bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Series of Adenosine Analogs as the First Efficacious Anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 Drugs against the B.1.1.529.4 Lineage: A Preclinical Repurposing Research Study
Authors: Rabie Amgad M. , Abdalla Mohnad
Published: December 2022

Given the rapid progression of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, an ultrafast response was urgently required to handle this major public crisis. To contain the pandemic, investments are required to develop diagnostic tests, prophylactic vaccines, and novel therapies. Lately, nucleoside analog (NA) antivirals topped the scene as top options for the treatment of COVID‐19 caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infections. Meanwhile, the continuous generation of new lineages of the SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron variant caused a new challenge in the persistent COVID‐19 battle. Hitting the two crucial SARS‐CoV‐2 enzymes RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) and 3’‐to‐5’ exoribonuclease (ExoN) collectively together using only one single ligand is a very successful new approach to stop SARS‐CoV‐2 multiplication and combat COVID‐19 irrespective of the SARS‐CoV‐2 variant type because RdRps and ExoNs are broadly conserved among all SARS‐CoV‐2 strains. Herein, the current comprehensive study investigated most NAs libraries, searching for the most ideal drug candidates expectedly able to perfectly act through this double tactic. Gradual computational filtration gave rise to six different promising NAs, which are riboprine, forodesine, tecadenoson, nelarabine, vidarabine, and maribavir, respectively. Further biological assessment proved for the first time, using the in vitro anti‐RdRp/ExoN and anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 bioassays, that riboprine and forodesine, among all the six tested NAs, are able to powerfully inhibit the replication of the new virulent strains of SARS‐CoV‐2 with extremely minute in vitro anti‐RdRp and anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 EC50 values of about 0.22 and 0.49 μM for riboprine and about 0.25 and 0.73 μM for forodesine, respectively, surpassing both remdesivir and the new anti‐COVID‐19 drug molnupiravir. The prior in silico data supported these biochemical findings, suggesting that riboprine and forodesine molecules strongly hit the key catalytic pockets of the SARS‐CoV‐2 (Omicron variant) RdRp′s and ExoN′s main active sites. Additionally, the ideal pharmacophoric features of riboprine and forodesine molecules render them typical dual‐action inhibitors of SARS‐CoV‐2 replication and proofreading, with their relatively flexible structures open for diverse types of chemical derivatization. In Brief, the current important results of this comprehensive study revealed the interesting repurposing potentials of, mainly, the two nucleosides riboprine and forodesine to effectively shut down the polymerase/exoribonuclease‐RNA nucleotides interactions of the SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron variant and consequently treat COVID‐19 infections, motivating us to rapidly begin the two drugs′ broad preclinical/clinical anti‐COVID‐19 bioevaluations, hoping to combine both drugs soon in the COVID‐19 treatment protocols.
Ability of Shirasu‐based Material for Adsorption of Metal Ions and Its Promotion for Catalytic Decomposition of Nitrous Oxide
Authors: Umegaki Tetsuo , Noguchi Daisuke , Fukumoto Tsubasa
Published: December 2022

This work investigated ability of Shirasu‐based material for adsorption of metal ions and their promotion effect for catalytic decomposition of nitrous oxide. Catalytically active cobalt and copper species were adsorbed on the Shirasu‐based material by immerse process of aqueous matal solutions. In all the Co/Cu ratios (Co/(Co+Cu)=1, 0.75, and 0.5), cobalt species were preferentially adsorbed on the Shirasu‐based material. The cobalt species tended to be adsorbed on the silica sites of the sample with Co/(Co+Cu)=0.75. and the catalyst exhibited the highest activity for decomposition of nitrous oxide. Introduced nitrous oxide was completely decomposed at the reaction temperatures above 673 K.
Bismuth Oxychloride Nanoparticles: Deep Eutectic Solvent Assisted Synthesis and Application in an Electrochemical Nickel Sensor
Authors: Rahmati Neda , Rahimnejad Mostafa , Pourali S. Masoomeh , Muallah Shatha K.
Published: December 2022

A safe, green, and cost‐effective procedure is introduced for synthesizing bismuth oxychloride (BiOCl) nanoparticles as an alternative to the time‐consuming ones with hazardous chemicals. In this regard, BiOCl was synthesized in both nanoplates and nanoflowers morphologies employing choline chloride: a urea‐based deep eutectic solvent, as a green solvent through the popular solvothermal and anion exchange synthesis approach. Accordingly, nano‐flowers and nano‐plates of BiOCl were synthesized by exposing {010} and {001} facets, respectively, while different characterization techniques showed excellent patterns and high purity of the synthesized nanoparticles. They are exploited as electrode modifiers for fabricating a high‐performance electrochemical nickel ion sensor to control the quality of water, and industrial waste liquor concentrates. The adsorption stripping voltammetry technique revealed that the electrode used for nickel detection with BiOCl nano‐plates was more sensitive than with BiOCl nano‐flowers. To achieve optimal electrochemical values for the proposed sensor, variables interactions are investigated using the central composite design method. The limit of detection, the electron transfer coefficient, and the number of transferred electrons were obtained to be 0.26 μm, 0.166, and 1, respectively. Evaluating the sensor application in the presence of other heavy metal cations showed its promising capability of nickel ion detection in real samples.
A DFT Study on the Mechanism of Active Species in Selective Photocatalytic Oxidation of Toluene into Benzaldehyde on (WO3)3 Clusters
Authors: Wang Bin , Ding Yu‐Feng , Yin Shuang‐Feng , Cai Meng‐Qiu
Published: December 2022

It is of great significance to transform toluene into value‐added aldehydes under mild conditions, but the oxidation mechanism is still unclear, which seriously hinders the development of this direction. To reveal the nature of photocatalytic reaction, we studied the reaction mechanism of photocatalytic selective oxidation of toluene into benzaldehyde (BAD) on (WO3)3 clusters by density functional theory calculation, and analyzed the effect of active species on the reaction, including electrons, holes, dissolved oxygen (O2), superoxide radical anions (⋅O2−), hydroxyl radicals (⋅OH) and hydroperoxyl radicals (⋅OOH). The results show that ⋅OH and ⋅OOH play a major role in the reaction, from which we summarized two main pathways for BAD production. The direct oxidation of toluene to BAD is dominated by ⋅OOH and has higher selectivity. The oxidation process dominated by ⋅OH first converts toluene to benzyl alcohol (BA), and then BA continues to be oxidized to BAD. This path is more thermally advantageous because the dehydration energy barrier of C6H5CHOHOH (IM5) (22.3 kcal mol−1) is lower than that of C6H5CH2OOH (IM2) (42.9 kcal mol−1). However, the selectivity of this path is low because ⋅OH and holes can easily oxidize BAD to benzoic acid. Notably, water molecules reduced the energy barrier for dehydration of IM2 and IM5 by 12.4 kcal mol−1 and 13.0 kcal mol−1, respectively. The results elucidate the mechanism of free radicals involved in the photocatalytic reaction at molecular level.
Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Some Benzothiazolone Derivatives as Cholinesterase Inhibitors
Authors: Alagöz Mehmet Abdullah , Akkaya Didem , Arslan Gülnur , Uludağ Berk , Özdemir Zeynep , Barut Burak , Önkol Tijen , Sari Suat
Published: December 2022

In this study, nine new benzothiazolone derivatives (6 a–i) were designed and synthesized to identify potent cholinesterase inhibitors. The compounds were tested in vitro against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) and found to be selective to BChE. Compound 6 f proved the most potent derivative (IC50=12.25±0.23 μM) against BChE and was identified as a mixed‐type inhibitor with a Ki value of 4.45±0.35 μM according to the kinetic studies. Molecular modelling suggested that the derivatives were druglike and non‐PAINS. Compound 6 f showed good fit in BChE active site interacting with the key sites important for enzyme activity according to the molecular docking study.
An Electrochemical Sensor for Molnupiravir Based on a Metal‐Organic Framework Composited with Poly(3,4‐ethylene dioxythiophene): Poly(styrene sulfonate)
Authors: Erk Nevin , Bouali Wiem , Mehmandoust Mohammad , Soylak Mustafa
Published: December 2022

Herein, a novel composite based on Cu3(BTC)2 and poly (3, 4‐ethylene dioxythiophene): poly (styrene sulfonate) with ethylene glycol was successfully synthesized and then modified on the glassy carbon electrode (Cu‐BTC@EG‐PEDOT : PSS/GCE) to detect Molnupiravir (MPV) as an anti‐covid drug. The as‐prepared electrode effectively enhanced the electron transfer between the electrode and the analyte, leading to a more sensitive response in the MPV oxidation under optimum conditions. Under the optimum conditions, the developed electrochemical sensor has the advantages in terms of a wide linear dynamic range (0.1 up to 63.3 μM) and a low detection limit (0.0713 μM) as well as high selectivity in the presence of several interferences. The newly developed sensor was applied to accurately determine MPV in trace amounts in both environmental and pharmaceutical samples, indicating satisfactory recoveries in the range from 98.30 to 101.41 % for capsules and 96.20 to 104.67 % for river water. The developed sensor demonstrated an excellent electrochemical response for MPV determination owing to the synergistic effects between metal‐organic frameworks and a conductive polymer. Hence, the present sensor holds great promise for identifying and quantifying antiviral drugs and extends the application of MOF composites in sensing applications.
Regioselective Hydrothiolation of Allenoates through a Ca(OTf)2‐Promoted Three‐Component Reaction
Authors: Abdi Aida , Hosseini S. Sina , Nikbakht Ali , Bijanzadeh Hamid Reza , Rominger Frank , Balalaie Saeed
Published: December 2022

An approach to synthesize α‐substituted alkene derivatives via calcium‐promoted hydrothiolation of allenoates is described. Employing diverse allenoates, and amines, a library of α‐substituted alkenes is obtained with great regioselectivity and good to high yields. The reaction proceeds through the nucleophilic addition of in‐situ generated dithiocarbamates to allenoates in a rapid mild method using an eco‐friendly metal promoter.
A Reduced ‐ Graphene ‐ Oxide Entrapped CuCo2S4 Nano‐Array for High‐performance Supercapacitor Electrode
Authors: Konwar Madhabi , Mahanta Baishali , Patar Shyamalee , Saikia Pranjal , Guha Ankur Kanti , Borthaku Lakhya Jyoti
Published: December 2022

A low temperature and facile solvothermal method was used to synthesise CuCo2S4 ‐ reduced Graphene Oxide (CuCo2S4‐rGO) composite. Nearly uniform anchoring of rGO was achieved which could prevent the agglomeration of CuCo2S4 effectively. Incorporation of CuCo2S4 within the graphene network has effectively reduced the restacking of the nanolayers, increased its surface area and augmented the electrochemical performance of the composite. Supercapacitor electrode fabricated from this composite exhibit excellent electrochemical stability upto 5000 repeated galvanostatic charge discharge cycle. The calculated specific capacitance value, from galvanostatic charge discharge, for the electrode is 1090 F ⋅ g−1 at 1 A ⋅ g−1. The material exhibits 992 F ⋅ g−1 specific capacitance even at elevated current density as high as 5 A ⋅ g−1 implying superior electrochemical stability. At 1 A ⋅ g−1 current density the material has energy density of 54.5 Wh ⋅ kg−1 with power density 543.94 W⋅kg−1 respectively. The electro‐kinetic study reveals that the material stores 69.35 % of total capacitance via capacitive controlled process.
Microwave‐Assisted Tandem Copper‐Catalyzed Three‐Component Reaction for Synthesis of 2‐Iminopyrans
Authors: Pasumpon Kamaraj , Mahendran Vaithiyanathan , Shanmugam Sivakumar
Published: December 2022

The iminopyrans were synthesized by the CuAAC‐MCR approach, the coupling of enaminones, phenyl acetylenes, and sulfonyl, under microwave treatment. The mechanism of the formation of iminopyrans along with amidine has been studied in detail. Experiments to minimize amidine formation were explored, and unfortunately, these experiments were unsuccessful. Molar equivalents of enaminones, phenyl acetylenes, and sulfonyl were optimized to increase the yield of iminopyran. Fluorescent properties of iminopyrans were characterized using Frontier molecular orbital analysis, UV absorption, and emission studies.
Solid Acid Catalyst Derived from Cotton for Conversion of Xylose and Corn Cob to Furfural
Authors: Yang Xiufang , Guo Haishun , Cao Xiaomei , Ma Yangmin , Wang Weitao , Guo Nianwen
Published: December 2022

Carbon‐based solid acid catalysts (CS−SO3H) were prepared by one‐pot carbonization‐sulfonation method with concentrated sulfuric acid using cotton as raw material, which was used to transformation of xylose and corn cob to furfural. The catalyst preparation conditions were optimized to be that the cotton mass/sulfuric acid volume ratio is 1 : 20 (g/mL), and the reaction is carried out at 160 °C for 10 h. The morphology, functional groups and surface chemical state were investigated. The yield of furfural can reach 87.3 % from xylose under the optimal reaction condition of 0.1 g xylose, 0.05 g catalyst, 180 °C for 90 min in 5.0 mL γ‐valerolactone‐water solvent. The yield of furfural can reach 63.2 % by the direct one‐pot conversion of corn cob over the CS−SO3H under the optimal reaction condition of 0.1 g corn cob, 0.1 g catalyst, 190 °C for 90 min in 5.0 mL γ‐valerolactone‐water solvent. The catalytic activity gradually declined when it was cycled for four times. The reason was determined to be the partial shedding of the sulfonic acid groups grafted on the catalyst during the reaction and insoluble humus accumulated on the catalyst surface. After regeneration, the catalytic activity can be restored.
Protonation and Sulfidation of [(Me3tacn)MO3] (M=Mo, W)
Authors: Cheng Yao , Xu Qian Y. , Qian Bing F. , Zhang Cai X. , Jia Ai Q. , Zhang Qian F.
Published: December 2022

Protonation of [(Me3tacn)MoO3] with one or two equivalents of strong proton acid afforded mono‐protonated complex [(Me3tacn)MoVIO2(OH)](CF3SO3) and bi‐protonated complex [(Me3tacn)MoVIO(OH)2](PF6)2, respectively. Sulfidation with iPr2NCS2Na or CS2 in acetonitrile, followed by in situ protonation of [(Me3tacn)MO3] (M=Mo, W), produced two monomeric complexes [(Me3tacn)MoVIO2S] ⋅ (iPr2NH2) ⋅ (PF6) ⋅ CH2Cl2 and [(Me3tacn)WVIO2S], and two dimeric complexes [(Me3tacn)MoVO(μ‐S)2MoVO(κ2‐S2C=O)] ⋅ CH3CN and [(Me3tacn)MoIVO]2(μ‐O)(μ‐S2) ⋅ 2DMF. The crystal structures of the two protonated molybdenum(VI) complexes and the four oxo‐sulfido molybdenum/tungsten complexes have been determined. Moreover, the complexes have been characterized by infrared, Raman, fluorescence and UV‐vis spectroscopies. (Me3tacn=1,4,7‐trimethyl‐1,4,7‐triazacyclonane).
Construction of Unusual Amino Acid derivatives and Bis‐Fused Oxacycles via Ring‐Closing Metathesis
Authors: Kotha Sambasivarao , Solanke Balaji U.
Published: December 2022

Benzofurans and benzoxepines are key structural elements present in several natural products and medicinally important targets. Here, we describe an easy‐to‐execute strategy for the synthesis of benzofurans and benzoxepines, by employing Claisen rearrangement and ring‐closing metathesis (RCM) as key steps. Amino acid L‐tyrosine and 1,8‐dihydroxy‐anthraquinone were converted into modified oxacycles in good yields. The RCM approach has been used to produce bis‐fused benzofuran, bis‐fused benzoxepine, and unusual α‐amino acid (AAA) derivatives containing heterocyclic units. Unusual AAA derivatives are among the most important source for new peptide drugs and these AAA derivatives containing oxacycles are useful in designing many natural and unnatural products. Bis‐fused benzofuran and bis‐fused benzoxepine derivatives were also synthesized by the application of double Claisen rearrangement and two‐directional RCM as key steps starting with 1,8‐dihydroxy anthraquinone.
Synthesis of 2,4‐dihydrochromeno[3,4‐d][1,2,3]triazoles and 5‐(2H‐chromen‐3‐yl)‐1H‐tetrazoles via regioselective 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition of 2H‐chromene‐3‐carbonitriles with NaN3
Authors: Mishra Deepak R. , Panda Bhabani S. , Ahemad Mohammed A. , Nayak Sabita , Mohapatra Seetaram
Published: December 2022

Conjugated cyano cyclo‐olefins modified as highly regioselective dipolarophiles in 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition with NaN3 to synthesize corresponding fused 1,2,3‐triazole and 1H‐tetrazole derivatives. The first example of catalytic 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition of NaN3 with 2H‐chromene‐3‐carbonitriles and subsequent elimination/cyclization of cyano functionality is designated. In presence of catalytic amount of p‐TSA or AgNO3, 2H‐chromene‐3‐carbonitriles react with NaN3 discretely producing 2,4‐dihydrochromeno[3,4‐d][1,2,3]triazoles or 5‐(2H‐chromen‐3‐yl)‐1H‐tetrazoles respectively, in good to excellent yields (i. e. 51–88 % or 85–97 %) with high regioselectivity and wide substrate scope adequacy.
Synthesis of New β‐Amino Acid Scaffolds by Means of Ring‐Rearrangement Metathesis
Authors: Semghouli Anas , Remete Attila M. , Kiss Loránd
Published: December 2022

The synthesis of some novel functionalized azaheterocyclic β‐amino esters with multiple chiral centers via a stereocontrolled synthetic route has been carried out using some cyclooctene β‐amino acids as starting model compounds. The strategy of the method was planned to create some novel unsaturated N‐protected cyclic β‐amino esters that were subjected to ring‐opening metathesis (ROM) followed by selective ring‐closing metathesis (RCM). A number of experimental conditions were accomplished to investigate the activity of catalysts, yields, conversions, and substrate effect on ring‐rearrangement metathesis (RRM) transformation. Importantly, the procedure used in this synthetic process does not affect the configuration of the chiral centers; therefore, the stereochemistry of the starting cyclooctadiene β‐amino acids predetermined the structure of the new azaheterocyclic derivatives.
Bemessungsmodell für Kopfbolzen als Verbundmittel unter zusätzlicher Zugbeanspruchung
Authors: Kuhlmann Ulrike , Stempniewski Lena , Ziwes Maximilian , Ruopp Jakob
Published: December 2022

Kopfbolzen werden als Verbundmittel in der Verbundfuge zwischen Stahl und Beton primär auf Schub beansprucht. Folglich wurde zunächst in den Bemessungsregeln eine Zugbeanspruchung der Kopfbolzen nicht explizit berücksichtigt. Im Fall von Konstruktionen mit randnahen Kopfbolzen, wie z. B. im Verbundbrückenbau, werden die Kopfbolzen u. U. zusätzlich auf Zug beansprucht. Für randnahe Kopfbolzen wird in aktuellen Bemessungsregeln ein durch eine Zugbeanspruchung verursachtes mögliches Versagen durch Herausziehen durch Vorgabe von verschiedenen geometrischen Randbedingungen verhindert, sodass rechnerisch teilweise sehr lange Kopfbolzen erforderlich sind, was zu unwirtschaftlichen oder nicht praktikablen Einbindelängen der Kopfbolzen führt. Da inzwischen für die Regelungen der Befestigungstechnik mit DIN EN 1992‐4 eine eigene europäische Norm existiert, bezieht sich der kommende Eurocode 4 bei der Bemessung zugbeanspruchter Kopfbolzen in Verbundträgern darauf. Die Befestigungstechnik erlaubt eine direkte Bemessung der Kopfbolzen unter Zugbeanspruchung für verschiedene Versagensarten unter Berücksichtigung des Einflusses der Bewehrung und der Betonfestigkeit. Dieser Idee folgend, wird in diesem Beitrag ein Bemessungsmodell für Kopfbolzen im Verbundbau unter Schub‐ und zusätzlicher Zugbeanspruchung auf Grundlage von experimentellen und numerischen Untersuchungen unter Einbeziehung neuerer Entwicklungen in der Befestigungstechnik vorgestellt.
BJUI Knowledge: urology online learning resource
Authors: Shaw Greg , Lieblich Aaron
Published: December 2022

BJUI Knowledge is a useful resource not only for preparing for urology fellowship examinations but also to support ongoing professional development.
The RSM Urology Section: still breaking new ground after more than 100 years
Authors: Goddard Jonathan Charles
Published: December 2022

The Royal Society of Medicine (RSM) Urology Section has a history of diverse content and leadership. More than a century after its formation it celebrates the appointment of its first female president.
Characterization of pig skeletal muscle transcriptomes in response to low temperature
Authors: Zhang DongJie , Wang Liang , Ma ShouZheng , Ma Hong , Liu Di
Published: December 2022

Objectives

The response of mammals to cold environment is a complex physiological activity, and its underlying mechanism must be analyzed from multiple perspectives. Skeletal muscle is an important thermogenic tissue that maintains body temperature in mammals. We dissected the molecular mechanism of pig skeletal muscle response to a cold environment by performing comparative transcriptome analysis in the Enshi black pig.

Methods

Three pigs were subjected to acute cold stress (3 days), three pigs were subjected to cold acclimation (58 days), and three pigs were used as controls. RNA‐seq was used to screen the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of skeletal muscle.

Results

Using RNA‐seq methods, we identified 1241 DEGs within the acute cold stress group and 1886 DEGs within the cold acclimation group. Prolonged cold exposure induced more gene expression changes. A total of 540 key cold‐responsive DEGs were found, and their trends were consistent within the acute cold stress group and cold acclimation group. Gene expression pattern analysis showed that there were significant differences between the low‐temperature treatment groups and the control group, and there were also differences between individuals after long‐term low‐temperature treatment. Analysis of DEGs revealed that 134 pathways were significantly enriched in the cold adaptation group, 98 pathways were significantly enriched in the acute cold stress group, and 71 pathways were shared between the two groups. The 71 shared pathways were mainly related to lipid, amino acid, and carbohydrate metabolism; signal transduction; endocrine, immune, and nervous system; cardiovascular disease; infectious diseases caused by bacteria or viruses; and neurodegenerative disease.

Conclusions

In conclusion, this study provides insights into the molecular mechanism of porcine skeletal muscle response under low‐temperature environment. The data may assist further research on the mechanism of pig response to cold exposure.
Projecting Guilt and Shame in Wartime: How British State and Philanthropy Lectured on the Benefits of Retraining Schemes for Disabled Veteran Workers, 1914–1919
Authors: Bate Jason
Published: December 2022

The First World War induced a fundamental change in Britain’s treatment of disabled ex-servicemen. The newly created Ministry of Pensions established legal pension rights and acknowledged accountability for the medical treatment and professional rehabilitation of disabled veterans. This chapter demonstrates that with an emotional culture of sympathy for war disabled victims growing, as a result of a close relationship between industry, charities, and the state, newspaper editors and picture-house proprietors generously placed their services at the disposal of the government to bring that suffering directly into the civilian community. Ever-larger audiences and readers became emotionally attached to the disabled ex-servicemen’s plight and felt a collective responsibility for their transition back into civil and domestic life, not just leaving philanthropy to the social leaders.
From Social Media to Social Change: Online Platforms’ Impact on Kazakhstan’s Feminist and Civil Activisms
Authors: Azizi Anaita
Published: December 2022

The present study investigates the landscapes of feminist and civil activist movements in Kazakhstan and how these movements further developed and interacted after 2019. Given Kazakhstan’s authoritarian system of governance, social media plays a crucial role in the development of activist movements as it allows for faster and effective community mobilisation. The paper employs “the logic of connective action” concept as a theoretical basis to explore how social media has impacted the activist movement growth. The study is divided into two analytical parts: inductive and deductive. Inductive analysis is based on qualitative interviews and dedicated to exploring the goals, strategies, and challenges of feminist and activist movements, identifying the main actors, and pinpointing the movements’ interactions. The inductive analysis concludes with the proposition of the hypothesis that local cyberfeminist activism increases women’s involvement in activities dedicated to causes other than feminist one. The deductive analysis attempts to test this hypothesis via a survey developed for the present study. The paper concludes with a discussion section that summarises how feminist activism strengthens other activist movements and how the present case study can be expanded to other Central Asian states.
China’s Belt and Road Initiative: Curse or Blessing for Democracy in Eurasia?
Authors: Mihr Anja , Weiffen Brigitte
Published: December 2022

This chapter sets the stage for the debates addressed in this volume’s special section on the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and its effects on democratization or autocratization processes in recipient countries and societies since its establishment in 2013. After providing a brief overview of the expansion of the BRI and Chinese influence in Eurasia, it subsequently reviews core assumptions and preliminary findings on the implications of the BRI for the political regime type in countries across Eurasia that receive BRI investments. Furthermore, it gives an outlook on the contributions to the special section and outlines questions for future research on the political effects of the BRI.
Official Visions of Democracy in Xi Jinping’s China
Authors: Holbig Heike
Published: December 2022

The concept of “democracy” has been used in Chinese political discourse since the early twentieth century. It was first appropriated as part of the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) vocabulary by Mao Zedong, and subsequent leadership generations have added new interpretations of the notion. Since 2012, when Xi Jinping took office as China’s new paramount leader, the concept of “democracy” has been further developed in official party discourse. Coined as a “socialist core value,” its popularization helps to bolster regime legitimacy at home. At the same time, the idea of a “Chinese-style democracy” might gain traction in other non-democratic regimes in Eurasia in the course of growing geopolitical rivalries.
Perceptions of Chinese Investments in Kyrgyzstan
Authors: Jones Ilya
Published: December 2022

China’s announcement of the Belt and Road Initiative has led to growing investments abroad, but with many bumps on the way. While Central Asia is seen as an essential region for the initiative—a land route connecting China and the West—engagement has come with its share of challenges. In Kyrgyzstan, this has been characterised by public scepticism and concerns over national autonomy, identity, environmental damage, livelihoods, and labour practices. This chapter, which is based on desk research and interviews with leading experts, explores some of the perceptions and potential dynamics that should be considered.
The Belt and Road Initiative and Autocracy Promotion as Elements of China’s Grand Strategy
Authors: Mandelbaum Henoch Gabriel , Weiffen Brigitte
Published: December 2022

This chapter analyses the role of autocracy promotion in China’s grand strategy and the role of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in this context. Both the BRI and autocracy promotion can be considered tools Beijing uses to undermine the liberal international order. China does not engage in obvious activities to export its political system. Rather, its efforts are aimed at preventing the spread of Western democracy in its immediate vicinity, with the aims of guaranteeing the rule of the Chinese Communist Party, and ultimately, undermining the liberal values at the heart of the current international order. The BRI has a dual role in realising China’s grand strategy: it expands Beijing’s power projection and strengthens autocracy in its sphere of influence.
The Rise of Anti-Eurasian Sentiment in Kazakhstan
Authors: Malikbayeva Saniya , Gabdullin Gabit
Published: December 2022

The Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), established in 2015, marked a new stage of integration and cooperation between the post-Soviet States. Despite of the continuing economic and political struggle, Kazakhstan, which is considered to be one of the founding and most enthusiastic members of the union, is still committed to the initiative. This chapter explores anti-Eurasian narratives among the country’s population. Concerns over national sovereignty, national identity, and territorial integrity, in addition to the controversial economic benefits of the union, dominate the popular discourses. The trajectories of these discourses are also manifested vis-à-vis regional differences and along ethnic lines.
Social Security of States with Limited Recognition: A Case Study of the Republic of Kosovo
Authors: Szeląg Paulina
Published: December 2022

The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) comprises 57 participating states, including almost all the countries of the Western Balkans. The only country which is not a participating state of the OSCE in this region is the Republic of Kosovo. Kosovo announced its independence from Serbia on 17 February 2008, and a number of OSCE participating states soon after recognized its statehood. However, some participating states, including Serbia, Russia, Spain, Slovakia, Romania, Cyprus, and Greece, did not. International organizations, such as the United Nations (UN), the European Union (EU), and the OSCE, have been engaged in post-conflict reconstruction of Kosovo since 1999. The aim of this article is to show the role of international community engagement in rebuilding the social security system in Kosovo since the end of the war of 1999. This analysis will enable the reader to understand not only the evolution of the social security system in Kosovo, but also the direct and indirect impact of international community on the social security of the states with limited recognition.
Integritätsmanagement im Überblick
Authors: Renz Patrick S. , Frischherz Bruno , Wettstein Irena
Published: December 2022

Das Kapitel bietet einen kurzen Überblick über Konzepte und Modelle der Ethik und des Integritätsmanagements. Zunächst werden die Begriffe „Verantwortung“ und „Integrität“ im wirtschaftlichen Zusammenhang definiert und erläutert. Dann werden fünf Ansätze der allgemeinen Ethik kurz vorgestellt, d. h. die Tugendethik, die Pflichtenethik, die Folgenethik, die Anerkennungsethik und die Diskursethik.

Die beiden zentralen Begriffe des Kapitels sind die ethischen Spannungsfelder und die Leitideen guter Zusammenarbeit. Mit Hilfe der Spannungsfelder können ethische Dilemmas im Unternehmensalltag erfasst und in ihre IST- und SOLL-Komponenten zerlegt werden. Die Leitideen basieren auf den Ansätzen der Diskurs- und der Anerkennungsethik und bilden das ethische Fundament für Managemententscheidungen.

Anschließend wird ein Ablaufschema vorgestellt, mit dessen Hilfe ethische Dilemmas in einem geordneten Prozess einer Lösung zugeführt werden.

Das Kapitel schließt mit der Definition des Begriffs „Integrität“: Eine Organisation ist integer, wenn sie ethische Spannungsfelder fortlaufend erkennt, nach den Leitideen der Diskursethik und Anerkennungsethik analysiert und als Teil der normalen Managementaufgaben löst.

Das Ziel dieses ersten Kapitels ist es, den Lesenden einen kurzen Überblick über Konzepte und Modelle der Ethik und des Integritätsmanagements zu geben.
Fallbeispiele zum Integritätsmanagement
Authors: Renz Patrick S. , Frischherz Bruno , Wettstein Irena
Published: December 2022

Das Kapitel stellt typische Dilemmas im Unternehmensalltag als Fallbeispiele vor. Jedes Dilemma wird vorgestellt, mit einem konkreten Beispiel illustriert und anschließend mit Hilfe von Spannungsfeldern analysiert.

Die Fallbeispiele sind nach den drei Bereichen des Integritätsmanagements geordnet. Im Bereich „Prinzipien“ werden folgende Fallbeispiele vorgestellt: Korruption, Bestechung, Schmiergelder; Geschenke und Gefälligkeiten; Lobbying und Parteienfinanzierung; Transparente Produktinformation; Faire Preispolitik; Diskriminierung bei der Rekrutierung; Gleichberechtigung; Religiosität am Arbeitsplatz.

Im Bereich „Prozesse“ werdenfolgende Fallbeispiele vorgestellt: Zulieferkette; Umstrittene Aufträge; Auftragsvergabe: das billigste Angebot; Produktequalität und -sicherheit; Gesundheit und Sicherheit am Arbeitsplatz; Informelle Kanäle; Leistungsmessung und Leistungsbeurteilung; Faire Lohnsysteme; Entlassung.

Im Bereich „Menschen“ werden folgende Fallbeispiele vorgesellt: Persönliche Überzeugungen; Hintergedanken – Hidden Agendas; Whistleblowing; Loyalität gegenüber dem Unternehmen; Reaktion auf Fehlverhalten; Alkoholproblem; Mobbing; Sexuelle Belästigung.

Zu jedem Fallbeispiel werden Vorschläge zur Lösung und zum Vorgehen formuliert sowie Hintergrundinformationen und weiterführende Links und Literatur aufgeführt.

Das Ziel des zweiten Kapitels ist es, typische Dilemmas im Unternehmensalltag als Fallbeispiele vorzustellen, zu analysieren und Lösungsvorschläge zu diskutieren.
Good Practices im Integritätsmanagement
Authors: Renz Patrick S. , Frischherz Bruno , Wettstein Irena
Published: December 2022

Das Kapitel stellt ausgewählte Umsetzungsvorschläge zum Integritätsmanagement als Good Practices vor. Es zeigt, was Führungskräfte konkret tun können, um die Integrität einer Organisation zu stärken. Die Good Practices sind nach den drei Bereichen des Integritätsmanagements geordnet.

Für den Bereich „Prinzipien“ werden folgende Good Practices vorgestellt: Leitlinien-Workshop, Leitbild und Verhaltenskodex, Dialog mit Anspruchsgruppen, Ethikprogramme und Internationale Ethikstandards.

Für den Bereich „Prozesse“ werden folgende Good Practices vorgestellt: Diskursive Rollenklärung, Regelmäßiger Reflexionsraum, Ethik-Hotline und Ethikbeauftragte, Checklisten zur Korruptionsbekämpfung, Compliance-Radar und Software zumIntegritätsmanagement.

Für den Bereich „Menschen“ werden folgende Good Practices vorgestellt: Führungskräfte als Vorbilder, Workshop zu Spannungsfeldern, Ethik-Spiel mit Multiple-Choice-Fragen und Weiterbildung zur ethischen Kompetenz.

Eine integre Organisation unterscheidet sich von einer weniger integren dadurch, dass sie ethische Spannungsfelder fortlaufend erkennt und als Teil der normalen Managementaufgaben löst.

Das Ziel des vierten Kapitels ist es, Umsetzungsvorschläge zum Integritätsmanagement als Good Practices vorzustellen. Es soll aufgezeigt werden, was Führungskräfte konkret tun können, um die Integrität einer Organisation zu stärken.
Global Health Diplomacy to Combat Communicable Diseases and to Promote Universal Health Coverage in Achieving the Sustainable Development Goal 3
Authors: Katsuma Yasushi
Published: December 2022

The aspiration of the Goal 3 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to “ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages” is derived from both the “right to health” norm in the field of international human rights and the “health for all (HFA)” goal in the field of international development. The principle of “Leave no one behind” in achieving the SDGs is logically endorsed both by the right to health and the HFA. First, communicable diseases have become perceived as a threat to “human security” in global health, and Japan started to use the concept in global health diplomacy to elevate the level of dialogues. Nevertheless, Ebola Virus Diseaseand COVID-19, not anticipated when the SDGs were adopted, now urge us to re-visit the needs to reform global health governance. Second, to promote universal health coverage (UHC), international partnership has been strengthened. In 2019, at the G20 Summit, Japan played an important role in promoting the UHC among the twenty members. This led to an expanded international commitment made at UN High-Level Meeting on UHC in the same year. It shows that global health has become an important agenda for diplomacy.
The Trilogy for Peacebuilding: Beyond Obstacles of Democratization, Development and Peace
Authors: Yamada Mitsuru
Published: December 2022

As Peace Studies is interdisciplinary subject, this chapter especially focuses on three main aspects: democratization, development, and peace. These are very important factors for keeping on a peaceful society. Therefore, we must cooperate for solving such challenges because we are facing with serious issues resulted from three areas. In concrete, democratic system is confronted by authoritarianism. The regime against human rights is increasing worldwide as well as in Asia. We get the news on election operation without a free and fair guarantee. It generally means there were irregularities at the polls. In the case of development, we are facing with the income disparity inside a country, as well as among states. Finally, the policy seeking the interests of own country like ‘America First’ sweep across worldwide. Therefore, we must promote the peace on human rights based on international harmony and cooperation. This chapter discusses to remove various obstacles as mentioned above. And then, the actors such as government, the UN, regional organization, and non-governmental organization (NGO) must take charge of the role of promoting peaceful world because they need to cooperate for realization of SDGs Goal 16, based on peace, justice, and strong institutions.
Stuck in an Equilibrium of High Corruption: The Strait Gate to a Fair and Transparent Society
Authors: Kato Atsushi
Published: December 2022

Target 16.5 of SDGs aims to “Substantially reduce corruptionand bribery in all their forms.” It is widely accepted in economics that corruption aggravates the overall economic performance of a society. However, previous studies have also shown that firms providing bribes to public officials are likely to record higher sales growth, while public officials undoubtedly enjoy extra income or entertainment. Domestic and international actors have fought against corruption for long, but most of these efforts have failed, mainly due to the reluctance of public officials who benefit from the entangled networks of corruption. Corruption has become an equilibrium of the interactions of a variety of societal actors, which is thus considered a social institution. Historically, all societies were corrupt by today’s standards, but some of them have successfully overcome the hardship of escaping the equilibrium of corruption, achieving a more transparent society. The examples of such societies include Britain, the United States, Hong Kong and Singapore. These cases indicate that the strong political will of powerful elites is necessary for successful transitions. Many developing countries do not meet such conditions, which is a strait gate for a fair and transparent society.
Considering the Effectiveness and Achievement of SDGs Towards Combating Human Trafficking
Authors: Shimazaki Yuko
Published: December 2022

Human trafficking needs to be addressed globally. It is designated as an important part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Human trafficking can be defined as a by-product of a negative circle caused by several social and economic problems that reciprocally affect each other in a complex manner. Global systematic exploitation, widening inequality, domestic or international social problems, and human rights issues lead to it. Considering the features of human trafficking, this chapter attempts to examine methods to reduce it using SDGs. This study mainly considers SDGs 5, 8, 10, 16, and 17 by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). This paper also tries to discuss it considering the goals and the following perspectives to propose possible solutions to the problems: First, the actions the international society has taken to eradicate the crime. Second, further understanding human trafficking. Finally, how SDGs can be adopted in the context of current human trafficking.
Normofractionated irradiation and not temozolomide modulates the immunogenic and oncogenic phenotype of human glioblastoma cell lines
Authors: Schatz Julia , Ladinig Alexandra , Fietkau Rainer , Putz Florian , Gaipl Udo S. , Frey Benjamin , Derer Anja
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most aggressive primary brain tumor, with an overall poor prognosis after diagnosis. Conventional treatment includes resection, chemotherapy with temozolomide (TMZ), and concomitant radiotherapy (RT). The recent success of immunotherapy approaches in other tumor entities, particularly with immune checkpoint inhibitors, could not be clinically transferred to GBM treatment so far. Therefore, preclinical analyses of the expression of both immune-suppressive and immune-stimulatory checkpoint molecules following treatment of human glioblastoma cells with RT and/or temozolomide is needed to design feasible radio(chemo)immunotherapy trials for GBM in the future.

Methods

Five human glioblastoma cell lines (H4, HROG-06, U118, U138, U251) were analyzed regarding their clonogenic survival and cell death forms after chemotherapy (CT) with TMZ and/or normofractionated RT (5 × 2 Gy) via multicolor flow cytometry. Further, the tumor cell surface expression of immune-activating (OX40L, CD137L, CD70, and ICOSL) and immune-suppressive (PD-L1, PD-L2, HVEM) checkpoint molecules and of an oncogenic molecule (EGFR) were measured via multicolor flow cytometry after CT and RT alone or after RCT.

Results

Normofractionated RT and not TMZ was the trigger of induction of predominantly necrosis in the glioblastoma cells. Notably, clonogenicity did not correlate with cell death induction by RT. The basal expression level of immune-suppressive PD-L1, PD-L2, and HVEM varied in the analyzed glioblastoma cells. RT, but not TMZ, resulted in a significant upregulation of PD-L1 and PD-L2 in all tumor cells investigated. Also, the expression of HVEM was increased after RT in most of the GBM cell lines. In contrast, normofractionated RT individually modulated expression of the stimulating immune checkpoint molecules CD70, CD137L, OX40L, and ICOSL1. The oncogenic factor EGFR was significantly increased by irradiation in all examined cell lines, albeit to a different extent. None of the investigated molecules were downregulated after the treatments.

Conclusion

Normofractionated radiotherapy modulates the immunogenic as well as the oncogenic phenotype of glioblastoma cells, partly individually. Therefore, not only PD-L1 and PD-L2, but also other immunogenic molecules expressed on the surface of glioblastoma cells could serve as targets for immune checkpoint blockade in combination with RT in the future.
Hospital preparedness for major incidents in Sweden: a national survey with focus on mass casualty incidents
Authors: Söderin Louise , Agri Joakim , Hammarberg Elsa , Lennquist-Montán Kristina , Montán Carl
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Mass-casualty incidents, MCI, pose a constant threat on societies all over the world. It is essential that hospital organizations systematically prepare for such situations. A method for repeated follow-up and evaluation of hospital disaster planning is much needed.

Aims

To evaluate Swedish hospitals´ disaster preparedness with focus on MCI through a web-based survey to highlight areas in need of improvement to ensure better preparedness and resilience.

Materials and methods

An online survey was sent to all Swedish emergency hospitals (n = 87, 49 emergency hospitals). One respondent per hospital answered questions about the hospital’s disaster planning, training, key functions, and preparedness. The survey was developed based on current knowledge on key areas of interest for all-hazard preparedness, including the WHO’s guidelines. The survey was open between September 6th and November 1st, 2021.

Results

39 hospitals (34 emergency hospitals) from 18/21 regions participated. Main findings included marked differences between regions and hospital types regarding contingency plans, organization, formal education for key functions, disaster training and triage systems.

Conclusions

Generally, Swedish hospitals cover most key areas in disaster preparedness, but no hospital appears to have a full all-hazards coverage, which leaves room for improvement. There are large variations between the different hospitals’ preparedness, which need to decrease. Several hospitals expressed a need of national guidelines for developing equivalent contingency plans. The study-method could be used for monitoring compliance with current laws and guidelines.
Robotic hernia surgery IV. English version
Authors: Dewulf Maxime , Dietz Ulrich A. , Montgomery Agneta , Pauli Eric M. , Marturano Matthew N. , Ayuso Sullivan A. , Augenstein Vedra A. , Lambrecht Jan R. , Köhler Gernot , Keller Nicola , Wiegering Armin , Muysoms Filip
Published: December 2022

The surgical treatment of parastomal hernias is considered complex and is known to be prone to complications. Traditionally, this condition was treated using relocation techniques or local suture repairs. Since then, several mesh-based techniques have been proposed and are nowadays used in minimally invasive surgery. Since the introduction of robot-assisted surgery to the field of abdominal wall surgery, several adaptations to these techniques have been made, which may significantly improve patient outcomes. In this contribution, we provide an overview of available techniques in robot-assisted parastomal hernia repair. Technical considerations and preliminary results of robot-assisted modified Sugarbaker repair, robot-assisted Pauli technique, and minimally invasive use of a funnel-shaped mesh in the treatment of parastomal hernias are presented. Furthermore, challenges in robot-assisted ileal conduit parastomal hernia repair are discussed. These techniques are illustrated by photographic and video material. Besides providing a comprehensive overview of robot-assisted parastomal hernia repair, this article focuses on the specific advantages of robot-assisted techniques in the treatment of this condition.