bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of financial incentives on SNAP transactions at mobile produce markets
Authors: Rummo Pasquale , Lyerly Reece , Rose Jennifer , Malyuta Yelena , Cohen Eliza Dexter , Nunn Amy
Published: January 2021

Background. Offering financial incentives promotes increases in fruit and vegetable purchases in farmers’ markets and supermarkets. Yet, little is understood about whether food-insecure adults purchase more fruits and vegetables as a result of receiving financial incentives in mobile produce market settings.Methods. In 2018-2019, Food on the Move provided a 50% discount to customers using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to purchase fruit and vegetables from 16 market locations in Rhode Island (n=412 market occasions). We used mixed multivariable linear regression to estimate the difference in total dollar sales per transaction per month between SNAP transactions and non-SNAP transactions. We also estimated the difference in out-of-pocket dollar sales per transaction per month between SNAP and non-SNAP transactions, less the 50% discount. This reflects the actual amount spent on fresh fruits and vegetables purchased per visit. In both models, we controlled for the number of market sites per month, with fixed effects for quarter and year. We estimated random intercept variance for date of transaction and market site to adjust for clustering.Results. In 2018-2019, the majority of market transactions (total n=13,165) were SNAP transactions [n=7.988 (63.0%)]. On average, customers spent $17.38 (SD=16.69) on fruits and vegetables per transaction per month. However, customers using SNAP benefits spent significantly more on FVs per transaction per month [$22.01 (SD=17.97)] compared to those who did not use SNAP benefits [9.81 (SD=10.68)] (β=$10.88; 95% CI: 10.18, 11.58). Similarly, out-of-pocket dollar sales per SNAP transaction per month (i.e., less the 50% discount) were significantly higher [$11.42 (SD=9.44)] relative to non-SNAP transactions [$9.40 (SD=9.33)] (β=$1.85; 95% CI: 1.44, 2.27).Conclusions. Financial incentives contributed to higher fruit and vegetable purchases among low-income customers who shop at mobile produce markets compared to non-eligible customers. Higher spending on fruits and vegetables may promote healthy diet behaviors and reduce chronic disease risk among food-insecure adults.
Pain-Guided Activity Modification During Treatment for Patellar Tendinopathy: A Feasibility and Pilot Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Sprague Andrew L , Couppé Christian , Pohlig Ryan T. , Snyder-Mackler Lynn Sc.D , Silbernagel Karin Grävare
Published: January 2021

Background: Activity modification is a key component of patellar tendinopathy treatment but there is a lack of evidence guiding activity modification prescription. Use of activity modification in treatment studies has varied widely and the impact of those recommendations has not been directly investigated or compared. The purpose of this study was to assess 1) the feasibility of using pain-guided activity modification during treatment for patellar tendinopathy and 2) if our outcome measures are responsive to changes in tendon health over the course of treatment.Methods: This was an unblinded, randomized two-arm pilot and feasibility study randomized clinical trial with parallel assignment, conducted in Newark, DE. Individuals between the ages of 16 and 40 years old with patellar tendinopathy were included. Participants were randomly assigned to a pain-guided activity (PGA) or pain-free activity (PFA) group using a spreadsheet-based randomization scheme. All participants received standardized treatment using a modified version of the heavy-slow resistance protocol 3x/week for 12-weeks. For the first six weeks, the PGA group used the Pain-Monitoring Model to guide activity outside of treatment and the PFA group was restricted from running, jumping, or activities that provoked their patellar tendon pain. Feasibility outcomes included recruitment, enrollment, randomization, compliance, and retention percentages. Clinical evaluations were conducted at baseline, 6- and 12-weeks to assess symptom severity, psychological factors, tendon morphology and mechanical properties, lower extremity function and quadriceps muscle performance. Results: In a ~13-month period, 108 individuals were screened, 47/108 (43.5%) were eligible for participation, and 15/47 (32.0%) of those were enrolled (9 PGA, 6 PFA). The recruitment rate was 1.15 participants/month. The mean±SD compliance with treatment was PGA: 86.1±13.0% and PFA: 67.1±30.7%. There was one missed evaluation session and two adverse events, which were not due to study interventions. Changes exceeding the smallest detectable change were observed for at least one outcome in each domain of tendon health.Conclusions: Use of pain-guided activity modification during exercise therapy for patellar tendinopathy was found to be feasible, and the proposed outcome measures appropriate. Computer-based allocation concealment, blinding of evaluators, and greater recruitment of high-level athletes should be implemented in future trials.
Self-reported psychological disorders among the mothers of children with an autism spectrum disorder, type 1 diabetes mellitus, and typically developed children.
Authors: Al-Ansari Ahmed Malalla , Janahi Mohammed Ismail , AlTourah Abdulrahman Jamal , Jahrami Haitham Ali , Rajab Mansour Bin
Published: January 2021

Background: To assess the prevalence of symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress among mothers of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), type 1 diabetes, and typical development (TD), in a geographical area where such data are lacking.Method: The study sample comprised a group of mothers of children with ASD (group 1; n=126), a group of mothers of children with diabetes mellitus (group 2; n=43), and a control group of mothers of children with TD (n=116).Results: On the DASS-21, both groups 1 and 2 had higher mean scores for depression (37.86), anxiety (4.58), and stress (29.81) than the control group (P=0.015). On the PSS-14, the mean score was higher in group 2 (28.63) than in group 1 (27.61) and the control group (25.87) (p=0.004). On the DASS 21, group 1 scored higher in the depression domain (p=0.046), whereas group 2 scored higher in the anxiety domain (p=0.034) and stress domain (p=0.009) than the TD group.Conclusion: Mothers of children with ASD should be assessed for the presence of depression following diagnosis. Mothers of children with type 1 diabetes require careful monitoring for the effects of anxiety and stress on their mental health and therefore their ability to cope with diabetes management plans.
OsPG1 encodes a polygalacturonase that determines cell wall architecture and affects resistance to bacterial blight pathogen in rice
Authors: Cao Yongrun , Zhang Yue , Chen Yuyu , Yu Ning , Liaqat Shah , Wu Weixun , Chen Daibo , Cheng Shihua , Wei Xinghua , Cao Liyong , Zhang Yingxin , Liu Qunen
Published: January 2021

Background: Plant cell walls are the main physical barrier encountered by pathogens colonizing plant tissues. Alteration of cell wall integrity (CWI) can activate specific defenses by impairing proteins involved in cell wall biosynthesis, degradation and remodeling, or cell wall damage due to biotic or abiotic stress. Polygalacturonase (PG) depolymerize pectin by hydrolysis, thereby altering pectin composition and structures and activating cell wall defense. Although many studies of CWI have been reported, the mechanism of how PGs regulate cell wall immune response is not well understood. Results: Necrosis appeared in leaf tips at the tillering stage, finally resulting in 3-5 cm of dark brown necrotic tissue. ltn-212 showed obvious cell death and accumulation of H2O2 in leaf tips. The defense responses were activated in ltn-212 to resist bacterial blight pathogen of rice. Map based cloning revealed that a single base substitution (G-A) in the first intron caused incorrect splicing of OsPG1, resulting in a necrotic phenotype. OsPG1 is constitutively expressed in all organs, and the wild-type phenotype was restored in complementation individuals and knockout of wild-type lines resulted in necrosis as in ltn-212. Transmission electron microscopy showed that thicknesses of cell walls were significantly reduced and cell size and shape were significantly diminished in ltn-212.Conclusion: These results demonstrate that OsPG1 encodes a PG in response to the leaf tip necrosis phenotype of ltn-212. Loss-of-function mutation of ltn-212 destroyed CWI, resulting in spontaneous cell death and an auto-activated defense response including reactive oxygen species (ROS) burst and pathogenesis-related (PR) gene expression, as well as enhanced resistance to Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo). These findings promote our understanding of the CWI mediated defense response.
Prevalence of abnormal umbilical arterial flow on Doppler ultrasound in low-risk and unselected pregnant women: a systematic review
Authors: Vogel Joshua Peter , Vannevel Valerie , Robbers Gianna , Gwako George , Lavin Tina , Adanikin Abiodun , Hlongwane Tsakane , Pattinson Robert C , Qureshi Zahida P. , Oladapo Olufemi T.
Published: January 2021

Background While Doppler ultrasound screening is beneficial for women with high-risk pregnancies, there is insufficient evidence on its benefits and harms in low- and unselected-risk pregnancies. This may be related to fewer events of abnormal Doppler flow, however the prevalence of absent or reversed end diastolic flow (AEDF or REDF) in such women is unknown. In this systematic review, we aimed to synthesise available data on the prevalence of AEDF or REDF.Methods We searched PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, CENTRAL and Global Index Medicus with no date, setting or language restrictions. All randomized or non-randomized studies reporting AEDF or REDF prevalence based on Doppler assessment of umbilical arterial flow >20 weeks’ gestation were eligible. Two authors assessed eligibility and extracted data on primary (AEDF and REDF) and secondary (fetal, perinatal, and neonatal mortality, caesarean section) outcomes, with results presented descriptively. Results A total of 42 studies (18,282 women) were included. Thirty-six studies reported zero AEDF or REDF cases. However, 55 AEDF or REDF cases were identified from just six studies (prevalence 0.08% to 2.13%). Four of these studies were in unselected-risk women and five were conducted in high-income countries. There was limited evidence from low- and middle-income countries.Conclusions Evidence from largely observational studies in higher-income countries suggests that AEDF and REDF are rare among low- and unselected-risk pregnant women. There are insufficient data from lower-income countries and further research is required.
Pemahaman Konseptual dan Prosedural Siswa SMA/MA dalam Menyelesaikan Soal Program Linier Berdasarkan Tipe Kepribadian
Authors: Armanza Risky , Asyhar Beni
Published: January 2021

This study aimed to describe the conceptual and procedural comprehension to solve linear program story problems in students who are an extrovert and an introvert. This was qualitative study with a case study method. The subjects were two students who are an extrovert and an introvert. Data collection included personality questionnaires, question tests, and interviews. Validity test of the data used time triangulation. Data analysis was conducted based on indicators of conceptual and procedural comprehension, which include data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results showed that the extroverted subject was able to meet all indicators of conceptual and procedural comprehension. This was reflected from the way the subject solved the questions properly according to the existing procedures. In contrast, the introverted student was also able to meet the procedural comprehension indicators, but did not meet the conceptual comprehension indicator. This was reflected from the mistakes that the subject made in comprehending the questions and the errors in interpreting the questions into mathematical model.
The Concept of Rwa Bhineda Kriya on the Island of Bali towards Jagadhita
Authors: Sunarya I Ketut
Published: January 2021

The concept of “rwa bhineda” on the island of Bali is reflected in the intertwining of “kriya,” religion, tourism and local customs as regulators. These qualities make “kriya” beautiful because it is very adequate in carrying out its functions, namely meeting religious and non-religious needs. This art is sacred and profane, reflecting the nature of “kaja” (north) and “kelod” (south), which denotes mountains and sea, or upstream (above) and “teben” (below). In “kriya” on the island of Bali, this concept is manifested in the form of “barong” and “rangda” as symbols of good and evil. The “kriya,” which appear creepy, frightening, but making you miss it, have a function as decorations, making the temple beautiful and comfortable like heaven on earth. This situation shows the activities of the Balinese Hindu community at the ceremonial level and also tourism is full of “kriya” dynamics. This art grows and develops in various variations, emerging as a continuous manifestation of the soul in fulfilling the necessities of life towards the “jagadhita.”
Pameran Ini Saya Punya Kerja: Manifestasi Dua Seni
Authors: Ibrahim Md Nasir , Zainal Abidin Hazlin Anita , Khairani Mohd Zahuri , Ong Eng Tek , Ladin Che Aleha
Published: January 2021

“Ini Saya Punya Kerja: Manifestasi Dua Seni” is a collaborative exhibition organised by Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris, University of Malaya, and Yayasan Usman Awang. The exhibition combines academics, painters, and poets to manifest the merger of two arts, the visual arts and the literary arts. The exhibition was officiated by Tan Sri Johan Jaaffar at the University of Malaya Art Gallery on Sunday, 13 February 2020, at 10.00 am. A total of 37 painters with 74 artworks consisting of paintings, installations, sculptures, and photographs were exhibited. All works were translations of the poems written by National Laureate Usman Awang. The most dominant style was abstract expressionism characterised by free spontaneous lines accompanied by bright colours and spontaneous brush strokes. Among the painters with this style were Suzlee Ibrahim (Pahlawan, 2009), Lily Noguchi (Jentayu, 2019), Liu Cheng Hua (Anak Jiran Tionghua, 2019), Sabri Salleh (Duri dan Api, 2019), and Mustafa Salleh (Pahlawan, 2019). There were also semi-abstract works. Among the painters who adopted this style were Haron Mokhtar (Balada Terbunuhnya Beringin Tua di Pinggir Sebuah Bandaraya, 2019), Aizat Amir (Jiwa Hamba, 2019), and Abdul Raoof Ali (Keranda 152, 2019). There were also painters that produced realistic works. Among them were Md Nasir Ibrahim (Bunga Popi 1, 2019 and Bunga Popi II, 2020), and Mohamad Hassan (Tulang-tulang Berserakan: Saksi-saksi Bisu, 2019). The exhibition has achieved the goal of translating Usman Awang’s poems into visual form. Painters were able to play with the semiotic visuals that were a priority in this study.
Bulanık TOPSIS Yöntemi ile Ankara İli İçin Olası Afet Sonrası Geçici Barınma Alanlarının Seçimi
Authors: ÖMÜRGÖNÜLŞEN Mine , MENTEN Cem
Published: January 2021

Her yıl birçok insan çeşitli afet türleri ile karşı karşıya kalmaktadır. Afet lojistiği çerçevesinde, afetzedelerin barınma sorununu çözmek adına geçici barınma alanlarının yerlerinin afet öncesinde belirlenmesi gerekmektedir. Afet sonrası geçici barınma alanlarının seçimi ele alınan problemin ana amacını oluştururken, bu problem gerek Türkiye’nin başkenti, gerekse 2. büyük kenti olmasından ötürü Ankara ili üzerinde Bulanık TOPSIS tekniği ile test edilmektedir. Bu kapsamda, uzman görüşleri alınarak, ulusal ve uluslararası standartlara uygun olarak belirlenen on adet kritere göre beş adet alternatif değerlendirilmiştir. Analiz kapsamında değerlendirilen beş farklı alternatif lokasyon arasında, Ankara ili için Etimesgut en uygun geçici barınma alanı olarak belirlenmiştir. Mamak sıralamada son sırada yer almıştır. Ayrıca, alternatiflerin sıralanması sonucu Yenimahalle ikinci, Çankaya üçüncü ve Keçiören dördüncü sırada çıkmıştır. Bu çalışmada literatürdeki çalışmalardan farklı olarak, bir afet türüne odaklanılmamış; ele alınan potansiyel afetlerin tümüne odaklanılmıştır. Bilinebildiği kadarıyla, bu çalışma ile Ankara ili için afet sonrası geçici barınma alanları ilk kez tespit edilmiştir.
Trafik Verilerine Göre Afetlerde Bölgesel Hizmet Verebilecek İdeal Havalimanı Önerileri
Authors: DEMİR Emre
Published: January 2021

Bu çalışma, önceki benzer çalışmalardan üç ana yönden ayrılmaktadır. Birincisi, yöntem olarak diğerlerinden ayrılarak ülke çapında sadece tek bir lokasyondaki havalimanı tesisi değil kümeleme yöntemi uygulanarak bölgesel hizmet verebilecek en uygun tesisler tespit edilmiştir. İkincisi, önceki çalışmalarda İstanbul Havalimanı henüz hizmete girmediğinden dolayı değerlendirmeye alınmamışken, bu çalışmada optimizasyon hesaplarına dahil edilmiştir. Üçüncüsü, yeni durumun önceki çalışmalara nazaran daha güncel verilerle ve daha güncel bir optimizasyon yöntemi olan ağaç tohum algoritması kullanılarak optimum çözümler üretilmiştir. Trafik verileri, trafiğe dayalı ağırlık katsayıları ve ulaşım mesafelerinin elde edildiği konum verilerine dayanarak yapılan analizler sonucunda, toplam on altı havalimanı kendi bölgelerine, özellikle herhangi bir felaket sırasında veya sonrasındaki acil durumlarda, servis sağlayabilecek ideal havalimanları bu çalışmada ortaya çıkarılarak tavsiye edilmiştir. Bu araştırmanın önerileri doğrultusunda, herhangi bir acil durumda gerekli olan ve havayolu ile sağlanabilecek hizmetler sayesinde zaman ve gider kaybının azaltılması gibi amaçlar gözetilirken daha da önemlisi can kaybının en az düzeye indirilmesi konusunda ilerleme kaydedilmesi beklenmektedir.
Evaluation of state budget structural changes based on the coefficient method
Authors: Frolov Serhiy , Bogacki Sylwester , Shukairi Fathi , Bukhtiarova Alina
Published: January 2021

According to the current situation in the world economy connected with the coronavirus pandemic, it is difficult to predict GDP growth. Non-economic factors determine the rate of decline in economies of almost all countries. Accordingly, it is extremely difficult to ensure the stable functioning of financial systems. In this situation, the role of public finance, especially the state budget, significantly increases, given the peculiarities of the formation of different levels’ budgets. This research aims to evaluate state budget structural changes on the example of Ukraine. Based on the linear coefficient and the quadratic coefficient of absolute structural changes, the quadratic coefficient of relative structural changes, and integral coefficients of structural changes the authors analyzed the state of public finance in Ukraine since the formation of the state and local budgets and their optimal use to mitigate the effects of the pandemic on the economy can become one of the factors in maintaining financial stability and developing anti-crisis measures. The forecast values of the growth rate of budget revenues and expenditures confirm that the projected revenue gaps are significantly higher than the projected expenditure gaps. The cost structure of the state budget of Ukraine is characterized as a structure with a low level of differences. The Gatev and Ryabtsev coefficients demonstrate unidirectional dynamics. In contrast, Salai coefficient shows the opposite dynamics, which confirms a lack of stability in the cost structure. From 2008 to 2019, the chain rate of change has a significant variation range.
A Systematic Review about Educational Campaigns on Smoking Cessation
Authors: Sadeghi Reza , Masoudi Mamood Reza , Khanjani Narges
Published: January 2021

Background:

Health campaigns have been shown effective in the prevention of smoking. These campaigns convey messages about specific behavior to the audience and have a high penetration rate.

Objective:

This systematic review was conducted to summarize the effect of educational campaigns on smoking.

Methods:

The PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, Google Scholar databases were searched on 16 March, 2019 by using the keywords “Waterpipe, Hookah, Shisha, Cigarette, Smoking” and “Campaign, Antismoking Campaign, Health campaign”.

Results:

A total of 15 articles related to smoking campaigns entered the review. Campaigns were divided into two broad categories: (1) Campaigns aimed at public education and social change; (2) Campaigns aimed at changing policy or attracting the attention of politicians. The largest campaign was conducted in England. All educational campaigns showed at least one positive effect on preventing and controlling smoking.

Conclusion:

Anti-smoking campaigns are important investments, and as part of comprehensive tobacco control programs, they can educate people about the harms of smoking, change smoking attitudes and beliefs, increase quitting intentions, promote quitting, and decrease smoking.
Treatment and Prevention of Osteoporosis during COVID-19 Outbreak: Management and Adherence to Treatment Guidelines
Authors: Malviya Rishabha , Sharma Akanksha , Gupta Ramji , Awasthi Rajendra
Published: January 2021

A total of 219 countries, areas, or territories have globally witnessed the existence of a novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic over the last few months, which posed serious threats to human health. The viral incubation period varies from 2 to 14 days. It has been observed that osteoporosis patients are likely to be at high risk of COVID-19 contracting sequelae. Osteoporosis is a chronic condition that reduces bone strength and increases the risk of fracture. Osteoporosis typically requires sustained therapeutic intervention to reduce the risks of further bone loss, structural integrity impairment and incidence of fractures. In the COVID-19 pandemic, diagnosis of chronic osteoporosis conditions should not become an unwanted casualty. Metabolic bone condition may lead to complications in COVID-19 infected patients. Orthopaedic doctors are being redeployed in different hospitals to treat COVID-19 infected patients. Thus, the orthopaedics community needs compulsory training to understand the symptoms of this condition. Orthopaedics surgery and trauma surgery are challenging in a hospital setup with limited availability of hospital staff and operating facilities. Clinicians must respond to the challenges raised by this crisis and consider ways of continuing to help patients with chronic diseases with their substantive morbidity and mortality.
Capacidades governamentais municipais e desenvolvimento humano local no Brasil
Authors: Coelho Rony , Guth Felipe , Loureiro Miguel
Published: January 2021

Este trabalho tem por objetivo analisar a relação entre capacidades governamentais municipais edesenvolvimento humano no Brasil. Para tal, construímos um quadro teórico-analítico que propõetipos de capacidades de gestão municipal e como mensurá-las. Em seguida, recorrendo a técnicas deregressão logística, distribuição de frequências e análises geoespaciais, analisamos em que medidaessas capacidades estão associadas à variação no Índice de Desenvolvimento Humano (IDH-M) emmunicípios com menos de 50 mil habitantes (85% do total). As avaliações tomam por base trêsdiferentes áreas de políticas públicas: saúde, educação e assistência social. Os resultados sugeremque atividades de planejamento e de interação com outros atores possuem uma associação maiorcom o IDH-M do que adoção de fundos ou estruturas administrativas. A quantidade de conselhosparticipativos, de planos e consórcios tem efeito significativo e positivo.
Risk management in the Brazilian Federal Government: a ministerial analysis
Authors: Vieira James Batista , Araújo Amanda Batista
Published: January 2021

This paper describes the current stage of the development of the ministries’ risk management systems, considering the demands and orientations given by the Joint Normative Instruction MP/CGU n. 01/2016 and the Public Governance Decree (Decree n. 9.203, of November 22, 2017, altered by the Decree n. 9.901, of July 8, 2019). With the intention of identifying how each ministry has been managing the risks that aim at ensuring that the goals of the public policies and the strengthening of their own governance structures will be met, this research formulated indicators that allow cases to be described, based on the recommendations of national and international standards of governance and risk management. The results show that Brazilian ministerial risk management is still incipient, due to the fragile institutionalization associated with political-administrative instability. There is still a need for institutionalizing a culture of risk management and mainly, adopting a long-term perspective in the public sector organizations so that consistent risk management systems can be effectively implemented.
Quaternary Hydrides Pd1-y-zAgyCuzHx Embedded Atom Method Potentials for Hydrogen Energy Applications
Authors: Zhang Chaonan , Fuller Robert , Hijazi Iyad ,   Weisberg Department of Mechanical Engineering, Marshall University, Huntington, United States
Published: January 2021

The Pd-H system has attracted extensive attention. Pd can absorb considerable amount of H at room temperature, this ability is reversible, so it is suitable for multiple energy applications. Pd-Ag alloys possess higher H permeability, solubility and narrower miscibility gap with better mechanical properties than pure Pd, but sulfur poisoning remains an issue. Pd-Cu alloys have excellent resistance to sulfur and carbon monoxide poisoning and hydrogen embrittlement, good mechanical properties, and broader temperature working environments over pure Pd, but relatively lower hydrogen permeability and solubility than pure Pd and Pd-Ag alloys. This suggests that alloying Pd with Ag and Cu to create Pd-Ag-Cu ternary alloys can optimize the overall performance and substantially lowers the cost. Thus, in this paper, we provide the first embedded atom method potentials for the quaternary hydrides Pd1-y-zAgyCuzHx. The fully analytical potentials are fitted utilizing the central atom method without performing time-consuming molecular dynamics simulations.
Malignancies and Pediatric Liver Transplantation: Promising Management with the mTOR-inhibitor Everolimus
Authors: Wehming M , Briem-Richter A , Ganschow R , Brinkert F , Winkler B , Fischer L , Grabhorn E ,   Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Pediatrics , University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
Published: January 2021

Some malignancies such as hepatoblastoma may be an indication for liver transplantation (LT) or some, for example, post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease (PTLD) may develop after successful LT. An immunosuppressive therapy after LT can promote the recurrence of the primary malignancy. The mammalian target-of-rapamycin inhibitors (mTORi) are immunosuppressive agents with anti-tumor properties. We examined the impact of everolimus (EVL) together with calcineurin inhibitors on allograft outcome and patient survival in pediatric LT (PLT) with various tumors. This retrospective study included eleven liver-transplanted pediatric patients who received EVL after LT. The reason for adding an mTOR inhibitor was the neoplastic disease, either leading to LT (n = 7) or PTLD that developed after LT under immunosuppression (n = 3). The median age at the start of therapy was four years (range: seven months- 18 years); the median follow-up was 3 (range: 1 – 5) years). The primary endpoints were recurrence or metastasis of the primary tumor, uncontrolled PTLD, or death. Graft function and potential side effects were documented. Both patient survival and graft survival rates for the observation period were 100%. No patient developed recurrence or reported metastatic disease of the primary tumor. Liver function test results remained normal during the study period in 8 out of 11 patients. Three patients developed elevated liver enzymes that resolved over time. All the patients received EVL either as monotherapy (n = 2) or in combination with cyclosporine A (n = 7) or tacrolimus (n = 2). Typical side effects documented were recurrent infections (n = 8), stomatitis (n = 5), and cytopenia (n = 2), and medication was temporarily interrupted in one patient. Although the patient cohort was small, our results support the use of EVL in patients with tumor occurrence in the context of pediatric LT. No cases of recurrence or metastases were reported during the follow-up period after LT; sufficient immunosuppression was maintained. The side effect profile appeared acceptable. A longer follow-up in more number of patients is necessary to confirm these preliminary data.
One Digital Health: A Unified Framework for Future Health Ecosystems
Authors: Benis Arriel , Tamburis Oscar , Chronaki Catherine , Moen Anne
Published: January 2021

One Digital Health is a proposed unified structure. The conceptual framework of the One Digital Health Steering Wheel is built around two keys (ie, One Health and digital health), three perspectives (ie, individual health and well-being, population and society, and ecosystem), and five dimensions (ie, citizens’ engagement, education, environment, human and veterinary health care, and Healthcare Industry 4.0). One Digital Health aims to digitally transform future health ecosystems, by implementing a systemic health and life sciences approach that takes into account broad digital technology perspectives on human health, animal health, and the management of the surrounding environment. This approach allows for the examination of how future generations of health informaticians can address the intrinsic complexity of novel health and care scenarios in digitally transformed health ecosystems. In the emerging hybrid landscape, citizens and their health data have been called to play a central role in the management of individual-level and population-level perspective data. The main challenges of One Digital Health include facilitating and improving interactions between One Health and digital health communities, to allow for efficient interactions and the delivery of near–real-time, data-driven contributions in systems medicine and systems ecology. However, digital health literacy; the capacity to understand and engage in health prevention activities; self-management; and collaboration in the prevention, control, and alleviation of potential problems are necessary in systemic, ecosystem-driven public health and data science research. Therefore, people in a healthy One Digital Health ecosystem must use an active and forceful approach to prevent and manage health crises and disasters, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Quality and Readability of Web-Based Information for Patients With Pancreatic Cysts: DISCERN and Readability Test Analysis
Authors: Oman Sven P , Zaver Himesh , Waddle Mark , Corral Juan E
Published: January 2021

Background

Pancreatic cysts are a complex medical problem with several treatment options. Patients use web-based health information to understand their conditions and to guide treatment choices.

Objective

The goal of this study was to describe the quality and readability of publicly available web-based information on pancreatic cysts and to compare this information across website affiliations.

Methods

A Google search for “pancreatic cysts” was performed and the first 30 websites were evaluated. Website affiliations were classified as academic, media, nonprofit, government, or not disclosed. Information describing cancer risk was recorded. The DISCERN instrument measured the quality of content regarding treatment choices. Four standardized tests were used to measure readability.

Results

Twenty-one websites were included. The majority of the websites (20/21, 95%) described the cancer risk associated with pancreatic cysts. Nearly half of the websites were written by an academic hospital or organization. The average DISCERN score for all websites was 40.4 (range 26-65.5, maximum 80). Websites received low scores due to lack of references, failure to describe the risks of treatment, or lack of details on how treatment choices affect quality of life. The average readability score was 14.74 (range 5.76-23.85, maximum 19+), indicating a college reading level. There were no significant differences across website affiliation groups.

Conclusions

Web-based information for patients with pancreatic cysts is of moderate quality and is written above the reading level of most Americans. Gastroenterological, cancer treatment organizations, and physicians should advocate for improving the available information by providing cancer risk stratification, treatment impact on quality of life, references, and better readability.
Shackled by Patriarchy and Poverty: Women's Experiences with Domestic Violence in North Central Timor and North Sumatra
Authors: Tanaya Smita
Published: January 2021

This article discusses how patriarchal elements of society and culture, in conjunction with poverty, is necessary to comprehend the domestic violence experienced by women. This article departs from a qualitative case study of the experiences of women in Taekas Village, North Central Timor, East Nusa Tenggara, and Pondok Batu Village, Labuhanbatu, North Sumatra, and seeks to obtain a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of how patriarchy and poverty contribute to domestic violence. This article emphasizes that, although domestic violence knows no class, religious, or geographical boundaries, rural women who live in poverty are more vulnerable to domestic violence. This article is hoped to shed light on domestic violence in Indonesia, thereby increasing awareness and providing further impetus for eradicating said practice.
Measuring Analytic Gradients of General Quantum Evolution with the Stochastic Parameter Shift Rule
Authors: Banchi Leonardo , Crooks Gavin E.
Published: January 2021

Hybrid quantum-classical optimization algorithms represent one of the most promising application for near-term quantum computers. In these algorithms the goal is to optimize an observable quantity with respect to some classical parameters, using feedback from measurements performed on the quantum device. Here we study the problem of estimating the gradient of the function to be optimized directly from quantum measurements, generalizing and simplifying some approaches present in the literature, such as the so-called parameter-shift rule. We derive a mathematically exact formula that provides a stochastic algorithm for estimating the gradient of any multi-qubit parametric quantum evolution, without the introduction of ancillary qubits or the use of Hamiltonian simulation techniques. The gradient measurement is possible when the underlying device can realize all Pauli rotations in the expansion of the Hamiltonian whose coefficients depend on the parameter. Our algorithm continues to work, although with some approximations, even when all the available quantum gates are noisy, for instance due to the coupling between the quantum device and an unknown environment.
Study of Invasive Plant Species Distribution in Warangal City, Telangana, India
Authors: Saritha Kommidi  , Thirupathi Koppula  , Sravanthi Yatla  , Mustafa Mohammed
Published: January 2021

The invasive plant species are non-native organisms which invade natural habitats and destroy the indigenous flora. The invasion of alien plant species into various places is recognized as a major cause of loss of biodiversity, after habitat destruction. The aim of the present investigation is to study invasive flora of city of Warangal, Telangana with detailed study about their nativity, family, habit and distribution. A total of 97 species belonging to 72 genera of 30 families have been recorded as alien species. Among them about 63% are native to tropical America. Fabaceae is the dominant family with 13 species, followed by Asteraceae with 12 species, Convolvulaceae with 8 species, Amaranthaceae, Malvaceae, Solanaceae, Euphorbiaceae with 6 species each. Remaining families are represented by species less than 6. Habit wise  analysis  of  invasive  plant  species  showed  that  75%  species  belongs  to  herbs,  9%  belongs  to  shrubs,  3%  trees,  and  2%  climbers. Mesosphaerum suaveolens, Parthenium hysterophorous, Alternanthera ficoidea, Senna uniflora, Prosopis juliflora are dominant terrestrial species. Typha domingensis, Eichhornia crassipes are dominant aquatic species observed throughout the study area. Chromolaena odorata, Lanata camara are fast spreading in the city and if they are neglected they can become aggressive in future. Most of these alien species are problematic and causing damage to the ecosystem of the city. Neverthless some of the plants have medicinal value, some as fodder and few are used as fuel plants. Eichhornia crassipes can  be used for preparation  of  environmental friendly products like paper,  fabrics. Hence  this study helps for early recognition, monitoring and management of invasive plant species in the study area.
To Study the Effects of Deep Neck Flexor Strengthening Exercises and Mckenzie Neck Exercises on Smart Phone Users Suffering From Neck Pain: A Comparative Study
Authors: Buru Yana  , Madhusmita Koch  , Abhijit Kalita  , Abhijit Dutta
Published: January 2021

Smartphone has become an integral part of our lives, they generally have a small screen because of which it is more likely to induce a slouched posture creating a line of sight mostly below eye level, formulating an improper posture when used for a prolonged period of time, for example, forward head posture (FHP) leading to neck pain.  The purpose of the study is to compare the effectiveness of Deep neck flexor strengthening exercises with that of McKenzie neck extension exercises on smartphone users suffering from neck pain. It is a comparative experimental study. This study included (N=40) subjects with neck pain within the age group of 25-45 years. They arerandomly assigned into 2 groups (Group A and B). Group A had 20 (N=20) subjects who are treated with Deep neck flexor strengthening exercises, Group B had 20 (N=20) who are treated with McKenzie neck extension exercises. The subjects were given intervention 5 days a week for 6 weeks. For within-group analysis Paired sample t-test was used and to analyze between-group variables Independent sample t-test was done. Between DNF and McK groups no significant difference was found in NDI(p<1.18 ) and SFMPQ(p <1.17) while all outcome measures showed a significant difference in both DNF and McK groups(p=0.00)within the groups The results indicated that although both the treatment techniques, DNF and McK are effective in alleviating the neck pain in Smartphone users in terms of decreasing pain intensity and  increasing functional ability as there was a significant difference within the two groups, but  there was no significant difference  between the DNF and McK group in decreasing pain intensity, increasing functional ability
Visión crítica de la legislación sobre la discapacidad en costa rica: un acercamiento desde los derechos humanos.
Authors: Herrera Bonilla Nidia
Published: January 2021

En el presente artículo se hace una breve reseña crítica de la legislación sobre la discapacidad y además se presenta y se analiza el nuevo paradigma. Se da información sobre la legislación a nivel mundial y nacional sobre los Derechos Humanos de los minusválidos y se analiza su aplicabilidad en las personas con discapacidad.
Internal corporate governance mechanisms, investors’ confidence and stock price fluctuations risk
Authors: Al-Ibbini Omran Ahmad , Shaban Osama Samih
Published: January 2021

The primary goal of corporate governance is to create a balance of power-sharing among shareholders, directors, and management to enhance shareholder value and protect the interests of other stakeholders. The main aim of this study is to find out the effect of internal corporate governance in improving the confidence of investors and minimizing stock fluctuations risk. In order to achieve the objectives of the study, a questionnaire has been designed and distributed randomly to 200 traders at the Amman Stock Exchange (ASE). Resolution data were analyzed using the statistical program (Smart PLS), in addition to other statistical methods. The study concluded that there is a significant statistical effect of internal corporate governance mechanisms in improving the confidence of investors and minimizing stock fluctuations risk. Also, the study recommended to maintain the current level of investors’ confidence and to work on developing the legal framework for corporate governance in the light of the proposed development of a conceptual framework, and economic growth.
Financial technology in the Finnish banking sector and its impact on stakeholders in the wake of COVID-19
Authors: Hundal Shab , Zinakova Taisiia
Published: January 2021

Financial Technology (FinTech, hereafter) has integrated with the banking sector. Despite its fast growth, FinTech is a relatively new and under-explored phenomenon in the academic and corporate spheres. The current study aims to explore, first, the role and relevance of FinTech in the commercial banking sector in Finland; and second, the changing dynamics of stakeholders of the banking industry in the light of FinTech. The above objectives have been studied in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The primary data has been collected through semi-structured interviews. A significant impact of FinTech has been observed in the following aspects of the banking sector: customers, strategy, risk management, investors, operations, competitiveness, and future growth. FinTech adoption has been contributed by the growth in the IT sector and innovations in the field of firm financing including crowdsourcing and peer-to-peer financing. Changing customers’ demands and behaviour have also facilitated FinTech adoption (Lee & Teo, 2015). Banks have been integrating FinTech into insurance services and this feature has become more profound ever since banks increased their cooperation with international insurance companies (Paschen, Wilson, & Ferreira, 2020). Similarly, there has been a significant increase in collaboration between banks and FinTech start-ups. Nonetheless, the unpredictable factors, such as the ongoing COVID-19, can influence the future innovation and adoption of FinTech.
Assessment of Traditional Rainwater Harvesting System in Barren Lands of a Semi-Arid Region
Authors: Yadav Basant , Patidar Nitesh , Sharma Anupma , Panigrahi Niranjan , Sharma Rakesh , Loganathan Vijay , KRISHAN GOPAL , Singh Jaswant , Kumar Suraj , Parker Alison
Published: January 2021

In semi-arid and arid regions, groundwater is the primary source for
domestic, agricultural, and industrial supply. Scattered and erratic
rainfall in these regions makes groundwater recharge more complex.
Small-scale rainwater harvesting using both traditional and modern
rainwater harvesting structures has been seen as a solution to the
deepening groundwater crisis in India. In this study, shallow
infiltration ponds locally known as Chaukas were studied to understand
their groundwater recharge role and pastureland development. Potential
groundwater recharge from these shallow infiltration ponds was estimated
using the HYDRUS-1D model, simulating the sub-surface processes in the
root zone. Field data collected in the year 2019 is used to calibrate
the model for field conditions, while monsoon period data (July-August)
of 2020 is used to validate the developed model. The developed model was
then used to predict the potential groundwater recharge for the monsoon
periods of the year 2019 and 2020.The shallow infiltration ponds allow
approximately 5% additional rainfall to be available as potential
recharge. The near soil surface moisture also helps develop natural
grass cover used for pasture in the early dry periods. Analysis of the
vegetation in the past 10 years suggests that these shallow infiltration
ponds have converted barren lands into eco-hydrologically productive
pasturelands. These Chauka systems have helped in sustainable water
resources management in these water stressed regions along with the
additional livelihood support through developed pasturelands for animal
husbandry. They have potential wide application across India and beyond,
as they simply require slightly sloping, barren land above an unconfined
aquifer.
The Effect of Exenatide Once Weekly on Carotid Atherosclerosis in Individuals With Type 2 Diabetes: An 18-Month Randomized Placebo-Controlled Study
Authors: Koska Juraj , Migrino Raymond Q. , Chan Keith C. , Cooper-Cox Kelly , Reaven Peter D.
Published: January 2021

OBJECTIVE

Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) improved multiple proatherogenic risk factors and reduced cardiovascular events in recent clinical trials, suggesting that they may slow progression of atherosclerosis. We tested whether exenatide once weekly reduces carotid plaque progression in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In a double-blind, pragmatic trial, 163 participants were randomized (2:1) to exenatide (n = 109) or placebo (n = 54). Changes in carotid plaque volume and composition were measured at 9 and 18 months by multicontrast 3 Tesla MRI. Fasting and post–high-fat meal plasma glucose and lipids, and endothelial function responses, were measured at 3, 9, and 18 months.

RESULTS

Exenatide reduced hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) (estimated difference vs. placebo 0.55%, P = 0.0007) and fasting and postmeal plasma glucose (19 mg/dL, P = 0.0002, and 25 mg/dL, P < 0.0001, respectively). Mean (SD) change in plaque volume in the exenatide group (0.3% [2%]) was not different from that in the placebo group (−2.2% [8%]) (P = 0.4). The change in plaque volume in the exenatide group was associated with changes in HbA1c (r = 0.38, P = 0.0004), body weight, and overall plasma glucose (r = 0.29, P = 0.007 both). There were no differences in changes in plaque composition, body weight, blood pressure, fasting and postmeal plasma triglycerides, and endothelial function between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Exenatide once weekly for up to 18 months improved fasting and postprandial glycemic control but did not modify change in carotid plaque volume or composition. This study raises the possibility that short-term antiatherosclerotic effects may not play a central role in the cardiovascular benefits of GLP-1RAs.