bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diversity und Führung? Eine branchenspezifische Analyse zu Diversity Einstellungen von Führungskräften
Authors: Genkova Petia , Schreiber Henrik
Published: May 2022

Das folgende Kapitel legt Ergebnisse einer Untersuchung dar, welche sich mit den Einstellungen von Führungskräften zu kultureller Vielfalt im MINT-Bereich (Mathematik, Informatik, Naturwissenschaften und Technik) beschäftigt.

Vor dem Hintergrund einer zunehmend diversifizierten und globalisierten Arbeitswelt in deutschen Unternehmen gewinnen Erkenntnisse über die Entstehung und Beeinflussung des Umgangs mit kultureller Vielfalt an Bedeutung. Während Führungskräfte als Multiplikatoren der Unternehmensstrategie zum Umgang mit Vielfalt gelten, gibt es kaum wissenschaftliche Befunde über die spezifischen Einstellungen dieser Gruppe. Da Führungskräfte generell eine schwer zugängliche Zielgruppe sind, liegen vornehmlich Beobachtungen aus der Perspektive der Mitarbeitenden vor. Dies gilt insbesondere für technische und naturwissenschaftliche Berufsgruppen. Aus diesem Grund befragt die vorliegende qualitative Studie, explorativ Führungskräfte dieser Branchen hinsichtlich ihrer Erfahrungen, sozialer Einflüsse und Kompetenzen, die für den Umgang mit kultureller Vielfalt relevant sind. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass sich nur ein kleiner Teil der Befragten der Chancen und Risiken kultureller Vielfalt und den spezifischen Herausforderungen für Menschen mit Migrationshintergrund bewusst ist. Dabei scheinen für die Ausbildung der Einstellungen gegenüber kultureller Vielfalt sowohl die eigenen Erfahrungen und die Sensibilität, die eigene Identifizierung mit dem Unternehmen, vor dem Hintergrund der jeweiligen Position des Unternehmens, und bisherige Maßnahmen relevant zu sein. Die Befragten konstatieren außerdem einen Mangel an interpersonalen und interkulturellen Kompetenzen bei Nachwuchs-Führungskräften in der Branche, welcher sowohl durch Unternehmen als auch durch Bildungsträger adressiert werden sollte.
Migration und Erfolg: Gelingensbedingungen und Hindernisse
Authors: Genkova Petia
Published: May 2022

Das folgende Kapitel gibt einen Überblick über psychologische Ansätze, die zur Erklärung von Migrationsprozessen und deren psychologischen Folgen herangezogen werden können. Dies umfasst unter anderem den Identitätsansatz, den Ansatz des kulturellen Lernens und den stresstheoretischen Ansatz.

Zunächst werden grundlegende Erkenntnisse zu den Themen Stereotype, Vorurteile und Diskriminierung angeführt und in verschiedene Theorien eingebettet.

Im nächsten Schritt wird Akkulturation, als Identitätsansatz, aus theoretischer und empirischer Sicht anhand verschiedener Modelle und Ansätze erläutert. Besonders die Akkulturationsstrategie der Integration wird hervorgehoben, da diese mit Vorteilen und Chancen, sowohl für die Migrierenden als auch die Mehrheitsgesellschaft, einhergeht.

Anschließend werden unterschiedliche Aspekte und Herausforderungen eines Akkulturationsprozesses und die jeweiligen Einflussfaktoren dargestellt. Beispiele sind der Kulturschock und der akkulturative Stress, die mit negativen Emotionen, Angst oder gar Depressionen zusammenhängen. Dem gegenüber steht der Prozess der kulturellen Anpassung, den das Individuum durchlebt, bis es sich in der neuen Kultur wohlfühlt und sich kulturadäquate Verhaltensweisen angeeignet hat.

Den Abschluss des Kapitels bilden verschiedene Einflussfaktoren auf den interkulturellen Erfolg.
Viel Licht und neue Aufgaben – Münchner Perspektiven zu kultureller Diversität an deutschen Hochschulen
Authors: Theobald Wanda , Semke Edwin
Published: May 2022

Die deutsche Wirtschaft verlangt nach qualifizierten Fach- und Führungskräften, vor allem im MINT-Bereich (Mathematik, Ingenieurwesen, Naturwissenschaften und Technik). Noch nicht vollständig erschlossene Personalpotentiale werden unter internationalen Studierenden und solchen mit Migrationshintergrund vermutet. Die Untersuchung nimmt das Maß der kulturellen Diversität an Hochschulen in den Fokus. Zugleich werden Stereotypisierungsängste und Gruppengrenzen untersucht. Das Bewusstsein für kulturelle Diversität ist lediglich unter internationalen Studierenden deutlich ausgeprägt. Zugleich fühlen sie sich durch Stereotypisierung bedroht und von Netzwerken und Informationen durch wenig durchlässige Gruppengrenzen weitgehend abgeschnitten. Zugleich scheint die kulturelle Umgebung einen Einfluss auf alle drei untersuchten Merkmale zu haben: je internationaler die Umgebung, desto geringer sind Stereotypenbedrohung und kulturelle Gruppengrenzen ausgeprägt. Diese Unterschiede lassen sich, basierend auf den vorliegenden Ergebnissen, einerseits auf die kulturelle Diversität der Studierendenschaft und andererseits auf die Einstellungen zu Diversität seitens der Studierenden ohne Migrationshintergrund sowie auf die Häufigkeit von Gelegenheiten zur Intergruppen-Interaktion zurückführen.
Geometric algebra and algebraic geometry of loop and Potts models
Authors: Böhm Janko , Jacobsen Jesper Lykke , Jiang Yunfeng , Zhang Yang
Published: May 2022

Abstract

We uncover a connection between two seemingly separate subjects in integrable models: the representation theory of the affine Temperley-Lieb algebra, and the algebraic structure of solutions to the Bethe equations of the XXZ spin chain. We study the solution of Bethe equations analytically by computational algebraic geometry, and find that the solution space encodes rich information about the representation theory of Temperley-Lieb algebra. Using these connections, we compute the partition function of the completely-packed loop model and of the closely related random-cluster Potts model, on medium-size lattices with toroidal boundary conditions, by two quite different methods. We consider the partial thermodynamic limit of infinitely long tori and analyze the corresponding condensation curves of the zeros of the partition functions. Two components of these curves are obtained analytically in the full thermodynamic limit.
Hardy spaces associated to generalized Hardy operators and applications
Authors: Bui The Anh , Nader Georges
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we will study the Hardy and BMO spaces associated to the generalized Hardy operator $$L_{\alpha }= (-\Delta )^{\alpha /2}+a|x|^{-\alpha }$$

L
α

=

(
-
Δ
)

α
/
2

+
a

|
x
|

-
α

. Similarly to the classical Hardy and BMO spaces, we will prove that our new function spaces will enjoy some important results such as molecular decomposition and duality. As applications, we show the boundedness of the spectral multiplier of Laplace transform type and the Sobolev norm inequalities involving the generalized Hardy operator.
Molecular glues: enhanced protein-protein interactions and cell proteome editing
Authors: Weagel Evita G. , Foulks Jason M. , Siddiqui Adam , Warner Steven L.
Published: May 2022

The druggable genome is limited by structural features that can be targeted by small molecules in disease-relevant proteins. While orthosteric and allosteric protein modulators have been well studied, they are limited to antagonistic/agonistic functions. This approach to protein modulation leaves many disease-relevant proteins as undruggable targets. Recently, protein-protein interaction modulation has emerged as a promising therapeutic field for previously undruggable protein targets. Molecular glues and heterobifunctional degraders such as PROTACs can facilitate protein interactions and bring the proteasome into proximity to induce targeted protein degradation. In this review, we discuss the function and rational design of molecular glues, heterobifunctional degraders, and hydrophobic tag degraders. We also review historic and novel molecular glues and targets and discuss the challenges and opportunities in this new therapeutic field.
Resting-state Networks in Tinnitus
Authors: Kok Tori Elyssa , Domingo Deepti , Hassan Joshua , Vuong Alysha , Hordacre Brenton , Clark Chris , Katrakazas Panagiotis , Shekhawat Giriraj Singh
Published: May 2022

Chronic subjective tinnitus is the constant perception of a sound that has no physical source. Brain imaging studies show alterations in tinnitus patients’ resting-state networks (RSNs). This scoping review aims to provide an overview of resting-state fMRI studies in tinnitus, and to evaluate the evidence for changes in different RSNs. A total of 29 studies were included, 26 of which found alterations in networks such as the auditory network, default mode network, attention networks, and visual network; however, there is a lack of reproducibility in the field which can be attributed to the use of different regions of interest and analytical methods per study, and tinnitus heterogeneity. Future studies should focus on replication by using the same regions of interest in their analysis of resting-state data, and by controlling adequately for potential confounds. These efforts could potentially lead to the identification of a biomarker for tinnitus in the future.
Synthesis of nanocubic lithium cobalt ferrite toward high-performance lithium-ion battery
Authors: Ateia Ebtesam E. , Ateia Mahmoud A. , Fayed Motaz G. , El-Hout Soliman. I. , Mohamed Saad G. , Arman M. M.
Published: May 2022

The synthesis of Li1.1Co0.3Fe2.1O4 ferrite nanoparticles has been successfully fabricated by the citrate auto combustion technique. Numerous characterization techniques as X-ray Diffraction (XRD), High- Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM), Field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), and Raman Spectroscopy are achieved. The homogeneous formation of the cubic phase is ratified through HRTEM. Five Raman-active modes A1g, 3F2g, Eg. are detected for the examined samples. In addition, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) is carried out to identify the various ions existing in samples and their oxidation states. The investigated ferrite nanoparticles manifest large capacity (until 1150 mAh g−1), stellar coulombic efficiency, and superb cycle stability (443 mAh g−1 after 50 cycles). Finally, the cheap and non-toxic Li1.1Co0.3Fe2.1O4 has been employed as an anode for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), demonstrating superior electrochemical in terms of specific capacity, cycle performance, and rate capability.
Hypoechogenicity of brainstem raphe in long-COVID syndrome–less common but independently associated with depressive symptoms: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Richter Daniel , Schulze Hannah , James Jeyanthan Charles , Siems Nadine , Trampe Nadine , Gold Ralf , Krogias Christos , Faissner Simon
Published: May 2022

Objective

Long coronavirus disease (Long-COVID) syndrome is a hitherto poorly understood phenomenon with a broad spectrum of symptoms, including depression and anxiety. Depressive symptoms have been associated with brainstem raphe (BR) alterations in transcranial sonography (TCS) that might reflect dysfunction of the serotonergic system. The primary aim was to investigate the connection of BR alterations with depressive and anxiety symptoms in patients with Long-COVID syndrome.

Methods

In a cross-sectional study design, we included outpatients fulfilling the criteria of Long-COVID syndrome. All patients were examined by TCS in the axial plane with focus on BR signal alterations. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was used to test for symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Results

We included n = 70 patients with Long-COVID syndrome, of which 28.6% (n = 20) exhibited a reduced echogenicity of BR in the TCS examination. Patients with hypoechogenic BR had higher subscores for anxiety and depression compared to normoechogenic patients (HADS depression: median 8 versus 5.5, p = 0.006; HADS anxiety: median 9 versus 6.5, p = 0.006). After adjustment for reasonable confounders, only the odds ratio (OR) for relevant depressive symptoms was higher among Long-COVID patients with hypoechogenic raphe (adjusted OR 3.884, 95% CI 1.244–12.123).

Discussion

Hypoechogenic BR alterations are independently associated with depressive symptoms in Long-COVID patients but are not highly frequent. Future studies should investigate whether the hypoechogenicity of the BR is a direct consequence or whether it reflects a priori a higher susceptibility to depressive symptoms after COVID-19, thus enabling to identify COVID-19 patients at higher risk of developing Long-COVID depressive symptoms.
Realistic biomarkers from plasma extracellular vesicles for detection of beryllium exposure
Authors: Adduri Raju S. R. , Vasireddy Ravikiran , Mroz Margaret M. , Bhakta Anisha , Li Yang , Chen Zhe , Miller Jeffrey W. , Velasco-Alzate Karen Y. , Gopalakrishnan Vanathi , Maier Lisa A. , Li Li , Konduru Nagarjun V.
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Exposures related to beryllium (Be) are an enduring concern among workers in the nuclear weapons and other high-tech industries, calling for regular and rigorous biological monitoring. Conventional biomonitoring of Be in urine is not informative of cumulative exposure nor health outcomes. Biomarkers of exposure to Be based on non-invasive biomonitoring could help refine disease risk assessment. In a cohort of workers with Be exposure, we employed blood plasma extracellular vesicles (EVs) to discover novel biomarkers of exposure to Be.

Methods

EVs were isolated from plasma using size-exclusion chromatography and subjected to mass spectrometry-based proteomics. A protein-based classifier was developed using LASSO regression and validated by ELISA.

Results

We discovered a dual biomarker signature comprising zymogen granule protein 16B and putative protein FAM10A4 that differentiated between Be-exposed and -unexposed subjects. ELISA-based quantification of the biomarkers in an independent cohort of samples confirmed higher expression of the signature in the Be-exposed group, displaying high predictive accuracy (AUROC = 0.919). Furthermore, the biomarkers efficiently discriminated high- and low-exposure groups (AUROC = 0.749).

Conclusions

This is the first report of EV biomarkers associated with Be exposure and exposure levels. The biomarkers could be implemented in resource-limited settings for Be exposure assessment.
Psychophysiologische Reaktionen auf operationalisierte psychoanalytische Deutungen: Eine Pilotstudie
Authors: Fischer Maximilian , Buchheim Anna
Published: May 2022

In dieser Studie wurde erstmals ein experimentelles Setting angewendet, um psychophysiologische Reaktionen auf psychoanalytische Deutungen zu messen. Ziel war es, die Praktikabilität eines experimentellen Ansatzes zur Überprüfung theoriegeleiteter Hypothesen bezüglich affektiver Reaktionen auf die Deutung zu untersuchen.

Mit 20 Versuchspersonen wurde ein OPD‑2 Interview (Operationalisierte Psychodynamische Diagnostik) durchgeführt, um aus der Diagnostik der Beziehungsdynamik personalisierte Deutungen zu formulieren. Im zweiten Teil der Untersuchung wurden psychophysiologische Reaktionen auf das Lesen der Deutung mittels Biofeedback-Messung der Herzfrequenz, Hautleitfähigkeit und Atemfrequenz erhoben und mit Reaktionen auf einen neutralen Stimulus (Baseline) und einen weiteren individuellen Stimulus (Konfliktschilderung aus ihrem OPD‑2 Interview) verglichen. Der MDBF (Mehrdimensionaler Befindlichkeitsfragebogen) wurde verwendet, um selbstberichtete emotionale Reaktionen zu erfassen. Zudem wurde erhoben, ob die Deutung als zutreffend bewertetet wurde und wie diese Einschätzung mit der gemessenen Reaktion (Biofeedback, MDBF) zusammenhing. Um Einflüsse der Persönlichkeitsorganisation auf die psychophysiologische Reaktion zu untersuchen, wurde der IPO-16 (Inventar der Persönlichkeitsorganisation) verwendet.

Die Analysen zeigten, dass 80 % der Proband_innen die operationalisierten Deutungen als auf sie zutreffend bewerteten. Physiologisch zeigte sich eine niedrigere Herz- und Atemfrequenz beim Lesen der Deutung im Vergleich zu den anderen Stimuli. Die selbstberichtete Stimmung wurde nach der Deutung schlechter eingeschätzt. Der Zusammenhang zwischen Atemfrequenz und selbstberichteter Stimmung war unterschiedlich, je nachdem ob die Deutung als zutreffend oder nicht-zutreffend eingeschätzt wurde. Das experimentelle Setting dieser Untersuchung erwies sich als praktikabel, um die Deutung unabhängig von anderen psychotherapeutischen Wirkmechanismen zu untersuchen. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass operationalisierte Deutungen zu einer messbaren emotionalen Reaktion bei 20 gesunden Versuchspersonen führten. Die Unterschiede zwischen selbstberichteten und gemessenen Reaktionen liefern Hinweise auf den Einsatz von Abwehrmechanismen.
Recipient bed perfusion as a predictor for postoperative complications in irradiated patients with microvascular free tissue transfer of the head and neck area: a clinical analysis of 191 microvascular free flaps
Authors: Foerster Yannick , Baumann Laura , Kafantari Ino , Olmos Manuel , Wehrhan Falk , Kesting Marco R , Preidl Raimund HM
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Despite microvascular free tissue transfer being the mainstay of care in the reconstruction of larger maxillofacial defects, a significant number of patients experience postoperative complications due to impaired blood supply of the flap. In this context, the early influence of recipient bed perfusion remains unclear, but there is evidence that it is associated with free flap viability immediately after surgery.

Methods

We analyzed flap and recipient bed perfusion within the first 2 weeks after surgery by using the oxygen-to-see device. One hundred ninety-one patients who underwent free flap surgery in our department were included.

Results

Flow parameters were higher and postoperative complications were less frequent in radial forearm free flaps compared to any other type of flap. Flow parameters of the recipient bed were higher than transferred tissue at all times, implicating flap autonomization is not completed within 2 weeks. Previous radiotherapy significantly decreased flow parameters of the recipient bed but not of the flaps. Furthermore, irradiated patients with postoperative complications were found to have reduced flow parameters of their recipient bed compared to non-irradiated patients with postoperative complications.

Conclusion

We conclude that monitoring of recipient bed perfusion is useful for detecting flap compromise of irradiated patients in the early postoperative period.
Presurgical selection of the ideal aneurysm clip by the use of a three-dimensional planning system
Authors: Schwandt Eike , Kockro Ralf , Kramer Andreas , Glaser Martin , Ringel Florian
Published: May 2022

Aneurysm occlusion rate after clipping is higher than after endovascular treatment. However, a certain percentage of incompletely clipped aneurysms remains. Presurgical selection of the proper aneurysm clips could potentially reduce the rate of incomplete clippings caused by inadequate clip geometry. The aim of the present study was to assess whether preoperative 3D image-based simulation allows for preoperative selection of a proper aneurysm clip for complete occlusion in individual cases. Patients harboring ruptured or unruptured cerebral aneurysms prior to surgical clipping were analyzed. CT angiography images were transferred to a 3D surgical-planning station (Dextroscope®) with imported models of 58 aneurysm clips. Intracranial vessels and aneurysms were segmented and the virtual aneurysm clips were placed at the aneurysm neck. Operating surgeons had information about the selected aneurysm clip, and patients underwent clipping. Intraoperative clip selection was documented and aneurysm occlusion rate was assessed by postoperative digital subtraction angiography. Nineteen patients were available for final analysis. In all patients, the most proximal clip at the aneurysm neck was the preselected clip. All aneurysms except one were fully occluded, as assessed by catheter angiography. One aneurysm had a small neck remnant that did not require secondary surgery and was occluded 15 months after surgery. 3D image-based preselection of a proper aneurysm clip can be translated to the operating room and avoids intraoperative clip selection. The associated occlusion rate of aneurysms is high.
Deviation of the orientation angle of directional deep brain stimulation leads quantified by intraoperative stereotactic X-ray imaging
Authors: Schmidt Josephiene M. , Buentjen Lars , Kaufmann Joern , Gruber Doreen , Treuer Harald , Haghikia Aiden , Voges Jürgen
Published: May 2022

Directional deep brain stimulation (dDBS) provides multiple programming options. Knowledge of the spatial lead orientation is useful for time-efficient programming. Recent studies demonstrated deviations of up to 90° from the intended orientation angle. We examined the deviation of dDBS-lead orientation for leads from two different manufacturers using intraoperative stereotactic (STX) X-ray images. Intraoperative 2D-X-ray images were acquired after implantation of the first lead (TP1) and the second lead (TP2) enabling the estimation of the spatial position of the first lead at TP1 and TP2 and of changes of the orientation for a defined time period. Two investigators retrospectively estimated the orientation of the directional marker for 64 patients. The mean deviation from intended spatial orientation was 40.8° ± 46.1° for all examined leads. The spatial orientation of the first lead did not significantly change within a period of approximately 1 h. The degree of deviation did not differ significantly between two lead manufacturers but depended on the lead fixation technique. Our results showed deviations from the intended orientation angle immediately after the insertion of dDBS leads. The initial spatial orientation remained stable for approximately 1 h and was not caused by technical properties of the implanted lead. Hence, it was most probably the result of unintended mechanical torsion during insertion and/or fixation. Because precise determination of the lead orientation is mandatory for target-oriented dDBS programming, the use of additional imaging suitable for precise 3D visualization of lead contacts and/or the positioning marker is recommended.
The Arbitrary Here Now
Authors: Hallowes Peter
Published: May 2022

If we take the indexical, “I”, to be epistemologically identical across different contexts, as in, for example, it is the same “I” that at one moment observes, “I see a puddle of water on the floor”, and then, subsequently, exclaims, “I detect a leaking tap”, and, furthermore, we attribute not only self reference but self awareness in the use of the indexical, “I”, then a question arises as to how the “I” finds itself to be in reference to the speaker in one context and not another. We cannot look to the ingredients of the context that the “I” inhabits for the answer because, based upon the above assumptions, the identity, or character, of the “I” stands independently of the context of the speaker. The answer, I argue, requires both the admission of the unreality of space and time, as well as an explanation as to why we have a sense of the here and now despite space and time being unreal. To this end, I turn to the juxtaposition of Kant’s a priori forms of inner sense and outer sense to explain how the cognitive faculty arrives at a sense of time and place despite the declared unreality of time and space. To sustain this explanation in the face of the problem of localisation, I draw on the full implications of Kant’s transcendental idealism in which the properties of time and space are not only withdrawn from things as they exist externally to the mind but also from mental representations insofar as mental representations can be said to exist in themselves.
Selfless Memories
Authors: Millière Raphaël , Newen Albert
Published: May 2022

Many authors claim that being conscious constitutively involves being self-conscious, or conscious of oneself. This claim appears to be threatened by reports of ‘selfless’ episodes, or conscious episodes lacking self-consciousness, recently described in a number of pathological and nonpathological conditions. However, the credibility of these reports has in turn been challenged on the following grounds: remembering and reporting a past conscious episode as an episode that one went through is only possible if one was conscious of oneself while undergoing it. Call this the Memory Challenge. This paper argues that the Memory Challenge fails to undermine the credibility to reports of selfless episodes, because it rests on problematic assumptions about episodic memory. The paper further argues that we should distinguish between several kinds of self-representation that may be involved in the process of episodic remembering, and that once we do so, it is no longer mysterious how one could accurately remember and report a selfless episode as an episode that one went through. Thus, we should take reports of this kind seriously, and view them as credible counter-examples to the claim that consciousness constitutively involves self-consciousness.
Fixed set search applied to the multi-objective minimum weighted vertex cover problem
Authors: Jovanovic Raka , Sanfilippo Antonio P. , Voß Stefan
Published: May 2022

The Fixed Set Search (FSS) is a novel metaheuristic that adds a learning mechanism to the Greedy Randomized Adaptive Search Procedure (GRASP). In recent publications, its efficiency has been shown on different types of combinatorial optimization problems like routing, machine scheduling and covering. In this paper the FSS is adapted to multi-objective problems for finding Pareto Front approximations. This adaptation is illustrated for the bi-objective Minimum Weighted Vertex Cover Problem (MWVCP). In this work, a simple and effective bi-objective GRASP algorithm for the MWVCP is developed in the first stage. One important characteristic of the proposed GRASP is that it avoids the use of weighted sums of objective functions in the local search and the greedy algorithm. In the second stage, the bi-objective GRASP is extended to the FSS by adding a learning mechanism adapted to multi-objective problems. The conducted computational experiments show that the proposed FSS and GRASP algorithm significantly outperforms existing methods for the bi-objective MWVCP. To fully evaluate the learning mechanism of the FSS, it is compared to the underlying GRASP algorithm on a wide range of performance indicators related to convergence, distribution, spread and cardinality.
The use of Fuzzy rule-based systems in the design process of the metallic products on example of microstructure evolution prediction
Authors: Macioł Andrzej , Macioł Piotr
Published: May 2022

The challenge on the contemporary market of consumer goods is a quick response to customer needs. It entails time restrictions, which a semi-finished products’ (including metal products) manufacturer must meet. This issue must be addressed during a design phase, which for the most of semi-finished products suppliers, takes part during a quotation preparation process. Our research is aimed at investigating possibility of application of Fuzzy Reasoning methods for shortening of a design process, being a part of this process. We present a study on application of simplified models for solving technological tasks, allowing obtaining expected properties of designed products. The core of our concept is replacing numerical models and classical metamodels with a rule-based reasoning. A quotation preparation process can be supported by solving a technological problem without numerical experiments. Our goal was to validate the thesis basing not only on the presentation of some potential solutions but also on the results of simulation studies. The problem is illustrated with an example of thermal treatment of aluminum alloys, aimed at evaluation of a summary fraction of precipitations as a function of time and technological parameters. We assumed that it is possible to use both unstructured and point numerical experiments for knowledge acquisition. Implementation of this concept required the use of hybrid knowledge acquisition methods that combine the results of point experiments with expert knowledge. A comparison of obtained results to the ones obtained with metamodels shows a similar efficiency of both approaches, while our method is less time and laborious.
Expression, Purification, Characterization and Cellular Uptake of MeCP2 Variants
Authors: Beribisky Alexander V. , Steinkellner Hannes , Geislberger Sofia , Huber Anna , Sarne Victoria , Christodoulou John , Laccone Franco
Published: May 2022

The transcriptional regulator Methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2) is an intrinsically disordered protein, mutations in which, are implicated in the onset of Rett Syndrome, a severe and debilitating neurodevelopmental disorder. Delivery of this protein fused to the cell-penetrating peptide TAT could allow for the intracellular replenishment of functional MeCP2 and hence potentially serve as a prospective Rett Syndrome therapy. This work outlines the expression, purification and characterization of various TAT-MeCP2 constructs as well as their full-length and shortened eGFP fusion variants. The latter two constructs were used for intracellular uptake studies with subsequent analysis via western blotting and live-cell imaging. All purified MeCP2 samples exhibited high degree of stability and very little aggregation propensity. Full length and minimal TAT-MeCP2-eGFP were found to efficiently transduce into human dermal and murine fibroblasts and localize to cell nuclei. These findings clearly support the utility of MeCP2-based protein replacement therapy as a potential Rett Syndrome treatment option.
Speaker-Specific Cues Influence Semantic Disambiguation
Authors: Davies Catherine , Porretta Vincent , Koleva Kremena , Klepousniotou Ekaterini
Published: May 2022

Addressees use information from specific speakers’ previous discourse to make predictions about incoming linguistic material and to restrict the choice of potential interpretations. In this way, speaker specificity has been shown to be an influential factor in language processing across several domains e.g., spoken word recognition, sentence processing, and pragmatics. However, its influence on semantic disambiguation has received little attention to date. Using an exposure-test design and visual world eye tracking, we examined the effect of speaker-specific literal vs. nonliteral style on the disambiguation of metaphorical polysemes such as ‘fork’, ‘head’, and ‘mouse’. Eye movement data revealed that when interpreting polysemous words with a literal and a nonliteral meaning, addressees showed a late-stage preference for the literal meaning in response to a nonliteral speaker. We interpret this as reflecting an indeterminacy in the intended meaning in this condition, as well as the influence of meaning dominance cues at later stages of processing. Response data revealed that addressees then ultimately resolved to the literal target in 90% of trials. These results suggest that addressees consider a range of senses in the earlier stages of processing, and that speaker style is a contextual determinant in semantic processing.
Error-Correcting Output Codes in the Framework of Deep Ordinal Classification
Authors: Barbero-Gómez Javier , Gutiérrez Pedro Antonio , Hervás-Martínez César
Published: May 2022

Automatic classification tasks on structured data have been revolutionized by Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), but the focus has been on binary and nominal classification tasks. Only recently, ordinal classification (where class labels present a natural ordering) has been tackled through the framework of CNNs. Also, ordinal classification datasets commonly present a high imbalance in the number of samples of each class, making it an even harder problem. Focus should be shifted from classic classification metrics towards per-class metrics (like AUC or Sensitivity) and rank agreement metrics (like Cohen’s Kappa or Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient). We present a new CNN architecture based on the Ordinal Binary Decomposition (OBD) technique using Error-Correcting Output Codes (ECOC). We aim to show experimentally, using four different CNN architectures and two ordinal classification datasets, that the OBD+ECOC methodology significantly improves the mean results on the relevant ordinal and class-balancing metrics. The proposed method is able to outperform a nominal approach as well as already existing ordinal approaches, achieving a mean performance of $${{\,\mathrm{\textit{RMSE}}\,}}= 1.0797$$

RMSE

=
1.0797

for the Retinopathy dataset and $${{\,\mathrm{\textit{RMSE}}\,}}= 1.1237$$

RMSE

=
1.1237

for the Adience dataset averaged over 4 different architectures.
Optimization of Non-thermal Plasma-Assisted Catalytic Oxidation for Methane Emissions Abatement as an Exhaust Aftertreatment Technology
Authors: Gholami Rahman , Stere Cristina , Chansai Sarayute , Singhania Amit , Goguet Alexandre , Hinde Peter , Millington Paul , Hardacre Christopher
Published: May 2022

While methane-powered vehicles produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions in comparison to conventional fuel vehicles, there is a significant amount of methane slip in their exhaust that needs to be treated. This study investigates non-thermal plasma (NTP) assisted catalytic methane oxidation as an alternative method for the low temperature methane slip abatement applicable to the exhaust of biogas methane-powered vehicles. It is concluded that high CH4 conversion and CO2 selectivity can be obtained using NTP-catalysis at low temperature with Pd/Al2O3 found to be the most promising candidate among all catalysts tested. In addition, it was found that CH4 conversion efficiency was dependent on the feed gas components and gas hourly space velocity as well as how the activation energy is introduced. For example, a combination of plasma and external heat supply provides advantages in terms of CH4 conversion along with lower plasma energy consumption. The presence of N2 and O2 in the feed gas during NTP-catalytic methane oxidation results in unfavourable NOX formation which linearly increases with CH4 conversion. These results conclude that the most suitable aftertreatment option involves the combination of an oxidation catalyst with plasma to target the hydrocarbon and CH4 oxidation, followed by an ammonia-SCR system to convert the NOX formed in plasma assisted zone.
Combination of co-crystal and nanocrystal techniques to improve the solubility and dissolution rate of poorly soluble drugs
Authors: Huang Zun , Staufenbiel Sven , Bodmeier Roland
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Solubility and dissolution rate are essential for the oral absorption and bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs. The aim of this study was to prepare nano-co-crystals by combination of nanocrystal and co-crystal technologies, and investigate its effect, in situ, on increased kinetic solubility and dissolution rate.

Methods

Co-crystals of itraconazole-fumaric acid, itraconazole-succinic acid, indomethacin-saccharin and indomethacin-nicotinamide were prepared and nano-sized by wet milling. The particle size and solid state of the co-crystals were characterized by optical microscope, LD, PCS, DSC and XRPD before and after milling.

Results

300-450 nm sized nano-co-crystals with a stable physical solid state were successfully prepared. Nano-co-crystals exhibited a lower crystallinity reduction than nanocrystals after wet milling. The particle size effect on the kinetic solubility of co-crystals was analysed for macro-, micro- and nano-co-crystals with in situ kinetic solubility studies. The maximum kinetic solubility of nano-co-crystals increased with excess conditions until a plateau. The highest increase was obtained with itraconazole-succinic acid nano-co-crystals with a kinetic solubility of 263.5 ± 3.9 μg/mL which was 51.5 and 6.6 times higher than the solubility of raw itraconazole and itraconazole-succinic acid co-crystal.

Conclusions

The synergistic effect of nanocrystals and co-crystals with regard to increased kinetic solubility and dissolution rate was proven. The combination of the advantages of nanocrystals and co-crystals is a promising formulation strategy to increase both the solubility and dissolution rate of poorly soluble drugs.
Cancer Risk and Diesel Exhaust Exposure Among Railroad Workers
Authors: Rosenfeld Paul E. , Spaeth Kenneth R. , Hallman Ryan , Bressler Rachel , Smith Graham C.
Published: May 2022

Inhalation exposure to diesel exhaust in the railroad work environment causes significant and quantifiable cancer risks to many railroad workers. Diesel exhaust has been identified as a known human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (“IARC”) and as a potential carcinogen by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (“USEPA”), the California Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (“OEHHA”), and the National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health (“NIOSH”). Peer-reviewed literature defines the ambient air concentrations of diesel exhaust for several railroad occupations as being above environmental background levels. This study uses diesel exhaust concentrations in the railroad work environment in conjunction with the USEPA’s Integrated Risk Information System (“IRIS”) risk assessment methodology to quantify the cancer risk posed to railroad workers due to occupational inhalation exposure to diesel exhaust. NIOSH Bulletin 68 (2017) states that there is “no known safe level” of exposure to carcinogens and recommends an evaluation of the USEPA’s IRIS guidance to evaluate quantitative risk assessment of human exposure to occupational carcinogens. This is the first study to utilize USEPA methodology to calculate the excess lung cancer risk caused by railroad workers’ cumulative exposure to diesel exhaust.
Onfocus detection: identifying individual-camera eye contact from unconstrained images
Authors: Zhang Dingwen , Wang Bo , Wang Gerong , Zhang Qiang , Zhang Jiajia , Han Jungong , You Zheng
Published: May 2022

Onfocus detection aims at identifying whether the focus of the individual captured by a camera is on the camera or not. Based on the behavioral research, the focus of an individual during face-to-camera communication leads to a special type of eye contact, i.e., the individual-camera eye contact, which is a powerful signal in social communication and plays a crucial role in recognizing irregular individual status (e.g., lying or suffering mental disease) and special purposes (e.g., seeking help or attracting fans). Thus, developing effective onfocus detection algorithms is of significance for assisting the criminal investigation, disease discovery, and social behavior analysis. However, the review of the literature shows that very few efforts have been made toward the development of onfocus detector owing to the lack of large-scale public available datasets as well as the challenging nature of this task. To this end, this paper engages in the onfocus detection research by addressing the above two issues. Firstly, we build a large-scale onfocus detection dataset, named as the onfocus detection in the wild (OFDIW). It consists of 20623 images in unconstrained capture conditions (thus called “in the wild”) and contains individuals with diverse emotions, ages, facial characteristics, and rich interactions with surrounding objects and background scenes. On top of that, we propose a novel end-to-end deep model, i.e., the eye-context interaction inferring network (ECIIN), for onfocus detection, which explores eye-context interaction via dynamic capsule routing. Finally, comprehensive experiments are conducted on the proposed OFDIW dataset to benchmark the existing learning models and demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed ECIIN.
Bedload transport analysis using image processing techniques
Authors: Ermilov Alexander A. , Fleit Gábor , Conevski Slaven , Guerrero Massimo , Baranya Sándor , Rüther Nils
Published: May 2022

Bedload transport is an important factor to describe the hydromorphological processes of fluvial systems. However, conventional bedload sampling methods have large uncertainty, making it harder to understand this notoriously complex phenomenon. In this study, a novel, image-based approach, the Video-based Bedload Tracker (VBT), is implemented to quantify gravel bedload transport by combining two different techniques: Statistical Background Model and Large-Scale Particle Image Velocimetry. For testing purposes, we use underwater videos, captured in a laboratory flume, with future field adaptation as an overall goal. VBT offers a full statistics of the individual velocity and grainsize data for the moving particles. The paper introduces the testing of the method which requires minimal preprocessing (a simple and quick 2D Gaussian filter) to retrieve and calculate bedload transport rate. A detailed sensitivity analysis is also carried out to introduce the parameters of the method, during which it was found that by simply relying on literature and the visual evaluation of the resulting segmented videos, it is simple to set them to the correct values. Practical aspects of the applicability of VBT in the field are also discussed and a statistical filter, accounting for the suspended sediment and air bubbles, is provided.
Agricultural trade and its impacts on cropland use and the global loss of species habitat
Authors: Schwarzmueller Florian , Kastner Thomas
Published: May 2022

Agricultural expansion and intensification are threatening biodiversity worldwide, and future expansion of agricultural land will exacerbate this trend. One of the main drivers of this expansion is an increasingly global trade of agricultural produce. National and international assessments tracking the impact of agriculture on biodiversity thus need to be expanded by a consumption-based accounting of biodiversity loss. In this study, we use global trade data, provided by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), to construct national trade profiles for 223 countries, at the level of 191 produced items and over the timespan of 15 years. We show how bilateral trade data and a national biodiversity indicator, the Species Habitat Index (SHI), can be combined to quantify consumption-based impacts of agricultural trade on biodiversity. We found that the cropland area for agricultural trade has increased from 17 (in 2000) to 23.5% (in 2013) of the global total cropland area. Especially, countries in Western Europe, North America, and the Middle East, create a large part of their biodiversity footprint outside their own country borders, because they import large amounts of agricultural products from areas where the SHI records high biodiversity loss. With our approach, we can thus identify countries where consumption-based interventions might be most effective for the protection of global biodiversity. Analyses like the one presented in this study are needed to complement territorial sustainability assessments. By taking into account trade and consumption, they can inform cross-border agreements on biodiversity protection.
The Surface Tension and Density of Molten Sc$$_{2}$$O$$_{3}$$, La$$_{2}$$O$$_{3}$$, Y$$_{2}$$O$$_{3}$$, Al$$_{2}$$O$$_{3}$$, and MgO Measured via a Pendant Droplet Method
Authors: Paras Jonathan , Takeda Osamu , Wu Mindy , Allanore Antoine
Published: May 2022

A thermal imaging furnace (TIF) was used to study the physical properties of molten Sc

$$_{2}$$

2

O

$$_{3}$$

3

, La

$$_{2}$$

2

O

$$_{3}$$

3

, Y

$$_{2}$$

2

O

$$_{3}$$

3

, Al

$$_{2}$$

2

O

$$_{3}$$

3

and MgO via a containerless method. The density and surface tension of molten droplets of Sc

$$_{2}$$

2

O

$$_{3}$$

3

, La

$$_{2}$$

2

O

$$_{3}$$

3

, Y

$$_{2}$$

2

O

$$_{3}$$

3

, Al

$$_{2}$$

2

O

$$_{3},$$

3

,

and MgO suspended from their own solid were measured in situ using live video under a range of oxygen partial pressures (1

$$\rightarrow $$

→

10

$$^{-6}$$

-
6

atm O

$$_{2}$$

2

). To the best knowledge of the authors, this is the first time the surface tension and density of molten MgO and Sc

$$_{2}$$

2

O

$$_{3}$$

3

have been reported. A relationship between molten oxide surface tension and the enthalpy of vaporization is proposed, and a comparison is drawn between the oxide properties and similar relationships previously established for liquid metals.
Infections or Vaccines Associated with Finkelstein-Seidlmayer Vasculitis: Systematic Review
Authors: Bronz Gabriel , Betti Céline , Rinoldi Pietro O. , Kottanattu Lisa , Bianchetti Mario G. , Consolascio Danilo , Bergmann Marcel M. , Milani Gregorio P. , Terziroli Beretta Piccoli Benedetta , Lava Sebastiano A. G.
Published: May 2022

Finkelstein-Seidlmayer vasculitis, also referred to as acute hemorrhagic edema of young children, is a rare small-vessel leukocytoclastic vasculitis. This condition is skin-limited, mainly affects infants up to 2 years of age and spontaneously remits. It has been suggested that an infection or a vaccine precede (by ≤ 14 days) this vasculitis. To better understand the interplay between infections or vaccines and Finkelstein-Seidlmayer vasculitis, we utilized the data contained in the Acute Hemorrhagic Edema BIbliographic Database AHEBID. The database, initiated in 2019, is being regularly updated, encompasses the entire original literature on Finkelstein-Seidlmayer vasculitis published after the original description and is attainable on request. The possible existence of an infectious or a vaccine precursor was addressed in 447 cases. Most cases were preceded by an infection (N = 384; 86%), by a vaccination (N = 20; 4.4%), or both an infection and a vaccination (N = 17; 3.8%). No precursor was reported in the remaining cases (N = 26; 5.8%). Two distinct infections preceded the onset of the vasculitis in 11 of the 381 cases with infection-associated Finkelstein-Seidlmayer vasculitis. The following infectious precursors were reported: upper respiratory tract infection (N = 292); acute gastroenteritis (N = 40); a benign febrile infection (N = 36); lower respiratory tract infection (N = 22); further infections (N = 8). The temporal relationship between the infectious precursor and the onset of the skin eruption was detailed in 336 cases: 54 cases developed before resolution and 282 after resolution of the infection. In conclusion, most cases of Finkelstein-Seidlmayer vasculitis are preceded by an infection. In a minority of cases, this skin vasculitis develops before resolution of the infection. In most cases, however, this vasculitis develops after resolution of the infection. More rarely, this vasculitis is preceded by a vaccination.
Back to life, back to reality: A multi-level dynamic network analysis of student mental health upon return to campus during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Karnbach Katharina , Witkowski Michał , Ebrahimi Omid V. , Burger Julian
Published: May 2022

Lockdown measures during the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in drastic disruptions of university students’ everyday life and study mode, such as marked reductions in face-to-face teaching activities. Previous research on student mental health during the pandemic found that prolonged campus relocation had negative effects on students’ mental well-being. However, these studies focussed on the initial lockdown period, or periods of active lockdown measures. This longitudinal study collected 456 observations of 23 undergraduate students in the Netherlands using ecological momentary assessment data on mental health related items (anxiety, stress, social context) during the first two weeks of on-campus teaching after prolonged lockdown measures. Using multi-level dynamic network modelling, we analysed the temporal and contemporaneous interplay of students’ mental health factors following the return to campus in September 2021. On average, students reported low to medium scores on stress and anxiety both before and after the assessment period. Results of network analyses showed that students experienced social unease in relation to accumulating difficulties at university and vice versa. Furthermore, there were clusters of different states of social unease next to clusters of stress, anger, loss of control, and feeling upset. Lastly, we found beneficial effects of self-efficacy on experiencing social comfort in university. We discuss implications and concrete examples of interventions in universities, such as the promotion of self-efficacy, providing guidance in structuring study load, as well as help with stress management.