bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ROLE OF GROUPS OF INTEREST IN THE POLITICAL SYSTEM OF SOCIETY
Authors:   Ph.D. in history, Associate Professor, Department of Humanities and Social Disciplines, Military-Technical Institute of the National Guard of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Rasulova Nodira Sardarovna
Published: December 2020

The article examines the role and place of interest groups in civil society, their functions, specificity of activities, similarities and differences from political parties. Based on an analysis of the opinions of prominent scientists and political scientists, the main task of interest groups is shown - mediation between the state, seeking to protect common interests, and civil society, expressing private goals and interests. The possibilities of various groups of interests to influence the authorities, as well as to bring to the attention of political decision-makers, the needs and demands of the population, have been determined. Specific proposals and recommendations have been formulated aimed at increasing the political and legal activity of citizens.
Autoestima y satisfacción con la profesión elegida en estudiantes de Diseño Gráfico Publicitario
Authors: Alania Contreras Ruben Dario , Ruiz-Aquino Mely , Fuentes Torpoco Yosselin Leonor
Published: December 2020

Objetivo. Determinar la relación entre la autoestima y satisfacción hacia la profesión elegida en estudiantes de diseño gráfico publicitario del Instituto Superior Continental de Huancayo. Método. Estudio de tipo básico, nivel correlacional y diseño no experimental, trasversal, descriptivo correlacional; que tuvo una muestra de 90 estudiantes a quienes se aplicó el inventario de autoestima de Coopersmith (1997) y el inventario de satisfacción con la profesión elegida de Vildoso (2002). Resultados. Se halló que la autoestima ( v1 = 0,64) y satisfacción con la profesión elegida (v2 = 3,51) están por encima del promedio ideal, la correlación entre las variables de estudio fue directa, alta (r = 0,61) y la significancia alta (p = 0,00); se infirió que, a mayor autoestima mayor satisfacción con la profesión elegida. Conclusión. Se halló relación directa, alta con significancia alta, entre la autoestima y satisfacción hacia la profesión elegida en estudiantes de diseño gráfico publicitario del Instituto Superior Continental de Huancayo.
СОЦИОЛИНГВИСТИКА В КИТАЕ: ИСТОРИЯ СТАНОВЛЕНИЯ И ПЕРСПЕКТИВЫ РАЗВИТИЯ
Authors:   Институт языкознания РАН, Российская Федерация, Каплунова Мария Я.
Published: December 2020

Языковая ситуация в Китае, обусловленная полиэтническим и мультикультурным составом населения, представляет определенный интерес для социолингвистов. Тем не менее проблемы функционирования китайского языка,выполняющего роль этнообъединяющего языка в стране; проблемы языков национальных меньшинств и другие ключевые вопросы языка и общества в Китае стали объектами взвешенной языковой политики сравнительно недавно, ввиду того, что китайская социолингвистика является молодой наукой, начало которой было положено в период реализации провозглашенной в 1978 г. политики реформ и открытости в КНР. За последние сорок лет социолингвистика в Китае прошла этапы возникновения, становления и развития, описанию которых посвящена данная статья. Кроме того, активное вовлечение социолингвистов в современную языковую политику страны позволяет определить период с начала XXI в. и по настоящее время как «этап устойчивого развития социолингвистики», а повсеместное внедрение социолингвистических методов исследования в рамках реализации принципов языковой политики и языкового строительства страны позволяет судить о перспективах дальнейшего развития социолингвистики в Китае.
О СУБСТАНДАРТНОЙ ЛЕКСИКЕ ВО ФРАНЦУЗСКОЙ ДЕТСКОЙ ПОЭЗИИ
Authors: Тихонова Марина П.
Published: December 2020

В своём современном виде поэзия для детей появилась во Франции в XX веке. Её обновлению способствовали политические и социальные изменения общества, которые повлияли на отношение социума к детям. На смену морализаторству и дидактизму приходят демократические тенденции, отразившиеся и в языке детской литературы. Современные поэты, пишущие для детей, пользуются не только литературным (нормативным) вариантом языка, но и такими субстандартными формами, как разговорно-фамильярный язык, просторечие, арго и территориальные диалекты. Социальные разновидности языка привлекают своей ненормативностью, специфической лексикой и фразеологией, непринуждённостью, экспрессивностью, эмоциональностью и оценочностью. Кроме того, эта лексика обладает очень высоким людическим потенциалом. Разговорные элементы могут выполнять в детской поэзии разные функции: они воссоздают живую речь, позволяют взрослому встать на позицию равного с ребёнком, создавая эффект соучастия, а иногда удивления и неожиданности. Однако главная роль субстандартной лексики в детской поэзии заключается в усилении людической функции. Субстандартные формы языка в детской литературе свидетельствуют также об определённых изменениях, которые эта лексика претерпела в лингвистическом сознании французов: к ней уже не относятся как к «языковым нечистотам», а рассматривают её как неотъемлемый компонент французской культуры, в котором отражается национальная языковая картина мира.
ФРАНЦУЗСКИЙ ЯЗЫК В КВЕБЕКЕ: ОСНОВНЫЕ ХАРАКТЕРИСТИКИ
Authors: Кожемякина Валентина Алексеевна
Published: December 2020

Статья посвящена сопоставительному описанию особенностей квебекского варианта французского языка, который сформировался на территории Квебека с начала освоения французами Северной Америки. Описание морфологической системы и лексического состава квебекского французского языка позволило выявить его основные характеристики. Материалом исследования послужили словари и труды, посвященные квебекскому языку, а также собственные выводы автора при анализе речи квебекцев. При доминирующей тенденции к стандартному французскому языку язык франкоквебекцев характеризуется наличием архаизмов и диалектизмов, утраченных французским языком метрополии или сохранившихся только в диалектах. Определенную группу лексики составляют англицизмы, хотя их количество не так велико, как можно было бы ожидать. Особенный слой лексики представляют канадианизмы, которыми французские колонисты обозначали новые для них растения, животных, явления природы. Новая лексика либо заимствовалась, либо создавалась заново. При сопоставлении французского и квебекского французского языков можно с уверенностью сказать, что язык франкоквебекцев — это вариант французского языка, отмеченный особенностями, вытекающими из условий его развития.
ИСТОРИЧЕСКАЯ СОЦИОЛИНГВИСТИКА: ГРАНИЦЫ И ВОЗМОЖНОСТИ (НА МАТЕРИАЛЕ РОМАНСКИХ ЯЗЫКОВ)
Authors: Челышева Ирина Игоревна
Published: December 2020

Статья посвящена проблематике исторической социолингвистики в приложении к романским языкам. Это исследовательское направление, с одной стороны, позиционируется как новое, но, с другой стороны, продолжает традиции классической романской филологии, рассматривавшей историю языка в контексте истории общества. Диахронический материал не дает возможности обращаться к непосредственному языковому опыту и лингвистической компетенции носителей языков, а объектом лингвистической рефлексии романские языки стали, в основном, лишь с XVI в. Однако на основании разнообразных экстралингвистических сведений и корпуса текстов определенной эпохи можно реконструировать языковую ситуацию, а в некоторых случаях воссоздать и ситуацию коммуникативную. Средневековое многоязычие романской Европы представлено в различных вариантах соотношения языков и сфер, ими обслуживаемых. Особое место занимает соотношение латынь vs. романские языки, обретавшее различные формы, начиная с момента формирования романских языков. Такие аспекты, как язык и этнос, язык и государство, языковая политика, также могут быть исследованы в приложении к прошлому. Наиболее сложным оказывается воссоздание социальной дифференциации языка прошлых эпох, поскольку диастратические варианты ограниченно представлены в текстах, а оценка их места в иерархии языкового варьирования затруднена.
A study on the management innovation and military application of Yuhan-Kimberly
Authors: Kang Wonseok , Park Sunwook
Published: December 2020

With the advent of the fourth industrial revolution and rising competition, the survival environment of companies has become difficult to predict. Consequently, changes and innovations to gain a competitive edge have become essential for modern society. In this paper, the management innovation techniques and contents were examined through the case of re-engineering of Yuhan Kimberly, exploring the direction of development and the way to apply them nationally. Yuhan-Kimberly implemented people-centered management, such as improving the working environment, operating the lifelong learning system, introducing smart work and family-friendly management; it also strengthened social enterprise activities that had continued since the early days of its establishment, thereby, realizing social enterprise image integration. Consequently, it solidified its status as a social enterprise through the increase in corporate profits, the selection of respected companies, and the commendation of government agencies. Based on the case of Yuhan-Kimberly’s innovation, the government proposed work-life balance and family-friendly management, the transformation of information systems, the improvement of organizational culture, and the promotion of ethical management and social contribution activities. This suggests that the military should aim to achieve its basic goals, restore public trust, and establish its role in the changing security environment.
A Review on Linear Regression Comprehensive in Machine Learning
Authors: Maulud Dastan , Abdulazeez Adnan M.
Published: December 2020

Perhaps one of the most common and comprehensive statistical and machine learning algorithms are linear regression. Linear regression is used to find a linear relationship between one or more predictors. The linear regression has two types: simple regression and multiple regression (MLR). This paper discusses various works by different researchers on linear regression and polynomial regression and compares their performance using the best approach to optimize prediction and precision. Almost all of the articles analyzed in this review is focused on datasets; in order to determine a model's efficiency, it must be correlated with the actual values obtained for the explanatory variables.
Cambios en sistemas productivos y elementos biofísicos, en fincas cafeteras de la zona central colombiana
Authors: Juan Carlos García-López
Published: December 2020

En algunos municipios cafeteros de los departamentos de Caldas y Risaralda, en la Zona Central de Colombia, los cultivos de café se encuentran en riesgo asociado a variaciones climáticas extremas. Con el fin de evaluar las relaciones entre los cambios en los sistemas de producción y las variaciones de los elementos biofísicos, se recopiló información de todas las fincas cafeteras ubicadas en los municipios de Santuario y Balboa (Risaralda) y Salamina (Caldas), en los años 2006, 2009, 2012 y 2015. Se determinaron las estadísticas con respecto a los factores de producción, edad, densidad, variedades, entre otros. Se analizó la información climática de las redes meteorológicas del Ideam y la Red Cafetera, para los elementos de temperatura y lluvia. Los valores de exceso y déficit hídrico e índice de humedad del suelo fueron derivados del cálculo de balance hídrico. Se evaluaron los cambios entre años y por etapas fisiológicas del cultivo. Se concluyó que, Salamina y Santuario disminuyeron su área cafetera entre 2009 y 2015, mientras Balboa la incrementó. Los factores de amenaza se relacionaron con las condiciones hídricas de exceso (Santuario y Salamina) y déficit (Balboa). En todos los municipios de este estudio la mayor vulnerabilidad se presenta en áreas por debajo de 1.300 m de altitud, en el escenario El Niño, 2015, relacionada con incremento de la temperatura y disminución de la oferta hídrica anual. La condición biofísica (clima y suelo) no estuvo asociada a la dinámica de cambio, en área y cultivos de café, en los municipios estudiados.
Vaccines against SARS-Cov-2
Authors: Chakravorty Subarna
Published: December 2020

This article rationalises the culmination of the design, testing, regulatory approval and delivery of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine in the UK, USA and across the world. The author champions the worldwide collaboration of scientists, industry, governments, regulatory agencies and several thousands of people who have courageously put themselves forward to make this immense feat possible. So that we, the rest of the people may reap the survival benefits. The author presents a balanced view and acknowledges the uncompromising science that has fuelled this marvel- encouraging people who fear the unknown and vaccine sceptics to come forward.
Gravitomagnetic Instabilities of Relativistic Magnetohydrodynamics
Authors: Noh Hyerim , Hwang Jai-chan
Published: December 2020

We study gravitomagnetic instabilities of a static homogeneous medium with an aligned magnetic field in the two contexts of relativistic magnetohydrodynamics (MHD): first, MHD with post-Newtonian (PN) corrections, and second, special relativistic (SR) MHD with weak gravity. The analysis in the PN MHD is made without taking the temporal gauge condition, thus results are gauge-invariant. The PN corrections of the internal energy, pressure, sound velocity, and the Alfvén velocity lower the critical (Jeans) wavelength. All relativistic effects tend to destabilize the system. Although the SR MHD with weak gravity is presented in the harmonic gauge, in the presence of gravity the stability analysis is strictly valid to Newtonian order. In the absence of gravity, the SR MHD is independent of the gauge condition. We present the plane wave velocities and the stability criteria in both cases.
The Dust-to-gas Ratio and the Role of Radiation Pressure in Luminous, Obscured Quasars
Authors: Jun Hyunsung D. , Assef Roberto J. , Carroll Christopher M. , Hickox Ryan C. , Kim Yonghwi , Lee Jaehyun , Ricci Claudio , Stern Daniel
Published: December 2020

The absence of high-Eddington-ratio, obscured active galactic nuclei (AGNs) in local (z ≲ 0.1) samples of moderate-luminosity AGNs has generally been explained to result from radiation pressure on the dusty gas governing the level of nuclear (≲10 pc) obscuration. However, very high accretion rates are routinely reported among obscured quasars at higher luminosities and may require a different feedback mechanism. We compile constraints on obscuration and Eddington ratio for samples of X-ray, optical, infrared, and submillimeter selected AGNs at quasar luminosities. Whereas moderate-luminosity, obscured AGNs in the local universe have a range of lower Eddington ratios (f
Edd ∼ 0.001–0.1), the most luminous (L
bol ≳ 1046 erg s−1) IR/submillimeter-bright, obscured quasars out to z ∼ 3 commonly have very high Eddington ratios (f
Edd ∼ 0.11). This apparent lack of radiation-pressure feedback in luminous, obscured quasars is likely coupled with AGN timescales, such that a higher fraction of luminous, obscured quasars are seen because of the short timescale for which quasars are most luminous. When adopting quasar evolutionary scenarios, extended (∼102–3 pc) obscuration may work together with the shorter timescales to explain the observed fraction of obscured, luminous quasars, while outflows driven by radiation pressure will slowly clear this material over the AGN lifetime.
Caries Risk Assessment in Adults Using the Cariogram
Authors: Doitchinova Liliya , Kirov Dimitar , Nikolova Janet , Topalova-Pirinska Snezhanka
Published: December 2020

Introduction: This study identifies the caries risk in adult patients using the Swedish software product Cariogram. Early detection and timely management of risk factors for caries development are crucial for its prevention and non-operative preventative treatment.

Aim: To identify patients at high risk for caries and implement a prophylactic program aimed at the individual patient based on the assessment of the individual risk factors.

Materials and methods: The study included 59 women and 41 men aged 19–65 years. A detailed medical history was obtained from all patients who underwent thorough clinical examination, evaluation of saliva with Saliva-Check Buffer (GC) test and of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus levels using the CRT Bacteria kit (Ivoclar Vivadent AG products), and assessment of the caries risk using the Cariogram software.

Results: The results showed that the most important risk factors were as follows: DMFT, (rs [100] = 0.358, p<0.001), levels of Lacto-bacilli (rs [100] = 0.321, p<0.001), levels of Streptococcus mutans (rs [100] = 0.302, p<0.05), plaque amount (rs [100] = 0.291, p<0.05), food intake frequency (rs [100] = 0.252, p<0.05), and diet content (rs [100] = 0.220, p<0.05). Insignificant correlation coefficients in risk assessment were shown by the application of fluorides (rs [100] = 0.114, p>0.05), saliva rate (rs [100] = 0.018, p>0.05), and saliva buffer capacity (rs [100] = 0.144, p>0.05).

Conclusions: Cariogram is a very useful method in clinical practice for evaluation of the caries risk and its preventive, non-operative management. 
Cryphonectriaceae associated with rust-infected Syzygium jambos in Hawaii
Authors: Roux Jolanda , Kamgan Nkuekam Gilbert , Marincowitz Seonju , van der Merwe Nicolaas A. , Uchida Janice , Wingfield Michael J. , Chen ShuaiFei
Published: December 2020

Syzygium jambos (Myrtales, Myrtaceae) trees in Hawaii are severely affected by a rust disease caused by Austropuccinia psidii (Pucciniales, Sphaerophragmiaceae), but they are commonly co-infected with species of Cryphonectriaceae (Diaporthales). In this study, S. jambos and other trees in the Myrtales were examined on three Hawaiian Islands for the presence of Cryphonectriaceae. Bark samples with fruiting bodies were collected from infected trees and fungi were isolated directly from these structures. Pure cultures were produced and the fungi were identified using DNA sequence data for the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, part of the β-tubulin (BT1) gene and the transcription elongation factor-1α (TEF1) gene. Five species in three genera of Cryphonectriaceae were identified from Myrtaceae tree samples. These included Chrysoporthe deuterocubensis, Microthia havanensis and three previously-unknown taxa described here as Celoporthe hauoliensis sp. nov., Cel. hawaiiensis sp. nov. and Cel. paradisiaca sp. nov. Representative isolates of Cel. hauoliensis, Cel. hawaiiensis, Cel. paradisiaca, Chr. deuterocubensis and Mic. havanensis were used in artificial inoculation studies to consider their pathogenicity on S. jambos. Celoporthe hawaiiensis, Cel. paradisiaca and Chr. deuterocubensis produced lesions on young S. jambos trees in inoculation trials, suggesting that, together with A. psidii, they may contribute to the death of trees. Microsatellite markers were subsequently used to consider the diversity of Chr. deuterocubensis on the Islands and thus to gain insights into its possible origin in Hawaii. Isolates of this important Myrtaceae and particularly Eucalyptus pathogen were found to be clonal. This provides evidence that Chr. deuterocubensis was introduced to the Hawaiian Islands as a single introduction, from a currently unknown source.
Assisted reproductive technologies in Russia: medical breakthroughs and social problems
Authors: Rusanova Nina E.
Published: December 2020

The paper considers the role of assisted reproductive technologies in changing the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of Russian fertility. The author analyzes the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of ART in Russia in 1986-2020, their public perception and current problems based on the data of national ART registers, reviews of international professional associations of reproductive specialists, secondary sociological information and hospital statistics. The general trend is the expansion of the geography of reproductive centers and the diversification of services, but the growing demand for ART as methods of alternative conception in the absence of reproductive disorders intensifies public debate around them, especially in the context of religion and children’s health. Nevertheless, in conditions of low fertility, the state considers ART as instruments of a pronatal demographic policy and finances them even against the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic.
Effect of inclusion of assisted reproductive technologies in the state health insurance programme in Russia
Authors: Moskaleva Alexandra A.
Published: December 2020

Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) are an infertility treatment tool. In Russia, more than 250 centers implementing infertility treatment with the help of ART have been opened in 67 regions. In 2014, in vitro fertilization (IVF) was included in the programme of state guarantees, and since 2016 the service can be obtained within the Mandatory Health Insurance (MHI) system. Author of this study analyzes how the impact of economic factors on fertility with the use of ART has changed in relation to the inclusion of IVF in the MHI system, and what social factors affect the usage of this technology. The analysis bases on the panel data for the regions of Russia covering the period from 2011 to 2017. The fixed effects method was used to assess the impact of various factors. The study shows that the population income level has a significant positive impact on the proportion of births with the use of ART even after the inclusion of IVF into the MHI programme. At the same time, the inclusion of IVF in the MHI programme has led to an increase in the proportion of births using ART. The positive effect of this inclusion is higher in wealthier regions. Among social factors, a significant impact has the accessibility of information about the procedure, which is measured by the share of population having access to the Internet.
First Record of Epophthalmia frontalis from Central India (Insecta: Odonata: Macromiidae)
Authors: Tiple Ashish D. , Payra Arajush
Published: December 2020

Epophthalmia frontalis, a new Macromiidae dragonfly for Central India, is recorded from Seoni of Madhya Pradesh based on a collection of a single male. In India, earlier, this species was only known from a few places of Western Ghats and Eastern India. Diagnostic characters with closely resemble species and field photographs are given.
Orthopterans (Insecta: Orthoptera) of conservation value in the Eurasian Eagle Owl Bubo bubo food in Bulgaria
Authors: Chobanov Dragan , Milchev Boyan
Published: December 2020

Three species of Bush-crickets (Orthoptera) of conservation value or poorly known were found in the Eurasian Eagle Owl food in southeastern Bulgaria. Their localities are new country records and two of them cover Natura 2000 SCI zones. The repeated predation on Bradyporus macrogaster in UTM square MG99 confirms the potential of this area for a new Natura 2000 site.
A Life in The Museum: An Homage to Dr. Dumitru Murariu at 80 Years
Authors: Popa Luis Ovidiu , Popa Oana Paula
Published: December 2020

Dr. Dumitru Murariu was born on September 21, 1940 in Ungureni, Botoşani County, as the first child in a peasant family. He attended primary and secondary school in his home village. Since the beginning he proved himself to be one of the brightest students in the class and, as a consequence, the school teachers advised his parents to have him continue his education. At the end of secondary school, the young Dumitru Murariu enrolled at the “August Treboniu Laurian” theoretical 280 Popa & Popa high school in the city of Botoşani. During these years (1955–1957), the teacher of “the Fundamentals of Darwinism” made a strong impression on the future scientist, with practical lessons, in a small garden, on the correlation between the natural selection and the variability of organisms. On the way from the main building to the above‑mentioned garden, the professor taught his pupils how to identify the trees on the sidewalks and from the “Public Garden”. This teacher’s name was Remus Cehovschi - former Assistant Professor at the University of Chernivtsi (Cernăuți – North Bukovina), from where he took refuge to Botoșani in 1944.

After graduating high school, Dumitru Murariu returned to his home village, where he occupied a position of unqualified teacher in the village school. In the fall of 1958, he was drafted for the mandatory military service until mid-January 1961. Returning home, he resumed his school position but in the autumn of the same year, he successfully passed the admission exams at the Faculty of Biology-Geography, the Department of Biology-Zoology at the “Al. I. Cuza” University of Iași. Based on his academic excellence he received a scholarship until graduating in 1966.
Internet memes in Covid-19 lockdown times in Poland
Authors: Norstrom Roza , Sarna Pawel
Published: December 2020

Poland was one of the countries that was hit by the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, and its government imposed restrictions to combat the spreading of the virus. The Internet and social media became outlets for people’s reactions to the events that unfolded, including the lockdown. A part of this reaction came in the form of creating and sharing memes – an expression of digital participatory culture. This paper aims to analyze how Covid-19 was communicated and narrated through Internet memes and how they presented the pandemic and actors responsible for fighting it. 1,763 memes from six media platforms were analyzed using content analysis with framing elements and a comparative narrative analysis. The results show that the memes provided a form of commentary on the situation experienced by Poles. The most common category of memes was “bans and orders”, involving restrictions that were often criticized and ridiculed as pointless. The main characters within the memes were ordinary citizens, often portrayed in a comedic way as careless in regards to the virus and violating the restrictions. They were also presented as victims of the police and the government. Furthermore, the people responsible for fighting the pandemic were portrayed as incompetent and imposing needlessly severe restrictions and penalties for not abiding by them.

Polonia fue uno de los países golpeados por la pandemia del Covid-19 en 2020, cuyo gobierno impuso restricciones para combatir la propagación del virus. Internet y las redes sociales se convirtieron en un escape para las reacciones de las personas a estos eventos, incluido el confinamiento. Una parte de esta reacción vino en forma de creación y difusión de memes, una expresión de la cultura digital y participativa. El presente estudio tiene como objetivo analizar cómo el Covid-19 fue comunicado y narrado a través de los memes en Internet y cómo fue presentada la pandemia y los responsables de combatirla. Fueron analizados 1.763 memes de seis medios empleando un análisis de contenidos con elementos de enmarque y análisis comparativo narrativo. Los resultados muestran que los memes fueron una forma de expresión sobre la situación vivida por los polacos. La categoría más popular fue la de «prohibiciones y órdenes», aludiendo a las restricciones que frecuentemente fueron criticadas y ridiculizadas como inútiles. El personaje principal de los memes fueron los ciudadanos, frecuentemente retratados de una manera cómica como personas irresponsables en cuanto al virus y violaciones de las restricciones. También fueron presentados como víctimas de la policía y el gobierno. Además, las personas responsables de combatir la pandemia fueron retratadas como incompetentes, al imponer restricciones y sanciones excesivamente estrictas por no obedecerlas.
A model and two heuristic methods for The Multi-Product Inventory-Location-Routing Problem with heterogeneous fleet
Authors: Arslan Ömer , İşleyen Selçuk Kürşat
Published: December 2020

The Multi-Product Inventory-Location-Routing Problem with heterogeneous fleet considers a supply chain, which comprises multiple producers, potential distribution centers (DCs) with opening capacity levels and geographically scattered retailers each of which has deterministic demand over a discrete planning horizon. The goal is determining a set of DCs with their capacity levels to open, assigning retailers to the opened DCs, finding product quantities to be ordered by and distributed from opened DCs and determining the fleet and routes to satisfy the demands of retailers with minimum cost. A mixed-integer linear programming model is proposed to describe the problem, which is strengthened by two valid inequalities. Since the commercial solver can only solve the very small-sized instances within a reasonable time, two heuristic methods are developed. Results show that the proposed valid inequalities are effective and both methods provide important savings in acceptable run times compared to the commercial solver.
Stochastic comparisons of parallel systems with scale proportional hazards components equipped with starting devices
Authors: Fang Longxiang , Balakrishnan Narayanaswamy , Huang Wenyu
Published: December 2020

In this paper, we discuss stochastic comparisons of parallel systems with scale proportional hazards components equipped with starting devices. To begin with, we present the hazard rate order of parallel systems with two scale proportional hazards components equipped with starting devices for two different cases: first when the starting devices with different probability have the same scale proportional hazards components, and the second when the different scale proportional hazards components have the same starting devices probability. Next, we present the usual stochastic order of parallel systems with \begin{document}$ n $\end{document} scale proportional hazards components equipped with starting devices. Finally, we provide some numerical examples to illustrate all the results established here.
Malignant transformation in a sciatic plexiform neurofibroma in Neurofibromatosis Type 1 - imaging features that aid diagnosis
Authors: Chew Dorinda Chee Yee , Zhao Daniel Bin Hang , Sittampalam Kesavan , Kumar S Krishna
Published: December 2020

A 41-year-old Asian male with NF1 and bilateral sciatic plexiform neurofibromas, presented with unintentional weight loss, increasing size of a left thigh mass associated with increasing pain and radiculopathy. MRI of the left thigh demonstrated imaging features suspicious of malignant transformation. The patient had a new left lung mass, demonstrating avid FDG uptake, raising suspicion for metastasis. Surgical resection of the left thigh mass confirms malignant transformation in a preexisting sciatic plexiform neurofibroma. Diagnosis of malignant transformation in a nerve sheath tumour can be challenging. MRI remains the main preferred imaging modality in the evaluation of these tumours. Imaging features that raise suspicion for malignant transformation are discussed. Although none of these are specific for malignant transformation, studies suggest that the presence of two to four of these features should prompt further investigations.
I posti dei rifiuti. Badara Ngom e la discarica di Mbeubeuss
Authors: Rimoldi Luca
Published: December 2020

Questo contributo descrive alcuni tratti della vita sociale dei rifiuti, inserendosi nel dibattito sull’antropologia della loro vita materiale e sociale, per poi concentrarsi sugli spazi di vita e di lavoro della discarica di Mbeubeuss, nella periferia di Dakar. I rifiuti sono in grado di creare relazioni, spazi e paesaggi delimitati e definiti dalle politiche e dalle pratiche (formali e informali) della loro stessa gestione. La riflessione qui presentata poggia le sue basi su parte dei dati etnografici raccolti tra il 2016 e il 2019 presso un gruppo di lavoratrici e lavoratori formali e informali della discarica, e si focalizza su alcuni eventi della vita quotidiana di uno di loro – Badara Ngom. Obiettivo di questo lavoro è analizzare le modalità attraverso le quali i rifiuti costruiscono spazi sociali e relazionali e dimostrare come il valore non sia solamente una rappresentazione delle relazioni sociali, ma contribuisce a orientare traiettorie di vita e mantenere un ordine sociale legato ai rifiuti.
Iwo: A reevaluation of refugee integration, intergroup relations, and the scenography of power in a 19th-century Yoruba city
Authors: Adebayo Akanmu G.
Published: December 2020

This paper focuses on Iwo, an ancient Yoruba city that traces its roots to Ile-Ife and one of the cities that received, accommodated, and integrated refugees from various parts of Yorubaland during the 19th century. It investigates the concessions made by members of the Iwo ruling class to accommodate the influx of military and civilian populations from various parts of the disintegrating Old Oyo Empire. The paper utilizes published works on urbanization in Africa and oral traditions collected by the author between 1978 and 2018. Although limited in quantity and significance, Western missionary travelogues and archival information are also consulted. In addition to explaining changes in the layout of the city and its outlying townships and villages, the paper examines the scenography of power among the ruling elite and the advent and impact of Islam in Iwo.
L’eau à Siğilmāsa (Maroc) : témoins écrits et matériels pour une hydro-histoire du Tāfīlālt (VIIIe-XVe siècles)
Authors: Soubira Thomas
Published: December 2020

Toute société humaine est marquée par l’omniprésence quotidienne de l’eau, que ce soit pour la consommation humaine et animale, les tâches domestiques, l’agriculture, l’industrie ou encore la religion, dont la gestion implique nécessairement de fortes interactions sociales. Les sources écrites attestent notamment que, dans le paysage urbain, les grands travaux hydrauliques participent, pour asseoir leur légitimité et attirer les bonnes grâces des habitants, à la stratégie des pouvoirs politiques, qui jouissent bien souvent de la primeur de ces aménagements. Même lorsque le choix d’implantation d’une ville dépend d’une position stratégique, l’accès à l’eau, en tant que ressource naturelle élémentaire à la vie, demeure essentiel et représente même, dans certains milieux défavorables comme les zones oasiennes, un défi quotidien. Située dans les marges présahariennes du Maroc actuel, l’ancienne cité de Siğilmāsa était considérée comme une plaque tournante du commerce transsaharien entre le viiie et le xve siècle, et une ville entourée par les eaux dans sa représentation symbolique médiévale. Par le biais d’une analyse croisée des sources écrites et des données archéologiques récentes, il s’agira de déceler quelconques manifestations des pouvoirs notamment, dans les investissements matériels alloués aux structures hydrauliques urbaines, pour poser les jalons d’une hydro-histoire de l’oasis du Tāfīlālt.
Perception, experience and knowledge of early physiotherapy in intensive care units of Rome: a survey
Authors: Salvitti Simone , Repossini Elena
Published: December 2020

Early physiotherapy (EP) programs on critically ill patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) have proven to be safe, feasible and effective. However, despite being considered by all the professionals involved as a fundamental aspect of integrated care, in most cases they are inadequately applied or not performed at all. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the knowledge, perceptions and activities related to EP among physician, nurses and physiotherapists who practice in ICUs of Rome. Obstacles to its application and possible strategies to overcome them are also examined. The study was conducted according to the CHERRIES recommendations. Two questionnaires with 29 questions were created on the Google Form platform and were sent by mail to all the ICUs of public hospitals or accredited private hospitals with the National Health Service in Rome. Thirty (60%) of the contacted ICUs responded. The physiotherapist is present in 76.7% of ICUs and carries out its activities mainly during daytime hours (60.9%), for less than 3 hours in 39.1% of cases and only after a request for specialist advice (65.2%). Only in 4.3% of cases the service is guaranteed even at weekends but only after a request. All 29 professionals interviewed consider both the presence of a physiotherapist within the interdisciplinary team of the ICU and the implementation of an EP program to be necessary, supporting the positive effects of this program. The most frequently obstacles to the implementation of an EP program are clinical instability (69%), low priority to EP practice (62.1%), cardiovascular instability (58.6%) and lack of experience (58.6%). The most frequently indicated strategies to overcome these obstacles are to organize interdisciplinary briefings (86.2%), to avoid excluding patients from treatment without specific motivation (75.9%), to invest in staff training (75.9%), to use protocols and guidelines (58.6%). EP is not currently exploited to its full potential due to lack of funds, culture, experience, training and a hospital organization that limits the provision of effective patient care and efficient service to the National Health Service.
Case Report on Pinna: An Unusual Site for Verrucous Carcinoma
Authors: Khan Sidra , Akulwad Shivkumar Balaji , Sonone Jayant
Published: December 2020

Verrucous carcinoma is an uncommon variant of well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma and is frequently seen in the oral cavity and larynx having some relation with tobacco chewing, whereas, its presentation over the ear is a rare entity. Here, we report the case of a 70-year-old female patient with complaints of cauliflower-like mass over her left pinna which was managed by doing an excisional biopsy and diagnosed as verrucous carcinoma on histopathology.
Multidisciplinary Joint Clinics: Talent Wins Games, but Teamwork Wins Championships
Authors: Pathak Rima Sanjay , Shylasree T , Bajpai Jyoti
Published: December 2020

Cancer is among the leading causes of deaths worldwide. The treatments of cancer across most sites involve using surgery, systemic therapy, and radiation therapy. The treatment protocols are complex and require careful planning at the beginning of the therapy and coordination between the treating teams, the patient, and the caregivers to ensure compliance and avoid unnecessary treatment delays. This commentary provides an insight into the role the multidisciplinary joint clinics play in providing personalized cancer care. While such joint clinics are advantageous, they are not devoid of drawbacks and these are also enumerated. In this era, when communication platforms are increasingly digitized, we have highlighted the need for virtual tumor boards. The commentary aims to motivate the development of multidisciplinary joint clinics for ensuring holistic cancer care across the country.
Application of Fractal and Euclidean Methods to Differentiate Normal and Neoplastic Thyroid Cells
Authors: Rodriguez Javier Oswaldo , Grisales Carlos , Barrios Freddy , Correa Sandra , Prieto Signed , Jattin Jairo , Ruiz Jhon
Published: December 2020

Context: The differentiated papillary and follicular thyroid neoplasms can be characterized from the notions of fractal and Euclidean geometry to overcome the challenges faced by the pathologist. This method was previously used in differentiating preinvasive lesions of cervical cancer. Aims: to characterize the irregularity of histologic samples of normal thyroid cells as well as benign and malignant thyroid papillary and follicular carcinomas, through the box-counting method using the principles of fractal and Euclidian geometry. Settings and Design: This is a retrospective study involving the measurement of thyroid cells through pixels in photographs, applying geometric methods. Subjects and Methods: Photographs of histological samples from normal and neoplastic biopsy samples were taken and processed by a software in order to delimit the borders of the nucleus and cytoplasm. Then, the box-counting method was applied by superimposing grids of 5 and 10 pixels to measure the fractal dimension and the occupied spaces of the cellular surface. Results: The set of papillary and follicular cells evaluated from the occupied spaces from the borders and surfaces of the nucleus and cytoplasm in the 5-pixel grid showed that normal cells are included within a range of values, while the neoplastic variations are differentiable from this range. Conclusions: Fractal and Euclidean geometries can differentiate normality from some benign and malignant thyroid lesions, which opens a path to develop methodologies that characterize more precisely distinctive features between normal and neoplastic cells independent of qualitative criteria from traditional pathology and histology.
Evaluating the Role of Media in Implementation of 85% Graphic Warnings on Tobacco Products in India
Authors: Sarin Ashima , Chaturvedi Pankaj , Mehrotra Ravi , Ranjan Priya , Seth Sanjay , Janardhanan Rajiv
Published: December 2020

Background: In common with many countries globally, India has a history of graphic health warnings (GHWs) being weakened or delayed due to tobacco industry influence. If tobacco is eliminated from society, nearly 30% of all cancers can be prevented. Objectives: This study examines the role of the media in the recent changes to the 85% GHWs implementation in India. Materials and Methods: Media articles from the date of notification of 85% GHW (October 15, 2014) to the date of its implementation (April 1, 2016) were collected and coded as pro, anti, or neutral. These were compared, correlated to significant government actions during the time period to determine if media influenced the government actions on the implementation of GHWs. Results: A total of 3301 media articles regarding 85% GHWs were found during the study period, of which 2961 were pro, 333 were anti, and seven were neutral. The results showed that there was a positive correlation of media on the implementation of GHWs. Conclusion: Media coverage of the issue did appear to have an impact.
Study of Aerodynamics on Indian Budget Concept Car
Authors: Khera Lakshay , Kumar Niraj , Maurya Ambrish
Published: December 2020

Currently demand of Indian budget cars also called peopleâ€™s car in India is in great demand and around 1 million cars have been sold in the last financial year with 12% increase of sales in every forthcoming year. These are categorized in sub 4m category of sedan, hatchbacks and medium size SUVsâ€™ and their price ranges between 7 to 11 lakhs. The aerodynamics significantly affects the performance of the vehicle particularly at high speed. The manufactures are more focused on styling and giving a luxury look and other features of the car which sometimes make them to compromise on its aerodynamic design. This may lead to increase in fuel consumption at Indian road conditions. A cost-effective way to reduce fuel consumption, drag coefficient, lift force is to improve aerodynamic behavior and reduce the aerodynamic drag. The software used in this work is Solidworks, Ansys Fluent and commercial CFD post. Consequently, of using this software, it allows us to apply, learn and link technical knowledge of aerodynamics and computer knowledge.
The Swiss STAR trial – an evaluation of target groups for sexually transmitted infection screening in the sub-sample of women
Authors: Vernazza Pietro , Rasi Manuela , Ritzler Michael , Dost Ferah , Stoffel Milena , Aebi-Popp Karoline , Hauser Christoph V. , Esson Cate , Lange Katharina , Risch Lorenz , Schmidt Axel J.
Published: December 2020

OBJECTIVES
In Switzerland, universal health insurance does not cover any routine testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), not even in individuals at high risk, and extra-genital swabbing is not standard of care. We compared STI prevalence in a multicentre prospective observational cohort of multi-partner women with/without sex work and evaluated associated risk factors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS
Between January 2016 and June 2017, we offered free STI testing to women with multiple sexual partners (three or more in the previous 12 months), with follow-up examinations every 6 months. We used multiplex polymerase chain-reaction testing (for Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, Trichomonas vaginalis, Mycoplasma genitalium) for pooled swabs (pharynx, urethra/vagina, anus), and antibody tests for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and Treponema pallidum at every visit, and for hepatitis B and C at baseline.

RESULTS
We screened 490 female sex workers (FSWs), including 17 trans women, and 92 other multi-partner women. More than half reported a steady partner. Previously undiagnosed HIV was found in 0.2% vs 0.0%, respectively, and T. pallidum antibodies in 5.9% vs 0.0%. STIs requiring antibiotic treatment comprised: active syphilis 1.2% vs 0.0%; N. gonorrhoeae 4.9% vs 0.0%; C. trachomatis 6.3% vs 5.4%, T. vaginalis 10.4% vs 0.0%; M. genitalium 6.7% vs 6.5%. One in four FSWs vs one in nine other women had one or more of these STIs at baseline. 15.8% vs 3.8% had a history of hepatitis B, 45.5% vs 22.8% had no immunity (HBs-AB <10 IU/l). Two FSWs had hepatitis C virus antibodies (0.4%) without concurrent HIV infection. Non-condom-use (last three months) for anal/vaginal sex was not associated with STIs. Independent risk factors were group sex (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.1, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1–4.0), age less than 25 (aOR 3.7, 95% CI 1.6–8.9), and being active in sex work for less than 1 year (aOR 2.7, 95% CI 1.3–5.3).

CONCLUSION
HIV and HCV do not appear to pose a major public health problem among FSWs in Switzerland, whereas vaccination against HBV should be promoted. FSWs showed high rates of STIs requiring treatment to reduce transmission to clients and/or steady partners. FSWs should be offered low-cost or free STI screening as a public health priority.
Early experimental COVID-19 therapies: associations with length of hospital stay, mortality and related costs
Authors: Vernaz Nathalie , Agoritsas Thomas , Calmy Alexandra , Gayet-Ageron Angèle , Gold Gabriel , Perrier Arnaud , Picard Fabienne , Prendki Virginie , Reny Jean-Luc , Samer Caroline , Stirnemann Jérôme , Vetter Pauline , Zanella Marie-Céline , Zekry Dina , Baggio Stéphanie
Published: December 2020

AIMS OF THE STUDY
Hydroxychloroquine and lopinavir/ritonavir have been used as experimental therapies to treat COVID-19 during the first wave of the pandemic. Randomised controlled trials have recently shown that there are no meaningful benefits of these two therapies in hospitalised patients. Uncertainty remains regarding the potential harmful impact of these therapies as very early treatments and their burden to the health care system. The present study investigated the length of hospital stay (LOS), mortality, and costs of hydroxychloroquine, lopinavir/ritonavir or their combination in comparison with standard of care among patients hospitalised for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

METHODS
This retrospective observational cohort study took place in the Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland (n = 840) between 26 February and 31 May 2020. Demographics, treatment regimens, comorbidities, the modified National Early Warning Score (mNEWS) on admission, and contraindications to COVID-19 treatment options were assessed. Outcomes included LOS, in-hospital mortality, and drug and LOS costs.

RESULTS
After successful propensity score matching, patients treated with (1) hydroxychloroquine, (2) lopinavir/ritonavir or (3) their combination had on average 3.75 additional hospitalisation days (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.37–6.12, p = 0.002), 1.23 additional hospitalisation days (95% CI −1.24 – 3.51, p = 0.319), and 4.19 additional hospitalisation days (95% CI 1.52–5.31, p <0.001), respectively, compared with patients treated with the standard of care. Neither experimental therapy was significantly associated with mortality. These additional hospital days amounted to 1010.77 additional days for hydroxychloroquine and hydroxychloroquine combined with lopinavir/ritonavir, resulting in an additional cost of US$ 2,492,214 (95%CI US$ 916,839–3,450,619).

CONCLUSIONS
Prescribing experimental therapies for COVID-19 was not associated with a reduced LOS and might have increased the pressure put on healthcare systems.