Related Phenomena Research Articles

Membrane Electrode Assembly Development for Industrial CO2 Electrolysis

Membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) are the key components of zero-gap CO2 electrolyzers, having various functions in the electrolysis process. The catalyst layers serve as the reaction interface, the porous transport layers ensure reactant and product transport to and from the catalysts, while the membrane is responsible for the ion transport between the two half cells. Thus, the structure of the MEA has a determining role on the electrolyzer operation. Industrial application requires large surface area electrolyzers and / or assembly of stacks. The scale-up, however, imposes different challenges on MEA preparation and on electrolyzer operation, therefore the optimal operating conditions can not necessarily be translated from small-scale (< 10 cm2) experiments.With the aim to scale-up the CO2 electrolysis to an industrially relevant level (>2500 cm2 active area), we thoroughly study the MEA components in a test electrolyzer cell having 100 cm2 active area. Currently we focus mainly on the optimization of the catalyst layers and the porous transport layers. The used electrolyzer size is already large enough that we can draw relevant conclusions for the operation of the large-scale electrolyzer, however, still offers possibility to screen a wide range of parameters.I will present selected results on how the improvement of the quality of the catalyst layers - through the optimization of the catalyst ink and the coating process- results in enhanced CO2 reduction performance. We also focus on the screening of different porous transport layers on the anode side with the long-term goal to reduce the precious metal consumption of the CO2 electrolysis. In the second part of my presentation, I will show how the operational parameters (e.g. cell temperature, humidity) affect the stability of the electrolysis. We have thoroughly investigated one of the biggest issues of the anion exchange membrane CO2 electrolysis: the carbonate precipitate formation and the related flooding phenomenon. We identified the pressure drop at the cathode side as a key test output parameter, which can serve as an early warning for the start of the undesired precipitation. When it is recognized in time, and the adequate preventive measures are applied, the lifetime of the electrolyzers can be greatly improved.

Meaning and Significance of Moral Disquiet and Other Related Phenomena

In this text, I explore the phenomenon of moral disquiet as an existential phenomenon with its invariant qualities. This intention makes the paper both methodological and educational. The reason I consider it worthwhile to explore moral disquiet and distinguish this phenomenon from other phenomena is twofold. First, I want to establish a reliable phenomenological research basis and an argument for moral disquiet as an educationally relevant quality. Second, as an educationally relevant quality, moral disquiet must imply phenomenological clarity to avoid confusion with other phenomena that are similar but not the same. I start by exploring the two words ‘moral’ and ‘disquiet’ that constitute the phenomenon 'moral disquiet’. I explore the word disquiet in relation to three related phenomena: fear, distress, and critique. Then I investigate the connection between moral disquiet and tact as presented by van Manen. Finally, I bring in methodological and epistemological arguments to try to substantiate what I have been doing and why the phenomenon of ‘moral disquiet’ is a highly significant educational issue.

Determining the binding mechanism of B12N12(Zn) with CH4, CO, CO2, H2O, N2, NH3, NO, NO2, O2, and SO2 gases

In this study, an exploration of molecular interactions between CH4, CO, CO2, H2O, N2, NH3, NO, NO2, O2, SO2 gas molecules and B12N12(Zn) nanocage is conducted using advanced computational techniques, ωB97XD/Def2tzvp, unraveling fundamental behaviors. Employing global optimization methods and sophisticated tools like the bee colony algorithm in ABCluster software, the research offers insights into energy adsorption processes, confirming molecular stability through DFT calculations. The determination of electrophilicity index values through conceptual DFT analysis sheds light on relative reactivity levels and charge transfer phenomena, emphasizing that in some cases the nanocage's role as a potential electron acceptor. Natural bond analysis of charge transfer direction and valence shell orbital interactions enriches understanding, supported by comprehensive parameter compilation and critical point visualization. Further confirmation of interaction types and strengths through G(r)/V(r) ratios and ELF values enhances comprehension through quantum theory of atoms in molecule analysis. Ultimately, this study contributes significantly to computational chemistry, laying foundations for molecular design and engineering advancements. It sets the stage for future progress in materials science and catalysis, promising innovation in sustainable energy solutions and technological development.

REFLECTIONS ON THE LEGAL FEATURES OF COLLABORATIONIST ACTIVITY: THEORY AND PRACTICE IN TERMS OF THE RUSSIAN OCCUPATION OF UKRAINIAN TERRITORY

Background: In this article, the co-authors contribute to the development of Ukraine's criminal policy on the legal evaluation of collaboration with occupying forces, necessitated by the ongoing Russian Federation occupation of Ukrainian territory. The study, to some extent, continues the scientific discourse that was actualised after the addition of Article 111-1 to the Criminal Code of Ukraine. Its objective is to delineate the generic legal features of collaborationist activity, the responsibility for which was introduced in the Criminal Code of Ukraine in March 2022. By critically analysing the common features of collaboration with the occupier currently reflected in theory and practice, the authors develop a comprehensive vision of collaboration as a phenomenon distinct from high treason and related concepts. Methods: The research methodology employs a blend of general scientific methods of cognition (induction, deduction, analysis, synthesis, abstraction) and historical, linguistic and systemstructural research methods. The strategy focuses on identifying the features of collaboration with occupying forces, selecting the most typical and essential traits that differentiate it from related phenomena. Structurally, the article consists of two parts. The first part explores existing definitions of collaboration in literature and identifies the five most frequently mentioned features. The second part involves a detailed analysis of each feature to determine its suitability for characterising collaboration and distinguishing it from related concepts. At the same time, the features set forth in the current criminal law of Ukraine (lex lata) are compared against the perspective of the ideal model (lex ferenda). Results and conclusions: The phenomenon of collaboration with occupying forces has long been the subject of research by historians, while legal scholars traditionally examine it through the lens of high treason. However, establishing collaborationism as an independent crime in criminal law, along with high treason, requires its conceptualisation. This study demonstrates the impossibility of automatically transposing an array of effective historical research into the legal field. Criminal law requires clarity, unambiguity, and logic. At the same time, de lege lata, Ukrainian criminal law provides for a casuistic and eclectic set of features of collaborationist activity. Therefore, this article analyses each of the features that are commonly used to characterise collaborationism, aiming to improve the normative framework and formulate a clear concept that deserves to exist independently alongside the concept of high treason.

Numerical treatment of the KP–MEW equation and the Konno–Oono equation using the first-integral method

Finding new, more widely applicable accurate traveling wave solutions to nonlinear partial differential equations is the aim of this work. The Konno–Oono equation and the Kadomtsev–Petviashvili modified equal width equation have various possible applications in mathematical physics and engineering disciplines, and their exact solutions are presented in this article. Using the first integral approach as an analytical method and the traveling wave transformation, we explore the precise traveling wave solutions. This approach is effective and yields unique exact solutions that fall into two categories: solutions in the form of trigonometric functions and solutions in the form of hyperbolic functions. Furthermore, graphical illustrations in two and three dimensions are showcased to offer a thorough explanation of their dynamic nature. In addition, it is critical to emphasize the significance of mastering the Konno–Oono equation and the KP–MEW equation, both of which have applications in a variety of fields Our findings are also crucial for understanding the many oceanographic applications that involve ocean gravity waves, offshore rigs in the water, energy from moving ocean waves, and several other related phenomena. This approach requires less computing work and is straightforward and succinct. That is its main advantage.

Emulsions stability in weightlessness: Droplets size, droplets coalescence and phases spatial distribution

This work presents experiments for the stability study of oil-in-water emulsions at varying gravity conditions. A key factor influencing emulsions stability is droplet size which can be assessed by several techniques employing different physical principles. Experiments are performed during the 79th Parabolic Flight Campaign of European Space Agency (October 2022). A pulsatile miniature emulsification device is used to produce emulsions in ∼0 g conditions while using varying experimental parameters (oil volumetric fraction, surfactant concentration, pulsation frequency, number of strokes). The device resembles the Soft Matter Dynamics facility onboard the International Space Station whereas the examined parameters are also alike to Soft Matter Dynamics experiment. Optical measurements are employed to determine the droplet size distribution as well as, to observe coalescence events in the aqueous phase. Electrical measurements with a non-intrusive, on-line, impedance spectroscopy technique are carried out to track the evolution of oil volumetric fraction at the central region of the emulsification cell. As expected, in the absence of gravity, the buoyancy related phenomena are eliminated and, thus, phase gravitational separation between the two phases (creamy and aqueous) does not take place. Yet, the residual motion at the end of emulsification affects (a) the spatial homogeneity (distribution) of the two phases in the cell and (b) the capacity for coalescence of colliding droplets. In the absence of gravity, these two emulsion parameters are controlled solely by hydrodynamics and interfacial phenomena whereas on earth they are masked by buoyant phenomena. It is found that the oil fraction evolution curves resulting from electrical measurements are compatible with a bidisperse oil droplet size distribution. The characteristic sizes of the two droplet modes are estimated using theoretical arguments. Both the electrically volume-based determined droplet sizes and the number-based ones from high resolution image analysis are discussed in detail.

Theoretical and legal issues of defining digital currencies as an administrative and legal phenomenon

The last decade has seen a rapid growth of innovations in the field of IT technologies, one of the consequences of which was a change in the approach to the payment system – for the first time in human history, electronic records rather than real funds were provided in exchange for goods and services, which made it possible to represent money and currencies in a virtual form. The emergence of cryptocurrencies and the development of electronic payment systems have created the basis for the emergence of digital currencies, a technological innovation that performs the exchange functions of money, but operates outside the modern banking sector and has developed outside the supervision of monetary regulators. Since the first digital currency, bitcoin, was created, the digital currency market has been growing rapidly and has already become significant for the global economy. Currently, digital currencies are widely used in the economic and legal environment of Ukraine. Despite certain attempts by the national legislator to regulate relations in the field of digital currencies, a number of aspects remain unaddressed by the legislator, there is legal uncertainty regarding activities related to digital currencies, there is no regulation of the procedure for the activities of entities providing services in the field of digital currencies, and, most importantly, the terminology for defining the definition of digital currencies in the legal plane is not regulated at the doctrinal level. This is important in the context of the development of administrative law and the related phenomenon of "digital currency". The purpose of the paper is to study the theoretical and legal issues of defining digital currencies as an administrative and legal phenomenon. The paper examines the definition of the category «digital currency» – a digital object intended for payment functions contained in the form of a set of electronic data (digital code or designation) in an information network operating on the basis of distributed ledger technology, the circulation of which is regulated by administrative law. The analysis has shown that there are numerous approaches to understanding legal relations in the field of digital currency circulation. These relations are based on the principles of discretion and equality of the parties with a mandatory method of legal regulation. Therefore, administrative legal relations in the field of digital currencies are social relations regulated by administrative law regarding the possession, use and disposal of digital currencies in accordance with the rules of administrative law.

Коммуникативная импозитивность: систематический обзор

The purpose of the study is to review Russian and English-language publications that directly or indirectly address communicative imposition. The scientific novelty of the research consists in the fact that for the first time information on communicative imposition is summarized in the work, the concept of communicative imposition is clarified, and the main motives for using impositive statements and related relevant phenomena are revealed. The article describes the etymology of the lexeme " imposition ", as well as its introduction into scientific use. Using the elements of the method of systematic review of the litera-ture, the main provisions of the works of domestic and foreign researchers are presented. The intercultural aspect of the phenomenon is noted, the consideration of which can greatly affect the environmental friendliness of communication. As a result, it was determined that imposition correlates with linguistic (persistence) and socially regulated (power distance) phenomena. Aggravation of imposition often occurs as a result of leaving the "communicative corridor" of communication participants. imposition is a communicative effect associated with a threat to the speaker's face, which is culturally specific. The results of the study can be used to improve the theory of politeness and the practice of intercultural communication

Optical fiber sensor based on magneto-optical surface plasmon resonance with ultra-high figure of merit

Compared to surface plasmon resonance (SPR), the sensors based on the magneto-optical SPR (MOSPR) technique have much higher figure-of-merit (FOM). However, there are no reports about applying MOSPR in the optical fiber structure now. In this work, a novel D-shaped optical fiber sensor based on the MOSPR technique is proposed. The D-shaped optical fiber is coated with a thin silver film and a magneto-optical (MO) material film of Cerium-doped Yttrium-Iron garnet (CeYIG). By applying a magnetic field on the sensing region, the magneto-optical Kerr effect (MOKE) of the CeYIG layer and the related MOSPR phenomenon could be excited when appropriate light is transmitted in the proposed optical fiber sensor. The influence of the structural parameters including the residual cladding thickness, silver and MO material film thicknesses are analyzed theoretically by the finite element method (FEM). With the optimal parameters, the sensor achieves the sensitivity of 5304 nm RIU−1. Since the peak width of MOSPR spectra is much narrower than that of the SPR spectra, the FOM of the sensor is largely enhanced to 3864 RIU−1 on average and 13260 RIU−1 in maximum, which surpasses the optical fiber SPR sensors vastly. The miniaturized and simple design of the D-shaped optical fiber MOSPR sensor, coupled with the ultra-high FOM, offers itself great potential in biochemical sensing applications.

Study of the Reaction of Stock Markets to the Cancel Culture Phenomenon in Relation to Russia

Suspension of business in Russia by most foreign corporations after the events of 24 February 2022 led to the fact that the social phenomenon of “cancel culture” is now also considered within the framework of global economy and finance. In recent years, the IT industry is appraised as one of the fastest-growing, and the study of its reaction to global events is highlyrelevant. Using the Event Study method, this study proves that there is no significant impact of the declaration of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on US stock market dynamics of IT companies with branches in Russia. The analysis of individual cases from the sample of companies shows that the companies’ decision to suspend or continue business in Russia depended only on the presence of a significant share of revenues in Russia, the degree of reputational and sanctions risks, and the specifics of corporate ESG policies. The model is limited by the sample and period of analysis. In order to verify model reliability, we applied the t-test that determined the significance of the results. The research is of practical relevance because internationally operating companies may use its data to evaluate risks and make strategic decisions.

Rydberg-atom-based radio-frequency sensors: amplitude-regime sensing

Rydberg atom-based radio frequency electromagnetic field sensors are drawing wide-spread interest because of their unique properties, such as small size, dielectric construction, and self-calibration. These photonic sensors use lasers to prepare atoms and read out the atomic response to a radio frequency electromagnetic field based on electromagnetically induced transparency, or related phenomena. Much of the theoretical work has focused on the Autler-Townes splitting induced by the radio frequency wave. The amplitude regime, where the change in transmission observed on resonance is measured to determine electric field strength, has received less attention. In this paper, we deliver analytic expressions that are useful for calculating the absorption coefficient in the amplitude regime. Our main goal is to describe the analytic expressions for the absorption coefficient and demonstrate their validity over a large range of the interesting parameter space. The effect of the thermal motion of the atoms is explicitly addressed. The analytic formulas for the absorption coefficient for different types of Doppler broadening are compared to estimate the sensitivity under conditions where it is limited by the laser shot noise. Residual Doppler shifts are shown to limit sensitivity. The expressions, approximations and descriptions presented in the paper are important for understanding the absorption of Rydberg atom-based sensors in the amplitude regime. This provides insight into the physics of multi-level interference phenomena.

Spiking neural networks in the Alexiewicz topology: A new perspective on analysis and error bounds

In order to ease the analysis of error propagation in neuromorphic computing and to get a better understanding of spiking neural networks (SNN), we address the problem of mathematical analysis of SNNs as endomorphisms that map spike trains to spike trains. A central question is the adequate structure for a space of spike trains and its implication for the design of error measurements of SNNs including time delay, threshold deviations, and the design of the reinitialization mode of the leaky-integrate-and-fire (LIF) neuron model. First, we identify the underlying topology by analyzing the closure of all sub-threshold signals of a LIF model. For zero leakage this approach yields the Alexiewicz topology, which we adopt to LIF neurons with arbitrary positive leakage. As a result, LIF can be understood as spike train quantization in the corresponding norm. This way we obtain various error bounds and inequalities such as a quasi-isometry relation between incoming and outgoing spike trains. Another result is a Lipschitz-style global upper bound for the error propagation and a related resonance-type phenomenon.

Brain circuits in autonomous sensory meridian response and related phenomena.

Autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR) is characterized by a tingling sensation with a feeling of relaxation and a state of flow. We explore the neural underpinnings and comorbidities of ASMR and related phenomena with altered sensory processing. These phenomena include sensory processing sensitivity (SPS), synaesthesia, Alice in Wonderland syndrome and misophonia. The objective of this article is to uncover the shared neural substrates and distinctive features of ASMR and its counterparts. ASMR, SPS and misophonia exhibit common activations in the brain regions associated with social cognition, emotion regulation and empathy. Nevertheless, ASMR responders display reduced connectivity in the salience network (SN), while individuals with SPS exhibit increased connectivity in the SN. Furthermore, ASMR induces relaxation and temporarily reduces symptoms of depression, in contrast to SPS and misophonia, which are linked to depression. These observations lead us to propose that ASMR is a distinct phenomenon owing to its attention dispatch mechanism and its connection with emotion regulation. We suggest that increased activations in the insula, along with reduction inconnectivity within the salience and default mode networks in ASMR responders, may account for their experiences of relaxation and flow states. This article is part of the theme issue 'Sensing and feeling: an integrative approach to sensory processing and emotional experience'.

Recent Developments in Small-Molecule Fluorescent Probes for Cellular Senescence

Cellular senescence is a recently emerged research topic in modern biology. Often described as a double-edged sword, it encompasses numerous essential biological processes, including beneficial effects such as wound healing and embryonic development, as well as detrimental contributions to chronic inflammation and tumor development. Consequently, there is an increasing need to unravel the intricate networks of senescence and develop reliable detection methods to distinguish it from related phenomena. To address these challenges, a variety of detection methods have been developed. In particular, small-molecule fluorescent probes offer distinct advantages such as suitability for real-time live cell monitoring and in vivo imaging, superior tunable properties, and versatile applications. In this review, we explored recent advancements in the development of small-molecule fluorescent probes toward monitoring cellular senescence by targeting various senescence-related biological phenomena. These phenomena include the upregulation of senescence-associated enzymes, perturbation of the subcellular environment, and increased endogenous ROS levels. Moreover, multi-senescence biomarker-targeting approaches are also discussed to improve their sensitivities and specificities for the detection of cellular senescence. With recent advances in senescence probe development, current challenges in this field are also discussed to facilitate further progress.

Intracellular domain of epithelial cell adhesion molecule induces Wnt receptor transcription to promote colorectal cancer progression

BackgroundEpithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) has been widely studied as a tumor antigen due to its expression in varieties of solid tumors. Moreover, the glycoprotein contributes to critical cancer-associated cellular functionalities via its extracellular (EpEX) and intracellular (EpICD) domains. In colorectal cancer (CRC), EpCAM has been implicated in the Wnt signaling pathway, as EpICD and β-Catenin are coordinately translocated to the nucleus. Once in the nucleus, EpICD transcriptionally regulates EpCAM target genes that; however, remains unclear whether Wnt signaling is modulated by EpICD activity.MethodsPatient-derived organoids (PDOs), patient-derived xenografts (PDXs), and various CRC cell lines were used to study the roles of EpCAM and EpICD in Wnt receptor expression. Fluorescence and confocal microscopy were used to analyze tumors isolated from PDX and other xenograft models as well as CRC cell lines. EpCAM signaling was intervened with our humanized form of EpCAM neutralizing antibody, hEpAb2-6. Wnt receptor promoters under luciferase reporters were constructed to examine the effects of EpICD. Luciferase reporter assays were performed to evaluate promoter, γ-secretase and Wnt activity. Functional assays including in vivo tumor formation, organoid formation, spheroid and colony formation experiments were performed to study Wnt related phenomena. The therapeutic potential of EpCAM suppression by hEpAb2-6 was evaluated in xenograft and orthotopic models of human CRC.ResultsEpICD interacted with the promoters of Wnt receptors (FZD6 and LRP5/6) thus upregulated their transcriptional activity inducing Wnt signaling. Furthermore, activation of Wnt-pathway-associated kinases in the β-Catenin destruction complex (GSK3β and CK1) induced γ-secretase activity to augment EpICD shedding, establishing a positive-feedback loop. Our hEpAb2-6 antibody blocked EpICD-mediated upregulation of Wnt receptor expressions and conferred therapeutic benefits in both PDX and orthotopic models of human CRC.ConclusionsThis study uncovers relevant functions of EpCAM where Wnt receptors are upregulated via the transcriptional co-factor activity of EpICD. The resultant enhancement of Wnt signaling induces γ-secretase activity further stimulating EpICD cleavage and its nuclear translocation. Our humanized anti-EpCAM antibody hEpAb2-6 blocks these mechanisms and may thereby provide therapeutic benefit in CRC.

Application of virtual simulation technology in epidemiology education: a systematic review

Objective: To systematically review the progress, advantages, disadvantages, precautions and future trends of virtual simulation technology used in epidemiology teaching. Methods: A systematical literature retrieval was conducted by using PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Data and VIP Paper Check System with key words of epidemiology, teaching and virtual simulation, and the literatures included were screened and classified with narrative integration method. Chinese virtual simulation teaching platforms were used to select the literatures about existing epidemiology virtual simulation teaching projects for integration and analysis. Results: A total of 22 articles were included (7 in Chinese and 15 in English), most of which were teaching projects for students majoring in Public Health. We also found 24 national first-class courses and 21 provincial first-class courses in virtual simulation of epidemiology in China. The application of virtual simulation technology in epidemiology education is still in its infancy, and the interaction degree is mostly moderate. It is mainly used in three scenarios: improving the visualization degree of complex concepts and structures, training the operational skills through low-risk and low-cost virtual environment, serving as an effective supplement to the teaching of epidemiological field investigation and response to public health emergencies. In terms of effect, it is conducive to students' understanding of epidemiology related phenomena and principles, and has the advantages of breaking through time and space constraints, reducing teaching costs and risks, improving students' attention and satisfaction and so on. However, it also faces the lack of foundation in the initial stage, and some students have problems such as psychological and physiological discomfort. In the future, we need to optimize the development process, program design and so on. At the same time, we should conduct more in-depth research on cost calculation, effect evaluation and curriculum integration. Conclusions: The application of virtual simulation technology in epidemiology education is an important part of training high-level applied public health talents. We encourage to actively carry out virtual simulation teaching in epidemiology, and train public health talents with Chinese characteristics.

The meeting of two worlds: strategic corruption as an emerging concept in (anti-)corruption studies and international relations

ABSTRACT In the wake of significant international events like the Russian invasion of Ukraine and China’s assertive diplomacy, the recently developed concept of strategic corruption has been increasingly employed to discuss how corruption infiltrates international affairs. Unlike traditional corruption, strategic corruption is commonly understood to be a sophisticated mechanism that states use to achieve geopolitical objectives, intertwining economic and security concerns. This paper explores this concept, analyzes its relationship with related phenomena, and proposes a theoretical framework to contextualize strategic corruption within national and international arenas. The framework depicts strategic corruption as a multifaceted process spanning three spheres: domestic (source), international, and domestic (target). Each sphere involves unique pathways aimed at corrupting institutions in the target domain. This approach contributes to our understanding of the complex dynamics between corruption, national security, and foreign affairs, offering a coherent tool to address these challenges within the fields of international relations and anti-corruption studies.

Avoiding or Accepting the Unknown: Asylum in the European Union

Many scholars have already dedicated their attention to the perceived migration crisis in Europe and related phenomena. The objective of the present paper is to examine tendencies of selected European national cultures to accept diversity and people with a migration background. The research hypothesis posits that countries with low Uncertainty Avoidance Index are more likely to accept migrants and refugees in their territory; while, on the contrary, countries that have relatively higher Uncertainty Avoidance Index tend to be more sceptical in regard to accepting migrants and refugees. In the study a variety of qualitative and mixed research methods (such as qualitative desk research, comparative analysis, and cluster analysis) are used. Firstly, applying the Uncertainty Avoidance Dimension by Hofstede, the European Union Member States are separated into four clusters according to their ranking within the Uncertainty Avoidance Index. Next, utilising data collected within the project MAGYC, the EU Member States are ranked according to the number of asylum centres, detention centres or similar facilities per capita. Finally, the countries with the highest Uncertainty Avoidance Index and the lowest number of asylum centres per capita are compared providing a comparison of the countries with the lowest Index and the highest number of asylum facilities per capita. The constructed simplified model allows for answering the question whether certain relation between inclination to avoid the unknown and the willingness of national cultures to accept migrants and refugees exists, concluding that the hypothesis is valid only in the case of several countries.

Exploring the Impact of Recreational Drugs on Suicidal Behavior: A Narrative Review

Substance use/abuse and suicide are two closely related phenomena, mostly due to neurobiological, psychological, and social impairments. In the present narrative review, the relationship between suicidal behavior (SB) and the use and abuse of common recreational drugs, such as alcohol, cannabis, cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, nicotine, ketamine, psilocybin, MDMA, and LSD, has been explored. Furthermore, potential mechanisms linking the two have also been examined. According to current research, all substances appear to have a deleterious effect on SB except for ketamine and psilocybin, which could potentially confer a protective effect. Further studies are needed to understand the relationship between MDMA, LSD, and suicide.

Sock Puppetry in Online Communication

AbstractThis paper concerns sock puppetry, a practice which involves an individual communicating under multiple pseudonymous identities in a manner that makes it seem as though these personas are distinct conversational participants. I provide a definition of sock puppetry that is more narrow than other definitions, allowing it to be distinguished from related phenomena. I then analyse some of the ways in which sock puppetry can interfere with social tools we use for establishing trust within an online community, evaluating a speaker's credibility, and generally deciding who and what to believe.