bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Add-on testing: stability assessment of 63 biochemical analytes in centrifuged and capped samples stored at 16 °C
Authors: Nielsen Anne J. , Ladefoged Søren A. , Madsen Jeppe B.
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Integration of add-on testing in high-scale automated clinical laboratories constitute a valuable instrument not only for the clinicians and the general patient care, but also for the laboratory itself. Knowledge on sample quality and analytical stability upon storage is necessary to be able to offer add-on testing. The objectives of this study were to examine the analytical stability of 63 biochemical analytes in plasma and urine samples stored at 16 °C.

Methods

Samples were collected by professional laboratory technicians, analyzed at automated analyzers and stored in their primary, capped tube without separator for 10, 12, 16, 20 or 24 h at 16 °C. Stability was assessed by inspecting mean concentration of samples at baseline and examining if (A) mean concentration over time violated limits of bias, or if (B) individual sample concentrations violated limits of total error.

Results

The majority of the 63 analytes were stable for up to 24 h of storage. Few of the analytes were only suitable for add-on testing for 4, 6, 10, 12, 16 or 20 h of storage. One analyte, P-lactate dehydrogenase, was not found suitable for add-on testing when stored at 16 °C.

Conclusions

Due to the increasing number of intelligent solutions for high-scale clinical laboratories, add-on testing has come to stay. Loss of stability could not be demonstrated for the majority of analytes after 10, 12, 16, 20 or 24 h of storage. This feature of analytical stability suggests that add-on testing is an acceptable tool for these analytes.
Reliability and sensitivity assessment of laminated composite plates with high-dimensional uncertainty variables using active learning-based ensemble metamodels
Authors: Zemed Najib , Mouzoun Kaoutar , Moulay Abdelali Hanane , Cherradi Toufik , Bouyahyaoui Azzeddine
Published: April 2024

Laminated composite materials play a crucial role in various engineering applications due to their exceptional mechanical properties. This article explores the analysis of reliability and the local sensitivity of failure probability associated with laminated composite materials. It delves into the impact of uncertainties on the performance of these materials and presents an active learning-based reliability methodology. This methodology combines Monte Carlo simulation with a metamodel derived from the combination of three metamodels: artificial neural networks, support vector regression, and Kriging. The article illustrates this methodology through two practical applications on laminated composite plates and compares its performance with other reliability methods. This approach offers valuable insights to enhance the analysis of reliability, strengthen the design process, and facilitate decision-making while fully considering uncertainties related to material properties.
Investigation into the mechanical and thermal properties of lightweight mortar using commercial beads or recycled expanded polystyrene
Authors: Shabbar Rana , Almusawi Aqil Mousa , Taher Jaber Kadhim
Published: April 2024

The addition of recycled expanded polystyrene (EPS) in cement mortar is a key to enhancing buildings’ insulation and reducing energy consumption. The main objective of this study is to improve the thermal conductivity of lightweight mortar (LWM) by using the EPS. Also, to overcome the segregation problem when increasing the EPS proportion by more than 70% by volume, slurry sand was used. To achieve that, more EPS waste is required to produce an LWM with less cement and natural resources (sand) content. The effect of different percentages and particle sizes of the EPS either virgin or grated on the workability, density, compressive, flexural strength, and thermal conductivity were investigated by using the EPS with the range of 0, 75, 80, and 85% by mortar’s volume. The results exposed that LWM with grated EPS waste had greater physical and mechanical properties than with EPS beads because it has low void content and suitable distribution. In addition, mortar with 85% grated EPS had similar properties than that with 75% EPS beads. Accordingly, EPS should be grinded to increase its volumetric percentage in the mixture. Also, electron microscopy was used as an integral technique to study surface morphology between mortar components and the EPS.
Hegemonic Discourses Surrounding United States’ Leadership in Post-Ebola Development in Liberia
Authors: Amevor Elinam Balimenuku
Published: April 2024

This study examines the hegemonic discourses surrounding USAID’s leadership in post-Ebola Liberia between 2015 and 2020. Using documents and critical discourse analysis, the study finds that USAID’s overarching goal of empowering Liberians, especially women, was primarily on humanitarian grounds. However, the study revealed the significant extent to which ideological and political economic assumptions influenced USAID’s prioritization of Liberia in the fight against Ebola in West Africa. These findings call for advancing research on the concept of national interest in international development discourse and practice, as well as the political economy of aid to sub-Saharan Africa from a neocolonialist lens.
Alkotmányossági dilemmák az eutanázia szabályozása kapcsán
Authors: Ildikó Vadál , Melinda Szappanyos
Published: April 2024

Tanulmányunkban arra vállalkozunk, hogy az eutanáziára vonatkozó jelenleg hatályos magyar szabályozást összevessük Magyarország Alaptörvényével. Természetesen a téma kimeríthetetlen, ezért a kutatást folytatni fogjuk a későbbiekben új szempontok bevonásával. Célunk az eutanázia szabályozásának alkotmányossági vizsgálata. Ennek során igyekszünk választ adni arra, hogy az életvégi döntések meghozatalára vonatkozó jogszabályaink biztosítják-e az Alaptörvényben szabályozott alapjogok érvényesülését. Különös figyelmet fordítunk az emberi méltósághoz való jogra; az önrendelkezési jogra; a diszkrimináció tilalmára; a kínzás, a megalázó, kegyetlen bánásmód tilalmára; a magánélethez való jog védelmére. Tanulmányunkkal nem pusztán a hatályos joganyag kritikai elemzésére vállalkozunk, hanem az eutanázia Alaptörvénnyel összhangban álló, az emberi élet védelmét középpontba helyező szabályozására fogalmazunk meg javaslatokat és elveket.
A Novel Microfiber Cellulose from Paederia foetida Stems: Characterization of Physical, Morphology, Thermal, and Chemical Properties
Authors: Herlina Sari Nasmi , Suteja  , Syafri Edy , Mavinkere Rangappa Sanjay , Fudholi Ahmad , Fatriasari Widya , Karimah Azizatul , Siengchin Suchart
Published: April 2024

The Paederia foetida (PF) stem’s abundant and environmentally friendly novel nanocellulose has immense potential as a reinforcing agent for bio-nanocomposites. This work aims to investigate the physical, thermal, chemical, and morphological properties of cellulose microfibrils from Paederia foetida stems (CMFPFs). Sodium chlorite, acetic acid, and 5 % sodium hydroxide were used to perform bleaching and mercerization operations to extract cellulose. Chemical composition, X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, density, moisture content, examination of cellulose morphology using field emission scanning electron microscopy, and thermal stability were assessed using thermogravimetric analysis. The outcomes showed that the delignification and mercerization methods, respectively, removed lignin and hemicellulose from the extracted cellulose. Higher crystallinity was produced from chemically treated fibers, according to XRD examination. The CMFPF sample had a crystallinity index of 97.9 %, which was higher than the raw PFs (81.9 %) and bleached PFs (84.38 %). The maximum crystallinity was identified for CMFPFs, which had the lowest moisture content, fiber diameter, and density of the samples. After bleaching and mercerization have been applied to the fiber, changes in functional groups take effect.
The Dimensional Conceptualization of Personality Disorders: Personality Organization, Personality Functioning, and Personality Disorders
Authors: Kim Young Ran , Lee Young-ho
Published: April 2024

Over the past several decades, significant criticism of the categorical classification system for personality disorders has highlighted the need to transition to a dimensional classification system. This study reviewed key issues involved in the potential conversion of the diagnostic system of personality disorders from a categorical to a dimensional model. The result suggests that Kernberg's concept of personality organization can be used to indicate the overall severity of personality pathology.
Do PID-5 Trait Scores Predict Symptom Disorders? A Meta-analytic Review
Authors: Gioletti Anthony I. , Bornstein Robert F.
Published: April 2024

The Personality Inventory for DSM-5 (PID-5) has become influential in the dimensional assessment of personality dysfunction. Though most studies have examined links between PID-5 trait domains and personality pathology, a number of investigations have assessed relationships between PID-5 scores and symptom disorders (e.g., depression, anxiety). We employed meta-analytic techniques to synthesize findings in this area, identifying 26 publications assessing associations between PID-5 scores and symptom disorders (N of effect sizes across the five trait domains = 260). PID-5 domain score effect sizes (rs) ranged from 0.20 for Antagonism to 0.35 for Negative Affect (all ps < .00001). Relationships between PID-5 scores and specific forms of psychopathology were generally consistent with expectations, with some unanticipated relationships as well. Findings confirm that the pathological personality traits assessed by the PID-5 predict symptom disorders as well as personality dysfunction, extending the heuristic value and clinical utility of the measure.
Complex Diagnosis, Complex Scholarship
Authors: Sutton-Brown Camille
Published: April 2024

This ars poetica adheres to an evocative autoethnographic approach to examine and illustrate the complexities of mothering a child with profound (dis)abilities whilst navigating the demands of academia as a tenure-track faculty member.
Dienstleistungsproduktivität
Authors: Corsten Martina , Corsten Hans
Published: April 2024

Fragen der Produktivität wurden in der Betriebswirtschaftslehre lange Zeit auf die industriellen Produktionsverhältnisse beschränkt. Erste Übertragungen auf Dienstleistungsunternehmungen waren jedoch eng an dem traditionellen Verständnis angelehnt. Vor diesem Hintergrund wird ein spezifisches Konzept für Dienstleistungsunternehmungen vorgestellt. Ausgewählte Gestaltungsansätze schließen den Beitrag ab.
El enfoque Una Salud y la resistencia a los antimicrobianos: Implementación en el Perú
Authors: Yagui-Moscoso Martín
Published: April 2024

La Resistencia a los Antimicrobianos (RAM) es un problema de salud pública de alcance global. De no lograrse contener su propagación, para el año 2050 se convertiría en la primera causa de muerte a nivel mundial, con un serio impacto en la economía mundial. Esta situación ha determinado la aplicación del enfoque «Una Salud» para su contención. Este enfoque reconoce que la salud de las personas, los animales, las plantas y el medio ambiente están estrechamente relacionados y son interdependientes. Desde el año 2015, la Organización Mundial de la Salud, en coordinación con otras organizaciones aprobaron el Plan de Acción Mundial para enfrentar la RAM, esto determinó que los estados miembros elaboraran e implementaran sus planes nacionales. El Perú inició el abordaje para la contención de la RAM aplicando el enfoque «Una Salud» desde el año 2017. Se registran algunos avances en la implementación de Plan nacional pero también los retos y acciones pendientes de alcanzar.
Embodiment and a sense of belonging in online language learning contexts
Authors: Intke-Hernandez Minna
Published: April 2024

This paper studies how embodiment is realised in distance and online language learning. Eleven students from the University of Helsinki Language Centre participated in the study. The interviews conducted were thematic, and the research question was as follow: How is embodiment evident in students’ narratives about online language learning? I apply nexus analysis (Scollon & Scollon 2004, 2007, 2009) as the analytical method of this study. Focusing on the connections between narratives of historical bodies and language learning in online contexts, four distinct discourses emerged in the data: 1) the lack of embodiment; 2) embodiment as a matter of power; 3) private, safety-giving embodiment; and 4) embodiment in relation to the material and social world.
Morphological processing across the adult lifespan: a tale of gains and losses
Authors: Reifegerste Jana
Published: April 2024

Despite increasing research on language in aging, age effects on morphological processing have received comparatively little attention. Some previous evidence suggests that while regular morphology (e.g., walk-walked) may remain relatively stable in older age, irregular morphology (e.g., bring-brought) shows signs of age-related decreases in processing efficiency. However, the underlying reasons for these declines are unclear. The current study sought to investigate the cognitive underpinnings of age-related effects on German noun plurals: default plurals (posited to follow a default rule [e.g., Zebra-Zebras 'zebra(s)']) and predictable and unpredictable non-default plurals (closed class plurals, in which the plural is either phonologically predictable from the singular [e.g., Flasche-Flaschen 'bottle(s)'] or unpredictable [e.g., Nest-Nester 'nest(s)']). In a cross-modal priming experiment, 283 healthy German native speakers (aged 18–91 years) performed lexical decisions on singular nouns which take different types of plural affixes, and which were primed by either their plural form ("morphological condition") or an unrelated noun ("unrelated condition"). Additionally, several cognitive abilities (declarative, procedural, and working memory, interference control, processing speed) were tested to assess their mediating role for morphological processing. The results revealed distinct developmental trajectories for default versus non-default plurals: priming effects (unrelated-morphological condition) for predictable and unpredictable non-default plurals decreased with increasing age, with age-related declines in declarative memory mediating these declines. In contrast, priming effects for default plurals increased with increasing age. Although the reasons for this increase remain to be clarified, we suggest lifelong experience with the computation of these forms as a possible mechanism.
COMPARATIVE CHARACTERISTICS OF APPROACHES TO ASSESSING INFORMATION AND DIGITAL MATURITY OF THE REGIONS OF RUSSIA
Authors:   National Research University - Higher School of Economics, Tretyakova E. A. ,   Perm National Research Polytechnic University,   Kairos Engineering LLC, Zaripova Yu. O. ,   National Research University - Higher School of Economics,   Perm National Research Polytechnic University
Published: April 2024

The paper provides an overview of current methods for assessing informatization and digital maturity of regions in the context of the continuous process of digital transformation of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation. The theoretical and methodological base covers a wide range of relevant articles by domestic researchers, as well as key programs for the development of the information society and digital economy at the regional and federal levels. The authors raise the problem of ambivalent differentiation of concepts used in the terminological discourse of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and also note the lack of a flexible, comprehensive approach to assessing the regions’ achievement of the goals of the Strategy for the Development of the Information Society in the Russian Federation for 2017–2030 and consider potential trajectories for improving the methodology.
First report of a prolonged bite by a Western Whip Snake, Hierophis viridiflavus carbonarius (Bonaparte 1833) (Serpentes, Colubridae), resulting in pronounced local oedema
Authors: Avella Ignazio , Savini Fabio , Di Nicola Matteo
Published: April 2024

Although extensive research has been conducted on snake venoms, the effects of bites inflicted by non-front-fanged colubroid snakes remain incompletely understood, particularly for species of uncertain medical relevance. The Western Whip Snake (Hierophis viridiflavus) is a colubrid snake typically classified as non-venomous and harmless to humans. Nevertheless, old works reporting the presence of Duvernoy's glands in this species raise questions regarding its presumed lack of venom. This report presents the first case of a prolonged bite from a wild Western Whip Snake (Hierophis viridiflavus carbonarius) that occurred in Italy, and provides a detailed account of the resulting effects. The primary symptom experienced by the bitten subject was painless, marked local oedema, which subsided within 24h after the bite. The clinical manifestations observed in the current study suggest that Hierophis viridiflavus could have the potential to inflict bites that lead to mild local effects consistent with envenoming.
EFFECT OF HIGH-INTENSITY ULTRASONIC TREATMENT ON REFINEMENT OF Al-5Cu ALLOY INGOTS
Authors: Jia Zheng , Wang Zhi Zhuo , Fu Li
Published: April 2024

The effect of high-intensity ultrasonic treatment combined with bottom cooling treatment on the refinement of Al-5Cu alloy ingots was studied. The results show that ultrasonic treatment combined with forced cooling at the bottom of ingots has a good refining effect, and the best refining effect can be obtained at 2000 W and after 120 s. The cross-section of an ingot exhibits almost 100 % refined equiaxed grains and no porosity. The method of combining ultrasonic treatment and forced cooling at the bottom of ingots not only influences the ingot refinement, but also decreases the porosity of the ingots with an increase in the ultrasonic duration. The ultrasonic degassing effect is due to the release of hydrogen in biofilms, which expand and grow gradually; finally, they burst on the melt surface, achieving the effect of degassing.
EVALUATION OF THE MAGNETIC PROPERTIES OF Ag-Au-Pd-Cu DENTAL ALLOYS
Authors: Gusel Leo , Majerič Peter , Glišić Mirko , Kocijan Aleksandra , Rudolf Rebeka
Published: April 2024

The paper discusses four Ag-Au-Pd-Cu dental alloys, with different chemical compositions, which are used to produce fixed dental-prosthetic structures. These dental alloys must have a low level of biological risk after being implanted in the oral cavity, which means minimal release of ions from their surface, or the absence of corrosion, and, recently, the absence of ferromagnetism has been introduced as an additional requirement. The latter requirement is particularly important when magnetic resonance (MR) is used in the medical diagnosis of a patient who has an implanted fixed dental-prosthetic structure. With this technique, the internal structure of the human body is imaged using a strong magnetic field, radio waves and computer technology. Therefore, the absence of ferromagnetic, embedded biomaterials is necessary in the part of the body where medical diagnostics are performed. Microstructural investigations of four Ag-Au-Pd-Cu dental alloys (Auropal S, Auropal SE, Midor S and Midor SE) and measurements of their magnetic properties were carried out as part of the research. The results showed that Ag-Au-Pd-Cu dental alloys have a stable microstructure, which allows them to be processed later into fixed prosthetic constructions. The measurements of the magnetic properties showed that the Ag-Au-Pd-Cu dental alloys are diamagnetic.
Concentration, extraction and quantification of SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater via droplet digital PCR v2
Authors: Huang Jim , Luc August , Kane Sarah , Nash Rose , De Long Susan , Wilusz Carol
Published: April 2024

This protocol describes the method used at Colorado State University to extract and quantify SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater collected from sewers and at wastewater treatment plants. The method relies on concentration via ultrafiltration, silica column based purification, and quantification via digital droplet reverse transcription PCR. Endogenous and exogenous controls are described.
LD-HD Pigmentation Oscillator Model v1
Authors: T Natarajan Vivek
Published: April 2024

LD-HD pigmentation oscillator model uses B16 mouse melanoma cells which are seeded at a very low seeding density of 100 cells/cm2 and are left without change in media. Cells under such conditions gradually starts pigmenting, beginning on Day 4 of LD. The cells survive up till day 12 of LD when they are trypsinised and reseeded at a higher density of 10000 cells/cm2. Owing to high density culture, these cells start losing their pigment and gradually become depigmented by Day 16-20 i.e. four to eight days after seeding at high density. This is a great model which allows segregation of different stages of pigmentation and subsequent molecular changes to be followed over a period of 20 days.
Epilepsy and congenital cerebral palsy: Parallels between the location of genome anomalies and clinical manifestations
Authors: Sokolov P. L. , Chebanenko N. V. , Fedotova Yu. A. , Mednaya D. M.
Published: April 2024

Progress in molecular genetics is gradually leading to a radical revision of the understanding of the nature of not only recognized genetically determined diseases, but also those whose genetic nature has only been assumed. More and more information is emerging about polygenic and/or multifactorial diseases. The authors P.L. Sokolov and N.V. Chebanenko in 2022 proposed the concept of a neurotropic genome and the classification of genes, according to their “areas of responsibility” – points of application of determinant activity. There is a growing number of scientific works on the dependence of the pathological phenotype on the nature of the mutation and its localization along the gene.In this article, using the example of Wolf–Hirschhorn syndrome, variants of the dependence of the phenotype on the location of the genome abnormality are considered. A case of a disease from the authors’ practice, in which epilepsy and cerebral palsy predominate, is presented; the phenotype is analyzed with the nature and location of the identified genetic anomaly. The authors make assumption about the connection between the nature and location of the genome anomaly and the characteristics of the phenotype.
Wernicke encephalopathy in combination with acute polyneuropathy under the guise of a demyelinating disease in a teenager with an eating disorder
Authors: Ovchinnikova E. O. , Kotov A. S. , Panteleeva M. V. , Mukhina E. V.
Published: April 2024

Wernicke encephalopathy is a neuropsychiatric syndrome characterized by three main symptoms: oculomotor disturbances, cerebellar ataxia, and psychiatric disturbances. The condition is associated with a high mortality and morbidity rate. Wernicke encephalopathy is most commonly seen in adolescent children presenting with a vitamin B1 deficiency. Thiamine deficiency may also cause polyneuritis syndrome, with or without the aforementioned symptoms. The condition is characterized by sensory-motor impairments in a symmetrical pattern, dysarthria, and paresis or even paralysis of the lower limbs. This report focuses on an adolescent case presenting acute oculomotor paresis, nystagmus, leg weakness, impaired gait, decreased deep tendon reflexes, cognitive impairment, and a history of recurrent vomiting, prolonged starvation, and eating behaviour disorders. The magnetic resonance imaging scan reveals symmetrical pathological foci of increased intensity in T2 in the periaqueductal region, at the Magendie’s central aperture. The patient displays a mixed motor-sensory polyneuropathic syndrome affecting both lower limbs, primarily of the axonopathy type, based on electroneuromyography data. Positive outcomes such as restored eyeball movement, enhanced gait, increased muscle strength in the lower legs and feet, and better management of sensory disorders have occurred due to thiamine treatment.
Cytokine regulation disbalance: the basis for COVID-19 immunopathogenesis
Authors: Simbirtsev Andrey S.
Published: April 2024

Coronavirus infection activates two main signaling pathways for type I and III IFN and the gene expression and synthesis of proinflammatory cytokines. These cytokines are required for antiviral defense and inflammatory reaction formation. SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus could inhibit the IFN system by depressing signaling pathways for IFN gene expression, synthesis, and secretion. IFN inhibition should be considered the primary reason for coronavirus escape from the immune system and a key factor for COVID-19 immunopathogenesis. Cytokine regulation disbalance in patients with severe COVID-19 is closely associated with low and delayed IFN synthesis, while proinflammatory cytokine production by macrophages and T-lymphocytes continues simultaneously with intensive virus replication. Thus, the reason for COVID-19 immunopathogenesis is the cytokine regulation disbalance where IFN inhibition and intensive proinflammatory cytokine synthesis lead to cytokine storm, inadequate inflammation, respiratory distress syndrome development, respiratory failure, systemic inflammatory complications, and polyorganic failure.
Effect of a water-soluble form of dihydroquercetin on age-dependent LPS-induced gliovascular remodeling of the substantia nigra in rats
Authors: Alalykina Elena S , Sergeyeva Tatyana N. , Ananyan Michail А. , Chuchkov Victor M. , Sergeyev Valeriy G.
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND: Neuroinflammation is a key pathophysiological mechanism in age-related neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease. Dihydroquercetin's water-soluble form (DHQ-WF) is considered a promising agent capable of inhibiting the neuroinflammatory process. Nevertheless, uncertainties persist regarding the cellular and molecular mechanisms governing its effects, taking into account nervous tissue's gliovascular organization.
AIM: To study structural changes of microcirculatory vessels and functional responses of micro- and astroglial cells in the substantia nigra of young and old rats in response to intranigral injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and subsequent oral administration of DHQ-WF.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Young (250–320 g) and old (390–450 g) Wistar rats were injected into the substantia nigra using a stereotaxic device with 2 μL of LPS solution at a concentration of 0.01 μL/mL (experimental groups; n=24) or 2 μL of sterile saline (control groups; n=12). Half of the animals in the experimental groups (6 animals of each age group) received 2 ml of a solution containing DHQ-WF ("Taxifolin aqua"; Advanced Technologies Ltd., Russia) at a concentration of 3 mg/mL by gavage daily for 8 weeks. At the end of the experiment, the animals were transcardially perfused with 4% paraformaldehyde, the brain was extracted and frozen on dry ice. Cryostat sections obtained on the cryotome were stained with FITC-labelled tomato lectin for the detection of vascular endothelium and antibodies against GFAP and CD-11β for the immunohistochemical detection of astrocytes and microglia, respectively. The length and number of vessels and their branches were counted using AngioTool software. The areas of glial cell bodies and their processes were measured using the morphometric software ImagePro Inside 8.0.
RESULTS: 8 weeks after LPS administration into the substantia nigra (SN) of old rats, a significant excess of areas occupied by cell bodies and processes of microglial and astroglial cells, as well as the number of vessels on the standard plot, was found both in young animals that had experienced similar effects and in old control animals. Oral administration of DHQ-WF to rats significantly reduced LPS-induced glial activation in young and old animals. In addition, administration of DHQ-WF to old animals reduced the intensity of microvascular SN remodeling induced by LPS administration.
CONCLUSIONS: Administration of LPS to the SN of rats of different ages causes neuroinflammation, which is maximally expressed in aged animals. In addition, LPS-induced microvessel angiogenesis is observed in aged animals. Administration of DHQ-WF for 8 weeks significantly reduces these LPS-induced changes, which allows us to consider it as a promising anti-neuroinflammatory agent.
Rilegature gianseniste. Appunti su Pascal e il giansenismo
Authors: Germano Nicolò
Published: April 2024

In this work, I attempt to outline a critical history of Jansenism and its reception, especially in Pascal. In particular, in the first part, I will outline the interpretive lines that led to the formation of Jansenist thought and its main ideas, concerning the interpretation of predestination. In the second part, I will turn my attention to Jansenism as conceived in Port-Royal, with particular regard to Pascal’s interpretation and use of Jansen’s ideas, especially in relation to the complex dialectical relationship that Pascal’s Jansenism entertains with the sciences.
Grandeur de l’homme, selon Pascal
Authors: Thirouin Laurent
Published: April 2024

A long tradition of criticism, which has its roots in the Romantic era, admires Pascal as a dark, a tortured writer, an incomparable representative of human misery, of the anguish of existence, of the abysses that threaten us all. It is commonly understood that he is a magnificently sinister writer. This perspective, well established today in most minds, in the honest man as well as in the student or teacher, reduces Pascal’s work to a poor apologetic manoeuvre and transforms his anthropology into a one-sided indictment, impressive by its very excesses, which we savour with a shudder. The present study aims: 1) to sketch a genealogy of this error of perspective, 2) to examine its dangers and measure its damage, to indicate why it is not acceptable, and 3) to propose some reflections on the place of the greatness of man in Pascalian anthropology. Three patterns of greatness can be identified in the Pensées: logical, paradoxical and phenomenological.
« Je vous dis que vous y gagnerez en cette vie ». Réflexions sur la stratégie apologétique dans le « pari » de Pascal
Authors: Moreau Denis
Published: April 2024

In Pascal’s Pensées, at the very end of the so-called “wager” fragment, we find this intriguing remark intended to win once and for all the whole conviction of the “libertine” the apologist is addressing to : “I will tell you that you will win thereby in this life”. This article endeavours to reconsider this remark seriously, as it has been somewhat neglected by the canonical commentaries on the “wager”. We begin by determining the reasons that lead the apologist to this final remark, then we attempt to define its meaning and scope in Pascal’s apologetic project. Next we seek to identify the “gain in this life” that is promised to the libertine who adopts a Christian lifestyle. This leads to study how Pascal analyses joy. To conclude we propose some more general thoughts about the strategies this fragment of Les Pensées suggests to today’s Christian apologetics.
Valuación de proporcionalidad del Ministerio Público por reparación civil en delitos de conducción en estado de ebriedad. Lima noroeste. Perú.
Authors: Alva Sánchez Orlando Cesar
Published: April 2024

El objetivo fue determinar la valuación de proporcionalidad que adopta como criterio el Ministerio Público al momento de fundamentar la reparación civil en los delitos de conducción en estado de ebriedad. La metodología empleada fue de tipo básica, de enfoque cualitativo, nivel de investigación interpretativa y descriptiva y diseño de investigación basado en estudio de caso con técnicas utilizadas de fuentes documentales y entrevistas. Finalmente se concluye, que no se ha logrado garantizar una adecuada valoración económica respecto a la reparación civil en el proceso penal de conducción en estado de ebriedad debido a diversas posiciones de juristas que partes de la incoherencia de criterios respecto del asunto de investigación lo cual advierte un perjuicio a la víctima, circunstancia que amerita disposición fiscal coherente desde directivas y reglamentación acorde con los plenos casatorios al respecto.
Editorial
Authors: Aguilar Forero Nicol´ás , Cortes García Cristian Alejandro
Published: April 2024

Editorial letter for issue 15-1 Voces y Silencios: Revista Latinoamericana de Educación
How leadership style influences the enterprise sustainability and innovation
Authors: Krasniqi Ibrahim , Jupa Njomza
Published: April 2024

This paper aims to analyze the influence of leadership types on enterprise innovation, fostering enterprise sustainability and development. The research analyses specific leadership types, approaches, and theories in enterprises with the aim of linking the specific leadership style with enterprise sustainability and innovation. The study was conducted with 100 respondents from different enterprises. During research, both qualitative and quantitative data were used. The primary data were collected through structured questionaries’ and semi-structured interviews. Beside those, a large number of secondary and tertiary data were collected and analyzed in order to compare the results obtained with actual literature worldwide. The SPSS package was used to analyze primary data, and based on the comparison of the results obtained; it is visible that the most commonly applied leadership style by managers and leaders in Kosovan enterprises is democratic leadership, followed by the autocratic leadership. Results have shown that the laissez-faire style has been minimally implemented. It is a final conclusion that autocratic leadership and democratic leadership styles have imposed a positive influence on innovation processes in enterprises, as well as that there is a positive relationship between effective leadership and the presence of innovations in the surveyed enterprise cases. Different leadership styles have different impacts on sustainability, enterprise working culture, and working creativity and innovation, so the article suggests that leaders in enterprises should be able to establish creative thinking that requires innovative ideas and ways for long-term sustainability.
Breastfeeding Practices among Urban Mothers of Central Kerala, India: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Othayoth Fathimathusalma , Chellamma Prabhakumari , Mathumkunnath Vijayan Sajna , Kulampallil Sebastian Jackson , Raveendran Rini
Published: April 2024

Background: The practice of breastfeeding is vital in child nutrition and morbidity. The authors aimed to determine breastfeeding practices and factors related to Exclusive Breastfeeding (EBF) among mothers with children aged six months to 2 years in an urban area of Thrissur district, Kerala, India.
Methods: This was a community-based and cross-sectional study conducted on 339 mothers using cluster sampling in 2016 for one year in the urban area of Thrissur district, Kerala. Details regarding sociodemographic factors, obstetric history, child-related data and breastfeeding practices were collected from mothers using a pretested and semi-structured questionnaire. Analyses were done using SPSS16 and Epi Info 7.
Results: The mean age of study population was 27.21 ± 4.27. 223 mothers (65.78 %, 95% CI = 60.43-70.77) initiated breastfeeding within 1 hour, and prelacteal feeding was observed in 25 cases (7.37%, 95% CI = 4.92-10.83). 99.71% practiced feeding on demand, and 30.97% (95% CI = 26.15- 36.24) of children were exclusively breastfed up to 6 months with mean duration of 3.95± 1.79 months. The mean age at which complementary feeding started was 4.83±1.32 months. Cultural beliefs, mothers' employment, and problems during breastfeeding were significant predictors of EBF for up to 6months.
Conclusion: Despite high educational status and good antenatal care among the study population, breastfeeding practices were not carried out at the recommended level. Breastfeeding was initiated within 1 hour of delivery by 2/3rd ,and  1/3rd of the children were exclusively breastfed up to 6 months. Cultural beliefs and mothers' employment were factors associated with EBF.
Soybean Phytoestrogen-Rich Extract: A Novel Approach For Lipid Regulation In 4-Vinylcyclohexane Diepoxide-Induced Menopausal Albino Rats
Authors: Edusola Juliana Olaniyan , Abiodun Emokpae, Mathias , Ohiremen Oyakhire, Fidelis , Adeagbo Ahmed Liasu , Iria Kelly Esezobor, , Olawale Olaniyan Stephen , Adebayo Akesinro Ayodeji , Ugege6 Christian Onosetale
Published: April 2024

Background/Objective: Atherosclerosis is a key feature in the pathophysiology of arterial forms of cardiovascular disease, and these compounds (isoflavones) may serve as both shields against the disease and disruptors of already-formed plaques. The study aimed to seek for novel approach and alternative way rather than use of statin in lipid regulation in 4-vinylcyclohexane diepoxide-induced menopausal albino rats.
Methods:Thirty (30) female albino Wistar rats were employed in the investigation and each one of the experimaental animal was induced with 80mg/kg of 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide before being treated with either normal estradiol therapy (14ug/kg) or varying concentrations of the soybean phytoestrogen-rich extract (200 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg, and 600 mg/kg).  The levels of total cholesterol, triglyceride, high density lipoprotein and low density lipoprotein were all measured spectrophotometrically. Statistical software SPSS (IBM) version 23.0 was used to analyze the data.  
Results: Results showed dose-dependent reductions in lipid profile levels were seen across all treatment groups (p<0.05) with soybean phytoestrogen rich extract. Treatment with phytoestrogen isoflavones significantly decreased high density lipoprotein (HDL) levels in a dose-dependent manner, with no discernible difference between 400mg/kg and 600mg/kg. Except at a concentration of 14ug/kg of estradiol therapy.
Conclusion: Data from this research clearly demonstrate that soybean phytoestrogen-rich extract have  increased lipolytic effect on hyperlipidaemia induced with 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide in menopause-induced female Wistar rats. Soybean phytoestrogen-rich extract therapy in a high-dose appears to be more effective in lowering lipids compared to hormone replacement therapy as an alternate source of estrogen in treatment of cardiovascular diseases
Hyperuricemia And Its Relation With Obesity Among Children In Anbar Province
Authors: Hussein Ali Hussein  , Al‐Dulaimy Hussein Ali Jasim , Al-Dulaimy Wisam  Zabin  Saleh
Published: April 2024

Background; The prevalence of pediatric hyperuricemia is increasing worldwide. No other similar study was done in Anbar province previously.
Objective: This study was designed to show the prevalence of hyperuricemia among children from 6 to 16 years old in Ramadi teaching hospital for maternity and childhood, Anbar province, Iraq. Studying the relation of hyperuricemia with childhood obesity,  in addition to its relation with gender, residency, and economic status of their families.
Material and Methods: Across sectional study was done for 6 months from the first of  January 2021 to the end of June 2021, to determine the expected prevalence of hyperuricemia among a randomized sample of children of ages from 6-16 years with either gender. Weight and height were measured for all cases, a body mass index was calculated for each child for estimation of obesity. For all studied cases, other data was collected for socioeconomic status and residency. All cases were sent for serological calculation of uric acid levels.
Results: The total number of studied children was 520, the overall prevalence of hyperuricemia among these cases was (11.3%). The overweight's and obese children had a higher prevalence of hyperuricemia (29.3 %) compared with only (3.3%) among those who were not.  Girls had more prevalence than boys with female to male ratio (2.2:1). Most of the cases were from middle-economic status families with a non-significant relation when compared with control, while it was more and significant among urban area residence. 
Conclusions:  A higher prevalence of hyperuricemia was found among obese children in Anbar province, and this requires a specific educational program given to the families in explaining the risk and how to deal with obesity.
The Financial Law Status of Foundations for the Support of Russian Federation Culture
Authors:   Associate Professor of the Department of Entrepreneurial Law of the Law Faculty of the Russian State University for the Humanities, Associate Professor of the Department of Financial, Banking and Customs Law Named after Professor Nina I. Khimicheva of the Saratov State Law Academy, PhD (Law), Eremina Elizaveta A.
Published: April 2024

The article presents the results of a analysis of the financial and legal status of the main funds for supporting the cultural sector in the Russian Federation: the Operator Fund of Presidential Grants for the Development of Civil Society, the Presidential Fund for Cultural Initiatives, the Federal Fund for Social and Economic Support of Domestic Cinematography, and the Russian Cultural Fund. It is stated that the content of the components of their legal status indicates the public nature of the organization's activities. The content of the financial and legal status of cultural support funds includes a set of subjective rights and legal obligations within the framework of budgetary, tax and other financial legal relations that are expressed in each individual sub-sector and individual institution of financial law. The author concluded that it is possible to identify such an organizational and legal form of non-profit organizations as a public foundation.
Comparação de estratégias de controle preditivo e direto de torque para motores de indução
Authors: Figueiredo Rafael , Oliani Igor , Lunardi Angelo S. , Sguarezi Filho Alfeu J. , Albiero Daniel , Mezaroba Marcello
Published: April 2024

As mudanças climáticas e a tendência de eletrificação causada pelo uso de energias renováveis incentiva a pesquisa em eletrificação de sistemas e direciona parte do interesse a tecnologias de acionamentos elétricos. Dentre os motores usados em acionamentos modernos, os motores de indução trifásicos mostram-se competitivos dado o seu baixo custo, elevada robustez e maturidade tecnológica. Este artigo explora métodos de controle direto de torque e fluxo, com destaque para controles preditivos, promissores por sua resposta dinâmica rápida e flexibilidade com não linearidades. São analisados resultados experimentais do DTC, PTC, PTC-DSVM e MPTC na mesma bancada. Os resultados demonstram por meio das respostas dinâmica, em regime e THD as diferenças entre estratégias e mostram que a frequência fixa do MPTC não se relaciona diretamente à melhor qualidade de energia no acionamento. O custo computacional também é medido para complemento das análises.
Industrial heritage, cultural resources of current industries and creative pioneers – utilizing Industrial Culture in Central Europe
Authors: Harfst Jörn , Pizzera Judith , Simic Danko
Published: April 2024

The paper deals with the framework conditions of Industrial Culture and the specific challenges in former industrialised towns outside agglomeration areas. To illustrate the use of Industrial Culture the paper gives a short Austrian example and finally discuss the main points about preservation and reactivation of industrial heritage.
Neučinkovito coniranje v zaščitenih območjih Bosne in Hercegovine – študija primera NP Kozara
Authors: Hrelja Edin , Drešković Nusret , Čaušević Amra
Published: April 2024

Cilj članka je preučiti neustrezno coniranje v zaščitenih naravnih območjih v Bosni in Hercegovini, študija primera - Nacionalni park Kozara. Zaščitena naravna območja so pod vse večjim antropogenim vplivom, zato je njihovo ustrezno coniranje ključno za trajnostni razvoj. Izvedeno coniranje Nacionalnega parka Kozara, kot tudi večina zaščitenih območij v Bosni in Hercegovini, je neustrezno in je bilo vzpostavljeno predvsem za izkoriščanje naravnih virov. Območje III stopnje zaščite, kjer so dovoljene tradicionalne gospodarske dejavnosti, gradnja stanovanjskih in turističnih infrastruktur, zavzema pomemben del v zaščitenih območjih. V tem članku so uporabljene splošne in posebne geografske metode in tehnike raziskovanja. Glavni poudarek je na metodi GIS, saj omogoča vzpostavitev pomembne podatkovne baze in zemljevide neustrezno zaščitenih območij v parkih.
Spatial distribution of tourist resources in Drina national park
Authors: Nezirović Senada , Avdić Belma
Published: April 2024

The natural features of the protected areas offer such attractions that in many countries became the framework of tourism and recreation development. Tourism in protected areas promotes nature and contributes to raising the level of knowledge and ecological awareness and is important for the economy and employment of the local population. The aim of this paper is identification and valorisation of tourism resources in the Drina National Park. The most important economic activity in the Drina National Park, which should be developed and improved in the next period is tourism, as the main driver of development. Therefore the focus of this work is on proposals for the improvement of existing and finding new tourist facilities in Drina National park, in order to enrich the tourist offer. For this reason, the possibilities of building educational, cycling and hiking trails as well as adequate promotion and protection of the cultural and historical heritage that would be self-sustainable were analyzed, enabling the use of such facilities and sites as new resources for the development of tourism.This paper describes the concept of protection and management goals, as well as the advantages and disadvantages that need to be improved in the future and which reduce the competitiveness of the Drina National Park.
The relationship between relief and geological structure in the river basin of Solina
Authors: Hadžimustafić Edin , Babajić Elvir , Ristanović Branko , Mešanović Dževad
Published: April 2024

In this paper, within the framework of morphostructural features, relationship between relief and geological structure in the river basin of Solina (north-eastern Bosnia and Herzegovina) is analyzed. Main goal of this study is to investigate causal relationship between complex geological characteristics of the terrain and genesis, morphological evolution and differentiation of three relief units in the river basin of Solina. Relief of river basin of Solina is predominantly non-conformal, tectonically predisposed; its structure is dominated by Cretaceous - Paleogene clastites. In this paper are applied modern geomorphological-geological methods, field work, analysis of topographic and geological maps, as well as satellite images of the studied area. Presentation of data has been realized in the Geographic Information System, and the geospatial data were geo-visualized on two thematic maps.
Analiza gibanja števila Slovencev v Črni gori 1921 – 2021 in njihova organiziranost
Authors: Tomažič Dušan
Published: April 2024

V Črni gori živi majhno število Slovencev, a so za proučevanje kljub vsemu zelo zanimivi. Na območju  Črne gore je bil prvi popis prebivalstva izveden leta 1879 v času kneza Nikole. Prvi dokaj natančni podatki popisa prebivalstva segajo že v leto 1909, kasnejši, sodobni popisi prebivalstva so bili izvedeni v treh državno teritorialnih okvirih. V času Kraljevine SHS (1921 in 1931), v okviru SFRJ je bilo šest popisov in sicer od 1948 -1991, dva pa v času samostojne  republike Črne gore  v letih 2003 in 2011. Slovensko populacijo je bilo že zaznati v popisu leta 1921, takrat se je za Slovence izreklo 55 oseb. Prvi popis v sodobni Črni gori je popisal 415 Slovencev, zanje pa so demografska gibanja nespodbudna in predstavljajo biološko depopulacijo.  Ob nenehnem zmanjševanju števila, je bila leta 2001 tudi povprečna starost visoka (50,9 let). V zadnjem popisu leta 2011 se je za Slovence izreklo še manj ljudi in sicer 354 oseb, povprečna starost pa se je zvišala na 53,2 let. V pričujočem delu je narejena osnovna demografska analiza Slovencev v Republiki Črni Gori in kako je sprememba državno pravnega statusa države vplivala na razvoj slovenske populacije in njeno organiziranost v novi državi.