bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La ciencia ficción latinoamericana y el arte del anacronismo: "Otra" ciencia ficción es posible
Authors: González Aníbal
Published: July 2024

Abstract: This essay seeks to establish a broader conceptual framework for studying the historical development of Latin American science fiction and its recent turn—in a genre usually focused on other times and worlds—to references to the past and present of Latin American history and culture. Valuable current studies of Latin American science fiction have been devoted primarily to the history of the genre itself and to tropes that have recurred in certain periods of the development of Latin American science fiction, such as cyborgs, androids, and zombies. Few have been devoted to the issues and forces at play in the current rise not only of science fiction in Latin America but of a recognizably Latin American form of science fiction. Through readings focused on the role of history and time in representative Latin American science fictional narratives of the nineteenth, twentieth, and twenty-first centuries, from the Argentine Juana Manuela Gorriti and the Chilean Jorge Baradit to the Cuban Yoss, the pervasiveness of historicity, the view of indigenous knowledge as proto science (rather than superstition), and a penchant towards dystopias, horror, and the Gothic, are considered as possible defining traits of Latin American science fiction.
A Caribbean Afrofuturism
Authors: Maguire Emily A.
Published: July 2024

Abstract: Afrofuturism is understood as encompassing critical, narratival, aesthetic, and activist practices that, in the words of Ytasha Womak, "redefine culture and notions of blackness for today and the future." While the Caribbean might seem a natural site for Afrofuturist cultural exploration, until recently, few works of Hispanophone Caribbean literature had been identified as belonging to this subgenre. That situation changed with the publication of Prietopunk: antología de afrofuturismo caribeño (2022), which announces itself as the first Spanish-language anthology of Caribbean Afrofuturism. This article explores the collection's articulation of Afrofuturism through an analysis of four of its stories: Rafael Acevedo's "La orisha 2034 es tremenda máquina," Erick Mota's "En candela con Ochosi," Aníbal Hernández Medina's translation of Junot Díaz's "Monstro," and Gretchen López Ayala's "Crioulo." It argues that these stories present a specifically Caribbean futurism, one that, while it may not center explicitly on Black imaginaries, reveals an Antillean desire to engage the future possible in a way that highlights the importance of African-derived cultural elements, explores the region's complex racial dynamics, and underscores the weight of Caribbean histories.
The Identity of Joseon Interpreters in the Qing Empire
Authors: Liu Runze
Published: July 2024

Abstract: Joseon interpreters in the Qing Empire were chosen from Korean bannermen and their descendants, who took the initiative to join the Qing Empire or were captured by Qing armies during war. They were a group of “transfrontiersmen” who were able to greatly influence the Qing-Joseon relationship. They maintained extensive interpersonal relationships in Korea and especially kept a good relationship with the Korean interpreters at the Bureau of Interpreters. Joseon interpreters in the early Qing even had family members in Korea. Joseon interpreters were Koreans by ethnicity but were significantly Manchurized, so they maintained a dual identity of both Koreans and Qing bannermen at least until the Qinglong era. The Joseon court was also well aware of this. It always utilized the Joseon interpreters’ interpersonal relationships and identity to gather Qing intelligence and request their assistance in various matters. Still, it could never fully trust these “Koreans” who were serving another country, especially when confidential matters were involved.
CONFLICT: Trajectories and Challenges
Authors: Kalyvas Stathis N.
Published: July 2024

How has the field of conflict studies evolved over the past three decades? This essay suggests an answer by posing three questions: Why do we study conflict? What do we understand as conflict? And how do we study conflict? The article proceeds with critical remarks, illustrated with articles that have appeared in World Politics during the past five years. It concludes by highlighting three key challenges for the future evolution of the field: the theoretically driven broadening of our understanding of conflict; the development of conceptual, theoretical, and empirical links between micro, meso, and macro levels of analysis; and a theoretically informed way of specifying the scope conditions that apply to findings.
2.09 µm high-gain, high-energy sub-nanosecond laser amplification system and its application to a millijoule-level mid-infrared ZnGeP2 optical parametric generator
Authors: Wei Disheng , Tang Jinwen , Li Junhui , Hua Xiaoxiao , Wu Minglang , Cheng Wenhao , Zhang Runming , Yao Baoquan , Dai Tongyu , Duan Xiaoming
Published: July 2024

In this Letter, we report for the first time to our knowledge a 2 mJ-level 2.09 µm Ho:YAG regenerative amplifier (RA) seeded by the first-stage Ho-doped fiber (HDF) preamplifier of a gain-switched laser diode (GSLD). After the single-pass power amplifier (SPPA), the output of a 2.09 µm pulse laser with 1 kHz, 570 ps, and >10 mJ was achieved. The overall gain of the whole amplifier system was greater than 90 dB, providing a novel, stable, and reliable sub-nanosecond (sub-ns) pump source operating at a pulse repetition frequency (PRF) of 1 kHz for an optical parametric generator (OPG) based on ZnGeP2 (ZGP). Specifically, for the ZGP OPG structure, a maximum pulse energy of 1.82 mJ at 3–5 µm had been achieved with an injected pump pulse energy of 5.47 mJ, corresponding to a slope efficiency of 39.5% and an optical-to-optical conversion efficiency (OOCE) of 33.27%.
SCAPS modeling and performance analysis of AZO/SnS2/CZTS solar cells
Authors: Chowdhury Towhid Adnan
Published: July 2024

Due to outstanding optoelectronic parameters, the quaternary compound copper-zinc-tin-sulfide (Cu2ZnSnS4) is considered a promising absorber for photovoltaic cell applications. This work aims to numerically model and simulate the photovoltaic performance of AZO/SnS2/CZTS solar cells using SCAPS-1D software. The effect of various parameters such as thickness and doping concentration of absorber, buffer and window layers, bandgap and bulk defect density of absorber layer, CZTS/SnS2 interface defect density, working temperature, series and shunt resistance on the performance of the solar cell structure are analyzed and optimized to achieve better performance. Maximum efficiency of 24.8% (Voc = 0.95 V, Jsc = 30.1 mA/cm2, and FF = 86.4%) is achieved for the simulated device. By incorporating an optimized 0.2 µm thick MoS2 back surface field (BSF) layer, efficiency rises to 41.2% (Voc = 1.4 V, Jsc = 32.38 mA/cm2 , and FF = 90.9%). The proposed research may guide fabricating high-performance and cost-effective CZTS-based thin film photovoltaic cells where MoS2 can be used as a promising novel BSF layer.
Ultra High Synthetic Numerical Aperture in Fourier Ptychographic Microscopy Using an Oil-Filled Hemispherical Illuminator
Authors: GholamiMayani Mahdieh , Akram Muhammad , Breiby Dag , Hussain Nazabat
Published: July 2024

The past decade has witnessed numerous innovations in Fourier Ptychographic Microscopy (FPM).
This study presents a record high-resolution FPM using a hemispherical LED illuminator. We then further expand the synthetic numerical aperture (NA) by filling the illuminator with oil. Therefore, the wave vector is artificially stretched within the higher refractive index optical medium. Comparing several experiments with different objective lenses and operating wavelengths, a high synthetic NA of 1.82 was achieved for 470 nm light and 20x 0.6NA objective lens. This is particularly noteworthy because the illumination NA can exceed unity by this technique, something which is impossible in free space. We demonstrate that the oil-immersion FPM system significantly improved the experimental half-pitch resolution down to 137 nm, which is close to the theoretically predicted value of 130 nm. Experimental reconstruction with blue and green LEDs, and for USAF target and biological sample show the performance of our work.
Collective peroxide detoxification determines microbial mutation rate plasticity in E. coli
Authors: Green Rowan , Wang Hejie , Botchey Carol , Zhang Siu Nam Nancy , Wadsworth Charles , Tyrrell Francesca , Letton James , McBain Andrew J. , Paszek Pawel , Krašovec Rok , Knight Christopher G.
Published: July 2024

Mutagenesis is responsive to many environmental factors. Evolution therefore depends on the environment not only for selection but also in determining the variation available in a population. One such environmental dependency is the inverse relationship between mutation rates and population density in many microbial species. Here, we determine the mechanism responsible for this mutation rate plasticity. Using dynamical computational modelling and in culture mutation rate estimation, we show that the negative relationship between mutation rate and population density arises from the collective ability of microbial populations to control concentrations of hydrogen peroxide. We demonstrate a loss of this density-associated mutation rate plasticity (DAMP) when Escherichia coli populations are deficient in the degradation of hydrogen peroxide. We further show that the reduction in mutation rate in denser populations is restored in peroxide degradation-deficient cells by the presence of wild-type cells in a mixed population. Together, these model-guided experiments provide a mechanistic explanation for DAMP, applicable across all domains of life, and frames mutation rate as a dynamic trait shaped by microbial community composition.
Gender and stigma in antiretroviral treatment adherence in Mozambique: A qualitative study
Authors: Viisainen Kirsi , Baumgart dos Santos Marion , Sunderbrink Ute , Couto Aleny
Published: July 2024

Both gender and HIV stigma are known to contribute to poor retention to antiretroviral therapy (ART), but little is known how they interact in decisions about adherence or default by people living with HIV (PLWH). This qualitative study explored HIV stigma and gender interaction in PLWH’s care decisions in Mozambique. Transcribed data from semi-structured interviews of 68 men and 71 women living with HIV, were coded and analyzed for themes of HIV stigma, gender norms and treatment continuation and interruption pathways, using both deductive and inductive coding approaches. Stigma experiences were found to be influenced by gender roles. Anticipation of stigma was common across the narratives of PLWH, while women had more experiences of enacted stigma, particularly by their intimate partners. Women’s treatment interruptions were influenced by fear of partner’s negative reaction. Men’s narratives showed internalized stigma and delayed treatment due to anticipated stigma and masculine norm of strength. Severe internalized stigma was found among single mothers, who without economic or moral support defaulted treatment. Women’s pathway to adherence was facilitated by their caregiver role and support from partner or kin family. Men’s adherence was facilitated by experience of severe symptoms, provider role and by support from their mother or partner. Results indicate that linkage of stigma to gender roles interact in treatment decisions in three main ways. First, HIV stigma and unequal gender norms can work jointly as a barrier to adherence. Secondly, those resisting restrictive gender norms found it easier to manage HIV stigma for the benefit of treatment adherence. Thirdly, some gender norms also facilitated adherence and stigma management. Programs targeted at HIV stigma reduction and improving ART adherence among heterosexual populations should be built on an understanding of the local gender norms and include socially and culturally relevant gender sensitive and transformative activities.
Meta-analysis of the effect of curcumin supplementation on skeletal muscle damage status
Authors: Liu Xiaoyang , Lin Lihan , Hu Guopeng
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Meta-analysis was conducted to examine the effect of supplemental curcumin intake on skeletal muscle injury status and to propose an optimal intervention program.

Methods

In accordance with the procedures specified in the PRISMA statement for systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials, the Review Manager 5.3 was used to analyze the results of creatine kinase (CK), muscle soreness, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and range of motion (ROM) as outcome indicators in the 349 subjects included in the 14 articles.

Results

The effect size of curcumin supplementation on muscle soreness, mean difference (MD) = -0.61; the relationship between curcumin supplementation and muscle soreness for time of measurement (I2 = 83.6%)、the relationship between curcumin supplementation and muscle soreness for period of intervention (I2 = 26.2%)、the relationship between whether one had been trained (I2 = 0%) and supplementation dose (I2 = 0%) were not heterogeneous for the relationship between curcumin supplementation and muscle soreness; The effect size on CK, MD = -137.32; the relationship between curcumin supplementation and CK (I2 = 79.7%)、intervention period (I2 = 91.9%)、whether or not trained (I2 = 90.7%)、and no heterogeneity in the relationship between curcumin supplementation and CK for the time of measurement (I2 = 0%); The effect size MD = 4.10 for the effect on ROM; The effect size for IL-6 was MD = -0.33.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis highlights that curcumin supplementation significantly mitigates skeletal muscle damage, with notable improvements in CK levels, muscle soreness, IL-6 levels, and ROM. The results highlight the importance of curcumin dosage and timing, revealing that prolonged supplementation yields the best results, especially for untrained individuals or those less exposed to muscle-damaging exercise. For muscle soreness and ROM enhancement, a pre-emptive, low-dose regimen is beneficial, while immediate post-exercise supplementation is most effective at reducing CK and IL-6 levels.
By the numbers and in their own words: A mixed methods study of unmet needs and humanitarian inclusion of older Syrian refugees in Lebanon
Authors: Al Omari Sarah , Honein-AbouHaidar Gladys , Mehio Sibai Abla
Published: July 2024

Older people constitute an overlooked vulnerable population in humanitarian crises. Lebanon is a small country that hosts the largest number of refugees per capita in the world. With exacerbating socioeconomic conditions, exclusionary policies against refugees, and a fragmented humanitarian system, the status of older Syrian refugees (OSRs) requires special attention. This study aimed to explore OSRs’ unmet needs, coping strategies, available humanitarian services, and some indicators of the humanitarian inclusion standards focusing on the shelter, health, nutrition and food security, and water, sanitation and hygiene sectors. We conducted a convergent mixed-methods study between December 2021 and March 2022 in the North and Bekaa, including a cross-sectional survey with 461 participants and 14 semi-structured interviews. Results show that OSRs lived in inappropriate shelters (cold, leaking rainwater), especially in informal tented settlements. High rent prices pushed refugee households with elderly to prioritize paying rent at the expense of other needs such as food and medication, particularly when food cash transfer is the sole source of income, jeopardizing food security and intake. Access to dignifying and accessible bathing facilities was compromised in ITSs with shared facilities. Substantial medical costs hindered OSRs access to healthcare such as surgeries. Due to the crisis, chronic medications are not always available in dispensaries for subsidized cost, pushing OSRs to non-compliance and selling food assistance to buy medications. Soaring fuel prices hindered OSRs access to heating and transportation to receive healthcare. No efforts were reported in collecting data on OSRs’ needs, targeting them with information on services, or soliciting feedback for programming, especially in the absence of any age-tailored interventions. Findings shed light on the precarious living conditions of OSRs in Lebanon and add to the body of evidence documenting their invisibility to the humanitarian response. An age-inclusive response is needed through holistic, tailored, and sustainable interventions.
6-shogaol against 3-Nitropropionic acid-induced Huntington’s disease in rodents: Based on molecular docking/targeting pro-inflammatory cytokines/NF-κB-BDNF-Nrf2 pathway
Authors: Jambi Ebtihaj J. , Alamri Abdulaziz , Afzal Muhammad , Al-Abbasi Fahad A. , Al-Qahtani Salwa D. , Almalki Naif A. R. , Bawadood Azizah Salim , Alzarea Sami I. , Sayyed Nadeem , Kazmi Imran
Published: July 2024

Background

Huntington’s disease (HD) is an extremely harmful autosomal inherited neurodegenerative disease. Motor dysfunction, mental disorder, and cognitive deficits are the characteristic features of this disease. The current study examined whether 6-shogaol has a protective effect against 3-Nitropropionic Acid (3-NPA)-induced HD in rats.

Methods

A total of thirty male Wistar rats received 6-shogaol (10 and 20 mg/kg, per oral) an hour before injection of 3-NPA (10 mg/kg i.p.) for 15 days. Behavioral tests were performed, including narrow beam walk, rotarod test, and grip strength test. Biochemical tests promoting oxidative stress were evaluated [superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT) and malondialdehyde (MDA)], including changes to neurotransmitters serotonin (5-HT), dopamine (DA), norepinephrine (NE), homovanillic acid (HVA), (3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC), γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and 5-hydroxy indole acetic acid (5-HIAA), nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukins-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). The 6-shogaol was docked to the active site of TNF-α (2AZ5), NF-κB (1SVC), BDNF) [1B8M], and Nrf2 [5FZN] proteins using AutoDock tools.

Results

The 6-shogaol group significantly improved behavioral activity over the 3-NPA-injected control rats. Moreover, 3-NPA-induced significantly altered neurotransmitters, biochemical and neuroinflammatory indices, which could efficiently be reversed by 6-shogaol. The 6-shogaol showed favorable negative binding energies at -9.271 (BDNF) kcal/mol.

Conclusions

The present investigation demonstrated the neuroprotective effects of 6-shogaol in an experimental animal paradigm against 3-NPA-induced HD in rats. The suggested mechanism is supported by immunohistochemical analysis and western blots, although more research is necessary for definite confirmation.
Diversity and dynamics of bacteria from iron-rich microbial mats and colonizers in the Mediterranean Sea (EMSO-Western Ligurian Sea Observatory): Focus on Zetaproteobacteria
Authors: Astorch-Cardona Aina , Bertaux Lionel , Denis Yann , Dolla Alain , Rommevaux Céline
Published: July 2024

Autotrophic microaerophilic iron-oxidizing Zetaproteobacteria seem to play an important role in mineral weathering and metal corrosion in different environments. Here, we compare the bacterial and zetaproteobacterial communities of a mature iron-rich mat together with in situ incubations of different Fe-bearing materials at the EMSO-Ligure West seafloor observatory, which is located on the abyssal plain in the NW Mediterranean Sea. Our results on bacterial communities enable us to make a clear distinction between those growing on mild steel anthropic substrata and those developing on basaltic substrata. Moreover, on anthropic substrata we highlight an influence of mat age on the bacterial communities. Regarding zetaproteobacterial communities, our results point to an increase in ZetaOTUs abundance and diversification with the age of the mat. We corroborate the key role of the ZetaOTU 2 in mat construction, whatever the environment, the substrata on which they develop or the age of the mat. We also show that ZetaOTU 28 is specific to anthropogenic substrata. Finally, we demonstrate the advantage of using dPCR to precisely quantify very low abundant targets, as Zetaproteobacteria on our colonizers. Our study, also, allows to enrich our knowledge on the biogeography of Zetaproteobacteria, by adding new information on this class and their role in the Mediterranean Sea.
Prevalence and geographic distribution of Echinococcus genus in wild canids in southern Québec, Canada
Authors: Lavallée-Bourget Ève-Marie , Fernandez-Prada Christopher , Massé Ariane , Turgeon Patricia , Arsenault Julie
Published: July 2024

Echinococcus spp. is an emerging zoonotic parasite of high concern. In Canada, an increase in the number of human and animal cases diagnosed has been reported, but information regarding the parasite’s distribution in wildlife reservoir remains limited. A cross-sectional study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of wild canids infected with Echinococcus spp. and Echinococcus multilocularis in areas surrounding populated zones in Québec (Canada); to investigate the presence of areas at higher risk of infection; to evaluate potential risk factors of the infection; and as a secondary objective, to compare coproscopy and RT-PCR diagnostic tests for Taenia spp. and Echinococcus identification. From October 2020 to March 2021, fecal samples were collected from 423 coyotes (Canis latrans) and 284 red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) trapped in 12 administrative regions. Real-time PCR for molecular detection of genus Echinococcus spp. and species-specific Echinococcus multilocularis were performed. A total of 38 positive cases of Echinococcus spp., of which 25 were identified as E. multilocularis, were detected. Two high-risk areas of infection were identified. The prevalence of Echinococcus spp. was 22.7% (95% CI 11.5–37.8%) in the Montérégie centered high-risk area, 26.5% (95% CI 12.9–44.4%) in the Bas-St-Laurent high-risk area, and 3.0% (95%CI 1.8–4.7%) outside those areas. For E. multilocularis, a prevalence of 20.5% (95% CI 9.8–35.3%) was estimated in the high-risk area centered in Montérégie compared to 2.4% (95% CI 1.4–3.9%) outside. Logistic regression did not show any association of infection status with species, sex, or geolocation of capture (p > 0.05). This study shows the circulation of Echinococcus in a wildlife cycle in 9/12 administrative regions of Québec.
Breaking in Morocco: Opportunities and challenges for professionalization and gender equality in the run-up to the 2024 Olympic Games
Authors: Frost Friederike , Singh Jaspal Naveel
Published: July 2024

In Morocco, breaking’s formalization through governmental bodies already took off years ago and federations have played a crucial role in the organization, implementation and control of competitions. Formal institutions have shaped the local scenes and provided opportunities but also posed challenges for breakers on the ground. In this article, we explore formalization, gender inequalities and pathways for professionalization in Morocco in the run-up to the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. Utilizing ethnographic vignettes, interviews and survey data, we investigate how dancers navigate the top-down institutionalization of breaking and we give voice to their criticisms. We discuss how the formalization of breaking affects the Moroccan breaking scene, what critical opinions about this formalization exist and how formalization can be organized in culturally sustaining ways. In our investigation we paid particular attention to opportunities for professionalization and achieving gender equality for dancers from the Global South as well as the question of access to the western structure of the Olympics. We found that institutional formalization is perceived as disappointing and detrimental to the long-term and bottom-up development and self-organization, while nevertheless also opening up support and new opportunities for professionalization and achieving equality for b-girls.
Deep and Machine Learning for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Diagnosis: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Faiz Mohammad , Gari Mounika Bakkanarappa , Akbar Mohd , Srivastava Swapnita
Published: July 2024

The medical condition known as acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is characterized by an excess of immature lymphocyte production, and it can affect people across all age ranges. Detecting it at an early stage is extremely important to increase the chances of successful treatment. Conventional diagnostic techniques for ALL, such as bone marrow and blood tests, can be expensive and time-consuming. They may be less useful in places with scarce resources. The primary objective of this research is to investigate automated techniques that can be employed to detect ALL at an early stage. This analysis covers both machine learning models (ML), such as support vector machine (SVM) & random forest (RF), as well as deep learning algorithms (DL), including convolution neural network (CNN), AlexNet, ResNet50, ShuffleNet, MobileNet, RNN. The effectiveness of these models in detecting ALL is evident through their ability to enhance accuracy and minimize human errors, which is essential for early diagnosis and successful treatment. In addition, the study also highlights several challenges and limitations in this field, including the scarcity of data available for ALL types, and the significant computational resources required to train and operate deep learning models.
Evaluating the Efficacy of Fecal Immunochemical Test, Fecal Calprotectin, and Serum C-Reactive Protein in Diagnosing Patients With Chronic Lower Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Authors: Limsrivilai Julajak , Yodmalai Chatrawee , Chaemsupaphan Thanaboon , Sattayalertyanyong Onuma , Subdee Nichcha , Permpim Parinya , Phaophu Phutthaphorn , Kaosombatwattana Uayporn , Pausawasdi Nonthalee , Riansuwan Woramin , Charatcharoenwitthaya Phunchai , Pongprasobchai Supot
Published: July 2024

INTRODUCTION:

Accurate early detection of ileocolonic lesions in patients with chronic lower gastrointestinal symptoms (LGISs) is often difficult due to the rarity of early-stage alarm signs. This study assesses the effectiveness of noninvasive blood and stool biomarkers in diagnosing ileocolonic lesions in patients with chronic LGISs undergoing colonoscopy.

METHODS:

We conducted a prospective study between April 2020 and July 2022 involving patients with LGISs lasting a month or more. Before colonoscopy, we gathered clinical data, blood samples for C-reactive protein (CRP) and stool samples for fecal immunochemical test (FIT) and fecal calprotectin (FC) analysis.

RESULTS:

Of 922 participants analyzed (average age 62 years, 37% male), 130 (14.1%) had significant colonoscopy findings, including cancer, advanced adenoma, and inflammatory conditions. Test effectiveness showed an area under the curve of 0.630 for alarm features, 0.643 for CRP, 0.781 for FIT, and 0.667 for FC. Combining stool tests with alarm features improved diagnostic precision. Those without alarm features had a high negative predictive value of 0.97 with low threshold FIT and FC, missing minimal significant lesions, and no cancer. For patients with alarm features, dual high-cutoff test positivity showed a positive predictive value of 0.67. Adding CRP to fecal tests did not enhance accuracy.

DISCUSSION:

FIT and FC are valuable in evaluating LGISs. Negative results at low cutoffs can delay colonoscopy in limited resource settings while positive results at dual high cutoffs substantiate the need for the procedure.
Plasma treated water as a tool for sustainable applications
Authors: Kozáková Zdenka , Čechová Ludmila , Lišková Kateřina , Šindelková Kateřina , Korečková Svatava , Krčma František
Published: July 2024

Plasma treated water was prepared by non-thermal plasma systems using plasma interaction above or inside liquid or in a remote bubbling regime. Plasma treated water prepared from distilled, tap or water solutions was characterised by physical properties (pH, conductivity) and colorimetric determination of stable chemical species (hydrogen peroxide, nitrites, and nitrates). Its quality was evaluated with respect to its possible utilization in sustainable agriculture and medicine applications.
Simulation of switching arcs in climate-neutral 420 kV earthing switches and disconnectors filled with Clean Air
Authors: Reichert Frank , Petchanka Arkadz , Nikolic Paul Gregor , Grieger Alexander
Published: July 2024

The investigation of various SF6-alternatives is even more in the focus of current research and development efforts. In this context, gas-insulated switchgear with Clean Air (80% N2 and 20% O2) insulation and the use of vacuum switching technology for the circuit breaker can represent an environment-friendly (GWP = 0) and highly performant SF6-free solution for future high-voltage switchgear applications. Within this framework, this contribution focusses on the modelling and simulation of switching arcs in the active back parts of a Clean Air-filled gas-insulated switchgear, namely the earthing switch and disconnector. The presented arc model uses an alternative 2D axisymmetric simulation approach where the arc attachment size is conserved by means of a scaling of the arc current. In contrast to the conventional 2D axisymmetric approach based on the assumption of the conservation of electrical current, the presented alternative approach allows the electrical arc simulation away from the geometrical symmetry axis. The simulation results are in good agreement to the measurements in a real earthing switch configuration validating the new simulation approach.
A publicidade de medicamentos no Brasil
Authors: Stacciarini João Henrique Santana
Published: July 2024

Pesquisadores de diversas áreas do conhecimento científico têm se dedicado a investigar as múltiplas características do setor farmacêutico. Com o objetivo de contribuir para esse debate e fornecer subsídios para discussão, este estudo se propôs a analisar a história e o contexto atual da publicidade de medicamentos no Brasil. Através de uma extensa coleta de dados e informações, verificou-se que o setor farmacêutico está entre os maiores investidores em marketing do país. Nos últimos anos, três a quatro companhias farmacêuticas figuraram na lista dos dez maiores anunciantes do Brasil, com algumas ultrapassando o investimento de mais de R$ 1 bilhão em um único ano. Um breve resgate histórico do marketing farmacêutico no país revelou a presença de diversas propagandas enganosas desde o início do século XX. Incluíram casos em que substâncias nocivas, como a cocaína, eram promovidas como remédios para diversos males e medicamentos ineficazes eram apresentados com promessas de cura infundadas para doenças. Atualmente, as publicidades e estratégias de marketing têm se mostrado cada vez mais complexas e sofisticadas. Estudos e patrocínios milionários asseguram a inserção de publicidade em diversas plataformas, especialmente na televisão e na internet. A ascensão de estratégias de marketing digital, impulsionadas por algoritmos aprimorados, redes sociais e influenciadores, junto a campanhas publicitárias potencialmente prejudiciais à saúde pública e coletiva, evidenciam um cenário desafiador.
De la filosofía a la ciencia en la instrucción pública: diferencias entre las Bases de Jovellanos y el Informe de Quintana para una historia conceptual del término «filosofía»
Authors: Orden Jiménez Rafael Valeriano
Published: July 2024

El nuevo imaginario social del conocimiento teórico del siglo XVIII, que, entre otros rasgos, contenía el de la utilidad del saber, comportó un cambio semántico en el término «filosofía», estrechamente relacionado con la enseñanza, tras ser desplazado por el de «ciencia». En las universidades se impartían las ciencias filosóficas, de tradición escolástica, enfocadas, fundamentalmente, a formar a funcionarios del Estado y la Iglesia, pero las nuevas ciencias matemáticas y naturales requerían ocupar un lugar en la enseñanza para instruir a la sociedad civil. Los ilustrados españoles, entre otros, Jovellanos, concibieron entonces dos tipos de centros, unos para las primeras, que siguieron siendo las universidades, mientras que para las segundas propusieron instaurar institutos específicos. En cambio, los liberales, y, en particular, Quintana, decidieron unificar la enseñanza de las ciencias en centros únicos, las universidades de provincia y una de nueva creación, la Universidad Central. Las ciencias filosóficas fueron entonces marginadas, como la lógica, sustituida por la matemática como ciencia instrumental fundamental, y la metafísica, que fue abandonada.
El espiritismo filosófico en la España del siglo XIX
Authors: Nogueroles Jové Marta
Published: July 2024

El objetivo de este artículo es mostrar la importancia que tuvo el fenómeno del espiritismo en la España de mediados del siglo XIX. No solo fue considerado una corriente filosófica más, sino que despertó un gran interés dentro del mundo científico y cultural de la época y estuvo vinculado con el librepensamiento, la masonería y el feminismo. Los tres autores que hemos elegido, Antonio Torres y Solanot, Manuel González Soriano y Amalia Domingo Soler creemos que son los más representativos de esta doctrina.
Inteligência artificial e injustiça: para além de uma análise ética encantada dos algoritmos
Authors: Cambraia Leonardo , Pyrrho Monique
Published: July 2024

Não há limites para as expectativas em relação às Inteligências Artificiais (IAs). O que não é consenso é se suas promissoras aplicações, caso se realizem, contemplarão a todos. O objetivo deste trabalho é refletir sobre os desafios éticos na utilização de IA, especialmente aqueles relacionados à justiça. Para isso, após apresentar os aspectos mais comumente levantados na discussão ética em relação a IA, será discutida a maneira diversa com que tais tecnologias podem interagir com contextos e corpos periféricos, representando risco de incremento de desigualdades. A partir dessa constatação, pretende-se não apenas descrever tais riscos, mas também vislumbrar possíveis recursos para enfrentar efeitos negativos das IAs em contextos historicamente vulnerados.
The de-mobilisation of Action Kommandant The United Democratic Front, popular democracy and the ANC
Authors: Van Niekerk Robert ,   University of the Witwatersrand
Published: July 2024

When the ANC was unbanned it sought to demobilise grassroots democracy. In disbanding the United Democratic Front, the ANC turned its back on the insurgent non-racialism that had emerged in the 1980s, argues ROBERT VAN NIEKERK. It opted instead for a neo-liberal strategy of economic development and elitist democracy. The Zondo Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture (2022) laid bare the evisceration of South African state capacity through unchecked plunder by apparatchiks (or cadres) in the ruling ANC and its collaborators in the private sector. This denouement can be traced to the early 1990s where the moral and political decay of the ANC became evident with the emblematic injunction by senior leaders of government such as the then deputy-minister Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka that “Black businessmen should not be shy to say they wanted to become ‘filthy rich’” (News24 Business: 2005; Taylor, 2016: 35).
Statues and Storms: Leading through Change
Authors: Chisholm Linda
Published: July 2024

Not thirty, but twenty years after democracy, South Africa’s oldest and most prestigious university was wracked by tumultuous upheavals sustained over two long years between 2015 and 2017. Although contestation and challenge were not new to the university, the nature and degree of student protest, directed at the university itself, were. A few years later, Max Price’s successor, Mamokgethi Phakeng, experienced different storms that relegated the events of 2015-7 firmly to the past. The book is nonetheless still relevant, as the calls with which those years were associated, for ‘free, quality, decolonial education,’ have endured.
Les prouesses et les réformes entreprises par les rois Šarrum-Kin et Naram-Sin afin de consolider leur pouvoir sur l’empire akkadien
Authors: Beaumont Bryan
Published: July 2024

L’empire akkadien, documenté par des milliers de textes cunéiformes, fut le premier véritable empire que le monde ait connu. Ayant vécu près de deux siècles, l’empire akkadien connut une hégémonie lors des règnes des quatre voire cinq premiers rois akkadiens avant de s’effondrer avec le onzième roi akkadien. L’objectif de cet article est d’examiner rapidement la manière dont Šarrum-Kin et Naram-Sin ont consolidé leur empire à travers des batailles et des réformes.
Cirurgia ortognática moderna
Authors: Claus Jonathas
Published: July 2024

No corrente ano de 2024, um dos temas mais comentados é o impacto da inteligência artificial (IA) em nossas vidas. Certamente, a IA vai influenciar todas as áreas da Saúde e acredito que vai revolucionar nossa especialidade, em especial a Cirurgia Ortognática, que já é totalmente envolvida com números, imagens digitais, softwares, impressão 3D e algoritmos. Alguns também fizeram essa previsão (que até os dias de hoje não se confirmou em relação à Cirurgia Ortognática) para as placas reabsorvíveis e a cirurgia robótica.
Mudanças nutricionais em pacientes submetidos a cirurgias ortognáticas monomaxilares e bimaxilares
Authors: Benato Leonardo , Olsson Bernardo , de Oliveira Carlos Lígia , Eliana M. Schieferdecker Maria , Augusto Taconeli Cesar , Luis Barbosa Rebellato Nelson , Scariot Rafaela
Published: July 2024

Introdução: A cirurgia ortognática causa prejuízo da função mastigatória no pós-operatório imediato. Objetivo: O objetivo desse estudo foi comparar as alterações no Índice de Massa Corporal (IMC), perda de peso e alterações em exames laboratoriais após a cirurgia ortognática monomaxilar e bimaxilar. Métodos: Estudo prospectivo por dois anos, onde os pacientes foram separados de acordo com a cirurgia realizada. No pré-operatório de uma semana e no pós-operatório de quarenta dias, foram obtidos o IMC e o Peso Atual (PA), e foi solicitado exame de hemograma completo e albumina sérica. O percentual de perda de peso involuntária foi calculado e classificado de acordo com a gravidade, em: moderada (< 5%) ou intensa (> 5%). Os modelos foram ajustados usando análise de regressão baseada em modelos lineares mistos, e os testes t pareado e qui-quadrado foram aplicados utilizando-se o software R. Resultados: A variação de IMC nos 40 dias foi diferente entre os tipos de cirurgia (p = 0,019): houve diferença nos dois momentos de avaliação, tanto para a cirurgia monomaxilar (-0,86 kg/m²; p < 0,001) quanto para a bimaxilar (-1,44 kg/m²; p < 0,001). A variação de peso nos 40 dias não foi a mesma para pacientes submetidos às cirurgias monomaxilar e bimaxilar (p = 0,030). Ao avaliar os exames laboratoriais, não foram observados efeitos significativos. Conclusões: A cirurgia ortognática induz diminuição do IMC e do peso, sendo que os pacientes submetidos à cirurgia bimaxilar perdem quase o dobro de peso, quando comparados aos submetidos à cirurgia monomaxilar. Os exames laboratoriais não apresentaram diferença estatisticamente significativa.
Моральные дилеммы в период пандемии COVID-19: виды, способы решения, последствия
Authors: Первушин Николай Сергеевич
Published: July 2024

В статье анализируются различия между реальными и гипотетическими моральными дилеммами; сравниваются эмпиристский и рационалистский подходы к их существованию. Описывается спектр дилемм в контексте пандемии, анализируются способы решения дилемм и их последствия в медицинской и общественной сферах. В качестве основного метода используется анализ публикаций 2020-2023 гг. по теме принятия решений в период пандемии COVID-19 (91 статья из WoS, Scopus, eLIBRARY.RU и ResearchGate), а также данных социально-экономической статистики.
Автор приходит к выводу, что в рамках эмпиристского подхода, признающего существование морального выбора, медперсонал решал дилемму распределения коек и ИВЛ, что при отсутствии четких инструкций увеличивало смертность, обостряло проблему дефицита медицинских ресурсов и имело негативные психологические последствия. Рационалистский подход реализовывался в виде протоколов и использования искусственного интеллекта, то есть в сочетании строгости мер государственного и социального контроля и строгого пандемийного дискурса. Это привело к отсутствию моральных выборов и следованию ограничениям.
В заключении статьи описываются преимущества интерпретации дилемм как ситуаций, имеющих однозначно вычисляемое решение, а не как морального выбора в условиях чрезвычайных обстоятельств. Анализируется дискуссия о допустимости ограничения свободы выбора, дискриминации отдельных категорий граждан, возможной дегуманизации и рисках использования протоколов и искусственного интеллекта.
Дисциплинарное и концептуальное многообразие исследований жизненных выборов
Authors: Бирюкова Светлана Сергеевна , Синявская Оксана Вячеславовна , Бочавер Александра Алексеевна , Нагерняк Мария Александровна
Published: July 2024

Статья представляет специальный номер журнала, посвященный исследованиям жизненных выборов. Ее авторы обосновывают актуальность развития этого направления в современных условиях, обозначают ключевые векторы развития теоретических и эмпирических научных работ по вопросам выбора и принятия решений, а также основные методологические вызовы в обозначенном поле. Статья описывает разнообразие сложившегося к настоящему времени ландшафта в исследованиях жизненного выбора и показывает, что отдельные подходы, разработанные в рамках таких дисциплин, как социология, экономика и психология, позволяют с разных точек зрения рассматривать механику принятия решений и оценивать их последствия, однако пока не предлагают гармонизированного понятийного аппарата и исчерпывающего комплексного взгляда на предмет. В качестве перспективных направлений дальнейшего развития этой исследовательской темы авторы видят усиление междисциплинарности и использование комбинированных источников и методов сбора эмпирических данных. В заключительной части авторы представляют вошедшие в специальный номер статьи.
Благодарность. Статья подготовлена в рамках Программы фундаментальных исследований НИУ ВШЭ. Авторы благодарят Екатерину Павленко за участие в работе над специальным номером.
El sistema federal canadiense de inclusión de la diversidad. Configuración del modelo federal y estructura de los poderes del estado
Authors: Torres Gutiérrez Alejandro
Published: July 2024

El modelo federal canadiense, fórmula ensayada en 1867 por pragmáticos motivos políticos, ofrece un interesante modelo de inclusión de la diversidad del que se pueden extraer útiles lecciones, que van desde el modo de afrontar las tensiones territoriales, hasta la configuración del sistema parlamentario y el papel del Senado, pasando por la distribución de competencias entre la Federación y las Provincias. En esta obra se analizan los orígenes y la configuración histórica del modelo federal de Canadá, así como las tensiones secesionistas sufridas y el modo en que se han afrontado. Se estudia el peculiar sistema de fuentes, la Constitución escrita, y las convenciones constitucionales, el complejo sistema de reforma constitucional, y el control de constitucionalidad, o judicial review. Se profundiza en la estructura de los poderes del Estado: El delicado equilibrio a que dio lugar la aparición del gobierno responsable, y las prerrogativas del Monarca, el Gobernador General y los Vicegobernadores, y el Primer Ministro y el Gabinete. Se detallan los retos del sui generis bicameralismo canadiense, el rol de la Cámara de los Comunes y el Senado, y la necesidad de proceder a una reforma de este último, que lo convierta en una verdadera Cámara de representación territorial. Y se pone de manifiesto el importante papel desempeñado por el Tribunal Supremo, como tribunal de última instancia y supremo intérprete constitucional. Finalmente se estudia el reparto competencial entre la Federación y las Provincias, y las cláusulas que lo modulan, en particular la cláusula paz, orden y buen gobierno, la cláusula del comercio y la competencia provincial sobre propiedad y derechos civiles.
The Relationship Between Social Media Addiction and Self-Esteem in Medical Students of Diponegoro University
Authors: Subiyakto Difa Maulana , Saktini Fanti , Sumekar Tanjung Ayu
Published: July 2024

Background: In the modern era, social media has become a necessity in carrying out daily activities. Playing social media too often can have negative effects. These negative effects include addiction. Social media addiction can interfere with daily activities and affect the level of self-esteem. Objective: To prove the relationship between social media addiction and selfesteem among medical students at Universitas Diponegoro. Methods: This research was an analytical observational investigation utilizing a cross-sectional methodology. The study was carried out over a span of one month, involving 90 participants from the medical students batch 2022 at Universitas Diponegoro. The  questionnaires used were the Social Media Addiction Scale-Student Form (SMAS-SF) and Rosenberg Self Esteem Scale (RSES). The assessment of the correlation between social media addiction and self-esteem using the Spearman test. Results: 2.2% of respondents had a very low level of social media addiction; 52.2% had a low level; 44.4% had a high level; and 1.1% had a very high level. In terms of self-esteem, the data revealed that 84.4% of respondents had a high level of self-esteem, while 15.6% had a low level. In the correlation test between demographic factors, social media addiction, and self-esteem,  an insignificant relationship was found with a p-value greater than 0,05. Meanwhile, a significant relationship was found in the correlation test between social media addiction and the level of self-esteem (p=0.001, r=-0.335). Conclusion: A significant relationship exists between social media addiction and the level of self-esteem among medical students at Diponegoro University.
Comparison of Intravenous Indocyanine-Green and Inflation-Deflation Method in Lung Segmentectomy: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Al Asrory Haidar Ali Robbani , Imania Hana
Published: July 2024

Background: Inflation-deflation technique had been a conventional method for delineating the intersegmental plane during lung segmentectomy. Over the last decade, the use of icg has shown a significant increase as an alternative method. According to the European Society of Thoracic Surgeons' (ESTS) newly released expert consensus recommendations, Systemic ICG is the preferred method for performing ISP delineation. Objective: This study aimed to determine the safety of intravenous ICG in lung segmentectomy compared to inflation-deflation method. Methods: PubMed, Science direct, and Scilit were systematically reviewed. Studies comparing ICG with inflation-deflation method in lung segmentectomy were included. The main outcome included operation time while blood loss, length of hospital stay, and air leakage event became secondary. Odd Ratio (OR) and Mean Difference (MD) with 95% of Confidence Interval (CI) were applied for dicotomous and continous variable, respectively. Heterogeneity was assessed using Cochrane Q and I statistics, as reviewers also manually tested for heterogeneity with sensitivity analysis. Results: Six studies with a total of 839 patients were retrieved. All of them were retrospective comparative studies, mainly with a diagnosis of pulmonary nodules. Most studies utilized peripheral vein injections of 2.5 mg/mL ICG solution, which had a dosage range of 3–10 mL. Intravenous ICG administration was associated with a noticable operation time [MD = -19.30, 95% CI -28.29 to -10.31, p < 0.00001], length of hospital stay [MD = -0.61; 95% CI -1.16 to -0.06, p = 0.03], as well as a significant OR observed in the number air leakage [OR = 0.39; 95% CI 0.20 to 0.75, p = 0.005]. Meanwhile, there was no significant difference in the amount of bleeding between the inflation-deflation group and the ICG group [MD = -5.18, 95% CI -12.08 to 1.72, p = 0.14]. Conclusion: This meta-analysis has demonstrated statistically that the duration of surgery, length of hospital stay, and the probability of postoperative air leak are significantly lower with the application of ICG in lung segmentectomy.