In July 2025,Claudio Descalzi,CEO of Italian oil company Eni,stated in an interview with the Financial Times that Eni’s low-carbon business operating profits would equal those of its oil and gas business by 2035 and ...In July 2025,Claudio Descalzi,CEO of Italian oil company Eni,stated in an interview with the Financial Times that Eni’s low-carbon business operating profits would equal those of its oil and gas business by 2035 and exceed oil and gas business profits by 2040.Meanwhile,British oil company bp is scaling back its low-carbon business under shareholder pressure,returning to traditional oil and gas operations,and plans to gradually dispose of USD 20 billion worth of low-carbon business assets such as onshore wind farms,aiming to increase oil and gas production to 2.3−2.5 million boe per day by 2030.Two European oil companies are heading in completely different strategic directions.In the future,whether Eni can achieve its expected goals of making renewable energy business a key core business,as well as what development strategies oil and gas companies should implement and adhere to,are questions worthy of deep consideration.展开更多
This study aims to explore the unconscious motivations underlying migration in Niger, with an emphasis on understanding the phenomenon of pathological travel. Its aim is to identify the unconscious factors of patholog...This study aims to explore the unconscious motivations underlying migration in Niger, with an emphasis on understanding the phenomenon of pathological travel. Its aim is to identify the unconscious factors of pathological travel among migrants. Pathological travel, as discussed in the scientific literature on psychopathology, is characterised by movements initiated under the influence of delusions, hallucinations or other serious psychiatric disorders. The aim of this research is to contribute to our understanding of how these unconscious factors influence migration decisions. Using a retrospective analysis of five cases, this study examines the psychological and psychiatric dimensions of migration, particularly among patients referred to the psychiatry department of the Niamey National Hospital between 2017 and 2018. The five cases analysed, representing 12% of a cohort of 40 migrant patients, suffered from chronic psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia and chronic hallucinatory psychosis. By means of diagnostic interviews and categorical sorting, three main unconscious motivations were identified: the delusional state with themes of filiation and persecution, the hallucinations that dictated the travel behaviour, and the dissociative states manifested by depersonalisation and derealisation. It also emerges from this analysis that pathological travel often involves prolonged journeys on foot and without purpose. Thus, untreated mental illness plays a significant role in shaping and influencing individual and social behaviour. The results of this study have important implications for public health and migration policy. They highlight the need to integrate health assessments into migration management systems, particularly in regions serving as transit hubs for migrants. The research also highlights the need for culturally sensitive psychiatric interventions to address the interaction between pre-existing mental disorders and migration. This study contributes to a better understanding of the psychological dimensions of migration by highlighting the importance of addressing mental health as an integral part of humanitarian action. The knowledge gained paves the way for future research to explore this understudied aspect of migration on a broader scale.展开更多
In Ivory Coast, arterial hypertension is 20.4% prevalent, with a high mortality rate. However, proper use of antihypertensive drugs can reduce the risks of morbidity and mortality associated with the disease. The aim ...In Ivory Coast, arterial hypertension is 20.4% prevalent, with a high mortality rate. However, proper use of antihypertensive drugs can reduce the risks of morbidity and mortality associated with the disease. The aim of this study was to determine the pattern of antihypertensive drugs in an urban population in Abidjan. To this end, a retrospective descriptive study was conducted. Data were collected from the consumption histories of several pharmacies in the Abobo commune of Abidjan between March and August 2020. Drugs available in pharmacies and containing one or more active ingredients in the ATC classification of antihypertensives were included. A total of 1082 sales of antihypertensives were recorded, with 53% of medicines containing a single molecule and 46% containing combinations of two molecules. Antihypertensives containing one active compound showed a high proportion of diuretics (28.7%), followed by calcium antagonists (20.35%) and beta-blockers (19.13%). The combination of ACE inhibitors and calcium antagonists was sold at 34.71%, with the combination of calcium antagonists/ACE inhibitors + diuretics (45.46%) in the two and three-molecule classes respectively. All in all, the study showed the patients were satisfied with the use of antihypertensives, with furosemide and the amlodipine/perindopril combination at the top of the list.展开更多
Chronic infection with viral hepatitis affects half a billion individuals worldwide and can lead to cirrhosis,cancer,and liver failure.Liver cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-associated mortality,of which he...Chronic infection with viral hepatitis affects half a billion individuals worldwide and can lead to cirrhosis,cancer,and liver failure.Liver cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-associated mortality,of which hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)represents 90%of all primary liver cancers.Solid tumors like HCC are complex and have heterogeneous tumor genomic profiles contributing to complexity in diagnosis and management.Chronic infection with hepatitis B virus(HBV),hepatitis delta virus(HDV),and hepatitis C virus(HCV)are the greatest etiological risk factors for HCC.Due to the significant role of chronic viral infection in HCC development,it is important to investigate direct(viral associated)and indirect(immune-associated)mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of HCC.Common mechanisms used by HBV,HCV,and HDV that drive hepatocarcinogenesis include persistent liver inflammation with an impaired antiviral immune response,immune and viral protein-mediated oxidative stress,and deregulation of cellular signaling pathways by viral proteins.DNA integration to promote genome instability is a feature of HBV infection,and metabolic reprogramming leading to steatosis is driven by HCV infection.The current review aims to provide a brief overview of HBV,HCV and HDV molecular biology,and highlight specific viral-associated oncogenic mechanisms and common molecular pathways deregulated in HCC,and current as well as emerging treatments for HCC.展开更多
Based on the developed neural-fuzzy control system for anaerobic hybrid reactor （AHR） in wastewater treatment and biogas production, the neural network with backpropagation algorithm for prediction of the variables ...Based on the developed neural-fuzzy control system for anaerobic hybrid reactor （AHR） in wastewater treatment and biogas production, the neural network with backpropagation algorithm for prediction of the variables pH, alkalinity （Alk） and total volatile acids （TVA） at present day time t was used as input data for the fuzzy logic to calculate the influent feed flow rate that was applied to control and monitor the process response at different operations in the initial, overload influent feeding and the recovery phases. In all three phases, this neural-fuzzy control system showed great potential to control AHR in high stability and performance and quick response. Although in the overloading operation phase II with two fold calculating influent flow rate together with a two fold organic loading rate （OLR）, this control system had rapid response and was sensitive to the intended overload. When the influent feeding rate was followed by the calculation of control system in the initial operation phase I and the recovery operation phase III, it was found that the neural-fuzzy control system application was capable of controlling the AHR in a good manner with the pH close to 7, TVA/Alk 〈 0.4 and COD removal 〉 80% with biogas and methane yields at 0.45 and 0.30 m^3/kg COD removed.展开更多
The productivity and efficiency of cellulase are significant in cellulose hydrolysis. With the accumulation of volatile fatty acids （VFAs）, the pH value in anaerobic digestion system is reduced. Therefore, this stud...The productivity and efficiency of cellulase are significant in cellulose hydrolysis. With the accumulation of volatile fatty acids （VFAs）, the pH value in anaerobic digestion system is reduced. Therefore, this study will find out how the pH and the amount of acetate influence the enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose. The effects of pH and acetate on cellulase produced from Bacillus coagulans were studied at various pH 5-8, and acetate concentrations （0-60 mmol/L）. A batch kinetic model for enzymatic cellulose hydrolysis was constructed from experimental data and performed. The base hypothesis was as follows： the rates of enzymatic cellulose hydrolysis rely on pH and acetate concentration. The results showed that the suitable pH range for cellulase production and cellulose hydrolysis （represents efficiency of cellulase） was 2.6-7.5, and 5.3-8.3, respectively. Moreover, acetate in the culture medium had an effect on cellulase production （KI = 49.50 mmol/L, n = 1.7） less than cellulose hydrolysis （/（＇i = 37.85 mmol/L, n = 2.0）. The results indicated that both the pH of suspension and acidogenic products influence the enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose in an anaerobic environment. To enhance the cellulose hydrolysis rate, the accumulated acetate concentration should be lower than 25 mmol/L, and pH should be maintained at 7.展开更多
To make clear the influence of abrasive hardness on the erosion effect,the erosion experiments of abrasive air jet with the same impact energy were carried out.The influence of abrasive hardness on the erosion effect ...To make clear the influence of abrasive hardness on the erosion effect,the erosion experiments of abrasive air jet with the same impact energy were carried out.The influence of abrasive hardness on the erosion effect is clarified by comparing the different erosion depths.The main conclusions are as follows.Under the same mass flow rate and mesh number,the abrasive with a higher density needs greater pressure irrespective of hardness.After erosion damage,the abrasive size exhibits a Weibull distribution.The shape parameterβand Weibull distribution function of four types of abrasives are derived by the least squares method;moreover,βis found to have a quadratic relation with abrasive hardness.The results of the erosion experiments show that abrasive hardness and erosion depth are quadratically related.By calculating the increase in surface energy after abrasive erosion crushing,it is found that abrasive hardness has a quadratic relation with surface energy and that the increases in erosion depth and surface energy consumption are basically identical.In conclusion,the effect is a soft abrasive impact when the ratio of abrasive hardness(Ha)to the material hardness(Hm)is<2.6,and it is a hard abrasive impact when Ha/Hm>3.展开更多
In this study, concentrations of Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd and Pb were determined in road dusts collected from different locations in Dhaka to assess source, contamination status and health risk. Energy-dispersive X-ray ...In this study, concentrations of Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd and Pb were determined in road dusts collected from different locations in Dhaka to assess source, contamination status and health risk. Energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy were used to determine Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd and Pb and their mean concentrations were 162.27 ± 29.46, 721.18 ± 180.14, 35.65 ± 12.55, 104.56 ± 128.33, 515.32 ± 321.90,BDL, and 342.82 ± 591.20 mg/kg, respectively. Among the heavy metals, highest concentrations of Cu, Zn and Pb were found at urban sites-7(municipal waste dumping) and 8(medical waste incineration). Highest concentration of Cr followed by Cu and Zn was found at site-5(Tejgaon, urban). Principal component analysis revealed that anthropogenic activities are the potential sources for Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn and Pb while earth crust for Mn. Pollution index and pollution load index results suggested that all the sites were contaminated and/or degraded by Cr, Cu, Zn and Pb except sites-9(urban), 10(sub-urban), 11(rural) while sites-7 and 8(urban) were extremely degraded. For noncarcinogenic health risk, hazard quotient values for dermal were higher compared to that of inhalation/ingestion. Though hazard index values were less than 1 at all the sites, these were at least one order of magnitude higher for children group than that of adult group, thus the children group may face more noncarcinogenic health risk at sites -7 and 8. Values of incremental lifetime cancer risk were from 10to 10showed no carcinogenic health risk by road dusts contaminated with the heavy metals.展开更多
Community participation and community based management are topical themes in current policy and discussion revolving around decision-making processes especially those dealing with natural resources management.This rev...Community participation and community based management are topical themes in current policy and discussion revolving around decision-making processes especially those dealing with natural resources management.This review shows that while governments have accepted the need to either cede or devolve control and management of natural resources to the local communities,the communities are not part and parcel of the planning and budgeting which are crucial in decisionmaking.Communities were seen to be more involved in the implementation of natural resource management programs but lacked ownership of the projects.This causes lack of commitment to the programs and at times hostile reaction from the communities.The communities are always at the receiving end when it pertains to losses in the exchange.Community participation was shown to be effective when the local population is involved not as co-operating users but as natural resource managers or owner managers.展开更多
Fourteen morphometric traits were used to examine the genetic divergence of 25 mulberry （Morus spp.） genotypes from varied agroclimatic conditions of India. Wide variation was observed for all the traits. The genoty...Fourteen morphometric traits were used to examine the genetic divergence of 25 mulberry （Morus spp.） genotypes from varied agroclimatic conditions of India. Wide variation was observed for all the traits. The genotypes irrespective of their place of collection were grouped into 10 different clusters. Seven accessions, that is, Baragura-2, Gorabandha-2, Kalimpong, Herbertpur, Kollegal, Resham majri-7, and UP-14 each a cluster of unique entries will be of useful for genetic resources. Nevertheless, the correlation and path analysis suggest the direct selection of lamina length, fresh leaf weight, leaf area, and single leaf weight will be rewarding for mulberry leaf yield improvement.展开更多
Based on the daily precipitation data of 545 meteorological stations in China from 1961 to 2016, the spatial-temporal variation characteristics of rainstorm rainfall and rainy days in different months of China were di...Based on the daily precipitation data of 545 meteorological stations in China from 1961 to 2016, the spatial-temporal variation characteristics of rainstorm rainfall and rainy days in different months of China were diagnosed from three aspects: climatic characteristics, variation trend and interannual variation. The results showed that:(1) Rainstorm rainfall and rainy days in different months of China from 1961 to 2016 had similar spatial characteristics in corresponding months. From January to July, the high-value areas of rainstorm rainfall and rainy days gradually expanded from southeast coast to northwest inland, but mainly distributed in the east area of Hu Huanyong Line. From August to December, it shrank from northwest to southeast coastal areas. Rainstorm rainfall and rainy days were less distributed in different months in the west area of Hu Huanyong Line;(2) From 1961 to 2016, the spatial-temporal variation characteristics of rainstorm rainfall in different months in China were basically consistent with that of rainy days. May to August was the most significant month for the variation trend of rainstorm rainfall and rainy days in China. It mainly distributed in the southeast monsoon area, and was mainly increasing trend. The trend of rainstorm rainfall and rainy days in northwest China changed slightly in different months;(3) The interannual variability of rainstorm rainfall in different months in China from 1961 to 2016 was similar to that of rainy days. The fluctuation characteristics from April to October were larger in the northern region. The southern region fluctuated greatly from November to December in January to March. With the development of the month, the high-value areas with large daily fluctuations of rainstorm rainfall and rainy days gradually expanded from southeast to northwest, northeast and southwest, and the fluctuations in southeast tended to decrease, then shrank from northwest, northeast and southwest to southeast, with the increasing fluctuations in southeast. The study has certain reference significance for flood control and disaster reduction and water resources planning and utilization.展开更多
On farm bio-resource recycling has been given greater emphasis with the introduction of conservation agriculture specifically withclimate change scenarios in the mid-hills of the north-west Himalaya region（NWHR）. Un...On farm bio-resource recycling has been given greater emphasis with the introduction of conservation agriculture specifically withclimate change scenarios in the mid-hills of the north-west Himalaya region（NWHR）. Under this changing scenario, elevation, slope aspect and integrated nutrient management（INM） may affect significantly soil quality and crop productivity. A study was conducted during 2009-2010 to 2010-2011 at the Ashti watershed of NWHR in a rainfed condition to examine the influence of elevation, slope aspect and integrated nutrient management（INM） on soil resource and crop productivity. Two years of farm demonstration trials indicated that crop productivity and soil quality is significantly affected by elevation, slope aspect and INM. Results showed that wheat equivalent yield（WEY） of improved technology increased crop productivity by -20%-37% compared to the conventional system. Intercropping of maize with cowpea and soybean enhanced yield by another 8%-17%. North aspect and higher elevation increased crop productivity by 15%-25% compared to south aspect and low elevation（except paddy）. Intercropping of maize with cowpea and soybean enhanced yield by another 8%-15%. Irrespective of slope, elevation and cropping system, the WEY increased by -30% in this region due to INMtechnology. The influence of elevation, slope aspect and INM significantly affected soil resources（SQI） and soil carbon change（SCC）. SCC is significantly correlated with SQI for conventional（R2 = 0.65＊）, INM technology（R2 = 0.81＊） and for both technologies（R2 = 0.73＊）. It is recommended that at higher elevation.（except for paddy soils） with a north facing slope, INM is recommended for higher crop productivity; conservation of soil resources is recommended for the mid hills of NWHR; and single values of SCC are appropriate as a SQI for this region.展开更多
This study was conducted within a distance of three to five kilometres around Lake Burigi as a study area in the Burigi-Chato National Park for the purpose of documenting the diversity of plants, identifying invasive ...This study was conducted within a distance of three to five kilometres around Lake Burigi as a study area in the Burigi-Chato National Park for the purpose of documenting the diversity of plants, identifying invasive and rare species for enhancing conservation in the park. Lake Burigi was purposively sampled as a study area for plant identification due to its potential as a tourist destination. No study has been conducted in the study area to reveal plants diversity, with a focus on documenting invasive and rare species, thus necessitating undertaking of this study to inform the park authority to take urgent control measures in avoiding widespread of invasive species and proper planning for conservation of rare species. The methods involved included field observation;plant identification using field guide books, indigenous and professional knowledge;field mapping using GPS receiver and literature review. Analysis of meteorological data and soil sample were also used among other methods. Meteorological data were analysed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS v.20 to determine the relationship between variables. A total of 102 plant species of different growth forms of trees, shrubs, grasses, sedges, forbs, and herbs were identified and recorded. Tegetes minuta and Argemone mexicana were recorded as invasive plant species, while six rare plant species potential for pharmaceutical industry;Zanthoxylum usambarense, Gardenia ternifolia, Faidherbia albida, Harrisonia abyssinica, Anona senegalensis, and, Pappea capensis were also recorded. Scars of wildfires were observed in the study area. The study area received an average rainfall of 964.36 mm per year, the highest peak recorded in 1951. The trend of rainfall showed that many years had rainfall below the average while the temperature was found to increase from year to year, the situation which suggests the existence of climate change in the study area. There was a weak negative relationship between temperature and wind speed. Soil nutrients and disturbances in the area were found to favour the growth of Tegetes minuta. Findings of this study would help ecological unit in the park to conduct regular ecological assessment for the purpose of controlling invasive plant species, which if left to flourish are likely to reduce habitat suitability for ungulates to utilize the area. Moreover, knowing which plant species are rare, adds value to the area as a destination to visitors interested in plants. The findings also allow the park authority to keep record of species rarity and thus easily take control of them to avoid unintended exploitation. Based on the findings, it was concluded that a number of disturbances, meteorological and edaphic factors favour the growth of invasive species. Urgent measures are to be taken to control the observed invasive plant species before they are left to spread in the park to avoid destruction of the habitat suitability and incurring unnecessary expenses and time in combating them. Furthermore, rare plant species especially those with pharmaceutical and industrial values are to be conserved with special attention to ensure their continued survival. It was recommended that human-induced activities should be prevented through regular ecological assessment, field patrols and public awareness programs. A similar study needs to be conducted during dry season to make comparison of the capacity of plants in adapting to different changes of the weather.展开更多
【Title】【Author】【Addresses】1The tree root distribution pattern and biomass of seventeen year old trees of Grewia optiva, Morus alba, Celtis australis, Bauhinia variegata and Robinia pseudoacacia were studied by e...【Title】【Author】【Addresses】1The tree root distribution pattern and biomass of seventeen year old trees of Grewia optiva, Morus alba, Celtis australis, Bauhinia variegata and Robinia pseudoacacia were studied by excavation method. B. variegata roots penetrated to a maximum depth of 4.78 m, whereas, M. alba roots were found down to 1.48 m depth. Lateral spread was minimum in B. variegata （1.10 m）and maximum inR. pseudoacacia （7.33 m）. Maximum root biomass of 6.30 kg was found in R. pseudoacacia and minimum （2.43 kg） was found in M. alba. For four species viz.,G. optiva, M. alba, C. australis andR. pseudoacacia, 68%-87% root biomass occurred within top 0-30 cm soil depth, but forB. variegata this was only45%. The soil binding factor was maximum in G. optiva and minimum in B. variegata. Soil physico-chemical properties also showed wide variation. The study suggests thatB. variegata with a deep root system is the most suitable species for plantation under agroforestry systems. R. pseudoacacia and G. optiva with deep root systems, more lateral spread and high soil binding factor are suitable for plantation on degraded lands for soil conservation.展开更多
This study discusses the analysis of various modeling approaches such as genetic algorithms, fuzzy logic and evidential reasoning, and maintenance techniques applicable to the liquefied natural gas （LNG） carrier ope...This study discusses the analysis of various modeling approaches such as genetic algorithms, fuzzy logic and evidential reasoning, and maintenance techniques applicable to the liquefied natural gas （LNG） carrier operations in the maritime environment. The usefulness of these algorithms in the LNG carrier industry in the areas of risk assessment and maintenance modeling as a standalone or hybrid algorithm are identified. This is evidenced with illustrative case studies.展开更多
Deforestation and forest degradation has been observed to be rampant in Masito-Ugalla ecosystem, Kigoma Region, western part of Tanzania. This paper therefore, intended to assess the extent of deforestation and forest...Deforestation and forest degradation has been observed to be rampant in Masito-Ugalla ecosystem, Kigoma Region, western part of Tanzania. This paper therefore, intended to assess the extent of deforestation and forest degradation in the area, and to determine their causes. A total of 101 respondents were considered as the sample size for this study. The methods used for data collection were household questionnaire interviews, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, analysis of satellite images and direct observation. The findings indicated that deforestation was occurring in the study area. Satellite data revealed diminished closed woodland, bushed grassland, forest and thickets between 1990 and 2014. On the contrary, settlement area, cultivated land and open woodland had increased during the same time frame. Proximate factors causing deforestation and forest degradation included agricultural expansion, wood extraction and expansion of settlement area. Underlying factors included population growth, poverty, poor levels of education, lack of employment, corruption and embezzlement of public funds by politicians and senior government officials;and high demand for fuel-wood. Biophysical drivers like incidences of unplanned wildfires and socio trigger events notably civil strife were also important. In order to minimize the problem and based on the factors augmenting deforestation and forest degradation in the Masito-Ugalla ecosystem and their coupled negative consequences, effective environmental conservation education, increased patrols, effective law enforcement and provision of alternative energy sources are necessary.展开更多
For acoustic applications such as theaters, cinema halls, auditoriums the data on acoustic properties i.e. sound absorption coefficient and sound transmission loss are required to evaluate the acoustic behavior of pan...For acoustic applications such as theaters, cinema halls, auditoriums the data on acoustic properties i.e. sound absorption coefficient and sound transmission loss are required to evaluate the acoustic behavior of panel products and to facilitate the necessary design computations. Fibre boards are widely used in private and commercial buildings, but not much data are available on acoustic efficiency of fibre boards. The study was carried using acoustic pulse tester based on standing wave method for evaluating sound absorption coefficient. Wood fibre boards of different densities ranging from 200 to 800 kg/m3 were taken and their sound absorption coefficients at frequencies ranging from 125 Hz to 4000 Hz were evaluated in third octave band. Noise reduction coefficient of the samples was also computed. From the study, it is observed that low density fibre board possess high sound absorption coefficient and noise reduction coefficient when compared with high density fibre boards. It was seen that sound absorption coefficient increases with decrease in density and vice versa.展开更多
文摘In July 2025,Claudio Descalzi,CEO of Italian oil company Eni,stated in an interview with the Financial Times that Eni’s low-carbon business operating profits would equal those of its oil and gas business by 2035 and exceed oil and gas business profits by 2040.Meanwhile,British oil company bp is scaling back its low-carbon business under shareholder pressure,returning to traditional oil and gas operations,and plans to gradually dispose of USD 20 billion worth of low-carbon business assets such as onshore wind farms,aiming to increase oil and gas production to 2.3−2.5 million boe per day by 2030.Two European oil companies are heading in completely different strategic directions.In the future,whether Eni can achieve its expected goals of making renewable energy business a key core business,as well as what development strategies oil and gas companies should implement and adhere to,are questions worthy of deep consideration.
文摘This study aims to explore the unconscious motivations underlying migration in Niger, with an emphasis on understanding the phenomenon of pathological travel. Its aim is to identify the unconscious factors of pathological travel among migrants. Pathological travel, as discussed in the scientific literature on psychopathology, is characterised by movements initiated under the influence of delusions, hallucinations or other serious psychiatric disorders. The aim of this research is to contribute to our understanding of how these unconscious factors influence migration decisions. Using a retrospective analysis of five cases, this study examines the psychological and psychiatric dimensions of migration, particularly among patients referred to the psychiatry department of the Niamey National Hospital between 2017 and 2018. The five cases analysed, representing 12% of a cohort of 40 migrant patients, suffered from chronic psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia and chronic hallucinatory psychosis. By means of diagnostic interviews and categorical sorting, three main unconscious motivations were identified: the delusional state with themes of filiation and persecution, the hallucinations that dictated the travel behaviour, and the dissociative states manifested by depersonalisation and derealisation. It also emerges from this analysis that pathological travel often involves prolonged journeys on foot and without purpose. Thus, untreated mental illness plays a significant role in shaping and influencing individual and social behaviour. The results of this study have important implications for public health and migration policy. They highlight the need to integrate health assessments into migration management systems, particularly in regions serving as transit hubs for migrants. The research also highlights the need for culturally sensitive psychiatric interventions to address the interaction between pre-existing mental disorders and migration. This study contributes to a better understanding of the psychological dimensions of migration by highlighting the importance of addressing mental health as an integral part of humanitarian action. The knowledge gained paves the way for future research to explore this understudied aspect of migration on a broader scale.
文摘In Ivory Coast, arterial hypertension is 20.4% prevalent, with a high mortality rate. However, proper use of antihypertensive drugs can reduce the risks of morbidity and mortality associated with the disease. The aim of this study was to determine the pattern of antihypertensive drugs in an urban population in Abidjan. To this end, a retrospective descriptive study was conducted. Data were collected from the consumption histories of several pharmacies in the Abobo commune of Abidjan between March and August 2020. Drugs available in pharmacies and containing one or more active ingredients in the ATC classification of antihypertensives were included. A total of 1082 sales of antihypertensives were recorded, with 53% of medicines containing a single molecule and 46% containing combinations of two molecules. Antihypertensives containing one active compound showed a high proportion of diuretics (28.7%), followed by calcium antagonists (20.35%) and beta-blockers (19.13%). The combination of ACE inhibitors and calcium antagonists was sold at 34.71%, with the combination of calcium antagonists/ACE inhibitors + diuretics (45.46%) in the two and three-molecule classes respectively. All in all, the study showed the patients were satisfied with the use of antihypertensives, with furosemide and the amlodipine/perindopril combination at the top of the list.
基金Supported by Canada Research Chair ProgramAlberta Innovates Strategic Research Projects,No.G2018000880and Calgary Clinical Research Fund Pilot,No.CRF18-0704.
文摘Chronic infection with viral hepatitis affects half a billion individuals worldwide and can lead to cirrhosis,cancer,and liver failure.Liver cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-associated mortality,of which hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)represents 90%of all primary liver cancers.Solid tumors like HCC are complex and have heterogeneous tumor genomic profiles contributing to complexity in diagnosis and management.Chronic infection with hepatitis B virus(HBV),hepatitis delta virus(HDV),and hepatitis C virus(HCV)are the greatest etiological risk factors for HCC.Due to the significant role of chronic viral infection in HCC development,it is important to investigate direct(viral associated)and indirect(immune-associated)mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of HCC.Common mechanisms used by HBV,HCV,and HDV that drive hepatocarcinogenesis include persistent liver inflammation with an impaired antiviral immune response,immune and viral protein-mediated oxidative stress,and deregulation of cellular signaling pathways by viral proteins.DNA integration to promote genome instability is a feature of HBV infection,and metabolic reprogramming leading to steatosis is driven by HCV infection.The current review aims to provide a brief overview of HBV,HCV and HDV molecular biology,and highlight specific viral-associated oncogenic mechanisms and common molecular pathways deregulated in HCC,and current as well as emerging treatments for HCC.
基金the Thailand Graduate Institute of Science and Technology(No. TGIST 01-47-038)the National Science and Technology Development Agency(NSTDA) for Ph.D.Scholarship to Mr. Chaiwat Waewsakthe National Research Council of Thailand for research grant under Fiscal Year 2008 Budget to King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi
文摘Based on the developed neural-fuzzy control system for anaerobic hybrid reactor （AHR） in wastewater treatment and biogas production, the neural network with backpropagation algorithm for prediction of the variables pH, alkalinity （Alk） and total volatile acids （TVA） at present day time t was used as input data for the fuzzy logic to calculate the influent feed flow rate that was applied to control and monitor the process response at different operations in the initial, overload influent feeding and the recovery phases. In all three phases, this neural-fuzzy control system showed great potential to control AHR in high stability and performance and quick response. Although in the overloading operation phase II with two fold calculating influent flow rate together with a two fold organic loading rate （OLR）, this control system had rapid response and was sensitive to the intended overload. When the influent feeding rate was followed by the calculation of control system in the initial operation phase I and the recovery operation phase III, it was found that the neural-fuzzy control system application was capable of controlling the AHR in a good manner with the pH close to 7, TVA/Alk 〈 0.4 and COD removal 〉 80% with biogas and methane yields at 0.45 and 0.30 m^3/kg COD removed.
基金supported by Thailand Graduate Insti- tute of Science and Technology (No. TGIST 01-46-12) National Science and Technology Development Agency, Thailand for Ph.D. Scholarship to Ms. Romsaiyud A, and National Research Council of Thailand for research grant under Fiscal Year 2007 Budget to King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi
文摘The productivity and efficiency of cellulase are significant in cellulose hydrolysis. With the accumulation of volatile fatty acids （VFAs）, the pH value in anaerobic digestion system is reduced. Therefore, this study will find out how the pH and the amount of acetate influence the enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose. The effects of pH and acetate on cellulase produced from Bacillus coagulans were studied at various pH 5-8, and acetate concentrations （0-60 mmol/L）. A batch kinetic model for enzymatic cellulose hydrolysis was constructed from experimental data and performed. The base hypothesis was as follows： the rates of enzymatic cellulose hydrolysis rely on pH and acetate concentration. The results showed that the suitable pH range for cellulase production and cellulose hydrolysis （represents efficiency of cellulase） was 2.6-7.5, and 5.3-8.3, respectively. Moreover, acetate in the culture medium had an effect on cellulase production （KI = 49.50 mmol/L, n = 1.7） less than cellulose hydrolysis （/（＇i = 37.85 mmol/L, n = 2.0）. The results indicated that both the pH of suspension and acidogenic products influence the enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose in an anaerobic environment. To enhance the cellulose hydrolysis rate, the accumulated acetate concentration should be lower than 25 mmol/L, and pH should be maintained at 7.
基金Projects(51704096,51574112)supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of ChinaProject(192102310236)supported by the Key Scientific and Technological Project of Henan Province,China+2 种基金Project(2019M662496)supported by Postdoctoral Science Foundation of ChinaProject(2017YFC0804209)supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of ChinaProject(J2018-4)supported by the Science Research Funds for the Universities of Henan Province,China
文摘To make clear the influence of abrasive hardness on the erosion effect,the erosion experiments of abrasive air jet with the same impact energy were carried out.The influence of abrasive hardness on the erosion effect is clarified by comparing the different erosion depths.The main conclusions are as follows.Under the same mass flow rate and mesh number,the abrasive with a higher density needs greater pressure irrespective of hardness.After erosion damage,the abrasive size exhibits a Weibull distribution.The shape parameterβand Weibull distribution function of four types of abrasives are derived by the least squares method;moreover,βis found to have a quadratic relation with abrasive hardness.The results of the erosion experiments show that abrasive hardness and erosion depth are quadratically related.By calculating the increase in surface energy after abrasive erosion crushing,it is found that abrasive hardness has a quadratic relation with surface energy and that the increases in erosion depth and surface energy consumption are basically identical.In conclusion,the effect is a soft abrasive impact when the ratio of abrasive hardness(Ha)to the material hardness(Hm)is<2.6,and it is a hard abrasive impact when Ha/Hm>3.
基金the financial support by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (42042050, U2005207)Natural Science Foundation of Fujian Province, China (2020J0141)。
文摘In this study, concentrations of Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd and Pb were determined in road dusts collected from different locations in Dhaka to assess source, contamination status and health risk. Energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy were used to determine Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd and Pb and their mean concentrations were 162.27 ± 29.46, 721.18 ± 180.14, 35.65 ± 12.55, 104.56 ± 128.33, 515.32 ± 321.90,BDL, and 342.82 ± 591.20 mg/kg, respectively. Among the heavy metals, highest concentrations of Cu, Zn and Pb were found at urban sites-7(municipal waste dumping) and 8(medical waste incineration). Highest concentration of Cr followed by Cu and Zn was found at site-5(Tejgaon, urban). Principal component analysis revealed that anthropogenic activities are the potential sources for Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn and Pb while earth crust for Mn. Pollution index and pollution load index results suggested that all the sites were contaminated and/or degraded by Cr, Cu, Zn and Pb except sites-9(urban), 10(sub-urban), 11(rural) while sites-7 and 8(urban) were extremely degraded. For noncarcinogenic health risk, hazard quotient values for dermal were higher compared to that of inhalation/ingestion. Though hazard index values were less than 1 at all the sites, these were at least one order of magnitude higher for children group than that of adult group, thus the children group may face more noncarcinogenic health risk at sites -7 and 8. Values of incremental lifetime cancer risk were from 10to 10showed no carcinogenic health risk by road dusts contaminated with the heavy metals.
文摘Community participation and community based management are topical themes in current policy and discussion revolving around decision-making processes especially those dealing with natural resources management.This review shows that while governments have accepted the need to either cede or devolve control and management of natural resources to the local communities,the communities are not part and parcel of the planning and budgeting which are crucial in decisionmaking.Communities were seen to be more involved in the implementation of natural resource management programs but lacked ownership of the projects.This causes lack of commitment to the programs and at times hostile reaction from the communities.The communities are always at the receiving end when it pertains to losses in the exchange.Community participation was shown to be effective when the local population is involved not as co-operating users but as natural resource managers or owner managers.
文摘Fourteen morphometric traits were used to examine the genetic divergence of 25 mulberry （Morus spp.） genotypes from varied agroclimatic conditions of India. Wide variation was observed for all the traits. The genotypes irrespective of their place of collection were grouped into 10 different clusters. Seven accessions, that is, Baragura-2, Gorabandha-2, Kalimpong, Herbertpur, Kollegal, Resham majri-7, and UP-14 each a cluster of unique entries will be of useful for genetic resources. Nevertheless, the correlation and path analysis suggest the direct selection of lamina length, fresh leaf weight, leaf area, and single leaf weight will be rewarding for mulberry leaf yield improvement.
基金Sponsored by National Natural Science Foundation of China(41801064 71790611)+2 种基金China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(2019T120114 2019M650756)Central Asia Atmospheric Science Research Fund(CAAS201804)
文摘Based on the daily precipitation data of 545 meteorological stations in China from 1961 to 2016, the spatial-temporal variation characteristics of rainstorm rainfall and rainy days in different months of China were diagnosed from three aspects: climatic characteristics, variation trend and interannual variation. The results showed that:(1) Rainstorm rainfall and rainy days in different months of China from 1961 to 2016 had similar spatial characteristics in corresponding months. From January to July, the high-value areas of rainstorm rainfall and rainy days gradually expanded from southeast coast to northwest inland, but mainly distributed in the east area of Hu Huanyong Line. From August to December, it shrank from northwest to southeast coastal areas. Rainstorm rainfall and rainy days were less distributed in different months in the west area of Hu Huanyong Line;(2) From 1961 to 2016, the spatial-temporal variation characteristics of rainstorm rainfall in different months in China were basically consistent with that of rainy days. May to August was the most significant month for the variation trend of rainstorm rainfall and rainy days in China. It mainly distributed in the southeast monsoon area, and was mainly increasing trend. The trend of rainstorm rainfall and rainy days in northwest China changed slightly in different months;(3) The interannual variability of rainstorm rainfall in different months in China from 1961 to 2016 was similar to that of rainy days. The fluctuation characteristics from April to October were larger in the northern region. The southern region fluctuated greatly from November to December in January to March. With the development of the month, the high-value areas with large daily fluctuations of rainstorm rainfall and rainy days gradually expanded from southeast to northwest, northeast and southwest, and the fluctuations in southeast tended to decrease, then shrank from northwest, northeast and southwest to southeast, with the increasing fluctuations in southeast. The study has certain reference significance for flood control and disaster reduction and water resources planning and utilization.
文摘On farm bio-resource recycling has been given greater emphasis with the introduction of conservation agriculture specifically withclimate change scenarios in the mid-hills of the north-west Himalaya region（NWHR）. Under this changing scenario, elevation, slope aspect and integrated nutrient management（INM） may affect significantly soil quality and crop productivity. A study was conducted during 2009-2010 to 2010-2011 at the Ashti watershed of NWHR in a rainfed condition to examine the influence of elevation, slope aspect and integrated nutrient management（INM） on soil resource and crop productivity. Two years of farm demonstration trials indicated that crop productivity and soil quality is significantly affected by elevation, slope aspect and INM. Results showed that wheat equivalent yield（WEY） of improved technology increased crop productivity by -20%-37% compared to the conventional system. Intercropping of maize with cowpea and soybean enhanced yield by another 8%-17%. North aspect and higher elevation increased crop productivity by 15%-25% compared to south aspect and low elevation（except paddy）. Intercropping of maize with cowpea and soybean enhanced yield by another 8%-15%. Irrespective of slope, elevation and cropping system, the WEY increased by -30% in this region due to INMtechnology. The influence of elevation, slope aspect and INM significantly affected soil resources（SQI） and soil carbon change（SCC）. SCC is significantly correlated with SQI for conventional（R2 = 0.65＊）, INM technology（R2 = 0.81＊） and for both technologies（R2 = 0.73＊）. It is recommended that at higher elevation.（except for paddy soils） with a north facing slope, INM is recommended for higher crop productivity; conservation of soil resources is recommended for the mid hills of NWHR; and single values of SCC are appropriate as a SQI for this region.
文摘This study was conducted within a distance of three to five kilometres around Lake Burigi as a study area in the Burigi-Chato National Park for the purpose of documenting the diversity of plants, identifying invasive and rare species for enhancing conservation in the park. Lake Burigi was purposively sampled as a study area for plant identification due to its potential as a tourist destination. No study has been conducted in the study area to reveal plants diversity, with a focus on documenting invasive and rare species, thus necessitating undertaking of this study to inform the park authority to take urgent control measures in avoiding widespread of invasive species and proper planning for conservation of rare species. The methods involved included field observation;plant identification using field guide books, indigenous and professional knowledge;field mapping using GPS receiver and literature review. Analysis of meteorological data and soil sample were also used among other methods. Meteorological data were analysed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS v.20 to determine the relationship between variables. A total of 102 plant species of different growth forms of trees, shrubs, grasses, sedges, forbs, and herbs were identified and recorded. Tegetes minuta and Argemone mexicana were recorded as invasive plant species, while six rare plant species potential for pharmaceutical industry;Zanthoxylum usambarense, Gardenia ternifolia, Faidherbia albida, Harrisonia abyssinica, Anona senegalensis, and, Pappea capensis were also recorded. Scars of wildfires were observed in the study area. The study area received an average rainfall of 964.36 mm per year, the highest peak recorded in 1951. The trend of rainfall showed that many years had rainfall below the average while the temperature was found to increase from year to year, the situation which suggests the existence of climate change in the study area. There was a weak negative relationship between temperature and wind speed. Soil nutrients and disturbances in the area were found to favour the growth of Tegetes minuta. Findings of this study would help ecological unit in the park to conduct regular ecological assessment for the purpose of controlling invasive plant species, which if left to flourish are likely to reduce habitat suitability for ungulates to utilize the area. Moreover, knowing which plant species are rare, adds value to the area as a destination to visitors interested in plants. The findings also allow the park authority to keep record of species rarity and thus easily take control of them to avoid unintended exploitation. Based on the findings, it was concluded that a number of disturbances, meteorological and edaphic factors favour the growth of invasive species. Urgent measures are to be taken to control the observed invasive plant species before they are left to spread in the park to avoid destruction of the habitat suitability and incurring unnecessary expenses and time in combating them. Furthermore, rare plant species especially those with pharmaceutical and industrial values are to be conserved with special attention to ensure their continued survival. It was recommended that human-induced activities should be prevented through regular ecological assessment, field patrols and public awareness programs. A similar study needs to be conducted during dry season to make comparison of the capacity of plants in adapting to different changes of the weather.
基金Indian Council of Agriculture Research, New Delhi for supporting the study through All India Coordinated Research Project on Agroforestry (AICRP)
文摘【Title】【Author】【Addresses】1The tree root distribution pattern and biomass of seventeen year old trees of Grewia optiva, Morus alba, Celtis australis, Bauhinia variegata and Robinia pseudoacacia were studied by excavation method. B. variegata roots penetrated to a maximum depth of 4.78 m, whereas, M. alba roots were found down to 1.48 m depth. Lateral spread was minimum in B. variegata （1.10 m）and maximum inR. pseudoacacia （7.33 m）. Maximum root biomass of 6.30 kg was found in R. pseudoacacia and minimum （2.43 kg） was found in M. alba. For four species viz.,G. optiva, M. alba, C. australis andR. pseudoacacia, 68%-87% root biomass occurred within top 0-30 cm soil depth, but forB. variegata this was only45%. The soil binding factor was maximum in G. optiva and minimum in B. variegata. Soil physico-chemical properties also showed wide variation. The study suggests thatB. variegata with a deep root system is the most suitable species for plantation under agroforestry systems. R. pseudoacacia and G. optiva with deep root systems, more lateral spread and high soil binding factor are suitable for plantation on degraded lands for soil conservation.
文摘This study discusses the analysis of various modeling approaches such as genetic algorithms, fuzzy logic and evidential reasoning, and maintenance techniques applicable to the liquefied natural gas （LNG） carrier operations in the maritime environment. The usefulness of these algorithms in the LNG carrier industry in the areas of risk assessment and maintenance modeling as a standalone or hybrid algorithm are identified. This is evidenced with illustrative case studies.
文摘Deforestation and forest degradation has been observed to be rampant in Masito-Ugalla ecosystem, Kigoma Region, western part of Tanzania. This paper therefore, intended to assess the extent of deforestation and forest degradation in the area, and to determine their causes. A total of 101 respondents were considered as the sample size for this study. The methods used for data collection were household questionnaire interviews, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, analysis of satellite images and direct observation. The findings indicated that deforestation was occurring in the study area. Satellite data revealed diminished closed woodland, bushed grassland, forest and thickets between 1990 and 2014. On the contrary, settlement area, cultivated land and open woodland had increased during the same time frame. Proximate factors causing deforestation and forest degradation included agricultural expansion, wood extraction and expansion of settlement area. Underlying factors included population growth, poverty, poor levels of education, lack of employment, corruption and embezzlement of public funds by politicians and senior government officials;and high demand for fuel-wood. Biophysical drivers like incidences of unplanned wildfires and socio trigger events notably civil strife were also important. In order to minimize the problem and based on the factors augmenting deforestation and forest degradation in the Masito-Ugalla ecosystem and their coupled negative consequences, effective environmental conservation education, increased patrols, effective law enforcement and provision of alternative energy sources are necessary.
文摘For acoustic applications such as theaters, cinema halls, auditoriums the data on acoustic properties i.e. sound absorption coefficient and sound transmission loss are required to evaluate the acoustic behavior of panel products and to facilitate the necessary design computations. Fibre boards are widely used in private and commercial buildings, but not much data are available on acoustic efficiency of fibre boards. The study was carried using acoustic pulse tester based on standing wave method for evaluating sound absorption coefficient. Wood fibre boards of different densities ranging from 200 to 800 kg/m3 were taken and their sound absorption coefficients at frequencies ranging from 125 Hz to 4000 Hz were evaluated in third octave band. Noise reduction coefficient of the samples was also computed. From the study, it is observed that low density fibre board possess high sound absorption coefficient and noise reduction coefficient when compared with high density fibre boards. It was seen that sound absorption coefficient increases with decrease in density and vice versa.
