计算Householder变换之行列式的六种解法

本文探讨Householder变换之行列式的几种解法.目的是提高学生综合运用线性代数知识的能力,培养学生灵活掌握并融会贯通整个线性代数知识点的能力.

Assessement of Nutritional Status of Households Using Weighed Food Intake in North West Region of Cameroon

This study determined the nutritional status of households in North western region of Cameroon using weighed food intake. Twenty–two rural and 106 urban households were randomly selected for weighed food intake Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze collected data and significance at p < 0.05 accepted. Corn fufu with huckleberry was the most frequently consumed meal with little or no animal-source protein. Protein and B group vitamins intake of respondents in both communities were below the FAO/WHO recommended values while energy, iron, and vitamins A and C were in excess for most age groups. Adolescents 10 - 19 years and adults 20 years and above failed to meet at least 85% of RNI for calcium.

Economic Stress, Precariousness and Risk of High Blood Pressure: A Descriptive Survey of Life Models within Households of the Central Region of Cameroon

Context/Objective: High blood pressure (HBP) currently represents the most widespread chronic non-communicable disease in Cameroon. The increase in its prevalence in the country is the result of multiple factors including economic stress imposed by precariousness, poor living conditions, sources of anxiety, anguish, depression and other behavioral disorders. Economic stress is a globalizing concept that integrates into a purely hermeneutic approach, a particular functioning of the nervous system of an individual who faces employment problems and precarious remuneration conditions. The non-satisfaction by an individual of his basic needs due to insufficient financial means can cause him to become irritable, aggressive, and socially and symbolically isolated, thereby increasing the desire to resort to morbid life models such as excessive consumption of narcotics and other psychoactive substances often associated with high blood pressure. The fight against the emergence of BPH is a complex, multifaceted and multifactorial reality that requires taking into account economic stress. The main objective of this survey is to describe the situation of economic stress within the Cameroonian population, which imposes precariousness and life models at risk of high blood pressure. Specifically, we determined the level of household income and the sources of income. Methods: A cross-sectional survey with a descriptive aim among five hundred households in the Central Region of Cameroon was conducted. A probabilistic technique called simple randomness was used. The number of households to be surveyed was determined indirectly using the Cochrane formula. Data collection in face-to-face mode using a physical questionnaire took place from July 1 to August 31, 2023, after obtaining ethical clearance from the Regional Health Research Ethics Committee, Human from the Center and an administrative authorization for data collection. Regarding their processing, the data was grouped during processing in Excel sheets. Normality and reliability tests of the collected data were carried out. For this, the Chi-square test was used for data with a qualitative value and that of Kolmogorov-Sminorf for data with a quantitative value. Descriptive analysis was possible using R software version 3.2, SPSS version 25.0, XLSTAT 2016, PAST and EXCEL programs from Microsoft Office 2013. Results: The main results highlight economic stress, with 45.60% of households surveyed earning less than US$154 per month;55% of household heads were women in single-parent families;14% of household heads were unemployed, 22% worked in the private sector and 19% were self-employed. This general economic situation leads to precarious living conditions, thereby increasing the risk of high blood pressure among the Cameroonian population.

Functional Outcomes of Adult Tibia Shaft Fractures Treated with Solid Intramedullary Nails versus Hollow Nails: A Systematic Review

Introduction: The management of fractures of the tibia shaft is an important aspect of orthopaedic care, and the selection of the surgical method for fixation can substantially impact patient outcomes. The current review aims to compare the outcomes of adult tibia fractures treated with solid nails to those treated with hollow nails. Methods: A search on Scopus, PubMed, and Cochrane Library, using three keywords (Outcome, Tibia shaft fractures, Nail) was conducted in April 2023. Results were compiled and two independent reviewers screened and selected eligible articles After removing duplicates, titles and abstracts were read to exclude ineligible studies. Full-text articles of the remaining papers were read to select eligible studies which were further critically appraised to ascertain their methodological quality. The data extracted from the selected papers were synthesized using a combination of pooling of results, tests of statistical difference (t-test and chi-square) and narrative synthesis methods. Results: A total of 2295 articles were obtained from the databases and citation searching. A total of 9 papers were identified as eligible and included in the review. Findings revealed that there is no statistical difference in the outcomes of tibia fractures treated with either solid or hollow nail groups such as duration of surgery (p = 0.541), rate of delayed and non-union (p = 0.342), and rate of surgical site infections (p = 0.395). Conclusion: Intramedullary nailing of tibia shaft fractures with either solid or hollow nails have similar functional outcomes.

Attributes of Specialized Households'Resilience and Its Impact on Rural Industrial Advancement:A Case Study of National Musical Instrument Production Specialized Households in Lankao County,Henan,China

Specialized households serve as the primary units within specialized villages in China,and their capacity to withstand risks and external influences significantly shapes the future trajectory of specialized villages and the overall vitality of the rural economy.In this study,we established a measurement indicator system based on the definition of specialized households’resilience,elucidating the logical connection between specialized households’resilience and rural industrial development in China.The musical instrument industry in Lankao County,Henan Province of China,was employed as a case;survey data,the entropy method,and an obstacle diagnosis model were used to examine how instrument production specialized households responded to the challenges posed by Corona Virus Disease 2019(COVID-19)and the tightening of national environmental protection policies,yielding the following key findings:1)there exists substantial variation in the comprehensive resilience levels among different specialized households;2)the ability to learn and adapt is the most significant contributor to the overall resilience level of specialized households;3)technological proficiency and access to skilled talent emerge as pivotal factors influencing specialized households’resilience;4)the positioning of specialized households within the industrial supply chain and the stability of their income have a direct bearing on their resilience level.The influence of specialized households’resilience on industrial development primarily manifests in the following ways:stronger resilience correlates with increased stability in production and sales,fostering a more proactive approach to future actions.However,heightened exposure to the external macroeconomic environment can lead to a higher rate of export reduction.To enhance the development resilience of entities like specialized households and family farms,and to invigorate rural economic development,escalating investments in rural science and technology and prioritizing the training of technical talent become imperative.

Economic Resilience in Bangladesh: Analyzing Household Well-Being amidst Price Hikes through ANOVA and Paired Sample t-Test Insights

This study delves into the multifaceted impact of price hikes on the standard of living in Bangladesh, with a specific focus on distinct socioeconomic segments. Amidst Bangladesh’s economic growth, the challenges of rising inflation and increased living costs have become pressing concerns. Employing a mixed-methods approach combines quantitative data from a structured survey with qualitative insights from in-depth interviews and focused group discussions to analyze the repercussions of price hikes. Stratified random sampling ensures representation across affluent, middle-class, and economically disadvantaged groups. Utilizing data [1] from 2020 to November 2023 on the yearly change in retail prices of essential commodities, analysis reveals significant demographic shifts, occupational changes, and altered asset ownership patterns among households. The vulnerable population, including daily wage laborers and low-income individuals, is disproportionately affected by adjustments in consumption, income generation, and living arrangements. Statistical analyses, including One-Way ANOVA and Paired Sample t-tests, illuminate significant mean differences in strategies employed during price hikes. Despite challenges, the prioritization of education remains evident, emphasizing its resilience in the face of economic hardships. The result shows that price hikes, especially in essential items, lead to substantial adjustments in living costs, with items like onions, garlic, and ginger experiencing significant increases of 275%, 108%, and 483%, respectively.

Early Treatment Outcome of Humeral Shaft Fracture Non-Union in Adults: Comparative Study of Plating versus Interlocking Nailing

Background: Fractures of humeral shaft in adults are common injuries. Humeral shafts non-union either from late presentation after initial treatment by traditional bone setters or failed non-operative orthodox care is a major problem in this part of the world. This non-union is a major treatment challenge with increased cost of care and morbidity in this part of the world. Humeral shaft non-union can be treated with locked intra-medullary nailing (LIMN) or dynamic compression plating (DCP). Study on comparison of these methods of fixation in this part of the world is scarce in literature search, hence the reason for this study. Objective: The objectives of this study are: (1) to compare early clinical outcome following fixation of humeral shaft fracture nonunion with DCP versus LIMN;(2) to compare the time of radiologic fracture union of DCP with LIMN;(3) to compare complications following fixation of humeral shaft fracture nonunion with DCP versus LIMN. Patients and Methods: This was a randomized control study done for 2 years in which fifty adult patients with humeral shaft non-union were recruited. The patients were grouped into 2 (P = DCP & N = LIMN). Forty five of the patients completed the follow up periods of the study and then analyzed. The P group had ORIF with DCP while the N group had ORIF with LIMN. Both groups had grafting with cancellous bones. Each patient was followed up for a period of 6 months at the time which radiographic union is expected. Any patient without clinical and/or radiographic evidence of union after six months of surgery was diagnosed as having recurrent non-union. The data generated was analyzed using SPSS Version 23. The results were presented in charts and tables. The paired t-test was used while considering p value Result: Forty five patients completed follow up. There was a male preponderance (4:1), right humerus predominated (3:2). Motor vehicular accidents were the commonest cause of the fractures (62%). Most non-union fractures occurred at the level of the middle 3rd of the humeral shaft (60%). Failed TBS treatment was the commonest indication for the osteosynthesis (71%). More patients had plating (53%) compared to 47% who had LIMN. Most patients (93.4%) had union between 3 to 6 months irrespective of fixation type with no significant statistical difference between the union rate of DCP and LIMN (p value 0.06) with similar functional outcome and complication rates irrespective of the type of fixation. Conclusion: This study showed that the success rates in term of fracture union, outcome functional grades and complication rates were not directly dependent on the types of the fixation: plating or locked intra-medullary nailing.

Study of the Management and Disposal Practices of Unused or Out-of-Date Medicines by Households in the Municipality of Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

Introduction: Not all medicines that pass-through consumers’ hands are used, and some often expire in households. These health products can be sources of accidental risks and pollution when they are not properly disposed of. In Burkina Faso, there are as yet no guidelines for the disposal of unused medicines in households. The aim of this study was to estimate the extent of household possession of unused or expired medicines, and to describe attitudes and disposal practices. Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study covering households in the Ouagadougou commune conducted from June to August 2021. Two-stage stratified sampling was used: selection of Enumeration Zones (EZs) and selection of households, with each EZ comprising several households. Data collection was based on direct interviews using a structured questionnaire. Data were processed using Epi Info software version 7.2.4.0. Results: In total, 417 household residents were surveyed out of the planned 423 households, corresponding to a completion rate of 98.58% compared with the initial sample. Among the respondents, 79.62% had unused and/or expired medicines in their household. A total of 2562 drug packaging units were counted, for a total weight of 121.90 kg. Nearly 75% were aware that improper disposal was a danger to the environment. Some respondents kept their unused medicines at home until they expired (43.41%), and disposed of them mainly by throwing them in the household garbage (75.58%). The majority (79%) were in favor of the government setting up a take-back program for these medicines. Conclusion: The introduction of a take-back program for unused or out-of-date medicines will ensure safer disposal of medicines, and better protection for households and the environment.

Proximal Femur Bionic Nail (PFBN): A Panacea for Unstable Intertrochanteric Femur Fracture

With the aging population,intertrochanteric femur fracture in the elderly has become one of the most serious public health issues and a hot topic of research in trauma orthopedics.Due to the limitations of internal fixation techniques and the insufficient mechanical design of nails,the occurrence of complications delays patient recovery after surgical treatment.Design of a proximal femur bionic nail(PFBN)based on Zhang’s N triangle theory provides triangular supporting fixation,which dramatically decreases the occurrence of complications and has been widely used for clinical treatment of unstable intertrochanteric femur fracture worldwide.In this work,we developed an equivalent biomechanical model to analyze improvement in bone remodeling of unstable intertrochanteric femur fracture through PFBN use.The results show that compared with proximal femoral nail antirotation(PFNA)and InterTan,PFBN can dramatically decrease the maximum strain in the proximal femur.Based on Frost’s mechanostat theory,the local mechanical environment in the proximal femur can be regulated into the medium overload region by using a PFBN,which may render the proximal femur in a state of physiological overload,favoring post-operative recovery of intertrochanteric femur fracture in the elderly.This work shows that PFBN may constitute a panacea for unstable intertrochanteric femur fracture and provides insights into improving methods of internal fixation.

Meta-analysis of the clinical efficacy of the Gamma3 nail vs Gamma3U-blade system in the treatment of intertrochanteric fractures

BACKGROUND The traditional Gamma3 nail is a mainstream treatment for femoral intertrochanteric fractures.Literature reports that the Gamma3U-blade system can increase the stability of the Gamma3 nail and reduce complication incidence.However,comparative studies between the Gamma3U-blade and Gamma3 systems are limited;hence,this meta-analysis was performed to explore the clinical efficacy of these two surgical methods.AIM To investigate the clinical efficacy of Gamma3 and Gamma3 U-blade for intertrochanteric fractures.METHODS A computerized search for Chinese and English literature published from 2010 to 2022 was conducted in PubMed,Cochrane,CNKI,Wanfang,and VIP databases.The search keywords were gamma 3,gamma 3 U blade,and intertrochanteric fracture.Additionally,literature tracking was performed on the references of published literature.The data were analyzed using Revman 5.3 software.Two individuals checked the inputs for accuracy.Continuous variables were described using mean difference and standard deviation,and outcome effect sizes were expressed using ratio OR and 95%confidence interval(CI).High heterogeneity was considered at(P<0.05,I2>50%),moderate heterogeneity at I2 from 25%to 50%,and low heterogeneity at(P≥0.05,I2<50%).RESULTS Following a comprehensive literature search,review,and analysis,six articles were selected for inclusion in this study.This selection comprised five articles in English and one in Chinese,with publication years spanning from 2016 to 2022.The study with the largest sample size,conducted by Seungbae in 2021,included a total of 304 cases.Statistical analysis:A total of 1063 patients were included in this meta-analysis.The main outcome indicators were:Surgical time:The Gamma3U blade system had a longer surgical time compared to Gamma3 nails(P=0.006,I2=76%).Tip-apex distance:No statistical significance or heterogeneity was observed(P=0.65,I2=0%).Harris Hip score:No statistical significance was found,and low heterogeneity was detected(P=0.26,I2=22%).Union time:No statistical significance was found,and high heterogeneity was detected(P=0.05,I2=75%).CONCLUSION Our study indicated that the Gamma3 system reduces operative time compared to the Gamma3 U-blade system in treating intertrochanteric fractures.Both surgical methods proved to be safe and effective for this patient group.These findings may offer valuable insights and guidance for future surgical protocols in hip fracture patients.

How Does E-Commerce Policy Affect Consumption Disparities of Rural Households?-Evidence from China

In the context of China’s ongoing efforts to promote countryside revitalization and facilitate domestic economic circulation,it is of great significance to reduce the consumption disparity among rural households and unleash the consumption potential in the countryside.Based on data from China Family Panel Studies,this paper adopts a staggered difference-in-differences method to assess the impact of the e-commerce to enter rural areas on the consumption disparity among rural households.Findings:the comprehensive demonstration work of promoting e-commerce to enter rural areas has reduced the consumption disparity among rural households through the following mechanisms.Firstly,this policy initiative has mitigated the consumption-inhibiting effect on rural household consumption due to the local market size and external market accessibility by promoting the distribution of consumer goods to villages.Secondly,this policy initiative has also increased the agricultural income of rural households and reduced their consumption disparity by distributing farm produce to cities and enhancing the agricultural income of rural households.Moreover,the work is characterized by inclusive growth and is not susceptible to the“elite capture”phenomenon.

Comparative efficacy of proximal femoral nail vs dynamic condylar screw in treating unstable intertrochanteric fractures

BACKGROUND Among the most frequent hip fractures are trochanteric fractures,which usually occur from low-energy trauma like minor falls,especially in older people with osteoporotic bones.AIM To evaluate the treatment efficacy of dynamic condylar screws(DCS)and proximal femoral nails(PFN)for unstable intertrochanteric fractures.METHODS To find pertinent randomized controlled trials and retrospective observational studies comparing PFN with DCS for the management of unstable femoral intertrochanteric fractures,a thorough search was carried out.For research studies published between January 1996 and April 2024,PubMed,EMBASE,Scopus,Web of Science,Cochrane Library,and Google Scholar were all searched.The complete texts of the papers were retrieved,vetted,and independently examined by two investigators.Disputes were settled by consensus,and any disagreements that persisted were arbitrated by a third author.RESULTS This study included six articles,comprising a total of 173 patients.Compared to the DCS,the PFN had a shorter operation time[mean difference(MD):-41.7 min,95%confidence interval(95%CI):-63.04 to-20.35,P=0.0001],higher success rates with closed reduction techniques[risk ratio(RR):34.05,95%CI:11.12-104.31,P<0.00001],and required less intraoperative blood transfusion(MD:-1.4 units,95%CI:-1.80 to-1.00,P<0.00001).Additionally,the PFN showed shorter fracture union time(MD:-6.92 wk,95%CI:-10.27 to-3.57,P<0.0001)and a lower incidence of reoperation(RR:0.37,95%CI:0.17-0.82,P=0.01).However,there was no discernible variation regarding hospital stay,implant-related complications,and infections.CONCLUSION Compared to DCS,PFN offers shorter operative times,reduces the blood transfusions requirements,achieves higher closed reduction success,enables faster fracture healing,and lowers reoperation incidence.

Household Solid Waste Awareness and Practices among Residents of Windhoek, Namibia

This study explores household solid waste management (HSWM) practices and awareness among residents of Windhoek West, a rapidly urbanizing constituency in the Khomas Region of Namibia. Employing a descriptive methodology, the research investigates the interplay between public awareness, regulatory frameworks, and the availability of waste management facilities to assess their impact on waste management behaviors. Our findings indicate significant gaps in both knowledge and infrastructure that hinder effective waste management. The study reveals that while there is a high willingness among residents to engage in recycling and waste reduction, actual practices are limited due to inadequate facilities and lack of stringent enforcement of waste policies. This research identifies key factors that influence waste management practices, including demographic characteristics and access to waste management facilities. It also proposes actionable strategies such as expanding recycling and sorting facilities, enhancing educational campaigns tailored to local needs, and implementing regular enforcement mechanisms. These strategies are aimed at improving compliance with waste management protocols and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility. The results of this investigation show the critical role of ongoing education and infrastructural improvement in bridging existing knowledge gaps and facilitating effective waste management practices. This research lays a foundational step toward enhancing sustainable urban development and effective waste management in Windhoek, providing valuable insights for policymakers, community leaders, and stakeholders engaged in urban environmental management.

A study on the influencing factors of rural tourism promoting households'shared prosperity in Yinan County of Shandong Province

This study examines the influencing factors of rural tourism in promoting shared prosperity among households,using the case study of Yinan County in Shandong province,China.The research aims to provide insights into the economic benefits experienced by low-income households in the context of rural tourism development.Based on field research conducted from April 8,2023,to May 17,2023,including interviews and site visits,the study constructs an evaluation index system to assess the influencing factors.Through expert scoring and the application of a weighted set-valued mathematical statistical model,the importance and quantification of each factor are determined.The results indicate that the current stage of promoting shared prosperity through rural tourism in Yinan County is primarily influenced by the scale of tourist consumption of external visitors.This factor outweighs others such as the participation capacity and willingness of low-income households,the capacity of investment enterprises,and the policies and financial allocation of the local government.The findings emphasize the significance of external visitor spending and highlight the need to address the obstacles faced by low-income households in accessing economic benefits.The evaluation index system and measurement model presented in this study offer a scientific basis for assessing and improving the income situation of low-income households in rural tourism development initiatives.However,it is crucial to note that the importance of these influencing factors may evolve with the lifecycle of the tourism destination.Future research should include long-term tracking and consider a broader range of indicators to deepen our understanding of their mechanisms and significance.Furthermore,alternative approaches and theories may provide valuable perspectives for further exploration in this field.

Analysis on the Impact of Cattle Fattening Technology on Farmer Households in Atabae Timor-Leste

Agriculture is one of the priority sectors in Timor-Leste. Introducing new agriculture technology is crucial to enhance agricultural production. Practicing cattle fattening can increase beef cattle body weight and generate income to the beef cattle farmers. As farmers face problems including agricultural production decline, lack of forages and information and weather unfavourable. The study’s purpose was to examine the impact of adoption of cattle fattening technology on farmer households in Atabae administrative post, Bobonaro municipality in Timor-Leste. There were 200 beef cattle farmers households where randomly selected in four villages in Atabae. It consisted of 65 farmers practicing cattle fattening and 135 farmers non-practicing cattle fattening. Face to face interviews used structured questionnaire. Statistical analysis such as t-test and descriptive analysis were used to examine impact adoption of cattle fattening technology by farmers and factor constraints of cattle production and the solutions of it. The results indicated the average value of cattle and profit were significant different from zero and it is associated with practicing of cattle fattening. The average of labour used on cattle activities, the average of cattle sold, and total cost spent on cattle were not significant different from zero. The percentage of farmers said that factors constraints cattle production were shortage of water and forage (53%) and spend time on culture ceremony and lack of capital (33%). The number of farmers said that they collected water from river, feed cattle with sago and forage (55.3%) and cultivated forage (23.4%). This finding contributes information to the farmers, traders, and Timorese government to continue implementing cattle fattening activities as it enhances farmers’ income and developing cattle production.

Practical Research on Promoting the Reform of“One Field for One Household”in Guoyang County

In recent years,the problem of farmland fragmentation has become a major obstacle to the development of modern agriculture,and the reform of“one field for one household”can effectively sort out cultivated land resources,increase contracted land area,improve land utilization rate,and effectively solve the problems of contracted land dispersion and farmland fragmentation in rural areas.This paper systematically anatomized the practice and effects of“one household,one field”reform in Guoyang County,analyzed the problems existing in the implementation process,and put forward corresponding suggestions and countermeasures,in order to provide experience and reference for the reform of one field in other regions.

Short-Term Household Load Forecasting Based on Attention Mechanism and CNN-ICPSO-LSTM

Accurate load forecasting forms a crucial foundation for implementing household demand response plans andoptimizing load scheduling. When dealing with short-term load data characterized by substantial fluctuations,a single prediction model is hard to capture temporal features effectively, resulting in diminished predictionaccuracy. In this study, a hybrid deep learning framework that integrates attention mechanism, convolution neuralnetwork (CNN), improved chaotic particle swarm optimization (ICPSO), and long short-term memory (LSTM), isproposed for short-term household load forecasting. Firstly, the CNN model is employed to extract features fromthe original data, enhancing the quality of data features. Subsequently, the moving average method is used for datapreprocessing, followed by the application of the LSTM network to predict the processed data. Moreover, the ICPSOalgorithm is introduced to optimize the parameters of LSTM, aimed at boosting the model’s running speed andaccuracy. Finally, the attention mechanism is employed to optimize the output value of LSTM, effectively addressinginformation loss in LSTM induced by lengthy sequences and further elevating prediction accuracy. According tothe numerical analysis, the accuracy and effectiveness of the proposed hybrid model have been verified. It canexplore data features adeptly, achieving superior prediction accuracy compared to other forecasting methods forthe household load exhibiting significant fluctuations across different seasons.

Effect of Different Rates and Mixtures of Solid Household Waste and Faecal Sludge-Based Composts on Soil Fertility and Productivity of Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) in Dschang, West Cameroon

The unbalanced and inadequate use of fertilizers is one of the causes of soil degradation. Combined with the ever-increasing population, it is necessary to find sustainable agricultural production alternatives. The present work aims to determine the effect of different rates and mixtutes of organic amendments on soil fertility and the performance of Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.). In the field, treatments consisted of solid household waste and faecal sludge in the ratios of 3/5 (V1), and a mixture of faecal sludge and household waste in the ratio of 3/5 with 900 worms (V2). At the end of the composting process, V1, V2 composts and the poultry manure (PM) were applied at rates of 4, 5 and 6 t∙ha−1 in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Soil samples were collected before and after the experiment and analyzed. The main results revealed that at the end of the composting process, there was a progressive improvement in the physico-chemical properties of V1 and V2 composts. In particular, the C/N ratio, phosphorus (P) and total nitrogen (TN) initially at 16.49 ± 0.42 (V1, V2), 21.06 ± 0.07 mg∙kg−1 (V1, V2), 0.76% ± 0.08% (V1, V2) respectively, increased after 60 days to 12.40 ± 0.41 (V1), 9.74 ± 0.28 (V2) for C/N, 21.94 ± 0.63 mg∙kg−1 (V1) and 22.04 ± 0.04 mg∙kg−1 (V2) for P, 0.96% ± 0.0% (V1) and 1.22 ± 0.04 (V2) for TN. The application of 6 t∙ha−1of PM had the greatest influence on the diameter and weight of the flower heads (27.16 ± 4.01 t∙ha−1 and 230.83 ± 2.64 t∙ha−1), while 4 t∙ha−1 of V2 gave the tallest sunflower plants (110.07 ± 73.28 cm) as well as the diameter at the crown (19.30 ± 9.07 cm). However, CEC was most influenced by 4 t∙ha−1 of V1, while 4 t∙ha−1 of PM had the greatest effect on organic carbon and phosphorus. However, 5 t∙ha−1 of PM showed the highest sunflower production and yield (1.67 ± 0.21 t∙ha−1). The combination with 900 earthworms is recommended for composting and 5 t∙ha−1 of PM is recommended to obtain a better sunflower production.

Comparative Study on Energy Consumption Structure of Ordinary Rural Households and Rural Tourism Households in Zhejiang Province, China

With the rapid development of rural tourism in China, more and more rural households operate a rural tourism business. The purpose of this study is to understand the energy consumption characteristic of ordinary rural households (ORHs) and rural tourism households (RTHs) in the mountainous area and islands area in Zhejiang province. 225 households were surveyed, including 185 ORHs and 40 RTHs, based on a field survey in Quzhou (mountainous area) and Zhoushan (islands area). Results reveal that energy consumption of ORHs is low, but energy comsumption of RTHs is high, about 3 to 5 times higher than that of ORHs. Given the results, the government and RTHs should pay more attention to take measures to reduce energy comsumption. Meanwhile, the factors affecting households’ energy consumption are also analyzed. Energy consumption of ORHs is affected by frequently used area, family income level and permanent population. Then energy consumption of RTHs is mainly related to the total building area, number of air conditioner (AC), number of guestrooms and family income level.

Household Survey on Access to Medicines Used for the Treatment of Diarrhoea in Musoma Municipal Council, Tanzania

Background: Access to medicines is part of the human right to health. According to WHO, access to medicine is measured by how easily households obtain medicines for acute and chronic conditions including diarrhoea through household surveys. Diarrhoea is among the top ten leading causes of death. Anti-diarrhoea medicines save lives but, should be available and obtainable to do so. The objectives of this study were to determine anti-diarrhoea medicines used by households, their sources and factors affecting their accessibility in Musoma Municipal. Methods: A cross-section survey was conducted in Musoma Municipal Council, Mara, Tanzania. The lottery method of simple random sampling was used to select three wards and pick three streets from each ward. The study population was 255 household heads from households selected by systematic random sampling from each street. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain information from household heads. Results and Discussion: Males (51.8%) had more diarrhoea illnesses than females (48.2%). Distinctive household heads (52.6%) had primary education. The majority, (79.1%) of all diarrhoea patients were recommended/prescribed anti-diarrhoea medicines. Of those whom anti-diarrhoea medicines were prescribed/recommended, 63.5% adhered to the prescriber’s/dispenser’s instructions and obtained and used anti-diarrhoea medicines. The most frequent source of anti-diarrhoea medicines was ADDO (38%). Widely used anti-diarrhoea medicines were antimicrobials (77.5%) followed by ORS (17.5%). Reasons not to seek or obtain anti-diarrhoea medicines were;Patient started feeling better (56.3%), Alternative treatment (26%), Financial reasons (10%), Decided medicines weren’t needed (3.5%), Distance from source (2.2%), Reactions to medicine (1%). Utilization of primary health care services was only 21.5%. Under-fives were mostly prescribed with antimicrobials (62.5%) than ORS (31.2%) and Zinc (6.3%) in mild to moderate dehydration contrary to Standard treatment guidelines (STG) in Tanzania. Conclusion: Anti-diarrhoea medicines are moderately easily obtainable in Musoma Municipal (50% of all diarrhoea patients obtained medicines). Alternative treatment (26%) and financial reasons (10%) were vivid factors hindering access. Treatment of diarrhoea in under-five years old is not adhered to in Musoma Municipal (use of 62.5% of antimicrobials and only 31.2% of ORS in mild diarrhoea cases).