bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Volatile components of Pelaverga red wines from Piedmont (Italy)
Authors: Bonometti Elisabetta , Operti Lorenza , Rabezzana Roberto , Volpi Giorgio 
Published: May 2023

AbstractBackgroundThe characterization of a typical red wine from Piedmont (north‐west Italy), Pelaverga, was performed by means of headspace solid phase microextraction coupled to gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Two different kinds of Pelaverga are known, hystorical and Verduno, which differ with the area of production. The main volatile compounds of the wine were identified and semi‐quantified. Principal components analysis (PCA) was performed to identify possible clusters among the different samples analyzed.ResultsForty‐eight volatile compounds were unambiguously identified in the wines sampled. The two types of Pelaverga analyzed displayed a very similar volatile profile. The most abundant volatile compounds were two esters, ethyl octanoate and diethyl succinate, and two alcohols, isoamyl alcohol and ethyl phenyl alcohol. Few varietal compounds were detected, probably due to their low concentration; among these, we were not able to detect rotundone, which is reported to impart characteristic spicy notes to this kind of wine. Application of PCA did not allow to differentiate between the two types of Pelaverga on the basis of their volatile profile.ConclusionThe present work is, to the best of our knowledge, the first complete report about the volatile profile of Pelaverga wines and represents the first step of a research project aiming at characterizing food products from Piedmont on the basis of chemical parameters. Differentiation between the two types of Pelaverga will likely require the determination of different chemical parameters in conjunction with volatile compounds.
Elective Tympanostomy Tube Removal at 2.5 Years: Results of a Protocol for Retained Tubes
Authors: Thornton Noah J. , Isaacson Glenn 
Published: May 2023

ObjectivesIn 2001, we instituted a protocol for the removal of retained tympanostomy tubes, delaying elective removal until 2.5 years after placement. It was hoped that this would decrease the number of surgeries without increasing the rate of permanent tympanic perforations compared to removal at 2 years.MethodsProtocol: Fluoroplastic Armstrong beveled grommet tympanostomy tubes were placed by a single surgeon supervising the residents. The children were seen at 6‐month intervals after placement. Children with a retained tympanostomy tube(s) at 2 years were seen again at 2.5 years, and the retained tubes were removed under general anesthesia with patch application. All were evaluated 4 weeks after surgery by otoscopy, otomicroscopy, behavioral audiometry, and tympanometry. Study: A computerized collection of patient letters and operative reports was queried to identify children treated according to the protocol between 2001 and 2022. Those with examinations at 2 years ± 1 month and 2.5 years ± 1 month and complete follow‐up were included.ResultsOf the 3552 children with tympanostomy tubes, 497 (14%) underwent tube removal. One‐hundred and forty seven children fit the strict inclusion criteria. Among those with retained tubes at 2 years, 67/147 (46%) had lost any remaining tube or tubes at 2.5 years and did not need surgery, 80/147 (54%) required unilateral or bilateral tube removal, 9/147 (6%) had a persistent perforation at 1‐year follow‐up, and 4/147 children (3%) required tympanic re‐intubation after either spontaneous extrusion or removal and patching at 2.5 years.ConclusionsDelaying tympanostomy tube removal until 2.5 years can cut the need for surgery in half with, an acceptable (6%) incidence of persistent perforations.Level of EvidenceFour case series—historical control Laryngoscope, 134:439–442, 2024
Synthesis of a Sustainable and Bisphenol A‐Free Epoxy Resin Based on Sorbic Acid and Characterization of the Cured Thermoset
Authors: Breitsameter Jonas M. , Reinhardt Nikita , Feigel Matthias , Hinrichsen Olaf , Drechsler Klaus , Rieger Bernhard 
Published: May 2023

AbstractIn the present study, an epoxy compound, 1,2‐epoxy‐6‐methyl‐triglycidyl‐3,4,5‐cyclohexanetricarboxylate (EGCHC) synthesized from sorbic acid, maleic anhydride, and allyl alcohol is proposed. Using commodity chemicals, a bio‐based carbon content of 68.4 % for the EGCHC resin is achieved. When cured with amine hardeners, the high oxirane content of EGCHC forms stiff cross‐linked networks with strong mechanical and thermal properties. The characterization of the epoxy specimens showed that EGCHC can compete with conventional epoxy resins such as DGEBA. A maximum stiffness of 3965 MPa, tensile strength of 76 MPa, and Tg of 130 °C can be obtained by curing EGCHC with isophorone diamine (IPD). The cured resin showed to be decomposable under mild conditions due to the ester bonds. The solid material properties of EGCHC expose its potential as a promising bisphenol A, and epichlorohydrine free alternative to conventional petroleum‐based epoxies with an overall high bio‐based carbon content.
Protein tyrosine phosphatase nonreceptor type 2 exerts antimetastatic functions in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhang Shu , Wang Hui , Mao Pengfei , Sun Qi , Su Haochen , Zhang Yixuan , Shen Shanshan , Xu Guifang , Wang Lei , Zou Xiaoping , Zhan Qiang , Lv Ying 
Published: May 2023

AbstractPancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly invasive tumor with a dismal prognosis. Recent studies have demonstrated PTPN2 (protein tyrosine phosphatase nonreceptor type 2) as a potential target for cancer therapy. However, the functions of PTPN2 in PDAC progression remain poorly understood. In this study, we found PTPN2 expression was downregulated in PDAC tissues, and decreased PTPN2 expression was associated with unfavorable prognosis. Functional studies indicated that PTPN2 knockdown promoted the migration and invasion abilities of PDAC cells in vitro, and the liver metastasis in vivo through epithelial–mesenchymal transition process. Mechanistically, MMP‐1 was identified as a downstream target of PTPN2 via RNA‐seq data and was responsible for the enhanced metastasis of PDAC cells upon PTPN2 knockdown. Moreover, according to chromatin immunoprecipitation and electrophoretic mobility shift assay, PTPN2 depletion transcriptionally activated MMP‐1 via regulating the interaction of p‐STAT3 with its distal promoter. This study, for the first time, demonstrated that PTPN2 inhibited PDAC metastasis, and presented a novel PTPN2/p‐STAT3/MMP‐1 axis in PDAC progression.
Reconsidering the route of drug delivery in refractory multiple sclerosis: Toward a more effective drug accumulation in the central nervous system
Authors: Kalkowski Lukasz , Walczak Piotr , Mycko Marcin P. , Malysz‐Cymborska Izabela 
Published: May 2023

AbstractMultiple sclerosis is a chronic demyelinating disease with different disease phenotypes. The current FDA‐approved disease‐modifying therapeutics (DMTs) cannot cure the disease, but only alleviate the disease progression. While the majority of patients respond well to treatment, some of them are suffering from rapid progression. Current drug delivery strategies include the oral, intravenous, subdermal, and intramuscular routes, so these drugs are delivered systemically, which is appropriate when the therapeutic targets are peripheral. However, the potential benefits may be diminished when these targets sequester behind the barriers of the central nervous system. Moreover, systemic drug administration is plagued with adverse effects, sometimes severe. In this context, it is prudent to consider other drug delivery strategies improving their accumulation in the brain, thus providing better prospects for patients with rapidly progressing disease course. These targeted drug delivery strategies may also reduce the severity of systemic adverse effects. Here, we discuss the possibilities and indications for reconsideration of drug delivery routes (especially for those “non‐responding” patients) and the search for alternative drug delivery strategies. More targeted drug delivery strategies sometimes require quite invasive procedures, but the potential therapeutic benefits and reduction of adverse effects could outweigh the risks. We characterized the major FDA‐approved DMTs focusing on their therapeutic mechanism and the potential benefits of improving the accumulation of these drugs in the brain.
Polypropylene/silica nanocomposite membranes for lithium‐ion battery separator: Studies on interfacial tuning of pore structure, mechanical and thermal properties
Authors: Kottathodi Bicy , Royaud Isabelle , Poncot Marc , Rouxel Didier , Kalarikkal Nandakumar , Thomas Sabu 
Published: May 2023

AbstractEnergy storage and mobility industries use polypropylene (PP) nanocomposites. The energy storage applications of newly made microporous SiO2 filled, porous PP nanocomposites combining PP, natural rubber, and SiO2 nanoparticles then subsequently removing natural rubber from the nanocomposite were explored in this paper. SEM pictures showed how the pore morphology was altered by nanofillers. Mechanical tensile tests reveal that the SiO2 nanofiller enhances the mechanical properties of microporous polypropylene. XRD and DSC experiments have shown that SiO2 nanoparticles works as a nucleating agent but has no impact on the crystallinity of PP. The electrolyte absorption, porosity, ionic conductivity, wettability and charge–discharge performance were investigated for PP/SiO2 nanocomposite separator. SiO2 nanoparticles in the matrix have a significant impact on the wettability of PP membrane, since the presence of SiO2 nanoparticle reduces the contact angle from 24° to 15°. SiO2 filled PP membrane outperformed microporous PP and celgard separator in terms of electrolyte uptake (230%) and porosity (62%). In comparison to microporous PP, the PP/SiO2 membrane demonstrated a better ionic conductivity (5.9 × 10−4 S cm−1). Finally, Li/PP‐SiO2/LiFePO4 coin cells (2320 type) were fabricated and delivered a discharge capacity of 138 mAh g−1.
Pathways to health outcomes after cancer diagnosis: A systematic review of cancer survivorship in Nigeria
Authors: Esiaka Darlingtina K. , Nwakasi Candidus , Nnamele Vincent U. , Idu Amarachi O. , Egwuonwu Joshua , Mahmoud Kafayat O. 
Published: May 2023

AbstractObjectiveWith advancements in medicine and technology, more people are surviving cancers. However, cancer mortality in Nigeria remains high. The yearly estimate is 72,000 cancer‐related deaths, making cancer one of the leading causes of death in Nigeria. The current study aimed to identify and synthesize factors that facilitate or hinder cancer survivorship in Nigeria and add to our understanding of the patterns of cancer survivorship in LMICs, such as Nigeria.MethodFollowing preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses guidelines, a systematic review was conducted across PubMed, Cochrane, and Scopus databases. We identified 31 peer‐reviewed studies that examined cancer treatment, management, care, and survivorship in Nigeria.ResultsEight themes emerged from 31 peer‐reviewed studies that examined the factors that facilitate or hinder cancer survivorship among Nigerians. They include themes such as self‐care and management, treatment options, availability of pseudo‐doctors/pharmacists, and the desire to live. The themes were further grouped into three overarching themes: psychosocial, economic, and health care.ConclusionCancer survivors in Nigeria face many unique experiences that impact their health outcomes and chances of survivorship. Therefore, understanding cancer survivorship in Nigeria must involve studies on diagnosis, treatment, remission, surveillance, after‐cancer care, and end‐of‐life. With enhanced support, cancer survivors will have improved health, thereby reducing the cancer mortality rate in Nigeria.
Development and initial psychometric evaluation of the Perceptions of Parental Illness Questionnaire for Cancer
Authors: Fletcher Chloe M. E. , Flight Ingrid , Gunn Kate M. , Patterson Pandora , Wilson Carlene 
Published: May 2023

AbstractObjectiveTo evaluate the psychometric properties of the Perceptions of Parental Illness Questionnaire for Cancer (PPIQ‐C) among adolescents and young adults (AYAs).MethodsA sample of 372 AYAs (aged 12–24 years) who had a parent diagnosed with cancer completed the PPIQ‐C and the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10). Exploratory factor analyses were conducted to examine the dimensional structure of the PPIQ‐C. Scale reliability was evaluated using Cronbach's alpha (α) and McDonald's omega (ω). Pearson correlation analyses were conducted to assess construct validity by examining correlations between PPIQ‐C subscale scores and K10 total scores.ResultsThe PPIQ‐C is organised into three sections, each with a separate factor structure for items representingidentity,core(emotional representations,coherence,timeline,consequences, andcontrollability), andcausedimensions of the Common‐Sense Model of Self‐Regulation. Exploratory factor analyses determined the structure of each section:identityitems comprised two subscales (12 items),coreitems comprised 10 subscales (38 items), andcauseitems comprised three subscales (11 items). Scale reliability was acceptable for all subscales, except thecausesubscalechance or luck attributions(α = 0.665). Correlations between PPIQ‐C subscale scores and K10 total scores provided support for construct validity.ConclusionsPreliminary evidence suggests that the PPIQ‐C is a reliable, valid, and useful tool for assessing illness perceptions among AYAs with a parent with cancer. The PPIQ‐C may be a useful addition to both clinical practice and future research, however further evaluation work is needed to confirm its structure and robustness prior to use.
Study on thermal aging properties of PBT energetic elastomer
Authors: Chen Chen , Wang Yao‐Xiao , Chen Jian‐Fa , Deng Lei , Mao Cheng‐Li , Zhou Xing 
Published: May 2023

AbstractAccelerated aging experiments of 3,3‐bis(azidomethyl)oxetane (BAMO) and tetrahydrofuran (THF) copolymers (molar ratio 1 : 1, marked as PBT prepolymer) and PBT elastomer at elevated temperatures were performed to explore the aging mechanism of PBT energetic elastomer during long‐term storage. The evolution of functional groups, plasticizer content, element chemical state and crosslinking density were studied by FT‐IR, HPLC, XPS and swelling method, respectively. Results show that: (1) Oxidation of terminal hydroxyl, oxidative crosslinking between binder macromolecules, chain breaking of polymers and degradation of −CH2N3 occurred during the thermal aging of PBT prepolymer, and antioxidant (BHT) could effectively delay the thermal aging process of PBT prepolymer by absorbing the active oxidation substances. (2) The relative contents of −C=O showed a cubic function with time, and the relative contents of −NO2 and −N3 changed linearly with time during the thermal aging of PBT elastomer. The relative contents of BDNPF and BDNPA declined linearly with time, and the thermal stability of BDNPF was better than that of BDNPA. (3) The thermal aging of PBT elastomer experienced three main reaction stages: degradation of carbamate, the oxidative crosslinking of molecular chain caused by the decomposition products of BDNPF/BDNPA, and chain breaking of the polymer system. In addition, a small amount of −CH2N3 decomposed throughout the whole aging process.
A rocky road toward a suitable TNT replacement – A closer look at three promising azoles
Authors: Benz Maximilian , Delage Arthur , Klapötke Thomas M. , Kofen Moritz , Stierstorfer Jörg 
Published: May 2023

AbstractThe goal of this research project was to establish a literature known explosive, which can be used as a future melt‐cast explosive. The substance should not only be theoretically suitable as a substitute but also meet all industrially relevant requirements. Therefore, intensive literature research was executed to filter appropriate candidates. The three most promising substances were re‐synthesized to verify their key properties. If all criteria meet the requirements, synthesis optimization and preindustrial upscaling should be carried out.
Rational design and identification of novel thiosemicarbazide derivatives as laccase inhibitors
Authors: Sun Tengda , Jin Xiaoyu , Zhang Xiaoming , Lu Xingxing , Xu Huan , Cui Jialin , Yang Xinling , Liu Xili , Zhang Li , Ling Yun 
Published: May 2023

AbstractBACKGROUNDLaccase is a key enzyme in the fungal 1,8‐dihydroxynaphthalene (DHN) melanin biosynthesis pathway, which is a potential target for the control of pathogenic fungi. In our previous work, compound a2 was found with higher inhibition activity against laccase and antifungal activity than laccase inhibitor PMDD‐5Y. The introduction of hydrogen‐bonded receptors in the amino part was found to be beneficial in improving laccase inhibitory activity by target‐based‐biological rational design. In this work, the hydrogen‐bonded receptors morpholine and piperazine were introduced for structure optimization to enhancing biological activity.RESULTSEnzyme activity tests indicated that all target compounds had inhibitory activity against laccase, and some compounds exhibited better activity against laccase than a2, it was further verified that the introduction of hydrogen‐bonded receptors in the amino portion could enhance the laccase inhibitory activity of target compounds. Most compounds showed excellent antifungal activities in vitro. Compound m14 displayed good activity against Magnaporthe oryzae both in vitro and in vivo. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis showed that the mycelium of M. oryzae treated with m14 were destroyed. Molecular docking revealed the binding mode between laccase and target compounds.CONCLUSIONThirty‐eight compounds were synthesized and showed good inhibitory activity against laccase, the introduction of morpholine and piperazine in the amino part was beneficial to improve antifungal activity and laccase activity. Further validation of laccase as a potential target for rice blast control, while m14 can be used as a candidate compound for the control of rice blast. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Purification and Characterization of an Amylase from a Newly Isolated Geobacillus thermoleovorans TTIO4 from the Hot Spring of Tuwa‐Timba
Authors: Shukla Rushit J. , Singh Satya P. 
Published: May 2023

AbstractA thermophilic amylase produced by a newly isolated Geobacillus thermoleovorans TTIO4 from a hot spring in India is investigated. The isolate TTIO4 optimally produces extracellular amylase at 55 °C, pH 7, and 24 h of growth. The amylase is purified by 42 fold with a yield of 9.7%. The enzyme has a molecular weight of 40 kDa. The purified amylase catalyzes the reaction optimally at 60 °C and pH 7. Besides, it displays maximum thermal stability at 50 °C for 18 h. While the catalyst is improved by Ca+2, it is wholly inhibited by Hg+2. Furthermore, the chelators, inhibitors and solvents adversely affect the enzyme activity. The amylase is stabilized by SDS, while other surfactants negatively affect the enzyme. Km, Vmax, Kcat, and Kcat/Km of the amylase are 0.26 mg mL−1, 192.3 µg mL−1 min−1, 1.92 s−1, and 7.383 s−1 mg−1, respectively. The deactivation constant, half‐life, and change in Gibb's free energy, enthalpy, and entropy are determined at 50–70 °C, which supports the thermal stability and substrate affinity of the amylase. The washing quality of commercial detergents is distinctly enhanced when supplemented with this enzyme. Therefore, this amylase possesses significant thermal and surfactant stability has significant commercial potential.
Polyphosphazene hybridized perovskite copper hydroxystannate microspheres effectively improve the flame retardant and mechanical properties of Poly(vinyl Chloride) Resin
Authors: Yang Le , Wang Siqi , Yang Yueqi , Xu Jianzhong , Bao Jiandong , Ma Haiyun 
Published: May 2023

AbstractTo effectively reduce the fire hazard of flexible polyvinyl chloride (PVC), this study explored the synthesis of perovskite‐type copper hydroxystannate (CuSn(OH)6) microspheres by co‐precipitation method. Then an organic–inorganic hybrid microsphere (CuSn(OH)6@PZS) with core‐shell structure was fabricated by in situ coating with poly(cyclotriphosphazene‐co‐4,4′‐sulfonyldiphenol) (PZS). The results showed that CuSn(OH)6@PZS performs most significantly in reducing the total heat release, while the CuSn(OH)6 alone achieves the best smoke suppression effect. The limiting oxygen index (LOI) value of the PVC composites is improved from 29.0% to a maximum of 35.3%. During combustion, the peak heat release rate (PHRR) and total smoke production (TSP) decrease by a maximum of 50.8% and 44.9%, respectively. Significantly, the presence of the PZS coating also improves the interfacial compatibility with PVC. The mechanical properties were significantly improved and the elongation at break improving by 40.9%.
Overcoming Challenges of Virtual Scrum Teams: Lessons Learned Through an Action Research Study
Authors: Bablo Jedrzej , Marcinkowski Bartosz , Przybylek Adam 
Published: May 2023

AbstractAfter the COVID-19 breakout, agile teams found themselves in situations that “pure agilists” and textbooks on agile methods had preferred to ignore. Whereas agile mindsets helped them to quickly shift to remote work, mere virtualization of agile practices often proved insufficient, and several challenges emerged. This paper reports on an Action Research project carried out in Lufthansa Systems Poland with the aim of (1) revisiting their ad-hoc actions to adapt to remote work; and (2) elaborating systematic solutions to maintain efficiency in such a setting. With our assistance, the participating teams found measures to mitigate issues posed by the new work environment. They devised an inter-team communication model to improve the effectiveness of information exchange that had declined in the absence of spontaneous, face-to-face communication. Moreover, they employed several other mitigation strategies, including working at least one day per week in the office, keeping webcams on during online meetings, and recapping meetings at the end of a session. Our study largely supports previous findings indicating that Scrum can be effectively applied beyond its comfort zone but also suggests that for adaptations to be successful and comprehensive, they should be developed in a structured manner.
Hackerangriff auf ein autonom fahrendes Fahrzeug
Authors: Maier Karl , Antonczyk Nicole , Biskup Robin , Dalir Leyla 
Published: May 2023

ZusammenfassungDer stetige Fortschritt der Technologie führte im letzten Jahrzehnt zu einem verstärkten Fokus auf automatisierte Prozesse. Insbesondere die Automobilindustrie möchte die visionären Vorstellungen von selbstfahrenden Kraftfahrzeugen in den kommenden Jahren zur Realität werden lassen. Mit dem Wegfall der Fahrzeugführer versprechen die Autohersteller ihren Kundinnen und Kunden eine innovative und effiziente neue Mobilität. Hieraus entwickelt sich allerdings eine erhöhte Gefahr eines Cyberangriffes auf die Fahrzeugsoftware. Daraus resultiert eine Vielzahl an Rechtsfragen, falls beispielsweise externe Hacker die vollständige Kontrolle über die Fahrzeugsteuerung eines selbstfahrenden Kraftfahrzeuges erlangen konnten.
Versicherungsfinanzierte betriebliche Altersversorgung
Authors: Langohr-Plato Uwe 
Published: May 2023

ZusammenfassungIm Rahmen der betrieblichen Altersversorgung ist strikt zwischen der Versorgungszusage des Arbeitgebers und einem daneben bestehenden Versicherungsvertrag zu differenzieren, den der Arbeitgeber zur Finanzierung der zugesagten Versorgungsverpflichtungen abgeschlossen hat. Maßgeblich für seine Verpflichtung zur Erfüllung der Versorgungszusagen und damit für den Umfang seiner Haftung ist ausschließlich der Inhalt der Versorgungszusage. Leistet der Versicherer weniger, dann muss der Arbeitgeber die entsprechende Differenz ausgleichen und den Mitarbeitern die arbeitsvertraglich zugesagte Leistung verschaffen. Vorher ist seine Leistungspflicht nicht erfüllt. Dies gilt auch dann, wenn der Versicherer nach seinen Vertragsbedingungen berechtigt ist, eine geringere als die vom Arbeitgeber zugesagte Leistung zu gewähren.