bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energieregulatoren in België: de rol van het parlement en de regering
Authors: De Deyne Laura
Published: December 2019

Energieregulatoren in België: de rol van het parlement en de regering

Het EU-recht vereist dat een toezichthouder binnen de energiesector onafhankelijk is van alle marktpartijen. Dat geldt ook voor de politiek. Het zogenoemde ‘Clean Energy Package’ versterkt deze onafhankelijkheidsvereisten nog verder. In België, maar ook in Nederland, rijzen er vaak discussies over hoe ver deze onafhankelijkheid mag gaan, en hoe een politiek onafhankelijke regulator zich verhoudt tot de grondwettelijke regels. Bij hun oprichting werden in België, maar ook in Nederland, de toezichthouders opgenomen binnen de uitvoerende macht. Dit heeft tot gevolg dat ze onderhevig zijn aan administratief toezicht. Dit toezicht staat evenwel haaks op de Europese (politieke) onafhankelijkheidsvereisten. Wanneer dit administratief toezicht evenwel ontbreekt, dan wordt het nationale grondwettelijke principe van de ministeriële verantwoordelijkheid (en daaruit voortvloeiend ook de parlementaire controle) uitgehold. In het Vlaams Gewest, en nu recent ook op Waals niveau, heeft men deze tegenstelling weggewerkt door de energieregulator institutioneel onder te brengen bij het Parlement. Deze verhuis neemt echter niet weg dat er nog steeds een spanningsveld aanwezig blijft tussen de onafhankelijkheid van de regulator en de politiek.
Influence of cut-off irrigation on seed quality and physiological indices of various safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) genotypes
Authors: Tabib Loghmani Sayed Mohammad Taghi , Bazrafshan Forood , Alizadeh Omid , Amiri Bahram , Bahrani Abdollah
Published: December 2019

Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) is an oilseed crop adapted to arid and semiarid regions. In this study, an experiment was performed to evaluate the effects of water deficiency on plant height, 1,000-grain weight, seed yield, harvest index, relative water content (RWC), oil yield, and oil content in 15 safflower genotypes. A split-plot randomized complete blocks design was arranged with three replications. Safflower plants were grown under normal irrigation and water deficit conditions in Sarvestan, Fars Province, Iran during 2016 and 2017 growing seasons. Combined analysis results indicated that water deficit stress had negative effects on all measured indices. Average seed yield declined by 65.91% (2,337.91 to 796.79 kg ha−1) due to water deficit stress. Genotype also had a significant effect on evaluated indices, and the interaction between genotype and irrigation significantly influenced all indices except plant height. Under both conditions, highest RWC, seed yield, and oil yield were observed in Dincer and PI-537598 genotypes. Maximum plant height and 1,000-seed weight in both irrigation conditions were observed in the Dincer genotype. In the normal irrigation condition, maximum harvest index and oil content were observed in the CW-74 genotype. Thus, Dincer and PI-537598 were classified as the best genotypes (based on seed yield, RWC, and oil yield) under both normal irrigation and water deficit stress conditions.
Net micromineral requirements for maintenance and growth of ewe lambs at the latter fattening period
Authors: Jin Ya Qian , Ding Na , Diao Xiao Gao , Yu Sheng Chen , Zhao Jun Xing , Zhang Jian Xin
Published: December 2019

Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the net micromineral (Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn) requirements for maintenance and growth of Dorper×Jinzhong crossbred ewe lambs at their latter fattening period.Methods: Thirty 1/2 Dorper × 1/2 Jinzhong crossed F1 ewe lambs (35±0.5 kg of body weight [BW]) were used and divided into five groups in a randomized design for a comparative slaughter trial. At the beginning of the experiment, six lambs were randomly selected and slaughtered at 35 kg BW to determine their initial body composition. When their BWs reached 43 kg, another six lambs fed ad libitum were slaughtered to serve as an intermediate slaughter group. The retained eighteen lambs were randomly distributed into three groups and offered one type of feed at 100%, 65%, and 40% of the ad libitum intake. When the lambs fed ad libitum reached a BW of 50 kg, the three groups were slaughtered. The body composition (muscle, fat, bone, blood with viscera, skin, and wool) were weighted, ground, mixed, and subsampled for mineral content analysis.Results: The net maintenance requirements of Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn were 0.017, 0.160, 0.004, and 0.067 mg/kg BW/d, respectively, and the net growth requirements per 100 grams of average daily gain ranged from 0.48 to 0.51 mg of Cu, 2.63 to 2.17 mg of Fe, 0.12 to 0.15 mg of Mn, and 2.07 to 2.00 mg of Zn, respectively, for Dorper × Jinzhong crossed ewes from 35 to 50 kg BW.Conclusion: Our results suggest that the micromineral requirements for both maintenance and growth of Dorper × Jinzhong crossbred ewe lambs were quite different from the recommendations of NRC (2007), except for Zn.
The effects of vitamin A supplementation during late-stage pregnancy on longissimus dorsi muscle tissue development, birth traits, and growth performance in postnatal Korean native calves
Authors: Jo Yong Ho , Peng Dong Qiao , Kim Won Seob , Kim Seong Jin , Kim Na Yeon , Kim Sung Hak , Ghassemi Nejad Jalil , Lee Jae Sung , Lee Hong Gu
Published: December 2019

Objective: This study investigated the effects of vitamin A (VA) supplementation during late-stage pregnancy on longissimus dorsi muscle tissue development, birth traits, and growth performance of postnatal Korean native calves.Methods: In the preliminary experiment, twenty-six pregnant cattle (initial body weight [BW] = 319 kg (standard deviation [SD] = 30.1; 1st parity) were randomly assigned to the control and treatment groups. The treatment group received VA supplementation at 24,000 IU/d from gestational day 225 until delivery. In the main experiment, twelve pregnant cattle (initial BW = 317 kg [SD = 31.3]; 1st parity) were treated with VA supplementation at 24,000 IU/d (gestational days 150 to 225) and at 78,000 IU/d (gestational day 225 until delivery). Serum VA levels were analyzed in pregnant cattle, and the growth performance, gene expression, and serum VA levels were analyzed in the offspring.Results: Serum VA levels in pregnant cattle decreased the late gestation in both experiments (p<0.001). In the main experiment, pregnant cattle at parturition and offspring at birth in the treatment group had higher serum VA levels than those in the control group (p<0.05). In the treatment groups, an increased birth weight was observed in the main experimental group (p = 0.022), and a tendency (p = 0.088) toward an increased birth weight was observed in the preliminary experimental group. However, no differences were observed in the feed intake, average daily gain, gain-to-feed ratio, or BW of 31-day-old calves. Gene expression was analyzed in longissimus dorsi muscles of 31-day-old calves. VA supplementation in pregnant cattle stimulated postnatal muscle development in offspring by elevating myogenic factor 5 (MYF5), MYF6, and myoblast determination levels (p<0.05). Moreover, preadipocyte-related marker genes such as extracellular signal-regulated kinase 2 and krüppel-like factor 2 were higher in the treatment group than in the control group (p<0.05).Conclusion: VA supplementation (78,000 IU/d) in late-stage pregnant cattle maintained serum VA levels. In addition, 78,000 IU/d VA supplementation increased the birth weight and expression of genes related to muscle and preadipocyte development in offspring. Overall, 78,000 IU/d VA supplementation in pregnant cattle is beneficial to newborn calves.
Effect of ruminal administration of soy sauce oil on rumen fermentation, milk production and blood parameters in dairy cows
Authors: Konno Daiji , Takahashi Masanobu , Osaka Ikuo , Orihashi Takenori , Sakai Kiyotaka , Sera Kenji , Obara Yoshiaki , Kobayashi Yasuo
Published: December 2019

Objective: To evaluate soy sauce oil (a by-product of making whole soybean soy sauce) as a new dietary lipid source, a large amount of soy sauce oil was administered into the rumen of dairy cows.Methods: Four Holstein dairy cows fitted with rumen cannulae were used in a 56-day experiment. Ruminal administration of soy sauce oil (1 kg/d) was carried out for 42 days from day 8 to day 49 to monitor nutritional, physiological and production responses.Results: Dry matter intake and milk yield were not affected by soy sauce oil administration, whereas 4% fat-corrected milk yield and the percentage of milk fat decreased. Although ruminal concentration of total volatile fatty acids (VFA) and the proportion of individual VFA were partially affected by administration of soy sauce oil, values were within normal ranges, showing no apparent inhibition in rumen fermentation. Administration of soy sauce oil decreased the proportions of milk fatty acids with a carbon chain length of less than 18, and increased the proportions of stearic, oleic, vaccenic and conjugated linoleic acids. Conjugated linoleic acid content in milk became 5.9 to 8.8 times higher with soy sauce oil administration. Blood serum concentrations of non-esterified fatty acid, 3-hydroxybutyric acid, total cholesterol, free cholesterol, esterified cholesterol, triglyceride and phospholipid increased with administration of soy sauce oil, suggesting a higher energy status of the experimental cows.Conclusion: The results suggest that soy sauce oil could be a useful supplement to potentially improve milk functionality without adverse effects on ruminal fermentation and animal health. More detailed analysis is necessary to optimize the supplementation level of this new lipid source in feeding trials.
Effects of season and single layer centrifugation on bull sperm quality in Thailand
Authors: Nongbua Thanapol , Utta Apirak , Am-in Nutthee , Suwimonteerabutr Junpen , Johannisson Anders , Morrell Jane M
Published: December 2019

Objective: The aim of study was to investigate the effects of season and single layer centrifugation (SLC) before cryopreservation on post-thaw bull sperm quality in Thailand.Methods: Semen was collected from 6 bulls (Bos indicus) in summer, rainy season and winter 2014 through 2016. Semen characteristics, sperm morphology, sperm kinematics, viability, chromatin structure and mitochondrial membrane were evaluated. Meteorological data were available from the local meteorological station;Results: Season had an effect on semen characteristics in the raw ejaculate, with higher proportions of normal spermatozoa and lower abnormalities in winter than in the other two seasons. Sperm kinematics, viability, DNA fragmentation index, and mitochondrial membrane potential were not different between seasons. Sperm samples selected by SLC had greater normal morphology and a lower proportion with bent tails than controls and higher values of progressive motility (PRO), beat cross frequency, linearity, straightness, wobble (WOB), and lower values of slow motility, velocity average path (VAP), velocity curved line, and amplitude of lateral head displacement than controls. In addition, SLCselection had a favorable effect on PRO, VAP, and WOB that differed among seasons.Conclusion: Our results suggested that these bulls were well adapted to their location, with season having an effect on sperm morphology. Moreover, SLC could be used prior to cryopreservation, regardless of season, to enhance normal morphology and kinematics of bull sperm samples without adversely affecting other parameters of sperm quality. However, there was considerable variation among bulls in DNA fragmentation index, mitochondrial membrane potential and sperm viability. In addition, SLC had a positive effect on sperm morphology and sperm kinematics, which could be expected to influence fertility.
Nutritional value and in situ degradability of oak wood roughage and its feeding effects on growth performance and behavior of Hanwoo steers during the early fattening period
Authors: Ju Ye Ri , Baek Youl Chang , Jang Sun Sik , Oh Young Kyoon , Lee Sung Suk , Kim Yong Sik , Park Keun Kyu
Published: December 2019

Objective: This study was conducted to evaluate changes in nutritional value and in situ dry matter (DM) degradability of oak and pine wood before and after steam-digestion process (60 min/160°C/6 atm) and feeding effect of the oak roughage on performance and behavior of Hanwoo steers.Methods: Chemical composition and tannin concentration were analyzed for oak and pine trees before and after the pretreatment. In situ DM and effective degradability of these samples were assessed using a nylon bag method. In vivo trial was performed to estimate animal performance and behavior, using steers fed total mixed ration (TMR) diets containing 0% (control), 25% (OR-25), and 50% (OR-50) of the oak roughage. Eighteen steers were allocated into nine pens (2 steers/pen, 3 pens/treatment) for 52 days according to body weight (BW) and age.Results: By the steam-digestion treatment, the neutral detergent-insoluble fiber was decreased from 86.5% to 71.5% for oak and from 92.4% to 80.5% for pine, thereby increasing non-fiber carbohydrate. In situ DM degradability of treated oak reached 38% at 72 h, whereas that of untreated oak was only 11.9%. The 0 h degradability of the treated pine increased from 5.9% to 12.1%, but the degradability was unchanged thereafter. Animal performance including BW, average daily gain, DM intake, and feed conversion ratio was not different among control and oak treatments. No differences were detected in animal behavior such as lying, standing, rumination, drinking, and eating, except walking. Walking was higher in control than oak treatments with numerically higher eating and lower lying times, probably due to bulkier characteristics of rice straw in the diet.Conclusion: This study demonstrates that the oak roughage can be substituted for 50% of total forage or 100% of rice straw in TMR diets at early fattening stage of Hanwoo steers.
Physicochemical properties and energy content of yellow dent corn from different climatic origins in growing pigs
Authors: Dong Wenxuan , Li Juntao , Li Zhongchao , Zhang Shuo , Li Xiaozhen , Yang Chundi , Liu Ling , Zhang Shuai
Published: December 2019

Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the digestible energy (DE) and metabolizable energy (ME) of yellow dent corn sourced from different meteorological origins fed to growing pigs and develop equations to predict the DE and ME of yellow dent corn from southwestern China.Methods: Sixty crossbred barrows were allotted to 20 treatments in a triplicate 20×2 incomplete Latin square design with 3 replicated pigs per dietary treatment during 2 consecutive periods. Each period lasted for 12 days, and total feces and urine during the last 5 days of each period were collected to calculate the energy contents.Results: On dry matter (DM) basis, the DE and ME in 20 corn grain samples ranged from 15.38 to 16.78 MJ/kg and from 14.93 to 16.16 MJ/kg, respectively. Selected best-fit prediction equations for DE and ME (MJ/kg DM basis) for yellow dent corn (n = 16) sourced from southwestern China were as follows: DE = 28.58–(0.12×% hemicellulose)+(0.35×% ether extract)–(0.83×MJ/kg gross energy)+(0.20×% crude protein)+(0.49×% ash); ME = 30.42– (0.11×% hemicellulose)+(0.31×% ether extract)–(0.81×MJ/kg gross energy).Conclusion: Our results indicated that the chemical compositions, but not the meteorological conditions or physical characteristics could explain the variation of energy contents in yellow dent corn sourced from southwestern China fed to growing pigs.
Estimation of carcass weight of Hanwoo (Korean native cattle) as a function of body measurements using statistical models and a neural network
Authors: Lee Dae-Hyun , Lee Seung-Hyun , Cho Byoung-Kwan , Wakholi Collins , Seo Young-Wook , Cho Soo-Hyun , Kang Tae-Hwan , Lee Wang-Hee
Published: December 2019

Objective: The objective of this study was to develop a model for estimating the carcass weight of Hanwoo cattle as a function of body measurements using three different modeling approaches: i) multiple regression analysis, ii) partial least square regression analysis, and iii) a neural network.Methods: Data from a total of 134 Hanwoo cattle were obtained from the National Institute of Animal Science in South Korea. Among the 372 variables in the raw data, 20 variables related to carcass weight and body measurements were extracted to use in multiple regression, partial least square regression, and an artificial neural network to estimate the cold carcass weight of Hanwoo cattle by any of seven body measurements significantly related to carcass weight or by all 19 body measurement variables. For developing and training the model, 100 data points were used, whereas the 34 remaining data points were used to test the model estimation.Results: The R2 values from testing the developed models by multiple regression, partial least square regression, and an artificial neural network with seven significant variables were 0.91, 0.91, and 0.92, respectively, whereas all the methods exhibited similar R2 values of approximately 0.93 with all 19 body measurement variables. In addition, relative errors were within 4%, suggesting that the developed model was reliable in estimating Hanwoo cattle carcass weight. The neural network exhibited the highest accuracy.Conclusion: The developed model was applicable for estimating Hanwoo cattle carcass weight using body measurements. Because the procedure and required variables could differ according to the type of model, it was necessary to select the best model suitable for the system with which to calculate the model.
Le sensible est introuvable... Merleau-Ponty e il linguaggio
Authors: Crivella Giuseppe ,   Chiasmi International
Published: December 2019

Questo testo si propone di prendere in considerazione il ruolo del linguaggio nella filosofia di Merleau-Ponty. In particolare le nostre analisi si soffermeranno prima su La prose du monde e poi sugli appunti relativi ai romanzi di Claude Simon. In tal modo tenteremo di inquadrare la natura specifica di tale linguaggio indagandone le fonti, esplorandone i limiti e vagliandone in dettaglio le potenzialità.Le propos de ce texte est de prendre en examen le rôle du langage dans la philosophie de Merleau-Ponty. En particulier, nos analyses se concentreront en premier lieu sur La prose du monde et, ensuite, sur les notes au sujet des romans de Claude Simon. Ainsi, nous essaierons de cerner la nature spécifique d’un tel langage en analysant ses sources, en explorant ses limites et en examinant dans le détail ses potentialités.The purpose of this paper is to study the role of language in the philosophy of Merleau-Ponty. In particular, our analysis will concentrate mainly on The Prose of the World and, following that, on the notes about the novels of Claude Simon. Thus, we will attempt to discern the specific nature of such language, analyzing its sources, exploring its limits, and examining in detail its potentialities.
Entrando al cinema. Il ritmo come segreto del mondo
Authors: Solla Gianluca ,   Chiasmi International
Published: December 2019

Nella conferenza su Le cinéma et la nouvelle psychologie Merleau-Ponty introduce una singolare, ma decisiva notazione sull’arte filmica, legandola alla nozione di “ritmo”. Tale nozione dà avvio a una riflessione sull’immagine e sul rapporto tra l’immagine e lo sguardo dello spettatore al cinema. Nel presente articolo, l’uso che Merleau-Ponty ne fa e il senso di questa operazione saranno letti in riferimento alla riflessione di Émile Benveniste sul ritmo e ad alcune annotazioni contenute nei corsi di Merleau-Ponty al Collège de France, di qualche anno successivi alla conferenza, su Le monde sensible et le monde de l’expression e quello sulle Recherches sur l’usage littéraire du langage. Dans le texte de sa conférence sur Le cinéma et la nouvelle psychologie, Merleau-Ponty introduit une lecture, singulière mais décisive, de l’art filmique, en la rapprochant de la notion de « rythme ». Cette notion engage une réflexion sur l’image et sur le rapport entre l’image et le regard du spectateur au cinéma. Dans cet article, l’utilisation que Merleau-Ponty en fait et le sens de cette opération seront lus à partir de la réflexion d’Émile Benveniste sur le rythme et à partir de certaines notes présentes dans les cours de Merleau-Ponty au Collège de France sur Le monde sensible et le monde de l’expression et sur les Recherches sur l’usage littéraire du langage, qui suivent de quelques années la conférence.In the text of his lecture on “Film and the new psychology,” Merleau-Ponty introduces a singular and decisive reading of filmic art, approaching the notion of “rhythm.” This notion engages in a reflection on image and on the relation between the image and the gaze of the spectator at the cinema. In this article, Merleau-Ponty’s actual usage of this notion and the meaning of this operation will be read starting from the reflection of Émile Benveniste on rhythm as well as certain notes presented in Merleau-Ponty’s courses at the Collège de France on The sensible world and the world of expression and Research on the literary usages of language, that follow some years after the lecture.
Social Networks for Researchers on the Internet
Authors: Shibarshina Svetlana V. ,   Institute of Philosophy, Russian Academy of Sciences
Published: December 2019

This article considers the digital transformations of scientific communication focusing on social networks for researchers. The author argues that such communities possess certain prospects for turning into a kind of new sociality. She highlights and critically evaluates the major features of interactions on such platforms, including: a network nature; communication “here-and-now”; mobility of ideas, methods, approaches, and solutions; open access to information and its evaluation; blurring the boundaries of previously stable social ties and relations, and overcoming cultural barriers. She argues that social networks for researchers, potentially enabling Merton’s communalism as an ethical norm and partly externalizing dispersed knowledge, can become a new sociality for those researchers who possess fewer opportunities for career fulfillment in offline mode.
The Gift Illusion
Authors: Kasavin Ilya T. ,   Institute of Philosophy, Russian Academy of Sciences
Published: December 2019

The epitome of modern scientific infrastructure and distributed knowledge systems is scientific social networks (NSS). Their number, as well as the number of their users, is constantly growing and reaches millions. They are in demand, and, therefore, perform significant social functions. It is still unclear what their own nature is, what their functions are and how they perform and, finally, what are the consequences of their integration with the social institute of science. Along with the obvious advantages, the NSS creates clear cultural dissonances and challenges that change the usual ways of communication. There is already enough evidence that the NSS not only bring about positive change, but also face rejection. Science policy, the scientist's moral code, the scientific citation and evaluation systems are all affected by the activities of the NSS and become an important subject matter of science and technology studies (STS). This text is a response to the article “Social Networks for Researchers on the Internet: A New Sociality?” by S.V. Shibarshina.
Philosophy in a Polycentric World
Authors: Antonovski Alexander Yu. ,   Institute of Philosophy, Russian Academy of Sciences
Published: December 2019

In the first part of the article, the author substantiates the importance of philosophical communication as a kind of dependent variable that does not have an independent meaning without pointing to something else through which the philosophy itself (often negatively and non-reflectively) defines. We are talking about global centers of “systemic” communication (politics, science, religion, etc.), imposing their observations on other communities. It is argued that the priority of philosophical communication is justified by the ability to carry out “universal observations”, which is deprived of all other communication systems.In the second part of the article, the methodological question is first solved about the possibility of explaining a number of phenomena (communications, observations), for which no indication of external factors justifying their existence is required. It is proved that the description and explanation of such phenomena is possible on the way of formulating “significant tautologies” (Peter Railton). Using this method, the author carries out a meaningful deployment of the significant tautology “philosophy is only philosophy” and substantiates that philosophy is communication, capable of defining itself in a universal way: through something else and through itself. The author concludes that philosophy can be considered as a communicative system (i.e.,observer), whose mission is to generate a unique product: a universal self-description of modern society, where philosophy combines three fundamental observational abilities: scientific, protest and artistic activity.
Artificial Intelligence and Artificial Sociality
Authors: Rezaev Andrey V. , Tregubova Natalia D. ,   Institute of Philosophy, Russian Academy of Sciences
Published: December 2019

The paper aims to formulate theoretical and methodological foundations as well as basic research questions for studying intervention of artificial intelligence in everyday life of medical and life sciences in the 21 century. It is an invitation for professional philosophical, theoretical and methodological discussion about the necessity and reality of artificial intelligence in contemporary medical/life sciences and medicine. The authors commence with a proposition of their definitions of ‘artificial intelligence’ (AI) and ‘artificial sociality’ (AS). The next section of the paper deals with a review of basic trends in medical/life sciences and medicine. In what follows the authors debate two problems related to incorporation of AI in reality of current medicine. The first is the potential revision of the principles developed in western medicine; the second is the alteration of the contents and forms of medical education. The authors theorize the dynamic interplay between structural expansion and cultural contraction of medicine and life sciences in current practices of higher education and explore how this introduces an essential tension between the necessity and reality for medical professionals to work with AI. The paper shows that attending to institutional dynamics serves as a critical and timely extension of disciplinary/cross/anti-disciplinary critiques of science and medicine, not only since the current inclusion agenda of the AI in medicine may do little to address the real concerns of a medical profession in the XXI century but also because it may inadvertently undermine the institutional recognition and epistemic acceptance of new anti-disciplinary vista for studying AI per se. In conclusion the authors underline basic outcomes of the discussion and propose further routes for inquiry and research.
Populism and Science
Authors: Collins Harry , Evans Robert ,   Institute of Philosophy, Russian Academy of Sciences
Published: December 2019

The risk of populism is ever-present in democratic societies. Here we argue that science provides one way in which this risk can be reduced. This is not because science provides a superior truth but because it (a) preserves and celebrates values that are essential for democracy and (b) contributes to the network of the checks and balances that constrain executive power. To make this argument, we draw on Wittgenstein’s idea of a form of life to characterize any social group as being composed of two opposing elements: an organic aspect that defines what the group has in common and an enumerative aspect that describes the differing ways in which the organic core can be displayed. Whilst the organic faces of science and democracy are clearly different there are significant overlaps that include values such as disinterestedness, universalism and honesty. This overlap in values is the first way in which science can prevent populism: by providing moral leadership. The second, its role in a network of checks and balances, also depends on these values. Science does not contribute to the checks and balances because it provides epistemically superior knowledge; it contributes because it provides morally superior knowledge that, alongside institutions such a free press, independent judiciary and additional tiers of government, support the democratic ecosystem. Failures of democracy occur when this ecosystem is damaged – too much science leads to technocracy, but too little creates the conditions for populism. To prevent this, we argue that citizens must (re)learn the value of democratic values. These include endorsing an independent judiciary and other state institutions, even when these hinder policies of which they might approve and, of particular concern in this context, recognizing that independent experts, of which scientists are the exemplar, are part of this network of checks and balances.
Cultural-Historical Theory in a Dialectical Optic
Authors: Bazhanov Valentin A. ,   Institute of Philosophy, Russian Academy of Sciences
Published: December 2019

This is review of the book: M. Dafermos. Rethinking Cultural-Historical Theory. A Dialectical Perspective to Vygotsky. (Springer: Singapore, 2018. IX, 309 P. ISBN 978‒981‒13‒0190‒2. Doi: 10.1007/978‒981‒13‒0191‒9). The book is devoted to the making of the cultural-historical approach in psychology in the works of Vygotsky. The author claim that Vygotsky, relying on the ideas of Spinoza, Hegel, Feuerbach and Marx, developed this approach by mastering the dialectical method in his Hegel-Marxist version. The atmosphere of the storm and the onslaught in the social and cultural life of the 1920s – early 1930s contributed to the formation of Vygotsky as a thinker with broad interests and deep philosophical background, who experienced several crises in his intellectual development. These crises forced him to qualitatively revise his ideas and, thus, substantially deepen and improve them. The author shows that Vygotsky’s literary origins allow his life compare with a drama, which accompanied by drama and the proliferation of ideas. This, in particular, expressed in his criticism of Gestalt psychology, theory of J. Piaget, ultimately a divergence of views with a number of his students who created Kharkov psychological school. Vygotsky left a great scientific legacy, which includes an analysis from the standpoint of the cultural-historical approach of the nature of consciousness, the relationship between thinking and language, the evolution of personality, a multitude of other psychological problems and art.
Digitalization as a Subject Matter of Interdisciplinary Studies
Authors: Kasavina Nadezhda A. ,   Institute of Philosophy, Russian Academy of Sciences
Published: December 2019

The article provides an overview of the publications of the journal “The Digital Scholar: Philosopher's Lab” on one of its core areas – the problem of the digitalization in society and culture and its reflection in the social sciences and humanities. The authors emphasize a distinct change in the human culture and social space manifested in restructuring of thinking, perception, communication, language, living space, and socialization. These changes are perceived as cultural challenges arising under the influence of information and communication technologies. The journal addresses a wide range of issues: an ambivalence of mass-media; a change of communicative rationality; mediarationality; the “architecture” of Internet communication, the phenomenon of visualization, digital text, information protection, gamification, the humanitarian expertise and ethical issues of the future of man and society. The authors express solidarity in that new information technologies deserve a critical assessment of the socio-humanitarian consequences of their development and require an interdisciplinary thinking in terms of new philosophical and humanitarian alternatives.
An Integrated Management Model of Patients With Atrial Fibrillation: The Experience of the Local Health Unit Tuscany North-West
Authors: Casolo Giancarlo , Cavirani Giuseppe , Del Carlo Alessandro , Iannazzo Sergio , Pardini Massimo , Squillace Alessandro
Published: December 2019

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most prevalent form of alteration in cardiac rhythm and is associated with a high economic burden resulting from both clinical consequences and impact on patients’ quality of life. Goals of treatment include symptom control and, in the high-risk patients, the prevention of thromboembolic complications. The advent of novel oral anticoagulant agents (NOACs) has improved the management of patients with non-valvular AF (NVAF) by overcoming limitations associated with traditional oral anticoagulation drugs. NOACs are associated with a lower risk of stroke, systemic embolism, and mortality compared to vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) and with a lower risk of fatal, major, and intracranial bleeding. This supplement aims at sharing the virtuous management model of AF patients in the Local Health Unit Tuscany North-West and promoting the importance of a multidisciplinary management, which involves cardiologists and general practitioners (GPs), not only in terms of clinical outcomes, but also of therapeutic appropriateness and economic sustainability.
Determination of Ascorbic Acid Concentration in Commercially Available Fruit Drinks in Bangladesh
Authors: Alam Mohammad Rahanur , Habib Mohammad Asadul , Chowdhury Pinaki , Shill Lincon Chandra , Al Mamun Abdullah
Published: December 2019

Aim: Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) is the most important food constituent because of its antioxidant and functional activity. The study aims to determine the Vitamin C content in commercially available fruit drinks collected from selected shops in Bangladesh.

Study Design: This study is an experimental study. 

Place and Duration of Study: The present study was conducted in the food analysis laboratory of Department Food Technology and Nutrition Science, Noakhali Science and Technology University, from January 2019 to May 2019. In the present study, a total of 22 branded different fruit drinks samples (orange, mango, lichi) were collected from the local market of Noakhali, Bangladesh.

Methodology: Vitamin C was analyzed with the titrimetric method and Sugar content, pH was also successfully determined by refractometer, pH meter respectively.

Results: The analyzed Vitamin C was found in the range of 2.96 to 70 mg/100 ml. Sugar content, pH was also successfully determined from the samples. The majority of the samples were found less in vitamin C concentration while only two samples (samples 3, 18) were found high the vitamin C concentration.

Conclusion: From the above study, titrimetric analysis proves itself as a scientific method in the determination of vitamin C concentration in the samples.
Influence of Organic Enriched Manure and Inorganic Fertilizers on Plant Physiological Processes of Kenyan Tea Clone
Authors: Kiprotich Hassan , K. Korir Nicholas , Karl Nyabundi , Gweyi-Onyango Joseph P.
Published: December 2019

Tea (Camellia sinensis L.) is one of the most popular beverages consumed in the world and Kenya is the leading exporter in Africa and only 3rd worldwide after China and India. Nutrient deficiency in soils and poor fertilization are possibly two reasons for low yields and quality of tea. The use of organic matter and mineral fertilizers has been proved to be a sound soil amendment and fertility management strategy. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the possibility of using readily available organic manures in combination of inorganic fertilizers on the physiological processes of tea clones in Kenya. The study was conducted within Timbilil estate, KALRO- Tea Research Institute in Kericho County on variety clone TRFK31/8. It was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) and replicated three times. There were 14 treatments that randomly assigned in each block. Data on tea response was determined from photosynthesis rate, transpiration rate and stomatal conductance then recorded and analyzed using GenStat Version 15.1. There were significant differences between the treatments on the transpiration rate, stomatal conductance and the photosynthetic rate in both seasons for all the months recorded. The transpiration rate was highest during the wet season in the months of June, July and August while lower transpiration rates were recorded during the dry season in the months of December, January and February with 0.1 g m−2 s−1 transpiration rates recorded in several treatments in the month of February. Stomatal conductance, photosynthetic rate and transpiration rate were higher where NH4+ was introduced through the organic manure in all the seasons and therefore confirms that it is highly important to incorporate soil amendments with higher organic matter in tea production in Kenya.
Effect of Foliar Spray of Primary Nutrients and their Frequency on Anthurium (Anthurium andreanum L.) var. Xavia under Protected Condition
Authors: Kumar Pankaj , Singh Paramveer , Bhardwaj Ajay , Kumar Randhir
Published: December 2019

The experiment was conducted under protected conditions at the Polyhouse Complex, Department of Horticulture (Veg. and Flori.), Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, Bhagalpur, Bihar during the year 2016-2017. The experiment was laid out in Factorial Completely Randomized Design with three replication and 10 treatment combinations, comprising five levels of water soluble fertilizer (1 g/l, 2 g/l, 3 g/l, 4 g/l and 5 g/l) and two frequencies of spray (once a week and twice a week). Plants were maintained in net house conditions (75% shade). The result indicated that among all treatment combinations, D5F2 (NPK 19:19:19 @ 5 g/l twice a week) found to be best in terms of vegetative growth, flowering and productivity of anthurium var. Xavia as it recorded maximum values for all the characters. The treatment combination D5F2 (NPK 19:19:19 @ 5 g/l twice a week) recorded maximum length and breadth of leaf (26.02 cm and 15.48 cm, respectively), plant spread east to west and north to south (62.67 cm and 62.37 cm, respectively), petiole length (36.76 cm), flower stalk length (29.17 cm), spathe length and breadth (9.61 cm and 8.30 cm, respectively) and higher yield of flowers per plant (4.13). It required minimum days (90.93 days) for first flower opening. Hence considering the positive effects on growth, flowering, yield and quality, the treatment combination D5F2 (NPK 19:19:19 @ 5 g/l twice a week) can be considered for adopting at the field level to get better qualitative and quantitative yield.
Implementation of Building Information Modelling (BIM) Practices and Challenges in Construction Industry in Qatar
Authors: Mohammed Ayman , Hasnain Syed Ali , Quadir Abdul
Published: December 2019

The present research is aimed to identify the barriers in implementation of building information modelling (BIM) practices and challenges in construction industry in Qatar. Construction industry has been one of the lowest performing industries around the world. Recent growth in infrastructure projects in the past three decades has led to criticism of many problems. In view of improving the image of the industry, most commonly criticized issues are lack of innovation, industry wide fragmentation and low performance in delivery of projects. A collaborative working environment is required to solve these issues. In the past few years, development and use of information technology in AEC industry has increased to support the requirement of an integrated working environment. With revolution in use of technology, BIM seems to offer solution to most problems faced by the industry. BIM presents computer aided process to manage entire construction project from design phase to disposal of the built structure. Construction boards and private market forces in US and UK have reported low awareness and implementation about BIM. Recent improvements have not achieved the required level of deployment. Construction industry in Qatar faces similar issues in dealing with upsurge of infrastructure projects. Construction sector in Europe, US, UK and Singapore after witnessing the advantages of BIM started pushing for higher implementation. Expected use of BIM in Qatar will be less than European, US and UK markets at government level. As BIM offers solution to the issues faced by construction industry in Qatar, it will be beneficial to examine current status of implementation, barriers and challenges faced by the construction sector in its implementation in Qatar.
Evaluation of Sub-acute and Sub Chronic Toxicity Profile of the Aqueous Leaf Crude Extract of Melanthera Scandens (Schumach & Thonn) in Wistar Rats
Authors: Mwandah Daniel Chans , Ntulume Ibrahim , Aliero Adamu Almustapha , Kiyimba Kennedy , Ayikobua Emmanuel Tiyo , Bwanika Richard , Odoki Martin , Kwezira Eliah , Maseruka Richard , Odda John , Oloro Joseph
Published: December 2019

Aims: Although Melanthera scandens is a plant widely used in traditional medicine for the management of seizures, stomach ulcers and sores, dysmenorrhea, diabetes and malaria, there was scanty information about its safety. There was, therefore, a need to evaluate the sub-acute and subchronic toxicity studies of this plant which would reflect on its safety.

Methodology: This was an experimental laboratory study. The research was conducted at Kampala International University-Western Campus at the Pharmacology laboratory from February to June 2017. The sub-acute toxicity was evaluated after administering daily oral doses of M. scandens crude extract (250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg) for 28 days and 90 days for subchronic study, after which the effect on haematological, biochemical and histopathological parameters were assessed in male and female Wistar rats (five of each sex).

Results: Sub-acute toxicity results revealed that there was a significant decrease in the AST between the male Wistar rats that received 250 mg/kg (P= .005) and those that received 500 mg/kg (P= .05) as compared with the control group. Subchronic studies showed a significant increase in ALP (P= .05) at 1000 mg/kg compared with 500 mg/kg. Terminal necropsy did not reveal any treatment-related histopathological findings. There were also no toxicologically significant treatment-related effects on haematological parameters. The sub-acute toxicity results suggest that doses of 250mg/kg and 500mg/kg are safe and could be hepatoprotective due to reduced levels of AST and ALP, while the subchronic toxicity study results suggest that doses greater than 1000 mg/kg could be toxic to the plasma membrane, liver cells or endoplasmic reticulum due to increased ALP levels at this dose.

Conclusion: The M. scandens crude extract did not cause significant toxicity on haematological and histopathological indices, after sub-acute and subchronic administration in Wistar rats.
Development of High-performance Thin-layer Chromatography (HPTLC) Validated Method for Simultaneous Quantification of Eucalyptol and α-Pinene in Lamiaceae Plants
Authors: Foudah Ahmed Ibrahim , Alam Prawez , Alam Aftab , Salkini Mohammed Ayman , Alqarni Mohammed Hamed , Yusufoglu Hasan Soliman
Published: December 2019

Aim and Objective: Several plants from Lamiaceae family are used in the Saudi Arabia as a condiment and food preparation, and are generally used in the traditional preparation to treat various diseases, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and microbial infections. Some of Lamiaceae species such as Mentha longifolia, Rosemarinus officinalis and Salvia officinalis having pharmacological active compounds such as α-pinene and eucalyptol. The aim of present study was to develop an accurate and precise chromatographic technique for quantification of α-pinene and eucalyptol in the Lamiaceae plants. 

Methods: The high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) method was developed as per International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) guideline.

Results: Simultaneous determination of α-pinene and eucalyptol was achieved by developing a densitometric analysis of high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC). Silica gel 60 F254 glass-backed plates (E-Merck, Germany, 0.2 mm layers) as stationary phase and mixture n-hexane: ethyl acetate 8 : 2 (%, v/v) as mobile phase were used to produce a sharp, symmetrical and well-resolved peak at an Rf value of 0.19 ± 0.02 and 0.52 ± 0.04 for α-pinene and eucalyptol, respectively. Linearly range for α-pinene was 100–700 ng/spot (r2 = 0.9988), whereas that for eucalyptol was 1000–7000 ng/spot (r2 = 0.9987).

Conclusion: The developed method was found to be a simple, accurate, and precise, and it may be used to simultaneously analyses of many medicinal plants samples containing α-pinene and eucalyptol.
Comparison of the Effect of Pregabaline and Diclofenac Suppository on Pain Relief after Elective Cesarean Section
Authors: Shakeri Asadollah , Razavi Maryam , Mirkahnuj Zeinab
Published: December 2019

Introduction: Cesarean section is one of the most common major surgeries performed worldwide. Considering the importance of post-cesarean pain, finding a drug that can provide the patient with the least amount of complications can make the patient feel the least pain and most relaxation. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of pregabaline and diclofenac suppository on pain relief after elective cesarean section with spinal anesthesia.

Methods: This study was performed in 2016 on 100 women admitted to Ali Ibn Abi Talib Hospital due to elective cesarean section. Patients were divided into two groups of 100mg rectal diclofenac half an hour before surgery and 300mg pre-gabbaline group. Data were analyzed using SPSS software. Probability level lower than 0.05 was considered significant.

Results: The mean score of after surgery pain at 6 and 12 hours after surgery in the diclofenac group was significantly lower than in the pregabaline group, but at 18 and 24 hours, the difference between the two groups was not statistically significant. The mean dose of pethidine used in the diclofenac group was significantly lower than the pregabaline group. Maternal satisfaction was significantly higher in the diclofenac group.

Conclusion: According to the results of this study, diclofenac has a stronger antinociceptive effect than pregabalin.
How do we judge our confidence? Differential effects of meta‐memory feedback on eyewitness accuracy and confidence
Authors: Iida Ryosuke , Itsukusima Yukio , Mah Eric Y.
Published: December 2019

According to the cue–belief model, we assess confidence in our memories using self‐credibility cues that reflect beliefs about our memory faculties. We tested the influence of meta‐memory feedback on self‐credibility cues in the context of eyewitness testimony, when feedback was provided prior to “testifying” via a memory questionnaire (Experiment 1) and after an initial memory questionnaire but before participants had to retake it (Experiment 2). Participants received feedback (good score, bad score, or none) on a fictitious scale purported to predict eyewitness memory ability. Those given good score feedback before testifying were more confident (but no more accurate) than those given bad score feedback. Feedback also affected confidence (good increased and bad decreased) and accuracy (good increased) after testifying but only on leading questions. These differential effects of meta‐memory feedback on confidence for normal and leading questions are not explained by the cue–belief model. Implications for our confidence judgments are discussed.
Alkene Hydroamination via Earth‐Abundant Transition Metal (Iron, Cobalt, Copper and Zinc) Catalysis: A Mechanistic Overview
Authors: Colonna Pierre , Bezzenine Sophie , Gil Richard , Hannedouche Jérôme
Published: December 2019

This review gives a mechanistic overview of the most relevant advances in the area of alkene (formal) hydroamination promoted by earth‐abundant transition metal catalysts involving iron, cobalt, copper and zinc. Focus will be on catalytic systems for which in depth investigations have been conducted to elucidate the activation pathway and operating mechanism. The relevant literature has been covered from 2012 until early 2019.

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