bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaption of Marketing Mix for Selected Country
Authors: Szolgayová Barbora
Published: February 2022

Using the SWOT analysis, it was found that Kofola Plc. is in a sufficiently strong position to enter the foreign market, specifically the Austrian market, and the competition in the Austrian market was further analysed. It showed that there are three major competitors in the market. Using the PEST analysis, information concerning the exchange of goods and exports, or the financial situation of Austrian citizens was found. The company’s marketing mix on the Czech market and its subsequent adaptation to the Austrian market were described. The greatest need for adaptation was identified in the marketing communication and also in the product itself, specifically packaging, which will require a language mutation in the composition. Also, some change in appearance to match the marketing communication will be needed. The marketing communication will focus mainly on the unique taste of Kofola, which could be an attraction for potential customers, mainly because Austrians already like the herbal drink made by Almdudler, which is also one of the company’s competitors, together with Coca Cola Austria and PepciCo.
Technical Analysis of Selected Stocks Time Series Based on Value Screening
Authors: Tlustý Michal
Published: February 2022

The paper deals with the issue of value screening and shares. For the selection of a company, value screening with specific criteria was used. From a total of 6 companies, the one with the most traded stocks was selected, namely the company Apple Inc. Subsequently, the analyses of trend and moving averages were performed for the 50-day, 100-day, and 200-day period, as well as the analysis using RSI indicators. Specific changes detected were graphically illustrated and described in detail in graphs. In the following chapter, Discussion of Results, specific indicators were explained, which emerged within the analysis of the shares, and proposals of measures for a broker were made, which recommended the trader to buy or give up the position. The objective of the paper, which consisted in the performance of value screening using specific criteria, select a suitable company, analyse its time series, and propose a specific measure, was achieved.
The Impact of Work-related Stress on Job Satisfaction and Organizational Trust during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Zanabazar Altanchimeg , Jigjiddor Sarantuya , Jambal Tsolmon
Published: February 2022

One of the industries significantly affected by the Covid-19 pandemic is tourism. As a result of lockdowns, tourism came to a halt, which has caused severe damages not only to tourism-related business but also aviation, hospitality sector, which resulted in unemployment, reduced work hours with minimum salary or temporary leave and even closure the businesses.

As a result of the pandemic, 99 travel agencies liquidated their business activities and the revenues of 88 percent of the whole tourism sector reduced and 56 percent of employees were laid off.

This paper analyses the impact of Work-related stress on the job satisfaction and organizational trust in the tourism sector during the unprecedented changes related to the Covid-19 pandemic. The survey was conducted online in April-May, 2021 and involved 275 employees working for different travel agencies. Numerous tests are used to verify the proposed hypothesis, such as factor analysis, reliability analysis, correlation analysis and PLS analysis.

The results of the survey show that the Work-related stress caused by Covid-19 pandemic has a negative impact on job satisfaction and organizational trust among surveyed employees.
Formation of Human Resources within an Enterprise under Conditions of Globalization Changes
Authors: Zaika Kateryna , Pochtovyuk Andriy , Pryakhina Kateryna , Kushch Oleksandr
Published: February 2022

Strengthening competition in world markets leads to qualitative changes in the system of organization and management of businesses which must adapt to constantly changing conditions in the intensified competition at the international level. It is necessary to improve SMEs regulation system, including facilitating the establishment of inter-firm contacts and raising the qualifications of specialists and administrative staff. In this article, the authors research a formation process of new qualitative characteristics of enterprise human resources under globalization changes. The concentration of production is being replaced by the concept of intellectual-intensive production with a high level of education and information-technological equipment of the personnel. These peculiarities of the globalization process must be taken into account when solving issues related to the development of small businesses in Ukraine. It is revealed that this concept focuses attention not only on quantitative, but also on qualitative characteristics of personnel, including the level of competencies, professionalism, and a lack of focus on the development of intellectual potential. Competency as a socio-economic category becomes a system-forming basis that determines the formation of new processes for the preparation of human resources. The research reviewed the current state of SMEs in Ukraine under negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The results of statistical analysis indicate a steady downward trend in the number of individual entrepreneurs. Changes in the manufacturing sector have also brought about changes in relation to labor resources. Ideas of self-development, lifelong education, emphasizing informal and non-formal learning are becoming popular. All of the above indicates that the provision of organizations with competent personnel is becoming an increasingly urgent problem and one of the main priorities. A specific model of a competency-based approach to the human resource formation system was proposed. It determines the behaviour of people in the performance of professional duties in a simple language for specialists and increases the return on the use of competencies. A high level of professional competencies of personnel is one of the important conditions for the effective work of business entities.
Approach to Corporate Education of Employees in Companies in the Czech Republic, Russia, Slovakia and Ukraine: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Caha Zdeněk , Klementová Iva , Procházková Michaela , Bogdanovic Mario , Ruso Michaela
Published: February 2022

Effective and systematic corporate education is a key factor for competitiveness the current turbulent economy. The results presented in this paper are based on a questionnaire survey. The research was carried out on a sample set of Czech, Russian, Slovak and Ukrainian companies. The aim of the survey was to determine to what extent companies in four post-communist countries apply a strategic approach to education, which, among other things, is linked to the presence of long-term and annual education plans. The results of the research showed that micro-companies and small companies in particular do not do so. The research also revealed that some companies, even though they declare they have an LTEP/AEP in place, are not adhering to their plans.
Financial Health of Enterprises as a Tool of Business Potential of an Area
Authors: Pártlová Petra
Published: February 2022

The paper discusses the evaluation of the financial stability of an enterprise, depending on the business potential of a municipality. The aim of the research is to prove a relation of the prediction models and their ability to predict the financial ability of an enterprise depending on sample clusters of the business potential in a municipality. In the first part of the research, the municipalities are clustered using the cluster analysis and the municipalities are classified into four clusters - economic, social, infrastructural, and environmental. Subsequently, financial data on business entities located in the area are used and the prediction models are calculated using the Czech indices of the Neumaiers. The results are further graphically evaluated in terms of size and sectors of the enterprise. The ANOVA method is verified to assess the independence of the creditworthiness models on sample clusters. Regarding the method and the analytical tool, it is possible to state their suitable choice; the outputs are relevant, valid, and usable in practice. The influence of the creditworthiness on the environmental cluster in the area is proved.
Pros and Cons of Home Office during the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Obdržálková Eliška , Moravcová Michala
Published: February 2022

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, many changes have taken place, not only in the economic and health sector but also in the labor market. Many workers had to shift to work from home regardless of their previous experience in having a home office, bringing many challenges and possible benefits and drawbacks. The paper aims to analyze the advantages and disadvantages of the home office trend during the Covid-19 pandemic and their differences in terms of location through a literature review method, synthesis, and subsequent comparison. The research has shown that the most common benefits of working from home include time flexibility, no need to commute, and a reduced risk of contracting the Covid-19. Better communication and physical health are among the least mentioned and therefore the least frequent benefits of the home office trend. The results show that social isolation, work-life balance, and lack of equipment are the most common disadvantages. The least common cons include issues with performing tasks, back pain, or long meetings. In terms of location, the most common advantages and disadvantages vary considerably. In some cases, however, the differences in terms of location were slight to almost non-existent. The findings indicate that it is not clear whether the home office trend and the transition during the Covid-19 pandemic are positive or negative, as it has both advantages and disadvantages. They vary in terms of location, which may be due to the different development of countries and cultural differences.
Was können wir aus der Qualitätssicherung für
die Praxis der Psychotherapie lernen?
Authors: Wasserheß Jana , Lutz Wolfgang
Published: February 2022

In dem Gesetz zur Reform der Psychotherapeutenausbildung vom 15. November 2019 wird
eine verstärkte Qualitätssicherung in der ambulanten Psychotherapie
festgelegt 1. Dass dies ebenfalls ein Anliegen
der Patient/innen ist, zeigen unter anderem ein Interview mit Jürgen
Matzat, Patientenvertreter im Unterausschuss Psychotherapie des Gemeinsame
Bundesausschusses 2, sowie die Ergebnisse der
Techniker Krankenkassen Studie zum Qualitätsmonitoring in der ambulanten
Psychotherapie, bei der 90% der befragten Patient/innen eine
Überprüfung der psychotherapeutischen Behandlungsergebnisse
für wichtig hielten 3. Trotzdem scheinen
einige Psychotherapeut/innen der Qualitätssicherung durch
routinemäßige Verlaufserhebungen noch zurückhaltend
gegenüber zu stehen.
Bridging unter Antikoagulation und Thrombozytenaggregationshemmung
Authors: Altiok Ertunc , Almalla Mohammad
Published: February 2022

Abtract

When bridging anticoagulation, the risk of bleeding - compared to the thromboembolic risk - is often underestimated. Bridging is only indicated in case of high (and possibly moderate) thromboembolic risk. When bridging patients with indication for dual antiplatelet therapy, an interdisciplinary case discussion should take place to assess the risk.
NCCIH Priorities for Natural Products Research
Authors: Still Patrick , Chen Wen , Weber Wendy , Hopp D. Craig
Published: February 2022

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) is the lead agency within the U. S. federal government for complementary and integrative health research, which includes
natural products. Although NCCIH is one of the smaller components of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), NCCIH funds a disproportionately high percentage of natural products research at
NIH. This stems from NCCIH being the only NIH grant issuing component that includes natural products as an explicit part of its mission. This perspective provides an overview of the NCCIH
mission and summarizes NCCIH funding priorities for natural products research across basic and mechanistic as well as clinical sectors. These priorities are guided by the recently released
NCCIH strategic plan. A primary element of this new plan is a focus on whole person health instead of the frequent focus on the treatment of diseases. The NCCIH focus on whole person health
includes how natural products and multicomponent therapeutic approaches, which often include natural products, can help move individuals towards health restoration and promotion.
Lateral Translation of the Patella in MPFC Reconstruction: A Biomechanical Study of Three Approaches
Authors: Cregar William M. , Huddleston Hailey P. , Shewman Elizabeth F. , Cole Brian J. , Yanke Adam B.
Published: February 2022

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether differences exist in preventing lateral patellar translation between three distinct medial patellofemoral complex (MPFC) reconstruction procedures at varying knee flexion angles. Six cadaveric knee specimens were dissected, potted, and placed in a customized jig for testing. Lateral patellar displacement was measured at intervals between 0 and 90 degrees of knee flexion using a tensile testing machine with a 20 N lateral force applied to the patella. Each specimen was tested with the MPFC intact, sectioned, and after each of the three reconstruction techniques: MPFL, hybrid, and medial quadriceps-tendon femoral (MQTFL) reconstructions. There was significantly increased lateral patellar displacement following MPFC sectioning when compared with the intact state in early degrees of flexion (10–30 degrees) (p < 0.05). All three reconstruction groups restored patella stability and reduced lateral patellar displacement following sectioning from 0 to 30 degrees of flexion (p < 0.05). When compared with the intact group, all three reconstruction groups demonstrated reduced patella translation at full knee extension, while the MPFL and hybrid reconstruction groups additionally demonstrated significant reduction in patella translation at 10 degrees of flexion (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed between the three reconstruction groups. This biomechanical study demonstrates the efficacy of three MPFC reconstruction techniques in patella stabilization following sectioning. Our results suggest that MPFL reconstruction may provide the most robust patella stabilization, whereas MQTFL reconstruction may be the most forgiving construct. This study suggests that MQTFL and hybrid reconstructions provide adequate resistance to lateral translation and may be used as an alternative to MPFL reconstruction.
A Novel Mutation of ORNT1 Detected in a Hyperornithinemia–Hyperammonemia–Homocitrullinuria Syndrome Child by Clinical Whole-Exome Sequencing
Authors: Laochareonsuk Wison , Osatakul Seksit , Intusoma Utcharee , Maneechay Wanwisa , Sangkhathat Surasak
Published: February 2022

Hyperornithinemia–hyperammonemia–homocitrullinuria (HHH) syndrome, an inborn error of metabolism, is an inherited syndrome caused by loss-of-function mutations in the SLC25A15, resulting in ornithine translocase1 (ORNT1) deficiency. Disrupted ornithine transportation in an affected individual usually manifests with the accumulation of intermediate metabolites, leading to neurological impairment, hepatitis, and/or protein intolerance at various ages of onset. In this paper, we report a compound heterozygous mutation in SLC25A15 from a 2-year-old girl who presented with neurological alterations and hepatic failure. Before developing neurological sequelae, she had signs of globally delayed development. The accumulation of toxic metabolites may explain these neurological consequences. After biochemical confirmation of HHH, whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed, which identified mutations at codons 21 and 179 of SLC25A15 that are predicted to result in the loss of function of ORNT1. Each of the mutations was found to be inherited from one of her parents. After therapy, her toxic metabolites decreased significantly. In conclusion, HHH syndrome frequently manifests with nonspecific symptoms and unapparent biochemical profiles, which may lead to delayed diagnosis. Correction of the accumulating metabolites is necessary to prevent irreversible neurological impairment. Furthermore, performing a WES provides a shortcut for accurate diagnosis.
Inflammatory Biomarkers for Children with Sleep Disorders: A Review
Authors: Prabhu Nagashree , Shetty Vabitha
Published: February 2022

Introduction Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) syndrome is a highly prevalent problem in children. Unfortunately sleep disorders in children remain largely unreported and underdiagnosed due to various reasons. Overnight in-laboratory polysomnography (PSG) is the gold standard diagnostic method for OSA; however, it has several drawbacks. Hence there is a need for simple alternative diagnostic methods, such as biomarkers. Children with OSA seem to have an inflammatory aspect to its pathophysiology; thus the rationale for evaluating inflammatory biomarkers.

Objective This narrative review aimed to evaluate the existing knowledge regarding inflammatory biomarkers for children with sleep disorders.

Materials and Methods An extensive search of all literature linked to the topic was performed in PubMed, Medline, EBSCOhost, Cochrane library database CENTRAL, and Google Scholar search engine. Keywords used in the search included combinations of the following: inflammation, sleep disorders, children, and biomarkers. Studies in the list of references of relevant literature were also included. A total of 155 articles published in the period from 1997 to 2021 were initially included in this review. Selected articles comprised original research, meta-analysis, and systematic reviews.

Results Studies have mainly centered their investigations on serum inflammatory biomarkers, namely interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and C-reactive protein. Very few studies investigated salivary inflammatory biomarkers in children.

Conclusion Evidence suggests that children with sleep disorders have elevated levels of salivary as well as serum inflammatory biomarkers in comparison to normal healthy children. Also increased levels of these biomarkers correlate with disease severity. However, more studies are needed to determine the sensitivity and specificity of salivary inflammatory biomarkers for children with sleep disorders.
Presence of Resistant DEC Strains in a Tertiary Healthcare Center in North East India in Children under 18 Years
Authors: Prasad Abhijit Kumar , Lyngdoh Wihiwot Valarie , Devi Thigujam Surbala , Durairaj Elantamilan
Published: February 2022

Introduction Diarrheal illness such as diarrheagenic Escherichia coli (DEC), apart from rotavirus, is a common etiological agent known to cause moderate-to-severe diarrhea in low-income countries where unregulated use of antibiotics is rampant, giving rise to multidrug resistant (MDR) strains. This study is an earnest effort in reflecting the resistance pattern in such isolates.

Materials and Methods It is a hospital-based cross-sectional study conducted over a period of 1 year (January to December, 2015). Children aged less than 18 years presenting with (n = 170) and without (n = 47) diarrhea were included as cases and controls, respectively. Fresh stool sample from eligible participants was collected and inoculated on MacConkey agar. Based on the colony morphology and biochemical identification followed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), different pathotypes of DEC were identified. All such isolates were subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing employing VITEK 2 identification system. The result of the tested antibiotics was evaluated as per Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute 2015 guidelines.

Results DEC with specific virulence genes were detected by multiplex real-time PCR in 39 and 3 children with or without diarrhea, respectively. Most common DEC pathotypes found were enteroaggregative E. coli (38%) followed by enteropathogenic E. coli (28.5%). MDR isolates comprised 35 of 42 DEC pathotypes (83.3%). Resistance among DEC pathotypes to ampicillin, amoxicillin–clavulanate, ciprofloxacin, cephalosporin, nalidixic acid, imipenem, and cotrimoxazole was found to be statistically significant in comparison to non-DEC isolates.

Conclusion This study has highlighted the increased prevalence of MDR strains among DEC pathotypes. Looking for these isolates will help detect dreadful DEC pathotypes like enterohemorrhagic E. coli where early administration of a sensitive antibiotic will go a long way in preventing complication like hemorrhagic colitis and hemolytic uremic syndrome.
Role of (1-3)-Β-D-Glucan Test in the Diagnosis of Invasive Fungal Infections among High-Risk Patients in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Sandhar Tanureet Kaur , Chhina Deepinder Kaur , Gupta Veenu , Chaudhary Jyoti
Published: February 2022

Background Invasive fungal infections (IFI) are associated with high mortality. Serum fungal biomarkers offer an advantage over the traditional methods in early diagnosis and better clinical outcomes. The aim of the study was to evaluate the role of (1–3)-β-D-glucan (BDG) assay in the patients suspected of IFI.

Materials and Methods This prospective study was conducted in the Department of Microbiology, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, over a period of 1 year. A total of 862 serum samples were received from patients suspected of IFI, for the BDG test (Fungitell, Associates of Cape Cod Inc., USA). The test was performed as per kit protocol. Appropriate samples were processed for KOH fungal smear and fungal culture. Blood culture was done by Bactec (Biomerieux).

Statistical Analysis Results were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods. Sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) were calculated at different cutoffs. In addition, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve using SPSS 21.00 software was calculated and the diagnostic accuracy was shown by the area under the ROC curve (AUC).

Results Among 862 patients, 546 (63.3%) were males. The predominant age group (25.6%) was between 61 and 70 years. The most common risk factor (54.8%) was prolonged intensive care unit stay. Out of the total samples, 455 (52.8%) samples were found positive for BDG. Fungal elements were seen in 48 (10.5%) KOH smears and fungal growth was obtained in 81 (17.8%) cultures. Comparison of BDG assay and culture at different cutoffs yielded AUC—0.823. Sensitivity (100%), specificity (51.3%), accuracy (55.6%), PPV (15.8%), and NPV (100%) were observed at the kit cutoff of 80 pg/mL. Optimum sensitivity and specificity of 79.2% and 70.3%, respectively, were observed at a cutoff of 142.4pg/mL. A significant correlation was observed between BDG positivity and piperacillin–tazobactam use and dialysis. Among BDG positive patients, 38(8.4%) succumbed to death.

Conclusion Detection of BDG helps in the early diagnosis of IFI in critically ill patients. As the assay has a high NPV, a negative test can be used to stop the empirical antifungal drugs. The use of a higher cutoff can be useful to avoid false-positive results.
Predicting Hospital Readmissions from Health Insurance Claims Data: A Modeling Study Targeting Potentially Inappropriate Prescribing
Authors: Gerharz Alexander , Ruff Carmen , Wirbka Lucas , Stoll Felicitas , Haefeli Walter E. , Groll Andreas , Meid Andreas D.
Published: February 2022

Background Numerous prediction models for readmissions are developed from hospital data whose predictor variables are based on specific data fields that are often not transferable to other settings. In contrast, routine data from statutory health insurances (in Germany) are highly standardized, ubiquitously available, and would thus allow for automatic identification of readmission risks.

Objectives To develop and internally validate prediction models for readmissions based on potentially inappropriate prescribing (PIP) in six diseases from routine data.

Methods In a large database of German statutory health insurance claims, we detected disease-specific readmissions after index admissions for acute myocardial infarction (AMI), heart failure (HF), a composite of stroke, transient ischemic attack or atrial fibrillation (S/AF), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), type-2 diabetes mellitus (DM), and osteoporosis (OS). PIP at the index admission was determined by the STOPP/START criteria (Screening Tool of Older Persons' Prescriptions/Screening Tool to Alert doctors to the Right Treatment) which were candidate variables in regularized prediction models for specific readmission within 90 days. The risks from disease-specific models were combined (“stacked”) to predict all-cause readmission within 90 days. Validation performance was measured by the c-statistics.

Results While the prevalence of START criteria was higher than for STOPP criteria, more single STOPP criteria were selected into models for specific readmissions. Performance in validation samples was the highest for DM (c-statistics: 0.68 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.66–0.70]), followed by COPD (c-statistics: 0.65 [95% CI: 0.64–0.67]), S/AF (c-statistics: 0.65 [95% CI: 0.63–0.66]), HF (c-statistics: 0.61 [95% CI: 0.60–0.62]), AMI (c-statistics: 0.58 [95% CI: 0.56–0.60]), and OS (c-statistics: 0.51 [95% CI: 0.47–0.56]). Integrating risks from disease-specific models to a combined model for all-cause readmission yielded a c-statistics of 0.63 [95% CI: 0.63–0.64].

Conclusion PIP successfully predicted readmissions for most diseases, opening the possibility for interventions to improve these modifiable risk factors. Machine-learning methods appear promising for future modeling of PIP predictors in complex older patients with many underlying diseases.
Design and study of an integral valve piezoelectric pump with a novel working mode
Authors: Zhang Zheng , He Lipeng , Zhou Jianwen , Hou Yi , Hu Dianbin , Cheng Guangming
Published: February 2022

In this paper, an integral valve is proposed by connecting the inlet cantilever valve and the outlet cantilever valve with a connecting post and a rubber circle plate structure. The integral valve changes the traditional inlet cantilever valve and outlet cantilever valve to work independently and realizes the joint response of the inlet cantilever valve and the outlet cantilever valve. The integral valve was designed, manufactured, and installed, and the performance of the static experimental test equipment of the valve and that of the experimental equipment of the piezoelectric pump were evaluated. The static performance of the integral valve was tested. In addition, the performance of the integral valve piezoelectric pump and the cantilever valve piezoelectric pump was tested and compared. The experimental results show that the integral valve piezoelectric pump reaches up to 270.2 ml/min at 210 Vrms, 45 Hz; the pressure can reach 86.2 cmH2O at 40 Hz. Compared to cantilever valves, integral valves have less forward flow resistance and better reverse shutoff. In particular, the pressure of the integral valve piezoelectric pump can be significantly improved compared to the cantilever valve piezoelectric pump. In terms of efficiency, the integrated valve piezoelectric pump will have better performance in the low-frequency region.
Electronic properties of correlated kagomé metals AV3Sb5 (A = K, Rb, and Cs): A perspective
Authors: Nguyen Thanh , Li Mingda
Published: February 2022

Following the discovery of a new family of kagomé prototypical materials with structure AV3Sb5 (A=K, Rb, and Cs), there has been a heightened interest in studying the correlation-driven electronic phenomena in these kagomé lattice systems. The study of these materials has gone beyond magneto-transport measurements to reveal exciting features such as Dirac bands, anomalous Hall effect, bulk superconductivity with Tc∼0.9−2.5K, and the observation of charge density wave instabilities, suggesting an intertwining of topological physics and new quantum orders. Moreover, very recent works on numerous types of experiments have appeared further examining the unconventional superconductivity and the exotic electronic states found within these kagomé materials. Theories on the strong interactions that play a role in these systems have been proposed to shed light on the nature of these topological charge density waves. In this brief review, we summarize these recent experimental findings and theoretical proposals and envision the materials as new platforms to study the interplay between topological physics and strongly correlated electronic systems.
Combined higher-order interactions of mixed symmetry on the sphere
Authors: Lohe M. A.
Published: February 2022

We consider systems of N particles interacting on the unit sphere in d-dimensional space with dynamics defined as the gradient flow of rotationally invariant potentials. The Kuramoto model on the sphere is a well-studied example of such a system but allows only pairwise interactions. Using the Kuramoto model as a guide, we construct n-body potentials from products and sums of rotation invariants, namely, bilinear inner products and multilinear determinants, which lead to a wide variety of higher-order systems with differing synchronization characteristics. The connectivity coefficients, which determine the strength of interaction between any set of n distinct nodes, have mixed symmetries, which follow from those of the symmetric inner product and the antisymmetric determinant. We investigate n-body systems in detail for n⩽6, both as isolated systems and in combination with lower-order systems, and analyze their properties as functions of the coupling constants. We show by example that in many cases, multistable states appear only when we forbid self-interactions within the system.
Peristaltic transport of elliptic particles: A numerical study
Authors: Ashtari O. , Pourjafar-Chelikdani M. , Gharali K. , Sadeghy K.
Published: February 2022

Peristaltic transport of elliptic particles suspended in Newtonian fluids is numerically investigated in a planar channel formed between two flexible membranes. Numerical results were obtained under creeping-flow conditions for centered and off-center particles using the lattice Boltzmann method. The results demonstrate the importance of aspect ratio and initial inclination angle on peristaltic transport of solid particles. For a domain comprising just one wave, it was shown that, in free-pumping mode, circular particles move faster than elliptic particles and experience less shear stress. They also resist a larger adverse pressure gradient before they are finally brought to rest. Above a critical Reynolds number, however, elliptic particles are predicted to move faster than circular particles. The effect was attributed to the vulnerability of circular particles to hydrodynamic instability, which is exhibited by the particle detaching itself from the centerline, thereby adopting a longer trajectory. This is the first time that peristaltic transport of elliptic particles is being numerically studied, and the results can be used for designing peristalsis-based micro-swimmers or microfluidic systems deemed for single-cell studies.
Risk of predation and disease transmission at artificial water stations
Authors: Webb Elliot B. , McArthur Clare , Woolfenden Laura , Higgins Damien P. , Krockenberger Mark B. , Mella Valentina S. A.
Published: February 2022

Abstract Context Providing wildlife with supplementary water is a conservation technique that offers an immediate positive impact to animals. However, the potential negative impacts should be assessed. Aims We aimed to assess the potential negative effects of water stations on visiting wildlife due to the risk of predation and disease transmission. Methods We assessed potential benefits and costs of water supplementation in rural Australia by investigating the behavioural response of animals, at koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) water stations, to weather and to previous visitor species. To determine the risk of disease transmission, water and swab samples were taken from the water stations. Faecal contamination was quantified, and real-time PCR was used to identify various pathogens, including Chlamydia. Key results We found that koalas, brushtail possums (Trichosurus vulpecula) and foxes (Vulpes vulpes) responded to hot, dry weather with longer visits to water stations, indicating a benefit of water supplementation to native wildlife, but also to invasive species. Native animals did not alter their behaviour when their visits were preceded by another species, even when this was a potential predator. The presence of pathogens (i.e. Chlamydia and C. perfringens) at the stations did not depend on the number of species that visited but was higher in summer (December to February), representing a potential risk of disease transmission. Conclusions Water stations are an effective conservation tool because they can benefit threatened species during hot, dry weather, but there are risks associated with using supplemental water. Implications Although potential risks are low, they should still be considered. Efforts should be taken to exclude invasive species and water stations should be cleaned regularly while appropriate personal protective equipment is worn.
Consciousness is supported by near-critical slow cortical electrodynamics
Authors: Toker Daniel , Pappas Ioannis , Lendner Janna D. , Frohlich Joel , Mateos Diego M. , Muthukumaraswamy Suresh , Carhart-Harris Robin , Paff Michelle , Vespa Paul M. , Monti Martin M. , Sommer Friedrich T. , Knight Robert T. , D’Esposito Mark
Published: February 2022

Significance

What changes in the brain when we lose consciousness? One possibility is that the loss of consciousness corresponds to a transition of the brain’s electric activity away from edge-of-chaos criticality, or the knife’s edge in between stability and chaos. Recent mathematical developments have produced tools for testing this hypothesis, which we apply to cortical recordings from diverse brain states. We show that the electric activity of the cortex is indeed poised near the boundary between stability and chaos during conscious states and transitions away from this boundary during unconsciousness and that this transition disrupts cortical information processing.
A distinct role of STING in regulating glucose homeostasis through insulin sensitivity and insulin secretion
Authors: Qiao Jingting , Zhang Ziyin , Ji Shuhui , Liu Tengli , Zhang Xiaona , Huang Yumeng , Feng Wenli , Wang Kunling , Wang Jianyu , Wang Shusen , Meng Zhuo-Xian , Liu Ming
Published: February 2022

Significance

The role of STING in maintaining glucose homeostasis remains unknown. Herein, using global and β-cell–specific STING knockout mouse models, we revealed a distinct role of STING in the regulation of glucose homeostasis through β-cells and peripheral tissues. Specially, while global STING knockout beneficially alleviated insulin resistance and glucose intolerance induced by high-fat diet, it surprisingly impaired islet glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS). Further analyses revealed that STING deficiency down-regulated expression of β-cell key transcription factor Pax6, impairing Pax6 nuclear localization and binding activity to the promoters of its target genes, including Glut2 and Abcc8, causing impaired GSIS. These data highlight pathophysiological significance of fine-tuned STING signaling in β-cells and insulin target tissues for maintaining glucose homeostasis.
Trends in social mobility in postrevolution China
Authors: Xie Yu , Dong Hao , Zhou Xiang , Song Xi
Published: February 2022

Significance

Accompanying a sharp rise in economic inequality in China since its economic reform, two countercurrents characterize the trends in China’s intergenerational social mobility. On the one hand, industrialization in postreform China has promoted occupational mobility. On the other hand, both occupational mobility net of industrialization and educational mobility in China have trended downward, reaching levels similar to those in the United States in the most recent cohort. In earlier cohorts, whereas social mobility for Chinese men was unusually high, social mobility was particularly limited for Chinese women from rural
hukou
origin.
Mutation bias shapes the spectrum of adaptive substitutions
Authors: Cano Alejandro V. , Rozhoňová Hana , Stoltzfus Arlin , McCandlish David M. , Payne Joshua L.
Published: February 2022

Significance

How do mutational biases influence the process of adaptation? A common assumption is that selection alone determines the course of adaptation from abundant preexisting variation. Yet, theoretical work shows broad conditions under which the mutation rate to a given type of variant strongly influences its probability of contributing to adaptation. Here we introduce a statistical approach to analyzing how mutation shapes protein sequence adaptation. Using large datasets from three different species, we show that the mutation spectrum has a proportional influence on the types of changes fixed in adaptation. We also show via computer simulations that a variety of factors can influence how closely the spectrum of adaptive substitutions reflects the spectrum of variants introduced by mutation.
Comparison of thermodynamic behaviors of two regular-AdS black holes
Authors: Guo Sen , Huang Ya-Ling , Liang En-Wei
Published: February 2022

Considering the negative cosmological constant of an anti-de Sitter (AdS) background as a positive thermodynamic pressure in the extended phase space, we investigate the P−υ critical behavior and of the cooling–heating phase transition of the regular Hayward-AdS (HAdS) black hole (BH), and compare the difference of some thermodynamic processes in both the HAdS BH and the Bardeen-AdS (BAdS) BH. We found that the phase transition of the BAdS BH tends to be more the van der Waals (vdW) phase transition. For the cooling–heating phase transition, we obtained the inversion curves of the HAdS BH are always higher than the BAdS BH under the same pressure and magnetic charge. We also compare the smallest existence mass, the zero-temperature remnant, and the critical magnetic charge for these two BHs. The results suggested that the inner horizon and the outer horizon of the Hayward BH are easier to merge, and the singularity is easier to expose.
Detection of genuine multipartite entanglement based on principal basis matrix representations
Authors: Zhao Hui , Liu Yu-Qiu , Fei Shao-Ming , Wang Zhi-Xi , Jing Naihuan
Published: February 2022

We study the genuine multipartite entanglement in tripartite quantum systems by using the principal basis matrix representations of density matrices. Using the Schmidt decomposition and local unitary transformation, we first convert the general states to simpler forms and then construct some special matrices from the correlation tensors of the simplified density matrices. Based on the different linear combinations of these matrices, necessary conditions are presented to detect genuine multipartite entanglement of tripartite states. Detailed examples show that our method can detect more entangled states than previous ones.
Optical and X-Ray Observations of MAXI J1820+070 During the Early Outburst Phase in 2018: Zooming in the Low Frequency QPOs*
Authors: Mao Dong-Ming , Yu Wen-Fei , Zhang Ju-Jia , Yan Zhen , Rapisarda Stefano , Wang Xiao-Feng , Bai Jin-Ming
Published: February 2022

We report a further investigation of the optical low frequency quasi periodic oscillations (LF QPOs) detected in the black hole transient MAXI J1820+070 in the 2018 observations with the YFOSC mounted on Lijiang 2.4 m telescope (LJT). In addition, we make use of the Insight-HXMT/HE observations to measure the properties of the quasi-simultaneous X-ray LF QPOs of MAXI J1820+070 on the same day. We compared the centroid frequency, the full width at half maximum (FWHM) and the fractional rms of the LF QPOs in both wavelength ranges. We found that the centroid frequency of the optical QPO is at a frequency of 51.58 mHz, which is consistent with that of the X-ray LF QPO detected on the same day within 1 mHz. We also found that the FWHM of the optical LF QPO is significantly smaller than that of the X-ray LF QPO, indicating that the optical QPO has a higher coherence. The quasi-simultaneous optical and the X-ray LF QPO at a centroid frequency of about 52 mHz suggests that the actual mechanisms of these LF QPOs as the Lense–Thirring precession should work in the vicinity of a radius of about 80–117 gravitational radii (R

g
= GM/c
2, M is the mass of the black hole) from the black hole if the QPO frequency is related to a proxy of the orbital frequency in the accretion flow as the Lense–Thirring precession model suggests. Furthermore, the apparent higher coherence of the optical QPO favors that it is a more original signal as compared with the X-ray QPO.
ACDM cosmology with a quiescent anisotropy in a higher dimensional steady state universe
Authors: Akarsu Ozgür , Dereli Tekin , Katırcı Nihan
Published: February 2022

In this work, which follows a series of studies on the higher-dimensional steady state universe idea and prepared for Professor Tekin Dereli’s Festschrift, we show the infuence of the dynamical internal (unobservable) space on the evolution of the possible anisotropy of the external (observable) space. We obtain mathematically exactly the same Friedmann equation of the standard ΛCDM model for the external space, but with some remarkable physical diferences. In particular, the higher-dimensional negative cosmological constant plays the role of the four-dimensional positive cosmological constant and the expansion anisotropy, viz., the shear scalar, of the external space mimics a negative cosmological constant; it would mimic a stif fuid when allowed on top of the standard ΛCDM model. This latter feature gives us the opportunity to manipulate the CMB quadrupole temperature fuctuation, suggesting a possible answer to the fact that its observed value is lower than that predicted by the standard ΛCDM model.
Dynamics of a fermion with dipole moments in external wave fields
Authors: Obukhov Yuri N.
Published: February 2022

We discuss the motion of a massive fermion spin 1/2 particle in external wave field configurations when the Pauli type non-minimal interaction of the gauge field strengths with particle’s dipole moments is taken into account. The exact solution of the relativistic Dirac-Pauli equation is presented for the case of the plane electromagnetic wave.
A model of non-minimally coupled gravitation and electromagnetism in (1+2) dimensions
Authors: Ünlütürk Kıvanç İ. , Yetişmişoğlu Cem
Published: February 2022

Following earlier works of Dereli and collaborators, we study a three dimensional toy model where we extend the topologically massive gravity with electrodynamics by the most general RF
2-type non-minimal coupling terms. Here R denotes the possible curvature terms and F denotes the electromagnetic 2-form. We derive the variational feld equations and look for exact solutions on constant negative curvature space-times with a constant, self-dual electromagnetic feld. The notion of self-dual electromagnetic felds in three dimensions is introduced by Dereli and collaborators in the study of exact solutions of models with gravity-electromagnetism couplings. We note the conditions that the parameters of the model have to satisfy for these self-dual solutions to exist.
Efficiency and time resolution of monolithic silicon pixel detectors in SiGe BiCMOS technology
Authors: Iacobucci G. , Paolozzi L. , Valerio P. , Moretti T. , Cadoux F. , Cardarelli R. , Cardella R. , Débieux S. , Favre Y. , Ferrere D. , Gonzalez-Sevilla S. , Gurimskaya Y. , Kotitsa R. , Magliocca C. , Martinelli F. , Milanesio M. , Münker M. , Nessi M. , Picardi A. , Saidi J. , Rücker H. , Vicente Barreto Pinto M. , Zambito S.
Published: February 2022

A monolithic silicon pixel detector prototype has been
produced in the SiGe BiCMOS SG13G2 130 nm node technology by
IHP. The ASIC contains a matrix of hexagonal pixels with pitch of
approximately 100 μm. Three analog pixels were calibrated in
laboratory with radioactive sources and tested in a 180 GeV/c pion
beamline at the CERN SPS. A detection efficiency of
(99.9-0.2
+0.1)% was measured together with a time
resolution of (36.4 ± 0.8) ps at the highest preamplifier bias
current working point of 150 μA and at a sensor bias voltage
of 160 V. The ASIC was also characterized at lower bias voltage and
preamplifier current.
Design of front-end electronics for HXI spectrometer flight model on-board ASO-S satellite
Authors: Wan Q. , Zhang Y. , Guo J.H. , Zhang Y.Q. , Xu X.
Published: February 2022

Advanced Space-based Solar Observatory (ASO-S), developed by
Chinese Academy of Sciences, is utilized for observing the solar
magnetic field, coronal mass ejection, and solar flare, as well as
studying the relationships among them. As one of the three
scientific payloads on ASO-S, Hard X-ray Imager (HXI) is designed
for solar hard X-ray imaging with outstanding temporal and spatial
resolutions. The spectrometer is an important part of HXI and used
to measure the incident photon with a dynamic range of 30–200 keV
after Fourier modulation by the collimator. It consists of 99
detector units and front-end electronics (FEE). The FEE can process
all the 99 detector units' signals independently in less than
2 μs. The noise of charge measure is less than 500 fC for a
dynamic range of 20 pC–900 pC. In this paper, the implementation
of FEE is introduced, including the design of electronics, quality
control, and performance tests. All these tests show that the FEE
can meet the HXI mission requirements.
Influences of cryogenically treated work material on near-dry wire-cut electrical discharge machining process
Authors: Kannan Elango , Trabelsi Youssef , Boopathi Sampath , Alagesan Sivapragasam
Published: February 2022

In this research, influences of cryogenically treated Inconel 718 work material in near-dry wire-cut electrical discharge machining (WEDM) characteristics have been studied using argon-mist (mixing of pressurized argon gas and minimum amount of tap-water) and a reusable Molybdenum wire tool. The effect of cutting parameters (pulse width (PW), spark current(C), pulse interval (PI), and flow rate(F)) on surface roughness (SR) and cutting rate (CR) and using Box-Behnken response surface analysis. It was observed that CR and SR are increased by increasing PW, and C; conversely, reduced by increasing PI. The technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) method has been utilized to estimate the best parameters’ settings for improving both machining characteristics. The optimum CR (9.81 mm3 min)−1 and SR (1.9 μm) have been obtained by optimum settings of 4 Ampere spark current, PW of 20 μs, PI of 72 μs, and 18 ml min−1 of the flow rate of mixing water using the TOPSIS method. The best settings of cutting parameters obtained from the TOPSIS method were considered to compare the near-dry WEDM performance using cryogenically treated/untreated work materials. It was observed that CR and SR of the cryogenically treated work material are 9.17% increased and 21.58% reduced than the untreated work material due to an increase in electrical and thermal conductivities.