Traditional Understanding Research Articles

Novels by A.A. Zinoviev as works of a new genre

The article analyzes the novels of A.A. Zinoviev from the perspective of genre specificity and artistic techniques that the author inherits from previous literature. Proximity to the artistic traditions of M.E. Saltykov-Shchedrin and J. Swift’s texts allow us to consider Zinoviev’s texts in the context of world artistic culture, but the peculiarities of the organization of the novel space and the angle of the writer's point of view on social reality indicate that his novels do not fit into the usual genre canons and should be considered as sociological novels. The results obtained expand the traditional understanding of the genre of the novel, describe interesting author’s intentions of the world order, reveal the relationship between the artistic word and sociological statistical data, and give impetus to further research of the creative work of an extraordinary writer.

The Savior Narrative: A Comparative Study of the Messiah in Early Judaism and Maitreya in Buddhism

This paper explores the savior narratives of the Messiah in early Judaism and Maitreya in Buddhism focusing on the structural and thematic similarities between the two savior figures. Through an analysis of the Hebrew Bible, Talmud, and Buddhist texts such as Ārya Maitreya-Vyākaranam (The Prophecy of the Superior Maitreya) and Anāgata-vaṃsa (The History of the Future), the study examines four key elements of these narratives: the bestowal of the savior’s divine identity, the tribulations of the end times, the fulfillment of the savior’s mission and the role of “virtuous individuals” in redemption. The research highlights how both saviors are portrayed as future redeemers tasked with guiding humanity to redemption, while also emphasizing the moral requirements for believers in both religions. Specifically, the analysis reveals a “dual-redemption paradigm”, wherein both the savior’s mission and the moral actions of followers are essential to achieving redemption. The study also examines the balance between the divine and secular aspects within the narrative structure, illustrating how historical figures have manipulated these narratives for political and social gains. This research aims to deepen the understanding of savior traditions in Judaism and Buddhism, foster inter-religious dialogue, and contribute to comparative religious philosophy.

A Discovery of Pressure-Induced New Semiconductor Electronic Phase Transitions by DFT Calculations: Introducing a Glimpse of a Novel Semiconductor Family.

This study introduces a discovery of pressure-induced new semiconductor electronic phase transitions. A novel semiconductor family that exhibits pressure-induced nonmonotonic changes in band gaps was found and meets the definition of phase transitions, challenging the traditional understanding of linear and monotonic band gap modification through pressurization. Our findings suggest a complex interplay of atomic spacing and electron orbital contributions under varying pressure conditions, resulting in the variation of band gaps. This behavior, which includes three distinct steps: first, narrowing, second, broadening, and third, narrowing again and ultimately metalizing; some compounds could bypass step 1, has potential applications in piezoelectric and semiconductor technologies. We propose two new semiconductor electronic phase transitions (SEPT) associated with specific inflection points in the pressure-dependent band gap curve. Our results open avenues for further research into the electronic properties of crystals under high pressure, with the ultimate goal of uncovering the more profound physical principles governing these phenomena.

Contemporary Interpretation Approach In The Culture Of Patriarchal Analysis In Surah An-Nisa Verse 34: Literature Review

This study examines the role of Qur'anic interpretation in promoting social welfare, focusing on the implementation of justice values in holy verses, especially in Surah An-Nisa verse 34. The method used is a literature study, which includes an in-depth analysis of various sources of literature related to gender and interpretation. The results show that traditional understandings of gender, which are often rooted in patriarchal societies, result in hierarchies that are detrimental to women. However, contemporary interpretations of this verse seek to challenge this view, offering a more inclusive perspective and emphasizing gender equality. This study concludes that a fairer interpretation approach can contribute positively to gender relations in Muslim society. These findings are expected to enrich academic discussions about gender in Islam and encourage the application of social justice principles in society

Panna Addams: współczesna tożsamość „z pogranicza”. O postawie głównej bohaterki serialu Wednesday

The article is a part of qualitative interpretive research conducted as part of a doctoral thesis addressing the portrayal of femininity in contemporary selected film fairytales. The aim of the analysis was to present fairy tale heroines as an audiovisual representation of expectations, norms, and values stemming from gender and inscribed in the prevailing socio-cultural order. The qualitative interpretation of the active stance of the main character in the popular series Wednesday serves as an exe mplification of cultural contestation between the traditional understanding of femininity and its androgynous redefinition, not constrained by widely accepted social norms.

Lack of Consent to Sexual Intercourse and the Fault of the Rape Survivor under U.S. Criminal Law

The greatest attention to the lack of consent to sexual intercourse as a mandatory feature of rape is paid under the US criminal law. This issue is closely related to the main changes in US state legislation that have occurred as a result of a departure from the traditional understanding of rape as a crime. There are three approaches to understanding the term «consent» in doctrine and legislation, namely, «no means no», «yes means yes» and a negotiation model. Each model imposes features on the process of establishing the fault of the subject and the rapist’s possible error in consent. Difficulties arise when the subject and the victim are intoxicated. Based on the experience of the United States, recommendations are formulated that are useful for the Russian legislator and law enforcement officer. It is not necessary to consolidate any model of consent to sexual intercourse in the criminal law, as well as to abandon signs of the use of violence, the threat of its use or the use of the helpless state of the victim. It is required to distinguish harassment and overcoming the will of the victim, to assess the silence of the victim, victim’s words and actions, finding out whether the victim’s will was distorted. A woman has the right to withdraw her consent after sexual intercourse starts, in which case, if there are other signs of a crime, the continuation of sexual intercourse against the will of the victim is qualified as rape.

Exploring the Integration of Chinese Music in Western Musicological Literature: Trends, Gaps, and Multicultural Perspectives

The purpose of the article is to analyse Western musicological literature to identify key trends and gaps in existing research on Chinese music as an integral part of the contemporary multicultural educational space. The research methodology is based on content analysis, comparative analysis, and bibliographic review. The primary method is content analysis, involving a systematic review of academic articles, monographs, reviews, and other publications on Chinese music in Western musicological literature. Comparative analysis is used to compare Western research on Chinese music with scholarly work from China and other countries. Bibliographic review helps to identify scientific gaps and trends in Chinese music research. The scientific novelty of the study lies in the comprehensive analysis of Western musicological literature on Chinese music to reveal key trends and gaps in existing research. The use of content analysis, comparative analysis, and bibliographic review allows for the first systematic organisation and comparison of approaches to studying Chinese music in different cultural contexts. The study also provides new insights into the role of Chinese music in the contemporary multicultural educational space, contributing to its integration and popularisation. Conclusions. Over the past three decades, publications on Chinese music within the context of multicultural music education have been irregular. Although the number of studies is not large, it shows moderate activity in the 1990s and early 2000s, with a noticeable increase after 2007 and periods of decline between 2010 and 2014. This indicates the need for further analysis of the reasons behind this dynamic and a deeper exploration of the integration of Chinese music into the Western educational context. The literature review shows that research covers a broad range of educational contexts, from early childhood to higher education and teacher professional development, indicating the potential for integrating Chinese music at various levels of formal education. The review also reveals that research on Chinese music often has a Eurocentric approach, evaluating it through the lens of Western music theory. This limits the full understanding and integration of Chinese musical traditions, highlighting the need for a deeper and more comprehensive approach that would foster an understanding of Chinese music in its own context.

Exploring the anti-inflammatory potential of phytochemicals against STING::TBK1 pathway

ABSTRACT Viral illnesses frequently cause excessive inflammation in the body, which adds to the severity of symptoms and problems. Understanding and regulating this inflammatory response is critical for successful viral infection management and therapy. It is traditional Ayurvedic understanding to reduce inflammation with formulations of Tulsi, Dalchini, Sunthi, and Krishan mirch. Using computer-aided drug discovery methodologies, this study aims to find phytochemicals that interact with TBK1 and are likely to have this anti-inflammatory effect. Molecular docking results revealed that Oleanolic acid, Astiaticoside A, Cepharadione A, Proanthrocyanidin, and Alpha carotene had binding scores of −8.1 kcal/mol, −7.8 kcal/mol, −6.8 kcal/mol, −6.75 kcal/mol, and −6.8 kcal/mol against TBK1, respectively. 20 ns MD simulations of TBK1 in complex with phytochemicals were performed to evaluate complex stability and protein conformational changes. The simulations showed stable complexes with favourable energy profiles, as evidenced by characteristics such as RMSD, RMSF, Rg, and hydrogen bonding. The MM-PBSA analysis produced precise binding affinity estimates. This work emphasises the potential of these phytochemicals and the need for additional in vitro and in vivo validation.

Lexical Analysis of Japanese Children’s Songs from the Perspective of Japanese Language Education

Japanese children's songs can be a valuable resource for adult learners of the language, Firstly, the vocabulary used in children's songs is predominantly high-frequency and foundational, with a large portion falling below the N2 proficiency level. By mastering the words and phrases found in these songs, learners can expand their conversational abilities beyond the confines of traditional textbooks. Secondly, the songs offer a balanced representation of positive, negative, and neutral emotions, reflecting the emotional range and nuances of the Japanese language. This exposure to diverse emotional expressions can enrich learners' understanding of language and cultural nuances. Moreover, the study's semantic analysis reveals frequent word associations and co-occurrences, which can help learners grasp the interconnectedness of Japanese vocabulary and the cultural contexts in which words are used. Importantly, children's songs are deeply rooted in Japanese culture, indirectly exposing learners to various cultural aspects, such as the appreciation of nature, the concept of transience, and the importance of harmony and interconnectedness. This cultural immersion can foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Japanese values and traditions. Furthermore, the familiar melodies and sing-along nature of these songs can facilitate social bonding and interpersonal connections among learners and native speakers. Engaging in shared cultural experiences, such as singing nursery rhymes together, can create a sense of community and strengthen the bond between learners and the target language culture.

Armed attacks against merchant vessels: ‘Looking behind the Flag’ to find the victim State

Abstract This article argues that a non-flag State can be considered the victim of an armed attack against one or more merchant vessels and thus entitled to the right of self-defence under Article 51 of the Charter of the United Nations. This argument gains momentum in light of the recent Houthi attacks in the Red Sea against ships with diverse nationalities. Traditionally, attacks on merchant vessels have been considered attacks on the flag State due to the latter’s economic interests in the vessels. However, given the prevalence of open ship registries, today over 70 per cent of world tonnage is registered under foreign flags. Consequently, the jus ad bellum concerning armed attacks against merchant vessels necessitates a reassessment. The first section of this article revisits the traditional understanding that only the flag State can be considered the victim of an armed attack on merchant vessels. Hinting at the popularization of open registries, this article then clarifies how the laws of the sea and naval warfare have dealt with this phenomenon. It is remarked that ‘looking behind the flag’, especially in naval warfare, has become inevitable. This realization is then transposed to the jus ad bellum. In doing so, this article examines key references concerning armed attacks against merchant vessel: the Oil Platforms judgment by the International Court of Justice and the 1974 Definition of Aggression. This article also engages with directly relevant State practice. Ultimately, this article demonstrates that these references support the need for the reassessment advanced here.

THE CONCEPTUAL UNDERSTANDING OF THE CULTURAL TRADITIONS OF BELARUSIAN PEASANT MIGRANTS Book Review: Fedorov, R. Yu. The Features of Traditional Culture and Dynamics of Ethnocultural Processes among Belarusian Peasant-migrants of Siberia and the Far East of Russia (second half of the 19th — beginning of 21st century)

THE CONCEPTUAL UNDERSTANDING OF THE CULTURAL TRADITIONS OF BELARUSIAN PEASANT MIGRANTS Book Review: Fedorov, R. Yu. The Features of Traditional Culture and Dynamics of Ethnocultural Processes among Belarusian Peasant-migrants of Siberia and the Far East of Russia (second half of the 19th — beginning of 21st century)

A case of ankylosing spondylitis in female siblings

Historically, ankylosing spondylitis (AS) was thought to be more common in males than in females. However, recent research into AS epidemiology has revealed an increasing incidence of female patients. First, 24-year-old patient A sought medical attention for severe pain in her lower back and buttocks. Then, 4 years later, patient B, 22 years old, the younger sibling of patient A, sought medical attention for the same symptoms. Both patients were diagnosed with AS. We note that the older sister’s diagnosis was delayed by 5 years for a number of reasons, including the gender-specific nature of the disease. At the same time, the younger sister was diagnosed with AS immediately because the older sister had already been diagnosed. This case highlights the gender differences in the AS diagnosis. Despite the traditional understanding of the disease as predominantly affecting males, clinicians should consider and highlight the increasing prevalence of AS in females to avoid misdiagnosis.

Comammox rather than AOB dominated the efficient autotrophic nitrification-denitrification process in an extremely oxygen-limited environment

The discovery of complete ammonia oxidizer (comammox) has challenged the traditional understanding of the two-step nitrification process. However, their functions in the oxygen-limited autotrophic nitrification-denitrification (OLAND) process remain unclear. In this study, OLAND was achieved using comammox-dominated nitrifying bacteria in an extremely oxygen-limited environment with a dissolved oxygen concentrations of 0.05 mg/L. The ammonia removal efficiency exceeded 97 %, and the total nitrogen removal efficiency reached 71 % when sodium bicarbonate was used as the carbon source. The pseudo-first- and second-order models were found to best fit the ammonia removal processes under low and high loads, respectively, suggesting distinct ammonia removal pathways. Full-length 16S rRNA gene sequencing and metagenomic results revealed that comammox-dominated under different oxygen levels, in conjunction with anammox and heterotrophic denitrifiers. The abundance of enzymes involved in energy metabolism indicates the coexistence of anammox and autotrophic nitrification-heterotrophic denitrification pathways. The binning results showed that comammox bacteria engaged in horizontal gene transfer with nitrifiers, anammox bacteria, and denitrifiers to adapt to an obligate environments. Therefore, this study demonstrated that comammox, anammox, and heterotrophic denitrifiers play important roles in the OLAND process and provide a reference for further reducing aeration energy in the autotrophic nitrogen removal process.

Is there a possibility that P-glycoprotein reduces reproductive toxicity in males but breast cancer resistance protein does not?

In traditional understanding, P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and Breast Cancer Resistance Protein (BCRP) are regarded as efflux transporters that can decrease the concentration of their substrates in the testis, thereby reducing reproductive toxicity in males (RTM) and protecting spermatogenesis. However, there is currently no direct pharmacological evidence demonstrating that P-gp and BCRP can reduce the occurrence of drug-induced RTM. In this study, we chose small molecule targeted anti-tumor agents as model drugs and systematically retrieved and collected information on the transporters and RTM for these drugs, followed by correlation analysis. The results showed a lower incidence of RTM for P-gp substrate drugs, which aligns with previous knowledge. Surprisingly, BCRP substrate drugs exhibited higher rates of RTM in various dimensions, contradicting previous notions. This discrepancy may be attributed to the differential distribution and transport directions of P-gp and BCRP on the blood-testis barrier (BTB). For the first time, this study may provide clues that BCRP may facilitate the passage of exogenous compounds across the BTB, increasing the occurrence of RTM, rather than protecting spermatogenesis as traditionally believed. Furthermore, this study provides the first direct verification of the role of P-gp in reducing RTM and protecting spermatogenesis.

"You Are a Puzzle-lock": A Heideggerian Analysis of Perplexity in Nāz Khayālawī's Sufi Poem

Abstract: This article is a phenomenological analysis of the Urdu poem Tum ek gōrakh dhandā hō by the Pakistani Sufi poet Nāz Khayālawī (d. 2010). It approaches the poet's engagement with perplexity ( ḥayrah ), as an ontological feature of reality, through the lens of Heidegger's understanding of truth where concealment ( lēthe ) is central to the event of unconcealment ( alētheia ). The article demonstrates how a Heideggerianphenomenological exploration enables us to uncover the dynamic of un/concealment (or un/veiling) in the Sufi tradition's understanding of Being and intelligibility. The rich possibilities of interpretative pluralism and polysemy—through the explorative nonfinality evoked by Being as ḥayrah —are explored as well. The article's argument not only allows for fresh extensions of Heidegger's phenomenological approach to unexplored cultural and historical territory, but also adds to Heidegger scholarship's recent tentative attempts at bringing together Heidegger and Sufi poetry.

UP-CLOSE AND SOCIAL RISKS IN DISTANCE HIGHER EDUCATION: A QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS OF EMERGENCY REMOTE TEACHING EXPERIENCES

Education is both an institutional process and a set of conscious actions. Since its institutionalization, education has been viewed not only as an act of acquiring knowledge, but also as a socialization process. The traditional understanding of education, which views socialization as the its main purpose in addition to acquiring knowledge and shapes education policies accordingly, has emerged as a multi-dimensional sphere of discussion within “distance education”, which has become almost mandatory today with Covid-19. This study aims to examine the problem areas of distance education experienced with Covid-19 by using an interdisciplinary approach in a psychological, sociological, and socio-psychological framework. To examine the subject in-depth and make analytical generalisations, the research reflects the opinions of the main actors, students, and faculty members, as well as the researchers’ observations, in addition to the experts on the subject. The data analysis was conducted through the subjective evaluation of the researchers’ own experiences and the content analysis of teacher and student opinions. The results reflect that education is not only an activity of acquiring knowledge but also a socialization process, the educational bureaucracy and environment make a significant contribution to the socialization of students, and that distance education can only be used as a supportive model. Education isolated from real life that does not contribute to the socialization processes of students may bring important psychological and social problems.

Uncovering the Dynamic Drivers of Floods Through Interpretable Deep Learning

AbstractThe formation of floods, as a complex physical process, exhibits dynamic changes in its driving factors over time and space under climate change. Due to the black‐box nature of deep learning, its use alone does not enhance understanding of hydrological processes. The challenge lies in employing deep learning to uncover new knowledge on flood formation mechanism. This study proposes an interpretable framework for deep learning flood modeling that employs interpretability techniques to elucidate the inner workings of a peak‐sensitive Informer, revealing the dynamic response of floods to driving factors in 482 watersheds across the United States. Accurate simulation is a prerequisite for interpretability techniques to provide reliable information. The study reveals that comparing the Informer with Transformer and LSTM, the former showed superior performance in peak flood simulation (Nash‐Sutcliffe Efficiency over 0.6 in 70% of watersheds). By interpreting Informer's decision‐making process, three primary flood‐inducing patterns were identified: Precipitation, excess soil water, and snowmelt. The controlling effect of dominant factors is regional, and their impact on floods in time steps shows significant differences, challenging the traditional understanding that variables closer to the timing of flood event occurrence have a greater impact. Over 40% of watersheds exhibited shifts in dominant driving factors between 1981 and 2020, with precipitation‐dominated watersheds undergoing more significant changes, corroborating climate change responses. Additionally, the study unveils the interplay and dynamic shifts among variables. These findings suggest that interpretable deep learning, through reverse deduction, transforms data‐driven models from merely fitting nonlinear relationships to effective tools for enhancing understanding of hydrological characteristics.

The shadowy boundaries of obstetric violence

Obstetric violence is a term that has sparked considerable debate. It represents a range of harmful practices around unwanted intimate examinations. This article explores the contested boundaries of obstetric violence, examining both overtly abusive actions and more routine, yet potentially harmful, medical practices during childbirth and beyond. By delving into the underlying patriarchal and misogynistic structures within healthcare, the article challenges traditional understandings of care in childbirth. It argues for a broader, more nuanced recognition of obstetric violence, emphasising its connection to gender-based violence and the need for a more context-sensitive approach in both legal and medical frameworks. The aim is to expand the discourse on obstetric violence to include often overlooked and normalised practices that contribute to the mistreatment and dehumanisation of women, birthing people, and transgender people receiving gender-affirming care.

Retirement consumption puzzle in Japan: Insights from pension and senior worker employment policy changes

Previous studies in Japan have examined the retirement consumption puzzle (RCP) when mandatory retirement was prevalent. However, the retirement landscape has significantly evolved due to rising public pension ages and enhanced policies promoting employment among senior workers. This study explores household consumption behavior as a result of these recent shifts, particularly focusing on the increasingly common practice of partial retirement. We investigate household consumption during retirement, considering partial retirement enabled by policies allowing continued part-time work or self-employment beyond the mandatory retirement age, and address endogeneity issues between retirement and consumption. Our findings reveal that non-durable and food expenditures increase during partial retirement, driven by liquidity effects from substantial retirement lump-sum payments. These results challenge the traditional understanding of consumption patterns in an aging society, highlighting the impact of changes in work environments.

THE DANCE OF JUSTICE: A RAWLSIAN PERSPECTIVE IN SRIVIDYA NATARAJAN’S THE UNDOING DANCE

This article delves into the role of Bharatanatyam, a classical Indian dance, as a transformative force for Kalyani, the protagonist in the novel The Undoing Dance (2018). It investigates how Bharatanatyam serves not only as a form of artistic expression but also as a means of transcending caste boundaries and societal expectations. By applying the concept of the difference principle, a framework within socio-political theory, the study examines how caste-based discrimination is confronted and reimagined through the medium of dance. Natarajan's narrative, which alternates between past and present, underscores the significance of Bharatanatyam in conveying Kalyani’s inner turmoil, struggles, and ultimate empowerment. Kalyani’s journey is marked by her revaluation of her Devadasi roots—a lineage steeped in both cultural richness and societal stigmatisation. As she reconnects with her heritage, she gains a deeper understanding of the matriarchal traditions within her community and begins to reinterpret them through her dance. This exploration leads to a redefined sense of identity and womanhood, where Bharatanatyam becomes a vessel for Kalyani’s self-expression and liberation. This study argues that classical dance, particularly Bharatanatyam, provides a unique lens through which the complexities of the Indian caste system can be viewed, offering Devadasi women in South India a powerful tool for reclaiming their narratives and challenging the entrenched social hierarchies. Through dance, Kalyani not only reclaims her heritage but also transforms her pain and suffering into a powerful statement of resilience and identity.