bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leadership in Conditions of Industry 4.0
Authors: Puhovichová Diana , Jankelová Nadežda
Published: July 2021

Nowadays, technological development and innovation play an important role in every enterprise. This is particularly reflected in the increase in competitiveness of any enterprise. It is Industry 4.0 that wants to lead to possible profound changes in several areas that go beyond the industrial sector. Leadership is essential for the successful promotion of a culture of innovation. Therefore, leaders and leadership style play a key role in the paradigm shift towards Industry 4.0. The aim of the theoretical research is to present the key characteristics of Leadership 4.0, the necessary skills of Leaders 4.0 and to introduce appropriate leadership styles in the context of Industry 4.0. Through the available domestic and foreign literature, we have provided a theoretical reality of what leadership in Industry 4.0 conditions should look like. According to results, that we have found out during theoretical research, we have reached conclusions that the core attributes of Leadership 4.0 include communication, knowledge and understanding, well-set standards and methods, coaching, expectations, openness and transparency, trust, employee orientation, and a culture of mistakes. We also pointed out that within the presented leadership matrix, the digital leader represents the most appropriate style within Industry 4.0, and among other things, this leader should dispose of cognitive skills, business skills, interpersonal skills, and strategic skills.
Improvement of OSH Management through the holistic approach of incident controlling
Authors: Schreyer Kristina , Dehghani Arman , Fendeková Eleonora
Published: July 2021

This paper deals with the performance optimization of occupational safety and health management (OSHM) with the help of the integration of near miss management into existing KPIs of the company. In this context, two independent processes are carried out: risk assessment and near miss management. In this work, the holistic view of these two processes is investigated as an optimization potential OSHM. Based on a literature review, the framework of the qualitative method applied here is established. After definitions and general information concerning OSHM, the processes of risk assessment and near miss management in different organisations (23 international plants for risk assessment and 6 German plants for near miss management) with established processes according to BPM are examined. The chosen approach is combined with the method of the PDCA cycle to relate the results of the investigation to the CIP existing in the OSHM. The result was elaborated in the form of a recommendation for action: optimization of existing processes, integrated hazard and near miss management as a more sustainable solution and proposal for the implementation of a KPI for better control of incidents based on predictive risk assessment.
Perspectives, implementability and measurability of ethical principles in management
Authors: Sievers Georg
Published: July 2021

Ethical behaviour in companies is built on principles, rules, values and resources. As integrative ethics, the macro level ensures a long-term and sustainable orientation of the company in the context of business ethics. The macro level ensures that the company can change its role from “expactant” to “creator” with regard to corporate ethics. The mezzo level prevents unethical behaviour in companies by offering them the opportunity to reflect on their own behaviour in the context of (government) guidelines. Finally, the micro level is considered essential. It creates the systemic preconditions for companies to be able to fulfil their ethical duties and take responsibility for their actions. Partnerships and networks play a central role in this context. Against this background, the existence of a regulatory framework, the measurement of ethical corporate behaviour with the help of standards and reporting, the existence of a sustainable corporate mission statement as well as the availability of necessary resources and the documentation of sustainable behaviour in the company can be derived from the literature as central success factors for the implementation of ethical standards in companies. These factors are compared by means of empirical research with a focus on the packaging industry in Germany, Switzerland and Austria so that the existence of a guiding regulatory framework in society and a sustainable corporate mission statement emerge as the final and particularly relevant characteristics for an ethically-sustainable company, the referencing of one’s own behaviour to sustainability indices, the use of the same (in particular the Dow Jones Sustainability (DJSI) and the Financial Times Stock Exchange (FTSE4 Good) indices) in reporting, the reference to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the formulation of the corporate objective and the use of voluntary standards in sustainability reporting.
Theoretical Background to the Role of Trust in Marketing
Authors: Zsigmondová Annamária , Zsigmond Tibor , Machová Renáta
Published: July 2021

The aim of the study is to present the theoretical background of trust and to review its role in marketing among the disciplines mentioned in the article. After the methodological definition, the article provides the reader with a complex overview of the concept of trust in the national and international literature. The need for trust extends to business and market interactions throughout the supply and value chain, as they are interrelated in all areas of production and service. In addition, its existence also plays an important role in online commerce, the lack of which is understood by companies and intermediaries in the reduction of transaction costs and reputation. However, the question arises as to whether trust can be so easily delineated. Is the decision of whether or not to trust the other a simple question to be decided to which there is a clear answer?
Peritonealdialyseprogramm für die Intensivstation
Authors: Kitsche Benno
Published: July 2021

In dieser Beobachtungsstudie wird über den Einsatz von akuter Peritonealdialyse (PD) auf der Intensivstation bei 39 erwachsenen COVID-19-Patienten mit akutem Nierenversagen berichtet.
Meropenem Use in Pediatric Oncology – Audit on Indication, Appropriateness and Consumption Comparing Patient Derived and Pharmacy Dispensing Data
Authors: Ockfen Svenja , Egle Leonie , Sauter Katharina , Haber Manfred , Becker Sören L. , Wagenpfeil Gudrun , Graf Norbert , Simon Arne
Published: July 2021

Background Meropenem is an important second- or third-line antibiotic in pediatric cancer patients with febrile neutropenia (FN). Concise utilization data of meropenem in this setting is limited. It remains unclear how drug dispensing data from the hospital pharmacy correlate with data derived from patients’ files.

Methods Retrospective audit of meropenem-consumption in a University-affiliated pediatric oncology center in days of therapy (DOT)/100 inpatient days. The individual indication for meropenem was critically reviewed. The real consumption (in g/100 inpatient days) was compared with the drug amounts dispensed by the hospital pharmacy (in gram and in defined daily doses (DDD)/100 inpatient days). All patients receiving at least one dose of meropenem from 1st of April 2016 until the 30th of June 2018 were included.

Result Of 235 consecutive patients, 45 (19%) received meropenem, comprising 57 FN events. The probability of receiving at least one dose of meropenem was significantly higher in patients with ALL, AML, NHL and certain CNS tumors. Preceding the use of meropenem, only 5% of patients were known to be colonized with multidrug-resistant Gram-negative pathogens. Meropenem was administered as first-line treatment in 26% of all meropenem cycles, in 74% of all FN events with meropenem, Piperacillin-Tazobactam was used for initial treatment. In 5 of 57 FN events (8.8%), initial blood cultures yielded a Gram-negative pathogen. Concerning definite treatment, appropriate alternatives to meropenem with a smaller spectrum of activity would have been available in 4 cases, but a de-escalation was not performed. The median length of therapy in the meropenem group was 6 days, the corresponding median for days of therapy (DOT) was 12 days. This corresponds with combination therapy in 56% of all meropenem treatments, mostly with teicoplanin. On average, drug dispensing data from the hospital pharmacy were 1.53 times higher than real use (relying on patients’ data) without a significant correlation. A higher Case-mix Index positively correlated with meropenem-consumption.

Conclusion The use of meropenem should become a target of antibiotic stewardship programs in order to restrict its use to certain indications and preserve its outstanding role as second- or third-line antibiotic in this vulnerable population. Irrespective of the metrics used (g or DDD/100 inpatient days), pharmacy dispensing data do not accurately depict real patient-derived data concerning meropenem use in pediatric cancer patients.
Der fnb e. V. plant neue Veranstaltungen
Authors: Wiegard-Szramek Ina , Hünninghaus Sarah
Published: July 2021

2020 hat das Corona-Virus uns alle vor eine große Herausforderung gestellt. Jeder Bereich unseres Lebens, beruflich, privat, gesellschaftlich, politisch und kulturell, wurde verändert und auf den Kopf gestellt. Dieser besonderen Situation geschuldet, hat der fnb e. V. alle Veranstaltungen 2020 abgesagt. Auch für 2021 läuft alles weiterhin reduziert. Es wird keine Präsenzveranstaltung im Rahmen der Schulung vor Ort (SvO) geben.
Ein Hoch auf das Menschlein – Der Homunkulus damals und heute
Authors: Hotz Boendermaker Sabina
Published: July 2021

Wenn es um die Repräsentation des menschlichen Körpers im Hirn geht, erscheint bei den meisten unweigerlich das Bild des Homunkulus vor dem geistigen Auge. Mit seinen unproportionierten Körperteilen, den langen Fingern, dem großen Mund und der plumpen Zunge hat dieser einen unauslöschlichen Eindruck hinterlassen. Letztes Jahr feierte er seinen 70. Geburtstag – Zeit, zu schauen, ob er nicht viel agiler ist als bisher angenommen.
„Jede Person entscheidet für sich selbst, wann eine Grenze überschritten ist“ – Interview zu sexueller Belästigung
Authors: Czernik Claudia
Published: July 2021

Das größte Risiko für sexuelle Belästigung am Arbeitsplatz trägt laut einer Studie der Antidiskriminierungsstelle das Gesundheits- und Sozialwesen. Wie Therapierende mit sexuellen Belästigungen in der Praxis umgehen können und welche Präventionskonzepte es gibt, erzählt Sabine Jenner im Gespräch mit physiopraxis. Die Frauen- und Gleichstellungsbeauftragte der Charité war an der ersten Studie zum Thema an einer deutschen Universitätsklinik beteiligt.
Ni-Catalyzed Reductive Carbonylation of Alkyl Halides to Form Dialkyl Ketones Using Diphenyl Oxalate as CO Surrogate
Authors: Sun Yuren , Su Lei , Yao Ken , Gong Hegui , Tong Weiqi
Published: July 2021

In this work, we disclosed that diphenyl oxalate serves as a CO surrogate to enable a Ni-catalyzed carbonylation of alkyl bromides/tosylates to afford dialkyl ketones. The reaction shows broad substrate scope and good functional group tolerance.
Accuracy of Asthma Computable Phenotypes to Identify Pediatric Asthma at an Academic Institution
Authors: Ross Mindy K. , Zheng Henry , Zhu Bing , Lao Ailina , Hong Hyejin , Natesan Alamelu , Radparvar Melina , Bui Alex A.T.
Published: July 2021

Objectives Asthma is a heterogenous condition with significant diagnostic complexity, including variations in symptoms and temporal criteria. The disease can be difficult for clinicians to diagnose accurately. Properly identifying asthma patients from the electronic health record is consequently challenging as current algorithms (computable phenotypes) rely on diagnostic codes (e.g., International Classification of Disease, ICD) in addition to other criteria (e.g., inhaler medications)—but presume an accurate diagnosis. As such, there is no universally accepted or rigorously tested computable phenotype for asthma.

Methods We compared two established asthma computable phenotypes: the Chicago Area Patient-Outcomes Research Network (CAPriCORN) and Phenotype KnowledgeBase (PheKB). We established a large-scale, consensus gold standard (n = 1,365) from the University of California, Los Angeles Health System's clinical data warehouse for patients 5 to 17 years old. Results were manually reviewed and predictive performance (positive predictive value [PPV], sensitivity/specificity, F1-score) determined. We then examined the classification errors to gain insight for future algorithm optimizations.

Results As applied to our final cohort of 1,365 expert-defined gold standard patients, the CAPriCORN algorithms performed with a balanced PPV = 95.8% (95% CI: 94.4–97.2%), sensitivity = 85.7% (95% CI: 83.9–87.5%), and harmonized F1 = 90.4% (95% CI: 89.2–91.7%). The PheKB algorithm was performed with a balanced PPV = 83.1% (95% CI: 80.5–85.7%), sensitivity = 69.4% (95% CI: 66.3–72.5%), and F1 = 75.4% (95% CI: 73.1–77.8%). Four categories of errors were identified related to method limitations, disease definition, human error, and design implementation.

Conclusion The performance of the CAPriCORN and PheKB algorithms was lower than previously reported as applied to pediatric data (PPV = 97.7 and 96%, respectively). There is room to improve the performance of current methods, including targeted use of natural language processing and clinical feature engineering.
Pathophysiology of Bronchiectasis
Authors: Keir Holly R. , Chalmers James D.
Published: July 2021

Bronchiectasis is a complex, heterogeneous disorder defined by both a radiological abnormality of permanent bronchial dilatation and a clinical syndrome. There are multiple underlying causes including severe infections, mycobacterial disease, autoimmune conditions, hypersensitivity disorders, and genetic conditions. The pathophysiology of disease is understood in terms of interdependent concepts of chronic infection, inflammation, impaired mucociliary clearance, and structural lung damage. Neutrophilic inflammation is characteristic of the disease, with elevated levels of harmful proteases such as neutrophil elastase associated with worse outcomes. Recent data show that neutrophil extracellular trap formation may be the key mechanism leading to protease release and severe bronchiectasis. Despite the dominant of neutrophilic disease, eosinophilic subtypes are recognized and may require specific treatments. Neutrophilic inflammation is associated with elevated bacterial loads and chronic infection with organisms such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Loss of diversity of the normal lung microbiota and dominance of proteobacteria such as Pseudomonas and Haemophilus are features of severe bronchiectasis and link to poor outcomes. Ciliary dysfunction is also a key feature, exemplified by the rare genetic syndrome of primary ciliary dyskinesia. Mucus symptoms arise through goblet cell hyperplasia and metaplasia and reduced ciliary function through dyskinesia and loss of ciliated cells. The contribution of chronic inflammation, infection, and mucus obstruction leads to progressive structural lung damage. The heterogeneity of the disease is the most challenging aspect of management. An understanding of the pathophysiology of disease and their biomarkers can help to guide personalized medicine approaches utilizing the concept of “treatable traits.”
The Aphasia Communication Outcome Measure: Motivation, Development, Validity Evidence, and Interpretation of Change Scores
Authors: Hula William D. , Doyle Patrick J.
Published: July 2021

The Aphasia Communication Outcome Measure (ACOM) is a patient-reported measure of communicative functioning developed for persons with stroke-induced aphasia. It was motivated by the desire to include the perspective of persons with aphasia in the measurement of treatment outcomes and to apply newly accessible psychometric tools to improve the quality and usefulness of available outcome measures for aphasia. The ACOM was developed within an item response theory framework, and the validity of the score estimates it provides is supported by evidence based on its content, internal structure, relationships with other variables, stability over time, and responsiveness to treatment. This article summarizes the background and motivation for the ACOM, the steps in its initial development, evidence supporting its validity as a measure of patient-reported communication functioning, and current recommendations for interpreting change scores.
Plasma Exchange in Acute and Acute on Chronic Liver Failure
Authors: Maiwall Rakhi , Sarin Shiv K.
Published: July 2021

Liver failure in the context of acute (ALF) and acute on chronic liver failure (ACLF) is associated with high mortality in the absence of a liver transplant. For decades, therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is performed for the management of immune-mediated diseases. TPE has emerged as an attractive extracorporeal blood purification technique in patients with ALF and ACLF. The basic premise of using TPE is to remove the toxic substances which would allow recovery of native liver functions by facilitating liver regeneration. In recent years, encouraging data have emerged, suggesting the benefits of TPE in patients with liver failure. TPE has emerged as an attractive liver support device for the failing liver until liver transplantation or clinical recovery. The data in patients with ALF suggest routine use of high-volume TPE, while the data for such a strategy are less robust for patients with ACLF.
Telemedicine Use during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Results of an International Survey
Authors: Ahmad Farhan , Wysocki Robert W. , White Neil , Richard Marc , Cohen Mark S. , Simcock Xavier
Published: July 2021

Objective The aim of the study is to survey hand surgeons' perspectives on telemedicine during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and intended applications after the pandemic.

Methods Online surveys were sent to 285 Canadian and American surgeons in late April and early May 2020.

Results Response rate was 63% (180)—84% (152) American and 16% (28) Canadian. Forty-three percent (76) of respondents were in private practice, 36% (64) academics, 13% (24) privademics, and 6% (12) hospital employed. The most common telemedicine platform was Zoom. During the pandemic, 42% of patient visits were conducted via telemedicine; however, 37% required a subsequent in-person office visit. The most common complaint by surgeons was the inability to provide routine in-office procedures. The most beneficial feature was ease of use, and the most frustrating feature was connectivity difficulty. Time spent was similar to in-person visits, and surgeons were likely to recommend their platforms. Surgeons were neutral about using telehealth in the future and were most likely to use it for follow-up visits. New patient visits for traumatic injuries or fractures were of limited value. Canadians used telemedicine for a greater proportion than Americans (50 vs. 40%, p <0.05) and spent more time than in-person visits (7/10 vs. 5/10, p <0.05). Americans were more likely to use telemedicine for postoperative follow-up visits (6/10 vs. 4/10, p <0.05) and in mornings before clinic opens (4/10 vs. 2/10, p <0.05). Private practices were more likely to use telemedicine for future allied health provider visits than all other practice types (p <0.05).

Conclusion Telemedicine comprised nearly half of patient encounters during the COVID-19 pandemic, but limitations remain.
Point-Prevalence Survey for the Hospital-Acquired Infections in Intensive Care Units of Trauma Center in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Northern India
Authors: Boora Sandeep , Singh Parul , Verma Arun , Chauhan Ashok , Lathwal Amit , Mathur Purva
Published: July 2021

Background The burden of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) is all assumption based, and the true burden remains unknown in most countries, particularly in the developing countries where healthcare facilities are suboptimal and knowledge is limited.

Methodology This cross-sectional study was conducted at the trauma center of a tertiary care institute from August to September 2019, to assess the burden of HAI and antibiotic resistance pattern of HAI. The total sample size in our study was 105. Our objective was to estimate the point prevalence of HAI and study the associated factors in a tertiary care hospital.

Result In this study, the point prevalence of HAI was five to six times higher when compared with that of developed countries. Gram-negative organisms were the predominant bacteria; with Acinetobacter baumannii the most common among them.

Conclusion Point-prevalence survey is an important objective of the antimicrobial stewardship program; it will be helpful in controlling antimicrobial resistance and this tool plays a significant role in hospital settings. Our study is quite pertinent to assess the point prevalence of HAI. It will help in knowing the current prevalence and pattern of the HAI. Therefore, as healthcare administrators, we can further decrease the HAI for better patient outcomes in the future.
Analysis of the Prevalence and Severity of Dysregulated Bone Mineral Homeostasis in Nondialyzed Chronic Kidney Disease Patients
Authors: Patel Digishaben D. , Vachhani Uday , Rajput Ajay , Raghavani Pratik , Parchwani Deepak N. , Dholariya Sagar
Published: July 2021

Background Progressive loss of kidney function in chronic kidney disease (CKD) leads to altered mineral homeostasis, reflected by the imbalance in calcium and phosphorus, and has been associated with progression of renal failure.

Aims The aim of this study was to investigate CKD-mineral bone disorder (CKD-MBD)-associated candidate variables and its relationship with parathyroid hormone (PTH), as well as to quantify the prevalence of CKD-associated mineral disturbances in nondialyzed CKD patients.

Materials and Methods This cross-sectional analytical study included 124 CKD patients and 157 control participants. Blood samples were analyzed for serum total calcium, phosphorus, PTH, electrolytes, and other hematological/hemodynamic parameters by standard methods. Suitable descriptive statistics was used for different variables.

Results The 124 patients had a mean age of 50.2 ± 7.8 years with male to female ratio of 1.58; majority of patients had stage 3 CKD (40.32%), and the most common comorbid conditions were diabetes mellitus (n = 78 [62.9%]) and hypertension (n = 63 [50.8%]). A high prevalence of mineral metabolite abnormalities was observed in a patient cohort; overall prevalence of hyperparathyroidism was found in 57.25% patients, hypocalcemia in 61.29%, and hyperphosphatemia in 82.25% patients. Prevalence of abnormal homeostasis (with regard to total calcium, phosphate, and PTH) increased progressively with the severity of disease (analysis of variance; p < 0.05). Significant differences in the mean values of total calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, and PTH were seen compared with healthy participants (p < 0.0001). Furthermore, there was a significant positive correlation between serum PTH with serum phosphorous (R
2: 0.33; p < 0.0001), serum creatinine (R
2: 0.084; p < 0.0259), serum potassium (R
2: 0.068; p < 0.0467), and a significant negative correlation with serum total calcium (R
2: 0.37; p < 0.0001).

Conclusions CKD patients are at risk of or may already have developed secondary hyperparathyroidism apparent from PTH-linked derangements in mineral metabolism in predialysis CKD patients. These abnormalities start in early stages of CKD and worsen with disease progression. This accentuates the significance of early recognition of mineral bone disorder, understanding its pathophysiological consequences and scheduling necessary interventions/management strategies to protect the CKD patients from a plethora of complications.
Antibiotics in pig meat production: restrictions as the odd case and overuse as normality? Experiences from Sweden and Italy
Authors: Waluszewski Alexandra , Cinti Alessandro , Perna Andrea
Published: July 2021

For people interested in high-quality food,Italyhas long been acknowledged for its production of Parma ham, salami and similar pig meat-based products. For researchers in the field of antibiotic resistance, they are known as products of a highly antibiotic-dependent production system. Italy has one of the highest consumptions of antibiotics by animals in the EU, estimated to be 244 mg/PCU. By contrast,Swedenhas the lowest consumption of antibiotics by animals in the EU, estimated to be 12.5 mg/PCU. Thus, the Italian level is about 20 times higher than the Swedish one. Theaimof this paper is to pinpoint the role of antibiotics in the Swedish and Italian production systems. What are the underlying forces and the key features of the Swedish production system—a system that can actually compensate for routine group treatment with antibiotics through precautionary health and biosecurity? What aspects are behind the different antibiotic consumption patterns in the Italian setting? We argue that the Swedish ability to compensate for routine prophylactic antibiotic group treatment was the outcome of an extensive interaction process: ‘outsiders’ increased the general awareness of routine antibiotic use by debating it in the media, and ‘insiders’ took the debate seriously and consequently acted to develop a production system that was able to compensate for routine use of antibiotics. Based on both the Swedish and Italian experiences, we argue that a legal ban on routine group treatment does not in itself guarantee a change. Those who are supposed to adopt must first share the ideas the legislation rests on; second, they must be prepared to invest in a change of material structures; third, they must foresee a ‘fair’ distribution of costs and benefits among producers and users—that is, an economic context in which all players are incentivised to follow the same route.
Nanostructured grinding wheels for ultra-precision engineering applications
Authors: Jackson M. J.
Published: July 2021

Manufacturers face challenges when dealing with abrasives that lose roundness, wear excessively, and suffer from pitting of the surface of the grinding wheel that needs rectification using dressing techniques. Nanostructured abrasive grits manufactured by hybrid fusion processes and by sintering/extrusion/printing processes are found to reduce pitting quite significantly. The phenomenon of wheel collapse is increasing and cycle times developed during the grinding of aerospace alloys are much smaller compared to using conventional materials. This paper reviews the phenomenon of wheel collapse induced by pitting and takes a critical look at the production and analysis of hybrid fused and printed/sintered abrasives. A mathematical analysis is carried out of the diffusion of primary and secondary phases due to mechanical and ultrasonic agitation with the aim of producing abrasive grits with improved strength and retention. Current developments in extruded, printed, and sintered grits for use in precision grinding applications are critically reviewed. The paper concludes by explaining how such abrasives are used in practice by industrial manufacturers of high-precision products.
Vortex-in-cell simulation of the flow and performance of a Savonius hydraulic turbine with S-shaped blades
Authors: Takamure Kotaro , Wang Haotian , Uchiyama Tomomi , Iio Shouichiro , Ikeda Toshihiko
Published: July 2021

The volume penalization vortex-in-cell (VP-VIC) method, which combines the vortex-in-cell and vortex penalization methods, is a kind of immersed boundary method that has the advantage of accurately calculating the vorticity field near the boundary. It is expected to be used as a design tool for shape optimization. In this study, the flow and performance of a small Savonius turbine rotor (rotor diameter DR = 245 mm) with S-shaped blades, which is used for small-scale distributed power generation with output less than 100 kW, were analyzed by numerical simulation. The results were compared with those of previous experimental studies to examine the usefulness of the VP-VIC method for fluid analysis around the Savonius turbine. The Reynolds number (Re=U0DR/ν) based on the streamwise velocity U0 is 1.32×105. The volume penalization vortex-in-cell (VP-VIC) method is applied for flow simulation, and the rotational motion of the rotor is analyzed using the calculation method previously proposed by the authors for the fluid force acting on the solid boundary (blade surface). As a result, the relationship between the rotational speed of the rotor and the output coefficient obtained in this simulation is similar in the experimental results of Golecha et al. [Appl. Energy 88, 3027–3217 (2011)] using S-shaped blades. In particular, with an increase in the load torque, the rotational speed of the rotor decreases, and the rotor stops momentarily. When the rotor stops, the positive torque of clockwise rotation acts on the advancing blade, while the negative torque of counterclockwise rotation acting on the returning blade decreases; hence, the rotor restarts immediately after stopping. In addition, it is established that the rotor output can be accurately predicted. Based on the above, it is reconfirmed that the VP-VIC method is beneficial for predicting the performance of a Savonius turbine.
Nonlinear measurements of kinetics and generalized dynamical modes. II. Application to a simulation of solvation dynamics in an ionic liquid
Authors: Hodge Stuart R. , Corcelli Steven A. , Berg Mark A.
Published: July 2021

Solvation dynamics in ionic liquids show features that are often associated with supercooled liquids, including “stretched” nonexponential relaxation. To better understand the mechanism behind the stretching, the nonlinear mode-correlation methods proposed in Paper I [S. R. Hodge and M. A. Berg, J. Chem. Phys. 155, 024122 (2021)] are applied to a simulation of a prototypical ionic liquid. A full Green’s function is recovered. In addition, specific tests for non-Gaussian dynamics are made. No deviations from Gaussian dynamics are found. This finding is incompatible with rate heterogeneity as a cause of the nonexponential relaxation and appears to be in conflict with an earlier multidimensional analysis of the same data. Although this conflict is not resolved here, this work does demonstrate the practicality of mode-correlation analysis in the face of finite datasets and calculations.
Effect of insoluble surfactants on a thermocapillary flow
Authors: Piñan Basualdo Franco N. , Terrazas Mallea R. , Scheid B. , Bolopion A. , Gauthier M. , Lambert P.
Published: July 2021

The thermocapillary effect, arising flow due to a temperature gradient along a fluid interface, is the dominant effect in some industrial and microfluidic processes and must be studied in order to optimize them. In this work, we analyze how insoluble surfactants adsorbed at the interface can affect such a flow. In particular, we analyze the case where the thermocapillary flow is induced at the air–water interface by locally heating it with an infrared laser, setup that is used to manipulate floating particles through the generated flow. Since water is a polar fluid, the air–water interface is easily polluted by surfactants. We developed a numerical model considering the uncontrolled presence of surfactants, which evidences that the effect of the surface contamination cannot be neglected, even for small surfactants concentration. The results of this numerical model were compared with different experimental measurements: particle tracking velocimetry, convection cell radius measurements, and thermography of the surface. All the experimental observations agree with the numerical model with the initial surface contamination being a fitting parameter. The model was then validated comparing its results with measurements for which a known quantity of surfactant was added to the interface. Finally, an analytical model was developed to explain the effects of the governing parameters, which agrees with the simulations and the experimental results. The developed models give us insight toward the miniaturization of the manipulation platform.
Determination of group velocity based on nanoindentation using Si and SiO2/Si wafers
Authors: Norimasa Oga , Hase Masataka , Mori Ryotaro , Hayamizu Mai , Murotani Hiroshi , Miyazaki Koji , Takashiri Masayuki
Published: July 2021

The analyses of thermal transport properties can help improve the performance of high-tech semiconducting devices, such as thermoelectric generators and electronic devices. However, methods to measure thermal transport properties are limited, especially the group velocity and phonon mean free path (MFP) of thin films. Herein, we propose a simple technique to measure the group velocity and phonon MFP based on nanoindentation using Si and SiO2/Si wafers. The group velocities, including the longitudinal, transverse, and average group velocities, were estimated using Young’s modulus, shear modulus, and Poisson’s ratio. The phonon MFP was estimated from the average group velocity, lattice thermal conductivity, and specific heat. The determined group velocities (∼6050 m/s) and phonon MFP (∼80 nm) when the Si wafer was used as a bulk material were in good agreement with the corresponding reference data. The influence of the underlying Si substrate increased when the indentation depth was increased when the SiO2/Si wafer was used as a thin film (SiO2 layer thickness, 200 nm). The influence of the underlying Si substrate existed even when the smallest indentation depth of 50 nm and the determined group velocities (∼4750 m/s) and phonon MFP (∼0.5 nm) were slightly different from those of the reference data. Therefore, although the accuracy of the measurement technique can be improved, this study verified that nanoindentation can be used to measure the group velocity and phonon MFP of materials. Furthermore, this technique opens a pathway for investigating the thermal transport properties of nanostructured materials.
Rheological signatures of gel–glass transition and a revised phase diagram of an aqueous triblock copolymer solution of Pluronic F127
Authors: Suman Khushboo , Sourav Sagar , Joshi Yogesh M.
Published: July 2021

In this work, we study temperature-induced state change of an aqueous solution of triblock copolymer composed of poly(ethylene oxide)-poly(propylene oxide)-poly(ethylene oxide), PEO-PPO-PEO (Pluronic F127), at different concentrations using rheology. While this temperature-dependent state change visually appears like a liquid–soft solid transition, and the soft solid state has been termed as a gel in the literature, there is a debate regarding the precise microstructure of the soft solid state. We observe that over a concentration domain of interest, an aqueous solution of F127 overwhelmingly demonstrates all the characteristic rheological features of not just a sol–gel–glass transition at low temperatures and glass–liquid transition at high temperatures, but also that associated with the individual states, such as sol, post-gel, and glass. The temperature at which the gel–glass transition is observed decreases while the temperature associated with glass–liquid transition increases with an increase in the concentration of F127. Based on the observed behavior, we propose a mechanism that considers the change in micelle volume fraction and alteration of the hydrophilicity of PEO corona as a function of temperature. Finally, we construct a phase diagram and discuss the similarities and differences with respect to various phase diagrams of F127 solution available in the literature.
Unsteady flow structures behind a shark denticle replica on the wall: Time-resolved particle image velocimetry measurements
Authors: Mao Qian , Wang Peng , He Chuangxin , Liu Yingzheng
Published: July 2021

Experiments were performed to determine the unsteady flow structures of a shark denticle replica with three longitudinal ridges of different elevations and sharp trailing edges. Time-resolved particle image velocimetry measurements were conducted to capture the time-varying flow fields behind a shark denticle replica and contoured denticle, using the latter as a benchmark configuration for comparison. The flow fields in the streamwise and spanwise planes were obtained experimentally to determine the highly three-dimensional flow behavior. The flow dynamics of the unsteady superimposed flow structures behind the denticle replica are illustrated in terms of the time-averaged flow fields, statistical flow quantities, dominant vortex structures, and their phase-dependent evolution processes. The findings demonstrate that the denticle replica reduces the size and stability of the recirculation zone, suppressing flow separation. The velocity fluctuations and Reynolds shear stresses of the denticle replica are higher than those of the contoured denticle. Proper orthogonal decomposition analysis on the fluctuating velocity fields reveals alternating clockwise and counterclockwise vortices that convect along the streamwise direction, which correspond to decomposed flow structures, such as counter-rotating vortex pairs in the spanwise plane. These aspects are considered to be signatures of a hairpin-shaped vortex based on the phase-averaging analysis of the unsteady three-dimensional behavior. A hairpin-shaped vortex makes a concerted contribution to fluid mixing between the central wake region and surrounding area. As the fluid flows downstream, fast detachment of the hairpin-shaped vortex is recognized away from the wall to the main stream, which in turn attenuates the flow structure signatures in the spanwise plane. A low-frequency swinging motion of the fluid is also identified in the central wake region, which enhances fluid mixing on the two sides of the wake.
Stationary points of the Minkowski function
Authors: Gayfulin D. R. , Kan I. D.
Published: July 2021

A new theorem on the derivative of the Minkowski function is proved.

Bibliography: 11 titles.
Asymptotics of the scattering operator for the wave equation in a singularly perturbed domain
Authors: Korikov D. V.
Published: July 2021

A family of Cauchy-Dirichlet problems for the wave equations in unbounded domains

is considered (here

is a small parameter); a scattering operator

is associated with each domain

. For

the boundaries of the

are smooth, while the boundary of the limit domain

contains a conical point. The asymptotics of

as

is determined.

Bibliography: 11 titles.
Analytical determination of oestrogenic endocrine disruptors: the method of choice for wastewater treatment plant effluents
Authors: Černá Tereza , Michalíková Klára , Semerád Jaroslav , Cajthaml Tomáš
Published: July 2021

Environmental context Endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) are among the most recently targeted micropollutants detected in wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluents and in aquatic environments. There is a need for the development of robust analytical methods for most relevant estrogenic EDCs. This study provides optimisation of analytical techniques and addresses several relevant aspects that are often overlooked in the literature. The method was finally successfully employed for the analysis of WWTP effluents. Abstract Two analytical approaches – liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) methods – were compared for the simultaneous determination of the 19 most important oestrogenic endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), such as 17β-oestradiol, oestrone, 17α-ethinyloestradiol, bisphenol A and triclosan in wastewater treatment plant effluents. To lower the instrument limits of detection (ILODs), a derivatisation step preceded detection in both methods. The stability, sensitivity and ease of use of dansylation (Dns) for LC-MS/MS and trimethylsilylation (TMS) for GC-MS/MS derivatives were evaluated before method validation. TMS derivatisation products were highly unstable over time. Parameters such as susceptibility to matrix effects and the stability of monodansylated and didansylated derivatisation products of phytohormones are discussed. Lower ILODs of highly potent EDCs (0.11 ng mL−1 for 17β-oestradiol, 0.01 ng mL−1 for 17α-ethinyloestradiol and 0.22 ng mL−1 for oestrone) and stability of derivatisation products within 7 days were achieved using LC–MS/MS; therefore, further validation of this method at environmentally relevant concentrations was conducted. The method limits of detection (MLODs) met the requirements of the European Union defined in Directive 2008/105/ES for 17α-ethinyloestradiol (0.035 ng L−1) and 17β-oestradiol (0.4 ng L−1). Twenty samples of wastewater treatment plant effluent from the Czech Republic were screened using LC-MS/MS. Fifteen of the EDCs were detected in at least one sample. The most abundant EDCs were bisphenol A, with a concentration up to 1107 ng L−1, and triclosan, with a concentration up to 76 ng L−1. No seasonal trend between late spring and autumn samples was observed in the frequency or quantity of analytes.
Reptiles as food: predation of Australian reptiles by introduced red foxes compounds and complements predation by cats
Authors: Stobo-Wilson Alyson M. , Murphy Brett P. , Legge Sarah M. , Chapple David G. , Crawford Heather M. , Dawson Stuart J. , Dickman Chris R. , Doherty Tim S. , Fleming Patricia A. , Gentle Matthew , Newsome Thomas M. , Palmer Russell , Rees Matthew W. , Ritchie Euan G. , Speed James , Stuart John-Michael , Thompson Eilysh , Turpin Jeff , Woinarski John C. Z.
Published: July 2021

Context Invasive species are a major cause of biodiversity loss across much of the world, and a key threat to Australia’s diverse reptile fauna. There has been no previous comprehensive analysis of the potential impact of the introduced European red fox, Vulpes vulpes, on Australian reptiles. Aims We seek to provide an inventory of all Australian reptile species known to be consumed by the fox, and identify characteristics of squamate species associated with such predation. We also compare these tallies and characteristics with reptile species known to be consumed by the domestic cat, Felis catus, to examine whether predation by these two introduced species is compounded (i.e. affecting much the same set of species) or complementary (affecting different groups of species). Methods We collated records of Australian reptiles consumed by foxes in Australia, with most records deriving from fox dietary studies (tallying >35 000 samples). We modelled presence or absence of fox predation records against a set of biological and other traits, and population trends, for squamate species. Key results In total, 108 reptile species (~11% of Australia’s terrestrial reptile fauna) have been recorded as consumed by foxes, fewer than that reported for cats (263 species). Eighty-six species have been reported to be eaten by both predators. More Australian turtle species have been reported as consumed by foxes than by cats, including many that suffer high levels of predation on egg clutches. Twenty threatened reptile species have been reported as consumed by foxes, and 15 by cats. Squamate species consumed by foxes are more likely to be undergoing population decline than those not known to be consumed by foxes. The likelihood of predation by foxes increased with squamate species’ adult body mass, in contrast to the relationship for predation by cats, which peaked at ~217 g. Foxes, but not cats, were also less likely to consume venomous snakes. Conclusions The two introduced, and now widespread, predators have both compounding and complementary impacts on the Australian reptile fauna. Implications Enhanced and integrated management of the two introduced predators is likely to provide substantial conservation benefits to much of the Australian reptile fauna.
In vitro affinity maturation of broader and more-potent variants of the HIV-1–neutralizing antibody CAP256-VRC26.25
Authors: Yin Yiming , Quinlan Brian D. , Ou Tianling , Guo Yan , He Wenhui , Farzan Michael
Published: July 2021

Significance

Broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) can prevent new HIV-1 infections, but most are insufficiently broad or potent to protect from the diverse pool of circulating viruses. V2-glycan/apex bNAbs are exceptionally potent, but their breadth is limited. Their neutralizing activity requires tyrosine sulfation, a posttranslational modification that precludes their improvement with phage or yeast display. Here, we demonstrate the utility of a mammalian display approach whereby the heavy- and light-chain loci of a B cell line are CRISPR edited to encode the apex bNAb CAP256-VRC26.25. These loci were iteratively diversified through homology-directed repair with a library of DNA templates and through in vitro somatic hypermutation and selected with diverse envelope glycoprotein trimers. This approach can identify broader and more-potent apex bNAbs.
Alternative pathways for the development of lymphoid structures in humans
Authors: Berteloot Laureline , Molina Thierry Jo , Bruneau Julie , Picard Capucine , Barlogis Vincent , Secq Véronique , Abdo Chrystelle , Boddaert Nathalie , Griscelli Claude , Neven Bénédicte , Fischer Alain
Published: July 2021

Significance

Development of secondary lymphoid organs (SLO) was shown in mice to depend on lymphoid tissue inducer cells (LTi). Mutations of the IL2RG/JAK3 genes lead to severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) characterized by an absence of T cells, natural killer cells, innate lymphoid cells, and likely LTi lymphocytes. Development of SLO was evaluated in T cell–reconstituted SCID patients by MRI, showing that lymph nodes were not detectable with the exception of those draining the gut. Analysis of tissues from a patient who died despite T cell reconstitution showed that lymph nodes were absent and that no LTi cells could be seen in the lymphoid-rich spleen and appendix. Thus, a LTi-independent pathway, mostly associated with the gut, contributes to SLO formation.
Sedentary behaviour, physical activity and cardiometabolic health in highly trained athletes: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Franssen Wouter M.A. , Vanbrabant Eva , Cuveele Eline , Ivanova Anna , Franssen Gregor H.L.M. , Eijnde Bert O.
Published: July 2021

Prolonged periods of sedentary time appear to increase the risk for the development of several chronic conditions and all‐cause mortality, even when moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (MVPA) is taken into consideration. However, whether the beneficial health effects of MVPA in highly active individuals remain present when leisure time is spent sedentary remains speculative. Therefore, we systematically evaluated off‐training sedentary behaviour and physical activity levels in athletes. Studies were collected from four bibliographic databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials). Studies were eligible for inclusion if they evaluated sedentary behaviour and physical activity levels among athletes. Data from athletes were compared with the general population and pooled using a random‐effects model. After deduplication 3104 were identified of which 13 studies met inclusion criteria. Compared to the general population, athletes spent significantly more time in sedentary behaviour (+79 min/day; 95% confidence interval [CI]: [41, 65] min/day; p<0.001). In addition, athlete individuals spent less time in light intensity physical activity (‐92 min/day; 95% CI: [‐117, ‐66] min/day; p<0.001) and had increased levels of MVPA (+62 min/day; 95% CI: [38, 85] min/day; p<0.001) compared to the general population. Athletes exceed the average time spend sedentary per day and make them even more sedentary compared to the general population.