Nature Research Articles

Calibration and optimal transport approaches for harmonizing survey weights

Abstract Originally, the construction of weighting systems to estimate parameters of interest in survey data does not depend on the variables of interest. However, recent research raises questions about the practice of using specific weighting systems for each variable of interest, thus deviating from the universal nature of the weights proposed by survey data processing methods. This article examines the challenge of harmonizing weights for variables with different weighting systems in survey data processing, by presenting and comparing two methods: one that creates a common weight for both variables using the calibration method, and one that uses optimal transport to match the variables. A simulation study is carried out to evaluate the performance of these methods in different sampling scenarios and with continuous and categorical variables. The results of the simulation study show that the optimal transport method for weight harmonization can provide accurate parameter estimates in different scenarios, particularly in situations where disparities between sample and population distributions are large. It therefore appears to be a more versatile solution.

The universal nature of performers’ rights under EU law <br> (a note on Case C-265/19, <i>Recorded Artists ActorsPerformers v Phonographic Performance Ireland</i>)

The universal nature of performers’ rights under EU law <br> (a note on Case C-265/19, <i>Recorded Artists ActorsPerformers v Phonographic Performance Ireland</i>)

The Concept of Equal and Indivisible Security in Eurasia: A Theoretical Analysis

The article analyses the practical feasibility of building an architecture of equal and indivisible security in Eurasia and identifies the main factors obstructing the realisation of this goal. The analysis is based on the results of the All-Russian Winter Online School “International Conflicts and Global Security”, which was held from 4 to 6 February 2024 at the North-West Institute of Management – branch of the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration.Aim. To identify and summarise the empirical and theoretical limitations of the concept of indivisible security in the context of building an inclusive and sustainable security architecture in Eurasia.Methods. The methods of scientific discussion followed by theoretical analysis of the materials of the All-Russian Winter Online School “International Conflicts and Global Security” were applied.Results. In the course of the study it became possible to identify several promising directions of Russian scientific discussion on equal and indivisible security in Eurasia. First, the study of global factors, such as the dynamics and characteristics of contemporary international conflicts, as well as the role and impact of new technologies on society and interstate relations. Second, discussing the possibilities and prospects for Russia’s co-operation with the states of Eurasia and other continents within the framework of a more inclusive Greater Eurasian Partnership.Conclusions. The study shows that the formation of equal and indivisible security in Eurasia is hampered by a number of empirical and theoretical limitations. Empirical difficulties include the continuing growth of conflicts in the world, dynamic events, the absence of a world order, the prevalence of competing interests and fundamental differences between the approaches of European and Eurasian powers to building a new world order. A kind of “black swan” is digital technologies, which can both increase the efficiency of public administration and generate more rigid forms of social control and reproduce insecurity. The theoretical limitations include the contradiction between the universalist nature of the concept of indivisible security and the idea of its local application, i.e. in the Eurasian space. The state-centrism of the concept, as well as the difficulty of implementing indivisible security in the absence of “indivisible justice” in the relations of sovereign states are also significant difficulties. The authors of the article conclude that despite these shortcomings, this concept has practical potential and is one of the promising projects for building a new world order.

Using fecal microbiota transplantation for animal health (review)

Fecal microbiota transplantation is a procedure when fecal matter from a healthy donor is administered into the intestinal tract of a recipient in order to restore microbial balance and strengthen immune responses. Mainly, fecal microbiota transplantation increases bacterial diversity and facilitates a growth in beneficial microorganisms. Thus, the procedure makes it possible to stabilize and maintain a healthy gut microbiome that inhibits the pathogen growth. In veterinary medicine, fecal microbiota transplantation is considered as a potential alternative to traditional antibiotics amid rising antibiotic resistance. Despite the lack of commonly accepted procedures, studies show that the fecal microbiota transplantation for the purposes of veterinary medicine can be used for a wide range of tasks: starting from disease prevention to immunomodulation. This review is devoted to the use of fecal microbiota transplantation for different animal species. An analysis of scientific literature suggests that most researches into the topic describe the use of fecal microbiota transplantation as a method to treat diarrhea, which is a common disorder in animals. Interestingly, the technique has been successfully used to treat canine atopic dermatitis and monitor age-related changes in fish, thus, confirming the universal nature of this procedure. There are research projects when fecal microbiota transplantation demonstrated only partial effectiveness or no effectiveness at all. Scientific evidence suggests that the effectiveness of fecal microbiota transplantation depends on the delivery route and the donor, and the first factor may have a different impact on the therapy effectiveness depending on the animal species under study. The impact of the second factor on the success of transplantation has been most widely studied for calves. Further research is needed into effects of fecal microbiota transplantation on different animals and standards need to be developed to support large-scale and safe use of the technique for animals.

Exploring the Pervasive Issue of Stress among Students: A Comprehensive Bibliometric Analysis Examining Trends, Contributing Factors and Coping Mechanisms in Academic Settings

This research undertakes a meticulous bibliometric analysis, delving into the expansive terrain of stress among students within academic settings. Utilizing the Scopus database, this study scrutinizes publications from 2019 to 2023 to unravel prevailing trends, contributing factors, and coping mechanisms associated with student stress. The discernible upward trajectory in publication volume across these years attests to the growing scholarly interest and the increasing acknowledgment of the significance of understanding and addressing student stress within the academic community. Top-cited articles have been meticulously examined, providing crucial insights into the psychological ramifications of the pandemic on student populations. An exhaustive exploration of the most active source titles sheds light on the prolific outlets contributing to the scholarly discourse on this pervasive issue. Additionally, a nuanced investigation into authorship patterns reveals an intriguing shift from predominantly single author works to collaborative efforts, indicative of an evolving trend toward interdisciplinary research and a collective approach to understanding student stress. The global distribution of research contributions, with notable emphasis on countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, China, and Spain, underscores the universal nature of student stress and the collective commitment to addressing the challenges it poses. Furthermore, a detailed keyword analysis brings forth critical terms such as "Covid-19" and "female," reflecting a contemporary and inclusive approach to comprehending stress within diverse contexts and populations. In conclusion, this study not only synthesizes existing knowledge but also provides a roadmap for future research directions, thereby informing educators, policymakers, and mental health professionals. As student stress continues to evolve, this comprehensive bibliometric analysis serves as a valuable and expansive resource, contributing significantly to the ongoing discourse and efforts aimed at fostering healthier academic environments and enhancing student well-being.

Flourishing, Cinematic Self, and Sense of Self as Predictors of Death Anxiety: A Gender-Invariant Model.

This research delved into the intricate landscape of death anxiety, a profound psychological phenomenon that deeply influences individuals' perceptions and responses to mortality. Through a meticulous examination of key psychological factors - flourishing, cinematic self, and sense of self - we aimed to unravel the complexities surrounding this existential concern. With a diverse sample of 327 Portuguese participants, our study sheds light on the significant role these constructs play in shaping individuals' experiences of death anxiety. Notably, we highlight the profound impact of a robust sense of self in mitigating anxiety levels. Additionally, our exploration of gender dynamics revealed consistent patterns across diverse groups, underscoring the universal nature of these psychological processes. By providing a nuanced understanding of death anxiety and its determinants, our study offers valuable insights for the development of tailored interventions aimed at alleviating psychological distress and promoting well-being in individuals facing existential concerns.

Analogical Reasoning in Tax Law – Selected Issues

Reasoning by analogy is well known in many branches of the law. Nevertheless, in the case of tax law, it is still a live and controversial issue. The application of reasoning per analogiam deals with a dilemma typical of the law and is of great value for practice. It is rare to find legal provisions on the admissibility of the use of analogy in the process of tax law interpretation. Owing to the universal nature of this method of inference, it is possible to analyse and draw conclusions regarding its applicability in the national legal orders of continental legal systems. As part of the analysis, the authors present arguments for and against the use of analogy in tax law. Subsequently, the analysis covers selected legal regulations in which the legislator has or has not explicitly referred to the permissibility of the use of analogy in tax law. This section deals in particular with the regulations of Brazil, Spain, Germany, Poland, and Portugal. The authors have also pointed out the distinctiveness of the appropriate application of the legislation and the application of analogy. The article also includes an analysis of selected Belgian, Czech, Polish, and German rulings. The study based on the above leads to the conclusion of a diverse approach to analogy. The research identifies areas of permissibility for the use of analogy in tax law. The authors made use of the comparative and dogmatic-legal methods.

REIMAGINING ISLAMIC DISCOURSE: TOWARDS A GLOBAL ETHICAL FRAMEWORK FOR CONTEMPORARY LEADERSHIP

In relation to current issues facing global civilisations, there is a crucial need to highlight the Islamic paradigm in dealing with such challenges. This study explores the necessity of encouraging Islamic dialogue to promote stronger connections and involvement with worldwide cultures. This research explores how ethical leadership in Islamic thinking might help create a more inclusive, compassionate, and morally grounded global society. This study examines the fundamental principles of ethical leadership in Islam by combining classical Islamic sources, modern scholarship, and real-world case studies. The text explores the various aspects of ethical leadership, including qualities like integrity, justice, compassion, and accountability, as taught in Islamic principles and demonstrated by individuals in history. It also examines how these principles might be used to tackle current concerns that global civilisations are dealing with, such as governance, social justice, environmental protection, and interfaith cooperation. This research uses an interdisciplinary approach combining theology, philosophy, and social sciences to enhance Islamic discourse and make it relevant to many cultural and ideological perspectives. It stresses the significance of adapting Islamic ideas to modern contexts while maintaining their ethical core and universal nature. It promotes communication, collaboration, and mutual understanding among civilisations, recognising the richness and diversity of human experiences and viewpoints. This research suggests that incorporating ethical leadership into Islamic teachings has the potential to make a meaningful contribution to the shared goals of world civilisations. A collaborative effort is needed from researchers, leaders, and communities to participate in a transformational discussion that goes beyond limits, encourages empathy, and supports the common good. This will help advance the collective goal of creating a fair, peaceful, and prosperous world.

دراسة مقارنة لظاهرة أساليب التشبيه بين الشاعرين المتنبي وسعيد فَارُ

This research investigates the employment of simile as a figurative device in the poetry of the renowned Arabic poet Al-Mutanabbi and the celebrated Hausa poet Saidu Faru. By examining shared imagery and stylistic choices across these distinct linguistic and cultural contexts, this study aims to illuminate the universal nature of simile as a poetic tool. Through a comparative analysis of their works, the research explores the underlying principles of simile, its role in evoking emotional responses, and its contribution to poetic expression. The methodology involves a close reading of Al-Mutanabbi's poetry and transcription of Saidu Faru's songs, complemented by secondary sources. Comparative analysis reveals that while both poets extensively utilize similes for vivid imagery and emotional resonance, cultural context significantly influences the choice of comparative elements. Al-Mutanabbi's similes often reference desert landscapes and Arabian horses, while Saidu Faru draws inspiration from nature, agriculture, and local folklore. This study contributes to understanding the power of simile in shaping poetic expression across different cultural and linguistic traditions.

The effects of the Hand in Hand: Empowering Teachers(HAND: ET) programme on teacher burnout in Slovenia. Do experience and baseline emotional competencies matter?

As burnout affects teachers’ health and well-being, as well as their teaching understanding interventions beneficial for prevention is crucial. In this study, we explored possible predictors of the decrease in the dimensions of burnout (emotional exhaustion, physical fatigue, cognitive weariness) after the HAND: ET intervention. We used following predictors: teachers’ experience (professional experience and previous experience of activities supporting emotional competencies) and baseline emotional competencies (self-awareness (operationalised as mindfulness), and self-management (operationalised as emotional self-efficacy)). We used data gathered from the Shirom−Melamed Burnout Questionnaire, the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale, the Emotional Self-Efficacy Scale, and a set of demographic questions in a Slovene sample of in-service teachers (N = 185). Teachers’ experiences were not significant predictors of a decrease in any of the dimension of burnout, while baseline emotional competencies, were significant predictors of emotional exhaustion. The findings support the universal nature of the HAND: ET intervention as well as the importance of continuous support for teachers’ emotional competencies.

Cathodic Decomposition Reference Electrodes As a Generalized Approach for Thermodynamic Calculations in Complex Molten Salts

The rise of molten salt use in green energy applications has led to increased efforts to model and understand the underlying thermochemical properties of active species within molten salts. Molten salts can become increasingly complex during the operational lifetime through corrosion or generation of new species, resulting in changes to the thermophysical and thermodynamic properties. For example, next-generation molten salt nuclear reactors start with a binary or ternary fuel salt, but generation of fission products during operation can significantly change the behavior of active species in the salt and interactions with container materials. While processes in established molten salt electrolytes such as LiCl-KCl eutectic can use well-characterized reference electrodes such as Ag/AgCl to quantify thermochemical properties1, emerging salt systems do not have well-established reference electrode systems. Using standard reference electrodes based upon anodic electrolyte decomposition (e.g., chlorine or fluorine gas-based electrodes) introduces additional engineering and safety challenges during construction and measurement of thermochemical properties. These experimental barriers have previously limited investigation of the thermodynamics of novel molten salt systems.Here, we use cathodic decomposition electrodes (CDEs) to measure the thermochemical properties of molten salt systems. The CDE defines 0 V as the cathodic decomposition of the pure solvent electrolyte at all temperatures. A CDE was used to make activity measurements in chloride and fluoride salts. Both steady-state emf measurements in concentration cells and transient measurements were made in an electrolyte containing active species such as GdCl3 or NiF2. The universal nature of a CDE reference can improve accuracy and repeatability of activity measurements in molten salt systems and fill the knowledge gaps that prevent prediction of thermochemical and thermophysical properties in molten salt systems. L. YANG and R. G. HUDSON, “Some Investigations of the Ag∕AgCl in LiCl-KCl Eutectic Reference Electrode,” J. Electrochem. Soc. 106 11, 986 (1959); https://doi.org/10.1149/1.2427195.

Transhumanism and evolutionary psychology: a dialogue about the future of human nature

The article explores the philosophical dialogue between transhumanism and evolutionary psychology regarding the limits and consequences of the technological transformation of human nature. The growing relevance of this debate is analyzed in the context of the rapid development of genetics, nanotechnology and robotics, which open up unprecedented opportunities for changing human nature. The main provisions of transhumanism are considered, which, continuing the ideas of the Enlightenment, offers a radical vision of the future, where humanity can consciously direct its own evolution with the help of technology. The position of evolutionary psychology is highlighted, which, based on an understanding of the natural mechanisms of the development of the human species, warns against hasty intervention in a complex system of adaptive mechanisms that have been formed over millions of years. The paper analyzes in detail the works of leading representatives of both directions, including J. Huxley and Gr. Flow from the side of transhumanism, as well as critical views of F. Fukuyama and L. Kass. Special attention is paid to the research of evolutionary psychologists, who provide scientific justification for the concept of universal human nature and warn against the risks of “planned evolution”. A fundamental contradiction has been revealed between the views of transhumanists, who consider human nature as plastic and ready for technological changes, and evolutionary psychologists, who consider it a fixed reality formed by long evolution. It is emphasized that modern technologies create fundamentally new conditions for human existence that go beyond the traditional enlightened understanding of science. The study shows that although technological development of mankind has already changed our nature, further radical changes require careful consideration and study. The main problem of “planned evolution” is determined by the risk of uncontrolled acceleration of natural evolutionary processes without understanding all possible consequences.

Brute Fact Cosmology and the Fundamentality of Consciousness

What is the fundamental nature of the physical universe? This paper generates new insights into this question through examining how brute fact metaphysics intersects with our best cosmological theories of the universe’s origin. To do this, I first make the case that fundamental physical things are – by necessity – ontologically brute. Ontological bruteness, I maintain, provides a rationale for the counterfactual claim that there is no reason why a fundamental has one physical identity rather than another. The paper then gives an overview of modern cosmology. This empirically oriented analysis is enjoined to a metaphysical argument that – since science’s candidate fundamentals are impermissibly complex – we can appeal to brute fact metaphysics to meaningfully entertain the possibility of simpler fundamentals. The paper then investigates a particular simple fundamental I take to be most plausible: consciousness (understood as the intrinsic nature of matter). This discussion draws on cosmic-level evolution and panpsychism. While I remain agnostic about whether consciousness’ instantiation in fundamental-level physics and cosmology will be empirically verified, the paper draws attention to a number of emerging experimental paradigms that can – at least in principle – contribute to this project.

Latent Profiles of Passion and Categories of University Students' Passionate Activities: Difficulties in the Empirical Systematisation of Passion

ABSTRACTBoth classical and contemporary definitions of education emphasise the development of learners and the discovery of their potential. The period of systemic education at all stages is an opportunity to seek this potential both at school and outside it. These are the circumstances of the development of abilities, interests and passions. In the educational process and in the modern world, the most valued are people who are creative, entrepreneurial, open to new experiences and have a passion—since it provides energy, gives wings, is a source of a sense of freedom and meaning and helps maintain well‐being. This study aimed to explore passion profiles, considering their dimensions and categories, and the respondents' field of study and gender, in a sample of Polish university students (n = 2720). The online Self‐Report Passion Inventory (SRPI) was used. Cluster analysis identified three latent profiles, differentiated by the perceived benefits of passion, its origin and its balance with other life activities. In addition, we identified categories of passionate activities typical of each profile. Field of study and gender were represented in similar ways in the distinguished profiles, indicating the universal nature of passion. The qualitative analysis of the results revealed potential reasons for the difficulties respondents experienced while categorising passionate activities.

Workplace violence against healthcare workers in Türkiye: Experiences, opinions, and suggestions

Workplace violence against healthcare workers is a complex issue with significant implications for the safety and wellbeing of professionals in the healthcare sector. Drawing on data from 136 participants across Türkiye, this study explores the prevalence, forms, impacts, and management strategies of workplace violence in healthcare settings. The demographic characteristics of the participants reveal a diverse composition of healthcare workers affected by workplace violence, highlighting the universal nature of the issue. Verbal abuse emerges as a predominant form of violence, ranging from insults and threats to humiliation, while instances of physical violence pose grave risks to healthcare professionals. The study also underscores the inadequacy of support systems within healthcare institutions and the legal system, exacerbating the distress experienced by healthcare workers. Strategies for managing workplace violence include internal coping mechanisms, peer support, and institutional intervention, underscoring the need for comprehensive training programs and enhanced institutional protocols. Recommendations for prevention encompass a multifaceted approach involving enhanced security measures, support systems, and policy reforms at various levels. The study concludes with a call to action for concerted efforts to address workplace violence against healthcare workers, emphasizing the importance of targeted interventions to ensure the safety and well-being of professionals in their workplace. These findings provide valuable insights into the complexities of workplace violence in healthcare settings and highlight the urgent need for action to address this pressing issue.

Інституційне забезпечення екологічної резильєнтності

Current issues of the formation of a modern system of institutional support of resilience based on the ecological component in Ukraine are considered. Attention is focused on the development of conceptual methodological postulates aimed at creating an effective institutional environment for sustainable and resilient nature management. The purpose of the article is the formation of a modern institutional environment for nature management, which will be based on an effective combination of formal and informal institutions, which will directly or indirectly, with the help of appropriate tools, ensure the involvement of natural resources in economic circulation. The research was conducted using a complex of general scientific and special methods, which made it possible to ensure the conceptual integrity and reliability of the obtained results. With the help of abstract logical analysis method, conceptual methodological postulates on institutional support for the sustainability of resilient nature management were formed. Structural and functional analysis is used to study the functional features of institutions within the framework of resilient spatial development. Based on the modeling method, a scheme for the distribution of institutional tools by components of ensuring resilience in the natural resource sphere was developed, and the relationships between these tools were identified and visualized. The novelty of the work consists in the development of an algorithm for the implementation of institutional transformations regarding the management of territorial entities’ resilience (in terms of natural-resource / ecological component) taking into account the European experience of municipal management of spatial development. The principles of institutional transformations in resilience management, which are of a universal nature, have been improved with an interpretation in the field of natural-resource (ecological) relations. Attention is focused on the importance of forming multi-subject corporate structures of territorial development management using modern platform mechanisms. This approach makes it possible to balance the interests of various stakeholders — the state, local self-government bodies, businesses and the population, and, accordingly, to ensure a consensus regarding the directions of resilient development of territorial entities. The article also examines the issue of consolidation of financial resources in the natural and economic sphere and the mechanisms of their effective use to achieve the goals of resilient development. Innovative approaches to the management of natural resources are proposed, including their capitalization and involvement in economic circulation, taking into account environmental limitations. Conclusions have been made regarding promising directions for further research in this field, including the development of specific mechanisms for implementing relevant institutional transformations, evaluating their effectiveness in various regions of Ukraine, as well as studying the possibilities of adapting international resilience management experience to Ukrainian realities.

Why English Legal Discourse is Difficult to Understand

To date, language complexity has come to the fore of modern linguistic research, which is related to scientific discussion of similarity / difference in the degree of complexity between various languages. There is general agreement among various linguists that it rests on a great number of parameters, which is the result of the lack of uniform knowledge about this relatively novel linguistic phenomenon. Under any circumstances, though the dichotomy principle underlies several approaches to the definition of complexity, i.e. it can be absolute (objective) and relational (subjective); systemic (paradigmatic) and structural (syntagmatic); the universal three-dimensional nature of language can serve as the guiding principle for the analysis of complexity parameters in any type of discourse. Thus, the paper highlights the lexical, syntactic and pragmatic parameters of English legal discourse (LD) language complexity based on the generally accepted semiotic triad. These elaborations are also complemented by the deployment of the research framework consisting of three models “language-communicator”, “language-language” and “language-discourse” which, though initially designed for different purposes, can as well be successfully applied to the study of language parameters as factors stipulating the language complexity of LD. The given models are illustrated by the relevant examples of legal and juridical nature.

Human Right to Court in the Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms

The right to a fair trial has become a right of a universal nature. The idea of human rights is closely related to universal and equal treatment of all people, which means respecting the personal dignity of man. This dignity, as a condition for the individual to belong to the human species, constitutes the foundation, the basis for human rights, and the purpose, the culmination of the construction of these rights. The right to a fair trial is a subjective right of the individual, understood as an idea that any intervention in civil rights must depend on a ruling issued by an independent and impartial judicial body. On the other hand, the material scope of the right to court covers penal, civil and administrative rights decided upon by different courts according to their statutorily determined extent of jurisdiction. Although human rights are the rights of a particular human being, their protection is also an obligation of the State. It is the State which is obligated to ensure that the core of a specific human right is protected. This protection must be effective, thus not only does it apply to the content of the human right concerned, but it also comprises the procedure necessary to protect it so that the right is not illusory. The unique nature of the right to court makes it essential that the administration of justice in accordance with the principle of the right to a fair trial should be the subject of adjudication by courts and tribunals.

The Sublime of Consciousness

Abstract The aesthetic tradition has identified as paradigmatically sublime such objects as imposing mountains and intense storms, as well as monumental art. But the tradition also acknowledges less paradigmatic cases, including sometimes mathematical structures or abstract concepts. In this paper, we argue that there is also a case for considering phenomenal consciousness—the experiential quality of subjective awareness—as a sublime phenomenon. One appreciates this, we argue, when one is struck by (fitting) awe upon contemplating (a) the perplexing existence of something like phenomenal consciousness in an otherwise completely material universe and (b) the role of consciousness in injecting meaning and value in an otherwise brutally factual reality.

Принцип конфиденциальности в системе принципов гражданского и арбитражного процессов

The article deals with the problem of implementing the principle of confidentiality in the system of fundamental principles of civil and arbitration proceedings. The author proceeds from the universal nature of the principles of the civil process, according to which they must be embodied at each stage and stage of legal proceedings. The principle of publicity of the civil and arbitration process is analyzed, it is given the utmost importance to ensure the “transparency” of justice, the implementation of the request of civil society to participate in the administration of justice. The principle of confidentiality is considered as one of the beginnings of the private law sphere (for example, arbitration), is understood as the antithesis of publicity. The inclusion of the principle of confidentiality in the area of the civil process is associated with the introduction of the institute of judicial conciliation procedure into the procedural area. It is shown that the judicial conciliation procedure is a part of the civil procedural and arbitration procedural forms, due to which the principle of publicity cannot but apply to it. Proposals are made to improve the institution of judicial conciliation in terms of limiting its confidentiality and expanding the legal status of a judicial conciliator.