bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Owner endorsement of brands and consumer buying intentions
Authors: V Sriranga Prasad N , Ur Rahiman Habeeb , Nawaz Nishad , Gajenderan Vijayakumar
Published: April 2022

Advertisers regularly utilize endorsers as credible sources to conciliate purchaser awareness, customer attitude, and buying objectives. The current paper aims to examine the influence of owner endorsers’ expertise, knowledge, integrity, familiarity, and credibility on consumers’ buying decisions and purchase intentions. The population of this study includes customers of prominent gold and diamond jewelry brands in the southern part of India. The data are subjected to quantitative examination. A comprehensive review was undergone to make a situational analysis. A multi-stage sampling approach was administered to collect the feedback of respondents from the southern states of India. The samples were analyzed using statistical tools like multiple regression and structural equation modeling to find the model fit and relationships among different variables. The outcome of the study highlights that brand endorsers’ expertise, integrity, and credibility play a vital role in conveying trustworthiness and genuineness about the product and its usage. This study also contributed insights into the implication of owners’ endorsement by influencing buying decisions and purchase intentions of jewelry customers.
Impact of COVID-19 on community-led total sanitation (CLTS) in Ghana: perspectives of implementing partners
Authors: Tsekpetse-Akuamoah Kweku , Mariwah Simon , Boateng Ebenezer Nana Kwaku , Adjakloe Yvonne Ami
Published: April 2022

Since the adoption of Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) in Ghana in 2012, eight (8) partners have been involved in the implementation of the approach in over 140 districts. Although the COVID-19 pandemic has reinforced the need for improved sanitation and hygiene practices, the nature and the extent of the impact of the pandemic on the implementation of CLTS remains empirically unclear. This study sought to explore the perceptions and experiences of implementing partners about the impact of COVID-19 on CLTS in Ghana. Using a purposive sampling technique, the study gathered data from 22 representatives using the in-depth interview technique. The study revealed that the implementing partners revealed that the pandemic has had both positive and negative impacts on the implementation of CLTS in Ghana. Negatively, the pandemic stalled the activities of CLTS through the ban on social gathering. On the other hand, the pandemic reinforced the need for CLTS through increased construction and use of handwashing facilities to prevent diseases. To sustain the gains from the pandemic, implementing partners should leverage the existing community-based mass media outlets such as information centres and radio stations to communicate behaviour change messages of CLTS in Ghana.
Increasing production efficiency of irrigation systems through stakeholder participation
Authors: Asthana Anand N.
Published: April 2022

Irrigation projects have elicited ambiguous views, if not outright animosity, during the past four decades. Aside from environmental and relocation concerns, low productivity is a source of criticism. Irrigation management systems in developing countries seem to have historically underperformed due to government control. Weak institutional arrangements have hindered effective and timely water distribution. There is widespread dissatisfaction with technocratic top-down programmes imposed with little community support. A rising recognition that more advanced engineering and information technologies are not the primary drivers of increased irrigation potential utilisation has resulted in an emphasis on farmer-led irrigation. Many developing countries have introduced reform instruments since the 1980s, with the most notable paradigm being a move from government control to participative management by stakeholders. This study looks into the situation in Cambodia where participation of farmers in managing irrigation schemes is being sought through the formation of Farmers Water Users Committees. The study quantifies the improvement in project performance with farmers’ participation through Farmers Water Users Committees and finds it significant. Furthermore, using difference-in-difference methodology, this research finds that the improvement is not a blip and is sustained over the medium term.
Participatory water institutions and sustainable irrigation management: evidence and lessons from West Bengal, India
Authors: Chattopadhyay Soumyadip , De Indranil , Mishra Prabhat , Parey Akhilesh , Dutta Subhasish
Published: April 2022

Based on a survey of selected Water Users’ Associations (WUA) and their members in West Bengal, India, this paper examines the nature and determinants of member participation in irrigation management. WUA meetings were held on a regular basis with higher member participation under Tube Well, Check Dam and River Lift Irrigation schemes. Their physical characteristics (e.g., high sub-surface storage and flowing rivers with large catchment areas) and system features (e.g., centralized pump house and defined distribution infrastructure) contribute to better water availability, incentivizing the members to participate. Our regression analysis suggests that along with these factors, the socioeconomic attributes of members and their perception about the functioning and decision making of the WUA influence participation in the collective management of schemes. The more the members perceive the functioning of WUAs as democratic and transparent, the greater is their incentive to participate. Greater participatory involvement of the members in the form of donating land for irrigation construction and in training programs is also found to be crucial. So, this paper argues for making the decision-making processes within WUAs democratic and transparent, along with greater efforts toward capacity building of the members, including training for skill enhancement, management and provision of agricultural support practices.
Mniejszość w mniejszości. Jak aseksualność wzbogaca myślenie o ludzkiej seksualności
Authors: Żukowicz Olga
Published: April 2022

Definicje seksualności, a także domyślne założenia o tym, że każdy odczuwa pociąg seksualny i pożądanie, sprawiły, że doświadczenia i prawa osób aseksualnych nadal nie są w pełni respektowane. W konsekwencji doprowadziło to do narastania szeregu mitów wokół aseksualności i ujmowania jej jako zaburzenia. Wśród badaczy wciąż również nie ma zgody co do tego, czy aseksualność należy uznać za orientację seksualną, czy też za jej brak, co może mieć wpływ na niewidoczność, wyobcowanie i dyskryminację tej grupy nawet w środowiskach LGBTQIAP+. Celem tego artykułu jest zdecydowana depatologizacja medyczna i obyczajowa aseksualności, wyraźne odróżnienie jej od abstynencji seksualnej czy zaburzeń pożądania w odniesieniu do dotychczasowych badań i świadectw osób aseksualnych. Przede wszystkim jednak autorka próbuje odpowiedzieć na pytanie, w jaki sposób doświadczenie aseksualności poszerza myślenie o seksualności człowieka w ogóle. Rozpoznając aseksualność jako brak pociągu seksualnego do innych osób – bez względu na płeć, zamierza jednocześnie ukazać różnorodność biografii romantycznych i seksualnych. Osobiste historie zaczerpnęła z polskiego forum Sieci Edukacji Aseksualnej.
DEFINICJA I STATUS PRACODAWCY ORAZ ORGANIZACJI PRACODAWCÓW W STOSUNKACH PRACY – DOŚWIADCZENIA EUROPEJSKIE W KONTEKŚCIE POLSKICH REGULACJI PRAWNYCH. ZARYS PROBLEMU
Authors: Jarota Maciej
Published: April 2022

Głównym zagadnieniem poruszanym w artykule jest definicja i status prawny organizacji pracodawców i ich organizacji w stosunkach pracy. Celem przeprowadzonej analizy jest odpowiedź na pytanie, czy obecnie stosowane definicje pracodawcy i charakter prawny organizacji pracodawców odpowiadają aktualnym wyzwaniom prawa pracy. Warto zastanowić się, czy obowiązujące regulacje prawne wymagają zmian w tym zakresie. Jeśli tak, jawi się pytanie, wokół jakich sfer funkcjonowania pracodawców i ich organizacji swoje rozważania powinien prowadzić prawodawca unijny i krajowy.
ODPOWIEDZIALNOŚĆ KARNA LEKARZA ZA BŁĄD POPEŁNIONY W RAMACH UDZIELANIA TELEPORADY W ZWIąZKU Z ZAPOBIEGANIEM, ROZPOZNAWANIEM LUB LECZENIEM COVID-19
Authors: Gądzik Zuzanna
Published: April 2022

Artykuł odnosi się do instytucji tzw. klauzuli dobrego Samarytanina – regulacji wprowadzającej możliwość wyłączenia odpowiedzialności karnej za wskazane przestępstwa przeciwko życiu i zdrowiu, popełnione przez przedstawicieli zawodów medycznych w związku z udzielaniem przez nich świadczeń zdrowotnych, w ramach zapobiegania, rozpoznawania lub leczenia COVID-19. W tekście przeanalizowano poszczególne przesłanki tej klauzuli w kontekście błędu lekarskiego, występującego przede wszystkim w związku z udzielaniem w czasie pandemii koronawirusa porad lekarskich na odległość przy użyciu systemów teleinformatycznych lub systemów łączności (teleporady).
Safety and Outcomes of Intravitreal Aflibercept in Diabetic Macular Edema – A
Systematic Review
Authors: Dascalu Ana Maria , Rizzo Manfredi , Rizvi Ali A. , Stoian Anca Pantea , Iancu Raluca Claudia , Stana Daniela , Tudosie Mihail Silviu , Serban Dragos
Published: April 2022

Background:

Recent evidence on the role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the pathogenesis
of ischemia and microvascular hyperpermeability leading to macular edema has brought anti-VEGF
intravitreal therapy into the limelight.

Objective:

We performed a systematic literature review focusing on the outcomes and safety of the intravitreal
use of aflibercept in diabetic macular edema.

Methods:

The studies documented cases with at least three consecutive intravitreal injections of aflibercept
(IVA) repeated monthly with a follow-up period of at least one year. The outcomes were evaluated in terms of
reported functional and anatomical improvement of the macula, as reflected by changes in visual acuity and
macular thickness measured by Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT). In addition, for safety assessment, all
reported local and general adverse effects were analyzed.

Results:

All studies showed an overall significant anatomical and functional improvement. In patients with the
5 IVA monthly at the beginning of the therapy, the visual gain at 52 weeks varied widely between 5 and 18.9
EDRS letters, with a mean value of 9.48 letters. The higher gain was obtained in treatment naïve patients, with
worse VA and increased CST at baseline. The lower gain was obtained in patients previously treated with anti-
VEGF. Anti-Platelet Trialists' Collaboration-defined arterial thromboembolic events were not statistically different
between the aflibercept group and the laser group.

Conclusions:

Intravitreal aflibercept therapy provides significant improvement in visual acuity and a good safety
profile. Randomized studies are needed to document the optimal frequency of intravitreal injections for optimal
treatment.
Elevated Urinary Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase-2 and Insulin-Like Growth
Factor Binding Protein-7 Predict Drug-Induced Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Akalya K , Murali Tanusya Murali , Vathsala Anantharaman , Teo Boon-Wee , Low Sanmay , Dharmasegaran Dharmini , Koh Liang-Piu , Bonney Glenn Kunnath , Hong Wei-Zhen , Da Yi , Chua Horng-Ruey
Published: April 2022

Background:

Urinary tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP2) and insulin-like growth factor binding
protein-7 (IGFBP7) predict severe acute kidney injury (AKI) in critical illness. Earlier but subtle elevation of
either biomarker from nephrotoxicity may predict drug-induced AKI.

Methods:

A prospective study involving serial urine collection in patients treated with vancomycin, aminoglycosides,
amphotericin, foscarnet, or calcineurin inhibitors was performed. Urinary TIMP2 and IGFBP7, both absolute
levels and those normalized with urine creatinine, were examined in days leading to AKI onset by KDIGO criteria in
cases or at final day of nephrotoxic therapy in non-AKI controls, who were matched for age, baseline kidney function,
and nephrotoxic exposure.

Results:

Urinary biomarker analyses were performed in 21 AKI patients and 28 non-AKI matched-controls; both
groups had comparable baseline kidney function and duration of nephrotoxic drug therapy. Significantly higher absolute,
normalized, and composite levels of TIMP2 and IGFBP7 were observed in AKI cases versus controls as early as
2-3 days before AKI onset (all P<0.05); >70% of patients with corresponding levels above 75th percentile developed
AKI. Normalized TIMP2 at 2-3 days pre-AKI predicted AKI with the highest average AUROC of 0.81, followed by
that of composite [TIMP2]x[IGFBP7] (0.78) after cross-validation. [TIMP2]x[IGFBP7] >0.01 (ng/mL)2/1000 predicted
AKI with a sensitivity of 79% and specificity of 60%.

Conclusion:

Elevated urinary TIMP2 or IGFBP7 predicts drug-induced AKI with a lead-time of 2-3 days; an opportune
time for interventions to reduce nephrotoxicity.
An Overview of Dihydroartemisinin as a Promising Lead Compound for
Development of Anticancer Agents
Authors: Yong Jianping , Lu Canzhong , Olatunde Olagoke Zacchaeus
Published: April 2022

Dihydroartemisinin(DHA) is a derivative of artemisinin, which firstly showed higher antimalarial activity. Over the years, DHA has also been discovered to exhibit higher anticancer efficacy without adverse side effects. Although some shortcomings have been discovered during biological evaluation (such as poor aqueous solubility, short half-life, and initial burst release effect), several attempts have been developed to overcome these shortcomings. For example, appropriate delivery techniques were used to improve its anticancer efficacy. In this minireview, we focused on summarizing the anticancer mechanisms, anticancer efficacy of free DHA and in combination therapies, hybrids, and nanoparticle formulations, which will provide adequate insights for its clinical use as anticancer agents, and on the design and synthesis of DHA derivatives for development of anticancer agents.
Promising Role of Phytochemicals in the Prevention and Treatment of Cancer
Authors: Unnisa Aziz , Chettupalli Ananda Kumar
Published: April 2022

Cancer has a significant social consequence all around the globe. In 2020, approximately 19.3 million new cases of cancer were diagnosed worldwide, with about 10 million cancer deaths. In the next two decades, suspected cases are anticipated to increase by roughly 47%. The rising number of cancer patients, as well as the inadequacy of traditional chemotherapeutic agents, radiation, and invasive surgical procedures, all rely on massive cell death with hardly any selectivity, causing severe toxicities. In comparison to synthetic medications, there has subsequently been a surge in international interest in non-synthetic and alternative remedies, owing to improved adaptability and reduced side effects of drug responses. Several people with cancer prefer alternative and complementary therapy treatments, and natural remedies play a crucial role in cancer chemoprevention as they are thought to be harmless, offer fewer negative effects, and become less sufficient to evoke addiction by the wider population. Chemopreventive, antimetastatic, cytotoxic, and anti-angiogenic actions are among the promising clinical advantages, which have been established in vitro research and certain clinical trials; nevertheless, additional clinical trials are needed. This review examines several phytochemicals that may have anti-cancer and chemopreventive properties.
Monitoring of Surgical Wounds with Purely Textile, Measuring Wound Pads – II. Detection of Bacterial Inflammation by Measurement of Wound Tissue Temperature
Authors: Pötzschke Harald , Zirk Kai-Uwe
Published: April 2022

Aims:

This study was executed to aquire basic knowledge on relations between design characteristics and the quality of measurements, as well as the optimization of the design of purely textile, measuring wound dressings for the detection of wound tissue warming as an indicator for (bacterial) inflammation.

Background:

The normal healing of surgical skin wounds may be disrupted by complications, by far the most common being post-operative bacterial infections.

Objective:

The temperature of the wound and its surroundings – the main indicative parameter for the onset of bacterial inflammation – can be determined and shown by means of functionalized, purely textile wound dressings with measuring capability when used as part of a measuring and assistance system. The textile sensors comprise insulated electrical wires stitched onto a textile backing designed as double meander, which is appropriate for the detection of temperature, moist, and rectangular transverse elongation (indicating inflammation, bleeding or seroma discharge, and tissue volume increase as a sign of haemorrhage (into the tissue) or seroma formation).

Methods:

Major design parameters are diameter of the electrical conductor (wire) / distance between an electrical conductor and the nearest (parallel) conductor / spacing of the embroidered seams (upper thread loops) along a conductor / number of meander loops, and length, width, and area of the double meander sensor array.

Results:

Skin temperature rises a few degree Celsius resulting in differences in ohmic resistance in the order of a few parts per thousand. The ohmic resistance of the electrical sensor wire as measurement for the temperature under the dressing solely depends on the length of the wire. Neither the spacing between the sections of wire nor the spacing of the upper thread has any detectable direct effect on the determination of the temperature.

Conclusion:

To improve measuring accuracy, sensor wires as thin as possible should be used for two reasons: (1) because their ohmic resistance is higher, simplifying measurement, and (2) because they can be stitched closer together in wound dressings, enabling a longer sensor wire to be used in the area of interest.
Psychological Diversity in the Workplace: Personality Types and Gender Differences within Ethnicities
Authors: Diab-Bahman Randa
Published: April 2022

Introduction:

In recent years, the process of hiring an employee has become an important part. New and innovative ways of assessing employees are continuously sought after, primarily to ensure the right person for the right job. Exploring under-studied psychological differences which may impact the workplace could shed light on this important topic.

Methodology:

In this research, personality test results from 119 participants from Egypt, India, Lebanon and Philippines, men and women working in the Food & Beverage industry in Kuwait were collected. Each participant was given the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) personality type questionnaire which identifies individuals into one of 16 personality types.

Results:

Each ethnicity cluster was tested individually for frequencies and correlations of specific personality types within their own groups, as well as an investigation on the possibility of gender correlations. It was found that the proportions of the personality types are the same among genders across both their ethnicity group as well as their personality type.

Conclusion:

The findings are significant in that they shed the light on hidden psychological elements which may have an impact on the workplace. They may also aid communication strategies amongst different ethnicities as well as give insight on motivational factors which may lead to more productivity.
Fast Complete Ternary Addition with Novel 3:1 T-Multiplexer
Authors: Saha Aloke , Pal Rahul , Kumari Tripti , Singh Rakesh K. , Chakraborty Somashree , Ghosh Jayanta
Published: April 2022

Background:

Complete Ternary Adder is the prime building block for Ternary Carry Save
Adder (TCSA) and acts as a critical deciding factor to optimize the overall speed-power performance
for many complex ternary computing like ternary multiplications.

Objective:

This work proposes a new idea for high-speed complete Ternary Adder design with reduced
Power-Delay-Product (PDP) using PTL (Pass Transistor Logic) based novel 3:1 Ternary Multiplexer
(T-MUX) for efficient ternary computing.

Materials:

No external materials have been used in the present work.

Methods:

In the proposed approach, a novel 3:1 T-MUX with conventional E-MOS (Enhancementtype
Metal Oxide Semiconductor) transistor is designed first. The Novel Select Unit (SU) and Control
Unit (CU) are the prime building blocks of the proposed T-MUX circuit, which are discussed in detail.
The 3:1 T-MUX is exploited next to achieve the proposed high-speed, low-PDP Ternary Half and Full
Adder operation. The complete adder circuit is designed and optimized based on BSIM4 device parameters
using 32nm standard CMOS technology with 1.0V supply rail at 27°C temperature. Trit values
“0”, “1” and “2” are represented with 0V, 0.5V and 1.0V respectively. Extensive T-Spice simulation
with all possible test patterns using PWL (Piece Wise Linear) input source validates the proposed
circuit. The evaluated speed-power result of the proposed TFA is then compared with the most recent
competitive study to set a benchmark.

Results:

The proposed complete TFA offers 68.9% and 82.5% reduction in propagation delay along
with 27.7% and 31.6% Power-Delay-Product (PDP) reduction compared to the most recent competitive
complete TFA Design-1 and Design-2, respectively.

Discussion:

As per the study, the proposed idea can be a good selection to produce fast ternary
addition along with reduced Power-Delay-Product (PDP).

Conclusion:

The proposed complete TFA can be utilized effectively as Ternary Carry Save Adder
(TCSA) for fast, low-PDP ternary multiplication as well as for other computation-intensive
applications.
Effects of Different Physical Activation Agents on Adsorbent Pore
Development and Methane Uptake
Authors: Zaini Mohd Saufi Md , Syed-Hassan Syed Shatir A.
Published: April 2022

Introduction:

The effects of different physical activation agents on carbon material
pore development and the subsequent methane adsorption were studied.

Methods:

Palm kernel shell (PKS) as a carbon precursor was pre-treated with ZnCl2 and
activated for two hours with (i) CO2, (ii) steam, and (iii) the combination of CO2 and
steam (in series).

Results:

The findings indicate that the combination of two activation agents in series resulted
in a considerably high value of methane uptake of 118.73 V/V at 10 bar. Compared
to the activation with a single activating agent (steam or CO2), double activation agents
produced activated carbon (AC) with a higher BET surface area of 869.8 m2/g and a total
pore volume of 0.47 cm3/g. The obtained carbon materials were predominantly microporous,
with 92.08% micropores and 7.92% mesopores, respectively.

Conclusion:

The results show that combining two activation agents with different diffusivity
and reactivity significantly affects carbon pore development for methane adsorption.
The Impact of COVID-19 Strict Lockdown on the Air Quality of Smart Cities of Rajasthan, India
Authors: Barupal Tansukh , Tak Praveen Kumar , Meena Mukesh , Vishwakarma Pradeep Kumar , Swapnil Prashant
Published: April 2022

Aim:

The main focus of this study is to evaluate the air quality by comparing the concentration of particulate matter PM2.5, PM10, NO2, CO, SO2, and ozone of smart cities of Rajasthan before the lockdown and during the period of lockdown.

Background:

In India, the first case of the COVID-19 was reported on January 30th, 2020. Indian government declared strict lockdown, i.e., public health emergency in India on March 24th, 2020, which is implemented from March 25th, 2020, to April 14th, 2020, for 21 days.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to evaluate the air quality by comparing the levels of all parameters of air pollution during the COVID-19 lockdown period with values registered in the pre-lockdown period.

Methods:

Data were obtained from four automatic monitoring stations under the control of the Central Pollution Control Board, New Delhi (https://www.cpcb.nic.in/). Data regarding all the parameters were recorded as 24 hours average period.

Results:

CO levels showed the highest significant reduction in Udaipur (50.76%) followed by Jaipur (19.96%), Ajmer (17.11%), and Kota (5.51%) due to the ban on transport and driving. The levels of PM2.5, PM10, NO2, and SO2 were also decreased substantially for each smart city. Ozone concentrations were recorded greater than before due to decreased nitrogen oxides levels.

Conclusion:

This study can be useful considering our present role in environmental restoration or environmental destruction. It will also be helpful in updating our present plan toward the assurance and conservation of nature.
Nano-emulsion system consisting of non-ionic surfactant, silicone, and polyol
Authors:   Department of Senior Healthcare Majoring in Cosmetic Formulation and Pharmacology, Eulji University, Seongnam, South Korea, et al. Park
Published: April 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the optimum formulation of a niosomal nano-emulsion system consisting of silicone oil, non-ionic surfactant, and polyol. The nano-emulsions were prepared through a two-step homogenization procedure by a homogenizer and microfluidizer. The experiments were carried out by changing the composition ratio of dimethicone (DC200/100cs), polyglyceryl-2 dioleate, and glycerin, respectively. The variation of dimethicone resulted in showing a tendency for the content and particle size to be proportional. The variation of polyglyceryl-2 dioleate and the glycerin variation resulted in showing a similar tendency of the content and particle size to be inversely proportional. In zeta potential measurement, all nano-emulsions marked absolute value over around 30 mV, which is considered to be stable, while no significant correlation was observed with the variation. Based on these verifications, the author proposes the optimal conditions for preparing niosomal nano-emulsions.
Analyzing the determinants influencing technology-driven initiatives in project-based organizations in Pakistan using a hierarchical component modeling approach
Authors:   Lahore School of Professional Studies, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan, et al. Ali
Published: April 2022

The purpose of this paper is to identify and analyze the determinants influencing technology-driven initiatives in project-based organizations in Pakistan. Technology-driven initiatives help organizations to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of business processes, products, and services and are a major source of completive advantage. These initiatives have become more important for project-based organizations to improve project efficiency, reduce cost, and enhance effectiveness. Many organizations in Pakistan have structured their hierarchy as project-based organizations and strived to implement technology-driven initiatives to enhance innovation and improve project performance. However, for envisaged improvement, the well-recognized determinants influencing technology-driven initiatives have not been previously analyzed in this context. This study has filled this gap and identified and analyzed four determinants influencing technology-driven initiatives in project-based organizations in Pakistan. This has achieved by developing an explanatory model and testing the model using sample data from 98 respondents. The PLS-SEM-based hierarchical component modeling approach has been applied for data analysis. The results indicate that human resource management practices and organizational culture positively influence technology-driven initiatives in this context. Political deadlocks negatively influence technology-driven initiatives. However, leadership inaction shows no significant influence on technology-driven initiatives. The results are useful for theory and practice.
How do World-renowned Coffee Companies Manage Carbon Emissions? A Case Study of Starbucks
Authors:   School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Queensland, Australia, Wang Yuyun , Dargusch Paul ,   School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Queensland, Australia, Hill Genia ,   School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Queensland, Australia
Published: April 2022

Carbon emissions are a major factor influencing climate change. Climate change also has ecological impacts, such as loss of biodiversity and loss of ecosystem functions and services. Starbucks is a large multinational company which aims to reduce their environmental impact. Starbucks’ carbon emissions in 2018 were 16,706 thousand metric tons, including 320 thousand metric tons of direct scope 1 emissions, 1,094 thousand metric tons of indirect scope 2 emissions and 14198 thousand metric tons of indirect scope 3 emissions. Huge carbon emissions and pressure from stakeholders forced Starbucks to launch a carbon management program in 2018. Therefore, this article focuses on the assessment of Starbucks' carbon management practices. The company’s primary strategy for emissions reductions is to switch from single-use plastics to reusable and recyclable materials in the packaging of its products. Another measure is the development of regenerative agriculture, joining the effort to protect and restore forests and reduce the amount of water used in coffee processing and production. Starbucks' practices ensure that carbon emissions are avoided as much as possible while the company operates normally. Furthermore, as Starbucks itself has a significant carbon footprint and has the most emissions in its sector, the company should work to reduce their carbon footprint as well as strengthen its regulatory efforts and controls where it has not implemented measures to reduce emissions, such as the carbon footprint of Starbucks' transportation of ingredients.
Impactability Modeling for Reducing Medicare Accountable Care Organization Payments and Hospital Events in High-Need High-Cost Patients: Longitudinal Cohort Study
Authors: Smith Maureen A , Yu Menggang , Huling Jared D , Wang Xinyi , DeLonay Allie , Jaffery Jonathan
Published: April 2022

Background

Impactability modeling promises to help solve the nationwide crisis in caring for high-need high-cost patients by matching specific case management programs with patients using a “benefit” or “impactability” score, but there are limitations in tailoring each model to a specific program and population.

Objective

We evaluated the impact on Medicare accountable care organization savings from developing a benefit score for patients enrolled in a historic case management program, prospectively implementing the score, and evaluating the results in a new case management program.

Methods

We conducted a longitudinal cohort study of 76,140 patients in a Medicare accountable care organization with multiple before-and-after measures of the outcome, using linked electronic health records and Medicare claims data from 2012 to 2019. There were 489 patients in the historic case management program, with 1550 matched comparison patients, and 830 patients in the new program, with 2368 matched comparison patients. The historic program targeted high-risk patients and assigned a centrally located registered nurse and social worker to each patient. The new program targeted high- and moderate-risk patients and assigned a nurse physically located in a primary care clinic. Our primary outcomes were any unplanned hospital events (admissions, observation stays, and emergency department visits), count of event-days, and Medicare payments.

Results

In the historic program, as expected, high-benefit patients enrolled in case management had fewer events, fewer event-days, and an average US $1.15 million reduction in Medicare payments per 100 patients over the subsequent year when compared with the findings in matched comparison patients. For the new program, high-benefit high-risk patients enrolled in case management had fewer events, while high-benefit moderate-risk patients enrolled in case management did not differ from matched comparison patients.

Conclusions

Although there was evidence that a benefit score could be extended to a new case management program for similar (ie, high-risk) patients, there was no evidence that it could be extended to a moderate-risk population. Extending a score to a new program and population should include evaluation of program outcomes within key subgroups. With increased attention on value-based care, policy makers and measure developers should consider ways to incorporate impactability modeling into program design and evaluation.
Developing Reporting Guidelines for Studies of HIV Drug Resistance Prevalence: Protocol for a Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Garcia Cristian , Rehman Nadia , Lawson Daeria O , Djiadeu Pascal , Mbuagbaw Lawrence
Published: April 2022

Background

HIV drug resistance is a global health problem that limits the effectiveness of antiretroviral therapy. Adequate surveillance of HIV drug resistance is challenged by heterogenous and inadequate data reporting, which compromises the accuracy, interpretation, and usability of prevalence estimates. Previous research has found that the quality of reporting in studies of HIV drug resistance prevalence is low, and thus better guidance is needed to ensure complete and uniform reporting.

Objective

This paper contributes to the process of developing reporting guidelines for prevalence studies of HIV drug resistance by reporting the methodology used in creating a reporting item checklist and generating key insights on items that are important to report.

Methods

We will conduct a sequential explanatory mixed methods study among authors and users of studies of HIV drug resistance. The two-phase design will include a cross-sectional electronic survey (quantitative phase) followed by a focus group discussion (qualitative phase). Survey participants will rate the essentiality of various reporting items. This data will be analyzed using content validity ratios to determine the items that will be retained for focus group discussions. Participants in these discussions will revise the items and any additionally suggested items and settle on a complete reporting item checklist. We will also conduct a thematic analysis of the group discussions to identify emergent themes regarding the agreement process.

Results

As of November 2021, data collection for both phases of the study is complete. In July 2021, 51 participants had provided informed consent and completed the electronic survey. In October 2021, focus group discussions were held. Nine participants in total participated in two virtual focus group discussions. As of May 2022, data are being analyzed.

Conclusions

This study supports the development of a reporting checklist for studies of HIV drug resistance by achieving agreement among experts on what items should be reported in these studies. The results of this work will be refined and elaborated on by a writing committee of HIV drug resistance experts and external reviewers to develop finalized reporting guidelines.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/35969
A Parent-Based Intervention for Reducing High-risk Social Media Cognitions, Alcohol Use, and Negative Consequences Among Adolescents: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Pilot Study
Authors: Litt Dana M , Geusens Femke , Seamster Abby , Lewis Melissa A
Published: April 2022

Background

The prevalence of adolescent alcohol use continues to be a public health concern. Although adolescents spend an increasing amount of time with their friends, parents remain an important source of support and continue to play a key role in the lives of their adolescents. Extensive research in this area has resulted in parent-based intervention (PBI) efforts to prevent or reduce adolescent alcohol use. However, one major limitation of PBIs is that they do not currently consider the large role that social media plays in adolescents’ lives and in relation to their alcohol use. We will add to the literature by developing and refining a web-based PBI designed to reduce both high-risk social media cognitions and alcohol use among adolescents.

Objective

The central goal of the proposed study is to develop, refine, and pilot a web-based PBI to reduce both high-risk social media cognitions and alcohol use among adolescents.

Methods

A total of 100 parent-teen dyads will be randomly assigned to one of the following 2 conditions: intervention or control. Parents in the intervention group will be given access to the web-based PBI and suggestions for working through the PBI modules with their teens. The parent-teen dyads will fill out 3 questionnaires: a baseline questionnaire, 1-month questionnaire, and 6-month questionnaire.

Results

Recruitment and enrollment will begin in August 2022. Upon completion of the intervention trial, we will examine the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effect sizes of the newly developed web-based PBI.

Conclusions

This study has the potential to open doors for future studies examining the clinical implications of an efficacious web-based PBI to reduce alcohol use and high-risk cognitions about alcohol displays on social media.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04333966; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04333966

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/38543
Endometriosis: issues of pathogenesis
Authors:   Ural State Medical university, Yekaterinburg, Russian Federation, Kudryavtseva Elena V. , Oboskalova Tatyana A. ,   Ural State Medical university, Yekaterinburg, Russian Federation, Vorontsova Anna V. ,   Ural State Medical university, Yekaterinburg, Russian Federation, Chizhova Anna V. ,   State Autonomous Healthcare Institution of the Sverdlovsk Region "State Clinical Hospital No. 14"
Published: April 2022

Endometriosis is one of the most common gynecological diseases. But despite the fact that this pathology has been studied for many years, a consensus regarding the etiopathogenesis of this disease has not yet been reached. This literature review discusses several of the most significant theories regarding the origin of such a mysterious disease as endometriosis. Most of the data obtained indicate that endometriosis is a multifactorial pathology, with the participation of many genetic and environmental influences. At the same time, it is likely that one etiopathogenetic model of endometriosis, even including many genetic and epigenetic parameters, is not enough, since endometriosis is a heterogeneous disease with significant differences in the forms and clinical manifestations, as well as the initial background processes on which it develops.
Quantitative assessment of the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and neoangiogenesis in experimental spinal cord ischemia under conditions of combined use of erythropoietin and laser radiation
Authors:   South Ural State Medical University, Chelyabinsk, Russian Federation, Giniatullin Ravil U. , Osikov Mihail V. ,   South Ural State Medical University, Chelyabinsk, Russian Federation, Volodchenko Aleksey M. ,   Regional Clinical Hospital №3, Chelyabinsk, Russian Federation
Published: April 2022

The aim of the work — is to carry out a morphometric assessment of the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and neoangiogenesis and to justify the combined use of erythropoietin (EPO) and laser radiation (LI) in experimental spinal cord ischemia (EISM) from a pathogenetic standpoint. Materials and methods of research. The work was performed on 300 white nonlinear rats. EISM in rats was created according to the method proposed by G. Z. Sufianova, by total intravasal occlusion of the abdominal aorta and its branches. Histological, immunohistochemical, morphometric, and statistical methods were used in the work. The results of the study. The results obtained allow us to speak about the synergism of the neuroprotective effect of the systemic use of EPO and the local effect of LI in EISM in relation to the studied morphometric parameters in the focus of ischemic damage, including a decrease in the area of edema, the quantitative composition of small blood vessels, VEGF expression, depending on the timing of the experiments. Conclusions. 1. With EISM on days 3, 7, 14, 30 in the brain tissue of small blood vessels, VEGF expression in endotheliocytes is observed, tissue edema is observed. 2. The use of erythropoietin in a total dose of 15,000 IU/kg in EISM leads to an increase in the number of blood vessels in the spinal cord, a decrease in the area of edema. 3. Local single exposure to LI in EISM leads to an increase in the number of small blood vessels in the ischemic area, a progressive increase in the expression of VEGF in endotheliocytes, and a decrease in the area of edema. 4. The combined use of EPO and LI in EISM leads to an increase in the expression of VEGF in endotheliocytes, the number of small blood vessels, and a decrease in the area of edema on days 3, 7, 14 and 30.
Assessment of Level of Local Community Awareness of the Activities of State Institutions in Environmental Protection in Taraba State, Nigeria
Authors: D. Oruonye, E. , Babanyaya Bashir Mohammed , B. Ngamdu, M.
Published: April 2022

Understanding local community awareness of the activities of state institutions in environmental protection is an important step for successful implementation of sustainable environmental protection polices in the state. It is against this background that this study examines local community awareness of the activities of State Institutions in environmental protection in Taraba State, Nigeria. The study adopted survey research design. Primary and secondary data were used. 376 questionnaires were administered to local community members in the state. The findings of the study reveal low performance of the State institutions which was mostly in the area of distribution of alternative source of domestic energy (gas and cooking stoves), planting and distribution of tree seedlings. The study findings also reveal low involvement of the local communities especially those in the rural areas. This resulted in the low level of local community awareness of the activities of the state institutions on environmental protection in the state. Based on the findings, the study recommended adequate funding of the state institutions, involvement of local communities in the activities of state institutions and increasing research in awareness studies in the state.
Enhancing Teaching Quality as an Agent of Change: An Account of a Yearlong Literacy Project in a Primary School in the Dominican Republic
Authors: Briscoe Patricia
Published: April 2022

Children who grow up surrounded by poverty often remain in poverty; however, education can be a powerful agent of change. In many developing countries where poverty is high, quality education is critical in reducing it. The conceptual framework of this research is based on the premise that cultivating and delivering a quality education begins with quality teachers. This research is a narrative ethnography combined with participatory action research methods to recount a year-long project designed to enhance teacher quality. The setting is a school in Muñoz, Dominican Republic with a team of five primary public school teachers. The findings outline the stages of intervention, successes and challenges encountered, my learning about supporting educational endeavours as a long-term goal for breaking generational poverty, and my advice to others who embark on similar projects working in developing countries.
Evaluation of Pakistani Challenge to Indian Hegemonic Ambition: A Look into History
Authors: Rahman Mahmudur
Published: April 2022

South Asia is the largest region in the world in terms of population and India is the most dominant power among the eight member states that comprise the region, two of which possess nuclear weapons. The region is widely regarded as potential conflict zone because of the historic rivalry between India and Pakistan. As the British exited from the subcontinent, India aspired to inherit the hegemonic pole position of the colonial power as its successor. But refusal of nuclear Pakistan, the second most powerful state in South Asia to surrender to the Indian material superiority resulted in the conflict formation during the last seven decades. The enmity between India and Pakistan commenced from the violent partition of British India in 1947. In addition to the three wars that India and Pakistan fought since the British relinquished colonial occupation, there were many other conflicts that could have ignited full-fledged armed confrontation. One of the core reasons for tension in South Asia is the unresolved Kashmir problem. Pakistan’s possession of nuclear arms has further dented Indian ambition to establish unchallenged regional hegemonic stability. The nuclearization of the subcontinent in the 90’s has benefitted much smaller Pakistan by elevating it to a more potent challenger to the Indian military might. The failure of India to rise above the perennial Indo-Pak confrontation not only has acted against fulfilling its dream of achieving the great power status, but also proven to be a formidable barrier in the creation of favorable environment needed for regional cooperation in order to maintain socio-economic development in the poverty-stricken South Asia. This paper focuses on the root causes of the conflict with chronological history of events.
Review on Human-Computer Interaction: An Evolution of Usablility
Authors: Tekade Pooja , Abhyankar Himanshu , Tornekar Prof. Rupali
Published: April 2022

Abstract: This paper's goal is to give a broad overview of the field of Human-Computer Interaction. The basic definitions and terminology are covered, as well as a study of existing technologies and recent breakthroughs in the field, popular architectures used in the design of HCI systems, including unimodal and multimodal configurations, and HCI applications. A major goal of human-computer interaction research is to make systems more usable, valuable, and to give users with experiences tailored to their specific knowledge and goals. In an information-rich environment, the challenge is not just to make information available to individuals at any time, in any place, and in any form, but also to keep it up to date as per current trends and demands. Keywords: HCI - Human Computer Interaction, Multimodal HCI, Unimodal HCI, MMHCI - Multimodal HCI, UX - User Experience.
Lab Attendance Using Fingerprint Sensor
Authors: Bhagat Kartik , Ghorpade Shrinath , Patil Gourav , Kamble Yogesh , Bhosale D. A.
Published: April 2022

Abstract: In today’s world regularity of student attendance is concerned in the administration of Educational Institutions. Overall academic performance is affected by the student’s attendance because poor attendance leads students in detention list. Student’s attendance is taken manually by using attendance sheet given by the faculty members in the classroom, which is a time-consuming event. Furthermore, it is very difficult to verify one by one student in a large classroom whether the authenticated students are responding or not. The proposed system describes a method for Students Attendance System which will integrate with the fingerprint technology. This paper proposes the system in that various fingerprints of students will be gated through the fingerprint module. The fingerprints will be mapped against the data set for authentication of student attendance. The student whose fingerprint matches the most with the data set is marked present for the particular lecture. As well as this paper demonstrates how fingerprint recognition can be used for an efficient attendance system to automatically record the presence of an enrolled individual within the respective venue. Also, it maintains a log file to keep records of the entry of every individual with respect to subjects and also generate a report of attendance. This paper also provides the design method of fingerprint-based student attendance with help of GSM. This system ignores the requirement for stationary materials and personnel for keeping of records. Keywords: fingerprint, attendance management, enrolment, authentication, Xampp/Wamp Server- Version 7.4.27 size 671bytes, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP- Version:-7.3.21, MySQL- Version:- 8.0.13