bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Airborne Sound Insulation of Sustainable Building Facades
Authors: Drechsler Andreas , Reinhold Steffi , Ruff Andreas , Schneider Martin , Zeitler Berndt
Published: October 2022

Two trends are currently leading to an increased risk of indoor noise pollution. Firstly, urban densification causes traffic noise sources to be closer to the building facades which makes them louder at the facades. Secondly, airtightness of buildings, due to energy regulations, leads to the need of natural or mechanical ventilation to ensure a “healthy” indoor air quality, thereby allowing noise to easily pass from outdoors to indoors. In the case of mechanical ventilation, an additional noise source is also created. This study investigates the risk reduction of an indoor noise problem by optimizing the facade elements regarding sound insulation. Noise levels of different transportation noise sources (cars, trucks, trains) are used to calculate the resulting indoor noise levels after passing through the facade elements. The amount of noise transmitted into the indoors is dependent on the frequency spectra of the sources and of the sound reduction properties of the facade elements. Facade elements such as masonry walls, open windows, and ventilators are investigated and modified regarding their sound insulation properties. Through passive means, the weighted sound reduction index of an open window and an open ventilator was increased by 12 dB and 3 dB, respectively. Also, the indoor self-noise of the ventilator was investigated and reduced for different airflow rates.
Impact Sound Insulation of Thermally Insulated Balconies
Authors: Heidemann Lucas , Scheck Jochen , Zeitler Berndt
Published: October 2022

With the increasing urban densification, balconies are gaining in popularity as they improve the living quality in homes. From a technical point of view, the thermal insulation between balconies and the building’s façade is state of the art. In Germany, the most popular balcony construction is a reinforced concrete balcony, separated from the building by a thermal insulation element (TIE), which is meant to reduce the thermal energy loss and thus ensure the sustainability of intelligent buildings. The impact sound transmission from balconies, however, is a problem that has not been addressed enough to date. The paper is based on a project of the same name within the iCity research with the main goal of providing acoustic quantities, e.g. an impact sound pressure level difference, for a TIE that can be used to compare the acoustical quality of products and used to predict the impact sound pressure levels within the building using the standard EN ISO 12354-2. Experimental and numerical studies have been carried out on various ceiling-balcony mock-ups without and with TIEs, e.g. by means of experimental modal analysis and validated finite element models, respectively. These studies showed that even doubling the width of the ceiling-balcony mock-up does not change the results significantly, suggesting that the proposed test set-up is suitable for standard testing. The analysis method and results presented here are for only one test set-up with and without a TIE that underwent constructive modifications during the tests. The selected TIE shows an effective sound insulation above 400 Hz and achieves a single-number rated impact sound level difference of $$ \Delta {L}_{\mathrm{w}}^{\ast}\approx 10\ \mathrm{dB} $$
Δ

L
w
∗

≈
10

dB
.
Artificial Intelligence Supporting Sustainable and Individual Mobility: Development of an Algorithm for Mobility Planning and Choice of Means of Transport
Authors: Heckmann Rebecca , Kock Sören , Gaspers Lutz
Published: October 2022

Mobility planning is rarely individually tailored. Instead people have to make an active effort to adapt standard solutions to their requirements. Routing apps like Google Maps allow for personalization only by saving important places like home and a workplace but do not allow the user to influence the routing suggestions or choice of mode of transport based on preferences, limitations, or situation. It becomes even more difficult when different means of transport are to interact since most routing applications offer very little multimodal optimization aside from the last mile. Thus, the objective of this article is to present a concept for the utilization of artificial intelligence and regression models in order to enable individual and sustainable mobility planning. To achieve this objective, initially existing routing and mobility planning applications are examined and are conceptually expanded in order to outlay the benefits of personalized route planning. The concrete objective alongside with a method for the development of a new solution is summarized. An algorithm fulfilling these objectives based on multiple linear regression is conceptualized. Relevant factors with coefficient are identified, as well as necessary data sources and interfaces. This algorithm is then implemented in a limited prototype as a proof of concept. Finally, this prototype is tested based on a set of mobility scenarios in order to validate the achievement of the defined objective.
Positioning of Pedelecs for a Pedelec Sharing System with Free-Floating Bikes
Authors: Rawiel Paul
Published: October 2022

For intelligent mobility concepts in growing urban environments, positioning of transportation vehicles and generally moving objects is a fundamental prerequisite. Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) are commonly used for this purpose, but especially in urban environments under certain conditions, they offer limited accuracy due to buildings, tunnels, etc. that can deviate or mask the satellite signals. The use of existing built-in sensors of the vehicle and the installation of additional sensors can be utilized to describe the movement of the vehicle independently of GNSS. This conforms to the concept of dead reckoning (DR). Both systems (GNSS and DR) can be integrated and prepared to work together since they compensate their respective weaknesses efficiently. In this study, a method to integrate different inertial sensors (gyroscope and accelerometer) and GNSS is investigated. Pedelecs usually do not have many inbuilt additional sensors like it is the case in cars; therefore, additional low-cost sensors have to be used. An extended Kalman filter (EKF) is the base of calculations to perform data integration. Driving tests are realized to check the performance of the integration model. The results show that positioning in situations where GNSS data is not available can be done through dead reckoning for a short period of time. The weak point hereby is the calibration of the accelerometer. Inaccurate accelerometer data cause increasing inaccuracy of the position due to the double integration of the acceleration over time.
Behavioural Development of University Graduates in the Area of Work-Related Mobility: A Study Conducted for the University of Applied Sciences, Stuttgart
Authors: Weißbeck Joschua , Gaspers Lutz
Published: October 2022

Work-related mobility currently makes up the biggest share of the total transport volume in passenger transport and is dominated by private motorized vehicles. The paper is based on research about environmentally friendly modes of transportation performed by students on their way to the University of Applied Sciences, Stuttgart, and whether it has an influence on the mobility behaviour of graduates in work and business traffic or not. Another goal was to find out whether or not one’s sustainable mobility behaviour would be maintained throughout the rest of one’s professional life. For this, an online survey was conducted with graduates of the University of Applied Sciences, Stuttgart. The results of the survey confirm a very high sustainability in the field of work-related mobility. Previous studies have only looked at education- and work-related mobility behaviour separately and did not research how or if the former has effects on the latter. The comparison of results from those studies with the information provided by the graduates on their behaviour in occupational mobility also confirms an above-average sustainability.
Cargo-Hitching in Long-Distance Bus Transit: An Acceptance Analysis
Authors: Meyer Vanessa , Lang Sarah , Dehdari Payam
Published: October 2022

The combination of freight transport and mobility—also known as cargo-hitching—is a form of delivery that has been implemented in various modes of transport. This concept is already widely used in Europe, Africa and North America in long-distance bus transport and ensures parcel delivery via the cargo compartment of long-distance buses. This paper aims to investigate the acceptance of cargo-hitching in long-distance bus transport in Germany. For this purpose, first the term cargo-hitching is defined, and an overview of cargo-hitching concepts in long-distance bus transport worldwide is given. In the following, the principles of attitudinal acceptance are explained. A modified version of the UTAUT2 model was used as the basis for an empirical study in the form of a quantitative online survey (n = 245). The results provide information about factors influencing acceptance as well as wishes and requirements of potential users. Parts of the UTAUT2 model were verified by regression analysis. It was shown that the variables’ habit, price value, hedonic motivation, performance expectancy and social influence predict the behavioural intention to use cargo-hitching in our sample significantly (p < 0.05). Furthermore, risks, benefits and willingness to pay were determined, which could contribute to the development of a business model. These included measures to improve transparency, security and information flow of the cargo-hitching process.
Promoting Zero-Emission Urban Logistics: Efficient Use of Electric Trucks Through Intelligent Range Estimation
Authors: Stütz Sebastian , Gade Andreas , Kirsch Daniela
Published: October 2022

Critical success factors for the efficient use of electric trucks are the operational range and the total costs of ownership. For both range and efficient use, power consumption is the key factor. Increasing precision in forecasting power consumption and, hence, maximum range will pave the way for efficient vehicle deployment. However, not only electric trucks are scarce, but also is knowledge with respect to what these vehicles are actually technically capable of. Therefore, this article focuses on power consumption and range of electric vehicles. Following a discussion on how current research handles the mileage of electric vehicles, the article illustrates how to find simple yet robust and precise models to predict power consumption and range by using basic parameters from transport planning only. In the paper, we argue that the precision of range and consumption estimates can be substantially improved compared to common approaches which usually posit a proportional relationship between energy consumption and travel distance and require substantial safety buffers.
Increased Efficiency Through Intelligent Networking of Producers and Consumers in Commercial Areas Using the Example of Robert Bosch GmbH
Authors: Biesinger Andreas , Pesch Ruben , Cotrado Mariela , Pietruschka Dirk
Published: October 2022

Energy-efficient heating and cooling systems as well as intelligent systems for energy distribution are urgently required in order to be able to meet the ambitious goals of the European Union to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The present article is intended to show that intelligent system extensions for the area of heating, cooling and electricity production for the industrial sector can lead to significant increase in efficiency. For this purpose, a simulation study for the expansion of a combined heat and power (CHP) plant with 2 MW thermal output using a 1.4 MW absorption chiller has been carried out. This shows that a heat-controlled CHP unit can significantly increase its running time. A system model was created for the initial situation and validated with existing measurement data. In the second step, this model was expanded to include the ACM module. The simulation was able to prove that in the event of a system expansion, the run time of the CHP unit can be increased by 35%. In addition to then increase of energy efficiency in the supply system, the analysis also focuses on the efficiency of the energy distribution via thermal networks in an industrial environment. The presented paper therefore also highlights the optimization potentials in the operation of thermal supply networks for industrial applications. For this purpose, a mathematical model has been developed which in addition to the components of the thermal network itself also comprises the producers and consumers. The specific construction of thermal networks for the supply of industrial properties requires adapted solutions for the simulation of such systems. Therefore, amongst other things, in the paper, solutions are shown for the modelling of direct flow local heating networks as well as for the operation of a cascade-controlled pump group.
GNNQ: A Neuro-Symbolic Approach to Query Answering over Incomplete Knowledge Graphs
Authors: Pflueger Maximilian , Tena Cucala David J. , Kostylev Egor V.
Published: October 2022

Real-world knowledge graphs (KGs) are usually incomplete—that is, miss some facts representing valid information. So, when applied to such KGs, standard symbolic query engines fail to produce answers that are expected but not logically entailed by the KGs. To overcome this issue, state-of-the-art ML-based approaches first embed KGs and queries into a low-dimensional vector space, and then produce query answers based on the proximity of the candidate entity and the query embeddings in the embedding space. This allows embedding-based approaches to obtain expected answers that are not logically entailed. However, embedding-based approaches are not applicable in the inductive setting, where KG entities (i.e., constants) seen at runtime may differ from those seen during training. In this paper, we propose a novel neuro-symbolic approach to query answering over incomplete KGs applicable in the inductive setting. Our approach first symbolically augments the input KG with facts representing parts of the KG that match query fragments, and then applies a generalisation of the Relational Graph Convolutional Networks (RGCNs) to the augmented KG to produce the predicted query answers. We formally prove that, under reasonable assumptions, our approach can capture an approach based on vanilla RGCNs (and no KG augmentation) using a (often substantially) smaller number of layers. Finally, we empirically validate our theoretical findings by evaluating an implementation of our approach against the RGCN baseline on several dedicated benchmarks.
ISSA: Generic Pipeline, Knowledge Model and Visualization Tools to Help Scientists Search and Make Sense of a Scientific Archive
Authors: Toulet Anne , Michel Franck , Bobasheva Anna , Menin Aline , Dupré Sébastien , Deboin Marie-Claude , Winckler Marco , Tchechmedjiev Andon
Published: October 2022

Faced with the ever-increasing number of scientific publications, researchers struggle to keep up, find and make sense of articles relevant to their own research. Scientific open archives play a central role in helping deal with this deluge, yet keyword-based search services often fail to grasp the richness of the semantic associations between articles. In this paper, we present the methods, tools and services implemented in the ISSA project to tackle these issues. The project aims to (1) provide a generic, reusable and extensible pipeline for the analysis and processing of articles of an open scientific archive, (2) translate the result into a semantic index stored and represented as an RDF knowledge graph; (3) develop innovative search and visualization services that leverage this index to allow researchers, decision makers or scientific information professionals to explore thematic association rules, networks of co-publications, articles with co-occurring topics, etc. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the solution, we also report on its deployment and user-driven customization for the needs of an institutional open archive of 110,000+ resources. Fully in line with the open science and FAIR dynamics, the presented work is available under an open license with all the accompanying documents necessary to facilitate its reuse. The knowledge graph produced on our use-case is compliant with common linked open data best practices.
Hashing the Hypertrie: Space- and Time-Efficient Indexing for SPARQL in Tensors
Authors: Bigerl Alexander , Conrads Lixi , Behning Charlotte , Saleem Muhammad , Ngonga Ngomo Axel-Cyrille
Published: October 2022

Time-efficient solutions for querying RDF knowledge graphs depend on indexing structures with low response times to answer SPARQL queries rapidly. Hypertries—an indexing structure we recently developed for tensor-based triple stores—have achieved significant runtime improvements over several mainstream storage solutions for RDF knowledge graphs. However, the space footprint of this novel data structure is still often larger than that of many mainstream solutions. In this work, we detail means to reduce the memory footprint of hypertries and thereby further speed up query processing in hypertrie-based RDF storage solutions. Our approach relies on three strategies: (1) the elimination of duplicate nodes via hashing, (2) the compression of non-branching paths, and (3) the storage of single-entry leaf nodes in their parent nodes. We evaluate these strategies by comparing them with baseline hypertries as well as popular triple stores such as Virtuoso, Fuseki, GraphDB, Blazegraph and gStore. We rely on four datasets/benchmark generators in our evaluation: SWDF, DBpedia, WatDiv, and WikiData. Our results suggest that our modifications significantly reduce the memory footprint of hypertries by up to 70% while leading to a relative improvement of up to 39% with respect to average Queries per Second and up to 740% with respect to Query Mixes per Hour.
How to Agree to Disagree
Authors: Álvarez Lucía Gómez , Rudolph Sebastian , Strass Hannes
Published: October 2022

The importance of taking individual, potentially conflicting perspectives into account when dealing with knowledge has been widely recognised. Many existing ontology management approaches fully merge knowledge perspectives, which may require weakening in order to maintain consistency; others represent the distinct views in an entirely detached way.

As an alternative, we proposeStandpoint Logic, a simple, yet versatile multi-modal logic “add-on” for existing KR languages intended for the integrated representation of domain knowledge relative to diverse, possibly conflictingstandpoints, which can be hierarchically organised, combined, and put in relation with each other.

Starting from the generic framework ofFirst-Order Standpoint Logic(FOSL), we subsequently focus our attention on the fragment ofsententialformulas, for which we provide a polytime translation into the standpoint-free version. This result yields decidability and favourable complexities for a variety of highly expressive decidable fragments of first-order logic. Using some elaborate encoding tricks, we then establish a similar translation for the very expressive description logic$$\mathcal {SROIQ}b_s$$SROIQbsunderlying the OWL 2 DL ontology language. By virtue of this result, existing highly optimised OWL reasoners can be used to provide practical reasoning support for ontology languages extended by standpoint modelling.
Axiogenesis with a heavy QCD axion
Authors: Co Raymond T. , Gherghetta Tony , Harigaya Keisuke
Published: October 2022

Abstract

We demonstrate that the observed cosmological excess of matter over anti-matter may originate from a heavy QCD axion that solves the strong CP problem but has a mass much larger than that given by the Standard Model QCD strong dynamics. We investigate a rotation of the heavy QCD axion in field space, which is transferred into a baryon asymmetry through weak and strong sphaleron processes. This provides a strong cosmological motivation for heavy QCD axions, which are of high experimental interest. The viable parameter space has an axion mass ma between 1 MeV and 10 GeV and a decay constant fa< 105 GeV, which can be probed by accelerator-based direct axion searches and observations of the cosmic microwave background.
Strange processes in general two Higgs doublet model
Authors: Hou Wei-Shu , Kumar Girish
Published: October 2022

Abstract

In the general two Higgs doublet model (g2HDM) that has extra Yukawa couplings, we analyze their New Physics (NP) contributions to kaon mixing parameter εK, direct CP violation parameter ε′/ε, and rare $$ {K}^{+}\to {\pi}^{+}\nu \overline{\nu} $$

K
+

→

π
+

ν

ν
¯

, $$ {K}_L\to {\pi}^0\nu \overline{\nu} $$

K
L

→

π
0

ν

ν
¯

, and KL,S→ μ+μ− decays. We study correlations between these observables, and call special attention to a unique complementarity of kaon mixing and rare $$ K\to \pi \nu \overline{\nu} $$
K
→
πν

ν
¯

decays in probing the exotic Higgs mass spectrum of g2HDM. The importance of kaon physics in probing NP vis-à-vis B physics is stressed. One unexpected feature we uncover is the special sensitivity of $$ {K}^{+}\to {\pi}^{+}\nu \overline{\nu} $$

K
+

→

π
+

ν

ν
¯

to TeV scale charged Higgs boson.
What Has Immunology Brought to Periodontal Disease in Recent Years?
Authors: Kowalski Jan , Nowak Maciej , Górski Bartłomiej , Górska Renata
Published: October 2022

Recent decades have shed a new light on the pathomechanism of periodontal inflammation. While classic periodontology concentrates on biofilm control, oral hygiene improvement, professional tooth cleaning and surgical correction of damaged periodontal tissues, new aspects of the destruction mechanisms are being raised. Among them, the greatest attention is paid to the influence of host response on the clinical manifestations of the disease. Numerous studies have proved that the shift from gingivitis to periodontitis is not a simple progress of the disease, but an event occurring only in susceptible individuals. Susceptibility may result from appearance of local factors facilitating biofilm accumulation and/or maturation, or from systemic features, among which over-reaction and prolonged agitation of non-specific component of inflammatory response is crucial. The present paper summarizes the association between periodontology and immunology and updates the knowledge accrued mostly in the recent years. After a brief explanation of advances in understanding of the disease aetiology, the most studied and potentially viable immunological markers of periodontal disease are presented. Possible new therapeutic strategies, exploiting knowledge about the nature of host response—immunomodulation and reduction of chronic oxidative stress—are also presented.
A simple approach of applying blended learning to problem-based learning is feasible, accepted and does not affect evaluation and exam results—a just pre-pandemic randomised controlled mixed-method study
Authors: Servos Ulrike , Reiß Birger , Stosch Christoph , Karay Yassin , Matthes Jan
Published: October 2022

We tested for feasibility, acceptance, and “non-inferiority” of small-group teaching applying blended learning (i.e., the integration of face-to-face and online instruction) to problem-based learning (bPbL) compared to conventional PbL (cPbL). In a just pre-pandemic, randomised controlled trial, 317 students attended either bPbL or cPbL groups. The first meeting of the bPbL groups took place online via written internet chat, while cPbL groups met on site. All groups met on site the second time. All students had the opportunity to attend lectures either on site or as videos on demand. We analysed student evaluation data, results in a final summative exam, attendance of lectures on site and use of lecture videos. Furthermore, we performed a qualitative analysis of student statements made in semi-structured group interviews about pros and cons of the bPbL approach. There was no difference between students of either bPbL or cPbL groups with respect to exam results (score: 14.3 ± 2.8 vs. 13.8 ± 2.7) or course evaluation. However, relatively more bPbL than cPbL students reported having used lecture videos, while the proportion of those attending lectures on-site was higher among cPbL students. Interviews revealed that some of the bPbL students’ experiences were unexpected and feared disadvantages seemed to be less severe than expected. Participation in a blended PbL format did not worsen course evaluations or exam results, but seemed to influence lecture attendance. The combination of face-to-face and digital elements could be suitable as a hybrid approach to digital instruction in the post-pandemic era.
Postoperative Complications and Outcome After Emergency Laparotomy: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Ylimartimo Aura T. , Nurkkala Juho , Koskela Marjo , Lahtinen Sanna , Kaakinen Timo , Vakkala Merja , Hietanen Siiri , Liisanantti Janne
Published: October 2022

Background

Emergency laparotomy (EL) is a common urgent surgical procedure with high risk for postoperative complications. Complications impair the prognosis and prolong the hospital stay. This study explored the incidence and distribution of complications and their impact on short‐term mortality after EL.

Methods

This was a retrospective single‐center register‐based cohort study of 674 adults undergoing midline EL between May 2015 and December 2017. The primary outcome was operation‐related or medical complication after EL. The secondary outcome was mortality in 90‐day follow‐up. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify independent risk factors for complications.

Results

A total of 389 (58%) patients developed complications after EL, including 215 (32%) patients with operation‐related complications and 361 (54%) patients with medical complications. Most of the complications were Clavien‐Dindo classification type 4b (28%) and type 2 (22%). Operation‐related complications occurred later compared to medical complications. Respiratory complications were the most common medical complications, and infections were the most common operation‐related complications. The 30‐ and 90‐day mortalities were higher in both the medical (17.2%, 26.2%) and operation‐related complication groups (13.5%, 24.2%) compared to patients without complications (10.5% and 4.8%, 14.8% and 8.0%). Low albumin, high surgical urgency, excessive alcohol consumption and medical complications were associated with operation‐related complications. Older age, high ASA class and operation‐related complications were associated with medical complications.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that EL is associated with a high risk of complications and poor short‐term outcome. Complications impair the prognosis regardless of which kind of EL is in question.
Feeding ecology of an inshore population of Notothenia coriiceps from the Argentine Islands, Bellingshausen Sea
Authors: Trokhymets Vladen , Zinkovskyi Artem , Dykyy Ihor , La Mesa Mario
Published: October 2022

The inshore waters off the Argentine Islands host a diversified benthic fish community largely dominated by the black rockcod, Notothenia coriiceps. Compared to other areas along the western Antarctic Peninsula, the feeding habits of this species in this location are poorly known. Hence, the aim of the study is to assess food preferences by the stomach content examination, applying a sophisticated analytical approach. As reported elsewhere, the black rockcod is omnivorous, relying primarily on algae, gastropods, amphipods, euphausiids and fishes, each consumed with different foraging strategies. Based on multidimensional scaling statistical procedures, fish size and water depth are the primarily contributers to prey resource diversification and partitioning. Overall the sampled population of the black rockcod are generalist feeders with a relatively high between-phenotype component to the niche width, consisting of specialized individuals with little or no overlap in food resource use.
Onset of zooplanktivory and optimal water flow rates for prey capture in newly settled polyps of ten Caribbean coral species
Authors: Geertsma Robbert C. , Wijgerde Tim , Latijnhouwers Kelly R. W. , Chamberland Valérie F.
Published: October 2022

Zooplanktivory is an important source of nutrients in corals, providing up to 35% of daily metabolic energy requirements in some species. However, little is known about coral zooplanktivory shortly after larval settlement and metamorphosis. In most species it is unclear if, when and under which conditions newly settled polyps are able to capture and ingest prey. This remains a critical knowledge gap, as zooplanktivory could allow coral settlers to replenish energy reserves shortly after metamorphosis, possibly improving settler condition during one of their most vulnerable life stages. Here, we documented the onset of prey (Artemia salina nauplii) capture in ten Caribbean coral species and assessed optimal water flow rates (WFR) for prey capture in five of these species. All species initiated zooplanktivory within six days following metamorphosis, with the exception of Acropora palmata which was never observed capturing nauplii during our 20-day study. Optimal WFR for prey capture varied among species, with Favia fragum displaying maximum prey capture rates in zero flow and Diploria labyrinthiformis most effectively capturing nauplii under WFR of 5–20 cm s−1. Under each species’ optimum WFR, prey capture abilities varied considerably, with F. fragum capturing up to one nauplius every two minutes compared to one nauplius every nine minutes in Colpophyllia natans. Using these findings, we make species-specific recommendations to optimize coral husbandry and larval-based restoration practices for these ten coral species.
Free surface effects and the utility of a skim plate for experiments in a water towing tank at steady and unsteady model velocity
Authors: Jentzsch Marvin , Dahms Jona Maria , Woszidlo René , Nayeri Christian Navid , Paschereit Christian Oliver
Published: October 2022

A towing tank is utilized to investigate the flow field around a two-dimensional submerged foil model operating near the free surface. Free surface effects are analyzed for steady and unsteady model velocity. The model’s submergence depth and angle of attack are varied. Tests are conducted for the model facing upside-up and upside-down. The surface deflection is recorded and the experimental results are utilized to validate an analytic model that is deployed to predict wake wave patterns at arbitrary model velocity. The flow mechanism leading to load alterations when the foil is in the vicinity of the free surface is explored in detail using experimental and analytic results. The imposed wave-induced velocity perturbations alter the effective angle of attack experienced by the foil. Flow separation is delayed when the model is facing upside-up and promoted when facing upside-down. For test cases with unsteady sinusoidal model velocity, forward traveling waves are generated, leading to a time-varying change in the inflow condition of the submerged foil. Increasing the model’s submergence depth alleviates free surface effects. A skim plate is installed in-between the free surface and model. It shows similar wave alleviating effects as obtained when increasing the model submergence depth by locally blocking wave-induced velocities. The skim plate position is varied in the longitudinal direction to determine its most advantageous position. Surface wave effects at unsteady model velocity are alleviated most effectively when the skim plate protrudes upstream of the model.

Graphical abstract
Peripapillary hyper-reflective ovoid mass-like structures (PHOMS) in AQP4-IgG-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disease (NMOSD) and MOG-IgG-associated disease (MOGAD)
Authors: Gernert Jonathan A. , Wicklein Rebecca , Hemmer Bernhard , Kümpfel Tania , Knier Benjamin , Havla Joachim
Published: October 2022

Background

Peripapillary hyperreflective ovoid mass-like structures (PHOMS) have recently been described as new optical coherence tomography (OCT) marker. It is not yet clear whether the occurrence of PHOMS is disease-specific or disease-spanning. PHOMS have been described in 16–18% of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Currently, no data on the prevalence of PHOMS in other demyelinating diseases including aquaporine-4-IgG-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disease (AQP4 + NMOSD) or myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein-IgG-associated disease (MOGAD) are reported.

Methods

We performed a cross-sectional, retrospective spectral domain OCT study evaluating the frequency of PHOMS in AQP4 + NMOSD (n = 47) and MOGAD (n = 44) patients. To test the association with retinal neuroaxonal damage, we compared demographic and clinical data as well as retinal layer thicknesses between eyes with vs. eyes without PHOMS.

Results

PHOMS were detected in 17% of AQP4 + NMOSD and 14% of MOGAD patients. Intra-cohort analysis revealed that AQP4 + NMOSD patients with PHOMS were significantly older [mean (years): 57.5 vs. 50.0; p value = 0.04]. We found no association of PHOMS with retinal neuroaxonal degeneration. In addition, in subjects with only one eye affected by PHOMS compared with the unaffected fellow eye, no differences in retinal parameters were observed (n = 4).

Conclusions

In summary, we found PHOMS in 17% of AQP4 + NMOSD and 14% of MOGAD patients. This is comparable to the prevalence of published MS PHOMS data. Therefore, a disease-specific occurrence of PHOMS is unlikely. Interestingly, PHOMS do not seem to depend on retinal neuroaxonal degeneration.
A dynamic spike threshold with correlated noise predicts observed patterns of negative interval correlations in neuronal spike trains
Authors: Sidhu Robin S. , Johnson Erik C. , Jones Douglas L. , Ratnam Rama
Published: October 2022

Negative correlations in the sequential evolution of interspike intervals (ISIs) are a signature of memory in neuronal spike-trains. They provide coding benefits including firing-rate stabilization, improved detectability of weak sensory signals, and enhanced transmission of information by improving signal-to-noise ratio. Primary electrosensory afferent spike-trains in weakly electric fish fall into two categories based on the pattern of ISI correlations: non-bursting units have negative correlations which remain negative but decay to zero with increasing lags (Type I ISI correlations), and bursting units have oscillatory (alternating sign) correlation which damp to zero with increasing lags (Type II ISI correlations). Here, we predict and match observed ISI correlations in these afferents using a stochastic dynamic threshold model. We determine the ISI correlation function as a function of an arbitrary discrete noise correlation function $${{\,\mathrm{\mathbf {R}}\,}}_k$$

R

k

, where k is a multiple of the mean ISI. The function permits forward and inverse calculations of the correlation function. Both types of correlation functions can be generated by adding colored noise to the spike threshold with Type I correlations generated with slow noise and Type II correlations generated with fast noise. A first-order autoregressive (AR) process with a single parameter is sufficient to predict and accurately match both types of afferent ISI correlation functions, with the type being determined by the sign of the AR parameter. The predicted and experimentally observed correlations are in geometric progression. The theory predicts that the limiting sum of ISI correlations is $$-0.5$$

-
0.5

yielding a perfect DC-block in the power spectrum of the spike train. Observed ISI correlations from afferents have a limiting sum that is slightly larger at $$-0.475 \pm 0.04$$

-
0.475
±
0.04

($$\text {mean} \pm \text {s.d.}$$

mean
±
s.d.

). We conclude that the underlying process for generating ISIs may be a simple combination of low-order AR and moving average processes and discuss the results from the perspective of optimal coding.
No semantic information is necessary to evoke general neural signatures of face familiarity: evidence from cross-experiment classification
Authors: Dalski Alexia , Kovács Gyula , Ambrus Géza Gergely
Published: October 2022

Recent theories on the neural correlates of face identification stressed the importance of the available identity-specific semantic and affective information. However, whether such information is essential for the emergence of neural signal of familiarity has not yet been studied in detail. Here, we explored the shared representation of face familiarity between perceptually and personally familiarized identities. We applied a cross-experiment multivariate pattern classification analysis (MVPA), to test if EEG patterns for passive viewing of personally familiar and unfamiliar faces are useful in decoding familiarity in a matching task where familiarity was attained thorough a short perceptual task. Importantly, no additional semantic, contextual, or affective information was provided for the familiarized identities during perceptual familiarization. Although the two datasets originate from different sets of participants who were engaged in two different tasks, familiarity was still decodable in the sorted, same-identity matching trials. This finding indicates that the visual processing of the faces of personally familiar and purely perceptually familiarized identities involve similar mechanisms, leading to cross-classifiable neural patterns.
Genome-scale modeling of Chinese hamster ovary cells by hybrid semi-parametric flux balance analysis
Authors: Ramos João R. C. , Oliveira Gil P. , Dumas Patrick , Oliveira Rui
Published: October 2022

Flux balance analysis (FBA) is currently the standard method to compute metabolic fluxes in genome-scale networks. Several FBA extensions employing diverse objective functions and/or constraints have been published. Here we propose a hybrid semi-parametric FBA extension that combines mechanistic-level constraints (parametric) with empirical constraints (non-parametric) in the same linear program. A CHO dataset with 27 measured exchange fluxes obtained from 21 reactor experiments served to evaluate the method. The mechanistic constraints were deduced from a reduced CHO-K1 genome-scale network with 686 metabolites, 788 reactions and 210 degrees of freedom. The non-parametric constraints were obtained by principal component analysis of the flux dataset. The two types of constraints were integrated in the same linear program showing comparable computational cost to standard FBA. The hybrid FBA is shown to significantly improve the specific growth rate prediction under different constraints scenarios. A metabolically efficient cell growth feed targeting minimal byproducts accumulation was designed by hybrid FBA. It is concluded that integrating parametric and nonparametric constraints in the same linear program may be an efficient approach to reduce the solution space and to improve the predictive power of FBA methods when critical mechanistic information is missing.
Revisiting the anticancer properties of phosphane(9-ribosylpurine-6-thiolato)gold(I) complexes and their 9H-purine precursors
Authors: Kober Luisa , Schleser Sebastian W. , Bär Sofia I. , Schobert Rainer
Published: October 2022

New mono- and di-nuclear thio-purine and thio-purine nucleoside gold(I) complexes were synthesized, characterized, and evaluated in vitro for biological activities in comparison to related known purine complexes. By combining known anti-tumoral thio-purines with R3PAu moieties as present in auranofin, complexes with enhanced effects and selectivities were obtained, which not only act as cytostatics, but also disrupt tumor-specific processes. Their IC50 values in cytotoxicity test with tumor cell lines ranged from three-digit nanomolar to single-digit micromolar, revealing a tentative structure–activity relationship (SAR). Both the residues R2 of the phosphane ligand and R1 at C2 of the pyrimidine ring had a significant impact on the cytotoxicity. In most cases, the introduction of a ribo-furanosyl group at N9 of the purine led to a distinctly more cytotoxic complex. Most complexes were more active against multi-drug-resistant tumor cells or such lacking functional p53 when compared to the respective untreated wild type cell lines. Some nucleoside complexes displayed an interesting dose-dependent dual mode of action regarding cell cycle arrest and DNA repair mechanism. Some phosphane(purine-6-thiolato)gold (I) complexes had a stronger inhibitory effect on the thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) and on the reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in cancer cells than is typical of other gold complexes. They also led to DNA fragmentation and showed anti-angiogenic effects. Their stability under test conditions was demonstrated by 77Se NMR monitoring of an exemplary selenopurine complex.

Graphical abstract
Improving the user experience of a gambling support and education website using a chatbot
Authors: Merkouris S. S. , Loram G. , Abdelrazek M. , Rodda S. N. , Ibrahim A. , Bonti A. , Dowling N. A.
Published: October 2022

Gambling help websites are an important source of information for gamblers and affected others, but they contain large amounts of information, making it difficult to navigate and access required resources. Usability of such websites can be improved through the implementation of chatbots, which are programmed to respond to user requests in natural language. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a text-based chatbot on the usability, user satisfaction, and experience of the Australian New South Wales GambleAware website; and explore the usability, user satisfaction, and experience of the chatbot itself. A convenience sample of Australian residents were allocated into website with chatbot access (n = 32) or website only (n = 28). Compared with the website-only group, the website with chatbot access group reported significantly greater ratings of the website’s usability and aspects of user satisfaction, but not user experience, and resulted in higher ease of task completion. Compared with available norms, the chatbot was highly rated on usability, usefulness, information quality, and credibility, with the layout, readability of responses, and look and feel identified as areas for improvement. The usability of the NSW GambleAware website could be enhanced by the integration of a text-based chatbot, with potential applications for similar websites.
Predictors of poor prognosis in ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV): a single-center prospective study of inpatients in China
Authors: Gao Ronglin , Wu Zhenzhen , Xu Xianghuai , Pu Jincheng , Pan Shengnan , Zhang Youwei , Zhuang Shuqi , Yang Lufei , Liang Yuanyuan , Song Jiamin , Tang Jianping , Wang Xuan
Published: October 2022

To identify potential predictors by assessing adverse outcomes in ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) patients. Eighty-nine untreated AAV patients were followed up to January 31, 2022, death, or loss of follow-up. Clinical characteristics, laboratory tests, treatment, and progress were collected, and disease activity was evaluated via Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score (BVAS). We determined risk factors of high-risk events, defined as developing tumors, renal replacement therapy (RRT), and death. Patients and renal survivals were computed by the Kaplan–Meier curve analysis. Cox regression analysis was performed for assessing variables for predicting death. During 267 person-years follow-up, 46 patients occurred high-risk events, including 20 patients receiving RRT, 12 patients developing tumors, and 29 patients who died mostly from organ failure and infection. Decreased estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (P < 0.001) and complement 3 levels (P = 0.019) were associated with high-risk events. Patients with lower serum potassium tended to develop tumors (P = 0.033); with higher BVAS (HR = 1.290, 95%CI 1.075–1.549, P = 0.006) and lower eGFR (HR = 0.782, 95%CI 0.680–0.901, P = 0.001) were more likely to undergo RRT. Patients with cardio and renal involvement exhibited a lower frequency of renal survival and all-cause mortality. Through multivariate COX analysis, age (HR = 1.016, 95%CI 1.016–1.105, P = 0.006) and eGFR (HR = 0.982, 95%CI 0.968–0.997, P = 0.018) predicted death in AAV, separately. The BVAS and eGFR could be a great prognosticator for RRT, while age and eGFR can independently predict the death. Serum potassium level and immunoglobulins should be focused on their predictor value in development of cancer and renal outcomes in AAV patients.
Cannibalism and intraguild predation involved in the intra- and inter-specific interactions of the invasive fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda, and lepidopteran maize stemborers
Authors: Sokame Bonoukpoè Mawuko , Musyoka Boaz , Mohammed Samira A. , Tamiru Amanuel , Bruce Anani , Anderson Peter , Karlsson Green Kristina , Calatayud Paul-André
Published: October 2022

Cannibalism and intraguild predation can play important roles in determining spread and survival or death of organisms which share the same resource. However, the relationship between cannibalism and intraguild predation, and the costs and benefits of such behaviours, is difficult to establish within insect communities, and little is known about how such behaviours are affected by invasive species. The present study was aimed at assessing the interactions between larvae of fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) and maize stemborers (native to Africa,Busseola fusca, andSesamia calamistisand native to India,Chilo partellus) in relation to cannibalism and intraguild predation when they utilize the same resource. Experiments involving treatments with either single species ofS. frugiperdaor any of the stemborers or pairwise species combinations withS. frugiperdawere conducted under laboratory conditions. The experimental insect larvae were reared on maize leaves and monitored until the last developmental stage where cannibalism and/or intraguild predation, larval survival, and relative growth rate were recorded. Results of the intraspecific interaction indicated thatS. frugiperdaexhibited cannibalism to a larger degree than the stemborers species, especially at the late instars. The higher cannibalism trait inS. frugiperdaturned, however, to competitive advantage as it led to a higher degree of intraguild predation when they cohabit with stemborer species and allowed FAW to gain a greater relative growth rate. Overall, interactions with FAW are detrimental for stemborer species and may be an important factor to explain the invasive success ofS. frugiperda. Such knowledge is essential to understand the mechanisms behind ecological interactions between pests with overlapping niches in the field and in designing successful integrated pest management strategies.