Absolute Power Research Articles

Is digital sovereignty normatively desirable?

ABSTRACT Sovereignty is a frequently used term when it comes to analyzing and shaping digital processes and transformations. For example, digital sovereignty has become a central concept in European politics in recent years. In this article, we argue that references to digital sovereignty have largely operated with an implausibly one-dimensional, overly simplified notion of sovereignty in general and its application to the digital in particular. We explore the question of what talking about sovereignty in the context of data and digital spaces can comprise. As a basis for this exploration, we distinguish three aspects of the concept of sovereignty: (1) sovereignty as absolute power, (2) sovereignty as embodied power, and (3) sovereignty as institutional power. We argue that, at least in the European debate on digital sovereignty, two of these aspects pertaining to the intricate relation between sovereign and addressee(s) of claims to sovereignty are consistently overlooked. Once understood as encompassing the three aspects distinguished above, digital sovereignty could be part of a normative framework that is normatively oriented towards vulnerability and freedom, that remains open and sensitive to tensions and ambivalences, and that continuously takes these as starting points for new approaches to governance and regulation of digital practices.

Vulnerable at rest? A resting-state EEG study and psychosocial factors of young adult offspring of alcohol-dependent parents

BackgroundOffspring of parents with alcohol use disorder (AUD) are more susceptible to developing AUD, with an estimated heritability of around 50%. Vulnerability to AUD in first-degree relatives is influenced by biological factors, such as spontaneous brain activity, and high-risk psychosocial characteristics. However, existing resting-state EEG studies in AUD offspring have shown inconsistent findings regarding theta, alpha, and beta band frequencies. Additionally, research consistently demonstrates an increased risk of internalizing and externalizing disorders, self-regulation difficulties, and interpersonal issues among AUD offspring. MethodsThis study aimed to investigate the absolute power of theta, alpha, and beta frequencies in young adult offspring with a family history of AUD compared to individuals without family history. The psychosocial profiles of the offspring were also examined in relation to individuals without a family history of AUD. Furthermore, the study sought to explore the potential association between differences in frequency bands and psychosocial variables. Resting-state EEG recordings were obtained from 31 young adult healthy offspring of alcohol-dependent individuals and 43 participants with no family history of AUD (age range: 16–25 years). Participants also completed self-report questionnaires assessing anxiety and depressive symptoms, impulsivity, emotion regulation, and social involvement. ResultsThe results revealed no significant differences in spontaneous brain activity between the offspring and participants without a family history of AUD. However, in terms of psychosocial factors, the offspring exhibited significantly lower social involvement than the control group. ConclusionsThis study does not provide evidence suggesting vulnerability in offspring based on differences in spontaneous brain activity. Moreover, this investigation highlights the importance of interventions aimed at enhancing social connections in offspring. Such interventions can not only reduce the risk of developing AUD, given its strong association with increased feelings of loneliness but also improve the overall well-being of the offspring.

Validating the effectiveness of a self-report tool to predict unsafe behavior of industrial workers: a QEEG analysis

Objectives. Unsafe behavior (UB) is defined as the likelihood of intentionally or unintentionally deviating from pre-defined plans. This study aims to investigate the validation of a self-report tool for measuring workers’ cognitive-based UB using quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG). Methods. The cognitive-based unsafe behavior questionnaire (CUBQ) was completed by 632 front-line workers in a manufacturing industry to identify differences in the backgrounds of the subjects regarding UBs. Two groups were then selected as extreme groups and QEEG was conducted based on the international 10–20 electrode placement. Results. The mean values of absolute power (AP), alpha/beta ratio (ABR) and alpha/gamma ratio (AGR) from brain oscillations in different regions of the cortex were significantly different between the studied groups (p < 0.05). Additionally, these values were found to be significantly correlated with slips, lapses and mistakes, as measured by certain scales of the CUBQ (p < 0.05). Conclusions. The findings of this study indicated differences in brain oscillation activities among industrial workers with different UB backgrounds. These results confirm the effectiveness of CUBQ as a proactive tool for safety practitioners to predict industrial workers’ UBs.

Relationship between preinduction electroencephalogram patterns and propofol sensitivity in adult patients

PurposeTo determine the precise induction dose, an objective assessment of individual propofol sensitivity is necessary. This study aimed to investigate whether preinduction electroencephalogram (EEG) data are useful in determining the optimal propofol dose for the induction of general anesthesia in healthy adult patients.MethodsSeventy healthy adult patients underwent total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA), and the effect-site target concentration of propofol was observed to measure each individual’s propofol requirements for loss of responsiveness. We analyzed preinduction EEG data to assess its relationship with propofol requirements and conducted multiple regression analyses considering various patient-related factors.ResultsPatients with higher relative delta power (ρ = 0.47, p < 0.01) and higher absolute delta power (ρ = 0.34, p = 0.01) required a greater amount of propofol for anesthesia induction. In contrast, patients with higher relative beta power (ρ = -0.33, p < 0.01) required less propofol to achieve unresponsiveness. Multiple regression analysis revealed an independent association between relative delta power and propofol requirements.ConclusionPreinduction EEG, particularly relative delta power, is associated with propofol requirements during the induction of general anesthesia. The utilization of preinduction EEG data may improve the precision of induction dose selection for individuals.

Efficacy of transcranial direct current stimulation for controlling of food craving in subjects with overweight or obesity

IntroductionThis study investigates the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on food craving improvement and changes in brain function associated with craving in overweight and obese subjects.ObjectivesFood craving disregards the homeostatic mechanisms related to appetite and nullifies the rewarding effects of food, directly contributing to body weight and eventually leading to obesity. In this study, we aim to explore the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on food craving improvement and changes in brain function associated with craving by conducting a total of 10 sessions of tDCS over a period of 2 weeks on overweight and obese subjects.MethodsA total of 86 patients who were overweight or obese (BMI ≥ 23 kg/m2) during the study period were included. The tDCS montage involved placing the anode over the left and the cathode over the right DLPFC. Weight, BMI, neuropsychological variables, and food craving-related variables were assessed. We measured absolute and relative EEG power in 19 channels and analyzed QEEG according to the following frequency ranges: delta (1–4 Hz), theta (4–8 Hz), alpha (8–12 Hz), beta (12–25 Hz), high beta (25–30 Hz), and gamma (30–80 Hz).ResultsAfter the application of tDCS, there was no significant reduction observed in weight and BMI. However, all measures related to food and eating showed a decrease in the intensity of cravings, and there was also a significant reduction in depression, anxiety, and perceived stress. In quantitative EEG analysis, an increase in theta waves was observed in the left frontal area (F7 and F3), an increase in alpha waves in the right parietal area (P4), and a decrease in beta waves in the frontal area (FP2) and occipital area (O1).ConclusionsThis study investigated the effects of tDCS on food craving in overweight and obese individuals, and it was found that there were improvements in psychological factors such as depression and anxiety. Additionally, using quantitative EEG, neurophysiological changes were observed, including an increase in theta waves and a decrease in beta waves.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Characterization of Stream, Hyperconcentrated and Debris Flows from Seismic Signals: Insights into Sediment Transport Mechanisms and Flow Dynamics

AbstractSediments in steep channels can be mobilized to form stream flows, hyperconcentrated flows and debris flows, which can cause damage to downstream communities. However, the understanding of the sediment‐transport mechanisms that control these processes remains incomplete due to the lack of effective monitoring methods. In this study, we utilize seismic data captured during these sediment‐laden flows through field experiments and in situ monitoring to offer insights into flow mechanics and sediment transport mechanisms. Results show that sediment transport in stream flows and hyperconcentrated flows is primarily supported by viscous shear and turbulent stresses, whereas grain collisional stresses play a significant role in debris‐flow dynamics. By characterizing impact rates, basal impulses and flow discharge, seismic monitoring can reveal the internal flow dynamics and bulk flow characteristics as well as the characteristics of sediment transport. Increasing solid concentrations can elicit positive nonlinearities in the frequency‐based scaling relationships between seismic power and hydrographs, indicating transitions in the seismic signal from turbulence‐bedload‐dominated to bedload‐dominated, and grain collisional‐dominated regimes. By introducing the ratio of the real shear stress to the critical shear stress, we refined the phase space for sediment stability. Combining this criterion with the absolute seismic power enables us to establish ground‐motion thresholds for distinguishing different flow types. Our results highlight opportunities to use seismic data for the quantitative inversion of these fluvial processes and debris flows as well as early warning strategies.

Performance monitoring and error detection: The role of mid frontal theta and error-related negativity (ERN) among Indian adolescents from different socioeconomic background

The aim of the study was to investigate the relationship between socioeconomic status (SES) and executive functioning, focusing specifically on performance monitoring, error detection, and their association with mid-frontal theta and error-related negativity (ERN). Employing the widely used flanker task, the research involved two phases with participants aged 10-16 years (15 individuals in the pilot phase and 35 in the second phase). Electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings from distinct brain regions were analyzed during various conditions. The study revealed a notable increase in both absolute and relative theta power at Fcz during the flanker task, with a stronger effect observed during incorrect trials. Furthermore, it underscored the influence of socioeconomic status (SES) on mid-frontal theta, highlighting interactions between SES, gender, and experimental conditions impacting both absolute and relative theta. Intriguingly, the research disclosed a positive correlation between parental occupation and error-related negativity (ERN), as well as between age and ERN. These findings underscore the significance of SES, gender, and age in shaping the neural mechanisms associated with performance monitoring and executive functions. The study contributes valuable insights into the intricate interplay between socio-demographic factors and cognitive processes, shedding light on their impact on goal-directed behaviors and brain activity.

Effects of Simulated Airplane Cabin Noise on In-Flight Meal Perception in the Brain Using Electroencephalography.

Auditory distractions can impair the sensory evaluation of food; however, the specific impact of airplane cabin noise on the sensory perception of in-flight meals remains poorly studied. Here, we investigated the effects of airplane cabin noise on the visual processing of in-flight meal stimuli using electroencephalography (EEG) in twenty healthy male subjects. Resting-state EEG and event-related potential (ERP) responses to in-flight meal images were acquired during quiet and simulated cabin noise conditions. Participants reported mild discomfort and some loss of appetite when exposed to airplane cabin noise. The analysis of resting-state EEG showed an increase in the absolute power of theta and beta frequency bands in the left superior parietal and left frontal/right central regions under simulated cabin noise conditions, compared to quiet conditions. The ERP results showed that the amplitude of responses evoked by visual meal images in the superior parietal area was reduced in the noise condition compared to the quiet condition. Our findings suggest that airplane cabin noise disrupts the visual perception and attentional processing of in-flight food stimuli. These neural changes imply an impact on integrating sensory information, resulting in altered sensory evaluations of food during in-flight dining experiences.

Effects of different work-to-rest ratios of high-intensity interval training on physical performance and physiological responses in male college judo athletes

ObjectiveThis study aimed to compare the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) with work-to-rest ratios of 2:1 and 3:1 on physical performance and physiological responses in male college judo athletes. MethodsForty-eight male college judo athletes were randomly assigned to one of three groups. One used HIIT with a 2:1 work-to-rest ratio (2:1 group), another used HIIT with a 3:1 work-to-rest ratio (3:1 group), while a control group (CG) continued its regular training program as before. Subjects completed two training sessions per week for 6 weeks. The participants completed the Modified Agility T-test, 30-m sprint, medicine ball put, countermovement jump, 20-m multistage shuttle run test, and 30-s Wingate test before and after the training, and blood lactate measurements at 3, 5, 10, and 15 min after the 30-s Wingate test were taken before and after the training. ResultsThe 2:1 group (p = 0.010, d = 0.88 (large)) and 3:1 group (p = 0.002, d = 0.46 (small)) showed significant improvements in VO2max estimated by the 20-m multistage shuttle run test in comparison with pre-test. The 3:1 group had a significant difference in agility in comparison with the CG post-training (p = 0.004). Peak power (PP) and relative peak power (PP/kg) significantly improved in the 3:1 group (p < 0.05) compared to the pre-test. Blood lactate values at the fifth minute (p = 0.029) after the Wingate test in the 3:1 group were significantly decreased compared to the pre-test. ConclusionOur findings suggest that HIIT with the 3:1 and 2:1 work-to-rest ratios can improve aerobic power, and HIIT with a 3:1 work-to-rest ratio can improve absolute and relative peak power.

Antiseizure Medications Normalize Electroencephalographic Functional Connectivity and Power in Children With Benign Epilepsy With Centrotemporal Spikes

BackgroundThe decision to treat children with benign epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes (BECTS) using antiseizure medications (ASM) is controversial. Our goal is to compare the effect of ASM treatment on the alteration of electroencephalographic (EEG) functional connectivity and power across four frequency bands in children with BECTS. MethodsChildren with BECTS with two-year follow-up were retrospectively divided into ASM versus non-ASM groups. The network properties of the EEGs as based on network-based statistic and graph theory were evaluated by the following indices: global efficiency, clustering coefficient, betweenness centrality, and nodal strength in four frequency bands (delta, theta, alpha, and beta). EEG power including absolute power (AP) and relative power (RP) was analyzed in four frequency bands. ResultsIn children with BECTS with ASM treatment, there was no significant change in EEG connectivity across all bands before and after two years of ASM. In children with BECTS without ASM treatment, there was a significant increase of global efficiency, clustering coefficient, and nodal strength but not the betweenness centrality in the delta band after two years of follow-up. A decrease in AP in the delta and theta bands and a decrease in RP in the theta band were found in the ASM group after two years of treatment. ConclusionsOur results suggest that ASM may play a role in modulating the development of increasing overall brain connectivity and in downregulating overt synaptic activity, but not intrinsic focal connectivity, in the early years of BECTS. The changes in the EEG power indicate that ASM significantly normalized slow-wave band power.

Age-Related Differences in Physical Fitness and Performance of an “Ability Test” among Firefighters

This study’s primary objective was to examine the differences in body composition, abdominal strength, absolute and relative power, handgrip strength, one repetition maximum for squat and bench press, and the maximum count of push-up and sit-up repetitions executed within a minute across different age cohorts of firefighters. Furthermore, this study aimed to evaluate the age-related differences in firefighters’ completion times of six firefighting tasks. Eighty-four male volunteer firefighters (age 33.79 ± 6.97 years) were grouped into three age categories, 20–30 years, 31–40 years, and 41–50 years, and underwent the aforementioned evaluations. One-way analysis of variance (MANOVA) revealed that age exerts a statistically significant influence (p &lt; 0.001) on body fat percentage, waist circumference, and waist-to-hip ratio. Furthermore, age significantly affected the overall time of the ability test (p &lt; 0.001) and the duration required to accomplish each individual task (p &lt; 0.001). Additionally, age significantly affected abdominal strength, relative power (as measured by the step test), and the maximum count of push-up and sit-up repetitions performed within a minute. These outcomes support earlier research indicating an age-associated decrement in physical fitness parameters among firefighters. It is recommended that firefighters prioritize maintaining strength and endurance of the abdominal muscles, upper body muscular endurance, and a healthy body weight. The emphasis on specific muscular groups is essential for improving task performance within this profession.

Effect of oscillatory lower body negative pressure and isometric handgrip exercise on cardioautonomic tone of healthy individuals

Objectives: The influence of the autonomic nervous system on the heart can be quantified by assessing changes in the heart rate variability (HRV) during orthostatic challenge and exercise. However, the combination of oscillatory lower body negative pressure (oLBNP) and isometric handgrip exercise (IHE) on HRV has not been previously investigated. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess the effects of (oLBNP) at sympathetic (0.1 Hz) and parasympathetic (0.25 Hz) frequencies and IHE at 30% of maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) on HRV in normal healthy individuals. Materials and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study on 18 healthy male subjects. Beat-to-beat blood pressure, lead-II electrocardiogram, and oLBNP chamber pressure were recorded continuously during oLBNP at 0.1 and 0.25 Hz for 3 min each and IHE at 30% of MVC (for 4 min) along with oLBNP at 0.1 or 0.25 Hz (oLBNP was added in last 3 min) each followed by HRV analysis. Results: The oLBNP at 0.25 Hz reduced the root mean square of successive inter-beat (RR) interval differences significantly as compared to baseline values and came to normal during the recovery phase (P = 0.008). The absolute power of the high-frequency band (HF power), Poincaré plot standard deviation perpendicular to the line of identity (SD1), and percentage of successive RR intervals that differ by more than 50 ms (pNN50) were also reduced significantly during oLBNP at 0.25 Hz and when IHE at 30% of MVC (IHE) was added to oLBNP at 0.25 Hz as compared to baseline (P &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: oLBNP and IHE could be used as a non-invasive haemodynamic stressor to assess the neurocardiac axis and its mechanism of action during orthostatic stresses.

The Divine right of the Tsar and the "unity of Heaven and the Emperor" — the concept of the "Holy Sovereign" in Russian and Chinese political cultures

The image of the sovereign reflects the attitude of the people towards the ruler of the country, which is an important aspect of the study of political culture. This article is devoted to a comprehensive study of the sanctity of the image of the ruler in Russian and Chinese political cultures. The analysis of the origin and specificity of the holy image of the sovereign in the mentalities of both peoples is carried out. The main differences in the process of consecration of the ruler in Russian and Chinese stories are highlighted. In the autocratic Russian and Chinese states, a common understanding of the indisputable authority of the sovereign was at the center of ideology. To ensure the legitimacy and competence of his rights, the Russian tsar turned to Orthodox Christianity for support, and the Chinese emperor turned to Heaven. As a result, since the history of Russia, the power of the sovereign from the very beginning to the end has been limited by the powers of the deity and the authority of the Orthodox Church. In ancient China, the sovereign had "absolute power", since there had never been a so-called "official religion" in Chinese history. Although the monarchical period in both countries has already ended, its duration and stability indicate that the concept of "holy sovereign" as one of the main features of the Russian and Chinese mentality can regulate relations between social groups in the countries. Although the monarchical period in both countries has already ended, its duration and stability indicate that the concept of "holy sovereign" as one of the main features of the Russian and Chinese mentality can regulate relations between social groups in the countries. Such power is of great importance in the modern era.

Degradation in Hypermasculine Cultures of Disposability and Forgetfulness: Nikolai Kolyada’s Ekaterinburg Theatre

Degradation in Hypermasculine Cultures of Disposability and Forgetfulness: Nikolai Kolyada’s Ekaterinburg Theatre

Некоторые особенности репрезентации образа Сталина в советском игровом кино 1930–1940-х годов

The article analyzes a number of films shot in the 1930s and 1940s, in which the process of gradual sacralization of the image of I.V. Stalin on the Soviet screen can be clearly traced. The main attention is paid to the films which can be included in two different groups. The first group is called “Leniniana” (Lenin films) whose function was to establish Stalin as the only true successor of V.I. Lenin and to legalize the political course for absolute power and the policy of “great terror”. The other group of films is “Staliniana” (Stalin films) which reached its peak in the years after the end of the Great Patriotic War. As part of the analysis of these films, the author also touches upon one of the key myths of Soviet historiography about the defense of Tsaritsyn. Performing in several roles in the 1930s from “earthly”, i.e. political (as the only legitimate successor of Lenin), to symbolic (the all-father of the Soviet people) — in the post-war period the figure of Stalin was literally sacralized, acquiring the features of all three divine hypostases: “god the father”, “god the son” and “the god of the holy spirit” (The Fall of Berlin movie). The process of sacralization manifests itself at all levels: in terms of the plot, figuratively and verbally.

Local Governance Principles in Nepal in Relation to Kautilya's Saptanga Theory

Local governance is the decentralization and dispersed subordinate authority that delivers public services at the local level. The present governance policy is based on rich Eastern philosophical principles. Modern political theories and systems are developed or modified versions of classical theories. This paper explores the relevance of Kautilya's concept of Saptanga theory and the governance system in the local governments of Nepal. I have employed a qualitative approach as the methodology to achieve the objectives. Data and information have been collected from policy documents, research articles, and books relevant to the area of study. The analysis of the literature reveals that the Saptanga model is relevant to the principles of local governance in Nepal. The concept of an Absolute King forwarded by Kautilya having sovereign power resembles the concept and practice of an elected mayor at the local level. However, the Absolute King was assumed to have absolute power without having any controlling mechanism, but the elected local-level representatives are controlled by the constitution as the guiding principle. Despite the differences, the comparison of Local governance with the Saptanga theory of Kautilya encourages the local leaders to govern the local governance effectively and efficiently.

Synergetic Near- and Far-Field Plasmonic Effects for Optimal All-Perovskite Tandem Solar Cells with Maximized Infrared Absorption.

The efficiency and reliability of perovskite solar cells have rapidly increased in conjunction with the proposition of advanced single-junction and multi-junction designs that allow light harvesting to be maximized. However, Sn-based compositions required for optimized all-perovskite tandem devices have reduced absorption coefficients, as opposed to pure Pb perovskites. To overcome this, we investigate near- and far-field plasmonic effects to locally enhance the light absorption of infrared photons. Through optimization of the metal type, particle size, and volume concentration, we maximize effective light harvesting while minimizing parasitic absorption in all-perovskite tandem devices. Interestingly, incorporating 240 nm silver particles into the Pb-Sn perovskite layer with a volume concentration of 3.1% indicates an absolute power conversion efficiency enhancement of 2% in the tandem system. We present a promising avenue for experimentalists to realize ultrathin all-perovskite tandem devices with optimized charge carrier collection, diminishing the weight and the use of Pb.

절대권력의 표상: 앙리 4세의 갑옷 초상화

절대권력의 표상: 앙리 4세의 갑옷 초상화

DEED OF SALE AND PURCHASE IN PRUDENTIAL PRINCIPLE APPLICATION BASED ON AN ABSOLUTE POWER OF ATTORNEY (STUDY DECISION NUMBER: 2255 K/PDT/2014)

The displacement of land rights through sale and purchase is required to be carried out before the PPAT either directly by the parties or by the attorney given power, the party which has been given the power of attorney by the land owner (seller) or by the buyer with a power of attorney to sell, made before a Notary, however, power of attorney for selling can be the basis for buying and selling land as stated in the Instruction of the Minister of Home Affairs Number 14 of 1982 concerning the Prohibition of Absolute Power of Attorney as a Transfer of Land Rights issued on March 6 1982, to that, a Notary /PPAT must take an attentive action in the land sales process, despite the fact that the Notary/PPAT does not fully implement the principle of prudence, in addition, the legal validity of the Deed made is questionable. The formulation in this research is: (1) What is the validity of the use of an absolute power of attorney made by a notary in making a land sale and purchase deed? (2) How is the Precautionary Principle applied to the Preparation of Sale-Purchase Deeds by PPAT? This research was conducted using a normative juridical method with a statutory approach and a conceptual approach. The research specification used is an analytical perspective, such as describing and analyzing facts through a statutory approach. The source of legal materials use library research data techniques based on research results. Notaries/PPATs in carrying out their duties and authority must always use the principle of prudence and either PPAT in making authentic deeds should be based on absolute power of attorney and the validity of the power of attorney, in which PPAT should have rejected from the start because absolute power of attorney is prohibited in the land buying and selling process.Keywords: Precautionary principle; Notary/PPAT; Absolute power of attorney.

Climatological comparison of polar mesosphere summer echoes over the Arctic and Antarctica at 69°

Abstract. Polar mesosphere summer echoes (PMSE) have been observed for more than 30 years with 50 MHz VHF radars at various locations in the Northern Hemisphere. Continuous observation of PMSE is conducted on the northern Norwegian island of Andøya (69.3° N) using the ALWIN radar (1999–2008) and MAARSY (since 2010). The same kind of PMSE measurements began in 2004 in the Southern Hemisphere with the Australian Antarctic Division's VHF radar at Davis Station in Antarctica (68.6° S), which is at an opposite latitude to Andøya. Since the radars at both sites are calibrated, the received echo strength of PMSE from more than 1 decade of mesospheric observations on both hemispheres could be converted to absolute signal power, allowing for direct comparison of the measurements. Comparison of PMSE observations obtained at both radar sites during a period of 23 boreal summers (Andøya) and 15 austral summers (Davis) shows that their PMSE signal strengths are of the same order of magnitude, but significantly fewer PMSE are observed in the Southern Hemisphere than in the Northern Hemisphere. Compared to Andøya, the PMSE season over Davis starts about 7 d later on average and ends 9 d earlier, making it 16 d shorter. PMSE over Davis occur less frequently but with greater variability in seasonal, diurnal, and altitudinal occurrence. For example, PMSE over Davis reach maximum altitudes about 1.5 km higher than those over Andøya.