bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contribute to knowledge about risks in implementing green building projects in developing countries: a case of Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Hung D , Do Quang N H , Macchion Laura
Published: May 2021

In recent years there has been significant interest in investigating risks linked to the implementation of Green Building (GB) projects that are in line with the developing trend of sustainable construction over the world. In an attempt to contribute to GB risks literature, this study explored risk factors that GB projects frequently confront in Vietnam. This study firstly conducted a comprehensive literature review to generate a preliminary list of risk factors. These risk factors were then confirmed and complemented by interviewing ten experts in the field. After that, the research assessed the risk factors by surveying 119 construction professionals to discover the most critical GB risks. Notably, this paper considered the effect on the risk assessment process of GB experience and project roles. Results showed that “The owner lacks determination,” “Late involvement of GB consultants,” and “Project evaluation result did not reach the expected GB standard” were the top three critical risks in GB projects. The statistical analysis also revealed that the assessment of GB risk negatively correlated with participants’ GB practical experience. Furthermore, hierarchical moderated regression analysis exposed differences in the risk assessment between various project roles, though these differences were relatively small and not statistically significant. By investigating GB projects’ main risks, this paper may become a useful reference guide within the construction sector. This research also enriches the literature by contributing empirical evidence of risk assessment in GB projects in a developing country.
Building techniques in the Late Upper Paleolithic of the Baikal-Patom Upland according to archaeological data
Authors: Tetenkin A V
Published: May 2021

The article is devoted to the description of the results of the study of key archaeological sites of the Late Upper Paleolithic (19–12 Kyr BP) Bolshoi Yakor I and Kovrizhka II-IV on the River Vitim, in the Baikal-Patom highlands, in such an activity as the organization of living space. We consider evidence from the simplest organization of a fireplace and hearth to the most complex building of dwellings. It is noted that this type of activity had practical and symbolic aspects. The data on chronologically in-depth translation of specific techniques in this area are given. In general, the type of activity on the arrangement of a comfortable living space is characterized as an important part of the adaptive cultural complex aimed at the survival of the ancient population under the conditions of the Last Glacial Period.
Economic and functional efficiency of the digital platform of urban traffic control
Authors: Grushina O V , Sergeev A A , Shelomentseva N N
Published: May 2021

The paper is devoted to the development of urban planning activities in the field of urban traffic control via the expedient economic methods for solving the problems of road congestion, in particular, using the tax on congestion. The present study includes a comprehensive analysis of economic factors and methods of economic regulation to address the issues related to traffic congestion in a modern city. It has been found that the total costs of the trip affect the individual decision concerning the method, time and route of the trip. The economic regulation of this allows the optimal value of traffic density to be achieved. The application of this approach in combination with other economic and urban-planning methods in the field of urban-planning regulation and transport planning enables to significantly reduce or completely eliminate the problem of traffic congestion on the main streets of the city. Consequently, a comprehensive economic approach to elimination of traffic congestion in Irkutsk has been developed. The effectiveness of investments in an IP video surveillance system and transport fixation is justified. The choice of time periods and sections of city roads for levying tax for maintaining good city roads is analyzed.
Innovative approaches to organizing examination work of expertise, promoting products and services based on the principles of system management
Authors: Olinovich N A , Ryabchenkova A V
Published: May 2021

Innovation is an essential element of the economic development of modern organizations and enterprises. They have a dual impact on the dynamics of economic growth: on the one hand, they open up new opportunities for economic expansion, on the other, they make it impossible to continue this expansion in traditional directions. The state, society, business organizations are consumers of innovative products. This is why, as a research and educational system, many universities, especially National Research Universities, can become suppliers of innovative products based on their research, educational and manufacturing sites. The article considers one of the options for the possible integration of scientific and educational potential into the market of innovative products by organizing the work process of the Center for Expertise and Promotion of Innovative Urban Planning Products on the basis of the principles of system management: customer orientation, leadership, staff interaction, process approach, improvement, fact-based decisions, relationship management. This approach will ensure high productivity and will contribute to customer satisfaction with innovative products. The considered process includes the stages of creating a bank of innovative products and promoting products among potential consumers in the market.
Analysis of the population travel behavior and its impact on the urban environment improvement
Authors: Semenov Yu , Semenova O , Shtotskaya A
Published: May 2021

The article draws attention to the necessity of studying the composition of pedestrian flows and the urban areas where they form, move and disperse to improve the urban environment. In modern cities, especially megacities, most pedestrian flows participate in the transport correspondence appearance, which is due to long distances between the locations of origin and destination. A software package calculating the transport area capacity depending on the number of departees uses disaggregate models of travel demand and develops an O-D Matrix. Analysis of the results obtained allows us to assess changes in transportation demand caused by socioeconomic and urban development factors.
Architectural planning and reconstruction of military campuses
Authors: Skorikova N A , Borisov I A
Published: May 2021

The problem of the architectural planning of new and reconstruction of the existing military campuses on the example of the Military campus No.19 in Irkutsk is considered in the article. The stages of the architectural space development and reorganization in connection with the development of an educational institution located on the territory of the specified military campus are examined. The peculiarities of the local infrastructure development are identified. It has been proved that as a construction site, a military campus has its own specifics. Its utilities and operational support should be aimed at maintaining the combat and mobilization readiness of military units as well as creating comfortable conditions for the stay of the personnel and civilians, training, leisure and other daily activities. The article focuses on the fact that the finding the best way to solve the issue of designing and improving modern military campuses cannot be carried out without taking into account the historical experience. It is concluded that the rational architectural planning for military campuses is no less important than the compliance with the building codes when erecting special-purpose buildings and structures.
Architecture and town planning in the Third Reich: a case study of Munich, Nuremberg, and Linz (1933-1945)
Authors: Esipov V V , Ignateva O A , Sokolovskaya T A
Published: May 2021

The article considers the philosophy of the architectural design and town planning in the Third Reich in the period 1933-1945, using the cases of Munich, Nuremberg, and Linz. The analysis of the most important architectural projects and structures of the Third Reich shows that the above were intended to embody the military-repressive architectural style suppressing the human as an individual and at the same time, establishing him as a member of the national community. The Nazi architecture established the ideal of collectivism as depersonalizing identity, and served as an instrument for unifying the people.
Architectural practices in the formation of a subject-spatial environment: current discourses
Authors: Zakharchuk M G
Published: May 2021

This work proposes the formation of a discourse of architecture, in which the leading place is occupied by images and signs of systematicity, symbiosis, metabolism, evolution of systems and objects, and ability to sustainable development. The goal of an architect in an urban planning renovation is to create aggregate material and spatial conditions that ensure the creation and restoration of the urban environment. The paper considers cultural and value-based foundations of architectural practice constituting a hierarchical system. It concludes that the highest level is represented by the system of values of the modern theory of architecture, which determine the dominants of architectural creativity, including the worldview and its humanistic and philosophical foundations, creative and aesthetic problems, as well as the practices in the formation of a subject-spatial environment.
Reinforcement of concrete structures with external reinforcement system with composite materials
Authors: Alekseenko V V , Tyukavkin E A , Kaunova A S
Published: May 2021

In the article propose two methods of strengthening of concrete beams with carbon fiber. The mechanism of destruction of samples and the maximum breaking stress depending on the method of reinforcement and the density of the carbon fiber are studied. The obtained results indicate the efficiency of the system of external reinforcement of concrete beams with composite materials.
Main principles and methods of the regulation of stress-strain state of soil
Authors: Stepanov M A , Rusakovich A O
Published: May 2021

The article deals with theoretical thesis, mechanics and key methods of regulation of the stress-strain state of soil. The regulation of soil stress-strain state is a relatively new direction of geotechnical design, which gives more opportunities to engineers. This approach is based on the idea that connection between the components of the stress-strain state can be used when it comes to the settlement reduction. Increasing of horizontal stresses reduces vertical deformation, but deviatoric stress has to be controlled as a parameter which is closely tied to the soil body collapse. By turn, critical deviatoric stress can be regulated by the increasing of the average normal stress. Mathematical modelling is to be used to achieve more accurate results with taking into consideration all the components of the stress-strain state. Two main principles underline any method of the regulation of soil stress-strain state: it can be based on a forced deformation or on a permanent pressure. The concepts and algorithms of the most used methods are described.
Flow-line production method in the residential construction: analysis of the state, problems and development trends
Authors: Dunaevsky A V , Peshkov V V
Published: May 2021

Methods in the modern residential construction must meet the requirements for the effective use of material and labor resources. Today, three methods are used in construction: successive, parallel, and flow-line methods. The most progressive and providing a rhythmic output of construction products and an even use of resources is the flow-line method. The article considers the use of the flow-line method of the residential construction both in high-rise multistorey construction and in low-rise construction of suburban settlements (micro-districts). In the work, we analyze the problems and prospects of using the flow-line method of construction in the Irkutsk Region. We discuss main advantages and disadvantages of the most common technological and constructive solutions of the flow-line method in the residential construction. The paper analyzes possible combinations of methods in the residential construction. It has been found that when using the parallel-flow method, the duration of construction is reduced by an average of 20%, and labor productivity increases by about 10%. The economic efficiency of the flow-line (parallel-flow) method is manifested in the reduction of construction time, reduction of downtime of resources and (or) individual spreads of work, increasing labor productivity and the profitability of the residential construction.
Some aspects of the organization of the processes of renovation of the housing stock in Irkutsk
Authors: Peshkov V V , Gorbach P S , Shcherbin S A , Savenkov A I
Published: May 2021

It is rather complicated to use a renovation method based on removing old buildings and constructing new ones. As a rule, the method requires huge regional funding. For this reason, an alternative method is needed. It can be based on the old buildings’ fund reconstruction. This way some old buildings could be transformed into the high-quality residential complexes that would provide everything for comfortable living. When choosing a particular method, it is necessary to consider a lot of factors. The factors have to be structured according to houses’ condition analysis. The basis of this analysis is microdynamics research including a high-precision laser vibration measuring system. The presented method could help to determine a construction condition of an object and to develop a proper renovation campaign. The article represents the analysis of a renovation program of the housing stock in Moscow, Russia. It also proves the uselessness of massive usage of the referenced program all over Russian regions. The reason for this is specific local characteristics that every region has. The first housing stock renovation phase was developed on the example of Irkutsk city, Russia. This program allows estimating beneficial economic decisions that would help to improve the architectural appearance of the city and the quality of the housing stock.
Effectiveness of using visualization technologies in construction
Authors: Urazova N G , Kotelnikov N V , Oparina T A , Malanova A A
Published: May 2021

This article describes the relevance of using 3D visualization technology for construction projects. Despite the fact that the construction industry is not knowledge-intensive and is rather conservative in the implementation of innovations, these technologies can increase its competitiveness and ensure sustainable development of the country’s economy. Advanced technologies allow increasing the company’s revenues, reducing the cost of production, increasing the competitiveness and image of the company. They help to maintain current market positions and conquer new market segments. The use of innovations in the construction industry helps to optimize the use of the entire resource potential of the enterprise, increase the efficiency of using its labor, material, financial and information resources, reduce the cost of construction and installation work, accelerate the speed of information exchange and improve marketing activities. Innovations in the construction industry are introduced at all stages of the life cycle of a construction object: at the stage of project investment, design of a construction object, use of resource-saving and advanced construction technologies, use of energy-efficient building materials, application of innovations in marketing, production organization and personnel management. 3D visualization technologies play an important role in the management of construction stages and design of construction objects. However, today, not enough attention is paid to the economic assessment of the effectiveness of using 3D visualization technology for a particular enterprise. In this regard, the degree of elaboration of the topic is insufficient, and the research topic is relevant.
Improving the efficiency of the construction organization through the introduction of neural network technology
Authors: Kuklina M V , Starkov R F , Malanova A S , Urazov I S
Published: May 2021

This article considers artificial neural networks as a tool to improve the efficiency of a construction organization. This study is relevant for areas where complex processes are associated with the lack of access to big data. So, these conditions of complex analysis show that an artificial neural network tool is able to combine in a single information storage -knowledge base - a variety of information in the field of construction and select the recommendations of specialists for users using their needs. At the same time, this study focuses on researching the effectiveness of small data analysis using the example of assessing the loyalty of companies’ customers. This solution will allow you to partially or completely replace a person (specialist-expert) during the resolution of the problem.
Automation processes registration of intellectual property in the construction industry
Authors: Lebedeva T A , Schupletsov A F , Repinskiy O D , Yu Konyukhov V , Bovkun A S
Published: May 2021

Recently, the Russian construction materials market has been actively updated, with new types of goods appearing on it every year. This gave an impetus to the development of the entire construction industry in Russia, and also contributed to the technological renewal of construction sites. At the same time, the key stage in creating new technologies in construction is to protect products from unfair competition. The purpose of these studies was to develop a software product that could be used not only to quickly issue application materials for the grant of a patent of the Russian Federation for an invention or utility model but also to provide inventors with the necessary knowledge on the legal protection of intellectual property results.
Construction 4.0: immaterial assets types in the development of design estimates for effective digitalization of building projects
Authors: Peshkov A V
Published: May 2021

The world building sector is experiencing the global transformation stage. In this process, traditional methods of building and engineering are being refused. Innovative ways to manage investment projects are chosen. They refer to the intangible assets of the enterprise. In the Russian Federation, building digitalization is in its first phase. Nevertheless, the need for the integration of digital technologies is recognized by many brunch subjects and is approved on the state level. Many national projects and development strategies also endorse the course. The following problems caused massive engineering digitalization: the lack of needed information or its distortion that helps to decide on building investment realization, the growth of pressure due to reduced time, and price of projects’ realization. The trend of digitalization of the construction industry determines the need to develop the scientific and methodological basis of the management theory of the introduction of advanced technologies. The article represents characteristics and the main aspects of the Construction 4.0 concept in three directions: intellectual factory, modeling engineering, digitalization, and visualization. It also describes and highlights the main provisions in the implementation of such intangible assets as digital document management and the Internet of Things. It is proved that implementation of control and audit procedures based on intangible assets are parts of the information model of the project and digital platforms. This way, effective systematic investment initiatives’ realization can be provided on every building project control level.
BIM-technologies: organizational aspects in different stages of investment and construction project
Authors: Peshkov A V
Published: May 2021

BIM using is one of the most crucial and integral parts of building management. A complex BIM-model gives a precise picture of the project’s final cost and can be used as a tool of budget measurement. BIM provides an opportunity to calculate all material and instead of manual calculating, it will change project cost estimate automatically if something in the project changes. In addition, it improves project economy and reduces the rate of random mistakes while project documentation assembling. However, experts in the construction industry acknowledge that the challenges that design companies face today in the transition to BIM are becoming more and more urgent. The article is devoted to the formation of a comprehensive view of the information model by stages of the life cycle. Through the implementation of information technologies in the field of investment and construction projects, achievable main problems allow for a new level of digital processing. Based on project lifecycle management, possible solutions to the identified problem blocks are proposed and their effectiveness is evaluated. Taking into account these changes, it will be possible to maximize the effective use of information modeling technologies at all stages of the life cycle of an investment and construction project.
Analysis of the impact of the volume and planning parameters of a residential building on the estimated capacity of the heating system
Authors: Kuzmin S I , Zelenina A A
Published: May 2021

This paper considers the method of assessing the impact of volume-planning solutions of a residential building on the thermal power of the heating system. The method is based on the study of the model of the estimated power of the heating system (taking into account the thermal power of the vent air heating), which represents a system of dependencies, including both the size of the building (heated volume), so the thermal characteristics of the external fencing structures (regulatory resistance of heat transmission), in the form of universal functional dependence on the basic parameters of the outer climate (estimated temperature for the design of the heating period) for the region. The results of the analysis of changes in the estimated power of the heating system from the characteristics of the building: the ratio of the size of the sides of the building in the plan, the height (floor) of the building, the area of glazing vertical fences are presented.
Model of the estimated temperature difference of the coolant for the autonomous heating system of an individual residential building
Authors: Kuzmin S I , Zateeva A V
Published: May 2021

This paper provides a method of evaluating variants of autonomous heating systems with different levels of potential of the coolant (estimated temperature difference) by economic criterion - the given costs, attributed to the unit of power of the system. The system model is based on a mathematical description of the cost components of the system - equipment (pipes, heating appliances, heat generator, circulating pump) and operational (energy expenditure for the transfer of thermal energy), depending on the flow of heat, heat power and the size of the equipment of the water heating system. Model analysis reveals the most effective calculation parameters of the system already at the design stage.
Author’s factor analysis of the profitability of fixed assets in the construction industry of the Russian Federation
Authors: Filatov E A
Published: May 2021

The construction complex of the Russian Federation is one of the largest and most significant sectors of the economy, which largely determines the socio-economic development of the country. The profitability of the construction industry is slightly higher than the average for the entire Russian economy as a whole. At the same time, the financial and economic indicators of the overall business in 2020 in the Russian Federation are significantly lower than their pre-crisis level. In order for any company to function properly, it needs to have certain funds and sources. And the main of these sources are fixed assets. The development of construction, like any other industry, depends on the quality condition and dynamics of fixed assets renewal. The state of fixed assets, in turn, directly depends on the amount of investment directed to their renewal. The article presents the author’s model of profitability of fixed assets. The article describes 10 methods of factor analysis developed by Filatov E. A., which make it possible to draw an accessible and relatively simple conclusion about changes in the resultant indicator. The object of research of the article is the construction industry of the Russian Federation in the context of three main types of construction: construction of buildings; construction of engineering structures; specialized construction works.
Construction complex as a driver of the Russian economy
Authors: Litvintsev A V
Published: May 2021

The article deals with perspectives of the construction industry that is a driver of the Russian economy. An analysis of general trends in the development of the Russian construction sector, modern approaches to its structure represented by construction clusters is carried out. The economic development of Russia should be based on the internal sources that act as drivers of economic growth. A number of industries have the highest growth potential. One of them is the construction industry which has a high multiplier effect. The construction industry development contributes to the infrastructural development of regions and improves the living standards. At the same time, this sector is still experiencing a number of problems due to the inefficient structure and low innovation activity and competitiveness. In order to eliminate the negative trends in the construction sector and move to a new level of development, new structural forms are required. In recent decades, foreign construction clusters have shown their high efficiency. Highly efficient construction clusters go beyond the adjacent territories and countries of origin, contributing to the competitiveness of both construction companies and the national economy in the global market.
An analysis of the construction industry and the impact of taxation on its development in the Baltic and Scandinavian countries
Authors: Rasputina A V , Nechaev A S , Ilina E A
Published: May 2021

This article provides a comparative analysis of the construction industry and the impact of taxation in the Baltic and Scandinavian countries. The issues of granting permission for the construction of residential buildings and cost growth rates for a new housing stock are analyzed. The analysis revealed the annual rate of changes in the construction sector, the rate of construction of residential buildings. The paper compares the annual rate of changes in employment and the size of taxation to identify the relationship between the rate of growth or decline. The analysis made it possible to determine the main indicators that affect the rate of changes in the construction sector. Construction costs are calculated to determine the amount of project costs and client’s expenses (architect’s fee, website, VAT, production prices, household expenses, etc.). The key indicators affecting the construction sector are compared. These are the number of enterprises, the number of employees, turnover, value added, personnel costs, investment in material goods. A summary table of corporate taxation in the Scandinavian and Baltic countries is presented. The table reflects types of taxes and key interest rates. The dynamics of sales of new housing is analyzed for each country. The conclusion about the largest volume of construction in the countries under study is drawn.
Construction industry of the Irkutsk region: features of development in the crisis
Authors: Tayurskaya O V
Published: May 2021

This article discusses the problems of development of the construction industry in modern conditions. The construction industry has always played an important role in the development of the Russian economy. the dynamic development of the construction industry depends on the dynamics of other related industries: for example, many types of industrial production, transport structures, trade, agriculture and other sectors of the economy. According to the indicators of the dynamics of the construction industry, we can judge the effective development of other sectors of the economy. Effective development of the construction market is an indicator of the development of national economies. Construction is one of the main types of economic activity, as it provides for the creation of new, expansion and reconstruction of existing fixed assets. Due to the developed construction industry, the most important tasks of structural adjustment of the material base of the entire production complex in the country are being solved, as well as conditions for the development of non-production sectors are being created.
The model for developing a brand concept for a small construction business
Authors: Vayrakh Yu V , Drugova E S , Kazorina A V , Yu Chugunova N
Published: May 2021

The current economic situation obliges enterprises to be competitive. It is not easy to achieve customer response and strong market positions. In order for the company to be recognizable and find a response from the target audience, any construction company needs its own corporate identity and unique image that will become recognizable among consumers. For carpentry workshops, not only an individual image is important, but also high-quality work. Carpentry workshop “Podelki ot Gigantycha” is a small business that needs to be given individual features that make it possible to stand out from the competition and take a confident position in the market of such services in Irkutsk. The article describes the process of creating an individual image, developed the logo of the workshop and formed the graphic principles of placing the logo on business documentation and Souvenirs.
Special economic zones and the role of construction industry enterprises in their creation
Authors: Zakharov S V , Ivanov M Y , Rebrikova A V , ShuiYao Xu
Published: May 2021

The article discusses the creation of special economic zones on the territory of the Russian Federation within the framework of the existing legislation. A refined methodology for assessing the effectiveness of the functioning of special economic zones is proposed, taking into account the leading role of enterprises in the construction industry, as an important city-forming component. A stage-by-stage justification of the creation of a special economic zone on the territory of the Irkutsk region was carried out. The concept of the special status of an economic zone has been clarified in relation to the real economic situation. In accordance with the current legislation, the role of enterprises in the construction industry in the creation and assessment of the effectiveness of the functioning of special economic zones of a technology-innovative type has been substantiated. The criteria for assessing the effectiveness of the functioning of a special economic zone have been determined. It is shown that the leading role in the creation of special economic zones on the territory of the Russian Federation belongs to the enterprises of the construction industry.
Simulation Research of Airflow in the Prefabricated Large Duct Elbow with Different Deflectors
Authors: Tang Yi , Wang Haidong , Pan Jian , Zhu Jieke , Chen Xiaowen
Published: May 2021

For the large air duct with inner and outer arc elbows commonly used in engineering, the forms of setting internal deflector will led to different diversion effects, which will affect the airflow uniformity, energy and pressure loss as well as noise in the elbow. In this paper, the comparison of different diversion forms, spacing and number of pieces in large air duct with inner and outer arc elbow are carried out. This paper aims to provide reference for engineering construction by using visualization technology.
In-situ preparation of MIL-88A(Fe)/MIL-100(Fe)/PVA-Co-PE nanofiber membranes for efficient photocatalytic reduction of CO2
Authors: Fan Xianwei , Zhao Ran , Hu Haoxuan , Liu Junyi , Nie Yahui , Wang Dong
Published: May 2021

In this paper, we tend to ready a polyvinyl alcohol-polyethylene (PVA-Co-PE) composite nanofiber membrane catalyst decorated by bimetallic organic framework MIL-100(Fe)/MIL-88A(Fe). The experimental results of the performance of photocatalytic reduction of CO2 show that it exhibits glorious photocatalytic activity for the reduction of CO2 underneath actinic ray irradiation, and also the best conversion rate of CO2 is 8.3 mL/h. Through SEM, XRD, BET, DRS, FTIR, and alternative characterization ways, the factors touching the photocatalytic CO2 reduction method of the composite nanofiber membrane were investigated. Studies have found that the bimetallic framework structure increases the photocurrent density and significantly reduces the photoluminescence intensity. The versatile composite nanofiber membrane has high photocatalytic activity and smart reusability and features a smart prospect within the photocatalytic reduction of CO2 treatment.
Research on assembly installation technology of special-shaped decorative grille curtain wall
Authors: Zijun Xia , Zheng Zeng
Published: May 2021

The Zhumadian International Convention and Exhibition Center project is designed to create a “wind blowing wheat wave” architectural effect. The large cantilevered structure of the inner and outer ring adopts hyperboloid special-shaped aluminum alloy decorative grille curtain wall design, and the whole is in the shape of a streamer. The construction period is tight, the installation volume of the special-shaped grille curtain wall is large, the positioning is difficult, and the forming effect is not easy to control. After exploration and research, a special-shaped aluminum alloy decorative grille curtain wall assembly installation technology method has been formed. It innovatively solves a series of problems encountered in construction, and has achieved good economic and social benefits. It can provide a reference for similar projects and promote the application of aluminum alloy decorative grille curtain walls in construction projects.
Elastic film modelling and experimental research of the first-order vibration frequencies of sessile micro-droplets
Authors: Liu Jing , Wei Ruihua , Lin Shiji , Chen Longquan , Wei Zheng
Published: May 2021

Many factors are known to affect the vibration characteristics of sessile micro-droplets, such as surface tension, liquid densities, and contact angles. In this study, the vibration signals of the sessile micro-droplets under the conditions of different contact angles and viscosities were obtained using experimental processes. A theoretical model was designed based on the experimental phenomena in which the contact angles and contact lines were fixed. Then, similar to the vibrations of solid elastic film, it was assumed that the vibration waves of the sessile droplets existed within a certain thickness of the droplet surfaces, which provided a theoretical basis for the periodic correction coefficients. It was found that although the model was simple, it was in good agreement with the experimental results.
New horizons in understanding the experience of Chinese people living with dementia: a positive psychology approach
Authors: Lau Wing Yin Tiffany , Stoner Charlotte , Wong Gloria Hoi-Yan , Spector Aimee
Published: May 2021

As the global average age increases, the incidence of dementia is also rising. Given improvements in diagnosis and life expectancies, people now live longer with dementia. Thus, the wellbeing and quality of life among people living with dementia are increasingly important areas for research.

Research with Western populations has recently begun to apply positive psychology concepts to understand wellbeing in people with dementia. Positive psychology focuses on positive emotions and traits that allow individuals to flourish and thrive—it highlights the possibility of positive subjective experiences in the face of loss and functional decline, and contrasts the traditional deficit-focused perception of dementia.

Despite being a major driver in the global growth of dementia prevalence, there is a dearth of research using such positive concepts to understand people with dementia in non-Western communities. This review contains discussion of research on positive constructs in Chinese older adults, and parallels between traditional Chinese cultural values and positive psychology. On this basis, we propose the applicability of a positive psychology framework to Chinese people with dementia, and that ‘harmony’ is an important culturally specific concept to consider in this area of research.

A positive psychology approach acknowledges that strengths and positive experiences can endure after dementia diagnosis. This not only adds to the under-researched area of lived experience of dementia in Chinese people, but highlights areas that could be the focus of interventions or measured as outcomes. By improving understanding, this approach also has potential to reduce carer burden and stigma around dementia.
Evaluation of a risk assessment model to predict infection with healthcare facility–onsetClostridioides difficile
Authors: Tilton Carrie S , Sexton Mary Elizabeth , Johnson Steven W , Gu Chunhui , Chen Zhengjia , Robichaux Chad , Metzger Nicole L
Published: May 2021

Purpose

We evaluated a previously published risk model (Novant model) to identify patients at risk for healthcare facility–onset Clostridioides difficile infection (HCFO-CDI) at 2 hospitals within a large health system and compared its predictive value to that of a new model developed based on local findings.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective case-control study including adult patients admitted from July 1, 2016, to July 1, 2018. Patients with HCFO-CDI who received systemic antibiotics were included as cases and were matched 1 to 1 with controls (who received systemic antibiotics without developing HCFO-CDI). We extracted chart data on patient risk factors for CDI, including those identified in prior studies and those included in the Novant model. We applied the Novant model to our patient population to assess the model’s utility and generated a local model using logistic regression–based prediction scores. A receiver operating characteristic area under the curve (ROC-AUC) score was determined for each model.

Results

We included 362 patients, with 161 controls and 161 cases. The Novant model had a ROC-AUC of 0.62 in our population. Our local model using risk factors identifiable at hospital admission included hospitalization within 90 days of admission (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 3.52; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.06-6.04), hematologic malignancy (adjusted OR, 12.87; 95% CI, 3.70-44.80), and solid tumor malignancy (adjusted OR, 4.76; 95% CI, 1.27-17.80) as HCFO-CDI predictors and had a ROC-AUC score of 0.74.

Conclusion

The Novant model evaluating risk factors identifiable at admission poorly predicted HCFO-CDI in our population, while our local model was a fair predictor. These findings highlight the need for institutions to review local risk factors to adjust modeling for their patient population.
Drivers and patterns of bite force evolution in liolaemid lizards
Authors: Cruz Félix B , Moreno Azocar Débora Lina , Vanhooydonck Bieke , Schulte James A , Abdala Cristian S , Herrel Anthony
Published: May 2021

Phenotypic variation is the result of selection on traits that are relevant in a given ecological context. Phylogenetic history, genetic drift, and any developmental or structural constraints may, however, limit variation in trait expression. It has been proposed that organismal performance traits take up a pivotal role in driving variation in morphology due to their central role in survival and reproductive success. However, how strong the links are between morphology and performance, and how the strength of this relationship impacts the rate of evolution of form and function need to be studied across a wider variety of systems to better understand the origin and evolution of biodiversity. Here we used data on the jaw system (muscle architecture and head dimensions) of liolaemid lizards to investigate the drivers of in vivo bite force variation and test for differences in evolutionary rates in morphology and performance. Our results show high rates of evolution for performance traits compared to morphological traits such as external head dimensions. Many-to-one mapping of morphology to performance, that is the possibility that different anatomical trait combinations lead to similar levels of performance, appears to be common in the jaw system of these lizards. Finally, traits showing greater mechanical sensitivity (muscle cross-sectional areas) showed higher rates of evolution compared to traits involved in other functions and that are probably subject to trade-offs (e.g. head width).
Ontogenetic changes in activity, locomotion and behavioural complexity in tadpoles
Authors: Cheron Marion , Raoelison Léa , Kato Akiko , Ropert-Coudert Yan , Meyer Xavier , MacIntosh Andrew J J , Brischoux François
Published: May 2021

Metamorphosis is a widespread developmental process that involves considerable changes in morphology, habitat use, ecology and behaviour between early developmental (larval) stages and adult forms. Among amphibians, anuran larvae (tadpoles) undergo massive morphological and ecological changes during their development, with early stages characterized by somatic growth, whereas more conspicuous changes (i.e. metamorphosis) occur later during development. In this study, we examined how locomotor and behavioural traits covary with morphology (body size) and metamorphosis (hindlimb and forelimb development) across developmental stages in spined toad (Bufo spinosus) tadpoles. As expected, we found that locomotion and behaviour undergo significant changes during tadpole development. These changes are curvilinear across developmental stages, with a phase of increasing activity and locomotion followed by a phase of stasis and/or reduction in locomotion and behavioural complexity. All the metrics we investigated indicate that the peak of activity and associated behaviour is situated at a pivotal stage when somatic growth decreases and significant morphological changes occur (i.e. hindlimb growth). Future studies that aim to investigate determinants of locomotion should include developmental stages as covariates in order to assess whether the sensitivity of locomotion to environmental variables changes across developmental stages.
‘Social Workers Failed to Heed Warnings’: A Text-Based Study of How a Profession is Portrayed in UK Newspapers
Authors: Leedham Maria
Published: May 2021

Previous research has indicated that social workers are portrayed negatively in the UK press, particularly in child protection cases. But what is the nature of this negativity? And are social workers also mentioned in more positive contexts? To explore these questions, a collection of three months of newspaper articles was compiled (early May to early August 2019), using the seed term ‘social worker(s)’. Almost 1,000 occurrences were located and categorised as ‘positive’ (6 per cent of instances), ‘negative’ (25 per cent) or ‘neutral’ (69 per cent). Further classification of negative instances indicates these concern social workers’ perceived failure to act rather than perceived over-zealous behaviour (ratio 5:2). Findings also suggest that the press tend to hold social workers to a higher moral standard in their everyday lives than is the case for other members of society. Understanding how social workers are portrayed in the press is important for practitioners in terms of recruitment, job satisfaction and retention. In addition, as newspapers are the major source of information on social work for members of the public, greater awareness could reduce the societal tendency towards finding individuals to blame.
Pertussis Immunization During Pregnancy: Assessment of the Role of Maternal Antibodies on Immune Responses in Term and Preterm-Born Infants
Authors: Maertens Kirsten , Orije Marjolein R P , Herzog Sereina A , Mahieu Ludo M , Hens Niel , Van Damme Pierre , Leuridan Elke
Published: May 2021

Background

Limited data exist on the impact of maternal tetanus, diphtheria, acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccination for preterm born infants. We report its effect at birth and on antibody-mediated immune responses to a DTaP-IPV-HB-PRP~T vaccine in preterm compared with term infants.

Methods

Women delivering at term or prematurely were either vaccinated with a Tdap vaccine (Boostrix; GSK) during pregnancy or not vaccinated in the last 5 years. Cord and maternal blood were collected at delivery. Infants were vaccinated with DTaP-IPV-HB-PRP~T vaccine (Hexyon; Sanofi Pasteur) and blood collected before and 1 month after primary (8-12-16 weeks) and before and 1 month after booster vaccination (13 or 15 months for preterm and term, respectively). Immunoglobulin G antibodies against all antigens included in DTaP-IPV-HB-PRP~T vaccine were measured (NCT02511327).

Results

Cord blood geometric mean concentrations (GMCs) in preterm infants from Tdap-vaccinated women were significantly higher than in term and preterm infants from unvaccinated women. A longer time interval between maternal vaccination and delivery resulted in higher cord blood GMCs in preterm infants. Equal GMCs in term and preterm infants from Tdap-vaccinated women were observed after primary vaccination. After boosting, significantly lower GMCs were seen for pertussis toxin, filamentous hemagglutinin, and tetanus toxoid in preterm compared with term infants from Tdap-vaccinated women, yet still comparable to GMCs in both term and preterm infants from unvaccinated women.

Conclusions

Preterm infants profit from maternal Tdap vaccination. Prematurity did not influence primary immune responses in the presence of maternal antibodies but was associated with a lower booster immune response.
If, When, and How to Use Rifampin in Acute Staphylococcal Periprosthetic Joint Infections, a Multicentre Observational Study
Authors: Beldman Mark , Löwik Claudia , Soriano Alex , Albiach Laila , Zijlstra Wierd P , Knobben Bas A S , Jutte Paul , Sousa Ricardo , Carvalho André , Goswami Karan , Parvizi Javad , Belden Katherine A , Wouthuyzen-Bakker Marjan
Published: May 2021

Background

Rifampin is generally advised in the treatment of acute staphylococcal periprosthetic joint infections (PJI). However, if, when, and how to use rifampin remains a matter of debate. We evaluated the outcome of patients treated with and without rifampin, and analyzed the influence of timing, dose and co-antibiotic.

Methods

Acute staphylococcal PJIs treated with surgical debridement between 1999 and 2017, and a minimal follow-up of 1 year were evaluated. Treatment failure was defined as the need for any further surgical procedure related to infection, PJI-related death or the need for suppressive antimicrobial treatment.

Results

A total of 669 patients were analyzed. Treatment failure was 32.2% (131/407) in patients treated with rifampin and 54.2% (142/262) in whom rifampin was withheld (P < .001). The most prominent effect of rifampin was observed in knees (treatment failure 28.6% versus 63.9%, respectively, P < .001). The use of rifampin was an independent predictor of treatment success in the multi-variate analysis (OR 0.30, 95% CI 0.20 – 0.45). In the rifampin group, the use of a co-antibiotic other than a fluoroquinolone or clindamycin (OR 10.1, 95% CI 5.65 – 18.2) and the start of rifampin within 5 days after surgical debridement (OR 1.96, 95% CI 1.08 – 3.65) were predictors of treatment failure. The dosing of rifampin had no effect on outcome.

Conclusions

Our data supports the use of rifampin in acute staphylococcal PJIs treated with surgical debridement, particularly in knees. Immediate start of rifampin after surgical debridement should probably be discouraged, but requires further investigation.