bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Influence of polydopamine and tannic acid coatings on thermal properties of polylactide
Authors: Moraczewski Krzysztof , Szabliński Krzysztof 
Published: October 2023

AbstractIn this paper, the research findings about the impact of polydopamine and tannic acid coatings on specific thermal properties of polylactide are discussed. The influence of deposited coatings on the resistance to oxidation, heat resistance, and the temperatures of phase transitions was determined. Therefore, the oxidation induction temperature, thermogravimetry, and differential scanning calorimetry studies were carried out. To gain a deeper understanding of the findings, mass measurements for the samples before and after the deposition process were conducted, as well as scanning electron microscopy studies. Studies have shown that the application of coatings can improve the resistance of polylactide against oxidative and thermal degradation. However, these coatings have minimal impact on the intensity and temperature of phase transformations. The polylactide showed increased thermal resistance when coated with polydopamine, whereas tannic acid coating was found to be more effective in increasing oxidation resistance. The differences observed were likely caused by variations in the structure of the coatings applied, impacting the level of oxygen diffusion and heat transfer within the material.
Evaluating the environmental performance of mezcal production in Michoacán, México: A life cycle assessment approach
Authors: Ruiz-Camou César , Núñez José , Musule Ricardo 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this work is to evaluate the environmental impacts of mezcal production from Agave cupreata in Michoacán, México. The central question is the influence of management options for vinasse, bagasse, and biomass energy.

Methods
The study was conducted using life cycle assessment (LCA) based on the conceptual framework of ISO 14040, guidelines of ISO 14044, and material and energy flow analysis, in a cradle-to-gate approach. The functional unit considered is a packaged mezcal of 0.75 ls produced in compliance with the official Mexican standard for this type of alcoholic beverage. Site measurements were conducted at two agave processing facilities, and descriptive surveys were carried out in collaboration with local producers. Related ecoefficiency indicators were evaluated and shown in a transparent and reproducible way. Environmental impact categories such as global warming potential (GWP), fine particulate matter formation (PMFP), freshwater eutrophication (FEP), and cumulative energy demand (CED) were calculated.

Results
The results indicate that bioenergy is 87% of the cumulative energy for production. The main source of impacts from the PMFP category was the distillation process (50%). The vinasse contribution is around 60.4% for the FEP category. Bagasse’s contribution to the GWP category is around 22.7%. Even though carbon dioxide produced from biomass is considered biogenic, the overall impact is still significant due to the presence of other compounds such as methane. We also evaluate barriers to the implementation of alternative waste management technologies for bagasse and vinasse.

Conclusions
From this study, it is concluded that biomass energy plays a crucial role in the sustainable manufacturing of mezcal.
Segregation between the parietal memory network and the default mode network: effects of spatial smoothing and model order in ICA
Authors: Hu Yang , Wang Jijun , Li Chunbo , Wang Yin-Shan , Yang Zhi , Zuo Xi-Nian 
Published: October 2023

AbstractA brain network consisting of two key parietal nodes, the precuneus and the posterior cingulate cortex, has emerged from recent fMRI studies. Though it is anatomically adjacent to and spatially overlaps with the default mode network (DMN), its function has been associated with memory processing, and it has been referred to as the parietal memory network (PMN). Independent component analysis (ICA) is the most common data-driven method used to extract PMN and DMN simultaneously. However, the effects of data preprocessing and parameter determination in ICA on PMN–DMN segregation are completely unknown. Here, we employ three typical algorithms of group ICA to assess how spatial smoothing and model order influence the degree of PMN–DMN segregation. Our findings indicate that PMN and DMN can only be stably separated using a combination of low-level spatial smoothing and high model order across the three ICA algorithms. We thus argue for more considerations on parametric settings for interpreting DMN data.
Are some morphological units more prone to spelling variation than others? A case study using spontaneous handwritten data
Authors: Berg Kristian , Hartmann Stefan , Claeser Daniel 
Published: October 2023

AbstractThe relation between morphology and spelling is an important source of evidence for theories of linguistic processing. In particular, spelling errors can help us assess the role of morphological structure in language users’ mental representations of words in authentic texts. Previous research suggests that some morphological units are more prone to spelling errors than others, partly depending on the degree to which they are perceived as separate units. In this paper, we want to test this hypothesis by exploring graphemic variation in a collection of 1,667 German school-exit exams. Specifically, we code the spelling errors for their morphological structure. We can show that inflectional suffixes show a much higher probability of final letter omissions compared to final stems or derivational suffixes. We also find tentative evidence that case markers are more often affected by omissions than number markers.
Effect of Surgically Induced Weight Loss on Pelvic Organ Prolapse: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Tian Zhao , Wang Xiuqi , Hu Xiaopeng , Sun Zhijing 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Introduction
Bariatric surgery alleviates certain aspects of pelvic floor disorder, but the effect on pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is unclear. To assess the effect of bariatric surgery on POP we conducted the present meta-analysis and firstly performed a subgroup analysis based on the duration of follow-up.

Methods
Four databases including PubMed, The Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Embase were searched to identify relevant studies published before February 24, 2023. The main outcome was the prevalence and severity of POP symptoms before and after bariatric surgery. Then we assessed the heterogeneity, publication bias and performed subgroup analyses based on follow-up time, study quality and region.

Results
Eleven studies with a total of 696 participants met the inclusion criteria. The results showed that the prevalence of POP decreased after bariatric surgery (odds ratio[OR] = 2.29, 95% confidence interval[CI]: 1.05, 5.01; P = 0.04, I2 = 78%), with significant differences observed both at 3–6 months (OR = 2.24, 95% CI: 1.25, 4.01; P = 0.007, I2 = 59%) and 12 months (OR = 4.64, 95% CI: 2.83, 7.58; P < 0.0001, I2 = 0%) of follow-up compared with pre-surgery. Pelvic Organ Prolapse Distress Inventory scores 6-item also decreased after bariatric surgery (mean difference [MD] = 2.11, 95% CI: 0.32, 3.89; P = 0.02, I2 = 55%) with significant differences observed both at 3–6 months (MD = 3.72; 95% CI: [0.10, 7.34], P = 0.04, I2 = 70%) and ≥ 12 months (MD = 3.24; 95% CI: [0.56, 5.91], P = 0.02, I2 = 56%) of follow-up.

Conclusion
Bariatric surgery alleviated POP symptoms in women with obesity both during short-term (3–6 months) and long-term (≥ 12 months) follow-up.

Graphical Abstract
Approach for the monetary evaluation of process innovations in early innovation phases focusing on manufacturing and material costs
Authors: Demke Tabea Marie , Emminghaus Nicole , Overmeyer Ludger , Kaierle Stefan , Klose Christian , Thürer Susanne Elisabeth , Denkena Berend , Bergmann Benjamin , Schaper Florian , Nyhuis Peter , Kuprat Vivian Katharina 
Published: October 2023

AbstractIn early innovation phases, the monetary evaluation of process innovations is a challenge for companies due to a lack of data. However, an innovation evaluation is essential in an early innovation phase to ensure that process innovations deliver economic value added (EVA) in early innovation phases and to channel technology transfer expenditures in a goal-oriented manner. This paper presents an approach for a semi-quantitative procedure for the monetary evaluation of process innovations in the early innovation phase focusing on manufacturing and material costs. Exemplarily, the approach is applied to process innovations of the Collaborative Research Center 1368 on oxygen-free production. In order to ensure the net present value orientation within the innovation evaluation, the procedure developed is based on a driver tree of the EVA. To link value drivers of the EVA and innovation-driven factors influencing EVA, the EVA driver tree is further systematized with a focus on manufacturing and material costs using a literature-based impact model. Based on the last level of the impact model, a guideline for a semi-structured expert interview is developed. Using this interview guideline, data is collected in the form of innovation-driven influencing factors, which represent the input for the final monetary innovation evaluation. An adapted weighted scoring model is used to draw a semi-quantitative conclusion regarding the EVA achieved by the process innovation. The practical application of the approach developed to process innovations in oxygen-free production has shown that, in the context of three process innovations under consideration, their implementation with the aim of achieving an EVA through reduced manufacturing and material costs at the current innovation status is not effective. However, based on the impact model developed, corresponding levers can be identified to positively influence the EVA and thus also the industrialization of the process innovation. Finally, further necessary steps are identified to evolve the presented approach into a complete method for monetary innovation evaluation in early innovation phases.
Hydrogels for Cardiac Restorative Support: Relevance of Gelation Mechanisms for Prospective Clinical Use
Authors: Vetter Valentine C. , Bouten Carlijn V. C. , van der Pol Atze 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Purpose of Review
Cardiac tissue regenerative strategies have gained much traction over the years, in particular those utilizing hydrogels. With our review, and with special focus on supporting post-myocardial infarcted tissue, we aim to provide insights in determining crucial design considerations of a hydrogel and the implications these could have for future clinical use.

Recent Findings
To date, two hydrogel delivery strategies are being explored, cardiac injection or patch, to treat myocardial infarction. Recent advances have demonstrated that the mechanism by which a hydrogel is gelated (i.e., physically or chemically cross-linked) not only impacts the biocompatibility, mechanical properties, and chemical structure, but also the route of delivery of the hydrogel and thus its effect on cardiac repair.

Summary
With regard to cardiac regeneration, various hydrogels have been developed with the ability to function as a delivery system for therapeutic strategies (e.g., drug and stem cells treatments), as well as a scaffold to guide cardiac tissue regeneration following myocardial infarction. However, these developments remain within the experimental and pre-clinical realm and have yet to transition towards the clinical setting.
Homotolerant versus Homophobic? Swedish Sexual Exceptionalism and the Russian Other
Authors: Polkov Kirill 
Published: October 2023

AbstractThis article explores how discourses of LGBTQI rights, homophobia, and homotolerance intersect in specific nation-state contexts. Focusing on Sweden’s self-image of homotolerance, the author shows how this image has depended on the construction of non-tolerant and sexually backward Russia since 1991. This article suggests sexual exceptionalism as a more precise term to understand the relationship between Sweden and Russia in terms of geopolitics of sexuality. To do so, it examines the construction of Russia in the Swedish media discourse, with a focus on the position of LGBTQI people, and analyzes how this discourse, in turn, constructs the Swedish Self as exceptional and tolerant. My conclusions are based on a material consisting of around 500 articles from the five largest Swedish newspapers, published from 1991 to 2019. I show how the Swedish newspapers’ portrayals of attitudes towards the LGBTQI subjects in Russia have relied on constructions of temporal difference and geographical closeness between the two nations and exhibited little change throughout the period. The article contributes to scholarship on global sexualities by demonstrating how the constructions of the homophobic Other become embedded in existing historical discourses on othering by helping produce notions of the sexual-politically exceptional Self.
The Japanese Breast Cancer Society Clinical Practice Guidelines for systemic treatment of breast cancer, 2022 edition
Authors: Terada Mitsuo , Ito Aki , Kikawa Yuichiro , Koizumi Kei , Naito Yoichi , Shimoi Tatsunori , Ishihara Mikiya , Yamanaka Takashi , Ozaki Yukinori , Hara Fumikata , Nakamura Rikiya , Hattori Masaya , Miyashita Minoru , Kondo Naoto , Yoshinami Tetsuhiro , Takada Masahiro , Matsumoto Koji , Narui Kazukata , Sasada Shinsuke , Iwamoto Takayuki , Hosoda Mitsuchika , Takano Yuko , Oba Takaaki , Sakai Hitomi , Murakami Akari , Higuchi Toru , Tsuchida Junko , Tanabe Yuko , Shigechi Tomoko , Tokuda Emi , Harao Michiko , Kashiwagi Shinichiro , Mase Junichi , Watanabe Junichiro , Nagai Shigenori E. , Yamauchi Chikako , Yamamoto Yutaka , Iwata Hiroji , Saji Shigehira , Toyama Tatsuya 
Published: October 2023

AbstractThe Japanese Breast Cancer Society (JBCS) Clinical Practice Guidelines for systemic treatment of breast cancer were updated to the 2022 edition through a process started in 2018. The updated guidelines consist of 12 background questions (BQs), 33 clinical questions (CQs), and 20 future research questions (FRQs). Multiple outcomes including efficacy and safety were selected in each CQ, and then quantitative and qualitative systematic reviews were conducted to determine the strength of evidence and strength of recommendation, which was finally determined through a voting process among designated committee members. Here, we describe eight selected CQs as important updates from the previous guidelines, including novel practice-changing updates, and recommendations based on evidence that has emerged specifically from Japanese clinical trials.
On vector variational E-inequalities and differentiable vector optimization problem
Authors: Antczak Tadeusz , Abdulaleem Najeeb 
Published: October 2023

AbstractIn this paper, in order to characterize optimality of a class of nonconvex differentiable multiobjective programming problems, we introduce two new types of vector variational-like inequalities, namely, a weak variationalE-inequality and a vector variationalE-inequality. Namely, under (strictly)E-convexity, we prove relationships between the aforesaid vector variational-like inequalities and differentiable vector optimization problems. Further, under (strictly) pseudo-E-convexity, we are in position to identify vector criticalE-points, weakE-Pareto (E-Pareto) solutions of differentiable vector optimization problems and solutions of these introduced vector variational-like inequalities.
Electrochemical Estimation of Cd and Cu Ions Simultaneously Using a Modified MgO/Fe2O3 Nanocomposite/Carbon Paste Electrode
Authors: Abd-Elsabur Keriman M. , Abd-Elsabour Mohamed , Assaf Fawzy H. , Hasan Ibrahem M. A. 
Published: October 2023

AbstractHeavy metals are serious inorganic pollutants that need to be monitored in the hydrosphere with simple and cheap methods. Herein, a new sensor was fabricated by modifying a carbon paste electrode with MgO/Fe2O3 nanocomposite for simple, rapid, accurate, and highly sensitive simultaneous determination of Cd (II) and Cu (II) using differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry. The electrochemical behavior of the constructed sensor was examined, and all parameters were optimized including deposition potential, time, pH, and scan rate. For Cd (II) and Cu (II), the respective detection limits were determined to be 3.3 × 10−11 M and 3.6 × 10−11 M, and the respective quantification limits were 1.1 × 10−10 M and 1.2 × 10−10 M. The sensor estimated Cd (II) and Cu (II) in Nile river, tap, and bottled real water samples with high recoveries ranging from 99 to 117%.
Graphical Abstract
Cubosomal functionalized block copolymer platform for dual delivery of linagliptin and empagliflozin: Recent advances in synergistic strategies for maximizing control of high-risk type II diabetes
Authors: Hammad Reham Waheed , Sanad Rania Abdel-Basset , Abdelmalak Nevine Shawky , Latif Randa 
Published: October 2023

AbstractA well-made chitosan-PVP block copolymer platform was equipped with highly ordered and uniform nano-channels. This highly adhesive block copolymer platform was designed to ensure the efficient co-delivery of two synergistic-acting hypoglycemic drugs. Linagliptin oral bioavailability is 30% due to poor permeability and intestinal degradation. Its pharmacokinetics shows a non-linear profile. Empagliflozin exhibited decreased permeability and decreased solubility in aqueous media between pH 1 and 7.5. Cubosomes were functionalized as a good microdomain to guest and improve the physicochemical characteristics of drug molecules with decreased permeability and solubility. Cubosomes loaded with linagliptin (linagliptin cubosomes (LCs)) and empagliflozin (empagliflozin cubosomes ECs) were separately prepared using the top-down method and optimized by applying 23 factorial design. Optimized cubosomal systems LCs (F3) and ECs (F4) were incorporated into a chitosan-PVP gel to obtain dual cubosome-loaded platforms (LECF) optimized through 22 factorial design. The permeation study from the optimized LECF (C1) ensured enhanced empagliflozin permeation alongside continued efflux for linagliptin, resolving potential risks due to its non-linear plasma profile. The in-vivo study revealed that AUC(0–∞) of linagliptin and empagliflozin was enhanced by 2- and threefold, respectively. Therefore, the chitosan-PVP block copolymer platform buccal application for the co-delivery of linagliptin and empagliflozin could contribute to enhanced clinical effectiveness in treating diabetes.
Graphical Abstract

Graphical abstract showing dual cubosome-loaded platform tested in-vivo using a rabbit model
Two-dimensional forward and backward transition rates
Authors: Bathke Theis , Christiansen Marcus C. 
Published: October 2023

AbstractForward transition rates were originally introduced with the aim to evaluate life insurance liabilities market-consistently. While this idea turned out to have its limitations, recent literature repurposes forward transition rates as a tool for avoiding Markov assumptions in the calculation of life insurance reserves. While life insurance reserves are some form of conditional first-order moments, the calculation of conditional second-order moments needs an extension of the forward transition rate concept from one dimension to two dimensions. Two-dimensional forward transition rates are also needed for the calculation of path-dependent life insurance cash-flows as they occur upon contract modifications. Forward transition rates are designed for doing prospective calculations, and by a time-symmetric definition of so-called backward transition rates one can do retrospective calculations.
β cell function and insulin resistance have gender-specific correlations with carotid intima-media thickness in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Lu Weifeng , Wang Kai , Luo Xiumei , Zheng Silan , Zhou Jingqi , Li Shangjian , Chen Ning , Luan Cheng 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Objective
The relationships between carotid intima-media thickness (C-IMT) and β cell function and insulin resistance in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) have not been fully elucidated. This study is to investigate whether impaired glucose metabolism is etiologically associated with C-IMT in patients with T2D.

Methods
The study group consisted of 490 (284 men, 206 women) participants. Venous blood specimens were obtained from all subjects for biochemical profiles after an >8-h overnight fast. C-IMT was measured as the distance between the luminal-intimal leading edge (I-line) and the medial-adventitial leading edge (M-line) on the far wall. Insulin resistance was estimated with the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). The acute insulin response to arginine was calculated as the mean of the three plasma insulin levels obtained within 2, 4, and 6 min after the arginine bolus minus the pre-stimulus plasma insulin levels.

Results
There was a graded increase in C-IMT values according to tertiles of HOMA-IR in men; the values of C-IMT were significantly decreased across the tertiles of acute insulin and C-peptide responses in women. Multivariate analysis revealed that HOMA-IR and age were positively associated with C-IMT among men participants, and acute insulin response and current smoking were the independent determinants of C-IMT in women.

Conclusion
Early insulin response stimulated by arginine is independently associated with C-IMT in women T2D individuals, whereas insulin resistance is positively correlated with C-IMT in men T2D subjects.
Essential oil extracted from Quzhou Aurantii Fructus prevents acute liver failure through inhibiting lipopolysaccharide-mediated inflammatory response
Authors: Lan Tian , Wang Wen , Huang De-Lian , Zeng Xi-Xi , Wang Xiao-Xiao , Wang Jian , Tong Yu-Hua , Mao Zhu-Jun , Wang Si-Wei 
Published: October 2023

AbstractQuzhou Aurantii Fructus (QAF) has a long history as a folk medicine and food for the treatment of liver diseases. While our earlier study provided evidence of hepatoprotective properties contained within the flavonoids and limonins constituents in QAF, the potential preventative effects afforded by essential oil components present within QAF remains enigmatic. In this study, we prepared Quzhou Aurantii Fructus essential oil (QAFEO) and confirmed its anti-inflammatory effects on liver inflammation through experimentation on lipopolysaccharide and D-galactosamine (LPS/D-GalN) induced acute liver failure (ALF) mouse models. Using RNA-sequence (RNA-seq) analysis, we found that QAFEO prevented ALF by systematically blunting the pathways involved in response to LPS and toll-like receptor signaling pathways. QAFEO effectively suppressed the phosphorylation of tank-binding kinase 1 (TBK1), TGF-beta activated kinase 1 (TAK1), interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3), and the activation of mitogen activated kinase-like protein (MAPK) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathways in vivo and in vitro. Importantly, QAFEO substantially reduced myeloid differentiation primary response gene 88 (MyD88)- toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) interaction levels. Moreover, 8 compounds from QAFEO could directly bind to REAL, TAK1, MyD88, TBK1, and IRF3. Taken together, the results of our study support the notion that QAFEO exerts a hepatoprotective effect through inhibiting LPS-mediated inflammatory response.
Graphical abstract