bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of stillbirth in the Five General Hospitals of Lusaka, Zambia: A Case-Control study
Authors: Makasa Musonda , Mutale Wilbroad , Lubeya Mwansa Ketty , Mpetemoya Tepwanji , Chinayi Mukambo , Mangala Benedictus , Chipoya Musole , Kaonga Patrick
Published: December 2023

Objective: We aimed to assess determinants of stillbirths among women who delivered from the five general hospitals of Lusaka city, Zambia.
Methods: We conducted an unmatched case-control study. Cases were consecutively enrolled, and controls were randomly selected within 24 hours of occurrence of a case. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data, and multiple regression was used to assess determinants of stillbirths. A p-value of <0.05 was considered sufficient evidence of an association between stillbirth and independent variables.
Results: A total of 58 cases and 232 controls were included in the analysis. Compared with women who delivered babies with birth weight <2500 grams, the risk of stillbirth for women who had babies with birth weight ≥2500 was higher (AOR= 4.49; 95% CI: 2.84 – 8.99); antepartum haemorrhage (AOR = 3.18; 95% CI: 1.21 – 8.09); previous experience of stillbirth (AOR=3.99; 95% CI: 1.73 – 6.73) compared with their counterparts without. Additionally, women with parity > 2 (AOR = 3.02; 95% CI: 1.07 – 7.54) had higher odds of stillbirth compared to those with parity ≤ 2.
Conclusion: Birth weight ≥2.5 kg, antepartum haemorrhage, previous stillbirth were determinants of stillbirth. Program implementers should consider strategies that can mitigate these determinants to reduce stillbirth.
A STUDY ON MAPPING THE SOLAR ENERGY GROWTH IN INDIA:FACTORS CONTRIBUTING AND PROMOTING THE USAGE OF SOLAR ENERGY
Authors:   Senior Business Analyst, Preferred Square, Gurugram, Mandawat Samridhhi , Acharya Asit ,   Senior Business Analyst, Preferred Square, Gurugram
Published: December 2023

The abundance of solar radiation in India's geophysical position is amazing because the nation accepts enough radiation to meet its whole annual energy requirement. Radiation is frequently used in thermal and photovoltaic (PV) applications. As solar water heating technology is the most widespread permitted application, the nation has readily accepted solar thermal technologies. Aside from specific devices or systems, solar pumps, solar street lights, solar home systems, and solar lanterns, all of which fall under the umbrella of solar PV technologies, could be useful in both urban and rural locations. This paper tries to examine the key elements influencing and supporting India's increasing use of solar energy. Empirical research has demonstrated that there is a considerable impact on the expansion of solar energy usage from government regulations, local participation, solar energy finances, and climatic circumstances. This study also seeks to uncover a fresh set of independent factors that influence India's expanding solar energy use.
POSITIVE TRAITS OF CENTRAL BANK DIGITAL CURRENCY ON INDIAN ECONOMY
Authors:   Associate Professor, Poddar Management & Technical Campus, Jaipur, Saxena Ruchir , Sharma Shashikant ,   Assistant Professor, Poddar International College, Jaipur, Saxena Pooja ,   Assistant Professor (Guest), University of Rajasthan, Jaipur
Published: December 2023

Cryptocurrency is the new word that is currently echoing in the Indian market. Commoners can invest and trade crypto coins for several new companies that sprang up throughout India. The latest published economic reports are enough to understand. Cryptocurrencies' popularity and India has 10.7 crores, crypto possessors. The people of India, particularly the youths, are responsible for this popularity of crypto. This rapid growth of cryptocurrency has impact the Indian Economy in various ways. An attempt has been made in this paper to explore the same.
THE ROLE OF BIOLOGICAL PROCESSES IN MANAGING PLASTIC WASTE IN RURAL INDIAN MUNICIPALITIES: A CRITICAL REVIEW OF BIO-STRATEGIES
Authors:   Deptt. of Zoology, Poddar International College, Jaipur, Damor Ms. Shilpi , Kumar Mr. Neeraj ,   Deptt. of Zoology, Poddar International College, Jaipur
Published: December 2023

Plastic waste management is a growing concern in many rural Indian municipalities due to the negative impacts it can have on the environment and human health. Bio-strategies, which involve the use of biological processes to manage plastic waste, have emerged as a promising solution to this problem. In this critical review, we examine the role of biological processes in managing plastic waste in rural Indian municipalities, with a particular focus on bio-strategies. We review the literature on various bio-strategies, including biodegradation, composting, pyrolysis, gasification, and hydrogenation, and present case studies that highlight their effectiveness. We also discuss the limitations and challenges associated with bio-strategies and suggest areas for future research. Our review underscores the importance of exploring innovative and sustainable solutions to manage plastic waste in rural Indian municipalities and the potential of bio-strategies to address this pressing environmental issue.
The Counterproductive Aspects of Charm: Counterfeit Cosmetics and the Purchasing Intention of Bangladeshi Undergrads
Authors: Tanvir Kazi , Dass Dr. Mahaaganapathy , Islam Muhammad Sazzadul , Prokriti Anika Tahsin , Akter Samia
Published: December 2023

The current research explores the counterproductive aspects of charm in the context of counterfeit cosmetics and the purchasing intention of Bangladeshi undergraduate students. The study examines four hypotheses: H1) A correlation exists between ostentation and affordability. H2) A correlation exists between ostentation and psychological contentment. H3) A correlation exists between psychological contentment and affordability. H4) There is a correlation between affordability, lack of knowledge, and purchasing intention. Data for this study was obtained via an online survey, with a total of 147 participants. All predictions were confirmed, demonstrating a robust correlation between exhibitionism, affordability, psychological contentment, and purchasing inclination in the context of counterfeit cosmetics among undergraduate students from Bangladesh. The results of this study can offer valuable perspectives for domestic and international cosmetic brands regarding customer perceptions of the market and the determinants that impact their purchasing, preference, and loyalty choices.
STUDI EKSPERIMENTAL PENGARUH SUHU TERHADAP KUAT TEKAN TOOTHBRUSH WASTE PLASTIC CONCRETE (TPWC)
Authors: Ashad Hanafi , Ismail Muh Shadikin , Utina Toni , Burhanuddin Muh Syarif , Diana Risma , Masdiana Masdiana
Published: December 2023

Indonesia adalah negara peringkat kedua penghasil sampah plastik di dunia . Hal ini karena jumlah penduduk Indonesia menduduki peringkat ke 4 di dunia yang mana hampir 80% masyarakat belum menyadari tentang pemilahan, penggunaan dan bahaya sampah dan semakin diperparah sejak Pandemi Covid 19. Pemerintah telah mengupayakan segala cara agar dapat menekan laju pertumbuhan produksi sampah plastik dengan menggeluarkan dana, menetapkan peraturan, menggalakkan program 5R. Salah satu upaya masyarakat adalah dengan memanfaatkan sampah menjadi material utama beton. Sampah sikat gigi plastik (Toothbrush Plastic Waste/TPW) adalah sampah yang tidak benilai namun produksinya sangat besar karena merupakan salah satu kebutuhan pokok kebersihan. Tekstur yang kuat, tahan panas dan tidak lapuk merupakan faktor utama pemilihan sebagai material subtitusi. TPW dipotong dengan Panjang 1-2 cm, komposisi prosentase TWP sebagai subtitusi agregat kasar diambil berdasarkan volume agregat kasar. Hasil penelitian membuktikan terjadi peningkatan kuat tekan hingga 28 hari. Toothbrush Plastic Waste of concrete pada kondisi sebelum dipanaskan yang terbaik adalah (TPWC) 2,5% memiliki nilai kuat tekan sebesar 15,83 Mpa dan berat isi sebesar 12,39 kg.
Decreased prevalence and severity of asthma symptoms among adolescents in Ibadan, Nigeria, 1995–2018
Authors: Labaeka A. A. , Falade A. G. , Addo-Yobo E. O. D. , Mortimer K. , Zurba L. , Lesosky M. , Ellwood P. , Asher M. I.
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND: Phases I and III of the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) documented increased asthma symptoms among Nigerian 13–14-year old adolescents. We investigated the trend further using the Global Asthma Network (GAN) surveillance.METHODS:
Using ISAAC methodology, GAN Phase I data on symptoms and risk factors for asthma and asthma management were obtained from February to July 2018.RESULTS: There were 2,897 adolescents from 23 secondary schools. For current wheeze, there was an absolute prevalence fall per decade
of –1.4 with –1 standard error (SE) in 16 years from 2002 (ISAAC Phase III) to 2018 (GAN Phase I). This pattern was evident for prevalence of reported asthma ever, severe asthma symptoms and night cough with ≥1 SE. During the 23-year interval between ISAAC Phase I and GAN Phase
I, there was a fall (≥1 SE) in the absolute prevalence of reported asthma ever, severe asthma symptoms and night cough, except for severe asthma symptoms (–0.2 SE). Respectively 36% and 43% of symptomatic adolescents purchased and used salbutamol and prednisolone.CONCLUSION:
The prevalence and severity of asthma symptoms remain high among adolescents in Ibadan. This could be mitigated by improved access to affordable and effective asthma treatments.
Effect of HIV infection on plasma exposure to first-line TB drugs and target attainment in children
Authors: Yang H. , Antwi S. , Maranchick N. , Dompreh A. , Amissah A. K. , Sly-Moore E. , Martyn-Dickens C. , Opoku T. , Enimil A. , Bosomtwe D. , Ojewale O. , Sarfo A. D. , Appiah A. F. , Kusi-Amponsah I. , Dong S. K. , Osei Kuffour B. , Morgan R. , Alshaer M. H. , Peloquin C. A. , Kwara A.
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND: Whether HIV infection adversely affects exposure to first-line TB drugs in children is debatable. It is also not known whether HIV infection increases the risk of plasma underexposure or overexposure to TB drugs. This study sought to address these questions.DESIGN/METHODS:
Children on TB treatment were enrolled. After 4 weeks on therapy, blood samples were collected at pre-dose, 1, 2, 4, 8, and 12 h post-dose for pharmacokinetic analysis. Plasma drug exposure below and above the lower and upper bounds of the 95% confidence intervals of the reference mean for
children were considered underexposure and overexposure, respectively. The effect of HIV infection on drugs exposure and risk of underexposure were examined using multivariate analysis.RESULTS: Of 86 participants (median age: 4.9 years), 45 had HIV coinfection. HIV coinfection was
associated with lower pyrazinamide (PZA) and ethambutol exposures in adjusted analysis. Patients with TB-HIV coinfection were three times more likely to have PZA underexposure than those with TB only. Underexposure of rifampin was common irrespective of HIV coinfection status.CONCLUSIONS:
HIV coinfection was associated with a higher risk for PZA underexposure in children. This effect should be accounted for in models and simulations to determine optimal PZA dose for children.
Atorvastatin improves sputum conversion and chest X-ray severity score
Authors: Adewole O. O. , Omotoso B. A. , Ogunsina M. , Aminu A. , Ayoola O. , Adedeji T. , Awopeju O. F. , Sogaolu O. M. , Adewole T. O. , Odeyemi A.O. , Jiya E. , Andero V. , Ojo O. , Toyin K. , Akintomide A. O. , Erhabor G. E.
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND: We report the results of a phase IIB study investigating the safety and effectiveness of atorvastatin use with standard anti-TB drugs.METHODS: In this multicentre, open-labelled study, we recruited treatment-naÏve patients with uncomplicated pulmonary
TB aged at least 18 years. Participants were randomly assigned to standard-of-care or standard-of-care plus oral dose of atorvastatin (40 mg) daily for 2 months. Primary end points were safety measured by the number of participants with severe adverse events and effectiveness measured by the
number of participants with negative sputum culture. Secondary endpoint was chest X-ray (CXR) severity score.RESULTS: Of the 185 participants screened, 150 were enrolled and equally assigned to the standard-of-care and atorvastatin groups. Adverse event severity was similar in the
two groups. There was increased frequency of muscle pain in the trial group (12/75, 16% vs. 4/75, 5%). For efficacy analysis, respectively 64 (97%) and 57 (85.1%) patients in the trial and control groups had culture-negative results (P = 0.02) and experienced a reduction in CXR severity
score of respectively 37% and 22%, with a mean difference of 1.4–4.9%.CONCLUSION: Atorvastatin is safe and associated with improved microbiological and radiological outcomes in TB.
Lost in Transition: Recommendations for transition in mental health and description of two innovative Portuguese initiatives
Authors: Jorge Beatriz , Amaro Rita , Samouco Ana , Santos Martins Filipa , Fernandes Luís , Santos Mário J.
Published: December 2023

The process of transition from Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services to Adult Mental Health Services cannot be defined only as a process of transfer from one service to another, but as an intentional and planned process, meeting the medical, psychosocial and educational needs of patients. According to descriptions from various countries, the transition process currently lacks careful planning and execution, being experienced as an abrupt process by patients and multiple people involved in their care. This paper reflects upon transition practices in mental health services, summarising the current literature and presenting two Portuguese mental health transition projects, as examples of how the process of transition might be improved. Poorly planned transitions may contribute to an increased risk of non-adherence to treatment, loss to follow-up, and poorer health outcomes, as well as significant economic costs. Despite some general guidelines on this topic, transition protocols, if available, vary significantly across countries and regions, and no current existing model appears to fully meet the identified needs of patients in transition. In Portugal, the Semente Program in Hospital Prof. Doutor Fernando Fonseca intends to identify and intervene in the care of children of adult patients with mental health issues. The Shared Service for Teens and Young Adults, a collaboration between Centro Hospitalar Psiquiátrico de Lisboa and Hospital Dona Estefânia, incorporates some of the recommendations summarised in this paper. Better understanding and development of communication pathways, continuity, coordination of care, referral protocols, and service delivery might contribute to a more robust design of transitional mental health care, thus making it more accessible, acceptable and efficient.
HISTORICAL ASPECTS OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF POP DANCE
Authors:   Kazakh National Academy of Choreography, Alimzhan Zh. , Mambekov E.
Published: December 2023

The article is devoted to the historical aspects of the development of pop dance - a popular and vivid phenomenon in modern culture. The author explores the origin and evolution of pop dance, from its early forms in the XIX-XX centuries to modern manifestations. The article examines various historical milestones and moments, the influence of different cultures and styles on the development of pop dance, as well as its interaction with other spheres of art. Special attention is paid to important stages in the history of pop dance, such as the emergence of choreographic schools and troupes, the development of new techniques and styles, their influence on fashion and music, as well as the role of pop dance in socio-cultural processes. The article offers a comprehensive overview of the historical aspects of pop dance, as well as raises questions about its significance and role in modern culture.
TO THE QUESTION OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN CONTEMPORARY ART
Authors: Mirzayev A.
Published: December 2023

The article examines the relationship between social media and contemporary art. The author discusses how social media influences works of art, and, conversely, how works of art can use social media as a means of communication with the public. The article analyzes examples of contemporary artists and their works that are used in social media projects, and discusses the problems associated with this approach to art, including issues of privacy, control and the influence of social media on the creative process. The author emphasizes that the use of social media in art has both positive and negative sides, but despite this, it remains an important and relevant direction in the development of contemporary art.
THE REPRESENTATION OF THE DRAMATURGICAL TEXT IN THREE SISTERS BY ANDREAS KRIEGENBURG
Authors:   Kazakh National Academy of Choreography, Abdrakhmanov B.
Published: December 2023

The article attempts to study the representation of the dramatic text in the play «Three Sisters» by German director Andreas Kriegenburg. The original representation of the canonical text of the play by A. Chekhov arouses great interest, as with all the innovation of the production, A. Kriegenburg managed to convey the Chekhov mood of the play
THE IMAGE OF ALMATY IN THE VERSES OF VERA SAVELYEVA
Authors:   Kazakh National Academy of Choreography, Tolysbaeva Zh.
Published: December 2023

The article studies the content of the poetic locus of Almaty in its different historical periods. The author compares two artistic images of the city: created in the 1960s and in the 2020s. The poetics of Alma-Ata, read from the space-time series of natural and urban images, has undergone a significant transformation over the past 60 years. Based on the material of the “Almaty cycle” by the Kazakh poet Vera Savelyeva, it is proved that in the poems of the Almaty poets of the beginning of the 21st century a different intonation appeared, the dominant emotion changed, the semiotic code of Almaty changed, but at the same time, Almaty as an artistic locus is not lost, therefore, the poetics of the city also functions creatively
ROCK OPERA IS A NEW FORM OF TRADITIONAL ART
Authors:   Kazakh National Academy of Choreography, Bukharbayev A. , Mambekov E.
Published: December 2023

In the research work, we rely on the assumption that the similarity of the musical features of the melodic rhythm of the Kazakh tune with the leitmotif of the rock opera genre is closely related to the development of domestic musical synthetic genres and the process of bringing the theatrical worlds of the national style to the world stage. For this reason, understanding this phenomenon from a scientific point of view provides an excellent opportunity to enrich and expand the stylistic diversity of domestic musicals, thereby increasing the likelihood of appealing to the audience's taste
DEONTIC AND AXIOLOGICAL MOTIVES IN THE MYTHOPOETIC PICTURE OF THE WORLD
Authors:   Southern Federal University, Kuznetsova A. , Kazieva A. ,   Pyatigorsk State University
Published: December 2023

The author of the article substantiates the observations that any culture is a process and the result of changes in the surrounding world, therefore, cultures of different peoples differ from each other not by the type of contemplative exploration of the world, but by the type of its material and spiritual appropriation, i.e., an active behavioral reaction to the world. Deontics and axiology play a greater role in the work, the more "high" pathos the artistic genre has. The study of dianetics and axiology based on the material of the romantic culture of the Caucasus is necessarily connected with the definition of the specifics of the ethnic tradition recreated in the mytho-epic model of the world.
NATIONALITY, ETHNICITY, THE TRIBALISM OF THE NATION...
Authors:   Sokhumi State University, Kadaria A. , Vakhania N.
Published: December 2023

This paper will study the aspects of Ilia Chavchavadze's journalism. Ilia Chavchavadze often published articles on the political and economic situation of different countries on the pages of "Iveria". This, of course, had its purpose. Ilia, first of all, wanted the Georgian readers to be sure about how the life of the society or this or that nation was developing abroad, and the second and most important goal was to open the eyes of the same society and show what the conquered countries were doing to correct their political and social situation. With taxation, we can argue that he was only concerned with the struggle of other nations for independence to start his own. It was not easy. Chavchavadze, apart from the king of Russia, had many enemies inside as well, because no one wanted to give up the primacy. At the end of the article, we will review Mrs. Nora Drehurst's work in Georgia and her attitude toward Ilia.
REMOTE ACADEMIC EDUCATION IN THE OPINION OF TEACHERS
Authors: Czajka Zdzisław
Published: December 2023

The article presents an assessment of the quality and effectiveness of remote academic education by teachers, including its advantages and disadvantages, affecting the preparation of students for professional work. The analysis was based on research on the quality of distance learning during the pandemic (2020–2021), conducted among academic teachers at selected public universities. Other publications on distance learning at various levels of education and reports of the Polish Accreditation Committee were also used. The following issues were analysed and evaluated: preparation of universities and academic teachers to conduct studies in a remote form, effectiveness of various ways and forms of conducting classes and objectivity of colloquia and exams, commitment and quality of students' work, assessment of the effectiveness of remote studies against the background of traditional ones, advantages and disadvantages of distance learning and teachers' opinions on the further use of the remote form in studies. Almost half of the surveyed academic teachers assessed the effectiveness of remote studies worse than traditional ones, especially in the field of teaching skills important in the future professional work of students. Slightly fewer respondents believed that there is no difference between the effectiveness of remote and traditional studies. The least respondents assessed the effectiveness of remote studies better than traditional ones.
ASPECTOS RELACIONADOS A VIOLÊNCIA CONTRA O IDOSO
Authors: Monteiro Ketlen de Oliveira , Lopes Graciana de Sousa
Published: December 2023

Objetivo: analisar a violência contra o idoso nos tempos atuais Metodologia: Revisão Integrativa de Literatura. Resultados: A violência contra os idosos, que geralmente ocorre em casa, é uma forma de abuso que se manifesta de diversas maneiras, incluindo agressões físicas, verbais, psicológicas, além de maus-tratos envolvendo bens materiais, financeiros e negligência. O que temos aqui é uma problemática de saúde pública, que pode causar graves consequências para as vítimas. Isso inclui um aumento na taxa de doenças e mortes, além de necessidade de internação em instituições e hospitais. Além disso, essa situação também pode afetar a saúde mental das pessoas afetadas, bem como seus relacionamentos familiares e vida social. Desta forma, os idosos têm sido frequentemente vítimas de atos de violência e violação de seus direitos devido à sua vulnerabilidade. É importante destacar que muitas vezes esses atos partem de pessoas que fazem parte do seu próprio círculo familiar. A fragilidade adquirida ao longo da vida, juntamente com a perda da juventude, torna o idoso ainda mais suscetível à prática da violência. É alarmante perceber que essa problemática não se limita apenas às classes sociais mais baixas, pois até mesmo os serviços de saúde podem ser palco desse tipo de violência contra os idosos. Conclusão: A violência contra o idoso constitui um problema de saúde pública, podendo resultar em graves consequências para as vítimas. Isso inclui o aumento da taxa de doenças e mortes, a institucionalização e a necessidade de internação hospitalar. Além disso, essa forma de violência pode impactar negativamente a saúde mental, prejudicar os laços familiares e afetar a vida social dos idosos.
TRANSTORNO DEPRESSIVO: O MAL EMERGENTE DA SOCIEDADE
Authors: Da Fonseca Pedro Augusto Resende
Published: December 2023

O presente trabalho teve como objetivo realizar uma revisão bibliográfica sobre a evolução constante do Transtorno Depressivo na sociedade brasileira e no mundo, a fim de aumentar a gama de artigos científicos e, consequentemente, contribuir para a pesquisa nessa área da saúde mental e para atualizar à sociedade a respeito do problema. Com esse intuito, o trabalho baseou-se na coleta de informações e na pesquisa de artigos científicos produzidos desde 1995 até 2023, utilizando como principais fontes de consulta o Google Acadêmico, Catálogo de Teses da CAPES e a biblioteca digital Scielo.
A INTERFERÊNCIA DO PÓS-POSITIVISMO JURÍDICO NAS RELAÇÕES PRIVADAS DURANTE O FINAL DA REGÊNCIA DO CÓDIGO CIVIL DE 1916
Authors: Ribeiro Lígia Nery Andrade
Published: December 2023

O presente artigo trata-se de como o Pós-Positivismo impactou as relações civis anteriores à promulgação do Código Civil de 2002. Seu objetivo, portanto, é investigar de que maneira os princípios da Constituição Federal de 1988, com destaque ao Princípio da Dignidade da Pessoa Humana, passaram a ocupar a posição de centralidade antes ocupada pelo Código Civil de 1916 e quais foram as consequências deste fenômeno no ordenamento brasileiro durante a vigência do referido código de 1916. Para possibilitar esta análise, adotou-se a metodologia de revisão bibliográfica cujo marco teórico constitui-se em publicações de artigos e obras de juristas civilistas e constitucionalistas a respeito do tema tratado e será dividido na análise de como era o status das normas civis antes e após a virada paradigmática da valorização do Princípio da Dignidade da Pessoa Humana. A hipótese adotada pelo presente estudo é de que este novo paradigma, pilar essencial da Constituição de 1988, desencadeou os fenômenos da “descentralização” e da “descodificação” do direito civil, o que, por sua vez, promoveu a criação do projeto de Miguel Reale em prol de um código mais humanizado.
PENGENALAN TEKNOLOGI VIRTUAL REALITY (VR) PADA PEMBELAJARAN SIMULASI PEMBUATAN KOMPUTER DI JURUSAN TEKNIK INFORMASI DAN JARINGAN (TKJ)
Authors: Andy Satria  , Surya Inra Simbolon  , Fidelis Sitinjak
Published: December 2023

The study is motivated by the difficulties encountered in the learning process of computer assembly. Inadequate support for the learning process arises from the insufficient availability of hardware components corresponding to the student population, leading to challenges for students in understanding and applying the subject matter. The shortage of components is primarily due to budget constraints for procurement, resulting in damage to school visual aids caused by errors made by students during practical exercises. Hence, there is a necessity to develop computer assembly learning materials incorporating virtual reality technology. The research utilized the Research and Development (R&D) four-D (4D) development model, consisting of Define, Design, and Develop stages. The multimedia development model applied in this study follows the Luther-Sutopo version, involving six stages: concept, design, material collection, assembly, testing, and distribution. The research integrates both the 4D and Luther-Sutopo versions of the multimedia development model. The outcomes of this investigation include computer assembly learning materials based on virtual reality, presenting explanations of hardware components and a simulation segment for computer assembly. The product validity testing resulted in a score of 0.78, meeting the validity criteria. Regarding practicality, the test outcomes indicated a score of 85.11, demonstrating high practicality. Furthermore, the effectiveness test yielded a score of 0.74, indicating a high level of effectiveness.
Credit Risk Management and Deposit Money Banks’ Performance in Nigeria
Authors: Ejem Chukwu Agwu , Okore Chinedu Samuel , Samuel Chinedu , Effe-Nnamdi Ann Chinenye
Published: December 2023

This study examined the relationship between credit risk management and performance of deposit money banks in Nigeria. It was mainly conceived to unravel the causes of the incessant loan delinquencies and its resultant effect on the performance of deposit money banks in Nigeria, despite the various credit policies used by the monetary authorities to curtail them. To achieve this study, data for empirical analysis were sourced from the Nigerian deposit insurance cooperation spanning from 1990 to 2020. Error Correction Mechanism was employed to estimate the various models specified. It was found among others that non-performing loans (credit risks) exert significant impact on bank performance within the period of the study, while average liquidity ratio insignificantly relates to bank performance within same period. In the light of the above findings, the researchers recommend among others that the monetary authorities should intensify their regulatory as well as their supervisory role as it concerns the reduction of the volume of bad loans granted by banking system in Nigeria. Also, that deposit money banks should adopt a workable credit policy to forestall delinquent loans.
Corporate Risk Management Disclosures and Financial Performance of Listed Deposit Money Banks in Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Accountancy, Faculty of Management Sciences, Igbru Oghenekaro , Ikilidih Nkechi Joy , Agari Evi Prosper
Published: December 2023

The relationship between corporate risk management disclosures and the financial performance of Nigerian listed deposit money banks was empirically examined in this study. The study is important because it shows how much corporate risk management disclosures affect the performance of banks. Corporate risk management disclosures (CRMDs) and financial performance were found to be correlated through the use of CRMD key proxy variables in the study. These variables included Financial Risk Management Disclosure (FRMD), Strategic Risk Management Disclosure (SRMD), Operational Risk Management Disclosure (ORMD), and Technological Risk Management Disclosure (TRMD). Return on equity (ROE) was used as a proxy for financial performance. The study was guided by four hypotheses, and the panel least squares regression model was utilized to perform a statistical test of the parameter estimates. Ex Post Facto design was employed in the study's analysis. The Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) Factbook, published annual financial reports, and accounts of listed deposit money banks in Nigeria from 2015 to 2022 provided the secondary data for the study. Overall, the results showed a positive and significant relationship between the financial performance of listed deposit money banks and the Financial Risk Management Disclosure (FRMD), Strategic Risk Management Disclosure (SRMD), Operational Risk Management Disclosure (ORMD), and Technological Risk Management Disclosure (TRMD) have a positive and significant relationship with the financial performance of Nigerian listed deposit money bank sat 1–5% significant level of. The study comes to the conclusion that corporate risk management disclosures protect Nigerian banks' bottom lines. Since corporate risk management affects banks' performance in Nigeria, the study recommended that banks reveal more information about financial risk management, strategic risk management, operational risk management, and technological risk management in their annual reports for the consumption of financial statement users.
Cognitive flexibility and stability at the task-set level: A dual-dimension framework
Authors: Corey Nack , Yu-Chin Chiu
Published: December 2023

Metacontrol coordinates goal-directed information processing, giving rise to cognitive flexibility and stability. However, the structure of flexibility and stability in metacontrol has long been subject to an overlooked assumption that these states vary on a single spectrum. This unidimensional structure gives rise to an obligatory flexibility-stability tradeoff: Becoming more flexible must come at the cost of lower stability. Although a “unidimensional” framework such as this has intuitive appeal, a great deal of recent work reveals that flexibility and stability can vary independently. Here, we review evidence that is challenging for the unidimensional framework to account for. As an alternative, we propose a dual-dimension framework (DDF) whereby flexibility and stability are assigned to separate dimensions, each ranging from low to high and capable of varying independently. In addition, we describe processes by which people shift along both dimensions. Theoretical benefits of adopting the DDF include a more fine-grained explanation of observed variability in behavior. Possible applications include strategies for better aligning metacontrol states with situational demands. In light of these implications, combined with the available data, we propose that the DDF might offer a better way to describe the structure of flexibility-stability metacontrol.
An Experience of Narratological Analysis: Evidence from the Sketches for the Symphonic Poem by Richard Strauss A Hero’s Life
Authors:   Gnesin Russian Academy of Music, Moskvina Olga O.
Published: December 2023

Based on the sketches for the symphonic poem A Hero’s Life, the article examines how Richard Strauss developed its concept. The analysis of Strauss’ drafts identified four stages in his work on the composition. It was found that over the course of the four stages the original composition underwent significant changes. According to the composer’s orig- inal idea, the movement about the hero’s adversaries and critics (the develop- ment section of the poem) is followed directly by a love scene thus romanticis- ing the symphonic action. According to Strauss, love was the Hero’s source of power and inspiration. However, the original plan of the composition changed: the love scene became part of the exposition section and preceded the battle, while the Hero found his ‘lifeblood’ in creativity. Strauss used quotes from his own works to deliver this message to the audience. The analysis revealed the dynamics of changes in the development of the author's concept. The findings provide a new perspective on the relevance of compositional elements in the final version of A Hero’s Life.
Fugue for 13 Solo Strings by Witold Lutoslawski: Between the Author’s Commentary and Musicological Reflection
Authors:   Petrozavodsk State Glazunov Conservatory, Koposova Irina V.
Published: December 2023

The Fugue for 13 Solo Strings by Witold Lutoslawski is one of the remarkable examples of a sonorous interpretation of the Baroque form. The first researcher to study the Fugue was Yuzef Kon, who chose Lutoslawski’s own statements about his opus as a starting point for research. Further studies are based, largely, on the conclusions made by Kon. Among them a special mention should be made to significant contributions by Valeria Tsenova and Natalia Simakova. Thus, the existing Russian research framework concerning the Lutoslawski Fugue is largely determined by the composer’s commentary and does not embrace elements of the form. The analytical part of the article explores issues that have not been the focus of research to date. It shows how sonorism transforms the theme texture, the logic of relations between the subject and the answer, the juxtaposition of the subject and countersubject. The article also discusses the choice of the means for the development and conclusion of the sections of the form and describes changes to the poetics of the Fugue. The article is a follow-up and a contribution to the development of Yuzef Kon’s ideas about the reinterpretation of the form of Lutoslawski’s Fugue.
Trio Texture in Choral Arrangements and Polyclavier Organ of Southern Germany in the First Third of the 16th Century
Authors:   Gnesin Russian Academy of Music, Tabyisova Fedosia W. ,   Higher School of Music of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia)
Published: December 2023

The article is an attempt to establish a relationship between the structure of large South German church organs of the first third of the 16th century and the compositional features of the thencontemporary organ works. The historical boundaries of the Renaissance in German architecture and music do not coincide, while an organ may be viewed as an architectural element. This contradiction presents a certain difficulty. In the indicated period, the late Gothic architectural style, which preceded the Renaissance, played a leading role. As we see it, the organ music of this time, usually attributed to the Renaissance, reflected the transition from the late Gothic to the Renaissance. This complex repertoire is marked by the coexistence and interaction of three general trends. Among them are archaic polymelodic polyphony as well as new techniques: the method of coloring that spread in Southern Germany and imitation borrowed from the European North. A polyclavier organ, which we take as the standard of the South German instrument, is called a late Gothic spaltsatz organ (spätgotische Spaltsatz-Orgel) in German musicology. The trio texture found in choral arrangements, in our opinion, most fully and accurately reflects the polyclavier structure and timbre richness of the large church organs of South Germany.
Gregorian Chant in Organ Sonatas by J.-N. Lemmens
Authors:   Gnesin Russian Academy of Music, Agapova-Strizhakova Elena A.
Published: December 2023

The 1860s played a special role in the history of organ music in Belgium and France. This period was marked by the active development of substantive repertory and the establishment of the Franco-Belgian organ school. All the advances of this period could not be possible without the contribution of the Belgian composer, organist and teacher Jacques-Nicolas Lemmens. Brought up on the traditional for Catholic Belgium Gregorian chants and the organ works by Johann Sebastian Bach, Lemmens managed to organically transfer Bach's principles of working with Lutheran chant to completely different material of Gregorian hymns. Lemmens is also credited for the foundation of the first educational institution that trained church musicians. The three organ sonatas became the pinnacle of his work and the first examples of the synthesis of liturgical content and a secular form. The article reveals general patterns in the choice of themes from the large-scale corpus of Gregorian chants. The melody of the chorale can also be traced in parts in which no chorale is indicated. It shows a deep connection between Lemmens’s heritage and a thousand-year-old church musical tradition.
Rimsky-Korsakov: Principles of Orchestration and Three Operas on Historical Subjects
Authors:   Gnesin Russian Academy of Music, Skuratovskaya Maria V.
Published: December 2023

Orchestration of Rimsky-Korsakov’s operas on historical subjects has never been in the spotlight of researchers. The only scholar who provided a detailed analysis of orchestral techniques in The Maid of Pskov, The Noblewoman Vera Shelog and The Tsar’s Bride was the composer himself: almost a third of the examples in his manual Principles of Orchestration are drawn from his historical operas. The analysis of these examples as well as a number of scenes from the unpublished second edition of The Maid of Pskov shows that they clearly reflect the evolution of Rimsky-Korsakov’s orchestral style: an early period of The Mighty Five, the time of independent training and the beginning of teaching at the conservatory, and, finally, the development of his mature style. The three operas clearly illustrate Rimsky-Korsakov’s progress in orchestration training. This might be the reason for the detailed analysis of operas in his manual: the composer describes his mistakes and ways to overcome them. In fact, Rimsky-Korsakov writes his treatise reflecting on the formation of his own technique. Therefore, it is important to study the orchestration of historical operas through the prism of Rimsky-Korsakov’s own ideas reflected in the Principles of Orchestration.
Sometimes You Have “To Skip” a Stubborn “Measure”. On Some Aspects of Shostakovich’s Creative Process
Authors:   Prince Alexander Nevsky Military University, Lukyanov Anton V.
Published: December 2023

At times Shostakovich composed his pieces so fast that one would feel something Mozartian in the lightness of his writing technique. However, there were times when things went the other way round. We find what Shostakovich himself says about his writing patterns, “I am trying hard to compose something new. I get down to writing and then change my mind. The symphony does no pan out.” These are just a few of a dozen of other similar statements. One of them makes the title of our paper. It is written as an understatement—a stylistic device so much favored by Shostakovich (O.G. Digonskaya). The words in quotes should not be taken literally. “To skip” does not mean omitting a measure—the measure may contain music subject to later review. The word “measure” does not always imply one measure. It may be one measure in short pieces like Prelude No. 14, Opus 34, or, in extensive scores, the number may reach a few dozens of measures (Symphony No. 4, Part 1). Sometimes “skipping” is nothing but a summary notation—when drafting music, the composer may omit certain details for the simple reason that he remembers them all. This approach is common for that phase of composing when music material is mostly ready but needs emphasis (Symphony No. 10, Part 2). To conclude, Shostakovich deals with music rather freely because of the underlying principle he follows in his composing manner, i.e., a comprehensive vision of what his future music piece will look like.
A Fugue as Art: Between Form and Metamorphoses
Authors:   Gnesin Russian Academy of Music, Shinkareva Maya I.
Published: December 2023

The article explores the informative value of the most common oppositions “typical vs. individual”, “traditional vs. unique”, “stable vs. dynamic” for the study of evolutionary processes in music. The dichotomous method helps to reveal the dialectic of the general and the individual. On top of that, it is instrumental in discovering new approaches and meanings behind them. At the same time, the concepts of “typical”, “traditional”, and “stable” are understood as a generally accepted, recognizable (at the level of a compositional solution), essential and basic property of the form, while the concept of “metamorphosis” is understood as something special, changeable and non-conventional. The study focuses on the fugue as the key polyphonic form commonly perceived as the embodiment of strict traditions of academicism and, to a certain degree, of conservatism. At the same time, the fugue effectively demonstrates the interaction of technical and aesthetic aspects of the archetype and its numerous stylistic modifications. This is extremely important as regards studies into the evolution of the fugue and the discovery of its internally open and creative nature. Examples of fugues in various composing practices—from the heyday of the Baroque to the present day—show metamorphoses as an organic process that naturally permeates the entire history of the form. Diverse and sometimes paradoxical compositional solutions of the fugue provide a ground to supplement the above list of antonymic pairs with one more opposition: “morph vs. metamorphosis” (“morph” is a Greek word for “form”). This opposition makes it possible to identify the relations between different compositional and structural units of the invariant form and their variants in a modified form.
Political Intrigues of the Court of Florence as a Prerequisite for Giulio Caccini’s Opera The Abduction of Cephalus
Authors:   Gnesin Russian Academy of Music, Verin-Galitskaya Alena D.
Published: December 2023

The beginnings of opera history are usually associated with Euridice by Ottavio Rinuccini and Jacopo Peri as the first staged and preserved example of the genre. Not many people know that Euridice was by no means the main event during the wedding celebrations in honour of Maria de’ Medici and King Henry IV of France in 1600, to which the opera was timed. The audience was much more drawn to the opera Il rapimento di Cefalo (The Abduction of Cephalus) by Giulio Caccini, a direct rival of Peri. As the music has not completely survived, we know about Il rapimento di Cefalo mainly from the reviews of contemporaries. Historical materials allow us to recreate the genesis of the opera, which is inseparable from the history of opera as a genre. The reported study focuses on personal ambitions, court intrigues, and the rivalry between the Florentines and Emilio de Cavalieri. It also explores similar other factors without which the genre of opera would have taken a different historical path. Besides, the article describes the political and cultural landscape at the court of Ferdinando de’ Medici. The history of Caccini’s opera is analyzed against the general backdrop of Florentine musical art of the last quarter of the 16th century.
The Leitmotif of Laughter in Sergei Prokofiev’s The Love for Three Oranges
Authors:   Gnesin Russian Academy of Music, Nasibulina Nailya V.
Published: December 2023

Along with the musical leitmotifs, Sergei Prokofiev’s opera The Love for Three Oranges has important literary leitmotifs. This can be explained by the following. Prokofiev was working on music and libretto practically simultaneously (as he himself put it, “you write a phrase, and there comes a musical idea”). Musical and literary leitmotifs have a very sophisticated interaction and an equal contribution to the dramaturgy. The main literary leitmotif is laughter in all possible forms: the word “laughter”, its derivatives and synonyms in different parts of speech along with the sounds of laughter (“ha-ha”, etc.). The laughter in Prokofiev’s opera has a sacramental meaning. Soviet folklorist V. Propp wrote a study called On the Comic and Laughter, where he points out that laughter in folklore means an entry into life, whereas its absence or taboo represents death. From this point of view, the Prince in The Love for Three Oranges is not only sick—he is actually dead, so the only cure to bring him back to life is laughter. In the second half of the opera the leitmotif of laughter is replaced with the leitmotif of three oranges. That is because the fairytale consists of two independent pieces, and the Prince’s laughter serves as an impetus to launch the main plot of looking for the oranges. Two pieces of the opera form a whole by its key intrigue: a constant confrontation of “the helpers” and “the villains” who, according to their functions (specified by Propp), interfere with the Prince’s fate.