Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Role of Community Based Health Insurance Scheme on Financial Protection and Healthcare Seeking Behavior of Households in Tehuledere District, Northeast Ethiopia

Healthcare financing in many developing countries dominantly come from out-of-pocket expenditure, and it has remained problematic for its catastrophic consequences on the poor. Community based health insurance scheme become potential strategy to protect households from out- of –pocket expenditure and impoverishment, and access affordable and effective healthcare. Therefore, this study examined the role of community based health insurance on financial protection and healthcare seeking behavior of households in rural Ethiopia. Mixed research approach employed concurrently to collect data from participants, and collected data were analyzed through descriptive, inferential and thematic analysis. The study finding revealed that 71.5% of households protected from extra out of payments (other than premium payment for the scheme). Furthermore, large number of respondents (66.3%) replied that price for the scheme was easily affordable. Moreover, by avoiding out -of -pocket payment, community based health insurance improve healthcare seek behavior of households from modern healthcare providers. However, there were challenges in reimbursement, moral hazards or miss utilizations and adverse selections or the inclusion of chronically ill, poor and fee waivers during enrolment. In general, in the absence of third party and prepayment systems such as health insurance and tax-based healthcare financing, households in many low-income countries are exposed to the financial risks of paying large medical bills from out-of-pocket demands introduction of community based health insurance as alternative financial approach.
Nutritional status of urban slum children below five years: Assessment by anthropometric measurements with special reference to socioeconomic status

This study presents the findings on the nutritional profile of under 5 years of age children in different slums of Kushtia district in Bangladesh by anthropometric measurements with special reference to their socioeconomic status. It is a cross sectional survey conducted on 105 children. The results show that parents educational level and family incomes are very poor, which indicates that they belong to the low socioeconomic status. Most of them live in semi tin shed houses and majority of them use sanitary latrine and tube well water but none of them boil water before drinking. Anthropometric measurements were performed by standard methods (NCHS and Gomez classification). Mean (±SD) weight, height and mid upper arm circumference (MUAC) of the children were 13(±1.91) kg, 91.76(±7.65) cm and 14.26(±1.21) cm, respectively. Mean weight, height and MUAC for male were 13.12(±1.66) kg, 91.66(±6.74) cm and 14.39(±0.94) cm, respectively, and for female children 12.88(±2.15) kg, 91.81(±8.13) cm and 13.93(±1.00) cm, respectively. Values of weight tend to be higher for male children. The growth performance (underweight) of the children was measured by using the indicator weight for age (W/A Z score). It showed that 1.90% of the children were severely underweight (-3 SD) and 31.42% moderately underweight (-2.00 to -2.99 SD). Of children 40% had mild underweight between -1.00 to -1.99 SD of the NCHS median. According to Gomez classification, 90.19% of male and 92.59% of female children were moderately underweight. Children weight for height (Z-score) according to age group amongst all the children showed that 8.57% were wasted (-2 SD to <-3 SD), and 56.86% and 3.92% of male and 72.22% and 5.55% of female children were wasted and severely wasted, respectively. Children height for age Z-score was between -1.00 to +1.99 SD of the NCHS median. The prevalence of severe stunting (<-3 SD) was about 8.57% and that of moderate stunting (-2.99 to -2.00 SD) 25.71%.
Effects of Curcumin on Autophagy and Nrf2 signaling pathway in a Rat Model of High fructose diet induced Steatohepatitis

Increased fructose consumption predisposes to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). There no effective treatment to be used as the second line when lifestyle modification is insufficient . So, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Curcumin on some biochemical markers in fructose induced NASH . Sixty male albino rats were divided randomly and equally into three groups. Group I (control group). Group II (NASH group), received 70% fructose for 5 weeks . Group III (curcumin treated NASH group), fed as group II followed by daily administration of curcumin at a dose of 50 mg/kg orally for 6 weeks. Blood samples were collected to measure lipid profile, and liver enzymes activities . Liver tissues samples were collected for estimation of mRNA expression levels of nuclear factor E2-related factor-2 (Nrf2) using quantitative real-time PCR ,levels of Beclin 1, AMPK, IL6 and Nrf2 DNA-binding activity by ELISA method, and oxidative stress markers malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD) ,GSH spectrophotometrically. NASH was confirmed by histopathology as well as increased activity of liver enzymes and marked dyslipidemia . Curcumin ameliorated biochemical disturbance in NASH by upregulating autophagy process through increasing Beclin 1, increasing AMPK and hampered IL6 levels in the liver . It also restored redox balance as evident by suppressing MDA formation and preservation of intracellular antioxidants status via increasing GSH, activating SOD and Nrf2 signaling pathway. Results suggested that curcumin has an effective role in counteracting both abnormalities in autophagy process and redox balance, supporting the potential utility of this natural product in effective treatment of NASH.
A multi-method approach to radial-velocity measurement for single-object spectra

Context. The derivation of radial velocities from large numbers of spectra that typically result from survey work, requires automation. However, except for the classical cases of slowly rotating late-type spectra, existing methods of measuring Doppler shifts require fine-tuning to avoid a loss of accuracy due to the idiosyncrasies of individual spectra. The radial velocity spectrometer (RVS) on the Gaia mission, which will start operating very soon, prompted a new attempt at creating a measurement pipeline to handle a wide variety of spectral types. Aims. The present paper describes the theoretical background on which this software is based. However, apart from the assumption that only synthetic templates are used, we do not rely on any of the characteristics of this instrument, so our results should be relevant for most telescope-detector combinations. Methods. We propose an approach based on the simultaneous use of several alternative measurement methods, each having its own merits and drawbacks, and conveying the spectral information in a different way, leading to different values for the measurement. A comparison or a combination of the various results either leads to a “best estimate” or indicates to the user that the observed spectrum is problematic and should be analysed manually. Results. We selected three methods and analysed the relationships and differences between them from a unified point of view; with each method an appropriate estimator for the individual random error is chosen. We also develop a procedure for tackling the problem of template mismatch in a systematic way. Furthermore, we propose several tests for studying and comparing the performance of the various methods as a function of the atmospheric parameters of the observed objects. Finally, we describe a procedure for obtaining a knowledge-based combination of the various Doppler-shift measurements.
Neighborhood and Regional Effects on Trip Dispersal: A Case Study Using Data from the 9 Largest Metropolitan Regions in Switzerland

Using the 2010 Swiss Microcensus, the effect of neighborhood and regional-level urban form variables on travel dispersal is explored by way of activity spaces, origin-destination data on 60,000 residents living in metropolitan areas of varying size, density, and population, enabling the authors to distinguish the respective roles played by local and regional variations in land use. This is carried out using ordinary least squares (OLS) and simultaneous equation model (SEM) regression analysis, with the area of the activity space as dependent variable. The authors' results indicate that neighborhood type has a large effect on the overall dispersal of travel by residents, whereas regional effects, found elsewhere to be very large, were found to be quite small. Distance from the core, for residents of inner-urban areas, also has a significant impact on dispersal; after approximately 8 km however, this effect is no longer significant. Very few of the other regional land use variables tested were found to be significant predictors of dispersal; only proportion population within the inner metro area, employment center access and metropolitan area shape were found to affect dispersal in a statistically significant way. Metropolitan area and population, which were hypothesized to have a significant impact on dispersal, were not found to be significant predictors when estimated using multiple regression. Finally, the hypothesis of endogeneity in explanatory variables was investigated and rejected. These results indicate that policies aimed at developing dense and mixed urban settlements carry with them the beneficial effect of reducing travel dispersal, even if not built within blocks of the central business district.
Playing time between senior rugby players of different ethnic groups across all levels of South African rugby, 2007- 2011

Background. The South African Rugby Union (SARU) has had a continual challenge to make the game representative of players of all ethnic groups at all levels of play. In response to this challenge SARU has implemented several programmes designed to accelerate the development of players from previously disadvantaged areas with the goal of making the game more representative. However, the success of these programmes to transform the player profile at different levels of rugby cannot be evaluated because the players representing different ethnic groups have not been quantified in a systematic way.Objectives. To quantify the number and playing time of South African professional players (Vodacom, Currie Cup, Super Rugby and Springboks) from different ethnic groups from 2007 to 2011 to determine whether there are any changes in the profile of the players over this period.Methods. Playing time was recorded for all players in sanctioned matches. Players were divided into the ethnic classifications used by SARU (i.e. white, coloured and black). Results. At all levels of competition there were proportionally more white players, followed by coloured players and then black players. This pattern did not change from 2007 to 2011. Based on the ratio of number of players v. playing time, the white players played more time than expected at the Springbok level, whereas the black players played less than expected for the number of players from 2007 to 2011. At the Vodacom level the white players played more than expected in 2007 and 2008 and played less than expected in 2010 and 2011, whereas the black players played more than expected in 2010 and the coloured players played more than expected at the 2011 tournament. The Super Rugby tournamenthad the most consistency between players and expected playing time for the different ethnic groups.Conclusions. Despite the effort to support players from disadvantaged backgrounds since 1998 with facilitative programmes and selection targets, the professional game is still dominated by white players at all levels.
Two Dimensional Optimal Linear Detector for Slowly Fluctuating Radar Signals in Compound Gaussian Clutter

In this paper, we propose a two dimensional (2-D) optimal linear detector (OLD) for radar target detection in compound Gaussian clutter and obtain an explicit relation of its coefficients for slowly fluctuating targets. We assume that the samples of signal and clutter are correlated in both range and azimuth directions, and the target detection in each radar cell is implemented by a 2-D samples collection of the received signal. In most conventional detectors, in each pulsation interval, the samples of echo of each radar cell are passed through a matched filter along the range, and a pre-detection is performed; then the binary results are integrated for successive echoes of that cell (along the azimuth). In fact, by applying the binary integration, we ignore the considerable correlation among 2-D data in the azimuth direction. In the proposed 2-D OLD detector, the correlation of signal and clutter in both range and azimuth directions is considered, aiming to improve the detection performance. Our simulations confirm that, this detector outperforms the conventional one dimensional OLD, as well as AND, OR, and ”κ out of n” binary integrators.
Impact of land management system on crop yields and soil fertility in Cameroon

Abstract. The impact of direct-seeding mulch-based cropping systems (DMC), direct seeding (DS) and tillage seeding (TS) on Sorghum yields, soil fertility and the rehabilitation of degraded soils was evaluated in northern Cameroon. Field work consisted of visual examination, soil sampling, yield and rainfall data collection. Three fertilization rates (F1: 100 kg ha−1 NPK + 25 kg ha−1 of urea in DMC, F2: 200 kg ha−1 NPK + 50 kg ha−1 of urea in DMC and F3: 300 kg ha−1 NPK + 100 kg ha−1 of urea in DMC) were applied to each cropping system (DS, TS and DMC), resulting in nine experimental plots. Two types of chemical fertilizer were used (NPK 22.10.15 and urea) and applied each year from 2002 to 2012. Average Sorghum yields were 1239, 863 and 960 kg ha−1 in DMC, DS and TS, respectively, at F1, 1658, 1139 and 1192 kg ha−1 in DMC, DS and TS, respectively, at F2, and 2270, 2138 and 1780 kg ha−1 in DMC, DS and TS, respectively, at F3. pH values were 5.2–5.7 under DMC, 4.9–5.3 under DS and TS and 5.6 in the control sample. High values of cation exchange capacity were recorded in the control sample, TS system and F1 of DMC. Base saturation rates, total nitrogen and organic matter contents were higher in the control sample and DMC than in the other systems. All studied soils were permanently not suitable for Sorghum due to the high percentage of nodules. F1 and F2 of the DS were currently not suitable, while F1 and F3 of DMC, F3 of DS and F1, F2 and F3 of TS were marginally suitable for Sorghum due to low pH values.
Study on the Soil Corrosivity towards the Buried-Structures in Soil Environment of Tanglaphant-Tribhuvan University Campus-Balkhu Areas of Kirtipur

Soil parameters such as moisture, pH, resistivity, oxidation-reduction potential, chloride and sulfate ions were investigated, because these parameters affect the corrosive nature of soils toward the buried-galvanized steels and cast-iron pipelines used to supply drinking water in Tanglaphant-Tribhuvan University Campus-Balkhu areas of Kirtipur. The soil parameters examined in the study areas are found as: moisture (7-48%), pH (7.0-7.9), resistivity (6,300-37,000 ohm.cm), oxidation-reduction potential (307-490 mV vs SHE), chloride (13-92 ppm) and sulfate (62-309 ppm) contents. The results gave an indication of mildly corrosive to non-corrosive nature of soils on the buried galvanized steels and cast-iron pipes used to supply drinking water in the study areas of Kirtipur. DOI: http://dx.doi. org/10.3126/njst.v14i2. 10417 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 14, No. 2 (2013) 65-72
HEALTH-RELATED QUALITY OF LIFE ASSESSMENT FOLLOWING RADICAL CYSTECTOMY IN POPULATION OF A SOUTH ASIAN COUNTRY

Purpose: Radical cystectomy is carried out for muscle invasive bladder (BL) cancer, which greatly affects the quality of life. The objective of our study was to assess the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients following radical cystectomy. Methods: A retrospective review was done in patients that underwent radical cystectomy between July 2009 and November 2014 at Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, Lahore, Pakistan. HRQoL assessments of 34 patients done during clinical psychology review were included in this study. HRQoL was assessed using functional assessment of cancer therapy-BL questionnaire. Results: Low scores were observed in physical well-being and emotional well-being domains with mean scores of 7.32 and 7.97, respectively. Patients scored high on social and family well-being, functional well-being and additional concerns, with mean scores of 24.9, 17.24 and 21.73, respectively. Conclusions: Psychological evaluation and rehabilitation should be an integral part of surveillance after radical cystectomy.
A highly efficient method for determination of some amino acids and glutathione by liquid chromatography

High-performance liquid chromatography systems (I and II) with pre-column derivatization for separation of cyst(e)ine, selenium-cystine, homo-cystine, methionine, selenium-methionine, proline and glutathione (GSH) in biological materials are described. Biological samples were derivatizated with o-phthaldialdehyde (OPA) in the presence of ethanethiol. Prior to derivatization, cyst(e)ine, methionine, GSH and proline were oxidized using improved procedures. Performic acid and sodium hypochlorite were used as the oxidizing reagents. HPLC analyses of derivatives of all oxidized compounds were carried out using a C18 column (4 μm, 250 x 4.6 mm I.D., Nova Pak, Waters) and binary gradient elution program I (HPLC system I). HPLC system I with UV monitoring (at 336 nm) and fluorescence detection (excitation and emission wavelengths at λex/λem= 336/425 nm) was chosen as providing the optimum conditions for fractionation and quantification of all of the examined compounds. In comparison with the UV detection, fluorescence detection offers better sensitivity (limits of detection: 0.9-2.4 vs 0.3-0.8 ng⋅l-1). Clear separation of cyst(e)ine, GSH, methionine and proline was obtained in about 35 min. Separation of unoxidized GSH, cystine, seleno-cystine, methionine, seleno-methionine, homo-cystine from other free amino acids was achieved using HPLC system II with UV detection at 337 nm and/or fluorescence detection (λex/λem=336/425 nm). Compared with fluorescence detection, UV monitoring offers better limits of detection (LD) of cystine, seleno-cystine and homo-cystine, while worse LD for GSH, methionine and seleno-methionine. The satisfactory purity of analytical peaks of the assayed compounds (near 100%), and the simplicity and precision of HPLC systems I and II render these methods suitable for routine analysis of these compounds in large numbers of biological samples.
Single-stage DNA splicing system via Yusof-Goode approach

Yusof-Goode (Y-G) rule is the new translucent way representing the rule in splicing system under the framework of formal language theory. The motivation behind using the Y-G approach is to simulate the actual recombinant behaviours of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) molecules. The current laboratory experimental approaches to obtain the product of the DNA splicing process involve time and cost with high probability of not getting the desired results. Hence, in this research, a mathematical concept of single-stage splicing language restricted to at most two non-palindromic initial strings and two rules with one recognition site is introduced via Y-G model. In addition, the characteristics of rule are investigated by providing mathematical proofs. Based on the characteristics of rule, some theorems and lemmas have been formulated to predict the number types of single-stage splicing language of Y-G splicing system. Furthermore, in order to determine the characterizations of single-stage splicing language, a model is developed via limit adjacency matrix approach. The limit adjacency matrix can also be used to predict the number types of transient, inert persistent and active persistent limit language. Finally, a graphic user interface and a computational model of single-stage limit language are developed using Microsoft Visual Basic (VB) programming code focusing on prediction of the conceivable resulted molecules, the number types of single-stage splicing language as well as the behaviours of single-stage splicing language
Grade Skipping From the Perspective of Teachers in Germany

The present study explored teachers’ perspectives on one specific type of acceleration, namely, grade skipping. In addition, we investigated the extent to which teachers’ beliefs about students’ academic, motivational, and social development after grade skipping may explain teachers’ acceptance of this accelerative strategy. Moreover, we examined whether teachers’ acceptance is linked to their decisions about using this intervention. Using data from the PARS project, which included 316 teachers from 18 secondary schools in the German federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia, we assessed teachers’ acceptance, beliefs, and perceived knowledge about grade skipping using 4-point rating scales. Teachers also reported whether they had advised a student to skip a grade. Multilevel regression analyses indicated that teachers’ beliefs about students’ social, motivational, and academic development largely explained their acceptance. Teachers who showed a higher level of acceptance and perceived knowledge were more likely to have recommended grade skipping before. Educational implications are discussed.
Translation as a mathematical problem: An analysis of Chinese-English and English-Chinese word equivalents

This paper is based on the hypothesis that translation involves certain complex mathematical problems, some of which are yet to be solved. When translating a word from one language to another language, it is like adding or subtracting some meaning components of the word to come up with an equivalent in the target language. In this paper we use simple mathematical equations and formulae to demonstrate how translators consciously or subconsciously employ mathematical skills to come up with equivalents of words between two or more languages. We made use of the Youdao online dictionary to check meanings of basic Chinese level 3 proficiency words. A reverse translation of the equivalents of these words shows that about 90 percent of Chinese basic words do not totally equal their so-called English equivalents. Thus, for the majority of words there is no situation where X is totally equal to Y; that is 【X≠Y】, where X represents a given word in a source language and Y represents a supposedly equivalent word in the target language. We concluded that in most cases inter-language word equivalence takes the formula X is equal to Y plus or minus Z:【X=Y+ or – Z】, where Z stands for extra meaning of a given word which can or cannot be accommodated in X. Even though we came up with this mathematical formula, we strongly believe that the human mind is able to solve even more complex mathematical problems during translation, some of these mathematical formulas still await discovery.
Graphical Analysis (Vr-Wr) and Numerical Approach for a Diallel Analysis of Yield Components in Bottlegourd (Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.)

Introduction: Detailed information concerning the genetic control of the characters under selection is important if plant breeders are to conduct their programme efficiently by the choice of appropriate parents and selection methodology. Moreover, it is highly desirable that the information is obtained under the same conditions where selection is to take place. A breeding effort was initiated at Pantnagar in 2003 and 2004 to complement exiting programme, with the aim of producing hybrids of bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria (Mol). standl. ) with particular emphasis as production problems and consumer preference including high yielding varieties having greater fruit