Traditional Forms Research Articles

Engagement in New Gambling Practices and its Association with Gambling Disorder, Impulsivity, and Cognitive Distortions: Findings from a Nationally Representative Sample of Spanish Gamblers.

Most epidemiological surveys focus on adult gambling behaviors related to traditional gambling forms, while studies on novel forms often focus on loot boxes and cryptocurrency trading individually. This study examines the co-ocurrence of emergent gambling and gambling-like practices, analyzing the demographic and psychological characteristics of involved gamblers. A cross-sectional study surveyed 1429 Spanish individuals aged 18-65, using a web-based questionnaire. The survey assessed participation in 19 gambling (e.g., lotteries, sports betting) and gambling-like activities (e.g., trading of cryptocurrencies and other assets, buying loot-boxes), along with sociodemographic and substance use. Problem gambling (PGSI), Impulsivity (UPPS-P), and cognitive distortions (Labrador's cognitive distortions scale) were also assessed. Participants who gambled over the past year (n = 921) were classified into four groups: traditional gambling (TG) only (64.5%, n = 594), TG with trading activities (27.5%, n = 253), TG with gambling withing video games or streaming platforms (2.5%, n = 23), and TG with both trading and video gambling (5.5%, n = 51). Most gamblers engaged exclusively in traditional formats, but 35.5% also participated in novel gambling forms. Those involved in both trading and video gambling were generally younger, male, with higher levels of impulsivity and gambling-related cognitive distortions compared to TG-only gamblers (p < 0.001). This group also exhibited higher rates of problem gambling and substance use (p < 0.001). This study emphasize the importance of including emerging gambling activities, which are particularly prevalent among high-risk gamblers, in epidemiological surveys. Identifying new gambling patterns and associated risk factors could help optimize public policies and develop more effective regulatory and prevention strategies.

Технологизация аграрного сектора как основа продовольственной безопасности страны

The article discusses concepts and approaches to the definition of the concept of "food security" in the scientific literature and documents of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). Under the influence of these ideas, a research boom began in daily nutrition practices and the study of their role in social health and active longevity of people. The problem of youth nutrition culture as an innovative group of society that determines the future state of the world has become, according to the authors, a trending research area. The analysis of the effectiveness of the use of information technologies and artificial intelligence in agriculture as drivers of industry development and food security is actively studied by domestic and foreign scientists. The dialogue of the scientific community is focused around the most relevant research topics: the problems of changing the nature of agricultural labor in the context of digitalization, robotization and the introduction of artificial intelligence; the impact of the technologization of agricultural enterprises on the specific activities of farmers, the existing risks of unintended destruction of ecosystems as a result of intensification of agriculture. Successful practices of using artificial intelligence in crop production and animal husbandry, the possibility of preserving traditional forms of farming on earth and many other issues are being actively studied. It is concluded that it is important to study the problems of agricultural technologization as a way to improve the efficiency of the industry and a way to ensure the country's food security.

Inculturation of Luhya Birth and Naming Rituals in Christian Worship: A Study of The Baptist Church in Vihiga County, Kenya

African Christians are in a dilemma of whether to fully embrace western-prejudiced Christianity or to stick to their traditional forms of faith. Influenced by the fear of syncretic worship, the Baptist church in Vihiga County, which is out rightly committed to Western Christianity condemns and opposes Africans who embrace their traditional religious rituals and rites. Despite this, the Luhya community who profess the Christian faith secretly are adamant in practicing their birth and naming religious rituals in worship. The paper argues that inculturation of Luhya birth and naming rites and rituals in Christian worship in the Baptist church in Vihiga County, Kenya has a significant impact on the survival of Christian message among its membership. The faith that does not become culture is not a lived faith. The study was informed by animism and sociological theories. Descriptive research design was employed with qualitative approaches of analysis. The sample size of the study was 221 participants comprising 183 Lay Christian and 38 Key informants (16 Pastors and 22 Church Leaders). The findings revealed that many Baptist Christians are resistant to inculturate Luhya rites and rituals of birth and naming into their worship, instead they condemn them and those that perform such rituals. This resistance makes them live inauthentic Christian life within their cultural context. The study recommended the Church leadership, theologians, and scholars to advocate for values in Luhya birth and naming rites and rituals that are consistent with Christian worship

Strengthening Ideological Values through Pasantian Singing: Problematizing the Nexus Between Local Cultural Practices and Globality in Bali

This article aims to explore the traditional cultural practices of pasantian reading clubs in facing globality and subjective perceptions of modernity, transformation and change. Pasantian members sing and interpret conventional Balinese texts, thus playing a crucial role in maintaining the artistic and ideological identity of Bali Hindu people. However, engagement in these practices is significantly challenged by rapid sociological changes, which have led to a notable decline in the number of people involved in pasantian. The study focused on understanding how pasantian interact with notions of globality and how these groups can be strengthened to preserve local cultural and ideological values. A qualitative approach employed ethnographic methods such as participant observation and in-depth interviews to explore the practices of pasantian in terms of continuity and change. Findings highlight the importance of practitioners of traditional art forms in negotiating the local-global nexus and suggest strategies for revitalizing pasantian groups.

‘And All Is Semblative a Woman’s Part’: Japan’s All-Male As You Like It

ABSTRACT The practice of cross-gender casting, which has been a long-standing convention in Japanese theatre, has shaped the audience’s expectations of actors performing the opposite gender. Consequently, the audience’s lived experience in Japan is distinct from that of Western audiences. It is challenging to assess the kinaesthetic experience of viewers from different cultural backgrounds, given that the reception of a performance is influenced by culturally determined frames of reference. Traditional cross-gender casting relies on contrast, which may inadvertently reinforce gender stereotypes. This may be how the Japanese approach to cross-gender theatre is perceived, but the current cross-gender theatre is not constrained by the traditional forms of stylisation in male or female impersonation. Surprisingly, gender stereotyping and gender ambiguity/fluidity appear to be able to coexist in Japanese culture, which is reflected in cross-gender theatre. Following a discussion concerning the impact of gender representation in subculture and culture on contemporary Japan, I examine Studio Life’s latest Shakespeare production of As You Like It. It is noteworthy that this production does not reinforce traditional gender norms but instead challenges them, presenting a reimagined portrayal of female characters through the male body.

Interference of Cultural Codes of the CIS Countries of Central Asia: Civilizational Transformations

For centuries, Turkic peoples have lived in close interaction, which contributed to the formation of similar cultural traditions, languages and customs. This has made them a unique and distinctive historical and cultural area on the map of Eurasia. The study of the interpenetration of cultural codes of the CIS countries of the Central Asian region becomes particularly relevant, as it allows us to identify the main trends and patterns of interference of interacting cultures.The novelty of the study lies in the methodological approach to the analysis of cultural codes of nations, according to which the interference of cultural codes is considered here as an instrument of cultural interpenetration, which reveals the specific relationship between cultural codes and national identity, as well as identifies the reasons for the universalization of cultural codes of border cultures.The purpose of this paper is to explore precisely those features of cross-border cultural interaction that fall under the description of cultural interference in its original sense, which implies spontaneous, uncontrolled cultural interpenetration resulting in the strengthening of some characteristics and weakening of others, in the absence of a dominant culture and deliberate influence on the qualitative characteristics of each of the interacting cultures. This publication offers an analysis of the spontaneity and uncontrollability of civilizational transformations of border cultures, acting as a natural process of interference of cultural codes. The research material is the cultural practices of the CIS countries of the Central Asian region.The main study measures used are conceptual and phenomenological analysis, axiological and analytical research techniques, method of classification analysis, etc.The study of the CIS countries of Central Asia revealed a number of coinciding elements of culture of these countries, indicating the presence of their common national cultural and civilizational identity, which stem not only from the cultural roots common to these peoples, but also a consequence of cultural interference and integration in the process of centuries of coexistence in the neighboring territories.

Revitalizing grand rounds in the time of COVID

COVID presented an opportunity to revolutionize the traditional format of Medical Grand Rounds (MGR). In this Commentary, we explore the educational ramifications of shifting MGR virtually with a focus on COVID-related content and its long-term sustainability. This transformation offers an inclusive interdisciplinary approach to sustain learner interest and improve education.

Sugarcane Response to Two Different Application Methods of Nano-Iron and Nano-Zinc

AbstractThere are many publications over the past 20 years comparing nano-nutrients with their traditional forms. Differently, this study examined the effect of applying nano-Fe and nano-Zn—in two different ways (foliar and soil application)—on sugarcane development, yield, and mineral status using a greenhouse experiment at the National Research Centre. The study results of first yield (plant cane crop) showed that nano-Fe caused an increase in plant height, number of leaves, fresh weight (FW) of leaves, FW of stalk, and total FW by 5.3%, 20.3%, 38.0%, 27.4%, and 33.3%, respectively, compared to nano-Zn. Despite the majority of growth metrics showed to be improved by using either of the two nano-sources, both nano-Fe and nano-Zn have been demonstrated to negatively impact nutrient ratios. The foliar application method was found to be superior, and the second application of nano-Zn to soil effectively halted the growth of all treated replicates. The data of the first ratoon (second yield) showed that FW of leaves, FW of stalk, total FW, and dried weight (DW) of stalk followed one trend line (nano-Fe–soil &gt; control-foliar (sprayed distilled water) &gt; nano-Zn-foliar &gt; nano-Fe-foliar &gt; control-soil (distilled water added to soil)). In conclusion it can be noticed that using nanoparticles as a fertilizer could be a weapon with double-edges, since this may induce unexpected harmful effects. It is recommended to conduct additional research to comprehend the mechanisms underlying why a nano-source that benefits plants may harm them after the second addition.

Formation of the Stage Traditions of Mordovian National Ballet through the Work of Composer N. Kosheleva

Formation of the Stage Traditions of Mordovian National Ballet through the Work of Composer N. Kosheleva

Re-visiting copyright: is there a way to tackle selective enforcement and non-contextual algorithmic takedowns? A discussion through the lens of internet meme culture

ABSTRACT Internet memes, a bourgeoning form of communication, resemble accessory elements of language. However, internet memes are conceptually complex. Their collective re-creative process relies heavily on copying underlying works, usually without asking for prior-permission from their rightsholders. Internet memes challenge core copyright assumptions on reasons of re-creation and modes of exploitation. Without a fundamental rethink of this mismatch, internet meme culture may be threatened. Going forward, copyright reforms should be holistic and distinguish between traditional and newer forms of re-creative processes. This article proposes that existing copyright can be flexibly interpreted to limit private property rights of underlying works and meme variations when they are used as internet memes, so as to facilitate their adaptation and support socio-cultural discourse. This article proposes a two-step holistic interpretation: copyright can conceptualise and confer limited rights for underlying works and meme variations when they are copied and re-used as internet memes. Copyright can also conceptualise a narrower scope of property rights by flexibly interpreting a combination of fundamental notions, including joint authorship, fair dealing, idea-expression, or user rights. This holistic approach sits comfortably with user-creators and their blurry cultural production-consumption patterns, alongside their nuanced (non)economic use of internet memes.

Research Progress on Immunomodulatory Effects of Poly (Lactic-co- Glycolic Acid) Nanoparticles Loaded with Traditional Chinese Medicine Monomers.

Immunomodulatory mechanisms are indispensable and key factors in maintaining the balance of the environment in humans. When the immune function of the immune system is impaired, autoimmune diseases occur. Excessive body fatigue, natural aging of the human body, malnutrition, genetic factors and other reasons cause low immune function, due to which the body is prone to being infected by bacteria or cancer. Clinically, the existing therapeutic drugs still have problems such as high toxicity, long treatment cycle, drug resistance and high price, so we still need to explore and develop a high efficiency and low toxicity drug. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) refers to a nontoxic polymer compound that exhibits excellent biocompatibility. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) monomers come from natural plants, and have the characteristics of high efficiency and low toxicity. Applying PLGA to TCM monomers can make up for the defects of traditional dosage forms, improve bioavailability, reduce the frequency and dosage of drug use, and reduce toxicity and side effects, thus having the characteristics of sustained release and targeting. Accordingly, PLGA nanoparticles loaded with TCM monomers have been the focus of development. The previous research on drug loading advantages, preparation methods, and immune regulation of TCM PLGA nanoparticles is summarized in the following sections.

Batik Pattern Classification Using Machine Learning Approaches

Batik is one of Malaysia traditional textile art form that is well known. By using Artificial Neural Network (ANN), k-Nearest Neighbors (k-NN) and Decision Tree methods, this study aims to classify Kelantan batik designs according to flora, fauna and geometry motifs. 133 images of the three categories were collected from social media and underwent pre-processing techniques. Image augmentation was done to enhance the diversity and quality of available training data for machine learning models. Digital transformation on the images based on colour features was developed to classify the three types of batik motifs. Image embedding was employed which returned a vector representation of each image in a data table in Orange software. The data divided into training and testing dataset, with a ratio of 8:2. The performance of each machine learning techniques were compared. The findings showed that ANN produced an excellent performance as indicated by classification accuracy (CA) of 87.9% for original images and 82.2% using Luminance Gradient image transformation technique. ANN also returns the highest AUC score indicating it is the best in distinguishing the images motif. Results from confusion matrix showed that ANN have the least misclassification for batik classification. Based on the result, it signifies that ANN performs the best classification among the three approaches.

THE CURRENT STATE AND PROSPECTS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF LITERATURE

This research will present findings from an experimental study, carried out at Abai Kazakh Na-tional Pedagogical University, focusing on how graphic novels influence the reading comprehen-sion Student’s abilities in the literature department. It will detail the implementation of activities before, during, and after reading for both groups engaging with traditional texts and graphic novels, along with the students' feedback on these practices. Consequently, we aim to demonstrate the po-tential of integrating graphic novels as a genuine resource within reading courses to enhance (criti-cal) reading skills.This article represents the positive influnence of graphic novels on reading comprehension by experimental study of students, comparing the results between traditional and graphic formats. This research allows to understand the importance of using graphic novels in the current ededucational framework. According to analysis the students' academic performance presented in their GPA scores, and their reading habits. The observation demonstrated that students with higher GPA scores as general rule exhibit a manifestly elevated frequency of engagement with Graphic Novels. Graphic novels use in the visual art and traditional test to motivate the reluctant readers.They permit deeper comprehension of mate-rials that offer to realize both narrative and visual cues.

Traditional sacred meanings in the ethnoregional culture of Altai

This article presents the study of methodological approaches to the study of the traditional sacred ethnoregional culture of Altai. The essence of the concept of "sacred" culture is considered. The theoretical aspects of the study of the "sacred" ethnoregional culture of Altai are revealed. A comparative analysis of various traditional forms of sacredness in the development of the ethnoregional culture of Altai is carried out. The problem of preserving the cultural heritage of Altai is considered.The purpose of the study is to reveal the features of traditional sacred meanings in the ethnoregional culture of Altai. Objectives: - to consider the theoretical aspects of the study of the sacred ethnoregional culture of Altai; - to conduct a comparative analysis of various traditional forms of sacredness in the development of the ethnoregional culture of Altai. The subject of the study is the traditional sacred meanings in the ethnoregional culture of Altai.The object of the study is the ethnoregional culture of Altai. The practical significance of this work lies in the possibility of using the data obtained in the creation of local regional programs for the preservation of ethnocultural traditionalism. The method and methodology of the work: the basis of the research is the principle of a systematic approach. To study methodological approaches to research, the sources of information were textbooks and monographs by such authors as M. Eliade, T.V. Bernyukevich, I.Ya. Murzina, N.I. Kaplan, G.M. Kazakova, V.A. Lipinskaya and others. Based on this study, it can be concluded that the culture of Altai is a huge layer of ethnographically diverse ethnic groups. Each ethnic group has its own sacred values and social patterns through which these values can be passed on to subsequent generations. This can be traced by the example of the Altai house painting, in everyday objects there is a complex semantic complex of sacralization. On the one hand, painting appears as a way of sacralizing human existence, on the other hand, it is a channel for transmitting appropriate social patterns that influence the consolidation of bearers of a particular culture. The boundaries of the sacred here are determined by the substantial meanings of human existence and the civilizational level of development of the sacralization of values. Traditional sacred meanings are intertwined with the way of life, culture and way of life of the people.

Proceedings of the 2022 "Lifestyle Intervention for Epilepsy (LIFE)" symposium hosted by Cleveland Clinic.

Lifestyle interventions are strategies used to self-manage medical conditions, such as epilepsy, and often complement traditional pharmacologic and surgical therapies. The need for integrating evidence-based lifestyle interventions into mainstream medicine for the treatment of epilepsy is evident given that despite the availability of a multitude of treatments with medications and surgical techniques, a significant proportion of patients have refractory seizures, and even those who are seizure-free report significant adverse effects with current treatments. Although the evidence base for complementary medicine is less robust than it is for traditional forms of medicine, the evidence to date suggests that several forms of complementary medicine including yoga, mindfulness meditation, cognitive behavioral therapy, diet and nutrition, exercise and memory rehabilitation, and music therapy may have important roles as adjuncts in the treatment armamentarium for epilepsy. These topics were discussed by a diverse group of medical providers and scientists at the "Lifestyle Intervention for Epilepsy (LIFE)" symposium hosted by Cleveland Clinic. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: There are many people with epilepsy who continue to have seizures even though they are being treated with medication or brain surgery. Even after seizures stop, some may experience medication side effects. There is research to suggest that certain lifestyle changes, such as yoga, mindfulness, exercise, music therapy, and adjustments to diet, could help people with epilepsy, when used along with routine treatment. Experts discussed the latest research at the "Lifestyle Intervention for Epilepsy (LIFE)" symposium hosted by Cleveland Clinic.

Die „Kovacs-Vase“

The Kovacs Vase was first made known under scholars in Munich in 1996, but its origins and current owner are unknown. It could be shown that the pictorial scenes come from the Greek Pankration. It has now been proposed to date the Kovacs Vase to 400 AD. The successful fight of the alround-fighter Privatulus is shown in five scenes, with legends attached to the fight pictures describing the athletes in more detail. The inscriptions also indicate that it must have been an experienced and victorious all-fighter from the Green Circus Party (factiones). What is unusual is that the loser Victorinus is also mentioned by name, possibly also a successful fighter, over whom victory may have meant an outstanding achievement for Privatulus. All additions are written in a vulgar Latin that is similar to Proto-Romance and is difficult to understand. The overview and comparison of silver and non-ferrous metal jugs and vases from the 4th to 8th centuries shows that in the toreutics of this period both traditional forms and motifs have been present since the 4th century and new forms and decorative elements appear that clearly differ from the late Roman origins. The Kovacs Vase combines ‘classic’ shapes and motifs from the 6th century with innovative elements that indicate an independent, classicist development. It could be that it was made in a workshop in northern Italy. Although written sources mention gymnastic agones, no firmly dated images from the 5th century are known to date. Against this historical-archaeological background, the Kovacs Vase with its depictions and inscriptions is a unique testimony to Greek agonistics in late antiquity.

On the Structure of Early Neolithic Societies of the Forest Tobol-Ishim Area: morphology and ornamentation of the pottery

The Early Neolithic complexes located in Western Siberia are characterized by the following common determinant features: chronological position within the end of 7,000 – turn of 6,000 cal BC, flat-bottomed vessels, design layouts of vessel necks (lips, rims, collars), and geometric and tree-like ornamental elements. The ceramic complexes are distinguished by different qualitative and quantitative ratios of the types of pottery (Boborykino, Koshkino, Satyga (with rims), comb ceramics, etc.) identified by researchers. When found in the same occupation layer, such a variety of ceramics might be evidence of an unequal sociocultural structure of the Neolithic population groups. The author stand for the concept that ceramic production and new stone processing skills and technologies were introduced (Zach, 2018, 2020) to the indigenous groups with Mesolithic traditions. It resulted in the interaction of autochthonous groups and newcomers and the subsequent merging of their structures, which ran differently in different territories. The author tend to consider the development of “syncretistic” societies in the first stages of such interaction in the Tobol-Ishim Rivers area as a process of transition from the Mesolithic to the Neolithic. Various types of pottery have been recorded at Boborykino complexes. The variety increases at Koshkino complexes, in different settlements and different proportions, which apparently reflects the formation of a new stable cultural tradition. The Kozlovo ceramics became such a tradition, being characterized by round-bottomed vessels with sags in the interior of the rim and a combination of ornaments in mainly incised-receding and comb techniques.

A Journey Through Islamic Art Exhibition: Purification of Form, Ineradicable in Content

Throughout the years, the manifestations of Islamic art from east and west have been diverse in the formalistic aspects but united in its spiritual essence. The wide range of ornamental motifs, stylisation, placement, material, and context is constantly changing according to the current trend of the period, reflecting the historical, social-cultural and economic background it was produced. This ensues that change is inevitably bound to happen, where traditional approach in Islamic art might not be suitable to implement in the modern society due to the unavailability of precious materials and patronage as before. Despite the challenge, the “Islamic” identity in their artworks is still being discretely preserved in their expression despite implementing and combining new techniques, styles, forms, and materials with traditional approaches. This creates an asymmetrical balance that embraces change while maintaining the Islamic principle, philosophy, and spiritual allure in their artistic production where the artists design their art to be parallel and in context with modernity. However, the Islamic identity in contemporary artworks is difficult to identify and challenging to decipher as the visual expression differs significantly from traditional art forms that people are accustomed to, making it vaguely recognised and understood. This constant and dynamic flux of tolerance and acculturation is something that is being visually exhibited by the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia (IAMM) in their special curation “A Journey Through Islamic Art” that showcases traditional and contemporary form of Islamic art in the same place. Although the curation is impressive, but the visual tension it creates invokes the mind to think deeply about what makes an Islamic art “Islamic” and what is the suitable approach to appropriately fathom and consider the art piece as a work of “Islamic art” as the physical form of calligraphy alone is not sufficient for it to be considered as “Islamic.”

Evaluating Mixed Reality Technology for Enhancing Art Pedagogy

The lack of interest among students in studying art, particularly the traditional Indonesian art form of batik, poses a significant challenge for educational institutions. Despite its cultural significance, the education sector lacks effective strategies to introduce and enhance students' interest in batik within the art curriculum. Several consequences can arise if the education sector fails to implement strategic measures to address this issue promptly. This could lead to a gradual erosion of cultural heritage and a loss of artistic traditions passed down through generations, and students may miss out on valuable opportunities for self-expression and cultural exploration. This study addresses this issue by leveraging mixed reality and gamification in a batik creation application. This innovative approach not only enhances the pedagogy of art education but also aims to revive cultural interest. The study employs Software Testing and PIECES to evaluate user experiences, emphasizing user comfort and smooth interactions. By assessing the application with tools like Unity Profiler and Hololens 2 performance testing, the study ensures an optimal user experience, contributing to the broader goal of preserving Indonesia's cultural heritage through innovative and accessible educational solutions. The results fall within the range of 4.04 to 4.24, categorizing user satisfaction as "satisfied" and the application running at an optimal 60 frames per second (FPS). This implies that users responded positively to the application, indicating that implementing mixed reality technology in batik learning provides a satisfying experience.

Rhythms of Kinabalu 2022 “Coming Back Stronger”: A Review

This article reviews the Rhythms of Kinabalu 2022 from the dual perspective of management and performance. Ever since its commencement in 2011, Rhythms of Kinabalu has been a yearly large-scale event organised by the National Department for Culture and Arts under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia along with other collaborative bodies. The aim of this festival is to showcase the diversity and uniqueness of the dances, arts, and music in Sabah for the purpose of their continued popularity, relevance, and sustainability. As such, the review examines the current nature of festival, paying attention to the various categories of performances and performers in Rhythms of Kinabalu 2022 as well as the favoured and less favoured performances and/or artists as indicated by viewer turnouts of the live shows. At the same time, the article seeks to understand the local audiences’ reception and/or reaction towards the event and its many shows to signal the current festivalgoers’ taste and preference of the performing arts. A main observation reveals the striking presence of the art of busking and an imbalance in the representation of modern and traditional art forms. Essentially, the representation of traditional arts was limited and those artists struggled to keep up with their more modern counterpart. Technology, namely, social media, has been identified to have played a major role in influencing this outcome and contributing to this scenario. Management wise, the lack of cooperation from business entities (i.e., premise operators and owners) in support of the local artists, performers, small and medium enterprises, and the event itself is a cause for concern as this has caused several setbacks which were detrimental to the festival’s operations. Hence, the art-based and managerial issues identified in this review may benefit the relevant stakeholders in its decision-making of the festival’s future cycles.