bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New Approach for the Probabilistic Assessment of Organic Matter in the Source Rocks of the Bazhenov Formation for Estimation of Shale Hydrocarbons Resources
Authors: Topchii M. , Bondarev A. , Degterev A.
Published: October 2023

Maps of organic matter distributions are an essential part of the basin modeling process for evaluation of conventional and unconventional hydrocarbon resources. This approach has become widespread for both assessment of the initial oil and gas generation potential and final assessment of the resource base. An important step in this method is pyrolysis of the core material, which is carried out in order to assess the geochemical parameters of source rocks. The data can be used to create maps of the distributions of geochemical parameters, such as the organic carbon content, the hydrogen index, the oxygen index, S1,S2,S3, TMax. The accepted assumption regarding the distribution of these parameters determines the entire modeling result and the final generation volumes. It is difficult to overestimate the impact of this process on the result of assessing the prospects for both traditional and shale hydrocarbons. However, a lot of uncertainty is associated with interpolation of parameters analyzed in wells into the interwell space because different interpolation methods give fundamentally different results. Deterministic interpolation methods are limited because of their nature and thus cannot be used for probabilistic estimation, so they are not considered in this work. There are two interpolation methods that can perform this process in a multivariate form: the geostatistical approach (SGS, GRFS) and the new Amazonas method, which integrates elements of artificial intellect.

The stochastic approach to modeling has the undeniable advantages of estimating probabilities, and it includes uncertainties, which demonstrates the general idea more clearly. In most geology-related fields, the deterministic approach is gradually fading into the background, giving way to stochastic methods.

This article considers a comparison of the SGS and Amazonas methods, their prerequisites and limitations, advantages and disadvantages using the example of a database of geochemical measurements of the Bazhenov source rock data. The results of modeling by both methods are shown in this work along with the issues of statistical stability of the results.

The geostatistical approach in interpolation has been used for decades. It has a simple and understandable operating principle, but there are several fundamental limitations. These limitations are associated with the assumption of stationarity of the random variable under study. The proposed Amazonas method also offers a simple and understandable way to calculate the quantity being analyzed at each point in space. However, the latter does not have the limitations of the geostatistical approach. Besides, this method does not require the condition of stationarity for the quantity being analyzed and is also capable, depending on the settings, of reproducing both smooth and abrupt transitions.
An Overview of Monitoring and Surveillance Technologies for Geothermal Systems
Authors: Alzayani Alia , Al-Qasim Abdulaziz , Birkle Peter , Al-Muhaideb Abdullah
Published: October 2023

One of the main drivers for climate change is greenhouse emission caused by burning fossil fuels. In order to combat climate change, geothermal energy represents a renewable and sustainable energy alternative. Geothermal power stations can reach a capacity of 1,500 MW with minimal effects on CO2- triggered climatic changes. In order to assure peak performance, avert catastrophes, and reduce environmental effects, geothermal systems must be continuously monitored and maintained under surveillance.

Recent developments in monitoring and surveillance technologies have made it possible to monitor geothermal systems in real-time, giving important insights into their operation and enabling the early identification of potential concerns. These include seismic networks, piezometer, geochemical, gravity measurements, tracer tests, corrosion probes, and fiber optics. This paper provides an overview of the state-of-the-art monitoring and surveillance technologies for geothermal systems used for electricity generation. The paper also includes case studies of monitoring and surveillance systems used on various geothermal applications. For instance, The Geysers power plant (U.S.A.) and Larderello power plant (Italy) will provide insights on successful monitoring and surveillance practices.

The paper draws following conclusions from literature review and case studies: monitoring and surveillance technologies are essential for the effective and secure operation of geothermal system. The results can be used to develop and refine geothermal reservoir simulation models. Furthermore, these technologies are essential for early detection of corrosion processes, which are common in operating geothermal systems. Additionally, the monitoring of geothermal systems enhances the understanding on its impact on the environment, such as triggered hydraulic connectivity to shallow groundwater resources or land subsidence. Further study and development in the field of monitoring and surveillance technologies can significantly enhance the performance, dependability, and sustainability of geothermal systems. In particular, this paper introduces types of sensors and monitoring systems utilized in geothermal applications, difficulties and constraints associated with monitoring and surveillance in geothermal systems, and the possibilities for further research and development in this field.
Digitalisation in Marine Logistics - Leveraging Marine Logistics Software to Optimize Operations and Reduce Carbon Emissions in the Maritime Logistics Industry
Authors: Watson Mike
Published: October 2023

This white paper examines the current environmental impact of the maritime industry and the role of logistics operations in contributing to carbon emissions. It highlights the urgent need for sustainable practices and introduces the capabilities of marine logistics software in optimizing operations to reduce emissions. This paper aims to provide insights and recommendations to stakeholders in the maritime sector to embrace digital solutions and achieve environmental sustainability. This paper recommendsoffshore operators embrace marine logistics software and collaborate with technology providers to transform their operations, reduce carbon emissions, and contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.
ESG Strategies in the Oil and Gas Industry from the Maritime & Logistics Perspective - Opportunities & Risks
Authors: Martto J. , Diaz S. , Hassan B. , Mannan S. , Singh P. , Villasuso F. , Baobaid O.
Published: October 2023

The global energy sector is shifting towards a more sustainable, environmentally friendly production, and consumption of all energy sources. ESG topics are opening interesting debates about its benefit reflected on the long-term prospects of a company, which takes into consideration businesses’ financial performance, resilience, and the ability to sustain their operations & business continuity during adverse situations.

As it is widely known, stakeholders are requiring more transparency and more substantiated facts in reporting ESG (Environment, Social, and Governance), because what gets measured gets managed in a more efficient manner. Operators are also more focused on energy efficiencies to tackle emissions reduction and satisfy global Climate Change initiatives driven by the Paris Agreement. Currently, ESG is also becoming more marked over longer time horizons, which is playing an integral role in the company valuation, reputation, and the availability and quality of capital that companies are able to access. Today, sustainability & ESG reporting mandates in ADNOC, which is leading a real transition along with other global energy companies.

ADNOC Logistics & Services has started this journey by conducting a benchmark to analyze what other companies or competitors are doing in the sector in terms of ESG standards, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), strategic topics, number of KPIs, and goals. A methodology was created to assess the Group’s material topics & relevant actions to measure progress into a new performance management approach with includes internal and external stakeholders and how the Group can meet their expectations based on the company’s value proposition. Risk management, corporate governance, and market drivers were also key elements considered in the sustainability strategy deployment in terms of accuracy and reliability.

Every shortlisted material topic has perfectly matched the ADNOC sustainability pillars and UN SDGs and principles- (1) Business sustainability, (2) Social & economic contribution, (3) Climate emissions and energy, (4) Environment, (5) Health, safety, and security, and (6) Workforce, diversity & development. This framework allowed the team to define a roadmap with specific actions based on relevant priorities and redefine its sustainability KPIs on a broader scope, and targets.

Achieving ESG targets requires collaboration between industry, service companies, regulators (e.g., IMO- International Maritime Organization), and governments. Therefore, the UAE sustainability plans, ADNOC sustainability pillars, and IMO stricter regulations are incentivizing the sector to meet ambitious goals by 2030 and 2050. Climate change and social topics are now driving a steady increase in reporting and assessment activities towards net-zero targets, and more diversity & inclusion practices. All these elements are making ESG a real enabler for the ADNOC growth and sustainability plans.
Installation of Bridges in Offshore Brownfield Projects - Challenges & Mitigations
Authors: Thomas Digin , Varghese Cibu , Kamal Faris Ragheb
Published: October 2023

To support strategies for energy production, the expansion of existing offshore facilities and the development of new facilities will be necessary. Bridges play a vital role in enabling these expansions. During complex upgrade processes, additional facilities like personal accommodation platforms, drilling platforms, separation platforms, compression platforms, water handling platforms, and gas platforms will be installed and connected through offshore bridges. These connections will facilitate the sharing of utilities and work systems, both among the existing facilities and the new ones. It is important to emphasize that these developments are complex in nature, involving significant interactions between the brownfield and greenfield sectors.

Contractor recently completed an installation project in Indian waters, which involved connecting existing and newly constructed platforms with bridges. The conventional method of installing bridges from the top was not feasible in this case. This was due to the existing topside helideck extending beyond the stabbing location, making direct installation of the bridge impossible. The presence of protrusions from facilities such as piping and electrical utilities also limited sideway installation. To overcome these challenges, adjustments were made to the height of the bridge stabbing pin to increase clearance between the cellar deck (final location) and the helideck. Installation aids in the form of carefully positioned guides and bumpers at the cellar deck level were used to prevent the bridge from moving towards the existing platform, ensuring the protection of piping and facilities from potential impacts. Additionally, specific rigging techniques were employed to induce a tilt on the stabbing pin side of the bridge. A fork-type guide was provided on the bridge to engage with the bumper on the existing platform, allowing for rotation and lowering by aligning the bridge with the bumper on the new platform. Rigorous clash checks using 3D models of the bridges and platforms were conducted at all stages of the installation process. The installation weather window was determined through analysis if required, considering the available clearances.

This paper aims to highlight the significant challenges associated with the installation of offshore bridges on typical brownfield projects and explores potential mitigations to overcome these challenges.
Molecular fingerprinting of biological nanoparticles with a label-free optofluidic platform
Authors: Arroyo Jaime Ortega , Stollmann Alexia , Garcia-Guirado Jose , Hong Jae-Sang , Im Hyungsoon , Lee Hakho , Quidant Romain
Published: October 2023

Label-free detecting multiple analytes in a high-throughput fashion has been one of the long-sought goals in biosensing applications. Yet, for all-optical approaches, interfacing state-of-the-art label-free techniques with microfluidics tools that can process small volumes of sample with high throughput, and with surface chemistry that grants analyte specificity, poses a critical challenge to date. Here, we introduce an optofluidic platform that brings together state-of-the-art digital holography with PDMS microfluidics by using supported lipid bilayers as a surface chemistry building block to integrate both technologies. Specifically, this platform fingerprints heterogeneous biological nanoparticle populations via a multiplexed label-free immunoaffinity assay with single particle sensitivity. Herein, we first thoroughly characterise the robustness and performance of the platform, and then apply it to profile four distinct ovarian cell-derived extracellular vesicle populations over a panel of surface protein biomarkers, thus developing a unique biomarker fingerprint for each cell line. We foresee that our approach will find many applications where routine and multiplexed characterisation of biological nanoparticles is required.
Terahertz phonon engineering and spectroscopy with van der Waals heterostructures
Authors: Yoon Yoseob , Lu Zheyu , Uzundal Can , Qi Ruishi , Zhao Wenyu , Chen Su-Di , Feng Qixin , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Crommie Michael , Wang Feng
Published: October 2023

Phononic engineering at gigahertz (GHz) frequencies form the foundation of microwave acoustic filters, high-speed acousto-optic modulators, and quantum transducers. Terahertz (THz) phononic engineering could lead to acoustic filters and modulators at higher bandwidth and speed, as well as quantum circuits operating at higher temperatures. It can also enable new ways to manipulate and control thermal transport, as acoustic phonons at THz frequencies are the main heat carriers in nonmetallic solids. Despite its potential, methods for engineering THz phonons have been little explored experimentally due to the challenges of achieving the required material control at sub-nanometer precision and efficient phonon coupling at THz frequencies. Here, we demonstrate efficient generation, detection, and manipulation of THz phonons through precise integration of atomically thin layers in van der Waals heterostructures. We employ few-layer graphene (FLG) as an ultrabroadband phonon transducer, converting femtosecond near-infrared (NIR) pulses to broadband acoustic phonon pulses with spectral content up to 3 THz. A single layer of WSe2 is used as a sensor, where high-fidelity readout is enabled by the exciton-phonon coupling and strong light-matter interactions at the monolayer limit. By combining these capabilities in a single van der Waals heterostructure and detecting responses to incident mechanical waves, we performed THz phononic spectroscopy, similar to conventional optical spectroscopy which detects responses to incident electromagnetic waves. Using this platform, we demonstrate high-Q THz phononic cavities using hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) stacks. We further show that a single layer of WSe2 embedded in hBN can efficiently block the transmission of THz phonons. By comparing our measurements to a nanomechanical model, we obtain the important force constants at the hBN-graphene and hBN-WSe2 heterointerfaces. Our results could enable THz phononic metamaterials based on van der Waals heterostructures for ultrabroadband acoustic filters and modulators, as well as novel routes for thermal engineering.
Effects of sleep quality, anxiety, and depression on miscarriage among pregnant women during the COVID-19 pandemic: Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Jiang Tianan , Pan Jinhua , Zhu Xiaodan , Zhou Linyu , Yin Shanyu , Li Qiang , Lu Danlei , Xu Zihang , Zhou Pingping , Jiang Jian , Lin Xiaoyu
Published: October 2023

Importance:
Sleep quality is related to miscarriage of pregnant women, which can also lead to depression and anxiety. Currently, there is no research revealing the role of anxiety and depression in the relationship between sleep quality and miscarriage among pregnant women and their interacting mechanism.
Objective
This study aims to uncover the mechanisms and quantitative dose response relationships among these factors, as well as develop a predictive model for the miscarriage rate.
Methods
In this study, 1,058 pregnant women in mainland China were recruited. All of them met inclusion criteria. Sleep quality was assessed subjectively using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index questionnaire (PSQI). Anxiety was assessed subjectively using the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale questionnaire (SAS). Depression was assessed subjectively using the Self-Rating Depression Scale questionnaire (SDS). We used mediation analysis to explore how anxiety and depression mediate the relationship between sleep quality and miscarriage. We employed restricted cubic spline (RCS) combined with logistic regression to examine the dose-response relationship between these variables. Additionally, a directed acyclic graph was used to reveal their interactions. Furthermore, we constructed a nomogram model for predicting the occurrence of unexpected miscarriages in pregnant and postpartum women.
Results
During our investigation, 16.4% of the participant pregnant women had a miscarriage. Our results showed a significant association between sleep quality, anxiety, depression, pregnant age and miscarriage both unadjusted and multivariable multinomial logistic regression. Dose-response relationships showed that the miscarriage rate slowly increases with increasing PSQI, SAS and SDS score at first. However, when a certain threshold is reached, even slight increases in the scores of SAS, SDS, and PSQI will lead to a sharp rise in the miscarriage rate. The threshold for PSQI, SAS and SDS is 15, 60, and 65, respectively. Anxiety mediated the effect of sleep quality on miscarriage by 55.88% (95% CI 41.18,69.12) and depression had a similar mediation effect (16.18% [95% CI 7.35,27.94]).
Conclusions and Relevance:
The quantitative dose response relationships between PSQI, SAS, SDS, and the miscarriage rate among pregnant women are all positive. In the impact of sleep quality on the miscarriage rate, anxiety and depression also play significant mediating roles. By revealing high-risk pregnant women, early intervention can be provided, aiming to reduce the miscarriage rate among pregnant women during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Joint Semi-Supervised Variational Autoencoder and Transfer Learning Model for Designing Molecular Transition Metal Complexes
Authors: Yang Tzuhsiung , Lee Tzu-Hang , Chen Yu-Ting , Chang Hao-Ting
Published: October 2023

Deep generative models (DGMs) have shown great promise in the generation of organic molecules and inorganic materials with chemical sensible structures and optimized properties. However, there is a lack of their applications in transition metal (TM) complexes due to their flexible coordination environment, multiple accessible oxidation and spin states, despite the importance of these complexes in fine chemical synthesis, commodity production, and optical applications. Herein, we propose a joint semi-supervised junction-tree variational autoencoder (SSVAE) and artificial neural network (ANN) classifier model, coined as LiveTransForM (Ligand variational auto-encoder and Transfer learning For transition Metal complexes), for the design of octahedral TM complexes. LiveTransForM allows the design of ligands that build up TM complexes and the prediction of the spin states of the assembled complexes. We show that the accuracy of the classifier is improved when the latent variables from the SSVAE are used as input for the ANN model compared to those from the unsupervised VAE. Input augmentation using the three molecular axes also improves the accuracy of the classifier. 58 complexes with predicted spin states are then generated by LiveTransForM and the accuracy of their spin state labels are validated by density functional theory methods. Two design strategies, single mutation and seeded generation, are also introduced to allow the directed evolution of parent complexes towards desirable spin states and local modification of seed complexes to generate complexes with similar spin states, respectively.
Deep learning reconstruction of Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation strength validates ongoig twenty-first century decline.
Authors: Michel Simon , Dijkstra Henk , Guardamagna Francesco , Jacques-Dumas Valérian , Westen René van , Heydt Anna von der
Published: October 2023

The response of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) – an important ocean system transporting heat and salt across the Atlantic Ocean1,2 – to anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions is crucial in projections of future climate change3. For Earth System Model (ESM) validation, the short range covered by AMOC observations4-8, inconsistent paleoclimate records9,10, and scattered hydrographic data11 are insufficient. A well-established sea surface temperature (SST) proxy index of the AMOC strength suggests that the AMOC has decreased substantially since the late ninetieth century12 but has received extensive scientific criticism13-21. Here, we use a deep learning method to provide a novel SST-based reconstruction of the twentieth century AMOC strength and show that it has declined by -0.151 Sv/decade since 1900, with the largest contribution in recent decades. In contrast to the earlier SST-based AMOC reconstruction12, the new one is in good agreement with direct 21st century AMOC measurements4 and historical ESM results22. In this way, the new AMOC reconstruction allows for new avenues for ESM calibration3,19 and contributes to a larger confidence in 21st century AMOC decline projections23.
Quantitative measurement of antibiotic resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis reveals genetic determinants of resistance and susceptibility in a target gene approach
Authors: Carter Joshua , Consortium CRyPTIC
Published: October 2023

The World Health Organization has a goal of universal drug susceptibility testing for patients with tuberculosis; however, molecular diagnostics to date have focused largely on first-line drugs and predicting binary susceptibilities. We used a multivariable linear mixed model alongside whole genome sequencing and a quantitative microtiter plate assay to relate genomic mutations to minimum inhibitory concentration in 15,211Mycobacterium tuberculosispatient isolates from 23 countries across five continents. This identified 492 unique MIC-elevating variants across thirteen drugs, as well as 91 mutations likely linked to hypersensitivity. Our results advance genetics-based diagnostics for tuberculosis and serve as a curated training/testing dataset for development of drug resistance prediction algorithms.
Programmers show distinct, language-like brain responses to violations in form and meaning when reading code
Authors: Kuo Chu-Hsuan , Prat Chantel
Published: October 2023

As computer programming becomes more central to the workforce, the need for better models of how it is effectively taught and learned has become more apparent. The current study addressed this gap by recording electrophysiological brain responses as 62 Python programmers with varying skill levels read lines of code with semantic and syntactic congruency manipulations. Group-level results showed that semantic manipulations resulted in N400 effects, with less plausible code generating more negative deflections in the 300-500 ms range than semantically congruent code. Syntactic manipulations resulted in P600 effects, with structurally invalid code generating more positive deflections in the 500-800 ms range than structurally valid code. Greater Python expertise within the group was associated with greater behavioral and neural sensitivity to structure, but not to semantics. These results support the notion that computer code comprehension is incremental, relying jointly on form and meaning, and resembles our dominant symbolic meaning-making system—natural language.
Development of dye-sensitized solar cells STEAM learning prototype for supporting educational for sustainable development
Authors: Hariyono Eko , Suprapto Nadi , Zakhiyah Isna , Ismail Mohamad Hisyam
Published: October 2023

The increase in energy consumption and demand is a problem that needs to be resolved immediately, one of the viable solutions is to develop a Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell (DSSC) prototype. This solar cell precursor can also be used as a prototype of STEAM Education for improving students' knowledge, skills, and motivation. Consequently, it is aimed to identify the best preparation technique for DSSC and provide recommendations for designing STEAM Education prototypes in physics learning. This is a preliminary study that employs a quantitative-qualitative descriptive research approach. Based on the results of the output voltage produced by the DSSC, which was given three kinds of immersion variations, quantitative descriptive analysis was carried out to show the type of DSSC with the best preparation technique. Based on the research data, the best preparation technique for DSSC was obtained by immersing the TiO2 layer in a dye solution for 144 hours. There is a positive correlation between the duration of immersion in the dye solution and the voltage generated in the DSSC. Furthermore, the DSSC-based STEAM Education prototype could explain the concept of photo electricity effect, electromagnetic induction, converting light energy into motion, and various other science concepts in applying physics learning. The STEAM Education approach and integrating the three pillars of Education for Sustainable Development explain how science concepts can answer sustainable energy problems related to the environment, society, and economy. This implies preparing students to be the next generation of leaders with the knowledge and abilities to carry on with long-term development plans
Clinical Internship Placement: Experiences from Final-Year Nursing Undergraduates During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors:   Nursing Division, School of Health Sciences, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Ali Siti Hajar , Wan Mohammad Wan Muna Ruzanna ,   Center of Education and Diversity, Faculty of Education, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia, Karim Jalina ,   Department of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Ahmad Rahman Nurul Husna ,   Department of Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Published: October 2023

Clinical learning is essential for nursing students pursuing undergraduate studies to gain experience, skills and knowledge. Clinical internship placement for final-year nursing undergraduates can be stressful as they adapt to their new roles, responsibilities and environment. This study uses a qualitative phenomenological study to explore the experiences of final-year nursing undergraduates pursuing their Management Module Practicum in the Surgical Ward of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. Two focus group discussions with eight participants were conducted using semi-structured questions. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematic analysis was performed using ATLAS.ti version 8 software. Eight reflective writing submissions were analysed for data triangulation. Two primary themes emerged in the analysis: the undergraduates’ emotions before clinical placement and their adaptability to their new roles, responsibilities and environment. Results show that the undergraduates faced difficulties at their initial placement stage. Further understanding of their emotions and adaptability can facilitate the undergraduates’ clinical learning.
Characterization of radiation risk associated with computed tomography for the Russian patients using disability-adjusted life years measure
Authors: Repin L. V. , Akhmatdinov R. R. , Biblin A. M. , Vodovatov A. V. , Chipiga L. A. , Shatskiy I. G.
Published: October 2023

adiation risks assessment in medical exposure of patients is one of the mandatory steps in justifying the medical radiological examinations. The main objectives of such assessment are the need for benefit-harm analysis, when prescribing a study, and informing patients or their legal representatives about the radiation risk associated with the recommended examination. The traditional approach to radiation risk assessment is the use of measures based on lifetime morbidity and/or mortality due to radiation exposure in risk characterization. However, the development of the methodology of population health assessment and the need to harmonize the methodology of radiation risk assessment with risks from exposure to factors of other nature imply the use of more informative generalized health indicators in the assessment of exposure to harmful environmental factors. The aim of actual work was to apply the developed methodology of radiation detriment assessment to characterize the risk by calculating DALY (number of years of healthy full life lost due to exposure to ionizing radiation) values for different sex and age groups of Russian patients undergoing computed tomography. To achieve this goal, the previously developed method of estimating the number of years of healthy life lost due to exposure to ionizing radiation was used. Calculations were performed with the use of a specially developed computer program based on the models of the International Commission on Radiological Protection using medical and demographic data of Russian population. The article presents the results of DALY calculation for six types of computed tomographic examinations. The use of DALY to characterize risk instead of the most widely used value of radiation detriment (or lifetime risk of death, relating the harm from the reduction in the quality of life in the case of non-fatal oncological disease) is an attempt to harmonize the methodology of radiation risk assessment with the methodologies of other kind of health risks. One of the directions of calculation results usage is the development of sexand age-dependent risk coefficients associated with medical exposure of patients. The analysis of the obtained results showed that the age distribution of risks agrees well with the data presented in the methodological recommendations MR 2.6.1.0215-20 “Assessment of radiation risk to patients in radiology examinations”. It is also shown that the DALY indicator can serve as a basis for comparative assessment of obtainable and avoidable risks in the field of medical radiation exposure of patients.
Constitutional and Legal Status of Donbass Citizens: Comparative Legal Analysis
Authors: Anichkin Eugene , Kanakova Anna
Published: October 2023

The article introduces some legal theories and normative acts behind the constitutional and legal status of people who live in the Donetsk People's Republic and the Lugansk People's Republic. The author conducted a comparative analysis of the theoretical, constitutional, and legal foundations that define the personal legal status, rights, freedoms, and obligations stipulated by the Constitutions of Ukraine, the Donetsk People's Republic, the Luhansk People's Republic, and the Russian Federation. The research relied on general scientific methods of cognition, i.e., analysis and synthesis, and specific scientific methods, i.e., retrospective, comparative legal, and formal legal analyses. The resulting comprehensive assessment covered the constitutional and legal status of Donbass citizens and highlighted the transformation of their personal legal status, rights, freedoms, and obligations. The results can be used in further scientific research, teaching legal disciplines, and law-making activities connected with the status of Donbass population. Their constitutional and legal status has undergone significant changes in a short period of time. Initially based on the legislation of Ukraine, it was transformed when the self-proclaimed states of Donbass and Lugansk joined the Russian Federation. New approaches, different from the current legal habits, have to be introduces with extreme carefulness: if the transition does not run smooth, Donbass and Lugansk citizens may unintentionally violate the law or even reject the new legal realities.
Democratic Tradition, Elections, and Referendum in Russia: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow
Authors: Kim Yurii
Published: October 2023

The concept of democracy borders on that of democratic tradition. However, the degree to which these two concepts overlap still remains an understudied issue. Democracy is an ambiguous and expanding notion that covers much more than political regime and political rights. In fact, democracy is associated with a mechanism for realizing the totality of human rights. The paradox is that, with its numerous definitions and patterns, democracy has neither ideal model nor universal standards. As a result, most approaches to the ever-elusive meaning of democracy appear inefficient. The present study specified the meaning of democracy by clarifying the content of democratic tradition, i.e., socially-inherited forms of social management that are based on the principles of electability, public representativeness, collegial decision-making, majority, accountability and responsibility of elected representatives to the community, etc. The author applied this approach to the current problems of suffrage and referendum law.
Symbolization of Judicial Space as a Historical and Legal Phenomenon
Authors: Lonskaya Svetlana
Published: October 2023

Symbolic judicial space is a historical and legal phenomenon. The spatial approach to social phenomena offers a phenomenological and communicative understanding of space as an object-subject interaction. The author described the origin and use of such terms as judicial space and space of justice in scientific circulation to compile a new definition of judicial space and its symbolization. Judicial space is multidimensional in its structure, which can be subdivided into physical, social, and mental judicial subspaces. Judicial activity has a high degree of symbolism and rituality, which can be supported by a number of historical and legal examples. The symbolization of judicial space is a historical and legal process that determines the course of historical memory. In this aspect, it is a subject of historical and legal science, e.g., legal source studies, legal iconography, legal semiotics, and narrative jurisprudence.
Genesis of the Interrogation Essence in the Russian Legislation and Law
Authors: Semenovskiy Andrey
Published: October 2023

Using the comparative legal method, the author determined the essence of criminal procedural interrogation in the Russian legal system, from the early Russian state to the present day. The study covered the sources that involve the term interrogation or a synonymous concept. The legal regulation of interrogation gradually developed in several aspects. The communicative aspect included verbal and non-verbal transmission of relevant information. The interactive aspect covered the interaction between participants, their number, limits of psychological influence, etc. The perceptive aspect was registered when the legislator required a compulsory record of interrogee’s identity. Obviously, the interrogation has long developed as a formalized communication. As a result, the domestic legislator sees the essence of interrogation as a special type of formal communication, which affects the development of its procedural form. The obtained results help to develop a unified approach to the legal essence of interrogation and can be applied in the legislative practice of the criminal procedural form of interrogation.
Work from anywhere : How to manage remote teams
Authors: Arbter Alexandra
Published: October 2023

Since the last pandemic which started in March 2020, a change in work environment, approach and style can be observed. From the moment of first responses to the COVID-19 virus to address the challenge, mitigate impact to the later management of organizations down to individuals and effective management and leadership, there has been a transformation across the board which was unpredicted. This paper aims to consolidate through literature research in the fields of change management, leadership and the hybrid office motion, the information that supported this transformation from an onsite to a remote interaction and highlight challenges, best practices, and potential future research opportunities.
Fenntartható jelen vagy bizonytalan jövő
Authors: Jámbori Zsuzsanna
Published: October 2023

Pogátsa Z. (2023): Fenntartható gazdaság vagy társadalmi összeomlás. Kossuth Kiadó, p. 320, ISBN: 9789635449804
Curcuminoid Chalcones: Synthesis and Biological Activity against the
Human Colon Carcinoma (Caco-2) Cell Line
Authors: Olender Dorota , Sowa-Kasprzak Katarzyna , Pawełczyk Anna , Skóra Bartosz , Zaprutko Lucjusz , Szychowski Konrad A.
Published: October 2023

Background:

There are many current scientific reports on the synthesis of various
derivatives modelled on the structure of known small-molecular and natural bioactive
compounds. Curcuminoid chalcones are an innovative class of compounds with significant
therapeutic potential against various diseases and they perfectly fit into the current
trends in the search for new biologically active substances.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to design and synthesise a series of curcuminoid chalcones.

Objective:

The objective of this scientific paper was to synthesise twelve curcuminoid
chalcones and confirm their structures using spectral methods. Additionally, the biological
activity of three of the synthesised compounds was evaluated using various assays, and
their anticancer properties and toxicity were studied.

Methods:

The proposed derivatives were obtained via the Claisen-Schmidt reaction of selected
acetophenones and aldehydes in various conditions using both classical methods: the
solutions and solvent-free microwave (MW) or ultrasound (US) variants. The most optimal
synthetic method for the selected curcuminoid chalcones was the classical Claisen-Schmidt
condensation in an alkaline (NaOH) medium. Spectral methods were used to confirm the
structures of the compounds. The resazurin reduction assay, caspase-3 activity assay, and
RT-qPCR method were performed, followed by measurements of the intracellular reactive
oxygen species (ROS) level and the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release level.

Results:

Twelve designed curcuminoid chalcones were successfully synthesized and
structurally confirmed by NMR, MS, and IR spectroscopy. Examination of the anticancer
activity was carried out for the three most interesting chalcone products.

Conclusion:

The results suggested that compound 3a increased the metabolism and/or
proliferation of the human colon carcinoma (Caco-2) cell line, while compounds 3b and 3f
showed significant toxicity against the Caco-2 cell line. Overall, the preliminary results
suggested that compound 3b exhibited the most favourable anticancer activity.
The Effect of Menopause and Menopausal Hormone Therapy on the Risk
of Peripheral Artery Disease
Authors: Anagnostis Panagiotis , Mikhailidis Dimitri P. , Blinc Ales , Jensterle Mojca , Ježovnik Mateja K. , Schernthaner Gerit-Holger , Antignani Pier Luigi , Studen Katica Bajuk , Šabović Miso , Poredos Pavel
Published: October 2023

Peripheral artery disease (PAD), defined as lower extremity arterial disease, constitutes an
underestimated aspect of the menopause-associated risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease
(ASCVD). Accumulation of ASCVD risk factors, such as atherogenic dyslipidaemia, diabetes, and
arterial hypertension, after the transition to menopause may contribute to atherosclerotic plaque formation
in peripheral arteries. However, inconsistency exists among studies as to whether transition to
menopause increases the risk of PAD, although early menopause (<45 years) or premature ovarian
insufficiency may accelerate peripheral atherosclerotic plaque formation. Menopausal hormone therapy
may decrease the risk of PAD if administered early (i.e., within the first 5-6 years after last menstruation),
whereas it has no effect in women with established ASCVD.
Montelukast Ameliorates Scopolamine-induced Alzheimer’s Disease:
Role on Cholinergic Neurotransmission, Antioxidant Defence System,
Neuroinflammation and Expression of BDNF
Authors: Yerraguravagari Bhavana , Penchikala Naga Pavani , Kolusu Aravinda Sai , Ganesh Grandhi Sandeep , Konduri Prasad , Nemmani Kumar V.S. , Samudrala Pavan Kumar
Published: October 2023

Background:

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an overwhelming neurodegenerative disease
with progressive loss of memory. AD is characterized by the deposition of the senile plaques mainly
composed of β-amyloid (Aβ) fragment, BDNF decline, Cholinergic system overactivity and neuroinflammation.
Montelukast (MTK), a leukotriene receptor antagonist, showed astounding neuroprotective
effects in a variety of neurodegenerative disorders.

Objective:

This study aims to investigate the ameliorative effects of Montelukast in the scopolamineinduced
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) model in rats and evaluate its activity against neuroinflammation.

Methods:

Thirty rats were split into five groups: Control group (1 mL/kg normal saline, i.p.), Montelukast
perse (10 mg/kg, i.p.), Disease group treated with Scopolamine (3 mg/kg, i.p.), Donepezil
group (3 mg/kg, i.p.), Montelukast treatment group (10 mg/kg, i.p.) and behavioural and biochemical
tests were carried out to assess the neuro protective effect.

Results:

Scopolamine treatment led to a significant reduction in learning and memory and an elevation
in cholinesterase levels when compared with the control group (p < 0.01). Additionally, elevated
oxidative stress and Amyloid-β levels were associated with enhanced neuroinflammation (p < 0.05, p
< 0.01). Furthermore, the decline in neurotrophic factor BDNF is also observed when compared with
the normal control group (p < 0.01). Montelukast pre-treatment significantly attenuated learning and
memory impairment and cholinesterase levels. Besides, Montelukast and standard drug donepezil
administration significantly suppressed the oxidative stress markers (p < 0.01), Amyloid-β levels,
neuroinflammatory mediators (p < 0.05) and caused a significant increase in BDNF levels (p < 0.05)

Conclusion:

Montelukast bestowed ameliorative effects in scopolamine-induced AD animal models
as per the previous studies via attenuation of memory impairment, cholinesterase neurotransmission,
oxidative stress, Amyloid-β levels, neuroinflammatory mediators and enhanced BDNF levels.
The introduction of a Community Resource Specialist into the Public Library
Authors: Gross Melissa , Latham Don
Published: October 2023

Social services in libraries have traditionally ranged from helping immigrants assimilate into mainstream culture to responding to user needs related to home and food insecurity, the opiate epidemic, and disaster recovery. Community needs have continued to grow and the public library is increasingly stepping in to help bridge the gap in part by adding a position, often filled by a social worker, to help library users find social services information, complete applications for SNAP and other government programs, and to connect library users with community resources. Additional duties often include training and coaching librarians to provide these services, performing outreach, and developing partnerships with community agencies. Although this is a growing trend, there are no established guidelines for these positions and relatively little research has been done to document the benefits and challenges, identify issues, and consider the impact on librarianship. This case study design follows a recently hired community resource specialist for the period of one year to understand why a community resource specialist position was needed, how this position was implemented, and with what result. Study findings will help to bridge the gap by documenting benefits and challenges and considering the impact of this position on practice and the development of professional competencies in social services information, as well as implications for teaching and learning in LIS programs.
Creating Inclusive Environments in Academic Libraries Through Universal Design
Authors: Clark Hunt Laura , Steele Jennifer , Creel Stacy , Cromwell Joshua
Published: October 2023

A qualitiative case study conducted at a college in Mississippi in 2022 examined 7 students’ perceptions of an academic library. Students registered with the campus disability service accommodation center for physical disabilities participated in the semi-structured interviews. While not asked about their disability, most chose to openly share this information; they were dealing with layers of disabilities, such as constant shaking, PSTD, and anxiety. A major finding was that no student participating in the study had ever checked out a physical library book. Building on that previous case study, this quasi-experimental research will be conducted through a combination of surveys and interviews, along with observations from the disability community. It seeks to examine how students with disabilities perceive the libraries’ facilities, resources, and services in academic libraries. Student surveys and interviews will be conducted both before and after extensive library staff training on diversity, equity, and inclusion to determine the impact the training had on students with disabilities and their experience using the library. The study seeks to focus on virtual platforms, education of library staff, implementing a holistic universal design, and giving students with disabilities a voice (relatedness) and choices (autonomy and competence). By providing simple solutions with large impacts to academic library environments, more universities/colleges will have access to a usable holistic model for serving students with disabilities that can fit underfunded and understaffed environments. A follow-up posttest will be utilized to measure the impact the changes had on students with disabilities through surveys, interviews, and observations.
Exploratory Social Justice Case Study Design
Authors: Jaber Baheya
Published: October 2023

This research investigates the role of urban public libraries in Texas from the perspectives of women refugees (from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region) and urban public library representatives in Texas, U.S. Women refugees share their daily concerns since they arrived in the U.S. Through utilizing critical race theory (Crenshaw, 1988; Ladson-Billings, 1998), critical feminist theory (De Beauvoir, 1949; De Beauvoir 2009; hooks, 2000; hooks, 2009), and Intersectionality (Crenshaw, 1991; Crenshaw, 2016; Crenshaw, 2018), this project explores the information needs and information seeking behaviors of women refugees (including their interaction with public libraries). 

The researcher is implementing narrative inquiry by conducting interviews and focus groups to learn about the individual and collective experiences as related to the information services that public libraries provide to MENA women. After analyzing the collected data, the researcher and MENA women refugees are co-developing an information services model for public libraries. Moving forward, the researcher is conducting content analysis of the public libraries’ websites and social media sites to check their information offerings. Then, she is conducting focus groups with library representatives to discuss what they offer.

As a social justice imperative, implementing these methods allow women refugees to represent their voices, and give them agency and authority to work with the researcher and public library representatives. Together, they will build an information services model and propose a strategic action plan, to be implemented by public libraries in Texas to support the information needs of women refugees from the MENA region.