Historical Perspective Research Articles

Environmental literary studies and their didactics: for a School of Life

Crises call for rethinking and metamorphosis; the sense of loss of meaning, ecological challenges and, more specifically in the case of our study, the crisis in teaching careers and the decline in literary studies enrolments call for meta-reflection, an analysis of what is being done here and elsewhere, and of what has been done before, in order to implement transformative, efficient action that makes sense and creates links. We propose to take a conceptual look at a flourishing field of research - environmental literary studies - and another emerging one - its didactics - by placing our reflections in a historical perspective: while the 19th century is known for being the century of knowledge sharing, it also saw the emergence of voices advocating interdisciplinary educational approaches, practices bringing together life sciences and literature, book-based knowledge and the 'outdoor classroom'. These are perspectives and experiences that are particularly relevant today.

Assessing food preferences in Spain: a historical perspective including attributes and values

PurposeThis study aims to identify how Spanish consumers’ extrinsic preferences for food have evolved by examining the extant literature on food preferences in Spain, focusing on food-related attributes and food-related values.Design/methodology/approachThis study is based on a synthetic review of the extant academic literature on Spanish consumer preferences for food-related attributes and food-related values from the mid-20th to the 21st century. This study uses key economic and social milestones that are most likely to influence food value chain actors to show how consumer preferences have evolved over the study period.FindingsSpanish consumer food attribute preferences expanded as the food sector of the nation continued to grow, and value preferences showed a similar pattern from the mid-20th to the 21st century. The drivers of these preferences were trust, lifestyle, education (campaigns), sociodemographic factors and purchasing power.Originality/valueEvaluating the extant literature’s contribution to consumer preferences for food-related attributes and values is important because it can aid in understanding the hierarchy and variety of consumers’ food preferences as well as the factors that drive these preferences. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to explore how Spanish consumer preferences evolved between the mid-20th and 21st centuries.

Apuntes para una historia intelectual de la Fundación Friedrich Ebert en América Latina

The promotion of democracy was from its origins one of the banners of the Friedrich Ebert Foundation (FES), ideologically linked to the German Social Democratic Party (SPD) and which disembarked in Latin America in the 1960s. It is this transnationalization that we are interested in exploring from the perspective of intellectual history (Altamirano, 2005, Palti, 2004-2005), breaking with a unidirectional idea of transfers and circulations, in order to understand the exchange and connections between regions, ideas and people. The article first focuses on explaining the particularity of the German Political Foundations and the functioning of the FES in Latin America and then goes on to explore three intellectual projects of the Foundation, such as the Latin American Institutes for Social Science Research (ILDIS), the Center for Democratic Studies of Latin America (CEDAL) and the New Society Journal (NUSO). Based on the premise that ideas are important insofar as they conveyed meanings and representations in the region, this paper seeks to map the little known but strong presence of the FES in Latin America during the Cold War years. And how it became an important platform capable of connecting people, ideas and regions. In this framework, the FES, and this is our bet, can be thought of as an intellectual network that, while participating in and promoting debates on development, dependence, anti-imperialism, revolution and democracy, was building a space for indigenous social democracy.

Analisis Sejarah Penyebab Awal Konflik antara Amerika Serikat dan Iran

The conflict between the United States and Iran is one of the most prominent and complex geopolitical issues in the world. This research aims to analyze the initial causes of the conflict between the two countries from a historical perspective. It begins in the early 20th century with the increasing Western interest in Iranian oil and covers the fall of Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh in 1953 through a CIA-backed coup, which was a pivotal moment affecting bilateral relations. The study also examines the 1979 Iranian Revolution, which ended the US-backed Shah's regime and marked the start of open hostility. Using historical research methods and document analysis, the study identifies economic, political, and ideological factors that contributed to the escalation of the conflict. The findings show that a combination of foreign intervention, economic interests, and domestic political changes in Iran have played a crucial role in shaping the hostility between the United States and Iran. These insights provide a deeper understanding of the root causes underlying the ongoing conflict.

Nucleophilic addition to carbonyl groups from qualitative to quantitative computational studies. A historical perspective

Nucleophilic addition to carbonyl groups from qualitative to quantitative computational studies. A historical perspective

Critical Infrastructure in Historical Perspective: The Portuguese Railroad Network in the Second Half of the Nineteenth Century

In the 1850s, Portugal initiated an ambitious public works program spearheaded by railroads. In this article, I analyze how policymakers (congressmen, government officials, engineers, and military officers) debated and managed the construction and operation of the Portuguese railroad network using the theoretical framework of critical infrastructure. I show that railroads were deemed critical to modernize the country, draw it closer to the European core nations and further from the periphery, and to attract traffic to the Portuguese harbors. The absence of railroads was considered a vulnerability that could jeopardize Portugal as a nation and it fostered a sense of urgency that motivated policymakers to act, to a large extent, hastily. The construction of the network brought about other vulnerabilities that, for different motives, could threaten the future of the country. In a parallel way, the implementation of the system was marked by vulnerabilities that originated within or surrounding it, which limited its technical potential. Balancing between a literature review and the use of primary sources (parliamentary debates, technical reports, the press, and photography), I argue that the criticality associated with railroads, as a sociotechnical construction, was central to motivate their construction, but different vulnerabilities, inherent or external to the system, limited their influence and the advantages touted by its promoters.

Get Ready to Sharpen Your Tools: A Short Guide to Heterotrimeric G Protein Activity Biosensors.

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest class of transmembrane receptors encoded in the human genome, and they initiate cellular responses triggered by a plethora of extracellular stimuli ranging from neurotransmitters and hormones to photons. Upon stimulation, GPCRs activate heterotrimeric G proteins (Gαβγ) in the cytoplasm, which then convey signals to their effectors to elicit cellular responses. Given the broad biological and biomedical relevance of GPCRs and G proteins in physiology and disease, there is great interest in developing and optimizing approaches to measure their signaling activity with high accuracy and across experimental systems pertinent to their functions in cellular communication. This review provides a historical perspective on approaches to measure GPCR-G protein signaling, from quantification of second messengers and other indirect readouts of activity to biosensors that directly detect the activity of G proteins. The latter is the focus of a more detailed overview of the evolution of design principles for various optical biosensors of G protein activity with different experimental capabilities. We will highlight advantages and limitations of biosensors that detect different G protein activation hallmarks, like dissociation of Gα and Gβγ or nucleotide exchange on Gα, as well as their suitability to detect signaling mediated by endogenous versus exogenous signaling components or in physiologically relevant systems like primary cells. Overall, this review intends to provide an assessment of the state-of-the-art for biosensors that directly measure G protein activity to allow readers to make informed decisions on the selection and implementation of currently available tools. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: G protein activity biosensors have become essential and widespread tools to assess GPCR signaling and pharmacology. Yet, investigators face the challenge of choosing from a growing list of G protein activity biosensors. This review provides an overview of the features and capabilities of different optical biosensor designs for the direct detection of G protein activity in cells, with the aim of facilitating the rational selection of systems that align with the specific scientific questions and needs of investigators.

Sketching the Tactical Position and Maritime Connectivity of Bengal with Malay Archipelago (321 BCE-750 CE)

This study examines the geographical and strategic proximity of Bengal and the interplay between the Bengal and Southeast Asian regions which two entities had a linkage and a great bonding from 321 BCE to 750 CE concerning maritime activities. At that time, Southeast Asia; mainly the Malay Archipelago was known as the Golden Chersonese. Despite having infinite reciprocal geographical and maritime significance, their tactical positions and strategic factors that impacted inter-linkages are seriously marginalised and infrequently looked at from the historical perspective. The study adopts historical research method in analysing the accounts of ancient Greek-Roman geographers and Chinese travellers, ancient texts, and archaeological documents qualitatively to unfold the contextual geographical factors between these two regions. The findings of this study show the strategic proximity of Bengal and its role in creating linkages with Southeast Asia through ports and maritime connectivity. It also demonstrates the socio-cultural impacts on the Southeast Asian regions created by the Bengal’s contacts during the ancient period. Journal of the Asiatic Society of Bangladesh (Hum.), Vol. 69(1), 2024, pp. 123-143

The Central Role of Cytogenetics in Radiation Biology.

Radiation cytogenetics has a rich history seldom appreciated by those outside the field. Early radiobiology was dominated by physics and biophysical concepts that borrowed heavily from the study of radiation-induced chromosome aberrations. From such studies, quantitative relationships between biological effect and changes in absorbed dose, dose rate and ionization density were codified into key concepts of radiobiological theory that have persisted for nearly a century. This review aims to provide a historical perspective of some of these concepts, including evidence supporting the contention that chromosome aberrations underlie development of many, if not most, of the biological effects of concern for humans exposed to ionizing radiations including cancer induction, on the one hand, and tumor eradication on the other. The significance of discoveries originating from these studies has widened and extended far beyond their original scope. Chromosome structural rearrangements viewed in mitotic cells were first attributed to the production of breaks by the radiations during interphase, followed by the rejoining or mis-rejoining among ends of other nearby breaks. These relatively modest beginnings eventually led to the discovery and characterization of DNA repair of double-strand breaks by non-homologous end joining, whose importance to various biological processes is now widely appreciated. Two examples, among many, are V(D)J recombination and speciation. Rapid technological advancements in cytogenetics, the burgeoning fields of molecular radiobiology and third-generation sequencing served as a point of confluence between the old and new. As a result, the emergent field of "cytogenomics" now becomes uniquely positioned for the purpose of more fully understanding mechanisms underlying the biological effects of ionizing radiation exposure.

Conducting Research as a Medical Student: A Need for Change

This article is a short opinion piece addressing the personal and professional importance of performing research, while also highlighting some of the difficulties we might face while doing so. With this said, a historical perspective on research conducted by medical students is given, which exemplifies the significance of this component in students' lives and future careers. Alongside this, the statistics also exemplify the student's desire to do more research and how universities have failed to meet students’ expectations. Finally, some examples of small but immediate measures are offered that can help reform medical curricula through new mentorship regimes, better communication, more financial support, and better overall opportunities that will be key in motivating more students to conduct research.

Dioecy hotspots in Southeast Florida (U.S.A.), especially Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens, Arecaceae) thickets

A survey of woody marshland hummocks, of Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens, Arecaceae) thickets, and of additional Southeast Florida habitats revealed multiple sites with dioecy rates of 50–100%, especially in the Saw Palmetto thickets. These rates exceeded any encountered for woody species in a literature review globally or for Florida. A particularly notable feature of the thicket sites is extreme thick low-elevation palm frond canopy coverage, consistent with the historical perspective that a benefit of dioecy is sexual selection for seed quality where harsh ecological filters limit establishment.

The Importance of Historical Perspective

The Importance of Historical Perspective

Historical newspapers unlock new insights into the evolution of seafood value chains in Brazil

IntroductionThis study examines the understudied historical evolution of the seafood value chain in southern Brazil by analysing newspaper articles from Santa Catarina state, published between 1855 and 2019.MethodsThrough a meticulous review of 598 selected articles, we reconstruct the development and transformation of small-scale fisheries (SSF) and their interaction with the emerging industrial fishing sector.Results and discussionOur findings highlight the central role of SSF in the seafood value chain, contributing significantly to production, processing, retail, and trade, despite increasing competition and challenges from industrial fishing and aquaculture. The analysis reveals shifts in fish species targeted, processing methods employed, market dynamics, and consumption patterns over time. Notably, the study uncovers the resilience and adaptability of SSF in maintaining their importance to local economies and food security, amidst technological, economic, and regulatory changes. Furthermore, it underscores the often-overlooked contributions of women in seafood value chains, advocating for their equitable recognition. By providing a comprehensive and multi-faceted historical perspective, this research can inform contemporary policy-making, aiming to foster more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable seafood value chains in Brazil.

Septoplasty During Primary Cleft Lip Reconstruction: A Historical Perspective and Scoping Review.

Traditional surgical approaches excluded septoplasty at primary cleft lip reconstruction due to concerns about restricted nasal and midfacial growth. Modern opinion in the treatment of cleft lip has increasingly employed primary septoplasty; this scoping review and historical perspective aims to chronicle the evolution of septoplasty in patients born with cleft lip and palate and discuss current evidence. The historical perspective explicitly contrasts American and European perceptions of septoplasty in cleft lip deformity and the competing anatomical theories of the role of the septum on midfacial and nasal growth. For the scoping review, articles were extracted from Embase, PubMed, and Medline, as well as manual searches of reference lists. Results were compiled, grouped, and appraised by date, outcomes, and historical significance. Inclusion criteria consisted of children who underwent primary septoplasty for any indication and were followed up on outcomes of facial growth and nasal function. Literature reviews, opinion articles, case reports, guidelines, or studies not available in English or online were excluded. Evolving anatomical theories relating to midfacial growth in the mid-late 20th century underpinned a progressive ideological shift on the safety and efficacy of septoplasty in children. This is supported by our scoping review, which included 23 articles mutually selected for inclusion by 2 blinded assessors. Several competing methods have been employed to measure endpoints on facial growth and nasal function, but generally indicate primary septoplasty is successful in improving nasal function and preserving midfacial growth. Perceptions towards septoplasty on facial growth in the pediatric population have transformed significantly and suggest a growing acceptance of primary septoplasty techniques in patients born with a cleft lip.

About the Role of Perceptual Psychology in Art History

Abstract Numerous challenges that arise in the field of art history require recourse to expertise in perceptual psychology. In addition to explaining the meaning that people attach to individual works of art and their content, the effect that arises in the recipient is essential to deciding whether the work of art could adequately represent a statement. In addition, with in-depth knowledge of the human act of perception, it is easier to understand what people can and cannot process, when, and how. Art and perception have always formed a unity, as a work of art has no meaning without perception. Artists often acted as intuitive psychologists who understood very well how human perception works and how certain effects can be achieved. Accordingly, art history, which is dedicated to art from a historical perspective, requires precisely this expertise in a systematic manner to adequately depict, describe, and explain the dimension of perception. The following programmatic paper aims to make clear why both disciplines should work closely together and shows what such fruitful paths of joint work could look like.

Suffering Together: Photos and Stories of Nsukka Residents During Nigeria's 2023 Currency Redesign Crisis

The Central Bank of Nigeria's (CBN) attempt to redesign the 200, 500, and 1000 naira notes by December 2022 led to a cash crunch and humanitarian crisis, exposing the federal government's shortsightedness and inherent weakness. Amidst the crisis that peaked between late January and February 2023, opportunities for social connections and shared experiences emerged. In this essay and visual archive, I explore the financial crisis phenomenon in Nsukka metropolis, Southeastern Nigeria, from a historical perspective, integrating personal insights, respondents' views, and archival sources. Analysis of observational notes, visual and textual data through the lens of Critical Theory reveals the importance of social connection and cultural ideology among Nsukka residents during a difficult time in Nigerian history. Photographic images of crowded bank scenes and remarks like "You are not the only person" evoke personal and public misery and frustration during the currency redesign crisis. The argument is that those in power can create complex situations like artificial scarcity of valuable commodities for questionable reasons, while the masses bear the brunt and enact and demonstrate servility in the process.

Exploring Global Phenomena of Modern Islamic Culture: A Systematic Literature Review

The ongoing changes brought about by time, globalization, and modernization compel individuals to adapt, significantly impacting Islamic culture worldwide. This article explores the themes, trends, and transformations of modern Islamic culture through a Systematic Literature Review methodology using Scopus. Out of 1,097 documents, 30 documents from 17 countries were analyzed. Most of these were authored by researchers from the USA, Iran, and Indonesia. Three main themes emerged from the analysis: Islamism, cultural relations, and historical perspectives. Additionally, five key themes were identified: Diverse Perspectives on Islamic Tradition, Adaptation to Modernity, Ethical and Philosophical Inquiry, Cultural and Social Dynamics, and Global-Local Interactions. The results of this study highlight the success of Muslim communities in preserving Islamic culture in the modern era while integrating Islamic values into various aspects of life, including law, arts, and sciences. This article contributes to a deeper understanding of the global phenomenon of modernization within Islamic culture.

Tradition and gender

Until recently, little attention has been given to men’s surname choices in couples. By analysing men’s narratives, this study investigates the motivations and social implications of their choices. Drawing on historical and sociocultural perspectives, it demonstrates how men’s names are privileged in Norwegian culture compared to women’s names despite a high degree of gender equality. Men who break the norms want to make their own decisions. Overall, this research contributes to the broader discourse on gender equality by highlighting the transformative potential of seemingly small acts, such as name choices. It also contributes to socio-onomastics by highlighting surname choice as a meaningful and gendered activity.

Historical Perspective of Homeopathy in the Brazilian Public Health System.

Homeopathy was introduced in Brazil with the French doctor Benoît Jules Mure's arrival in 1840 and was officially recognised in 1980 as a medical specialty by Brazilian regulatory authorities. Public health policies played an important role in incorporating homeopathy into the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS), emphasising homeopathy's coherence with SUS's fundamental principles and with other national health policies. Homeopathy is supported by the guidelines of the National Primary Health Care Policy and the National Policy on Integrative and Complementary Practices, and its offer in the SUS has been recognised since 2006. Challenges persist, however, such as the low prevalence of the use of homeopathy, lack of investment in professional training and under-reporting of homeopathy outpatient appointments. Investments in disseminating information on homeopathic philosophy and raising awareness among managers and health professionals are essential to strengthen its presence in the Brazilian public health system.

JUDICIAL CASE FLOW MANAGEMENT “CHECKPOINT”: HOW FAR HAVE WE GONE?

This article examines the introduction of judicial case flow management into South African law from a historical perspective, its initial failures, resistance and fundamental principles. It sets out the judicial attempts to regulate the management of litigious matters through the Uniform Rules of Court, particularly rule 37A, and the impact of the introduction of the era of norms and standards on case flow management. Through revelations in practice of the positive progress achieved in judicial case flow management, the central argument is that a more inquisitorial role in the case flow management system is key to ensuring access to justice.