bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring effects and experiences of ketamine in group couples therapy
Authors: Cornfield Mark , McBride Susan , La Torre Joseph T. , Zalewa Daniel , Gallo Jade , Mahammadli Mehdi , Williams Monnica T.
Published: May 2024

Background

This study contributes to the understanding of the efficacy, safety, and experience of ketamine-assisted therapy. The paper documents how individuals describe the effects of a protocolized and personalized use of ketamine (‘the relational dose’) in the context of group couples therapy based on Imago Relationship Therapy (IRT). Little is known about simultaneously administering ketamine to both members of a couple in this context, and no research to date has been published on whether ketamine facilitates couples to better engage in and benefit from the therapeutic process. The paper includes both qualitative and quantitative results.

Method

The study utilized a mixed methods approach. One approach was an inductive content analysis that produced overarching themes gleaned from participants' check-ins pre and post their weekly ketamine sessions. Transcripts were examined to better understand ketamine's effects on couples' ability to engage in therapeutic dialogue and resolve challenging relationship issues, as well as themes related to the non-ordinary-state-of-consciousness (NOSC) experience. The second approach involved the analysis of pre-test, post-test, and follow-up data from the Couples Satisfaction Index (CSI).

Results

The couples described a wide range of effects that ketamine produced in the context of their relational dialoguing including: empathogenic effects, mystical/spiritual/psychedelic experiences, anxiolytic and antidepressant effects. They also affirmed ketamine's ability to generate alternative perspectives, promote insight, heighten awareness, enhance vulnerability and communication, lower defenses, and produce novel somatic experiences. Participants' description of ketamine effects included its short duration, rapid onset, idiosyncratic sensitivity to dose, cumulative effects, as well as transient and mild side-effects. Several t-tests were statistically significant, and indicated improved relationship satisfaction following the treatment.

Conclusion

In the context of couples therapy, ketamine produced a wide range of therapeutic effects and possessed unique pharmacological properties as a rapid-acting novel psychoactive molecule. The drug may have profound therapeutic benefits when administered in the context of couples therapy, under clinical supervision, however more research should be carried out.
Substituting the epoxy curing agent with a greener solution-towards sustainability
Authors: Makh Nachiket S. , Zhang Lifeng , Kelkar Ajit D.
Published: May 2024

Traditionally, resins and hardeners are produced by chemical and petroleum industries. These industries make use of non-renewable energy resources like fossil fuels for manufacturing the resins and curing agents. In addition, most of the conventional curing agents used in epoxy resins are highly noxious in nature causing skin allergies and asthma. The green epoxy resin is capable of reducing these toxic effects but have few shortcomings including its cost and the mechanical performance of cured epoxy resin. On the other hand, there is a dearth of investigation in the evolution of green or sustainable curing agents known as bio-binders. This paper presents the prediction of mechanical properties by replacement of conventional curing agent with amine derivative synthesized from bio-degradable resource in a thermoset epoxy resin system. The properties are predicted by molecular dynamics simulations using Materials Studio Software.

Graphical Abstract
Optimization of welding direction model parameters to enhance the tensile strength of ST 42 steel joints through variation of current strength simulation
Authors: Muddin Saripuddin , Ariyanto Ariyanto , Sriwati Sriwati , Rahman Muhammad Fathur
Published: May 2024

The welding process plays a central role in the welding industry, where the joint zone undergoing the welding process experiences structural and mechanical property changes. This research evaluates the comparison of current strength and parameters in the directional welding joint model, a critical aspect of addressing common weaknesses in welded joints. The research objects include four current levels (100, 120, 140, 160 A) and three types of welding directions (longitudinal, transversal, and combination). The aim of this study is to detect the optimal combination in welded joints that can produce a maximum tensile strength ratio. The research method involves tensile testing on various specimen models of joint types at specific current strength levels.
The research results indicate that at the current strength level of 120 A, the combined directional welding joint model (longitudinal+transverse) provides a maximum tensile strength reaching 335.370 MPa. This finding stands out significantly, surpassing the tensile strength values at other current levels and welding model types, such as at 100 A (331.574 MPa), 140 A (332.315 MPa), and 160 A (332.685 MPa). This discovery highlights that the combined joint model yields a substantial improvement in joint strength, making it an optimal solution for various current strength levels and joint models.
The key feature of this research involves specific recommendations for the welding industry, including guidelines on selecting optimal parameters to enhance the tensile strength of joints. The directional welding joint models can be a reference in designing welding procedure specifications to incorporate construction elements using ST 42 material. This research contributes both theoretically and practically, offering opportunities for improving efficiency and structural safety in the welding process, thus positively impacting the quality of joints in construction and manufacturing applications
Identifying the effect of polymer composition in hot mix asphalt modification
Authors: Junus Stella , Renreng Ilyas , Syahid Muhamad , Hayat Azwar
Published: May 2024

The effect of polymer composition on hot mix asphalt (HMA) is the primary focus of this research. The primary goal is to examine how temperature affects HMA's mechanical characteristics and performance, especially concerning polymer concentration. Polymer composition and modifications to HMA, including synthetic rubber and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), are the object of this research. Optimizing HMA polymer mix to improve durability, load-bearing capacity, and structural integrity is the study's key issue. The study also seeks to understand the intricate interaction between polymer concentration and HMA parameters, such as compressive strength, modulus, and stress. The research findings indicate that the maximum load of 68.169 kN was achieved with a mixture containing 5 % synthetic rubber at a temperature of 200 °C. The material exhibited stiffness and resistance to deformation, with an average crack size of 0.01 kN/mm2 and a modulus value of 0.309 kN/mm2. According to the Marshall function, the optimal blend consists of 5 % asphalt mixed at 175 °C. The results indicate that polymer mix considerably affects HMA's mechanical properties, particularly load-bearing capacity and deformation resistance. To optimize HMA performance, polymer content and temperature must be optimized. The results show that HMA with 5 % synthetic rubber under specified temperature settings has better mechanical qualities, including load-bearing capacity and stiffness. These findings help optimize polymer composition for HMA performance. These findings can be used to create more lasting and eco-friendly paving solutions. Road engineers and designers can extend asphalt pavement life and reduce environmental effects by adjusting the HMA polymer mix and temperature
Determining the functioning efficiency of a fire safety subsystem when operating the hydrogen storage and supply system
Authors: Abramov Yuriy , Basmanov Oleksii , Krivtsova Valentina , Mikhayluk Andriy , Makarov Yevhen
Published: May 2024

The object of research is the fire safety subsystem of hydrogen storage and supply systems. The subject of the study is the efficiency index of the fire safety subsystem of hydrogen storage and supply systems for different modes of its operation. As such an efficiency indicator, the conditional probability that the fire safety subsystem correctly recognizes the actual state of the hydrogen storage and supply system is used. The fire safety subsystem functions under the control mode and under the test mode. Mathematical models of the operation of the fire safety subsystem were built for such modes, based on the use of graph theory. The weight matrices of these graphs include the completeness of control or testing and the intensity of transition of the fire safety subsystem from one state to another. Determination of the effectiveness of such a subsystem – reliability of functioning – is carried out using Kolmogorov’s equations. It is shown that during the testing of hydrogen storage and supply system, the probability of its being in a fire-safe state has a maximum. It is shown that with values of completeness of control (testing) that do not differ from 1.0, the effectiveness of the functioning of the fire safety subsystem is invariant with respect to the mode of its functioning. With values of completeness of control (testing), which are significantly different from 1.0, the functioning of the fire safety subsystem under the testing mode is more effective.
The identified features of the functioning of the fire safety subsystem make it possible in practice to implement an optimal or adaptive algorithm for the functioning of such subsystems. For example, with the appropriate selection of testing parameters, the fire safety subsystem provides determination of the location of the hydrogen storage and supply system with maximum probability
Use a smartphone app for predicting human thermal responses in hot environment
Authors: Yermakova Irena , Nikolaienko Anastasiia , Hrytsaiuk Oleh , Tadeieva Julia , Kravchenko Pavlo
Published: May 2024

The object of this study is to predict of human thermophysiological state in hot environment to prevent heat stress or heat stroke. A key issue is the need to design effective tools for heat stroke risk assessment taking into account environmental conditions, physical activity, characteristics of human clothing and protective equipment.
A mobile application has been developed, which, unlike existing analogs, provides users with data on the safe time of human under selected environmental conditions. The mobile application uses the method of mathematical modeling to predict important indicators of human thermophysiological state: body temperature, sweat evaporation, body water loss. The mathematical model takes into account the generation of metabolic heat, the transfer of heat inside the body, and the heat exchange of a human with the environment.
This paper reports the results of using a mobile application for predicting human thermal responses under hot environmental conditions. With the help of the application, it was possible to determine the time of a human's safe stay depending on the intensity of his/her activity and the characteristics of his/her clothing. It is shown that walking at a speed of 6 km/h in a military uniform is safe for 1 hour at an air temperature of 36 °C. Running at a speed of 8 km/h under such conditions becomes risky already after 15 minutes due to overheating of the human body.
The developed information technology is designed to warn about heat stress or heat stroke of people who are under hot conditions in order to preserve their health and work capacity. The received predicting data should be considered as one of the theoretical measures to prevent human heat stress under hot environmental conditions
Implementation of class interaction under aggregation conditions
Authors: Kungurtsev Oleksii , Komleva Nataliia
Published: May 2024

The object of research is the implementation of relations between software classes. It is shown that when implementing the aggregation relationship between classes, errors may occur if more than one client class is found. Class interaction errors can be caused by management of resource class attributes by one of the client classes in a way that is unacceptable to another client class due to invalid attribute values, state changes, method blocking, etc. To solve the problem, a special organization of the queue for client classes is proposed. A feature of the queue is the use of models of client classes and resource class. The model of a resource class provides an idea about its resources (attributes and methods) and how they are used. The client class model shows how much of these resources will be used by the client and how this will be done. This organization of the queue makes it possible to provide resources to the next client class only after checking its compatibility with active client classes. In general, client classes have different types, and this complicates the organization of the queue. Therefore, it is proposed to make them derived from the base class, which defines the interface for the queue. Similarly, the problem of the interaction of the class-resource with the queue is solved. The proposed base class for the resource class also provides the necessary queue interface.
Software was developed that automates the process of converting classes: analysis of a resource class, determination of resource needs from client classes, construction of base classes. After the conversion is completed, the queue functions are supported. The study results verification showed a reduction in the time for converting classes by about three times, and the waiting time for access to resources during the work of the queue – at least two times
Improvement of solar concentrator structure
Authors: Baydyk Tetyana , Mammadova Masuma , Velasco Graciela , Kussul Ernst
Published: May 2024

Green energy includes solar, wind, geothermal and other types of energy sources generation. The object of this research is solar concentrators. The problem to be solved is related to the development of the structure frame, especially for solar concentrators with flat triangular or square mirrors that approximate a parabolic shape surface. The essence of the investigation is developing and producing several prototypes of solar concentrators that have a low cost of materials but the devices were assembled by hand and therefore the manufacturing cost is sufficiently high. Therefore, it is important to reduce the cost through automation of the solar concentrator production process. To obtain better conditions for future automation, we need to reduce the number of metal structural elements of the solar concentrator. In this case, the automation problem is simpler for its realization. The results obtained are related to the improved solar concentrator structure that can be technologically simpler than the previous one and lighter in weight. The development of improved solar concentrator design and structure can help reduce the cost of assembly and accelerate the solar concentrator assembly process. In the case of mass production, they can be used in practice. The proposed solar concentrators can be used for different applications, for example, green buildings in rural areas, or chemical reactors to accelerate the chemical process of organic waste processing. Another application is to use solar concentrators in combination with agricultural fields. These solar concentrators can be used with small-scale thermal energy storage (TES). Using TES, it is possible to make power plants for green buildings. Small solar power plants can support all the energy demands of residential houses
Determining the effect of non-condensable gas on a two-phase ammonia heat transfer loop of the satellite
Authors: Buchko Oleksii , Gorbenko Gennady , Rohovyi Yevhen , Reshytov Edem , Turna Rustem
Published: May 2024

It is advisable to design thermal management systems for high-power stationary satellites and specific ground applications using two-phase mechanically pumped loops with ammonia as the coolant. During prolonged operation in orbit, the accumulation of non-condensable gases can occur due to radiolysis and chemical reactions. The issues related to the effect of non-condensing gas on system parameters and performance have not yet received sufficient attention.
The study of the distribution of non-condensable gas in the loop was performed by calculation-theoretical and experimental methods in a heat transfer loop with a Heat-Controlled Accumulator. Part of the gas accumulates in the steamgas zone of the Heat-Controlled Accumulator and affects the pressure value at a set temperature. The other gas is dissolved in liquid ammonia. This impacts the overheating of the cooled device when the heat load is switched on, the heat transfer intensity during boiling, and the cavitation reserve at the pump inlet. Accumulation of non-condensable gas up to ~0.075 mol nitrogen/kg ammonia, concentration of dissolved gas in the liquid up to ~5.3⋅10–4 mol/mol of the mixture does not significantly impact the parameters and performance of the system. But, if the aim is to precisely ensure the boiling temperature of the coolant or the cavitation reserve, the amount of necessary correction of the control parameters is up to 2.5 K.
The results of the investigation can be used in the design of two-phase heat transfer loops for satellites and other applications, in particular, for the selection of the design and location of gas traps
Determination of the cellulose- and lipid-containing components influence on the extrudate technological indicators
Authors: Petik Ihor , Litvinenko Olena , Stankevych Serhii , Zabrodina Inna , Ponomarova Maryna , Kotliar Oleh , Kliuchko Ruslan , Myhalenko Oleksii , Pidpala Tetiana , Danylchuk Galyna
Published: May 2024

The effect of cellulose- and lipid-containing components on the technological parameters of the extruded mixture based on protein- and starch-containing raw materials on the technological parameters of the extrudate was studied. The use of components that modify such technological indicators of the extruded mixture as water resistance and swelling is substantiated. It is proposed to use sunflower husks and sunflower phosphatide concentrate as modifying additives to the mixture for extrusion. A rational ratio of the specified components in the extrudate was established to obtain indicators of water resistance in the range of 220...300 min and swelling in the range of 100...120 %. This is an important aspect of expanding the range of extruded products from the waste of oil and fat industries and obtaining high-quality competitive products.
The object of the study is the dependence of water resistance and swelling of the extruded mixture on the content of modifying additives. Their rational ratio in the extrudate is: sunflower husk – 6.0 %; sunflower phosphatide concentrate – 5.0 %. The manufactured extrudate sample corresponds to commercial fish feed in terms of chemical composition and technological parameters, and also has a 4 times lower cost. A feature of the obtained results is the possibility of regulating the water resistance, swelling and porosity of the extrudate based on protein- and starch-containing raw materials, depending on the ratio of cellulose- and lipid-containing modifying additives. This allows to change the technological parameters of the finished product depending on the chemical composition of the mixture of raw components according to the requirements of the consumer. The results of the conducted research prove that cellulose- and lipid-containing secondary products of production can be successfully transformed into new competitive products
Development of technology for obtaining juice from persimmon fruit (Diospyros kaki L.)
Authors: Mikayilov Vugar , Omarova Elza , Kazimova İlhama , Aliyeva Jamila , Fatma Aliyeva , Gasimova Afet , Nabiyev Ahad
Published: May 2024

Organizing proper and environmentally friendly nutrition is one of the most pressing problems. Widespread persimmon fruits are of great technological importance as raw materials for the production of concentrated juice, used as a natural sweetener. The object of this study is the processes of obtaining juices from persimmon fruits. Quality indicators were studied in juices prepared by preliminary heat treatment and the use of an enzyme preparation. The juice yield from the Khachia variety was 93.9 %, and from the Hiakume variety – 93.8 %. To prepare concentrated juice, persimmon juice was used, prepared by preliminary heat treatment, and using 0.1–0.2 % enzyme preparation. A scheme for preparing concentrated juice has been developed, which is recommended for use as an environmentally friendly sweetener in food production. The concentrate contained 7.25 µg/100 g of iodine. The prepared concentrate is rich in nutritional components necessary for human life, as well as sugars, phenolic compounds with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, as well as vitamin C. Nutritional components perform a wide range of functions in the optimal functioning of the immune system and play an important role in metabolic processes. The use of persimmon concentrate in the preparation of various food products increases the bioavailability of many minerals. Therefore, to ensure the nutritional value of the finished product and increase long-term quality storage, it is recommended to use concentrated persimmon juice as a sugar substitute
Development of a method for synthesizing an information-analytical system for assessing the level of information transmission channels protection
Authors: Shmatko Olexander , Yevseiev Serhii , Dudykevych Valerii , Milevskyi Stanislav , Solnyshkova Svetlana , Havrylova Alla , Shestak Yanina , Oriekhov Serhii , Korsunov Serhii , Kravchenko Serhii
Published: May 2024

The object of the study is the process of ensuring security during data transmission through information channels. To ensure high-quality indicators of information transmission channels protection, it is necessary to periodically monitor and, when detected, close possible data leakage channels. The effectiveness of measures to protect transmission channels depends on the quality of checking the presence of possible, valid or hidden, data leakage channels. A significant number of signs of information leakage complicates the control process and leads to additional economic costs for the use of control equipment. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a method of synthesis of an information-analytical system for assessing the level of transmission channels protection. It is proposed to develop such a method on the basis of determining the dependence between control signs of the presence of information leakage channels. The proposed method allows to ensure the necessary level of security. The basis of the method for synthesis of the information-analytical system for assessing the level of information transmission channels protection is the equation of the associative connection between the control features. The presence of a connection between control signs indicates the presence of information leakage channels. This is due to the loss of characteristics (for example, voltage or signal strength) of the useful information flow due to the redistribution of data during transmission. The benefit from the application of the obtained results depends on the number of discovered and, accordingly, closed channels of information leakage. Implementation of the proposed method allows to automate the process of finding a data leak in transmission channels. The given research results can be useful in the development of software for expert decision-making systems based on the formation of knowledge bases about the relationship between control features. Implementation of the obtained results will increase the reliability and security of information transmission channels
Optimizing the mixing formulas of cordyceps tea: Using sensory method and testing harmful microorganism
Authors: Quan Quoc-Dang , Le Tuan-Loc , Nguyen Thanh-Cong , Bui-Thi My-Ngoc , Nguyen Tran-Minh-Ly , Tran Hoang-Dung
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to develop a raw material blending process and evaluate the sensory characteristics of an herbal tea mixture containing Cordyceps militaris in combination with pineapple (Ananas comosus), ginger (Zingiber officinale(Willd.)), lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus), and chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum indicum). The research showed no presence (negative) of harmful microorganisms and quantities that could affect consumers in two consecutive tests. The sterilization and raw material blending process met the food safety standards (TCVN). The sensory evaluation results from consumers identified two mixed herbal (NT2 and NT5) tea formulations that received the highest ratings (7.730 and 8.040 points, respectively) and they were significantly higher than the remaining formulations while being not significantly different from each other, indicated that researchers can select suitable raw materials and blending ratios for large-scale production.
Impact of mutations on Omicron's spike protein: Insights from variants found in Vietnam
Authors: Ke Quan Thai , Phuoc Huynh
Published: May 2024

The SARS-CoV-2 virus is the primary agent responsible for the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, leading to the loss of millions of lives worldwide. In 2023, the COVID-19 pandemic's impact is primarily driven by the Omicron variant, which features many unique mutations compared to previously identified SARS-CoV-2 variants. Through analysis of the network of Omicron variants collected in Vietnam, we determined variants expected to have high transmission efficiency and positive influence before studying the impact of mutations on the structural behavior of spike proteins and their affinity with hACE2. Our computational analysis indicates that these Omicron variants not only exhibit a significantly higher binding affinity than the Wildtype but also demonstrate increased binding free energy among variants. This enhanced binding affinity of Omicron variant is reflected in the enhanced stability of the hACE2 binding structure compared to the Wildtype. This study further elucidates the specific contributions of point mutations to the binding free energy. Notably, such mutations as W152R, F157L, G257S, S371F, S373P, S375F, T376A, D405N, N440K, S477N, T478K, E484A, Q493R, Q498R, N501Y, D614G, N679K, P681H, N764K, D796Y, and N969K were found increasing the binding free energy of Omicron's spike protein in complex with hACE2.
„Argumentum ex prophetia” u ojców Kościoła a współczesna krytyka funkcji proroctwa w apologetyce. Orygenes
Authors: Switek Mateusz
Published: May 2024

Artykuł jest kontynuacją wcześniejszego tekstu o Justynie Męczenniku i prezentuje to samo zagadnienie argumentu apologetycznego ze spełnienia proroctw mesjańskich, lecz u innego autora epoki — Orygenesa. Przegląd podstawowych wątków, metod argumentacji i tła filozoficznego dowodu prorockiego pozwala podkreślić bogactwo teologiczne zagadnienia oraz subtelność i wielość możliwych form obrony chrześcijaństwa w oparciu o kwestie proroctw. „Contra Celsum” ukazuje żywotność tematu w dyskusji z poganami, a także zmianę akcentów w porównaniu z wczesnymi dyskusjami przeciw Żydom. Te obserwacje pozwalają zaproponować kilka uwag na temat współczesnych prezentacji argumentu z proroctw i wskazać potencjalną bliskość z dzisiejszymi koncepcjami wiarygodności w teologii fundamentalnej.
Biskupi polscy wobec powrotu benedyktynów w XIX i XX wieku
Authors: Maziarz Antoni
Published: May 2024

Polscy biskupi zareagowali biernie na likwidację klasztorów w XVIII wieku i w I połowie XIX wieku. Wielu z nich skorzystało na kasatach. Jednak po latach brak zakonów został oceniony przez biskupów negatywnie, toteż w II poł. XIX wieku i na początku następnego stulecia większość z nich z radością witała powracające stare oraz nowo tworzone wspólnoty zakonne. Także benedyktynów traktowano przychylnie. Biskupi diecezji krakowskiej, lwowskiej, sandomierskiej, poznańskiej widzieli w mnichach istotną pomoc w pracy duszpasterskiej, naukowej i wydawniczej. Niestety, w wielu przypadkach hierarchowie nie wychodzili poza ogólne deklaracje pomocy, toteż przez długi czas benedyktyni nie mogli znaleźć stałej siedziby w Polsce. Decydujące okazało się wsparcie arcybiskupa Poznania i Gniezna — Edmunda Dalbora oraz arcybiskupa Krakowa — Adama Stefana Sapiehy. Pierwszy pomógł przy fundacji klasztoru w Lubiniu (1924), drugi — w Tyńcu (1939). Za ich sprawą benedyktyni zakończyli długi proces, którego celem było odzyskanie skasowanych w XIX wieku prastarych opactw. Kolejne lata przyniosły owocną współpracę między zakonem a przedstawicielami diecezji.
Instytut Teologiczny w Tarnowie — zapoznana uczelnia
Authors: Żurek Antoni
Published: May 2024

W 1838 roku rozpoczął swoją działalność Instytut Teologiczny w Tarnowie. Jego zadaniem miało być kształcenie alumnów seminarium duchownego w Tarnowie. Seminarium odpowiadało za formację duchową, a instytut za intelektualną. Jednak w świadomości diecezjan, a nawet samych adeptów tej uczelni, to seminarium kształciło. Na taki stan rzeczy wpłynęło kilka czynników. Najważniejsze, jak się wydaje, było to, że rektor seminarium stał często na czele instytutu. W 2004 roku Instytut Teologiczny w Tarnowie, istniejący od czasów austriackich, został ostatecznie przekształcony w specyficzny Wydział Teologiczny Papieskiej Akademii Teologicznej w Krakowie. Tym samym przestała istnieć najstarsza uczelnia wyższa Tarnowa. W artykule podjęto próbę wyjaśnienia zawiłych relacji seminarium duchownego z Instytutem Teologicznym, skutkujących znikomą wiedzą księży i diecezjan na temat jego istnienia i działalności.
Problematyka zabobonu w refleksji naukowej i nauczaniu Kościoła
Authors: Nowak Paweł
Published: May 2024

Tematyka zabobonu jest w obecnym czasie bardzo aktualna. Można zauważyć, że wraz z osłabieniem wiary i religijności rośnie w sposób bardzo intensywny zainteresowanie różnego rodzaju formami zabobonu. Pojawiają się nawet wspólnoty, „kościoły”, które proponują praktykowanie „kultu” w całości opartego na zabobonach. Przedmiotem niniejszego opracowania jest zabobon rozumiany jako nieprawidłowość w kulcie religijnym, która inspiruje się niewłaściwie pojmowaną pobożnością. Powszechna i ponadczasowa skala tego zjawiska skłania do naukowych poszukiwań jego korzeni. W dobie symptomatycznej dla globalizacji konfrontacji różnorodności w sferze kultury zauważa się, że tematyka zabobonu powraca z zaskakującą regularnością i stawia współczesnemu człowiekowi szereg pytań. Ponadto fenomen zabobonu zdaje się inspirować działalność twórców współczesnych kultur lokalnych i przedstawicieli określonych kategorii wiekowych. Wydaje się, że w tej sytuacji należy przybliżyć podstawowe prawdy, które pozwolą właściwie interpretować ten fenomen kulturowy i staną się skutecznym czynnikiem porządkującym samą jego ocenę. Stąd wiele opracowań etnograficznych badających zjawisko zabobonu i wykazujących, że jest ono nadal obecne w życiu współczesnego człowieka. W troskę o właściwe rozumienie zabobonu niniejszy artykuł wpisuje się poprzez przedstawienie różnych definicji i określeń zabobonu, ukazanie jego psychologicznych i socjologicznych aspektów, a także przybliżenie myśli nowożytnej filozofii oraz oceny doktrynalnej i moralnej Kościoła katolickiego dotyczących tego zjawiska.
STAPLED FASCIAL CLOSURE VS. CONTINUOUS HAND-SEWN SUTURE: EXPERIMENTAL STUDY OF THE ABDOMINAL WALL ON PORCINE MODEL AND HUMAN CADAVER
Authors: TUSTUMI Francisco , DARCE George Felipe Bezerra , LOBO FILHO Murillo Macedo , ABDALLA Ricardo Zugaib , COSTA Thiago Nogueira
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: One of the primary complications associated with large incisions in abdominal surgery is the increased risk of fascial closure rupture and incisional hernia development. The choice of the fascial closure method and closing with minimal tension and trauma is crucial for optimal results, emphasizing the importance of uniform pressure along the suture line to withstand intra-abdominal pressure. AIMS: To evaluate the resistance to pressure and tension of stapled and sutured hand-sewn fascial closure in the abdominal wall. METHODS: Nine abdominal wall flaps from human cadavers and 12 pigs were used for the experimentation. An abdominal defect was induced after the resection of the abdominal wall and the creation of a flap in the cadaveric model and after performing a midline incision in the porcine models. The models were randomized into three groups. Group 1 was treated with a one-layer hand-sewn small bite suture, Group 2 was treated with a two-layer hand-sewn small bite suture, and Group 3 was treated with a two-layer stapled closure. Tension measurements were assessed in cadaveric models, and intra-abdominal pressure was measured in porcine models. RESULTS: In the human cadaveric model, the median threshold for fascial rupture was 300N (300-350) in Group 1, 400N (350-500) in Group 2, and 350N (300-380) in Group 3. Statistical comparisons revealed non-significant differences between Group 1 and Group 2 (p=0.072, p>0.05), Group 1 and Group 3 (p=0.346, p>0.05), and Group 2 and Group 3 (p=0.184, p>0.05). For porcine subjects, Group 1 showed a median pressure of 80 mmHg (85-105), Group 2 had a median of 92.5 mmHg (65-95), and Group 3 had a median of 102.5 mmHg (80-135). Statistical comparisons indicated non-significant differences between Group 1 and Group 2 (p=0.243, p>0.05), Group 1 and Group 3 (p=0.468, p>0.05), and Group 2 and Group 3 (p=0.083, p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Stapled and conventional suturing resist similar pressure and tension thresholds.
Blockchain technology: Challenges and opportunities in public finance
Authors: Lopes Dayani Cristina Ferreira , Castro Andre Luís de , Russo Leticia Xander
Published: May 2024

Abstract Purpose: This article aims to analyze pioneering public finance initiatives based on blockchain technology, identifying the Brazilian context amid the international. Additionally, this study seeks to present opportunities for blockchain technology applications and the challenges encountered for their expansion. Originality/value: Few studies have covered the public sector, especially public finance, despite using and testing this technology in different areas. The development of these innovative applications is limited, particularly in Brazil. Design/methodology/approach: Public documents, such as reports and official websites of public agencies, associations, and institutions, were identified and selected from the unit of analysis “pioneering public finance initiatives based on blockchain technology.” Findings: Blockchain technology has been used in government projects related to research, identity, economic development, and financial services, among others. Blockchain initiatives have been led by Brazil’s financial, technology, and education/media sectors. Finding technology applications in public finance was one of the difficulties in the research. The number of projects in this category involving blockchain and the public sector is scarce in Brazil and internationally. However, this scenario has shown signs of change. Although reduced, public sector participation has increased in recent years. Blockchain has much to offer the public finance sector, but governments have been cautious and insecure about introducing the technology. It happens because of uncertainty about whether the technology is developed enough to withstand critical problems in the public system or what unique issues could arise from that technology.
Problem-Based Learning como estratégia metodológica para o desenvolvimento da Flexibilidade Cognitiva no Ensino de Física
Authors: Silva Bruno Prates da , Vidmar Muryel Pyetro , Pastorio Dioni Paulo
Published: May 2024

Neste artigo é apresentado um conjunto de Atividades Didáticas de Física para implementação no Ensino Superior, englobando os conteúdos referentes à Energia e Momento Linear. Para isso, as Atividades Didáticas foram elaboradas utilizando como fundamentação teórica a Teoria da Flexibilidade Cognitiva e, como base metodológica, a Problem-Based Learning, com uso de hipermídias como recursos educacionais. Objetiva-se que, através das atividades, os estudantes desenvolvam flexibilidade cognitiva voltada à Resolução de Problemas, possibilitando a reestruturação de seus conhecimentos mediante novos problemas. No decorrer do texto, são descritas as etapas envolvidas no planejamento das atividades e suas fundamentações teóricas e metodológicas; ainda, são analisados os avanços e desafios enfrentados na estruturação das mesmas. Por fim, são discutidas as potencialidades da Problem-Based Learning como metodologia para o desenvolvimento da flexibilidade cognitiva pautada pela Teoria da Flexibilidade Cognitiva.
Análise das variáveis que podem interferir no desfecho de casos clínicos de pacientes com queixas de voz ou deglutição
Authors: Dornelas Rodrigo , Silva Kelly da , Brendim Mariana Pinheiro , Silveira Livia Oliveira , Barretto Renata Barros Sá , Fontes Gabriela Eduarda Nicásio Gomes , Santos Beatriz Ferreira dos , Ribeiro Vanessa Veis , Guedes-Granzotti Raphaela Barroso
Published: May 2024

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar as variáveis sociodemográficas que podem interferir no desfecho de casos clínicos de pacientes com queixas de voz ou deglutição. Métodos: estudo observacional, transversal, descritivo e retrospectivo. Foram analisados os prontuários de pessoas maiores de 18 anos atendidas na Clínica de Voz do Serviço de Fonoaudiologia do Hospital Universitário do Rio de Janeiro de 2010 a 2018. Foram incluídos 81 prontuários, sendo 47 de participantes do gênero feminino e 34 do masculino. Os pacientes foram divididos quanto a três tipos de desfecho: alta, desligamento e abandono. As variáveis sociodemográficas estudadas foram gênero, estado civil, escolaridade, renda, ser ou não profissional da voz e queixa principal. Para análise dos resultados, foram contabilizadas as frequências relativa e absoluta e, para análise inferencial, foi utilizado o teste Qui-Quadrado de Pearson (nível de significância de 5%). Resultados: as variáveis sociodemográficas não estiveram significantemente associadas aos desfechos estudados quando não se considerou o tipo de queixa (de voz ou de deglutição) de forma separada. Especificamente, observou-se uma frequência significativamente maior de pacientes com queixa de voz e que receberam alta fonoaudiológica (p=0,020). Nestes pacientes, houve associação significativa entre a frequência maior de pacientes que abandonaram a terapia e que possuíam renda de até um salário-mínimo (p=0,041). Não houve associações significativas nas pessoas com queixas de deglutição e as variáveis sociodemográfica estudadas. Conclusão: o desfecho mais frequente foi o abandono ao tratamento. Neste estudo, a baixa renda familiar esteve associada ao abandono do tratamento por pacientes com queixa de voz. Pacientes com queixas de deglutição apresentaram menor frequência de abandono ao tratamento e menos alta do que pacientes com queixas de voz.
Umweltnotfälle in der Antarktis – Notwendigkeit und Umsetzungsmöglichkeiten einer vor- läufigen Anwendung des Haftungsannexes zum Antarktisvertrag
Authors: Seddig Stefan Onur , Tribess Laura , Vöneky Silja
Published: May 2024

Im Rahmen der 28. Vertragsstaatenkonferenz der Antarktisvertragsstaaten (ATCM) wurde 2005 der Annex VI des Umweltschutzprotokolls zum Antarktisvertrag (sog. Haftungsannex) verabschiedet. Der Haftungsannex normiert für spezielle Fälle der Umweltverschmutzung in der Antarktis die Haftung von Vertragsstaaten und Betreibern und schließt bestehende Lücken der völkerrechtlichen Haftung für Umweltnotfälle im Antarktisgebiet. Bisher ist der Haftungsannex jedoch mangels der hinreichenden Zahl von Ratifikationen nicht in Kraft getreten. Im folgenden Beitrag werden die völkerrechtliche Ausgangslage (II.) sowie die Hintergründe des Stillstands bei der Ratifikation des Haftungsannexes dargestellt (III.). Im Anschluss zeigen wir als möglichen Ausweg auf, warum die Vereinbarung der vorläufigen Anwendung des Haftungsannexes sinnvoll erscheint (IV.). Mit Blick auf die besondere Dringlichkeit für Haftungsregeln für Umweltnotfälle in der Antarktis, auch aufgrund der durch den Klimawandel und die steigende Anzahl touristischer Schiffsreisen in die Antarktis wachsenden Umweltrisiken, argumentieren wir, dass die vorläufige Anwendung zumindest zwischen den Vertragsstaaten, die den Annex bereits ratifiziert haben, vereinbart werden sollte.
Seeking a Balance Between the Interests of the Individual, Society and the State in Ensuring National Security
Authors: Boskholov Sergei
Published: May 2024

The article considers issues of co-relation of rights and legitimate interests of the main subjects of national security – the individual, society and the state, finding a reasonable balance between them, meeting the common interests of ensuring national security of Russia. Their conceptual and substantive sides are disclosed, a description of the contradictions that arise in this sphere is given. The relationships between the individual and the authorities in the sphere of ensuring national security are considered, including the sphere of countering crime and law violation prevention, when the public authorities subject a person to certain restrictions and coercion. In this regard special attention is paid to the situation caused by the Special Military Operation (CRS) conducted by the Russian Federation in Ukraine with the purpose of demilitarization and denazification. Different approaches, legal views and social and legal practices developed and applied in different legal systems in the relationship between the individual, society and the State are identified and described. It points to the fundamental difference in these approaches between Russia and the West.
Challenging Transactions in Bankruptcy Proceedings
Authors: Khasnutdinov Anvar
Published: May 2024

Based on the provisions of the law and reviews of case law on issues relating to challenges to debtor transactions in a bankruptcy case, competition cases based on different industry rules are analyzed. There are two relatively separate grounds for invalidation of transactions claiming preferential satisfaction of obligations based on them. In the first case, it should be established that the price of the transaction(s) is not in conformity with the threshold established by the rule governing the public relations arising from the ordinary course of business. In the second, proof of bad faith must be provided to the creditor who is allegedly unaware of the debtor’s insolvency. Ordinary course of business is understood as transactions in stable circumstances, including where their size and timing do not differ significantly from those previously made. It is concluded that, although the reviews of the Presidium of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation are based on certain arbitration cases with a specific composition of participants, the assessments contained therein might serve as a general recommendation to the courts in resolving such disputes.
Necessary Defense: Problematic Aspects of Theory and Practice, Ways of Improving the Russian Legislation
Authors: Garmyshev Yaroslav , Ishigeyev Vladimir
Published: May 2024

The authors examine the contents and essence of the conditions for necessary defense in the modern legal regulatory environment. They prove that it is necessary to develop an algorithm for the legal assessment of necessary defense in the system of circumstances that exclude the criminal character of the action aimed at defending the objects of criminal law protection. Theoretical concepts, court materials, and the recommendations of Plenary sessions of the Supreme Court of Russia are analyzed with special attention to the definition of debatable issues connected with the enforcement of the clauses of Art. 37 of the Criminal Code of Russia when setting criminal law prohibitions. The authors define the effectiveness of the corresponding criminal law norms in Russian criminal legislation for enforcing the rights of citizens to protection against criminal infringements, formulate conclusions for the criteria of the lawfulness of necessary defense and of exceeding its limits, and examine specific issues of distinguishing it from the adjacent criminal offences.
Digital Ruble: New Opportunities for the State
Authors: Tagarov Bato
Published: May 2024

Introduction of the digital currency of the Bank of Russia into economic circulation provides a number of new opportunities for economic regulation. The purpose of the article is to identify the opportunities and consequences for society associated with their implementation. The study is based on the analysis of scientific literature and publications of the Bank of Russia. The essence of the digital form of the national currency and its differences from cash and non-cash money are considered. An overview of the potential benefits that the state will receive is made. The analysis of the consequences of their implementation is carried out. In particular, they include: the emergence of the possibility of direct targeted lending and financing of certain areas of activity, reducing the level of the shadow economy, improving the efficiency of budget funds management through the use of big data technologies and artificial intelligence. It is concluded that the traditional and digital form of money will have different values for the population and business, depending on the purposes of their use. Two groups of factors influencing demand for the digital ruble have been identified. The assumption about the inevitability of the emergence of the private market of the digital currency of the Bank of Russia in the case of introduction of restrictions on its transfer to other forms of money.
Assembly of Experts of the Islamic Republic of Iran: Socio-Demographic and Political Recruitment Factors (1983-2024)
Authors: Vas'kin Il'ya
Published: May 2024

The article analyses the socio-demographic and political recruitment factors for the Assembly of Experts of Iran from 1983-2024. The Assembly is an electoral college that has constitutional control over the Supreme Leader of Iran, but does not use its powers. The database comprises 446 observations related to 216 persons during 5 Assemblies since 1983. The research method is a structural-biographical analysis. The results of the research show that the Iranian clergy in the Assembly is relatively stable. However, it changes in the national context regarding the political struggle and the massification of higher education. The effect of political struggle demonstrates the expansion of the share of moderate and reformist clergy, which contrasts with the early domination of the conservative faction only. The share of incumbents is quite high, too: approximately half of the Assembly members have been elected at least twice since the second Assembly; approximately a third of them have been elected at least thrice since the third assembly. The educational clerical origin refers to the seminaries of Qom and Najaf, with the minority from the seminary of Mashhad. Secular education also expands among them, achieving 20% for the fifth Assembly. The most frequent specializations received in secular institutions are law, philosophy, and theology. More than half of the members of the Assembly originate from 9 of 31 provinces only, which may be explained by the patrimonial connections of the Assembly`s leadership.