bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
kma Entscheider Blog: Krankenhausplan NRW - Modell könnte Schule machen
Authors: Heurich Manuel
Published: November 2021

Mit einer mutigen Reform in der Gesundheitspolitik prescht Nordrhein-Westfalen in der Umstrukturierung der Krankenhauslandschaft vor. Welche Auswirkungen die Neuordnung der Krankenhausplanung hat und wie sich Krankenhäuser auf die Chancen und Risiken einstellen können, wird nachfolgend erörtert.
KI für die Intensivstation: Weniger lebensbedrohliche Komplikationen durch digitales Frühwarnsystem
Authors: Hohnstein Aileen
Published: November 2021

Postoperative Nachblutungen zählen gerade in der Herzchirurgie zu den gefährlichsten und am häufigsten auftretenden Komplikationen. Das Medizinprodukt x-c-bleeding kann diese durch Datenanalyse in Echtzeit voraussagen und so dabei helfen, negative Folgen für Patientinnen und Patienten zu verhindern.
Ultraschall to go: Mit Sonde und Smartphone zum Schallen ans Bett
Authors: Heeser Alexandra
Published: November 2021

Bonner Mediziner etablieren ein weltweit neues, leicht tragbares Ultraschallsystem für die Lehre am Krankenbett. Derzeit sind 32 der kleinen Kitteltaschen-Geräte im Einsatz. Die Universität Bonn nutzt damit europaweit das größte Kontingent der US-amerikanischen Ultraschallsysteme von Butterfly.
Angeborene Herzfehler: Fötales Cardio-MRT - das Herz genau im Blick
Authors: März Sigrid
Published: November 2021

Ein MRT-taugliches Ultraschallgerät erleichtert die frühe Diagnose angeborener Herzfehler bereits beim Kind im Mutterleib. Es synchronisiert fötalen Herzschlag und MRT-Aufnahmerate, sodass die Bilder des kleinen Herzens nicht verwackelt, sondern scharf sind. Das soll den jungen Patientinnen und Patienten eine optimale Therapie ermöglichen.
Automatische Zugangskontrolle: Zuverlässiger Infektionsschutz
Authors: Bausback Thilo
Published: November 2021

Konsequente Hygiene und zuverlässiger Infektionsschutz sind für Krankenhäuser obligatorisch. Die anhaltende Corona-Pandemie hat viele Kliniken in dieser Hinsicht vor enorme Herausforderungen gestellt. Die Orthopädischen Fachkliniken der Hessing Stiftung in Augsburg setzen auf eine automatische Zugangskontrolle. Das sorgt für mehr Sicherheit und entlastet die Beschäftigten.
Debattenbeitrag: Krankenhausfinanzierung aus Sicht der Patienten
Authors: Debatin Jörg , Lohmann Heinz
Published: November 2021

Das DRG-System berücksichtigt nicht den nachhaltigen Erfolg einer Behandlung aus Sicht des Patienten. Die Integration von „Patient Related Outcome Measures“ (PROM) sollte die Basis für eine Weiterentwick lung der DRGs hin zu neuen PRGs, also „Patient Related Groups“, sein. Das wäre ein mutiger Schritt nach vorn, der die Rolle der Patienten stärkt.
The dynamics of a four-step feedback procedure to control chaos
Authors: Cánovas Jose S.
Published: November 2021

In this paper, we describe the dynamics of a four-step procedure to control the dynamics of the logistic map fμ(x)=μx(1−x). First, we calculate topological entropy with given accuracy through massive computations. Second, we find the parameter regions where the model has complicated dynamical behavior. Finally, to avoid undesirable dynamics, our computations also show that we should take into account Parrondo’s paradox “simple+simple=complex.”
Local weak solution of the isentropic compressible Navier–Stokes equations
Authors: Huang Xiangdi , Yan Wei
Published: November 2021

Whether the three dimensional isentropic compressible Navier–Stokes equations admit weak solutions for arbitrary initial data with adiabatic exponent γ > 1 remains a challenging problem. The only available results under γ > 1 were achieved by either assuming the initial data with small energy due to Hoff [J. Differ. Equations 120(1), 215–254 (1995)] or under the spherically symmetric condition by Jiang and Zhang [Commun. Math. Phys. 215, 559–581 (2001)] and Huang [J. Differ. Equations 262, 1341–1358 (2017)]. In this paper, we establish the existence of weak solutions with higher regularity of the three-dimensional periodic compressible isentropic Navier–Stokes equations in small time for the adiabatic exponent γ > 1 in the presence of vacuum. It can be viewed as a local version of Hoff’s work and also extends the result of Desjardins [Commun. Partial Differ. Equations 22(5–6), 977–1008 (1997)] by removing the assumption of γ > 3.
63 MeV proton-induced mild displacement effects in long-wave infrared InAs/GaSb type-II superlattice barrier infrared detectors
Authors: Alchaar R. , Bataillon C. , Perez J.-P. , Gilard O. , Christol P.
Published: November 2021

In this work, we investigated the effects of 63 MeV proton irradiation on the electrical performance of long-wave infrared InAs/GaSb type-II superlattice barrier detectors. The dark current density increase due to displacement dose effects does not exceed a factor of 2.6, regardless of the absorber thickness, when measured after a proton fluence of 8×1011 H+/cm2 at 100 K. Subsequent analysis showed that the dark current changes behavior after irradiation, and the dominant current is no longer diffusion but generation–recombination and trap-assisted tunneling. Device simulation also allowed us to extract a minority carrier lifetime before and after irradiation, which decreases with increasing fluence as a result of the 63 MeV proton-induced mild material degradation.
Dynamical invariants for time-dependent real and complex Hamiltonian systems
Authors: Kumar Narender , Bhardwaj S. B. , Kumar Vinod , Singh Ram Mehar , Chand Fakir
Published: November 2021

The Struckmeier and Riedel (SR) approach is extended in real space to isolate dynamical invariants for one- and two-dimensional time-dependent Hamiltonian systems. We further develop the SR-formalism in zz̄ complex phase space characterized by z = x + iy and z̄=x−iy and construct invariants for some physical systems. The obtained quadratic invariants contain a function f2(t), which is a solution of a linear third-order differential equation. We further explore this approach into extended complex phase space defined by x = x1 + ip2 and p = p1 + ix2 to construct a quadratic invariant for a time-dependent quadratic potential. The derived invariants may be of interest in the realm of numerical simulations of explicitly time-dependent Hamiltonian systems.
GaN-based power devices: Physics, reliability, and perspectives
Authors: Meneghini Matteo , De Santi Carlo , Abid Idriss , Buffolo Matteo , Cioni Marcello , Khadar Riyaz Abdul , Nela Luca , Zagni Nicolò , Chini Alessandro , Medjdoub Farid , Meneghesso Gaudenzio , Verzellesi Giovanni , Zanoni Enrico , Matioli Elison
Published: November 2021

Over the last decade, gallium nitride (GaN) has emerged as an excellent material for the fabrication of power devices. Among the semiconductors for which power devices are already available in the market, GaN has the widest energy gap, the largest critical field, and the highest saturation velocity, thus representing an excellent material for the fabrication of high-speed/high-voltage components. The presence of spontaneous and piezoelectric polarization allows us to create a two-dimensional electron gas, with high mobility and large channel density, in the absence of any doping, thanks to the use of AlGaN/GaN heterostructures. This contributes to minimize resistive losses; at the same time, for GaN transistors, switching losses are very low, thanks to the small parasitic capacitances and switching charges. Device scaling and monolithic integration enable a high-frequency operation, with consequent advantages in terms of miniaturization. For high power/high-voltage operation, vertical device architectures are being proposed and investigated, and three-dimensional structures—fin-shaped, trench-structured, nanowire-based—are demonstrating great potential. Contrary to Si, GaN is a relatively young material: trapping and degradation processes must be understood and described in detail, with the aim of optimizing device stability and reliability. This Tutorial describes the physics, technology, and reliability of GaN-based power devices: in the first part of the article, starting from a discussion of the main properties of the material, the characteristics of lateral and vertical GaN transistors are discussed in detail to provide guidance in this complex and interesting field. The second part of the paper focuses on trapping and reliability aspects: the physical origin of traps in GaN and the main degradation mechanisms are discussed in detail. The wide set of referenced papers and the insight into the most relevant aspects gives the reader a comprehensive overview on the present and next-generation GaN electronics.
Tunable coupling scheme for implementing two-qubit gates on fluxonium qubits
Authors: Moskalenko I. N. , Besedin I. S. , Simakov I. A. , Ustinov A. V.
Published: November 2021

A superconducting fluxonium circuit is an RF-superconducting quantum interference device-type flux qubit that uses a large inductance built from an array of Josephson junctions or a high kinetic inductance material. This inductance suppresses charge sensitivity exponentially and flux sensitivity quadratically. In contrast to the transmon qubit, the anharmonicity of fluxonium can be large and positive, allowing for better separation between the low energy qubit manifold of the circuit and higher-lying excited states. Here, we propose a tunable coupling scheme for implementing two-qubit gates on fixed-frequency fluxonium qubits, biased at half flux quantum. In this system, both qubits and couplers are coupled capacitively and implemented as fluxonium circuits with an additional harmonic mode. We investigate the performance of the scheme by simulating a universal two-qubit fSim gate. In the proposed approach, we rely on a planar on-chip architecture for the whole device. Our design is compatible with existing hardware for transmon-based devices with the additional advantage of lower qubit frequency facilitating high-precision gating.
Equation to determine the sizes of various light and heavy metallic nanoparticles prepared by pulsed wire discharge
Authors: Nguyen Hieu Duy , Sasaki Toru , Ngo Chu Minh , Tokoi Yoshinori , Do Thi-Mai-Dung , Nakayama Tadachika , Suematsu Hisayuki , Niihara Koichi
Published: November 2021

By theoretically considering the critical size during homogeneous nucleation and the atomic mass of different metals, the equation to determine the sizes of nanoparticles prepared by pulsed wire discharge (PWD) is revisited. The new equation is successful at predicting the sizes of Mg particles, for which submicrometer particles were previously reported to be prepared by PWD, even though their sizes were substantially larger than those of nanoparticles such as Cu, Ni, Ag, or Pd prepared by PWD. The temperature of the cross section of the plasma/vapor cloud at the midpoint of the wire when the plasma/vapor expansion attained its maximum volume was estimated to be approximately 0.7 times the boiling temperature of Mg and 0.56 times the boiling temperature of Cu, Ni, Ag, and Pd. These estimated temperatures are assumed to be nucleation temperature and can be predicted by the latent heat of vaporization. The critical sizes of the nanoparticles at these temperatures were calculated, which complemented the previously proposed equation for the determination of particle size by Tokoi et al. [Jpn. J. Appl. Phys. 52(5R), 055001 (2013)]. The estimated temperature T during this time was verified by investigating the temporal evolution of the temperature along the radial axis using conventional hydrodynamic equations. Mg and Cu wires were also experimentally discharged for comparison of the plasma/vapor cloud conditions during the time of interest using a high-speed camera. The consistency of the high-speed photographs with the simulation results, along with the validity for different nanoparticles prepared by PWD, confirmed the feasibility of the revisited equation.
Epitaxial type-I and type-II InAs-AlAsSb core–shell nanowires on silicon
Authors: del Giudice Fabio , Fust Sergej , Schmiedeke Paul , Pantle Johannes , Döblinger Markus , Ajay Akhil , Meder Steffen , Riedl Hubert , Finley Jonathan J. , Koblmüller Gregor
Published: November 2021

Low-bandgap semiconductor nanowires (NWs) attract considerable interest for mid-infrared (MIR) photonics and optoelectronics, where ideal candidate materials require surface-passivated core–shell systems with large tunability in band offset, lineup, and emission wavelength while maintaining close lattice-matching conditions. Here, we propose and demonstrate epitaxial InAs–AlAsSb core–shell NW arrays on silicon (Si) that offer exceptional control over both the internal strain close to lattice-matching as well as band lineups tunable between type-I and type-II, with almost no analogue in the III–V materials family. We develop direct monolithic growth of high-uniformity InAs–AlAsSb NWs with wide tunability in shell composition and employ correlated Raman scattering and micro-photoluminescence spectroscopy to elaborate the interplay among hydrostatic strain, band lineup, and emission energy of the NW core luminescence tuned from ∼0.4 to 0.55 eV. Electronic structure calculations further support the experimentally observed tunability between type-I and type-II band lineups. The Si-integrated InAs-AlAsSb NW materials system holds large prospects not only for on-chip MIR photonics but also for other applications including high-speed transistors and NW-based hot carrier solar cells.
On simulating the dynamics of electronic populations and coherences via quantum master equations based on treating off-diagonal electronic coupling terms as a small perturbation
Authors: Lai Yifan , Geva Eitan
Published: November 2021

Quantum master equations provide a general framework for describing the dynamics of electronic observables within a complex molecular system. One particular family of such equations is based on treating the off-diagonal coupling terms between electronic states as a small perturbation within the framework of second-order perturbation theory. In this paper, we show how different choices of projection operators, as well as whether one starts out with the time-convolution or the time-convolutionless forms of the generalized quantum master equation, give rise to four different types of such off-diagonal quantum master equations (OD-QMEs), namely, time-convolution and time-convolutionless versions of a Pauli-type OD-QME for only the electronic populations and an OD-QME for the full electronic density matrix (including both electronic populations and coherences). The fact that those OD-QMEs are given in terms of the interaction picture makes it non-trivial to obtain Schrödinger picture electronic coherences from them. To address this, we also extend a procedure for extracting Schrödinger picture electronic coherences from interaction picture populations recently introduced by Trushechkin in the context of time-convolutionless Pauli-type OD-QME to the other three types of OD-QMEs. The performance of the aforementioned four types of OD-QMEs is explored in the context of the Garg–Onuchic–Ambegaokar benchmark model for charge transfer in the condensed phase across a relatively wide parameter range. The results show that time-convolution OD-QMEs can be significantly more accurate than their time-convolutionless counterparts, particularly in the case of Pauli-type OD-QMEs, and that rather accurate Schrödinger picture coherences can be obtained from interaction picture electronic inputs.
Synchronization in multiplex models of neuron–glial systems: Small-world topology and inhibitory coupling
Authors: Makovkin Sergey , Laptyeva Tetyana , Jalan Sarika , Ivanchenko Mikhail
Published: November 2021

In this work, we investigate the impact of mixed coupling on synchronization in a multiplex oscillatory network. The network mimics the neural–glial systems by incorporating interacting slow (“glial”) and fast (“neural”) oscillatory layers. Connections between the “glial” elements form a regular periodic structure, in which each element is connected to the eight other neighbor elements, whereas connections among “neural” elements are represented by Watts–Strogatz networks (from regular and small-world to random Erdös–Rényi graph) with a matching mean node degree. We find that the random rewiring toward small-world topology readily yields the dynamics close to that exhibited for a completely random graph, in particular, leading to coarse-graining of dynamics, suppressing multi-stability of synchronization regimes, and the onset of Kuramoto-type synchrony in both layers. The duration of transient dynamics in the system measured by relaxation times is minimized with the increase of random connections in the neural layer, remaining substantial only close to synchronization–desynchronization transitions. “Inhibitory” interactions in the “neural” subnetwork layer undermine synchronization; however, the strong coupling with the “glial” layer overcomes this effect.
Artificial synaptic device and neural network based on the FeGa/PMN-PT/FeGa memtranstor
Authors: Shen Jian-Xin , Li Hang , Wang Wen-Hong , Wang Shou-Guo , Sun Young
Published: November 2021

The memtranstors employing the magnetoelectric effects have the great potential to develop artificial synaptic devices. We have fabricated a memtranstor made of the FeGa/PMN-PT/FeGa multiferroic heterostructure and used it to mimic the functions of synapses. The magnetoelectric voltage of the device can be continuously tuned by applying a train of electric-field pulses. Consequently, synaptic plasticity, including the long-term potentiation, long-term depression, and spiking-time-dependent plasticity, has been demonstrated in the memtranstor at room temperature. Simulations on a neural network made of an array of the memtranstors reveal the capability of pattern learning with a high accuracy.
A new generation of diagonal self-energies for the calculation of electron removal energies
Authors: Opoku Ernest , Pawłowski Filip , Ortiz J. V.
Published: November 2021

A new generation of diagonal self-energy approximations in ab initio electron propagator theory for the calculation of electron removal energies of molecules and molecular ions has been derived from an intermediately normalized, Hermitized super-operator metric. These methods and widely used antecedents such as the outer valence Green’s function and the approximately renormalized partial third order method are tested with respect to a dataset of vertical ionization energies generated with a valence, triple-ζ, correlation-consistent basis set and a converged series of many-body calculations whose accuracy approaches that of full configuration interaction. Several modifications of the diagonal second-order self-energy, a version of G0W0 theory based on Tamm–Dancoff excitations and several non-diagonal self-energies are also included in the tests. All new methods employ canonical Hartree–Fock orbitals. No adjustable or empirical parameters appear. A hierarchy of methods with optimal accuracy for a given level of computational efficiency is established. Several widely used diagonal self-energy methods are rendered obsolete by the new hierarchy whose members, in order of increasing accuracy, are (1) the opposite-spin non-Dyson diagonal second-order or os-nD-D2, (2) the approximately renormalized third-order quasiparticle or Q3+, (3) the renormalized third-order quasiparticle or RQ3, (4) the approximately renormalized linear third-order or L3+, and (5) the renormalized linear third-order or RL3 self-energies.
Low-cost and cleanroom-free prototyping of microfluidic and electrochemical biosensors: Techniques in fabrication and bioconjugation
Authors: Mohd Asri Mohd Afiq , Nordin Anis Nurashikin , Ramli Nabilah
Published: November 2021

Integrated microfluidic biosensors enable powerful microscale analyses in biology, physics, and chemistry. However, conventional methods for fabrication of biosensors are dependent on cleanroom-based approaches requiring facilities that are expensive and are limited in access. This is especially prohibitive toward researchers in low- and middle-income countries. In this topical review, we introduce a selection of state-of-the-art, low-cost prototyping approaches of microfluidics devices and miniature sensor electronics for the fabrication of sensor devices, with focus on electrochemical biosensors. Approaches explored include xurography, cleanroom-free soft lithography, paper analytical devices, screen-printing, inkjet printing, and direct ink writing. Also reviewed are selected surface modification strategies for bio-conjugates, as well as examples of applications of low-cost microfabrication in biosensors. We also highlight several factors for consideration when selecting microfabrication methods appropriate for a project. Finally, we share our outlook on the impact of these low-cost prototyping strategies on research and development. Our goal for this review is to provide a starting point for researchers seeking to explore microfluidics and biosensors with lower entry barriers and smaller starting investment, especially ones from low resource settings.
Switchable valley polarization and quantum anomalous Hall state in the VN2X2Y2 nanosheets (X = group-III and Y = group-VI elements)
Authors: Wang Yanli , Ding Yi
Published: November 2021

Motivated by the recent synthesis of MA2Z4 family materials, we perform a first-principles investigation on the structural stability and electronic properties of VN2X2Y2 nanosheets (X = B-Ga, Y = O-Te), which are the isostructural and isoelectronic analogues of the VSi2N4 system. We find that among the 16 possible III–VI combinations, there are four XY compositions, i.e., XY = BO, BS, AlO, and GaO, that can form stable VN2X2Y2 nanosheets with robust dynamic and thermal stabilities. Intrinsic ferromagnetism appears in these VN2X2Y2 nanosheets, among which the VN2B2S2 and VN2Ga2O2 ones possess an easy out-of-plane magnetization. Thus, unlike the VSi2N4 system, the VN2B2S2 and VN2Ga2O2 nanosheets exhibit spontaneous valley polarization with a sizeable polarization value in the bottom conduction band. Through the strain modulation, the valley polarization can be switched from the bottom conduction band to the top valence band, which is closely related to the strain-induced band inversion. Due to the existence of valley polarization, the band inversion occurs at different strains for the two valleys. Therefore, in the critical strain region, an intriguing quantum anomalous Hall state is present in the strained VN2X2Y2 nanosheets, which is characterized by a nonzero Chern number of C = 1. Such nontrivial topology is further confirmed by a quantized Hall conductance and a single gapless edge state in the bulk gap. Our study demonstrates as the cousin of MA2Z4 materials, the III–VI VN2X2Y2 nanosheets possess robust structural stability, peculiar electronic and topological properties, which have potential applications in electronics, spintronics, and valleytronics.
Electrical conductivity in oxygen-substituted SrTiO3-δ films
Authors: Tyunina M. , Savinov M. , Dejneka A.
Published: November 2021

Enhancement of electrical conductivity in fundamentally insulating ABO3 perovskite oxide ferroelectrics is crucial for innovative applications in resistive switching, photovoltaics, and catalysis. One of the methods to raise conductivity in bulk crystals or ceramics relies on the possibility to remove and/or substitute oxygen atoms. Here, we explored this approach for thin films of the representative perovskite oxide SrTiO3. Small-signal AC conductivity was investigated in epitaxial and polycrystalline films, where oxygen vacancies (VO), nitrogen (N), or hydrogen (H) were introduced in situ during film growth. Hopping mechanism of conductivity was evidenced by the observed strong growth of AC conductivity with temperature, frequency, and AC voltage in all films. Small polarons were identified as charge carriers. Oxygen vacancies/substitutions were suggested to facilitate hopping probability by generating sites for carrier localization. Important ferroelectric devices were proposed to benefit from the revealed hopping conductivity owing to its unique increase with an electric field.
Two-terminal current-in-plane giant magnetoresistance devices driven by the spin–orbit torque
Authors: Dong Yiqing , Xu Teng , Jiang Wanjun
Published: November 2021

Spin valve effect driven by current-induced spin–orbit torques can help to realize electrically controllable and miniaturized two terminal spintronic devices. Here, we show that in a perpendicularly magnetized Fe1−x1Tbx1/Pt/Fe1−x2Tbx2 spin-valve multilayer, spin currents from dual surfaces of the inserted Pt layer can be used to generate spin torques that can separately switch the adjacent ferrimagnetic Fe1−xTbx layers. In a two-terminal device, we further show that the accompanied parallel and anti-parallel magnetization configurations between the two Fe1−xTbx layers can lead to the observation of the current-in-plane giant magnetoresistance (CIP-GMR). Our results demonstrate that the current-induced spin–orbit torques can be implemented into two-terminal spin-torque devices, which can be electrically read out by the CIP-GMR. The present study could be important for designing miniaturized spintronic devices.
Geometric frustration produces long-sought Bose metal phase of quantum matter
Authors: Hegg Anthony , Hou Jinning , Ku Wei
Published: November 2021

Significance

Traditional bosonic lore is dictated by the binary dynamics of perfect flow or no flow. In recent decades, empirical observations support the unexpected phenomenon of bosons exhibiting dissipative transport at low temperature. Several specialized theories attempt to explain this surprising phenomenon, but a universal theory more representative of experimental observations is lacking. We propose a scenario in which frustration confines the low-energy transport to a lower dimension. The result is a failed insulator state where gapless insulating behavior exhibits dissipative transport at finite temperature or through weak disorder. This result modifies our fundamental understanding of bosons by producing a phase of quantum matter intervening between superfluid and insulator.
A regulatory network of microRNAs confers lineage commitment during early developmental trajectories of B and T lymphocytes
Authors: Nikhat Sameena , Yadavalli Anurupa D. , Prusty Arpita , Narayan Priyanka K. , Palakodeti Dasaradhi , Murre Cornelis , Pongubala Jagan M. R.
Published: November 2021

Significance

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a family of noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression by posttranscriptional mechanisms. They are important for cell differentiation and were found to be misregulated in several immune disorders. However, the genes regulated by miRNAs during lymphocyte development remain largely unknown. Here, we show that miRNAs are conserved between early–B and early–T cells, but they target genes associated with natural killer, dendritic cell, and myeloid lineages in a cell type–specific manner. Knockdown and overexpression studies show miRNAs play an important role in the sustenance of lineage-specific gene expression programs and thereby enforce lymphoid cell-fate commitment. These studies provide insights into the role of miRNAs in the maintenance of lineage identity and regulation of cell-fate decisions.
How the interplay of molecular and colloidal scales controls drying of microgel dispersions
Authors: Roger Kevin , Crassous Jérôme J.
Published: November 2021

Significance

Microgel aqueous dispersions are shown to display drying behavior in between that of a colloidal dispersion and a polymer solution. Like a colloidal dispersion, drying proceeds through the propagation of a drying front separating a dense film from the dispersion’s bulk. However, microgels are able to deform, interpenetrate, and deswell, which allows them to compact further than hard-sphere close packing, similarly to polymers. A steep and complex water gradient thus exists throughout the film, along which both water activity and water transport strongly decrease toward the air/liquid interface. The weak influence of the air relative humidity on the drying process illustrates the interplay between water activity and water transport, which stems from water deprivation in mesostructures at the air/liquid interface.
Regulation of neuronal excitation–transcription coupling by Kv2.1-induced clustering of somatic L-type Ca
2+
channels at ER-PM junctions
Authors: Vierra Nicholas C. , O’Dwyer Samantha C. , Matsumoto Collin , Santana L. Fernando , Trimmer James S.
Published: November 2021

Significance

In hippocampal neurons, gene expression is triggered by electrical activity and Ca
2+
entry via L-type Cav1.2 channels in a process called excitation–transcription coupling. We identified a domain on the voltage-gated K
+
channel Kv2.1 that promotes the clustering of L-type Cav1.2 channels at endoplasmic reticulum–plasma membrane junctions in the soma of neurons. Importantly, we discovered by disrupting this domain that the Kv2.1-mediated clustering of Cav1.2 at this somatic microdomain is critical for depolarization-induced excitation–transcription coupling.
Plastic waste release caused by COVID-19 and its fate in the global ocean
Authors: Peng Yiming , Wu Peipei , Schartup Amina T. , Zhang Yanxu
Published: November 2021

Significance

Plastic waste causes harm to marine life and has become a major global environmental concern. The recent COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increased demand for single-use plastic, intensifying pressure on this already out-of-control problem. This work shows that more than eight million tons of pandemic-associated plastic waste have been generated globally, with more than 25,000 tons entering the global ocean. Most of the plastic is from medical waste generated by hospitals that dwarfs the contribution from personal protection equipment and online-shopping package material. This poses a long-lasting problem for the ocean environment and is mainly accumulated on beaches and coastal sediments. We call for better medical waste management in pandemic epicenters, especially in developing countries.
Enhanced mechanical properties of Mg–Ni–xRE alloys via hot extrusion
Authors: Rezaei Moghadam Mahdi , Malekan Mehdi , Emamy Massoud , Mirzadeh Hamed
Published: November 2021

The effects of mischmetal addition and hot working on the enhancement of microstructure and mechanical properties of Mg–Ni alloys were studied. It was revealed that grain refinement could be achieved by introducing rare earth (RE) elements in the as-cast condition, and more pronouncedly, by the extrusion process in the wrought condition. While the formation of intergranular brittle phases via RE addition impaired the as-cast mechanical properties, the remarkable grain refinement and fragmentation and dispersion of intermetallic particles significantly improved the mechanical properties in the extruded condition. The ultimate tensile strength and total elongation of the extruded Mg–1.5Ni–3RE alloy with an average grain size of 3.18 μm (347 MPa and 9%) were much larger than those for the as-cast counterpart (140 MPa and 3%).
Shared and specific functions of Arfs 1–5 at the Golgi revealed by systematic knockouts
Authors: Pennauer Mirjam , Buczak Katarzyna , Prescianotto-Baschong Cristina , Spiess Martin
Published: November 2021

ADP-ribosylation factors (Arfs) are small GTPases regulating membrane traffic in the secretory pathway. They are closely related and appear to have overlapping functions, regulators, and effectors. The functional specificity of individual Arfs and the extent of redundancy are still largely unknown. We addressed these questions by CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genomic deletion of the human class I (Arf1/3) and class II (Arf4/5) Arfs, either individually or in combination. Most knockout cell lines were viable with slight growth defects only when lacking Arf1 or Arf4. However, Arf1+4 and Arf4+5 could not be deleted simultaneously. Class I Arfs are nonessential, and Arf4 alone is sufficient for viability. Upon Arf1 deletion, the Golgi was enlarged, and recruitment of vesicle coats decreased, confirming a major role of Arf1 in vesicle formation at the Golgi. Knockout of Arf4 caused secretion of ER-resident proteins, indicating specific defects in coatomer-dependent ER protein retrieval by KDEL receptors. The knockout cell lines will be useful tools to study other Arf-dependent processes.
Fringe removal algorithms for atomic absorption images: A survey
Authors: Lei Gaoyi , Tang Chencheng , Zhai Yueyang
Published: November 2021

The fringe noises disrupt the precise measurement of the atom distribution in the process of the absorption images. The fringe removal algorithms have been proposed to reconstruct the ideal reference images of the absorption images to remove the fringe noises. However, the focus of these fringe removal algorithms is the association of the fringe removal performance with the physical systems, leaving the gap to analyze the workflows of different fringe removal algorithms. This survey reviews the fringe removal algorithms and classifies them into two categories: the image-decomposition based methods and the deep-learning based methods. Then this survey draws the workflow details of two classical fringe removal algorithms, and conducts experiments on the absDL ultracold image dataset. Experiments show that the singular value decomposition (SVD) method achieves outstanding performance, and the U-net method succeeds in implying the image inpainting idea. The main contribution of this survey is the interpretation of the fringe removal algorithms, which may help readers have a better understanding of the research status. Codes in this survey are available at https://github.com/leigaoyi/Atomic_Fringe_Denoise.
Spatial and temporal distribution characteristics of ground-level nitrogen dioxide and ozone across China during 2015–2020
Authors: Li Yanfen , Shi Guitao , Chen Zhenlou
Published: November 2021

In recent years, the emissions control in nitrogen oxides (NO
x
) was conducted across China, but how the concentrations of NO
x
and its product ozone (O3) in the atmosphere varied in space and time remains uncertain. Here, the spatial and temporal distributions of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and O3 in 348 cities of China based on the hourly concentrations data during 2015–2020 were investigated, and the relationships among NO2, O3 and meteorological and socioeconomic parameters were explored. It is shown that higher NO2 and O3 concentrations were mainly distributed in North, East and Central China, which are economically developed and densely populated regions. The annual mean concentrations of NO2 increased from 2015 to 2017 but decreased from 2017 to 2020. The annual variations in O3 generally exhibited an upward trend in 2015–2019 but decreased by 5% from 2019 to 2020. About 74% and 78% of cities had a decline in NO2 and O3 in 2020, respectively, compared to 2019, due to the limits of the motorized transports and industrial production activities during COVID-19 lockdown. The monthly mean concentrations of NO2 showed an unusual decrease in February in all regions due to the reduced emissions during the Chinese Spring Festival holidays. Compared to 2019, the mean concentrations of NO2 in January, February and March, 2020 during COVID-19 lockdown decreased by 16%, 28% and 20%, respectively; O3 increased by 13% and 14% in January and February, respectively, but decreased by 2% in March, 2020. NO2 and O3 concentrations are likely associated with anthropogenic and natural emissions. In addition, meteorological parameters can affect NO2 and O3 concentrations by influencing the production process, the diffusion and local accumulation, and the regional circulations.
Position-dependent mass in strong quantum gravitational background fields
Authors: Lawson Latévi Mohamed
Published: November 2021

More recently, we have proposed a set of noncommutative space that describes the quantum gravity at the Planck scale (2020 J. Phys. A: Math. Theor.
53 115303). The interesting significant result we found is that, the generalized uncertainty principle induces a maximal measurable length of quantum gravity. This measurement revealed strong quantum gravitational effects at this scale and predicted a detection of gravity particles with low energies. In the present paper, to make evidence this prediction, we study in this space, the dynamics of a particle with position-dependent mass (PDM) trapped in an infinite square well. We show that, by increasing the quantum gravitational effect, the PDM of the particle increases and induces deformations of the quantum energy levels. These deformations are more pronounced as one increases the quantum levels allowing, the particle to jump from one state to another with low energies and with high probability densities.
Effect of fungicidal agents on the initial growth of spring wheat plants
Authors: Timofeev VN , Vyushina O A , Ramazanova V S
Published: November 2021

This study provides a comparative assessment of the effectiveness of active ingredients of fungicidal preparations and in a mixture with organomineral fertilizers on reducing the infection of seed and the germination of spring wheat plants in the initial phases of ontogenesis. For the research, on 8 different combinations of active ingredients fungicides in pure form and in a mixture with organomineral fertilizer. The application of fungicide did not affect the seed growth energy, but in most cases the germination rate increased by 4%. Seed dressing had a retardant effect on germination of the plant’s organs, and the fertiliser stimulating effect was shown in Variant 1 (Protioconazole + Tebuconazole + fertiliser). The efficiency of disinfectants against seed diseases reached 96% against general contamination and 56-93% against pathogenic microflora, and in a mixture with organomineral fertilizer, the efficiency is reduced by 13%. High and stable efficiency was manifested in drugs based on the active substances Tebuconazole + Flutriafol (80 + 80 g/l). Protioconazole + Tebuconazole (250+150 g/l) with net efficiency of 83-93%. As a result of the research, the effect of pickling with fungicides was determined on the basis of various combinations of active substances in pure form and with the addition of organomineral fertilizer as a growth stimulator.
The effect of carbon dioxide on the production of potato minitubers under aeroponic cultivation
Authors: Papikhin R V , Rukhov A V , Pugacheva G M , Muratova S A , Chusova N S , Nikonov K G
Published: November 2021

The paper presents data on the effect of additional top dressing of potato plants with CO2 at a concentration of 2500 ppm cultivated in aeroponic plants. It was found that the increased concentration of CO2 provides better development of plant shoots (128.6%) and the root system (120.1%) relative to the control: a larger yield (123.7%) with a larger fraction of minicubes is formed, and the number of plants capable of producing 1100-1600 g of minicubes during the cultivation period increases. Additional feeding of CO2 at a concentration of 2500 ppm leads to an increase in the mass of plants, which occurs not due to increased hydration of tissues, but due to the accumulation of dry substances.
Gluten-free products from chickpea flour
Authors: Necheporuk A G , Tretyakova E N , Danilin S I , Toporkova K I , Pershikova A G
Published: November 2021

The paper discusses the possibility of the expansion of the range of flour culinary products for a gluten-free diet using chickpea flour. The analysis of the chemical composition of wheat and chickpea flour, as well as the glycemic index of all components of the recipe of the developed flour culinary product is presented. The possibility of partial and complete replacement of wheat flour with chickpea flour with the addition of caraway, lemon peel and potato starch is studied. It is found that the inclusion of lemon peel in the composition of chickpea flour pancakes improves not only the organoleptic characteristics of products, but also reduces its total energy content, while expanding the range of products included in a gluten-free diet.
Study of toxic elements in propolis
Authors: Vakhonina E A , Lapynina E P , Lizunova A S
Published: November 2021

There is a threat of heavy metals and toxic elements entering the beekeeping products in relation to the deterioration of the ecological situation. In this regard, a study of one of the most popular beekeeping products, propolis, from the territory of two regions of Russia (Ryazan Oblast and Krasnodar Krai) for the level of Pb, Cd, Sr and the toxic element As was undertaken. The studies were made from 2004 to 2019. The amount of elements was determined spectrophotometrically with an atomic absorption spectrophotometer Spectr AA 220FS. Lead, cadmium and strontium levels were determined using an air-acetylene flame on a gas atomizer. The level of arsenic was determined on a graphite oven of a spectrophotometer using a palladium modifier made by “Mersk”. The lead level in propolis was from 0 to 0.19 mg/kg that exceeds the threshold limit value by a factor of 1.2-12.3. The concentration of cadmium, strontium, arsenic in the studied propolis samples does not exceed the threshold limit value: 0-0.164 mg/kg, 2.1-21.01 mg/kg, 0-1.04 μm/kg, respectively. The accumulated experimental data indicate the need to adjust the threshold limit value (SanPiN 2.3.2. 1078-01) of lead level in propolis. The dynamics of propolis pollution with toxic elements was evaluated in the course of the research. The results of this evaluation confirmed the possibility of using propolis as a bioindicator of environmental pollution with heavy metals and toxic elements. It is necessary to monitor the propolis safety to determine its level of contamination with heavy metals and toxic elements, when using it as a source of biologically active compounds and as a raw material for Pharmacy (making extracts, tablets, ointments, syrups, suppositories, plasters).
Zooming in on the cell biology of disease
Authors: Perera Rushika M.
Published: November 2021

Today’s cell biology could be considered a fusion of disciplines that blends advanced genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry, and engineering to answer fundamental as well as medically relevant scientific questions. Accordingly, our understanding of diseases is greatly aided by an existing vast knowledge base of fundamental cell biology. Gunter Blobel captured this concept when he said, “the tremendous acquisition of basic knowledge will allow a much more rational treatment of cancer, viral infection, degenerative disease and mental disease.” In other words, without cell biology can we truly understand, prevent, or effectively treat a disease?
Effect of p18 on endothelial barrier function by mediating vascular endothelial Rab11a-VE-cadherin recycling
Authors: Xu Bo-Wen , Cheng Zhi-Qiang , Zhi Xu-Ting , Yang Xiao-Mei , Yan Zhi-Bo
Published: November 2021

Endothelial barrier integrity requires recycling of VE-cadherin to adherens junctions. Both p18 and Rab11a play significant roles in VE-cadherin recycling. However, the underlying mechanism and the role of p18 in activating Rab11a have yet to be elucidated. Performing in vitro and in vivo experiments, we showed that p18 protein bound to VE-cadherin before Rab11a through its VE-cadherin-binding domain (aa 1-39). Transendothelial resistance showed that overexpression of p18 promoted the circulation of VE-cadherin to adherens junctions and the recovery of the endothelial barrier. Silencing of p18 caused endothelial barrier dysfunction and prevented Rab11a-positive recycling endosome accumulation in the perinuclear recycling compartments. Furthermore, p18 knockdown in pulmonary microvessels markedly increased vascular leakage in mice challenged with lipopolysaccharide and cecal ligation puncture. This study showed that p18 regulated the pulmonary endothelial barrier function in vitro and in vivo by regulating the binding of Rab11a to VE-cadherin and the activation of Rab11a.
A conceptualisation of equitable social work practice with transgender and gender diverse communities
Authors: Kia Hannah , Göncü Kaan , Nation Kelendria , Gray Jodi , Usher Darren
Published: November 2021

Although the experiences of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people are increasingly recognised as relevant sites of inquiry in social work scholarship, empirically substantiated insights on equitable approaches to social work practice with TGD communities remain scant. In this qualitative study, we draw on semi-structured virtual interviews with TGD social service users in a Canadian province (n = 20), along with social workers in the same jurisdiction (n = 10), to generate knowledge on equitable social work practice with TGD populations. We rely on critical ecosystemic and intersectional lenses as guiding theoretical frameworks, together with constructivist approaches to grounded theory, to inform our analytical process. Our findings highlight that equitable social work practice with TGD communities may involve the following constituents: (1) accounting for social and historical context; (2) practising allyship by way of humility and reflexivity; (3) challenging cisnormativity interpersonally and organisationally and (4) promoting structural measures of trans inclusion to transform social work and social services. Drawing on our findings, we call on social work scholars, educators and practitioners to adopt various reflexive, relational, organisational and structural measures that promise to enhance social work’s contribution to greater equity and social justice for TGD communities.
Improving Care for Recently Diagnosed Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients: Lessons Learned From a Patient-Centred, Mixed-Method Study
Authors: van Erp Liselot W , Neijenhuis Myrte K , Heida Wendy , Derwig Joost , Geleijns Caroline E , Groenen Marcel J M , Wahab Peter J
Published: November 2021

Background and Aims

Newly diagnosed inflammatory bowel disease [IBD] patients need to deal with the physical and emotional impact of the disease. We aimed to evaluate care for recently diagnosed IBD patients from the patient perspective and assess themes for improvement.

Methods

A mixed-method study with adult IBD patients 4–15 months after diagnosis was performed. First, relevant themes were identified through semi-structured interviews until data saturation. Next, a questionnaire assessing satisfaction with care [SATI-Q] was developed and validated with 15 items divided into two domains: medical care and information and psychosocial care. Higher scores indicate higher patient satisfaction [0–100].

Results

We interviewed 20 patients. Next, 84/107 patients completed the SATI-Q: 51% female, aged 37 years (interquartile range [IQR 25–58]), 36% Crohn’s disease, disease duration 9 months [IQR 6–12] and 74% in clinical remission. The median SATI-Q score was 82 [IQR 72–92]. Patients were more satisfied with medical care than with information and psychosocial care (score 92 [IQR 81–98] vs 74 [IQR 60–90], p < 0.001). Patients were least satisfied with the attention given to IBD-related emotions and information on IBD medication, diet and future perspectives [77, 76, 57 and 54% of patients satisfied]. Patients [81%] preferred spoken information. Only 26–27% preferred brochures and websites.

Conclusions

In this study, the SATI-Q questionnaire was developed and validated to assess patient satisfaction with care in early IBD. Our findings suggest that psychosocial care and information on IBD medication, diet influence and future perspectives for recently diagnosed IBD patients require improvement.