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Areas and Designs of Psychological Research

By Gavin Stone
Psychological research is a vital necessity towards further development within society. Psychology is a varied discipline that covers many areas of study, and as such requires divisional areas of research, along with practical and effective research designs.

First of all we will take a look at areas of psychological research, and then move onto research methods.

Psychobiology

Psychobiology is the biological research of psychology. Psychobiologists study the human brain from cellular level to research possibilities and reasons for mental illness – such as schizophrenia – from a biological standpoint. It is one of the most popular research areas in psychology today.  Psychobiology is a study of the brain.

Cognition

Cognition is a research study of how human process information, which importantly leads us to making everyday decisions. Cognition study is very much a research of the mind; how memory works, and how previous events effect future decisions (as per Sigmund Freud’s hypotheses).

Human Development

Human development is an area of psychological research which involves the assessment, outcomes and – depending on age – possibilities across a lifetime. We will go through many changes in life from social, physical and cognitive mandates and decisions. Human development research has helped us understand the processes of childbirth (including raising the children), to career paths and outcomes.

Social Psychology

Social Psychology is a discipline in that how we psychologically affect each other as individuals in everyday society, and how opinions, superstitions and stereotypes lay their foundations in this vital area. An example research of social psychology would be a study of the types of writing styles and attitudes on an internet forum, and how it relates to the forum subject area.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is an applied research method in that psychologists evaluate appropriate therapy methods for illness such as Bi Polar, Anxiety and Depression in practical situations.

Psychological research designs can be categorised into three areas: descriptive, predictive, and experimental. Each have their positives and negatives, but are all appropriate depending on the type or subject of study taking place.

Descriptive

Descriptive is an informal research approach which gives a descriptive verbal picture of the current situation. It can be an eye balling naturalistic approach in a natural everyday environment, or a controlled laboratory observation. An individual or group can also be used as an example case study and a description of participant’s responses to a survey can also be used. The advantage of observational research is that it can validate further research, while the disadvantage is lack of control due to minimal or no facts.

Predictive

Predictive research methods can be categorised into two areas: corelational and quasi-experimental.

Corelational is the assessment of the relationship between two variables. An example would be the relationship between high powered cars and road fatalities (high powered cars being one variable, road fatalities the other). If the study showed the rate of road fatalities goes up when matched with high powered cars then this would show a positive relationship (both variables going in the same direction). Whilst if the study variable of high powered cars was replaced with low powered cars, and the road fatality rate was low, then this would be a negative corelational relationship.

Quasi-experimental predictive research method involves the selection of two identifiable groups. An example of this would be a study conducted on the body fat percentage of a division one soccer team against a division four team. If the division one team were to show lower levels of body fat then we could describe and predict that all higher level soccer players carry a lower body fat percentage than lower levels players. It is important to note that the quasi-experimental method differs from the experimental method in that the groups were naturally occurring.

Experimental

The experimental method could be seen as the most reliable, accurate and valid method of research. The experimental method involves a study where the variables are controlled as much as possible. For example, let’s say a researcher was interested in the effect of consuming a No Doz tablet (containing 100mg of caffeine) 30 minutes before a weight training session in terms of levels of intensity.

Cells: The Basis of Life

By Gavin Stone
Structure of the plasma membrane

The plasma membrane is essentially the outer layer of a cell, which both separates two types of fluid, and helps house the organelles inside the cell structure.

Its body- according to the fluid mosaic model- consists of a double layer structure which contains both lipid molecules and the larger protein molecules.

Protein molecules consists of peripheral proteins (attached head facing outward), integral proteins (attached head facing inward) and glycoproteins. The remaining structure of the bilayer (double layer) is mainly fabricated of phospholipids, with cholesterol and glycolipids making up the remaining structure.

The phospholipids have a stem with a round shaped head – and are water loving (hydrophilic), with the tail being opposed and non water loving. The head is charged while the tail is not. Due to the tails not liking water they will face inward of the plasma membrane to avoid fluid both sides.

The plasma membrane has finger like extensions named microvilli; which enlarge the size of the plasma membrane and are primarily found in absorptive cells such as intestinal and kidney tubule cells.

How materials move across the plasma membrane
The plasma membrane is very selective as to which substances are allowed entry into the cell, selecting only what is required and blocking the unwanted. It will also dispose of waste products.

Primarily materials move across the plasma membrane in two ways: passively or actively.

In the passive process substances do not require an energy source from the cell to cross the plasma membrane. The passive process is produced by either diffusion- primarily, and filtration. Alternatively the active process requires energy in the form of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) from the cell to allow it to cross the plasma membrane.

Diffusion involves the spread of substances (Ions) from a concentrated area to a more non-concentrated area, done so on an evenly spread basis.

Filtration will involve the transport of water or solutes by using pressure to move from a high-pressure area to a low-pressure area.

Structure and functions of major organelles of a generalised cell

A cell consists of various units of workers termed organelles, which exist in the watery internal environment called the cytoplasm.

There will be some organelles which will not have membranes, such as cytoskeleton and ribosomes, although most organelles are housed by a membrane similar to that of the plasma membrane. It is vital that the appropriate organelles are packaged by a membrane so that enzymes can be used and stored in the applicable areas.

Mitochondria

Mitochondria are the powerhouse of a cell providing the majority of ATP. They are long and sausage like in structure, and regularly changing shape by elongating and shortening. The mitochondria has a double layered membrane, with the outside membrane being smooth and featureless in structure, and the inside version folding inwards creating shelf like crests. The mitochondria have their own DNA, separate to that of the cells nucleus.

The amount of mitochondria in a cell will reflect the energy requirements of that particular cell- busy cells like kidney, liver and of course muscle are plentiful of mitochondria.

The primary role of mitochondria is to convert organic materials into cellular energy in the form of ATP, however mitochondria also plays a part in many metabolic tasks, such as: apoptosis- programmed cell death, glutamate- mediated exitotoxin neuronal injury, cellular proliferation, regulation of cellular redox state, heme synthesis and steroid synthesis. The way in which ATP is produced by mitochondria is by oxidating the two main players in glycolysis: pyruvate and NADH . The internal enzymes of the mitochondria process the oxidative reactions of cellular respiration.

Ribosomes

Ribosomes area structured with two subunit of RNA and proteins, which come together like an acorn. Ribosomes may move around freely, or can be attached to part of a separate organelle called the (rough) endoplasmic reticulum. Ribosomes can also be found inside mitochondria.

The role of ribosomes is to facilitate protein synthesis. Free ribosomes which are moving freely throughout the cytoplasm on the inside of a cell make soluble proteins, whilst membrane bound ribosomes role is to synthesise proteins for either placement in cell membranes, or exportation from the cell.

Endoplasmic Reticulum

Endoplasmic reticulum is a united formation of tubular like membranes with fluid filled cavities that curls and twists through the cells internal fluid. Endoplasmic reticulum is divided into tow separate formats: rough and smooth variations. Endoplasmic reticulum is joined to the nucleus membrane of a generalised cell.

The roles of endoplasmic reticulum from its rough to smooth area.

Rough endoplasmic reticulum is the site of attached ribosomes, and as such these ribosomes manufacture all proteins secreted by cells. Rough endoplasmic reticulum is also the manufacture of membranes due to integral proteins and phospholipids being stationed there.

Smooth endoplasmic reticulum does not contain ribosomes and does not play a role in proteins syntheses, however it has an important role in metabolic functions, such as: lipid metabolism, cholesterol syntheses, syntheses of steroid based hormones, processing of fats and detoxification of drugs.

Golgi apparatus

Golgi apparatus are a group of stacked and flattened membranous sacs known as cristernae, along with associated small membranous vesicles which are spherical in shape.

The role of Golgi apparatus is a demonstration as to how truly marvellous the processes are within biological life forms.

Golgi apparatus main job is to sort and package different macromolecules required for life by receiving small vesicles from the rough endoplasmic reticulum, making the required adjustments, and then sending out in three types of vesicles (Excocytotic, Secretory and Lysosomal) from the Trans face to various locations for usage. Golgi apparatus is also responsible for producing Lysosomes.

Lysosomes

The structure of a Lysosome consists of a membranous and spherical like organelle.

With so much action going on in a cell there is a requirement for an organelle which cleans out and digests worn out organelles, as well as food particles, viruses and unwanted bacteria, and such is the job of Lysosomes.

Peroxisomes

Peroxisomes consist of a double layered membrane organelle which helps store proteins vital for transportation across a cell, and separates its contents from the cytosol.

Peroxisomes role is to clean a cell of toxic substances by neutralising free radicals. Peroxisomes work in a way that the more you need them, the more they work.

Cytoskeleton

Cytoskeleton is effectively the scaffolding (like human bone skeleton) structure which holds are protects the cell and its organelles.

There are three types of cytoskeleton: microfilament, intermediate filament and microtubule. Microfilaments are the thinnest rods on the cytoskeleton structure, with intermediate filaments the second largest, and microtubule being the largest.

Role of the nucleus as the cells control centre

The cell nucleus is the control centre of a cell, likewise to that of the brain of a human body. The cell nucleus is primarily made up of three regions: the nuclear envelope, nucleoli and chromatin.

The nuclear envelope is similar in structure to that of the mitochondrial membrane in that it has a double layered membrane. Both layers can fold onto each other to form pours, which distribute substances into the cytoplasm for organelle distribution.

The nucleoli are spherical shaped bodies that lie inside the wall of the nucleus. Usually there will be one nucleoli, but some cells will have multiple amounts. Nucleoli are the site where ribosomal subunits are assembled. These subunits will leave the nucleus through pours placed in the nuclear envelope.

Chromatin consists of bumpy threads which weave their way through the nucleoplasm. Chromatin is made of 30% DNA, 60% globular histone proteins and about 10% RNA chains.

Lifestyle Strategies for the Festive Season

By Gavin Stone
With the festive season just about upon us many will be taking time off work and usual daily activities to spend time with family and friend for Christmas and New Year parties and events.

This relaxing and enjoyable time of the year is a great time to unwind, and step away from the daily and weekly pressures that a hectic modern lifestyle delivers. It’s an important period of time as it provides balance, and helps remind us of the simple, but important things in life, such as family and friends.

A traditional all day party for Christmas day and evening celebrations for New Year will fill most people schedules. These events usually supply an abundant amount of fatty food and alcohol for consumption. The consequences for this are that most will put on a few kilograms, and wake up with needless hangovers.

Most will then start the New Year with resolutions of weight loss, healthy eating and less alcohol. All of which should not be required.

The main strategies to avoid these consequences are very simple. Eat less, eat less fatty food and forget the alcohol: it has no benefits at all.

You can have a good time, enjoy some nice foods but there is no need to go over the top, and no need to drink alcohol. It will only be your own individual discipline that will dictate this, and subsequently the after effects.

Other strategies to aid you through this period include:

1) Maintain a training program. Just because it’s the festive season does not mean you can still chase you goals. The gym will be quieter and you will have more freedom.

2) Maintain your food diary and schedule cheat days on Christmas and New Year. This will allow a little flexibility.

3) Set you your training and nutrition plan for the following year. This will allow you top keep your eye on the prize.

4) Review your previous years results, if they are good then build on that hard work by being discipline, if they are not so good then you should know what to do.

5) Remind others of the pitfalls on not living clean. By setting the standard you will place yourself into a position where you are proud to be clean living.

So throughout this festive season this is the opportunity to set the standard for the upcoming year. There are many options in choice of food consumption, and moderation is always a self discipline.

Be smart, live clean and still enjoy the festive season.

Boxing to Improve Lifestyle as well as Fitness

By Gavin Stone
In recent times boxing has become a very popular form of fitness training. Many health club style gyms across Australia and the world operate boxing fitness classes (commonly termed boxfit) for the general public. These classes are boxing, but with the important exception of no contact, therefore utilising most of the fitness benefits that boxing provides. This popularity has turned to a stimulated interest in competitive boxing.

No sport can provide the showmanship, action, drama and physical entertainment that boxing can. In Australia this has been shown in recent years by Anthony Mundine and Danny Green, and across the world by the likes of Floyd Mayweather and Roy Jones Jr.

Boxing as a form of fitness training is certainly nothing new, in fact it could be said that it is the original form of fitness training, with the sport dating back many hundreds of years. I like to classify boxing fitness as an underground style of training, as it is an original form of fitness training. Fitness training with a purpose.

I have had the opportunity to view world champion boxers such as Mundine and Kostya Tszyu sweating it out in the gym. Both trained with pure purpose, they did not care what they were wearing or who was there for a chat. Just good old fashioned hard work.

The fitness benefits of boxing are aplenty, with aerobic capacity, anaerobic threshold, speed, power, strength, reaction time, flexibility and agility just some of the qualities of fitness that are worked on.

But, if taken beyond the level of just boxing for fitness, there is so much more that can be gained from boxing. Boxing is the toughest sport. There is nothing like being in a ring with a person standing opposite you looking to strike you in the most primal form of all, with the fist.

All of you fears and insecurities are laid out right in front of you.

Do you back your self physically? Can you overcome any physical limitations with a strong mind, not worrying about possible outcomes? Can you look past hurdles, such as copping a blow and move forward with an eye on the ultimate prize? Are you not concerned about what people are thinking?

These are all questions that are asked when you step into the ring, whether it be for a sparring session or competitive bout.

These are the questions we face in everyday life.

Champions and successful people answer these questions.

There is no where to hide in the ring. You are back to how the cavemen lived, how we developed as humans. It is fight or flight.

When competitive boxers are ridiculed by media and public for various reasons such as not showing enough courage or not fighting solid enough competition, very rarely would these critics have experienced what it is like to be in combat in the squared circle.

Boxers which are labelled taxi drivers, or even bums would dispose of such critics without much effort, if any at all.

Whist many will never decide to take the opportunity to spar or even have a competitive fight, it would be of great benefit to do so. After you have experienced the caldron of the boxing ring during battle not much else in life seems to difficult. It would be of exceptional benefit for individuals suffering from stress related illness, and especially athletes and even sports enthusiasts to step into the ring. Whilst mental toughness can not be defined, time in the boxing ring will certainly make you feel although you have it, and are ready to take on whatever life throws at you, whether it is work or play.

Of course there are issues to consider, such as physical limitations and insurance. But if these areas are appropriately covered, then the opportunity should be seized.

So next time you are watching a bout which is considered a mismatch, just think what it would be like in the ring. Whatever it is that you think it would be like you can multiply it tenfold.

Take the challenge; you will be a better person for it.

Everlast Lo-Top Boxing Shoe

By Gavin Stone
The Everlast Lo-Top boxing shoe has become a popular choice amongst boxers of all levels since its release by the historic boxing equipment company. The shoe has been worn by notable names in Jermain Taylor, Anthony Mundine, Jeff Lacy and Joe Calzaghe.

The shoe combines modern style with traditional boxing shoe formation, with the slick looking low cut mixed with a thin and flexible sole.

Features of the Everlast Lo-Top boxing shoe include breathable air vents on all sides combined with a shock absorbing EVA mid-sole ensures comfort throughout even the most rigorous training sessions, lateral arch support straps combined with a suede lateral forefoot support will provide maximum safety for the fleetest footed boxers in the game and new "Hyper Flex" technology and rubber sole with anti-slip pattern allow for sharp cuts and strong footholds enhancing any boxer's ring abilities.

The shoe comes in four colour variations: black, white, red and royal blue, with each looking as classy as one another. Each shoe is characterised by the large ‘E’ on the outer side to signify its creator.

After using the Everlast Lo-Top boxing shoe I was quite impressed from the beginning. The shoe itself fits like a glove with very little- if any at all- wasted space, giving it a feel as if you were wearing no shoes but had a grip sole attached to the bottom of your foot. The shoe has incredible grip and allows to you move with confidence in either direction. Attaching tassel to the shoe is a simple procedure with the top lace hole placed in an ideal position.

The only criticism I found was in that the shoe laces which come with the shoes are far too long. You will either have to have them trimmed, laced under another loop or tied around ankle; I took the trimmed option for a neat look. The Everlast Lo-Top boxing shoe has a retail price of US$64.99

History of Drugs in Sport

By Gavin Stone
The action of taking a banned substance to improve performance in sport is referred to as doping. The term dope originated from South Africa where it was used to describe a primitive alcoholic drink that was used as a stimulant at ceremonial dances. Over time the term doping graduated to a sporting context where it is referred to as athletes using a banned substance or methods that may improve sporting performance. The term doping first appeared in an English dictionary in 1879, however drugs in sport have been evident throughout the history of sport.

BC Period
Sport played a large role in society in BC times. Around the period of 800BC emphasis was placed on the artistic nature of sport on top of being a preparatory method for the warriors of that time. However from 400BC sport received a new status whereby it was of similar priority, if not higher than it is in modern times, therefore seeing the demise of the amateur competitor. Professional sport ultimately led to corruption and cheating, with competitors willing to invest in any preparation which would lead to victory. In this period a method that was thought to lead to a higher level of sporting performance was consuming extracts of mushrooms and plant seeds.

Period
Through evolution from the BC Greek period to the Roman Empire period, the status of sport continued to develop. The use of drugs in this period was well recorded, chariot racers feed their horses a potent mixture to make them run faster, while many gladiators where doped up to make their fights sufficiently vigorous and bloody for the paying public to view.

Christian Period
During the Christian era sport played a small role in society with only sports such as boxing being offered as a substitute for the games of the Roman period. Seeing as sport did not have a high place in society in this period, drugs in sport was not an issue as there were no rewards for success.

The 19th Century
The 19th century once again saw the introduction of sport in society as a social priority, therefore drugs in sport became more evident in this period as opposed to the Christian era. With the onset of the industrial revolution in the late 19th century there became increasing methods in both the development of sport and sports performance enhancement. By the turn of the century sport had developed a significant institution in its own right and to succeed in sport became highly valued. This placed pressure which has contributed to the escalation in drug taking in sport, as well as the number of drug related deaths in the sporting community.

Modern Times
In 1988 in Australia the national Senate Standing Committee on Environment, Recreation and the Arts began an inquiry into the use of drugs by Australian athletes. This enquiry led to the establishment of the Australian Drug Sports Agency (ASDA) in 1990.

Government Funding for Sport in Australia

By Gavin Stone
Australia has a reputation for providing the world with legendary sports men and woman, world class facilities, sporting technology and arguably the world’s number one development base. With Australia being a first world nation and a country with such a solid financial base; it is interesting to look at government funding in sport and recreation activities.

The ABS (Australian Bureau of Statistics) conducted a study for the financial year of 2000/2001 into government funding in sport and recreation activities. In this study there were various conclusive results that were found.

Government funding for sport and recreation activities is split into three different sectors, National (Australian Commonwealth) Government funding, State-Territory Government funding and Local Government funding. In the research study of the financial year of 2000/2001 by the ABS it was found that the total expenditure for sport and recreation activities was $2,124.2 million. Of this figure National Government contributed $198.9 million, State and Territory contributed $875.2 million and Local Government contributed $1,050.1 million.

The figure of $2,124.2 Million (2000/2001) also includes expenditure on the Sydney 2000 Olympic and Paralympic Games. While other state and territory governments contributed funds to build facilities and host international athletes to compete and train, it was primarily the national and New South Wales state governments that contributed most to the event. The New South Wales state government contribution was $382.3 million, while the national government estimated figure was $71.8 million.

National government funding for the financial year of 2000/2001 was split primarily into four groups. Special events (including Sydney 2000 Olympic and Paralympic Games) received $77.0 million (39%), Regulation and control received $39.7 million (20%), Administration/policy and planning received $29.8 million (15%) and Coaching and training (including Australian Institute of Sport) received $24.4 million (12%).

In the financial year of 2000/2001 the majority of state and territory government funding was received by the Special events category, however it must be noted that the majority of this was directed to the Sydney 2000 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Due to the A.C.T.(Australian Capital Territory) being the base for municipality functions for sports venues, grounds and recreation parks it was found that the A.C.T. had the highest expenditure rate per person of population of $185.4 million.

Local government funding was primarily directed towards recreation parks and waterways which received $587.4 million (56%); however venues and sports grounds also received a substantial portion with $410.1 million.

The Australian governments contribute a large and widely dispersed figure to sport and recreation activities. With such funding Australia will continue to produce and provide sporting stars, facilities and events for the world to enjoy.

International Year of Sport and Physical Education

By Gavin Stone
The year 2005 was the International Year of Sport and Physical Education. The International Year of Sport and Physical Education is a concept that was created by the United Nations in collaboration with non governmental organisations, the private sector, universities, parliaments and a range of religious and spiritual communities.

There is no doubt that the universal language of sport plays a very important role in our world. Sport teaches tolerance, fair play and helps tackle the horrific tragedy of drug abuse. Sport brings people together. For this reason the United Nations are utilising the world of sport to help in the work for peace and the efforts to achieve the ‘Untied Nations Millennium Development Goals’. The International Year of Sport and Physical Education was developed to encourage the use of sport to promote the areas of education, health, development and last but not least peace.

To promote the International Year of Sport and Physical Education the United Nations have scheduled a busy calendar of events, both actual sporting events and conferences, most notably the Special Olympics World Winter Games.

There have been world sporting superstars that have additionally helped to promote the International Year of Sport and Physical Education, most notably the world’s number 1 tennis player and Swiss sensation Roger Federer. Federer is seen as a human example that characterises strength, perseverance and values the International Year of Sport and Physical Education seeks to promote.

There can be no doubt for the validity of having an International Year of Sport and Physical Education. The United Nations have done an outstanding job in its purpose and promotion and millions around the world will benefit from the International Year of Sport and Physical Education.

Woman in Sport

By Gavin Stone
Australia has a proud sporting tradition. Throughout the years Australia has produced many sporting superstars. While there is no doubt that there has been plenty of males achieving sporting success it can not be forgotten that woman have been very successful. It is interesting to take a brief look at three of Australia’s sporting superstars of the last century.

Cathy Freeman
Cathy Freeman was born in Mackay (Queensland) in 1973. Freeman was a young star of the track and was trained by her stepfather, Bruce Barber, until 1989 when Freeman won a scholarship at Kooralbyn International School where she was to be coached by Mike Danila, however with Freeman’s selection in the 1990 Commonwealth Games team she was forced to move to Melbourne. Cathy Freeman has had a chequered track and field career. It all started at the 1990 Commonwealth Games in Auckland (New Zealand) where Freeman won a gold medal as a member of the 4x100 meters relay team. Freeman however will be most remembered for her run to win the 400 meters gold medal at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, Freeman also had the honour of lighting the Olympic flame at these same Olympic Games.

Dawn Fraser
Dawn Fraser was the youngest of 8 children. Fraser burst onto the sporting scene by winning a gold medal in the 110 yard (now 100 meters) freestyle and setting new world and Olympic records at the 1956 Melbourne Olympic Games. Fraser won the same event at the 1960 Rome Olympics and the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, becoming the first swimmer to win the same event in three consecutive games. In 1965 Fraser retired from swimming when the Australian Swimming Union placed her under a 10 yard ban. Fraser became a publican, swimming coach and in 1988 became a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for the New South Wales seat of Balmain.

Karrie Webb
Karrie Webb started playing the game of golf at the age of 8, and has gone on to be what is a great career so far. Webb has won 6 major championships(including de Maurier Classic) and over $8 Million in career earnings.

ASC and AIS

By Gavin Stone
The Australian Sports Commission is Australia’s primary national sports administration and advisory agency. The Australian Sports Commission is governed by a board of commissioners which are appointed by the Australian Government. While the Australian Sports Commission supports the development of sport at the grass root community level, its primary role is the responsibility of conducting its main programme in the Australian Institute of Sport.

The Australian Institute of Sport opened on the 26th January 1981 by the then current Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser, however the origins of the Australian Institute of Sport can be found many years before its opening.

With Australia having such a proud sporting tradition its performance at the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games was seen as an embarrassment for Australian sport, winning no gold medals and only attaining one silver and four bronze. Due to Australia’s poor performance at these Olympic Games as well as studies into overseas sporting programs the Australian Government decided to establish the Australian Institute of Sport. Within 3 years of the opening the Australian Institute of Sport results were stating to show with Australia’s success at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

The Institute was initially completely based in Canberra, however since 1981 it has branched out to states across Australia with its variety of programs. The 65 hectare site in the Canberra suburb of Bruce still remains the main base, and it’s seen as a symbol of excellence.

The Australian Institute of Sport excels in the area of Sports Science with programs in Medicine, Physical Therapies, Strength and Conditioning, Performance Psychology, Nutrition, Biomechanics, Physiology and Performance Analysis.

The Australian Sports Commission and its Australian Institute of Sport programme is the catalyst for Australia’s sporting success over the past 24 years, and will continue to be so for many years to come.