José Bragança de Miranda, Carlos Camponez, José Gomes Pinto
Doutorado em Ciências da Comunicação e com a agregação em Teoria da Cultura pela Universidade Nova de Lisboa, José Bragança de Miranda, em entrevista à Biblos, reflete sobre o tema da liberdade, cruzando a Comunicação, a Filosofia, a História e a Política. Refratário às lógicas monistas do pensamento e das organizações, o atual reitor da Universidade Lusófona considera que, a ter existido, o fim da História abriu-se com as Revoluções que conduziram ao controlo do poder absoluto. Reconhecendo que o controlo desse poder não é uma conquista definitiva, José Bragança de Miranda defende, no entanto, que a História mostra que a escolha do pior não se apresenta como uma inevitabilidade para a Humanidade. Por isso, mais do que discutir conceitos como a Liberdade, considera que é importante fazer uso deles, atualizando em cada ínfimo presente o legado de muitos heróis do passado.
History of scholarship and learning. The humanities
Ayda Mussa Yousif Abdulrahman, Rafiduraida binti Abdul Rahman
This research aims to investigate the current operational status of the Ajman Police, focusing on identifying elements and issues that affect operational excellence. Using change management models, including Kotter's 8 Step Model and the ADKAR Model, the paper critically examines the hierarchical structure of the Ajman Police, its specialist groups, and their performance indicators. The problem statement highlights the negative impact of traditional and rigid organizational structures on innovation, responsiveness, and the limitations of implementing effective public safety measures, prevention, and community policing. The research design adopted is a qualitative methodology, and a sample of senior police officers was interviewed to record their views on the issues of operation and preparedness to change. In conducting the study, Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 participants. Results indicate that the Ajman Police has already ventured into technological advancements and civil policing. However, there are still gaps in continuous development, innovation, and the implementation of modern change management practices. The research proposes a culturally, operationally, and technologically oriented framework for change management, specifically tailored to the context of the Ajman Police. The study makes a significant research contribution to both the practice and theory fields by providing a guideline for a change management roadmap for the Ajman Police and other similar agencies, ensuring operational excellence in fast-changing environments.
Management information systems, Economic history and conditions
Raffaella Maria Ribatti, Luciana de Gennaro, Alessia Daponte
et al.
Abstract Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) are a significant public health concern with complex etiologies involving genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Here, we present BioSUD, a biobank that, by integrating genomic data with comprehensive phenotypic assessments, including sociodemographic, psychosocial, and addiction-related variables, was designed to investigate the etiology of SUDs within the Southern Italian population. We assessed a cohort of 1,806 participants (1,508 controls and 298 individuals with SUD diagnosis). Genomic analyses of the newly generated genotypes showed a predominantly Southern Italian ancestry for the BioSUD cohort. Admixture analysis reveals a complex history of genetic admixture in Southern Italian populations, exhibiting Southern European, African, and other ancestries. This results in significant genetic variation, potentially limiting the applicability of translational studies primarily based on Northern European ancestries. From a social and psychological perspective, individuals with SUDs exhibited lower socioeconomic status, increased exposure to adverse experiences, and compromised familial and peer relationships relative to controls. These results show that the BioSUD cohort is valuable for studying SUD-associated complex behavioral traits.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), a chronic condition commonly observed in adults, particularly among the elderly, is characterized by a dysfunctional insulin response that impairs blood glucose regulation, resulting in persistent hyperglycemia. Ginseng, a medicinal plant with significant economic value and a longstanding history of therapeutic use in Asia, has shown efficacy against various diseases. Extensive clinical and experimental studies highlight ginsenosides, its primary bioactive compounds, for their multiple therapeutic effects across a range of conditions, including endocrine, cardiovascular, and central nervous system disorders. Various ginsenoside types have demonstrated potential in lowering blood glucose levels, reducing insulin resistance, and alleviating complications through the modulation of key protein targets and signaling pathways. This review consolidates the pharmacological actions and mechanisms of distinct ginsenosides in managing diabetes and its complications, offering a theoretical foundation for further pharmacological research and novel drug development for T2DM treatment, while also providing robust theoretical support for future clinical applications.
Kholoud Alqasem, Sakhr Alshwayyat, Salsabeel Aljawabrah
et al.
Abstract Background Small cell carcinoma (SCC) is a neuroendocrine tumor that usually originates in the lungs but can also arise from extrapulmonary sites. Extrapulmonary small cell carcinomas (EPSCCs) are aggressive and rare, with limited data guiding their management. This case report contributes to the literature by presenting the diagnosis and treatment of primary peritoneal SCC. Case presentation This case describes a 69-year-old man who presented with abdominal distension and pain, raising concerns for metastasis. He had a history of prostate cancer treated with radical prostatectomy and pelvic lymph node dissection. Biopsy and imaging revealed metastatic SCC involving the peritoneum and omentum. A diagnosis of primary peritoneal SCC or SCC of unknown primary origin was made due to the absence of a detectable primary tumor in typical sites. The patient underwent three separate courses of carboplatin/etoposide chemotherapy (6 cycles each), with each course resulting in significant disease regression and symptom relief. Recurrence was managed effectively with repeated chemotherapy cycles, but long-term follow-up showed the need for continued treatment to maintain disease control and quality of life. Conclusion This case underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach and patient-centered care in managing rare cancers like primary peritoneal SCC. Further research is essential to clarify its molecular characteristics and improve therapeutic options. Graphical abstract
Neoplasms. Tumors. Oncology. Including cancer and carcinogens
Dear Editor,
Low back pain (LBP) is not a disease itself, but it can be a sign of number of a number of conditions, such as pain near the midline, which can occasionally be localized sometimes, and occur between the inferior gluteal folds and costal margin, with or without referred leg pain [1,2]. The prevalence of LBP has been rising globally; According to recent studies Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have rates of 64.8%, 19.8%, 69.5%, 40.6% and 36.2% respectively [3].
LBP can be categorised as either non-specific or specific. Non-specific means that the experience of pain cannot be confidently accounted for by another diagnosis such as an underlying disease, pathology or tissue damage. It is non-specific in about 90% of cases [4].
Study conducted in a Pakistani Tertiary Care Hospital showed that most of the LBP patients are the ones in the 21–40 years old age group. The study highlighted that the most frequent risk factors associated with LBP are hypertension, dyslipidaemia, history of lower back trauma, history of prolonged unsupported sitting, office workers using desks and healthcare environment. Additionally, LBP was also identified in women at home. In Pakistan, a woman is expected to do tiring house chores which involves hand washing clothes and dishes, cooking and cleaning all the house without any care given to posture or comfort. Physical inactivity, soft foam mattresses, smoking, drinking, heavy lifting, sleep disorders and anxiety were also found in association with LBP [5].
Nowadays, LBP has gained a significantly high attention in the Pakistani adult population, particularly among some occupations involving farmers, rickshaw drivers, office workers, teachers and textile workers.
Effective management of LBP requires a comprehensive approach tailored to whether the pain is specific or non-specific. For non-specific LBP, combining physical therapy, psychological support, lifestyle changes, and careful use of medications can significantly improve outcomes. Comprehensive clinical assessment and a biopsychosocial approach are crucial, especially for chronic cases. Prioritizing non-pharmacological interventions and focusing on rehabilitation can help maintain independence and quality of life.
Dear Editor,
Low back pain (LBP) is not a disease itself, but it can be a sign of number of a number of conditions, such as pain near the midline, which can occasionally be localized sometimes, and occur between the inferior gluteal folds and costal margin, with or without referred leg pain [1,2]. The prevalence of LBP has been rising globally; According to recent studies Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have rates of 64.8%, 19.8%, 69.5%, 40.6% and 36.2% respectively [3].
LBP can be categorised as either non-specific or specific. Non-specific means that the experience of pain cannot be confidently accounted for by another diagnosis such as an underlying disease, pathology or tissue damage. It is non-specific in about 90% of cases [4].
Study conducted in a Pakistani Tertiary Care Hospital showed that most of the LBP patients are the ones in the 21–40 years old age group. The study highlighted that the most frequent risk factors associated with LBP are hypertension, dyslipidaemia, history of lower back trauma, history of prolonged unsupported sitting, office workers using desks and healthcare environment. Additionally, LBP was also identified in women at home. In Pakistan, a woman is expected to do tiring house chores which involves hand washing clothes and dishes, cooking and cleaning all the house without any care given to posture or comfort. Physical inactivity, soft foam mattresses, smoking, drinking, heavy lifting, sleep disorders and anxiety were also found in association with LBP [5].
Nowadays, LBP has gained a significantly high attention in the Pakistani adult population, particularly among some occupations involving farmers, rickshaw drivers, office workers, teachers and textile workers.
Effective management of LBP requires a comprehensive approach tailored to whether the pain is specific or non-specific. For non-specific LBP, combining physical therapy, psychological support, lifestyle changes, and careful use of medications can significantly improve outcomes. Comprehensive clinical assessment and a biopsychosocial approach are crucial, especially for chronic cases. Prioritizing non-pharmacological interventions and focusing on rehabilitation can help maintain independence and quality of life.
Resumen El artículo analiza la vida, el exilio y la obra artística del pintor republicano José Luis Fernández Martínez (pintor Sarralde-“Pasajes”) bajo el gobierno republicano y el sucesivo régimen franquista. Alistado como voluntario en el ejército de la República, fue afectado en la Sección de Cultura del Comisariado General de Guerra trabajando codo a codo con otros artistas; sobrevivió a los vencedores enmascarando su pasado durante la posguerra y haciendo frente a los estragos de una España ennegrecida durante la etapa del primer franquismo. Tuvo la suerte de viajar a América muy pronto, en 1945, y la osadía, de cara al gobierno franquista, de entablar amistad con exiliados republicanos en México, en donde se casó y formó familia. Desde entonces y durante largos años residió entre las dos orillas. Su pincel retrató a ilustres personajes del ámbito de la cultura y política durante el gobierno republicano, el régimen franquista y la república de México; pero también aquellos otros exiliados republicanos o personajes afines a la causa en América. Fue único en conectar uno y otro mundo, tan distintos, gracias a su arte.
Abstract This chapter begins by summing up the results of the 5th Century debate and by highlighting its philosophical significance. Despite offering impressive responses to the Moral Cynics and making notable contributions to early ethical and political thought, the Friends of Justice failed to prove that justice is more profitable than injustice. The chapter next argues that that Plato was keenly aware of this debate: not only was he interested in the sophists quite generally, but two dialogues in particular include arguments very much like those made by the 5th Century Cynics and the Friends. Gorgias features a pair of interlocutors who believe that injustice is more profitable than justice, one of whom also advocates an extreme sort of hedonism reminiscent of certain Cynics. Protagoras includes a sophist who offers a defence of justice so close to the one earlier found in the Anonymous Iamblichi that they must be two iterations of the same argument.
UNLABELLED Indoor air is a dominant exposure for humans. More that half of the body's intake during a lifetime is air inhaled in the home. Thus, most illnesses related to environmental exposures stem from indoor air exposure. Indoor air was believed to be a major environmental factor for more than a hundred years, from the start of the hygienic revolution, around 1850, until outdoor environmental issues entered the scene, and became dominant around 1960. Main environmental issues today are outdoor air quality, energy use, and sustainable buildings, but not indoor air quality (IAQ). But, there is mounting evidence that exposure to IAQ is the cause of excessive morbidity and mortality. In developing regions indoor unvented burning of biomass for cooking is the cause of at least 2,000,000 deaths a year (mainly women and children), and in the developed world IAQ is a main cause of allergies, other hypersensitivity reactions, airway infections, and cancers. Cancer of the lungs is related to indoor radon and ETS exposure. Allergies, airway infections and sick building syndrome are associated with, e.g., "dampness", a low ventilation rate, and plasticizers. In the future more emphasis must be given to IAQ and health issues. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS Indoor air quality plays a major role with regard to public health. The main problems are in the developing countries with the indoor burning of biomass for cooking and heating. The solution is a stove with a chimney. In developed regions, good ventilation, getting rid of "dampness" problems, and adequate testing of new building materials would reduce morbidity and mortality.