bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Fractal Methods to Assess Soil Structure after the Creation of Firebreaks
Authors: Цветков И.В. , Кульнев В.В. , Кумани М.В. , Насонов А.Н. , Абду­жаб­баров Х.М. , Трегубов О.В. , Похваленко В.А. , Ухтомский В.Г.
Published: September 2024

Представлена новая методика оценки качества механической обработки почв и подстилающих пород, основанная на измерении фрактальных характеристик изображений их срезов. Методику предлагается использовать для повышения эффективности механической обработки субстрата при организации противопожарных минерализованных полос. При этом обосновывается применение фрактальных методов для оценки изменения структуры субстрата, возникающего вследствие внешнего воздействия, которое в данном случае осуществляется плужным каналокопателем при различных углах наклона режущей пластины и скоростях его перемещения в толще грунта. Планирование эксперимента и обработка его результатов проводились на основе предположения о том, что как почвы, так и грунты зоны аэрации представляют собой неоднородную диссипативную систему с самоорганизованной критичностью состояний, которые закономерно изменяются в процессе внешнего воздействия на субстрат. При этом наблюдается эффект самоорганизованной критичности диссипативной системы, отличительным признаком которого является проявление самоподобия составляющих ее элементов. То есть в основе описываемого метода лежит изучение масштабной инвариантности структурных элементов грунта в процессе внешнего механического воздействия. На основе предложенной методики разработаны оптимальные режимы работы специального оборудования и механизмов для среднесуглинистых тёмно-серых лесных почв.

This paper presents a new method for assessing the quality of mechanical processing of soils and underlying rocks based on measuring the fractal characteristics of their section images. The method is proposed to be used to improve the efficiency of mechanical processing of the substrate when organizing fire-prevention mineralized strips. At the same time, the use of fractal methods is substantiated for assessing changes in the structure of the substrate arising from external action, which, in this case, is carried out by a plow channel digger at different angles of inclination of the cutting plate and speeds of its movement in the soil thickness. The experiment was planned and its results were processed based on the assumption that both soils and aeration zone soils are a heterogeneous dissipative system with self-organized criticality of states that change regularly during external action on the substrate. In this case, the effect of self-organized criticality of the dissipative system is observed, the distinctive feature of which is the manifestation (self-similarity) of its constituent elements. That is, the described method is based on the study of the scale invariance of soil structural elements during external mechanical action. Based on the proposed methodology, optimal operating modes of special equipment and mechanisms for medium-loamy dark-gray forest soils have been developed.
Trifarotene alleviates skin photoaging injury by inhibition of JNK/c-Jun/MMPs
Authors: Fei Xuan , Yang Lele Zixin , Zhang Jingjing , Li Xiang , Pan Mengtian , Xu Guangchen , Zhang Cuixia , Liu Fei , Fang Weirong
Published: September 2024

Long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation induces skin photoaging, which manifests as oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen degradation. Multiple approaches (topical or systemic retinoids, antioxidants, alpha-hydroxy acids, laser, surgery) are used in the treatment of photoaged skin, and the use of topical retinoids is currently a primary clinical treatment. Previous studies revealed that retinoic acid promotes keratinocyte proliferation and reduces melanin deposition and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) secretion; it also causes potential allergic and inflammatory damage to the skin. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of trifarotene, a functional retinoic acid analog, on UV-irradiated photoaging ICR and BALB/c nude mice and UVB photodamaged human epidermal keratinocyte (HaCaT) cells by examining indicators such as collagen, oxidoreductase, and inflammatory factor presence through histochemical staining, Western blot, and ELISA. Results suggested that trifarotene significantly reduced UV-induced photoaging in mouse skin tissue, potentially by reducing oxidative stress damage and inflammatory factor release, and inhibiting melanin deposition and collagen degradation by downregulating MMP expression. Concentrations of malondialdehyde, tyrosinase, interleukin-6, interleukin- 12, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha in photoaged skin decreased, while SOD content in photodamaged HaCaT cells significantly increased. Trifarotene (3.3 μmol L–1) inhibited phosphorylated JNK and c-Jun expression both independently and collaboratively with the JNK activator anisomycin, demonstrating that trifarotene mitigates UV-induced collagen degradation and apoptosis through inhibition of the JNK/c-Jun/MMPs signaling pathway.
Analysis of doxorubicin and fullerenol in rat serum by micellar electrokinetic capillary chromatography
Authors: Injac Rade , Sertić Miranda , Glavač Nina Kočevar
Published: September 2024

A new micellar electrokinetic capillary chromatographic (MEKC) method has been developed and optimized for simultaneous quantitation of doxorubicin (Dox) and fullerenol (Frl) in rat serum. The separation was carried out in a capillary (48.5–40 cm to the detector – 50 µm id fused-silica capillary with bubble cell, 150 µm) at an applied voltage of 25 kV and temperature of 25 °C. For the background electrolyte 10 mmol L–
1 borate buffer pH 9.3 plus 15 mmol L–1 phosphate buffer pH 7.0 (with the final pH of the mixture adjusted to 7.0 with HCl), with added 10 % (V/V) methanol, and 15 mmol L–1 sodium dodecyl sulfate as a surfactant, were used. The hydrodynamic injection was carried out at 5.0 kPa during the period of 100 s. Linear calibration curves were established over the concentration range 0.5–500.0 mg L–
1 for Dox and 10.0–500.0 mg L–
1 for Frl (at 234 nm). The proposed MEKC procedure was fully validated and applied for the deter mination of Dox and Frl in Wistar rats after intra pe ritoneal administration of both molecules.
Exploring novel pharmacological trends: Natural compounds in dry eye disease management
Authors: Rák Tibor , Csutak Adrienne
Published: September 2024

Dry eye disease (DED) is an ocular condition characterized by altered tear film homeostasis, resulting in symptoms like tear film instability, hyperosmolarity, inflammation, and neurosensory abnormalities. It affects visual acuity and quality of life and is influenced by age, gender, and environmental factors. The first line of treatment consists of dynamically developing artificial tears, gels, and eyelid sprays, which can be supplemented with natural ingredients for enhanced efficacy. Other therapeutic steps include auto-logous serum tears, anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive eyedrops, or oral tablets. Management also targets Meibomian gland dysfunction and the ocular surface micro-biome. This article explores various therapeutic approaches, including natural compounds and complementary strategies. Natural compounds, such as vitamins, and herbal substances (e.g., trehalose), offer promising benefits in enhancing tear film stability and ocular surface protection. Apitherapeutic products like manuka honey and propolis exhibit antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, human tissue-derived solutions, such as auto-logous serum tears and amniotic membrane extracts, hold the potential for ocular surface regeneration. Other strategies, including polyherbal eye drops, liposomal eyelid sprays, and microbiome-supporting solutions offer alternative therapeutic avenues. Moreover, patient education, lifestyle modifications, and interdisciplinary collaboration play crucial roles in DED management, emphasizing the importance of holistic care approaches.
Personalization of thiopurine therapy: Current recommendations and future perspectives
Authors: Urbančič Dunja , Pasha Flaka , Šmid Alenka , Mlinarič-Raščan Irena
Published: September 2024

Despite great therapeutic advances in the field of biologics, small synthetic molecules such as thiopurines, including azathioprine, mercaptopurine, and thioguanine, remain an important therapeutic pillar in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease, other autoimmune disorders, and cancer. This review presents the latest guidelines for thiopurine administration, highlighting the importance of individualized therapy guided by pharmacogenomics. It emphasizes dose adjustment based on nudix hydrolase 15 (NUDT15) and thiopurine S-methyltransferase (TPMT) genotype, along side thiopurine S-methyltransferase activity and thiopurine metabolic profile. In addition, the article takes a critical look at emerging research in the field of thiopurine pharmaco genomics featuring novel genetic markers and technological developments in genetic testing. Finally, the potential of integrated approaches that combine genetic, meta bolic, and clinical factors to further individualize thiopurine therapy is highlighted.
Optimizing High-Performance Concrete Properties Containing Blast Furnace Slag and Marble Powder
Authors: Edeb Belkacem , Allout Naas , Benkhelil Mahmoud , Guettala Salim
Published: September 2024

Building and industrialization-related environmental harm is becoming an increasingly serious concern. In an effort to create an eco-friendly high-performance concrete (HPC), this paper addresses the idea of partially replacing cement with recyclable industrial waste. The current study will experimentally examine the slump, the strengths of compressive (SC) and porosity (P) of fifteen HPC mixtures manufactured from locally available resources. Hence, the effects of utilizing marble powder (MP) as a mineral additive in binary mixes and ternary with cement (PC) and granulated ground blast furnace slag (GGBFS) on the HPCs properties were studied in order to develop statistical models based on mixture design. Highly accurate prediction graphs and models were created for HPC workability, P at 28-day, SC at 7 and 28-day. All responses have satisfactory coefficients of correlation (R2 ≥ 0.76). Replacing cement with GGBFS causes a rise in slump in mixtures. Nevertheless, that only remains relevant when the mixtures have a small MP percentage (≤ 25%). A minor decrease in SC can be attributed by an increase of GGBFS. After 28-day, using GGBFS alone caused a little drop in SC; however, when GGBFS and PC were mixed, SC increased, in comparison with reference composition, and the porosity was reduced. Conversely, SC is superior with lower porosity when a small amount of MP is utilized. The best combination is HPC14, containing 5% GGBFS; it offers an optimal equilibrium among the three qualities; with HPC4’s (15%GGBFS+5%MP) qualities, being almost identical to those of reference HPC15, a lower amount of cement may also be utilized. Findings encourage the use of MP and GGBFS to partially replace cement to produce eco-friendly and cost-effective HPC. An extremely high correlation coefficient indicated a strong relationship between P and SC.
Research on the Application of Computer Vision Technology and Optimization of Space Design in a Smart Home Environment
Authors: Peng Mengzhou , Kang Xiaoran , Zhang Xun , Zhao Chenxu
Published: September 2024

This study aims to explore the application of computer vision technology in smart home environments and its influence on space design optimization. Through the comprehensive application of image recognition and processing technology, the behavior patterns of family members, the placement status of household items, and the real-time changes in the indoor environment in smart home systems are deeply analyzed. The experimental results show that computer vision technology can effectively improve smart home systems’ perception and analysis ability, providing data support for automatically adjusting indoor environments and providing personalized service. At the same time, this study also focuses on the optimization strategy of space design based on computer vision technology and puts forward a series of humanized design schemes through reasonable arrangement of cameras and sensors, real-time analysis of user behavior data and environmental parameters, aiming at improving living comfort and achieving efficient use of energy. This study reveals the internal relationship between computer vision technology and space design, which complement each other and jointly promote the intelligent and humanized development of smart homes.
Numerical modeling and fatigue analysis of the dynamic response of main pump cable in nuclear power plant
Authors: Jingqi Wang , Lixia Guo , Wei Liu , Yadong Wang , Dongfang Wu , Zimeng Chen
Published: September 2024

The structural temperature rise and thermal stress caused by operation current and ambient temperature are some of the main factors affecting cable fatigue life. Combined with the operating and environmental conditions of the main cooling pump of the nuclear power plant, the thermal-structural coupling field numerical modeling and fatigue analysis of the 6kV single-core and three-core cable of the main pump is carried out. Based on obtaining the steady-state operating current, the motor start-up transient current, and the circulating ambient temperature, the thermal-structural coupling field numerical model of the main pump cable is established using the load transfer method to obtain the thermal and stress field distribution of the internal structural layer. The load history of one cycle is extracted for the fatigue numerical simulation of the main pump cable. The stress time history of the cable structure layer was constructed by the stress calculation results and the load time history of a single period, and the fatigue life of the main pump cable was obtained based on the S-N curve of the main insulation material and the Miner’s linear cumulative damage theory. The simulation results show that the force acting on the main pump cable by the operating current and ambient temperature is an approximately symmetric cyclic load of constant amplitude. The life cycle of the cable can reach 2.235*e4 times, and the overall life of the cable is about 63.97 years. This study can provide theoretical guidance for the safety and reliability design and state operation and maintenance of the main pump cable of the nuclear power plant.
Modular Structure and BIM-Enabled Automation in Design and Construction
Authors: Lluka Diana
Published: September 2024

The construction industry is experiencing a profound transformation, driven by rapid technological advancements that aim to improve efficiency, sustainability, and precision across all stages of the building process. Among these advancements, Building Information Modeling (BIM) and automation technologies stand out as crucial innovations, particularly within the realm of modular construction. This paper delves into the integration of BIM with modular construction techniques and automation processes, exploring the ways in which these technologies are revolutionizing the industry. By conducting a detailed comparison between traditional modular construction methods and those enabled by BIM, this study demonstrates the significant enhancements in design accuracy, manufacturing efficiency, and on-site assembly quality. Furthermore, the paper addresses the sustainability benefits that arise from the adoption of BIM-enabled modular construction, including reduced waste, optimized resource use, and lower carbon footprints. Drawing upon case studies, industry practices, and real-world applications, this research offers a comprehensive analysis of how BIM-enabled automation is reshaping the construction landscape, setting new standards for future projects.
Assessing the impact of inflation and unemployment on economic growth in Albania
Authors: Toma Volfrida
Published: September 2024

This manuscript aims to perform an in-depth analysis of the intricate relationship between inflation, unemployment, and economic growth within the Albanian economy. By employing advanced regression analysis techniques and thoroughly measuring the correlation between these key economic variables, this study endeavors to shed light on the underlying dynamics that characterize the economic landscape of Albania. Focusing particularly on the most recent period, the research seeks to provide a significant contribution to the existing body of knowledge regarding the country’s economic fluctuations and trends. The study meticulously synthesizes the findings from the regression analysis to offer insightful conclusions that elucidate the complex interactions between inflation, unemployment, and economic growth in Albania. The utilization of regression analysis and correlation metrics is expected to yield precise and detailed insights into these economic phenomena, thereby enhancing the understanding of how these variables influence each other. This research holds the potential to offer valuable recommendations for policymakers, economists, and stakeholders involved in shaping the economic policies of Albania. Ultimately, the study aims to contribute to a more nuanced comprehension of the economic dynamics within Albania and the multifaceted relationship between inflation, unemployment, and economic growth.
John Locke’s political philosophy
Authors: Vrapca Lulzim
Published: September 2024

John Locke (1632-1704) was an English philosopher, very influential in the 17th century. He is considered the first English empiricist, where his ideas had an enormous influence on the development of epistemology and political philosophy. His writings later influenced Voltaire and Rousseau.

Regarding the examination of the natural state, Locke, like Hobbes, starts from the problem of what characterizes the natural state, when there is no political power. Unlike Hobbes, Locke thought that the state from nature was an affordable state characterized by reason and tolerance. As for the social contract, he understood it as “a way to ensure the natural morality of man in a more efficient way, not to throw away his ugly condition, but to achieve his goals, that is, peace and security” (Locke, 2012).

The paper also examines the influence and importance of Locke’s ideas in the development of modern political thought, analyzing how these concepts have contributed to the shaping of democratic ideas and human rights. In conclusion, a critique and re-contextualization of Locke’s theories in the contemporary context is offered, addressing their relevance to current issues of governance and justice in modern societies. This analysis aims to help deepen the understanding of Locke’s political philosophy and assess its influence on today’s political theories and practices.
Heritage of Albanian children literature - Creator and Researcher Astrit Bishqemi
Authors: Alimerko Rudina
Published: September 2024

This study aims to analyze the monographies of “Astrit Bishqemi” an Albanian creator and researcher of children and young literature, which highlights the figure and rich literature activity of the writer, novelist, narrator, story teller, translator of Italian, French, of this multidimensional researcher.

Facing this humongous literature and scientific work, this monography required a serious work, persistent and challenging, in order to present all the data for the author and his creativity. That is why the realization of this study comes in its own originality, regarding the methodology, scientific writings, interviews or declarations during conversations; the research method to collect works, articles, reviews and many more writings held in conferences and scientific symposiums from Albanian researchers in the area of children literature. Thus, this study presents not only a wide variety of the work of Bishqemi, but also a detailed narration of the children literature during the time.
Application of horticulture therapy as a health intervention for elderly people in nursing homes: a scoping review†
Authors: Wang Jing-Jing , Niu Xiao-Yu , Zhao Ming-Li
Published: September 2024

Objective

To review the scope of interventional studies on horticultural therapy (HT) applied to elderly people in nursing institutions to support the efficient implementation of HT among this target group.

Methods

In accordance with the scoping review framework proposed by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI), the PubMed, JSTOR, Web of Science, CNKI, and Wanfang databases were searched. Data from the retrieved literature were summarized and analyzed.

Results

In all, 18 studies were included in this review. The target population groups of interventions included self-supporting elderly people, cognitively impaired elderly people, elderly people with negative emotions, and elderly people with frailty living in nursing institutions. HT interventions, including planting, craft activities, derivative activities, and outdoor viewing activities, are implemented indoors, outdoors, or in mixed settings. The most common duration of the intervention was 8 weeks, the most common frequency was once per week, and the most common session duration was 60 min.

Conclusions

The measurements used in HT interventions included assessments of physical, psycho-mental, and social health; quality of life; and activity effects. Future studies should include partially dependent groups and completely dependent groups of elderly individuals, interventions that last at least 6 months, scientifically designed activity intensity and safety-guarantee plans, and outcome-evaluation indicators such as compliance and intervention benefits.
Defining soft skills in nursing: a concept analysis
Authors: Laari Luke , Anim-Boamah Oboshie , Nyame Margaret
Published: September 2024

Objective

To define soft skills in nursing.

Methods

This is a concept analysis using the Walker and Avant approach. Multiple electronic databases in the English language including CINAHL, ScienceDirect, MEDLINE on EBSCOhost, and Scopus were consulted.

Results

Soft skills in nursing include the intrapersonal attributes, interpersonal skills, and creativity of the nurse, which, when combined with professionalism, teamwork, and effective communication skills, improve the quality of nursing care and client satisfaction.

Conclusions

Although hard and soft skills are compatible and synergetic, soft skills are to be prioritized for the success of nursing care in the healthcare industry. This concept analysis adds to the body of knowledge by identifying the attributes of soft skills in nursing and revealing that a good nurse needs more than just good grades to be successful.
Development and validation of an instrument to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices on digital health among nursing officers†
Authors: Madhuwanthi Maheshika , Jayathilake Sunethra , Liyanaarachchige Neranga , Marasinghe Rohana
Published: September 2024

Objective

Validation is an important aspect of an instrument, and it ensures the confidence of researchers to employ the instrument in their studies. This study was conducted to develop and validate an instrument to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) on digital health among nurses since digital health capacity is a major concern in health care that needs to be assessed.

Methods

We conducted a methodological study to assess the content validity and reliability of the instrument. First, items were generated through a comprehensive literature review and by obtaining an expert opinion. Second, content and face validity were assessed by a panel of 7 experts. Both the item-level content validity index (I-CVI) and the scale-level content validity index (S-CVI) were established. Moreover, test–retest reliability and internal consistency of the instrument were assessed. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.

Results

The initial pool consisted of 60 items and after obtaining content, face, and construct validity, 51 items remained. Items with an I-CVI <0.78 were considered relevant. The S-CVI for relevancy, clarity, ambiguity, and simplicity were 0.93, 0.91, 0.94, and 0.92, respectively. Five subcomponents were constructed in each knowledge and attitudes domain, and the test–retest reliability test revealed that the instrument has good reliability, showing correlation coefficient values for the KAP domains and the total questionnaire of 0.76, 0.98, 0.99, and 0.99, respectively. The independent Cronbach’s α for all items was 0.76, indicating good internal consistency.

Conclusions

The present study established the acceptable validity and ensured the good reliability and internal consistency of the instrument, which can serve as an assessment tool of KAP on digital health among healthcare professionals.
Elements of Anti-World in the Game Universe of The Witcher
Authors: Ovchinnikov V. M. , Paulus P. J.
Published: September 2024

The signiﬁcance of the study of philosophic aspects of building a new game universe in an RPG (role-playing game) stems from the popularity of this type of virtual reality entertainment. The paper gives an analysis of the anti-world, a key concept of role-playing gaming, based on The Witcher video game series. The game is founded on an original series of works under the same title created by Polish fantasy writer Andrzej Sapkowski. The case under consideration serves as a good example for looking into the patterns of forming the space of the game universe that can be equally regarded as a moment when a cultural landscape of virtual en-tertainment is formed. In this case, RPG can be considered as a socio-cultural practice of the global information society and/or one of the variants of the performance society. The methodological basis of the study is comparative analysis, which implies the identiﬁcation of borrowings in the process of developing a culture of virtual entertainment and requires learning about basic cultural codes and archetypal designs that are speciﬁc to RPG. As a result of the research, the speciﬁcity of the new imagery form inherent in the game universe of The Witcher was revealed. The cultural landscape created in the game includes elements of the medieval laughter culture integrated into the unique system of dynamic images and meanings, constantly evolving and functioning in a way analogous with the established cultural and symbolic reality. The eﬀect of the double symbolic analogy is determined by the creative nature of the game, in which players, in addition to participating in the gaming process, also contribute to the creation of the game. The introduction of game images into the language and thinking of the players causes the emergence of new forms of dialects, ﬁxing the peculiarities of perception by the group (sociolect) and the individual (idiolect) of both primary and secondary reality. These dialects are geographically localized and at the same time multicultural. The article substantiates the conclusion that the instrumentalization of the performance society occurs due to the active use of grotesque symbolism, which, due to its archetypal nature, ensures the formation of a new social mythology that enables the discovery of Eastern Europe by the rest of the world. Thus, the anti-world of the new universe turns into an integral part of the modern information space.
Interaction of Cultural and Language Competencies in the Development of Non-Native Speech Skills in Educational Discourse
Authors: Savitskaya E. V.
Published: September 2024

The article aims to analyse the cognitive aspect of educational discourse conducted in a non-native language, specifically the effect of cultural competence on linguistic competence in the process of speech generation. The author considers the problem of transmitting knowledge about the world by means of language from generation to generation in the mental and linguistic ontogenesis. In contrast to the prevailing opinion, the author proves that language itself does not contain information accumulated within linguoculture, but only facilitates the transfer of cultural information that is not derived from language. It is drawn from other sources: innate cognitive programs, patterns of behaviour, reactions to external stimuli, mental strategies, directly from the surrounding extralinguistic reality through senses, etc. The author also describes the means and methods of fixing cultural knowledge in language structure. The research is based on English and Russian language material.
The Splendour and Misery of the Anthropological Crisis: a Myth of Contemporary Russian Philosophy
Authors: Zakharov A. O.
Published: September 2024

The concept of the anthropological crisis is very popular in contemporary Russian humanities: the Russian Scientific Electronic Library (Elibrary.ru) includes more than 10,000 publications with the keyword “anthropological crisis”. On the contrary, Google gives links to Russian publications only when searching “anthropological crisis”. This keyword has no reference in the famous online book catalogue Worldcat. org. Nowadays, English-speaking scientific communities still explore the crisis in anthropology as a discipline. The difference between the anthropological crisis and the crisis in anthropology seems essential. The crisis of a scientific discipline is not a crisis of human nature. Modern Russian scholars, including the late Vyacheslav Stepin, find many features of the anthropological crisis in the successes of genetic engineering and modern medicine, as well as in the growing psychological pressures that people face. Russian-language scholars find traits of the anthropological crisis in many fields, including studies of memory, bioethics, pedagogics, literature, and economics. Others, such as Vyacheslav Stepin and Boris Pruzhinin, point to the loss of a sense of meaning in life as a sign of the anthropological crisis. The problems of self-identity are also marked by Russian authors as a mark of that crisis. Sergey Averintsev felt that human beings lack human nature. Pruzhinin supposes humans cannot predict the consequences of genetic engineering for their nature as a species. But all these trends have nothing in common with the anthropological crisis. Genetic engineering helps to improve human health and self-realization. Certainly, we cannot envision all the possible consequences, but this is true of any scientific discovery or breakthrough. Cyborgs are an inevitable step towards healthier and smarter humans. Existential problems are universal since all humans are endowed with self-consciousness. Self-identities have been in constant flux since the birth of complex societies, especially since the industrial revolution strengthened alienation. The growth and volume of information flows are not threats to humans, as there is no need to memorize all the data in the world, and there are multiple network and personal filters which block garbage. The anthropological crisis seems a myth in contemporary Russian-language humanities in general and philosophy in particular.
Deanthroponymic Contaminants as Objects of the Language Game (Based on Material from Spanish-Language Media)
Authors: Murzin L. P.
Published: September 2024

This article is devoted to the study of anthroponymic occasionalisms and contaminants – lexical innovations created on the basis of anthroponyms – used in the Spanish-language media as part of the communicative strategy and creative potential of the language game realized in the course of the dynamic process that is characteristic of modern Spanish socio-political discourse. The objectives of the article are: a) to identify models of this method of word formation, and b) to establish the types of relations that appear between the components of the abovementioned derived words. Anthroponyms selected by random sampling from internet publications were studied, considered as objects of the language game, on the basis of which, as a result of deliberate word making, occasionalisms– contaminated formations that express, in addition to nominative meaning, expressiveness and emotive colouring – are created. The following methods were used in our analysis of the material: component analysis of the word; the word-formation method of studying transformational techniques; contextual analysis, which allows us to identify the communicative parameters of the use of language units and the contextual features of the implementation of their meaning in the text; the descriptive-analytical method to identify the essential characteristics and features of the linguistic facts under consideration against the background of extralinguistic factors; and the classification method and the method of linguistic and stylistic analysis, focused on identifying the specifics of individual word usage due to the communicative and aesthetic tasks of the author of the text. The relevance of this study is due to the attention of linguists to axiological issues, the increasing regularity of the use of language play in the media space in particular, and contamination as one of the means of expression in the Spanish-language media at the present stage, using anthroponyms as an object. Anthroponymic contaminated formations are becoming more common and diverse, and there is a need to systematize their models and study their structure and semantics. As a result of the examination carried out on a certain array of initial data, semanticstylistic and axiological functions of contaminants – mainly defamatory, invective – are established in accordance with the pragmatic goals of the author of the text. The models of creating anthroponymic contaminants by both occasional and conventional means of word formation are identified and systematized.
Unveiling the Language Techniques Behind the Pragmatic Meaning of Sarcasm in American Confrontational Film Discourse
Authors: Pleshkova D. S.
Published: September 2024

. This article delves into the concept of sarcasm in confrontational American film discourse, examining its primary functions and characteristics. Specifically, the study focuses on how sarcastic statements are used in American television series to heighten emotional engagement and aesthetic appeal. The defining features of sarcasm, namely implicitness and double meaning, are also discussed. The analysis is conducted through a case study of the modern American drama series This Is Us, which highlights the key mechanisms utilized to achieve the pragmatic effect of sarcasm, including intonation, metaphors, and repetitions. Additionally, the article examines the work of translators, their professional challenges, and the methods and techniques employed to convey the semantic content of sarcastic messages in the target language. The findings suggest that translational means such as literal translation, ellipses, and equivalent translation are effective in transferring the intended sarcasm across languages. Overall, this study provides insight into the language techniques and translational strategies involved in the implementation of sarcasm in confrontational American film discourse.
Active Models in Modern Portuguese Neology: New Words and the Pandemic
Authors: Saprykina O. A.
Published: September 2024

In this paper, neology is considered as a heuristic activity that is carried out with the help of language. The article uses materials from modern Portuguese-language media discourse, specifically from the internet versions of the leading media resources in Portugal and Brazil. The combination of structural, psycholinguistic, functional-stylistic, denotative, cognitive-discursive and lexicographic approaches helps to identify the main active models in the field of Portuguese neology. During the coronavirus pandemic, Portuguese neology developed in the classical way, although some new phenomena are observed at the same time. Processes that traditionally occur include word formation (affixation, abbreviation and word composition), semantic reinterpretations of lexical units, and borrowings. There is a large proportion of initial abbreviations in word formation, both alphabetic (sigla) and phonetic (acronyms). Many initial abbreviations are of an international origin. Compound words function alongside scientific symbols. In affixation, prefix word-formation prevails. To enrich the dictionary, borrowings are mostly taken from English. New neological models are associated with the determinologization of medical vocabulary, which migrates into everyday discourse. Proper names are interpreted in a new way. Some anthroponyms, mythonyms and toponyms acquire associative connotations or become part of complex words. Derivation in the field of phraseology, in which the number of fixed combinations increases, has become more common. Paremiology is renewed with antiproverbs. Linguocreative activity is represented by expressive memes and hashtags. In the pandemic period, along with neologisms, potential words with great expressiveness appear. Portuguese neology actively conceptualizes the events of the coronavirus pandemic. In the field of conceptualization, the subdomains of medicine, media and everyday discourse, in the focus of which lies the concept of “disease,” are distinguished. The latter is understood with the help of conventional lexical means and lexical resources from different styles. During the pandemic, the neological field “coronavirus pandemic” appears as part of the constantly expanding neologosphere of the language.
Left atrial myocardial strain, assessed by the method of speckle-tracking echocardiography, as a marker of fibrosis in patients with ischemic stroke
Authors: Khamidova L. T. , Rybalko N. V. , Ivannikov A. A. , Bashirova E. A. , Ramazanov G. R. , Kanibolotskii A. A.
Published: September 2024

Introduction. Cardioembolic stroke (CE) is one of the main etiopathogenetic subtypes of ischemic stroke and accounts for approximately 17% of all patients with ischemic stroke. Currently, there is a search for widely accessible radiological diagnostic methods that allow for the accurate diagnosis of left atrial (LA) dysfunction. Among these methods is transthoracic strain echocardiography (EchoCG), which provides additional information about the degree of deformation and change in shape of the LA during the cardiac cycle. To date, the association between strain EchoCG parameters and the severity of fibrotic changes in the LA among patients with CE remains unstudied.

Objective. To evaluate the relationship between myocardial deformation parameters of the left atrium and the degree of fibrosis in patients with CE, as well as the impact of LA myocardial deformation changes on the prognosis of patients with CE.

Materials and Methods. A prospective cross-sectional study included 132 patients who underwent evaluation and treatment in the Department of Emergency Neurology at the N.V. Sklifosovsky Research Institute for Emergency Medicine from 2020 to 2022. Group 1 consisted of 12 patients who died during hospitalization, while Group 2 comprised 120 patients who were discharged from the department after receiving treatment.

Results. Deceased patients, compared to survivors, were characterized by the presence of LA myocardial remodeling. Statistically significant differences in LA myocardial deformation parameters were found between the study groups. Correlation analysis revealed statistically significant associations between LA myocardial deformation parameters and the severity of fibrotic changes. In the multifactorial logistic regression model, significant effects on the prognosis of patients were observed for LA strain peak systolic circumferential strain rate (LA-Scs) and LA strain peak systolic longitudinal strain rate (LA-Sls), with each 1% increase in the parameter associated with a 1.128-fold and 1.075-fold increase in the odds of a lethal outcome, respectively (OR: 1.128, 95% CI: 1.021–1.25, p = 0.017, and OR: 1.075, 95% CI: 1.009–1.15, p = 0.025).

Conclusions. The conducted study established a strong correlation between LA myocardial deformation and LA fibrosis and the degree of fibrosis in the LA. LA myocardial deformation parameters can be used in risk stratification for the development of a lethal outcome in patients with CE.
Unveiling the Power of Skills: a Multifaceted Approach to Individual and Societal Transformation
Authors: Tamrakar Roshan , Mukti Suraj Kumar , Kushwaha Sunil Kumar
Published: September 2024

Purpose: This review article aims to explore the multifaceted realm of skill development, elucidating its various dimensions and highlighting its profound impact on individuals and societies in the 21st century.
 
Theoretical Framework: The discussion is structured around the dynamic nature of skills within the contemporary landscape, emphasizing their significance in diverse domains such as employability, economic growth, personal development, social inclusion, innovation, and global competitiveness.
 
Methodology:The systematic review has been comprising of research papers form Impact of Skill Development and Importance of Skill Development. Followed by systematically analyzing the significance, consequences, and avenues of skill development, drawing on a wide range of literature and research findings to provide comprehensive insights.
 
Findings: The review articulates how investing in skill development contributes not only to individual success but also to the prosperity and dynamism of economies and societies at large. It highlights the diverse pathways available for skill cultivation, including formal education, vocational training, on-the-job learning, online platforms, and apprenticeships.
 
Implication of Work: Study advocates for a paradigm shift in the perception of skills, viewing them not merely as tools for employment but as catalysts for personal growth, societal progress, and global competitiveness. It serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, educators, and individuals seeking to navigate the complex terrain of skill development in the contemporary world.
Application of Lean Startup Principles in the Improvement of Digital Platforms: a Case Study in a Solar Energy Company
Authors: Souza Érika Márcia Assis de , Viggiano Adalci Righi , Souza Wagner Cavalare de , Castro Mayara Roberta de , Silva Breno Eustáquio da , Diniz Hélio Augusto Goulart
Published: September 2024

Objective: The objective of this study is to improve a solar energy company's website by utilizing the principles of the Lean Startup methodology to meet customer expectations.
 
Theoretical Framework: This study is based on the concepts of digital entrepreneurship and the Lean Startup methodology, emphasizing the importance of adapting to the digital environment and applying agile methodologies for technological innovation.
 
Method: The research adopted a case study with a qualitative and descriptive approach. Data collection was carried out through semi-structured interviews with customers and potential customers, as well as prototyping to validate the hypotheses raised.
 
Results and Discussion: The results revealed that the main improvement needs include adding information about the company, adjusting visual elements, and incorporating interactive tools. The application of Lean Startup principles allowed for rapid iterations on the improvements, resulting in an increased perception of the website's credibility and usability by users.
 
Research Implications: This research provides practical insights into the implementation of agile methodologies for the enhancement of digital products, highlighting the importance of continuous validation with users to achieve satisfactory results.
 
Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by demonstrating the applicability of the Lean Startup methodology in a real context of digital product improvement, offering a replicable model for other companies seeking continuous innovation and customer satisfaction.
Sustainable Tourism Investment and Development in Metro City, Lampung
Authors: Sanjaya Deny , Nurdin Nurliah , Utomo Tri Widodo Wahyu , Gedeona Hendrikus Tribawanto
Published: September 2024

Objective: Investment in the development of tourism in an area needs a policy that has an impact on business actors. Tourism is a necessity for entertainment. It has the potential for the economy of local communities and becomes regional income.
 
Theoretical Framework: The theories in this article include Graham's theory of investment, which emphasizes long-term investment and diversification. Investment objectives, economic impact on local communities, and the environment.
 
Method: Mixed methods with MAXQDA tools were used in this study. The research location is Metro City, Lampung Province, Indonesia, with a literature review of reputable publications, a survey of 21 tourist destinations, and a questionnaire of 399 respondents. Quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis were integrated and then described.
 
Results and Discussion: The results showed that 21 tourist destinations in Metro City were active and still developing at 66.7%, while tourist destinations that were inactive or not developing were 33.3%. Destinations that still exist and develop are 14 tourist destinations while 7 destinations are damaged and no longer developing. In addition, UMKM for the community has the opportunity to increase community income.
 
Research Implications: Tourism and investment as a factor that contributes to the region with government policies due to knowledge, managerial skills, marketing strategies, and distribution and production networks that benefit the local economy.
 
Originality/Value: This research contributes to the literature with the hats of investment, tourism, society, and local government policy. The relevance of this study is that the condition of Metro City tourism development is low, and investment innovation in the tourism sector is needed.
Assessment of medical students knowledge and attitude toward infertility at Jouf University, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alshaikh Ahmed , Edris Fawaz
Published: September 2024

Background: Infertility is considered a chronic disease of the reproductive system, affecting both males and females. The goal of this study was to assess medical students' knowledge and attitudes concerning infertility at Jouf University in Saudi Arabia.
Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was carried out on medical students at Jouf University from February to October of 2023. We designed our study with fourteen questions for knowledge and four questions for attitude.
Results: A total of 121 medical students participated, with 46.2% male and 53.7% female. Compared to male students (67.8%), female students (75.3%) exhibited better knowledge and attitudes (p = 0.001). Additionally, there was a strong correlation between knowledge and attitude, with means and standard deviations calculated based on demographic factors. However, a lack of knowledge regarding contraceptive use was observed in 75.3% of female and 57.1% of male students. The majority of students responded positively to the attitude questions, with 80% of female students believing that infertility is a curable disease. The binary logistic regression showed that students aged 22 to 26 had 53% more knowledge than those aged 18 to 21 (OR: 1.733; 95% CI 1.087 to 2.865). In addition, second-year students had more knowledge than first-year students OR: 0.587; 95% CI 0.254 to 0.977), followed by third-year students (OR: 0.462; 95% CI 0.186 to 0.745), fourth-year students (OR: 0.182; 95% CI 0.152 to 0.713), and fifth-year students (OR: 0.287; 5% CI 0.097 to 0.371).
Conclusion: The majority of the medical students at Jouf University responded favorably to questions about their knowledge and attitudes toward infertility.