bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mandatory disclosure in corporate debt restructuring via schemes of arrangement: A comparative approach
Authors: Wan Wai Yee , Watters Casey
Published: August 2021

Creditors often face significant information asymmetry when debtor companies seek to restructure their debts. In the United Kingdom, it is mandatory for debtor companies, seeking to invoke the courts' jurisdiction to restructure their debts via schemes of arrangement (schemes), to disclose material information in the explanatory statement to enable the creditors to make an informed decision as to how to exercise their votes in creditors' meetings. The English schemes have been transplanted into common law jurisdictions in Asia, including Hong Kong and Singapore. However, due to the differences in the shareholding structures and the kinds of debts that are sought to be restructured in the UK and Hong Kong/Singapore, this transplantation gives rise to the question as to whether information asymmetry is in fact adequately addressed in the scheme process. Drawing from the experiences of Hong Kong and Singapore, we argue that there are three principal concerns in the current disclosure regimes: how debtors disclose the analysis as to the returns pursuant to the best available alternative option if the schemes do not proceed; how debtors disclose advisors' fees; and the equality of provision of information in the scheme process.
On bisections of graphs without complete bipartite graphs
Authors: Hou Jianfeng , Wu Shufei
Published: August 2021

A bisection of a graph is a bipartition of its vertex set in which the two classes differ in size by at most one. For a random bisection of a graph with edges, one expects edges spans in one vertex class. Bollobás and Scott asked for conditions that guarantee a bisection in which both classes span at most edges simultaneously. Let be integers with , and let be a graph with minimum degree and edges. In this article, we prove that if contains neither triangle nor as a subgraph, then admits a bisection in which both classes span at most edges. We also consider Max‐Bisections of graphs without and improve a recent result of Hou and Yan.
Limiting RyR2 open time prevents Alzheimer's disease‐related deficits in the 3xTG‐AD mouse model
Authors: Liu Yajing , Yao Jinjing , Song Zhenpeng , Guo Wenting , Sun Bo , Wei Jinhong , Estillore John Paul , Back Thomas G. , Chen S. R. Wayne
Published: August 2021

Increasing evidence suggests that Alzheimer's disease (AD) progression is driven by a vicious cycle of soluble β‐amyloid (Aβ)‐induced neuronal hyperactivity. Thus, breaking this vicious cycle by suppressing neuronal hyperactivity may represent a logical approach to stopping AD progression. In support of this, we have recently shown that genetically and pharmacologically limiting ryanodine receptor 2 (RyR2) open time prevented neuronal hyperactivity, memory impairment, dendritic spine loss, and neuronal cell death in a rapid, early onset AD mouse model (5xFAD). Here, we assessed the impact of limiting RyR2 open time on AD‐related deficits in a relatively late occurring, slow developing AD mouse model (3xTG‐AD) that bears more resemblance (compared to 5xFAD) to that of human AD. Using behavioral tests, long‐term potentiation recordings, and Golgi and Nissl staining, we found that the RyR2‐E4872Q mutation, which markedly shortens the open duration of the RyR2 channel, prevented learning and memory impairment, defective long‐term potentiation, dendritic spine loss, and neuronal cell death in the 3xTG‐AD mice. Furthermore, pharmacologically shortening the RyR2 open time with R‐carvedilol rescued these AD‐related deficits in 3xTG mice. Therefore, limiting RyR2 open time may offer a promising, neuronal hyperactivity‐targeted anti‐AD strategy.
An 8P Theoretical Framework for Understanding Creativity and Theories of Creativity
Authors: Sternberg Robert J. , Karami Sareh
Published: August 2021

This article presents an 8P theoretical framework for understanding creativity and theories of creativity. The 8Ps are purpose, press, person, problem, process, product, propulsion, and public. The article opens by distinguishing between a theory and a model, on the one hand, and a theoretical framework, on the other. It then considers briefly some of the theoretical frameworks for creativity that have been proposed in the past. Next, it describes the 8P theoretical framework and how it applies to understanding creativity and theories of creativity. The 8P framework suggests that most theories of creativity have been rather incomplete, dealing only with limited aspects of the phenomenon.
CLEAR IDEAS: Can Idea Implementation Training Enhance the Development of New Ideas Beyond Idea Generation Training?
Authors: Jones‐Chick Rachael , Kelloway E. Kevin , Birdi Kamal
Published: August 2021

We evaluated an individually focused version of the CLEAR IDEAS framework for innovation training. One hundred fifty online participants were randomly assigned to either an idea generation training (IDEAS), idea generation plus idea implementation training (CLEAR IDEAS), or a control group. Post‐test ratings of the quality of ideas produced and pre‐ and post‐test measures of creative self‐efficacy, general self‐efficacy, and motivation to innovate were gathered. Evaluation of the generated solutions by judges blind to the condition showed that the idea generation plus implementation training group and the idea generation‐only group produced ideas that were more novel, practical, and easier to implement, and had higher potential effectiveness than the control group. Ideas produced by the idea generation plus implementation group also had higher potential effectiveness than the idea generation‐only group.
Effects of green innovation and advertisement in an imperfect production‐based competitive supply chain under two‐tier credit facility
Authors: Mandal Anindya , Pal Brojeswar
Published: August 2021

This article investigates game‐theoretic approaches in a competitive supply chain model with imperfect production and a two‐tier credit facility under the environment of carbon emissions. In this environment, we incorporate a manufacturer and two rival retailers who compete against one another for selling price and advertisement of a product, where the members offer trade credit facilities to the downstream players. We consider that the manufacturer invests in green technology to curtail the emission during the production and rework process. The retailers provide advertisements to expand their businesses, where market demands are dependent on their selling prices, advertisement frequencies, and the green innovation level. Here, we analyze the model under the cap‐and‐trade policy for various subcases of the centralized and decentralized systems and discuss a solution algorithm for the optimal results. For the practical feasibility test of the model, numerical analysis is examined, and the impact of variations of the critical parameters is studied. The study's primary motive is to figure out the optimal operative strategies and collaborative actions on the decision variables, which leads to the profits of the supply chain to a lofty extent. We observe that the offered credit periods are highly responsive to the profit functions so that the chain members have to be more careful and draw a compact plan for credit policy. Moreover, the manufacturer has to invest in green technology up to a certain level, as, after that level, high investment costs will hamper the optimal profit. Besides, the retailers must have adequate policies for selling prices and advertisement frequencies to acquire a higher yield.
Boundary conditions for kinetic theory‐based models II: A linearized moment system
Authors: Zhao Weifeng , Yong Wen‐An
Published: August 2021

This work is concerned with boundary conditions (BCs) for a linearized hyperbolic moment system of the Boltzmann equation in one dimension. We show that even if the usual relaxation stability conditions and the Kreiss condition hold, there exists an exponentially increasing solution to the initial‐boundary‐value problem (IBVP) of the moment system. To clarify this problem, we check the generalized Kreiss condition (GKC) for hyperbolic relaxation systems. With the GKC, the stability of the moment system is proved by using an energy estimate together with the Laplace transformation. Moreover, under the GKC, we derive the reduced boundary conditions for the corresponding equilibrium system. Numerical results verify the convergence of the solution of the moment system to that of the equilibrium system with the derived BCs in the relaxation limit. Our analysis indicates that special attention should be paid when imposing boundary conditions for moment systems and the GKC should be respected to ensure the zero relaxation limit of the IBVP.
A nonsmooth generalized‐alpha method for mechanical systems with frictional contact
Authors: Capobianco Giuseppe , Harsch Jonas , Eugster Simon R. , Leine Remco I.
Published: August 2021

In this article, the existing nonsmooth generalized‐ method for the simulation of mechanical systems with frictionless contacts, modeled as unilateral constraints, is extended to systems with frictional contacts. On that account, we complement the unilateral constraints with set‐valued Coulomb‐type friction laws. Moreover, we devise a set of benchmark systems, which can be used to validate numerical schemes for mechanical systems with frictional contacts. Finally, this set of benchmarks is used to numerically assert the properties striven for during the derivation of the presented scheme. Specifically, we show that the presented scheme can reproduce the dynamics of the frictional contact adequately and no numerical penetration of the contacting bodies arises—a big issue for most popular time‐stepping schemes such as the one of Moreau. Moreover, we demonstrate that the presented scheme performs well for multibody systems containing flexible parts and that it allows general parametrizations such as the use of unit quaternions for the rotation of rigid bodies.
A computational framework for homogenization and multiscale stability analyses of nonlinear periodic materials
Authors: Zhang Guodong , Feng Nan , Khandelwal Kapil
Published: August 2021

This article presents a consistent computational framework for multiscale first‐order finite strain homogenization and stability analyses of rate‐independent solids with periodic microstructures. The homogenization formulation is built on a priori discretized microstructure, and algorithms for computing the matrix representations of the homogenized stresses and tangent moduli are consistently derived. The homogenization results lose their validity at the onset of first bifurcation, which can be computed from multiscale stability analysis. The multiscale instabilities include: (a) microscale structural instability calculated by Bloch wave analysis; and (b) macroscale material instability calculated by rank‐1 convexity checks on the homogenized tangent moduli. Implementation details of the Bloch wave analysis are provided, including the selection of wave vector space and the retrieval of real‐valued buckling mode from complex‐valued Bloch wave. Three methods are detailed for solving the resulted constrained eigenvalue problem—two condensation methods and a null‐space projection method. Both the homogenization and stability analyses are verified using numerical examples including hyperelastic and elastoplastic periodic materials. Various microscale buckling phenomena are demonstrated. Aligned with theoretical results, the numerical results show that the microscopic long wavelength buckling can be equivalently detected by the loss of rank‐1 convexity of the homogenized tangent moduli.
Switch From Pauli‐Lowering to LUMO‐Lowering Catalysis in Brønsted Acid‐Catalyzed Aza‐Diels‐Alder Reactions
Authors: Yu Song , Bickelhaupt F. Matthias , Hamlin Trevor A.
Published: August 2021

Brønsted acid‐catalyzed inverse‐electron demand (IED) aza‐Diels‐Alder reactions between 2‐aza‐dienes and ethylene were studied using quantum chemical calculations. The computed activation energy systematically decreases as the basic sites of the diene progressively become protonated. Our activation strain and Kohn‐Sham molecular orbital analyses traced the origin of this enhanced reactivity to i) “Pauli‐lowering catalysis” formono‐protonated 2‐aza‐dienes due to the induction of an asynchronous, but still concerted, reaction pathway that reduces the Pauli repulsion between the reactants; and ii) “LUMO‐lowering catalysis” formulti‐protonated 2‐aza‐dienes due to their highly stabilized LUMO(s) and more concerted synchronous reaction path that facilitates more efficient orbital overlaps in IED interactions. In all, we illustrate how the novel concept of “Pauli‐lowering catalysis” can be overruled by the traditional concept of “LUMO‐lowering catalysis” when the degree of LUMO stabilization is extreme as in the case ofmulti‐protonated 2‐aza‐dienes.
Reactivity of Coinage Metal Hydrides for the Production of H2 Molecules
Authors: Iribarren Iñigo , Sánchez‐Sanz Goar , Elguero José , Alkorta Ibon , Trujillo Cristina
Published: August 2021

Invited for this month's cover picture is the group of Dr. Cristina Trujillo at the Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute in Dublin (Ireland) and Prof. Ibon Alkorta at the CSIC in Madrid (Spain). The cover picture shows the possibility of reversibly storing hydrogen using metallic compounds as reactants to produce H2 gas and metallic dimers. Computational studies have been carried out to investigate these processes, as shown in the concept art by the Schrödinger equation. It was found that the formation and release of H2 is energetically favorable. These results are a promising starting point for further research of using coinage metals for storing hydrogen in light compounds. Read the full text of their Full Paper at 10.1002/open.202100108.
Immiscible PHB/PBS and PHB/PBSA blends: morphology, phase composition and modelling of elastic modulus
Authors: Righetti Maria Cristina , Cinelli Patrizia , Aliotta Laura , Bianchi Elisa , Tricoli Fabio , Seggiani Maurizia , Lazzeri Andrea
Published: August 2021

This paper reports the thermal, morphological and mechanical properties of environmentally friendly poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate) (PHB)/poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) and PHB/poly[(butylene succinate)‐co‐(butylene adipate)] (PBSA) blends, prepared by melt mixing. The blends are known to be immiscible, as also confirmed by the thermodynamic analysis here presented. A detailed quantification of the crystalline and amorphous fractions was performed, in order to interpret the mechanical properties of the blends. As expected, the ductility increased with increasing PBS or PBSA amount, but in parallel the decrease in the elastic modulus appeared limited. Surprisingly, the elastic modulus was found properly described by the rule of mixtures in the whole composition range, thus attesting mechanical compatibility between the two blend components. This unusual behavior has been explained as due to co‐continuous morphology, present in a wide composition range, but also at the same time as the result of shrinkage occurring during sequential crystallization of the two components, which can lead to physical adhesion between matrix and dispersed phase. For the first time, the elastic moduli of the crystalline and mobile amorphous fractions of PBS and PBSA and of the mobile amorphous fraction of PHB at ambient temperature have been estimated through a mechanical modelling approach. © 2021 The Authors. Polymer International published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Racial and ethnic amputation level disparities in veterans undergoing incident dysvascular lower extremity amputation
Authors: Hurwitz Max , Norvell Daniel C. , Czerniecki Joseph M.
Published: August 2021

Background

The choice of incident amputation level can have a profound effect on clinical outcomes. Amputations at the transmetatarsal (TM) or transtibial (TT) levels result in greater preservation of function and mobility, whereas transfemoral (TF) amputations typically result in a greater adverse impact. Prior investigations have explored racial/ethnic and regional variation in incident amputation level. This study overcomes some of the methodological limitations seen in prior research through the use of a large national, multiyear veteran sample and by including only those who have undergone an incident amputation.

Objectives

(1) Determine if there are national/regional differences in the frequency of incident TF amputation compared with TM and TT amputation, (2) Determine if race/ethnicity and geographic region are associated with incident TF amputation level, and (3) Determine if racial/ethnic disparities of incident TF amputation differ by the presence of diabetes or prior revascularization.

Design

Retrospective cohort study of veterans undergoing an incident dysvascular lower extremity amputation.

Setting

One hundred ten Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Centers.

Participants

Seven thousand two hundred ninety‐six Veterans undergoing incident unilateral dysvascular lower extremity amputation identified in the Veterans Affairs Surgical Quality Improvement Program (VASQIP) database (2005–2014).

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measure

Incident amputation level.

Results

The White, Black, and Hispanic risk for an incident TF amputation was 31% (n = 1356), 35% (n = 810), and 46% (n = 293), respectively. In the Continental region, Blacks who had not had a prior revascularization were more likely to undergo a TF amputation compared to Whites both with and without diabetes (odds ratio [OR] = 1.4; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1, 1.9 and OR = 1.5; 95% CI, 1.1, 2.1, respectively). In the Southeast region, Hispanics compared with Whites were at increased odds of undergoing a TF amputation, irrespective of a diabetes or a prior revascularization (ORs ≥ 2.9).

Conclusions

Racial and ethnic disparities exist in choice of proximal compared with distal amputation in specific VA geographic regions.
The interdisciplinary management of coccydynia: A narrative review
Authors: White William D. , Avery Melinda , Jonely Holly , Mansfield John T. , Sayal Puneet K. , Desai Mehul J.
Published: August 2021

Pain that develops in the coccyx or surrounding tissues is known as coccydynia, which occurs as a result of many etiologies both traumatic and nontraumatic. Although coccydynia most commonly affects middle‐aged women, it may be found in both sexes and in all age groups. The aim of this article is to provide an overview of the presentation, diagnostic imaging, and pathophysiology of coccydynia, and to comprehensively review the current treatment options. A review of publications from 1990 to 2020 using search words related to the treatment of coccydynia in PubMed and Google Scholar was completed. Level II evidence was found supporting stretching, manipulation, and extracorporeal shock wave therapy. There are no data from high‐quality studies to support injection‐based therapy including corticosteroids, prolotherapy, nerve blocks, and radiofrequency ablation, although there are small retrospective and prospective observational studies suggesting benefit. Level III evidence was found supporting coccygectomy for chronic/refractory coccydynia. There are no data from randomized controlled trials to support the use of neuromodulation (sacral burst and dorsal root ganglion stimulation), although there are case reports suggesting benefit. High‐level, comparative studies are lacking to guide the treatment of coccydynia and should be a focus for future research studies.
Photostimulated Defect Creation Processes in the Undoped and Bi3+‐Doped Ca3Ga2Ge3O12 Garnets
Authors: Krasnikov Aleksei , Tsiumra Volodymyr , Vasylechko Leonid , Zazubovich Svetlana , Zhydachevskyy Yaroslav
Published: August 2021

The thermally stimulated luminescence characteristics of UV‐irradiated microcrystalline powders of the undoped and Bi3+‐doped Ca3Ga2Ge3O12 garnets are investigated in the 80–510 K temperature range after selective irradiation in the 4.1–5.7 eV energy range. The dependences of these characteristics on the irradiation energy, temperature, and duration, as well as on the emission energy, are obtained. The origin of the electron and hole centers of different types responsible for the observed thermally stimulated luminescence glow curve peaks is clarified, and the depths of the corresponding electron traps are determined. The electron–hole recombination processes, resulting in the appearance of the intrinsic and Bi3+‐related luminescence, are investigated. The mechanisms of the processes responsible for the photostimulated creation of various electron and hole centers under irradiation of the undoped and Bi3+‐doped Ca3Ga2Ge3O12 garnets in the band‐to‐band transition region and in the energy ranges of the intrinsic and Bi‐related absorption bands are proposed.
Theoretical Concept Describing a Use of Magnetic Nanoparticles in a Thin Elastic Film for the Detection of Mechanical Deformation
Authors: Dudek Krzysztof K. , Marć Maciej , Wolak Wiktor , Drzewiński Andrzej , Dudek Mirosław R.
Published: August 2021

Herein the effect is analyzed that magnetic dipole interactions have on the heating process of single‐domain magnetic nanoparticles subjected to an external radiofrequency (RF) magnetic field, where the magnetic nanoparticles are densely packed in a thin elastic film. To analyze this effect, the considered thin film is subjected to mechanical deformation, which causes the displacement of nanoparticles and affects magnetic dipole interactions between them. As a consequence, at different stages of the mechanical deformation, the film shows different heating powers of the magnetic nanoparticles. To investigate this effect, a theoretical model describing the considered nanoparticle system exposed to the RF magnetic field is proposed, where the heating power of the film is discussed in terms of the specific absorption rates (SARs). Through the use of this model, it is shown that the considered stretchable magnetic film can sense mechanical deformation in the presence of the uniform RF magnetic field both in the direction perpendicular to the film and in the loading direction. Thus, the concept proposed in this study can be utilized in the design of a sensor that would be particularly interesting in the case of medical applications for diagnostic purposes.
Decrease in serum anti‐Müllerian hormone level per puncture with laparoscopic ovarian drilling using ultrasonically activated device
Authors: Ogawa Shuichi , Atsuki Yusuke , Shimada Kazuhiko , Motoyama Mitsuhiro , Suzuki Tatsuya , Fujiwara Hiroyuki
Published: August 2021

Purpose

To determine the contributing factor in infertility treatment with laparoscopic ovarian drilling (LOD) to the decrease in serum anti‐Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels in patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome using an ultrasonically activated device.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed in 60 patients (aged 23–36 years) who received 25–120 punctures in each ovary with LOD treatment from January 2014 to December 2018.

Results

The mean decrease in serum AMH level per puncture with LOD was 0.07 ± 0.04 ng/ml in all 60 patients and 0.08 ± 0.04 ng/ml in patients with ≥10 ng/ml preoperative serum AMH level, which was significantly higher than in those with <10 ng/ml (0.05 ± 0.02 ng/ml). The mean decrease in serum AMH level per puncture in patients with body mass index (BMI) < 18.5 kg/m2 (0.10 ± 0.03 ng/ml) was significantly higher than in those with BMI 18.5–25 kg/m2 (0.07 ± 0.04 ng/ml) and >25 kg/m2 (0.06 ± 0.02 ng/ml).

Conclusions

The mean decrease in serum AMH levels per puncture with LOD using an ultrasonically activated device depends on the preoperative serum AMH level and BMI of patients.
Mesoporous Yolk‐Shell Structured Organosulfur Nanotubes with Abundant Internal Joints for High‐Performance Lithium–Sulfur Batteries by Kinetics Acceleration
Authors: Chang Wei , Qu Jin , Li Wei , Liu Yu‐Hao , Zhai Xian‐Zhi , Liu Hong‐Jun , Kang Yu , Yu Zhong‐Zhen
Published: August 2021

Although organosulfur compounds can protect lithium anodes, participate in the redox reaction, and suppress the shuttle effect, the sluggish electrochemical dynamics of their bulk structure and the notorious shuttle effect of covalent long‐chain sulfurs largely impede their actual applications. Herein, sulfurized carbon nanotube@aminophenol‐formaldehyde (SC@A) with covalently linked short‐chain sulfurs is firstly synthesized by in situ polymerization of aminophenol‐formaldehyde (AF) on the surface of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) followed by acetone etching and inverse sulfurization processes, forming mesoporous yolk‐shell organosulfur nanotubes with abundant internal joints between the yolk of CNTs and the shell of sulfurized AF for the first time. In situ Raman spectra, in situ XRD patterns, and ex situ XPS spectra verify that the covalent short‐chain sulfurs bring about a reversible solid‐solid conversion process of sulfur, thoroughly avoiding the shuttle effect. The mesoporous yolk‐shell structure with abundant internal joints can effectively accommodate the volume change, fully expose active sites and efficiently improve the transport of electrons and lithium ions, thus highly promoting the solid–solid electrochemical reaction kinetics. Therefore, the SC@A cathode exhibits a superior specific capacity of 841 mAh g−1 and a capacity decay of 0.06% per cycle within 500 cycles at a large current density of 5.0 C.
The Sustainability of Energy Conversion Inhibition for Tumor Ferroptosis Therapy and Chemotherapy
Authors: Jiang Wei , Luo Xingyu , Wei Lulu , Yuan Shanmei , Cai Jianfeng , Jiang Xiqun , Hu Yong
Published: August 2021

The hyperactive energy metabolism mostly contributes the tumor cells growth and proliferation. Herein, the intelligent nanoparticles (P‐B‐D NPs) obtained by loading BAY‐876 and doxorubicin (Dox)‐Duplex into nanoparticles composed of disulfide bond (SS) containing polymer are reported, which provide an efficient resistance of tumor cells energy metabolism and tumor growth to conquer malignant tumor. In response to the reducing microenvironment of tumor tissue, the SS bond can be disintegrated by intracellular glutathione to block the synthesis of lipid repair enzyme‐glutathione peroxidase 4 for ferroptosis therapy. More importantly, the released BAY‐876 can inhibit the functionality of glucose transporter 1, restricting the glucose uptake of tumor cells to a low energy metabolism status. Meanwhile, Dox‐Duplex can interact with ATP to reduce intracellular ATP content and release Dox to kill tumor cells. Collectively, this work offers a new idea for restricting tumor cells energy metabolism to inhibit their proliferation.
Inhibition of zinc finger protein 367 exerts a tumor suppressive role in colorectal cancer by affecting the activation of oncogenic YAP1 signaling
Authors: Lei Ting , Gao Ya , Duan Yuhong , Cui Chunli , Zhang Li , Si Mingming
Published: August 2021

Zinc finger protein 367 (ZNF367) has been documented as a new cancer‐related protein that exerts a pivotal role in the carcinogenesis of multiple cancers. However, whether ZNF367 plays a role in colorectal cancer has not been fully understood. Our data showed that ZNF367 expression was higher in colorectal cancer. Depletion of ZNF367 weakened the proliferative and invasive capabilities of colorectal cancer cells. Up‐regulation of ZNF367 enhanced the in vitro malignant features of colorectal cancer cells. Knockdown of ZNF367 impeded the activation of Yes‐associated protein (YAP1). Reactivation of YAP1 reversed the ZNF367‐knockdown‐mediated anticancer effects. Suppression of YAP1 significantly abolished ZNF367‐overexpression‐induced tumor‐promotion effects. Depletion of ZNF367 repressed the tumorigenicity of colorectal cancer cells in vivo. These findings demonstrate that ZNF367 is overexpressed in colorectal cancer and acts as a potential tumor‐promoter that contributes to the proliferation and invasion of colorectal cancer by enhancing the activation of YAP1 signaling.
Conflict Management, International Parliamentary Assemblies and Small States: The Cases of Georgia and Moldova
Authors: Gawrich Andrea
Published: August 2021

The parliamentary assemblies of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe and the Council of Europe have reputations as bridge-building institutions between western and post-socialist countries. However, territorial disputes between member states pose a challenge to the parliamentary diplomacy of these international parliamentary institutions (IPIs). This article examines how IPIs address conflicts in the cases of two small states facing “frozen” secessionist conflicts, where Russia’s hegemony is involved, namely Georgia with its territorial disputes in South Ossetia and Abkhazia along with Moldova and its secessionist dispute with Transnistria. This contribution unpacks IPI strategies by applying conceptual approaches from parliamentary diplomacy, conflict management and small-states literature, as well as the respective arguments on hegemonic strategies.
From Landlocked to Land-Linked? Central Asia’s Place in the Eurasian Economy
Authors: Pomfret Richard
Published: August 2021

The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), while primarily a security organisation, has always included economic and human baskets or dimensions. Currently, the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities operates in four main areas: (1) good governance and anti-corruption, (2) money laundering and financing of terrorism, (3) transport, trade and border-crossing facilitation, and (4) labour migration. This chapter addresses developments in Central Asia since the dissolution of the Soviet Union that are relevant to the third area of OSCE operations. The chapter’s focus is on the potential for the landlocked Central Asian countries to become land-linked, using improved transport connections between East Asia and Europe to promote economic development through export diversification and growth. Rail services across Central Asia improved considerably during the 2010s. They have been resilient, despite strained political relations between Russia and the EU since 2014, and rail traffic between Europe and China continued to increase in 2020 despite the shock of COVID-19. Further infrastructure improvements are promised under China’s Belt and Road Initiative. However, the expanded network has been little used by Central Asian producers to create new international trade, and the improved infrastructure represents a potential opportunity rather than a past benefit. If the Central Asian economies are successful in taking advantage of the opportunity, it will stimulate their trade across the Eurasian region and help economic diversification. The main determinant of success will be national policies and national economic development. The chapter concludes with a discussion of the role of multilateral institutions and, in particular, the prospects for OSCE collaboration with existing fora to promote cooperation and economic development in Central Asia.
“Glocal” Governance in the OSCE Region: A Research Proposal
Authors: Mihr Anja
Published: August 2021

“Think global, act locally,” is the essence of glocalization and of glocal governance. Glocal governance means that local stakeholders, such as business, civil society, city councils, authorities and activists actively participate in decision-making processes. Different stakeholders, local, international and domestic ones, make decisions on common rules and regulations while operating, controlling, implementing and enforcing them locally—and wherever needed. Many of these decisions are taken in light of and in accordance with global or international standards. Such standards can be universal UN human rights norms that are, for example, enshrined in international human rights treaties and agreements, and WTO trade norms on tax regulation or copyrights and laws. Global norms can be international customary law, such as humanitarian law or the law of the sea, general guidelines, recommendations or rules and standards on security and elections as set by the OSCE.
The Role of Securitization in the Relationship Between State and Religion—The Example of the Kyrgyz Republic
Authors: Štimac Zrinka , Aslanova Indira
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we discuss the challenges of developing secular framework in relation to religion in Kyrgyzstan, the first Central Asian republic where democratic institutions were established after the collapse of the Soviet Union and which has been strongly challenged in maintaining its democratic achievements during the Tulip Revolution and other revolts in 2010 and 2020. The question we aim to answer is how processes of securitization shape the relationship between state institutions and religious organizations, knowing that Kyrgyzstan is still influenced both by the Soviet understanding of secularism and by models of secularity and governance from countries and societies with different histories and conditions of development. We look at different phases of the relationship between state and religion starting with the regime change and the establishment of a democratic state. Secondly, the establishing of a legal framework for state policy on religious organizations. Thirdly, the time of the adoption of measures to protect the interests of all citizens, believers and non-believers, and the beginning of the process of active influence of state policy on the situation in the religious sphere. And finally, the new (mis)understanding of the relations between the state and religion, both on the side of the state and religious organizations. Our theoretical point of departure is the concept of securitization, and from there on we take a discursive approach focusing on the different actors in this arena, such as state institutions and the various religious organizations and groups.
Anticonvulsant effect of pterostilbene and its influence on the anxiety- and depression-like behavior in the pentetrazol-kindled mice: behavioral, biochemical, and molecular studies
Authors: Nieoczym Dorota , Socała Katarzyna , Zelek-Molik Agnieszka , Pieróg Mateusz , Przejczowska-Pomierny Katarzyna , Szafarz Małgorzata , Wyska Elżbieta , Nalepa Irena , Wlaź Piotr
Published: August 2021

Rationale

Pterostilbene is the 3,5-dimethoxy derivative of resveratrol with numerous beneficial effects including neuroprotective properties. Experimental studies revealed its anticonvulsant action in the acute seizure tests.

Objectives

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effect of pterostilbene in the pentetrazol (PTZ)–induced kindling model of epilepsy in mice as well as to assess some possible mechanisms of its anticonvulsant action in this model.

Methods

Mice were repeatedly treated with pterostilbene (50–200 mg/kg) and its effect on the development of seizure activity in the PTZ kindling was estimated. Influence of pterostilbene on the locomotor activity and anxiety- and depression-like behavior in the PTZ-kindled mice was also assessed. To understand the possible mechanisms of anticonvulsant activity of pterostilbene, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate concentrations in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus of the PTZ-kindled mice were measured using LC–MS/MS method. Moreover, mRNA expression of BDNF, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6,GABRA1A, andGRIN2Bwas determined by RT-qPCR technique.

Results

We found that pterostilbene at a dose of 200 mg/kg considerably reduced seizure activity but did not influence the locomotor activity and depression- and anxiety-like behavior in the PTZ-kindled mice. In the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus, pterostilbene reversed the kindling-induced decrease of GABA concentration. Neither in the prefrontal cortex nor hippocampus pterostilbene affected mRNA expression of IL-1β, IL-6,GABRA1A, andGRIN2Baugmented by PTZ kindling. Pterostilbene at a dose of 100 mg/kg significantly decreased BDNF and TNF-α mRNA expression in the hippocampus of the PTZ-kindled mice.

Conclusions

Although further studies are necessary to understand the mechanism of anticonvulsant properties of pterostilbene, our findings suggest that it might be considered a candidate for a new antiseizure drug.
Accurate characterization of β-amyloid (Aβ40, Aβ42) standards using species-specific isotope dilution by means of HPLC-ICP-MS/MS
Authors: Schaier Martin , Hermann Gerrit , Koellensperger Gunda , Theiner Sarah
Published: August 2021

The amyloid β peptide, as one of the main components in senile plaque, represents a defining pathological feature for Alzheimer’s disease, and is therefore commonly used as a biomarker for this disease in clinical analysis. However, the selection of suitable standards is limited here, since only a few are commercially available, and these suffer from varying purity. Hence, the accurate characterization of these standards is of great importance. In this study, we developed a method for the traceable quantification of the peptide content using species-specific isotope dilution and ICP-MS/MS detection. It is based on the separation of the sulfur-containing amino acids methionine and cysteine after oxidation and hydrolysis of the peptide. Using a strong anion exchange column, both amino acids could be separated from each other, as well as from their oxidized forms and sulfate. The sulfur content was determined via ICP-MS/MS using oxygen as reaction gas. Species-specific isotope dilution was enabled by using a 34S-labeled yeast hydrolysate, containing methionine sulfone and cysteic acid with different isotopic composition. The peptide contents of Aβ standards (Aβ40,42), as well as myoglobin and lysozyme with different degrees of purity, were determined. For validation purposes, the standard reference material NIST 2389a, which contains the amino acids in a similar concentration, was subjected to the developed sample preparation and analysis method. In addition to accounting for errors during sample preparation, high levels of accuracy and precision could be obtained using this method, making it fit-for-purpose for the characterization of peptide standards.

Graphical abstract
Students’ attitudes toward digital learning during the COVID-19 pandemic: a survey conducted following an online course in gynecology and obstetrics
Authors: Olmes Gregor Leonhard , Zimmermann Julia Sarah Maria , Stotz Lisa , Takacs Ferenc Zoltan , Hamza Amr , Radosa Marc Philipp , Findeklee Sebastian , Solomayer Erich-Franz , Radosa Julia Caroline
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this survey was to assess medical students’ opinions about online learning programs and their preferences for specific teaching formats during COVID 19 pandemic.

Methods

Between May and July 2020, medical students who took an online gynecology and obstetrics course were asked to fill in a questionnaire anonymously. The questionnaire solicited their opinions about the course, the teaching formats used (online lectures, video tutorials featuring real patient scenarios, and online practical skills training), and digital learning in general.

Results

Of 103 students, 98 (95%) submitted questionnaires that were included in the analysis. 84 (86%) students had no problem with the online course and 70 (72%) desired more online teaching in the future. 37 (38%) respondents preferred online to traditional lectures. 72 (74%) students missed learning with real patients. All digital teaching formats received good and excellent ratings from > 80% of the students.

Conclusion

The survey results show medical students’ broad acceptance of the online course during COVID 19 pandemic and indicates that digital learning options can partially replace conventional face-to-face teaching. For content taught by lecture, online teaching might be an alternative or complement to traditional education. However, bedside-teaching remains a key pillar of medical education.
Quality and cost outcomes of an integrated supportive care program
Authors: Weinstein Elizabeth , Kemmann Matthew , Douglas Sara L. , Daly Barbara , Levitan Nathan
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This article reports findings from a demonstration project funded by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation (CMMI). The purpose of the project was to test a supportive care program on the outcomes of quality of care and quality of life, and costs in patients with advanced cancer.

Methods

The project was conducted between February 2015 and February 2018, enrolling adult, Medicare or Medicaid beneficiaries with advanced or progressed solid tumor malignancy. A comparative longitudinal comparison of the program with both a concurrent control and an historic control was used to evaluate outcomes. The intervention included routine electronic biopsychosocial screening, early access to specialty palliative care, and nurse care coordination. Quality of life, aggressiveness of care, and healthcare utilization were measured.

Results

A total of 1340 people were enrolled, with 71% of the total sample being Caucasian; 41.4% had stage IV cancer, and 20% utilized Medicaid only. Significant differences in the enrolled patients and the comparison group were controlled for through statistical analysis. There were significantly fewer ED visits, unplanned admissions, and fewer total hospitalization days in the intervention group. In the last 30 days of life, hospital and ICU admissions were less and a greater proportion of patients were enrolled in hospice in the intervention group. Quality of life had a marked improvement for enrolled patients. Average cost per member per month was not less in the enrolled group.

Conclusion

This pragmatic demonstration project confirmed the clinical benefits of an integration of supportive care for patients with advanced cancer, although no reduction in costs was found.
Minimal winning coalitions and orders of criticality
Authors: Aleandri Michele , Dall’Aglio Marco , Fragnelli Vito , Moretti Stefano
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we analyze the order of criticality in simple games, under the light of minimal winning coalitions. The order of criticality of a player in a simple game is based on the minimal number of other players that have to leave so that the player in question becomes pivotal. We show that this definition can be formulated referring to the cardinality of the minimal blocking coalitions or minimal hitting sets for the family of minimal winning coalitions; moreover, the blocking coalitions are related to the winning coalitions of the dual game. Finally, we propose to rank all the players lexicographically accounting the number of coalitions for which they are critical of each order, and we characterize this ranking using four independent axioms.
Influence of pretreatment and mechanical nanofibrillation energy on properties of nanofibers from Aspen cellulose
Authors: Balea A. , Fuente E. , Tarrés Q. , Pèlach M. Àngels , Mutjé P. , Delgado-Aguilar M. , Blanco A. , Negro C.
Published: August 2021

The characteristics of cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) depend on many factors such as the raw material, type and intensity of the pre-treatment, and type and severity of the mechanical defibrillation process. The relationship among factors is complex but crucial in determining the final, fit-for-use CNF properties. This study aims to find the relationship between the CNF properties morphology, aspect ratio, nanofibrillation yield, transmittance and cationic demand, and the production process using bleached Aspen thermomechanical pulp as the raw material. Five different types of pretreatments were carried out and five different defibrillation intensities of high-pressure homogenization were evaluated. Pretreatments were: PFI refining at 20,000 revolutions, enzymatic hydrolysis with 80 and 240 g of enzyme per ton of dry pulp and TEMPO (2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl)–mediated oxidation with 5 and 15 mmol of NaClO per gram of dry pulp. From the twenty-five different procedures evaluated, results show that both the pretreatment and the severity of the high-pressure homogenization determined both the fibrillation yield and the CNF morphology. Moreover, the main properties of CNFs (cationic demand, yield, transmittance and aspect ratio) can be estimated from the carboxylic content of the pretreated pulp, which would facilitate the control of the CNF production and their tuning according to the production needs.
Does She Kill Like He Kills? Comparison of Homicides Committed by Women with Homicides Committed by Men in Spain
Authors: Santos-Hermoso Jorge , Quintana-Touza José Manuel , Medina-Bueno Zaida , Gómez-Colino María Regina
Published: August 2021

The homicides committed by women make up between 5 and 15% of the total number of homicides recorded in the world. Studies based on the gender of the perpetrator have been uncommon due to the low level of prevalence of female homicide offenders, but this tendency is currently undergoing a change. Nonetheless, in general, there is still limited knowledge of the role of women in serious crime, which makes the task of criminal policy more difficult. Therefore, the present investigation seeks to perform a comparative analysis of the homicides committed by women (n = 56) with those committed by men (n = 521). The cases in this sample correspond to homicides solved in Spain by the Civil Guard between the years 2013 and 2018. The findings of the study show that homicides by women have distinctive characteristics, with 3 out of every 4 taking place in the family environment, and these being dominated by cases of filicide. The victims are underage males with some type of vulnerability and a mental disorder. The female perpetrators tend to have a partner and live with somebody, have a mental disorder and do not present a prior criminal record. With regard to the crime, homicides perpetrated by women take place in the afternoon, without witnesses and in residences; when it comes to the criminal behaviours, they use weapons of opportunity, above all asphyxiating methods, they alter the scene and do not flee from the scene of the crime.