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The Maritime Depths of Ex Aequo et Bono: Towards an Equitable Transcendence of the Terracentric Juridical Reproduction of the Falklands/Malvinas Dispute
Get PDFDiffering from most territorial contests, the Falklands/Malvinas dispute is entangled in a clash of ideologies embedded in maritime and legal imaginations. From the standpoint of international law, there is no definitive answer, as conventional legal frameworks – grounded in terrestrial notions of sovereignty – find themselves ill-equipped to resolve the maritime complexities of this dispute. The rival territorial integrity and self-determination arguments respectively lodged by Argentina and the UK reveals the struggle between two nations seeking to impose their own international legal interpretation. Against these conflicting claims, this article explores the potential application of the equitable principle of ex aequo et bono as a means of transcending entrenched geopolitical binaries. By focusing on the broader implications of the law of the sea, and its emphasis on the interrelation of maritime and terrestrial space, this article reimagines sovereignty in relation to the Falklands/Malvinas not as a fixed territorial possession, but as a dynamic relational process. The use of equity, as opposed to rigid legal entitlements, provides space to reframe the dispute, allowing both Argentina and the UK to move beyond territorial impasses. In doing so, it not merely addresses legal rights, but additionally considers broader geographical, ecological, and human dimensions, fostering a cooperative framework through the principles of equity to transcend entrenched geopolitical divides and prioritise collective stewardship of the region’s ecological and resource-based future
Liminal spaces of Cyprus: Storytellings of power, identity and displacement in the seafront, buffer zones, camps
No full textThis thesis examines liminality as both a spatial condition and an analytical framework, exploring how it shapes urban development, migration, and displacement in Cyprus. Liminal spaces-those zones of transition and uncertainty-do not simply mark divisions; they actively shape power, belonging, and resistance. They are spaces where authority is both imposed and negotiated, where geopolitical and economic forces collide with lived experience. As a postcolonial and partitioned island at the crossroads of the Eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus provides a crucial case for understanding how such spaces unsettle territorial control and social hierarchies. A central question drives this study: how do three key sites-the Limassol seafront, the buffer zone, and Kofinou/Köfünye village-reveal shifts in Cyprus's urban landscape, migration patterns, and geopolitical position? Drawing on photographs, newspaper archives, literature, visual art, film, advertisements, and public statements, the thesis examines how these spaces are framed by institutional narratives and how they are inhabited, contested, and redefined by those who move through them. Chapter One introduces the myth of Aphrodite as a lens for understanding Cyprus's liminal identity. While colonial, capitalist, and nationalist forces have long commodified her image, feminist, queer, and migrant reinterpretations reclaim her as a symbol of hybridity and resistance. Chapter Two turns to official narratives that structure the three sites: the Limassol seafront, transformed by foreign investment and luxury developments, is also a space of quiet defiance, where migrant domestic workers carve out their own forms of belonging; the buffer zone, designed as a rigid border, functions as a corridor of crossings, trade, and informal negotiations; Kofinou/Köfünye, shaped by its history of displacement, now embodies "suspended belonging," serving as a reception centre for asylum seekers while remaining on the periphery of national consciousness. Chapter Three examines how literature, film, and visual art contest dominant spatial narratives. Through storytelling, these works make visible the marginalized experiences that official accounts erase, revealing how liminal spaces are sites of both vulnerability and agency. These spaces are not peripheral; they are strategic arenas where social norms are remade, where corporate and state power is challenged, and where new political identities emerge. Liminality, far from implying invisibility or impotence, opens up new possibilities for action. Bringing together humanities and social science theories of liminality, displacement, spatial transformation, and myth, this thesis reframes Cyprus's liminal spaces as critical sites of negotiation-where history, power, and identity are constantly reshaped. It is the first to analyse Limassol, the buffer zone, and Kofinou/Köfünye as interconnected arenas of historical trauma, capitalist transformation, and migratory resistance. It contributes to postcolonial, migration, spatial, and Mediterranean studies by identifying and theorising a previously overlooked intersection: the ways in which Cyprus's unresolved territorial division and its external migration flows generate shared liminal spaces that redefine the island's identity from the margins. Ultimately, it positions Cyprus as a model for understanding liminality in the Eastern Mediterranean, demonstrating that struggles over space are, at their core, struggles over who is seen, who belongs, and who has the power to tell the story
Moisture Independent Measurement of Solid Concentration in Gas-Solid Flows Using Dual-Frequency Dipole Antennas
No full textIn gas-solid two-phase flow, the accuracy of solid concentration measurement is significantly affected by the unknown and varying moisture content in the solid phase, particularly when the used method is sensitive to the moisture content. To address this issue, a new method that uses a novel microwave transmission sensor working at two frequencies and a novel decoupling method is proposed to achieve moisture independent solid concentration measurement. A dual-frequency resonant printed dipole antenna is designed using finite element simulation method, and the microwave transmission sensor which can work at two frequencies is formed by two dipole antennas. A simple and effective decoupling method is proposed to extract moisture content from dual-frequency phase shift information, enabling solid concentration measurement. The flow structures of roping flow with varying solid concentrations and moisture contents are used to verify the proposed method. Experimental results demonstrate that the dual-frequency phase shifts of the microwave transmission sensor are both sensitive to the solid concentration and moisture content. Therefore, only relying on the phase shift information from a single frequency cannot accurately measure solid concentration under conditions of varying moisture content. The decoupling method proposed in this study, based on dual-frequency phase shift information, can accurately determines moisture content. Consequently, it enables solid concentration measurement in gas-solid flows with relative errors within ±5% under conditions of varying moisture content
Fear and belief predict perceived carnivore abundance in Golestan National Park, Iran
Get PDFUnderstanding local communities' perceptions of large carnivore abundance is essential for effective conservation. These perceptions are formed not only by external factors, such as the risks and costs associated with livestock loss, but also by socio‐psychological dimensions, including beliefs (e.g. support for killing problematic carnivores), emotions (e.g. fear, happiness‐and‐pride), and demographic characteristics. Such factors highlight the importance of incorporating human dimensions in conservation strategies. In 2022, we conducted interviews followed by semi‐structured questionnaires with local communities (n = 292) living in 30 villages around Iran's first biosphere reserve. We examined how beliefs, emotions, experiences of livestock loss, and demographic characteristics influence communities' perceptions of three carnivore species (i.e. leopard, grey wolf, and brown bear). Estimated carnivore abundance varied widely, with average perceived abundances of 69 leopards (95% credible interval (CrI) = 25–181), 333 wolves (CrI = 180–597), and 95 brown bears (CrI = 10–819). Emotions such as happiness‐and‐pride regarding the presence of carnivores were associated with lower perceived abundance, suggesting that individuals who hold favourable views tend to report smaller population sizes. In contrast, family beliefs supporting the killing of carnivores were consistently linked to higher perceived abundance across all species. Expressed fear was positively associated with higher perceived numbers of bears and wolves. Despite some positive attitudes, local community members tended to overcount carnivore populations. For instance, leopards were perceived to be nearly three times more numerous than scientific estimates, emphasising a discrepancy that may potentially misguide conservation efforts. We suggest engaging local communities in conservation activities, such as wildlife monitoring, to help address misconceptions, reduce fear, and promote more positive attitudes toward large carnivores. Such approaches are essential for developing socially informed, effective, and inclusive conservation strategies
Insights into food security and safety issues in a Myanmar refugee camp
Get PDFThis study examines food security within a Myanmar refugee camp near Mae Sot District, Tak Province, Thailand. Employing qualitative observations from residents and medical staff, alongside photographic documentation, we assessed the accessibility and sufficiency of dietary resources and food safety. Our findings highlight significant limitations in food diversity, particularly regarding staple crops and culturally important vegetables like those from the Solanum spp. and legumes. These limitations were notably exacerbated by restricted seed availability. The absence of elders capable of transmitting food knowledge, combined with limited resource availability within the camp, directly impacted the preservation and practice of traditional plant food utilisation knowledge. Furthermore, animal farming, while serving as a primary protein source, raised concerns about sufficiency. Food handling practices were also a concern, as improper handling may lead to cross-contamination and possibly induce gastrointestinal diseases. This research underscores the urgent need for enhanced humanitarian supports, including diversifying food sources, improving supply chain management, and providing training on safe animal husbandry practices. The study highlighted the critical role of accessible and culturally appropriate food resources in maintaining the well-being and stability of refugee communities in challenging border regions
Genetic Diversity and Selection of MHC I-UAA in Clariid Catfish from Thailand: Implications for Breeding and Conservation
Get PDFBackground/Objectives: Understanding variabilities in the Major Histocompatibility Complex class I (MHC I) gene is essential for evaluating immunogenetic diversity in clariid catfish. MHC I plays a critical role in immune defense by presenting endogenous antigens to cytotoxic T cells. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the genetic diversity, selection patterns, and phylogenetic relationships of MHC I alleles in three important clariid catfish species (Clarias gariepinus, Clarias macrocephalus, and Clarias batrachus) across wild and hatchery populations in Thailand. Methods: Targeted next-generation sequencing of a 174 bp fragment partial exon 6 of MHC I-UAA gene was performed, along with phylogenetic analyses, neutrality tests and dN/dS analyses. Results: Overall, 91 novel alleles were identified in 674 individuals, all of which were novel (100% novelty), with none matching existing reference sequences, thereby revealing extensive variation in population-specific variants. Phylogenetic analyses revealed allele sharing among species, which was consistent with balanced selection. Neutrality tests and dN/dS analyses provided evidence of both purifying and diversifying selection, with episodic positive selection detected at multiple codon sites associated with the antigen-binding α1 domain. Distinct selection patterns among populations, influenced by local environmental conditions and human pressures, along with high allele richness, are reflected in the diversity of immunogenetic variations. Conclusions: These findings provide critical insights into immune adaptation and highlight the potential of MHC I as a functional marker for genetic monitoring. Although a causal relationship between MHC I polymorphism and disease resistance is debated, studies suggest associations with pathogen survival, indicating future implications for aquaculture breeding and conservation, particularly in marker-assisted selection for broodstock management in Thailand
What affects executive cognitive control? an investigation into the effects of mood, emotion, and intervention programmes
No full textIndividuals are struggling more and more with attention, controlling unhelpful behaviours and emotion regulation. A concrete understanding of how mood, emotion and ECC interact could provide a base for improving outcomes. Furthermore, understanding if cognitive flexibility and meditation affect ECC when compared to an active control could be a basis for improvement programmes. This would be beneficial to the national health service, society and the individual. This thesis is naturally in three main parts. The first introduced the topic of executive cognitive control (ECC) and its theoretical underpinning. Additionally tried to distinguish task specific adaptations from domain general processes. The second investigates how mood and emotion affect ECC, both individually and in combination. The final section examines how a 14-day cognitive flexibility training task and a meditation programme affect ECC and the emotional modulation of ECC when compared to a control group (mental maths).
The first part of this thesis aimed to introduce the conflict, learning and combined accounts of ECC, then devise a way to test if learning based or conflict based accounts best describe modulations across consecutive trials, a key component of ECC. It was found that when the task remained the same on consecutive trials ECC was left intact. However, when the task was different it did not. This suggests that learning accounts or domain general ECC cannot explain sequential modulation (SM) and therefore a task specific conflict induced modulation was more appropriate.
The second part of this thesis focused on combining and extending the research from two prominent researchers in the field. The affective signalling hypothesis (e.g van Steenbergen et al., 2010) and the dual competition model (Pessoa, 2009, Padmala et al., 2011). This was investigated using an adapted face/word Stroop like task, mood induction (using visualisation and music) and emotional images (positive, negative or neutral). ECC was investigated using SM and expectancy effects. When investigating mood alone, there were no effects on SM. In contrast, negative emotional stimuli disrupted SM while only some positive stimuli (baby faces) disrupted ECC, others (sexual images/reward) left SM intact. When mood and emotion were combined the disruption to SM seen in the emotion study did not occur. This demonstrated that mood can modulate emotions' effect on ECC. This study shows that mood and emotion interact with ECC in unique and additive ways. These findings could have important implications for mood disorders and well-being.
The final section of this thesis investigated claims that cognitive flexibility and mindfulness meditation programmes can improve ECC and the emotional modulation of ECC. This was done using 14 10-13 minute sessions of each intervention compared to active control (mental maths) using the same face/word Stroop-like task as a measure of selective attention. This selective attention task was interspersed with emotional images in Experiment Two to test how the training programme affected the emotional modulation of ECC. It was found that multiple sessions of each intervention did not change ECC or the emotional modulation of ECC compared to (mental maths). This study concludes that stricter regulations need to be implemented, in line with medical placebo-controlled randomised trials to prevent incorrect conclusions
Comparison of unique Dong Tao chickens from Vietnam and Thailand: genetic background and differences for resource management
No full textBackground
Rare Dong Tao (DT) chickens are a unique and highly productive poultry breed introduced from Vietnam to Thailand ~ 30 years ago. It has a very peculiar appearance, including enormously enlarged feet with reddish scales, and considered local and culturally significant to both countries. Their adaptability and distinct genetic traits have attracted global interest, underscoring their potential for breeding programs and a need for their thorough genetic makeup assessment.
Objective
To assess the genetic diversity and differentiation within the Dong Tao chicken breed, comparing two populations introduced in Thailand with a native population in Vietnam.
Methods
Three Dong Tao chicken populations from Thailand and Vietnam—along with 54 other indigenous, local chicken, and red junglefowl populations from Thailand, were analyzed using 28 microsatellite markers.
Result
High genetic variability and low inbreeding levels were observed in these populations, indicating their effective management despite historical bottlenecks. Genetic similarities between DT-U and DT-HY and indigenous breeds, as well as the closer alignment of DT-L with red junglefowl, highlighted existing introgression and adaptation processes. Two markers, MCW0098 and MCW0216, showed a variation pattern due to potential impact of directional selection, possibly driven by environmental adaptation pressures. These findings emphasize the importance of DT chickens as genetic resources for breeding programs that focus on climate resilience and productivity enhancement.
Conclusion
Dong Tao chicken shared genetic similarities with indigenous and local chicken breeds, and red junglefowl, with potential influence of directional selection driven by environmental adaptation pressures
Investigating the Role of APOBEC3 in Chemoresistance in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cell Lines
No full textNon-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the deadliest form of cancer, characterised by both intertumour and intratumour heterogeneity, which are critical factors influencing disease progression and therapeutic resistance. This study aimed to explore tumour heterogeneity before and after oxaliplatin treatment to identify potential intrinsic and/or extrinsic resistance mechanisms in non-small lung cancer cells, using single cell-derived clonal sublines from both A549 cell line and its oxaliplatin-resistant subline A549rOXALI 5000. By profiling the growth kinetics and drug responses of these clonal sublines-particularly to platinum-based compounds-we identified both pre-existing and treatment-induced resistant clonal sublines. Notably, oxaliplatin-resistant clonal sublines exhibited cross-resistance to cisplatin but remained relatively vulnerable to carboplatin and maintained sensitivity to paclitaxel. These findings suggest that the mechanisms of resistance to carboplatin and paclitaxel may differ from those of other platinum-based drugs, such as cisplatin and oxaliplatin, as well as other drugs tested in this study. This highlights carboplatin and paclitaxel as potential alternative treatment options in cases where resistance to other agents arises.
Concurrently, growing evidence supports the involvement of APOBEC3 enzymes (A3s), including A3A, A3B, A3C, A3D, A3F, A3G, and A3H, in both tumorigenesis and chemotherapy resistance across various cancer types. To investigate the potential role of APOBEC3 enzymes in contributing to intracellular heterogeneity-reflected in variations in growth kinetics, and drug responses-as well as to examine the impact of treatment on APOBEC3 expression, we assessed APOBEC3 expression profiles in A549, A549rOXALI5000, and their single cell-derived clonal sublines using RT-qPCR.
Overall, the results revealed a strong positive correlation between APOBEC3 mRNA expression levels-excluding APOBEC3H-and drug responses, with the exception of paclitaxel and carboplatin, across both the parental (A549) and oxaliplatin-resistant cell lines A549rOXALI5000 and their respective clonal sublines. Furthermore, the entire APOBEC3 locus, except for A3H, was upregulated in A549rOXALI5000 and its clonal sublines compared to A549 cell line, suggesting that oxaliplatin treatment may directly modulate APOBEC3 expression and contribute to acquired drug resistance. The diverse APOBEC3 expression patterns observed in A549 and its clonal sublines-marked by distinct enzyme profiles in resistant phenotypes-also suggest a potential role in intrinsic resistance.
This study highlights the potential involvement of APOBEC3 enzymes beyond the commonly studied A3A, A3B, and A3H, which have previously been linked to NSCLC tumorigenesis and drug resistance. Notably, A3D, A3F, and A3G were upregulated in highly resistant A549 phenotypes compared to the parental A549 cell line, as well as in A549rOXALI5000 and its clonal sublines. Interestingly, in A549rOXALI5000 sublines where oxaliplatin resistance was not maintained for three months, the expression levels of these enzymes declined, returning to levels comparable to those observed in A549 and its clonal sublines. These findings underscore potential the role of oxaliplatin treatment in driving APOBEC3 expression and its contribution to the development of chemoresistance.
Overall, this study provides new insights into intracellular heterogeneity before and after oxaliplatin treatment and suggests that APOBEC3 enzymes may serve as potential targets for developing therapies to overcome chemotherapy resistance in NSCLC. While the findings are based on mRNA expression levels, future studies should investigate APOBEC3 protein expression, deaminase activity, and associated mutational signatures to further validate their role in drug resistance and tumour progression
Medicine, Metaphor, and Art: Epidemics of Yellow Fever in Havana, Barcelona, and Buenos Aires, 1821-1901
No full textFever is a disease of heat and burning – the body's natural thermostat going awry. This essay traces the zigzagging peregrinations of yellow fever, from its origins in West Africa to Cuba (via the transatlantic slave trade), then, from Cuba to Spain (via global commercial routes) and, later, southward to Buenos Aires (via Brazil). It examines the multiple meanings of the disease – be they mythic, metaphoric, or ideological – particularly through its entanglements with class, race, geography, and empire. Focusing on three port cities stalked by yellow fever throughout the nineteenth century: Havana, Barcelona, and Buenos Aires, it explores how artists imagined and represented the disease, elucidating the historical situations out of which these representations sprang, as well as offering a compelling example of what Susan Sontag theorises as the uses and abuses of illness as metaphor. By mapping artistic depictions of yellow fever from different periods and places, the essay engages with the disease’s intimate links with globality, inequality, and empire
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