bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electronic Cigarettes, Vaping, and Lung Disease: A Short Primer
Authors: Deschner Max , Tunks Marcel , Yamashita Cory
Published: November 2020

In recent years there has been a proliferation in the practice of vaping to consume nicotine-and cannabis-based products. While evidence on the benefits and risks of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) is evolving, this brief primer highlights important new information about vaping for clinicians, researchers and the public. In 2018, the Canadian government passed legislation to regulate tobacco and vaping products. We discuss evidence comparing e-cigarettes versus nicotine replacement therapy for smoking cessation and highlight limitations of this body of research. While e-cigarettes are felt to contain fewer toxins than cigarettes, the long-term effects of vaping remain unknown. Emerging data demonstrates associations between vaping and acute and chronic lung disease. We discuss the emergence of an outbreak of severe lung injury associated with e-cigarette use in the United States and similar cases in Canada. Finally, we review evidence demonstrating the growing prevalence of vaping and smoking amongst Canadian youth.
RESUMECes dernières années, on a assisté à une prolifération de la pratique de la vaporisation pour consommer des produits à base de nicotine et de cannabis. Alors que les preuves sur les avantages et les risques des cigarettes électroniques (e-cigarettes) évoluent, ce bref aperçu met en lumière de nouvelles informations importantes sur le vaping pour les cliniciens, les chercheurs et le public. En 2018, le gouvernement canadien a adopté une loi pour réglementer les produits du tabac et les produits à base de vapeur. Nous examinons les données comparant les e-cigarettes et les thérapies de remplacement de la nicotine pour le sevrage tabagique et soulignons les limites de ce corpus de recherche. Bien que l’on estime que les e-cigarettes contiennent moins de toxines que les cigarettes, les effets à long terme des vapeurs restent inconnus. Les données émergentes démontrent des associations entre l’inhalation de vapeurs et les maladies pulmonaires aiguës et chroniques. Nous discutons de l’émergence d’une épidémie de lésions pulmonaires graves associées à l’utilisation des e-cigarettes aux États-Unis et de cas similaires au Canada. Enfin, nous passons en revue les preuves démontrant la prévalence croissante des vapeurs et du tabagisme chez les jeunes Canadiens.
Diagnosis Under Pressure
Authors: Colacci Michael , Morriello Florence
Published: November 2020

A 75-year-old man with a history of BPH and squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue, presented to hospital with a one-month history of recurrent falls associated with orthostatic lightheadedness. On initial examination he had a blood pressure (BP) of 132/75 and heart rate (HR) 86 while supine and BP 101/54, HR 88 while standing. Physical exam revealed a left neck mass, and computed tomography confirmed a large left nodal mass with encapsulation of the left carotid artery. He was not a surgical candidate and had symptomatic improvement with midodrine and fludrocortisone. This case highlights a unique cause of orthostatic hypotension due to mechanical disruption of blood supply and autonomic innervation, and exemplifies the lack of compensatory tachycardia with autonomic dysregulation.
RESUMEUn homme de 75 ans ayant des antécédents d’HBP et de ysregula spinocellulaire de la langue s’est présenté à l’hôpital avec des antécédents d’un mois de chutes récurrentes associées à des vertiges orthostatiques. Lors de l’examen initial, il avait une tension artérielle (BP) de 132/75 et un rythme cardiaque (HR) de 86 en position couchée et une BP de 101/54, HR 88 en position debout. En évaluant les causes communes, une tomographie informatisée de la tête/cou a révélé une grande masse nodale gauche avec encapsulation de l’artère ysregu gauche. Il n’était pas un candidat à la chirurgie et présentait une ysregulatio symptomatique grâce à la midodrine et à la fludrocortisone. Ce cas met en ysregul une cause unique d’hypotension orthostatique due à une perturbation mécanique de l’approvisionnement en sang et à une innervation autonome, et illustre l’absence de tachycardie compensatoire avec ysregulation autonome.
The Other Public Health Crises…/Les autres crises de santé publique...
Authors: Douketis James
Published: November 2020

This issue of the Journal addresses two of these public health crises, the third being the opioid crisis.

Ce numéro de la Revue aborde deux de ces crises de santé publique, la troisième étant la crise des opiacés.
Botanical Drugs and Supplements Affecting the Immune Response in the Time of COVID-19: Implications for Research and Clinical Practice
Authors: Brendler Thomas , Al-Harrasi Ahmed , Bauer Rudolf , Gafner Stefan , Hardy Mary , Hainrich Michael , Hosseinzadeh Hossein , Izzo Angelo , Michaelis Martin , Nassiri-Asl Marjan , Panossian Alexander , Wasser Solomon , Williamson Elizabeth
Published: November 2020

In times of health crisis, including the current COVID-19 pandemic, the
potential benefit of botanical drugs and supplements emerges as a focus
of attention, although controversial efficacy claims are rightly a
concern. Phytotherapy has an established role in everyday selfcare and
health care, and since botanical preparations contain many chemical
constituents rather than single compounds, challenges arise in
demonstrating efficacy and safety. However, there is ample traditional,
empirical and clinical evidence that botanicals can offer some
protection and alleviation of disease symptoms as well as promoting
general well-being. Newly emerging viral infections, specifically
COVID-19, represent a unique challenge in their novelty and absence of
established antiviral treatment or immunization. We discuss here the
roles and limitations of phytotherapy in helping to prevent and address
viral infections, and specifically regarding their effects on immune
response. Botanicals with a documented immunomodulatory,
immunostimulatory, and anti-inflammatory effect include adaptogens,
Boswellia spp., Curcuma longa, Echinacea spp., Glycyrrhiza spp.,
medicinal fungi, Pelargonium sidoides, salicylate-yielding herbs, and
Sambucus spp. We further provide a clinical perspective on applications
and safety of these herbs in prevention, onset, progression, and
convalescence from respiratory viral infections.
Bardet-Biedl syndrome presented as chronic kidney disease with rare clinical associations in a Sudanese woman (case report)
Authors: Elawad Omer , Ahmed Mohammed , Albashir Ahmed , Yousif Habiballa , Ahmed Mohamed Mohamed
Published: November 2020

Abstract: Bardet–Biedl syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive disorder
falls under the spectrum of ciliopathy disorders. Its characterized by
rod-cone dystrophy, renal malformations, postaxial polydactyly, learning
difficulties, central obesity and hypogonadism. Hyponatremia, hepatic
haemangioma, gall bladder stones and subclinical hypothyroidism rarely
described in the literature as clinical presentations in BBS.
PacBio and Illumina RNA sequencing identify alternative splicing events in response to cold stress in two poplar species
Authors: Yang Jingli , Lv Wanqiu , Zeng Minzhen , Fu Yanrui , Li Chenghao
Published: November 2020

In eukaryotes, alternative splicing (AS) is a crucial regulatory
mechanism that modulates mRNA diversity and stability. The contribution
of AS to stress are known in many species related to stress. But the
post-transcriptional mechanism in poplar under cold stress is still
unclear. Recent studies have utilized the advantages of Single Molecular
Real Time (SMRT) sequencing technology from Pacific Bioscience (PacBio)
to identify full-length transcripts. We, therefore, used a combination
of single-molecule long-read sequencing and Illumina RNA sequencing
(RNA-Seq) for a global analysis of AS in two poplar species (Populus
trichocarpa and P. ussuriensis) under cold stress. We further identified
1261 AS events in P. trichocarpa and 2101 in P. ussuriensis, among which
intron retention, with a frequency of more than 30%, was the most
prominent type under cold stress. RNA-Seq data analysis and annotation
revealed the importance of calcium, abscisic acid, and reactive oxygen
species signaling in cold stress response. Besides, the low temperature
rapidly induced multiple splicing factors, transcription factors, and
differentially expressed genes through AS. In P. ussuriensis, there was
a rapid occurrence of AS events. This study provides new insight into
the complexity and regulation of AS during cold stress response in two
poplar species.
Transcriptome-wide gene expression plasticity in Stipa grandis in response to grazing intensity differences
Authors: Dang Zhenhua , Jia Yuanyuan , Tian Yunyun , Li Jiabin , Zhang Yanan , Huang Lei , Liang Cunzhu , Lockhart Peter , Matthew Cory , Li Frank
Published: November 2020

Organisms have evolved effective and distinct adaptive strategies to
survive. Stipa grandis is one of the widespread dominant species
on the typical steppe of the Inner Mongolian Plateau, and is regarded as
a suitable species for studying the effects of grazing in this region.
Although phenotypic (morphological and physiological) variations in
S. grandis in response to long-term grazing have been identified,
the molecular mechanisms underlying adaptations and plastic responses
remain largely unknown. Accordingly, we performed a transcriptomic
analysis to investigate changes in gene expression of S. grandis
under four different grazing intensities. A total of 2,357
differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified among the tested
grazing intensities, suggesting long-term grazing resulted in gene
expression plasticity that affected diverse biological processes and
metabolic pathways in S. grandis. DEGs were identified that
indicated modulation of Calvin–Benson cycle and photorespiration
metabolic pathways. The key gene´expression profiles encoding various
proteins (e.g., Ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase,
fructose-1,6-bisphosphate aldolase, glycolate oxidase etc.) involved in
these pathways suggest that they may synergistically respond to grazing
to increase the resilience and stress tolerance of S. grandis.
Our findings provide scientific clues for improving grassland use and
protection, and identify important questions to address in future
transcriptome studies.
Generalized approximate boundary synchronization for a coupled system of wave equations
Authors: Wang Yanyan
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we consider the generalized approximate boundary
synchronization for a coupled system of wave equations with Dirichlet
boundary controls. We analyse the relationship between the generalized
approximate boundary synchronization and the generalized exact boundary
synchronization, give a sufficient condition to realize the generalized
approximate boundary synchronization and a necessary condition in terms
of Kalman’s matrix, and show the meaning of the number of total
controls. Besides, by the generalized synchronization decomposition, we
define the generalized approximately synchronizable state, and obtain
its properties and a sufficient condition for it to be independent of
applied boundary controls.
Preliminary Three-Dimensional Volumetric Analysis of New Technique of Open Septal Reduction using Polydioxanone Plates for Nasoseptal Fracture
Authors: Kim Kyubeom , Kim Junhyung , Yun Insik , Jo Taehee , Choi Jaehoon , Shin Youngmin , Jeong Woonhyeok
Published: November 2020

Objectives: In this study, we designed a new technique for open septal
reduction using a polydioxanone (PDS) plate and compared it with closed
reduction. Design, Setting, Participants: This study included nineteen
consecutive patients with nasoseptal fracture: ten receiving open
reduction with a PDS plate (PDS group) and nine undergoing closed
reduction (CR group). Open septal reduction was performed after closed
reduction for nasal bone fracture. A mucoperichondrial flap was
unilaterally elevated, and the deviated septal cartilage was reduced.
The PDS plate was inserted horizontally above the vomerine suture.
Surgical outcome was analyzed with three-dimensional volumetry and with
a quality-of-life scale for nasal obstruction (NOSE scale). Results:
Complications included one case of septal perforation in the CR group
and one case of PDS exposure and septal hematoma in the PDS group. In
the 3D volumetric analysis of the PDS group, the median value of the
nasal cavity change significantly differed between 1.14 mL
(interquartile range; 0.46 to 2.4) at the preoperative CT scan and 0.33
mL (interquartile range; -0.22 to 1.29) at the postoperative CT scan
(**p = 0.0039). The NOSE scale revealed significant improvement in nasal
obstruction postsurgically (median value, 42.5 to 7.5; *p = 0.0139) in
the PDS group. Conclusion: PDS plates potentially present a new concept
of open septal reduction in terms of septal reinforcement compared with
the subtractive approach of open septal reduction.
Machine and Deep Learning Approaches for Flooding Prevention in Distillation and Extraction Columns
Authors: Oeing Jonas , Neuendorf Laura , Bittorf Lukas , Krieger Waldemar , Kockmann Norbert
Published: November 2020

Machine Learning (ML) algorithms can be combined with the modular
automation protocol (MTP) and recognize the flooding behavior of
laboratory fluids separation columns. Hence, artificial intelligence
(AI) tools with deep learning (DL) offer a high potential for the
process industry and allow to capture operating states that are
otherwise difficult to detect or model. However, the advanced methods
are only hesitantly applied in practice. This article provides an
overview on how artificial intelligence-based algorithms can be
implemented in existing laboratory plants. Process sensor data as well
as image data are used to model the flooding behavior of distillation
and extraction columns and the system is adapted to the existing modular
automation standard of the Module Type Package (MTP).
Cattle (Bos Taurus) endometrium morphology on the seventh day of the estrous cycle
Authors:   Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies, Ponomarjova Olga , Sematovica Ilga ,   Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies, Piginka-Vjaceslavova Inga ,   Institute of Food Safety Health and Environment BIOR, Vanaga Aida ,   Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies
Published: November 2020

The aim of our study was to describe the histopathological and cytological characteristic of the cow endometrium on the seventh day of the estrous cycle. In this study, 11 different breeds’ dairy cows (78.18 ± 37.46 months old, in 3.6 ± 2.17 lactation, the mean body condition score 3.4 ± 0.72 (5 points scale)) from Research and Study farm ‘Vecauce’ were selected. All cows were more than 210 days postpartum. Overall health and reproductive tract examination was performed, progesterone (P4) and estradiol (E2) concentration in blood serum were established and the biopsy and cytology samples of endometrium were taken. Mean E2 concentration was 14.92 ± 7.92 pg mL-1, mean P4 concentration was 13.64 ± 9.44 nmol L-1. The mean percentage in the cytology slides was established: epithelial cells 89 ± 9%, polimorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) 6 ± 5%. Cytological subclinical endometritis (SE) was confirmed in 5 cows. Histopathological findings (out of 22 samples): endometrium stromal edema in 14, hemosiderin and hemosiderophages in 8, supranuclear vacuolization in 12, pseudodecidual reaction in 12 samples. No subnuclear vacuolization and mitosis in the glandular epithelium were detected. Histopathological examination did not reveal SE. Morphology between the uterine horns with and without corpus luteum (CL) and between cows with serum P4 level higher than 15 nmol L-1 and lower than 15 nmol L-1 were not statistically different (p>0.05). In conclusion, histopatological examination is more reliable diagnostic method for SE. Future investigation should be performed to establish cut-off values for the diagnosis of SE in cows more than 210 days postpartum.
Impact of the use of existing ditch vector data on soil moisture predictions
Authors:   Latvian State Forest Research Institute ‘Silava', Ivanovs Janis , Stals Toms ,   Latvian State Forest Research Institute ‘Silava’, Kaleja Santa ,   Latvian State Forest Research Institute ‘Silava’
Published: November 2020

Wet soils play an important role in hydrological, biological and chemical processes, and knowledge on their spatial distribution is essential in forestry, agriculture and similar fields. Digital elevation models (DEM) and various hydrological indexes are used to perform water runoff and accumulation processes. The prerequisite for the calculation of the hydrological indexes is the most accurate representation of the Earth’s surface in the DEM, which must be corrected as necessary to remove surface artifacts that create a dam effect. In addition, different resolutions for DEM give different results, so it is necessary to evaluate what resolution data is needed for a particular study. The aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of using existing ditch vector data for DEM correction and the resulting implications for soil moisture prediction. Applied methodology uses a network of available ditch vectors and creates gaps in the overlapping parts of the DEM. The data were processed using open source GIS software QGIS, GRASS GIS and Whitebox GAT. Ditch vector data were obtained from JSC Latvian State Forests and the Latvian Geospatial Information Agency. The results show that by applying the bottomless ditch approach in forest lands on moraine deposits, depending on the accuracy of the ditch vector data, the values of the prediction of the soil wetness both increase and decrease. On the other hand, in forest lands on graciolimnic sediments it is visible that predicted soil wetness values increase in the close proximity of ditches. For forest lands on glaciofluvial and eolitic sediments there were no visible changes because of lack of ditches.
PENGARUH NIKOTIN TERHADAP KELAINAN TULANG DAN ORGAN INTERNAL MENCIT (Mus musculus)
Authors: Kakisina Pieter , Darmanto Win , Poernomo Bambang
Published: November 2020

This study was designed to identify the effects of nicotine on the skeletal and internal organ abnormalities of mice prenatally. Seventy two female mice strain Balb/C were used. Pregnant mice on gestation days (GD) 8, 10, and 12 was injected intraperitoneally with 3, 6, and 12 mg/kg BW nicotine respectively. Control nice was injected by aguabidestylata. On GD 18, and all of pregnant mice were sacrificed, and a half of living fetuses were immersed in Bouin’s solution to observe their internal organs, while another half were immersed in 95 percent ethanol to observed sekeletal malformation using alizarin red S staining. Results were analyzed using SPSS program version 11 for personal computer. The results showed that nicotine caused Skeletal malformation, especially in the sternum when administered on GD 8 and 10, in doses of 3 and 6 mg/kg BW, delayed of ossification was observed in the supraoccipital and sacrocaudal bones on GD 10 and 12 and doses of 12 mg/kg BW, while in the extremitas the malformation was observed in the proximal and medial phalanx both in the fore and hind limb especially on GD 10 and 12, and doses of 6 and 12 mg/kg BW. Nicotine was effects on the brain development especially hydrocephalus was observed on GD 8 and doses 10 and 12 mg/kg BW. Another internal malformation such as ectopic renalis was observed on GD 8 and doses of 3 and 6 mg/kg BW. These finding suggested that nicotine has caused skeletal malformation, brain malformatin and ectopic renalis, when administered in mice prenatally.
Propuesta para la incorporación de las TIC en el plan de estudios 2018 de la Normal Rural Gral. Emiliano Zapata
Authors: Nolasco Franco Yuvirasi
Published: November 2020

El objetivo de esta investigación fue conocer cuáles eran las habilidades de las futuras docentes en formación de la Escuela Normal Rural Gral. Emiliano Zapata en relación con el uso de las TIC durante su práctica docente. Para ello, se diseñó y aplicó un cuestionario con el fin de  conocer el grado de exigencia y rigor didáctico con que 73 docentes en formación (inscritas en el quinto semestre del ciclo escolar 2018-2019) usan las tecnologías en sus aulas. Los resultados demuestran que hace falta que se haga énfasis en el dominio y uso de las TIC, para lo cual se pueden impartir cursos para desarrollar competencias en plataformas como Classonlive, Canva, Goconqr, etc. Además, las alumnas comentan que si bien en el plan de la licenciatura en Educación Primaria 2018 se sugiere la práctica con las TIC, en realidad no existe una materia donde puedan adquirir esas competencias tecnológicas.
Analisis Sentimen Menggunakan Algoritma Naive Bayes Terhadap Review Restoran di Singapura
Authors: Permadi Vynska Amalia
Published: November 2020

Abstract. Sentiment Analysis Using Naive Bayes Classifier Against Restaurant Reviews in Singapore. Various restaurant options bring up a problem for diners to pick a restaurant to dine in. Thus, visitors usually perceive the restaurant's recommendation or rating in advance to know other diners' opinions about the restaurant. Previous restaurant diners' comments can be presented in sentiment analysis to determine their satisfaction. This research investigates the Naïve Bayes Classifier algorithm's performance in classifying visitors' sentiment based on restaurant diner comments. We will group visitors' comments into two types of sentiment: positive (satisfied) and negative (unsatisfied). The results of the data classification test are analyzed to determine its accuracy. The grouping of visitor satisfaction reviews using the naïve bayes algorithm provides an accuracy score of 73%. Besides, we visualize the research classification results in the browser-based R Shiny web application through word cloud and diagrams.Keywords:restaurant review, sentiment analysis, Naïve Bayes ClassifierAbstrak. Variasi pilihan restoran yang tidak sedikit menjadi salah satu masalah bagi pengunjung ketika ingin memilih restoran. Sehingga, pengunjung biasanya melihat rekomendasi atau penilaian pengunjung lain terhadap restoran tersebut terlebih dahulu untuk mengetahui penilaian pengunjung lain terhadap restoran tersebut. Penilaian atau review pengunjung dapat disajikan dalam analisis sentimen berdasarkan komentar para pengunjung restoran sebelumnya untuk melihat kepuasan pengunjung terhadap restoran tersebut. Penelitian ini dilakukan untuk mengetahui performa algoritma Naïve Bayes Classifier dalam melakukan klasifikasi sentimen berdasarkan komentar pengunjung restoran. Penelitian dilakukan dengan mengklasifikasikan data komentar pengunjung restoran menjadi dua kategori sentimen, yaitu: positif (satisfied) dan negatif (unsatisfied). Hasil pengujian pengklasifikasian data kemudian dianalisis akurasinya. Hasil pengelompokan review kepuasan pengunjung menggunakan algoritma naïve bayes memberikan nilai akurasi sebesar 73%. Visualisasi hasil klasifikasi dari analisis kemudian ditampilkan pada aplikasi berbasis web yaitu R Shiny berupa wordcloud dan diagram. Kata Kunci: penilaian restoran, analisis sentimen, Naïve Bayes Classifier
Prediksi Kunjungan Wisatawan Taman Nasional Gunung Merbabu dengan Time Series Forecasting dan LSTM
Authors: Manullang Josua , Santoso Albertus Joko , Emanuel Andi Wahju Rahardjo
Published: November 2020

Abstract. Prediction of tourist visits of Mount Merbabu National Park (TNGMb) needs to be done to control the number of visitors and to preserve the national park. The combination of time series forecasting (TSF) and deep learning methods has become a new alternative for prediction. This case study was conducted to implement several methods combination of TSF and Long-Short Term Memory (LSTM) to predict the visits. In this case study, there are 18 modelling scenarios as research objects to determine the best model by utilizing tourist visits data from 2013 to 2018. The results show that the model applying the lag time method can improve the model's ability to capture patterns on time series data. The error value is measured using the root mean square error (RMSE), with the smallest value of 3.7 in the LSTM architecture, using seven lags as a feature and one lag as a label.Keywords: Tourist Visit, Taman Nasional Gunung Merbabu, Prediction, Recurrent Neural Network, Long-Short Term MemoryAbstrak. Prediksi kunjungan wisatawan Taman Nasional Gunung Merbabu (TNGMb) perlu dilakukan untul pengendalian jumlah pengunjung dan menjaga kelestarian taman nasional. Gabungan metode antara time series forecasting (TSF) dan deep learning telah menjadi alternatif baru untuk melakukan prediksi. Studi kasus ini dilakukan untuk mengimplementasi gabungan dari beberapa macam metode antara TSF dan Long-Short Term Memory (LSTM) untuk memprediksi kunjungan pada TNGMb. Pada studi kasus ini, terdapat 18 skenario pemodelan sebagai objek penelitian untuk menentukan model terbaik, dengan memanfaatkan data jumlah kunjungan wisatawan di TNGMb mulai dari tahun 2013 sampai dengan tahun 2018. Hasil prediksi menunjukkan pemodelan dengan menerapkan metode lag time dapat meningkatakan kemampuan model untuk menangkap pola pada data deret waktu. Besar nilai kesalahan diukur menggunakan root mean square error (RMSE), dengan nilai terkecil sebesar 3,7 pada arsitektur LSTM, menggunakan tujuh lag sebagai feature dan satu lag sebagai label. Kata Kunci: Kunjungan Wisatawan, Taman Nasional Gunung Merbabu, Prediksi, Recurrent Neural Network, Long-Short Term Memory
Impact of Government Policy and Insecurity Factors on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Productivity in Nigeria
Authors: Hassan Anthony E. , Akor Kashim , Bamiduro Emmanuel O. , Rauf Ibrahim
Published: November 2020

The subject of SMEs roles in an economy has received considerable attention in the literature both for the developed and developing economies. However, the differences in economic policy and social environments in these economies have not been adequately situated or dissipated in the discus. This gap is what this study partly addressed in the literature. This study examined the impact of government policy/programmes and the insecurity situation on productivity of SMEs in Nigeria. The study was based on a nationwide survey conducted in the year 2020 within a design of 590 SMEs respondents with which the hypotheses were tested. The multinomial logistic regression result indicated that government policy of multiple taxation caused cost to rise for SMEs as indicated by the variable (Hikes in product price) taking on X2= 6.163, p<0.05 and thus has had an adverse significant impact on SMEs productivity. Moreover, none of the government programmes for SMEs growth had wald statistics with p-value less than 0.05 indicating that they have not been significantly effective in promoting SMEs productivity in the country. In addition, none of the insecurity variables had p-value less than 0.05, thus insecurity has had no significant adverse impact on SMEs productivity in Nigeria. This study thus posits that multiple taxation is detrimental to SMEs productivity and thus needs to be harmonised to mitigate cost for SMEs in the country. Also, other policy initiatives need to be better crafted for greater effectiveness while the current insecurity situation in the country requires to be given closer attention with a view to curtailing it from degenerating into a worse state.
Problem Aspects of E-Governance and E-Learning Management in Bulgaria
Authors: Petrov Kamen
Published: November 2020

— The world is changing in the 21st century and in the conditions of crisis to function normally it focuses on e-government. For its part, e-government is the main platform for digital transformation of public institutions, for improving the quality of administrative services, for the transition to rational electronic processes of functioning and management in the public sector and for electronic access to information available to public institutions. This report presents the main points of the development of e-government processes in Bulgaria and the need to combine the process with e-learning. Processes are a challenge that requires us to make new creative and workable decisions in a pandemic.
The Effect of Good Corporate Governance (GCG) Mechanism on Earnings Management Practices of The Stubben Model (Study Case on Mining Sector Companies Listed on The Indonesia Stock Exchange 2014-2019)
Authors: Fairus Muhammad , Sihombing Pardomuan
Published: November 2020

This study was prepared with the intention of analyzing the impact of the Good Corporate Governance (GCG) Mechanism on the Stubben Model of Profit Management (analysis of Mining Sector Companies on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for the period 2014-2019). The population used in the study is the mining sector companies on the IDX. The sample selection method used purposive sampling technique. To process data after sample selection, compile a research model, determine the variables analyzed in the study, and propose a hypothesis, the next step is to carry out data processing procedures through regression analysis with panel data. The results of the analysis conclude that (1) Institutional Ownership has a negative and significant impact on Earnings Management, (2) Managerial Ownership has a negative and significant impact on Earnings Management, (3) The Independent Board of Commissioners has a negative and significant impact on Earnings Management, (4) The Audit Committee has a negative and significant impact on Earnings Management, and (5) Audit Quality has a negative and significant impact on Earnings Management.
Financial Distress Analysis of Registered Insurance Companies in Indonesia Stock Exchange 2015-2019
Authors: Harjadi . , Sihombing Pardomuan
Published: November 2020

This study aims to analyze the insurance financial ratio such as underwriting ratio, loss ratio, investment yield ratio, liability to liquid asset ratio, net premium growth ratio, technical reserve ratio and risk based capital to potential financial distress. The population in this study were all insurance subsector companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for the period 2015 to 2019. The sampling technique used was the purposive sampling method so that a research sample of 10 companies was obtained. The data analysis technique used logistic regression analysis method. The results showed that the underwriting ratio, net premium growth ratio, and risk based capital had a significant and negative effect on the potential for financial distress. Loss ratio, liability to liquid asset ratio, and technical reserve ratio have a significant and positive effect on the potential for financial distress while the investment yield ratio has no significant effect in predicting the potential for financial distress.
Electronic Banking and Customer Satisfaction in Imo State (A Study of Selected Commercial Banks in Imo State)
Authors: Ijeoma Chimaobi , Akujor Jane Chinyere , Mbah Jacintha Chikamnele
Published: November 2020

This study was carried out to examine the impact of electronic banking on customer satisfaction in commercial banks in Imo State. The aim is to determine the relationship between electronic banking and customer satisfaction in some commercial banks in Imo State. The study used primary data; the instrument used in gathering the primary data was questionnaire. The statistical tool of analysis is the Pearson Product Moment Correlation Techniques. The result revealed that there is positive relationship between electronic banking and customer satisfaction in United Bank for Africa Plc, Access Bank Ltd and Keystone Bank Ltd. It also revealed that there is positive relationship between Automated Teller Machine and Mobile Banking and customer satisfaction in United Bank for Africa Plc, Access Bank Ltd and Keystone Bank Ltd. More so, the study shows that there is a negative relationship between point of sale and customer satisfaction in the three (3) banks. This implies that increase in charge levied on those electronic banking systems will have a corresponding decrease in customer satisfaction and vice-versa. The study therefore recommends the following; that banks should improve continuously in the advance of Automated Teller Machine for speedy transaction when using by customers; financial institutions (banks) and non-financial institutions should endeavor to make available POS machine at a minimal cost to some small business outlets in order to help in the achievement of cashless economy; the banks should ensure that there is creation of more internet security in internet and mobile banking so as to avoid loss of cash by customers as a result of fraudulent activities and finally, continuous advancement and reengineering information communication technology should play a vital role in the overall synergy of financial institution operations (banking). It becomes more important for bank leadership to deepen investment in ICT products to increase speedy, user friendly and perfect services. These will make Nigerian banks to stand firm in terms of efficiency, profitability, reliability, and competitiveness among its global competitors and to withstand challenges and changes that may occur in ICT controlled globalized economy.
Assessing Monetary Model of Exchange Rate Determination: Case of Indonesia
Authors: Hadiwibowo Yuniarto , Yasni Raynal
Published: November 2020

The main purpose of this paper is to assess the exchange rate determination in Indonesia after the Asian financial crisis. We use the Monetary Model to assess the prediction of the Indonesian Rupiah against the United States Dollar and other currencies of the largest trade partners of Indonesia. The models are the Flexible Price Monetary Model and the Sticky Price Monetary Model. We estimate short-run and long-run relationships using the Error Correction Model. The Monetary Model can explain partially the exchange rate variations, but the signs of money, income, and fiscal balance are not as expected. The causality may run from the exchange rate to money and price level.
Non-Linear Nexus between CO₂ Emission, Economic Growth in Nigeria
Authors: Ngonadi Josiah Chukwuma , Okere Joy , Ngonadi John
Published: November 2020

CO2 levels are often seen as a major global problem faced by most countries; our study aims to examine the impact of Foreign Direct Investment on CO2 emission in Nigeria. Based on the “Pollution Heaven Hypothesis” and the “Pollution Halo Hypothesis” standards using the STARPAT standards model, this article assess the impact of economic factors on CO2 emission. Based on our findings, energy consumption is not sustainable in Nigeria, that is there is a high concentration of CO2 emission. U-lines with the traditional EKC data and the use of N-type foreign investments are now raising CO2 in Nigeria's cities through their “predictive” carbon emissions. Based on the results of previous studies, we report that changes are needed to be made in order to reduce carbon emissions in Nigeria which represent one of the challenges faced in developing countries.
Comparison of Branding Strategies of Pharmaceuticals & Fast-Moving Consumer Goods: An Analysis of Modern World Need
Authors: Dar Tariq Mehmood , Tariq Neelofer
Published: November 2020

Branding is an integral part of any product or service. Branding gives identity to a product, whether it is tangible or intangible. Branding tactics and strategies are not new in the marketing of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCGs), whereas, in the pharmaceuticals (prescription medicines), it is challenging. This article aims to analyze the branding strategies currently in use or been used in the pharmaceutical industry globally; however, this analysis is accomplished with a comparison of the fast-moving consumer goods industry. Thirty-four peer-reviewed studies from around the world in the tenure of 2010 till date have been utilized to analyze the following research. Fore mostly, the branding strategies used in the respective industries have been reviewed for this research's objectivity. The end deductive results obtained from the comparison are employed to conclude how these findings can fulfill the modern world needs.
Multi-Modal Natural Frequency Response of Utility Transmission Tapered Wood Poles Under Various Soil Foundation Conditions
Authors: Ayakannu Ramani , Razzaq Zia
Published: November 2020

Studied herein is the multi-modal natural frequency response of utility transmission tapered wood poles under various soil foundation conditions. Strong winds and hurricanes in various parts of the world have resulted in collapse of such utility poles and have resulted in the disruption of electrical distribution systems in addition to creating hazardous conditions for the public. To avoid the development of resonance under such dynamic loading, the multi-modal natural vibration of the utility poles first needs to be understood in the presence of practical soil foundation conditions. To capture the soil-structure interaction effects on the multi-modal frequencies, a SAP2000 dynamic finite element model is created in which the foundation soil stiffness is characterized by means of a series of ‘soil springs’ below the ground level. The properties of the soil springs vary with types of foundation soils and depths. Three types of foundation soils are considered, namely sandy, clayey soils and Granite (Rock). The results are compared to a standard fixed base model. It is found that the fundamental natural frequencies decreased by 52%, 37%, and 3% for sandy, clayey soils and granite, respectively, when compared to fixed base model. It was observed that there was an increase in the frequencies of the embedded utility poles in clay and granite, when compared to those with the fixed based after the 1st mode whereas, poles embedded in sandy soils showed increase in modal frequencies after the 3rd mode. The 10th mode appears to be a starting point of modal frequency convergence, while an apparent convergence occurs after the 20th mode. The convergent modal frequency was about 740 Hz for the Class H1 utility pole. However, there was a significant increase in the higher modal frequencies such as nearly 55% at the 20th mode, in all soil types when compared to the fixed base model.
Modelling Flow Behavior of Gas Leakage from Buried Pipelineu
Authors: Ndalila Petro , Li Yuxing , Liu Cuiwei
Published: November 2020

Risks in gas transportation are usually comprised of losses of the valuable gas, fire, explosion, and destruction to the environment. The safety of this infrastructure especially flammable gas pipelines is of great importance due to potential associated risks when leakage happens. An accurate understanding of the dispersion characteristics of the leaked gas from the underground pipe is of great importance. A gas leaking model from the buried pipeline was established based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) technique, to simulate the situation. At the incidence of leakage, gas will propagate out and cause changes in flow behavior, which will prompt the detectors. The leakage position influences significantly much on the strength of leak signals to be detected at the ground surface. Under the simulation process, the double leakage pipeline model was involved. The variation of flow parameters inside the pipeline, outside pipeline, and the effect of leakage position were depicted and analyzed.
Effect of Water Injection into Aero-derivative Gas Turbine Combustors on NOx Reduction
Authors: Agbadede Roupa , Kainga Biweri
Published: November 2020

Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx) generated from gas turbines causes enormous harm to human health and the environment. As a result, different methods have been employed to reduce NOx produced from gas turbine combustion process. One of such technique is the injection of water or steam into the combustion chamber to reduce the flame temperature. A twin shaft aero-derivative gas turbine was modelled and simulated using GASTURB simulation software. The engine was modelled after the GE LM2500 class of gas turbine engines. Water injection into the gas turbine combustor was simulated by implanting water-to-fuel ratios of 0 to 0.8, in an increasing order of 0.2. The results show that when water-to-fuel ratio was increased, the Nox severity index reduced. While heat rate and fuel flow increased with water-to-fuel ratio (injection flow rate).
Maintenance Management Regime for Off-Grid Solar PV Renewable Energy System in Nigeria
Authors: Adetona Zacchaeus A. , Ogunyemi Joel , Bitrus Irmiya
Published: November 2020

The perennial inadequate power supply problem in Nigeria, the worldwide call for green energy and the unavailability of grid electrical supply or difficulty in accessing it have created a need for the adoption of renewable energy such as solar PV systems. PV systems have a lifespan ranging from 10 to 25 years if well maintained but it has been observed that PV systems do not last up to their useful lifespan in Nigeria. A preliminary survey carried out showed that 71.2% of sample did not carry out any maintenance on their PV installations, 85.7% agreed that a lack of maintenance was responsible for their nonfunctional PV systems and 95% of the respondents agreed that there was a lack of maintenance on PV installations in Nigeria. A maintenance regime was developed for PV systems whereby a maintenance personnel is appointed to carry out routine or breakdown maintenance on solar panels, charge controller, battery, inverter, and cabling. The regime starts with turning off power coming from the solar panels. The maintenance of the solar panels follows; next is maintenance on all cable wiring and terminations. After all cable terminations have been checked, the battery maintenance follows. The charge controller is then checked for maintenance and subsequently, power from solar panels can be switched on to restore charging. Two protective installations were recommended in the maintenance regime namely the installation of earthing and DC circuit breakers to protect the solar system installation.
Next Steps Might Be Considered by Joe Biden for the Development of International Trade Law
Authors: Alam Md. Habib
Published: November 2020

The United States of America is a part of the globalization of international trade law. The USA is known as a leading global trader among all nations. The President of the USA plays a vital role in the development of international trade law. On 8 November 2016, Donald Trump was elected as president of the United States of America. Donald Trump engaged in different trade deals and policies with different countries and international institutions. The trade deals and policies are withdrawal from TPP, reshaping NAFTA, reforming WTO, and imposing tariffs on foreign goods. On 8 November 2020, CNN commented, Joe Biden will be the next president of the USA. Many scholars expressed different thoughts relating to the reforming international trade law by Joe Biden. The main aim of Joe Biden will be to remove trade barriers and end artificial trade wars with different foreign nations. My research will suggest how Joe Biden may overcome these issues for the betterment of the international trade law around the world.
Maximally Flat IIR Fullband Differentiators with Flat Group Delay Responses
Authors: Ilić Slavisa , Mohammed Salih Ahmad , Hamid Abdullah Majid , Milić Dragiša
Published: November 2020

A new design method for maximally flat IIR fullband differentiators with flat group delay responses is derived in this paper. The design method starts from the flatness conditions of magnitude response and group delay response at the origin. After mathematical manipulations it shows that presented design method reduces to solving the system of linear equations. By increasing the orders of polynomials in numerator and denominator, degrees of flatness are increased, that is improvement in magnitude responses and group delay responses in terms of flatness is obtained.
Evaluation of the Behavior of The Physical and Mechanical Properties of Green Concrete Exposed to Magnesium Sulfate
Authors: Landa-Ruiz Laura , Ariza-Figueroa Hilda , Santiago-Hurtado Griselda , Moreno-Landeros Victor , López Meraz Raúl Alberto , Villegas-Apaez Rafael , Márquez-Montero Sabino , Croche René , Baltazar-Zamora Miguel Angel
Published: November 2020

In the present research work, four concrete mixtures were designed according to the ACI 211.1 method, the first as a control mixture, with 100% CPC, and the remaining three elaborated with partial replacement of the CPC by combinations of Sugar Cane Bagasse Ash and Silica Fume (SCBA-SF) in 10%, 20% and 30% (Green Concrete). The tests carried out on the four mixtures were physical properties (Slump, Temperature, Density) and mechanical properties as Compressive Strength (F'c) and Modulus of Elasticity, according to the ASTM and ONNCCE standards, the study specimens were exposed in water, as a control medium and a 3.5% solution of MgSO4 as an aggressive medium for a period of 28 days. The results obtained indicate a good performance of the Green Concrete in comparison with the control mixture, in particular the Green Concrete made with 10% and 20% substitution of CPC by SCBA-SF.
Los libros griegos del antiguo Colegio de la Asunción de Córdoba
Authors: Fernández Muñoz Rafael , Solana Pujalte Julián
Published: November 2020

Como complemento al artículo publicado por Julián Solana Pujalte en Minerva 29 (2016) 269-301, en este caso estudiamos los libros griegos de la biblioteca del antiguo Colegio de la Asunción de Córdoba (España): las materias, los años y lugares de impresión, los impresores, los poseedores de los libros y su lectura.
Decorum retórico y teoría pragmática
Authors: Plá Gracia Terol
Published: November 2020

El presente trabajo analiza algunos paralelismos entre la Retórica clásica y la moderna Pragmática, disciplinas dedicadas al funcionamiento de la comunicación. De este modo, presentamos una comparación del decorum retórico con algunas teorías pragmáticas centradas en los criterios de cooperación, cortesía y relevancia. Tras detectar algunos aspectos problemáticos de esas teorías, parece razonable proponer una posible contribución de la Retórica Clásica, especialmente si se toma en consideración que el concepto retórico de decorum, que carece de equivalente en el campo de la Pragmática, puede tener utilidad a modo de instrumento unificador.
Leofranc Holford-Strevens (ed.), Auli Gellii Noctes Atticae ab Leofranco Holford-Strevens recognitae brevique adnotatione instructae. Tomus I, Praefatio et Libri I-X, Oxford, Oxford Classical Texts, 2020, lxiv + 396 páginas, ISBN 978-0-19-969501-0
Authors: García Jurado Francisco
Published: November 2020

Reseña de:

Leofranc Holford-Strevens (ed.), Auli Gellii Noctes Atticae ab Leofranco Holford-Strevens recognitae brevique adnotatione instructae. Tomus I, Praefatio et Libri I-X, Oxford, Oxford Classical Texts, 2020, lxiv + 396 páginas, ISBN 978-0-19-969501-0

Leofranc Holford-Strevens (ed.), Auli Gellii Noctes Atticae ab Leofranco Holford-Strevens recognitae brevique adnotatione instructae. Tomus II, Libri XI-XX, Oxford, Oxford Classical Texts, 2020, ix + 764 páginas, ISBN 978-0-19-969502-7

Leofranc Holford-Strevens, Gelliana: A Textual Companion to the Noctes Atticae of Aulus Gellius, Oxford, Oxford University Press, 2020, xx + 204 páginas, ISBN 978-0-19-969393-1
Rosario López Gregoris (ed.), Drama y dramaturgia en la escena romana. III Encuentro Internacional de Teatro Latino, Zaragoza, Libros Pórtico, 2019, 381 páginas, ISBN 978-84-7956-188-8
Authors: Sánchez Pérez Carlos
Published: November 2020

Reseña de

Rosario López Gregoris (ed.), Drama y dramaturgia en la escena romana. III Encuentro Internacional de Teatro Latino, Zaragoza, Libros Pórtico, 2019, 381 páginas, ISBN 978-84-7956-188-8
Alessandra Foscati, Saint Anthony’s Fire from Antiquity to the Eighteenth Century, Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Press, 2020, 264 páginas, ISBN 978-94-6298-334-2
Authors: Recio Muñoz Victoria
Published: November 2020

Reseña de 

Alessandra Foscati, Saint Anthony’s Fire from Antiquity to the Eighteenth Century, Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Press, 2020, 264 páginas, ISBN 978-94-6298-334-2