the minimum required cohesion(cmin)of sill mats.None of them considered rock wall closure to be associated with the creep of surrounding rock mass.Moreover,the effect of rock wall closure associated with rock creep on the cminof the sill mat remains unknown.Thus,a series of numerical simulations was performed to fill this gap.The influence of rock creep on the cminof base-exposed sill mat was investigated for the first time.The numerical results indicate that Mitchell’s models could be suitable for sill mats subjected to negligible wall closure.However,this scenario is rare,especially when mine depth is large.In general,the cminof sill mats increases as mine depth increases.Neglecting rock creep would significantly underestimate the cminof sill mats.When mine depth is large and the rock mass exhibits severe creep,cemented backfill with ductile behavior(i.e.,with low stiffness but enough strength)should be considered to reduce binder consumption and prevent crushing failure.In all cases,promptly filling the mined-out stope below the sill mat can improve its stability and reduce its cminvalue.展开更多
Layered vanadates are ideal energy storage materials due to their multielectron redox reactions and excellent cation storage capacity.However,their practical application still faces challenges,such as slow reaction ki...Layered vanadates are ideal energy storage materials due to their multielectron redox reactions and excellent cation storage capacity.However,their practical application still faces challenges,such as slow reaction kinetics and poor structural stability.In this study,we synthesized[Me_(2)NH_(2)]V_(3)O_(7)(MNVO),a layered vanadate with expended layer spacing and enhanced pH resistance,using a one-step simple hydrothermal gram-scale method.Experimental analyses and density functional theory(DFT)calculations revealed supportive ionic and hydrogen bonding interactions between the thin-layered[Me_(2)NH_(2)]+cation and[V_(3)O_(7)]-anion layers,clarifying the energy storage mechanism of the H^(+)/Zn^(2+)co-insertion.The synergistic effect of these bonds and oxygen vacancies increased the electronic conductivity and significantly reduced the diffusion energy barrier of the insertion ions,thereby improving the rate capability of the material.In an acidic electrolyte,aqueous zinc-ion batteries employing MNVO as the cathode exhibited a high specific capacity of 433 mAh g^(-1)at 0.1 A g^(-1).The prepared electrodes exhibited a maximum specific capacity of 237 mAh g^(-1)at 5 A g^(-1)and maintained a capacity retention of 83.5%after 10,000 cycles.This work introduces a novel approach for advancing layered cathodes,paving the way for their practical application in energy storage devices.展开更多
As one of the most important ways to reduce the greenhouse gas emission,carbon dioxide（CO2）enhanced gas recovery（CO2-EGR） is attractive since the gas recovery can be enhanced simultaneously with CO2sequestration.B...As one of the most important ways to reduce the greenhouse gas emission,carbon dioxide（CO2）enhanced gas recovery（CO2-EGR） is attractive since the gas recovery can be enhanced simultaneously with CO2sequestration.Based on the existing equation of state（EOS） module of TOUGH2 MP,extEOS7C is developed to calculate the phase partition of H2O-CO2-CH4-NaCl mixtures accurately with consideration of dissolved NaCI and brine properties at high pressure and temperature conditions.Verifications show that it can be applied up to the pressure of 100 MPa and temperature of 150℃.The module was implemented in the linked simulator TOUGH2MP-FLAC3 D for the coupled hydro-mechanical simulations.A simplified three-dimensional（3D）1/4 model（2.2 km×1 km×1 km） which consists of the whole reservoir,caprock and baserock was generated based on the geological conditions of a gas field in the North German Basin.The simulation results show that,under an injection rate of 200,000 t/yr and production rate of 200,000 sm3/d,CO2breakthrough occurred in the case with the initial reservoir pressure of 5 MPa but did not occur in the case of 42 MPa.Under low pressure conditions,the pressure driven horizontal transport is the dominant process;while under high pressure conditions,the density driven vertical flow is dominant.Under the considered conditions,the CO2-EGR caused only small pressure changes.The largest pore pressure increase（2 MPa） and uplift（7 mm） occurred at the caprock bottom induced by only CO2injection.The caprock had still the primary stress state and its integrity was not affected.The formation water salinity and temperature variations of ±20℃ had small influences on the CO2-EGR process.In order to slow down the breakthrough,it is suggested that CO2-EGR should be carried out before the reservoir pressure drops below the critical pressure of CO2.展开更多
It has been long recognized that a variety of anthropogenic activities may cause earthquakes(Ellsworth et al.,2013;Yang HF et al.,2017).In the recent decades,induced earthquakes have been found in many settings and be...It has been long recognized that a variety of anthropogenic activities may cause earthquakes(Ellsworth et al.,2013;Yang HF et al.,2017).In the recent decades,induced earthquakes have been found in many settings and become a growing concern,in particular for regions that are undergoing with resource development.展开更多
Rechargeable sodium metal batteries constitute a cost-effective option for energy storage although sodium shows some drawbacks in terms of reactivity with organic solvents and dendritic growth.Here we demonstrate that...Rechargeable sodium metal batteries constitute a cost-effective option for energy storage although sodium shows some drawbacks in terms of reactivity with organic solvents and dendritic growth.Here we demonstrate that an organic dye,indanthrone blue,behaves as an efficient cathode material for the development of secondary sodium metal batteries when combined with novel inorganic electrolytes.These electrolytes are ammonia solvates,known as liquid ammoniates,which can be formulated as NaI·3.3NH_(3) and NaBF_(4)·2.5NH_(3).They impart excellent stability to sodium metal,and they favor sodium non-dendritic growth linked to their exceedingly high sodium ion concentration.This advantage is complemented by a high specific conductivity.The battery described here can last hundreds of cycles at 10 C while keeping a Coulombic efficiency of 99%from the first cycle.Because of the high capacity of the cathode and the superior physicochemical properties of the electrolytes,the battery can reach a specific energy value as high as 210 W h kgIB^(-1),and a high specific power of 2.2 kW kgIB^(-1),even at below room temperature(4℃).Importantly,the battery is based on abundant and cost-effective materials,bearing promise for its application in large-scale energy storage.展开更多
The aim of this work has been to evaluate the aluminium (Al(III)) traces contents in 24-hour urine samples from subjects with different tobacco smoke expositions using a new methodology with 1,4-dihydroxy-9, 10-anthra...The aim of this work has been to evaluate the aluminium (Al(III)) traces contents in 24-hour urine samples from subjects with different tobacco smoke expositions using a new methodology with 1,4-dihydroxy-9, 10-anthraquinone (Quinizarine, QZ) as a fluorosphore. Biological samples were tested using commercial reagent strips and clinical parameters. Al(III) was determined complexing with QZ followed by a solid phase extraction step using Nylon membranes as a solid support. The analyte was subsequently quantified by solid surface fluorescence (SSF, λem= 573, λexc= 490) with a detection limit of 0.88 μg L-1 and quantification limit of 2.69 μg L-1. The calibration curve was linear from 2.69 to 499.13 μg L-1 Al(III) (R2 = 0.9973). Urine samples were successfully analysed with an average recovery close to 100%. Solid phase extraction step showed efficacy to eliminate foreign ions and the highly fluorescent matrix own of urine. Results were validated by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry (ETAAS) with an adequate concordance. The new methodology has low operation cost with simple instrumentation and without organic solvent.展开更多
The stability of imidoyl radicals prepared from 2-(2-alkenyloxy)-phenyl selenoimidates and 2-(2-allylamino)-phenyl selenoimidates and their intramolecular free radical cyclization through the slow addition of tri-N-bu...The stability of imidoyl radicals prepared from 2-(2-alkenyloxy)-phenyl selenoimidates and 2-(2-allylamino)-phenyl selenoimidates and their intramolecular free radical cyclization through the slow addition of tri-N-butyltin hydride and AIBN to obtain 4-chromanones and 4-quinolones were studied. The extension of the methodology to N-phenyl substituted imidoyl selenoates produced tandem cyclizations of the imidoyl radical with the allyl substituent, followed for a second cyclization of the intermediate radical with the aromatic substituent to produce dihydro-chromenoquinolines or tetrahy-dro-dibenzonaphtyridines. Further oxidation with DDQ produced: 6H-chromeno [4,3,b] quinoline and 7-methyl-6H-chromenoquinoline from 2-alkenylamino-phenylbenzamide and 5,6-dihydro-dibenzo [b,h][1,6] naphthyridine and 5,6-dihydro-7-methyl-dibenzo [b,h][1,6] naphthyridine from 2-2-(alkylamino)-N-phenylbenzamides. The cyclization of 2-(N,N-di-prop-2.enylamino)-N-phenylnicotinamide selenoate obtained from 2-aminonicotinic acid, produced 5,6-dihidro-benzo[b]pyrido2,3-h] [1,6] naphthyridine.展开更多
Pollination niches,which encompass the factors influencing pollen exchange among angiosperms,are fundamental to understanding reproductive success and the intricate eco-evolutionary dynamics of plants.In this study,we...Pollination niches,which encompass the factors influencing pollen exchange among angiosperms,are fundamental to understanding reproductive success and the intricate eco-evolutionary dynamics of plants.In this study,we investigated pollination niche shift among four sympatric Eriosyce cacti with restricted distributions in the South American Mediterranean region.Utilizing a comprehensive approachdincluding pollination niche analysis,pollinator color perception studies,reproductive output assessments,molecular phylogenetics,gene flow analyses,and species distribution modelingdwe revealed a significant pollination niche displacement in E.chilensis and its variety,E.chilensis var.albidiflora.These taxa transitioned from a hummingbird-pollinated system prevalent in the Eriosyce sect.Neoporteria,characteristic of their sister species E.litoralis,to a bee-pollination strategy akin to that of the co-occurring species E.mutabilis.This shift highlights a simultaneous convergence of E.chilensis toward E.mutabilis and divergence from E.litoralis in pollination strategies,providing adaptive advantages by reducing pollen limitation and enhancing seed production.The morphological and flowering phenological similarities between E.chilensis and E.mutabilis suggest the evolution of a shared advertising display,potentially indicative of floral mimicry,wherein both species benefit from attracting shared bee pollinators.Genomic analyses reveal distinct pollinator-driven selection pressures,with E.chilensis/E.albidiflora exhibiting traits that promote reproductive isolation from E.litoralis,supporting a scenario of rapid speciation occurring within the past half of million years in the absence of geographic barriers.These findings underscore the pivotal role of pollinator interactions in shaping angiosperm speciation and biodiversity,highlighting their dynamic influence on ecological and evolutionary processes.展开更多
A model for liquid-gas flow （MLGF）, considering the flee movement of liquid surface, was built to simulate the wastewater velocity field and gas distribution in a full-scale Caroussel oxidation ditch with surface ae...A model for liquid-gas flow （MLGF）, considering the flee movement of liquid surface, was built to simulate the wastewater velocity field and gas distribution in a full-scale Caroussel oxidation ditch with surface aeration. It was calibrated and validated by field measurement data, and the calibrated parameters and sections were selected based on both model analysis and numerical computation. The simulated velocities of MLGF were compared to that of a model for wastewater-sludge flow （MWSF）. The results show that the free liquid surface considered in MLGF improves the simulated velocity results of upper layer and surface. Moreover, distribution of gas volume fraction （GVF） simulated by MLGF was compared to dissolved oxygen （DO） measured in the oxidation ditch. It is shown that DO distribution is affected by many factors besides GVF distribution.展开更多
This idea of quantifying the energy of bodies orbiting the Sun is not new. We have identified that quantization applies well if we use the true quantum number associated with the true energy state of rotating bodies. ...This idea of quantifying the energy of bodies orbiting the Sun is not new. We have identified that quantization applies well if we use the true quantum number associated with the true energy state of rotating bodies. This quantum number is very high for the main bodies or planets (10<sup>~70 to 76</sup>). However, since quantum energy levels E are very high and ΔE very low we observe that bodies can in practice occupy all orbits. Thus, the current observed stable positions of the bodies are the results of the quantization and the sum of the effects of other perturbative phenomena. To find a quantum state starting with n = 1, we expressed the true integer quantum numbers as a function of that of the planet Mercury and we find an excellent correlation. However, the search for a correlation of prediction of the average orbital radius of bodies using the simple integer number n = 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, … is not excellent for bodies beyond the planet Pluto. Indeed, several trans-Neptunian bodies have similar integer quantum numbers, which poses a problem in the sequence of integer numbers beyond 10. Moreover, it appears that the trans-Neptunian bodies seem to be grouped for many of them according to relatively well-defined bands. The study made it possible to question the de Broglie wavelength of bodies (10<sup>~-58 to -65</sup> m). Indeed, with the hypothesis of Planck quantities that would apply to the scale of the universe, it is difficult to conceive that de Broglie wavelengths are less than the Planck length l<sub>p</sub>. This led to an expression of the modified de Broglie wavelength λ<sub>m</sub> that predicts an asymptotic lower limit value equal to πl<sub>p</sub>. This modified de Broglie wavelength makes it possible to obtain a better correlation for the prediction of the average orbital radius of bodies. Finally, this modified wavelength of de Broglie made it possible to put into perspective the concept of the quantification of space with the idea of the minimum wavelength associated with photon’s energies during the generation of the energy of the universe according to a model already presented in this review. This modified de Broglie wavelength also makes it possible to imagine that the quantification of the volume of space involves the geometry of the sphere and the cube.展开更多
Mexico and currently in Veracruz state, there are metropolitan zones (MZ) growing. Therefore, main objective in this paper is to analyze new data and AQ trends during 01.09.2013 to 30.06.2015 of two new AQ monitoring ...Mexico and currently in Veracruz state, there are metropolitan zones (MZ) growing. Therefore, main objective in this paper is to analyze new data and AQ trends during 01.09.2013 to 30.06.2015 of two new AQ monitoring stations installed in Xalapa and Minatitlan MZ in 2013-year. The methodology applied used quality criteria to the datasets, followed by data validation and statistics for further analysis to determine the hourly, weekly and yearly trends of NO<sub>2</sub>, O<sub>3</sub>, SO<sub>2</sub>, PM<sub>10</sub> and PM<sub>2.5</sub>. Indicators were compared with Mexican standards, CAI-LAC report, WHO guidelines, EU and USA standards to evaluate the AQ in both sites. We observed AQ trends from moderate to bad in Xalapa and Minatitlan MZ where the PM<sub>10</sub> and PM<sub>2.5</sub> surpassed the WHO guidelines and Mexican standards. O<sub>3</sub> and SO<sub>2</sub> in Xalapa presented a quality from good to moderate and in Minatitlan sometimes were from moderate to bad. NO<sub>2</sub> did not exceed the value limits of Mexican standards, only Xalapa has exceeded the WHO guidelines. In Minatitlan, the Mexican limits were not exceeded. Concluding, PM<sub>10</sub> and PM<sub>2.5</sub> concentrations were the main problem. Others pollutants that influenced the AQ were O<sub>3</sub>, NO<sub>2</sub> and SO<sub>2</sub> in Minatitlan MZ due probably to meteorology, site conditions, location and oil and petrochemical industries. In Xalapa, MZ NO<sub>2</sub> and SO<sub>2</sub> are attributed mainly to road transport.展开更多
Quality of life at work is an important and widely discussed concept in the literature.Several instruments can be used to measure it,but with regard to healthcare and social services,the existing instruments are not w...Quality of life at work is an important and widely discussed concept in the literature.Several instruments can be used to measure it,but with regard to healthcare and social services,the existing instruments are not well known.A review of available instruments intending to capture the quality of life of healthcare and social services workers(QoLHSSW)is necessary to better assess their working conditions and promote programs/guidelines to improve these conditions.The aim of this study was to identify the existing instruments used in measuring QoLHSSW and explore their characteristics.Particular attention was given to instruments adapted to the province of Quebec,Canada,which enabled the determination of which instruments are adapted for the measurement of QoLHSSW in Quebec and possibly elsewhere.A systematic review of the literature was conducted according to the JBI methodological guide.The articles'selection procedure was performed according to the PRISMA flowchart.The search was conducted up to October 28,2021,and then updated on January 25,2023,in four databases:PsycINFO,Medline,Embase,and CINAHL.The selection and extraction were performed independently by two researchers.The analysis of the quality of the studies was performed with the COnsensus‐based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments.From a total of 8178 entries,13 articles corresponding to 13 instruments were selected.Among these instruments,the common aspects that were considered were work conditions,job satisfaction,stress at work,relationship/balance,and career development.Most instruments used a 5‐point Likert scale.Various validation methods were used,including reporting Cronbach's alpha for overall scale reliability;factor analysis to test construct validity;different model fit indices to test model superiority;different language comparisons to test cross‐cultural validity;and qualitative expert reviews to assess content validity.展开更多
The maritime industry is currently facing the challenges of adopting new technologies and operational practices with stricter international, national and local rules in order to reduce exhaust gas emissions from ships...The maritime industry is currently facing the challenges of adopting new technologies and operational practices with stricter international, national and local rules in order to reduce exhaust gas emissions from ships. The most objective of regulations introduced and presented by the Worldwide Sea Organization such as International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is to lessen the commitment shipping makes to worldwide and local discharges. This paper analyzes emissions from marine engines and the process of waste exhaust gas formation and provides a summary of the emission reduction technologies to satisfy MARPOL NOx tier III and EPA tier IV rules. The results showed the possibility of achieving a valuable emission reduction percentage if future diesel engines are equipped with pre-treatment, internal-treatment and/or post-treatment techniques. Economics impact for medium and low speed for category 3 marine diesel engines is also presented.展开更多
基金supported by the grants PID2020-113371RA-C22 and TED2021-130845A-C32,funded by MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033.M.Marín-García,R.González-OlmosC.Gómez-Canela are members of the GESPA group(Grup d’Enginyeria i Simulacióde Processos Ambientals)at IQS-URL,which has been acknowledged as a Consolidated Research Group by the Government of Catalonia(No.2021-SGR-00321)+1 种基金In addition,M.Marín-García has been awarded a public grant for the Investigo Programme,aimed at hiring young job seekers to undertake research and innovation projects under the Recovery,Transformation,and Resilience Plan(PRTR),European Union Next Generation,for the year 2022,through the Government of Catalonia and the Spanish Ministry for Work and Social Economy(No.100045ID16)Ana Belén Cuenca for her support and expertise,which helped to confirm the proposed reaction mechanism involved in the UV photolysis of cloperastine.
文摘The increasing production and release of synthetic organic chemicals,including pharmaceuticals,into our envi-ronment has allowed these substances to accumulate in our surface water systems.Current purification technolo-gies have been unable to eliminate these pollutants,resulting in their ongoing release into aquatic ecosystems.This study focuses on cloperastine(CPS),a cough suppressant and antihistamine medication.The environmental impact of CPS usage has become a concern,mainly due to its increased detection during the COVID-19 pandemic.CPS has been found in wastewater treatment facilities,effluents from senior living residences,river waters,and sewage sludge.However,the photosensitivity of CPS and its photodegradation profile remain largely unknown.This study investigates the photodegradation process of CPS under simulated tertiary treatment conditions using UV photolysis,a method commonly applied in some wastewater treatment plants.Several transformation prod-ucts were identified,evaluating their kinetic profiles using chemometric approaches(i.e.,curve fitting and the hard-soft multivariate curve resolution-alternating least squares(HS-MCR-ALS)algorithm)and calculating the reaction quantum yield.As a result,three different transformation products have been detected and correctly identified.In addition,a comprehensive description of the kinetic pathway involved in the photodegradation process of the CPS drug has been provided,including observed kinetic rate constants.
基金Funding from Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada award number RGPIN/4002-2020.
文摘Viral diseases are an important threat to crop yield,as they are responsible for losses greater than US$30 billion annually.Thus,understanding the dynamics of virus propagation within plant cells is essential for devising effective control strategies.However,viruses are complex to propagate and quantify.Existing methodologies for viral quantification tend to be expensive and time-consuming.Here,we present a rapid cost-effective approach to quantify viral propagation using an engineered virus expressing a fluorescent reporter.Using a microplate reader,we measured viral protein levels and we validated our findings through comparison by western blot analysis of viral coat protein,the most common approach to quantify viral titer.Our proposed methodology provides a practical and accessible approach to studying virus-host interactions and could contribute to enhancing our understanding of plant virology.
基金supported by MCIN with funding from European Union Next Generation EU (PRTR-C17.I1)Generalitat Valenciana+1 种基金the MCIN, European Union and Generalitat Valenciana for financial support under the Advanced Materials programme project MFA/2022/062the Universitat d’Alacant for the award of an FPU grant.
文摘Nowadays,multivalent batteries are not widely commercialized in contrast with monovalent batteries because their development faces more obstacles,which partly derive from the typically higher charge density of multivalent ions.This property results in poor capacity retention and reversibility,and low coulombic efficiency since the insertion of multivalent ions strongly destabilizes the host structure.To overcome these issues,a close-to-amorphous cathode material has been prepared containing cations(Ca)larger than those to be inserted(Mg).Specifically,low-crystallinity CaMn_(2)O_(4)(CMO)has been prepared and tested as a cathode for aqueous magnesium and calcium batteries.Employing XPS and ICP-OES,calcium and magnesium ions are shown to be inserted-extracted into-from the cathode,the performance being better for magnesium insertion because of its higher diffusion coefficient.In situ Raman analysis reveals that CMO evolves into a birnessite-type structure during the initial electrochemical cycles in both aqueous magnesium and calcium media.The gravimetric capacity obtained for cycle 50 at 263 mA g^(-1)in aqueous 1.0 M Mg(NO_(3))_(2)has a value of 93 mAh g^(-1),while for aqueous 1.0 M Ca(NO_(3))_(2),it is only of 46 mAh g^(-1).The results obtained for the magnesium electrolyte compare well with other cathode materials based on manganese oxides.
基金financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.52103145 and 11832007)Science&Technology Department of Sichuan Province(No.2025ZNSFSC0352)State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering(No.sklpme-2024-1-03)。
文摘Liquid crystal elastomers(LCEs)exhibit exceptional reversible deformation and unique physical properties owing to their order-disorder phase transition under external stimuli.Among these deformations,helical structures have attracted attention owing to their distinctive configurations and promising applications in biomimetics and microelectronics.However,the helical deformation behavior of fiber actuators is critically influenced by their morphologies and alignments;yet,the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood.Through a two-step azaMichael addition reaction and direct ink writing(DIW)4D printing technology,fiber-based LCE actuators with a core-sheath alignment structure were fabricated and exhibited reversible helical deformation upon heating.By adjusting the printing parameters,the filament number,width,thickness,and core-sheath structure of the fiber actuators can be precisely controlled,resulting in deformation behaviors,such as contraction,bending,and helical twisting.Finite element simulations were performed to investigate the deformation behaviors of the fiber actuators,providing insights into the variations in stress and strain during the shape-changing process,which can be used to explain the shape-morphing mechanism.These findings demonstrate that the precise tuning of printing parameters enables the controllable construction of LCE actuator morphology and customization of their functional properties,paving the way for advanced applications in smart fabrics,biomedical engineering,and flexible electronics.
文摘The quality of the software product is a crucial factor that contributes to its success. Therefore, it is important to specify the right software quality requirements that will establish the basis for desired quality of the final system/software product. There are several known methodologies/ processes that support the specification of the system/software functional requirements starting from the user needs to finally obtain the system requirements that the developers can implement through their development process. System/software quality requirements are interdependent with functional requirements, which means that the system/software quality requirements are meant to be specified in parallel with the latter. The ISO/IEC 25000 [1] SQuaRE series of standards include the standard ISO/IEC 25030—Software engineering—Software Quality Requirements and Evaluation—Quality requirements [2], which has as main goal to help specify software quality requirements. As to date, this standard does not offer clear and concise steps that a software quality engineer could follow in order to specify them. This article presents modifications recommended for ISO/IEC 25030 standard, with, among the others, a new requirements definition process that allows for specifying the system/software quality requirements taking into account the existing published system and software quality model ISO/IEC 25010 [3] as well as all the stake- holders of the project.
文摘Agricultural management practices influence soil health.In this study,agricultural lands of cold arid Hanna village,Balochistan,Pakistan,were studied to assess soil properties and the abundance of soil macrofauna species.Five orchards,five tree-based intercropping(TBI)systems,two croplands and a barren unprotected rangeland were sampled.Soil properties,such as texture,concentrations of organic matter(SOM),organic carbon(SOC),mineral nitrogen and bioavailable phosphorus,pH and electrical conductivity were analyzed.The abundance and species of soil surface-dwelling and upper soil layer-dwelling(0-5 cm)macrofauna were also measured.Orchards and croplands were older than TBI systems.than the same agricultural systems(cropland or orchards),which were under intense tillage practice or receiving no fertilizer input.Our results demonstrate that the diversified cropping systems with the reduced(shallow)tillage and the amendment of both synthetic and organic fertilizers,promoted soil quality in this cold-winter desert.This study is a source of evidence for the farmers of this region,which highlights the importance of conservation agriculture and crop diversification under TBI system for improving soil quality.It warrants further investigation to evaluate biological indicators of soil health(soil microbial biomass,microbial diversity,microfauna,mesofauna and macrofauna)being influenced by various management practices in this region.Furthermore,the relationship between soil quality and crop production under various management practices in this region needs to be evaluated.Such an extensive study will further help encourage farmers to adopt the best management practice in their fields.
文摘AIM:To assess the effect of the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic on the wait times and severity of surgical glaucoma cases in a single tertiary referral center in Quebec,Canada.METHODS:Preoperative severity data included mean visual field(VF)deficit,intraocular pressure(IOP),the number of topical glaucoma medication classes,and preoperative best corrected visual acuity(BCVA).The times from referral to procedure(referral time)and from listing date to procedure(waitlisting time)were calculated.RESULTS:This retrospective cohort study involved 181 eyes of patients undergoing glaucoma surgery from March 1 to June 30,2019(pre-pandemic period),and 201 eyes in the same timeframe in 2021(pandemic period)at Saint-Sacrement Hospital in Quebec City.There was no significant difference in the severity data of surgical glaucoma across both periods(VF deficit:P=0.48;IOP:P=0.14;BCVA:P=0.24;topical medication classes:P=0.27).The number of patients referred with oral glaucoma medication increased slightly from 45 to 70 in 2019 and 2021 respectively(P=0.08).Delay data were also comparable.Mean referral time was 122±120d in 2019 versus 144±136d in 2021(P=0.09),whereas waitlisting time before the pandemic was 43±44.5 versus 39±41.8d in 2021(P=0.13).CONCLUSION:Despite North America’s strictest pandemic restrictions,limited negative impact is observed on waitlisting delays and the severity of glaucoma cases presenting at our center.A larger subset of patients is treated with oral medications indicating a possible increase in advanced glaucoma.
基金financially supported by the Project of National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2022YFE0129200)the Beijing Nova Program(No.20220484057)+3 种基金the China Scholarship Council(No.202010300001)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.52304101)financial support from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada(No.RGPIN-201806902)industrial partners of the Research Institute on Mines and the Environment(No.RIME UQAT-Polytechnique)。
文摘The underhand cut-and-fill mining method is widely employed in underground mines,especially when the quality of surrounding rock mass or ore body is inferior or subjected to high stresses.Such a method typically requires the construction of sill mats with cemented backfill to provide operators with safe artificial roofs.Accurate estimation of the minimum required strength of the sill mat is crucial to minimize binder consumption and ensure its stability upon base exposure.Over the years,only a few publications were devoted to determining the minimum required cohesion(cmin)of sill mats.None of them considered rock wall closure to be associated with the creep of surrounding rock mass.Moreover,the effect of rock wall closure associated with rock creep on the cminof the sill mat remains unknown.Thus,a series of numerical simulations was performed to fill this gap.The influence of rock creep on the cminof base-exposed sill mat was investigated for the first time.The numerical results indicate that Mitchell’s models could be suitable for sill mats subjected to negligible wall closure.However,this scenario is rare,especially when mine depth is large.In general,the cminof sill mats increases as mine depth increases.Neglecting rock creep would significantly underestimate the cminof sill mats.When mine depth is large and the rock mass exhibits severe creep,cemented backfill with ductile behavior(i.e.,with low stiffness but enough strength)should be considered to reduce binder consumption and prevent crushing failure.In all cases,promptly filling the mined-out stope below the sill mat can improve its stability and reduce its cminvalue.
基金Science Fund for Outstanding Young Scholars of Hunan Province,Grant/Award Number:2023JJ20064National Natural Science Foundation of China,Grant/Award Number:12004057+1 种基金Graduate Research and Innovation Foundation of Chongqing,Grant/Award Number:CYB23026Natural Science Foundation of Chongqing Municipality,Grant/Award Number:CSTB2022NSCQ-MSX1183。
文摘Layered vanadates are ideal energy storage materials due to their multielectron redox reactions and excellent cation storage capacity.However,their practical application still faces challenges,such as slow reaction kinetics and poor structural stability.In this study,we synthesized[Me_(2)NH_(2)]V_(3)O_(7)(MNVO),a layered vanadate with expended layer spacing and enhanced pH resistance,using a one-step simple hydrothermal gram-scale method.Experimental analyses and density functional theory(DFT)calculations revealed supportive ionic and hydrogen bonding interactions between the thin-layered[Me_(2)NH_(2)]+cation and[V_(3)O_(7)]-anion layers,clarifying the energy storage mechanism of the H^(+)/Zn^(2+)co-insertion.The synergistic effect of these bonds and oxygen vacancies increased the electronic conductivity and significantly reduced the diffusion energy barrier of the insertion ions,thereby improving the rate capability of the material.In an acidic electrolyte,aqueous zinc-ion batteries employing MNVO as the cathode exhibited a high specific capacity of 433 mAh g^(-1)at 0.1 A g^(-1).The prepared electrodes exhibited a maximum specific capacity of 237 mAh g^(-1)at 5 A g^(-1)and maintained a capacity retention of 83.5%after 10,000 cycles.This work introduces a novel approach for advancing layered cathodes,paving the way for their practical application in energy storage devices.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.NSFC51374147)the German Society for Petroleum and Coal Science and Technology(Grant No.DGMK680-4)
文摘As one of the most important ways to reduce the greenhouse gas emission,carbon dioxide（CO2）enhanced gas recovery（CO2-EGR） is attractive since the gas recovery can be enhanced simultaneously with CO2sequestration.Based on the existing equation of state（EOS） module of TOUGH2 MP,extEOS7C is developed to calculate the phase partition of H2O-CO2-CH4-NaCl mixtures accurately with consideration of dissolved NaCI and brine properties at high pressure and temperature conditions.Verifications show that it can be applied up to the pressure of 100 MPa and temperature of 150℃.The module was implemented in the linked simulator TOUGH2MP-FLAC3 D for the coupled hydro-mechanical simulations.A simplified three-dimensional（3D）1/4 model（2.2 km×1 km×1 km） which consists of the whole reservoir,caprock and baserock was generated based on the geological conditions of a gas field in the North German Basin.The simulation results show that,under an injection rate of 200,000 t/yr and production rate of 200,000 sm3/d,CO2breakthrough occurred in the case with the initial reservoir pressure of 5 MPa but did not occur in the case of 42 MPa.Under low pressure conditions,the pressure driven horizontal transport is the dominant process;while under high pressure conditions,the density driven vertical flow is dominant.Under the considered conditions,the CO2-EGR caused only small pressure changes.The largest pore pressure increase（2 MPa） and uplift（7 mm） occurred at the caprock bottom induced by only CO2injection.The caprock had still the primary stress state and its integrity was not affected.The formation water salinity and temperature variations of ±20℃ had small influences on the CO2-EGR process.In order to slow down the breakthrough,it is suggested that CO2-EGR should be carried out before the reservoir pressure drops below the critical pressure of CO2.
文摘It has been long recognized that a variety of anthropogenic activities may cause earthquakes(Ellsworth et al.,2013;Yang HF et al.,2017).In the recent decades,induced earthquakes have been found in many settings and become a growing concern,in particular for regions that are undergoing with resource development.
基金developed in the context of project RTI2018–102061–B–I00 financed by FEDER/Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación-Agencia Estatal de InvestigaciónThe Generalitat Valenciana through project PROMETEO/2020/089 is also gratefully acknowledged。
文摘Rechargeable sodium metal batteries constitute a cost-effective option for energy storage although sodium shows some drawbacks in terms of reactivity with organic solvents and dendritic growth.Here we demonstrate that an organic dye,indanthrone blue,behaves as an efficient cathode material for the development of secondary sodium metal batteries when combined with novel inorganic electrolytes.These electrolytes are ammonia solvates,known as liquid ammoniates,which can be formulated as NaI·3.3NH_(3) and NaBF_(4)·2.5NH_(3).They impart excellent stability to sodium metal,and they favor sodium non-dendritic growth linked to their exceedingly high sodium ion concentration.This advantage is complemented by a high specific conductivity.The battery described here can last hundreds of cycles at 10 C while keeping a Coulombic efficiency of 99%from the first cycle.Because of the high capacity of the cathode and the superior physicochemical properties of the electrolytes,the battery can reach a specific energy value as high as 210 W h kgIB^(-1),and a high specific power of 2.2 kW kgIB^(-1),even at below room temperature(4℃).Importantly,the battery is based on abundant and cost-effective materials,bearing promise for its application in large-scale energy storage.
文摘The aim of this work has been to evaluate the aluminium (Al(III)) traces contents in 24-hour urine samples from subjects with different tobacco smoke expositions using a new methodology with 1,4-dihydroxy-9, 10-anthraquinone (Quinizarine, QZ) as a fluorosphore. Biological samples were tested using commercial reagent strips and clinical parameters. Al(III) was determined complexing with QZ followed by a solid phase extraction step using Nylon membranes as a solid support. The analyte was subsequently quantified by solid surface fluorescence (SSF, λem= 573, λexc= 490) with a detection limit of 0.88 μg L-1 and quantification limit of 2.69 μg L-1. The calibration curve was linear from 2.69 to 499.13 μg L-1 Al(III) (R2 = 0.9973). Urine samples were successfully analysed with an average recovery close to 100%. Solid phase extraction step showed efficacy to eliminate foreign ions and the highly fluorescent matrix own of urine. Results were validated by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry (ETAAS) with an adequate concordance. The new methodology has low operation cost with simple instrumentation and without organic solvent.
文摘The stability of imidoyl radicals prepared from 2-(2-alkenyloxy)-phenyl selenoimidates and 2-(2-allylamino)-phenyl selenoimidates and their intramolecular free radical cyclization through the slow addition of tri-N-butyltin hydride and AIBN to obtain 4-chromanones and 4-quinolones were studied. The extension of the methodology to N-phenyl substituted imidoyl selenoates produced tandem cyclizations of the imidoyl radical with the allyl substituent, followed for a second cyclization of the intermediate radical with the aromatic substituent to produce dihydro-chromenoquinolines or tetrahy-dro-dibenzonaphtyridines. Further oxidation with DDQ produced: 6H-chromeno [4,3,b] quinoline and 7-methyl-6H-chromenoquinoline from 2-alkenylamino-phenylbenzamide and 5,6-dihydro-dibenzo [b,h][1,6] naphthyridine and 5,6-dihydro-7-methyl-dibenzo [b,h][1,6] naphthyridine from 2-2-(alkylamino)-N-phenylbenzamides. The cyclization of 2-(N,N-di-prop-2.enylamino)-N-phenylnicotinamide selenoate obtained from 2-aminonicotinic acid, produced 5,6-dihidro-benzo[b]pyrido2,3-h] [1,6] naphthyridine.
基金supported by the Fondo Nacional de Desarrollo Científico y Tecnologico[1160583 and 1211441 to P.C.G.,1240877 to G.O.C.]the Comision Nacional de Investigacion Científica y Tecnologica PIA[REDII 170031 to P.C.G., G.O.C.]+3 种基金ANID PIA/BASAL[FB210006]to the Instituto de Ecología y Biodiversidad(IEB)ANID PIA/BASAL[PFB210018]to the Cape Horn International Center(CHIC)A.V.M.acknowledges the support of ANID/BASAL FB210006 by the Institute of EcologyBiodiversity(IEB)with counterpart contributions from the Anglo-American Foundation.B.M.M.is grateful to the ANID Scholarship 20210673.
文摘Pollination niches,which encompass the factors influencing pollen exchange among angiosperms,are fundamental to understanding reproductive success and the intricate eco-evolutionary dynamics of plants.In this study,we investigated pollination niche shift among four sympatric Eriosyce cacti with restricted distributions in the South American Mediterranean region.Utilizing a comprehensive approachdincluding pollination niche analysis,pollinator color perception studies,reproductive output assessments,molecular phylogenetics,gene flow analyses,and species distribution modelingdwe revealed a significant pollination niche displacement in E.chilensis and its variety,E.chilensis var.albidiflora.These taxa transitioned from a hummingbird-pollinated system prevalent in the Eriosyce sect.Neoporteria,characteristic of their sister species E.litoralis,to a bee-pollination strategy akin to that of the co-occurring species E.mutabilis.This shift highlights a simultaneous convergence of E.chilensis toward E.mutabilis and divergence from E.litoralis in pollination strategies,providing adaptive advantages by reducing pollen limitation and enhancing seed production.The morphological and flowering phenological similarities between E.chilensis and E.mutabilis suggest the evolution of a shared advertising display,potentially indicative of floral mimicry,wherein both species benefit from attracting shared bee pollinators.Genomic analyses reveal distinct pollinator-driven selection pressures,with E.chilensis/E.albidiflora exhibiting traits that promote reproductive isolation from E.litoralis,supporting a scenario of rapid speciation occurring within the past half of million years in the absence of geographic barriers.These findings underscore the pivotal role of pollinator interactions in shaping angiosperm speciation and biodiversity,highlighting their dynamic influence on ecological and evolutionary processes.
基金Project supported by Visiting Scholar Foundation of Key Laboratory of the Resources Exploitation and Environmental Disaster Control Engineering in Southwest China (Chongqing University),Ministry of Education,China
文摘A model for liquid-gas flow （MLGF）, considering the flee movement of liquid surface, was built to simulate the wastewater velocity field and gas distribution in a full-scale Caroussel oxidation ditch with surface aeration. It was calibrated and validated by field measurement data, and the calibrated parameters and sections were selected based on both model analysis and numerical computation. The simulated velocities of MLGF were compared to that of a model for wastewater-sludge flow （MWSF）. The results show that the free liquid surface considered in MLGF improves the simulated velocity results of upper layer and surface. Moreover, distribution of gas volume fraction （GVF） simulated by MLGF was compared to dissolved oxygen （DO） measured in the oxidation ditch. It is shown that DO distribution is affected by many factors besides GVF distribution.
文摘This idea of quantifying the energy of bodies orbiting the Sun is not new. We have identified that quantization applies well if we use the true quantum number associated with the true energy state of rotating bodies. This quantum number is very high for the main bodies or planets (10<sup>~70 to 76</sup>). However, since quantum energy levels E are very high and ΔE very low we observe that bodies can in practice occupy all orbits. Thus, the current observed stable positions of the bodies are the results of the quantization and the sum of the effects of other perturbative phenomena. To find a quantum state starting with n = 1, we expressed the true integer quantum numbers as a function of that of the planet Mercury and we find an excellent correlation. However, the search for a correlation of prediction of the average orbital radius of bodies using the simple integer number n = 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, … is not excellent for bodies beyond the planet Pluto. Indeed, several trans-Neptunian bodies have similar integer quantum numbers, which poses a problem in the sequence of integer numbers beyond 10. Moreover, it appears that the trans-Neptunian bodies seem to be grouped for many of them according to relatively well-defined bands. The study made it possible to question the de Broglie wavelength of bodies (10<sup>~-58 to -65</sup> m). Indeed, with the hypothesis of Planck quantities that would apply to the scale of the universe, it is difficult to conceive that de Broglie wavelengths are less than the Planck length l<sub>p</sub>. This led to an expression of the modified de Broglie wavelength λ<sub>m</sub> that predicts an asymptotic lower limit value equal to πl<sub>p</sub>. This modified de Broglie wavelength makes it possible to obtain a better correlation for the prediction of the average orbital radius of bodies. Finally, this modified wavelength of de Broglie made it possible to put into perspective the concept of the quantification of space with the idea of the minimum wavelength associated with photon’s energies during the generation of the energy of the universe according to a model already presented in this review. This modified de Broglie wavelength also makes it possible to imagine that the quantification of the volume of space involves the geometry of the sphere and the cube.
文摘Mexico and currently in Veracruz state, there are metropolitan zones (MZ) growing. Therefore, main objective in this paper is to analyze new data and AQ trends during 01.09.2013 to 30.06.2015 of two new AQ monitoring stations installed in Xalapa and Minatitlan MZ in 2013-year. The methodology applied used quality criteria to the datasets, followed by data validation and statistics for further analysis to determine the hourly, weekly and yearly trends of NO<sub>2</sub>, O<sub>3</sub>, SO<sub>2</sub>, PM<sub>10</sub> and PM<sub>2.5</sub>. Indicators were compared with Mexican standards, CAI-LAC report, WHO guidelines, EU and USA standards to evaluate the AQ in both sites. We observed AQ trends from moderate to bad in Xalapa and Minatitlan MZ where the PM<sub>10</sub> and PM<sub>2.5</sub> surpassed the WHO guidelines and Mexican standards. O<sub>3</sub> and SO<sub>2</sub> in Xalapa presented a quality from good to moderate and in Minatitlan sometimes were from moderate to bad. NO<sub>2</sub> did not exceed the value limits of Mexican standards, only Xalapa has exceeded the WHO guidelines. In Minatitlan, the Mexican limits were not exceeded. Concluding, PM<sub>10</sub> and PM<sub>2.5</sub> concentrations were the main problem. Others pollutants that influenced the AQ were O<sub>3</sub>, NO<sub>2</sub> and SO<sub>2</sub> in Minatitlan MZ due probably to meteorology, site conditions, location and oil and petrochemical industries. In Xalapa, MZ NO<sub>2</sub> and SO<sub>2</sub> are attributed mainly to road transport.
文摘Quality of life at work is an important and widely discussed concept in the literature.Several instruments can be used to measure it,but with regard to healthcare and social services,the existing instruments are not well known.A review of available instruments intending to capture the quality of life of healthcare and social services workers(QoLHSSW)is necessary to better assess their working conditions and promote programs/guidelines to improve these conditions.The aim of this study was to identify the existing instruments used in measuring QoLHSSW and explore their characteristics.Particular attention was given to instruments adapted to the province of Quebec,Canada,which enabled the determination of which instruments are adapted for the measurement of QoLHSSW in Quebec and possibly elsewhere.A systematic review of the literature was conducted according to the JBI methodological guide.The articles'selection procedure was performed according to the PRISMA flowchart.The search was conducted up to October 28,2021,and then updated on January 25,2023,in four databases:PsycINFO,Medline,Embase,and CINAHL.The selection and extraction were performed independently by two researchers.The analysis of the quality of the studies was performed with the COnsensus‐based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments.From a total of 8178 entries,13 articles corresponding to 13 instruments were selected.Among these instruments,the common aspects that were considered were work conditions,job satisfaction,stress at work,relationship/balance,and career development.Most instruments used a 5‐point Likert scale.Various validation methods were used,including reporting Cronbach's alpha for overall scale reliability;factor analysis to test construct validity;different model fit indices to test model superiority;different language comparisons to test cross‐cultural validity;and qualitative expert reviews to assess content validity.
文摘The maritime industry is currently facing the challenges of adopting new technologies and operational practices with stricter international, national and local rules in order to reduce exhaust gas emissions from ships. The most objective of regulations introduced and presented by the Worldwide Sea Organization such as International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is to lessen the commitment shipping makes to worldwide and local discharges. This paper analyzes emissions from marine engines and the process of waste exhaust gas formation and provides a summary of the emission reduction technologies to satisfy MARPOL NOx tier III and EPA tier IV rules. The results showed the possibility of achieving a valuable emission reduction percentage if future diesel engines are equipped with pre-treatment, internal-treatment and/or post-treatment techniques. Economics impact for medium and low speed for category 3 marine diesel engines is also presented.
