Have a look at the UNIGOU Publications developed by students participating in the INCBAC academic programs:
This paper looks at some of how people can be constitutive parts of a literary narrative. Based on the reading of the novel Uno, Nessuno e Centomila by the Italian Luigi Pirandello, seeks to demonstrate here how the main character of the novel, Vitangelo Moscarda, emulates characteristics of a person when constituting a narrative of himself. For this, we read some passages of the narrative in first-person and associate them with the notion of “embodied narrative”, while we perceive the conflict that Moscarda represents by constituting himself as a character who acquires a consciousness derived from the comprehension of the limits of the body’s understanding. Moscarda believed he knew how his body was seen by the people around him, but a comment from his wife about his nose followed by recognition in the mirror of his own “deformed” image make him forced to leave behind the image he had of himself and build a new one, now with the help of a narrative of himself We conclude our analysis by observing that the first-person narrative of Vitangelo Moscarda follows as a passage from the incomprehension of the body to the possession of a new body, which is equivalent to the possession of a new self and the process of becoming a person.
In the experience economy, customer experience (CX) can create value and differentiate companies in a given sector. This article brings a recent definition of CX and what has recently been studied by researchers. Although not yet well defined, CX can be understood as the customer’s spontaneous reaction to offering-related stimuli along the customer journey. Some topics studied are new technologies and their impact on CX, the impact of CX on customer loyalty, commitment, engagement and behavioral intention, CX driven business model, and CX on online shopping.
This paper discusses the relationship between beauty standards, racism, miscegenation and plastic surgeries in Brazil, from the perspectives of Anthropology and Sociology. Beauty standards have a great impact in people’s lives, women in particular are greatly influenced by the notions of beauty as a measurement of their value, but such beauty standards are influenced by racism and eugenics. With the advent of new technologies in plastic surgery, it became possible to enhance the human body according to current beauty standards. In this paper, three articles were selected to develop the idea that these medical practices support racist and eugenic conceptions of what people should look like. In the first article, the main discussion is about the myth of the racial democracy in Brazil and how the prejudice in this country is veiled, and yet, violent. In the second article, the author focuses on investigating the effects of eugenics in the medical professional’s perception of beauty and how it influences the public’s demand for plastic surgeries in Brazil. In the third article, the authors present plastic surgeries as an enhancement technology, which directly affects people’s lives, specifically, the relationships built after the surgery. In conclusion, it was identified that these beauty standards affect women’s well-being and sense of self, while also carrying values of racism and eugenics, which define who is valued and who is condemned within Brazilian society.
The Brazilian Army is always improving its Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense (DQBRN) preparedness to crisis response through the employment of Pharmacy officers among the technical staff of the Army Biology Institute (IBEx) and Army Institute for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense (IDQBRN). Operation Return to Brazil (“Regresso à Pátria Amada Brasil”) conducted in Anápolis by the Brazilian Air Force Garrison, headquartered in the city of Anápolis, in the state of Goiás, in early February 2020, was an interministerial action aimed at repatriating 34 potentially contaminated Brazilians located in the city of Wuhan, China, due to the outbreak of the new coronavirus (2019-nCoV, SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19). The operation ended as a Brazilian victory, with no civilian or military personnel killed.
As the world gets more connected the importance of IoT grows. A common microcontroller used as an Iot device is Arduino due its great flexibility, small cost, and size. Although there are studies about this microcontroller, they do not deepen its execution time and CPU availability profiling, which is the main goal of this article. To do that two different methodologies were chosen to measure how long it took to execute 8 different functions, in which four of them had three different data sizes. The results of both methodologies were consistent and proved the good performance of Arduino. To measure the CPU availability a library was used, but its result was not conclusive.
Costochondritis (CC) or anterior chest wall syndrome, may be defined as an inflammation of the costochondral junctions of ribs that causes an intense ache.(1,2) Though it is considered a self-limited condition, it’s characterized by multiple incidences during the period of one year what may keep the athlete apart from its practice. Though there’s a lot in literature that shares about the CC condition, there’s too little about other treatment strategies apart from the medicament. Apparently, there’s no consensus in the literature what treatments options are indicated for this disease (3), and there’s a lack of scientific evidence that appoints how other potential treatments may be used to accelerate the healing processes in CC, decreasing the painful condition and allowing athletes to return to their practice as soon as possible. This study aimed to search in the present literature and analyze the options of non-medicament treatment for costochondritis, in addition to its efficacy. Its secondary objective was to observe the literature itself and to investigate the offer of studies that address this subject. To perform this literature review, it was used search tools from Google Academic, PubMed and Science Direct to select 8 studies from peer-reviewed Journals. There are several non-medicament options that may help in the Costochondritis treatment and pain-relief, as it has been seen in the literature review: Manual Therapy, Dry Needling, Acupuncture, Nerve Blocks, Extracorporeal Shockwaves. The papers in this review presented great results of these therapies in reducing CC symptoms and allowing the patient to resume his/her sports activities, however, the studies displayed are mainly case reports. Thus, it’s necessary to perform more high-evidence studies to prove the efficacy of these treatment methods and to fill the gap of the lack of studies that address Costochondritis.
Humic substances (HS) are still a challenge to understand and define even after centuries of study. HS are present everywhere, in soil or in natural waters, and play an important role in the environment. Even though it is not fully explained, scientists have observed some common features about the chemical and molecular composition and behavior under certain conditions for the HS, which allows the advancement of science and practical applications, such as in agriculture and in the treatment of places contaminated by heavy metals, organic or inorganic compounds. These uses are only possible because HS exhibit enormous variability in terms of functional groups, molecular size and behavior. A number of factors from the extraction method used to the mineralogy of the soil or characteristics of the water where the HS are sampled affects their features. Some general statements can be made about HS, which are broadly defined as structurally complex macromolecules resulting from the microbiological decomposition of organic matter, however details about its origin and structure are still unclear and are treated as a black box. In addition, it is still not possible to study HS in situ and some authors question whether samples obtained by classical extraction methods are able to represent faithfully the HS. In this context, this article compiles some information about molecular composition, molecular mass, colloid properties, interactions of HS with the environment, factors that affect its behavior or structure and some applications studied. This article aims to introduce the subject, explaining simple concepts and providing useful references.
This brief paper presents a review about linear parameter-varying (LPV) systems, addressing main approaches for the analysis and control designs. Moreover, some perspectives are discussed regarding its future applications. This LPV framework can be used to represent and model many different problems and systems, such as automotive systems, flight control, magnetic systems, among many others. Given the attention received by this system class, this survey aims to provide basic considerations regarding the representation of LPV systems and main mathematical definitions, including main techniques for the polytopic approach. As the Lyapunov functions remains one of the most used approaches to deal with such problems, this paper focuses on addressing their use. Finally, usual applications and problems of LPV systems are assessed in order to support the consideration of new study topics for this framework.
Wind is a very important meteorological variable in the physical processes of the atmosphere, playing a decisive role in the distribution of heat and humidity. Although the wind is a parameter of great importance for understanding convective effects, to obtain a good knowledge of the winds, the analysis of data in a short period is not enough, the ideal would be the analysis of data relating to several years. The use of information derived from remote platforms such as satellites or airborne sensors is increasing, especially for studies of the behavior of winds on the sea surface. From the wind speed data by the Blended Sea Winds (BSW) product of level 4 processing, made available by the Copernicus Marine Service, historical series of wind speeds were extracted every 6 hours, for the 4 main synoptic times, from 1992 to 2018. The study area comprises the entire coastline of the coast of Brazil from the northern border with French Guiana to the southern border with Uruguay and extends between the parallels 5° N and 36° S latitude, and 55° W and 20° W longitude. To study the variation of wind speed over time, 18 points were chosen and from them annual, seasonal and monthly wind speed graphs were made. Historical, seasonal and hourly average speed calculations were made, and maps were generated for each average, as well as speed variance calculations. The results show that the average offshore wind speeds off the Brazilian coast range from 4 m/s to 10 m/s, and its greatest variation is latitudinal. The seasons of the year have a great influence on the average wind speeds in Brazil and the spring season has the highest wind speeds.
In view of the fact that the interpretive resource of using elements of foreign legal decisions in national court decisions is a reality in many courts, the present study analyses the concept and functions of Comparative Law. Therefore, in methodological terms, it makes use of basic bibliographic research, both Brazilian and international. In the end, it summarizes the main theoretical understandings on the subject, stating that Comparative Law consists of the field of legal studies through which similarities and differences between elements, branches or areas, legal systems and legal families, are identified. Furthermore, regarding its functions, it concludes that Comparative Law has primary (or epistemological) and secondary (or heuristic) functions, serving to increase legal knowledge and having applications in legislative policy and in the reasoning of judicial decisions.
The paper identifies the volatility spillover effects between commodities and commodity currencies. These findings give better information about the transmissions of shocks between commodities and commodity currencies. The research is provided on a time-varying approach regarding the method of Diebold and Yilmaz (2009, 2012) and Ando et al. (2018). We identify commodities that transmit volatility to the commodity currencies but also currencies that receive volatility from commodities. Further, we bring evidence that commodity currencies react faster on shocks than commodities but in the longer term obtain volatility from these commodities during periods of economic turbulence. The study gives concrete investment recommendations for investors having their assets denominated in currencies and commodities.
When it comes to Brazilian Modernism, Anita Malfatti’s artworks are not only of extreme importance to the development of the movement itself, but also one of the most prominent voices in the plastic arts of the time, heavily influenced by the European expressionist and fauvist movements. On the other hand, this artist’s existence as a woman seemed to negatively impact her works’ reception and recognition, especially when her paintings and herself were constantly compared and put against other women from the same time period in Brazil, such as Tarsila do Amaral. In this matter, the present article discusses Anita’s trajectory and the female recognition in Brazilian Modernist Era, taking on account scrutiny faced and support obtained, alongside with her close friend and fellow Modernist Mario de Andrade’s own behaviour towards both women. That being the case, it focuses on how Anita, Tarsila and other Modernist women lacked direct support for their art and weren’t promoted for their own expertise and artistic skills without the involvement of their physical appearance and social involvement with society’s biggest names in 20th century Brazil and internationally.
Technologies associated with Industry 4.0 are reshaping manufacturing production for good. Many companies have been using this opportunity to expand and further develop their smart service offerings, which consists of the integration of technologically-mediated services that exchange data between service providers and customers. Smart services enable manufacturing companies to shift from simple product providers, to service providers, offering considerable benefits for them and for their customers. The aim of this paper is to explore how manufacturing companies are financially benefiting from smart service provision, and if so, how are these benefits being evaluated and managed. In order to address the paper’s objective, a qualitative research was conducted among nine Brazilian manufacturing small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) from the electrotechnical industry, distributed along four different national states. The research consisted of interviews that were carried out in March 2022 with experienced managers, partners and executives from the case companies. All of the respondents have been implementing smart services into their offerings, for different specificities and purposes, presenting a positive response towards its implementation. The findings evinced that most companies indicated that smart services have been a lucrative source of financial benefits. However, companies lack a clear business framework to effectively capture financial value from smart services.
The main objective of this paper is to outline a research account about an event of approach between the philosophical thought of Jacques Derrida, usually gathered together under the signature of “deconstruction”, and the architecture in general, but more particularly in the field of the named “deconstructionist architecture”. To proceed like that, a research was done to study, based primarily on the literature review, the “invitation event” of the architect Bernard Tschumi calling Derrida to work on his project with another well-known architect, Peter Eisenman. The project, in general, was the building and development of a new public space at the city of Paris called Le Parc de la Villette, one of the named Grandes Travaux, done under the presidency of François Mitterrand. In accepting the inviting, we claim, Derrida narrowed even more the attaches between the philosophical thinking of “deconstruction” and the thought of architecture, even if in his early work this attachments were, of course, all readable. At the same time, the philosophical thinking of deconstruction influenced the architecture and the architecture influenced the named “deconstruction”. Even if the objective it is not to compare the “deconstructionist architecture” as whole with Derrida’s work, the focusing on this event could held some basic notes between these two areas. It is a singular event to start to think together the mutual implications of one to another.
China, in recent decades, has achieved high levels of economic and social development; however, it came with the cost of high environmental degradation, which has been putting the advancements in jeopardy. To change this perspective, the country has been investing its legislative capacity to create a well-developed environmental protection system. The Civil Code is the latest instrument of this tendency and was responsible for bringing essential innovations, including a new general principle and the expansion of civil liability rules for environmental damage. The Green Principle comes not only to align the new legislative instrument to the concept of ecological civilization (shengtai wenming ⽣ 态 ⽂明) but also in an attempt to guide the conduct of private individuals in the direction of conservation, turning sustainable development a possible objective. Parallel, the Code has reaffirmed and expanded the rules on civil liability, furnishing the state and private entities with tools to repair/compensate for the damage and punish the tortfeasors. This paper intends to present and analyze this new approach of China through a systematic analysis of the Code and the most recent doctrine.
Although the term sustainable development is widely known, there are doubts if humanity is going in this direction. Not only because of the impact of human actions, but in the way it is measured. How to know if there is progress towards sustainability development without metrics? The objective of this article was to carry out a small systematic review about ways to measure sustainable development and its limitations on a global scale. The Web of Science (WoS) was the database used. The keyword “sustainable development” was searched and 26509 articles were found. To refine the search the filter by title and period of time (2019-2021) was applied resulting in 85 articles. After an accurate reading , only 6 of them were useful. Two ways of measurement were found: The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Sustainable Development Index (SDI). The limitations to measure sustainable development taken were: lack of data, unclear definitions or terminology, the problem with wrong translations, the environmental system simplifications and financial costs. In the period from 1994 to 2021, there was an upward trend in the number of articles published in WoS with the mentioned filters, which indicates progress towards answers. As the planetary boundaries are crossed, it increases the importance of measure and act beyond decisions related to the development of humanity.
The aim of this article was to analyse the effects of social welfare policies on the international relations. The purposes of this article referred to the perspectives of change in the world, the role of social welfare policies, and how they directly impacted the maintenance of international organizations and governments, as well as the process of internationalization and cultural integration to improve multilateral relations in contemporary times. Social welfare policies play a crucial role in the development of society. This paper provided new insights into the impact of social welfare policies. Research and data were analyzed, which object to the association between these policies and global relations. The results indicated the practices of these policies, as well as their effects which directly impact on social and global development. This study revealed a more critical approach that involves the benefits of these policies in favor of social and global progress. This impact was observed through the action of international organizations that are also responsible in the elaboration of social policies, transnationalism that comes from the globalization process, in addition to new global trends such as: the ideas of social impact represented by the “social impact jobs” and the concept of sustainable development and its association with the practices of social welfare policies.
This study aimed to investigate the airflow patterns and velocity fields inside two stables for livestock breedings located in the Czech Republic. Their 3D models were constructed to post discretization and simulation by Computational Fluid Dynamics. The measurements in both stables were used as inputs for the simulations. The results shown by the velocity magnitudes and streamlines indicate that the fields are well-ventilated.
The Order of the Temple was one of the most powerful and wealthy institutions of the medieval period, persecuted at the command of Philip IV of France. Its assets were confiscated and its members were arrested and tortured as heretics. The present research aims to analyze the process of the Templars’ fall in the context of international relations and its consequences for European and world nations. Through bibliographic sources, we can understand that the legacy left by the Templars in their fall is present even today, along with the historical legacy of this event in the great navigations, the formation of Portugal, the demoralization of the papacy, the autonomy of religious orders, and the Hundred Years’ War.
This article presents a comprehensive literature review that explores the use of design methodologies as a basis for understanding and resolving health problems, particularly in their initial stages or root causes. The study analyzed 34 articles published in 2017 using a systematic and rigorous method to identify correlations and highlight key success factors in healthcare product design. The review found that leveraging market insights, trends, and user perspectives is crucial in the discovery and planning stages of healthcare product development. By adopting a user-centric approach that considers the needs and preferences of patients, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders, it is possible to design more effective, efficient, and user-friendly products. The study’s findings have important implications for healthcare innovation and technology product development. By adopting a design-based approach that prioritizes user needs and preferences, it is possible to develop products that can help address some of the challenges facing the healthcare industry today. Such products can also lead to greater efficiency and cost savings for healthcare providers and improve patient outcomes. In conclusion, this article emphasizes the importance of using design methodologies as a basis for understanding and resolving health problems in their initial stages or root causes. The study’s findings highlight key success factors that can inform the development of healthcare products and lead to more effective and efficient healthcare delivery.
This article aims to investigate the causes of the hearing difference between different interconnection cables between an analogue digital converter and a power amplifier. An audio system was set up to reproduce 41 sinusoidal signals with varying frequencies from 20 to 20 kHz, to investigate possible discrepancies between the cables. These signals were recorded on an audio interface with RCA input, with a sampling frequency of 192 kHz and 24 bits. Using the audio signals that were recorded, MATLAB was employed to determine the average of the peak values of each cable for each frequency. Subsequently, the values were compared with each other with the aim of determining which frequencies each cable exhibits greater intensity. As per our findings, the average discrepancy between frequencies ranging from 20 to 14100 Hz is 0.0238%, whereas the discrepancy between frequencies ranging from 16 to 20 kHz is significantly greater, ranging from 8.366% to -21.44%. Moreover, by analysing a 0.681 second piece of music, the RMS value of the signal was calculated, resulting in 0.04967 for the Lumix cable and 0.04961 for the Audio cable, with a percentage difference of 0.12% between the cables. Furthermore, a Fourier Transform was conducted to identify the frequencies possessing the highest energy. The analysis consisted of determining the cable with the highest energy for each frequency. For this, a weighted average was made between energy and frequency. For the Lumix cable, the weighted frequency of the signal was 510.86 Hz, and that of the Ataudio cable was 1097.34 Hz. In this manner, Lumix reproduces medium-frequency sounds with greater intensity, whereas Ataudio reproduces high frequencies with greater intensity. Moreover, it is noteworthy that a more accurate reproduction of high frequencies facilitates a better visualization of musical instruments in stereo listening, a feature coveted by high-end audio (HEA) systems.
This article focuses on the study of immigration and the political phenomenon behind it from the perspective of Brazil and the Czech Republic, briefly explaining the history of each country and its relationship with immigration and related politics; it explores when these rights were born, as well as what these rights ensure. The article also highlights the social and economic conditions of immigrants in both Brazil and the Czech Republic. The study then addresses the vulnerability of immigrants, as well as the principle of equality, highlighting the impact of human rights acting in approval of this group and the responsibility of guaranteeing a respectful and accessible jurisdiction about immigration, protection and asylum. Finally, the study highlights institutions and figures that act nationally and internationally in the fight in support of this population.
Also known as the keys to ageing, Telomeres are repetitive DNA sequences that exist at the end of all human chromosomes. Objective of this paper is to explain the importance of Epigenetics in everyday practices, using direct language, showing and simplifying scientific access and popularising ways to being more healthy, including how that acts directly on lengthening or shortening Telomeres. Method; an integrative compilation of selectives reviews was carried out on varied articles, chosen and used according to proven academic validation. Results showed that humans can extend or shorten life expectancy without interfering with genetic material represented by DNA. Vitamins produced outside the body absorbed in a controlled manner, can act directly on the regeneration of telomerase. Named by Aristotle: Epigenesis, Epigenetics is beyond genetics. Conclusion is that Telomeres cells shortening is related to the passage of time, they can shorten to such an extent that they become unable to protect the genetic material, losing part of the essential information when replicating.
This paper aims to develop a framework based on nine literature studies that incorporated digital innovations into BPM in the form of structural models. The proposed framework aims to assist in enhancing organizational processes through business strategies. To achieve this, we used two reputable literature databases, SCOPUS and Web of Science (WOS), for data collection. We employed VOSviewer software for a bibliometric analysis of BPM literature encompassing 570 papers, identifying the following trending terms for our study: digital innovation, digital transformation, digitalization, BPMN, and Blockchain. The prominence of this topic in BPM literature was observed, as more than 70% of the selected papers from the Business and Management field were published in the last four years. For a systematic literature analysis, we selected nine papers that highlight the significance of digital innovations within the BPM framework. These papers formed the basis for creating a framework with nine categories that revolve around digital innovation in Business Process Management (BPM). This paper contributes to enhancing organizational management practices by illustrating how organizational strategies can be designed with a focus on digital innovations to improve processes. In terms of social implications, the study proposes an organizational model that can aid business process management in an increasingly competitive digital era market.
The growing demand for sustainable resources requires engineering disciplines like principles of mathematics, chemistry and introductory engineering to confront material and energy constraints, along with the importance of reducing waste production. This urgency is particularly pronounced for materials engineers, as their efforts have a profound influence on our future sustainability. Recent advances and discoveries in materials science have the potential to serve as invaluable tools for achieving sustainable progress, provided that materials engineers are aware of these imperatives. They must possess a heightened awareness of the global challenges to sustainability and the insight to discern their role in improving these dilemmas.
Background: Biliary pathologies are major disorders of the digestive tract. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is the “gold standard” for the treatment of symptomatic gallstones and is associated with lower morbidity compared to open surgery. In some cases, conversion of LC to open cholecystectomy is unavoidable to prevent injury. However, can result in increased morbidity. Conversion rates depend on several risk factors. The purpose of this work is the knowledge of the features of the conversion and, especially, of the preoperative factors due to the importance of performing better surgical planning. Methods: Literature review conducted on Google Scholar, PubMed and Science Direct searching for free full articles using the terms “cholecystectomy”, “laparoscopic cholecystectomy”, “open cholecystectomy”, “conversion to open cholecystectomy” prioritizing the most recent literature and studies with a higher level of evidence. Results: Twenty articles, including a meta-analysis about preoperative risk factors for LC conversion (such as male gender, old age, obesity, previous abdominal surgery, diabetes and acute cholecystitis) were selected, after screenings were considered relevant for the purpose of this study and were integrated into this paper. Conclusions: The conversion to open cholecystectomy is inevitable in some cases. Knowledge of the risk factors for the conversion of LC helps surgeons to carry out better surgical planning with good judgment to perform better decisions in the face of laparoscopic surgery conditions, avoiding further complications and valuing the patient’s life, which is why more studies on the subject should be encouraged.
Soil and groundwater contamination is a critical environmental issue, posing risks to human health and ecosystems. Accurate delineation of contamination plumes is vital for effective environmental management and remediation. Traditionally, this involved costly and invasive drilling methods, but geophysical techniques have revolutionized the approach. In this context, this study presents a case study of contamination on a Brazilian farm where a biodigester system collapsed due to geotechnical issues, leading to material infiltration and environmental contamination. The study showcases the effectiveness of geophysical investigations combined with geostatistical interpolation techniques in identifying and characterizing contamination plumes. The methodology involved in this project involved geophysical investigations using the electrical resistivity method. 2D resistivity profiling surveys were conducted around the affected area, utilizing non-polarized electrodes and a Dipole-Dipole array. Self-Potential (SP) data were collected to determine the contamination plume’s flow direction, and geostatistical interpolations were performed to map the plume. Results revealed conductive anomalies in the subsurface, indicative of a highly saturated zone with characteristics resembling aqueous materials. These anomalies consistently occurred at an approximate depth of 7 meters. Data were processed and visualized, with geostatistical interpolation highlighting the lateral distribution of anomalies. The study confirmed that material from the biodigester pound infiltrated the soil to an apparent depth of 7 meters, as indicated by conductive anomalies.
The presence of microplastics in ecosystems is a recognized threat to wildlife and plants due to industrial plastic products and their degradation. These particles contaminate soil, water, and air, posing a threat to humans, particularly through contaminated food and water sources. Recent research has shown the presence of microplastics in human tissue, including blood, placenta, and various organs. Studies in humans have found microplastics in feces and liver tissue samples, with polypropylene and polyethylene terephthalate being the most common. Individuals with cirrhosis have had microplastics detected in their liver tissue. Studies in animals show links between microplastics and energy disruption, lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Research on the accumulation of microplastics in human livers is still limited. Existing studies mostly focus on animal models, indicating potential hepatotoxic effects. These effects include alterations in hepatocyte architecture, disturbances in energy and lipid metabolism, and increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Additionally, prolonged exposure to microplastics in animals has been associated with changes in enzyme function parameters. In vitro studies further demonstrated that microplastics smaller than 1μm can enter hepatocytes, leading to liver damage, dysfunction, and fibrosis. While the evidence supports the potential hepatotoxicity of microplastics, direct correlations in healthy humans are still emerging. It is crucial to continue researching this area to better understand the implications of microplastic accumulation in human tissues, particularly the liver. This knowledge will be essential for formulating strategies to mitigate potential impacts on human health and the environment.
Syncope is a condition in which an individual loses its conscience for a short period of time due to a transitional brain hypoperfusion. Although pretty common over the population, its occurrence should be a concern for health professionals and for the population in general alike. Usually related with good outcomes, episodes of syncope may have a turnaround according to its cause and frequency of occurrence and, as such, in some instances, syncope events are quite serious due to the nature of their origin. Syncopes that relate to Neurological dysfunction or arterial hypotension are common, but the most dangerous cause of syncope events still are the ones caused by heart problems and failures, that occasionally end up in death. Those events must be accompanied by the professional health team to secure the best possible resolution to avoid tragic results, but there is not a worldwide standardised approach to guide professionals through syncope cases, and for this reason different countries adopt a different methodology to convoy professionals, not always having the same result. In this perspective, this paper proposes a mini-review of the indicators and methods that are used to relate the syncope episodes with its gravity, following different guidelines and approaches used by medical teams in Brazil and also in other countries.
Alcohol abuse has become more prevalent in recent years and it’s a causal factor for numerous diseases. Among the consequences of alcohol, thiamine deficiency, also known as vitamin B1, can be highlighted. Amid the diseases caused by thiamine deficiency, we can draw attention to Wernicke’s encephalopathy and Korsakoff’s psychosis, which are generally referred together as Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome is a neurological syndrome that can have irreversible consequences for the patient’s life, including amnesia. In this context, it is important for clinicians to know about the syndrome and how to prevent possible complications. The goal of the present study is to analyse the articles published in the last 10 years in PUBMED, covering the themes: clinical presentation, diagnosis and treatment of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome.
Diagnosing pneumonia still presents obstacles since around 30% of patients have little or no symptoms. Furthermore, this specific type, lingula pneumonia, is barely evident or not visible on posteroanterior radiography because the lingula is located behind the heart. Lingula pneumonia may be visible on lateral radiography. However, computed tomography is the best imaging exam to diagnose this type of pneumonia. From the analysis of radiographs and tomography extracted from the Portal Pneumoimagem website, it was possible to conclude that tomography prevents the heart from compromising the visualization of consolidation in the lingula, which happens in radiography. This happens because the tomography image is made as if it were sections seen from above. This circumstance qualifies the diagnosis of pneumonia in the lingular region, allowing the correct treatment to be fulfilled.
The present study had the objective of introducing the main concepts inherent to the physics’ field of cosmology, wherein its beginning with humankind’s first civilizations, passing through the cosmic microwave background’s discovery and how it evidences the cosmological principle, also defining the concept of redshift and its relation to the Universe’s expansion, and finally coming to the topic of how large-scale structures are formed.
In today’s world, remote work is increasingly prevalent. After the pandemic of COVID-19, a lot of companies adopted a virtual environment, causing a change in workspaces and team management approaches. This immense impact obligated some employees around the world to embrace a remote environment and set up new workspaces in their homes. Consequently, the level model of communication in this new workplace changed as well. These rapid changes were unprecedented, although this model is not new. Within this context, it is common that jobs often require teams and their leaders to work from different locations, having virtual interactions. Without physical interactions, this virtual workspace has ushered in a revolution in leaders’ communication. Based on a literature review, this research evidences the main challenges that leaders face to keep their communication to a high standard and how to mitigate their impact. It has discussed how to reduce the feeling of isolation in the company, the quality of mental health, and the shift of culture The results reveal that, for communication to be improved in the future, leaders must enhance informal communication and promote a balanced workplace.
The control of Conyza spp., can happen in function of its phenological stage. For that reason, in infested areas with Conyza’s height less than 10 cm, one single application of herbicides can be enough for its control. Therefore, the purpose of this work was to evaluate the efficacy of alternatives herbicides from 2,4-D on the control of Conyza spp., lower than 10 cm. For such, it was done a field experiment with experimental delineation of casualization blocks. It was applied the followed herbicides treatments in one single application: fluroxypy + clethodim + saflufenacil; dicamba + glyphosate + saflufenacil; triclopyr + glyphosate + saflufenacil; chlorimurom-ethyl + glyphosate + saflufenacil; mesotrione + atrazine + glyphosate; fluroxypyr + clethodim + glyphosate; dicamba + glyphosate; triclopyr + glyphosate; chlorimurom-etílico + glyphosate; mesotrione + atrazine + glyphosate + 2,4-D; halaxifen + diclosulam + glyphosate; tembotrione + atrazine + glyphosate; tembotrione + atrazine + glyphosate + 2,4-D e witness with no herbicides application. The Conyza’s control was evaluated at 7, 14, 21, 28, 35 and 42 days after the application and the statistics analysis was done by F test and Tukey test. The herbicides dicamba + glyphosate + saflufenacil; triclopyr + glyphosate + saflufenacil; e mesotrione + atrazine + glyphosate + 2.4 -D reported results above 80% in the control of Conyza’spp. Therefore, alternatives herbicides to 2,4-D can be effective on the control of Conyza spp., lower than 10 cm with one single application.
This article will discuss the context of rapid global population growth and urbanization, highlighting the increasing urgency for innovative architectural solutions. In response to this challenge, sustainable architecture and verticalization have emerged as transformative paradigms, addressing the dual imperative of accommodating expanding populations while minimizing environmental impacts. Sustainable architecture strongly emphasizes resource efficiency, eco-conscious material selection, and seamless integration with the surrounding ecosystem, echoing the visionary perspective of architect Richard Rogers. One Angel Square in Manchester is a prime example of sustainable construction, featuring a solar-powered façade and innovative natural ventilation systems. As cities expand, verticalization provides a pragmatic solution to the constraints of limited land availability, leading to a reimagining of urban landscapes. However, this convergence of sustainability and verticalization also poses socioeconomic challenges, including real estate speculation and housing affordability issues. This article delves into the dynamic interplay between sustainable architecture and verticalization, underscoring the importance of eco-conscious design, resource efficiency, and societal equity. These concepts pave the way for more inclusive and resilient cities that align with environmental imperatives and the evolving needs of future generations.
Research indicates that spirituality can have a significant impact on an individual’s health and well-being. However, there is limited discussion about how to effectively address spirituality in medical history, considering its potential benefits and drawbacks for patients. Recognizing this gap, we conducted a study to analyze the effectiveness of various models used worldwide to approach spirituality in medical anamnesis. One model we explored is the FICA questionnaire, which involves asking about the presence of faith, its importance/influence in the person’s life, participation in a spiritual community, and the patient’s preferred approach to addressing spirituality in their healthcare. While the FICA questionnaire is practical, we found that it did not address potential issues related to negative religious coping or religious/spiritual struggles. Additionally, we examined the Brief RCOPE, considered more advanced in this area. However, we observed that it was limited in terms of religious diversity, making it challenging for healthcare professionals to address a broader range of religious beliefs in their assessments. Consequently, we conclude that further research is necessary to reevaluate and enhance the medical anamnesis by incorporating and addressing more extensive and diverse aspects of patients’ spirituality. This approach should also explore both the potential benefits and harms of spirituality to the patient’s health. By doing so, healthcare professionals can ensure a more comprehensive and patient-centered approach to addressing spirituality in medical consultations.
Hericium erinaceus is traditionally consumed for its health-promoting properties and has become a well-known candidate for promoting beneficial activities related to brain and nerve health by inducing nerve growth factor from its bioactive components; this literature review will focus on the compounds erinacins and hericenones and their influence on neurodegenerative diseases. Objective This study aims to discuss the health-promoting properties of Hericium erinaceus and to understand how its components—erinacin A and hericinones C and D—work to help prevent or treat humans with neurological diseases. Method An integrative review was conduced in two academic databases (PubMed and Google Scholar). Results Two literature review studies and eight experimental research studies were selected and presented. Conclusion The compounds erinacin A and hericinones C and D from Hericium erinaceus have demonstrated significant potential in mitigating the impacts of neurodegenerative diseases, underscoring the imperative for more extensive and in-depth research to validate these findings and explore their therapeutic applications in clinical settings.
The choice of materials for constructing motorsport racetracks is crucial in optimizing vehicle performance. This paper explores the properties and characteristics of racetrack surfaces, with a primary focus on NASCAR racetracks. It delves into the differences between flexible and rigid pavements, comparing aspects such as skid resistance, temperature and heat effects, pavement texture, rubber friction theory, and surface degradation of asphalt and Portland cement concrete pavements. The study also reveals how factors like surface texture, composition, and temperature affect grip and racing dynamics. Understanding these nuances is essential for enhancing safety and performance in high-speed precision.
The possibility of expanding distance classes to up to 40% of undergraduate law courses in Brazil motivated the present study, which sought to identify the social representations of law professionals and students regarding distance education. The coronavirus pandemic has made the topic more prominent, given the need to think about more sophisticated methodologies for the new social context. The Theory of Social Representations was used as a theoretical-methodological foundation based on studies by Moscovici (2012), Marková (2017), and Novaes (2010, 2015). To this end, an electronic questionnaire was created consisting of a free word association test and objective and discursive questions. In total, 51 participants responded to the questionnaire, of which 41 had already taken at least one distance learning subject. The results demonstrated highlights in the social representations of professionals and law students, whose understanding of distance education was based on two main axes: discipline and practicality, whose elements sought to balance like a scale, a symbol of the law course. The understanding prevailed that distance classes are not suitable for law degrees, given that the teacher is seen as the protagonist, while in distance learning the student must be the protagonist. Less contemporary elements of the imaginary of legal education were preserved, such as formal rigor and elitist character, since they understood distance education as a modality in which the quality is worse, demonstrating that they intend to become legal professionals not only in view of his social motivation, as well as in view of the power and intellectual status conferred on him, guaranteed by the traditional doctor’s title and pronoun of treatment.
The text addresses the relationship between information technology and bureaucracy, aiming to understand the relationship between implementing information systems (IS) and bureaucratic thinking in times of flexibility. It reviews the literature by analyzing two aspects: the one that argues that, in times of flexibility, the use of information technology promotes the “death” of bureaucracy and the one that claims that technology updates the bureaucratic way of administering. The text presents the methodology used: qualitative, with collection through in-depth interviews, carried out in four companies with ten subjects, and use of thematic analysis to categorize the results. Four themes express the cycle of changes promoted by ISs: i) drivers of IS implementation, ii) IS implementation process, iii) results and consequences of using ISs, and iv) continuous improvement needs. The results allowed the identification of a cyclical process of technological bureaucratization.
There are many challenges facing the legal approach to artificial intelligence regulations (AI). This paper`s attempt is to inestigate the possibility of treating AI powered devices as legal persons. The reasons to consider corporations and commercial organizations as separated legal entities will also be helpful in order to understand such proposal, wich could be extremely helpful, but also brings its own risks.
40 years after the start of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, it persists a matter of public health. Brazil has been a reference on availability of prevention, testing and treatment, but in recent years a spike in cases brought attention. The state of Santa Catarina has shown up in the HIV scenario nationally, with an important number of cities listed in rankings and a continuity of incidence and mortality rates. The present work focuses on delimiting the panorama of HIV/AIDS infection between the years 2018 and 2022 in the state, aiming to define and discuss the tendencies of number of cases and deaths and incidence and mortality rates, per age group and per macro-region. A descriptive study was done collecting data from official HIV/AIDS reports from the state of Santa Catarina, as well as information notified on Brazilian health information systems, allowing to determine incidence and mortality rates, as well as the variations over the years. In total, 11.903 cases were notified between 2018 and 2022, and 2.252 deaths were registered. Incidence and mortality rates had small variations between the years. The group age most affected by HIV in all years studied were 20 to 29 years-old. A general drop in the indicators happened between 2019 and 2020, rising again in 2021. Incidence and mortality rates were the highest in Foz do Rio Itajaí and Grande Florianópolis, the last one concentrating the most cases and deaths overall, but Meio Oeste e Serra and Nordeste e Planalto Norte brought attention as well for their rising numbers over the last years. Mortality rate had a noticeable rise in almost all macro-regions in the year 2021. While further studies are necessary to define if the pattern observed in this study tends to remain the same in 2022 and 2023, HIV infection remains important in Santa Catarina, which demands attention for future healthcare policies. While the numbers presented show that HIV has an impact in public health and correlates with the position of Santa Catarina in the national scenario, they don’t seem to follow the trend of a big spike, having potential to decrease in the future, which could be achieved with stronger actions, resulting in a change of course and a limited presence of the state in the scenario in Brazil.
Feminism is a growing movement worldwide. However, it is essential to question its apparent universality of demands and its real scope of power. This study seeks to understand how French policies, mainly from the progressive sector, in favor of women’s rights, impact women who face more than just sexism but also racism and religious intolerance. Women oppressed on more than one front of oppression require policies designed from an intersectional perspective, and this study precisely analyzed how advances in policies for French women serve only as progressive political propaganda. What was observed, in fact, was the false promise of improvements in the quality of life of women, but which systematically renders marginalized women invisible. Through the analysis of how France behaves towards women and how it behaves towards followers of the Islamic faith, it was possible to arrive at a critical analysis of the existence of human beings intersected by both characteristics. The aim of the study is to demonstrate that it is not possible to separate human beings into single blocks, as if they were solely women or solely Muslims, for example. Despite being seemingly obvious, it is necessary to reaffirm this in times when multiple differences in a single individual are not considered by the government and often not even by the liberation movements themselves. It is essential to understand that when thinking about feminist policies, one cannot assume that all women face the same battles and fight for the same rights. This is exactly the mission of intersectional feminist thought and also the mission of this research.
This article proposes, through a brief literature review, to identify methods or variables used in empirical research in the field of finance to measure the financial constraints of companies. A search in the Scopus database using the search keywords “financial constraints” located an initial base of 27.917 academic publications. To narrow down the base for more relevant results, some article selection parameters were applied: Publications limited to Papers only; restricted to the areas of “Economics, Econometrics and Finance” and “Business, Management and Accounting”; containing the expression “financial constraints” in the field title of the publication. After applying these parameters, the number of articles was reduced to 696, from which 05 articles with the highest number of citations were selected and analyzed. Based on the selected articles, it is possible to observe a variety among the studies regarding the methods of measuring financial constraints, suggesting that there is no standard use of these metrics in finance research.
Since the publication of her debut novel, Troubling Love (L’amore molesto), in 1992, Elena Ferrante has remained in the literary limelight. The enigmatic Italian author, whose true identity remains a subject of intrigue, delves into multifaceted themes—motherhood, female friendship, and poverty—often intertwining them in her narratives. Her works, such as Frantumaglia: A Writer’s Journey (La Frantumaglia, 2003) and In the Margins: On the Pleasures
of Reading and Writing (I Margini e Il Dettato, 2022), offer glimpses into her writing process. However, Ferrante occasionally surprises her readers. In 2007, she released her sole children’s book, The Beach at Night (La spiaggia di note), which introduces Celina, a character from the same universe as Ferrante’s earlier work, The Lost Daughter (La figlia oscura, 2006). This unexpected departure from her usual themes invites exploration. This paper investigates the use of personification in Ferrante’s novel. By imbuing inanimate objects with human qualities, Ferrante crafts narratives that mirror the intricate relationships between mothers and daughters—a recurring motif in her body of work.
With the increase in the aging population, the concern for promoting successful aging has been gaining prominence. In Brazil, it is estimated that by 2050, the elderly will represent 29.6% of the Brazilian population. Consequently, there is a growing need for studies and documents that help understand the implementation of successful aging in Brazil. Therefore, the aim of this study was to understand the gaps and social problems encountered in scientific studies on successful aging in Brazil. A narrative review was conducted to achieve the objective of this study, where 14 articles addressing the research problem were fully read. The studies pointed out the complexity of the challenges faced in promoting successful aging and health in the elderly population. It becomes evident the need for more effective public policies, investments in specialized professional training, improvement in technological accessibility, and an inclusive approach that recognizes the diverse realities faced by the elderly. This information is essential to guide practical interventions and public policy strategies aimed at active and healthy aging. It also impacts future research that can understand these gaps.
Through an interdisciplinary analysis, this work proposes a brief approach that reflects Czech Author Franz Kafka’s work “Der Prozess” as a short literary bridge to the aim of analysing the brazilian agrarian question. It highlights important elements that mark the financialization of land and agriculture in Brazil and its implications in the recent context, with a focus on the entry of a growing number of individuals via instruments such as the Agribusiness
Letters of Credit and Investment Funds in Agroindustrial Production Chains (Fiagro). We do this by using aspects that resonate with the Kafkanian narrative, such as alienation, the exacerbated symbolic power of certain instances, bureaucratization and complex labyrinths that hinder full accountability and identification of the actors involved, as well as their social impacts. For this, we use a bibliographical review and an analysis of data established by the main journalistic vehicles and public agencies, as an ongoing research, the results are the indicatives of the necessity of more studies about the predatory impacts established between the giant financial
market (ranging from large international investment funds to the growing entry of individuals into the stock market) and agribusiness.
This study analyzes the impact customers had in Stanley’s success. Stanley is a insulated water bottle brand that has gone viral after shifting their communication strategies and redefinition of their target market from workmen and outdoorsmen to everyday feminine fit lifestyle. This change is highlighted as it was pivotal for Stanley and the insulated water bottle market. This case study showed through articles, social media posts and a commercial, the
importance of listening to one’s customers and changing communication strategies in order to welcome a new audience.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report finalized in February 2022 underscores the urgent nature of the climate emergency, signaling profound impacts on both the environment and society. Amidst this crisis, various Green New Deal (GND) projects have emerged, offering diverse responses to the multifaceted challenges at hand. However, the intersection of economic policies and environmental imperatives predates the GND, tracing back to the Rio+20 Conference, where concepts like “green economy” and “sustainable economic
growth” were first introduced. This paper critically examines the evolution of these terms and their influence on international agendas, particularly within organizations such as the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). It argues that the concept of the ‘green economy’ has largely emerged as a neoliberal strategy, aiming to commodify environmental processes and prioritize monetary valuation over equitable distribution and social rights. Against the backdrop of an escalating climate crisis, there arises a pressing need for a comprehensive inquiry into our approaches and actions. This study delves deeply into the pervasive influence of neoliberal ideologies on environmental initiatives and economic endeavors, aiming to elucidate the degree to which socio-environmental considerations are integrated into policy discourse and implementation. Moreover, this research provides a nuanced examination of the origins and multifaceted consequences associated with the emergence of the ‘green economy’ paradigm. By dissecting these dimensions, it aims to offer a more thorough understanding of the intricate interplay between neoliberalism, environmental sustainability, and socioeconomic dynamics.
Conditional Cash Transfers have become in the last decades a widespread form of social protection policy in which the poorer segments of the population get access to portions of extra income and mandatory conditions to ensure they break out of poverty via the accumulation of skills required by the formal job market. Using the example of Bolsa Familia and the debate sparked within the literature of Economics, this article performs a review of papers with relevant results to the theme in order to check if, according to the empirical results found by the literature of CCTs, both of quantitative studies and those of social aspects as well, the program is in fact reaching gains in the job market structure as it has achieved in the alleviation of poverty.
Once identified that there is a lack of studies about the electoral participation of persons with disabilities in Brazil, this paper aims to present a literature review on the topic, considering publications in the Portuguese language between 2015 and 2024, the first decade after the Brazilian Inclusion Law came into force. Using the keywords “electoral participation of persons with disabilities in Brazil”, “electoral accessibility” and “representation of persons with disabilities in Brazil”, just 30 studies on the topic were mapped by searching on the Repository of Thesis and Dissertations of Capes (Sucupira Platform), the Capes Periodic Portal, Google Scholar, and the SciELO Brazil Portal. The publications are in the fields of History, Sociology, Social Sciences, Education, Social Development, Psychology, Political Science and Law. The main aspects that were discussed are normative perspectives on democracy and the inclusion of persons with disability in political life, legislation about the right to vote for persons with disabilities, with special attention to mentally disabled people and the conditions of relative and absolute civil incapacity in Brazilian legislation, electoral accessibility, and the actions of institutions as the Electoral Judiciary. Also, some studies present the perspectives of persons with disabilities about how they feel represented and conditioning factors to their political participation. In sum, the literature review indicates a slowly developing study field, which will certainly be improved in the next few years, due to the availability of electoral data about persons with disabilities in Brazil.
Based on the functional analysis of English idioms (idiomatic expressions) proposed by Keizer (2016, 2018), the general objective of this work is to analyse Portuguese idioms applying motivation and compositionality as parameters proposed by the author. Here, we made a inclusion of new categories for types of modification, in order to understand and classify Portuguese idioms coming from the Reference Corpus of the Contemporary Portuguese, into the four types of idioms: (i) non-motivated (opaque) and semantically non-decomposable; (ii) motivated and semantically decomposable; (iii) motivated, non-decomposable, and (iv) new AD-HOC (specific purpose) ones. As a specific objective, we seek to analyse the expressions based on the analysis of levels and layers of Functional Discourse Grammar (Hengeveld; Mackenzie, 2008), in order to understand the one-to-one relationships between form and meaning among the Interpersonal, Representational and Morphosyntactic levels. These objectives aim to answer the following problems: what would the characterization of Portuguese idioms be like from the functional perspective proposed by Keizer (2016, 2018)? Under what pragmatic, semantic and morphosyntactic functions do they operate in the sentence? The methodology was organized on a qualitative analysis of the data, with an initial definition of the object of study and functional analysis of the idiomatic expressions. The partial results showed the applicability proposed by Keizer (2016, 2018) for Portuguese idiomatic expressions, with the emergence of new pragmatic conjunctures, based on transparent and opaque relationships among the FDG levels.
The oral cavity hosts a diverse microbiota composed of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, playing a crucial role in both oral and overall health by influencing processes such as digestion, metabolism, immunity, and protection against pathogens. The balance of this microbiota can be altered by dysbiosis, leading to oral diseases. Factors like diet, inflammatory response, systemic issues, and habits such as alcohol consumption and smoking contribute to this dysbiosis. Conventional cigarettes are known for their toxic composition, while electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) operate by vaporizing liquids containing propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, flavorings, and often nicotine. Despite being marketed as a healthier alternative to conventional smoking, the use of e-cigarettes has increased among young people and non-smokers, raising concerns due to limited evidence on its health effects. This literature review investigates the impact of e-cigarettes on the oral microbiota compared to smokers and non-smokers. A search was carried out in PUBMED using specific keywords, resulting in 38 articles, of which 11 were selected for analysis. The studies revealed significant differences in alpha diversity between e-cigarette users and non-smokers, with higher diversity observed in the former group. Additionally, differences in beta diversity indicated distinct microbial compositions between e-cigarette users and smokers. Veillonella emerged as a bacterium that was increased in e-cigarette users, potentially associated with oral health conditions such as dental caries and periodontal disease. In general, the use of electronic cigarettes is associated with significant alterations in the oral microbiota, underscoring the need for further research to understand these associations comprehensively and address potential health implications.
The present study addresses the situation of children in areas affected by armed conflicts and explosive residues of war. When examining the short- and long-term impacts of these weapons, the vulnerability of children stands out, as they are often the primary direct victims of explosive weapons. Understanding the impact of weapons such as landmines and cluster munitions on children highlights the need for greater attention to this issue to adequately understand and mitigate the effects of these weapons on the most vulnerable. The methodology adopted in the study includes a literary review, analyzing quantitative and qualitative data from various sources, such as articles, international treaties, and reports from humanitarian organizations. The research also highlights the importance of education about the risks associated with explosive weapons, as well as physical and psychosocial assistance aimed at children, aiming to promote their well-being and recovery. Furthermore, international cooperation is highlighted as a fundamental element to enable assistance, emphasizing the need for collaboration between countries and organizations to face the challenges arising from the use of explosive weapons. Therefore, international cooperation plays a crucial role in this process, enabling a coordinated and comprehensive response to the needs of victims, especially children, who represent the future of their communities.
The advent of Artificial Intelligence has introduced significant changes in numerous fields, including those within the humanities. The integration of digital tools has revolutionized research processes by offering new methods for idea creation, material location and archiving, project preparation, text analysis, and dissemination. This article evaluates the effectiveness of AI tools for text processing in humanities research, focusing on the potential for these tools to enhance the efficiency and integrity of academic endeavors. Through a methodology that juxtaposes manual analysis with AI-assisted processes, this study systematically investigates a range of free AI tools, examining their strengths and weaknesses, and performs a SWOT analysis to assess their application within humanities research contexts. Using thematic articles relating to teamwork and team roles as the basis for this study, the research navigates through a sevenstep strategy, from concept grouping to the construction of text, highlighting both conceptual connections and standalone ideas. The outcome of this exploration is a carefully considered deliberation on the reliability of these tools, taking into account their limitations, including ethical implications, while also emphasizing their considerable benefits. The findings indicate that despite the constraints of free versions, AI tools can be valuable and reliable aids for humanities scholars, supporting their research goals while also underscoring the necessity for a responsible approach to their use.
This research article presents an in-depth exploration of the visible manifestations of indigenous presence and Afro-religious groups within the urban landscape of Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Through a comprehensive analysis of cultural events, artistic interventions, and land occupations, it investigates how these manifestations contribute to the city’s rich cultural diversity and interact with its evolving urban fabric. The study also examines the intricate relationship between these religious practices and the pressing issue of climate change, particularly focusing on the challenges posed by environmental degradation and transformations in the urban environment, as well as the adaptive strategies adopted by these communities. Furthermore, it explores the deep-rooted connection between religious practices and nature, delving into the beliefs, rituals, and interactions with the environment within these religious contexts. Additionally, the research endeavours to elucidate how the traditional knowledge and spiritual practices of believers in shamanic and Afro-religious traditions offer unique perspectives and potential solutions to confront the impacts of climate change. Moreover, it identifies and analyses the challenges faced by practitioners in terms of environmental conservation, shedding light on the complex interplay between religion and the climate crisis in the urban context of Belo Horizonte. Through this multifaceted investigation, the study seeks to contribute valuable insights into the intersection of religion, culture, and environmental sustainability within contemporary urban settings.
The shifting geopolitical landscape in Asia has spurred responses from the Japanese government, prompting a reassessment of its national defense policy. Despite tensions in the South China Sea and Far Asia, Japan has opted for moderate adjustments rather than a qualitative
shift towards offensive military capabilities. This paper examines Japan’s evolving defense policy in the face of today’s geopolitical challenges, arguing that Japan’s defense policy adjustments seek to enhance its ability to deter aggression while maintaining its defensive posture and strategic partnerships. Utilizing historical research and analysis of Japanese defense budgets and diplomatic strategies, this study concludes that while Japan has increased defense spending and reoriented strategic partnerships, it remains committed to a deterrence-by-denial approach,
which focus on defensive capabilities and reliance on alliances, aiming to make any hostile action against Japan prohibitively costly for potential adversaries.
The main objective of this research project is to conduct a demonstrative analysis using a qualitative method of scientific articles, aiming to show how other authors have identified the use of artificial intelligence in Brazilian Public Administration and how institutions handle its daily use. Among the findings, it is highlighted that technological advancements in Artificial Intelligences represent both opportunities and risks for use by managers and public servants. The research has identified that institutions and the public system can benefit from simple services automated by AI. The results obtained indicate that AI’s have a promising future in Public Administration, however, ethical, responsible and social use is necessary, since their misuse can result in complications for the entire society.
This work aims to review the evolution in the study of Machine Learning CFD-based predictive modelling in general, highlighting its deficiencies and the possibility for further improvements in this area. Specifically, this paper analyses the growth of this conjoint technique applied to real-time forecasting simulations of pollutant dispersion in an urban mesh with the objective of predicting the behaviour of the flow in less time, improving performance and potentially reducing simulation costs.
In the prebiotic context, before the emergence of the first forms of life, the introduction of cooperation in molecular evolution allowed replicators, molecules capable of self-replication, to form increasingly complex systems, culminating in the emergence of the first cells. However, it is not known how cooperation was introduced in this context. To understand this process, the competition between two types of replicators was analyzed: one that is selfish and another that is cooperative, that is, that catalyzes the replication of other replicators. Therefore, it was studied whether a small population of cooperative replicators can survive if introduced into a population dominated by selfish replicators, in order to analyze the effect of cooperation on competition between pre-biotic replicators. This competition was described by the replicator equation model. Two methodological approaches were used in this study: one analytical and the other computational. In the analytical approach, the equilibrium points of the system of differential equations of the studied model and the conditions for the local stability of these points were found. In the computational approach, two types of simulations were made: one deterministic and the other stochastic. The deterministic simulation was carried out based on traditional methods of numerical solution of differential equations and is more representative for large populations. The stochastic simulation was carried out using the Gillespie algorithm and is more representative for small populations. It is concluded that, in small total populations, susceptibility to random variations is more pronounced, reducing the chance of survival of cooperative replicators in most conditions. Conversely, even for small total populations, cooperative replicators can avoid extinction under conditions that would normally lead to extinction if the total population were larger. Furthermore, it was observed that the catalysis precision of cooperative replicators is a decisive factor: the greater the precision, the smaller the initial population of cooperative replicators needed so that the probability of extinction is less than 50%.
Aquatic biogeography is formed by a panorama of biodiversity that adds a pattern subordinate to the tree of life. Considering this concept, dietary plasticity in freshwater fish is a factor of extreme scientific relevance, mainly for analyzing the ecosystem changes that occur in the aquatic environment. Given the concerns resulting from climate change, which range from ecological phenomena, biological behaviors, to impacts caused on the biodiversity of rivers and marine surfaces, it is necessary to investigate trophic chains from a phylogenetic perspective through analyzes of fish stomach contents, on a panorama of studies that make it possible to understand the autoecology of species and their role in the ecosystem. The qualitative nature used in the database follows the standards of the volumetric and gravimetric method, both with a directional plane of volume and mass, which proposes observing the diet of 298 fish from 17 species, captured at the peak of 24 hours, but precisely night, through the use of nets with 12mm mesh between us, within a radius of 15m. It is concluded from the above, an abundance in the biodiversity of macroinvertebrates of the orders Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera, overlapping them with analyzes of alternative molecular-based hypotheses; When examining the stomach contents of fish, under the observation of an optical microscope, spores of the Endomelanconiopsis fungus were found in macroinvertebrates from the Caenidae family, hydropsychidae, Leptohyphidae e Perlidae , showing a strong concern in the behavioral change of aquatic microorganisms in parasitic symbiotic actions; the analyzes also elucidated the observational bias of changes in aquatic biogeography, indicating preliminary effects of
climate change.
Human T lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) was the first human retrovirus described. Its ability to infect cells of the immune system leads to an immunosuppressed state, making affected individuals vulnerable to opportunistic infections. Dendritic cells (DCs) play a crucial role in bridging innate and adaptive immune responses because their function is to present professional antigen (APCs) and activate T cells. HTLV-1 infection results in the antigen presentation capacity of the affected DCs, which consequently compromises its activation and inefficient immune responses. This is particularly relevant in endemic regions, where coinfection with other pathogens is common. These alterations in the normal function of the body facilitate the persistence of viral infection, leading to an immunocompromising and inflammatory microenvironment that contributes to the persistence of the virus. This article highlights the significant role of DCs in the immune response against HTLV-1 and the subsequent effects on immune homeostasis based on the existing literature.
Trauma profoundly impacts all aspects of behavioral and psychological functioning, causing physiological reactions and alterations in emotions, perceptions, and beliefs regarding the traumatic experience. Disturbing experiences, such as witnessing a brutal death, not only trigger intense emotional responses but also activate “fight or flight” mechanisms in the brain, resulting in the release of stress hormones and a shift in the perception of the world. Beyond physical responses, trauma affects perception, beliefs, and personal identity. It can alter one’s worldview, influence relationship patterns, and change the way an individual views themselves and others. When a traumatic event occurs, the brain activates alert mechanisms that may inhibit rational control, leading to disproportionate and persistent emotional reactions. When the brain detects a threat, it activates primitive areas responsible for automatic responses, which can suppress rational control and provoke disproportionate reactions. If the stress response is blocked, the body may remain in a state of alertness, generating feelings of agitation. In the case of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), the balance between brain areas that detect and regulate danger is disrupted. This results in an inability to control emotions and impulses, with the individual potentially experiencing flashbacks and continuously reliving the trauma. Such reactions can lead to a constant state of alertness, exhaustion, and emotional disconnection. The brain is more adapted to handle immediate threats than to manage prolonged trauma. Therefore, treating trauma requires a specific approach, as the brain’s responses to ongoing trauma are more complex. Therapy is crucial in helping victims process and understand their traumatic experiences, fostering emotional and psychological recovery. Therapeutic intervention aims to restore emotional balance and enable the individual to resume a healthier and more functional life.
Hansen’s disease (HD), or leprosy, is a sickness state caused by Mycobacterium leprae, consisting in a pathogeny that primary attacks directly the skin, causing eruptions, and the peripheral nerves, which if not treated can lead to cases of disabilities, and even death. This study is an ecological study aimed to help the evaluation of the epidemiologic scenario of the disease in Brazil, and raise hypothesis of the data which are provided by Sistema Nacional de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN) at the platform DATASUS, which is directed by the Brazilian Health Ministery, and is a part of the Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), the country health system, referencing the period of 2014 to 2023, evaluating parameters like gender, age, living city, race, and the multibacillary or paucibacillary infection . A total of 317,944 diagnoses are reported in the period, with a downgrade pattern, but with an upside trend since the COVID-19 pandemic. A higher incidence in males, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.3:1, higher proportions in people with 40 to 59 years old (22.8/100.000 inhabitants) and with 60 or more years old (23.4/100.000 inhabitants). Higher proportions of cases in people that are part of yellow (2.36/100.000 inhabitants), mixed race (1.35/100.000 inhabitants) and black (1.28/100.000 inhabitants) ethnic groups. Also noting that 6 of 9 northeastern capitals are present in the top 20 of cities with most notifications, and 2 of 3 cities with most incidence in the top 20 are part of the state of Mato Grosso. In terms of bacillary pattern, the research found a rising trend of multibacillary, in face over paucibacillary infections, from a 2.26 multibacillary/paucibacillary proportion in 2014 to a 5.4 proportion in 2023. The HD is still a concern in the local and global scenario, with a higher proportion of multibacillary cases being a challenge to the health management and for World Health Organization objectives to combat HD.
This article addresses the study of the Least Squares Method for the identification of a grey-box system based on the ARX model. The main characteristic of this method is its ability to provide the best fit for a given dataset, which is why it is commonly used to determine a mathematical model (transfer function) that represents the dynamics of the system under analysis. The objective of this study is to use the Least Squares Method to estimate a mathematical model of an RC (Resistor-Capacitor) circuit, considering it as a grey-box system. The Arduino UNO development platform was used in conjunction with Simulink for the stimulation and collection of experimental data from the circuit, as well as MATLAB® software for the implementation of the Least Squares Method based on the ARX model obtained. According to the proposed validation criteria, the estimated model achieved an accuracy of 99.19% for the measured data in the process.
Pain is one of the most common reasons for seeking health care. Mostly, the choice of opioids as a treatment for pain is justified because they are potent analgesic drugs and have therapeutic efficacy for the management of acute and chronic pain. However, the opioid crisis was triggered by the excessive and indiscriminate prescription of these medications. The use of non-opioid alternatives for acute pain management is being tested and approved in several clinical settings, studies suggest that non-opioid analgesics, such as acetaminofen, ketamine, and ibuprofen, may be equally effective for acute pain management in patients in certain conditions. Besides that, peripheral nerve stimulation, a non-drug alternative, has proven effective in treating neuropathic and postoperative pain. Non-opioid alternatives for acute pain management offer clear benefits, including the effective control of pain with fewer risks of complications associated with opioid use.
This article explores the multifaceted concept of idleness as articulated in Mario Levrero’s La novela luminosa and its thematic continuation in the collective work Atlas Luminoso. Levrero’s writing intricately navigates the realms of procrastination and the inherent tensions between the yearning to write and the daunting challenges that accompany the creative process. Through his lens, non-productivity metamorphoses into a profound existential reflection, inviting readers to consider the deeper meanings behind the act of creation. Atlas Luminoso, developed in the vibrant context of Balneário Camboriú, builds upon these foundational themes, intertwining elements of reality and fantasy to reflect the struggles faced by contemporary authors as they grapple with their creative impulses. By employing a narrative literature review methodology, this study underscores the significance of idleness and procrastination as central motifs in both works. These elements symbolize the complexities of the literary creation process and mirror the broader human experience of navigating desire and self-doubt. The article further delves into the philosophical implications of creative idleness, examining its vital role in the writing processes of Levrero and the authors of Atlas Luminoso. Ultimately, this research posits that idleness, rather than merely functioning as an impediment to productivity, serves as a fertile ground for creativity, opening up unexpected pathways for artistic exploration and personal introspection.
Diabetic wounds pose a significant challenge in clinical settings, often resulting in prolonged healing times and an increased risk of complications. This integrative review synthesizes current literature on the impact of oxidative stress and inflammation on diabetic wound healing, emphasizing the therapeutic potential of natural compounds such as flavonoids and red propolis. The review highlights the mechanisms through which these compounds, particularly rutin, enhance wound healing by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, promoting angiogenesis, and stimulating fibroblast activity. Key findings from various studies demonstrate that these natural agents not only improve wound closure rates but also mitigate the inflammatory response that often hinders healing in diabetic patients. Despite promising results, this review acknowledges the limitations of existing preclinical studies and the need for further clinical research to validate these findings. Ultimately, the insights gained from this review underscore the importance of integrating natural compounds into wound care protocols as potential adjunct therapies for diabetic wound management, paving the way for more effective treatment strategies.
Cultural studies reveal a rich tapestry of human experiences worldwide, prompting us to critically examine societal structures through various lenses. This paper delves into the complex social landscape of India, where ancient traditions coexist with aspirations for change. It specifically focuses on the plight of Indian Dalits, exploring the challenges they face in a deeply religious nation marked by caste-based segregation. By juxtaposing the ideas of sociologists Peter Berger and Andrew Linklater, this study aims to stimulate critical thinking about the Dalit experience. Through a comprehensive literature review, the paper highlights the potential of knowledge management as a tool to address this pressing issue.
The recent introduction of the Unity runtime fee has led many game developers to seek alternative game engines. One such alternative is Godot, which offers flexibility in scripting languages. In this study, we compare the performance and efficiency of two of Godot’s scripting languages: C# and GDScript. Through a series of benchmarks, we aim to provide insights into the strengths and limitations of each language, helping developers make informed decisions when choosing a scripting language for their Godot-based projects.
Due to the nature of the orthogonal cutting, machined parts suffer from residual stress derived from the tribological interactions between the tool, chip, and workpiece. In some cases, the residual stress can be beneficial. On the other side, it can be harmful as it shortens the machined parts life through fatigue, especially if previous manufacturing processes like welding, casting, and forming induced tensile residual stresses are overlooked. Identifying how the cutting conditions influence the residual stress profile can increase the durability, performance, and productivity of critical alloys such as the A2024-T351, widely used in automobile parts, aircraft, munitions, fasteners, missiles, and so on. This work uses a numerical method through finite element analysis to simulate the dry cutting of the A2024-T351 using a Lagrangian approach with the Johnson-Cook constitutive model and a damage initiation criterion. The cutting model was simulated in an explicit solver considering a rigid tool and three different partitions namely: chip zone, sacrificial zone, workpiece zone. This approach facilitates chip formation through an element deletion technique and residual stress extraction on the first 50 µm. To simulate the residual stresses, the cutting model is exported to an implicit solver and the material cooling process is emulated until it achieves a predetermined temperature. Then, the longitudinal residual stress is compared for two different cutting conditions: uncut chip thickness and cutting speed. The results shows that high cutting speed has a greater impact on increasing the residual stress than the uncut chip thickness; when both are changed, increasing the uncut chip thickness and reducing the cutting speed, it tends to heighten the residual stress. Overall, the model can decently predict magnitude and profile for the longitudinal residual stress.
Bibliometric analysis is an important tool for understanding and filtering the main articles from some specific field of research. In this work, the “bibliometrix” package (R language) was used to overview the state-of-the-art of exergetic analysis applied to the membrane separation process. For the research, it was applied the expressions: ‘Membrane AND “exergetic analysis”’, both refined by Topic (TS) and by year from 2019 to 2024. Data were collected from Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-E) – Clarivate Analytics’ ISI – Web of Science©. The bibliometric search performed returned a total of 12 documents, of which 9 are research articles and 3 are reviews. However, some of the documents do not fit the scope of this research, indicating some space for optimization in the search. Through the articles, it was possible to notice that the exergy analyses are mainly done by simulation. Most of the works considered exergy as the sum of the thermal, and chemical exergy. This is important to make it possible to do any comparison among different research. However, because of the variety of usage of the membrane process, comparing the exergy analysis reported in the articles is almost impossible. It indicates that more studies on exergy analysis should be done, in order to increase the number of publications and to become possible to restrict the analysis to some specific process. Related to the scientific collaboration, the bibliometric analysis showed that research is being done without great exchange among the different research groups. It is important to highlight this result since science is a collaborative work, and it is expected that linkage among different research groups will be made when this specific topic becomes more mature.
Violence against women (VAW) is a significant global public health issue characterized by power dynamics that harm women based on their gender. Defined by the United Nations as any act of gender-based violence resulting in physical, sexual, or mental harm, VAW constitutes a major violation of human rights and reflects gender inequality. This study explores whether VAW varies significantly between Czechia and Brazil, both of which have seen recent increases in VAW incidents. Using a qualitative approach, this research employs documentary analysis and comparison, drawing on secondary data from academic literature, reports, and official statistics. The findings reveal critical differences in VAW manifestations and institutional responses. While both nations report alarming prevalence rates, Czechia faces significant gaps in data collection related to VAW. Conversely, Brazil exhibits a higher level of data quality but still reports concerning rates of violence. Institutional responses differ as well, with Brazil offering a wider range of public policies and specific laws addressing VAW. Despite these insights, the study acknowledges limitations due to reliance on secondary sources, which may not fully capture current realities, as well as potential gaps in cultural diversity and local specifics related to VAW. In conclusion, while cultural factors influence VAW expression, the pervasive patriarchal culture underscores the urgent need for effective public policies based on accurate data to address this critical global phenomenon.
This research was conducted by a literature review and analysis of the bibliography regarding the long-term psychological and psychopathological effects of the loss of a loved one due to suicide. Carrying out readings of publications in which the terms “suicide”, “loss”, “childhood” and “mourning” appeared, targeting children and the young population, their exposure to death, and the mourning process and its repercussions. In the process of the research, it was found a clear connection between losing a loved one due to suicide in infancy and the development of mental disorders in the later stages of life. During this article, the importance of further research on this topic was raised, as it was realized that the causes of mental disorders after the death of a loved one by suicide are not completely clear.
Silicon is found in soil and is one of the most dominant mineral nutrients in plants. This mineral helps intolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses, besides increasing photosynthetic activity and nutrient uptake by plants. The vitromorphogenic potential of plant cells and tissues from several species also showed a high increase through the supplementation of silicon sources to the culture media. For this reason, the Si exogenous application to culture media can bring new perspectives to the in vitro cultivation of plants that aim to develop organogenesis, embryogenesis, and other clonal mass propagation techniques. In this regard, this review aims to summarize the role and possibilities of the application of silicon on in vitro cell and tissue cultures.
The institute of preventive detention as a measure to secure criminal procedures is a highly debated topic in the legal field, since there are many concerns regarding the respect of Human Rights during a penal trial, specifically bearing the presumption of innocence in mind. Around the world, many norms have been incorporated to the countries’ legal systems in order to try to preserve the considered to be most valuable personal rights. This article will, then, analyze the law regulating the prisons under preventive measures in both Brazil and the Czech Republic, to point out the differences and similarities in the legislation, under the light of Human Rights institutes integrated to these countries legal systems.
Mental factors such as pressure, emotional states, health response, or personal traits are acknowledged to have a major influence the intensity of manifestations in gastric-esophageal reflux condition. The aim of the present study was to highlight the relationship among stress, psychological traits associated with acid reflux and perceptions of reflux symptoms. Two studies were used to analyze the relationship between reflux and anxiety. A retrospective transversal, made by Ji Min Choi, and another prospective, made by Xiao-Jun Yang. Both provided details about this association, in addition to highlighting the importance of endoscopic examination to identify reflux disease. Finally, this close conection between esophageal reflux disease and anxiety needs to be further explored, so that the guidelines may include a holistic treatment for GERD, improving the quality of life in patients affected by it.
Social structures were challenged and reshaped with the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic. The educational institutions to be assessed in this article, high school, and college, as structures for primary and higher education, respectively, were also affected. However, Brazil’s longstanding social inequalities did not impact any other area as directly as education. Distance Learning, in Portuguese “Ensino à Distância” (EAD), the principal teaching tool used at the time, confronts socioeconomic barriers. Thus, the mental and physical complications that arose in students, as a direct byproduct of forced isolation, span various areas, including the inability to cope with the expectations created by themselves and their families during the tumultuous period of completing high school and taking entrance exams. Therefore, students need to be listened to, as a matter of utmost importance, so we, as a society, can understand the origins of their stress, considering that during the pandemic period, over 48 million students ceased attending the regular face-to-face activities of the pre-pandemic period (GRANDSIOLI et al, 2020) [1].
This study delves into the phenomenon of insider trading within the contemporary financial market, with a particular focus on the contrasting viewpoints of Henry G. Manne and the prevailing regulatory framework. Employing a deductive-analytical approach, the research is underpinned by an extensive examination of various bibliographic resources encompassing dissertations, theses, articles, books, legislation, and jurisprudence. The methodology employed is qualitative in nature, emphasizing empirical analysis and the contextualization of theories considering the present circumstances.
The Airbnb was created with the intention of intermediating short-term rentals over the internet quickly, easily and without major bureaucracy. Airbnb has become a popular platform for short-term rentals, once it has been credited with disrupting the traditional hospitality industry and making travel more affordable and accessible for people around the world. The hosting platform allows individuals to rent their homes to tourists. However, with its rise, becoming the largest accommodation network in the world, many legal problems arose, as there was no law regulating this type of rental. The question arises about the limits that the government can impose on private property, given that Airbnb is a way of using property not foreseen in traditional legislation. This text discusses the effects of Airbnb regulation in different countries. In Europe, some cities, such as Amsterdam and Barcelona, have strict regulations that limit seasonal rentals. These regulations are justified by the government with the aim of protecting local residents. In Brazil, Airbnb regulation is still in its infancy. The lack of regulation has generated conflicts between property owners and residential condominiums, which often prohibit the practice. The issue in question seeks to highlight the need to strike a balance in Airbnb regulation in order to protect the interests of local residents, property owners and tourists.
The uncontrolled and accelerated urbanization of Laguna’s waterfront in Santa Catarina has created several structural and environmental problems that affect the quality of life for residents and visitors. The construction of buildings and paved roads in close proximity to the sea, combined with the lack of an adequate drainage system, exacerbates the issues caused by frequent storm surges and heavy rains that impact the region. As a result, the Mar Grosso waterfront, where these problems are most visible, experiences constant flooding, complicating mobility, public safety, and the preservation of local flora and fauna. Additionally, the natural dunes that prevent the sea from encroaching have been damaged by inappropriate anthropic interventions, further worsening the situation and placing the city at greater risk. This article examines the effects of this urbanization, the failures in drainage planning, and proposes sustainable solutions to mitigate the infrastructure and public health challenges faced by the city.
Osteogenesis Imperfecta, a genetic disease that affects bone tissue, is considered rare. Its main cause is mutations in the genes that code for type I collagen, present in the bone matrix. Nineteen genetic types have been described, divided into groups I to V, based on the severity and progression of the disease. Around 19 genes related to OI were discovered, making the classifications of the condition constantly change. The most common symptoms include blue sclera, imperfect dentinogenesis, and hearing alterations, among others. Diagnosis can be made based on clinical and radiological aspects, and treatment may be pharmacological or non-pharmacological. The prognosis and monitoring of patients vary according to the degree of disease involvement. The overall objective of this research is to study the disease with all its particularities. The methodology consists of a literature review of scientific articles published on the SciELO and PubMed platforms, dated from 2014 to 2024. Inclusion criteria were based on scientific relevance and within the selected time frame regarding the publication date. The key results found were that, since Osteogenesis Imperfecta is a genetic condition, in theory, the gold standard diagnostic method should be genetic sequencing. However, due to its cost and accessibility, most countries do not offer this procedure, which makes the primary diagnosis based on clinical and radiological findings. Considering that OI is a disease with numerous phenotypes, every treatment plan is individual and personalized to each form of the disease, as well as the timeframe from when the diagnosis was established to which level the disease is, according to the natural course of the disease.