A theological approach to mitigating the impacts of the SARS CoV-2 pandemic

Objective:Investigate the hardships caused by the SARS CoV-2 pandemic in the social domain, and especially church life in Croatia. Additionally, the study aimed to study the guidelines for the faithful and society at large established by the Catholic Church. Further, guidelines are proposed to improve specific pastoral practices in the context of the pandemic. Methods:This paper uses the scientific research method of pastoral judgment developed by the Lateran School (Lanza, 2008;Čondić, 2013;Vranješ, 2013). Results:Following a theological and pastoral analysis of the impacts of the SARS CoV-2 pandemic, particularly in the ec- clesiastical domain, as well as a study of the guidelines is- sued by both the universal and local Church and prominent theologians, guidelines for improving the existing practice were proposed in six areas: Discovering the meaning of suf-fering (life); To reject suffering is to reject love; Where am I in the era of the SARS CoV-2 pandemic?; Liberating men from fear; Paying attention to the collocutor; and The parish com- munity is a space for everyone. Conclusion:Despite being taken by surprise by the initial outbreak of the SARS CoV-2 pandemic, the Catholic church in Croatia has considerable potential and has engaged in a wide scope of activities to mitigate the impact of the pandemic. This primarily has to do with bolstering the spiritual dimension in the faithful. Faith overcomes fear, gives meaning to suffering, and acts as a life force that may help heal the whole of society through fellowship and tangible support to those at-risk during the pandemic.

Transformation of the city of Split industrial heritage into a science center

Background: Split is a city in the Mediterranean, situated on Croatia’s coastline. Split’s northern coast has a long-stand-ing industrial function and harbors the city’s first electri-cal substation, designed by modernist architect Josip Maria Kodl. Objective: The goal of this work was to envision a science center in Split’s industrial zone in Dujmovača (the northern coast of the Split peninsula), comprising a science museum with a research and congress center. The programmatic and spatial analyses of the science center’s amenities and the proposal as a whole demonstrate the potential of this forgotten space in Split and breathe new life into Kodl’s ar-chitectural heritage. Methods: The proposed solution uses a dialogical narrative between a conservation, contextual, programmatic, and theoretical approach within a strict orthogonal structure, fostering the development of alternative associations and elaboration of architectural details.Results: The proposed solution constitutes a complex of multiple interconnected and flexible elements. This al-lows different parts of the Science Center to function inde-pendently of each other. This paper provides an analysis of design steps and methods, the proposal’s advantages and limitations, and the way the repurposing of industrial heri-tage was approached. Conclusion: The position of the Science Center in Dujmovača would provide one of the first impressions when entering Split on the future metro line. By reconcil-ing landscape and industrial architecture, the proposed building complex offers a framework for presenting various kinds of modifiable content, for both the pres-ent and the future.

Sex estimation by the patterns of lip impressions (cheiloscopy)

Aim: To determine whether there is sexual dimorphism of lip prints’ morphological features in the Croatian population and to provide a scoping review for the accuracy of sex estimation on lip prints. Methods: The study on the Croatian population included 88 male and 88 female (median age 25, range 18 - 50) participants. Lip prints were analyzed by quadrant, and then the predominant pattern on the entire lip was observed. A systematic search of the relevant bibliographical databases was conducted, including Medline, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC), and Cinahl (October 23rd, 2020). OpenGrey, Open Science Framework, and Science.gov databases were searched for grey literature. Findings were reported in the narrative form in accordance with the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) checklist. A total of 80 studies were included. Results: The study of sexual dimorphism of lip prints in the Croatian population showed that there were no statistically significant differences between males and females; and when all quadrants were considered together (χ2 = 3.625, P = 0.459), sex could be estimated for only 55.7% of persons. Twenty-nine studies (36.3%) did not find differences between males and females, and 34 (42.5%) found sexual dimorphism only in some of the lip parts and some quadrants. The assessment of examined studies showed that only six studies met all quality criteria. Conclusion: There is no forensically significant sexual dimorphism in lip prints in the Croatian population. The scoping review showed that sex estimation using lip prints should not be used as evidence in court as the present methodology is not reliable and the potential rate of error is unknown.

Regulation of the pleiotropic drug resistance transcription factors Pdr1 and Pdr3 in yeast

Aim: To understand how transcriptional factors Pdr1 and Pdr3, belonging to the pleiotropic drug resistance system, are activated, and regulated after introducing chemical tox- ins to the cell in the model organism Saccharomyces cere-visiae. Methods: Series of molecular methods were applied using different strains ofS. cerevisiae over-expressing proteins of interest as a eukaryotic cell model. The chemical stress in- troduced to the cell is represented by menadione. Results were obtained performing protein detection and analysis. Additionally, the regulation of the DNA binding of the tran- scriptional activators after stimulation is quantified using chromatin immunoprecipitation, employing epitope-tagged factors and real-time qPCR. Results: Our results indicated higher expression levels of the Pdr1 transcriptional factor, compared to its homolo- gous Pdr3 after treatment with menadione. The yeast-cell defence system was tested against various organic solvents to exclude the possibility of their presence potentially af- fecting the results. The results indicate that Pdr1 is most abundant after 30 minutes from the beginning of the treat- ment, compared with 240 minutes after the treatment when the function of the transcription factor is faded. It appears that Pdr1 binding to the PDR5 and SNQ2 promoters, which are both activated by Pdr1, peaks around the same time, or more precisely after 40 minutes from the start of the treatment. Conclusion: The tendency of Pdr1 reduction after its activa- tion by menadione is detected. One possibility is that Pdr1, after recognizing the xenobiotic menadione, is removed by a degradation mechanism. Given the fact that Pdr1 directly binds the xenobiotic molecule, its destruction might help the cells to remove toxic levels of menadione. It is possible that overexpressing the part of Pdr1 which recognizes me- nadione alone was sufficient to detoxify and hence produce a tolerance towards menadione.

The normal distribution, an epistemological view

The role of the normal distribution in the realm of statistical inference and science is considered from epistemological viewpoint. Quantifiable knowledge is usually embodied in mathematical models. History and emergence of the normal distribution is presented in a close relationship to those models. Furthermore, the role of the normal distribution in estimation of model parameters, starting with Laplace’s Central Limit Theorem, through maximum likelihood theory leading to Bronstein von Mises and Convolution Theorems, is discussed. The paper concludes with the claim that our knowledge on the effects of variables in models or laws of nature has a mathematical structure which is identical to the normal distribution. The epistemological consequences of the latter claim are also considered.

Influence of poly(ethylene oxide) sample preparation on the results of thermogravimetric analysis

Aim: To investigate whether the sample preparation process of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) affects kinetic analysis of the thermal degradation process. Kinetic analysis was performed to describe the course of a chemical reaction regardless of the reaction conditions and the reaction system complexity. One differential method, the Friedman method, and one integral Kissinger-Akahira-Sunose method (KAS), were applied in this work. Methods: The PEO sample was prepared in 4 different ways. Thermogravimetric analysis was performed to determine the thermal degradation of prepared samples. Infrared spectroscopic analysis was performed during the preparation of the PEO film obtained by casting from the solution. Results: Dynamic thermal decomposition of PEO, regardless of the method of preparation, takes place through a single decomposition stage, which is manifested by the appearance of one peak on derivative thermogravimetric (DTG) curve. During the preparation of the PEO film, the procedure was carried out at a temperature higher than its melting temperature (Tm=65°C). After the cooling, the obtained sample didn’t solidify and it had an intense odor of acetic acid, which was confirmed by infrared spectroscopic analysis. Samples III and IV were re-prepared at a temperature lower than the melting point of PEO, obtaining samples of satisfactory quality. Conclusion: In order to prepare poly(ethylene oxide) films by solution casting technique, drying should be carried out at temperatures below the melting point of PEO. If TG analysis of pure PEO powder is compared with the results of hot pressed samples and solution cast samples, it can be concluded that the preparation of the sample doesn’t affect the thermal stability of the PEO. The dependence of activation energy calculated by the differential Friedman and integral KAS method on conversion is constant for all samples in a broad conversion range, regardless of how the samples were prepared. The hot pressed samples and solution cast samples have lower activation energy than the commercial PEO powder.

Sacral architecture of Split parish churches built since 1990

Objective: The article aims to provide a typology of contemporary sacral architecture in Croatia by analyzing the churches built in the Split area after the post-World War II ban on building churches was abolished. Methods: Parish archives and the Archive of Split-Makarska Archdiocese provided documentation that allowed for an in-depth analysis of newly built churches. A short historical overview is provided to corroborate the need of respective parishes for a new church; this is followed by an analysis of the ground plan and other architectural features. The church architecture is considered in the light of post-Council instructions that affect the appearance of contemporary churches. Finally, we provide an analysis of the relationship between sacral buildings and their urban environment. Results: Twelve new parish churches were built in the city of Split City area since 1990. A data analysis revealed that the major problem during church construction projects was the visual integration of the churches into the Split neighborhoods. The shape and size of the buildings was partly dictated by the urban environment. Most churches are located in the immediate vicinity of the center of the neighborhood. The churches mainly differed by the shape of their bell towers, which were used by the architects to convey their devotion to or departure from tradition. The move toward central-plan buildings, which would be expected in the light of post-Council guidelines, did not emerge in Split. Conclusion: A comparison of contemporary sacral architecture in Split did not reveal a defined church design typology. The contemporary sacral architecture in Split has not completely turned to new trends and is still partly trying to keep the tradition, as reflected in the ground plan and bell tower design. Architects have abandoned the strong longitudinal axis and have been dimensioning the churches based on the real needs.

Installation of stainless metal reinforcements in stone cultural monuments

Objective: To provide examples of the installation of stainless-steel reinforcements in a stone cultural monument as part of conservation and restoration work. Methods: During conservation and restoration works, metal elements in stone monuments are replaced by stainless steel, which shares the same physical properties as, for example, iron, but its chemical properties are much superior. Estimates of appropriate reinforcement, technical drawings and a detailed plan are drafted before the installation of stainless-steel reinforcements in the stonework itself. For more demanding calculations and designs, structural and other engineers and architects were consulted to obtain the optimal dimensions of structural elements. Results: The presented examples of stone monuments (an ancient stone sarcophagus, two ancient sculptures, one medieval portal, two baroque baptismal fonts and a baroque bell gable) were reinforced with stainless steel. A reinforcing mesh was utilized to connect fragments of the sarcophagus and reconstruct the missing parts. The sculptures were found in fragments and required steel reinforcement to be set up in a free-standing position. The baptismal fonts were also found in fragments due to the corrosion of their iron clamps; they were furnished with a detachable, externally invisible steel reinforcement. The medieval portal was at risk of collapse due to the static instability caused by the rupture of its load-bearing lintel. The lintel was reinforced with a steel bar, which absorbs compression forces acting on the stone superstructure. The baroque bell gable was a prime example of a monument damaged by its iron clamps. These were completely removed and the structural stability was secured by embedding a reversible steel structure in the stonework. Conclusion: Good physical and chemical properties make stainless steel the basic material in the reinforcement of stone cultural monuments. Its application in the conservation and restoration of stone monuments is currently the best and most efficient solution for restoring sustainable structural stability, original appearance and optimal positioning of monuments, as well as preventing further deterioration.

Social media marketing in Croatian consumerism

Aim: To investigate the impact of social media on consumer information processing and decision making processes related to purchasing via social media platforms. To examine how consumers differ in decision making and how they perceive credibility of social media and mass media marketing. Methods: The study included a total of 161 adults (64 male and 97 female) whose participation was voluntary and anonymous. We used a questionnaire with 25 Likert scale questions in Croatian that addressed the decision making processes and the information processing theory. The questionnaire was accessible via Google Drive link. All submissions were complete. Results: Facebook (41.0%) and Instagram (42.9%) were the most popular social media platforms among Croatian consumers in our sample. They spent several hours per week exposed to various contents available on these platforms. Consumers’ response to that content was affected by numerous factors, from word of mouth in their social circle (34.2%) and other online information (34.7%) available to their personal level of motivation and interest in what was being offered. With respect to the general attitude towards social media marketing, consumers belonged to one of the two streams. One stream found it useful mostly for allowing communication between consumers and companies (28.6%) and the direct accessibility to other users’ experience (30.4%), a major factor in their attitude formation. In the other stream, the consumers were often irritated by the vast number of ads which appear on social media that do not match their interests or needs (52.1%). Overall, the time Croatian users in our sample spent on social media decreased with age. Conclusion: Regardless of their gender, Croatian consumers consider social media very accessible, yet sometimes unprofessional, whereas mass media appears to be less demanding and often imprecise in targeting consumer interests and needs.

Forensic investigation of a mass grave at Ovčara, near Vukovar, of victims killed by the Serbian army in 1991

Objective: To evaluate the contribution of forensic research to the discovery and analysis of mass graves of victims of the Yugoslav People’s Army and Serbian paramilitaries at Ovčara, near Vukovar, and to the identification of exhumed victims as missing persons who were forcibly removed from Vukovar Hospital on 20 November 1991. Methods: We analysed official international documentation and transcripts from the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia. Data on causes of death and injury classifications were derived from autopsy reports and their interpretation by a forensic specialist. Identification of individuals was based on a report by a representative of the Commission on Detainees and Missing Persons. Results: Scientific and expert evidence from forensic research of the Ovčara mass grave shows that 198 male and 2 female bodies (one of a pregnant woman) in civilian clothes were exhumated from the site, with an average age of 32.5 years, including 3 minors. The determined manner of death for all 200 exhumed bodies was homicide, and the cause of death for 95% of the victims was a gunshot wound to a vital part of the body, in 67% of cases to the head. Traces of medical treatment and hospital workwear were found on 53% of the victims. 96% of the bodies were positively identified, 46.5% using classical forensic methods, and 49.5% by DNA analysis. Most of the victims were Croatian nationals of the Catholic faith. Conclusion: Forensic analysis and identification confirmed that the war crime victims exhumed from the Ovčara mass grave were listed as missing persons who disappeared from Vukovar Hospital. Their murder was used as relevant evidence of planned ethnic cleansing in court.