Scientific Findings Research Articles

Filosofía de ciencia y la investigación científica.

Abstract The objective of the essay was to address the philosophy of science and research, highlighting how scientific knowledge is developed, validated, and characterized. An empirical, systematic methodology based on rigorous observation and experimentation is emphasized, guaranteeing scientific findings based on verifiable evidence. In addition, the iterative nature of scientific research highlights the importance of flexibility to guide the development of new knowledge. As a basic criterion for distinguishing between science and non-science, Karl Popper’s falsifiability criterion states that a hypothesis must be experimentally disprovable. In addition, the theories of scientific revolutions and paradigms (Thomas Kuhn) are explored, highlighting how new ways of thinking about various things can lead to important advances in the understanding of science. It also considers the debate between realism and anti-realism, addressing research ethics, emphasizing issues of moral responsibility, ethical standards and equitable distribution of benefits or risks. In conclusion, critical and morally responsible conduct, which has a beneficial impact on society, is largely based on philosophical considerations of science. In order to ensure that the expansion of knowledge has a favorable impact on this society while respecting rigorous ethical standards, the philosophical importance in the critical appraisal of such scientific activity is emphasized. Keywords: philosophy, ethics, research, scientific knowledge.

Digital Competence Among the Key Components of Future Masters of Primary Education Professional Training: Theoretical Interpretations

The article draws attention to the issue of professional training of future masters of primary education and the role of digital competence in it. It involves addressing various challenges and considerations to ensure that educators are well-equipped to meet the diverse needs of primary school students. The author outlines several aspects in this direction: innovative pedagogical knowledge and skills, active technology integration, proper classroom management, appropriate assessment and evaluation, and professional development. It is proved that integration of technology into the classroom results in digital competence improvement of future educators. Numerous interpretations of digital competence by Ukrainian and foreign researchers are presented. The international scientific findings proved, the concept of “information and communication competence” is not limited to technological or digital spheres only, on the contrary, it is transformed in a wider context and applied in almost all spheres of an individual’s life. In the context of digitalization of the education system, it is assured that the possession of digital competence aims at purposeful and independent use of ICT tools in educational activities, as well as in the process of methodical and research work; maximum use of the potential of digital technologies in the process of identifying and solving pedagogical tasks. The experience of formation of digital competence of future masters of primary education within their professional training at PNU is presented n the article.

La interacción entre contexto social y método científico: implicancias epistemológicas.

Abstract: This paper examines the interaction between the sociocultural environment and scientific progress om an epistemological perspective. It analyzes how exogenous factors, beyond the inherent logical foundations, permeate research work. The study contrasts the internalist tradition, which prioritizes conceptual aspects, with the externalist approach,which contemplates social, political and economic conditioning factors. A critical scrutiny of historical cases shows the reciprocal influences between society and science. Although the scientific community applies rigorous intersubjective controls, it is not exempt from contextual biases. Consequently, a reflexive epistemological perspective is proposed that combines situated knowledge with notions of relative objectivity. This raises important questions: To what extent does science transcend the conditioning factors of its environment to achieve objectivity? How can we discern the validity of scientific findings linked to social interests? A comprehensive understanding of science demands a balance between constructive skepticism about one’s own assumptions and reasonable confidence in solid empirical evidence. Therefore, a critical but open view is required that recognizes contextual limitations and the capacity of science to transcend them through rigorous methods and the inquiry of objective knowledge. This paper seeks to contribute to this epistemological reflection by investigating the complex intertwining of science and society. Keywords: Social context, scientific method, epistemology.

Evaluating the effectiveness of coconut oil (Cocus nucifera) anti-bacterial benefits in caries prevention: A literature review

Background: Caries is the damage to the hard tooth tissue, which is enamel and dentine due to bacteria, with one of them being Streptococcus mutans. Caries is the most widespread non-infectious disease, with 2 billion people in the world suffering from permanent tooth caries and 514 million children suffering from primary tooth caries. The abundance of natural resources in Indonesia can be used as a way to prevent caries, such as using coconut oil which is known to have antibacterial benefits. Method: Analysis of several scientific findings and research with publication limitation over the last 5 years, recorded after January 1st, 2018. Results: Based on the results of analysis from several studies, coconut oil is proven to contain lauric acid which can be converted into monolaurin which is an active antibacterial agent. Monolaurin will cover the surface of the bacterial cell wall (peptidoglycan) and penetrate so that metabolism and cell permeability are disrupted and ultimately the cell lysis and cell death occurs. Studies show the effect of coconut oil on the incubation of bacteria that successfully inhibit colonization. Conclusion: It is proven that the content of coconut oil can effectively prevent the growth of the bacteria causing caries. Coconut oil has the potential to be an important step in preventing caries in the future.

Update on the status of gray whales since the 2020 Implementation Review

The International Whaling Commission’s Scientific Committee conducts regular Implementation Reviews (IRs) of the biology, threats and status of whale species subject to aboriginal subsistence whaling. The last IR of plans for hunting eastern North Pacific (ENP) gray whales by the Chukotka Natives of the Russian Federation and the Makah Tribe of the United States of America occurred in 2020. This paper presents a review of new scientific findings on gray whales to assess whether the current status of the stock(s) is within the parameter space tested in the 2020 IR. Updated information on gray whale stock structure hypotheses, abundance and calf productivity, health and strandings, human removals by hunting and non‐hunting sources, population growth rates, immigration into the Pacific Coast Feeding Group, parameterisation of the Makah hunt, and future episodic mortality events (EMEs) were reviewed for this assessment. For almost all factors, it appears that the current dynamics of the ENP gray whale population are within the parameter space evaluated in 2020 IR. The exception is that EMEs affecting whales in the ENP are occurring more frequently and at a greater magnitude than previously evaluated. However, preliminary evaluations suggest that the performances of the Gray Whale Strike Limit Algorithm (SLA) and Makah Management Plan are robust to recent and future EMEs of Northern Feeding Group gray whales and reductions of productivity of the Pacific Coast Feeding Group, at least under the initial parameterisations. We therefore conclude that there is no compelling need for a Special IR prior to the next scheduled IR in 2026, while noting that additional abundance data for 2022/23 and 2023/24 analysed after drafting this paper could strengthen or weaken the evidence for this conclusion.

Bayesian evidence synthesis as a flexible alternative to meta-analysis: A simulation study and empirical demonstration

Synthesizing results across multiple studies is a popular way to increase the robustness of scientific findings. The most well-known method for doing this is meta-analysis. However, because meta-analysis requires conceptually comparable effect sizes with the same statistical form, meta-analysis may not be possible when studies are highly diverse in terms of their research design, participant characteristics, or operationalization of key variables. In these situations, Bayesian evidence synthesis may constitute a flexible and feasible alternative, as this method combines studies at the hypothesis level rather than at the level of the effect size. This method therefore poses less constraints on the studies to be combined. In this study, we introduce Bayesian evidence synthesis and show through simulations when this method diverges from what would be expected in a meta-analysis to help researchers correctly interpret the synthesis results. As an empirical demonstration, we also apply Bayesian evidence synthesis to a published meta-analysis on statistical learning in people with and without developmental language disorder. We highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the proposed method and offer suggestions for future research.

Indigenous DNA as a metaphor: Nation-building and scientific debates on the rediscovery of Taiwanese ancestry.

In this paper, I investigate the co-production of genetic research and national politics in post-martial law Taiwan. This entails analyzing two co-produced phenomena: the nationalization of biomedicine-in which the national discourse over racial/ethnic categories and ancestral origin increasingly shapes scientists' biomedical research; and the biomedicalization of the nation-in which people in public discourse increasingly use biomedical categories in characterizing national differences and identities. I analyze how the production and representation of scientific knowledge of the ancestral origins and genetic make-up of Taiwan have been embedded in Taiwanese politics. This includes the emergence of a new categorization into four great ethnic groups, multiculturalism, and the assertion of a distinct Taiwanese national identity, particularly in response to the People's Republic of China's claims of common ancestry. I also examine how the scientific findings produced in the lab have spilled out into both Taiwan and China through journals, media, history textbooks, and public disputes since the 1990s and brought about significant social impact.

Abstract 3509: Using generative AI for filtering and comprehension of drug target discovery screen results

Abstract Recent advancements in generative AI, including models such as GPT-4 and LLAMA2, have been rapidly integrated into cancer research. Cellformatica, Inc. has developed a pipeline designed to enhance the accuracy of functional and genomic drug target discovery screens by reducing the incidence of false positives and refining the interpretation process. This pipeline is capable of conducting comprehensive investigations, including genome-wide analyses, and is accessible via web and API interfaces. At the core of the pipeline is the use of the extensive global corpus of scientific literature to assess the relevance of each gene within the context defined by the experimental design of the screen. To address the issue of AI-generated inaccuracies, often referred to as 'hallucinations,' the pipeline incorporates a custom-tuned language model (LLM) component within the generative AI framework. This fine-tuning process is specifically tailored to the gene set under investigation. The pipeline's multi-agent architecture is a distinctive feature. It scores candidates based on three orthogonally-tuned criteria: effectiveness, confidence, and novelty. In benchmarking tests, this multi-agent scoring system has outperformed GPT-4 and has proven particularly adept at identifying candidate targets that may have been overlooked in previous research. These candidates are recognized for their significant therapeutic potential and are corroborated by existing scientific findings. The versatility of the Cellformatica pipeline is demonstrated through its application in three distinct areas of cancer research. First, it has been employed to optimize chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapies, a form of immunotherapy for cancer treatment. Second, the pipeline has been used to elucidate the network of chemotactic molecules that orchestrate immune cell infiltration and tissue remodeling in the lungs of patients with COVID-19. Third, it has been used to spatially define signaling pathways in humanized xenograft murine tumor experiments, for which existing cross-species database knowledge is limited. These applications underscore the pipeline's potential to contribute to the understanding and treatment of complex diseases. Citation Format: Andrew Rech, Yury Goltsev, Nikolay Samusik, Anna Kaznadzey. Using generative AI for filtering and comprehension of drug target discovery screen results [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 3509.

Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty - Current Concepts

Due to first promising long term outcome data, reverse shoulder arthroplasty experienced an immense increase of usage during the past decade. Moreover, the initial Grammont concept has constantly been refined and adapted to current scientific findings. Therefore, clinical and radiological problems like scapular notching and postoperative instability were constantly addressed but do still remain an area of concern.This article summarises current concepts in reverse shoulder arthroplasty and gives an overview of actual indications like cuff tear arthropathy, severe osteoarthritis, proximal humerus fractures, tumours, fracture sequelae as well as revision surgery and their corresponding clinical and radiological results.

Phytochemical Profiling and Biological Activities of Rhododendron Subsect. Ledum: Discovering the Medicinal Potential of Labrador Tea Species in the Northern Hemisphere.

Rhododendron subsect. Ledum is a distinct taxonomic subdivision within the genus Rhododendron, comprising a group of evergreen shrubs and small trees. This review will comprehensively analyse the phytochemical profiles and biological properties of the Rhododendron subsect. Ledum species subsect. Ledum consists of eight plant species indigenous to temperate and subarctic regions of the Northern Hemisphere, collectively known as Labrador tea. Recent investigations have concentrated on the phytochemical constituents of these plants due to limited data, emphasizing their evergreen nature and potential industrial significance. This review summarizes their major phytochemical constituents, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenoids, and discusses their potential biological activities, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antitumor, hypoglycemic, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, and cardioprotective effects. Traditional uses of these plant species align with scientific findings, emphasizing the significance of these plants in traditional medicine. However, despite promising results, gaps exist in our understanding of specific compounds' therapeutic effects, necessitating further research for comprehensive validation. This review serves as a valuable resource for researchers, identifying current knowledge, uncertainties, and emerging trends in the study of the Rhododendron subsect. Ledum species.

Update on the DVO Guideline 2023 "Prophylaxis, diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and in men aged over 50"-What's new for rheumatology?

In October 2023, the organization of the German-speaking scientific osteological societies (DVO) published the revised guideline on the "Prophylaxis, diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and in men aged over50." This review article reflects the new features of the guideline and their relevance in the care of patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases.Akey innovation is the change from the 10-year fracture risk to the 3‑year fracture risk. Basic diagnostics are currently performed without adefined fracture threshold. Treatment thresholds for specific osteological therapy constitute another key innovation, defined as 3% to < 5%, 5% to < 10%, and from 10% for vertebral body and femoral neck fractures. If the 3‑year fracture risk is > 10%, osteoanabolic therapy should primarily be carried out and antiresorptive therapy is initiated following osteoanabolic therapy. In addition, patients with osteoporosis and prolonged glucocorticoid therapy should primarily be treated osteoanabolically with teriparatide. In summary, the changes to the DVO guideline reflect the latest scientific study findings in osteology and lead todetailed differential therapy for osteoporosis.

The end of tourism? Contemplations of collapse

PurposeThis viewpoint engages with Jem Bendell’s deep adaptation framework which was developed as a response to the threat of collapse. Proponents of deep adaptation argue that societal collapse is either likely, inevitable or already underway. The deep adaptation framework is employed as a tool to contemplate the necessary adaptation of tourism development and planning in a context of polycrisis leading to collapse.Design/methodology/approachThis is a conceptual viewpoint article that is built on deductive analysis of recent events, reports and scientific findings. It employs the deep adaptation framework to analyse possible alternative tourism futures in the face of the threat of collapse.FindingsBendell’s framework included four aspects of response to the recognition of the threat of collapse: resilience, relinquishment, restoration and reconciliation. In this work, the deep adaptation framework is employed to analyse what a deep adaptation approach to tourism might offer for efforts in securing optimal social and ecological outcomes. Findings highlight damaging activities that we should relinquish, more resilient approaches that communities could encourage and restorative practices such as rewilding and pluriversal economies as protective measures. This work recommends a precautionary approach to transform tourism education, research and practice in order to secure better tourism futures.Originality/valueThis work is novel in engaging with the threat of future collapse and in using the deep adaptation framework to consider alternative tourism futures.

Iapetus Equatorial Ridge: The Understanding from The Quran and The Hadith

This research studies the statement about the splitting of the Moon into two as narrated by Quran &amp; Hadith in accordance to scientific studies related to the subject. The author suggests that current scientific findings of the formation of the equatorial ridge on Iapetus differs from the Islamic classical scholars’ opinions are not in tandem regarding the splitting and fusing of the moon. This research also applies the methodology of hadith from the writings given from various narrations and hadith literature. The application of document analysis methodology is applied to current concepts by the geologists and astrophysicists on the formation of the equatorial ridge of Iapetus and the ice ridge in Antarctica. The findings establishes that the Iapetus equatorial ridge is a genuine existence that occurred, which split into two and fused back. This image was captured by the satellite sent to Saturn.

Theoretical problems of literary translation

The article discusses the theoretical problems of literary translation. The study of literary translation in Kazakh literature is presented, along with significant scientific findings regarding the nature of translation. The importance of the art of translation in spiritual and cultural interaction is emphasized. Special attention is given to the concept of translation and various important aspects of translation services. It is clear that translation studies and translation theory are new fields of science. The history of Kazakh translation in the past and the current directions of practice are considered. The scientific principles of translation and the various types of translation are analyzed. This study examines the translation of Russian classical literature into Kazakh and draws scientific conclusions regarding the quality, national identity, and artistic and aesthetic aspects of literary translation.

TEACHING THE IMAGE OF «HEROINES-GIRLS» IN EPICS IN UNIVERSITIES USING THE TECHNOLOGY OF CRITICAL THINKING

The article discusses the importance of learning through the technology of critical thinking, based on the image of «heroines-girls» in Turkish epics. The typological features and similarities of the images of «heroines-girls» in epics are highlighted. The introduction describes the image of “girl heroines” common to the world and the Turkic peoples. They say that their courage and intelligence are preserved in the memory of the people. Examples were given that every action of a warrior girl in a certain song is worthy of a hero, which remained in the core of poets who have sung for centuries. In the same way, the fact that this topic has found a place in the works of folklorists, educators and researchers to this day and that this topic will never lose its relevance is evidenced by their works. In this regard, a systematic analysis of the heroines of the poem from birth, the environment of growing up, family education, traditions, etc. will be carried out in terms of their personality. In other words, questions and discussions among students at the university, their views and thoughts were analyzed. The theoretical and practical significance of the technology of critical thinking in lectures and practical classes and the effectiveness of the use of methods, scientific findings of well-known specialist teachers were taken into account. That is, the main idea of our research work is the “heroine-girls” in epics, their heroic path, actions, characteristics, etc. The appearance of the videos is described and critiques are discussed. That is, the effectiveness of the method of critical thinking, the exchange of students with their thoughts, critical views, critical opinions during a lecture are comprehensively studied and analyzed. It was determined that there are many opportunities for various simulations in the lectures on the technology of critical thinking. Within the framework of this topic, at the first stage of the experiment, along with a survey, test tasks, analytical work, and discussion work were also organized among students. We also make sure that the main topic is fully disclosed and the listener forms his own opinion on the final result of the lecture.

Exploring research trends and priorities of genus Melia

The genus Melia is known for its secondary metabolites and recently, this genus is being explored for its timber. There are vast differences among its species. For instance, Melia azedarach is reported to be invasive and while another species, M. dubia, has diverse utility with complex germination and regeneration characteristics. Researchers globally have been working on various aspects of this genus; In this study, using topic modelling and science mapping approach, we attempted to understand research facets on this genus. The literature corpus of the Web of Science database was explored using a single keyword—“Melia” which yielded 1523 publications (1946–2022) and after scrutiny metadata of 1263 publications were used in the study. Although nine individual species were cited in the publications, only three species are accepted viz., M. dubia, M. azedarach, and M. volkensii. This implies taxonomic uncertainty, with potential confusion in assigning scientific findings to particular species. Thus, a taxonomic relook on this genus is warranted for a better assessment of the economic utility in many countries. More importantly, our results indicate that the research interests have recently shifted from the secondary metabolite constituents towards growth, biomass, wood properties, germination, plantation, and green synthesis. The shift in research focus toward wood properties of Melia sp. can impact the wood demand–supply at a global scale owing to its fast growth and the possibility of cultivation over a wider geographical range.

Beyond Traditional Boundaries: A Review on Calotropis gigantea’s Efficacy in Wound Healing

Introduction: Wounds result from the disruption of cellular and anatomical continuity in living tissues due to external factors. Calotropis gigantea, also known as crown flower or giant milkweed (or "biduri" in Indonesia), is a small tree or shrub with white or purple flowers, widely used in traditional remedies. Its properties, including antimicrobial, cytotoxic, and wound-healing activities, have prompted this literature review to assess its efficacy in wound healing. Method: A thorough analysis of scientific findings and research conducted in the last 10 years, specifically after January 1, 2014, was undertaken. Data were collected from reputable databases, such as PubMed, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect. After applying publication limitations, three manuscripts were selected as the final outcomes of the review process. Result: The analysis of multiple studies reveals that C. gigantea possesses wound healing properties attributed to phytochemical constituents like flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and saponin. These constituents play vital roles in each stage of wound healing, including the inflammatory reaction, proliferation, and remodeling stages. Additionally, C. gigantea promotes wound healing, leaving minimal scar residues. Conclusion: Calotropis gigantea has demonstrated its ability to enhance wound healing through various mechanisms, including astringency, antibacterial activity, promotion of homeostasis, facilitation of collagen synthesis, enhancement of re-epithelialization, and stimulation of cell proliferation via its phytochemical constituents. However, due to the scarcity of recent studies, the plant's true efficacy in wound healing remains unclear.

The Honest Broker versus the Epistocrat: Attenuating Distrust in Science by Disentangling Science from Politics

ABSTRACT People’s trust in science is generally high. Yet in public policy disputes invoking scientific issues, people’s trust in science is typically polarized, aligned with their political preferences. Theorists of science and democracy have reasoned that a polarization of trust in scientific information could be mitigated by clearly disentangling scientific claims from political ones. We tested this proposition experimentally in three German public policy disputes: a) school closures versus openings during the COVID-19 pandemic, b) a ban on versus a continuation of domestic air traffic in view of climate change, and c) the shooting of wolves in residential areas or their protection. In each case study, we exposed participants to one of four versions of a news item citing a scientist reporting their research and giving policy advice. The scientist’s quotes differed with regard to the direction and style of their policy advice. As an epistocrat, the scientist blurs the distinction between scientific and political claims, purporting to “prove” a policy and thereby precluding a societal debate over values and policy priorities. As an honest broker, the scientist distinguishes between scientific and political claims, presenting a policy option while acknowledging the limitations of their disciplinary scientific perspective of a broader societal problem. We find that public policy advice in the style of an honest broker versus that of an epistocrat can attenuate political polarization of trust in scientists and scientific findings by enhancing trust primarily among the most politically challenged.

Analysis of disinfectant use by medical organizations of the Republic of Tatarstan in the context of changes in the epidemiological situation 2019–2022

BACKGROUND: Disinfection is an important aspect of ensuring epidemiological safety in medical organizations, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.&#x0D; AIM: To analyze the disinfectant use in state medical organizations of the Republic of Tatarstan from 2019 to 2022, considering changes in the epidemiological situation related to COVID-19, and provide recommendations based on the analysis.&#x0D; MATERIALS AND METHODS: Electronic auction data from zakupki.gov.ru were used to analyze disinfectant purchases by state medical organizations in the Republic of Tatarstan from 2019 to 2022. Data analysis involved the application of descriptive statistical methods.&#x0D; RESULTS: A total of 118 electronic auctions were analyzed. A relationship between the nature of the epidemiological situation and the selection of disinfectants for purchase based on their chemical composition and intended use was identified. Before the pandemic, medical organizations preferred quaternary ammonium compound disinfectants and antibacterial soaps for hand hygiene. During the COVID-19 pandemic, their use of chlorine-based disinfectants, hydrogen peroxide, and alcohol-based hand sanitizers containing 60–69% ethanol increased. As the epidemiological situation stabilized, a discernible shift in preferences toward compound disinfectants was noted. Antiseptics with an alcohol content 70% are increasingly sought after.&#x0D; CONCLUSIONS: Medical organizations in the Republic of Tatarstan promptly respond to changes in the epidemiological situation by implementing necessary modifications to antiepidemic measures. When developing procurement strategies, not only the requirements of sanitary legislation but also the latest scientific findings in the field of disinfectology must be considered.

(084) Frequency of Bleeding at First Vaginal Intercourse and Stereotypes Surrounding it: A Pilot Survey of 6370 Russian-Speaking Women

Abstract Introduction Despite the fact not all women experience bleeding at first vaginal intercourse (BFVI), in some cultures failure to prove virginity on the wedding night (sheets/garments covered with blood) may have serious consequences for a woman (bullying, domestic violence, shame and even honor killings). Low awareness of the true frequency of BFVI and of individual variation of the anatomy of the hymen may lead to inaccurate conclusions in cases of sexual assault or “virginity testing” (VT) at schools and/or in clinical settings, which can have a drastic impact on the mental health of young women. In cultures where defloration is sacralized, young women tend to choose anal sex instead of vaginal, which bears further risks including higher hazard of HIV; women also tend to seek hymenoplasty often performed in secrecy (in many cases it cannot guarantee bleeding at following intercourse, as intended). Objective To evaluate the frequency of stereotypes surrounding BFVI among Russian-speaking women Methods An anonymous survey was completed by 6370 Russian-speaking women across different countries who have had at least one vaginal intercourse. We aimed to reach women from varying religious, socioeconomic and educational backgrounds. The survey included questions on whether women experienced BFVI and if not, whether it had any negative consequences; and list of questions regarding their feelings about virginity, hymen reconstruction and sex in general. The questionnaire was distributed by the authors and biomedical bloggers, via social media (Instagram, Facebook, and Telegram). Preliminary results are presented. Results Median age was 31 (15–70); 59% were married; 73.6% reported being raised in secular families. 21.2% - in religious families, and 2.1% - in strictly religious. 43,2% respondents denied having any BFVI; 42,3% confirmed BFVI; while 5,3% reported bleeding on following sexual encounters but not on first intercourse. A minority (3,6%) did not remember whether any bleeding was present. Among those who didn’t have BFVI, 75 (2,2%) reported long-lasting conflicts with partners, 166 (5%) reported withdrawal of their partners, 115 (3,5%)– mistrust, 88 (2,7%)– constant blaming, 37 (1,1 %) – emotional abuse, 2 (0,1%) – physical violence. Two hundred twenty-three (3.5%) women experienced VT at school, 76 (1.2%) referred themselves for VT, and 25 (0.4%) did so at the demand of their own family. Conclusions Traditions demonstrating BFVI associate with negative emotions and affect marital relationships as well as sexual health of women. Medical professionals should be aware of the frequency of BFVI; anatomy and gynecology books should reflect corresponding scientific findings. Myths about virginity should be addressed via media and opinion leaders to prevent gender based violence. Disclosure No.