bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationship between metabolic syndrome and intestinal microbiota: a review of the literature
Authors: Baranova A. N. , Glushko O. N. , Vasilyeva V. P. , Fedorova M. A. , Volodina A. V. , Raevskiy K. P.
Published: October 2024

Metabolic syndrome is a pathological condition that includes obesity, elevated blood glucose levels, hypertension and dyslipidemia. This comorbid condition is a global problem of our time. According to the INTERHEART study, metabolic syndrome occurs in more than 26% of the world’s population. In the Russian Federation, 40% of residents have 2 components of the metabolic syndrome, 11% have 3 or more of its components. In addition to well-known risk factors for the development of metabolic syndrome, such as genetic predisposition, overeating, physical inactivity, hormonal disorders and others, in recent years, increasing attention has been paid to the study of the intestinal microbiota and its effect on the metabolic syndrome. For example, a comparison of the intestinal microbiota of people with normal BMI and obesity showed different species of microorganisms inhabiting our gastrointestinal tract. Analyzing patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus we can note a decrease in butyrate-producing bacteria (Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and Roseburia) that modify insulin sensitivity to body tissues. Some species of Lactobacillus are able to normalize lipid metabolism, reduce the number of adipocytes, reduce the absorption of cholesterol by converting it into insoluble coprostanol. In patients with arterial hypertension there is dysbacteriosis of I and II degree, in arterial hypertension with metabolic syndrome – absence of dysbacteriosis of I degree and presence of dysbacteriosis of II and III degrees, with prevalence of opportunistic forms. Understanding the role of intestinal microbiota becomes a key element not only in diagnosis, but also in the development of effective treatment methods and their application in complex treatment of metabolic syndrome.
Gallstone disease: current pharmacotherapy options
Authors: Minushkin O. N. , Maslovskii L. V. , Topchiy T. B. , Burdina E. G. , Kruchinina M. A. , Chugunnikova L. I.
Published: October 2024

Introduction. Gallstone disease is one of the most common diseases of the digestive system, its prevalence rate averaged to 10–15%, which is associated with high healthcare costs for patient management such as diagnosis, cholecystectomy with over 500 000 operations performed per year in the Russian Federation, and pharmacotherapy, which is increasingly used for the combined treatment.

Aim. To assess the clinical efficacy and safety of hymecromon, a domestic drug, in patients with dyspeptic form of GSD.

Materials and methods. A total of 30 patients (14 men and 16 women) with gallstones in their gallbladders were observed in the study. The patients were divided into 2 groups: Group 1 included 15 patients who received hymecromone at a dose of 600 mg/ day; Group 2 included 15 patients who received hymecromone at a dose of 1200 mg/day. The course of therapy was 21 days.

Results. Intensity of all GSD symptoms significantly decreased by the end of hymecromone therapy in patients of both groups. Almost all patients reported a stool normalization. The use of hymecromone at a dose of 400 mg three times a day did not result in loose stools, and in patients who had loose stools before initiation of treatment, hymecromone contributed to the normalization of its frequency and nature. Vomiting, urge to retch and loss of appetite were completely discontinued in patients who received hymecromone at a dose of 1200 mg/day, however, there were no significant differences between Groups 1 and 2 in the changes in symptoms. No adverse events or side effects were observed during therapy.

Conclusion. The therapy had a beneficial effect on upper gastrointestinal symptoms and bowel dysfunction (flatulence, diarrhoea, constipation). A significant improvement in the patients’ quality of life based on GSRS questionnaire scores was noted. The domestic drug Odecromon is considered to be effective in the treatment of dyspeptic GSD.
Determination of the optimal interval of the average load of the scientific equipment of the center for collective use
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Kropachev Nikolay , Mikushev Sergey ,   St. Petersburg State University, Solovyov Alexander ,   St. Petersburg State University, Trapeznikova Irina ,   St. Petersburg State University
Published: October 2024

Modern Centers for the collective use of scientific equipment represent the basis for the formation of unique scientific competencies and competitive advantages in the market of research services. As highly specialized tools of scientific and innovative infrastructure, whose activities are aimed at implementing priority areas of scientific and technological development of the country, Centers funded, including from the state budget, face the need for a reliable assessment of the effectiveness of public funds investments, which leads to the formation of an objective need to improve the organization of work in this direction. The state regulator legislatively establishes requirements for monitoring the effectiveness of the use of expensive scientific equipment and a unique instrument base, however, the regulatory approach does not take into account the specifics of the functioning of the CCP regarding specialization, diversity of the instrument base, etc. This article discusses the problems of applying a standardized approach to evaluating the effectiveness of the centers for the collective use of scientific equipment and unique scientific installations. The general nature of the indicators included in the requirements for centers for the collective use of scientific equipment and unique scientific installations that have been created and (or) the functioning of which is provided with the involvement of budgetary funds does not reflect the differences between centers for collective use in terms of functioning, equipment composition, types of research and other essential characteristics. Attention is focused on one of the leading indicators, namely, the degree of loading. The authors believe that the averaging of requirements can lead to data distortion and neutralize the results of state monitoring, and suggest approaches to developing criteria for evaluating the optimal interval of the average load of scientific equipment of the center for collective use and justification of the appropriate time of such, depending on the type and purpose of use. The study was conducted on the example of the Center for Collective Use of St. Petersburg State University — St. Petersburg State University Science Park.
Prospects of hydrogen technologies application in the economic sectors: Priorities of the state and business
Authors:   HSE University, Marchuk Nikolai , Turovets Julia ,   HSE University
Published: October 2024

Discussions around the application of hydrogen technologies in various economic sectors (as part of the green agenda) contributed to the release of various hydrogen national initiatives. By the end of 2023, 41 governments have already adopted hydrogen strategies. However, hydrogen technologies are not mature for widespread adoption due to technological barriers associated with the production, storage, and transportation of hydrogen. National governments and private companies invest significant funds in research and development in order to overcome them. The purpose of this study is to assess current level of hydrogen technologies’ development on the basis of index and other methods to identify the most promising fields of application. Statistical and analytical materials devoted to the development of hydrogen solutions were exploited: patent and project activity of private sector, STI policy of net-energy importers — Germany and South Korea as the example. An analysis of the hydrogen strategies and the activities of corporations in selected countries revealed that the fuel cell automotive sector and traditional use of hydrogen (production of ammonia and methanol in the chemical industry) are among the key areas of application of the studied technologies. Hydrogen can also be adopted in the electric power industry, etc. Governments that support hydrogen technologies seek to expand the range of its applications by attracting investments from multinational corporations from those sectors where hydrogen is already embedded in the chain of production.
Forming a financial model of carbon regulation in the context of the decarbonization objectives for the Russian Federation
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Lvova Nadezhda
Published: October 2024

The article addresses financial issues of carbon regulation. The research purpose was to identify the features and problems of the financial model development of carbon regulation in the Russian Federation. The research objectives included substantiation of the model concept, systematization of models used in international practice, characterization and assessment of the current stage of the concerning model development in the Russian Federation. According to the research hypothesis, at the early stages of development, the financial model of carbon regulation in the Russian Federation is soft, providing rather a signal effect for business and not having a significant impact on the implementation of national objectives of decarbonization. In the study of international and Russian experience in the implementation of financial models of carbon regulation, methods of content analysis and statistical processing of relevant information were applied. The theoretical results of the research include the analyzed model concept, a refined classification of its main types and a model of its rigidity index. Systematization and evaluation of applied aspects of the problem allow us to conclude that the financial model of carbon regulation in the Russian Federation is super-soft, which has advantages for business, but actualizes such challenges as the effect of the “green paradox”, the risk of importing environmental problems from countries with stricter climate requirements and the green washing problem. It is argued that the development of the financial model of carbon regulation in the Russian Federation requires improving the system of incentive tools, tightening climate reporting standards, formalizing requirements for corporate climate strategies, as well as a differentiated approach adapted to regional business conditions. The research results will be in demand in further academic and expert work in this field. In particular, they can be used in climate strategizing, including in substantiating recommendations for the implementation of the Low-Carbon Development Strategy of the Russian Federation.
On the Methodological Basis of Storytelling as a Mechanism of Collective Consciousness Manipulation
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Kulakova Tat’jana A. , Volkova Anna V. ,   St. Petersburg State University
Published: October 2024

Continuing the series of publications devoted to the socio-political aspects of digital transformations, the authors focus on the high pace of development of information technology and qualitative changes in public policy, which has ceased to be a sphere of rational thinking and argumentation, turning into a field for the struggle of symbols. There is a tendency for people to abandon language, and an increase in the influence of symbols and simplified structures in communications at various levels. The study of the methodological foundations of storytelling refers to the problem of neomythologism in the consciousness of modern man, the significant features of which are associative thinking and proximity to archaic perception. The increasing impact of ‘post-truth’ combines several interrelated phenomena: the growing prevalence and influence of misinformation, disagreement over verifiable facts, the increasing importance of personal faith and experience over facts and evidence, declining trust in institutional information providers, and the increasing fragmentation and polarization of information consumption. Thus, the concept of Homo Narrans, which assumes that a person’s perception of information occurs primarily through stories, takes on a new meaning in the context of the development of digital public policy. Visual perception makes it possible to use unconscious motives and symbols. The authors come to the conclusion that visual storytelling is becoming an effective tool of political struggle due, on the one hand, to the emotional impact on the audience and, on the other hand, by simplifying the perception of the transmitted information. As a communication technology, it is widely used to build relationships of trust. If used correctly, this technology can help organize the digital information space of Russia in the national interests, including for articulating a system of values that correlate with socio-political processes in the country and the world and taking into account our cultural traditions.
Philosophical and Anthropological Views on Understanding the Formation of Digital Culture
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Kovaleva Tatiana V. , Kovaleva Kircicek Valeriia A. ,   St. Petersburg State University
Published: October 2024

This article is dedicated to scholarly thinking in the digital culture. The main aim is to study different approaches for the investigation of a modern culture and its significance for peo[1]ple. We have prioritized the following tasks: to take a look at a philosophical and a biology[1]anthropological direction oriented at the new ways to explain the importance of culture at the turn of the 20th and 21st centuries; to analyze several approaches with the underpinning of digital culture. On the one hand, we gave ideas of the neo-Kantians who considered that you can understand the nature and spheres of human life only through values, which can build an evidence base for the significance of culture through the study of ethics and values to identify the absence of a natural component in them. On the other hand, we investigated anthropo[1]logical biology views of culture by K. Lorenz, E. Wilson, and A. Fet. Russian scientist Abram Fet, based on Lorenz and Wilson`s experience, arrived at some ideas that “‘culture’ cannot be characterized by an individual but only by a certain community and means the special community lifestyle with the skills and mode of behaviors in it, definitions and standards of thought, inheritable from generation to generation. … man is an animal with two systems of heredity — genetic and cultural” (Instinct and social behavior). So, based on the two scien[1]tific approaches presented above, it is possible to better understand the ways to study digital culture and analyze the transformation problems of the socio-cultural life of modern society. We are at the very beginning of a transition stage in the formation of new cultural relations. It is quite evident that the digital world is complex and contradictory. It requires us to make a highly developed spiritual culture for our continued existence.
A Study on the ‘Philosophy of Decoration’ in the Seljuk Period (5th to 6th Centuries CE) Emphasizing the Dome of ‘Taj Al- Molk’ of the Isfahan Grand Mosque
Authors:   Tarbiat Modares University, Pourmahmoud Sadaf , Fahimifar Asghar ,   Tarbiat Modares University
Published: October 2024

The Seljuk period (5th–6th Centuries CE) is one of the most important historical periods of Islamic Iran in various arts formed and developed in accordance with Islamic beliefs. Bricklaying decoration is one of the most valuable types of Persian Architectural decorations, and The Seljuk period is the era of extraordinary development and progress of this art and the ‘Taj Al-Molk’ Dome of the Isfahan Grand Mosque is known as its masterpiece. In fact, the flourishing of bricklaying decoration and its relationship to Seljuk’s cultural and religious beliefs in the sphere of aesthetics is the subject of this article. Historical, descriptive-analytical methods have been used to investigate historical documents and field observation. The result shows the cultural aspects that affect the artists’ extraordinary use of decorating elements in Seljuk architecture. A confirmation of a ‘Philosophy of Decoration’ based on a common language in the aesthetic perception of pure Islamic-Iranian art as could see in ‘Taj Al-Molk’ Dome with the usage of highly evolved decorative elements such as Bricklaying tiles, Geometric patterns, and Kufic scripts. Muslim artists used decoration as a decisive role in connecting the material world (physical world) to the world of ideas in order to express their thoughts and mystical and religious ideals. With the help of elements such as rhythm, coordination, harmony, balance, etc., they realize their philosophical principles in action and create a new philosophy that transforms the material into a visualization of unity in multiplicity, as a major ideal of the “Philosophy of decoration”. A manifestation of the attributes of the Only God, who shaped the world being, as the Source of beauty.
Accounting for solidarity: trust and results as a replacement of contracts in water operators’ partnerships
Authors: Mahanta Sajib , Tutusaus Mireia , Schwartz Klaas
Published: October 2024

Water operators' partnerships (WOPs) differ from other types of collaborations in that they are ‘solidarity-based’. By focusing on two partnerships between utilities from the Netherlands and Malawi, this article examines how accountability is addressed in solidarity-based WOPs. The article finds that the solidarity-based nature of these partnerships makes accountability between partners through contractual arrangements challenging. In such a setting, multiple and diverse lines of accountability exist. In particular, trust appears to complement more formal accountability mechanisms. At the same time, this trust relationship is only possible as long as the partnerships produce the desired operational results. The cases furthermore suggest that rather than think about optimal accountability mechanisms, ensuring accountability mechanisms that are sufficient and accepted by both partners is already an achievement.
Optimizing natural organic matter removal at the Koka water treatment plant, Ethiopia, using soil–alum composite material
Authors: Assefa Emeru , Jabasingh Anuradha , Mulugeta Eyobel , Dessalegne Meseret , Taddesse Abi M. , Bezu Zewdu
Published: October 2024

Conventional water treatment methods often fail to remove natural organic matter (NOM), leading to the formation of harmful disinfection by-products in chlorinated water. This study aimed to develop a synergistic, local soil–aluminum sulfate (alum) composite material to enhance NOM removal from real water samples. Locally derived soil (Chalaltu) samples were collected from selected locations and subjected to thermal treatment at elevated temperatures. The thermally treated soil was then combined with alum at varying mixing percentages to create the composite material. The synthesized composite materials were thoroughly characterized using X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller techniques. The alum-treated soil, obtained through thermal treatment at 500 °C with a mixing ratio of 50%, a dosage of 25 mg/L, and a settling time of 25 min, exhibited impressive removal efficiencies. The composite material increased removal efficiency by 1.5 times for both UV254 absorbance (91.1%) and dissolved organic carbon (90%), while reducing the alum dose by 58% compared to the existing Koka water treatment plant process. Reducing alum usage could lead to cost savings and alleviate concerns about its association with Alzheimer's disease. This technique is essential within the context of water treatment technology.
Alzheimer's Disease Protein Targets: Comprehensive Review and Future Directions
Authors: Kumar Bandral Sunil , Dinesh Basavana Gowda Hosur , Shajan Sandra Ross Olakkengil , Sadashivappa Nandini Markuli , Ammunje Damodar Nayak , Kunjiappan Selvaraj , Theivendren Panneerselvam , Pavadai Parasuraman
Published: October 2024

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a gradual degenerative ailment of the nervous system that is marked by
the buildup of amyloid-β plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. This accumulation causes problems with the connections
between nerve cells and the loss of these cells. This review paper explores the complex pathophysiology
of AD, analyzing the neuronal loss reported in key brain regions like the entorhinal cortex, amygdala, hippocampus,
and cortical association areas. The text also examines subcortical nuclei participation, such as the
noradrenergic locus coeruleus, serotonergic dorsal raphe, and cholinergic basal nucleus. Also, this review discusses
the importance of tau protein hyperphosphorylation, oxidative stress, and metal ion dysregulation in the
evolution of AD. Moreover, it explores the cholinergic theory and the influence of the APOE (apolipoprotein
E) genotype on the effectiveness of therapy. This article thoroughly summarizes the current knowledge on
AD, including its clinical symptoms and possible treatment approaches, by combining several theories and
new targets. The study highlights the connection between the degree of tangle development and the severity of
dementia, underlining the need for creative methods to tackle the complex difficulties of discovering drugs for
AD.
Current Updates on Pathogenesis, Systemic Therapy, and Treatment of Invasive Fungal Infections
Authors: Singh Sushil Kumar , Pancholi Shyam Sunder
Published: October 2024

Numerous health hazards are associated with fungal infections, ranging from asymptomatic
cases to potentially fatal invasive diseases that are especially dangerous for those with impaired
immune systems. The main causes behind these diseases are opportunistic fungi, namely Aspergillus,
Candida, and Cryptococcus. Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) require a global response
that includes the development of vaccines, standardized protocols for diagnosis, potent antifungal
medications, and strategies to stop drug-resistant strains. Improving high-risk group diagnosis and
treatment is essential to lowering death rates. This review highlights the substantial health concerns
associated with fungal infections, especially in immunocompromised individuals, and identifies
Aspergillus, Candida, and Cryptococcus as the main pathogens. It highlights the necessity of
international efforts, such as the development of novel diagnostic instruments, imaging methods,
and antifungal drugs, to combat these invasive infections. The review also addresses the increasing
need for novel treatment approaches in light of the developing resistance to widely used antifungal
medications. Furthermore, the significance of secretory proteins in fungal pathogenicity
and the potential of combination therapy are investigated. It is also suggested that a multimodal
strategy be used to fight these illnesses, given the promise of multivalent vaccinations. Overall,
this study emphasizes how critical it is to develop better diagnostic and treatment strategies in order
to successfully control and lessen the impact of invasive fungal diseases on the health of the
world.
To Explore Nasal-Brain Lymphatic System for Brain-Targeted Drug Delivery and to Treat Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Sharma Rohit , Monika  , Tyagi Bobby , Gupta Disha , Mazumder Rupa , Mazumder Avijit
Published: October 2024

Brain-related Neurodegenerative Disorders (NDD) are the leading cause of low life expectancy
globally. Brain-targeted drug delivery is required for treating most the NDD via bypassing
the blood-brain barrier, and hepatic first-pass metabolism. The nasal-brain drug delivery route
has the advantage of locally enhancing drug delivery to the brain, mainly through the olfactory
route rather than systemic circulation. To overcome the limitations of nasal-brain drug delivery, a
nanocarrier approach and mucoadhesive polymers are needed. Notwithstanding these constraints,
various nanotechnology techniques have been created, including polymeric micelles, liposomes,
polymeric nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles, & nano-emulsions. This review aims to explore
the intranasal pathway for drug delivery through the nasal-brain lymphatic systems, considering
brain anatomy and physiology along with a drug formulation design approach.
Valproic Acid and Celecoxib Enhance the Effect of Temozolomide on Glioblastoma Cells
Authors: Pak Oleg , Kosianova Alexandra , Zaitsev Sergei , Sharma Aruna , Sharma Hari , Bryukhovetskiy Igor
Published: October 2024

Introduction:

Glioblastoma (GB) is one of the deadliest human brain tumors. The prognosis
is unfavorable, chemotherapy with temozolomide (TMZ) may extend the survival period for a
patient. The paper aims to evaluate the survival rates among relapsing GB patients, who have been
treated with valproic acid (VPA), and to study its effect on tumor cells when combined with TMZ
and celecoxib (CXB).

Materials and Methods:

The research is based on retrospective analysis of the data from GB patients
who had been treated with VPA as a part of a complex treatment protocol and reoperated due
to a GB relapse. The experimental study involved cancer cells of C6, U87, and T98G lines. GB was
modeled on Wistar rats. The research was approved by the ethics committee. Differences in groups
were considered significant at p < 0.05

Results:

The median of overall survival among GB patients who took VPA was 22 months, and for
those who did not take VPA - 13 months. The in vitro experiment showed the half-maximal inhibitory
concentration (IC50) of TMZ for various lines of cancer cells (CCs) varying from 435.3 to
844 μM. IC50 VPA for CCs of U87MG, T98G, and С6 lines was 1510, 3900, and 3600 μM: IC50
CXB for those lines of CCs was 30.1 μM, 41.07, and 48.4 μM respectively. VPA significantly enhanced
the anti-glioma effect of TMZ on the U87 line of CCs, while CCs of C6 and T98G lines
proved to be most susceptible to the combination of CXB and TMZ. The combination of VPA with
CXB increased the anti-glioma effect of TMZ both in vitro and in vivo, also reducing the tumor size
(р < 0.05) and prolonging the survival period among experimental animals.

Conclusion:

VPA and CXB enhance the effect of TMZ on glioblastoma cells.
Suicide and Substance Use among African American Adolescents
Authors: Blassingame III Jonathan C. , Sumlin Eric D. , Ng So Yu Cicy
Published: October 2024

Background:

Suicide among African American adolescents is a
significant and preventable public health issue in the United States. Recently, the
suicide rate among this group has significantly increased. At the same time, that
for White adolescents has remained relatively stable, and those for Hispanic,
Asian American, Pacific Islander, and other adolescents have decreased. While
multiple factors influence suicidality, substance use is a significant factor that
links to increased suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, and suicide. This review
paper aims to discuss the relevant factors contributing to suicide and substance
use among African American adolescents.

Objectives:

(1) The objective was to investigate (historical), socio-economic,
cultural, and environmental factors that contribute to higher rates of suicide and
substance use among this population. (2) Explore the impact of systemic racism,
poverty, and community violence on suicide and substance use in African
American adolescents and (3) Identify and discuss resilience factors that can help
mitigate the risks of suicide and substance use.

Methods:

A qualitative review was conducted to identify selected relevant
articles on suicide and substance use among African American adolescents
published between 1990 and 2023 in PubMed, PsycInfo, Cochrane Library,
Medline, and Psychiatry Online.

Results:

Historical risk factors associated with adolescent suicide generally have
not been inclusive or relevant to differing racial and ethnic backgrounds. Assessing
suicidality using “common” suicide risk factors poses a major problem. It is a less
reliable predictor of suicide for African American adolescents, thus leading to
ineffective suicide prevention and intervention. Relevant risk factors are selfesteem,
family support, racism and racial discrimination, poverty, and the
intersection of different marginalized identities. The relevant protective factors are
religiosity and spirituality, family support, social support, private regard/strong
African American identity, and personal factors.

Conclusion:

Research on suicide among African American adolescents is still
emerging, particularly in identifying relevant risk and protective factors for
accurately assessing suicidal ideation. Substance use serves as one coping
mechanism for dealing with the challenges of structural racism, discrimination,
and oppression.
An Overview of Receptor-targeted Nanotechnological Approaches for the Treatment of Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Nayak Pritipragatika , Swain Suryakanta , Das Itishree Jogamaya , Swain Sushree Sambita , Samal Himansu Bhusan
Published: October 2024

Breast cancer (BC) is the second most prevalent cancer among women and can originate
from the tubes, connective tissue, and lobules of the breast. The primary focus of this review
is to highlight the significant advancement in the development of receptor-targeted nanotherapy
for the management of metastatic breast cancer. These innovative systems directly target the specific
cancer cell receptor to enhance the precision and effectiveness of the treatment. Inadequate
therapy and incorrect diagnosis in conventional treatment have contributed to the rising mortality
rate from breast cancer. BC that has spread to another organ in the body, commonly called Metastatic
breast cancer (MBC) or Stage IV metastases, is an aggressive and heterogeneous illness
that decreases the prognosis. The current treatment methods for MBC are similar to initial-stage
breast cancer, which involve hormonal surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation therapy
with poor specificity and invasive. Moreover, treating MBC is more difficult because the cancer
cells varies depending on the organ. Nanotechnology provides valuable insights for treating
MBC that enable the early identification of tumor cells. Moreover, it can also transport therapeutic
agents directly to the targeted sites while reducing the toxicity to healthy tissue. Due to its multifunctional,
programmable, and trackable properties, future research and treatment may succeed
with nanotechnology-based imaging and therapy. The present study summarizes an overview of
nanotechnology-based drug delivery methods (NDDM) and receptor-targeting nanotherapy (RTN)
that are applied in MBC therapy to gain attention in clinical applications. Clinical trial studies
have also been discussed along with receptor-targeting nanomedicine and the status of the most
relevant patent.
Environmentally Friendly Natural Coagulants in the Coagulation Process in the Rubber Industry
Authors: Achmad Feerzet , Deviany Deviany , Simbolon Nur Indah , Mahendra Lufi Eka , Suhartono Suhartono , Suharto Suharto
Published: October 2024

This research evaluates the use of natural coagulants, such as soursop and Aegle marmelos (Maja), in the latex coagulation process of the GT 1 clone type, compared with chemical coagulants such as formic acid and acetic acid, to gain an understanding of the characteristics of the rubber produced. Three types of crumb rubber (SIR 3 CV, SIR 3L, and SIR 3 WF) are produced from latex, while SIR 5, SIR 10, and SIR 20 are produced from treated latex coagulum. Rubber quality criteria are explained in the Indonesian Rubber Standard (SIR 3L/3WF) SNI 06-1903-2011. The use of natural coagulants, especially soursop, and Maja, in the coagulation of GT 1 clone latex shows an influence on coagulation time, Dry Rubber Content (DRC), initial plasticity (Po), Plasticity Retention Index (PRI), ash content, dirt content, and substance content evaporate. The results showed that natural coagulants had slower coagulation times, higher DRC values ​​(especially in maja), and better PRI values ​​compared to chemical coagulants. Despite having higher ash content, dirt content, and volatile matter content, all types of coagulants meet rubber quality standards. This research provides in-depth insight into the potential and advantages of natural coagulants, especially soursop, and maja, in the environmentally friendly rubber industry. In addition, analysis of rubber characteristics, such as plasticity, resistance to heating, and content of certain components, provides a comprehensive understanding of the impact of the use of natural coagulants on rubber quality.
Model for increasing interest in enrolling in private universities based on a segmentation, targeting, and market positioning strategy in Indonesia
Authors:   Faculty of Business and Economics, Universitas Informatika dan Bisnis Indonesia, Bandung, Indonesia, Foster Bob
Published: October 2024

This study aims to examine the factors that influence interest in enrolling in private colleges in the DKI Jakarta area, with a focus on how the Segmentation, Targeting, and Positioning (STP) strategies of these colleges affect student enrollment decisions. The research addresses a gap in understanding how these marketing strategies impact enrollment in this specific region, which has not been widely studied. Using a survey method with a quantitative approach, the study explores aspects like accreditation, ranking, and clustering of colleges. Data were collected from 283 non-official and non-religious colleges, with a sample of 166 colleges, through questionnaires sent to policymakers. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods and Structural Equation Modeling-Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS) analysis. The results show that the segmentation strategy is particularly successful, while the targeting and positioning strategies are moderately effective. Unlike previous studies that generalize the effects of marketing strategies on college enrollment, this research offers a detailed analysis specific to the DKI Jakarta region. The hypothesis testing confirms that segmentation, targeting, and positioning strategies positively influence enrollment interest, both individually and together. However, the study is limited to one region and one type of college, indicating a need for further research in different contexts. The study concludes with recommendations to strengthen each part of the STP strategies by addressing identified weaknesses to improve their overall impact.
Exploring the link between reader sentiments and ratings of children’s multicultural literature
Authors: Choi Yunseon , Drouillard Colette
Published: October 2024

Multicultural literature plays a vital role in helping children connect with their own culture and gain a better understanding of diversity and inclusiveness by encouraging openness to other cultures. Recognizing the importance of children seeing themselves reflected in multicultural collections curated by librarians, the selection of quality multicultural literature for children has become increasingly crucial. This study aims to explore how users discuss and recommend books in multicultural literature through analysis of reader reviews shared via GoodReads. The sample books were chosen from ALA Youth Media Honors and Awards for multicultural literature, including Pura Belpré, Coretta Scott King, Schneider, and Stonewall. The study selected 27 books and collected 2,640 reader reviews on Goodreads. The preliminary results indicated that review rating scores did not accurately capture readers’ perspectives in discussing books. To determine a statistical connection between sentiment values and Goodreads reader book ratings, a correlation analysis was conducted. Content analysis explored whether sentiments include factors influencing the selection of multicultural books for children. This study has significant implications for contributing to the appropriate selection of multicultural literature for children by understanding users’ perspectives and theirs expressed feelings on the books.
Curriculum Infused Cultural Heritage for School Media Specialists
Authors: Clark Hunt Laura , Steele Jennifer , Hirschy Jeffery
Published: October 2024

Cultural heritage research helps to create knowledge of the past. Many foundational components are easily presented to children and can support standards required in the school curriculum. The project seeks to inform cultural heritage research through surveys and interviews with school librarians who have experienced a workshop on incorporating cultural heritage into the curriculum. Short lectures will be offered with hands-on activities to be delivered at conference workshops focused on school media specialists’ professional development. The in-person workshops will allow school media specialists to apply common pedagogy  within the context of cultural heritage activities that teach simple, easy to use concepts that can be applied throughout the curriculum. The workshops will demonstrate how library instruction and program activities can support cultural and environmental heritage in the classroom for teachers. Participants will be able to implement cultural heritage education in their school’s curriculum that focuses on critical thinking, discovery, and creating context.
 
Paper/online surveys that address school librarians' experiences and perceptions relative to the workshop activity will be distributed to workshop attendees at the end of the session. Survey participants can indicate if they wish to be contacted for an interview. The information collected from this project will inform the field of library and information science. The project aims to show that school media specialists can help teachers utilize real world archaeological research and practice in fun ways that support the curriculum. School media specialists can also include library resources that speak to the importance of cultural and environmental heritage.
Skill-Building in Subject Representation: Assessing Learning Outcomes through Analysis of Student-Created Metadata
Authors: Zavalin Vyacheslav
Published: October 2024

Representation of topics, places, events and other entities that information resource is about (referred to as subject representation) is crucial in facilitating access to information. It is an integral part of one of the core competencies of information professionals defined by the American Library Association (ALA). Students in ALA-accredited professional degree programs develop knowledge and skills that prepare them for analyzing what information resource is about and representing this aboutness with a combination of free-text keywords/keyphrases and terms from controlled vocabularies that are widely used by practitioners in the field. This paper reports the results of the evaluation of professional competencies developed by future information professionals in the representation of an information resource’s aboutness in a real-life practical setting. The dataset used in this evaluation consists of over 18 thousand metadata records -- created over 12 years, mostly by students -- in the major digital collection that provides access to historical patents
The Ethics and Truth of Disability Access: An Information Perspective
Authors: Smith Andrew J. M. , Dali Keren , Thompson Kim M.
Published: October 2024

The Disabilities in LIS SIG session features presentations on a wide array of disability and accessibility-related topics. The session consists of three sets of 10-minute research and experience-based talks followed by discussion.
The first section begins with Copeland, Kawooya, Robinson and Swartzendruber discussing the findings of the pilot study focused on the “Equitable Access for the Blind, Visually Impaired, and Print-Disabled (BVIPD) Students in Online Learning” (funded by USC). Day continues the accessibility theme with an examination of “Accessibility of Academic Reading Materials: Insights from Librarians, Students, and Disability services” while Phillips and Anderson consider innovative best practices in “Accessibility Over Accommodations: Inclusive Teaching Practices for Neurodivergent Students” with a special focus on teaching graduate students.
The second section begins with Dreeszen Bowen and Dudak’s “Beyond Accessibility: Empowering Physically Disabled Voices in Academia and Librarianship” where the authors explore specific problems of doctoral program expectations of conference participation and travel for students with disabilities. In “Not your story to tell: Amplifying the Voices of Disabled Library Workers” Velez reports on a critical bibliography of North American library disability studies literature from 2010 to 2022 and considers the important issue of not simply viewing disability as a “problem” to solve, but rather to considering the real needs of people with disabilities in the library profession and ensuring their voices are heard as participants or investigators in the research process. 
The third section begins with a report on the IMLS-funded grant “Public library makerspaces and maker programming for youth with disabilities: Experiences of librarians” with results reported by Jung, Abbas, and Munyao while in the final presentation, “Disability and Inclusion in 10 Seconds and Less: Researching, Collaborating, and Storytelling in TikTok Information World(s)” Lundy highlights the ability of social media to give a voice to people with disabilities and also considers the difficulties encountered in conducting research as a person with disabilities.
What do Liaison Librarians Do? An Exploration into the Tasks and Perceptions of the Role
Authors: Colon Aguirre Monica , Bright Kawanna
Published: October 2024

Liaison librarianship is one of the most common roles in academic libraries, but it is one which is not as central to LIS education as expected. Given the significant investment students make obtaining their master’s degrees, programs need to ensure that students are well prepared for the job market; however, studies indicate that many LIS students and professionals do not feel their programs have adequately prepared them for it. This work explores the main tasks performed by academic librarians as well as how these professionals perceive their role, with the purpose of providing information useful for LIS faculty in curriculum creation.
Comparative Analysis of Machine Learning Models and Explainable Artificial Intelligence for Predicting Wastewater Treatment Plant Variables
Authors: Nasir Fuad Bin , Li Jin
Published: October 2024

Increasing urban wastewater and rigorous discharge regulations pose significant challenges for wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) to meet regulatory compliance while minimizing operational costs. This study explores the application of several machine learning (ML) models specifically, Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), Gradient Boosting Machines (GBM), Random Forests (RF), eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), and hybrid RF-GBM models in predicting important WWTP variables such as Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), Ammonia (NH₃), and Phosphorus (P). Several feature selection (FS) methods were employed to identify the most influential WWTP variables. To enhance ML models’ interpretability and to understand the impact of variables on prediction, two widely used explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) methods-Local Interpretable Model-Agnostic Explanations (LIME) and SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) were investigated in the study. Results derived from FS and XAI methods were compared to explore their reliability. The ML model performance results revealed that ANN, GBM, XGBoost, and RF-GBM have great potential for variable prediction with low error rates and strong correlation coefficients such as R2 value of 1 on the training set and 0.98 on the test set. The study also revealed that XAI methods identify common influential variables in each model’s prediction. This is a novel attempt to get an overview of both LIME and SHAP explanations on ML models for a WWTP variable prediction.
Comparative Study on the Applicability of Solid Waste Treatment by Fixed Grate and Fluidized Bed Incinerators: A Bibliometric Review
Authors: de Sousa Ana Teresa Rodrigues , Wolski Gustavo Coxev , Gonçalves Max Filipe Silva , Mol Marcos Paulo Gomes
Published: October 2024

Using thermal treatment in the waste management process has advantages such as reducing volume and the possibility of energy recovery. There are several incineration technologies with different characteristics and potential. Incineration, however, requires efficient environmental control to reduce associated risks, such as the emission of harmful compounds. The paper aims to compare solid waste treatment processes in grate and fluidized bed incinerators based on technical and environmental characteristics. For this purpose, a bibliometric review was conducted, and consulting works available in the scientific literature describe the waste treatment process with these two technologies. The searches were carried out in the Web of Science and Web of Knowledge databases using the following search engines: “fixed grade incinerator,” “grate incinerator” and “fluidized bed incinerator”. Grate incinerators present a range of elective waste for treatment compared to fluidized bed incinerators, as they do not require homogeneous waste. The study compared solid waste incineration in fixed grate and fluidized bed furnaces. While promising for sludge treatment, the fluidized bed technology may require pre-treatment, increasing costs and limiting its use to larger facilities. Fixed grate furnaces can handle a wider variety of waste without this additional step but generate more halogenated compounds when plastic waste is present. These technologies were primarily studied in Asia and Europe, where landfill space is limited and more significant potential for energy recovery exists. Adopting these technologies in other regions depends on waste characteristics, economic conditions, and environmental impacts.