bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fiscalité du patrimoine
Authors: Allègre Guillaume
Published: April 2024

Les deux textes discutés ici entendent changer nos représentations sur le patrimoine. Le grand retour de la terre propose une grande réforme fiscale sur la base d’une taxe sur la valeur de marché du foncier tandis que Repenser l’héritage propose une grande réforme des droits de donations et successions dans le sens d’une plus grande progressivité, d’une suppression des exonérations, d’une augmentation des recettes et d’une réduction des droits pour les petites successions. Il existe trois modes de justification d’une politique fiscale. Une politique est efficace lorsqu’elle maximise la production ou la consommation globale ou qu’elle minimise les pertes. Une politique optimale répond à un arbitrage entre efficacité et équité souvent réduites à la taille et au partage du gâteau. L’argumentation en termes de justice prend aussi en compte efficacité et équité mais ne les met pas sur le même plan : par construction, l’efficacité doit se mettre au service de quelque chose, en l’occurrence au service de l’équité dans toutes ses dimensions. Le premier texte argue principalement du point de vue de l’efficacité : l’idée d’imposer le foncier est principalement justifiée par l’inélasticité de l’assiette et donc par l’efficacité. Les questions pratiques et la question de l’équité horizontale sont évacuées trop vite. Le deuxième texte s’intéresse beaucoup plus aux questions pratiques, démontrant l’inutilité des exonérations en termes d’efficience économique. Toutefois si les droits de succession sont justes, pourquoi les réduire pour 99 % de la population ? Un impôt est juste si son mécanisme est perçu comme juste, et non parce qu’il exonère suffisamment de personnes. Il existe des impôts perçus comme justes et ayant des effets similaires sur la réduction des inégalités de transmission et notamment l’imposition de la fortune et celle des hauts revenus. Dans ce cadre, imposer toutes les plus-values réelles, y compris lors des successions, pourrait obtenir un plus grand consensus en articulant réduction des inégalités et équité horizontale.
La transition du système agroalimentaire européen dans le cadre du pacte vert
Authors: Guyomard Hervé , Soler Louis-Georges , Détang-Dessendre Cécile
Published: April 2024

Les systèmes agricoles et alimentaires européens ont un impact négatif sur le climat et la biodiversité, et les régimes alimentaires, trop déséquilibrés, ont des effets délétères sur la santé. Le Pacte vert européen adresse ces enjeux dans le cadre d’une approche holistique. En s’appuyant sur un modèle original d’équilibre partiel, nous montrons que l’amélioration substantielle des performances climatiques, environnementales et de santé des systèmes agroalimentaires passe par la mobilisation conjointe des trois leviers agroalimentaires principaux du Pacte vert, soit 1) l’adoption à large échelle de pratiques agroécologiques, 2) la réduction des pertes et gaspillages alimentaires, et 3) la transition vers des régimes alimentaires moins riches en produits d’origine animale. Les principaux points de tension que ces trois leviers induisent et les arbitrages politiques qui en découlent sont discutés. Ceux-ci ont trait 1) aux conditions d’adoption des pratiques agroécologiques, 2) aux effets du Pacte vert sur les importations agroalimentaires européennes, 3) aux modifications des préférences et des comportements des consommateurs qui les amèneraient à modifier substantiellement leurs consommations, et enfin 4) aux enjeux pour l’élevage dans un contexte de forte baisse de la consommation et donc de la production de produits animaux.
La théorie du service public à l’épreuve des Critical Legal Studies
Authors: Micalef Romain
Published: April 2024

En apparence, la rencontre entre la théorie du service public et la théorie des Critical Legal studies pourrait paraître artificielle, mais il convient toujours de se méfier des apparences. Alors que la première s’est développée en France au début du xx e siècle, la seconde est née aux États-Unis, au sein d’un mouvement académique, à la fin des années 1970. Pourtant, à y regarder de plus près, certains éléments de chacune de ces deux théories méritent d’être analysés en miroir, non pas côte à côte, mais les uns face aux autres. Aujourd’hui, la théorie de service publique résisterait-elle au « test » des Critical Legal Studies  ? Est-il utile de confronter ces deux théories et si oui dans quelle mesure ? Cette étude, croisant ces deux théories, permet de réinterroger leurs fonctions dans nos sociétés contemporaines, enserrées dans des économies mondialisées et des politiques libérales, face auxquelles elles tentent de s’adapter ou de s’opposer avec plus ou moins de succès.
Prescriptions religieuses et droit funéraire
Authors: Boudet Jean-François , Boudet Jean-François
Published: April 2024

La laïcité est souvent entendue comme renvoyant la religion à la sphère privée. Le temps mortuaire et l’action rituelle qui en découle contredit ce postulat, dès lors qu’accueillir la mort a un caractère éminent sacré. Le moment funéraire permet de réunir ( re-ligere ) et de relire ( re-legere ) le sens de la vie, de telle sorte que toutes cérémonies funéraires – même civiles – comportent publiquement une sensibilité spirituelle et intègrent des symboliques et rituels religieux extrêmement ordonnés.
L’abus en droit processuel privé camerounais
Authors: Wandji Kamga Alain-Douglas
Published: April 2024

L’exercice d’un droit peut-il être contraire au droit ? C’est comme être juridiquement titulaire d’un droit non protégé par l’ordre juridique. Quel paradoxe ! Pratiquement, comme d’un pouvoir ou d’une fonction, l’abus d’un droit est pourtant une réalité juridique. Une notion et une expression complexes composent donc ce sujet, l’une pouvant être recherchée et appréciée dans l’autre. Il pose le problème du traitement réservé à l’abus en droit processuel. Les plaideurs et les autorités compétentes disposent de nombreuses prérogatives en matière processuelle. Ils ne doivent pas abuser, selon une maxime de Ciceron, «  summum jus , summa injuria  » : « un droit porté trop loin devient une injustice ». L’analyse du régime de l’abus en droit processuel privé camerounais révèle que les règles applicables sont soit vétustes, soit équivoques, incomplètes, imparfaites ou insuffisantes. Aussi, si l’identification de l’abus est mitigée, les sanctions ne sont pas toujours efficaces.
Les principales raisons de l’inefficacité du système judiciaire international à l’ère des Nations unies et les moyens d’améliorer son efficacité
Authors: Refaat Mahmoud
Published: April 2024

Il existe un large éventail de tribunaux internationaux, allant de la Cour internationale de Justice, le principal organe judiciaire des Nations unies, aux tribunaux ad hoc créés par le Conseil de sécurité des Nations unies pour traiter des cas spécifiques de violations graves du droit international et du droit international. Créer des tribunaux internationaux plus permanents et indépendants des Nations unies, comme la Cour pénale internationale. Les tribunaux internationaux peuvent être divisés en deux catégories en fonction de leur permanence, à savoir les tribunaux/tribunaux ad hoc ou les tribunaux permanents. Ce document de recherche examine les difficultés et les obstacles les plus importants qui entravent le processus de justice internationale et fournit également des conseils pour surmonter ces obstacles.
Conseil d’administration et diversité du genre au Maroc : État et perspectives de la recherche
Authors: Ridha Zineb , Sahraoui Doha
Published: April 2024

Cette recherche vise à présenter les principales recherches sur le lien entre la diversité du genre des conseils d’administration et la performance de l’entreprise. L’article analyse l’évolution de la représentation des femmes en dressant un état des lieux de leur présence dans les instances de gouvernance avant la mise en vigueur de la loi de quotas au Maroc. L’analyse s’appuie sur une documentation des rapports financiers et ESG de 69 entreprises cotées en bourse au Maroc entre 2019 et 2021. En procédant à un croisement de données secondaires, les résultats mettent en exergue la faible représentation féminine au sein des conseils d’administration au Maroc. Dans l’ensemble, cette recherche apporte de nouvelles données spécifiques au contexte marocain sur la présence des femmes au sein des conseils d’administration afin de permettre des comparaisons pour les recherches futures sur le sujet.
Mast cells, mediators, and symptomatic activation
Authors: Bansal Amolak S , Nicholas Alex , Sumar Nazira , Varney Veronica
Published: April 2024

Mast cells (MC) are central effectors of allergic disease and distinct subsets with varying amounts of tryptase, chymase, and carboxypeptidase A3, and cathepsin G is distributed throughout the body. Their involvement in a diverse range of non-allergic illnesses mediated by a complex range of preformed and newly synthesized mediators is now increasingly recognized. The latter especially include conditions under the umbrella term of mast cell activation syndrome. In allergic disease, much has been written about the mechanisms by which the early and rapidly acting mediators produce both localized and systemic allergic symptoms. The role of chymase is presently underappreciated but there is increased awareness that MCs contain significant amounts of preformed TNF alpha and synthesize and releases a wide range of inflammatory cytokines such as interleukins (IL) 1β, IL6, IL31, and IL33. These can aggravate itching and perpetuate inflammation and likely contribute to the late constitutional symptoms seen in allergic reactions. Importantly, their involvement helps to clarify the role of MCs in stress and non-parasitic infections. Presently, unexplained is the increasing incidence of significant acute allergic reactions within a relatively short time frame. In this context, there is increasing interest in the environmental, menstrual, endocrine, circadian, and psychological factors that influence MC activation as well as the endocrine pathways involving the renin angiotensin system that oppose hypotension. In non-allergic diseases with normal numbers of MCs, reduced thresholds for activation may be produced by various combinations of life and dietary factors. Diagnosing these conditions is difficult but may be helped by urinary analysis of prostaglandin metabolites. The investigation and management of mastocytosis with and without mutations of c-kit is also relevant to allergic disease and the new medications used may also be helpful in idiopathic anaphylaxis. This knowledge may open a new chapter in human diseases and mast cell regulation.
Research progress on the genesis and removal methods of non-hydratable phospholipids from vegetable oils
Authors: Pan F.G. , Liu J. , Yang J.X. , Ren J.R. , Sun Y.Y. , Li P.Z. , Yang E.Q. , Chen X.M. , Liu B.Q.
Published: April 2024

Vegetable oil phospholipids can be divided into hydratable phospholipids (HP) and non-hydratable phospholipids (NHP). The general process of alkali refining or hydration degumming can remove most of the phospholipids, and the rest is mainly non-hydratable phospholipids. A non-hydratable phospholipid has obvious hydrophobicity, which cannot be completely removed even after 16 times of washing, so the non-hydratable phospholipid is the main research target of vegetable oil degumming. In order to better understand and study the non-hydratable phospholipids, the chemical composition and origin of non-hydratable phospholipids in vegetable oil are discussed. The advantages and disadvantages of these various detection and removal methods are analyzed in this paper.
Quantifying Ageing of 35-50 and 70-100 Asphalts Using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and Dynamic Shear Rheometer Measurements
Authors: Ben Dhia Taha , Loulizi Amara , Hofko Bernhard , Kammoun Ahmed Amine
Published: April 2024

In this study, Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy tests were performed on 35-50 and 70-100 penetration-graded asphalts. Both tests were performed on specimens at three different ageing states: unaged, short-term aged using the standard rolling thin film oven (RTFO) device, and long term aged by placing RTFO residue in the pressure aging vessel (PAV) apparatus. The tests were accomplished to quantify how ageing affects the results of both tests, namely the complex shear modulus for the DSR test and the carbonyl, sulfoxide, and ageing indices for the FTIR spectroscopy test. Both sets of measurements confirm that the harder asphalt stays harder than the softer asphalt after undergoing ageing, but the rate of hardness is higher for the softer asphalt. For instance, on average, PAV ageing was found to increase the amplitude of the shear complex modulus, from the unaged state, by 4.3 times and by 6.2 times for the 35-50 and 70-100 asphalts, respectively. It was also found that ageing decreases the phase angle for asphalt and the decrease is more pronounced for the softer asphalt (70-100) than the harder one (35-50). This was attributed to more maltenes content in the softer asphalt that transform into asphaltenes during ageing. Correlation coefficient between FTIR signals from the same samples revealed that FTIR spectroscopy as used in this research has an excellent repeatability. The repeatability was also confirmed using measures of dispersion such as the coefficient of variation, which was found not to exceed the 1.2%. The 35-50 asphalt was found to have more C=O and S=O links than the 70-100 asphalt since it showed more absorbance in the carbonyl and sulfoxide bands. These links are thought to make the asphalt physically harder. An analysis of variance study revealed that ageing is a statistically significant factor as measured using ageing indices calculated from FTIR spectroscopy data with the index AIFTIR being the most sensitive to ageing among all considered indices. Empirical power equations with high coefficient of determination values were established to predict DSR results from FTIR index values, which was possible since both types of measurements show the same trend with ageing.
Design and Evaluation of a Double-Gate Tunnel Field Effect Transistor for the Detection of Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Vimala P. , Saleem Salman , Samuel T.S. Arun
Published: April 2024

This research paper investigates the application of a Double Gate (DG) Tunnel Field-Effect Transistor (DG-TFET) for the detection of cell lines derived from breast cancer tissue, namely Hs578T, MDA-MB-231, MCF-7, and T47D. The device incorporates two nanocavities positioned beneath the two gate electrodes, significantly enhancing detection capabilities. The study emphasizes the differentiation between healthy non-tumorigenic cells (MCF-10A) and breast cancer-derived cell lines by incorporating gate engineering into the TFET. Furthermore, the research explores the impact of changes in dielectric values specific to different breast malignant cell types on the biosensor's detection capabilities. Additionally, the investigation delves into the influence of variations in device geometry, including cavity dimensions and dielectric layer thickness, on critical parameters such as drain current sensitivity, transconductance sensitivity, and ION/IOFF sensitivity. Sensitivity analysis concerns drive current, ION/IOFF ratio, threshold voltage (Vth), and transconductance. The structural design of the device is tailored to facilitate array-based diagnosis and screening of cell lines derived from breast cancer tissue. This design offers several advantages, including a simplified transduction process, compatibility with CMOS processes, cost-effectiveness, reproducibility, and adjustable electrical responses. The researchers employed ATLAS, a two-dimensional (2D) device simulator from Silvaco, to model and define the device structure. The numerical simulations validate the device's performance, demonstrating favorable ON-OFF transition profiles.
Adaptive Random Forest for Gait Prediction in Lower Limb Exoskeleton
Authors: Guo Xu Dong , Zhong Feng Qi , Xiao Jian Ru , Zhou Zhen Hua , Xu Wei
Published: April 2024

To improve the human-machine cooperativity of a wearable lower limb exoskeleton, a gait recognition method based on surface electromyography (sEMG) was proposed. sEMG of rectus femoris, vastus medialis, vastus lateralis, semitendinosus and biceps femoris were acquired. Then, time domain, frequency domain, time-frequency domain and nonlinear features were extracted. The integrated value of electromyography, variance, root mean square and wavelength were selected as the time domain features and the frequency domain feature includes mean power frequency. Wavelet packet energy was selected as the time-frequency domain feature. Nonlinear features including approximate entropy, sample entropy and fuzzy entropy of sEMG were extracted. Classification accuracy of different feature matrices and different muscle groups were constructed and verified. The optimal multi-dimensional fusion feature matrix was determined. Introducing the Bayesian optimization algorithm, the Bayesian optimized Random Forest classification model was constructed to identify different gait phases. Comparing with Random Forest, the accuracy of the optimized Random Forest was improved by 5.89%. Applying Random Forest algorithm with Bayesian optimization to gait prediction based on sEMG, the followership and consistency of gait control in lower limb exoskeleton can be improved. This template explains and demonstrates how to prepare your camera-ready paper for Trans Tech Publications. The best is to read these instructions and follow the outline of this text.
Stage-specific insecticide susceptibility and life-table analysis of the dengue vector mosquitoes Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus
Authors: Herath J. M. Manel K. , Weeraratne Thilini C. , Karunaratne S. H. P. Parakrama
Published: April 2024

Vector resistance to insecticides is a significant challenge in the control of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue. Analysis of the growth rate and survivorship of the immature stages of larvae has been important in formulating effective vector control strategies. The present study aimed to assess insecticide resistance in both larvae and adults of Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus, and the life tables of their immature stages.Mosquito eggs collected from Kurunegala and Colombo districts of Sri Lanka from January to March 2023 were reared under laboratory conditions. Larval bioassays were carried out with temephos (0.0125 ppm, 0.0625ppm and 0.125ppm) and, the adult bioassays were with pyrethroids (0.03% deltamethrin, 0.05% and 0.08% lambdacyhalothrin, 0.04% permethrin) and malathion (1%and 5%). Biochemical assays were used to evaluate the activity of insecticide-detoxifying enzymes and the insensitivity of the organophosphate target site acetylcholinesterase. Survivorship of immature stages under laboratory conditions and semi-field conditions i.e., bamboo stumps, tyres and clay pots, were studied using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis.Larvae and adults of both species from Kurunegala were susceptible to all the insecticides tested, whereas Colombo populations were resistant. Acetylcholinesterases were largely sensitive in all vector populations. Higher activities of esterases, glutathione s-transferases and monooxygenases were found in Colombo populations. Results indicated that Ae. aegypti larvae were more resistant to insecticides than Ae. albopictus larvae. Also, the mechanisms of insecticide resistance were well developed in adults than in larvae.Aedes aegypti larval development time (5 days) was significantly shorter than that of Ae. albopictus (9 days) under laboratory conditions. Survival probabilities of them were 76-80%. Egg hatching to adult emergence period was 8 days for Ae. aegypti and 13 days for Ae. albopictus. This period, under semifield conditions were; bamboo stumps 7-7.2 days, tyres 10-11.3 days, and clay pots 13.8-14 days with survival rates varied from 28.8 to 63% for both species. This study highlights stage specific response of dengue vectors to insecticides and survivorship of their immature stages in different habitats. This knowledge can be effectively used in future dengue vector control programmes.
Prevalence and in silico analysis of p.D658G variant of WDR36 gene in patients affected with primary open angle glaucoma from Punjab Pakistan
Authors: Bashir Rasheeda , Yousaf Khazeema , Shabbir Zernish , Raza Syed Mohsin , Ilyas Saiqa , Haq Rukhama
Published: April 2024

The aim of the present study was to check the frequency of genetic variants in exons 8, 11, 13, and 17 of the WDR36 gene among primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) patients from Punjab, Pakistan, and to perform the in silico analysis of identified variants on protein function. Ninety-two individuals affected with primary open angle glaucoma were enrolled for this study. The clinical investigation involved the examination of the optic nerve head, visual field loss and elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). Selected exons (8, 11, 13, and 17) of the WDR36 gene was screened by Sanger sequencing. Sequencing results revealed a previously reported missense mutation p.D658G in exon 17 in two out of ninety-two POAG patients, while no mutation has been identified in the exons 8, 11, and 13. To predict the structural and functional effect of the p.D658G variant, SIFT, Polyphen-2, PROVEAN, mutation taster, I-mutant 3.0, and MuPRO were used. The MODELLER-CABS based hybrid approach was used for protein structure modelling. In silico analysis predicted the p.D658G variant to be deleterious, and it may affect the stability of protein and protein-protein interaction. The findings of this study suggested that the genetic variant p.D658G of the WDR36 gene is a rare genetic cause of POAG in Pakistani patients. The in silico tools predicted the variant p.D658G to be deleterious; however the modelled normal and mutant structure showed no effect on protein structure and function. To further confirm the pathogenic effect of this SNP, in vivo experiments, X-ray Crystallography of the WDR36 protein and population-based studies are needed.
Path coefficient analysis using traditional and improved rice genotypes for trait effect on grain yield
 
Authors: Shyamalee H.A.P.A. , Ranawake A.L.
Published: April 2024

Accessions of traditional rice play a crucial role in preserving the genetic diversity of commercial rice. They contain specific and useful traits that can help to improve the overall yield, which cannot be achieved by relying solely on improved rice varieties. This is because traditional rice accessions display a wide range of morphological characteristics that contribute to their unique yield determinants. Fifty traditional and forty-five improved rice genotypes were evaluated for thirteen agronomic traits (days to 50% flowering, plant height, number of tillers per plant, number of effective tillers per plant, number of leaves per plant, panicle length, flag leaf length, flag leaf width, number of grains per panicle, filled grain percentage, 100-grain weight at maturity, grain length, and grain width) to understand the yield determination of traditional and improved rice genotypes. Path analysis was carried out using IBM SPSS AMOS statistical software to understand the difference in the direct and indirect effect of the studied parameters. The direct effect of effective tillers per plant (β = 0.519), filled grain percentage (β = 0.496), and hundred-seed weight (β = 0.403) on grain yield was high in improved rice varieties. In traditional rice accessions, the direct effect of effective tillers per plant (β = 0.746) and filled grain percentage (β = 0.395) on grain yield was high, but there was no direct effect of hundred seed weight. Filled grains per panicle recorded a moderate effect in both traditional (β =0.246) and improved (β = 0.266) rice genotypes. None of the studied parameters directly and negatively affected the yield of improved rice varieties. Still, several traits (flag leaf length, days to 50% flowering, panicle length, seed length, and seed width) negatively affected the yield of traditional rice accessions. The contributions of yield determinants in traditional rice accessions deviated substantially from those observed in improved rice varieties, highlighting the critical role of plant architecture in determining the final yield. Fertile tiller number, filled grain percentage and grains per panicle are possible traits that can be used in direct selection criteria for improved and traditional rice genotypes for high yield.
Optimal fissile distribution in multiplying systems: Illustrative examples with Monte Carlo simulation and Pontryagin’s maximum principle
Authors: Khan H. , Aziz U. , Koreshi Z.U. , Sheikh S.R.
Published: April 2024

In multiplying systems, such as nuclear reactors and criticality experiments, it is desirable to place the fissile material in the optimal or ‘best’ way to reduce the critical mass of the system as well as to achieve uniform fuel burnup. This paper considers two methods, namely Pontryagin’s maximum principle (PMP) and Monte Carlo (MC) perturbation for estimating a minimum critical mass configuration. These methods are applied to an elementary multizone model of a pressurized water reactor (PWR) and a criticality experiment to estimate the minimum critical mass. It is found that while two-group diffusion theory with PMP predicts a minimum critical mass, more detailed MC simulations with MCNP5 show a consistent reduction in critical mass when fissile fuel is placed in inner zones. Such a distribution reduces the fissile material requirement but is undesirable due to the higher power peaking. MC simulations show that for a three-zone model of the KORI 1 PWR, a uniform fissile distribution gives criticality for 1.09 atomic percent (at.%) enrichment, whereas non-uniform fissile distribution (0.6, 1.6, 0.6 at.%) reduces the critical mass by 14%. The changes found from MC simulations were subsequently predicted from first- and second-order derivative sampling. It was found that substantial computational savings can be achieved for large-scale optimization problems. In the case of a criticality experiment, MC derivative sampling was also used to estimate optimal fissile distribution for minimizing the critical mass.
All Ramsey critical graphs for large cycles vs a complete graph of order six
Authors: Jayawardene C.J. , Navaratna W.C.W. , Senadheera J.N.
Published: April 2024

A new area of Graph theory emerged in the last few decades is the calculation of Star critical Ramsey numbers related to different classes of graphs. Formally, we will say that Kn → (G,H) if given any coloring of Kn there is a copy of G in the first color, red, or a copy of H in the second color, blue. The Ramsey number r(G,H) is defined as the smallest positive integer n such that Kn → (G,H). A closely related concept of Ramsey number is the Star critical Ramsey number r∗(G,H) defined as the largest value of k such that Kr(G,H)−1 ⊔ K1,k → (G,H). A two-coloring of Kr(G,H)−1 such that Kr(G,H)−1 ̸→ (G,H) is called a Ramsey critical coloring. A Ramsey critical r(G,H) graph is a graph induced by the first color of a Ramsey critical coloring. Lower bounds for Star critical Ramsey numbers are usually found with the aid on Ramsey critical graphs. The particular problem we handle in this paper, on Star critical Ramsey numbers, is based on a conjecture posed in 1973 by Bondy and Erdos relating to Ramsey numbers for large cycles versus complete graphs. Based on certain lemmas we present with proof, furthermore we show that there exist exactly sixty eight non-isomorphic Ramsey critical r(Cn,K6) graphs, when n ≥ 15
Status and distribution of Paraguayan Procyonidae and Mephitidae (Mammalia: Carnivora)
Authors: Smith Paul , Ríos Sergio D.
Published: April 2024

Two species of procyonid (Nasua nasua and Procyon cancrivorus) and one species of mephitid (Conepatus chinga) have long been documented to occur in Paraguay, but very little has been published about their ecology in the country since the early 19th Century works of Azara and Rengger. Data on the distribution and status of these species in the country is collated from museum specimens, published literature and reliable observations to provide a basis for future research. A hierarchical approach is taken towards types of record and maps are provided that distinguish these for all species. All three species remain common in the Chaco region west of the Paraguay River, and all are considered of Least Concern. However, this region is experiencing high levels of deforestation and data to assess the potential declines of the species is unavailable. The two species of procyonid are also widespread in the Oriental region, but the status of Conepatus chinga there is unclear. There are multiple reports from the Atlantic Forest region but documentation is limited to fecal molecular samples. Clarifying the distribution of that species in the Oriental region is a priority for research.
Contributo alla discussione sull’articolo ‘Per una psicoterapia d’ispirazione sociale’ di Luigi D’Elia
Authors: Parrella Carmine
Published: April 2024

Ho accettato volentieri l’invito a ‘dire una piccola cosa’ di psicoterapia di ispirazione sociale, tra le tante necessarie che il contributo di Luigi D’Elia stimola. Già Hilmann e Ventura si interrogavano nel loro lavoro del 1998 ‘Cent’anni di psicoanalisi e il mondo va sempre peggio’ sul perché in cent’anni la psicoanalisi non fosse riuscita a curare il malessere dell’uomo, a renderci più felici, e a creare un mondo migliore. [...]
Commento al libro ‘Disturbi specifici (della relazione) di apprendimento’
Authors: Zanardi Martina
Published: April 2024

Il libro pubblicato da Giovanni Fioriti Editore, a cura di Gandolfi e Negri, apre nelle prime pagine a dei quesiti assolutamente attuali e di estrema importanza per quanto concerne il futuro dei bambini, delle loro famiglie e delle istituzioni (scuola e sistema sanitario pubblico e privato) in merito alla tematica dei disturbi specifici dell’apprendimento (DSA), in particolare al notevole incremento di diagnosi. Gli autori, infatti, in queste pagine cercano di rispondere ad alcune significative domande, attraverso uno strumento di ricerca messo a punto dal loro gruppo di lavoro Pando con l’intento di individuare una riformulazione sul piano teorico della definizione di DSA e dei percorsi di valutazione ed intervento. [...]
Recensione di ‘Sulla sublimazione. Un percorso del destino del desiderio nella teoria e nella cura’
Authors: Armando Luigi Antonello
Published: April 2024

L’identità di professionista e studiosa di Rossella Valdrè si definisce, oltre che per i suoi molti titoli, per la sua dimestichezza con le attuali correnti internazionali della psicoanalisi, in particolare francese, e per l’ampiezza dei suoi interessi. Questi, fonte di numerose pubblicazioni, spaziano oltre la teoria e la clinica psicoanalitiche – delle quali ha vasta e sicura conoscenza - vertendo sul cinema, sulla poesia e sull’arte, animati da una viva apprensione per le sorti degli istituti democratici e della nostra civiltà che ella ritiene oggi minacciati dall’imperante tendenza a ‘trarre un piacere diretto dal consumo immediato di oggetti’, dalla ‘relativizzazione della verità’ e dalla frammentazione delle identità per l’obsolescenza dell’Edipo quale ‘funzione strutturante della psiche’. [...]
Knowledge, Attitude, and Perception Regarding Chronic Kidney Disease among Caregivers of Hemodialysis Patients in Puducherry: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Venkatesan Balaji , Krishnamoorthy Kannan , Senthil Rajini
Published: April 2024

Context:

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has emerged as one of the most prominent causes of death and suffering in the 21st century.

Aims:

This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitude, and perception regarding CKD among caregivers of patients with kidney disease.

Settings and Design:

A cross-sectional study was conducted at our institute with a well-equipped dialysis center.

Subjects and Methods:

The study was conducted for 3 months from August to October 2023. This study population mainly consists of caregivers of CKD patients based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. A simple random sampling method has been used with an estimated sample size of 375.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Continuous variables were presented in the form of frequency and proportion. The Chi-square test was used for determining association.

Results:

Out of the 375 participants, 59.2% had good knowledge about CKD and 40.8% had poor knowledge. 57.1% had good attitude and 161 had poor attitude. 52.3% had good perception and 179 had poor perception. The study showed a significant association between age and knowledge (P < 0.001). A significant association between occupation and knowledge (P = 0.000) toward the risk of CKD was observed. The socioeconomic status of the caregivers had good association with knowledge and attitude (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Through this research, the knowledge of kidney disease can be improved among the general population in the view of reducing morbidity and mortality.
Pretreatment neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio predicts lymph node metastasis in triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Philip Arun , Jose Mathews , Jose Wesley M. , Vijaykumar D.K , Pavithran Keechilat
Published: April 2024

Background:

The purpose of the study was to investigate the value of pretreatment neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) as a prognostic marker in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and to see its bearing on the clinical and pathological stage of the disease.

Methods:

This was a retrospective analysis of cases of TNBC treated at our center from 2006 to 2013. The pretreatment complete blood count was recorded from which the NLR was calculated as the percentage of neutrophils divided by the percentage of lymphocytes. The association between pretreatment NLR with the stage of the disease, clinical and pathological lymph node status, and disease-specific survival was analyzed.

Results:

A total of 208 patients were eligible for the analysis. The median follow-up period was 48 months. The NLR was found to have a strong correlation with the pathological nodal status and the clinical stage (75% cases node-positive in the high NLR group versus 36% in the low NLR group; P < 0.01). At the time of analysis, 74% of our study population was alive and well. There was no significant correlation between the NLR and the overall survival.

Conclusions:

Based on our study, we conclude that the pretreatment NLR is strongly associated with lymph node metastasis and clinical stage in TNBC patients. It is probably not useful as a prognostic marker, as it does not seem to have any significant bearing on the overall survival.
Healing of an Immature Permanent Tooth with Large Periapical Radiolucency, Treated with Autologous Platelet-rich Fibrin Aided Regeneration
Authors: Atwal Preet Kanwal , Malik Gauri , Khanna Shivani
Published: April 2024

Presenting two cases of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) aided regenerative treatment, performed in immature permanent teeth with large periapical lesions. In contrast to conventional apexification procedures, regenerative procedures can promote root completion and achieve root reinforcement. These case reports evaluated the long-term biological outcome of PRF-aided regeneration in immature permanent teeth with periapical lesions. Three-year and 5-year recalls in these cases revealed functional teeth with complete healing of the large periapical defect. The secondary outcome of regenerative treatment varied in the two reported cases. It was concluded that enhanced repair was achieved by an autologous PRF-aided regenerative procedure, but the secondary outcomes manifest variation.
Correlation and Comparison of Tongue Print and Lip Print with Blood Group among Dental Students of Jharkhand
Authors: Gawali Nishad , Bhargava Ankur , Saigal Sonal , Khelkar Prajakta , Mangulkar Ayushi P. , Fukate Chetan A.
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Aim:

This research set out to determine whether or not there was a connection between the types of lip print patterns found on people’s lips and their blood types, as well as between the tongue print patterns found on people’s tongues and their blood types.

Material and Methods:

One hundred and three females and 51 males participated in our research after providing informed permission after hearing about the study’s objectives and potential therapeutic applications.

Results:

One hundred and three females and 51 males participated in our research after providing informed permission after hearing about the study’s objectives and potential therapeutic applications.

Conclusion:

While we did find gender differences in lip print and tongue pattern distribution and blood group, our research did not find statistically significant outcomes between these variables.
Noonan syndrome: Clinical and molecular profile with review of literature
Authors: Gupta Rahul , Goyal Manisha , Gupta Ashok
Published: April 2024

Background:

Noonan syndrome is a rare genetic disorder, characterized by dysmorphic facies, short stature, congenital heart diseases, and delay in development of variable degree.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to highlight the clinical spectrum, molecular profile, and outcome of Noonan syndrome patients from India.

Settings and Design:

A retrospective observational study was carried out between 2017 and 2020 in our tertiary care teaching institute.

Materials and Methods:

The retrospective data of consecutive patients were collected including clinical profile, investigations, and molecular analysis.

Results:

There were seven pediatric patients with Noonan syndrome. Characteristic facies, broad nose, low-set ears, short stature, and congenital cardiac anomalies (pulmonary stenosis) were present in all 7/7 (100%) patients. Short neck was present in 6 (85.71%), depressed nasal bridge in 5 (71.43%), development was grossly delayed in 5 (71.43%), and chest wall deformities in 4 (57.14%) patients. Cryptorchidism was present in 5 out of 6 (83.33%) male patients. Mutation in protein-tyrosine phosphatase nonreceptor type 11 gene was detected in all 4 out of 7 (57.14%) patients in whom genetic study was performed.

Conclusions:

A high index of suspicion for Noonan syndrome should be kept in mind in a patient presenting with facial dysmorphism, short stature, and congenital heart diseases with genitourinary abnormalities including cryptorchidism. A proper health education and counseling to the parents about the problem and alternative methods for having a healthy baby should be emphasized. Molecular confirmation is essential for prenatal diagnosis.
RIDDLE syndrome ring finger protein 168 deficiency in a 9-month-old boy from Jazan, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alhamoud Abdullah H. , Dhayhi Nabil , Tohary Mohammed , Hakami Othman M. , Shamaki Ahmed
Published: April 2024

This study explores the intricate challenges of ring finger protein 168 (RNF168) deficiency, an uncommon genetic disorder characterized by immunodeficiency, radiation sensitivity, and diverse clinical traits. Presenting the case of a 9-month-old Saudi boy, our investigation emphasizes the critical importance of early diagnosis and intervention in managing this complex syndrome. Comparative analyses across global cases reveal substantial diversity in clinical features and genetic profiles, underscoring the need for ongoing research and international collaboration. Our findings significantly contribute to the understanding of RNF168 deficiency, guiding diagnostic and management strategies for improved patient outcomes. While acknowledging study limitations, particularly in comprehensive assessments, this research highlights the necessity for continued exploration to unravel the genetic and clinical intricacies of RNF168 deficiency. The insights gained from this study hold the potential for advancing knowledge and refining approaches to diagnose and manage this rare disorder effectively.
Prediction of outcomes of chest trauma using chest trauma scoring system at a rural tertiary health-care facility
Authors: Ali Saif , Kumar Anil , Kumar Rajesh , Yaseen Mohammad
Published: April 2024

Background:

In India, trauma is the most common cause of death. The third most common cause of traumatic death is thoracic trauma. Thoracic trauma accounts for 10% of all trauma admissions, and the mortality rate is reported to range from 10% to 60%. Thoracic trauma patients are likely to be assessed and cared for consistently under a well-designed classification system.

Aims:

This study aims To investigate Chest Trauma Score (CTS)-based prognostic and predictive outcomes following chest trauma in the Indian subpopulation sustaining chest injuries.

Setting and Design:

This prospective observational study, Department of General Surgery, Uttar Pradesh University of Medical Sciences, Saifai, Etawah, was included a total of 50 individuals with thoracic trauma.

Materials and Methods:

When a patient is admitted to the emergency department or trauma unit, a complete clinical assessment, detailed history, vital signs, and all appropriate investigations - including chest radiographs, computed tomography, or high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) chest (if hemodynamics are stable on admission) - are performed. Age, pulmonary contusion (on HRCT chest), number of rib fractures, and presence of bilateral rib fracture were the four factors used to calculate the CTS.

Statistical Analysis:

Data were expressed as mean (standard deviation) and percentage (%). Chi-square, Student’s t-test, and analysis of variance were used to compare measured variables.

Results:

The mean pulse rate (beats/min) and respiratory rate (/min) of patients were significantly higher, and systolic blood pressure (mmHg) and diastolic blood pressure (mmHg) were significantly lower in the nonsurvivor group compared with the survivor group. More than 5 rib fractures and intubation were significantly found more in nonsurvivor group. The mean Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) was significantly decreased in nonsurvivor group (11.67 ± 1.37) as compared to survivor group (14.55 ± 1.13).

Conclusion:

Traffic accidents were more frequently (60%) responsible for chest trauma. The mean GCS was significantly associated with patient mortality.
Impact of a Split-Injection Strategy on Energy-Assisted Compression-Ignition Combustion with Low Cetane Number Sustainable Aviation Fuels
Authors: Stafford Jacob , Amezcua Eri , Miganakallu Narasimhamurthy Niranjan , Kim Kenneth , Kweon Chol-Bum , Rothamer David
Published: April 2024

The influence of a split-injection strategy on energy-assisted compression-ignition (EACI) combustion of low-cetane number sustainable aviation fuels was investigated in a single-cylinder direct-injection compression-ignition engine using a ceramic ignition assistant (IA). Two low-cetane number fuels were studied: a low-cetane number alcohol-to-jet (ATJ) sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) with a derived cetane number (DCN) of 17.4 and a binary blend of ATJ with F24 (Jet-A fuel with military additives, DCN 45.8) with a blend DCN of 25.9 (25 vol.% F24, 75 vol.% ATJ). A pilot injection mass sweep (3.5-7.0 mg) with constant total injection mass and an injection dwell sweep (1.5-3.0 ms) with fixed main injection timing was performed. Increasing pilot injection mass was found to reduce cycle-to-cycle combustion phasing variability by promoting a shorter and more repeatable combustion event for the main injection with a shorter ignition delay. For both fuels, dwells between 2.0 and 2.5 ms resulted in the lowest variability. For these dwells, the pilot injection cumulative heat release at the main injection timing is maximized, resulting in more rapid ignition of the main injection. Emissions results suggest that mixing-controlled combustion of the main injection is achievable with higher pilot masses at injection dwells between 2.0 and 2.5 ms as indicated by an increase in filter smoke number at these conditions.
Engine Crank Stop Position Control to Reduce Starting Vibration of a Parallel Hybrid Vehicle
Authors: Park Jihyun , Yang Byunghoon , LIM Jongkyong , Kim SungKyu
Published: April 2024

Engine off control is conducted on parallel hybrid vehicles in order to reduce fuel consumption. It is efficient in terms of fuel economy, however, noise and vibration is generated on engine cranking and transferred through engine mount on every mode transition from EV to HEV. Engine crank position control has been studied in this paper in order to reduce vibration generated when next cranking starts. System modeling of an architecture composed of an engine, P1 and P2 motors has been conducted. According to the prior studies, there exists correlation between crank vibration level and the crank angle. Thus a method to locate pistons on a specific crank angle which results in a local minimum of vibration magnitude could be considered. The P1 motor facilitates this crank position control when engine turns off, for its location directly mounted on a crankshaft allows the system model to obtain more precise crank position estimation and improved linearity in torque control as well. For the sake of robustness, a position-speed controller considering active damping has been designed, and verified by simulations on frequency and time domains analyses. The controller suggested in this paper shows better response to load disturbance compared to conventional P-PI position-speed controller, and is able to operate robustly on fluctuating static and dynamic friction of an engine. Vehicle tests have been conducted to prove the control performance, which resulted in 50% reduction of vibration magnitude in average.
Research on Coordinated Control during Mode Transition in Hybrid Electric Vehicles
Authors: Jing Junchao , Zhang Junzhi , Liu Yiqiang , Huang Weishan , Xing Yanhong
Published: April 2024

Due to the objectives of achieving high fuel efficiency and drivability performance, a dual-drive hybrid system with two motors has been developed. Various drive modes are presented based on engine status, requested driver torque and power, as well as C0 status in different working conditions. The transition control of drive mode change poses a unique challenge for the dual-drive hybrid system. This study discusses the control strategies for transitioning between drive modes. The first type of transition mode is divided into four distinct phases. In the second mode transition, there are three phases: the synchronization phase involving P1 torque intervention, the C0 lock-up phase involving frozen P1 torque control and adjustment of C0 clutch torque and pressure correlation, and finally, the torque exchange phase. The third type of transition includes a dedicated torque transition phase followed by a C0 disengaged phase and concluding with a speed synchronization phase. Lastly, in the fourth transition scenario, as a safety measure, engine start is initiated by engaging the C0 clutch using the P2 motor when the P1 motor is in fault mode. Finally, successful real vehicle tests demonstrate significant improvement in drivability performance achieved through our innovative control strategy.
Isidore of Seville and the Filioque
Authors: Ferreiro Alberto
Published: April 2024

The introduction and proliferation of the double procession of the Holy Spirit formulae in Hispania is a rich topic. There are aspects of it that have been somewhat marginalized, however. Surprisingly, one of those is the evidence from Isidore of Seville, the most celebrated churchman of the seventh century. He had a role in spreading the double procession/ Filioque of the Holy Spirit through some of his works and a council. This study for the first time brings them all together to assess the place of Isidore in making normative the Filioque in the broader context of Visigothic Hispania. This study intends to contribute to the approaching celebration of the 1700 anniversary of the Creed of Nicaea, 325-2025.