bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PARTICIPATORY IMAGE-BASED MODELS’ ALIGNMENT FOR RECONSTRUCTING A LARGE-SCALE INDOOR MAPPING
Authors: Baligh Jahromi A. , Sohn G. , Jung J. , Park K. , Recchia D.
Published: August 2020

Abstract. In this paper, we introduced a recently developed image-based model alignment technique for 3D reconstruction of large-scale indoor corridors. The proposed participatory model alignment technique enables crowd source single image-based modeling since it allows various participants to incorporate their images taken from different cameras for large-scale indoor mapping. This technique is robust against changes of camera orientation and prevents miss-association of a newly generated 3D model to the previously integrated models. To investigate the possibility of aligning two individual 3D models, their respective corridor topological graphs must match, and they need to geometrically transform into the same object space. Here 3D affine transformation is applied, and the transformation parameters are estimated through corresponding vertices of both 3D models. Having integrated two models in the same 3D space, they will be back projected into the image space for evaluation using Direct Linear Transformation. Note that the proposed method performs layout model matching in image space and considers information including layout topology and geometry as well as image information to address model alignment. The advantages of using layout information in the proposed alignment technique are twofold. First, a metric constraint is imposed to insure topological model consistency and balance 3D models scale issues. Second, it will reduce alignment ambiguity related to indoor corridor scenes, where the scene is enriched with multiple structural elements including various corridors junctions. To evaluate the performance of the proposed method, we have performed the experiments on a data set collected from Ross building corridors at York University. This dataset includes single images captured by a handheld wide-angle camera. The obtained results present the ability of the proposed method in alignment of single image-based 3D models while producing limited geometric errors.
A JOINT EDUCATION PROGRAM IN ONLINE DISTANCE LEARNING MODE FOR NORTH EASTERN REGION OF INDIA
Authors: Debnath A. , Raju P. L. N. , Saikhom V. , Karnatak H. C.
Published: August 2020

Abstract. North Eastern Region of India is a picturesque land of seven sister states of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura & the state of Sikkim. The geography of the region is dominated by undulating hilly terrain comprising of Khasi & Garo Hills in Meghalaya, Mizo & Lusai Hills in Mizoram, Patkai Hills in Nagaland and Arunachal Himalayas in Arunachal Pradesh which has made the region relatively inaccessible for developmental planning and infrastructural setup. Educational progress in these states have suffered due to geographic and linguistic barrier, concentration of maximum resources in terms of infrastructure and manpower around major cities, poor economic situation etc. An innovative approach to break these barriers is to take the help of Distance Learning to reach the huge student community. NESAC, established as a unit of Department of Space in Umiam, Meghalaya has a mandate of capacity building in the region. To fulfill the mandate, NESAC, in May 2019, conducted a first-of-its-kind Online Distance Learning Training Program on Remote Sensing & GIS Applications for students and professionals of the region jointly with IIRS, Dehradun which is having rich experience of conducting Distance Learning Programs in the country. The two week long training program was attended by more than 250 participants in online interactive mode and had an ensemble of lecturers taken from IIRS, Dehradun and NESC both. While faculty of IIRS covered the basics of RS & GIS, Geo Web Services, GNSS etc; the scientists of NESAC presented on various thematic applications of RS & GIS conducted by NESAC specific to the region. At the end of theoretical lectures, online exam was also conducted and based on the online evaluation, digital certificates were distributed to the successful candidates. IIRS, Dehradun also extended their help to NESAC in IT infrastructure at all steps of the course. NESAC received large positive feedback of the course, many participants asking for longer duration courses, customized courses and even advanced courses. NESAC has planned to conduct similar course annually.
A REVIEW OF THE IMPACT OF GOOGLE CODE-IN ON OSGEO
Authors: Green C. , Rautenbach V.
Published: August 2020

Abstract. Many open source software communities rely on volunteer contributors and it is important to motivate, engage and retain members of the community to ensure long term sustainability of the community and software. Barrier to entry can be a problem for new developers and can stop them from contributing to large projects. It is important to mentor and guide new volunteers in an open source project and organisation such as OSGeo. The question is then raised how can open source organizations bridge this gap and bring younger developers into the organizations and ensure that they remain, in order to contribute something meaningful? OSGeo participated for a third time in Google Code-in (GCI). Google Code-in is an online competition that introduces teenagers (13–17 years) to open source development over the course of seven weeks. In the 2019 Google Code-in, there were 29 participating open source organisations, over 3000 students from more than 75 countries that completed 13 000+ tasks. During GCI, OSGeo had the lowest number of mentors in its three years of the competition but its highest number of completed tasks. Many of the submissions from the students was of a high standard and some of the task submissions got accepted into the projects. Having new developers in any open source community is key to the survival of the community and retaining them is also key to the longevity of any of the projects and it gives them time to contribute something meaningful.
Digital inequalities 3.0: Emergent inequalities in the information age
Authors: Robinson Laura , Schulz Jeremy , Dunn Hopeton S. , Casilli Antonio A. , Tubaro Paola , Carvath Rod , Chen Wenhong , Wiest Julie B. , Dodel Matías , Stern Michael J. , Ball Christopher , Huang Kuo-Ting , Blank Grant , Ragnedda Massimo , Ono Hiroshi , Hogan Bernie , Mesch Gustavo S. , Cotten Shelia R. , Kretchmer Susan B. , Hale Timothy M. , Drabowicz Tomasz , Yan Pu , Wellman Barry , Harper Molly-Gloria , Quan-Haase Anabel , Khilnani Aneka
Published: August 2020

Marking the 25th anniversary of the “digital divide,” we continue our metaphor of the digital inequality stack by mapping out the rapidly evolving nature of digital inequality using a broad lens. We tackle complex, and often unseen, inequalities spawned by the platform economy, automation, big data, algorithms, cybercrime, cybersafety, gaming, emotional well-being, assistive technologies, civic engagement, and mobility. These inequalities are woven throughout the digital inequality stack in many ways including differentiated access, use, consumption, literacies, skills, and production. While many users are competent prosumers who nimbly work within different layers of the stack, very few individuals are “full stack engineers” able to create or recreate digital devices, networks, and software platforms as pure producers. This new frontier of digital inequalities further differentiates digitally skilled creators from mere users. Therefore, we document emergent forms of inequality that radically diminish individuals’ agency and augment the power of technology creators, big tech, and other already powerful social actors whose dominance is increasing.
Investigating “message forwarding behavior” of mobile phone users
Authors: Potnis Devendra Dilip , Gala Bhakti , Deosthali Kanchan
Published: August 2020

In an online survey, 108 mobile phone users in the age bracket of 18 to 21 in India reported their emotional responses to six humorous, warning, and philosophical messages in real time. Using open coding, researchers coded respondents’ sentiments into positive, negative, and neutral categories and traced their effect on (a) the respondents’ intention to forward the messages, which was captured in real time; and, (b) potential recipients of the forwarded messages. Findings inform the research on electronic word-of-mouth on social media-based instant messaging platforms and mobile phones. Implications in terms of identifying and containing the spread of misinformation on social media are discussed.
Clinical Decision Support for Immunization Uptake and Use in Immunization Health Information Systems
Authors: Shrader Lauren , Myerburg Stuart , Larson Eric
Published: August 2020

Context: In the United States, immunization recommendations and their associated schedules are developed by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). To assist with the translation process and better harmonize the outcomes of existing clinical decision support tools, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) created clinical decision support for immunization (CDSi) resources for each set of ACIP recommendations. These resources are continually updated and refined as new vaccine recommendations and clarifications become available and will be available to health information systems for a coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine when one becomes available for use in the United States.

Objectives: To assess awareness of CDSi resources, whether CDSi resources were being used by immunization-related health information systems, and perceived impact of CDSi resources on stakeholders’ work.Design: Online surveys conducted from 2015–2019 including qualitative and quantitative questions.Participants: The main and technical contact from each of the 64 CDC-funded immunization information system (IIS) awardees, IIS vendors, and electronic health record vendors.

Results: Awareness of at least one resource increased from 75% of respondents in 2015 to 100% in 2019. Use of at least one CDSi resource also increased from 47% in 2015 to 78% in 2019. About 80% or more of users of CDSi are somewhat or very highly satisfied with the resources and report a somewhat or very positive impact from using them.

Conclusion: As awareness and use of CDSi resources increases, the likelihood that patients receive recommended immunizations at the right time will also increase. Rapid and precise integration of vaccine recommendations into health information systems will be particularly important when a COVID-19 vaccine becomes available to help facilitate vaccine implementation.
Improving Accuracy for Diabetes Mellitus Prediction by Using Deepnet
Authors: Alshammari Riyad , Atiyah Noorah , Daghistani Tahani , Alshammari Abdulwahhab
Published: August 2020

Diabetes is a salient issue and a significant health care concern for many nations. The forecast for the prevalence of diabetes is on the rise. Hence, building a prediction machine learning model to assist in the identification of diabetic patients is of great interest. This study aims to create a machine learning model that is capable of predicting diabetes with high performance. The following study used the BigML platform to train four machine learning algorithms, namely, Deepnet, Models (decision tree), Ensemble and Logistic Regression, on data sets collected from the Ministry of National Guard Hospital Affairs (MNGHA) in Saudi Arabia between the years of 2013 and 2015. The comparative evaluation criteria for the four algorithms examined included; Accuracy, Precision, Recall, F-measure and PhiCoefficient. Results show that the Deepnet algorithm achieved higher performance compared to other machine learning algorithms based on various evaluation matrices.
ANALYZING PLATFORM POWER: APP STORES AS INFRASTRUCTURAL PLATFORM SERVICES
Authors: Nieborg David , Poell Thomas , Van Dijck José
Published: August 2020

This paper examines how platform power is operationalized in the specific case of the iOS App Store. We take a first step in developing an analytical framework that critically examines the infrastructural power relations that constitute online platform ecosystems. Building on a relational understanding of power, we propose an analytical vocabulary to systematically interrogate the material power relations among the three main actors active in platform ecosystems: platform operators (e.g. Apple), third party institutions (e.g. app developers, businesses, governments), and end-users (i.e. individuals). To better differentiate among these three different actors in platform ecosystems, the paper proposes to study platform power at five expanding levels, similar to those of ecological ecosystems: individual actors, infrastructural platform services, company platform ecosystems, geopolitical platform ecosystems, and the global platform ecosystem. Studying infrastructural platform services, such as app stores, offers relevant insight into how globally operating platforms are able to set, steer, and bend rules and norms that impact individual actors on the local and national level. In the case of app stores, the paper shows that platform power is not casual or discursive, but highly strategic, uniform, and centralized. By interrogating the operationalization of platform power at the platform service level, the paper demonstrates that platform power is not a property of one platform itself, but a corollary of a platform’s function in the context of other platforms and actors in a dynamic ecosystem.
The Impact of Knowledge Employees’ Psychological Capital on Their Organizational Employees’ Behaviors: The Relationship Among Human Resource Flexible Management, Psychological Capital and Job Performance
Authors: Li Zhuoran , Ge Zhenfeng
Published: August 2020

Human resource flexibility management, psychological capital and job performance are the core of organizational management. From the existing research, psychological capital as an intermediary variable, and specifically for China's employees as the sample of research less. In this paper, human resource flexibility management, job performance and psychological capital are taken as research variables. A correlation analysis and regression analysis were conducted on the work behaviors of employees. The results are as follows: first of all, human resource flexibility management has a significant effect on psychological capital. Function elasticity, salary elasticity and working hour elasticity are positively related to psychological capital. Secondly, among the direct effects of psychological capital on job performance, self-efficacy, hope, resilience and optimism all have significant positive effects on task performance. Self-efficacy, hope, resilience and optimism all have significant positive effects on Contextual performance. Finally, in the regulatory effect, psychological capital plays an intermediary role between human resource flexibility and job performance.
Does the curriculum of a Bachelor program in International Business meet the competency requirements of internationalizing SMEs?
Authors: Weerden Louise B. van , Sijde Peter C. van der
Published: August 2020

This paper contributes to the research on discrepancy between employers´ needs and graduates’ competencies acquired at bachelor education. Given the fact that internationalizing SMEs have considered international relation competency (IRC) to be the key competency for starting export professionals, this qualitative study examines whether this key competency with its selected knowledge, skills and attitudes has been integrated into the curriculum of a bachelor program in International Business at a Dutch University of Applied Sciences. Based on a document analysis of this bachelor program and interviews with lecturers and alumni of this program, we found that the training of international relationship competency is almost absent in the curriculum. Both lecturers and alumni envision skills and attitude development to be incorporated into the curriculum of this internationally oriented bachelor program. The findings offer some suggestions for further research concerning developing cooperation between business and education and the assessment of international relation competency within the context of IB education.
Moreel persoon of moreel manager?
Authors: Jacobs Simon , Karsten Niels
Published: August 2020

Moral person or moral manager? A quantitative analysis of the integrity requirements placed on Dutch mayors between 2008 and 2019

Dutch mayors are expected to act both as moral person and as moral managers. However, the extent to which council members express such requirements when selecting candidates remains underexplored. To identify possible changes in these expectations following the implementation of a 2016 integrity law, which made the mayor responsible for ‘advancing the administrative integrity of the municipality’, the current article quantitatively analyses 349 vacancy texts for Dutch mayoralty for the time period 2008-2019. Unexpectedly, the authors find that moral person requirements still feature prominently in job advertisements, but that attention is declining. In addition, they find a significant shift from moral-person requirements to moral-management requirements, which indicates that vacancy texts mirror the increasing importance of moral leadership requirements for Dutch mayors. Further, whereas the complex integrity concept requires tailoring to the unique circumstances in municipalities, the authors find that councilors make little effort to provide their own definition of integrity in vacancy texts, which leaves ample room for local customization.
Clinical Management of Il-6 Driven Cytokine Storm Related to COVID-19 in a Patient with Recent Spinal Cord Stimulator Implants: A Case Report
Authors: Papa Alfonso , Di Dato Maria Teresa , Buonavolonta Pietro , Saracco Elisabetta , Salzano Anna Maria , Casale Beniamino
Published: August 2020

Introduction: In the last months of 2019, the advent of a new virus called SARS-CoV-2 caused the spread of a pandemic disease, COVID-19, that has afflicted patients with chronic pain. Case Presentation: We describe a COVID-19 patient recently implanted with a spinal cord stimulator for FBSS, treated with Tocilizumab for cytokine storm complicating SARS-COV-2 infection. This patient developed a delayed hyperimmune reaction, causing an inflammatory reaction in the surgical pocket site, well treated with total remission. The total resolution of this local reaction occurred after the resolution of systemic COVID-19 infection by Tocilizumab. Conclusions: We discuss the balance between damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) and pathogen-recognition receptors (PRRs), and the putative role of polymorphism in the IL-6/174 position of the promoter region.
Relationship Between 25-HydroxyVitamin D Level and Liver Stiffness in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B Using Transient Elastography
Authors: Hashemi Seyed Jalal , Parsi Abazar , Hajiani Eskandar , Masjedizadeh Abdolrahim , Shayesteh Aliakbar
Published: August 2020

Background: Studies are limited on the relationship between vitamin D levels and liver fibrosis in patients with hepatitis B. Objectives: A study was conducted to investigate the relationship between 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and liver stiffness in patients with hepatitis B. Methods: In a cross-sectional study, serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and liver stiffness, measured by transient elastography (TE), were evaluated in 281 patients with hepatitis B. The predictors of liver stiffness and its relationship with 25-hydroxyvitamin D level, coinfection with hepatitis D, age, and viral load were determined using multivariate analysis. Results: A significant correlation was observed between 25-hydroxyvitamin D deficiency and liver stiffness. Based on multivariate analysis, factors that were independently associated with advanced liver fibrosis included vitamin D level (P < 0.001), coinfection with hepatitis D (P < 0.001), and age (P < 0.001). Among 281 patients, the frequency of vitamin D deficiency (< 10 ng/mL), insufficiency (≥ 10 and < 20 ng/mL), and adequacy (≥ 30 ng/mL) was 40 (14.2%), 150 (53.4%), and 91 (32.4%), respectively. Conclusions: In hepatitis B patients, vitamin D deficiency was independently associated with advanced liver fibrosis. An increase in age and coinfection with hepatitis D were also directly related to liver stiffness.
Comparative Evaluation of Linezolid and Teicoplanin in the Treatment of Ventilator-Associated MRSA Pneumonia: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Hasan Md Jahidul , Nessa Shahzadi Sayeeda Tun , Rabbani Raihan
Published: August 2020

Background: Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a serious infection in an intensive care unit (ICU). Ventilator-associated MRSA pneumonia (VAMP) in critically ill patients causes a high rate of mortality. Objectives: This study mainly aimed to compare the clinical outcomes and associated drug safety perspective of linezolid and teicoplanin in VAMP treatment. Methods: This retrospective study included 98 adult ICU patients with VAMP, where 42 patients (LZD group) and 56 patients (TPN group) received a standard dose of linezolid and teicoplanin, respectively, for their VAMP treatment. Adverse reactions associated with linezolid and teicoplanin were considered. Clinical outcomes and 30-day mortality rates were compared in both groups. Results: The LZD group showed a higher MRSA eradication rate (97%, n = 34) than the TPN group (94.3%, n = 53) (P = 0.034). The linezolid and teicoplanin therapy was suddenly discontinued in 19% and 5.3% of the patients in the LZD and TPN groups, respectively, before completing the full duration of antibiotic therapy due to developed adverse drug reactions (ADRs), including thrombocytopenia (LZD/TPN groups: 7/1 event), tachycardia (LZD group: 1 event), and nephrotoxicity (TPN group: 2 events). This discontinuation increased the total duration of antibiotic therapy in 19% (n = 42) and 5.3% (n = 56) of the patients (P = 0.034) in the LZD and TPN groups, respectively. Conclusions: VAMP is a life-threatening event in critically ill ICU patients worldwide. In this study, teicoplanin showed better clinical outcomes with a certain higher level of drug safety compared to linezolid in the treatment of ventilator-associated MRSA pneumonia.
A Qualitative Study on Coping Strategies Among Patients with Non-Specific Low-Back Pain
Authors: Ojoawo Adesola Ojo , Arasanmi Taiwo Oluwaseun , Mbada Chidozie Emmanuel
Published: August 2020

Background: Non-specific low-back pain (NSLBP) is a common health problem worldwide, but the perception and coping strategies used by patients are underreported. Objectives: The objectives of the study were to evaluate the perception of patients with NSLBP, the ways the pain interrfered with their basic life, and coping strategies employed by them. Methods: Twenty patients consisting of 10 males (50%) and 10 females (50%) participated in this study. A qualitative interview was conducted using a three-section modified structured interview guide by Gwenda. Section A contained sociodemographic information, section B was the numerical pain rating scale, and section C asked questions about the pain duration, the ways of pain interference with the patient’s life, and strategies used to cope with pain. The data were analyzed using thematic content analysis. Results: The results showed that 50% of the patients were within the age range of 58 years or above. Ten (50%) patients perceived that NSLBP was caused by work-related activities and 10% perceived that NSLBP was a spiritual problem. Fifty percent reported that the pain interfered with their activities of daily living, and four (20%) mentioned that NSLBP interfered with their sexual function and religious activities. Concerning the coping strategy, 40% used prayer, 15% usually ignored the pain, and 35% used the conventional approach. Conclusions: It can be concluded that half of the patients with NSLBP perceived NSLBP to be caused by work-related activities. Besides, NSLBP interfered with basic activities of daily living, and about 40% were coping with NSLBP with prayer and spiritual means.
Biomechanics of biomaterials used in soft tissue regenerative
Authors: Vieira A.F.C. , Vieira J.M.C. , Marques A.T. , Guedes R.M.
Published: August 2020

Biodegradable polymers have been used in implantable medical devices, such as suture fibers, fixation screws and soft tissue engineering devices. Apart from biological compatibility, these devices shall also be functional compatible and perform adequate mechanical temporary support during the healing process. In regenerative medicine, the scaffold that will provide this temporary support should simultaneously enhance cellular adhesion, proliferation and remodeling of new tissue. In soft tissue applications, biodegradable polymers are the materials of election. These materials undergo through a process of degradation, mainly controlled by hydrolysis, leading to a reduction of molecular weight, followed by reduction of strength and finally a reduction of mass until it is totally absorbed and assimilated by the host. Fatigue/creep damage also contribute to the progressive decrease of mechanical properties. Meanwhile, cells cultured over the scaffold will produce the new tissue that will gradually replace the material biomechanical functions.

Os polímeros biodegradáveis têm sido utilizados em dispositivos médicos implantáveis, como fios de sutura, parafusos e dispositivos para engenharia de tecidos moles. Além da compatibilidade biológica, tais dispositivos devem apresentar compatibilidade funcional e desempenhar funções temporárias de suporte mecânico durante o processo de cura. Em medicina regenerativa, este suporte temporário deve favorecer a adesão celular, a sua proliferação e a remodelação de novo tecido. Em engenharia de tecidos moles os polímeros biodegradáveis são os materiais de eleição. Estes materiais sofrem um processo de degradação, controlado sobretudo hidrólise, e que resulta numa redução do peso molecular, seguida de uma redução da resistência mecânica e finalmente uma redução da massa até a completa absorção e assimilação pelo organismo. O dano por fadiga/fluência também contribui para a progressiva diminuição das propriedades mecânicas. Entretanto, as células cultivadas sobre o suporte vão produzir o novo tecido que vai gradualmente substituir as funções biomecânicas do material.
Influencia de la naturaleza de las partículas de proyección en el proceso de shot peening en la mejora de la osteointegración de implantes dentales.
Authors: Aparicio C. , Gil Mur Francisco Javier , Padrós A. , Peraire C. , Planell Estany Josep Anton
Published: August 2020

El presente trabajo se ha centrado en valorar el efecto que tiene sobre las características superficiales, tratar la superficie de discos de Ti C. P., mediante un shot peening con distintos tipos de partículas de proyección: AL2O2, TiO2 y SiC. También se ha determinado la influencia que tiene pasivar los discos tratados con SiC, con HCl o con HF/HNO3; sobre todo desde el punto de vista de la limpieza superficial después del tratamiento, ya que se pretende aprovechar la reacción química que se produce entre el SiC y el HF, con la formación de SiF4. Para todo ello se han efectuado ensayos de la rugosidad superficial de los discos después del shot peening; tanto cuantitativos como cualitativos. Así mismo se ha determinado la capacidad de la partícula de soportar el shot peening sin perder su característica más importante dentro del proceso: su tamaño inicial. Finalmente, se ha propuesto un proceso de fabricación de partículas de TiO2 por sinterización. La fabricación en el laboratorio ha sido necesaria debido a la imposibilidad de encontrar en el mercado las partículas de esta naturaleza.
Squamous cell carcinoma of the soft palate associated with autoantibodies to desmoglein 1 and 3
Authors: Maumi Yoshifumi , Suzaki Reiko , Ito Naoko , Sawada Mizuki , Ishizaki Sumiko , Fujibayashi Mariko , Aiba Motohiko , Kaneko Hiroyuki , Tanaka Masaru
Published: August 2020

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Pemphigus Vulgaris and Bullous Pemphigoid: Update on Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Di Lernia Vito , Casanova Dahiana M. , Goldust Mohamad , Ricci Cinzia
Published: August 2020

Autoimmune bullous disorders are a heterogeneous spectrum of skin disorders characterized by the production of autoantibodies against adhesion molecules of the skin. The 2 major groups of diseases are “pemphigus diseases” and “autoimmune bullous diseases of the pemphigoid type.” Pemphigus diseases are a group of autoimmune blistering diseases of the skin and mucous membranes characterized by intraepithelial cleft and acantholysis. The main subtypes of pemphigus include pemphigus vulgaris, pemphigus foliaceus, and paraneoplastic pemphigus. Diagnosis is based on clinical manifestations and confirmed with histological, immunofluorescence, and serological testing. Recently multivariant enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay systems have been developed as practical screening tools for patients with suspected autoimmune bullous dermatoses. The current first-line treatment of pemphigus is based on systemic corticosteroids that are often combined with immunosuppressive adjuvants, such as azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil, and the anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab, usually at initiation of treatment. Rituximab efficacy is higher when it is administered early in the course of the disease. Therefore, it should be used as first-line treatment to improve efficacy and reduce cumulative doses of corticosteroids and their side effects. Treatment of bullous pemphigoid is based on disease extension. Localized and mild forms can be treated with superpotent topical corticosteroids or with nonimmunosuppressive agents. In patients with generalized disease or whose disease is resistant to the treatments described above, systemic corticosteroids are preferred and effective. Adjuvant immunosuppressants are often combined with steroids for their steroid-sparing effect.
Early Squamous Cell Carcinoma With Perineural Invasion: A Prospective Study Examining Anatomic Site, Tumor Surface Diameter, Invasion Depth, and Grade of Differentiation in 1,772 Consecutive Cases
Authors: Pyne John H. , Myint Esther , Clark Simon P. , Gorji Maddie , Hou Ruihang
Published: August 2020

Background: Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) may present with perineural invasion (PNI).

Objective: To investigate the characteristics of early invasive SCC with or without PNI.

Methods: Consecutive SCC excisions were prospectively reviewed from a single Australian community-based practice for 2016-2018. Tumor characteristics recorded were anatomic site, maximum microscopic tumor surface diameter, invasion depth, grade of differentiation, and diameter of nerves with PNI.

Results: In total, 1,772 cases were collected. No PNI cases were found on female patients. Seven of the total 10 PNI cases were on facial sites. Maximum average microscopic tumor surface diameters ranged from 10.1 mm (well differentiated) up to 11.0 mm (moderately differentiated). Maximum average invasion depths by differentiation ranged from 1.7 (well differentiated) up to 2.6 mm (poorly differentiated). The PNI cases were as follows: well differentiated (n = 0), moderately differentiated (n = 4), or poorly differentiated (n = 6). Minimum average histopathological margins for well, moderately, and poorly differentiated SCC, respectively, were 1.4, 1.1, and 1.3 mm. Minimum microscopic tumor surface diameters for PNI cases were 7 mm for moderately and 5 mm for poorly differentiated SCC. Minimum microscopic invasion depths for PNI cases were 2.2 mm for moderate and 0.9 mm for poor differentiation.

Conclusions: We found early SCC with PNI displayed nerve diameters of 0.1 mm or less and were exclusively on male patients aged 60 or older, on chronically sun-exposed sites of the head and upper midline anterior chest. Histopathological features associated with PNI were moderate and poor differentiation, tumor invasion beyond 0.9 mm, and adjacent lymphocytosis.
Optimal energy management system for distribution systems using simultaneous integration of PV-based DG and DSTATCOM units
Authors: Lasmari Adel , Zellagui Mohamed , Chenni Rachid , Semaoui Smail , El-Bayeh Claude Ziad , Hassan Heba Ahmed
Published: August 2020

The energy management system (EMS) of an electrical distribution system (EDS), with the integration of distributed generation (DG) and distribution static compensator (DSTATCOM), provides numerous benefits and significantly differs from the existing EDSs. This paper presents an optimal integration of DG based on photovoltaic (PV) solar panels and DSTATCOM in EDS. A single objective function, based on maximizing the active power loss level (APLL) in EDS, is deployed to find the optimal size and location of photovoltaic DG and DSTATCOM simultaneously in different study cases using various particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithms. These PSO algorithms are the basic PSO, adaptive acceleration coefficients PSO (AAC-PSO), autonomous particles groups for PSO (APG-PSO), nonlinear dynamic acceleration coefficients PSO (NDAC-PSO), sine cosine acceleration coefficients PSO (SCAC-PSO), and time-varying acceleration PSO (TVA-PSO). These algorithms are applied to the standard IEEE 33- and 69-bus EDSs, which are used as test systems to verify the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms. Simulation results prove that the TVA-PSO algorithm exhibits higher capability and efficiency in finding optimum solutions. Comparing the simulation results attained for different study cases leads to the conclusion that DG and DSTATCOM were optimally-allocated simultaneously, which resulted in a significant reduction of power losses and an enhancement of the voltage profile.
Fees as the means of ensuring execution of obligations on taxes, dues and insurance payments: comparative analysis on the example of Russia and neighboring countries
Authors: Rusanov Mikhail Sergeevich
Published: August 2020

This article examines the legal structure of fees as the means of ensuring execution of obligations on taxes. Analysis is conducted on the fees applies in the countries of former Soviet Union. The author reviews the construct of fees as the means of ensuring execution of obligation on paying governmental charges. Legislative norms of the Russian and foreign legislation that limit imposition of fees are compared. The scientific novelty consists in comparative analysis of the norms of foreign legislation on the example of Russia’s neighboring countries, which is substantiated by not only historical ties, but also same period of transition from planned to market economy. The author examines the legislations of foreign countries with regards to fees as the means of ensuring execution of obligations on taxes, dues and insurance payments, which is an effective method of budget revenue and encourages economic entities to cover back-ode taxes faster. Taking into account fluctuations of market conjecture, as well as other factors that negatively affect the national economy, Russian legislator should foresee other grounds, in addition to the existing, to suspend imposition of fees.
Application of quotes of the information-pricing agencies for the purposes of transfer pricing
Authors: Iugina Anastasiia Andreevna
Published: August 2020

This article analyzes the possibility of application of the data information-pricing agencies within the framework of implementation of the method of comparable market prices. The author also examines the questions of making adjustment in case if the data of information-pricing agencies are not fully comparable. The object of this research is the court decisions on the questions of transfer pricing, in the context of which was conducted the analysis of application of the data of information-pricing agencies for the purpose of employment of the method of comparable profitability. Special attention is paid to the methodology of adjustments of comparable data within the framework of court decisions, as well as possibility for potential utilization of these methodologies in tax planning. The main conclusion is defined by the possibility of application of the data of information-pricing agencies for the purposes of transfer pricing in a wide range of cases, as well as recognition of the All-Union State Standard by generally accepted standards in various industries. It is determined that methodology used by fiscal authorities for calculating the market prices interval for the purposes of transfer pricing significantly differs depending on the methodology established by quotes. According to the opinion of fiscal authorities and courts, most important aspect within the framework of analyzed decisions, is the usage of data averaging by information-pricing agency, which substantially affects further calculation technique for price intervals.
Evaluation information within the culture of social and humanities research
Authors: Sutuzhko Valerii Valerievich
Published: August 2020

  The modern social and humanities research use evaluation information, therefore the key task of the scientific-methodological culture of a researchers is to philosophically substantiate the veracity of research results of the object (conducted by the subject), which represents evaluation information on properties of the objects. This determines the undeniable relevance of this work. The subject of philosophical study is the evaluation-value problematic. The goal consists in formation of socio-philosophical representation on the problems of application of evaluation information in the culture of social and humanities research. The scientific novelty consists in philosophical analysis of the evaluation-value problems within the culture of social and humanities cognition. The objectivity of cognition is to subjectively (this is the only way) reveal all properties of the object. Moreover, in not only actual science, but also social life, objectivity is defined subjectively by the means of evaluation. The ideas contained in this article may become the conceptual framework for social and humanities theories, as well as practical activity of the institutions of government regulation of social relations.  
Types of military presence of USSR during the cold war
Authors: Karasev Aleksandr Yur'evich
Published: August 2020

In modern world, different aspects of military science are of crucial significance in the questions related to ensuring national security and protection of national interests of the countries. The activity of separate entities, groups or units of the state militarized formations implemented abroad for solution of tasks within the framework of ensuring national security is defined as “military presence”. The author determines the types of military presence used by the Soviet Union during the cold war in different geographical areas; formulates conclusions based on the analysis of usage of each type of military presence and their impact upon international situation; as well as notes the priorities of realization of USSR military-land and naval presence. The research methodology contains the methods of politological and historical studies, historiography, and systemic approach. The main conclusions consist in the thesis that during the cold war period all types of military presence operated as a universal mechanism in the context of military policy of the Soviet Union: the entire palette of forms of military presence, from fly-over and call at the allies’ ports to placement of the land military objects. At the same time, international relations during the indicated period were viewed through the prism of opposition between the Soviet Union and the United States due to the military presence policy that allowed influencing global processes.
THE DIVISION OF EXECUTIVE POWER BETWEEN THE PRESIDENT DE LA REPUBLIQUE AND THE PREMIER MINISTRE IN FRANCE UNDER THE CONSTITUTION OF THE FIFTH FRENCH REPUBLIC
Authors: Suroya Nayli
Published: August 2020

This article explains the development of the French government system and the division of executive power between President de la République and Premier Ministre after the change from the fourth constitution to the fifth constitution of the republic. This research applies a qualitative research methodology using a historical approach. The results of this study show that France is one of four countries implementing a mixed government system. The President and the Prime Minister, who are the executive authorities, should both lead the country. The role of the President and the Prime Minister may seem similar, but it is not the same. The President has the authority to elect the Prime Minister. Based on article 8 of the fifth constitution, the President has the right to elect and appoint the Prime Minister and terminate him/her if the concerned person declares his/her resignation from his/her government.
A Stylo-Thematic Analysis of Rivalry in the Anthems of Real Madrid and FC Barcelona
Authors: Peter Mwinwelle , Kwame Gabriel Agbemehia , Rainer Mwinwelle
Published: August 2020

The linguistic analysis of anthems of football clubs is a growing area of linguistic research. This paper therefore contributes significantly to literature on the linguistic analysis of anthems of football clubs by exploring the rivalry ties between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona through the prism and lens of the translated English language versions of their anthems. The study examines how stylistic devices are used to project, construct and reflect various themes in the anthems of Real Madrid and FC Barcelona towards deepening the rivalry ties between them. The study is underpinned by the linguistic and stylistic categories framework by Leech and Short (2007). The translated English versions of the anthems of Real Madrid and Barcelona are sourced from the official websites of the clubs. The findings of the study show that stylistic devices such as repetition, co-referencing, metaphors, personification, and parallelism are aesthetically used in the anthems to project the themes of identity, solidarity, resilience and praises in order to further deepen the rivalry ties between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona especially during El Clásicos. The theme of solidarity is dominantly projected stylistically to present FC Barcelona as a club that calls for internal solidarity in order to champion its Catalonian ideologies while Real Madrid is projected as a club that seeks to establish external solidarity through canvasing for a worldwide fun base. The findings of the study would help fans and players of the two clubs and all lovers of football to better appreciate the content of the lyrics in the anthems. The study concludes that, the rivalry between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona is not only sourced from political and historical antecedents but can equally be sourced from anthems of the clubs since these anthems encode the ideologies of the clubs.
Increasing methane (CH4) emissions and altering rhizosphere microbial diversity in paddy soil by combining Chinese milk vetch and rice straw
Authors: Ma Qiaoying , Li Jiwei , Aamer Muhammad , Huang Guoqin
Published: August 2020

Background

Chinese milk vetch (Astragalus sinicus L.) can improve paddy soil fertility and ecology through nitrogen fixation, but it can also increase greenhouse gas emissions. Our primary objective was to investigate how Chinese milk vetch, rice straw, and nitrogen fertilization affect the methane and microbial components of the rice rhizosphere.

Methods

We examined the rhizosphere’s methane emissions and microbial abundance and diversity after incorporating Chinese milk vetch and rice straw into paddy soil. We used high-throughput sequencing of the 16s rRNA and ITS1 genes to study changes in the bacterial and fungal communities, respectively. Over the course of our experiment, we applied seven different treatments to the paddy soil: conventional fertilization (the control treatment) for winter fallow crops, three levels of nitrogen in Chinese milk vetch, and three levels of nitrogen in Chinese milk vetch combined with rice straw.

Results

Rice yield and methane emissions increased during cultivation when the soil was treated with Chinese milk vetch with and without added straw. The nitrogen application also affected the methane fluxes. Alpha diversity measurements showed that Chinese milk vetch increased the diversity of the soil fungal community but did not significantly affect the bacterial community. Chinese milk vetch affected the rhizosphere microorganism communities by increasing the number of Methanomicrobia.
Comparative Evaluation of Nutritional and Anti-nutritional Properties of Peeled, Unpeeled and Blanched Plantain (Musa AAB) Flours and Consumer Acceptability of Their Dumplings
Authors: Akinjayeju O. , Badrudeen A. O. , Soretire M. Q.
Published: August 2020

This investigation evaluated some nutritional and anti-nutritional properties of flours from peeled, unpeeled, and blanched plantain (Musa AAB). Green matured plantain was peeled and sliced (PUF), peeled, sliced and soaked in boiled water (100°C) for 10 mins (PBF), sliced unpeeled (UUF), and sliced, unpeeled and soaked in boiled water (100°C) for 10 mins (UBF). Slices were dried at 65 ±1.5°C until constant weight was obtained and milled into flour (< 212 µm) using a grinding mill. Flours were evaluated for anti-nutritional, minerals and amino acid contents and protein quality indices. Dumplings prepared from flours were evaluated for sensory parameters. There were significant (P = .05) differences among flours for most properties evaluated, and for most sensory parameters of dumplings. Minerals, mineral-mineral ratios and anti-nutritional contents were significantly (P = .05) higher in unpeeled flours than peeled flours, but anti-nutrients and phytate-mineral molar ratios 0.013-0.016(Ca), .059-0.062(Fe) and 0.098-0.121(Zn) were within acceptable thresholds. Essential amino acids were slightly lower in unpeeled flours than peeled flours, but flour from unpeeled unblanched sample (UUF) was slightly higher in leucine, valine and isoleucine compared to other samples, with values of 6.47, 4.10 and 3.25mg/100g protein respectively. Protein quality indices were 54-66%, 1.52-2.22, 47-60.7% and 4.19-6.07 for EAAI, PER, BV and NI respectively, with samples PUF and UUF having highest and sample (UUF) having 59%, 2.22, 53% and 4.19 respectively. All dumpling samples had high acceptability mean scores (6-7) for most sensory parameters, while flour sample from unpeeled, unblanched matured green plantain (UUF) produced dough meal with high consumer acceptability and nutritional quality.