bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glial cell type-specific gene expression in the mouse cerebrum using the piggyBac system and in utero electroporation
Authors: Hamabe-Horiike Toshihide , Kawasaki Kanji , Sakashita Masataka , Ishizu Chihiro , Yoshizaki Tomokazu , Harada Shin-ichi , Ogawa-Ochiai Keiko , Shinmyo Yohei , Kawasaki Hiroshi
Published: March 2021

Glial cells such as astrocytes and oligodendrocytes play crucial roles in the central nervous system. To investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the development and the biological functions of glial cells, simple and rapid techniques for glial cell-specific genetic manipulation in the mouse cerebrum would be valuable. Here we uncovered that the Gfa2 promoter is suitable for selective gene expression in astrocytes when used with the piggyBac system and in utero electroporation. In contrast, the Blbp promoter, which has been used to induce astrocyte-specific gene expression in transgenic mice, did not result in astrocyte-specific gene expression. We also identified the Plp1 and Mbp promoters could be used with the piggyBac system and in utero electroporation to induce selective gene expression in oligodendrocytes. Furthermore, using our technique, neuron-astrocyte or neuron-oligodendrocyte interactions can be visualized by labeling neurons, astrocytes and oligodendrocytes differentially. Our study provides a fundamental basis for specific transgene expression in astrocytes and/or oligodendrocytes in the mouse cerebrum.
Long-term dynamics of plant communities after biological remediation of oil-contaminated soils in far north
Authors: Novakovskiy A. B. , Kanev V. A. , Markarova M. Y.
Published: March 2021

We studied the long-term dynamics of plant communities after bio and phytoremediation of oil-polluted soils. Nine plots located in European Northeast and treated using various bioremediation methods were monitored from 2002 to 2014. Geobotanical descriptions (relevés) of each plot were performed in 2006 and 2014, and Grime’s theoretical CSR (competition–stress–ruderality) framework was used to assess the vegetation state and dynamics. We observed a clear shift of communities from pioneer (where ruderal species were prevalent) to stable (where competitor species were dominant) states. However, the remediation type did not significantly impact the vegetation recovery rate. After 12 years, all methods led to a 55–90% decrease in the oil content of the soil and a recovery of the vegetation cover. The plant communities contained mainly cereals and sedges which significantly differed from the original tundra communities before the oil spill. The control plot, treated only by mechanical cleaning, had minimum oil degradation rate (50%) and vegetation recovery rates, although, in CSR terms, its vegetation assemblage resembled the background community. Cereals (Agrostis gigantea,Deschampsia cespitosa,Phalaris arundinacea, andPoa pratensis), sedges (Carex canescens,Carex limosa, andEriophorum vaginatum), and shrubs (Salix) were found to be the most effective species for phytoremediation, exhibiting high community productivity under the harsh northern conditions.
Investigating the relationship between the SNCA gene and cognitive abilities in idiopathic Parkinson’s disease using machine learning
Authors: Ramezani Mehrafarin , Mouches Pauline , Yoon Eunjin , Rajashekar Deepthi , Ruskey Jennifer A. , Leveille Etienne , Martens Kristina , Kibreab Mekale , Hammer Tracy , Kathol Iris , Maarouf Nadia , Sarna Justyna , Martino Davide , Pfeffer Gerald , Gan-Or Ziv , Forkert Nils D. , Monchi Oury
Published: March 2021

Cognitive impairments are prevalent in Parkinson’s disease (PD), but the underlying mechanisms of their development are unknown. In this study, we aimed to predict global cognition (GC) in PD with machine learning (ML) using structural neuroimaging, genetics and clinical and demographic characteristics. As a post-hoc analysis, we aimed to explore the connection between novel selected features and GC more precisely and to investigate whether this relationship is specific to GC or is driven by specific cognitive domains. 101 idiopathic PD patients had a cognitive assessment, structural MRI and blood draw. ML was performed on 102 input features including demographics, cortical thickness and subcortical measures, and several genetic variants (APOE,MAPT,SNCA, etc.). Using the combination of RRELIEFF and Support Vector Regression, 11 features were found to be predictive of GC including sex, rs894280, Edinburgh Handedness Inventory, UPDRS-III, education, five cortical thickness measures (R-parahippocampal, L-entorhinal, R-rostral anterior cingulate, L-middle temporal, and R-transverse temporal), and R-caudate volume. The rs894280 ofSNCAgene was selected as the most novel finding of ML. Post-hoc analysis revealed a robust association between rs894280 and GC, attention, and visuospatial abilities. This variant indicates a potential role for theSNCAgene in cognitive impairments of idiopathic PD.
The contribution of PARP1, PARP2 and poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation to base excision repair in the nucleosomal context
Authors: Kutuzov M. M. , Belousova E. A. , Kurgina T. A. , Ukraintsev A. A. , Vasil’eva I. A. , Khodyreva S. N. , Lavrik O. I.
Published: March 2021

The regulation of repair processes including base excision repair (BER) in the presence of DNA damage is implemented by a cellular signal: poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation (PARylation), which is catalysed by PARP1 and PARP2. Despite ample studies, it is far from clear how BER is regulated by PARPs and how the roles are distributed between the PARPs. Here, we investigated the effects of PARP1, PARP2 and PARylation on activities of the main BER enzymes (APE1, DNA polymerase β [Polβ] and DNA ligase IIIα [LigIIIα]) in combination with BER scaffold protein XRCC1 in the nucleosomal context. We constructed nucleosome core particles with midward- or outward-oriented damage. It was concluded that in most cases, the presence of PARP1 leads to the suppression of the activities of APE1, Polβ and to a lesser extent LigIIIα. PARylation by PARP1 attenuated this effect to various degrees depending on the enzyme. PARP2 had an influence predominantly on the last stage of BER: DNA sealing. Nonetheless, PARylation by PARP2 led to Polβ inhibition and to significant stimulation of LigIIIα activities in a NAD+-dependent manner. On the basis of the obtained and literature data, we suggest a hypothetical model of the contribution of PARP1 and PARP2 to BER.
The relationship between apathy and impulsivity in large population samples
Authors: Petitet Pierre , Scholl Jacqueline , Attaallah Bahaaeddin , Drew Daniel , Manohar Sanjay , Husain Masud
Published: March 2021

Apathy and impulsivity are debilitating conditions associated with many neuropsychiatric conditions, and expressed to variable degrees in healthy people. While some theories suggest that they lie at different ends of a continuum, others suggest their possible co-existence. Surprisingly little is known, however, about their empirical association in the general population. Here, gathering data from six large studies ($$n = 3755$$

n
=
3755

), we investigated the relationship between measures of apathy and impulsivity in young adults. The questionnaires included commonly used self-assessment tools—Apathy Evaluation Scale, Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11) and UPPS-P Scale—as well as a more recent addition, the Apathy Motivation Index (AMI). Remarkably, across datasets and assessment tools, global measures of apathy and impulsivity correlated positively. However, analysis of sub-scale scores revealed a more complex relationship. Although most dimensions correlated positively with one another, there were two important exceptions revealed using the AMI scale. Social apathy was mostly negatively correlated with impulsive behaviour, and emotional apathy was orthogonal to all other sub-domains. These results suggest that at a global level, apathy and impulsivity do not exist at distinct ends of a continuum. Instead, paradoxically, they most often co-exist in young adults. Processes underlying social and emotional apathy, however, appear to be different and dissociable from behavioural apathy and impulsivity.
Kinetics of slow release of nitrogen fertiliser from multi-layered nanofibrous structures
Authors: Javazmi Leila , Young Anthony , Ash Gavin J. , Low Tobias
Published: March 2021

Fertilisers are essential in modern agriculture to enhance plant growth, crop production and product quality. Recent research has focused on the development of delivery systems designed to prolong fertiliser release. This study introduces a new technology to encapsulate and release molecules of fertilisers by using multi-layered electrospun nanofibre as a carrier. Single-layer poly L-lactic acid (PLLA) nanofibres loaded with urea were fabricated using electrospinning. Triple-layer nanofibrous structures were produced by electrospinning polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) nanofibres as external layers with PLLA nanofibres impregnated with urea fertiliser as the middle layer. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometry (FTIR) were employed to characterize the morphology of electrospun nanofibres. Urea release dynamic was analysed using a total nitrogen instrument (TNM-1). The results indicated that triple-layered urea-impregnated nanofibrous structures led to lower initial rate of nitrogen release and slower release rate of cumulative nitrogen which extended for more than three months. It is concluded that triple-layer nanofibrous structures have the potential for slow release delivery of fertilisers.
Comparison of two superconducting phases induced by a magnetic field in UTe2
Authors: Knafo W. , Nardone M. , Vališka M. , Zitouni A. , Lapertot G. , Aoki D. , Knebel G. , Braithwaite D.
Published: March 2021

Superconductivity induced by a magnetic field near metamagnetism is a striking manifestation of magnetically-mediated superconducting pairing. After being observed in itinerant ferromagnets, this phenomenon was recently reported in the orthorhombic paramagnet UTe2. Here we explore the phase diagram of UTe2 under two magnetic-field directions: the hard magnetization axis b, and a direction titled by ≃25-30° from b in the (b,c) plane. Zero-resistivity measurements confirm that superconductivity is established beyond the metamagnetic field Hm in the tilted-field direction. While superconductivity is locked exactly at fields either smaller (for H | | b), or larger (for H tilted by ≃27° from b to c), than Hm, the variations of the Fermi-liquid coefficient in the electrical resistivity and of the residual resistivity are similar for the two field directions. The resemblance of the normal states for the two field directions puts constraints for theoretical models of superconductivity and implies that some subtle ingredients must be in play.
Tunable exciton–polariton condensation in a two-dimensional Lieb lattice at room temperature
Authors: Scafirimuto Fabio , Urbonas Darius , Becker Michael A. , Scherf Ullrich , Mahrt Rainer F. , Stöferle Thilo
Published: March 2021

Microcavities with embedded optically active materials allow to create exciton–polariton condensates in the strong light–matter interaction regime. These condensates exhibit quantum fluid properties up to room temperature, and, when crystal-like lattices are imprinted in the cavity, they can be used to emulate and study solid-state physics toy models. Here, we demonstrate room temperature polariton condensation in a nano-fabricated two-dimensional Lieb lattice with an organic polymer. We exploit the tunability of our open cavity to selectively condense into the s-, p- and d-lattice band manifolds. Furthermore, we interferometrically measure long-range first-order coherence across the lattice and assess the influence of the disorder in the system. These are key first steps to investigate extended topological polariton systems at ambient conditions.
Atomic resolution imaging of cation ordering in niobium–tungsten complex oxides
Authors: Iijima Sumio , Yang Wenhui , Matsumura Syo , Ohnishi Ichiro
Published: March 2021

Energy dispersive X-ray emission imaging at atomic resolution is a powerful tool to solve order–disorder problems in complex metal oxide crystals, supplementing conventional X-ray or neutron diffraction. Here, we use this method, based on scanning transmission electron microscopy, to investigate cation ordering in ternary metal oxides 4Nb2O5·9WO3 and 2Nb2O5·7WO3, which have recently attracted attention as energy storage materials in lithium-ion batteries. Their crystal structures are a tetragonal tungsten bronze-type and its hybrid with a ReO3-type ‘block structure’, respectively. Our study reveals the presence of chemical ordering of metal ions in these materials, which have previously been assumed to be solid-solutions. In particular, we show that the two types of cations, Nb and W, are well ordered in their lattices, and that the Nb ions tend to occupy one third of the pentagonal channel sites. These results demonstrate that atomic resolution X-ray emission imaging is an effective alternative approach for the study of locally ordered crystal structures.
Highly efficient blue-emitting phosphor of Sr[B8O11(OH)4]:Eu2+ prepared by a self-reduction method
Authors: Liang Pan , Lian Wen-Li , Liu Zhi-Hong
Published: March 2021

An ultra-high QY, nearly 100% color purity and narrow-band blue-emitting phosphor of Sr[B8O11(OH)4]:Eu2+ was synthesized by a medium-high temperature boric acid melting method based on self-reduction.
Stimuli responsive dynamic transformations in supramolecular gels
Authors: Panja Santanu , Adams Dave J.
Published: March 2021

Stimuli responsive dynamic changes in the networks of self-assembled gels result in an alteration of physical and chemical properties of the gel with time.
Non-toxic layered double hydroxide nanoplatelet dispersions for gas barrier coatings on flexible packaging
Authors: Ruengkajorn Kanittika , Chen Chunping , Yu Jingfang , Buffet Jean-Charles , O’Hare Dermot
Published: March 2021

A green synthesis of well dispersed LDH nanosheetsviaa reconstruction process in concentrated amino acid solution was reported. The LDH nanosheet/PVA coated PET films exhibited excellent optical response and high oxygen barrier (0.35 cc m−2day−1).
Pyridazinone derivatives as potential anti-inflammatory agents: synthesis and biological evaluation as PDE4 inhibitors
Authors: Allart-Simon Ingrid , Moniot Aurélie , Bisi Nicolo , Ponce-Vargas Miguel , Audonnet Sandra , Laronze-Cochard Marie , Sapi Janos , Hénon Eric , Velard Frédéric , Gérard Stéphane
Published: March 2021

This work describes the development of pyridazinone derivatives bearing an indole moiety as PDE4B inhibitors and their evaluation as anti-inflammatory agents.
Morphological and reactive optimization of g-C3N4-derived Co,N-codoped carbon nanotubes for hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Yu Zhuochen , Yao Kaida , Zhang Siqi , Liu Yang , Sun Yueqiu , Huang Weimin , Hu Nan
Published: March 2021

Scheme for the synthesis of bamboo-like N-doped carbon nanotubes.
A highly sensitive and selective on–off fluorescent sensor based on a complex of polySchiff-Fe2+ for Cr(vi) detection in an aqueous medium
Authors: Li Zhiying , Li Congshu , Yan Huiyun
Published: March 2021

Designing exceptional probes to detect minute quantities of chromium(vi) is of huge importance for the safety and health of the human race.
Synthesis and applications of sodium sulfinates (RSO2Na): a powerful building block for the synthesis of organosulfur compounds
Authors: Reddy Raju Jannapu , Kumari Arram Haritha
Published: March 2021

This review provides a unique and comprehensive overview of sodium sulfinates for synthesizing many valuable sulfur-containing compounds, such as thiosulfonates, sulfonamides, sulfides, sulfones, allyl sulfones, vinyl sulfones and β-keto sulfones.
Guest size limitation in metal–organic framework crystal–glass composites
Authors: Ashling Christopher W. , Macreadie Lauren K. , Southern Thomas J. F. , Zhang Yiming , McHugh Lauren N. , Evans Rachel C. , Kaskel Stefan , Telfer Shane G. , Bennett Thomas D.
Published: March 2021

MOF crystal-glass composites (MOF CGCs) are materials with crystalline MOFs embedded within a MOF glass. Here we develop two novel MOF CGCs, and explore the gas uptake and guest-size limitations within these materials.
Synthesis and antifouling performance of tadpole-shaped poly(N-hydroxyethylacrylamide) coatings
Authors: Cao Yanping , Liu Shengjie , Wu Zhaoqiang , Chen Hong
Published: March 2021

We demonstrate the preparation of antifouling surfaces based on a tadpole-shaped poly(N-hydroxyethylacrylamide) (PHEAA) coating and investigate how the tadpole-shaped PHEAA architecture affects antifouling performance.
Light management in photoelectrochemical water splitting – from materials to device engineering
Authors: Chen Yubin , Zheng Wenyu , Murcia-López Sebastián , Lv Fei , Morante Joan Ramón , Vayssieres Lionel , Burda Clemens
Published: March 2021

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting is a very attractive approach to produce clean hydrogen using abundant natural resources such as solar energy and (sea)water.
Studies of propene conversion over H-ZSM-5 demonstrate the importance of propene as an intermediate in methanol-to-hydrocarbons chemistry
Authors: Hawkins Alexander P. , Zachariou Andrea , Parker Stewart F. , Collier Paul , Howe Russell F. , Lennon David
Published: March 2021

A role for propene as an intermediate in methanol-to-hydrocarbons chemistry over H-ZSM-5 is considered.
The influence of Castanea sativa Mill. flower extract on hormonally and chemically induced prostate cancer in a rat model
Authors: Nascimento-Gonçalves E. , Seixas F. , Silva M. , Fardilha M. , Ferreira R. , Neuparth M. J. , Faustino-Rocha A. I. , Colaço B. , Venâncio C. , Barros L. , Ferreira I. C. F. R. , Oliveira M. M. , Peixoto F. , Rosa E. , Oliveira P. A.
Published: March 2021

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common cancers in men, with a huge impact on their health.
Electrochemical behavior of a Ni3N OER precatalyst in Fe-purified alkaline media: the impact of self-oxidation and Fe incorporation
Authors: Kawashima Kenta , Márquez-Montes Raúl A. , Li Hao , Shin Kihyun , Cao Chi L. , Vo Kobe M. , Son Yoon Jun , Wygant Bryan R. , Chunangad Adithya , Youn Duck Hyun , Henkelman Graeme , Ramos-Sánchez Víctor H. , Mullins C. Buddie
Published: March 2021

The effects of self-oxidation and Fe incorporation in a Ni3N electrocatalyst towards its water oxidation activity were examined in alkaline media.
Anticancer potential of nitric oxide (NO) in neuroblastoma treatment
Authors: Gordon Jenna L. , Hinsen Kristin J. , Reynolds Melissa M. , Smith Tyler A. , Tucker Haley O. , Brown Mark A.
Published: March 2021

S-Nitrosoglutathione (GSNO) reduces cell viability, inhibits cell division, and induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in neuroblastoma cells.
Electrochemical synthesis of biobased polymers and polymer building blocks from vanillin
Authors: Kunkel Robin , Schmidt Volkmar M. , Cremers Carsten , Müller Dominik , Schmiedl Detlef , Tübke Jens
Published: March 2021

Hydrovanilloin and polyvanillin were synthesized electrochemically investigating the impact of process parameters such as electrode material, charge and current density.
Conducting chiral nickel(ii) bis(dithiolene) complexes: structural and electron transport modulation with the charge and the number of stereogenic centres
Authors: Abhervé Alexandre , Mroweh Nabil , Cauchy Thomas , Pop Flavia , Cui HengBo , Kato Reizo , Vanthuyne Nicolas , Alemany Pere , Canadell Enric , Avarvari Narcis
Published: March 2021

Chiral nickel(ii) bis(dithiolene) complexes based on the mono- and bis-methylated ligands me-dddt and dm-dddt are Mott insulators or band gap semiconductors, with their conductivity modulated by the counter-ion and the number of stereogenic centres.
A caging strategy for tuning the magneto-optical properties of cobalt ferrite using a single plasmonic nanoparticle
Authors: Testa-Anta Martín , Sousa-Castillo Ana , López-Ortega Alberto , Correa-Duarte Miguel A. , García-Martín Antonio , Vavassori Paolo , Salgueiriño Verónica
Published: March 2021

Investigations of the Faraday effect in silica capsules with numerous CoFe2O4 nanoparticles and one single gold nanoparticle demonstrate the plasmon-induced changes in the MOA of the ferrite and highlights the caging strategy designed.
Molecular mechanisms of An-Chuan Granule for the treatment of asthma based on a network pharmacology approach and experimental validation
Authors: Chen Xiao-Li , Xiao Qing-Ling , Pang Zhong-Hua , Tang Cheng , Zhu Qi-Yong
Published: March 2021

An-Chuan Granule (ACG), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula, is an effective treatment for asthma but its pharmacological mechanism remains poorly understood. In the present study, network pharmacology was applied to explore the potential mechanism of ACG in the treatment of asthma. The tumor necrosis factor (TNF), Toll-like receptor (TLR), and Th17 cell differentiation-related, nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptor, and NF-kappaB pathways were identified as the most significant signaling pathways involved in the therapeutic effect of ACG on asthma. A mouse asthma model was established using ovalbumin (OVA) to verify the effect of ACG and the underlying mechanism. The results showed that ACG treatment not only attenuated the clinical symptoms, but also reduced inflammatory cell infiltration, mucus secretion and MUC5AC production in lung tissue of asthmatic mice. In addition, ACG treatment notably decreased the inflammatory cell numbers in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (including IL-6, IL-17, IL-23, TNF-alpha, IL-1beta and TGF-beta) in lung tissue of asthmatic mice. In addition, ACG treatment remarkably down-regulated the expression of TLR4, p-P65, NLRP3, Caspase-1 and adenosquamous carcinoma (ASC) in lung tissue. Further, ACG treatment decreased the expression of receptor-related orphan receptor (RORγt) in lung tissue but increased that of Forkhead box (Foxp3). In conclusion, the above results demonstrate that ACG alleviates the severity of asthma in a ´multi-compound and multi-target’ manner, which provides a basis for better understanding of the application of ACG in the treatment of asthma.
The Effects of Symptom Onset Location on Automatic Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Detection Using the Correlation Structure of Articulatory Movements
Authors: Wisler Alan , Teplansky Kristin , Heitzman Daragh , Wang Jun
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Kinematic measurements of speech have demonstrated some success in automatic detection of early symptoms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). In this study, we examined how the region of symptom onset (bulbar vs. spinal) affects the ability of data-driven models to detect ALS.

Method

We used a correlation structure of articulatory movements combined with a machine learning model (i.e., artificial neural network) to detect differences between people with ALS and healthy controls. The performance of this system was evaluated separately for participants with bulbar onset and spinal onset to examine how region of onset affects classification performance. We then performed a regression analysis to examine how different severity measures and region of onset affects model performance.

Results

The proposed model was significantly more accurate in classifying the bulbar-onset participants, achieving an area under the curve of 0.809 relative to the 0.674 achieved for spinal-onset participants. The regression analysis, however, found that differences in classifier performance across participants were better explained by their speech performance (intelligible speaking rate), and no significant differences were observed based on region of onset when intelligible speaking rate was accounted for.

Conclusions

Although we found a significant difference in the model's ability to detect ALS depending on the region of onset, this disparity can be primarily explained by observable differences in speech motor symptoms. Thus, when the severity of speech symptoms (e.g., intelligible speaking rate) was accounted for, symptom onset location did not affect the proposed computational model's ability to detect ALS.
Quo vadis, European Space Weather community?
Authors: Lilensten Jean , Dumbović Mateja , Spogli Luca , Belehaki Anna , Van der Linden Ronald , Poedts Stefaan , Barata Teresa , Bisi Mario M. , Cessateur Gaël , De Donder Erwin , Guerrero Antonio , Kilpua Emilia , Korsos Marianna B. , Pinto Rui F. , Temmer Manuela , Tsagouri Ioanna , Urbář Jaroslav , Zuccarello Francesca
Published: March 2021

This paper was written by a group of European researchers believing that now is the right time to frame the Space Weather and Space Climate discipline in Europe for future years. It is devoted to openly discussing the organisation and sustainability of the European Space Weather community and its assets in the (near) future. More specifically, we suggest that the European Space Weather community lacks a uniting organisation to help the community to sustain and develop the successful efforts made thus far. Our aim is not to draw a complete and exhaustive panorama of Space Weather throughout the world, nor even throughout Europe. It is not a new white paper on the science and applications: there exist many (e.g. Tsurutani et al., 2020 Nonlinear Processes Geophys 27(1): 75–119); nor another roadmap: several important have been published recently (e.g. Schrijver et al., 2015. Adv Space Res 55(12): 2745–2807; Opgenoorth et al., 2019. J Space Weather Space Clim 9: A37). Our aim is to question our practices and organisation in front of several changes that have occurred in the recent years and to set the ground to provide coordinated answers to these questions being posed in Europe, and to make these answers discussed throughout the world.

This group was assembled first through a series of sessions devoted to the sustainability of Space Weather research during the European Space Weather Week (ESWW) series of meetings, specifically: ESWW 14 (2017), ESWW 15 (2018), and ESWW 16 (2019). It then grew from discussions and personal contacts. The authors do not pretend to identify the full range of opinions in Europe, although they do come from 13 different European countries with a large span of ages (around half are below the age of 40 years old at the time of writing) with a good gender balance ending with a diverse mix of young and motivated scientists and senior people who have played a role in shaping the Space Weather community in Europe. The questions and the propositions to organise Space Weather in Europe in the future result from their discussions through these meetings and through remote meetings during the pandemic. We wish to share them with all those who consider themselves as members of the European Space Weather community and/or are interested in its future and to propose actions. We do this, bearing in mind that Europe plays a key international role in Space Weather which extends beyond the ESA and EU/EC geographic area.
Arthroplasty of the Knee: Current Techniques for Implant Alignment
Authors: Weber Patrick , Gollwitzer Hans
Published: March 2021

When a total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is implanted using the traditional mechanical alignment technique, this typically results in a straight leg, independently of pre-operative or even pre-arthrotic varus or valgus alignment. With mechanical alignment, we distinguish between 2 different alignment techniques: ligament balancing and bony referencing according to bony skeletal landmarks. In ligament balanced technique beside the straight mechanical axis, the prosthesis is implanted at 90° to the latter. The rotational alignment of the femur is set according to the ligament tension. In the skeletal referenced technique, the rotation of the femur is also set according to bony skeletal landmarks. As a variation of this technique, the prosthesis can be implanted with anatomical alignment. In this technique, the medial slope of the joint line of 3° in the frontal plane is respected during the implantation of TKA. Both techniques result in comparable long-term results with
survival rates of almost 80% after 25 years. On the other hand, 15 – 20% of TKA patients report dissatisfaction with their clinical result. For more than 10 years now, the kinematic TKA alignment concept has been developed with the goal to achieve implantation that is adapted to the individual anatomy of the patient. The advocates of this technique expect better function of TKA. This strategy aims to reconstruct the pre-arthrotic anatomy of a given patient while preserving the existing joint line and the mechanical axis without performing ligamentary release. Studies have shown that the function of the prothesis is at least that good as in the conventional techniques. Long-term results are still sparse, but initial studies show that TKA implanted using the kinematic alignment technique exhibit comparable 10-year-survival rates to those implanted using the traditional mechanical alignment technique. Future studies need to show the limitations of this new technique and to
identify patients who will or will not significantly benefit from this technique.
Nachhaltigkeit im Krankenhaus: Optimierung des ökologischen Fußabdrucks
Authors: Süme Christoph , Rong Oliver
Published: March 2021

Ökologie darf insbesondere vor dem Gesundheitssektor nicht haltmachen. Denn es gibt zahlreiche Ansatzpunkte, um die Ökobilanz zu verbessern.
Multimodal Microvascular Mapping for Head and Neck, Skull Base Research and Education: An Anatomical Donor Study
Authors: House Adrian E. , Romano Michael F. , Orczykowski Mary E. , Zumwalt Ann , Devaiah Anand K.
Published: March 2021

Objective This study was aimed to develop a method combining computed tomography (CT) and fluorescence imaging, allowing identification of microvasculature in anatomical donors and facilitating translational research and education.

Methods We investigated homogeneity and radiopacity of 30 different mixtures including radiopaque substances povidone–iodine (Betadine), barium sulfate (BaSO4), and bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) varying in suspension and dilution with agar, latex, or gelatin. Three candidate mixtures were selected for testing the extent of perfusion in renal vasculature to establish methodology. From these candidate mixtures, two were selected for mixture with fluorescein and infusion into cadavers based on their ability to perfuse renal vasculature. The extent to which these two candidate mixtures combined with fluorescein were able to perfuse vasculature in a cadaver head was used to determine which mixture was superior.

Results BaSO4 and bismuth subsalicylate–based mixtures demonstrated superior opacity in vials. In terms of solidifying agents, gelatin-based mixtures demonstrated increased friability and lower melting points compared with the other agents, so only latex and agar-based mixtures were used moving forward past the vial stage. Combinations of BaSO4 and latex and BaSO4 and 3% agar were found to perfuse kidneys superiorly to the mixture containing bismuth subsalicylate. Finally, in cadaver heads, the mixture containing BaSO4, agar, and fluorescein was found to perfuse the smallest vasculature.

Conclusion A final combination of BaSO4, 3% agar, and fluorescein proves to be a powerful and novel combination enabling CT imaging, fluorescence imaging, and dissection of vasculature. This paves the way for future translational research and education.
Long-term Results of Two Different Surgical Techniques Used in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: Ercan Serdar , Ataizi Zeki Serdar
Published: March 2021

Objective Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), the compression of the median nerve under the carpal ligament, is the most common peripheral nerve entrapment of the upper extremity. While conservative treatment is used for patients with mild and moderate symptoms, surgical treatment is preferred for severe symptoms. The aim of the study is to evaluate the difference between transverse and longitudinal incision by comparing postoperative pain and recurrence rates.

Methods The patients were divided into two groups according to the surgical incision type. Surgical intervention was applied to patients in group T (transverse incision) and group L (longitudinal incision) by the same two surgeons in each group. All patients were followed-up with electromyography (EMG) and performance scale before and after surgical treatment. If the postoperative EMG result was similar to the preoperative EMG result, it was accepted as recurrent CTS.

Results A total of 418 patients were included to the study. Six patients in the group T with transverse incision, and 18 patients in the group L with longitudinal incision, were reoperated for an average of 6 ± 2 months after the primary surgery.

Conclusion Complications are less, and recurrent nerve compression is less in longitudinal approach, since surgical intervention is performed by seeing the median nerve directly.
Correction: Primary and secondary school teachers’ perceptions of their social science training needs
Authors: Sánchez-Ibáñez Raquel , Guerrero-Romera Catalina , Miralles-Martínez Pedro
Published: March 2021

A Correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-021-00740-x
Absolute x-ray calibration of a gated x-ray framing camera for the Laser MegaJoule facility in the 0.1 keV–1 keV spectral range
Authors: Hubert S. , Boubault F.
Published: March 2021

X-ray framing cameras (XRFCs) are routinely used at the Laser MegaJoule facility in x-ray imaging plasma diagnostics around the target chamber. Most of these diagnostics are based on multilayer x-ray toroidal mirrors under grazing incidence. The absolute calibration of the XRFCs is expressly expected both to optimize the signal-to-noise ratio for the dynamic range for specific experiments and to quantitatively process the data. The purpose of this paper is to describe our technique to routinely calibrate these instruments in the sub-keV spectral range. The calibration presented in this work was carried out using the XRFC enclosed in a sealed “airbox” structure. This calibration relies on a Manson source recently upgraded to operate at high emission current (5 mA) with 10 kV accelerating voltage to work with a 1-m grazing-incidence Rowland circle monochromator. The framing camera sensitivity was absolutely determined over the 0.1–1.2 spectral range with an average uncertainty of 2.4% rms while operating in DC mode. Finally, we compare the results with a synchrotron source calibration previously obtained and a theoretical model.
Studies of laser-plasma interaction physics with low-density targets for direct-drive inertial confinement fusion on the Shenguang III prototype
Authors: Tikhonchuk V. T. , Gong T. , Jourdain N. , Renner O. , Condamine F. P. , Pan K. Q. , Nazarov W. , Hudec L. , Limpouch J. , Liska R. , Krůs M. , Wang F. , Yang D. , Li S. W. , Li Z. C. , Guan Z. Y. , Liu Y. G. , Xu T. , Peng X. S. , Liu X. M. , Li Y. L. , Li J. , Song T. M. , Yang J. M. , Jiang S. E. , Zhang B. H. , Huo W. Y. , Ren G. , Chen Y. H. , Zheng W. , Ding Y. K. , Lan K. , Weber S.
Published: March 2021

The physics of laser-plasma interaction is studied on the Shenguang III prototype laser facility under conditions relevant to inertial confinement fusion designs. A sub-millimeter-size underdense hot plasma is created by ionization of a low-density plastic foam by four high-energy (3.2 kJ) laser beams. An interaction beam is fired with a delay permitting evaluation of the excitation of parametric instabilities at different stages of plasma evolution. Multiple diagnostics are used for plasma characterization, scattered radiation, and accelerated electrons. The experimental results are analyzed with radiation hydrodynamic simulations that take account of foam ionization and homogenization. The measured level of stimulated Raman scattering is almost one order of magnitude larger than that measured in experiments with gasbags and hohlraums on the same installation, possibly because of a greater plasma density. Notable amplification is achieved in high-intensity speckles, indicating the importance of implementing laser temporal smoothing techniques with a large bandwidth for controlling laser propagation and absorption.
Viscoelastic flow in a curved duct with rectangular cross section over a wide range of Dean number
Authors: Sun Xuyang , Wang Shaowei , Zhao Moli
Published: March 2021

The incompressible flow of a Maxwell fluid through a curved duct with a rectangular cross section is numerically investigated over a wide range of the Dean number and curvature of the duct. Unsteady solutions, such as periodic, multi-periodic, and chaotic solutions, are obtained by using the spectral method. The combined effects of the large Dean number, Deborah number, and curvature on fluid flow behaviors are discussed in detail. It is found that increasing the Deborah number accelerates the occurrence of the four-cell structure of secondary flow no matter what the Dean number is. Periodic solutions are found to appear for the case of a smaller Dean number due to the presence of elasticity. The periodic solution turns to a chaotic solution if the Dean number is further increased. The chaotic solution is weak for a smaller Deborah number, while it becomes strong for a larger Deborah number. In addition, time evolution calculations at Dn = 300 show that the flow state changes significantly if the curvature δ is increased to be the critical value of the curvature δc = 0.26, while it remains almost unchanged for δ > δc or δ < δc.
Solitary waves in a cometary plasma with heavy dust ion pairs
Authors: S Vineeth , Prabhakar Shruthy , Sebastian Sijo , Abraham Noble P.
Published: March 2021

Multicomponent plasma in an astrophysical environment comprising wind electrons, cometary electrons, positive and negative dust ions, and lighter hydrogen ions was studied earlier by a pseudo-potential approach. The coma of comet Halley is reported to comprise many heavier positive and negative ions. Thus, we generalize the soliton solution for a plasma consisting of multiple pair-ion dust species. Heavier atomic and molecular ions are considered as dust ions in this model. The lighter ions and electrons are modeled by Kappa distribution. We find that the presence of multiple dust pair ions enhances soliton amplitude. The effect of the temperature and density of lighter ions gives insight into the switching of compressive and rarefractive nature of the solutions. The compressive and rarefractive regimes of these solitary waves are analyzed and reported for the first time.
MBE growth and donor doping of coherent ultrawide bandgap AlGaN alloy layers on single-crystal AlN substrates
Authors: Lee Kevin , Page Ryan , Protasenko Vladimir , Schowalter Leo J. , Toita Masato , Xing Huili Grace , Jena Debdeep
Published: March 2021

Single-crystal Aluminum Nitride (AlN) crystals enable the epitaxial growth of ultrawide bandgap Al(Ga)N alloys with drastically lower extended defect densities. Here, we report the plasma-MBE growth conditions for high Al-composition AlGaN alloys on single-crystal AlN substrates. An AlGaN growth guideline map is developed, leading to pseudomorphic AlxGa1−xN epitaxial layers with x ∼0.6–1.0 Al contents at a growth rate of ∼0.3 μm/h. These epitaxial layers exhibit atomic steps, indicating step flow epitaxial growth, and room-temperature band edge emission from ∼4.5 to 5.9 eV. Growth conditions are identified in which the background impurity concentrations of O, C, Si, and H in the MBE layers are found to be very near or below detection limits. An interesting Si segregation and gettering behavior is observed at the epitaxial AlGaN/AlN heterojunction with significant implications for the formation and transport of 2D electron or hole gases. Well-controlled intentional Si doping ranging from ∼2 × 1017 to 3 × 1019 atoms/cm3 is obtained, with sharp dopant density transition profiles. In Si-doped Al0.6Ga0.4N epilayers, a room-temperature free electron concentration of ∼3 × 1019/cm3, an electron mobility of ∼27 cm2/V s, and an n-type resistivity of ∼7.5 m Ω cm are obtained. The implications of these findings on electronic and photonic devices on single-crystal AlN substrates are discussed.
Sensing of temperature through magnetooptical domain wall susceptibility
Authors: Klingbeil F. , Stölting S. D. , McCord J.
Published: March 2021

Temperature measurements are vital in laboratory and industry settings. We demonstrate magnetooptical measurement schemes to relate magnetic and micromagnetic features to temperature sensing using magnetooptical active iron garnet films. A particular focus is on a temperature measurement scheme based on changes in the magnetic domain wall susceptibility, analyzing the resulting magnetooptical signal amplitude in a magnetic modulation field. The range of application is limited by the Néel temperature of the sensing garnet material. Temperatures are perceived with an accuracy of below 0.1 °C from the changes in the magnetooptical domain wall response. The thin film sensor element features additionally high sensitivity magnetic field and electrical current sensing capabilities, allowing for multi-functional sensor applications.
Limit of the buoyancy ratio in Boussinesq approximation for double-diffusive convection in binary mixture
Authors: Hamimid Saber , Guellal Messaoud , Bouafia Madiha
Published: March 2021

This paper deals with a mathematical and numerical investigation of double-diffusive natural convective heat and mass transfer in a cavity filled with Newtonian fluid with significant density and mass diffusivity changes. In such a situation, the assumption of the Boussinesq approximation is not justified, and an appropriate model based on a set of Low Mach Number equations is used. The active parts of two vertical walls of the cavity are maintained at fixed but different temperatures and concentrations, while the other two walls, as well as inactive areas of the sidewalls, are considered to be adiabatic and impermeable to mass transfer. The coupled momentum, energy, and solute transfer equations in binary mixtures of ideal gases are solved through a global iterative procedure based on the finite volume methods in the context of the low Mach number approximation. The study includes the effect of the buoyancy ratio N with the aim to find its application limit in the Boussinesq conditions. The results show that if we use the Boussinesq approximation to study double-diffusive convection, the value of parameter N must be between −6 and 27.
Wave focusing and related multiple dispersion transitions in plane Poiseuille flows
Authors: Fraternale F. , Nastro G. , Tordella D.
Published: March 2021

Motivated by the recent discovery of a dispersive-to-nondispersive transition for linear waves in shear flows, we accurately explored the wavenumber-Reynolds number parameter map of the plane Poiseuille flow in the limit of least-damped waves. We have discovered the existence of regions of the map where the dispersion and propagation features vary significantly from their surroundings. These regions are nested in the dispersive, low-wavenumber part of the map. This complex dispersion scenario demonstrates the existence of linear dispersive focusing in wave envelopes evolving out of an initial, spatially localized, three-dimensional perturbation. An asymptotic wave packet's representation, based on the saddle-point method, allows to enlighten the nature of the packet's morphology, in particular, the arrow-shaped structure and spatial spreading rates. A correlation is also highlighted between the regions of largest dispersive focusing and the regions which are most subject to strong nonlinear coupling in observations.
Numerical simulation and detection of dry-type air-core reactor temperature field based on laminar–turbulent model
Authors: Li Chuan , Wang Han , Luo Chuan , Zhang Dacheng , Wan Xiaorong , Zhao Zhengang , Li Yingna
Published: March 2021

The hot-spot temperature of a dry-type air-core reactor is a crucial factor that determines the service life of the reactor. Although the environment elevation has a significant influence on the reactor’s heat dissipation performance and hot-spot temperature, studies seldom focus on the temperature distribution for different altitude scenarios. To this end, this paper proposes a temperature field simulation model with multi-parameter coupling constraints based on the laminar–turbulent flow state. The calculation of the temperature field with the hot-spot temperature at different altitudes is finally achieved. The simulation results show that the hot-spot is located at 6.3% from the top of the sixth encapsulated-winding. It also shows that the hot-spot temperature of the reactor increases by 5 K–11 K with the altitude ascending by 1 km. Moreover, the hot-spot temperature of the reactor exceeds the temperature index at an altitude of 3.25 km, which will result in a shortened service life. Fiber Bragg grating temperature sensors are embedded in encapsulated-windings to detect the temperature for verifying the validity of the temperature field model, which could provide critical temperature rise evaluation rules for the operation safety of the dry-type air-core reactor.
How is CO2 absorbed into a deep eutectic solvent?
Authors: Alizadeh Vahideh , Esser Lars , Kirchner Barbara
Published: March 2021

Deep eutectic solvents show great potential as CO2 absorbents, which is highly desirable for the sustainable development of CO2 reduction and prevention of global climate changes. Ab initio molecular dynamics simulations in the isothermal–isobaric ensemble at pressures of 1 MPa and 5 MPa and at the corresponding experimental density are carried out to investigate the CO2 absorption in choline chloride: ethylene glycol deep eutectic solvent. Based on the structural analysis, there is a strong anion and hydrogen bond donor effect and a minor cation effect on CO2 solvation in the solvent. Instead of cooperation, a competition between the anion and the hydrogen bond donor (ethylene glycol) for the interaction with CO2 is indicated. While at a lower pressure, the ethylene glycol–CO2 interaction dominates, at a higher pressure, it is the chloride–CO2 interaction. Thus, it is possible to use the same advantages within the deep eutectic solvent as the CO2 absorbent as in ionic liquids, but in the hydrogen bond, a donor can be exploited.
Quantification of the interfacial and bulk contributions to the longitudinal spin Seebeck effect
Authors: Jiménez-Cavero P. , Lucas I. , Bugallo D. , López-Bueno C. , Ramos R. , Algarabel P. A. , Ibarra M. R. , Rivadulla F. , Morellón L.
Published: March 2021

We report the disentanglement of bulk and interfacial contributions to the thermally excited magnon spin current in the spin Seebeck effect under static heating. For this purpose, we have studied the dependence of the inverse spin Hall voltage and the thermal conductivity on the magnetic layer thickness. Knowledge of these quantities allows us to take into account the influence of both sources of thermal spin current in the analysis of the voltage dependence. The magnetic layer thickness modulates the relative magnitude of the involved thermal drops for a fixed total thermal difference throughout the sample. In the end, we attain the separate contributions of both sources of thermal spin current—bulk and interfacial—and obtain the value of the thermal magnon accumulation length scale in maghemite, which we find to be 29(1) nm. According to our results, bulk magnon accumulation dominates the spin Seebeck effect in our studied range of thicknesses, but the interfacial component is by no means negligible.