Research Methodology Research Articles

Fathers' experiences with supportive parenting interventions: A qualitative systematic review.

Despite proven efficacy, fatherhood interventions face challenges in attracting and retaining participants. This qualitative systematic review aims to inform the future design of fatherhood interventions by consolidating and synthesizing the evidence around fathers' experiences with interventions aimed at enhancing their involvement and relationships with their children. Following PRISMA guidelines, we analyzed 10 studies from a search of six electronic databases. Our analysis coalesced into three pivotal themes: (a) creating a sense of belonging: facilitating participation; (b) transformative takeaways; and (c) challenges of negotiating expectations of masculinity. Our findings indicate that group-based, culturally sensitive programs are advantageous but also reveal that fathers grapple with reconciling evolving fatherhood roles with societally entrenched expectations of masculinity. This review offers actionable insights for the future development, evaluation, and implementation of fatherhood interventions, particularly those utilizing qualitative research methodologies.

A strategy for reducing construction waste generated during the design process in architectural design firms in Egypt

Purpose This paper aims to develop and validate a strategy for reducing construction waste (CW) generated during the design process (DP) in architectural design firms (ADFs) in Egypt. Design/methodology/approach Qualitative and quantitative research methodology was designed to accomplish four objectives. The literature review investigated DP, CW, waste management (WM) and WM strategies (WMS). Three case studies were analysed to investigate the role of WMS towards reducing CW during DP. A survey questionnaire was conducted with a representative sample of ADFs in Egypt to assess their perception and application of WMS during DP. Lastly, a strategy was developed and validated to reduce CW generated during DP. Findings Through literature review, the research identified the highest 40 causes of CW during the DP and classified them into 13 categories. Despite early promotion of WMS to reduce CW at its source, Egypt and other countries with similar construction market characteristics lack laws and regulations to address CW during the DP, with current codes primarily focusing on post-occurrence issues. In addition, analysis of three case studies showed that CW was reduced by adopting WMS during the DP. Findings of data analysis revealed that ADFs have an average knowledge of WMS and a low awareness of Egyptian laws and WMS during DP. “Prefabrication” was the highest-ranked strategy for CW reduction during DP. Several challenges hamper the implementation of WMS. The “preparation and briefing” was ranked the most common design stage where CW causes occur, while “waiting” was ranked the most common form of CW. These findings informed the research outcome and helped in the development of the proposed strategy. Research limitations/implications The proposed strategy was developed taking into account the results of the survey questionnaire which was conducted in ADFs in Egypt where the authors reside, and such a strategy is needed. However, it could be applied in other countries that share the same characteristics of the architectural DP as well as the causes of CW and WMS implementation challenges. Practical implications This research presents a practical strategy to reduce CW generated during the DP. It was based on the findings of literature review, case studies and survey questionnaire. The strategy was explained in a workable way to include the required activities; tools and techniques; involved personnel and needed resources. The strategy was validated by a representative sample of ADFs in Egypt to ensure its practicability and viability for implementation towards developing a sustainable built environment. The practical application of the strategy will have long-term and short-term benefits. The long-term benefits include improving the social, economic and environmental aspects of sustainability during the design and construction phases in Egypt. In the short term, application of the strategy will improve the cooperation between design and construction teams, reduce the negative impact of CW production and enhance the quality of construction projects in Egypt. Originality/value Despite the need to reduce CW during DP, a practical strategy is lacking in Egypt, where laws are focused on dealing with CW after its existence. This research studied a topic that received scant attention in construction literature. It developed and validated a strategy to reduce CW during DP, which represents a synthesis that is novel and creative in thought and adds value in a manner that has not been previously explored.

Intersection of generative artificial intelligence and copyright: an Indian perspective

Purpose The main objective of this study is to present a compact overview analysis of intellectual property laws, specifically copyright-related provisions applicable to generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) in the Indian context. Design/methodology/approach The paper adopts a qualitative research methodology that is grounded in secondary sources of information. The data were gathered from the Scopus database for a systematic literature review. Findings GenAI technology has given rise to numerous questionable issues within the domain of intellectual property that need resolution in the form of policy solutions. Based on the findings of this paper, it can be deduced that Indian copyright laws are not adequate for addressing the rights pertaining to AI and its creations and outputs. Different countries like the United States, European Union and China have approached the regulation and protection of AI-generated content within the realm of copyright law in different ways. The future of law, as it has been established thus far, seems to be on a path of substantial evolution. Practical implications The study has implications for policymakers globally as there is a need to create feasible policy solutions that can efficiently safeguard against risks stemming from large language models (LLMs) and other GenAI models, while also promoting innovation, technical advancement and adoption. Originality/value The paper discusses the copyright-related issues in GenAI technology in the context of an emerging economy, India.

A Bibliometric Analysis of the Top 100 Papers on Gluteal Augmentation

Abstract Background Gluteoplasty or gluteal augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure that is used to improve the volume, shape, and contour of the buttocks. Objectives This bibliometric analysis aims to characterise emerging research trends and to assess the methodological quality of the highest impact gluteoplasty research. Methods The 100 most cited publications in gluteoplasty were identified on Web of Science, across all available journal years (from Inception to August 2023). Study details, including the citation count, main content focus, and outcome measures were extracted and tabulated from each publication. Oxford Centre for Evidence Based Medicine (OCEBM) Levels of Evidence (LOE) of each study were assessed. Results The 100 most cited publications regarding gluteoplasty were cited by a total of 2375 publications. Citations per publication ranged from 5 to 176 (mean 23.75 ± 25.86), with the highest-cited study being authored by Simonacci, discussing autologous fat grafting (n = 176). Most publications were LOE 5 (n = 55), representative of the large number of case series and reports. The number of publications for LOE 1, 2, 3, 4 was 1, 9, 13 and 22 respectively. The main content focus was ‘surgical technique’ in 38 publications, followed by ‘outcomes’ (n = 34) and’risk factors/prognosis’ (n = 10). Patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) were used in 20 publications, and 33 publications reported aesthetic outcome measures. Conclusions This analysis demonstrates a need for the improvement in research methodologies regarding gluteoplasty research. This advancement would be facilitated with robust, high-quality research via randomised control trials and multicentre studies as well the further development of validated patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) for gluteoplasty.

Literacy on Pregnancy Complications: Causal Factors and Prevention

Purpose: This study investigates the role of maternal health literacy in preventing pregnancy complications and evaluates the effectiveness of various educational interventions designed to enhance health literacy. Research Design and Methodology: Utilizing a quantitative design, this research involved pre-and post-tests to measure changes in knowledge, skills, and attitudes among diverse demographic participants. Participants were divided into control and experimental groups. Educational interventions were implemented, including prenatal classes, online courses, and community workshops. Data were collected through surveys and analyzed using statistical methods. Findings and Discussion: The study revealed a significant correlation between increased health literacy and reduced pregnancy complications such as pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, and preterm labor. This positive correlation underscores the potential for improved maternal and child health outcomes. Educational interventions significantly enhanced health literacy, with different models showing varied effectiveness based on accessibility and engagement. These findings align with the Health Belief Model and Self-Determination Theory, reinforcing the positive impact of health literacy on maternal and child health outcomes. Implications: The research underscores the importance of tailored educational interventions in promoting maternal and child health. Policymakers and healthcare providers should prioritize developing comprehensive, accessible, culturally sensitive health education programs. Addressing socio-economic disparities and providing continuous support is crucial to ensuring that all mothers and children have equal access to healthcare and can benefit from improved health literacy. Future research should explore long-term impacts and innovative educational technologies to enhance maternal health outcomes further.

The Concept of ‘Inventiveness of Machines’: How Ready is Patent Law to Afford the Creative Inventiveness of Artificial Intelligence?

Making science fiction a reality, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a transformative drive in almost every aspect of human life today. With the advancements of modern technology, AI has acquired the ability to think like humans and create inventions that are economically worthwhile. The concept of ‘inventiveness of machines’ has become a focal point in the field of intellectual property law at present. It has compelled the world to reconsider the parameters of patent law in terms of protecting AI inventors and inventions of AI. Simultaneously, the procurement of patents for inventions of AI has posed challenges not only in the legal field but also in ethical and moral aspects. As AI is gradually becoming an undeniable part of human life, every nation will have to adopt the developments of AI technology into their legal systems sooner or later. Taking the prevailing definitions of ‘inventor’ into account, this research mainly discusses whether machine inventors and human inventors be given equal protection of law or whether there should be different dimensions of protection. This paper also discusses the moral and ethical dilemma of granting legal recognition for AI inventors while examining the capability of existing legal framework including Sri Lanka in accommodating the inventiveness of machines. This research was carried out using mixed method approach. Literature review, qualitative and empirical research methodologies and comparative analysis were incorporated to strengthen the study. The paper concludes by highlighting the need of legislative intervention of competent authorities to reconsider the legal parameters to accommodate the possible challenges waiting to be imposed by inventiveness of machine in future. This paper also introduces the concept of ‘collaborative inventiveness of humans and AI’ and suggests recommendations to amend existing laws in a manner that they afford the technological advancements of modern times.

A RETROSPECTIVE OF PILGRIMAGE LITERATURE AS A COMMUNICATION GUIDE TO THE WORLD OF SACRED CULTURE

The purpose of the article is to examine the pilgrimage genre in literature as a social and communication guide in the world of contemporary sacred culture from a communication perspective. Different types of guidebooks are considered, i.e., interviews, travelogues, diaries, records, review texts, memoirs, notes, and pilgrimage travel notes are given as a necessary communication tool during a pilgrimage. The research methodology consists of descriptive (using observation and interpretation techniques), historical and literary, and biographical methods of analyzing pilgrimage literature. The author used the analytical-descriptive method, which consists in the selection, description and analysis of data; the system-structural method helped to arrange the works of different genres and apply them according to the subject in chronological order, reproducing the logical sequence of the material presented. The scientific novelty of the article involves expanding the concept of pilgrimage and the pilgrimage genre in literature as a social and communication guide to the world of contemporary sacred culture based on pilgrimage guides, diaries, memoirs, pilgrimage notes, and other sacred literature. Conclusions. In the article, the author examines the multi-genre works of pilgrimage literature as a communication guide to the sacred world in order to encourage the transformation from a book or a movie to a real pilgrimage for those who have such an opportunity. The article analyzes pilgrimage records, guidebooks, diaries, travelogues, novels, novellas, short stories, and pilgrimage notes to study pilgrimage from a communication perspective for different categories of pilgrims. As a rule, various categories of pilgrims and representatives of different professions go on sacred journeys, and then they write memoirs, pilgrimage texts, songs, scripts for future plays and films, and artists reproduce all details in artworks, and thus pilgrimage penetrates all spheres of an individual’s cultural life, which indicates the highly spiritual component of such journeys. Before going on a pilgrimage, you need to prepare thoroughly, both physically and spiritually, so that guides allow you to follow the trail of others and then plan your sacred journey relatively well. You will never return from a pilgrimage the same as you were before because such travels utterly change the vector of your life. Observing different groups of pilgrims, we can conclude that they all have one thing in common: spiritual enrichment, purification from sins and temptations, and the achievement of catharsis, which will be present in the everyday life of each of us for as long as possible. These works can keep living in ideas for film scripts about pilgrimage, thus expanding their socio-cultural horizons.

Insider action research in palliative care – the challenges of implementing digital health in a hospice organisation in the UK

This paper describes the first-person experience of being a medical consultant and novice action researcher in a UK hospice setting. A new digital IT system resulted in unexpected changes to productivity. An action research methodology using cycles of co-operative inquiry with hospice staff was chosen to investigate. The new technology caused fears among hospice nurses that the authenticity of the hospice ethos would be lost. The hospice staff were concerned about the loss of their role and identity. Action cycles were used to positively transform the hospice nursing structure and admission process

Protection of Geographical Indications (GI) in Sri Lanka: A Critical Legal Analysis

Sri Lanka is renowned for its ownership of numerous esteemed Geographical Indications (GIs), a testament to its rich cultural heritage and diverse agricultural products. However, the proliferation of counterfeit indications and illicit practices poses a significant threat to the integrity and value of these GIs in the global marketplace. As the nation of origin, Sri Lanka bears a paramount responsibility to safeguard these GIs, both domestically and internationally, as mandated by the Intellectual Property Act and ratified treaties.Against this backdrop, this research seeks to conduct a comparative evaluation of Sri Lanka's Intellectual Property Law regime, specifically focusing on the adequacy of legal provisions governing geographical indications in protecting existing GIs. Employing a qualitative research methodology, this study draws upon a comprehensive analysis of primary and secondary legal resources.By juxtaposing the domestic legal framework with international standards and practices, this research endeavours to draw conclusions regarding the effectiveness of existing protection measures and proposes targeted reforms where necessary. The aim is to formulate tailored recommendations for enhancing Sri Lanka's GI regime through the worldwide exhaustive examination of geographical indication regimes.This research paper not only contributes to academic discourse but also serves as a practical guide for policymakers and stakeholders involved in the preservation and promotion of Sri Lanka's unique GIs. Given the urgency of addressing the challenges faced by GIs in the contemporary global trade landscape, this study underscores the importance of timely action and informed decision-making in ensuring the continued prosperity of Sri Lanka's geographical indications.

Volumetric Add-On Retrofit Strategy with Multi-Benefit Approach toward Nearly Zero Energy Buildings Target

Around 35% of the total housing stock of the European Union is more than half a century old. The shortage of funds for new construction, combined with rapidly changing economic, social, and technological factors, has led to significant obsolescence. Additionally, this situation makes it difficult to satisfy the owners’ energy, functional, and socio-economic needs. This research aims to develop an innovative retrofit approach that brings multiple benefits to assessing retrofit designs for social housing, with specific emphasis on volumetric envelope additions toward the nearly zero energy buildings target (nZEBs). To achieve the purpose of this study, the research through design methodology was chosen. The research methodology consisted of two phases: design and simulation. First, the design phase focused on re-designing and retrofitting social housing to address various aspects of the functional requirements in developing rational solutions. Second, the simulation phase focused on computational modeling and analysis of energy performance to assess the nZEBs target. The results show that the use of high-efficiency Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems and improved material envelopes cut electricity consumption use by 43% and primary energy use by 40% compared to the base case. Photovoltaics (PV) production can meet the total electricity demand for six months. This approach can encourage residents and tenants to actively participate in the retrofit process and increase the real estate value of buildings through improvements in energy efficiency and housing function.

Investigating the synergistic performance of masonry buildings with steel slabs in structural Design: A case of historical Mahmut Nedim Kurkcuoglu mansion in Turkey

The main aim of this study is to explore the collaborative performance of masonry structures incorporating steel slabs in their structural design. The focal point of the investigation is the historically significant Mahmut Nedim Kurkcuoglu Mansion located in Urfa, Turkey, renowned for its cultural heritage. The research methodology encompasses a comprehensive analysis of the mansion’s structural design, utilizing both numerical modeling and experimental testing. The findings of the study reveal that integrating steel beams into slabs within the structural design of masonry buildings can exert a significant influence on overall structural performance. This integration contributes to the heightened safety and durability of the structure. The results underscore the importance of accounting for the historical and cultural value of heritage buildings when implementing structural modifications. In terms of methodology, the research adds value to the field of structural engineering by offering insights into the incorporation of steel beams in the design of masonry structures. Moreover, it emphasizes the significance of preserving cultural heritage sites through sustainable and innovative engineering solutions. The study not only enriches the understanding of structural engineering but also holds practical implications for professionals such as architects, engineers, and preservationists engaged in the design and maintenance of heritage buildings. In conclusion, this research significantly contributes to the realms of both structural engineering and heritage preservation. Its implications extend to practical applications and can serve as a foundational platform for further exploration and investigation in this interdisciplinary domain.

SCIENTIFIC PROJECT TEAMS MANAGEMENT IN WARTIME REALITIES: PERSONNEL SECURITY ENSURING ASPECTS

The study is devoted to the scientific project teams management in the realities of wartime and personnel security ensuring aspects. The purpose of the work was to identify features that should be taken into account by personnel management and scientific and pedagogical personnel who are heads of scientific projects during the management of project teams engaged in research work under the influence of wartime risks. The research methodology means the use of content analysis and specialized literature processing, as well as taking expert opinion on modern features of scientific project management into account. As a result of the study, features were identified that should be taken into account by managers and scientific and pedagogical staff , including heads of scientific projects, when managing project teams mission is to provide research work under the influence of wartime risks; the characteristic features of the scientific projects management in comparison with applied research were investigated; the peculiarities of the scientific project team formation are determined, personnel risks accompanying the process of implementing a scientific project both in peacetime and in wartime are determined, and proposals are made for optimizing the management of scientific projects in the realities of wartime. The peculiarities of the scientific project team formation have been established, which include: the need for a team member to belong to the work team of a scientific institution or institution of higher education, the team members' compliance with the characteristics of active researchers, their availability of professional publications on the topic of the project; search for people with scientific degrees and scientific titles and united by common scientific interests. The field of application of research results is science management, project management, flexible management and team management in scientific and educational institutions, critical infrastructure enterprises and business structures.

Social Workers and Black Barbers: A Collaboration to Address Mental Health Stigma

ABSTRACT Black men need safe spaces to express emotions free from bias and stigma. They have been underserved in emotional support due to systemic inequalities. Creating nurturing environments can empower Black men to heal from trauma. Stigma plays a crucial role in their reluctance to seek mental health treatment. This research uses a qualitative approach, combining an action research methodology with a generic qualitative inquiry. This study was conducted to answer the following research question: How can social workers and barbers collaborate to address the stigma of mental health treatment among Black men better? In this study, five social workers, five barbers, and five social work supervisors were interviewed to collect data for the study. Audio recordings were transcribed, and thematic analysis was used to analyze the interview data. Several key themes emerged: (a) collaboration strategies, (b) barbershops as safe spaces, (c) overcoming stigma, (d) cultural competence, and (e) challenges and barriers. The research study produced a pamphlet aimed at raising awareness of mental health stigma’s impact on Black men. The implications for the study highlight that partnerships between social workers and barbers can play a pivotal role in dismantling stereotypes and barriers associated with mental health issues among Black men, fostering a cultural shift toward greater mental well-being, acceptance, and understanding.

SOCIAL AND PEDAGOGICAL ACTIVITY IN UKRAINE: CURRENT TRENDS IN THE CONTEXT OF WAR

The article presents the results of a study on social and pedagogical activity in Ukraine in the context of the Russian-Ukrainian war, including current trends in the work of a social pedagogue in the educational sphere. The emphasis is placed on the importance of social and pedagogical/social work in the context of the war, which has caused significant challenges in the humanitarian sphere. The importance of support from the international community is emphasized, particularly in the social sphere (providing shelter for Ukrainian refugees, supporting the education of Ukrainian children displaced to other regions and abroad, humanitarian aid at the beginning of the fullscale war, etc.). The research methodology includes methods of theoretical and empirical analysis, including theoretical analysis of international guidelines for social and pedagogical/social work; empirical analysis of normative and instructional documents on the activities of a social pedagogue in the educational sphere, including in the context of the Russian-Ukrainian war; empirical (qualitative) analysis of essays by students of the specialty "social work" of the University "Ukraine" (Kyiv, Ukraine) on the topic "Social pedagogy: essence and importance in the context of the Russian-Ukrainian war"; generalization and systematization of research results. Due to the specifics of the research, we gave preference to the qualitative methodology. The results of the study allowed us to generalize the current trends in social and pedagogical activity in the educational sphere. These include: creation of a psychologically comfortable educational environment for all participants in the educational process (pupils, teachers, parents); providing psychosocial support to students affected by the war (children from families of combatants, children from families of internally displaced persons, etc.); implementation of measures for social adaptation and rehabilitation; formation of a culture of safety and other competencies important in the context of war, etc.

Pembangunan Wilayah Berbasis Potensi Wisata Halal di Banten

Banten Province, with its rapid growth and diverse tourism potential, presents significant opportunities for developing halal tourism. Halal tourism, guided by Islamic Sharia principles, has become increasingly crucial in the global context today. The aim of this research is to analyze the potential, development, opportunities, and challenges in developing halal tourism in Banten Province. The research methodology employed in this article involves a qualitative approach. Qualitative methods are utilized to explore the perspectives and perceptions of the community towards halal tourism, as well as to understand relevant cultural values. Data sources for this research include secondary data. Secondary data may originate from related literature, government reports, tourism industry publications, and other relevant sources of information. The data collection technique involves literature review. The research findings provide a profound understanding of the potential of halal tourism in Banten Province and evaluate the challenges and opportunities for sustainable industry development. Therefore, this article makes a significant contribution to supporting the vision of Banten Province as a leading destination for halal tourism at both national and global levels.

THE IMPORTANCE OF AUGMENTED REALITY (AR) MEDIA TO INCREASE INTEREST IN LEARNING AT PRIMARY SCHOOLS

A response to the transformation in education is learning media. In order to adapt to changes in education, learning media innovation is a calculated move. Increasing student engagement and learning outcomes is influenced by the continuous development of educational media. It is expected that the integration of Augmented Reality (AR) technology into natural science instruction will improve scientific literacy, especially for elementary school pupils. Three-dimensional media makes the approach more flexible, engaging, and creative by using different items as target markers. Investigating and evaluating the use of Augmented Reality (AR) media in elementary school natural science instruction is the goal of this project. A literature review is the research methodology used, and data gathering is done using a literature study strategy. Learning outcomes and student attention have been demonstrated to be greatly enhanced by the development and application of augmented reality (AR) media in a variety of natural scientific courses. Among these subjects are the diets of animals, ecosystems, plants, and animals that go through full metamorphosis. Students are able to develop their creative faculties, assess their emotional intelligence, and grow more cooperative and competitive with their peers as a result.

Collegiality and Dissent in Polish Administrative Courts

This article addresses a gap in existing research by focusing on the often-neglected realm of judicial interactions and internal dynamics within specific courts concerning the phenomenon of votum separatum. We examine the forms and practices of collegiality within Polish administrative courts and their influence on judges' decisions to file dissenting opinions. Additionally, we investigate the reactions of fellow judges when a dissent is announced. Our qualitative research methodology relies on in-depth interviews to prevent the imposition of predefined categories. Participants were encouraged to recount their experiences related to composing or participating in decisions involving dissenting opinions. This approach led to the emergence of categories related to collegiality, its functions, and inherent tensions. Our findings reveal that collegiality manifests in various forms beyond panel deliberations. Notably, our research uncovers the existence of departmental meetings in provincial administrative courts where issues addressed in dissenting opinions are discussed. Furthermore, judges' perspectives indicate that the most common scenario leading to dissenting opinions arises when judges from different panels reach opposing decisions. This dilemma prompts judges to choose between adhering to the initial panel's decision or voting for a divergent position proposed by the second panel. Finally, our observations within courtrooms highlight that the ideal of the dispassionate judge does not exclude subtle expressions of surprise or disappointment. These findings enrich our understanding of judicial interactions, shedding light on the complexities of collegiality and dissent within the context of Polish administrative courts.

Functional Exchange in Promotional Design

Functional exchange in promotional design is characterized by a unique approach to functional support for product benefit. This is reflected in the image that the designer presents in the promotional advertisement, as it relies on psychological and emotional functions that are reflected in the design and benefit from it. The research titled "Functional Exchange in Promotional Design" is divided into four chapters. The first chapter presents the research problem, which focused on functional exchange and the diverse vocabulary between structure and processes and its use in promotional advertising. There is a weakness in the functional, performance and aesthetic design of promotional advertising for these advertising spaces and the mutual influence between the product, drawings and processes that enhance the function with the recipient. In addition to the importance of the research and the need for it and the goal that was determined to identify the functional exchange in the design of promotional advertising, reaching the limits of the research and the terms of the research and how the functional exchange was carried out in the design of the promotional advertisement. The second chapter included the theoretical framework and previous studies, as it included two topics: the first topic dealt with the reciprocal function, a conceptual approach and types of function, and the second topic dealt with the formal structure of the advertisement and the design processes that achieve functional exchange, reaching the indicators that resulted from the theoretical framework and previous studies and their discussion. The third chapter included the research methodology, while the fourth chapter included the research results and their discussion.

Manifestations of Alienation in Contemporary Art and Its Representations in Abstract Expressionism

This research investigates the theme of "Alienation." Since humans cannot simply accept their existence as a mere phenomenon or a taken-for-granted fact, their being is marked by anxiety, evil, worry, nothingness, and "alienation." This latter concept is considered a fundamental feature of human existence. It's a feeling that accompanies the eruption of contradictions, the loss of self, and the difficulty of adapting to others. Consequently, a sense of estrangement or dissatisfaction and alienation from the true self arises. Art is necessary to achieve reconciliation between the self and reality. Existentialists emphasize that a human being remains unfulfilled unless they find themselves in creative work that expresses their identity, role, and position in the world and existence. Artistic creation is an opportunity for self-expression and a possibility to connect with others, which dispels the feeling of alienation. Therefore, contemporary art must have its own treatments that correspond to the course of the era. One of its tools in achieving this was the "Abstract Expressionism" movement.This research is divided into four chapters. The first chapter is dedicated to defining the research problem, which is identified by the following question: What are the manifestations of alienation in contemporary art? Do these manifestations have representations in the products of Abstract Expressionism? The importance of this research lies in its potential contribution to enhancing researchers' knowledge of the most important aspects of alienation and the role and necessity of art in the lives of individuals and society by achieving a kind of reconciliation between the self and reality. This research also aims to Shed light on the manifestations of alienation in contemporary art, reveal the manifestations of alienation in contemporary art and their representations in Abstract Expressionism. It also included the limitations of the research, which were defined as follows: Subject-: Artworks by the artist Mark Rothko. Time-based: 1903-1970 AD. Location-based: The United States of America. Definitions were also made for both linguistic and procedural terms. The second chapter is dedicated to the theoretical framework and previous studies. Chapter Three: Methodology In Chapter Three, the researcher outlines the research methodology, procedures, research community, and sample, which included (2) artworks by the artist Mark Rothko. The research concludes with Chapter Four, which presents the research findings and recommendations.

Brand Communication in the Visual Discourse of the Educational Theatrical Performance

Educational theater is considered a significant behavioral mechanism within the educational system, as it plays a crucial role in the teaching and learning process, shaping ideas through visual discourse and the ability to create symbolic meanings and impactful interpretations for the learner within the space of the educational theatrical performance. The research problem revolves around the following question: (What is the role of brand communication in the visual discourse of educational theatrical presentations?), As for the theoretical framework, it includes two chapters: the first discusses brand communication between the concept and application, while the second addresses the concept of educational theater. The third chapter reviews the research methodology, and the fourth chapter presents the research results and draws several conclusions. The study concludes with the list of references.