Search Results (18)

This essay analyzes The Untitled Othello Project (UOP) created by Keith Hamilton Cobb. Originating out of conversations around his play American Moor and coinciding with George Floyd’s murder and the period of racial unrest and reflection in the United States, UOP is a transformative approach to Shakespeare studies around issues of pedagogy and performance. Rooted in Cobb’s frustration with systemic racism and exclusion in the capitalist American theater as depicted in American Moor, UOP applies a method called “untitling”, a collaborative and reflective process of dismantling and reimagining Shakespeare’s Othello beyond its origins. This essay examines UOP’s interdisciplinary methods. As a collaborator and witness to UOP residencies at Sacred Heart University, I argue that the untitling methodology deploys phenomenological hermeneutics, reparative reading, and critical pedagogy, drawing on Ricoeur, Sedgwick, Boal, and Freire in the context of recent developments in critical race studies, especially through scholars of RaceB4Race and #shakerace. The untitling process requires slow, collective readings of Othello, focusing on identity, language, and the racist, patriarchal, and ableist social constructs propping up Shakespeare’s play. By inviting diverse voices—including actors, scholars, students, and audiences—to the table, UOP privileges the human beings in the room over the canonical text. UOP resists universalizing readings of Shakespeare’s play and, with a spirit of inquiry, encourages collaborative authority to lift up marginalized perspectives. This essay establishes UOP within the context of Shakespeare performance pedagogy, seeking to define its affordances for humanities study at the college level. Full article

Jason Allen-Paisant in Self-Portrait as Othello moves unflinchingly through complex histories and genealogies that widen to include Jamaica, Venice, Italy, France, and elsewhere and to locate the duppy manifestations of an unburied past in the pervasive precariousness of Black life. Across his poems, he tracks the chaotic reverberations of intergenerational traumas that persist across time, space and collective memory. This paper contends that the poet, through his use of allusion evident in his grafting and borrowings of other stories, literary syncretism, the symbolism of foreignness and its mysterious power, back and forth journeys through Europe and into homelands (Jamaica), procures an integrated circuit of Black meaning and kindred relations. This interconnectedness lays bare the sociohistorical conditions that have and continue to circumscribe and assault Black lives and deconstructs the perpetuity of anti-Black systems in the modern Western world. For all his worldly travels, the poet-narrator situates himself in an interstitial zone where each crossroad leads to new possibilities and affirmative energy. Allen-Paisant thus offers a way to reconcile a vicious history of Black xenophobia while procuring moments and processes to make peace with rupturous spaces, which necessitates a return to his homeland. However, homecoming complicates the search for self and the idea of return draws him into a dialogue with the fragmented inheritances of his past. He ultimately achieves coherence and fresh understandings through images of sterility and barrenness which he re-purposes as a foundation to make bold leaps of faith across uncertain chasms. This paper thus argues that for the poet of the African diaspora, who aspires to recover a long and complex spiritual history, the interface between domestic and international dramas highlights the luminous transcendence embodied in the journey along complicated routes and the steadfast pursuit of ideas that illuminate the deepest insights about identity, culture and the Black experience. Full article

As one of the strongest Othello agents, Edax employs an n-tuple network to evaluate the board, with points of interest represented as tuples. However, this network maintains a constant shape throughout the game, whereas the points of interest in Othello vary with respect to game’s progress. The present study was conducted to optimize the shape of the n-tuple network using a genetic algorithm to maximize final score prediction accuracy for a certain number of moves. We selected shapes for 18-, 22-, 26-, 30-, 34-, 38-, 42-, and 46-move configurations, and constructed an agent that appropriately shapes an n-tuple network depending on the progress of the game. Consequently, agents using the n-tuple network developed in this study exhibited a winning rate of 75%. This method is independent of game characteristics and can optimize the shape of larger (or smaller) N-tuple networks. Full article

Agricultural industrial waste has demonstrated potential as a soil acidity corrector and fertilizer, in addition to reducing environmental impacts caused by inadequate waste disposal. Ornamental rock waste is a sustainable alternative as it contains essential elements for plant growth. (1) Background: this study aims to evaluate using marble waste in SENA and the Gallo Crudo Quarry in Colombia as an acidity mitigator in soils cultivated with maize (Zea mays) in a greenhouse. (2) Method: four treatments were applied: T0: without marble dust—MD; three doses of MD (T1: 1.1 Mg of MD ha⁻¹; T2: 2.2 Mg of MD ha⁻¹; and T3: 3.3 Mg of MD ha⁻¹). After 70 days, soil fertility analyses were carried out. (3) Results: The results show that the chemical properties of the soil improved with all treatments, mainly with T2, influencing the calcium (Ca), carbon (C), sulfur (S), and magnesium (Mg) contents. MD’s pH and Al + H values were higher than conventional treatments. The T2 treatment reduced soil acidity from 0.2 cmol + kg⁻¹ to 0.0 cmol + kg⁻¹ and increased pH to 7.91 compared to the control (5.4). The maize plants in the T2 treatment developed better, indicating that the dose of 2.2 Mg of MD ha⁻¹ can replace commercial limestone. (4) Conclusions: This agroecological technique is an innovative alternative in Colombia, replicable in areas with ornamental rock reserves, benefiting the agricultural economy and contributing to target the Sustainable Development Goals, which promote sustainability, responsible management of natural resources, and a reduction in environmental impacts. Full article

This study explores the thematic and structural parallels between William Shakespeare’s Othello and the Sambulā Jātaka (519) from ancient Buddhist literature. Through a detailed narratological analysis, this study examines the narrative structure, narrator and narrative perspectives, focalization, temporal aspects, and narrative techniques employed in both texts. By investigating how each narrative addresses themes of sexual jealousy, trust, and human frailty, this paper highlights the universal nature of these emotions and their impact across two cultural contexts. This study employs the qualitative approach of research analyzing the texts, Othello and the Sambulā Jātaka, as a sample representing two larger canons. The analysis reveals that both genres utilize the narratological aspects to reveal the destructive nature of most of the above underlying emotions, bringing them to the surface and creating a powerful resonance that transcends time and geography. This comparative study underscores the timeless relevance of these narratives and their shared exploration of the complexities of human relationships and the destructive power of irrational suspicions. Full article

Salinity is an abiotic stress restricting agricultural crop production globally, in which salts inhibit plants’ ability to absorb water and nutrients. Pinto beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) are very important in human nutrition and are sensitive to salinity. The objective of this study was to assess the salinity tolerance of six pinto bean varieties by evaluating the effect of different salt types on germination and growth. In the germination experiment, varieties were arranged in a randomized complete block design with five replications and three saline solutions (NaCl, CaCl₂, MgSO₄·7H₂O) at 0, 0.05 M, 0.1 M, and 0.15 M concentrations each. For the greenhouse experiment, saline solutions with the same EC (5 dS m⁻¹), control (distilled water), and six pinto bean varieties were organized in a Complete Random Design with 10 replicates. The results demonstrated that germination percentage, speed of germination, and hypocotyl length decreased as salt concentrations increased. Othello’s vegetative and reproductive parameters were significantly higher compared to the other varieties under saline conditions; its early maturity may have enabled it to perform better under salt stress. In addition to soil and water management, selecting salt-tolerant crops and varieties is essential to maintaining agricultural sustainability in regions undergoing salinization. Full article

Human actions that modify terrestrial and aquatic environments contribute to unsustainability, influencing the economy and human health. Urban environments are responsible for the dispersion of pollution and nanoparticles (NPs), which can potentially harm the health of human populations and contaminate the fauna and flora of aquatic ecosystems on a global scale. The objective of this study is to analyze the dissemination of nanoparticles in Cartagena Bay, Colombia, during the strong winds/low runoff season of January 2020 and the weak winds/high runoff season of October 2021. This was accomplished using images from the Sentinel-3B OLCI (Ocean Land Color Instrument) satellite in conjunction with an analytical chemical analysis of sediments collected in the study area in a laboratory with advanced electron microscopy. It was possible to obtain, on average, a sample of suspended sediments (SSs) every 1000 m in the areas of Bocagrande, Isla de Tierra Bomba, and Playa Blanca, which were analyzed in the laboratory with X-ray diffraction (XRD) and electron transmission and scanning microscopies. Images obtained in the summer of 2020 and winter of 2021 by the Sentinel 3B OLCI satellite were selected at a distance of 1 km from each other and analyzed for the following variables: chlorophyll (CHL_NN), water turbidity (TSM_NN), and suspended pollution potential (ADG443_NN). In addition to of evaluating georeferenced maps, they were subjected to an analysis within the statistical and K-Means clustering model. The laboratory analysis of SSs showed the presence of potentially toxic NPs, responsible for contamination that may harm the health of the local population and marine ecosystems. The K-Means and satellite image analysis corroborated the laboratory analyses, revealing the source of the pollution and contamination of Cartagena Bay as the estuary located close to its center. Full article

This study investigates Brazilian consumers’ purchase intentions for sustainably packaged products, applying the theory of planned behavior enhanced with environmental concern, knowledge, willingness to pay more, and trust. Data were collected from 509 participants via an online questionnaire, using convenience sampling. The questionnaire, based on previously validated scales, examined attitudes toward purchasing, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, environmental variables, and purchase intentions. Descriptive analysis pointed out the prominence of environmental concern, positive purchasing attitudes, and purchase intentions. Principal component analysis reorganized variables into seven components, while cluster analysis identified three distinct consumer profiles: those prioritizing cost and information, environmentally conscious young consumers, and individuals influenced by social factors, with a strong sense of consumption control. The study reveals a widespread concern for the environment among respondents, highlighting the need for societal and political advancements in support of sustainable consumption practices. Full article

Space syntax is utilized to model flows through open and closed built environments, which enables project innovation by rethinking the design of spaces on a global scale with better flow quality. Therefore, studies focused on spatial syntax, when related to comprehensive flows in open and closed spaces, provide a holistic and valuable understanding of the dynamics of user flows in the urban environment from a perspective centered on the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11. This goal requires urban planners and designers to use approaches that support future decisions focused on urban design and planning. The object of investigation of this bibliographic study consists of an approach to representing space syntax in open spaces and closed spaces on a global scale. This study aims to analyze the concepts of pedestrian flows (open and closed) by a space syntax-based bibliographical approach on a global scale, demonstrating the capability of improvements in SDG 11 as applied to the architecture of sustainable flows. Methodologically, bibliographic searches were carried out using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) method in databases linked to Scopus and ScienceDirect, focusing on space syntax in relation to the following terms: “open spaces” and “closed spaces”. Using the PRISMA method, 1986 manuscripts dealing with the term “open spaces” and 454 manuscripts dealing with the term “closed spaces” were identified, with the manuscripts most relevant to the topic being selected, followed by a frequency analysis based on a Content Analysis Method (CAM) to identify words with a degree of similarity, related to “spatial syntax: flow in urban environments” and “spatial syntax in closed built systems” in relation to the SDG 11. The results demonstrate the relevance of seven manuscripts in open spaces and four manuscripts in closed spaces related to space syntax. Frequency analysis identified open spaces and produced terms with frequencies such as space = 79 and shape = 46, showing a higher frequency in flows. In closed spaces, the literature has shown that the central term corresponds to space = 79 and flow = 76, making it possible to evaluate flows in circulation areas within the built environment. This study allows a better understanding of flows, highlighting the importance of the urban architecture in the functionality of user flows in sustainable environments, which is capable of contributing to the SDG 11, in the interface of architectural projects on a global scale. Full article

This study demonstrates an investigation into nanomineralogical and geochemical evolution for the detection of hazardous elements from old, abandoned coal mining deposits capable of causing negative environmental impacts. The general objective of this study is to evaluate the number of nanoparticulate chemical elements in sediments collected during the years 2017 and 2022 from deactivated coal mining areas in the La Guajíra and Cesar regions of Colombia. Sediments were collected and analyzed from areas that experienced spontaneous coal combustion (SCC). The analysis consisted of traditional mineralogical analysis by X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy, nanomineralogy by field emission scanning electron microscope-FE-SEM, and high-resolution transmission electron microscope-HR-TEM (energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis system-EDS). The analyzed sediment samples contained high proportions of amorphous materials containing the chemical elements As, Cl, Hg, Mo, Pb, Sb, and Se. This study emphasizes the need to implement environmental recovery projects at former, now abandoned coal extraction areas located in the investigated region, as they have negative effects on the environment and human health across large regions. Full article

Background: Compared to other psychotic disorders, there is little information about staging care in delusional disorder (DD). Unlike schizophrenia, this is a disorder that begins in middle age, a time at which chronic medical comorbidities have already begun to impact global functioning. With age, the combination of psychological and somatic conditions leads to new behaviours, e.g., agitation, aggression, and behaviours that require specific preventive and interventive measures. With further age, knowledgeable end-of-life care becomes necessary for this population. Aim: The aim of this article was to review existing evidence on the management of these successive phases. Methods: We conducted a narrative review using PubMed and ClinicalTrials.gov and searched for the following terms: (agitation OR aggressivity OR aggression OR palliative OR “end-of-life”) AND (“delusional disorder”). Results: We found that the literature was sparse. Existing evidence suggests that medical causes are frequently at the root of agitation and aggression. With respect to management, de-escalation strategies are generally preferred over pharmacotherapy. Specific delusional syndromes, e.g., de Clérambault, Othello, Capgras, Fregoli, as well as folie à deux, are associated with aggression. The somatic subtype of DD is the one most often requiring palliative care at the end of life. Conclusions: We conclude that insufficient attention has been given to the care needs of the accelerated aging process in DD. Full article

The objective of this study is to obtain a more detailed assessment of particles that contain rare-earth elements (REEs) in abandoned deposits of Brazilian fine coal tailings (BFCTs), so as to aid current coal mining industries in the identification of methodologies for extracting such elements (Santa Catarina State, Brazil). The BFCT areas were sampled for traditional mineralogical analysis by X-ray Diffraction, Raman Spectroscopy and nanomineralogy by a dual beam focused ion beam (FIB) coupled with field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) coupled with an energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis system (EDS). The results show that the smaller the sampled coal fines were, the higher the proportion of rare-earth elements they contained. Although the concentration of REEs is below what would normally be considered an economic grade, the fact that these deposits are already ground and close to the surface negate the need for mining (only uncovering). This makes it significantly easier for REEs to be extracted. In addition, owing to their proximity to road and rail transport in the regions under study, the opportunity exists for such resources (BFCTs) to be utilized as a secondary market as opposed to simply being discarded as has been done in the past. Full article

Recent studies of the conceptualization of the Devil in the early modern period have pointed to the shifting theological and philosophical coordinates, which made possible a diverse spectrum of representation of diabolical evil—from Francis Bacon’s naturalistic scepticism to King James’s supernatural demonology. Shakespeare has always been central to this discussion but has not yet been placed in a contextual frame that incorporates the rise of scholarly interest in the diabolical. This article interprets Shakespeare’s representation of diabolical evil in Hamlet (1601), Othello (1603), Measure for Measure (1604) and Macbeth (1606) as constituted by a complex tension between natural and supernatural ideas about the origin of evil. Drawing on a raft of recent scholarship on representations of witchcraft and devils in the period, I show that diabolical figures in the universe of Shakespeare during the period of great tragedies between 1601 to 1606 exist in two modes of representation: as a persistent magical ambience and as a localized agent. Ambivalence is expressed in the hesitation between these opposing theological modes and is evident in the way that the Devil’s material agency is obscured and left unresolved. Viewing this through the lens of the fantastic as an ontological uncertainty that results in epistemological hesitation helps us to frame Shakespeare’s ambivalence, which at least in part originates in the ambivalent theology of Calvin. The analysis thereby positions hesitation and diabolic temptation in line with Calvin’s theology and shows how Calvin’s framework of secular evil presents an intellectual context through which Shakespeare’s ambiguity can be understood in theological terms. Full article

Geospatial analyses have gained fundamental importance on a global scale following emphasis on sustainability. Here we geospatially analyze images from Landsat 2/5/7/8 satellites captured during 1975 to 2020 in order to determine changes in land use. Sentinel-3B OLCI (Ocean Land Color Instrument) images obtained in 2019 and 2021 were utilized to assess water resources, based on water turbidity levels (TSM_NN), suspended pollution potential (ADG_443_NN) and the presence of chlorophyll-a (CHL_NN) in order to temporally monitor the effectiveness of Brazilian legislation currently in force. This work on sustainability standards was applied to a hydrographic basin dedicated to agricultural production located in southern Brazil. Satellite images from Landsat 2/5/7/8 (1975 to 2020) and Sentinel-3B OLCI (2019 and 2021) revealed that changes in land use, vegetation cover and water in the Capinguí Dam reservoir detected high concentrations of ADG_443_NN (3830 m⁻¹), CHL_NN (20,290 mg m⁻³) and TSM_NN (100 gm⁻³). These results can alert the population to the risks to public health and harm to hydrographic preservation, capable of covering large regions. Full article

Electronic maps play an important role in the field of urban traffic management, but the interface functions provided by map service agencies are limited, and commercial maps are generally expensive. Furthermore, the map generation algorithms based on the Global Positioning System (GPS) data can be very complex and take up a lot of storage space, which limits their application to specific practical problems, such as the real-time update of area maps, temporary road control, emergency route planning, and other scenarios. In order to solve this problem, an intuitive, extensible, and flexible method of constructing urban road maps is proposed. Using the Othello-coordinated method, the representation of the unit grid cell was redesigned. Through this method, the disadvantages of the raster map’s large storage space and computing resource requirements are compensated for during processing, improving the topological expression ability of the raster map and the speed with which the construction of the map is realized. The application potential of the proposed method is demonstrated by the evaluation of public transport service and road network resilience. In our experiments, the optimization efficiency of storage space was up to 99.914%, and the calculation accuracy of bus coverage was about 99.86%. Full article