bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unusual patterns of interaction of asphaltenes with aprotonic solvents
Authors: Shutkova S. A. , Dolomatov M. Yu. , Telin A. G.
Published: September 2024

Application of organic solvents for removal of asphalt-tar-paraffin deposits is one of the most widespread methods in technological processes of production, transportation, storage and processing of high-resin oils. In spite of certain results, the problem of directional solvent selection taking into account the nature of oil and asphalt-tar-paraffin deposits in specific conditions is far from being solved. The aim of the article is to test the hypothesis of the relationship between the solubility of asphaltenes and their average electron affinity and solvent ionization energy. Using the solubility isotherm of asphaltenes in non-ionogenic solvents, the solubility of West Siberian oil asphaltene samples and model fragments was evaluated. The studies have shown that asphaltenes with high effective electron affinity have the maximum solubility. Solvents with low ionization potential have the highest solubility, which confirms the thermodynamics of solubility through the formation of donor-acceptor complexes. The performed studies will help field specialists and engineers of service companies in scientifically justified selection of solvent depending on the type of deposits of heavy components of oil.
Studying the mechanisms of radiation-induced embrittlement and deformation swelling of surface layers of NbTi, NbTiV, NbTiVZr alloys used as structural materials for the oil and gas and nuclear industries
Authors: Kadyrzhanov K. K. , Kozlovskiy A. L. , Shlimas D. I. , Moldabayeva G. Zh.
Published: September 2024

Determining the mechanisms of deformation distortion and softening processes of near-surface layers in alloys, including high-entropy alloys, is one of the priority tasks in modern materials science. Interest in such studies, which require an integrated approach to determining the relationship between accumulated structural distortions and softening processes, is due to the great potential for the use of these alloys in the new generation of nuclear power. In order to assess the resistance of alloys based on NbTi, NbTiV, NbTiVZr compounds to the accumulation of radiation damage, irradiation experiments were carried out at the DC-60 accelerator, taking into account the capabilities of modeling radiation damage, both in the case of single (isolated) areas of damage, and when overlap. The obtained results of the dependences of changes in the structural parameters of the alloys under study depending on the number of components for irradiated samples are direct confirmation of the influence of differences in atomic radii on the resistance to deformation tension during the accumulation of radiation damage. It was found that the NbTiVZr alloy exhibits the smallest structural changes caused by irradiation, which indicates high resistance to deformation distortion and a decrease in strength properties and wear resistance. It has been determined that the main mechanism influencing the loss of wear resistance during tribological friction tests is the deformation distortion of the damaged layer, the magnitude of which determines the degradation of the near-surface layer of the alloys.
A case study of predicting net reservoirs within J2 unit of the Tyumen formation of polyfacial genesis in the territory of the Uvat project
Authors: Elisheva O. V. , Shakhov A. V.
Published: September 2024

On the periphery of the West Siberian Basin, up to 30 % of J2-4 reservoirs within the Malyshev horizon of the Tyumen formation cannot be predicted correctly. The reasons include the low exploration degree of the territories by deep wells, which is why the net reservoirs are predicted based on 3D seismic data, and poor seismic resolution against the size of traps in the Tyumen formation. The article presents a case study of the application of geological and geophysical, seismic materials related to the Uvat area in the south of Tyumen region. The aim is to describe the lessons learned when addressing the reservoir forecasting issue associated with one of the Tyumen formation reservoirs (J2) of complex (coastal-transitional and continental) genesis. The article describes the technologies applied by the Tyumen Petroleum Research Center LLC to estimate net pays based on 3D seismic data. A complex of main geological and seismic factors that control the forecasts of thin terrigenous reservoirs based on seismic data is considered. These include the structure of the J2 unit (vertical features of net reservoir evolution), the effect of carbon content, the issues of separating net-reservoir and non-reservoir rock by petroelastic properties, etc. The results of the analysis presented in this article are employed actively in the context of geological exploration and the identification of priority traps in the Tyumen formation within the territory of the Uvat project.
Assessment of the Level of Expression Activity and Localization of Cd-Receptors inthe Postmenopausal Period
Authors:   Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, Russian Federation, KHAMOSHINA Marina B. , PUGA Dmitry P. ,   Far Eastern Federal University, Vladivostok, Russian Federation, SHCHEGLOV Bogdan O. ,   Far Eastern Federal University, Vladivostok, Russian Federation, KOVAL Irina P. ,   Far Eastern Federal University, Vladivostok, Russian Federation, REVA Ivan V. ,   Far Eastern Federal University, Vladivostok, Russian Federation, SHCHEGLOVA Svetlana N. ,   Russian Federation, North Eastern State University, Russian Federation, STEGNIY Kirill V. ,   Far Eastern Federal University, Vladivostok, Russian Federation, STEGNIY Kirill V. ,   Far Eastern Federal University, Vladivostok, Russian Federation
Published: September 2024

The cervical mucosa (CM) is a critical site in the female reproductive system, but despite extensive histological studies in reproductive-age women, there is a notable gap in our understanding of the local immune homeostasis in postmenopausal women. This lack of knowledge is particularly concerning given the pivotal role of immune phenotypes in regulating neoangiogenesis during malignancy. Furthermore, the reasons underlying the inadequate immune response in carcinogenesis remain elusive. In this study, the authors aimed to address these knowledge gaps by investigating the local immune homeostasis (LIH) of CM in postmenopausal women. Their findings revealed age-related and localized features in the LIH of CM, shedding light on the complex interplay between the immune system and cervical tissues. Understanding these unique immune dynamics has far-reaching implications for the field of gynecology. The identification of age-related variations in LIH has significant implications for the development of conservative treatment strategies, prevention of complications, and early diagnosis of malignancy in postmenopausal women. By unraveling the intricate relationship between immune responses and cervical mucosal changes, this research provides a foundation for developing targeted interventions to enhance immune surveillance and bolster the body’s natural defenses against malignancies in this vulnerable population. In conclusion, this study underscores the importance of investigating the immune microenvironment of CM in postmenopausal women.The newfound knowledge regarding age-related and localized features in LIH not only advances our understanding of cervical health but also paves the way for more effective prevention, treatment, and early detection strategies, ultimately improving the overall quality of care for postmenopausal women at risk of cervical malignancies.
Nexus between Human Capital Resiliency and Supply Chain Resiliency: A Phenomenological Study
Authors: Alam Rizvi Syed Aamir , Ali Mohsin , Raza Hasan
Published: September 2024

All nations, communities, organisations, and people are affected by a complex and dynamic business environment. Threats from this unpredictable environment might emerge from within or outside an organisation and vary in frequency and degree. Creating a resilient system overall can fix that. This research seeks to understand how human capital and the supply chain share crisis resilience. A descriptive qualitative study using the phenomenological technique explores managers' views on supply chain and human capital resilience. Results reveal that supply chain resiliency—the essence of resilience—is substantially correlated with human capital. Supply chain resilience requires human capital resilience. Strong personnel can handle crises, adapt, collaborate, contribute, innovate, and build a strong supply chain. This study identifies supply chain-human capital resiliency nexus factors to help firms improve supply chain performance. Outperforming competitors in volatile markets enhances corporate performance. Data from internal and external sources can improve a company's supply chain and human capital resilience.
Situation Analysis of Social Literacy Practices for Adult Learners in Pakistan
Authors: Fatima Safura , Shakir Muhammad , Lodhi Ishrat Siddiqa
Published: September 2024

Social literacy practices for adult learners are essential for reducing educational disparities and encouraging socio- economic progress in Pakistan. The current state of adult education is examined in this analysis, with a focus on literacy programs, community involvement, and government initiatives. Regardless of endeavors to further develop proficiency rates, critical difficulties continue, including lacking financing, socio-social hindrances, and restricted admittance to assets. The analysis highlights successful case studies that show how community-driven initiatives have helped adult learners, highlighting the significance of approaches that are culturally and context- specific. Enhancing government and non-governmental organization collaboration, investing more in adult education, and incorporating technology to expand reach and effectiveness are some of the recommendations. This extensive comprehension of social proficiency rehearses expects to illuminate policymakers and teachers to all the more likely help grown-up students in Pakistan, eventually adding to a more educated and enabled society.
Exploring Diasporic Escapism and the Ontological Quest for Survival: A Postcolonial Analysis of Exit West
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad , Zaheer Fareeha , Ain Qurat ul
Published: September 2024

The study focuses on Mohsin Hamid's novel Exit West (2017) in order to develop a deeper understanding of the significant facets of escapism and the quest for survival within post-colonial diasporic contexts. The researcher aims to deploy a comparative methodology utilizing Michel Bruneau's Typology of diaspora and transnationalism (2010) and Edward Said's Orientalism (1993) to present an in-depth comprehension of the complicated mechanisms at stake. Establishing an analysis of the novel's use of escapism, the study reveals how Saeed and Nadia, the main characters, use magic doors to escape their centralized and war-torn homeland. Here, escapism is presented as a means of surviving within the post-colonial diasporic structure, providing foundations for a profound investigation of identity challenges. The objective of the study is to analyze Exit West (2017) from a postcolonial lens, examining the ways in which characters oversee the ontological quest for survival by turning to escapism.
Architectural Analysis of the First Gothic Garrison Churches of Rawalpindi and Lahore, Punjab Pakistan During the Colonial Era
Authors: Fatima Kaniez , Ali Durrani Mukhtar , Ullah Shakir
Published: September 2024

The Paper deals with the convexities of first gothic garrison churches as the stunning sacred structures of Christian community, built in very well-planned zones of British cantonment vicinity of Rawalpindi and Lahore during Colonial era. Garrison churches of Lahore and Rawalpindi had been reserved for high-ranking military officers of British army which developed as the center of lure of all intruders in every era due to their geographically strategic location. British East India Company was established here as a trading company but gradually it was wired up with political and religious roles. British engineers built many sacred structures in Rawalpindi and Lahore. This building epoch gave Lahore and Rawalpindi, as a new form of Gothic style of architecture. Paper analyses that the architectural history of Punjab, Pakistan owes to the British engineers who import this new style of architecture here to make the history of Rawalpindi and Lahore more charismatic.
5S principles for sustainable resource and waste management in Sri Lankan construction projects
Authors:   Buhaleeba Contracting LLC, United Arab Emirates, Wijesinghe E.D.A.T. , Jayawickrama T.S. ,   UniSA STEM, University of South Australia, Australia, Tennakoon G.A. ,   UniSA STEM, University of South Australia, Australia, Wijewickrama M.K.C.S. ,   Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology, The University of Adelaide, Australia
Published: September 2024

The significant resource consumption and waste generation in the construction sector highlights the imperative for sustainable management of resources and waste, particularly in Sri Lanka. Over time, various techniques have emerged as potential solutions to address this challenge, with the 5S technique standing out as a widely discussed approach. This technique is focused on producing high-quality outputs with minimal wastage and high productivity, making it well-suited for sustainable resource and waste management. However, despite its potential, there is limited research exploring its application in this context within the construction domain, specifically in Sri Lanka. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the applicability of 5S principles for sustainable resource and waste management in Sri Lankan construction projects. Initially, a comprehensive literature review was conducted on the 5S principles and the concept of sustainable resource and waste management, which led to the development of a conceptual framework for the application of 5S principles for sustainable resource and waste management. Following this, a pilot study using interviews was conducted to investigate the specific activities that could be implemented under the individual 5S principles for sustainable resource and waste management. Integrating these activities within construction projects could help mitigate the negative environmental impacts associated with resource consumption and waste generation in the industry
Application of circular economy principles into tropical building designs: a literature review
Authors:   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Kalu Arachchi K.A.C.S. , Perera B.A.K.S. , Dinithi Piyumra R.A. , Jayasuriya Sajani ,   Construction and Project Management, RMIT University, Australia
Published: September 2024

The increasing intensity of global population growth has heightened the demand for buildings in tropical zones. Consequently, meeting this burgeoning demand poses a significant challenge to the construction sector, compounded by resource scarcity. As a result, there is mounting pressure on construction building designs to transition towards more sustainable practices. In response, Circular Economy (CE) principles are being considered for incorporation into tropical building designs to enhance sustainability. Thus, this research endeavours to assess the feasibility of integrating CE principles into building designs as a means of advancing sustainability. Adopting content analysis collected data were analysed. The study revealed that tropical building designs offer a sustainable method well-suited to address the growing demand for buildings. Furthermore, it was identified ten enabling factors, thirty-five barriers, and twenty-four strategies in relation to the application of CE principles to building designs. It was revealed that the findings of the study will drive the convergence of CE principles with tropical building designs. Consequently, this research contributes to the theory by bridging the gap in utilising CE principles within building designs to enhance sustainability in the construction industry.
Augmenting performance of prefabricated MEP modular systems via BIM integration
Authors:   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Ranathunga J.D.R. , Hadiwattege C. , Thennakoon T.M.P.N. ,   Department of Facilities Management, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka
Published: September 2024

Within the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) sectors, prefabrication is an emerging technology which concerned with the construction production process and serves as a manufacturing platform to improve productivity and safety management. Whether they are located off-site or on-site, the coordination and fabrication of Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) systems have consistently presented challenges. MEP designers lack the necessary expertise to create detailed models for prefabrication, but designers proposed enhancing collaboration with fabricators to develop installation-level BIM models for design coordination, construction planning, on-site delivery planning, clash detection, and fabrication planning in Modular MEP construction. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the integration of BIM in enhancing the performance for time, cost, and quality aspects of prefabricated MEP modular systems in buildings. Accordingly, a qualitative research strategy was chosen to achieve the aim, data were collected through twelve (12) semi-structured expert interviews. Experts were selected through purposive sampling followed by snowball sampling. The data analysis was conducted through manual content analysis. Findings revealed how efficiently BIM addresses the time, cost, and quality of prefabricated MEP modular systems. Finally, as a contribution to knowledge, the study revealed the importance of BIM and how it enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of the prefabricated MEP modular system.
Barriers for collaboration among built environment higher education: undergraduate perspectives
Authors:   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Opanayake R.L. , Thayaparan M. , Dasuni K.A.L.
Published: September 2024

The built environment represents a multifaceted sector characterised by its intricate nature, which demands effective stakeholder coordination and cooperation. Construction projects within this domain require the seamless collaboration of diverse disciplines, skills, and services. This collaboration is essential to navigate the fragmented and complex landscape inherent to the built environment. Recognising the evolving skill demands in the construction job market and the dynamic nature of built environment professions, higher education must update its approaches to serve as continuous education centres. Even though there are various studies explored numerous aspects of collaborations, intra-university, and inter-departmental collaborations have not been explored. Therefore, this study examines the undergraduate perspectives on the collaboration among built environment higher education by using one of the state universities in Sri Lanka as the single case study which offers all the built environment degree programmes under one roof. Primary data was collected through a questionnaire survey with 126 undergraduates of seven built environment degree programmes offered by the selected case study. The results of the study revealed that all personal, extracurricular and social collaborations are prominently existing in the context, while the existence of the academic collaboration was comparatively low. Further, the study discusses 20 barriers for collaboration in built environment higher education where rigid timetables and adherence to curriculum guidelines leaves little or no space for flexibility became the key barriers there. This paper elaborates each barrier to see how to overcome the negative consequences while enhancing the enablers to strengthen the built environment higher education collaborations.
BIM and blockchain integrated construction management: a review
Authors:   Department of Civil Engineering, IIT Guwahati, India, Sood Rhijul , Sharma Nandini , Laishram Boeing
Published: September 2024

The Architectural, Engineering, Construction, and Operations (AECO) industry has implemented Building Information Modelling (BIM) for a significant time, and its applications are widely recognised. Nevertheless, numerous studies have emphasised that BIM in isolation is unable to tackle the difficulties encountered by construction stakeholders and needs integration with other technologies to augment its practicality. In the last few years, there has been an increasing curiosity and utilisation of Blockchain Technology (BCT) within the construction industry. Limited research has been conducted on the amalgamation of BIM and BCT across many domains of application. To undertake a thorough analysis of the integration between BIM and BCT, this study employed a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) methodology utilising the Scopus database. The research employed a combination of quantitative and qualitative content analysis techniques to examine the selected articles. The study has identified five distinct domains of integration between BIM and BCT. These domains encompass data management, contract management, facility/asset management, sustainability/waste management, and supply chain management. Furthermore, certain obstacles were identified that impact the incorporation of BIM-BCT in the industry. In general, this study can provide stakeholders with insights into the capabilities of BIM-BCT within the construction industry, enabling them to develop a strategic plan for improving the integration of these technologies
Comparative analysis of challenges in manual and automated construction progress monitoring in Sri Lanka
Authors:   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Dilaksha S. , Ranadewa K.A.T.O. , Weerasooriya D. , Parameswaran Agana ,   School of Engineering, Design and Built Environment, Western Sydney University, Australia, Weerakoon Panchali ,   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka
Published: September 2024

Construction Progress Monitoring (CPM) plays a pivotal role in ensuring the timely and cost-effective completion of construction projects. Previous research has classified CPM techniques into manual and automated methods. While traditional manual CPM has been prevalent in the Sri Lankan construction industry, it suffers from several limitations that can impede project success. Despite the significance of CPM, both manual and automated techniques face challenges in implementation. Therefore, the research aims to explore the challenges associated with CPM in the Sri Lankan construction industry. A comprehensive literature review was conducted to establish a theoretical framework. A quantitative research approach was employed, utilising a questionnaire survey with a heterogeneous purposive sampling method, involving 68 respondents. Data analysis was performed using IBM SPSS software. The study revealed different challenges in manual CPM and automated CPM specifically within the Sri Lankan context. One of the key takeaways of this study is that the challenges in manual CPM outweigh those in automated techniques. However, statistical analysis indicated that both manual and automated CPM face significant challenges, as evidenced by a negative skewness in survey data. Automated CPM heavily relies on computer vision technologies, with issues primarily arising from reality-capturing technologies. This study significantly contributes to the existing body of knowledge by identifying and categorising challenges in both manual and automated CPM within the Sri Lankan construction industry. The findings provide a platform for future research endeavours to devise strategies and solutions to address these challenges, ultimately enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of construction progress monitoring in the industry.
Investigating community-based participatory design approaches in planning and constructing public community facilities: a scoping review
Authors:   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Fernando S. Malintha H. , Fernando Y. Inodee ,   Department of Town and Country Planning, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Kulatunga U. ,   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka
Published: September 2024

The construction industry is witnessing a paradigm shift towards Community-Based Participatory Design (CBPD) approaches, deviating from traditional top-down methodologies. CBPD prioritises local knowledge and perspectives, encouraging inclusive collaboration among stakeholders. With the aim of investigating different CBPD approaches in planning and constructing public community facilities, focusing on their applicability, benefits, and limitations, this study employed a Scoping Review Methodology. Scopus and Web of Science databases were used to identify the papers with the use of predefined keywords. Following the screening process, 30 relevant research studies were analysed. Findings revealed that CBPD approaches offer several benefits, including promoting democratic decision-making, sustainable development, and community empowerment, ultimately enhancing the inclusivity and effectiveness of infrastructure projects. Simultaneously, limitations were identified, including navigating power dynamics, reconciling stakeholder interests, addressing scalability concerns, and overcoming resource constraints. Real-life examples and case studies were thoroughly analysed to identify the applicability of CBPD approaches and the importance of implementing such approaches in public community facilities. Based on the findings as well as the identification of gaps, future research areas were proposed.
The Need for a climate database for facilities managers to mitigate the climate change implications on buildings
Authors:   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Maddakandage M.N.U. , Sridarran P. ,   Department of Facilities Management, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka
Published: September 2024

This study focuses on climate change impacts on built-environment categories, including buildings, built infrastructure, and land use. A facility manager is a key person who oversees the built-environment and faces challenges in recognising climate impacts and preparing mitigation strategies to ensure the organisation’s operations continue. Climate change directly and significantly affects facilities management. Thus, in climate change mitigation data-driven decision-making in facility management is important. Climate data, such as temperature, precipitation, humidity, wind speed, solar gain, and CO2 level are already used in the decision-making in facilities management. However, there is less availability and complex accessibility of the existing climate data sources for non-climate expert users such as facility managers. In order to address this gap this paper aims to assess the need for a climate database for facilities managers to mitigate climate change implications on buildings. This study adopts a qualitative expert survey approach to data collection. Eight semi-structured interviews were conducted with industrial experts and their knowledge and experience on climate change were analysed. Facility managers and built-environment experts expressed that there are many available climate data sources that facility managers are not aware of. However, it is difficult to use available climate data for decision-making due to limited knowledge of climate science and the payments and permissions involved. Further, experts highlighted the need for a climate database with freely available recent years’ climate data, visualisation tools for using climate data to make informed decisions and a user-friendly interface for non-expert users.
Atacamite from paleofumarole cone height 1004 (Tolbachik volcano, Kamchatka): thermodynamic properties
Authors: Gritsenko Yu. D. , Bulakh М. О. , Ogorodova L. P. , Vigasina М. F. , Melchakova L. V. , Ksenofontov D. A.
Published: September 2024

Atakamite with the empirical formula (Cu1.97Zn0.01)Cl0.94(OH)3.02, originating from the paleofumaroles of the monogenic volcano Vysota 1004 (Tolbachik, Kamchatka, Russia), has been studied by thermal and electron microprobe analyses, X-ray powder diffraction, IR and Raman spectroscopy, Calve microcalorimetry. Using X-ray diffraction and IR spectroscopy, the process of thermal decomposition of atacamite was studied. The enthalpy of formation from the elements for atacamite of the theoretical composition Cu2Cl(OH)3(−810.2 ± 7.7 kJ/mol) was determined by melt dissolution calorimetry and the Gibbs energy of formation (−657.0 ± 7.7 kJ/mol) was calculated. Based on the data obtained, thermodynamic modeling of the stability of atacamite in the Cu–O–Cl–H system was carried out, and the boundaries of its stability were calculated under conditions of high alkalinity and high acidity of the mineral-forming medium.
Event related brain potentials’ characteristics in the different models of verbal creative thinking
Authors: Shemyakina N. V. , Nagornova Zh. V.
Published: September 2024

The comparative study of three different models of creative thinking in unified event-related (ERP) paradigm is presented. The subjects (18–35 years old) performed the following tasks: PROVERBS (a divergent creative task to overcome stereotypes of long-term memory), REMOTE ASSOCIATIONS (a convergent creative task activating remote semantic fields), ALTERNATIVE USES TASK (a divergent creative task with the initiation of the associative search process). In the creative tasks, subjects required to create an original ending to a proverb (Pr), find a word that could be matched with three presented words from different semantic fields (RAT), invent original ways of using common objects (AUT). In the control tasks subjects were required to recall a well-known ending to a proverb (PrM), and to list/name objects from a given category (CAT). The ERP amplitudes were analyzed when comparing the tasks with each other. Greater negativity was observed for the N300 component in frontal regions (280–346 ms after stimuli onset) in the Pr task, which probably reflects inhibition of the patterns of long-term memory. In the Pr and RAT tasks, semantic retrieval and integration of new information versus retrieval of known information from memory (PrM) was characterized by lower amplitude values of late components at the 698–786 ms interval. The greater amplitude of late ERP components in parietal regions (524–624 ms) during divergent thinking (AUT) may correspond to the greater emergence of images in this task compared to more abstract RAT and Pr tasks. Thus, even in the early stages of information processing in verbal creative tasks performance, the specificity of different models of creative thinking is appears in the same temporal paradigm and similar visual stimuli presentation.
Current State of the Economy of the Republic of Korea
Authors: Zueva A. G , Samsonova V. G , Shirikalova A. A
Published: September 2024

The Republic of Korea's economy is entering a critical phase due to the negative geopolitical environment, escalating trade wars, growing domestic socio-economic problems and weak economic growth prospects. In addition, the current year 2024 will be the midway point of President Yoon Suk Yeol’s term in office, which will allow summarizing the latest results of his foreign and domestic economic policies. South Korea is currently facing the following key challenges that need to be addressed immediately: falling birth rate and aging population, polarization of society and impoverishment of socially vulnerable groups, destabilization of trade relations and increasing dependence on the United States, search for new growth drivers and related risks. However, despite a number of negative trends, the South Korean economy is expected to grow gradually in 2024. This is primarily due to the recovery of the ROK's exports, namely the sale of semiconductors and other high-tech products. Among the external challenges that may have a negative impact on economic development in 2024, the following should be emphasized: military conflicts in the Middle East, technological confrontation between the US and China, and other equally serious factors. The paper analyzes the current economic situation in the ROK, South Korea's policy towards its key trading partners, and examines the problems and prospects for further economic development of South Korea. In addition, the authors note that the unbalanced policy of the ROK administration may lead to serious negative consequences both domestically and in international markets.
The Palace Coup of 1900 in China (Based on the Materials of the Archive of Foreign Policy of the Russian Empire)
Authors: Li D.
Published: September 2024

The article analyzes the palace coup in China in January 1900 on the basis of diplomatic documents based on diplomatic documents preserved in the Archive of Foreign Policy of the Russian Empire (AVPRI). The Chinese empress dowager Cixi chose a fourteen-year-old boy of imperial blood, Pujun, as the heir to the throne of the empire. It is impossible to understand why the Boxer Rebellion, one of the significant revolts against foreigners, led to military intervention in the early ⅩⅩ century without analyzing the events in the ruling imperial house. The Russian envoy M.N. Girs in his reports informed about the events taking place in Beijing, made observations and forecasts, compared Emperor Guangxu and the appointed heir to the throne. He speculated about the actions of the government of the empress dowager. The documents show that in the opinion of the Russian diplomat M.N. Girs, the palace coup did not represent a change of government and the intra-dynastic situation in China would remain stable in the near future. However, the Chinese palace coup in many ways posed a threat to the stability and independence of the country, changed the composition of the top echelon of power in China. It should be noted, the palace coup occurred precisely at the crucial moment for the Boxer Rebellion, which was spreading from the periphery to the capital of the empire. The key issue of interest for China was the recognition of the new rule after the palace coup, while for foreign powers it was the Chinese government's reaction to the Boxer Rebellion. Due to China's inefficient communication with the embassy quarter, this palace coup indirectly led to the deterioration of relations between China and foreign countries and was the catalyst for the war between China and the Eight-Nation Alliance.
Genome-Wide Mendelian Randomization Identifies Ferroptosis-Related Drug Targets for Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Wang Ying , Song Xinhua , Wang Rui , Xu Xinzi , Du Yaming , Chen Guohua , Mei Junhua
Published: September 2024

Background:

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) currently lacks effective disease-modifying treatments. Recent research suggests that ferroptosis could be a potential therapeutic target. Mendelian randomization (MR) is a widely used method for identifying novel therapeutic targets.

Objective:

Employ genetic information to evaluate the causal impact of ferroptosis-related genes on the risk of AD.

Methods:

564 ferroptosis-related genes were obtained from FerrDb. We derived genetic instrumental variables for these genes using four brain quantitative trait loci (QTL) and two blood QTL datasets. Summary-data-based Mendelian randomization (SMR) and two-sample MR methods were applied to estimate the causal effects of ferroptosis-related genes on AD. Using extern transcriptomic datasets and triple-transgenic mouse model of AD (3xTg-AD) to further validate the gene targets identified by the MR analysis.

Results:

We identified 17 potential AD risk gene targets from GTEx, 13 from PsychENCODE, and 22 from BrainMeta (SMR p < 0.05 and HEIDI test p > 0.05). Six overlapping ferroptosis-related genes associated with AD were identified, which could serve as potential therapeutic targets (PEX10, CDC25A, EGFR, DLD, LIG3, and TRIB3). Additionally, we further pinpointed risk genes or proteins at the blood tissue and pQTL levels. Notably, EGFR demonstrated significant dysregulation in the extern transcriptomic datasets and 3xTg-AD models.

Conclusions:

This study provides genetic evidence supporting the potential therapeutic benefits of targeting the six druggable genes for AD treatment, especially for EGFR (validated by transcriptome and 3xTg-AD), which could be useful for prioritizing AD drug development in the field of ferroptosis.
Association Between Kidney Disease Index and Decline in Cognitive Function with Mediation by Arterial Stiffness in Asians with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Low Serena , Moh Angela , Goh Kiat Sern , Khoo Jonathon , Ang Keven , Liu Allen Yan Lun , Tang Wern Ee , Lim Ziliang , Subramaniam Tavintharan , Sum Chee Fang , Lim Su Chi
Published: September 2024

Background:

Decline in renal function impairs systemic clearance of amyloid-β which characterizes Alzheimer’s disease while albuminuria is associated with blood-brain barrier disruption due to endothelial damage. Arterial stiffness adversely affects the brain with high pulsatile flow damaging cerebral micro-vessels.

Objective:

To examine association between a novel kidney disease index (KDI), which is a composite index of estimated glomerular filtration (eGFR) and urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR), and cognitive function with potential mediation by arterial stiffness.

Methods:

This was a longitudinal multi-center study of participants with type 2 diabetes (T2D) aged 45 years and above. We assessed cognitive function with Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS). Pulse wave velocity (PWV), an index of arterial stiffness, was measured using applanation tonometry method. KDI was calculated as geometric mean of 1/eGFR and natural logarithmically-transformed (ln)(ACR*100).

Results:

There were 1,303 participants with mean age 61.3±8.0 years. LnKDI was associated with lower baseline RBANS total score with adjusted coefficient –2.83 (95% CI –4.30 to –1.35; p < 0.001). 590 participants were followed over up to 8.6 years. LnKDI was associated with lower follow-up RBANS score in total, immediate memory, visuo-spatial/construction and attention domains with corresponding adjusted coefficients –2.35 (95% CI –4.50 to –0.20; p = 0.032), –2.93 (95% CI –5.84 to –0.02; p = 0.049), –3.26 (95% CI –6.25 to –0.27; p = 0.033) and –4.88 (95% CI –7.95 to –1.82; p = 0.002). PWV accounted for 19.5% of association between and follow-up RBANS total score.

Conclusions:

KDI was associated with lower cognitive function globally, and in immediate memory, visuo-spatial/construction and attention domains. Arterial stiffness mediated the association between KDI and cognitive decline in patients with T2D.
Endocrine Dyscrasia in the Etiology and Therapy of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Butler Tracy , Tey Sin-Ruow , Galvin James E. , Perry George , Bowen Richard L. , Atwood Craig S.
Published: September 2024

The increase in the incidence of dementia over the last century correlates strongly with the increases in post-reproductive lifespan during this time. As post-reproductive lifespan continues to increase it is likely that the incidence of dementia will also increase unless therapies are developed to prevent, slow or cure dementia. A growing body of evidence implicates age-related endocrine dyscrasia and the length of time that the brain is subjected to this endocrine dyscrasia, as a key causal event leading to the cognitive decline associated with aging and Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the major form of dementia in our society. In particular, the elevations in circulating gonadotropins, resulting from the loss of gonadal sex hormone production with menopause and andropause, appear central to the development of AD neuropathology and cognitive decline. This is supported by numerous cell biology, preclinical animal, and epidemiological studies, as well as human clinical studies where suppression of circulating luteinizing hormone and/or follicle-stimulating hormone with either gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues, or via physiological hormone replacement therapy, has been demonstrated to halt or significantly slow cognitive decline in those with AD. This review provides an overview of past and present studies demonstrating the importance of hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal hormone balance for normal cognitive functioning, and how targeting age-related endocrine dyscrasia with hormone rebalancing strategies provides an alternative treatment route for those with AD.
Small States, Big Impact: A Review of Rising Greenhouse Gases Emission from the Energy Sector in India
Authors: Dass Avinash , Mishra Amit Kumar , Ranjan Rajesh Kumar
Published: September 2024

Emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs) are a prime concern that needs our attention, not only in megapolitan states but also in developing small states. The increase in GHGs-emission could lead to severe climate change scenarios and global warming. In India, it is measured that the energy sector (68.7%) accounts for a significant GHGs-emission, followed by agriculture (19.6%), industry (6.0%), land use change and forestry (3.8%), and waste sector (1.9%). This article aims to investigate temporal changes and trends in greenhouse gases (GHGs) emissions in the energy sector of India. We have used GHGs-emission as Carbon dioxide (CO2) equivalent and compared the top per capita emitting states versus their total emissions and vice versa. Most of this increase has occurred in small states, where urbanisation, population growth, and economic expansion have been significant factors. Odisha and Maharashtra were listed as top-emitting states releasing more than 240 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (MtCO2e), mainly through industrial energy and electricity-related emissions, respectively, followed by Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and West Bengal. In contrast, Chhattisgarh was recorded as the top per-capita emitting state, followed by Odisha. Among all the states studied, Lakshadweep has shown a significant trend in GHGs per capita reduction, while the other shows an increasing trend due to a lack of robust and effective legislation. This review will help to seek the attention of policymakers and the government towards the increasing emissions from the small states which are emerging in day to day life.
Contesting Gross National Happiness in the Context of the Digital: The Digital and GNH Divide in Bhutan
Authors: Gurung Upama
Published: September 2024

Digitalisation has transformed the lives of millions of individuals, societies and governments globally by creating an impact on political, social, economic, cultural and environmental conditions of human existence. Through the use of information and technology, people have expanded their knowledge base, transparency in the government has been greater than ever before, and economic development has been amplified. Although varying in availability, affordability, accessibility, and technological know-how, most governments of the world have adopted the digital in some ways, of which, Bhutan is no exception. Since the inception of the first radio station in 1973 to the launch of its first nanosatellite (BHUTAN-1) in 2018, the country has made remarkable digital transformation. As a matter of fact, Bhutan’s narrative of development through the use of the digital founded on the four pillars of Gross National Happiness (GNH) has caught the attention of the whole world. Placing people at the center of its development efforts, the convergence of the digital and development to enhance GNH, over the years, has influenced all aspects of Bhutanese life. However, everything comes with a price, digitalisation involves risks for the people and natural environment, thereby, compromising the very foundation of GNH philosophy. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to assess and evaluate the impact of digital upon the GNH of Bhutan, with a special focus on environmental conservation as one of the pillars of GNH.
Effectiveness of Second-Line Cabozantinib in Metastatic Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma Patients After First-Line Treatment with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor-based Combinations
Authors: Narang Arshit , Gebrael Georges , Jo Yeonjung , Thomas Vinay Mathew , Li Haoran , Fortuna Gliceida Galarza , Sayegh Nicolas , Tandar Clara , Tripathi Nishita , Chigarira Beverly , Srivastava Ayana , Hage Chehade Chadi , Nordblad Blake , Maughan Benjamin L. , Agarwal Neeraj , Swami Umang
Published: September 2024

Background:

Cabozantinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), is a prevalent second-line (2 L) therapy and was approved for use after progression on TKIs. However, the 1 L treatment setting has changed since the approval of cabozantinib monotherapy in salvage therapy settings.

Objective:

To assess the differential effectiveness of cabozantinib after prior progression on 1 L ipilimumab with nivolumab (IPI + NIVO) compared to programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) or PD-1 ligand (PD-L1) inhibitors (PD1/L1i) with TKIs.

Methods:

Utilizing a nationwide electronic health record (EHR)-derived de-identified database, we included patients with metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma (mccRCC) who received 1 L treatment with an immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-based combination and 2 L treatment with cabozantinib monotherapy. These patients were categorized based on the type of 1 L ICI-based combination received: IPI + NIVO vs. PD1/L1i with TKI. Real-world time to next therapy (rwTTNT) and real-world overall survival (rwOS) were summarized using Kaplan-Meier curves and compared using Cox-proportional hazard models adjusted for International mRCC Database Consortium (IMDC) risk groups.

Results:

Among 12,285 patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma, 237 were eligible and included. Median rwTTNT was 8 months for the IPI + NIVO subgroup and 7.5 months for the PD1/L1i + TKI subgroup (HR 1.05, 95% CI: 0.74–1.49, p = 0.8). Median rwOS was 17 months for IPI + NIVO and 16 months for PD1/L1i + TKI subgroup (HR 0.79, 95% CI: 0.52–1.20, p = 0.3).

Conclusions:

Cabozantinib remains effective as a 2 L therapy for mccRCC independent of the type of prior 1 L ICI-based combination. Further research is needed to validate these findings and explore the ideal sequencing of therapies.
Vestibular migraine as a mimic of benign paroxysmal positioning vertigo and Meniere’s disease
Authors: Mok Barbara , Welgampola Miriam S. , Rosengren Sally M.
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND: Vestibular migraine (VM) is a common cause of recurrent spontaneous and positional dizziness of varying durations. Short episodes of VM lasting seconds to minutes, triggered by changes in head position can resemble those of benign paroxysmal positioning vertigo (BPPV), while episodes lasting minutes to hours can mimic those of Meniere’s disease (MD). OBJECTIVE: We aimed to compare symptoms and vestibular test results in patients with VM, BPPV and MD, where VM was categorized by episode duration. METHODS: We compared vestibular, aural and migraine symptoms, as well as cervical and ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potentials and 3D video head impulse tests, in 108 patients: 24 with BPPV, 33 with VM episodes of short duration (<10 min), 29 with VM of medium duration (≥10 min) and 22 with MD. RESULTS: We found significant overlap in the symptoms of all patient groups, and no significant differences between patients with short and medium VM. Abnormal test results occurred infrequently in all groups. CONCLUSIONS: Our results confirm significant symptom overlap between BPPV or MD and VM, and suggest that VM mimics other conditions when the episode duration matches the differential diagnosis, rather than because patients with different durations of vertigo have different symptoms.