Background: Ethiopia is one of the countries with the highest Human Immune-deficiency Virus (HIV) and Tuberculosis (TB) infection rates in the world. To improve TB/HIV Programs outcomes through Public Private Partners...Background: Ethiopia is one of the countries with the highest Human Immune-deficiency Virus (HIV) and Tuberculosis (TB) infection rates in the world. To improve TB/HIV Programs outcomes through Public Private Partnership Mix (PPM) approach was in place since 2006. But the status of its implementation has never been assessed. Methods: In this cross sectional study we employed mixed methods;we interviewed 272 tuberculosis patients, reviewed their records, and facilitated six in-depth interviews and four focus group discussions. The survey was conducted from January through March 2014 in Addis Ababa. Result: Among the interviewees 51.5% were males and the mean age was (32.7 ± SD 12.4) years. PPM facilities were offering HIV counseling for all TB patients;whereas 87.5% of TB patients have received HIV testing services. The TB/HIV co-infection rate was 45.4%. And only 72.2% TB/HIV patients were enrolled into chronic disease care services, 64.8% were put on Cotrimoxazol Preventive Therapy (CPT) and 50% were put on standard highly active anti-retro viral therapy (HAART) services. All PPM facilities don’t have IPT (Isoniazid Prophylaxis Therapy). The TB/HIV collaborative services strongly linked with the public health sector which was documented by developing inclusive work plan which create access to supplies and conducting joint supportive supervisions. However, the majorities of PPM facilities don’t have Multi-Disciplinary Team and lacks some essential supplies. The predictor for uptake of CPT were: being females TB patients was 86% lower than their counter part males (AOR = 0.14;95% CI = 0.04 - 0.92 P = 0.002), patients who has attended their TB/HIV care at private for the profit facilities were 84% lower than those attend in private not for profit facilities (AOR = 0.16;95% CI = 0.49 - 0.55, P = 0.003). Conclusions: The TB/HIV collaborative services at program level are stronger but only half of patients didn’t get the comprehensive TB/HIV collaborative services to achieve recommended quality of care. Strengthening the services and ensuring the availability of essential supplies was highly recommended.展开更多
The sustainable development of private university has become the focus of the academia and the private higher education after an approximately golden period.Through the method of literature review and cluster analysis...The sustainable development of private university has become the focus of the academia and the private higher education after an approximately golden period.Through the method of literature review and cluster analysis,this paper studies the concept of sustainable development of private university from the perspective of the connotation definition and epitaxial recognition,in order to effectively reveal the essence of the sustainable development of private university,hoping to provide some certain support for the theory and practice of sustainable development of private university.展开更多
Private law doctrine and private international law are intimately linked.The links between them,although seldom discussed,are ubiquitous.These links can only be briefly outlined here,and the following pages are but a ...Private law doctrine and private international law are intimately linked.The links between them,although seldom discussed,are ubiquitous.These links can only be briefly outlined here,and the following pages are but a sketch of them.This essay is dedicated to Claus-Wilhelm Canaris,who in 1987 used the example of the Convention providing a Uniform Lawfor Bills of Exchange and Promissory Notes to develop a methodological analysis for resolving the conflict of inconsistent legal values expressed in autonomous,unharmonized substantive law and in uniform substantive law.展开更多
Background: Australia's energy future is at the crossroads and the role of renewable sources is in focus. Biomass from sustainably managed forests provide a significant opportunity for electricity and heat generatio...Background: Australia's energy future is at the crossroads and the role of renewable sources is in focus. Biomass from sustainably managed forests provide a significant opportunity for electricity and heat generation and production of liquid fuels. Australia has extensive native forests of which a significant proportion are on private land. However, there is limited knowledge on the potential capacity of this resource to contribute to the expansion of a biomass for bioenergy industry. In addition, there are concerns on how to reconcile biomass harvesting with environmental protection. Methods: We used regional ecosystem vegetation mapping for Queensland to stratify harvestable forests within the 1.8 m hectares of private native forests present in the Southeast Queensland bioregion in 2014. We used a dataset of 52,620 individual tree measurements from 541 forest inventory plots collected over the last 10 years. Tree biomass was estimated using current biomass allometric equations for Australia. Biomass potentially available from selective sawlog harvesting and silvicultural treatment across the bioregion was calculated and mapped. Results: Current sawlog harvesting extracts 41.4% of the standing tree biomass and a biomass for bioenergy harvest would retain on average 36% of felled tree biomass on site for the protection of environmental and fauna habitat values. The estimated area extent of harvestable private native forests in the bioregion in 2013 was 888,000 ha and estimated available biomass for bioenergy in living trees was 13.6 million tonnes (t). The spotted gum (Corymbio citriodora subsp, variegata) forests were the most extensive, covering an area of 379,823 ha and with a biomass for bioenergy yield of 14.2 t-ha-1 (with approximately 11.2 t.ha-1 of the biomass harvested from silvicultural thinning and 3 t.ha-1 recovered from sawlog harvest residual). Conclusions: Silvicultural treatment of private native forests in the Southeast Queensland bioregion, has the capacity to supply a large quantity of biomass for bioenergy. The availability of a biomass for bioenergy market, and integration of sawlog harvesting and silvicultural treatment operations, could provide land owners with additional commercial incentive to improve the management of private native forests. This could potentially promote restoration of degraded forests, ecological sustainability and continued provision of wood products.展开更多
Private capital is one of the main driving forces in China's initiatives towards stimulating the market economy. The development of private economy in China has always been based on integrating industrial and corp...Private capital is one of the main driving forces in China's initiatives towards stimulating the market economy. The development of private economy in China has always been based on integrating industrial and corporate structures with product composition and market structures. This paper explores the development of the private economy and how it integrates different industries with specific markets by analyzing the leading private sector in Zhejiang province. It also examines the trends of industrial cluster, the formation of the agglomerative economy and their effects on private economy development. Finally, the paper explains why Zhejiang people have profited much from the Wenzhou model and discusses some existing problems and future possibilities for development of the Wenzhou model.展开更多
In recent years,closing down private higher education institutions(HEIs)has become a serious problem in China.It seems that doubt is cast on the rationality of private HEIs and severe competition contributes a lot to ...In recent years,closing down private higher education institutions(HEIs)has become a serious problem in China.It seems that doubt is cast on the rationality of private HEIs and severe competition contributes a lot to their development.Many problems in the process of self-development are caused by both internal and external factors.From the perspective of sustainable development and the healthy development of students,priority should be given to the evolution of an idea to provide a positive environment for the development of private HEIs.This paper is an effort to deal with the statement that higher education in China is a seller’s market and aims to do an objective estimate of the development space for private HEIs.In addition,it shows a clear understanding of establishing the prediction system for relevant issues of private higher education to guarantee the sound development of private HEIs.展开更多
Highlights•This study explores features of professional learning community(PLC)models in the educational contexts in Bahrain and Oman.•Findings based on the case studies of PLCs in two private schools in Bahrain and O...Highlights•This study explores features of professional learning community(PLC)models in the educational contexts in Bahrain and Oman.•Findings based on the case studies of PLCs in two private schools in Bahrain and Oman,and theoretical input from international PLC literature has implications for policy and practice.•Study recommends promoting PLC approaches in the Bahraini and Omani educational systems in pre-and in-service teacher training programs,adapting best international PLC practices to the specific educational contexts of Bahrain and Oman,preparing school principals to lead PLC in their schools,providing human and financial support to these communities,and making school cultures more collaborative.•This study highlights the importance of the PLC approach,expands the existing conceptual/analytical framework,demonstrates how this approach is being used in two schools,and encourages other practitioners and researchers to embrace PLC.展开更多
This comprehensive review embarks on a captivating journey into the complex relationship between cardiology and normal-tension glaucoma(NTG),a condition that continues to baffle clinicians and researchers alike.NTG,ch...This comprehensive review embarks on a captivating journey into the complex relationship between cardiology and normal-tension glaucoma(NTG),a condition that continues to baffle clinicians and researchers alike.NTG,characterized by optic nerve damage and visual field loss despite normal intraocular pressure,has long puzzled clinicians.One emerging perspective suggests that alterations in ocular blood flow,particularly within the optic nerve head,may play a pivotal role in its pathogenesis.While NTG shares commonalities with its high-tension counterpart,its unique pathogenesis and potential ties to cardiovascular health make it a fascinating subject of exploration.It navigates through the complex web of vascular dysregulation,blood pressure and perfusion pressure,neurovascular coupling,and oxidative stress,seeking to uncover the hidden threads that tie the heart and eyes together in NTG.This review explores into the intricate mechanisms connecting cardiovascular factors to NTG,shedding light on how cardiac dynamics can influence ocular health,particularly in cases where intraocular pressure remains within the normal range.NTG's enigmatic nature,often characterized by seemingly contradictory risk factors and clinical profiles,underscores the need for a holistic approach to patient care.Drawing parallels to cardiac health,we examine into the shared vascular terrain connecting the heart and the eyes.Cardiovascular factors,including systemic blood flow,endothelial dysfunction,and microcirculatory anomalies,may exert a profound influence on ocular perfusion,impacting the delicate balance within the optic nerve head.By elucidating the subtle clues and potential associations between cardiology and NTG,this review invites clinicians to consider a broader perspective in their evaluation and management of this elusive condition.As the understanding of these connections evolves,so too may the prospects for early diagnosis and tailored interventions,ultimately enhancing the quality of life for those living with NTG.展开更多
Glaucoma,a prevalent and debilitating eye disease,has long been associated with vision impairment and blindness.However,recent research has shed light on the often-underestimated psychological dimensions of this condi...Glaucoma,a prevalent and debilitating eye disease,has long been associated with vision impairment and blindness.However,recent research has shed light on the often-underestimated psychological dimensions of this condition.Anxiety and depression,two pervasive psychiatric comorbidities,have been increasingly recognized among glaucoma patients.This comprehensive review aims to explore the intricate relationship between psychiatry and ophthalmology,in the context of managing depression and anxiety in glaucoma patients.By meticulously examining peer-reviewed literature,we synthesize current knowledge on the prevalence,risk factors,and underlying mechanisms of anxiety and depression in glaucoma.The evidence reveals that glaucoma patients face an elevated risk of experiencing these mood disorders.Factors such as progressive vision loss,complex medication regimens,and the fear of further visual deterioration contribute to their vulnerability.Moreover,we delve into the bidirectional relationship between glaucoma and mood disorders,shedding light on the complex interplay between ocular and emotional health.Our review investigates the implications of anxiety and depression on glaucoma management,including their potential impact on treatment adherence,disease progression,and overall quality of life.We also explore the neurobiological pathways linking glaucoma and mood disorders,providing a foundation for future research and potential therapeutic interventions.In conclusion,recognizing the psychological burden carried by glaucoma patients is essential for holistic and patient-centered care.This review underscores the pressing need for integrated approaches that bring together ophthalmological and psychiatric expertise to optimize the well-being of individuals facing the challenges of glaucoma.By addressing anxiety and depression in glaucoma care,healthcare providers can enhance the overall quality of life for these patients,ultimately leading to improved outcomes and a brighter future for those affected by this condition.This review offers valuable insight for healthcare practitioners and researchers,providing a concise overview of key topics and research in the field of managing depression and anxiety in glaucoma patients.展开更多
The pursuit of improved quality of life standards has significantly influenced the contemporary mining model in the 21st century.This era is witnessing an unprecedented transformation driven by pressing concerns relat...The pursuit of improved quality of life standards has significantly influenced the contemporary mining model in the 21st century.This era is witnessing an unprecedented transformation driven by pressing concerns related to sustainability,climate change,the just energy transition,dynamic operating environments,and complex social challenges.Such transitions present both opportunities and obstacles.The aim of this study is to provide an extensive literature review on energy transition to identify the challenges and strategies associated with navigating transformations in energy systems.Understanding these transformations is particularly critical in the face of the severe consequences of global warming,where an accelerated energy transition is viewed as a universal remedy.Adopting a socio-technological systems perspective,specifically through the application of Actor Network Theory(ANT),this research provides a theoretical foundation while categorising challenges into five distinct domains and outlining strategies across these different dimensions.These insights are specifically tailored for emerging market countries to effectively navigate energy transition while fostering the development of resilient societies.Furthermore,our findings highlight that energy transition encompasses more than a mere technological shift;it entails fundamental changes in various systemic socio-economic imperatives.Through focusing on the role of social structures in transitions,this study makes a significant and innovative contribution to ANT,which has historically been criticised for its limited acknowledgement of social structures.Consequently,we propose an emerging market energy transition framework,which not only addresses technological aspects,but also integrates social considerations.This framework paves the way for future research and exploration of energy transition dynamics.The outcomes of this study offer valuable insights to policymakers,researchers,and practitioners engaged in the mining industry,enabling them to comprehend the multifaceted challenges involved and providing practical strategies for effective resolution.Through incorporating the social dimension into the analysis,we enhance the understanding of the complex nature of energy system transformations,facilitating a more holistic approach towards achieving sustainable and resilient energy transitions in emerging markets and beyond.展开更多
Vitamin D is a steroid hormone that is naturally produced in the body or obtained through dietary sources,primarily under the influence of UVB radiation.This essential nutrient has a vital role in numerous physiologic...Vitamin D is a steroid hormone that is naturally produced in the body or obtained through dietary sources,primarily under the influence of UVB radiation.This essential nutrient has a vital role in numerous physiological processes,encom-passing immune function,cell growth,differentiation,insulin regulation,and cardiovascular well-being,along with its pivotal role in sustaining the delicate equilibrium of calcium and phosphate concentrations in the body.Moreover,vitamin D reinforces mucosal defense and bolsters the immune system through immunomodulation,making it a critical component of overall health.Numerous studies have unveiled the profound connection between vitamin D and the predisposition to respiratory tract infections,including well-known viruses such as influenza and the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2.Vita-min D deficiency has been consistently linked to increased severity of coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)and a heightened risk of mortality among afflicted individuals.Retrospective observational studies have further substantiated these findings,indicating that levels of vitamin D are linked with both the occurrence and severity of COVID-19 cases.Vitamin D has its influence on viral infections th-rough a multitude of mechanisms,such as promoting the release of antimicrobial peptides and fine-tuning the responses of the immune system.Additionally,vitamin D is intertwined with the intricate network of the renin–angiotensin system,suggesting a potential impact on the development of complications related to COVID-19.While further clinical trials and extensive research are warranted,the existing body of evidence strongly hints at the possible use of vitamin D as a valuable tool in the prophylaxis and management of COVID-19 and other viral infectious diseases.展开更多
An average of eight snowfall events occur each year in the eastern Lesotho Highlands.These snowfall events are typically associated with cut-off low(CoLs)systems and mid-latitude cyclones.However,the moisture sources ...An average of eight snowfall events occur each year in the eastern Lesotho Highlands.These snowfall events are typically associated with cut-off low(CoLs)systems and mid-latitude cyclones.However,the moisture sources of the snowfall are unclassified and unclear.The Hybrid Single-Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory(HYSPLIT)model,an air mass back trajectory model,has been used to evaluate moisture source waters locally in southern Africa and internationally in China and Europe.This study uses HYSPLIT to determine the source moisture of snow in Lesotho.A list of all 82 snowfall events in Lesotho spanning 2017 to 2022 was compiled using the Snow Report SA Instagram page,including the date and location of snowfall.A 72-hour back trajectory for each snowfall event was initiated for both Afriski and the whole of Lesotho.This amounts to models of moisture source trajectories for 28 and 82 snowfall days,respectively.These air mass pathways are classified according to their frequency per snowfall event,per month in the snow season,per year and for the full period.From this,associated moisture source regions and dominant air mass trajectories were identified.This study reports that the air mass trajectories associated with Afriski and Lesotho as a whole are very similar.The most common pathway of air mass trajectories transporting snow-bearing moisture to Lesotho was an inland trajectory from the northern regions of southern Africa.This pathway makes up 16.6%of all trajectories reported and is associated with the Angola Low,the Congo Air Boundary and the St.Helena High Pressure.展开更多
The proliferation of internet communication channels has increased telecom fraud,causing billions of euros in losses for customers and the industry each year.Fraudsters constantly find new ways to engage in illegal ac...The proliferation of internet communication channels has increased telecom fraud,causing billions of euros in losses for customers and the industry each year.Fraudsters constantly find new ways to engage in illegal activity on the network.To reduce these losses,a new fraud detection approach is required.Telecom fraud detection involves identifying a small number of fraudulent calls from a vast amount of call traffic.Developing an effective strategy to combat fraud has become challenging.Although much effort has been made to detect fraud,most existing methods are designed for batch processing,not real-time detection.To solve this problem,we propose an online fraud detection model using a Neural Factorization Autoencoder(NFA),which analyzes customer calling patterns to detect fraudulent calls.The model employs Neural Factorization Machines(NFM)and an Autoencoder(AE)to model calling patterns and a memory module to adapt to changing customer behaviour.We evaluate our approach on a large dataset of real-world call detail records and compare it with several state-of-the-art methods.Our results show that our approach outperforms the baselines,with an AUC of 91.06%,a TPR of 91.89%,an FPR of 14.76%,and an F1-score of 95.45%.These results demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach in detecting fraud in real-time and suggest that it can be a valuable tool for preventing fraud in telecommunications networks.展开更多
Ever since the introduction of Western biomedicine into China, there has been friction between proponents of this new approach, and proponents of the traditional medical practices that had evolved over thousands of ye...Ever since the introduction of Western biomedicine into China, there has been friction between proponents of this new approach, and proponents of the traditional medical practices that had evolved over thousands of years in China. For the most part, this friction has been couched in the unexamined assumption that Western medicine is based on science, while Chinese medicine is not. This article will examine that assumption, which in this author’s opinion is unjustified and incorrect. Having practiced acupuncture for the past 50 years, after receiving my doctoral degrees in medicine and physiology, my thinking on this topic has also evolved over time. I will begin this article with some historical information that bears on the topic under discussion, followed by my personal ideas about how to resolve the confiicts that have arisen.展开更多
ZnO nanowires(ZnO NWs),ZnO nanoparticles(ZnO NPs)and carbon dots(C-dots)were synthesized by hydrothermal,sol-gel and hydrothermal methods respectively.They were also characterized and applied for dye sensitized solar ...ZnO nanowires(ZnO NWs),ZnO nanoparticles(ZnO NPs)and carbon dots(C-dots)were synthesized by hydrothermal,sol-gel and hydrothermal methods respectively.They were also characterized and applied for dye sensitized solar cells(DSSCs).The effects of C-dots on ZnO NWs and ZnO NPs have been evaluated.The C-dots were used at a mole ratio of citric acid(CA)to ethylene diamine(EDA)of 1:1.5.These C-dots were found to enhance the performance of the flexible electrode DSSCs.After the addition of C-dots,the power conversion efficiency(PCE)of ZnO NPs was boosted to be two times higher than that of ZnO NPs DSSCs without C-dots.Similarly,the ultraviolet(UV)-band revealed a blue shift,resulting in a lower band gap and a reduced charge transfer resistance,which can enhance the PCE of DSSCs.The loaded quantity on the flexible electrode substrate made of polyethylene terephthalate(PET)was optimized(50 mg).For DSSCs,the PET flexible electrode conductive polymer has produced positive outcomes.For ZnO NWs and ZnO NWs@C-dots,the PCE values were 1.45%and 4.25%;while for ZnO NPs and ZnO NPs@C-dots,they were 2.34%and 5.81%,respectively.This work achieved remarkable and competitive performance when compared to solid(indium tin oxides/glass)-based substrate.展开更多
The cicada genus Vietanna is reviewed based on the descriptions of two new species,V.perparva sp.nov.and V.longiloba sp.nov.,from China.The relationship of this genus to related taxa is discussed based on the phylogen...The cicada genus Vietanna is reviewed based on the descriptions of two new species,V.perparva sp.nov.and V.longiloba sp.nov.,from China.The relationship of this genus to related taxa is discussed based on the phylogeny of Vietanna and representative species from subtribes Puranina,Leptopsaltriina,Euterpnosiina and Leptosemiina based on the mitochondrial gene COI and nuclear genes EF-1αand ARD1.展开更多
Breast cancer is one of the major health issues with high mortality rates and a substantial impact on patients and healthcare systems worldwide.Various Computer-Aided Diagnosis(CAD)tools,based on breast thermograms,ha...Breast cancer is one of the major health issues with high mortality rates and a substantial impact on patients and healthcare systems worldwide.Various Computer-Aided Diagnosis(CAD)tools,based on breast thermograms,have been developed for early detection of this disease.However,accurately segmenting the Region of Interest(ROI)fromthermograms remains challenging.This paper presents an approach that leverages image acquisition protocol parameters to identify the lateral breast region and estimate its bottomboundary using a second-degree polynomial.The proposed method demonstrated high efficacy,achieving an impressive Jaccard coefficient of 86%and a Dice index of 92%when evaluated against manually created ground truths.Textural features were extracted from each view’s ROI,with significant features selected via Mutual Information for training Multi-Layer Perceptron(MLP)and K-Nearest Neighbors(KNN)classifiers.Our findings revealed that the MLP classifier outperformed the KNN,achieving an accuracy of 86%,a specificity of 100%,and an Area Under the Curve(AUC)of 0.85.The consistency of the method across both sides of the breast suggests its viability as an auto-segmentation tool.Furthermore,the classification results suggests that lateral views of breast thermograms harbor valuable features that can significantly aid in the early detection of breast cancer.展开更多
Lipedema is a chronic disorder primarily affecting women,characterized by abnormal fat deposition in the extremities,leading to pain,mobility issues,and psychological distress.These fat deposits are clear-cut and spar...Lipedema is a chronic disorder primarily affecting women,characterized by abnormal fat deposition in the extremities,leading to pain,mobility issues,and psychological distress.These fat deposits are clear-cut and spare hands and feet.Often misdiagnosed as lymphedema,its prevalence remains uncertain due to a lack of universally accepted diagnostic criteria and difficulty in differentiating it from obesity or lymphedema.Genetic factors and hormonal influences are likely related to the pathophysiology of the disease,though the specific causes remain unknown.Imaging techniques may aid evaluation,but no definitive test exists,and diagnosis is made clinically.Conservative treatments such as lifestyle modifications and compression garments are considered first-line treatments,while surgical options such as liposuction and lipectomy are reserved for severe or refractory cases.Psychological support may be recommended,given lipedema’s impact on quality of life and self-esteem.This review aims to present the current understanding of this condition,including challenges in diagnosis,current guideline recommendations for clinical care,and associated comorbid conditions.展开更多
To investigate the dominant species and interspecific association in the phytoplankton community of the Feiyun River basin in Zhejiang Province,East China,the main stream and the Shanxi Zhaoshandu Reservoir in the dow...To investigate the dominant species and interspecific association in the phytoplankton community of the Feiyun River basin in Zhejiang Province,East China,the main stream and the Shanxi Zhaoshandu Reservoir in the downstream were chosen as the study area,for which 22 sampling sites were designated.Sampling was conducted in September 2021,January,May,and July 2022.Phytoplankton species were identified from both quantitative samples and in-vivo observations.Phytoplankton was quantified by direct counting.Results show that there were 98 species belonging to 6 phyla and 78 genera.In addition,to clarify the niches of the dominant phytoplankton species and their interspecific association,the dominance index was calculated,and a comprehensive analysis was conducted including niche width,niche overlap value,ecological response rate,overall association,chi-square test,and the stability.The phytoplankton community exhibited characteristics of a Cyanobacteria-Chlorophyta-Diatom type community,showing higher diversity in spring and lower diversity in summer.Among 11 dominants phytoplankton species from 3 phyla,both frequency and dominance degree varied seasonally,of which Microcystis sp.was the dominant species in Spring,Autumn,and Winter.The niche widths of the dominant species ranged from 0.234 to 0.933,and were categorized into three groups.The niche overlap values of the 11 dominant species ranged from 0.359 to 0.959,exhibiting significant seasonal differences-highest in winter followed by autumn,spring,and summer in turn.The overall correlation among dominant species in all four seasons revealed a non-significant negative association,resulting in an unstable community structure.A significant portion(84.2%)of species pairs displayed positive associations,suggesting a successional pattern where Diatoms dominated while other dominant species shared resources and space.Despite this pattern,stability measurements indicated that the dominant species community remained unstable.Therefore,careful monitoring is recommended for potential water environment issues arising from abnormal proliferation of dominant species in the watershed during winter.This research built a theoretical foundation with a data support to the early warning of eutrophication and provided a reference for water resources management in similar watersheds along the eastern coast of China.展开更多
文摘Background: Ethiopia is one of the countries with the highest Human Immune-deficiency Virus (HIV) and Tuberculosis (TB) infection rates in the world. To improve TB/HIV Programs outcomes through Public Private Partnership Mix (PPM) approach was in place since 2006. But the status of its implementation has never been assessed. Methods: In this cross sectional study we employed mixed methods;we interviewed 272 tuberculosis patients, reviewed their records, and facilitated six in-depth interviews and four focus group discussions. The survey was conducted from January through March 2014 in Addis Ababa. Result: Among the interviewees 51.5% were males and the mean age was (32.7 ± SD 12.4) years. PPM facilities were offering HIV counseling for all TB patients;whereas 87.5% of TB patients have received HIV testing services. The TB/HIV co-infection rate was 45.4%. And only 72.2% TB/HIV patients were enrolled into chronic disease care services, 64.8% were put on Cotrimoxazol Preventive Therapy (CPT) and 50% were put on standard highly active anti-retro viral therapy (HAART) services. All PPM facilities don’t have IPT (Isoniazid Prophylaxis Therapy). The TB/HIV collaborative services strongly linked with the public health sector which was documented by developing inclusive work plan which create access to supplies and conducting joint supportive supervisions. However, the majorities of PPM facilities don’t have Multi-Disciplinary Team and lacks some essential supplies. The predictor for uptake of CPT were: being females TB patients was 86% lower than their counter part males (AOR = 0.14;95% CI = 0.04 - 0.92 P = 0.002), patients who has attended their TB/HIV care at private for the profit facilities were 84% lower than those attend in private not for profit facilities (AOR = 0.16;95% CI = 0.49 - 0.55, P = 0.003). Conclusions: The TB/HIV collaborative services at program level are stronger but only half of patients didn’t get the comprehensive TB/HIV collaborative services to achieve recommended quality of care. Strengthening the services and ensuring the availability of essential supplies was highly recommended.
基金the phased achievement of the key project of 12th Five-Year Plan of the National Education Sciences"The Study of Distribution and Influential Factors of Private University in China"(NO.DFA140218)the key project of soft science research of Sichuan"Sustainable Development and the Construction of Dynamic Mechanism and Assessment System of Private University"(NO.2013RZB01009)
文摘The sustainable development of private university has become the focus of the academia and the private higher education after an approximately golden period.Through the method of literature review and cluster analysis,this paper studies the concept of sustainable development of private university from the perspective of the connotation definition and epitaxial recognition,in order to effectively reveal the essence of the sustainable development of private university,hoping to provide some certain support for the theory and practice of sustainable development of private university.
文摘Private law doctrine and private international law are intimately linked.The links between them,although seldom discussed,are ubiquitous.These links can only be briefly outlined here,and the following pages are but a sketch of them.This essay is dedicated to Claus-Wilhelm Canaris,who in 1987 used the example of the Convention providing a Uniform Lawfor Bills of Exchange and Promissory Notes to develop a methodological analysis for resolving the conflict of inconsistent legal values expressed in autonomous,unharmonized substantive law and in uniform substantive law.
基金supported by the Australian Biomass for Bioenergy Assessment(ABBA)Project,Queensland Government
文摘Background: Australia's energy future is at the crossroads and the role of renewable sources is in focus. Biomass from sustainably managed forests provide a significant opportunity for electricity and heat generation and production of liquid fuels. Australia has extensive native forests of which a significant proportion are on private land. However, there is limited knowledge on the potential capacity of this resource to contribute to the expansion of a biomass for bioenergy industry. In addition, there are concerns on how to reconcile biomass harvesting with environmental protection. Methods: We used regional ecosystem vegetation mapping for Queensland to stratify harvestable forests within the 1.8 m hectares of private native forests present in the Southeast Queensland bioregion in 2014. We used a dataset of 52,620 individual tree measurements from 541 forest inventory plots collected over the last 10 years. Tree biomass was estimated using current biomass allometric equations for Australia. Biomass potentially available from selective sawlog harvesting and silvicultural treatment across the bioregion was calculated and mapped. Results: Current sawlog harvesting extracts 41.4% of the standing tree biomass and a biomass for bioenergy harvest would retain on average 36% of felled tree biomass on site for the protection of environmental and fauna habitat values. The estimated area extent of harvestable private native forests in the bioregion in 2013 was 888,000 ha and estimated available biomass for bioenergy in living trees was 13.6 million tonnes (t). The spotted gum (Corymbio citriodora subsp, variegata) forests were the most extensive, covering an area of 379,823 ha and with a biomass for bioenergy yield of 14.2 t-ha-1 (with approximately 11.2 t.ha-1 of the biomass harvested from silvicultural thinning and 3 t.ha-1 recovered from sawlog harvest residual). Conclusions: Silvicultural treatment of private native forests in the Southeast Queensland bioregion, has the capacity to supply a large quantity of biomass for bioenergy. The availability of a biomass for bioenergy market, and integration of sawlog harvesting and silvicultural treatment operations, could provide land owners with additional commercial incentive to improve the management of private native forests. This could potentially promote restoration of degraded forests, ecological sustainability and continued provision of wood products.
文摘Private capital is one of the main driving forces in China's initiatives towards stimulating the market economy. The development of private economy in China has always been based on integrating industrial and corporate structures with product composition and market structures. This paper explores the development of the private economy and how it integrates different industries with specific markets by analyzing the leading private sector in Zhejiang province. It also examines the trends of industrial cluster, the formation of the agglomerative economy and their effects on private economy development. Finally, the paper explains why Zhejiang people have profited much from the Wenzhou model and discusses some existing problems and future possibilities for development of the Wenzhou model.
文摘In recent years,closing down private higher education institutions(HEIs)has become a serious problem in China.It seems that doubt is cast on the rationality of private HEIs and severe competition contributes a lot to their development.Many problems in the process of self-development are caused by both internal and external factors.From the perspective of sustainable development and the healthy development of students,priority should be given to the evolution of an idea to provide a positive environment for the development of private HEIs.This paper is an effort to deal with the statement that higher education in China is a seller’s market and aims to do an objective estimate of the development space for private HEIs.In addition,it shows a clear understanding of establishing the prediction system for relevant issues of private higher education to guarantee the sound development of private HEIs.
文摘Highlights•This study explores features of professional learning community(PLC)models in the educational contexts in Bahrain and Oman.•Findings based on the case studies of PLCs in two private schools in Bahrain and Oman,and theoretical input from international PLC literature has implications for policy and practice.•Study recommends promoting PLC approaches in the Bahraini and Omani educational systems in pre-and in-service teacher training programs,adapting best international PLC practices to the specific educational contexts of Bahrain and Oman,preparing school principals to lead PLC in their schools,providing human and financial support to these communities,and making school cultures more collaborative.•This study highlights the importance of the PLC approach,expands the existing conceptual/analytical framework,demonstrates how this approach is being used in two schools,and encourages other practitioners and researchers to embrace PLC.
文摘This comprehensive review embarks on a captivating journey into the complex relationship between cardiology and normal-tension glaucoma(NTG),a condition that continues to baffle clinicians and researchers alike.NTG,characterized by optic nerve damage and visual field loss despite normal intraocular pressure,has long puzzled clinicians.One emerging perspective suggests that alterations in ocular blood flow,particularly within the optic nerve head,may play a pivotal role in its pathogenesis.While NTG shares commonalities with its high-tension counterpart,its unique pathogenesis and potential ties to cardiovascular health make it a fascinating subject of exploration.It navigates through the complex web of vascular dysregulation,blood pressure and perfusion pressure,neurovascular coupling,and oxidative stress,seeking to uncover the hidden threads that tie the heart and eyes together in NTG.This review explores into the intricate mechanisms connecting cardiovascular factors to NTG,shedding light on how cardiac dynamics can influence ocular health,particularly in cases where intraocular pressure remains within the normal range.NTG's enigmatic nature,often characterized by seemingly contradictory risk factors and clinical profiles,underscores the need for a holistic approach to patient care.Drawing parallels to cardiac health,we examine into the shared vascular terrain connecting the heart and the eyes.Cardiovascular factors,including systemic blood flow,endothelial dysfunction,and microcirculatory anomalies,may exert a profound influence on ocular perfusion,impacting the delicate balance within the optic nerve head.By elucidating the subtle clues and potential associations between cardiology and NTG,this review invites clinicians to consider a broader perspective in their evaluation and management of this elusive condition.As the understanding of these connections evolves,so too may the prospects for early diagnosis and tailored interventions,ultimately enhancing the quality of life for those living with NTG.
文摘Glaucoma,a prevalent and debilitating eye disease,has long been associated with vision impairment and blindness.However,recent research has shed light on the often-underestimated psychological dimensions of this condition.Anxiety and depression,two pervasive psychiatric comorbidities,have been increasingly recognized among glaucoma patients.This comprehensive review aims to explore the intricate relationship between psychiatry and ophthalmology,in the context of managing depression and anxiety in glaucoma patients.By meticulously examining peer-reviewed literature,we synthesize current knowledge on the prevalence,risk factors,and underlying mechanisms of anxiety and depression in glaucoma.The evidence reveals that glaucoma patients face an elevated risk of experiencing these mood disorders.Factors such as progressive vision loss,complex medication regimens,and the fear of further visual deterioration contribute to their vulnerability.Moreover,we delve into the bidirectional relationship between glaucoma and mood disorders,shedding light on the complex interplay between ocular and emotional health.Our review investigates the implications of anxiety and depression on glaucoma management,including their potential impact on treatment adherence,disease progression,and overall quality of life.We also explore the neurobiological pathways linking glaucoma and mood disorders,providing a foundation for future research and potential therapeutic interventions.In conclusion,recognizing the psychological burden carried by glaucoma patients is essential for holistic and patient-centered care.This review underscores the pressing need for integrated approaches that bring together ophthalmological and psychiatric expertise to optimize the well-being of individuals facing the challenges of glaucoma.By addressing anxiety and depression in glaucoma care,healthcare providers can enhance the overall quality of life for these patients,ultimately leading to improved outcomes and a brighter future for those affected by this condition.This review offers valuable insight for healthcare practitioners and researchers,providing a concise overview of key topics and research in the field of managing depression and anxiety in glaucoma patients.
基金University of the Witwatersrand Additional funding is from the DSI-National Research Foundation(NRF)Thuthuka Grant(Grant UID:121973)and DSI-NRF CIMERA.
文摘The pursuit of improved quality of life standards has significantly influenced the contemporary mining model in the 21st century.This era is witnessing an unprecedented transformation driven by pressing concerns related to sustainability,climate change,the just energy transition,dynamic operating environments,and complex social challenges.Such transitions present both opportunities and obstacles.The aim of this study is to provide an extensive literature review on energy transition to identify the challenges and strategies associated with navigating transformations in energy systems.Understanding these transformations is particularly critical in the face of the severe consequences of global warming,where an accelerated energy transition is viewed as a universal remedy.Adopting a socio-technological systems perspective,specifically through the application of Actor Network Theory(ANT),this research provides a theoretical foundation while categorising challenges into five distinct domains and outlining strategies across these different dimensions.These insights are specifically tailored for emerging market countries to effectively navigate energy transition while fostering the development of resilient societies.Furthermore,our findings highlight that energy transition encompasses more than a mere technological shift;it entails fundamental changes in various systemic socio-economic imperatives.Through focusing on the role of social structures in transitions,this study makes a significant and innovative contribution to ANT,which has historically been criticised for its limited acknowledgement of social structures.Consequently,we propose an emerging market energy transition framework,which not only addresses technological aspects,but also integrates social considerations.This framework paves the way for future research and exploration of energy transition dynamics.The outcomes of this study offer valuable insights to policymakers,researchers,and practitioners engaged in the mining industry,enabling them to comprehend the multifaceted challenges involved and providing practical strategies for effective resolution.Through incorporating the social dimension into the analysis,we enhance the understanding of the complex nature of energy system transformations,facilitating a more holistic approach towards achieving sustainable and resilient energy transitions in emerging markets and beyond.
文摘Vitamin D is a steroid hormone that is naturally produced in the body or obtained through dietary sources,primarily under the influence of UVB radiation.This essential nutrient has a vital role in numerous physiological processes,encom-passing immune function,cell growth,differentiation,insulin regulation,and cardiovascular well-being,along with its pivotal role in sustaining the delicate equilibrium of calcium and phosphate concentrations in the body.Moreover,vitamin D reinforces mucosal defense and bolsters the immune system through immunomodulation,making it a critical component of overall health.Numerous studies have unveiled the profound connection between vitamin D and the predisposition to respiratory tract infections,including well-known viruses such as influenza and the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2.Vita-min D deficiency has been consistently linked to increased severity of coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)and a heightened risk of mortality among afflicted individuals.Retrospective observational studies have further substantiated these findings,indicating that levels of vitamin D are linked with both the occurrence and severity of COVID-19 cases.Vitamin D has its influence on viral infections th-rough a multitude of mechanisms,such as promoting the release of antimicrobial peptides and fine-tuning the responses of the immune system.Additionally,vitamin D is intertwined with the intricate network of the renin–angiotensin system,suggesting a potential impact on the development of complications related to COVID-19.While further clinical trials and extensive research are warranted,the existing body of evidence strongly hints at the possible use of vitamin D as a valuable tool in the prophylaxis and management of COVID-19 and other viral infectious diseases.
基金the University of the Witwatersrand Friedel Sellschop Grantthe WitsUCL strategic partnership grant
文摘An average of eight snowfall events occur each year in the eastern Lesotho Highlands.These snowfall events are typically associated with cut-off low(CoLs)systems and mid-latitude cyclones.However,the moisture sources of the snowfall are unclassified and unclear.The Hybrid Single-Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory(HYSPLIT)model,an air mass back trajectory model,has been used to evaluate moisture source waters locally in southern Africa and internationally in China and Europe.This study uses HYSPLIT to determine the source moisture of snow in Lesotho.A list of all 82 snowfall events in Lesotho spanning 2017 to 2022 was compiled using the Snow Report SA Instagram page,including the date and location of snowfall.A 72-hour back trajectory for each snowfall event was initiated for both Afriski and the whole of Lesotho.This amounts to models of moisture source trajectories for 28 and 82 snowfall days,respectively.These air mass pathways are classified according to their frequency per snowfall event,per month in the snow season,per year and for the full period.From this,associated moisture source regions and dominant air mass trajectories were identified.This study reports that the air mass trajectories associated with Afriski and Lesotho as a whole are very similar.The most common pathway of air mass trajectories transporting snow-bearing moisture to Lesotho was an inland trajectory from the northern regions of southern Africa.This pathway makes up 16.6%of all trajectories reported and is associated with the Angola Low,the Congo Air Boundary and the St.Helena High Pressure.
基金This research work has been conducted in cooperation with members of DETSI project supported by BPI France and Pays de Loire and Auvergne Rhone Alpes.
文摘The proliferation of internet communication channels has increased telecom fraud,causing billions of euros in losses for customers and the industry each year.Fraudsters constantly find new ways to engage in illegal activity on the network.To reduce these losses,a new fraud detection approach is required.Telecom fraud detection involves identifying a small number of fraudulent calls from a vast amount of call traffic.Developing an effective strategy to combat fraud has become challenging.Although much effort has been made to detect fraud,most existing methods are designed for batch processing,not real-time detection.To solve this problem,we propose an online fraud detection model using a Neural Factorization Autoencoder(NFA),which analyzes customer calling patterns to detect fraudulent calls.The model employs Neural Factorization Machines(NFM)and an Autoencoder(AE)to model calling patterns and a memory module to adapt to changing customer behaviour.We evaluate our approach on a large dataset of real-world call detail records and compare it with several state-of-the-art methods.Our results show that our approach outperforms the baselines,with an AUC of 91.06%,a TPR of 91.89%,an FPR of 14.76%,and an F1-score of 95.45%.These results demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach in detecting fraud in real-time and suggest that it can be a valuable tool for preventing fraud in telecommunications networks.
文摘Ever since the introduction of Western biomedicine into China, there has been friction between proponents of this new approach, and proponents of the traditional medical practices that had evolved over thousands of years in China. For the most part, this friction has been couched in the unexamined assumption that Western medicine is based on science, while Chinese medicine is not. This article will examine that assumption, which in this author’s opinion is unjustified and incorrect. Having practiced acupuncture for the past 50 years, after receiving my doctoral degrees in medicine and physiology, my thinking on this topic has also evolved over time. I will begin this article with some historical information that bears on the topic under discussion, followed by my personal ideas about how to resolve the confiicts that have arisen.
文摘ZnO nanowires(ZnO NWs),ZnO nanoparticles(ZnO NPs)and carbon dots(C-dots)were synthesized by hydrothermal,sol-gel and hydrothermal methods respectively.They were also characterized and applied for dye sensitized solar cells(DSSCs).The effects of C-dots on ZnO NWs and ZnO NPs have been evaluated.The C-dots were used at a mole ratio of citric acid(CA)to ethylene diamine(EDA)of 1:1.5.These C-dots were found to enhance the performance of the flexible electrode DSSCs.After the addition of C-dots,the power conversion efficiency(PCE)of ZnO NPs was boosted to be two times higher than that of ZnO NPs DSSCs without C-dots.Similarly,the ultraviolet(UV)-band revealed a blue shift,resulting in a lower band gap and a reduced charge transfer resistance,which can enhance the PCE of DSSCs.The loaded quantity on the flexible electrode substrate made of polyethylene terephthalate(PET)was optimized(50 mg).For DSSCs,the PET flexible electrode conductive polymer has produced positive outcomes.For ZnO NWs and ZnO NWs@C-dots,the PCE values were 1.45%and 4.25%;while for ZnO NPs and ZnO NPs@C-dots,they were 2.34%and 5.81%,respectively.This work achieved remarkable and competitive performance when compared to solid(indium tin oxides/glass)-based substrate.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32070476,32270496)。
文摘The cicada genus Vietanna is reviewed based on the descriptions of two new species,V.perparva sp.nov.and V.longiloba sp.nov.,from China.The relationship of this genus to related taxa is discussed based on the phylogeny of Vietanna and representative species from subtribes Puranina,Leptopsaltriina,Euterpnosiina and Leptosemiina based on the mitochondrial gene COI and nuclear genes EF-1αand ARD1.
基金supported by the research grant(SEED-CCIS-2024-166),Prince Sultan University,Saudi Arabia。
文摘Breast cancer is one of the major health issues with high mortality rates and a substantial impact on patients and healthcare systems worldwide.Various Computer-Aided Diagnosis(CAD)tools,based on breast thermograms,have been developed for early detection of this disease.However,accurately segmenting the Region of Interest(ROI)fromthermograms remains challenging.This paper presents an approach that leverages image acquisition protocol parameters to identify the lateral breast region and estimate its bottomboundary using a second-degree polynomial.The proposed method demonstrated high efficacy,achieving an impressive Jaccard coefficient of 86%and a Dice index of 92%when evaluated against manually created ground truths.Textural features were extracted from each view’s ROI,with significant features selected via Mutual Information for training Multi-Layer Perceptron(MLP)and K-Nearest Neighbors(KNN)classifiers.Our findings revealed that the MLP classifier outperformed the KNN,achieving an accuracy of 86%,a specificity of 100%,and an Area Under the Curve(AUC)of 0.85.The consistency of the method across both sides of the breast suggests its viability as an auto-segmentation tool.Furthermore,the classification results suggests that lateral views of breast thermograms harbor valuable features that can significantly aid in the early detection of breast cancer.
文摘Lipedema is a chronic disorder primarily affecting women,characterized by abnormal fat deposition in the extremities,leading to pain,mobility issues,and psychological distress.These fat deposits are clear-cut and spare hands and feet.Often misdiagnosed as lymphedema,its prevalence remains uncertain due to a lack of universally accepted diagnostic criteria and difficulty in differentiating it from obesity or lymphedema.Genetic factors and hormonal influences are likely related to the pathophysiology of the disease,though the specific causes remain unknown.Imaging techniques may aid evaluation,but no definitive test exists,and diagnosis is made clinically.Conservative treatments such as lifestyle modifications and compression garments are considered first-line treatments,while surgical options such as liposuction and lipectomy are reserved for severe or refractory cases.Psychological support may be recommended,given lipedema’s impact on quality of life and self-esteem.This review aims to present the current understanding of this condition,including challenges in diagnosis,current guideline recommendations for clinical care,and associated comorbid conditions.
基金Supported by the National Key Scientific Research Project(No.2018YFC1508200)the Postgraduate Research&Practice Innovation Program of Jiangsu Province(No.KYCX 23_0714)+1 种基金the China Scholarship Council(No.202206710066)the Construction Project of Wenzhou Hydrology High quality Development Pilot Zone(No.WZSW-GZLFZXXQ-202105)。
文摘To investigate the dominant species and interspecific association in the phytoplankton community of the Feiyun River basin in Zhejiang Province,East China,the main stream and the Shanxi Zhaoshandu Reservoir in the downstream were chosen as the study area,for which 22 sampling sites were designated.Sampling was conducted in September 2021,January,May,and July 2022.Phytoplankton species were identified from both quantitative samples and in-vivo observations.Phytoplankton was quantified by direct counting.Results show that there were 98 species belonging to 6 phyla and 78 genera.In addition,to clarify the niches of the dominant phytoplankton species and their interspecific association,the dominance index was calculated,and a comprehensive analysis was conducted including niche width,niche overlap value,ecological response rate,overall association,chi-square test,and the stability.The phytoplankton community exhibited characteristics of a Cyanobacteria-Chlorophyta-Diatom type community,showing higher diversity in spring and lower diversity in summer.Among 11 dominants phytoplankton species from 3 phyla,both frequency and dominance degree varied seasonally,of which Microcystis sp.was the dominant species in Spring,Autumn,and Winter.The niche widths of the dominant species ranged from 0.234 to 0.933,and were categorized into three groups.The niche overlap values of the 11 dominant species ranged from 0.359 to 0.959,exhibiting significant seasonal differences-highest in winter followed by autumn,spring,and summer in turn.The overall correlation among dominant species in all four seasons revealed a non-significant negative association,resulting in an unstable community structure.A significant portion(84.2%)of species pairs displayed positive associations,suggesting a successional pattern where Diatoms dominated while other dominant species shared resources and space.Despite this pattern,stability measurements indicated that the dominant species community remained unstable.Therefore,careful monitoring is recommended for potential water environment issues arising from abnormal proliferation of dominant species in the watershed during winter.This research built a theoretical foundation with a data support to the early warning of eutrophication and provided a reference for water resources management in similar watersheds along the eastern coast of China.