A granulometric, mineralogical, morphoscopic and exoscopic study and Rock-Eval analysis carried out on samples taken in the Loango Bay and at Kivesso on the Congolese coast have made it possible to highlight the highl...A granulometric, mineralogical, morphoscopic and exoscopic study and Rock-Eval analysis carried out on samples taken in the Loango Bay and at Kivesso on the Congolese coast have made it possible to highlight the highly erosive character of the well-documented wet phases ca 9000 - 3000 years B.P. and ca 320 B.P. in the sub-region. Supported by carbon-14 dating, total organic carbon analyses highlight two major phases of peat deposit emplacement. The first, ca. 7000 years B.P., corresponds to the beginning of the deposition of the yellow formation in the entire Loango Bay;the second, ca. 320 years B.P., is contemporary with the deposition of peat in the Kivesso sector. The granulometric analysis of the sediments shows that they are essentially sandy-clay and very poor in silt, alternating with beds of silty clay sometimes rich in organic matter. These sands have a predominant mode of 0.200 mm and an average varying between 0.150 and 0.300 mm. They constitute the flood phase of the carrier current. They are associated with a population of mode 0.125 mm sometimes 0.050 mm with an average varying between 0.100 mm and 0.126 mm which corresponds to the settling phase. Morphoscopic examination showed several varieties of quartz that argue for a source of supply close to the depositional sites.展开更多
Biomass is among the most important state variables used to characterize ecosystems. Estimation of tree biomass involves the development of species-specific “allometric equations” that describe the relationship betw...Biomass is among the most important state variables used to characterize ecosystems. Estimation of tree biomass involves the development of species-specific “allometric equations” that describe the relationship between tree biomass and tree diameter and/or height. While many allometric equations were developed for northern hemisphere and tropical species, rarely have they been developed for trees in arid ecosystems, limiting, amongst other things, our ability to estimate carbon stocks in arid regions. Acacia raddiana and A. tortilis are major components of savannas and arid regions in the Middle East and Africa, where they are considered keystone species. Using the opportunity that trees were being uprooted for land development, we measured height (H), north-south (C1) and east-west (C2) canopy diameters, stem diameter at 1.3 meters of the largest stem (D1.3 or DBH), and aboveground fresh and dry weight (FW and DW, respectively) of nine trees (n = 9) from each species. For A. tortilis only, we recorded the number of trunks, and measured the diameter of the largest trunk at ground level (D0). While the average crown (canopy) size (C1 + C2) was very similar among the two species, Acacia raddiana trees were found to be significantly taller than their Acacia tortilis counterparts. Results show that in the arid Arava (southern Israel), an average adult acacia tree has ~200 kg of aboveground dry biomass and that a typical healthy acacia ecosystem in this region, may include ~41 tons of tree biomass per km2. The coefficients of DBH (tree diameter at breast height) to biomass and wood volume, could be used by researchers studying acacia trees throughout the Middle East and Africa, enabling them to estimate biomass of acacia trees and to evaluate their importance for carbon stocks in their arid regions. Highlights: 1) Estimations of tree biomass in arid regions are rare. 2) Biomass allometric equations were developed for A. raddiana and A. tortilis trees. 3) Equations contribute to the estimation of carbon stocks in arid regions.展开更多
The pervasive use of photo editing applications such as Photoshop and FaceTune has significantly altered societal beauty standards, particularly for individuals with skin of color, often leading to unrealistic expecta...The pervasive use of photo editing applications such as Photoshop and FaceTune has significantly altered societal beauty standards, particularly for individuals with skin of color, often leading to unrealistic expectations regarding skin appearance and health. These tools allow users to smooth skin textures, lighten skin tones, and erase imperfections, perpetuating Eurocentric beauty ideals that frequently marginalize the natural diversity of skin tones and textures. Consequently, individuals with skin of color may seek dermatological interventions—such as skin lightening treatments, aggressive acne scar revisions, and other cosmetic procedures—aimed at achieving appearances that align more closely with digitally manipulated images. This pursuit of an unattainable aesthetic can result in increased dissatisfaction with common skin conditions like hyperpigmentation and keloids, which are often misrepresented in edited photos. Additionally, the psychological impact of these alterations can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy, contributing to conditions such as anxiety and body dysmorphic disorder. Dermatologists face the dual challenge of addressing patients’ clinical needs while also managing their expectations shaped by digital enhancements. To combat this, it is essential for dermatologists to integrate patient education that emphasizes the beauty of diverse skin tones and the discrepancies between digital images and authentic skin health. By fostering an understanding of realistic outcomes and promoting the acceptance of natural skin characteristics, dermatologists can empower individuals with skin of color to prioritize authentic skin health over digitally influenced ideals, ultimately leading to more satisfying dermatological care and improved self-image.展开更多
In this paper we study optimal advertising problems that model the introduction of a new product into the market in the presence of carryover effects of the advertisement and with memory effects in the level of goodwi...In this paper we study optimal advertising problems that model the introduction of a new product into the market in the presence of carryover effects of the advertisement and with memory effects in the level of goodwill. In particular, we let the dynamics of the product goodwill to depend on the past, and also on past advertising efforts. We treat the problem by means of the stochastic Pontryagin maximum principle, that here is considered for a class of problems where in the state equation either the state or the control depend on the past. Moreover the control acts on the martingale term and the space of controls U can be chosen to be non-convex but now the space of controls U can be chosen to be non-convex. The maximum principle is thus formulated using a first-order adjoint Backward Stochastic Differential Equations (BSDEs), which can be explicitly computed due to the specific characteristics of the model, and a second-order adjoint relation.展开更多
The Gelsari and Lentini marshes, in east-central Sicily, are wetland under heavy anthropogenic pressure. This area is regularly subjected to water withdrawals and agriculture is practiced. Periodic bird census activit...The Gelsari and Lentini marshes, in east-central Sicily, are wetland under heavy anthropogenic pressure. This area is regularly subjected to water withdrawals and agriculture is practiced. Periodic bird census activities had been conducted in this area between 2016 and 2022 with collected data being supplemented with the data from a previous survey conducted between 2010 and 2016. During the censuses, numerous photographs were collected, which were later used for counts. In total, 121 surveys were carried out, with visits occurring approximately 20 times per year, covering all seasons. The data collected, both from bibliography and unpublished observations, were organised in table. 120 species and subspecies have been reported, 41 of which are in Annex I of the Birds Directive. Between 2021 and 2022, a water column measurement was taken in a central area of the Lentini marsh and compared with rainfall data in the area. It was found that water removal, occurring in both marshes in different modes, produced different effects on habitat conservation. Of the two marshes, Lentini is the one in which the existing favorable conditions in its most depressed areas, located below sea level, have allowed for the adequate conservation of the wetland. This environmental improvement having occurred with respect to the previous period has restored to the marsh its historically recognized possibility of not drying up completely during the summer period, allowing permanence of numerous birds. The obtained results suggest total elimination of agriculture and discontinuation of water withdrawals in the Lentini marsh as well as regulation of withdrawals in the Gelsari marsh.展开更多
The aim of this study was to carry out a dynamic simulation of the energy and environmental performance of a built space system, with a view to assessing its energy and environmental class. The use of a simulation and...The aim of this study was to carry out a dynamic simulation of the energy and environmental performance of a built space system, with a view to assessing its energy and environmental class. The use of a simulation and modeling tool, supported by various methodological references, formed the basis of our approach. Adopting a systemic perspective, we described the structural and functional aspects of the systems making up built spaces, as well as the associated energy flows. Our approach was also based on a typology, taking into account typical days, structural and functional configurations at different scales and angles of observation. The analysis tool we developed in Java was applied to the built space system of the Patte d’Oie university campus in Ouagadougou. Annual electricity consumption was measured at 124387.34 kWh, closely aligned with the average annual electricity bill (125224.31 kWh), with a maximum relative deviation of 1%, followed by a carbon emission balance of 58337.66 kg eq CO<sub>2</sub> per year. This validation confirmed the effectiveness of our tool. In addition, following the analysis of electricity consumption using our tool, the university campus was classified in energy class B and environmental class C. These results will be based on the emission factors of the energy mix of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) territory, with particular emphasis on Burkina Faso.展开更多
Research Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition in children that significantly impacts physical health and quality of life. Adherence to treatment regimens is crucial for effective...Research Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition in children that significantly impacts physical health and quality of life. Adherence to treatment regimens is crucial for effective disease management but is often hindered by various psychosocial and socioeconomic barriers. Parental mental health issues, family dynamics, financial constraints, and limited access to specialized care contribute to inconsistent treatment adherence, exacerbating the condition. Purpose/Aim: The aim of this study is to explore the multifaceted barriers to treatment adherence in children with AD and evaluate the effectiveness of current interventions targeting these challenges. The study seeks to identify strategies that can improve adherence and health outcomes by addressing psychosocial and socioeconomic factors. Method: The method involves a comprehensive review of existing literature on the impact of psychosocial and socioeconomic factors on treatment adherence in children with AD. The study also examines various interventions designed to address these barriers, including community support programs, family-centered interventions, financial aid, integrated care models, and telehealth solutions. Results: Results indicate that psychosocial barriers, such as parental anxiety and depression, significantly hinder effective disease management. Family dynamics, including poor communication and single-parent households, complicate adherence efforts. Socioeconomic factors, such as financial constraints and limited healthcare access, further impede adherence. Interventions that address these barriers show promise in improving treatment adherence and health outcomes. Community support programs and family-centered interventions enhance parental mental health and family communication. Financial aid programs and integrated care models help mitigate economic and logistical challenges. Telehealth solutions improve access to specialized care, particularly in underserved areas. Conclusion: The study concludes that a holistic approach integrating medical treatment with psychosocial and socioeconomic support is essential for managing pediatric AD effectively. Policy recommendations include increased funding for community support programs, expanded telehealth services, and the integration of social services with medical care. Addressing these barriers comprehensively can enhance treatment adherence and improve the quality of life for children with AD. Further research should focus on long-term outcomes and diverse populations to refine these interventions and ensure they meet the needs of all affected children.展开更多
Title: Integrating Consistent Individualized Carbohydrate-Controlled Anti- Inflammatory Nutritional Plan (C-ICAN) in the Management of Prader-Willi Syndrome: A Case Report. Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) is a rare genet...Title: Integrating Consistent Individualized Carbohydrate-Controlled Anti- Inflammatory Nutritional Plan (C-ICAN) in the Management of Prader-Willi Syndrome: A Case Report. Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) is a rare genetic disorder caused by a loss of function of specific genes on chromosome 15. Patients with this disease present unique challenges in management, particularly regarding obesity and nutritional regulation as the disease symptoms change depending on the age of the patient and the phase of the disease. These challenges pose critical stressors to caregivers and their families. We present a case report of a 5-year-old Caucasian male diagnosed with PWS, exhibiting failure to thrive and uncontrolled weight gain. His caregiver was his elderly grandmother who, by her own admission, was ill-equipped to deal with the patient’s physical symptoms and his behavior in response to dietary restrictions. Through a multidisciplinary approach involving medical nutrition therapy (MNT) involving the implementation of a Consistent Individualized Carbohydrate-Controlled Anti-Inflammatory Nutritional plan (C-ICAN), growth hormone supplementation, and behavioral interventions patient markedly improved physically and emotionally.展开更多
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition characterized by painful nodules, abscesses, and scarring, primarily affecting areas rich in apocrine glands. Environmental and occupational risk...Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition characterized by painful nodules, abscesses, and scarring, primarily affecting areas rich in apocrine glands. Environmental and occupational risk factors, including prolonged exposure to heat, friction, and certain chemicals, have been identified as exacerbating conditions for HS. Yet, there remains a lack of tailored recommendations for modifying work environments to alleviate these triggers. This review presents novel suggestions for work modifications to reduce HS flare-ups, such as implementing breathable, friction-reducing workwear, ergonomic adjustments to minimize pressure on affected areas, and introducing low-irritant hygiene protocols in workplaces with chemical exposure. These recommendations are grounded in emerging evidence linking specific occupational exposures to the exacerbation of HS symptoms. The novelty of this approach lies in its proactive stance, shifting from reactive management of HS symptoms to preventative environmental modifications. Future studies should explore the long-term efficacy of these modifications and investigate the potential for personalized work environment adjustments based on individual patient profiles. Targeted workplace interventions may significantly improve the quality of life for HS patients, highlighting the need for multidisciplinary collaboration between dermatologists, occupational health specialists, and employers.展开更多
Tamanu oil, derived from the nuts of Calophyllum inophyllum, has gained increasing attention for its potential in acne management due to its purported anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. This analysis eval...Tamanu oil, derived from the nuts of Calophyllum inophyllum, has gained increasing attention for its potential in acne management due to its purported anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. This analysis evaluates the efficacy of tamanu oil in acne treatment with a specific focus on its impact on inflammation and scar reduction. The novelty of this research lies in its comprehensive analysis of tamanu oil’s dual mechanism of action: reducing acne-related inflammation and promoting the healing of acne scars. Clinical trials and laboratory analyses were conducted to assess the oil’s effectiveness in diminishing erythema, swelling, and post-acne scarring compared to conventional treatments. Preliminary findings demonstrate that tamanu oil significantly reduces inflammation and accelerates wound healing, potentially offering a promising adjunct or alternative to standard acne therapies. Future research should aim to optimize formulation and application protocols, long-term effects, and comparative therapeutic efficacy with other anti-inflammatory agents. Tamanu oil offers a novel and effective approach to acne management, with potential advantages that go beyond inflammation reduction to include enhanced scar reduction, making it a subject that warrants further investigation.展开更多
This comprehensive review explores the intricate dynamics between psychosocial factors and chronic wound healing processes, specifically focusing on prevalent conditions such as pressure ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers, ...This comprehensive review explores the intricate dynamics between psychosocial factors and chronic wound healing processes, specifically focusing on prevalent conditions such as pressure ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers, and venous leg ulcers. By examining the roles of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), this paper illuminates how these factors intricately influence wound healing dynamics, including mechanisms of pain perception and inflammatory responses. Furthermore, we evaluate the effectiveness of integrated biopsychosocial interventions, which encompass a holistic approach to wound care, thereby enhancing healing outcomes for dermatology patients. Future studies should focus on investigating the specific psychosocial determinants that significantly influence wound healing, exploring novel therapeutic strategies, and implementing personalized interventions to meet the unique needs of each patient. Such endeavors hold promise in advancing the fields of psychodermatology and wound management, fostering a deeper understanding and application of psychosocial considerations in dermatological care.展开更多
Background: Cutaneous oncology encompasses a broad range of skin malignancies, including melanoma, cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and basal cell carcinoma (BCC), all of which pose significant global health c...Background: Cutaneous oncology encompasses a broad range of skin malignancies, including melanoma, cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and basal cell carcinoma (BCC), all of which pose significant global health challenges. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that melanoma incidence has increased by approximately 50% over the past three decades. While SCC and BCC are generally less aggressive than melanoma, they contribute significantly to the overall burden of skin cancer due to their high prevalence. Traditional treatment modalities for these malignancies, such as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, have shown limitations in achieving durable responses and minimizing systemic toxicity. As a result, there is an increasing need for more effective and less toxic treatment options. Immunotherapeutic strategies have emerged as a promising avenue in oncology, with the potential to revolutionize treatment approaches for cutaneous malignancies. Objectives: This literature review aims to undertake an in-depth examination of immunotherapeutic strategies for melanoma, SCC, and BCC. Specifically, the review focuses on the role of immune checkpoint inhibitors, adoptive cell therapies, and emerging immunotherapies, assessing their impact on treatment outcomes, survival rates, and patient quality of life. Methods: A literature search was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus. The search terms included “cutaneous oncology”, “immunotherapy”, “immune checkpoint inhibitors”, “adoptive cell therapy”, “melanoma”, “cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma”, and “basal cell carcinoma”. Peer-reviewed articles published in the last 10 years that reported clinical outcomes from immunotherapy-based treatments for cutaneous malignancies were included. The studies were reviewed and analyzed based on their reported clinical outcomes, including survival rates, adverse events, and quality of life metrics. Results: Our review identified significant advancements in immunotherapeutic strategies for cutaneous oncology. Immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as pembrolizumab and nivolumab, demonstrated improved overall survival rates, particularly in melanoma patients. In addition, adoptive cell therapies, including tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) therapies, showed promise in managing both cutaneous SCC and BCC, with reported reductions in tumor burden and durable responses. Emerging immunotherapies, such as cancer vaccines and oncolytic viruses, are in early clinical trials but exhibit potential in enhancing antitumor immunity and expanding treatment options. Conclusions: Immunotherapeutic strategies represent a critical advancement in the management of cutaneous malignancies, offering improved outcomes compared to traditional therapies. Immune checkpoint inhibitors and adoptive cell therapies are already reshaping clinical practice, while emerging immunotherapies provide exciting avenues for future research. These therapies not only enhance survival rates but also reduce systemic toxicities, representing a transformative approach to treating skin cancer. Further research and clinical trials are needed to refine these strategies and expand their applicability to a broader patient population.展开更多
In this work, we present numerical modelling of coupled heat and mass transfer within porous materials. Our study focuses on cinder block bricks generally used in building construction. The material is assumed to be p...In this work, we present numerical modelling of coupled heat and mass transfer within porous materials. Our study focuses on cinder block bricks generally used in building construction. The material is assumed to be placed in air. Moisture content and temperature have been chosen as the main transfer drivers and the equations governing these transfer drivers are based on the Luikov model. These equations are solved by an implicit finite difference scheme. A Fortran code associated with the Thomas algorithm was used to solve the equations. The results show that heat and mass transfer depend on the temperature of the air in contact with the material. As this air temperature rises, the temperature within the material increases, and more rapidly at the material surface. Also, thermal conductivity plays a very important role in the thermal conduction of building materials and influences heat and mass transfer in these materials. Materials with higher thermal conductivity diffuse more heat.展开更多
This work deals with the estimation of solar radiation through a solar tracker aimed at evaluating the effect of solar tracking on the solar deposit in Burkina Faso. Using a two-axis solar tracking system, we experime...This work deals with the estimation of solar radiation through a solar tracker aimed at evaluating the effect of solar tracking on the solar deposit in Burkina Faso. Using a two-axis solar tracking system, we experimentally measured solar radiation at our Joseph KI-ZERBO University site and compared it with that obtained by a numerical simulation run using Fortran programming software based on a mathematical model by Brichambaut. The results obtained from the mathematical and experimental studies show that, with a solar tracker, on a clear-sky day, solar irradiation is between 800 W·m−2 and 1000 W·m−2 between about 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., i.e. a duration of 8 hours of insolation. Analysis of the numerical and experimental results shows very good quantitative and qualitative agreement, with an average relative error of 18%.展开更多
Spatio-temporal variability and dynamics in Sahelian agro-pastoral zones make each local situation a special case. These specificities must be considered to guide the dissemination of agricultural options with a view ...Spatio-temporal variability and dynamics in Sahelian agro-pastoral zones make each local situation a special case. These specificities must be considered to guide the dissemination of agricultural options with a view to sustainable development. The territorial scale of municipalities is not sufficient for this necessary contextualization;the scale of the “village terroir” seems to be a better option. This is the hypothesis we put forward in the framework of the Global Collaboration for Resilient Food Systems program (CRFS), i.e. local context is spatially defined by village terroir. The study is based on data collected through participatory mapping and surveys in “village terroirs” in three regions of Niger (Maradi, Dosso and Tillabéri). Then the links between farm managers and their cultivated land, as well as the spatio-temporal dynamics of local context are analyzed. This study provides evidence of the existence and functional usefulness of the village terroir for farmers, their land management and their activities. It demonstrates the usefulness of contextualizing agricultural options at this scale. Their analysis elucidates the links between “terroirs village” and the specific functioning of the agrosocio-ecosystems acting on each of them, thus laying the systemic and geographical foundations for a model of the spatio- temporal dynamics of “village terroirs”. This initial work has opened up new perspectives in modeling and sustainable development.展开更多
文摘A granulometric, mineralogical, morphoscopic and exoscopic study and Rock-Eval analysis carried out on samples taken in the Loango Bay and at Kivesso on the Congolese coast have made it possible to highlight the highly erosive character of the well-documented wet phases ca 9000 - 3000 years B.P. and ca 320 B.P. in the sub-region. Supported by carbon-14 dating, total organic carbon analyses highlight two major phases of peat deposit emplacement. The first, ca. 7000 years B.P., corresponds to the beginning of the deposition of the yellow formation in the entire Loango Bay;the second, ca. 320 years B.P., is contemporary with the deposition of peat in the Kivesso sector. The granulometric analysis of the sediments shows that they are essentially sandy-clay and very poor in silt, alternating with beds of silty clay sometimes rich in organic matter. These sands have a predominant mode of 0.200 mm and an average varying between 0.150 and 0.300 mm. They constitute the flood phase of the carrier current. They are associated with a population of mode 0.125 mm sometimes 0.050 mm with an average varying between 0.100 mm and 0.126 mm which corresponds to the settling phase. Morphoscopic examination showed several varieties of quartz that argue for a source of supply close to the depositional sites.
文摘Biomass is among the most important state variables used to characterize ecosystems. Estimation of tree biomass involves the development of species-specific “allometric equations” that describe the relationship between tree biomass and tree diameter and/or height. While many allometric equations were developed for northern hemisphere and tropical species, rarely have they been developed for trees in arid ecosystems, limiting, amongst other things, our ability to estimate carbon stocks in arid regions. Acacia raddiana and A. tortilis are major components of savannas and arid regions in the Middle East and Africa, where they are considered keystone species. Using the opportunity that trees were being uprooted for land development, we measured height (H), north-south (C1) and east-west (C2) canopy diameters, stem diameter at 1.3 meters of the largest stem (D1.3 or DBH), and aboveground fresh and dry weight (FW and DW, respectively) of nine trees (n = 9) from each species. For A. tortilis only, we recorded the number of trunks, and measured the diameter of the largest trunk at ground level (D0). While the average crown (canopy) size (C1 + C2) was very similar among the two species, Acacia raddiana trees were found to be significantly taller than their Acacia tortilis counterparts. Results show that in the arid Arava (southern Israel), an average adult acacia tree has ~200 kg of aboveground dry biomass and that a typical healthy acacia ecosystem in this region, may include ~41 tons of tree biomass per km2. The coefficients of DBH (tree diameter at breast height) to biomass and wood volume, could be used by researchers studying acacia trees throughout the Middle East and Africa, enabling them to estimate biomass of acacia trees and to evaluate their importance for carbon stocks in their arid regions. Highlights: 1) Estimations of tree biomass in arid regions are rare. 2) Biomass allometric equations were developed for A. raddiana and A. tortilis trees. 3) Equations contribute to the estimation of carbon stocks in arid regions.
文摘The pervasive use of photo editing applications such as Photoshop and FaceTune has significantly altered societal beauty standards, particularly for individuals with skin of color, often leading to unrealistic expectations regarding skin appearance and health. These tools allow users to smooth skin textures, lighten skin tones, and erase imperfections, perpetuating Eurocentric beauty ideals that frequently marginalize the natural diversity of skin tones and textures. Consequently, individuals with skin of color may seek dermatological interventions—such as skin lightening treatments, aggressive acne scar revisions, and other cosmetic procedures—aimed at achieving appearances that align more closely with digitally manipulated images. This pursuit of an unattainable aesthetic can result in increased dissatisfaction with common skin conditions like hyperpigmentation and keloids, which are often misrepresented in edited photos. Additionally, the psychological impact of these alterations can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy, contributing to conditions such as anxiety and body dysmorphic disorder. Dermatologists face the dual challenge of addressing patients’ clinical needs while also managing their expectations shaped by digital enhancements. To combat this, it is essential for dermatologists to integrate patient education that emphasizes the beauty of diverse skin tones and the discrepancies between digital images and authentic skin health. By fostering an understanding of realistic outcomes and promoting the acceptance of natural skin characteristics, dermatologists can empower individuals with skin of color to prioritize authentic skin health over digitally influenced ideals, ultimately leading to more satisfying dermatological care and improved self-image.
文摘In this paper we study optimal advertising problems that model the introduction of a new product into the market in the presence of carryover effects of the advertisement and with memory effects in the level of goodwill. In particular, we let the dynamics of the product goodwill to depend on the past, and also on past advertising efforts. We treat the problem by means of the stochastic Pontryagin maximum principle, that here is considered for a class of problems where in the state equation either the state or the control depend on the past. Moreover the control acts on the martingale term and the space of controls U can be chosen to be non-convex but now the space of controls U can be chosen to be non-convex. The maximum principle is thus formulated using a first-order adjoint Backward Stochastic Differential Equations (BSDEs), which can be explicitly computed due to the specific characteristics of the model, and a second-order adjoint relation.
文摘The Gelsari and Lentini marshes, in east-central Sicily, are wetland under heavy anthropogenic pressure. This area is regularly subjected to water withdrawals and agriculture is practiced. Periodic bird census activities had been conducted in this area between 2016 and 2022 with collected data being supplemented with the data from a previous survey conducted between 2010 and 2016. During the censuses, numerous photographs were collected, which were later used for counts. In total, 121 surveys were carried out, with visits occurring approximately 20 times per year, covering all seasons. The data collected, both from bibliography and unpublished observations, were organised in table. 120 species and subspecies have been reported, 41 of which are in Annex I of the Birds Directive. Between 2021 and 2022, a water column measurement was taken in a central area of the Lentini marsh and compared with rainfall data in the area. It was found that water removal, occurring in both marshes in different modes, produced different effects on habitat conservation. Of the two marshes, Lentini is the one in which the existing favorable conditions in its most depressed areas, located below sea level, have allowed for the adequate conservation of the wetland. This environmental improvement having occurred with respect to the previous period has restored to the marsh its historically recognized possibility of not drying up completely during the summer period, allowing permanence of numerous birds. The obtained results suggest total elimination of agriculture and discontinuation of water withdrawals in the Lentini marsh as well as regulation of withdrawals in the Gelsari marsh.
文摘The aim of this study was to carry out a dynamic simulation of the energy and environmental performance of a built space system, with a view to assessing its energy and environmental class. The use of a simulation and modeling tool, supported by various methodological references, formed the basis of our approach. Adopting a systemic perspective, we described the structural and functional aspects of the systems making up built spaces, as well as the associated energy flows. Our approach was also based on a typology, taking into account typical days, structural and functional configurations at different scales and angles of observation. The analysis tool we developed in Java was applied to the built space system of the Patte d’Oie university campus in Ouagadougou. Annual electricity consumption was measured at 124387.34 kWh, closely aligned with the average annual electricity bill (125224.31 kWh), with a maximum relative deviation of 1%, followed by a carbon emission balance of 58337.66 kg eq CO<sub>2</sub> per year. This validation confirmed the effectiveness of our tool. In addition, following the analysis of electricity consumption using our tool, the university campus was classified in energy class B and environmental class C. These results will be based on the emission factors of the energy mix of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) territory, with particular emphasis on Burkina Faso.
文摘Research Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition in children that significantly impacts physical health and quality of life. Adherence to treatment regimens is crucial for effective disease management but is often hindered by various psychosocial and socioeconomic barriers. Parental mental health issues, family dynamics, financial constraints, and limited access to specialized care contribute to inconsistent treatment adherence, exacerbating the condition. Purpose/Aim: The aim of this study is to explore the multifaceted barriers to treatment adherence in children with AD and evaluate the effectiveness of current interventions targeting these challenges. The study seeks to identify strategies that can improve adherence and health outcomes by addressing psychosocial and socioeconomic factors. Method: The method involves a comprehensive review of existing literature on the impact of psychosocial and socioeconomic factors on treatment adherence in children with AD. The study also examines various interventions designed to address these barriers, including community support programs, family-centered interventions, financial aid, integrated care models, and telehealth solutions. Results: Results indicate that psychosocial barriers, such as parental anxiety and depression, significantly hinder effective disease management. Family dynamics, including poor communication and single-parent households, complicate adherence efforts. Socioeconomic factors, such as financial constraints and limited healthcare access, further impede adherence. Interventions that address these barriers show promise in improving treatment adherence and health outcomes. Community support programs and family-centered interventions enhance parental mental health and family communication. Financial aid programs and integrated care models help mitigate economic and logistical challenges. Telehealth solutions improve access to specialized care, particularly in underserved areas. Conclusion: The study concludes that a holistic approach integrating medical treatment with psychosocial and socioeconomic support is essential for managing pediatric AD effectively. Policy recommendations include increased funding for community support programs, expanded telehealth services, and the integration of social services with medical care. Addressing these barriers comprehensively can enhance treatment adherence and improve the quality of life for children with AD. Further research should focus on long-term outcomes and diverse populations to refine these interventions and ensure they meet the needs of all affected children.
文摘Title: Integrating Consistent Individualized Carbohydrate-Controlled Anti- Inflammatory Nutritional Plan (C-ICAN) in the Management of Prader-Willi Syndrome: A Case Report. Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) is a rare genetic disorder caused by a loss of function of specific genes on chromosome 15. Patients with this disease present unique challenges in management, particularly regarding obesity and nutritional regulation as the disease symptoms change depending on the age of the patient and the phase of the disease. These challenges pose critical stressors to caregivers and their families. We present a case report of a 5-year-old Caucasian male diagnosed with PWS, exhibiting failure to thrive and uncontrolled weight gain. His caregiver was his elderly grandmother who, by her own admission, was ill-equipped to deal with the patient’s physical symptoms and his behavior in response to dietary restrictions. Through a multidisciplinary approach involving medical nutrition therapy (MNT) involving the implementation of a Consistent Individualized Carbohydrate-Controlled Anti-Inflammatory Nutritional plan (C-ICAN), growth hormone supplementation, and behavioral interventions patient markedly improved physically and emotionally.
文摘Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition characterized by painful nodules, abscesses, and scarring, primarily affecting areas rich in apocrine glands. Environmental and occupational risk factors, including prolonged exposure to heat, friction, and certain chemicals, have been identified as exacerbating conditions for HS. Yet, there remains a lack of tailored recommendations for modifying work environments to alleviate these triggers. This review presents novel suggestions for work modifications to reduce HS flare-ups, such as implementing breathable, friction-reducing workwear, ergonomic adjustments to minimize pressure on affected areas, and introducing low-irritant hygiene protocols in workplaces with chemical exposure. These recommendations are grounded in emerging evidence linking specific occupational exposures to the exacerbation of HS symptoms. The novelty of this approach lies in its proactive stance, shifting from reactive management of HS symptoms to preventative environmental modifications. Future studies should explore the long-term efficacy of these modifications and investigate the potential for personalized work environment adjustments based on individual patient profiles. Targeted workplace interventions may significantly improve the quality of life for HS patients, highlighting the need for multidisciplinary collaboration between dermatologists, occupational health specialists, and employers.
文摘Tamanu oil, derived from the nuts of Calophyllum inophyllum, has gained increasing attention for its potential in acne management due to its purported anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. This analysis evaluates the efficacy of tamanu oil in acne treatment with a specific focus on its impact on inflammation and scar reduction. The novelty of this research lies in its comprehensive analysis of tamanu oil’s dual mechanism of action: reducing acne-related inflammation and promoting the healing of acne scars. Clinical trials and laboratory analyses were conducted to assess the oil’s effectiveness in diminishing erythema, swelling, and post-acne scarring compared to conventional treatments. Preliminary findings demonstrate that tamanu oil significantly reduces inflammation and accelerates wound healing, potentially offering a promising adjunct or alternative to standard acne therapies. Future research should aim to optimize formulation and application protocols, long-term effects, and comparative therapeutic efficacy with other anti-inflammatory agents. Tamanu oil offers a novel and effective approach to acne management, with potential advantages that go beyond inflammation reduction to include enhanced scar reduction, making it a subject that warrants further investigation.
文摘This comprehensive review explores the intricate dynamics between psychosocial factors and chronic wound healing processes, specifically focusing on prevalent conditions such as pressure ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers, and venous leg ulcers. By examining the roles of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), this paper illuminates how these factors intricately influence wound healing dynamics, including mechanisms of pain perception and inflammatory responses. Furthermore, we evaluate the effectiveness of integrated biopsychosocial interventions, which encompass a holistic approach to wound care, thereby enhancing healing outcomes for dermatology patients. Future studies should focus on investigating the specific psychosocial determinants that significantly influence wound healing, exploring novel therapeutic strategies, and implementing personalized interventions to meet the unique needs of each patient. Such endeavors hold promise in advancing the fields of psychodermatology and wound management, fostering a deeper understanding and application of psychosocial considerations in dermatological care.
文摘Background: Cutaneous oncology encompasses a broad range of skin malignancies, including melanoma, cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and basal cell carcinoma (BCC), all of which pose significant global health challenges. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that melanoma incidence has increased by approximately 50% over the past three decades. While SCC and BCC are generally less aggressive than melanoma, they contribute significantly to the overall burden of skin cancer due to their high prevalence. Traditional treatment modalities for these malignancies, such as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, have shown limitations in achieving durable responses and minimizing systemic toxicity. As a result, there is an increasing need for more effective and less toxic treatment options. Immunotherapeutic strategies have emerged as a promising avenue in oncology, with the potential to revolutionize treatment approaches for cutaneous malignancies. Objectives: This literature review aims to undertake an in-depth examination of immunotherapeutic strategies for melanoma, SCC, and BCC. Specifically, the review focuses on the role of immune checkpoint inhibitors, adoptive cell therapies, and emerging immunotherapies, assessing their impact on treatment outcomes, survival rates, and patient quality of life. Methods: A literature search was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus. The search terms included “cutaneous oncology”, “immunotherapy”, “immune checkpoint inhibitors”, “adoptive cell therapy”, “melanoma”, “cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma”, and “basal cell carcinoma”. Peer-reviewed articles published in the last 10 years that reported clinical outcomes from immunotherapy-based treatments for cutaneous malignancies were included. The studies were reviewed and analyzed based on their reported clinical outcomes, including survival rates, adverse events, and quality of life metrics. Results: Our review identified significant advancements in immunotherapeutic strategies for cutaneous oncology. Immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as pembrolizumab and nivolumab, demonstrated improved overall survival rates, particularly in melanoma patients. In addition, adoptive cell therapies, including tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) therapies, showed promise in managing both cutaneous SCC and BCC, with reported reductions in tumor burden and durable responses. Emerging immunotherapies, such as cancer vaccines and oncolytic viruses, are in early clinical trials but exhibit potential in enhancing antitumor immunity and expanding treatment options. Conclusions: Immunotherapeutic strategies represent a critical advancement in the management of cutaneous malignancies, offering improved outcomes compared to traditional therapies. Immune checkpoint inhibitors and adoptive cell therapies are already reshaping clinical practice, while emerging immunotherapies provide exciting avenues for future research. These therapies not only enhance survival rates but also reduce systemic toxicities, representing a transformative approach to treating skin cancer. Further research and clinical trials are needed to refine these strategies and expand their applicability to a broader patient population.
文摘In this work, we present numerical modelling of coupled heat and mass transfer within porous materials. Our study focuses on cinder block bricks generally used in building construction. The material is assumed to be placed in air. Moisture content and temperature have been chosen as the main transfer drivers and the equations governing these transfer drivers are based on the Luikov model. These equations are solved by an implicit finite difference scheme. A Fortran code associated with the Thomas algorithm was used to solve the equations. The results show that heat and mass transfer depend on the temperature of the air in contact with the material. As this air temperature rises, the temperature within the material increases, and more rapidly at the material surface. Also, thermal conductivity plays a very important role in the thermal conduction of building materials and influences heat and mass transfer in these materials. Materials with higher thermal conductivity diffuse more heat.
文摘This work deals with the estimation of solar radiation through a solar tracker aimed at evaluating the effect of solar tracking on the solar deposit in Burkina Faso. Using a two-axis solar tracking system, we experimentally measured solar radiation at our Joseph KI-ZERBO University site and compared it with that obtained by a numerical simulation run using Fortran programming software based on a mathematical model by Brichambaut. The results obtained from the mathematical and experimental studies show that, with a solar tracker, on a clear-sky day, solar irradiation is between 800 W·m−2 and 1000 W·m−2 between about 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., i.e. a duration of 8 hours of insolation. Analysis of the numerical and experimental results shows very good quantitative and qualitative agreement, with an average relative error of 18%.
文摘Spatio-temporal variability and dynamics in Sahelian agro-pastoral zones make each local situation a special case. These specificities must be considered to guide the dissemination of agricultural options with a view to sustainable development. The territorial scale of municipalities is not sufficient for this necessary contextualization;the scale of the “village terroir” seems to be a better option. This is the hypothesis we put forward in the framework of the Global Collaboration for Resilient Food Systems program (CRFS), i.e. local context is spatially defined by village terroir. The study is based on data collected through participatory mapping and surveys in “village terroirs” in three regions of Niger (Maradi, Dosso and Tillabéri). Then the links between farm managers and their cultivated land, as well as the spatio-temporal dynamics of local context are analyzed. This study provides evidence of the existence and functional usefulness of the village terroir for farmers, their land management and their activities. It demonstrates the usefulness of contextualizing agricultural options at this scale. Their analysis elucidates the links between “terroirs village” and the specific functioning of the agrosocio-ecosystems acting on each of them, thus laying the systemic and geographical foundations for a model of the spatio- temporal dynamics of “village terroirs”. This initial work has opened up new perspectives in modeling and sustainable development.
