bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ANÁLISIS DEL RELATO CINEMATOGRÁFICO
Authors: Roger-Monzó Vanessa
Published: October 2023

Comprender un relato audiovisual es el primer paso tanto para poder disfrutarlo plenamente como para poder ser capaz de realizarlo. Sobre esta premisa, descansa el libro “Análisis del relato cinematográfico”, escrito por los doctores Josep Prósper Ribes y Jorge Chenovart González.

Sin duda, abordar los relatos de ficción supone adentrarse en un ámbito tan extenso como interesante. En este caso, los autores reflexionan y desgranan el análisis de relatos cinematográficos tomando como punto de partida las perspectivas de Aumont y Marie (1990, p. 13): “… no sólo no existe una teoría unificada del cine, sino tampoco ningún método universal de análisis de films”.

En el inicio del libro se destaca, además, que “la bibliografía sobre el análisis audiovisual es abundante, aunque muy divergente en contenidos y propósitos”. En este sentido, la obra se basa en una sustanciosa bibliografía esencial, así como en conceptos teóricos explicados mediante multitud de ejemplos. Precisamente, el continuo estudio de ejemplos para explicar cómo funcionan los textos audiovisuales, constituye la principal contribución de este libro, ya que facilitan que el lector pueda desarrollar sus propios análisis. El resultado final es un manual divulgativo sustentado sobre un sólido pilar investigador, orientado tanto a docentes como a estudiantes.
Mechanical behavior of Dou-Gong brackets in Chinese traditional timber structures: An experimental study
Authors: Yang Ruyuan , Lu Weidong , Zhao Longlong , Li Tao
Published: October 2023

This study investigated the mechanical behaviour of Dou-Gong brackets with different structural forms, including Jixinzao and Touxinzao. Scaled Dou-Gong models were designed and fabricated at a 1:3.4 geometrical ratio. Vertical load tests were conducted to determine the failure modes, load-displacement response, stiffness degradation, and deformation capacity of the Dou-Gong models. Under vertical load, the primary failure modes of the Dou-Gong models were observed at the Lu-Dou, Nidao-Gong, and Hua-Gong component. The specimens demonstrated excellent load-bearing capacity and high deformation resistance. The Jixinzao Dou-Gong model exhibited a 15.0% higher ultimate load-carrying capacity than the Touxinzao Dou-Gong due to the presence of transverse arches. The number of transverse arches in the Dou-Gong models positively correlated with the compression stiffness, while their presence had a negligible effect on stiffness degradation rates. The Touxinzao Dou-Gong model exhibited superior ductility, characterized by a ductility coefficient 8.57% higher than that of the Jixinzao Dou-Gong model. Although the regular layering of the Dou-Gong models was disrupted by Ang component, the models remained stable in both the vertical and horizontal directions. The bi-linear model can effectively simulate the deformation behaviour of the Dou-Gong model under vertical load.
The Estimation of Traditional Phillips Curve
Authors: Bartkus Algirdas
Published: October 2023

This article presents theoretical foundations for original Phillips curve formulation and an empirical investigation, where the structure of the theoretical model serves as a template for the creation of the empirical model.For a couple of decades the majority of empirical Phillips curve type assessments are performed using the New Keynesian Phillips curve with Calvo pricing as a benchmark for this type of relationship. New Keynesian model has solid microeconomic foundations, has proved itself very well in the analysis of price stickiness; nevertheless, it is not without limitations. The main insufficiency of New Keynesian model is that it has no direct links to the conditions and the changes that occur in the labour market. The need to encompass the conditions in labour market comes from the coincides that occur time to time when the growth rates of aggregate production may diminish or even become negative, but the level of employment may stay the same, what in turn means that the pressure on inflation won’t drop, despite the fact that production level has not increased as expected or even has decreased. This article aims to fill this gap and presents alternative theoretical foundations for Phillips curve, that lead to the model with direct links to the labour market. Theoretical foundations are necessary as they may help to minimize the risks to miss some important details or to omit important factors. Although the empirical analysis in this paper is based on Lithuanian data, it is not country specific.
Stock Market Response to Monetary Policy: Evidence from Iraq
Authors: Babela Islam S.T. , Doski Shivan A.M.
Published: October 2023

The current study seeks to assess the influence of monetary policy carried out by the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI henceforth) on stock market performance (SMP henceforth) from 2008 to 2021. Three monetary policy variables have been considered: money supply, inflation, and interest rate. Meanwhile, the number of transactions has measured the Iraqi Stock Exchange Market (ISX henceforth) performance. This study has used the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL henceforth) model by utilising monthly data. The results show that in the long term, the money supply and interest rates both have a negative impact on ISX performance. On the other hand, the findings have reported that inflation significantly and positively affects ISX performance. However, there was no indication of a relationship among the underlying variables in the short term. For investors and the appropriate authorities, these findings may have important implications.
¿Y si me hago caso? una interpretación y un efecto/un efecto y una interpretación
Authors: Vargas-Abellán Andrés
Published: October 2023

Este es un artículo de reflexión no derivado de investigación empírica. Consta de reflexiones a partir del Seminario de Temas impartido por la Escuela de Psicología (UCR): Problemas ético-clínicos: del respeto a la norma a la ineludible sublevación. Una lectura psicoanalítica. El mismo pretende analizar una sesión clínica propia en relación con los conceptos fundamentales del curso: sublevación, interpretación, estado de excepción, entre otros.
La uni-forma del uniforme como piel
Authors: Molina Winkler Amanda
Published: October 2023

El objetivo de este ensayo fue realizar una reflexión sobre el uso del uniforme escolar y las implicaciones subjetivas sobre el estudiantado. Se realizó un cuestionamiento de los principales argumentos a favor de su uso, dando énfasis al uniforme como una herramienta de falsa inclusión que se basa en la excepción de la diferencia, así como a la visión de su uso como un posible impedimento a la expresión de la diversidad -uno de los elementos constitutivos de la construcción de la identidad- y la autoexploración que puede darse mediante la elección de la vestimenta. A su vez, a través de la discusión construida sobre el uniforme escolar, se procuró realizar también una lectura metafórica sobre el sistema educativo como tal, invitando a preguntarse si son los centros educativos el lugar para promover una uniforma.
La bondad de morir y el temor a la eutanasia
Authors: Velásquez Prada Patricia
Published: October 2023

Un planteamiento sobre el derecho a morir dignamente, la buena muerte y los argumentos sobre los cuales se plantea la desobediencia a la ética de la santidad de la vida. En síntesis, el derecho a la eutanasia como fundamento del derecho de la vida misma, desemboca en la cavilación alrededor de la necesidad de proponer una legislación donde el principio de compasión hacia el sufrimiento de la persona convaleciente se extiende a ciertas condiciones relacionadas a la salud mental que requieran una actitud compasiva, que otorgue el derecho de considerar el dolor psíquico, tanto como el dolor físico permitan a las personas con un padecimiento invivible e intenso de la psiquis acceder al mismo derecho que se asume en una enfermedad física terminal.
Az elsajátítás értelmezése 20. és 21. századi térelméletekben, és egy vizsgálati keretrendszerének megalapozása
Authors: Hory Gergely
Published: October 2023

Tanulmányom az elsajátítás és a térbeliség kapcsolatának értelmezésével foglalkozik. Az elsajátítás olyan gyakorlatokat jelent, melyek során az ember birtokba vesz egy objektumot vagy helyszínt, és azt sajátjának tekinti. A dolgozatban kifejtem, hogy az elsajátítás mint jelenség alapvető téri jellemzőkkel bír. Rámutatok továbbá, hogy az elsajátítás koncepciója fontos elemét képezi Henri Lefebvre a tér társadalmi termeléséről alkotott elméletének. A Lefebvre munkásságát feldolgozó és továbbépítő szerzők eredményeinek felhasználásával az elsajátítás különböző értelmezési tartományait tárom fel: ezek szerint az elsajátításra tekinthetünk mint a környezet kreatív átalakítását és határok létrehozását előidéző gyakorlatra; mint várospolitikai kritikára; mint a spontaneitás megnyilvánulására; illetve mint jelentéstermelő médiumra. Ezentúl megvizsgálom, hogy az időbeliség hogyan képes befolyásolni az elsajátítás bármely aspektusát. A tanulságok felhasználásával célom egy olyan elméleti fogalmakat magában foglaló keretrendszer felállítása, mely az elsajátítás valós téri eseteinek kutatásához használható. Az épített környezetnek az elsajátítás gyakorlatain keresztül történő vizsgálatától azt várom, hogy az ember által megtapasztalt valóság számos összetevője közötti eddig ismeretlen összefüggésre világít rá.
Health Information Technology Use Among Adults: United States, July-December 2022
Authors: Wang Xun , Cohen Robin A.
Published: October 2023

This report provides health data from the National Center for Health Statistics.
Sunlight-Daylight Signature: a Novel Concept to Assess Sunlight and Daylight Availability at Urban Scale
Authors:   TEBE Research Group, Department of Energy ‘Galileo Ferraris’, Politecnico di Torino, 10129 Turin, Italy, R. M. Lo Verso Valerio , Antonutto Giulio ,   Ove Arup and Partners International, 8 Fitzroy St., London W1T 4BJ, UK, Torres Santiago ,   Ove Arup and Partners International, 8 Fitzroy St., London W1T 4BJ, UK
Published: October 2023

Daylighting and solar availability at urban scale has come to play a crucial role in the perception of discomfort conditions for people, both in outdoor and indoor spaces, and on the energy consumption of buildings. Daylighting and solar analyses are typically done separately. The paper presents a novel method, called the ‘sunlight-daylight signature’ (SDS), which allows the qualitative analysis of urban settings with respect to sunlight and daylight. The method can be used to classify different urban settings in terms of daylight/sunlight access or to test new development proposals by referring to existing locations and confirm whether a certain daylight quality is met. The SDS relies on a new analysis tool, called ‘sunlight-daylight wedge’ (SDW), which combines obstruction (through the vertical sky component VSC) and sunlight access (through the annual probable sunlight hours PASH and the winter probable sunlight hours PWSH). The orientation of the façade at each point is also included as it will affect the times of the day when the sun-hours from PASH and PWSH occur, thus affecting the character of the corresponding sunlight. The SDS approach is based on a clustering technique to subdivide large datasets (in this case, daylight data points across entire cities or major urban areas) into smaller groups, using machine learning by way of the k-medoids clustering technique. This is used to derive typical daylight and sunlight scenarios representing groups of data points with similar conditions. Additional data is included to account for urban density and daylight availability in public areas. Final output of the clustering process consists of a map showing areas with the same daylight signature (SDS), which means areas with the same sunlight and daylight conditions. The SDS can be useful for urban planners and building practitioners to predict the access to both daylight and sunlight of large urban settings to optimize comfort for people and energy usage.
Reviewing Factors That Predict Community Reintegration among Community-Dwelling Subacute Stroke Subjects: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Nayak Akshatha , Misri Zulkifli , Choezom  , Vasyani Mahima S. , Unnikrishnan Bhaskaran , Joshua Abraham M. , Karthikbabu Suruliraj
Published: October 2023

Community reintegration (CR) is an ultimate goal of stroke rehabilitation and lacks focused treatment strategies. Factors influencing the CR has been studied in the past, however, subjects were in chronic phase of recovery. The purpose of the study was to review the factors predicting CR among community-dwelling sub-acute stroke subjects. The cross-sectional study included 92 subacute stroke subjects. Each subject was assessed for trunk control, physical function, balance self-efficacy, fear of fall (FOF), and CR using the Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS), Stroke Impact Scale 16 (SIS-16), Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale, Fall Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I), and Reintegration to Normal Living Index (RNLI), respectively. Spearman's rank correlation was used to associate CR with trunk control, Physical function, balance self-efficacy, FOF; and Mann-Whitney U test was used to associate the type of stroke, side of stroke, gender, and CR. A multiple linear regression was used to find which of the factors could predict the level of CR. Age (r = -0.33), physical function (r = 0.78), trunk control (r = 0.58), balance self-efficacy (r = 0.66) and FOF (r = -0.61) revealed a significant correlation (P < 0.001) with CR. However, regression analysis found physical function considered to be the strongest predictor (β = 0.655, P < 0.001) for CR followed by age and trunk control (R2 = 0.638). Stroke rehabilitation should focus on improving the impairments affecting the physical function in the subacute phase to enhance CR. Additionally, one should try to incorporate environmental modification for the older stroke subjects.
HIGH-TEMPERATURE PROCESSES IN POWDER MATERIALS AT HIGH-VOLTAGE ELECTRIC PULSE CONSOLIDATION
Authors: Grigoryev Evgeny , Kuznechik O. , Chumakov A. N. , Nikonchuk Irina S. , Strizhakov E. , Nescoromniy S. , Ageev S.
Published: October 2023

The main features of high-voltage electric pulse consolidation (HVC) of refractory powder materials
and the resulting unique capabilities of the method are considered. The electro-thermal processes of
HVC at the contacts between powder particles and at the macroscale of the entire consolidated sample
are analyzed. The results of experimental studies of the parameters of high-voltage electrical impulse
action in the processes of consolidation of high-temperature powder compositions, high-voltage welding
of dissimilar materials, as well as high-voltage discharges in liquid are presented. The results of
measuring the intensity of thermal radiation of the investigated materials under high-voltage electrical
impulse action, recorded by the method of pulse photometry using photodiode sensors, which,
together with the Rogowski coil, are components of the measuring complex developed by the authors,
are presented.
Simplified numerical model for the collapse analysis of RC frame under oblique impact
Authors: Zhou Yujing , Cheng Xiaowei , Li Yi , Liu Fangfang
Published: October 2023

The objective of this study is to develop a simplified numerical model that can be used to accurately and quickly conduct collapse analysis of a reinforced concrete (RC) frame impacted by a vehicle obliquely at 45°. The simplified numerical model included introduces a simplified RC frame and a simplified vehicle. For the simplified RC frame, a mixed modelling technique was used, in which structural components that experienced serious damage were simulated using detailed elements, while the retained structural components were simulated by larger elements. A constraint algorithm of nodal rigid body in LS-DYNA was adopted to guarantee the displacement compatibility of two kinds of element. For the simplified vehicle model, the spring–mass system was improved on the basis of the energy conservation principle to represent the vehicle in a 45° impact. Combining the simplified RC frame model and vehicle model, the impact response of an RC frame subjected to vehicle impact was studied and compared with the results of a detailed RC frame model impacted by a detailed vehicle. The validation confirmed that these introduced simplifications could significantly improve the computational efficiency and ensure the computational accuracy for the collapse analysis of an RC frame subjected to vehicle impact.
CKD-EPI and EKFC GFR Estimating Equations: Performance and Other Considerations for Selecting Equations for Implementation in Adults
Authors: Inker Lesley A. , Tighiouart Hocine , Adingwupu Ogechi M. , Shlipak Michael G. , Doria Alessandro , Estrella Michelle M. , Froissart Marc , Gudnason Vilmundur , Grubb Anders , Kalil Roberto , Mauer Michael , Rossing Peter , Seegmiller Jesse , Coresh Josef , Levey Andrew S.
Published: October 2023

Significance Statement

New eGFR equations from Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) and European Kidney Function Consortium (EKFC) using creatinine (eGFRcr), cystatin C (eGFRcys), and both (eGFRcr-cys) have sufficient accuracy for use in clinical practice, leading to uncertainty in selecting equations for implementation. The authors evaluated performance of equations in an independent population of 4050 adults and evaluated other considerations important for implementation. They found that CKD-EPI and EKFC equations are approaching convergence, with better performance of eGFRcr-cys equations in the overall group and fewer differences among race, sex, and age subgroups than eGFRcr equations. Larger differences among eGFRcr equations reflect regional population differences in creatinine, forcing a trade-off between accuracy and uniformity in global implementation of eGFRcr equations. More widespread use of cystatin C could avoid this trade-off.

Background

New CKD-EPI and EKFC eGFR equations using eGFRcr, eGFRcys, and both (eGFRcr-cys) have sufficient accuracy for use in clinical practice. A better understanding of the equations, including their performance in race, sex and age subgroups, is important for selection of eGFR equations for global implementation.

Methods

We evaluated performance (bias and P30) of equations and methods used for equation development in an independent study population comprising 4050 adults pooled from 12 studies. The mean (SD) measured GFR was 76.4 (29.6) ml/min per 1.73 m2 and age 57.0 (17.4) years, with 1557 (38%) women and 579 (14%) Black participants.

Results

Coefficients for creatinine, cystatin C, age, and sex in the CKD-EPI and EKFC equations are similar. Performance of the eGFRcr-cys equations in the overall population (bias <±5 ml/min per 1.73 m2 and P30 >90%) was better than the eGFRcr or eGFRcys equations, with fewer differences among race, sex, and age subgroups. Differences in performance across subgroups reflected differences in diversity of source populations and use of variables for race and sex for equation development. Larger differences among eGFRcr equations reflected regional population differences in non-GFR determinants of creatinine.

Conclusion

CKD-EPI and EKFC equations are approaching convergence. It is not possible to maximize both accuracy and uniformity in selecting one of the currently available eGFRcr equations for implementation across regions. Decisions should consider methods for equation development in addition to performance. Wider use of cystatin C with creatinine could maximize both accuracy and uniformity of GFR estimation using currently available equations.
Efficacy of spore suspension and culture filtrate of Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin (Deuteromycota: Hyphomycetes) isolates on Tetranychus urticae Koch, 1836 (Acari: Tetranychidae) in different conditions
Authors: UZUN YİĞİT Asiye
Published: October 2023

Abstract In this study, the effectiveness of Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin (Deuteromycota: Hyphomycetes) isolates on Tetranychus urticae Koch, 1836 (Acari: Tetranychidae) was determined with Petri and pot experiments in laboratory and climate room conditions by applying spore suspension and culture filtrate in Isparta University of Applied Sciences of in 2022. In the Petri experiment, the spore suspensions (1x106, 1x107, and 1x108 spore/ml) and culture filtrates (1X, 5X, 10X) of BIM-001 and BY2 isolates of B. bassiana were sprayed in the form of mist for 10 seconds at a speed of 3 m/s onto leaf discs in Petri which included ten adult individuals. In the pot experiment, the same treatments were conducted with the same application method in the Petri experiment on single-leaf plants in pots. In the Petri and pot experiments, the difference between the mortality rates in the 108 spore/ml dose of BIM-001 and BY2 (64.00±4.52 and 42.00±2.49%, 58.00±2.91 and 41.00±2.77%, respectively) was significant on the 7th observation day. In the pure culture filtrate treatments, the mortality rates in the BIM-001 and BY2 were 73.00±2.13 - 68.00±3.59% and 60.00±3.65 -57.00±5.17% respectively in the Petri and pot experiments. BIM-001 and BY2 culture filtrate in both Petri and pot experiments (1X) applications were not statistically significant. The BIM-001 isolate of B. bassiana was more effective than the BY2 isolate treatment against adult females of T. urticae both in vivo and in vitro. In conclusion, it is thought that the culture filtrate of B. bassiana BIM-001 isolate is considered to have potential for the control of two-spotted spider mites.
Characteristics of social media discourse in relation to kitsch tourism: The example of Janglim Port and Huinnyeoul Culture Village in Busan
Authors:   The Tourism Sciences Society Of Korea, Yoo Yeji
Published: October 2023

The impact of social media on the travel and tourism sector has been growing over time as the digital environment has developed. The tourism literature has, however, hardly ever looked into the tourism discourses created on social media. The purpose of this essay is to investigate the type of tourism that is being promoted through social media discourse and to conceptualise aspects of that tourism using the term “kitsch.” In order to avoid the common negative associations with kitsch, it also aims to view it as a sociocultural phenomenon. Both quantitative (text mining) and qualitative (content analysis) methods were used to examine the tourism discourse on social media. According to research, social media portrays Busan as an attractive or exotic location by referring to it as “Venezia of Busan” and “Santorini of Busan,” instead of emphasising the identity of the location. Bloggers also demonstrate how to take a “proof-shot” using stunning scenery, and these “proof-shot” locations end up as landmarks for the location. Thus, through signs and images, aesthetic emotional consumption, conspicuous tourism behaviour, and vicarious satisfaction-all characteristics of kitsch tourism-the discourse created on social media creates a narrative that encourages play-oriented tourism. This study is important because it conceptualises the aspects of social media-disseminated tourism and explains why kitsch tourism is still popular today.
Phenomenological approach to human subjectivity in tourism sciences
Authors:   The Tourism Sciences Society Of Korea, Lee Bo-Mi
Published: October 2023

Through a phenomenological approach to human subjectivity, this study seeks to explain the philosophical ideology of phenomenology that is lacking in its methodology. Ideology and methodology combine to form phenomenology, and in some ways, they are so intertwined that one defines the other. However, phenomenology is frequently employed in tourism sciences primarily as a methodology for qualitative research on human subjectivity, which is not phenomenology's primary objective. The goals of phenomenology are to clarify how our experiences shape our subjectivity, to avoid taking subjectivity for granted as something objective (epoke methodology), and to concentrate on how subjectivity is given to us. The phenomenological concepts presented in the method must serve as its foundation; the methodology in brackets is the converse of the philosophical principles in brackets. In order to reduce the unity of all existence to myself and my subjectivity with its capacity to create meaning and impart meaning, phenomenology must be correctly identified in the event itself. First, i) psychological subjectivity and phenomenological subjectivity are compared in order to move from the objective world to the subjective world. The foundation of equal subjectivity is then established by discussing the origins of the construction of phenomenological subjectivity, namely temporality, lifeworld, and corporeality. Based on this, the significance of mutual subjectivity is made clear, which in turn explains how phenomenology suggests a body-subjective freedom that can aid in going beyond the boundaries of conventional concepts of freedom. Phenomenology enables us to see the change in perspective that ultimately enables us to more deeply and thoroughly embrace the genuine nature of our everydayness, which is full of meaning.
Fake-talk and the Spaza Shop: A Fake Food Furore and the Spectre of Public Health Emergencies in South Africa
Authors: Hornberger Julia , Hodges Sarah , Chitukutuku Edmore
Published: October 2023

At the end of August 2018, a controversy erupted in South Africa. Accusations of potentially poisonous ‘fake food’ had been circulating on social media for a month or so, and by early September reports were common on South African news programmes. Accusations fell at the door of foreign-run spaza shops (convenience stores), some of which were looted and their shopkeepers harmed. Many commentators read these events as another outbreak of the xenophobic violence that has flared up across South African townships for more than a decade. Our reading is different. In this Research Article, rather than dismissing accusations of fake-ness as merely a pretext for popular protest and violence, we tackle the question of what work ‘fake-talk’ does. We show that in this instance, accusations of fake-ness brought a distinctive urgency to events, framing what might otherwise have been seen as concerns about inequality in the language of a public health crisis. In response, a state normally hesitant to act on citizens’ long-standing complaints about ‘the duplicity of foreigners’ intervened with a new speed and decisiveness. ‘Fake-talk’, we conclude, is an important site of inquiry because of how it may enable certain actions, regardless of whether suspicions are founded.
Fake-talk as Concept and Method
Authors: Hornberger Julia , Hodges Sarah
Published: October 2023

In a world seemingly awash with fakes—or at least accusations of fake-ness—it is not only difficult to discern what is ‘real’ but also to know what to make of such a proliferation of worries about fakes. In this article, a manifesto of sorts for the Special Section, we outline how the problem of ‘fake drugs’ in particular allows us to understand the phenomenon of fakes in general. We introduce the conceptual and methodological tool of ‘fake-talk’ as it allows us to make sense of claims about fake drugs and of the power these claims hold. We develop our argument through a close reading of specific ethnographic examples drawn from the work of our colleagues in the project ‘What’s at Stake in the Fake? Indian Pharmaceuticals, African Markets and Global Health’. We show that fake-talk thrives on a lack of evidence, imports urgency, and is expressive. Taking fakes seriously as a force in themselves enables us to see how fakes are freighted with—and deploy—everyday articulations of otherwise unfathomable discomforts, predicaments, and anxieties of our time.
Physical activity levels in female breast cancer patients and survivors in Ekurhuleni, South Africa
Authors: Wilkinson Rebecca , Smith Lynn
Published: October 2023

Background: By using complementary therapies, such as exercise rehabilitation during and after cancer treatment, breast cancer patients and survivors can improve their quality of life and overall health while also negating the deleterious effects of breast cancer and its treatment.
Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the physical activity levels of female breast cancer patients and survivors in Ekurhuleni, South Africa.
Methods: The International Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (2002) determined participants’ physical activity levels during work, travel and leisure. The questionnaire was disseminated to medical facilities in hard copy format and online via the Google Forms platform. Statistics were computed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) with the level of significance set at 95% (p < 0.05).
Results: One hundred female breast cancer patients and survivors with a mean age of 55 years from Ekurhuleni, South Africa participated in this study. The findings reflected that most participants (59%) were meeting the American College of Sports Medicine’s physical activity guidelines when considering activity done during work, travel and leisure. No significant difference was seen in physical activity participation between breast cancer patients and breast cancer survivors, or those attending private and public facilities.
Conclusion: For the breast cancer patient, physical activity and exercise may be a promising and effective adjuvant treatment both during and after anticancer therapies, improving quality of life, playing a role in increasing treatment tolerance, mitigating a range of symptoms and side effects brought on by cancer diagnosis and treatments and enhancing outcomes.
Final-year oral hygiene and dental therapy students’ perceptions of teaching and learning at a South African university
Authors: Pillay Harsha , Moodley Rajeshree
Published: October 2023

Dental students may provide insightful course evaluation and feedback due to their direct engagement with theoretical and clinical instruction during their training. According to the literature, student feedback may enhance dental education. This study investigated students’ perceptions of teaching and learning, the various aspects of which will be discussed further.
Aims and objectivesThe study aimed to determine the perceptions of the final year dental therapy and oral hygiene students regarding teaching and learning at a South African university. Topics such as teaching methods, suitable attributes of academic staff, potential barriers to learning, clinical quotas, effects of the pandemic and recommendations to enhance teaching and learning were investigated.
MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted during the 2021 and 2022 academic years. Quantitative and qualitative data was captured via an online questionnaire. Participants were asked to rate their perceptions of teaching and learning via a five-point Likert scale and respond to open-ended questions.
ResultsSixty-nine students participated in this study, yielding a response rate of 65.09%. The findings demonstrated students’ preference for contact teaching methods such as clinical observation (80%; n=55) and clinical demonstrations (78%; n=54) compared to online lectures (54%; n=37). Stress (78%; n=54) and insufficient feedback (88%; n=61) were identified as learning barriers. Increased clinical training was among the suggestions to enhance learning.
ConclusionStudents should be encouraged to provide feedback regarding teaching and learning as this may positively influence curriculum design and development.
GENDER DIFFERENCES IN THE CONTENT OF TRACE ELEMENTS IN THE ORGANS AND TISSUE OF SOCKEYE SALMON FROM THE EASTERN GULFS OF KAMCHATKA PENINSULA*
Authors:   Sakhalin State University, Litvinenko A.V. , Salimzyanova K.R. ,   Sakhalin State University, Khristoforova N.K. ,   Far Eastern Federal University, Danilin D.D. ,   Kamchatka Branch of Pacific Geographical Institute FEB RAS, Tsygankov V.Yu. ,   Far Eastern Federal University
Published: October 2023

The content of essential (Cu, Zn, Fe) and non-essential (Cd, Pb, Ni) elements, which are trace and heavy metals, in the organs and tissues of one of the most popular and consumer-preferred species of Pacific salmon – sockeye salmon, one of the three most significant objects in the salmon fishery in the Far East of Russia, caught in the waters of two gulfs from the eastern Kamchatka – Avacha Gulf and Kamchatka Gulf. Emphasis is made on reproductive products – caviar and testes of fish. Element concentrations were determined by the atomic absorption method on a Shimadzu AA-7000 spectrophotometer on flame and flameless atomizers from sample mineralizates obtained by their decomposition with concentrated HNO3 grade extra pure in a MARS 6 microwave complex, using standard samples with known concentrations. Statistical data processing was performed in MS Excel. It was found that the concentration of copper in eggs was 10 times higher than in the testes, the levels of Zn in the gonads of fish differed by a factor of 2, and the differences in the amount of Fe were less pronounced. No patterns were observed in the distribution of Cd, Ni, and Pb in the gametes of fish. The content of microelements, except for Pb, as a rule prevailed in the liver.
Self-sensing concrete with recycled coarse aggregates and multi-walled carbon nanotubes: A sustainable and effective method
Authors:   Department of Civil Engineering, Matrusri Engineering College, Hyderabad, India, Kumar C. Arvind , Reddy Panga Narasimha ,   Department of Civil Engineering, Sri Venkateswara College of Engineering & Technology (A), Chittoor, India, Aejaz S.A. ,   Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India, Kulkarni Prathik ,   Department of Civil Engineering, Bajaj Institute of Technology, Wardha, Nagpur, India
Published: October 2023

This study explores the production of self-sensing concrete using recycled coarse aggregates and Multi-walled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNTs) in varying dosages. The objective is to reduce the usage of natural coarse aggregates and to develop an environmentally friendly and sustainable material for the future generation. The self-sensing concrete was also self-compacting (SCC), which enhances its ability to fill complicated molds without the need for external vibration. The fresh properties of the self-sensing concrete were tested, and the mix proportions with varying dosages of MWCNTs were within the prescribed limit as per European Federation of National Associations Representing for Concrete (EFNARC) code. The mechanical properties of the self-sensing concrete were also evaluated, and it was observed that incorporating MWCNTs into the concrete enhanced its strength. Incorporating MWCNT into concrete increased its strength, seen in higher compressive and split tensile strengths. Adding 0.05%, 0.1%, and 0.15% of MWCNT resulted in compressive strength increases of 1.51%, 3.21%, and 4.72%, respectively. Likewise, the inclusion of 0.05%, 0.1%, and 0.15% of MWCNT led to split tensile strength increases of 1.54%, 3.31%, and 4.82%, respectively. The SEM images of specimens with different MWCNT dosages show a random yet uniform dispersion within the concrete matrix. The initial electrical resistance plot demonstrates the transformation from conventional to self-sensing concrete, with the resistance dropping significantly from 400k-ohms to 37k-ohms. This plot establishes the critical threshold level for self-sensing at 0.10% MWCNTs. Furthermore, the study examined the stress sensing ability and crack detection properties of the self-sensing concrete, and it was found that during cyclic loading, the concrete's stress sensing ability improves with increasing MWCNT dosage. The most favorable similarity plot between stress and FCR is seen at 0.15% MWCNT. However, considering economic reasons, a dosage of 0.1% MWCNT can be considered the best option since it doesn't show a significant difference for both stress and crack detection property.
Evaluation of Corneal Changes in Uveitic Patients by Non-Contact Specular Microscopy: A Retrospective Study
Authors: BEYOĞLU Abdullah , TURGUT ÖZTÜRK Banu , MEŞEN Ali , KARAKÜÇÜK Yalçın
Published: October 2023

Objective: To demonstrate the changes in specular microscopy between uveitic eyes and healthy eyes.
Material and Methods: A retrospective study included 66 patients followed in the Uvea clinic of Selcuk University between 2015-2018. The right eyes of all patients were evaluated. The right eye data of 37 healthy individuals were used as the control group. The patients were divided into subgroups anterior, intermediate, and posterior uveitis. Specular microscopy measurements were made with Confo Scan 4. Comparisons were made between the groups in terms of endothelial cell density (ECD), pleomorphism (%), polymegatism (%), central corneal thickness (CCT), and intraocular pressure (IOP). A p-value less than 0.05 was considered significant.
Results: The mean age was 33.71±15.29 in the uveitis and 37.78±13.17 in the control group (p=0.432). There was a significant difference between the groups in terms of ECD, pleomorphism and polymegatism (all groups; p<0.01). No significant difference was found in terms of CCT and IOP (respectively; p=0.812, p=0.381). In the subgroup analysis, a significant difference was found between anterior, intermediate and posterior uveitis groups in terms of ECD (respectively; p=0.020, p=0.018). However, no significant difference in other groups (p=0.999). In comparison with healthy eyes of patients with monocular uveitis were significant differences in all parameters (all groups; p<0.01).
Conclusion: It is seen that ECD decreases, pleomorphism and polymegatism increase in patients with uveitis. This result showed the importance of preventing sequelae with early treatment in patients with uveitis. Speccular or confocal microscopy scanning is important in uveitic patients scheduled for intraocular surgery.
Students’ Text-Picture-Integration: The Role of Teacher Competence and Instructional Quality
Authors: Ohle-Peters Annika , McElvany Nele , Ullrich Mark
Published: October 2023

Learning material often consists of texts and instructional pictures, meaning the reader must extract and integrate information from two sources. Research shows that students’ skills in integrating texts and pictures already vary in early secondary school. Teachers’ professional competence and quality of instruction are important influences on the development of student’s skills. Therefore, this study examines teachers’ professional competence in teaching with texts, instructional pictures, and instructional quality as predictors for developing students’ text-picture-integration skills. Data from 136 fourth-grade teachers were collected in Germany. A subsample of 34 teachers and 646 fourth graders participated in a video study investigating instructional quality. In a longitudinal study, we assessed teachers’ competence in teaching with texts and instructional pictures via questionnaires and tested students’ text-picture-integration-skills. In between, three lessons involving texts and instructional pictures were videotaped and analysed. Multilevel regression models showed a small positive direct effect of teachers’ knowledge about student abilities on students’ text-picture-integration-skills. Furthermore, aspects of teachers’ competence were positively related to instructional quality, whereas “clarity and structure” positively predicted students’ text-picture-integration-skills. The presented paper contributes to research on text-picture-integration in primary school and how teachers and instruction can facilitate it.
Anthropology of Art as an Approach to the Study of Ukrainian Painting
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, Kryshtopa Mariia
Published: October 2023

Anthropology of art arose as a reaction to the need to include works of art in the study of various forms of human life. It is customary to refer to works of art as something made by a person, accordingly, it has an anthropogenic origin, and therefore should be the field of study of anthropology. Art is an embodiment of various socio-cultural processes, an indicator of transformations and an embodiment of progressive social ideas. Art appears as a challenge to established social norms, it denies previous standards and sets new ones. Turning to Ukrainian art, which developed in the context of European currents and trends, it can be argued that it naturally became a reaction to social challenges. Anthropology of art as a field of research opens new perspectives for the study of Ukrainian painting. It can offer a complex of approaches and methods for analysis, understanding of the role and significance of art in the formation of the cultural identity of the Ukrainian people. This work provides an analysis of the essence of the anthropology of art and its potential for the study of Ukrainian culture. Art in this context acts as a source for the study of the cultural characteristics of the people, its specificity and unique features, demonstrating the connection between man, society and the environment. This approach makes it possible to better interpret the symbolic meanings embedded in the works of Ukrainian painting. The works of Mykola Pymonenko, Serhii Vasylkivskyi, KostiantynTrutovskyi, Ivan Trush, and others occupy an important place in the history of Ukrainian culture and play a great role in the study of Ukrainian painting, which allows us to reveal its anthropological essence. An anthropological approach to the study of the work of these artists helps to reveal the connections between art and Ukrainian culture. The artists managed to create works that perfectly recreated the unique outlook of the Ukrainian people, their attitude to nature, religion and social life. The use of tools, methods and approaches of the anthropology of art to the study of Ukrainian painting creates the basis for the formation of an idea about the Ukrainian people, their culture, traditions, everyday life, mentality and worldview. This scientific direction is designed to reveal the characteristic features of the development of Ukrainian painting in the context of world art, general historical events, which, in turn, contributes to the understanding of general trends in the visual arts of this period, the choice of subjects, motifs, styles and directions. This approach makes it possible not to separate the artist from his work, from the political, social and cultural events of this period, comprehensively studying their influence on the ideas of the time.
Testosterone, atherosclerosis and cardiovascular risks
Authors: Makarova Anastasia V. , Shustov Sergey B. , Khalimov Yuri S. , Gaiduk Sergey V. , Kitsyshin Viktor P. , Frolov Dmitry S.
Published: October 2023

The study highlighted the most significant scientific works that examined the influence of androgen deficiency and its drug correction in coronary heart disease. The effects of androgens on metabolic parameters, development of atherosclerosis, inflammation, coagulation and thromboembolism, blood pressure, and development of cardiovascular complications were also evaluated. The importance of conducting long-term randomized international studies evaluating the effects of testosterone in men with androgen deficiency and cardiovascular diseases, a cautious approach to androgen replacement therapy, and the need for individualization of therapy were discussed. Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of mortality. Thus, the study of the role of sex steroids in the development of atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease is of great interest. Testosterone is the main sex hormone that determines a mans health. With age, testosterone levels gradually decrease, and mortality from cardiovascular complications increases. Low testosterone levels are associated with erectile dysfunction, decreased libido, decreased skeletal muscle mass, metabolic disorders, osteoporosis, and depression, and the importance of androgens for the circulatory system remains insufficiently studied. Many men receive testosterone replacement therapy, which leads to the improvement of well-being, sexual function, surge of strength, and favorable metabolic changes. The scientific literature describes the possible cardioprotective effect of testosterone, and it is believed to have vasodilating properties, shorten the QT interval, and normalize the ratio of fat and muscle mass. However, the expediency and safety of prescribing testosterone drugs to patients with hypogonadism and high cardiovascular risk is debatable because only several studies have described an increase in the number of cardiovascular complications in the androgen therapy group relative to the placebo group. Most studies on testosterone replacement therapy did not assess cardiovascular risks and excluded people with a recent stroke, heart attack, or severe heart failure. In addition, data interpretation is complicated by the lack of generally accepted international standards of testosterone for men of different ages, and most studies do not consider the change in androgen status relative to peak values at a young age and features of the receptor apparatus.
Acute chemical pulmonary edema with inhaled nitrogen dioxide intoxication
Authors: Tolkach Pavel G. , Kuznetcov Oleg A. , Basharin Vadim A. , Lodyagin Alexey N. , Shilov Yurii V. , Yazenok Arkadii V. , Ivchenko Evgenii V. , Zagorodnikov Gennadii G.
Published: October 2023

Nitrogen dioxide is released by the interaction of some metals with nitric acid. Inhalation intoxication with nitrogen dioxide leads to chemical pulmonary edema. This study presents the case of a patient who had acute inhalation exposure to an unidentified brown gaseous substance (presumably nitrogen dioxide) when he etched a metal product with nitric acid. Twenty-four hours after contact with the gas, he manifested signs of intoxication, such as chest pain, tachypnea, and decreased saturation. Laboratory tests revealed hemoconcentration, hyperfermentemia, and arterial hypoxemia. The X-ray image of the entire lung surface revealed a sharp increase and deformation of the pulmonary pattern due to the vascular component. The diagnosis was T65, i.e., toxic effect of other and unspecified substances. With treatment, the patients condition improved. On day 4 after therapeutic exposure, with decreased oxygen fraction in the inhaled gas mixture to 0.3, the saturation increased to 98%, and tachypnea disappeared. On day 6, with ongoing treatment (oxygen therapy, use of antioxidants, antihypoxants, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial drugs), the inflammatory reaction stopped, the rheological properties of the blood improved, and the gas composition of arterial blood normalized, i.e., the oxygenation index was 436, which indicated the disappearance of arterial blood oxygenation disorders. During the radiological examination, the normal radiological picture of the lungs was determined. Thus, on day 6 after the start of therapy, signs of intoxication were completely stopped. Specific changes in the lungs during radiation research techniques, hemoconcentration, inflammation, and hypoxemia during laboratory blood tests should be considered prognostic signs of chemical pulmonary edema. As a pathogenetic therapy, treatment must be supplemented with drugs that stop the cascade of free radical oxidation reactions (acetylcysteine and sodium thiosulfate). Individuals exposed to nitrogen dioxide should be considered a high-risk group for lung damage and hospitalized for dynamic observation for at least 2 days. Taking into account the genotoxic effects of nitrogen dioxide, affected patients should be classified as at risk of developing neoplasms and undergo further dynamic monitoring.