bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Benefits of using nonionic saccharide surfactant‐based detergents for nanostructured fluids as stubborn graffiti paint remover
Authors: Bartman Marcin , Balicki Sebastian , Hołysz Lucyna , Wilk Kazimiera A.
Published: May 2023

Examples of nanostructured fluids (NSFs) used as highly specialized “brush‐on, wipe‐off” detergents for the removal of graffiti coatings resistant to removal are water‐in‐oil nanoemulsions that have been stabilized with nonionic saccharide surfactants. Nanodetergents with safe, ecofriendly ingredients were produced using high‐pressure homogenization (HPH). These ingredients included D‐limonene or 3‐methoxy‐3‐methyl‐1‐butanol, esterified vegetable oils, and alkyl polyglucosides (APG). Responsive surface methodology (RSM) optimization was used to identify the most efficient detergents for removing stubborn graffiti coatings. Two different types of black paint containing nitrocellulose or bitumen as components to strengthen the paint properties were used to create a stubborn graffiti coating on a marble surface. The effectiveness of the nanodetergents in removing the stubborn graffiti coatings was evaluated, and the results revealed a considerable variation in the pace at which the coatings could be removed by the nanodetergents, despite the fact that both paints strengthened with different additives showed similar surface properties. It was found that alkyl polyglucosides are highly efficient in stabilizing water‐in‐oil nanoemulsion systems, including diverse solvent types. These nanoemulsions can be used as specialized “brush‐on, wipe‐off” detergents for the precise removal of different graffiti coatings, which require a specified action period to prevent destroying the underlying original substrate.
Volatile components of Pelaverga red wines from Piedmont (Italy)
Authors: Bonometti Elisabetta , Operti Lorenza , Rabezzana Roberto , Volpi Giorgio
Published: May 2023

Background

The 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.

Results

Forty‐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.

Conclusion

The 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

Objectives

In 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.

Methods

Protocol: 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.

Results

Of 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.

Conclusions

Delaying 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 Evidence

Four 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

In 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

Pancreatic 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

Multiple 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.
Group classification of the two‐dimensional magnetogasdynamics equations in Lagrangian coordinates
Authors: Meleshko Sergey V. , Kaptsov Evgenii I. , Moyo Sibusiso , Webb Gary M.
Published: May 2023

The present paper is devoted to the group classification of magnetogasdynamics equations in which dependent variables in Euler coordinates depend on time and two spatial coordinates. It is assumed that the continuum is inviscid and nonthermal polytropic gas with infinite electrical conductivity. The equations are considered in mass Lagrangian coordinates. Use of Lagrangian coordinates allows reducing number of dependent variables. The analysis presented in this article gives complete group classification of the studied equations. This analysis is necessary for constructing invariant solutions and conservation laws on the base of Noether's theorem.
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

Energy 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

Objective

With 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.

Method

Following 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.

Results

Eight 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.

Conclusion

Cancer 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

Objective

To evaluate the psychometric properties of the Perceptions of Parental Illness Questionnaire for Cancer (PPIQ‐C) among adolescents and young adults (AYAs).

Methods

A 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.

Results

The 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.

Conclusions

Preliminary 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

Accelerated 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

The 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

BACKGROUND

Laccase 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.

RESULTS

Enzyme 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.

CONCLUSION

Thirty‐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.
Characterization of Exogenous Sequence Fragments in Extracellular Vesicles from Human
Authors: Wang Yi , Xie Gui-Yan , Zhang Qiong , Zhang Xiuqing , Guo An-Yuan
Published: May 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) play crucial role in mediating intercellular communication. Small RNA is an important component in EVs. However, the proportion of small RNA sequencing (smRNA‐seq) reads in EVs mapped to the human genome is much lower than that of cells, suggesting the existence of many nonhuman sequences in EVs. However, there is no systematic study on EV fragments unmapped to the human genome. Herein, using EV smRNA‐seq data, the landscape of exogenous RNA cargoes in human EVs is portrayed. The results show the distribution of nonhuman sequence fragments in 1838 EV samples; an average of 21.82% of reads are unmapped to the human genome, and 12.33% are mapped to the collected exogenous reference sequences. Furthermore, the proportion of exogenous sequences in plasma EV samples is the lowest, while in the cell line EV samples, it is much higher, mainly from animals, bacteria, or contaminants. Exogenous sequences from plants are mainly from food, and the exogenous bacteria are mainly gut microbiota. Virus‐derived sequences reflect the high prevalence of viruses in the population, such as herpesvirus and hepatitis virus. This study provides the first landscape of exogenous fragments in human EVs and implies diverse RNA sources in the human body.
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

A 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

To 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

After 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

Der 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

Im 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.
Bisherige Kapitalmarktkrisen im 21. Jahrhundert
Authors: Mehring Hans-Peter
Published: May 2023

In einer Rückschau können für das 21. Jahrhundert bislang drei wesentliche Finanzkrisen identifiziert werden:

Das Platzen der Technologieblase im Jahr 2001 und die Folgen der Anschläge des 11. Septembers (9/11) im selben Jahr,

die Finanzmarktkrise des Jahres 2008 und die darauffolgende europäische Schuldenkrise sowie

die Reaktionen der Finanzmärkte auf die COVID-19 Pandemie im Jahr 2020.

Diese Ereignisse haben zu Änderungen im Bilanzrecht geführt und die Bilanzierungspraxis der Versicherungsunternehmen maßgeblich beeinflusst.
Gesellschaftliche Integration aus Sicht von Profession
Authors: Lüthi Katharina
Published: May 2023

Lernen vor Ort zielt darauf, Kommunen bei der Entwicklung eines ganzheitlichen Bildungswesens zu unterstützen, »in dessen Mittelpunkt die Menschen und deren Bildungsbiographien stehen«. Die Abstimmung und Verzahnung unterschiedlicher Bildungsbereiche innerhalb und zwischen kreisangehörigen Städten sowie innerhalb einer kreisfreien Stadt hat »unter besonderer Berücksichtigung einer ganzheitlichen Betrachtung individueller Bildungsbiographien« zu erfolgen. In dieser Formulierung sind Prozesse der Systemintegration mit Blick auf Sozialintegration angesprochen.
Methodisches Vorgehen
Authors: Lüthi Katharina
Published: May 2023

Qualitative Fallstudien bilden einen zentralen Bestandteil der wissenschaftlichen Begleitforschung zum Programm Lernen vor Ort. Sie wurden als Längsschnitterhebung angelegt. In 14 Lernen-vor-Ort-Kommunen erfolgten Erhebungswellen im Jahr 2011 und 2012, bei denen unterschiedliche Schlüsselakteure in Interviews vor Ort befragt wurden, um Interaktionsprozesse im Verlauf sowie kritische Erfolgsfaktoren und Transferpotenziale zu erfassen.
Generalized parton distributions through universal moment parameterization: non-zero skewness case
Authors: Guo Yuxun , Ji Xiangdong , Santiago M. Gabriel , Shiells Kyle , Yang Jinghong
Published: May 2023

Abstract

We present the first global analysis of generalized parton distributions (GPDs) combing lattice quantum chromodynamics (QCD) calculations and experiment measurements including global parton distribution functions (PDFs), form factors (FFs) and deeply virtual Compton scattering (DVCS) measurements. Following the previous work where we parameterize GPDs in terms of their moments, we extend the framework to allow for the global analysis at non-zero skewness. Together with the constraints at zero skewness, we fit GPDs to global DVCS measurements from both the recent JLab and the earlier Hadron-Electron Ring Accelerator (HERA) experiments with two active quark flavors and leading order QCD evolution. With certain choices of empirical constraints, both sea and valence quark distributions are extracted with the combined inputs, and we present the quark distributions in the proton correspondingly. We also discuss how to extend the framework to accommodate more off-forward constraints beyond the small ξ expansion, especially the lattice calculated GPDs.
Consistent truncations from the geometry of sphere bundles
Authors: Bonetti Federico , Minasian Ruben , Camell Valentí Vall , Weck Peter
Published: May 2023

Abstract

In this paper, we present a unified perspective on sphere consistent truncations based on the classical geometric properties of sphere bundles. The backbone of our approach is the global angular form for the sphere. A universal formula for the Kaluza-Klein ansatz of the flux threading the n-sphere captures the full nonabelian isometry group SO(n + 1) and scalar deformations associated to the coset SL(n + 1, ℝ)/SO(n + 1). In all cases, the scalars enter the ansatz in a shift by an exact form. We find that the latter can be completely fixed by imposing mild conditions, motivated by supersymmetry, on the scalar potential arising from dimensional reduction of the higher dimensional theory. We comment on the role of the global angular form in the derivation of the topological couplings of the lower-dimensional theory, and on how this perspective could provide inroads into the study of consistent truncations with less supersymmetry.
Some hidden structure in BKL
Authors: Perry Malcolm J.
Published: May 2023

Abstract

The way spacetime behaves as one approaches a spacelike singularity is reinvestigated. We find a simple twistorial presentation that includes and simplifies the classic work of Belinskii, Khalatnikov and Lifshitz as well as the more recent results of Damour, Henneaux and Nicolai. We speculate on the application of our technique to the E10 programme of M-theory.
Miniature spectrometer data analytics for food fraud
Authors: Asharindavida Fayas , Nibouche Omar , Uhomoibhi James , Liu Jun , Vincent Jordan , Wang Hui
Published: May 2023

Machine learning has been extensively used for analyzing spectral data in food quality management. However, collecting high-quality spectral data from miniature spectrometers outside the laboratory is challenging due to various factors such as distortions, noise, high dimensionality, and collinearity. This paper presents an in-depth analysis of food datasets collected from miniature spectrometers to evaluate the data quality and characteristics, by focusing on a case study of olive oil quality check, where various machine learning models were applied to differentiate pure and adulterated olive oil. Furthermore, the impact of pre-processing techniques on data distortions was studied. It presents a comprehensive pipeline, including data pre-processing, dimension reduction, classification, and regression analysis, and deploys different algorithms for comparative classification and regression analysis. The model performances were assessed using 2 separate methods: tenfold cross-validation on an entire dataset with 10% random testing, and an entire test set collected in different environments (multi-session validation). The first validation approach reached classification rates of up to 96.73%, while the second achieved 83.32%. These results demonstrate that cost-effective miniature spectrometers augmented with a suitable machine learning pipeline could execute classification tasks on par with non-portable and more expensive spectrometers. Furthermore, the study highlights the requirement of specialized algorithms to handle different ambient conditions affecting data acquisition and to eliminate performance gaps, making miniature spectrometers suitable for in situ scenarios. This work extends previous research to enable consumers becoming the first line in the defense against food fraud.
Lipschitz geometry of surface germs in $${\mathbb {R}}^4$$: metric knots
Authors: Birbrair Lev , Brandenbursky Michael , Gabrielov Andrei
Published: May 2023

A link at the origin of an isolated singularity of a two-dimensional semialgebraic surface in $${\mathbb {R}}^4$$

R

4

is a topological knot (or link) in $$S^3$$

S
3

. We study the connection between the ambient Lipschitz geometry of semialgebraic surface germs in $${\mathbb {R}}^4$$

R

4

and knot theory. Namely, for any knot K, we construct a surface $$X_K$$

X
K

in $${\mathbb {R}}^4$$

R

4

such that: the link at the origin of $$X_{K}$$

X
K

is a trivial knot; the germs $$X_K$$

X
K

are outer bi-Lipschitz equivalent for all K; two germs $$X_{K}$$

X
K

and $$X_{K'}$$

X

K
′

are ambient semialgebraic bi-Lipschitz equivalent only if the knots K and $$K'$$

K
′

are isotopic. We show that the Jones polynomial can be used to recognize ambient bi-Lipschitz non-equivalent surface germs in $${\mathbb {R}}^4$$

R

4

, even when they are topologically trivial and outer bi-Lipschitz equivalent.
AI and Swedish Heritage Organisations: challenges and opportunities
Authors: Griffin Gabriele , Wennerström Elisabeth , Foka Anna
Published: May 2023

This article examines the challenges and opportunities that arise with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) methods and tools when implemented within cultural heritage institutions (CHIs), focusing on three selected Swedish case studies. The article centres on the perspectives of the CHI professionals who deliver that implementation. Its purpose is to elucidate how CHI professionals respond to the opportunities and challenges AI/ML provides. The three Swedish CHIs discussed here represent different organizational frameworks and have different types of collections, while sharing, to some extent, a similar position in terms of the use of AI/ML tools and methodologies. The overarching question of this article is what is the state of knowledge about AI/ML among Swedish CHI professionals, and what are the related issues? To answer this question, we draw on (1) semi-structured interviews with CHI professionals, (2) individual CHI website information, and (3) CHI-internal digitization protocols and digitalization strategies, to provide a nuanced analysis of both professional and organisational processes concerning the implementation of AI/ML methods and tools. Our study indicates that AI/ML implementation is in many ways at the very early stages of implementation in Swedish CHIs. The CHI professionals are affected in their AI/ML engagement by four key issues that emerged in the interviews: their institutional and professional knowledge regarding AI/ML; the specificities of their collections and associated digitization and digitalization issues; issues around personnel; and issues around AI/ML resources. The article suggests that a national CHI strategy for AI/ML might be helpful as would be knowledge-, expertise-, and potentially personnel- and resource-sharing to move beyond the constraints that the CHIs face in implementing AI/ML.
A novel approach for surface defect detection of lithium battery based on improved K-nearest neighbor and Euclidean clustering segmentation
Authors: Liu Xinhua , Wu Lequn , Guo Xiaoqiang , Andriukaitis Darius , Królczyk Grzegorz , Li Zhixiong
Published: May 2023

Surface defects of lithium batteries seriously affect the product quality and may lead to safety risks. In order to accurately identify the surface defects of lithium battery, a novel defect detection approach is proposed based on improved K-nearest neighbor (KNN) and Euclidean clustering segmentation. Firstly, an improved voxel density strategy for KNN is proposed to speed up the effect for point filtering. Then, the improved clustering segmentation strategy is applied to distinguish point clouds with defect features. The outline fitting algorithm based on the least square method is applied to determine geometric features of each surface defect which are used to classify defect types. Furthermore, experimental results show that the proposed surface defect detection method reaches 99.2% accuracy and 35.3-ms average time consumption for data processing. Finally, an industrial application example of lithium battery production is demonstrated, which meets the requirements of industrial application. All these reports exhibited that the industrial visual inspection system with rapid measurement is an effective method and guarantees for accelerating industrial production and manufacturing in the future.
ITRF2020: an augmented reference frame refining the modeling of nonlinear station motions
Authors: Altamimi Zuheir , Rebischung Paul , Collilieux Xavier , Métivier Laurent , Chanard Kristel
Published: May 2023

To better describe the shape of the constantly deforming Earth’s surface, the ITRF2020 is provided as an augmented terrestrial reference frame that precisely models nonlinear station motions for both seasonal (annual and semi-annual) signals present in the station position time series and Post-Seismic Deformation (PSD) for sites impacted by major earthquakes. Reprocessed solutions in the form of station position time series and Earth Orientation Parameters using the full observation history provided by the four space geodetic techniques (DORIS, GNSS, SLR and VLBI) were used as input data, spanning 28, 27, 38 and 41 years of observations, respectively. The ITRF2020 long-term origin follows linearly with time the Earth’s Center of Mass (CM) as sensed by SLR, based on observations collected over the time span 1993.0–2021.0. We evaluate the accuracy of the ITRF2020 long-term origin position and time evolution by comparison to previous solutions, namely ITRF2014, ITRF2008 and ITRF2005, to be at the level of or better than 5 mm and 0.5 mm/yr, respectively. The ITRF2020 long-term scale is defined by a rigorous weighted average of selected VLBI sessions up to 2013.75 and SLR weekly solutions covering the 1997.75–2021.0 time span. For the first time of the ITRF history, the scale agreement between SLR and VLBI long-term solutions is at the level of 0.15 ppb (1 mm at the equator) at epoch 2015.0, with no drift. To accommodate most of ITRF2020 users, the seasonal station coordinate variations are provided in the CM as well as in the Center of Figure frames, together with a seasonal geocenter motion model. While the PSD parametric models were determined by fitting GNSS data only, they also fit the station position time series of the three other techniques that are colocated with GNSS, demonstrating their high performance in describing site post-seismic trajectories.
Immunomagnetic separation coupled with flow cytometry for the analysis of Legionella pneumophila in aerosols
Authors: Heining Lena , Welp Laura , Hugo Achim , Elsner Martin , Seidel Michael
Published: May 2023

Legionella pneumophila are pathogenic bacteria that can be found in high concentrations in artificial water systems like evaporative cooling towers, which have been the source of frequent outbreaks in recent years. Since inhaled L. pneumophila can lead to Legionnaires’ disease, the development of suitable sampling and rapid analysis strategies for these bacteria in aerosols is therefore of great relevance. In this work, different concentrations of viable L. pneumophila Sg 1 were nebulized and sampled by the cyclone sampler Coriolis® µ under defined conditions in a bioaerosol chamber. To quantify intact Legionella cells, the collected bioaerosols were subsequently analyzed by immunomagnetic separation coupled with flow cytometry (IMS-FCM) on the platform rqmicro.COUNT. For analytical comparison, measurements with qPCR and cultivation were performed. Limits of detection (LOD) of 2.9 × 103 intact cells m−3 for IMS-FCM and 7.8 × 102 intact cells m−3 for qPCR indicating a comparable sensitivity as in culture (LOD = 1.5 × 103 culturable cells m−3). Over a working range of 103 − 106 cells mL−1, the analysis of nebulized and collected aerosol samples with IMS-FCM and qPCR provides higher recovery rates and more consistent results than by cultivation. Overall, IMS-FCM is a suitable culture-independent method for quantification of L. pneumophila in bioaerosols and is promising for field application due to its simplicity in sample preparation.

Graphical abstract
Two-stage drying of tomato based on physical parameter kinetics: operative and qualitative optimization
Authors: Mencarelli Alessio , Marinello Francesco , Marini Alberto , Guerrini Lorenzo
Published: May 2023

The industrial drying of tomatoes using hot air is a widespread practice. However, air drying has several issues in terms of time, energy consumption and qualitative characteristics of the final product. The study aims to improve drying through the monitoring of the tomato’s physical characteristics. The study was divided into two parts. In the first part, the kinetics of moisture, color, volume, and rehydration ratio during the drying of tomatoes were modeled according to the temperature used (50, 60, 70, and 80 °C). Moisture loss kinetics has an initial zero-order, followed by first-order kinetics once the critical moisture is exceeded. For color, a first constant trend is observed followed by a steadily increasing or decreasing variation according to the color considered (i.e., red, or brown). The use of low temperatures guarantees the least changes of physical characteristics but significantly increases the time (+ 189%). Conversely, high temperatures guarantee faster drying but cause greater tomato browning (+ 200%). During the drying, the volume decreased linearly according to the considered temperature. In the second part of the work, a tentative drying optimization was performed, based on color kinetics. A two-stage process using two temperatures was developed to reduce drying times without affecting the product quality. Also, two control tests were conducted at 50 °C and 70 °C constant temperatures. No significant quality differences were observed between tomatoes dried at 50 °C and those using the two-stage process (p < 0.05). This type of approach did not produce a qualitative deterioration of the final product and at the same time allowed a significant reduction (− 27.6%) in time.
Linocin M18 protein from the insect pathogenic bacterium Brevibacillus laterosporus isolates
Authors: Babar Tauseef K. , Glare Travis R. , Hampton John G. , Hurst Mark R. H. , Narciso Josefina , Sheen Campbell R. , Koch Barbara
Published: May 2023

Brevibacillus laterosporus (Bl) is a Gram-positive and spore-forming bacterium. Insect pathogenic strains have been characterised in New Zealand, and two isolates, Bl 1821L and Bl 1951, are under development for use in biopesticides. However, growth in culture is sometimes disrupted, affecting mass production. Based on previous work, it was hypothesised that Tectiviridae phages might be implicated. While investigating the cause of the disrupted growth, electron micrographs of crude lysates showed structural components of putative phages including capsid and tail-like structures. Sucrose density gradient purification yielded a putative self-killing protein of ~30 kDa. N-terminal sequencing of the ~30 kDa protein identified matches to a predicted 25 kDa hypothetical and a 31.4 kDa putative encapsulating protein homologs, with the genes encoding each protein adjacent in the genomes. BLASTp analysis of the homologs of 31.4 kDa amino acid sequences shared 98.6% amino acid identity to the Linocin M18 bacteriocin family protein of Brevibacterium sp. JNUCC-42. Bioinformatic tools including AMPA and CellPPD defined that the bactericidal potential originated from a putative encapsulating protein. Antagonistic activity of the ~30 kDa encapsulating protein of Bl 1821L and Bl 1951during growth in broth exhibited bacterial autolytic activity. LIVE/DEAD staining of Bl 1821L cells after treatment with the ~30 kDa encapsulating protein of Bl 1821L substantiated the findings by showing 58.8% cells with the compromised cell membranes as compared to 37.5% cells in the control. Furthermore, antibacterial activity of the identified proteins of Bl 1821L was validated through gene expression in a Gram-positive bacterium Bacillus subtilis WB800N.

Key Points

• Gene encoding the 31.4 kDa antibacterial Linocin M18 protein was identified

• It defined the autocidal activity of Linocin M18 (encapsulating) protein

• Identified the possible killing mechanism of the encapsulins