Point Of Convergence Research Articles

Understanding Longevity: SIN-3 and DAF-16 Revealed as Independent Players in Lifespan Regulation.

Aging is the process of gradual physio-biochemical deterioration. Although aging is inevitable, healthy aging is the key to individual and communal well-being. Therefore, it is essential to understand the regulation of aging. SIN-3/Sin-3 is a unique regulatory protein that regulates aging without DNA-binding activity. It functions by establishing multiple protein interactions. To understand the functional mechanism of this transcriptional regulator, the Caenorhabditis elegans protein interactome was assessed for SIN-3 interactions. DAF-16/FOXO emerged as one of the leading contenders for SIN-3-mediated regulation of aging. This study looks at the concerted role of SIN-3 and DAF-16 proteins in lifespan regulation. Phenotypic profiling for the mutants of these genes shows the functional accord between these 2 proteins with similar functions in stress response and vital biological processes. However, there were no significant physical interactions when checked for protein-protein interaction between SIN-3 and DAF-16 proteins. C. elegans genomics and transcriptomics data also indicated the possibilities of concerted gene regulation. This genetic regulation is more likely related to SIN-3 dominance on DAF-16 function. Overall, SIN-3 and DAF-16 proteins have strong functional interactions that ensure healthy aging. The influence of SIN-3 on DAF-16-mediated stress response is one of their convergence points in longevity regulation.

CONTRIBUIÇÕES DE LUKÁCS E GRAMSCI NO MÉTODO DIALÉTICO COMO PROCESSO EDUCATIVO

This essay seeks to bring together the ideas of Gramsci and Lukacs, in their perspective of the orthodoxy of the dialectical method, each in its own way (historicity and totality), and which is a unique method for theory and an educational practice in the broadest sense of the term , That is, of human formation. And also the ideology that also was a point of convergence between those of the craftsmen of the Marxist thought. For to the two, and this is clear in Ontology and in the Cadernos, ideology is the vehicle of which men are used to give answers to the conflicts of the experience. Therefore, education must be an ideological intervention to demoralize common-sense beliefs and transmute them into an emancipated consciousness.

ALMA-IMF. XIII. N2H+ kinematic analysis of the intermediate protocluster G353.41

The ALMA-IMF Large Program provides multi-tracer observations of 15 Galactic massive protoclusters at a matched sensitivity and spatial resolution. We focus on the dense gas kinematics of the G353.41 protocluster traced by N$_2$H$^+$ (1$-$0), with a spatial resolution of sim \,0.02 pc. G353.41, at a distance of sim 2\,kpc, is embedded in a larger-scale ($ filament and has a mass of odot within $1.3 pc$^2$. We extracted the N$_2$H$^+$ (1$-$0) isolated line component and decomposed it by fitting up to three Gaussian velocity components. This allows us to identify velocity structures that are either muddled or impossible to identify in the traditional position-velocity diagram. We identify multiple velocity gradients on large (sim 1\,pc) and small scales (sim 0.2\,pc). We find good agreement between the N$_2$H$^+$ velocities and the previously reported DCN core velocities, suggesting that cores are kinematically coupled with the dense gas in which they form. We have measured nine converging ``V-shaped'' velocity gradients (VGs) ($ $) that are well resolved (sizes $ mostly located in filaments, which are sometimes associated with cores near their point of convergence. We interpret these V-shapes as inflowing gas feeding the regions near cores (the immediate sites of star formation). We estimated the timescales associated with V-shapes as $, and we interpret them as inflow timescales. The average inflow timescale is $ kyr, or about twice the free-fall time of cores in the same area ($ but substantially shorter than protostar lifetime estimates ($ Myr). We derived mass accretion rates in the range of $(0.35-8.77)\ $ M$_ odot $ yr$^ $. This feeding might lead to further filament collapse and the formation of new cores. We suggest that the protocluster is collapsing on large scales, but the velocity signature of collapse is slow compared to pure free-fall. Thus, these data are consistent with a comparatively slow global protocluster contraction under gravity, and faster core formation within, suggesting the formation of multiple generations of stars over the protocluster's lifetime.

Retention-aware zero-shifting technique for Tiki-Taka algorithm-based analog deep learning accelerator.

We present the fabrication of 4 K-scale electrochemical random-access memory (ECRAM) cross-point arrays for analog neural network training accelerator and an electrical characteristic of an 8 × 8 ECRAM array with a 100% yield, showing excellent switching characteristics, low cycle-to-cycle, and device-to-device variations. Leveraging the advances of the ECRAM array, we showcase its efficacy in neural network training using the Tiki-Taka version 2 algorithm (TTv2) tailored for non-ideal analog memory devices. Through an experimental study using ECRAM devices, we investigate the influence of retention characteristics on the training performance of TTv2, revealing that the relative location of the retention convergence point critically determines the available weight range and, consequently, affects the training accuracy. We propose a retention-aware zero-shifting technique designed to optimize neural network training performance, particularly in scenarios involving cross-point devices with limited retention times. This technique ensures robust and efficient analog neural network training despite the practical constraints posed by analog cross-point devices.

Numerical Analysis of the Airflow Field and Experiments of Fiber Motion for Solution Blowing.

Solution blowing is a rapidly developing technology for the rapid and large-scale preparation of nanofibers, driven by its advantages, such as wide adaptability to raw materials, simple and safe operation, and ease of scalable production. Most of the research related to solution blowing mainly focuses on the fiber spinning and forming principle, fiber structure and properties, and the development of new materials. Limited studies have focused on the airflow field and fiber motion in solution blowing. In this paper, nine nozzles for solution blowing with varying geometrical parameters were designed by adjusting the outer nozzle diameter, inner nozzle outstretched distance, and inner nozzle diameter. The centerline airflow velocity, turbulence intensity, and velocity distribution of the solution blowing were analyzed using the numerical simulation method. The results showed that the outer nozzle diameter had the greatest influence on the air velocity and turbulence intensity. The airflow velocity increased and the turbulence intensity decreased with the increase of the outer nozzle diameter. The inner nozzle outstretched distance only affected the airflow convergence point and had less effect on the airflow velocity and turbulence intensity. The captured trajectory of the polymer jet initially shows a straight or slightly curved development that eventually diverges from the airflow field. With an increasing distance, dispersed fibers exhibit instability, including loop formation, bonding, and separation. The experimental observation of fiber morphology in the solution-blowing web further verified the instability during the fiber movement.

Construction and Function of Thiolate-Bridged Diiron NxHy Nitrogenase Model Complexes.

ConspectusBiological nitrogen fixation mediated by nitrogenases has garnered significant research interest due to its critical importance to the development of efficient catalysts for mild ammonia synthesis. Although the active center of the most studied FeMo-nitrogenases has been determined to be a complicated [Fe7S9MoC] hetero-multinuclear metal-sulfur cluster known as the FeMo-cofactor, the exact binding site and reduction pathway of N2 remain a subject of debate. Over the past decades, the majority of studies have focused on mononuclear molybdenum or iron centers as potential reaction sites. In stark contrast, cooperative activation of N2 through bi- or multimetallic centers has been largely overlooked and underexplored, despite the renewed interest sparked by recent biochemical and computational studies. Consequently, constructing bioinspired bi- or multinuclear metallic model complexes presents an intriguing yet challenging prospect. In this Account, we detail our long-standing research on the design and synthesis of novel thiolate-bridged diiron complexes as nitrogenase models and their application to chemical simulations of potential biological N2 reduction pathways.Inspired by the structural and electronic features of the potential diiron active center in the belt region of the FeMo-cofactor, we have designed and synthesized a series of new thiolate-bridged diiron nitrogenase model complexes, wherein iron centers with +2 or +3 oxidation states are coordinated by Cp* as carbon-based donors and thiolate ligands as sulfur donors. Through the synergistic interaction between the two iron centers, unstable diazene (NH═NH) species can be trapped to generate the first example of a [Fe2S2]-type complex bearing a cis-μ-η1:η1-NH═NH subunit. Significantly, this species can not only catalyze the reductive N-N bond cleavage of hydrazine to ammonia but also trigger a stepwise reduction sequence NH═NH → [NH2-NH]- → [NH]2-(+NH3) → [NH2]- → NH3. Furthermore, an unprecedented thiolate-bridged diiron μ-nitride featuring a bent Fe-N-Fe moiety was successfully isolated and structurally characterized. Importantly, this diiron μ-nitride can undergo successive proton-coupled electron transfer processes to efficiently release ammonia in the presence of separate protons and electrons and can even be directly hydrogenated using H2 as a combination of protons and electrons for high-yield ammonia formation. Based on combined experimental and computational studies, we proposed two distinct reductive transformation sequences on the diiron centers, which involve a series of crucial NxHy intermediates. Moreover, we also achieved catalytic N2 reduction to silylamines with [Fe2S2]-type complexes by ligand modulation.Our bioinspired diiron cooperative scaffold may provide a suitable model for probing the potential N2 stepwise reduction pathways from the molecular level. Different from the traditional alternating and distal pathways dominated by mononuclear iron or molybdenum complexes, our proposed alternating transformation route based on the diiron centers may not involve the N2H4 intermediate, and the convergence point of the alternating and terminal pathways is imide, not amide. Our research strategy could inform the design and development of new types of bioinspired catalysts for mild and efficient nitrogen reduction in the future.

Vergence and accommodation deficits in paediatric and adolescent patients during sub-acute and chronic phases of concussion recovery.

Visual function deficits have been reported in adolescents following concussion. We compared vergence and accommodation deficits in paediatric and adolescent patients at a tertiary medical centre in the sub-acute (15 days to 12 weeks) and chronic (12 weeks to 1 year) phases of concussion recovery. The study included patients aged 7 to <18 years seen between 2014 and 2021, who had a binocular vision (BV) examination conducted within 15 days and 1 year of their concussion injury. Included patients had to have 0.10 logMAR monocular best-corrected vision or better in both eyes and be wearing a habitual refractive correction. BV examinations at near included measurements of near point of convergence, convergence and divergence amplitudes, vergence facility, monocular accommodative amplitude and monocular accommodative facility. Vergence and accommodation deficits were diagnosed using established clinical criteria. Group differences were assessed using nonparametric statistics and ANCOVA modelling. A total of 259 patients were included with 111 in the sub-acute phase and 148 in the chronic phase of concussion recovery. There was no significant difference in the rates of vergence deficits between the two phases of concussion recovery (sub-acute = 48.6%; chronic = 49.3%). There was also no significant difference in the rates of accommodation deficits between the two phases of concussion recovery (sub-acute = 82.0%; chronic = 77.0%). Patients in both the sub-acute and chronic phases of concussion recovery exhibited a high frequency of vergence and accommodation deficits, with no significant differences between groups. Results indicate that patients exhibiting vision deficits in the sub-acute phase may not resolve without intervention, though a prospective, longitudinal study is required to test the hypothesis.

A Proportional–Integral Observer-Based Dynamic Event-Triggered Consensus Protocol for Nonlinear Positive Multi-Agent Systems

This paper investigates the state estimation and event-triggered control for positive nonlinear multi-agent systems. Firstly, a proportional–integral observer is established to estimate the states of the considered nonlinear positive multi-agent systems based on the matrix decomposition method. Then, a dynamic event-triggered mechanism is constructed, and a control protocol is proposed based on the proportional–integral observer and event-triggered mechanism. By combining linear programming with linear co-positive Lyapunov functions, the considered multi-agent systems are guaranteed to be positive and achieve consensus. Moreover, by introducing three new variables and a finite vector, the final convergence point can be changed based on the given vector. Finally, two illustrative examples demonstrate the validity of the proposed theoretical results.

Comparing clinical measures of near point of convergence and accommodation from the lateral canthus and browline in a paediatric and adolescent population.

Clinicians measure the near point of convergence (NPC) and the amplitude of accommodation (AA) from the spectacle plane, the bridge of the nose or the lateral canthus when assessing visual function. These values are compared to standard clinical criteria to diagnose vergence and accommodation deficits, despite varying reference points. This prospective study explored measuring relative to the spectacle plane and from the lateral canthus for NPC and monocular AA, and the resulting clinical implications of diagnosing visual deficits. Participants were seen by a single clinician for an eye examination. NPC was measured from the forehead and the lateral canthus of the right eye. Monocular AA was measured from the brow and the lateral canthus. Differences between measurements were analysed using non-parametric statistical tests including Wilcoxon Signed Rank, as well as linear regression and a linear mixed effects model to adjust for inter-eye correlation and repeated measures. Chi-square tests were used to assess differences in rates of abnormal findings. Data were collected from 70 participants (53% female, median age 13 [11-15] years). On average, measuring NPC from the lateral canthus yielded a value 1.8 cm higher than measuring from the forehead. Measuring AA from the lateral canthus resulted in an average difference of 1.5 cm compared to measuring from the brow. A total of 39% and 76% of subjects failed NPC compared to clinical norms when measured from the forehead or the lateral canthus, respectively, while 7% and 40% failed AA when measured from the brow or the lateral canthus, respectively. With the variable anatomy of the eye, it is imperative to account for the measurement point when assessing visual function. Measuring from the lateral canthus greatly increased the failure rates for NPC and AA compared with measuring from the forehead and brow, respectively.

Eco-chic or trendy-chic? Decoding consumer preferences in sustainable and fast fashion across the EU

Abstract The ongoing transformation of the fashion industry is driven by an increasing focus on sustainability, ethical practices, and responsible consumer behavior. Simultaneously, social media platforms have emerged as influential forces in this field, shaping fashion trends and consumer preferences. Despite a substantial body of literature investigating consumer preferences between fast and sustainable fashion, a gap in understanding the intricate relationship between fashion preferences, socio-economic profiling, and social media engagement is evident. Thus, this research was aimed at comparatively decoding EU consumers’ preferences for fast fashion against sustainable fashion by exploring the interplay of demographic factors ‒ age, gender, and geographical location ‒ on fashion preferences, as expressed through the digital engagement with fashion-related content on the Meta social platforms. The research methodology implied resorting to logistic regression analysis, aiming to uncover the underlying patterns that fundamentally characterize consumers’ preferences for fashion in the EU. The results provide novel insights into how digital engagement with fashion-related content can act as a barometer for regional fashion identities and preferences, useful for the identification of both convergence and inflection points. Moreover, findings offer a robust foundation for crafting strategies that promote sustainable fashion practices, tailored to specific EU age, gender, and location demographics, by leveraging the insights gained about EU consumer preferences.

Robert Park and Norbert Elias's contributions to ethnic and racial studies: A relational approach

AbstractSince Weber's work on ethnic affinities, two centuries have passed in which scholars have drawn on sociological traditions in attempts to capture the characteristics and complexities of ethnic and racial phenomena. While some authors' works have been critically acclaimed and widely cited, others remain somewhat more peripheral, including two of sociology's more famous names from the classical cannon: Robert Park and Norbert Elias. In this paper I present these seminal thinkers' central ideas, discussing some of the crucial points of convergence, as well as limitations and divergences between them, and conclude with some of the contributions that might be applicable for studying ethnic and racial phenomena as intrinsically relational and processual. I suggest that this approach is valuable for avoiding dichotomising tendencies frequently found in ongoing debates between primordialist, constructivist, situationalist, and instrumental accounts of intergroup identities. I note that neither Elias nor Park's individual approaches are sufficient as self‐contained theoretical frameworks for the task of advancing an understanding relational ethnicity, but it is precisely in their conceptual convergencies where there is potential for moving forwards.

Effects of the unit-cell size and arrangement on the compressive behaviors of lattice structures in powder bed fusion additive manufacturing

Lattice structures demonstrate a unique compressive behavior wherein the compressive strength increases and converges to a specific value as the number of unit-cell arrangements and overall dimensions of the lattice structure increase. In this study, the effects of the unit-cell size and cell arrangement on the compressive behavior of lattice structures were investigated to determine the convergence of compression characteristics at specific unit-cell configurations. Simple cubic lattice structures were designed and manufactured using powder bed fusion techniques. The lattice structures were characterized using universal testing machines. Experimental results revealed that the convergence of compressive strength was influenced by the size of the unit cell: the number of arrangements at which a specific compressive strength was reached increased as the unit-cell sizes decreased. Furthermore, specific convergence points were determined for different unit-cell sizes, providing valuable insights into the compressive strength behavior of lattice structures. This study emphasizes the significance of considering both unit-cell arrangements and overall dimensions when designing standard specimens for compression testing. Additionally, the methodology developed in this study can be applied to obtain an optimal configuration for desired strength characteristics.

Notting Hill Carnival and Rock Against Racism: converging cultures of resistance during late 1970s Britain

ABSTRACT The Notting Hill Carnival and Rock Against Racism were two of the most significant cultural and political movements of the mid-to-late 1970s. While the two movements had numerous contact points, academia has hitherto viewed them in isolation. In contrast, this article examines three areas of convergence that Rock Against Racism held with the Notting Hill Carnival to assess whether their connectedness advanced the struggle against racism in Britain. The first point of convergence relates to how the two cultural forms interlaced politics and culture in response to a racially charged hostile environment in the mid-1970s. Secondly, contesting social space became a central tactic of the respective movements’ cultural and political interventions. Finally, in responding to the challenges of incorporating and representing young people, the two movements became platforms which engendered cross-pollination between black and white youth subcultures, strengthening antiracist solidarity. The article utilises data from qualitative interviews and archival research.

Integrating environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles with Maqasid al-Shariah: a blueprint for sustainable takaful operations

PurposeThis conceptual paper aims to delineate a comprehensive blueprint for the integration of environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles within the framework of Takaful operations, guided by the principles of Maqasid al-Shariah. The primary purpose is to establish a robust foundation for the sustainable transformation of Takaful, aligning it with ethical finance and Islamic values.Design/methodology/approachUsing a theoretical research approach, this study delves into the multifaceted dimensions of ESG principles and the principles of Maqasid al-Shariah within the context of Takaful operations. The 17 SDGs/ESG principles and Maqasid al-Shariah are integrated to give a thorough framework for comprehending the disclosure index from western and Islamic ethical viewpoints. The research critically analyses current literature, scholarly works and authoritative sources, drawing inspiration from established approaches. Qualitative content analysis examines and compiles pertinent ideas, and the expert validates the disclosure index. It identifies key convergence, compatibility and divergence points between ESG principles and Maqasid al-Shariah to construct a comprehensive framework for Maqasid-driven ESG integration in Takaful.FindingsThe paper presents a well-defined blueprint for Maqasid-driven ESG integration in Takaful, revealing substantial areas of alignment between the two frameworks. This alignment is particularly pronounced in protecting life, religion, intellect, lineage and wealth. The blueprint underscores the potential of harmonising ESG principles with the principles of Maqasid al-Shariah, providing Takaful operators with a roadmap for enhancing their ethical credibility, societal impact and environmental stewardship.Research limitations/implicationsThe blueprint outlined in this study opens new avenues for research at the intersection of Islamic ethics, responsible finance and sustainable development and signals the necessity of developing a standardised disclosure index. This index will serve as a vital tool for Takaful operators to transparently communicate their commitment to ethical and sustainable practices, facilitating a deeper understanding of Maqasid-driven ESG integration and bolstering transparency for all stakeholders. Further research into this disclosure index’s practical implementation, empirical validation and strategic implications is encouraged to advance responsible finance within the Takaful industry.Practical implicationsThe proposed blueprint provides Takaful operators with a practical guide to align their operations with both ethical finance and Islamic principles. Embracing the principles of responsible governance, societal welfare and environmental sustainability, Takaful operators can enhance their product offerings, attract socially conscious stakeholders and contribute positively to both financial and ethical objectives.Social implicationsIntegrating Maqasid-driven ESG principles in Takaful signifies a commitment to broader social well-being. Through initiatives aimed at safeguarding life, religion, intellect, lineage and wealth, Takaful operators can play a pivotal role in fostering social cohesion, empowering communities and actively contributing to sustainable development goals.Originality/valueThis conceptual paper contributes to the field by presenting a unique blueprint for integrating ESG principles within Takaful operations, guided by Maqasid al-Shariah. The novelty of this approach lies in its holistic perspective on ethical finance, aligning Islamic values with contemporary global ethical imperatives. The blueprint offered here represents an original framework for responsible Takaful practices that resonate with evolving ethical standards and the enduring principles of Islamic finance.

Navigating agroecological urbanism: examining linkages and interdependencies within alternative food networks

In pursuing agroecological urbanism – a strategic endeavor to dismantle disempowering structures within urban food systems through cultivating mutual interdependencies – alternative food networks (AFNs) emerge as pivotal catalysts for transformative change. Indeed, there are increasing arguments for AFNs working on diverse issues to pool resources and address food system challenges from multiple perspectives under a common frame. However, a pressing need exists for greater clarity on tensions and challenges in establishing a network of AFNs within a shared framework, such as that fostered by agroecological urbanism. This study explores impediments to organizing AFNs into transformative networks, drawing insights from two diverse urban contexts – Preston, England, and Vitoria-Gasteiz, Basque Country – using a case study methodology comprising online semi-structured interviews and participant observation. Our findings underscore three primary barriers to this process: divergent conceptualizations of food questions, education and awareness-raising as a limited convergence point, and constrained resources. Such barriers generate a practical divorce between social and environmental goals in the experiences analyzed. Central to this division is also the pivotal question of the subject of justice – whether AFNs advocate primarily for urban citizens’ interests or prioritize peri-urban and rural farmers’ concerns. The analysis highlights the need to develop inclusive socio-ecological narratives within the overarching framework of agroecological urbanism as a critical step in fostering collaborative coalitions among AFNs that move beyond individualized change. Building these coalitions would depend on funding availability for long-term strategic collaborative efforts, emphasizing the crucial role of public authorities in such processes.

Validation of OpenMC Code for Low-cycle and Low-particle Simulations in the Neutronic Calculation

Validation of Low-Cycle and Low-Particle OpenMC Simulation Codes for Neutronics Calculations has been conducted. This study validates OpenMC, an evolving open-source neutron analysis code. Validation of Low-Cycle and Low-Particle Codes is crucial as it allows for effective calculations with minimal computational resources. Determining the convergence point of cycles and minimum particles in low-cycle and low-particle calculations enables maintaining calculation accuracy, thus providing sufficiently accurate results. This study demonstrates that a minimum of 15,000 particles, 100 cycles (30 inactive, 70 active), is required for low-cycle simulations. A comparison of k-eff calculation results with the SRAC code for MSR FUJI-12 at 7 burnup points (0-27 MWd/ton) yields a maximum error of 0.7%. These results validate the effectiveness of OpenMC in achieving accurate neutronic calculations with limited computational resources

Capturing the situated, dynamic nature of EMI-lecture listening comprehension in real time

Abstract English-medium instruction (EMI) potentially offers pedagogical efficiency by simultaneously providing access to academic content and English affordances. EMI’s efficacy and effectiveness, however, remain unproven with questions concerning students’ language proficiency unresolved. As listening to lectures holds a central role in tertiary education and the development of language skills is founded on second-language listening ability, key concerns for stakeholders are knowing how much of an EMI lecture students can understand and what factors impact their lecture listening comprehension. Current methodologies used to capture listening comprehension data, such as tests, surveys, summaries, and transcript markings do not capture the idiosyncratic, volatile, and multifaceted reactions to aural text phenomena that learners encounter during a lecture. This study, therefore, uses an innovative foot switch mechanism to capture comprehension data in real time as students participated in an EMI lecture. These data were then used to guide a stimulated recall. The data showed learners failing to comprehend extensive sections of the lecture while deeper analysis identified sections of the lecture where issues concerning prior taught knowledge, top-down schema building, lexical, and bottom-up identification of sounds coincided for multiple learners. Extrapolating from these points of convergence, pedagogical recommendations are provided.

Integration of mathematics in the pedagogy licensure: analysis of the course at IFTO Porto Nacional

The methodology employed in this study followed a qualitative approach, as per Gil's (2017) guidelines, using descriptive and interpretative analysis. The Pedagogical Project of the Pedagogy Degree Program (PPC) of the Porto Nacional Campus, the National Common Curricular Base (BNCC), and Resolution CNE/CP No. 1 of May 15, 2006, were examined. The research aimed to understand and contextualize the curricular guidelines of the course in light of the educational policies established by the BNCC and Resolution CNE/CP No. 1/2006. Detailed readings and comparative analyses of the documents were conducted to identify points of convergence and divergence. The analysis of the results highlighted that the Pedagogy Degree Program at the Porto Nacional Campus - IFTO provides comprehensive training aligned with national curricular guidelines. Graduates are prepared theoretically and practically to work in various professional contexts, including teaching Mathematics, demonstrating ethical commitment and an understanding of students' needs. The course's Fundamentals and Methodologies of Mathematics Teaching discipline addresses the necessary content and methods for effective Mathematics teaching in the early years of Elementary Education, following BNCC guidelines. The course promotes students' engagement and commitment to their professional development, reflecting in the effectiveness of graduates' training.

Parallels between Maximus the Confessor and Vladimir Soloviev (1853-1900)

The philosophical thought of Vladimir Soloviev (1853-1900) does not appear to significantly abstain from the wholeness of humanity and the deification of human being that Maximus synthesises. In Maximus’ writings Christology is strongly bounded to love, under the soteriological meaning of Christ’s Incarnation. In Soloviev’s philosophical thought love plays the role of the cosmic power which, by transcending the historical process, leads the humanity to the deification. This paper aims at the exegesis of the three-fold nature of love (love for one’s brothers, and self-love) in Maximus’ works, while discussing the points of convergence with Soloviev’s ontology of love in Smysl lyubvi (The Meaning of Love) (1892-1894).

Database as method: Exposing ‘data’ about educational technology through a design intervention

Ubiquitous datafication of children and families in educational and everyday settings is both a result of and catalyst for power asymmetries between digital platforms and their users. These platforms seek to know their users by extracting and analysing various streams of personal information, often discreetly. However, the users are rarely equipped to do the same to the platforms as information about these platforms is often obscured, convoluted, or simply unavailable. This article explores the possibilities of reversing such power imbalance via the design intervention of an Australia-focused educational technology (EdTech) database developed by the authors of this article. Employing a design intervention method, the database is a collection of publicly available information about EdTech companies and products that target young children and their parents or educators in Australia. This alternate commentary article presents and discusses the ongoing processes of developing the database to reflect on what it says about the power relations between EdTech providers and their users. It demonstrates how the database works as a pedagogical space where people learn how to critically unpack and think about contemporary EdTech platforms. The database is positioned as a point of convergence for different actors involved in children's digital learning to collectively understand what needs to be done to enact and protect children's digital rights in education.