bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physiological role for GABAA receptor desensitization in the induction of long-term potentiation at inhibitory synapses
Authors: Field Martin , Dorovykh Valentina , Thomas Philip , Smart Trevor G.
Published: April 2021

GABAA receptors (GABAARs) are pentameric ligand-gated ion channels distributed throughout the brain where they mediate synaptic and tonic inhibition. Following activation, these receptors undergo desensitization which involves entry into long-lived agonist-bound closed states. Although the kinetic effects of this state are recognised and its structural basis has been uncovered, the physiological impact of desensitization on inhibitory neurotransmission remains unknown. Here we describe an enduring form of long-term potentiation at inhibitory synapses that elevates synaptic current amplitude for 24 h following desensitization of GABAARs in response to agonist exposure or allosteric modulation. Using receptor mutants and allosteric modulators we demonstrate that desensitization of GABAARs facilitates their phosphorylation by PKC, which increases the number of receptors at inhibitory synapses. These observations provide a physiological relevance to the desensitized state of GABAARs, acting as a signal to regulate the efficacy of inhibitory synapses during prolonged periods of inhibitory neurotransmission.
The Pseudomonas aeruginosa substrate-binding protein Ttg2D functions as a general glycerophospholipid transporter across the periplasm
Authors: Yero Daniel , Díaz-Lobo Mireia , Costenaro Lionel , Conchillo-Solé Oscar , Mayo Adrià , Ferrer-Navarro Mario , Vilaseca Marta , Gibert Isidre , Daura Xavier
Published: April 2021

In Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Ttg2D is the soluble periplasmic phospholipid-binding component of an ABC transport system thought to be involved in maintaining the asymmetry of the outer membrane. Here we use the crystallographic structure of Ttg2D at 2.5 Å resolution to reveal that this protein can accommodate four acyl chains. Analysis of the available structures of Ttg2D orthologs shows that they conform a new substrate-binding-protein structural cluster. Native and denaturing mass spectrometry experiments confirm that Ttg2D, produced both heterologously and homologously and isolated from the periplasm, can carry two diacyl glycerophospholipids as well as one cardiolipin. Binding is notably promiscuous, allowing the transport of various molecular species. In vitro binding assays coupled to native mass spectrometry show that binding of cardiolipin is spontaneous. Gene knockout experiments in P. aeruginosa multidrug-resistant strains reveal that the Ttg2 system is involved in low-level intrinsic resistance against certain antibiotics that use a lipid-mediated pathway to permeate through membranes.
Author Correction: Identification of genetic factors influencing metabolic dysregulation and retinal support for MacTel, a retinal disorder
Authors: Bonelli Roberto , Jackson Victoria E. , Prasad Aravind , Munro Jacob E. , Farashi Samaneh , Heeren Tjebo F. C. , Pontikos Nikolas , Scheppke Lea , Friedlander Martin ,   MacTel Consortium, Egan Catherine A. , Allikmets Rando , Ansell Brendan R. E. , Bahlo Melanie
Published: April 2021

A Correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1038/s42003-021-01972-y
In situ monitoring of the influence of water on DNA radiation damage by near-ambient pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy
Authors: Hahn Marc Benjamin , Dietrich Paul M. , Radnik Jörg
Published: April 2021

Ionizing radiation damage to DNA plays a fundamental role in cancer therapy. X-ray photoelectron-spectroscopy (XPS) allows simultaneous irradiation and damage monitoring. Although water radiolysis is essential for radiation damage, all previous XPS studies were performed in vacuum. Here we present near-ambient-pressure XPS experiments to directly measure DNA damage under water atmosphere. They permit in-situ monitoring of the effects of radicals on fully hydrated double-stranded DNA. The results allow us to distinguish direct damage, by photons and secondary low-energy electrons (LEE), from damage by hydroxyl radicals or hydration induced modifications of damage pathways. The exposure of dry DNA to x-rays leads to strand-breaks at the sugar-phosphate backbone, while deoxyribose and nucleobases are less affected. In contrast, a strong increase of DNA damage is observed in water, where OH-radicals are produced. In consequence, base damage and base release become predominant, even though the number of strand-breaks increases further.
Topological electronics
Authors: Gilbert Matthew J.
Published: April 2021

Within the broad and deep field of topological materials, there are an ever-increasing number of materials that harbor topological phases. While condensed matter physics continues to probe the exotic physical properties resulting from the existence of topological phases in new materials, there exists a suite of “well-known” topological materials in which the physical properties are well-characterized, such as Bi2Se3 and Bi2Te3. In this context, it is then appropriate to ask if the unique properties of well-explored topological materials may have a role to play in applications that form the basis of a new paradigm in information processing devices and architectures. To accomplish such a transition from physical novelty to application based material, the potential of topological materials must be disseminated beyond the reach of condensed matter to engender interest in diverse areas such as: electrical engineering, materials science, and applied physics. Accordingly, in this review, we assess the state of current electronic device applications and contemplate the future prospects of topological materials from an applied perspective. More specifically, we will review the application of topological materials to the general areas of electronic and magnetic device technologies with the goal of elucidating the potential utility of well-characterized topological materials in future information processing applications.
Electro-absorption modulation in GeSn alloys for wide-spectrum mid-infrared applications
Authors: Hsieh Yun-Da , Lin Jun-Han , Soref Richard , Sun Greg , Cheng Hung-Hsiang , Chang Guo-En
Published: April 2021

Silicon-based electronic-photonic integrated circuits, which are compatible with state-of-the-art complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor processes, offer promising opportunities for on-chip mid-infrared photonic systems. However, the lack of efficient mid-infrared optical modulators on silicon hinders the utilization of such systems. Here, we demonstrate the Franz-Keldysh effect in GeSn alloys and achieve mid-infrared electro-absorption optical modulation using GeSn heterostructures on silicon. Our experimental and theoretical results verify that the direct bandgap energy of GeSn can be widely tuned by varying the Sn content, thereby realizing wavelength-tunable optical modulation in the mid-infrared range with a figure-of-merit greater than 1.5 and a broadband operating range greater than 140 nm. In contrast to conventional silicon-photonic modulators based on the plasma dispersion effect, our GeSn heterostructure demonstrates practical and effective Franz-Keldysh mid-infrared optical modulation on silicon, helping to unlock the potential of electronic-photonic integrated circuits in a wide range of applications.
Active participation of membrane lipids in inhibition of multidrug transporter P-glycoprotein
Authors: Kapoor Karan , Pant Shashank , Tajkhorshid Emad
Published: April 2021

Lipid invasion of P-glycoprotein, enhanced by binding of an inhibitor.
Low temperature synthesis of barium oxynitridosilicates using BaCN2 and SiO2
Authors: Masubuchi Yuji , Sada Naoki , Kawahara Yoshiteru , Arai Kenji , Motohashi Teruki , Higuchi Mikio
Published: April 2021

Barium oxynitridosilicates were prepared at a low temperature from a mixture of BaCN2 and SiO2. Alkaline earth carbodiimides are a potential nitrogen source for achieving a low-temperature and energy-efficient process for a formation of oxynitrides.
The magnetic-nanoparticle-assisted sensitive detection of nitrated α-syn in blood based on a sensitizing electrochemical layer
Authors: Zhang Zhao-huan , Hu Junjie , Chen Qiang , Chen Jie , Hu Xiaojun , Koh Kwangnak , Chen Hongxia , Xu Xiao-hui
Published: April 2021

An electrochemical sensor for nitrated α-syn was developed and it has been applied to clinical serum samples.
Synthesis of 2-trifluoromethylated quinolines from CF3-alkenes
Authors: Muzalevskiy Vasiliy M. , Sizova Zoia A. , Abaev Vladimir T. , Nenajdenko Valentine G.
Published: April 2021

α-CF3-enamines react with 2-nitrobenzaldehydes to give ortho-nitro-substituted α,β-diaryl-CF3-enones in up to 88% yield. Reduction of the nitro-group promotes intramolecular cyclization to afford 2-CF3-3-arylquinolines in up to 99% isolated yield.
Interplay between oxygen defects and dopants: effect on structure and performance of HfO2-based ferroelectrics
Authors: Materano Monica , Lomenzo Patrick D. , Kersch Alfred , Park Min Hyuk , Mikolajick Thomas , Schroeder Uwe
Published: April 2021

A review on ferroelectric phase formation and reliability in HfO2-based thin films and semiconductor devices.
Hollow bimetallic selenide derived from a hierarchical MOF-based Prussian blue analogue for urea electrolysis
Authors: Xu Huizhu , Ye Ke , Zhu Kai , Gao Yinyi , Yin Jinling , Yan Jun , Wang Guiling , Cao Dianxue
Published: April 2021

PBA@MOF–Ni/Se with a nanocube structure grown on a flower-shaped MOF–Ni template exhibits better performance in urea electrolysis.
Design of 3D alumina-doped magnesium oxide aerogels with a high efficiency removal of uranium(vi) from wastewater
Authors: Lei Yuqing , Li Keding , Liao Jun , Zhang Yong , Zhang Lin , Zhu Wenkun
Published: April 2021

3D alumina-doped magnesium oxide (Al2O3/MgO) aerogels with remarkable adsorption properties for U(vi) were prepared via a simple lyophilization–calcination method.
Silica gel-induced aryne generation from o-triazenylarylboronic acids as stable solid precursors
Authors: Ito Motoki , Yamabayashi Yuka , Oikawa Mio , Kano Emi , Higuchi Kazuhiro , Sugiyama Shigeo
Published: April 2021

We developed o-triazenylarylboronic acids as stable solid aryne precursors, which generate arynes under mild conditions using silica gel as the sole reagent and undergo reactions with a range of arynophiles both in solution and in the solid-state.
Deaminative meta-C–H alkylation by ruthenium(ii) catalysis
Authors: Wei Wen , Yu Hao , Zangarelli Agnese , Ackermann Lutz
Published: April 2021

Precise structural modifications of amino acids are of importance to tune biological properties or modify therapeutical capabilities relevant to drug discovery.
Novel core–shell structured MgH2/AlH3@CNT nanocomposites with extremely high dehydriding–rehydriding properties derived from nanoconfinement
Authors: Duan Congwen , Wu Mengmeng , Cao Yizheng , Fu Dong , Zhang Yuling , Su Zhaohua , Sun Zhize , Wu Ying
Published: April 2021

A simple and efficient nanoconfinement method is developed to construct a novel “core–shell” structured MgH2/AlH3@CNT nanocomposite.
Changes in age and maturity of anadromous whitefish (Coregonus lavaretus) in the northern Baltic Sea from 1998 to 2014
Authors: Veneranta Lari , Kallio-Nyberg Irma , Saloniemi Irma , Jokikokko Erkki
Published: April 2021

The maturation of anadromous whitefish (Coregonus lavaretus) was analysed from samples taken from commercial coastal fishing in 1998–2014 in the Gulf of Bothnia. Whitefish matured at a younger age from year to year. The proportion of older (5–12 sea years) mature males decreased from 79% to 39% in the northern Gulf of Bothnia (66°N–64°N) and from 76% to 14% in southern (64°N–60°30'N) during the study period. At the same time, the proportion of young males (2–4 sea years) increased. Whitefish matured younger: the proportion of mature fish at age four increased in both the north and south among females (13% → 98%; 6% → 85%) and males (68% → 99%; 29% → 89%). The catch length of four-year-old fish increased during the study period in both sexes. In contrast, the length of six-year-old females decreased from year to year. Sea surface temperatures increased during the study period, and were possibly associated with a decrease in the age of maturation and faster growth.
Analysis of some indicators by means of fuzzy logic on the example of Azerbaijani energy enterprises
Authors: Rzayeva Ulviyya , Guliyeva Aida , Jafarova Narmin
Published: April 2021

One of the most promising areas of scientific research in the field of analysis, forecasting and modelling of economic phenomena and processes is fuzzy logic. In the article with the use of the fuzzy logic apparatus (Fuzzy Logic toolkit of the MATLAB software package) a model for assessing the development of manufacturing indicators is developed. Key indicators for evaluating the activities of energy enterprises are analysed. The model is based on microeconomic indicators of the enterprises’ efficiency and development. The presented indexes pass through the stage of fuzzification, at which each measure is assigned the membership function; then comes the decision stage; finally, the task ends by the stage of defuzzification, i.e., bringing the resulting fuzzy value to precise ones. The application of the Mamdani fuzzy inference algorithm allows getting an exact value of the consolidated indicator of enterprise development. The resulting value allows making operational management decisions in the energy enterprises in real-time.
Emerging clean energy markets are drivers for solar and wind industries
Authors: Faminskaya Marina , Potekhina Elena
Published: April 2021

Emerging markets are rapidly developing and outperforming developed markets in terms of onshore wind and solar power. Moreover, emerging markets are now getting drivers for the enhancement of global renewable energy as they are seen as territories with the greatest potential for expansion of wind and solar capacities. This study aims to investigate the casual links between financial investments by gas and oil giants and long-term vision around clean energy. We analysed various reports on procurement tools used by corporations, purchasing renewable energy. This gave us an idea about the availability and frequent usage of different instruments employed around world. The empirical results show that state support and policy development both have positive impact on state and private investments in the long run. The influence of energy development is more evident in emerging clean energy markets. The findings of the this study suggest that as renewable energy targets price and performance parity with traditional sources around the world, and is getting able to improve grid efficiency thus strengthening its competitive edge with new technologies, the hurdles to its adoption are disappearing.
Environmental migration and sustainable development of regions and countries
Authors: Reznikova Irina , Danilina Natalya
Published: April 2021

Our paper focuses on studying the development and implementation of a comprehensive environmental safety assessment and mitigation strategy for countries of origin and destination of environmental migration. Environmental migration represents one of the key threats to the security of regions and countries and is linked to their sustainable development (or lack thereof). Moreover, it is also connected to many important social, economic as well as demographic outcomes. Global warming caused by human activities is already having a major impact on the planet and is likely to render parts of the world uninhabitable, leading to migration, displacement, and planned resettlement. The goal of the paper is also to assess the impact of future migration due to the global warming and climate change. The results of the paper demonstrate that climate impacts can trigger migration and change population distribution within the next few decades. It is also clear that migration caused by the environmental factors (such as droughts, floods, higher temperature sand more extreme weather events) would inevitably lead to the geopolitical changes with long-range impacts and effects.
Strategizing sustainable development: the case of the Ural industrial regions
Authors: Rakhmeeva Irina , Antipin Ivan
Published: April 2021

The remit of the article is regional development strategizing. Regional development strategy as part of regional regulatory environment could ensure the task of sustainable development due to determining priorities for resource conservation, development of a “green” economy, and restoration of natural resources. This is especially important for the extractive economies of the Russian regions. On the contrary, the research revealed the preservation of extractive policies in most of the Ural regions. The manuscript contains the description of the ecological and economic position of the regions of the Ural macroregion, that have a high anthropogenic impact on the environment because of their nature of economy. We analysed the content of the development strategies of the regions of the Ural macroregion and the issues of sustainable development. The Chelyabinsk region and the Republic of Bashkortostan didn’t include sustainable development in the top priorities. It leads them to stick their place in the tail of the National Environmental Rating of Russian Regions. Orenburg region’s strategy conclude the most quality mechanisms for ensuring environmental safety in regional strategic documents. The author highlighted the comprehension of the deep interrelationships of ecological well-being with all spheres of human life in the development strategy of the Sverdlovsk region. The regional development strategy is an important mechanism for ensuring a balance between industrial growth and environmental conservation. Therefore, the authority of traditional industrial regions of the Urals should strengthen the component of sustainable development in their strategies.
Sustainability of micro-enterprises in the digital economy
Authors: Mukhoryanova Oksana , Kuleshova Larisa , Rusakova Nina , Mirgorodskaya Olga
Published: April 2021

This paper aims at investigating the predisposition leading to the sustainability of micro-enterprises in the digital economy, especially the sharing economy. This area represents a new field since the research of the impact of the sharing economy on small enterprises is still in its infancy. We study the role of the entrepreneurial approach and entrepreneurial philosophy of the small business with regard to the digitalization and the sustainable development and growth using examples from the European Union and the United States. Some common features and trends are derived and the outcomes are discussed. Our results point at the fact that by creating an economy for micro-entrepreneurs, the sharing economy thrives on traditional industry disrupted by technology. Since micro-enterprises constitute a backbone of the economy in many developed and developing countries, more research is required to shed the light of the sustainable development of these types of enterprises in the globalized and digitalized world.
Family leadership and environmental sustainability: a case of the single fathers in Russia
Authors: Bezrukova Olga , Samoylova Valentina , Yashina Maria
Published: April 2021

Nowadays, the traditional perception of the family is changing. However, understanding children preferences and shaping their views of the world still remain the key prerequisites for the environmental sustainability. The purpose of the article is to analyze models of single fatherhood, to study the motivation and structure of factors that determine the involved fatherhood making, the specifics of mother’s and parent family’s influence on the paternal practices implementation. Our research testifies to the fact that single fathers tend to become family leaders and undertake responsibility related to childcare in the context of transforming marital and family relations as well as facing global environmental issues. The results of the study show that single fatherhood is usually a forced situation caused by death or severe illness of the mother, her deviant behavior and leaving the family, deprivation of parental rights, divorce consequences, long-term separation of spouses, use of modern reproductive technologies of surrogacy. It is concluded that the scenarios of the single fatherhood becoming – planned or casual – are associated with the cause of the child appearance in the family. The significant differences are found in the social and cultural capital of the single fathers which might have different impacts on the level of environmental education they can pass on to their children.
Influence of inlet line shape on hydrodynamic performance of tidal energy diffuser
Authors: Zheng Meiyun , Li Zhuoyue , Du Peng , Hu Haibao , Chen Xiaopeng , Huang Xiao
Published: April 2021

The installation of diffuser is an important way to improve the efficiency of tidal turbines, which is promising for engineering practice. In this paper, the open source code OpenFOAM is used as the platform. Numerical simulations are carried out to investigate the influence of the performance of the diffuser for the vertical axis tidal turbines. Several different types of diffusers are designed by distinguishing the line shape. Through systematic simulations, the influence of inlet line shape on the hydrodynamics performances of tidal energy diffuser is summarized. The velocity field, pressure field, etc. are analyzed to recover the flow modifications induced by the diffuser. The best line shape is finally found which can optimize the harnessing efficiency of the tidal turbine, which provides important clues for the development of tidal energy devices.
Chatter reliability prediction of side milling blisk
Authors: Zhang Nan , Shi Yaoyao , Chen Zhen , Chen Hongxia , Liu Jia , Zhao Pan
Published: April 2021

During the blisk side milling, the blade is thin and the tool suspension length is large, which is easy to occur milling system chatter. The wavy surface left by chatter has great effect on the surface roughness and service performance of the aero-engine blisk. To accurately predict the stability of the blisk side milling, the influence of random variables on the machining stability was considered. In this paper, the chatter reliability model of the blisk side milling system was established using the first-order second-moment method. The model takes structural parameters and spindle speed as random variables and chatter frequency as intermediate variables. The chatter reliability model was used to draw the reliability lobe diagram, which can be used to divide the machining reliability area. The effectiveness of this method was verified by experiments and compared with Monte Carlo method. The validation results showed that the reliability lobe diagram can be used to determine the stability probability prediction of blisk side milling and can replace the traditional stability lobe diagram.
Two-stage aerodynamic optimization method based on early termination of CFD convergence and variable-fidelity model
Authors: Miao Ji , Gong Chunlin , Li Chunna
Published: April 2021

Efficient aerodynamic design optimization method is of great value for improving the aerodynamic performance of little UAV's airfoil. Using engineering or semi-engineering estimation method to analyze aerodynamic forces in solving aerodynamic optimization problems costs little computational time, but the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. However, CFD method ensuring high accuracy needs much more computational cost, which is unfordable for optimization. Surrogate-based optimization can reduce the number of high-fidelity analyses to increase the optimization efficiency. However, the cost of CFD analyses is still huge for aerodynamic optimization due to multiple design variables, multi-optimal and strong nonlinearities. To solve this problem, a two-stage aerodynamic optimization method based on early termination of CFD convergence and variable-fidelity model is proposed. In the first optimization stage, the solutions by early termination CFD convergence and the convergenced CFD solutions are regarded as low-and high-fidelity data respectively for building variable-fidelity model. Then, the multi-island genetic algorithm is used in the global optimization based on the built variable-fidelity model. The modeling efficiency can be greatly improved due to many cheap low-fidelity data. In the second stage optimization, the global optimum from the first optimization stage is treated as the start of the Hooke-Jeeves algorithm to search locally based on convergenced CFD computations in order to acquire better-optimum. The proposed method is utilized in optimizing the aerodynamic performance of the airfoil of little UAV, and is compared with the EGO method based on single-fidelity Kriging surrogate model. The results show that the present two-level aerodynamic optimization method consumes less time.
Multi-objective optimization of earth cooperative observation hybrid satellite constellation
Authors: He Boyong , Cao Jing , Zhou Qingrui , Wang Jianguo
Published: April 2021

As the demand for comprehensiveness, accuracy, and data fast return of satellite remote sensing information grows, a hybrid constellation with permanent inter-satellite link becomes an inevitable choice for earth cooperative observation. The models for the objective function for global coverage, regional revisit detained survey duration, spatial resolution, inter-satellite links, and the cost of constellation deployment are established firstly, and the constraints like the ground trace repeating are dealt skillfully. The layered multi-objective optimization frame is designed for solving this problem. The example explains that present models distribute the multiple objective functions and constraints, and the result Pareto solution set can show several performance features of the hybrid satellite constellation, it may support the satellite constellation engineering argumentation and selection on merit.
Numerical simulation of the flow, solidification, and solute transport in a billet mold under electromagnetic stirring
Authors: Li Yaoguang , Sun Yanhui , Bai Xuesong
Published: April 2021

In this study, a coupled three-dimensional model of the billet continuous casting mold process was developed to investigate the characteristics of the macroscopic transmission behaviors under different mold electromagnetic stirring (M-EMS) parameters. The mold curvature was also considered during the modeling of electromagnetic and flow fields. The results indicate that the macroscopic physical quantities had nonsymmetrical distributions in the mold because of the mold curvature. However, the influence of mold curvature on the electromagnetic force could be ignored. The horizontal swirling flow caused by the M-EMS became stronger as the current density increased, which enhanced the dissipation of the molten steel superheat and promoted the growth of the solidification shell. However, the flushing of the bias hot jet slowed the growth of the local solidified shell. Meanwhile, the washing effect of the melt flow on the solidification front caused the solute element content near the billet surface to fluctuate. In addition, the distribution of the solute element content became more uneven in the strand transverse direction as the current density increased.
Effect of rare earth on inclusion evolution in industrial production of HRB500E steel
Authors: Kang Jian , Yu Yan-Chong , Zhang Jin-Ling , Chen Chao , Wang She-Bin
Published: April 2021

The effect of rare earth (RE) on inclusion in HRB500E steel was studied based on plant trials. The results showed that S decreased by 47.6% after 0.0059% RE treatment. In samples without RE treatment, the inclusions change from Al2O3-MnO to ellipsoidal Al2O3-MnO-CaO complex inclusion, and the size of such inclusions is ≤ 2 µm and isolated strip MnS inclusion with the size of ≥ 2 µm. With RE treatment, Al2O3-MnO-CaO inclusions are transformed into spherical or ellipsoidal REAlO3 and REAlO3-MnS. The size of such inclusions is ≈ 1.5 µm and single MnS inclusions were not found. The number density and size of inclusions changed significantly after RE treatment. Thermodynamic calculations show that the Gibbs free energy of RE inclusions is more negative and more stable. The transformation model of inclusions is established to illustrate the modification of inclusions during the smelting process.
Mit einer App in wenigen Klicks zur SOP
Authors: Teigeler Brigitte
Published: April 2021

Der OP ist ein Hochrisikobereich. Standard Operating Procedures, kurz SOPs, können hier die Patientensicherheit erhöhen. Doch wenn Pflegende und Ärzte sie am meisten brauchen, sind sie oft nicht zur Hand. Um Abhilfe zu schaffen, wurde eine App entwickelt: Mit ihr sind alle SOPs eines Krankenhauses jederzeit einsehbar. Auch kann die App auf Wunsch die Kliniken untereinander vernetzen.
Neurophysiologische Parameter zum Sprachverstehen von Patienten mit Cochlea-Implantaten
Authors: Ernst Robert , Linxweiler Maximilian , Rink Katharina Anna , Rothe Heike , Lecomte Gregory , Bozzato Alessandro , Hecker Dietmar
Published: April 2021

Hintergrund Cochlea-Implantate (CI) stellen heutzutage die Behandlungsmethode der Wahl für schwerhörige bis vollständig ertaubte PatientInnen dar. Während für gehörlose PatientInnen bereits die Wiederherstellung eines basalen Höreindrucks einen enormen Erfolg darstellt, ist das Treffen von Vorhersagen für PatientInnen mit einem Restgehör oftmals komplexer. Im Rahmen dieser Studie soll anhand von erhobenen Daten der neurophysiologische Einfluss von objektiven Parametern beim klassifizierten Sprachverstehen (SPV) von CI-Trägern aufgezeigt werden.

Material und Methoden Insgesamt wurden 52 PatientInnen mit 65 Ohren im Alter von 18–80 Jahren eingeschlossen. Als objektive Parameter wurden ECAP-Schwellen und Impedanzwerte und als subjektive Parameter die T- und C/M-Werte genutzt. Klassifiziert wurden die Ergebnisse über die Performance des SPV.

Ergebnisse Die Unterschiede zwischen den Gruppen (Alter, Tragedauer) waren nicht signifikant, wobei das erreichte Hörvermögen bei 500 Hz signifikant mit dem Mehrsilbertest korrelierte. Die Elektrodenimpedanzen korrelierten im Mittel mit dem SPV bei gleichbleibender Variabilität. Die Verteilungen von objektiven und subjektiven Parametern zeigten zum Teil signifikante Unterschiede. Viele Verteilungen besaßen dabei signifikant auffällige Unterschiede zur Normalverteilung. Dementsprechend waren die Überlappungsbereiche der Signifikanzniveaus sehr eng begrenzt.

Schlussfolgerungen Höhere Impedanzen und nicht korrekt angepasste T-Werte ergaben ein schlechteres SPV. Die Verhältnisse von C/M-Werten zu den ECAP-Schwellen zeigten sich als wesentlich für ein gutes SPV.
Leistungsbereiche für qualitätsabhängige Zu- und Abschläge in der stationären Versorgung: mögliche Auswahlkriterien und deren Anwendung
Authors: Stausberg Jürgen
Published: April 2021

Zielsetzung Mit dem Krankenhausstrukturgesetz wurde 2015 eine Vergütung mit qualitätsabhängigen Zu- und Abschlägen eingeführt. U. a. waren hierfür Leistungen und Leistungsbereiche auszuwählen. Ziel dieser Arbeit war es, Kriterien für diese Auswahl zu definieren und anzuwenden.

Methodik Drei Kriterien wurden in Bezug auf die Qualitätsmessung definiert, 2 Kriterien in Bezug auf das organisatorische Setting im Krankenhaus. Die Erfüllung der Kriterien wurde für 74 Leistungsbereiche unter Nutzung von Informationen zu 684 Qualitätsindikatoren und über eine Befragung von 16 Experten geprüft.

Ergebnisse 269 Indikatoren erfüllten das Kriterium einer Abbildung der Prozessqualität, 372 das Kriterium einer belegten Güte. In Kombination verblieben 64 Indikatoren aus 19 Leistungsbereichen. Die Bewertung durch die Experten ergab einen hohen Anteil von Leistungsbereichen ohne negative Seiteneffekte. Vermehrt wurde jedoch eine Überschneidung der Abläufe von organisatorischen Bereichen gesehen. Unter Kombination aller 5 Kriterien verblieben 5 der 74 Leistungsbereiche.

Schlussfolgerung Der geringe Anteil von geeigneten Leistungsbereichen war insbesondere durch unzureichende Instrumente zur Qualitätsmessung bedingt. Die Bewertung durch Experten deutete hingegen auf eine Offenheit gegenüber diesem Ansatz eines Pay-for-Performance hin. Die ambulant erworbene Pneumonie sowie kardiologische Versorgungssituationen bieten sich dafür an. Vorgehen und Ergebnisse können auch als Vorlage für die Ausgestaltung anderer Formen qualitätsbezogener Regelungen dienen.
Materialbeschaffung: Wenn Lieferketten ins Stocken geraten
Authors: Rößing Sabine
Published: April 2021

Erst waren Masken und Schutzkleidung rar, dann gab es Engpässe bei einfachen Untersuchungshandschuhen, nun drohen für die laufende Impfkampagne Spritzen und Kanülen auszugehen: Die schwierige Nachschublage bei versorgungsrelevanten Medizinprodukten und Arzneimitteln entwickelt sich zum Dauerthema in der Pandemie.
Delirmanagement: Multiprofessionalität ist gefragt
Authors: Flöer Claudia
Published: April 2021

Ein Delirmanagement in einer Klinik einzuführen und nachhaltig zu befolgen, kostet aufgrund des damit verbundenen Personalaufwands viel Geld. Doch erfolgreiche Konzepte zeigen: Ein intelligentes Management senkt die Delirrate erheblich und ist auch ökonomisch ein Gewinn.
Chirurgische Universitätsklinik Heidelberg: Ein OP-Zentrum für die Zukunft
Authors: Lang Michael
Published: April 2021

Das Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg hat vor einem halben Jahr die neue Chirurgische Klinik in Betrieb genommen. Mitarbeiterinnen und Mitarbeiter arbeiten im modernen OP-Zentrum seither erheblich effizienter.
Modification of modal characteristics in wakes of square cylinders with multi-scale porosity
Authors: Higham J. E. , Vaidheeswaran A. , Brevis W. , Nicolleau F. C. G. A. , Marlow J.
Published: April 2021

Wake flows behind porous patches are complex and host several spatiotemporal features associated with multi-scale excitation. This is in stark contrast to flow past a square cylinder dominated by nonlinear energy cascade stemming from primary vortex shedding instability. In this study, we analyze wakes created by multi-scale patches containing three iterations while maintaining a constant plan porosity. The results are compared to flows obstructed by a square cylinder and a single-scale patch of uniformly distributed elements from the second iteration having the same footprint. Multi-scale porous patches show a protracted wake having a greater spanwise dimension compared to square cylinder. The characteristics are dependent on the arrangement of elements within the patch which affect the extent of bleed flow through the configuration. Besides, we use proper orthogonal decomposition and dynamic mode decomposition to elucidate instability mechanisms at different scales. Distributions of spatial modes reveal element-scale flow structures in the near-wake region with patch-scale turbulence further downstream. Our analysis confirms manipulation of characteristic scales and the associated high-energy events driven by the arrangement of elements within a given patch despite having the same plan porosity.
Low energy availability in female athletes: From the lab to the field
Authors: Heikura Ida A. , Stellingwerff Trent , Areta Jose L.
Published: April 2021

Decades of laboratory research have shown impairments to several body systems after only 4–5 days of strictly controlled consistent low energy availability (LEA); where energy availability (EA) = Energy Intake (EI) − Exercise Energy Expenditure (EEE)/Fat‐Free Mass. Meanwhile, cross‐sectional reports exist on the interrelatedness of LEA, menstrual dysfunction and impaired bone health in females (the Female Athlete Triad). These findings have demonstrated that LEA is the key underpinning factor behind a broader set of health and performance outcomes, recently termed as Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED‐S). There is utmost importance of early screening and diagnosis of RED‐S to avoid the development of severe negative health and performance outcomes. However, a significant gap exists between short‐term laboratory studies and cross‐sectional reports, or clinically field‐based situations, of long‐term/chronic LEA and no definitive, validated diagnostic tests for RED‐S exist. This review aims to highlight methodological challenges related to the assessment of the components of EA equation in the field (e.g. challenges with EI and EEE measures). Due to the uncertainty of these parameters, we propose the use of more chronic “objective” markers of LEA (i.e. blood markers). However, we note that direct extrapolations of laboratory‐based outcomes into the field are likely to be problematic due to potentially poor ecological validity and the extreme variability in most athlete's daily EI and EEE. Therefore, we provide a critical appraisal of the scientific literature, highlighting research gaps, and a potential set of leading objective RED‐S markers while working in the field.

Highlights

Direct application of short‐term laboratory‐based findings in the field is problematic.

Calculation of energy availability (EA) in the field is methodologically challenging and prone to errors.

The use of several biomarkers may allow the detection of early exposure to low EA in the female athlete.
High on–off current ratio titanium oxynitride write-once-read-many-times memory
Authors: Hsu Chih-Chieh , Jhang Wun-Ciang , Chien Yu-Sheng , Cheng Chao-Wen , Joodaki Mojtaba
Published: April 2021

In this letter, we demonstrate a titanium oxynitride (TiO
x
N
y
) write-once-read-many-times memory with a high ON/OFF current ratio of 109. The endurance and read-disturb tests both reveal high stability and data nonvolatility of the TiO
x
N
y
resistive memory. A Ti metal layer was transformed into TiO
x
N
y
using an annealing process in a nitrogen ambient. The XPS analysis shows that the TiO
x
N
y
resistive switching (RS) layer possesses few Ti interstitial defects and oxygen deficiencies. A voltage-polarity dependent set process is observed in the Ag/TiO
x
N
y
/Ti/n+-Si resistive memory. The residual Ti metal layer provides a good contact with the TiO
x
N
y
RS layer, and the electrons can transport from the Ti to the Ag electrode via tunneling processes. In the low voltage region, the conduction current is dominated by the direct tunneling mechanism. When the voltage is beyond a transition voltage of 1.25 V, the carrier transport mechanism changes to Fowler–Nordheim tunneling. The conduction mechanisms are consistent with the finding obtained by the energy band diagram analysis.
Dispersion relations in κ-noncommutative cosmology
Authors: Aschieri Paolo , Borowiec Andrzej , Pachoł Anna
Published: April 2021

We study noncommutative deformations of the wave
equation in curved backgrounds and discuss the modification of the
dispersion relations due to noncommutativity combined with
curvature of spacetime. Our noncommutative differential geometry approach is based on Drinfeld twist
deformation, and can be implemented for any twist and any curved
background. We discuss in detail the Jordanian twist — giving
κ-Minkowski spacetime in flat space — in the presence of a
Friedman-Lemaître-Robertson-Walker (FLRW) cosmological background.

We obtain a new expression for the variation of the speed of light, depending linearly on
the ratio E
ph/E
LV (photon energy/Lorentz violation scale),
but also linearly on the cosmological time, the Hubble parameter and
inversely proportional to the scale factor.
Dark matter, destroyer of worlds: neutrino, thermal, and existential signatures from black holes in the Sun and Earth
Authors: Acevedo Javier F. , Bramante Joseph , Goodman Alan , Kopp Joachim , Opferkuch Toby
Published: April 2021

Dark matter can be captured by celestial objects and accumulate at their centers, forming a core of dark matter that can collapse to a small black hole, provided that the annihilation rate is small or zero. If the nascent black hole is big enough, it will grow to consume the star or planet. We calculate the rate of dark matter accumulation in the Sun and Earth, and use their continued existence to place novel constraints on high mass asymmetric dark matter interactions. We also identify and detail less destructive signatures: a newly-formed black hole can be small enough to evaporate via Hawking radiation, resulting in an anomalous heat flow emanating from Earth, or in a flux of high-energy neutrinos from the Sun observable at IceCube. The latter signature is entirely new, and we find that it may cover large regions of parameter space that are not probed by any other method.
Impact of O2 post oxidation annealing on the reliability of SiC/SiO2 MOS capacitors*
Authors: Liu Peng , Hao Ji-Long , Wang Sheng-Kai , You Nan-Nan , Hu Qin-Yu , Zhang Qian , Bai Yun , Liu Xin-Yu
Published: April 2021

The effects of dry O2 post oxidation annealing (POA) at different temperatures on SiC/SiO2 stacks are comparatively studied in this paper. The results show interface trap density (D
it) of SiC/SiO2 stacks, leakage current density (J
g), and time-dependent dielectric breakdown (TDDB) characteristics of the oxide, are affected by POA temperature and are closely correlated. Specifically, D
it, J
g, and inverse median lifetime of TDDB have the same trend against POA temperature, which is instructive for SiC/SiO2 interface quality improvement. Moreover, area dependence of TDDB characteristics for gate oxide on SiC shows different electrode areas lead to same slope of TDDB Weibull curves.
AI based Computation for Hybrid Precoding/Combining in Millimeter-Wave Massive MIMO Systems
Authors: Nazeerunnisa  , Tatineni Madhavi
Published: April 2021

Millimeter-wave (mm-Wave) have emerged as a potential leading technology for the 5G cellular systems due to the enormous availability of high radio-frequency spectrum, which can deliver extreme data speed and enhance spectral efficiency (SE). An economical architecture of hybrid precoder (HP) is widely used in mm-Wave massive MIMO systems (mm-WmM) to recompense for the severe propagation loss of the mm-Waves. This paper examines the design of the hybrid precoder and combiner (HPC) in mm-WmM by integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) based optimization algorithm. AI is going to be a key component to enhance the performance of 5G wireless communications and beyond. The emerging AI based computation using Hierarchical Particle Swarm Optimization technique (HPSO) is proposed to design a HPC to maximize the SE in mm-Wave massive MIMO systems.

Results obtained from simulations demonstrate the improved performance of the HPSO algorithm in contrast to the existing algorithms and can accomplish close to the optimal performance.
Structure and electrochemical behaviour of composite Pb-nano ZnO in sulfuric acid solution for different temperature
Authors: Budiamin M E C , Soegijono B , Darma S
Published: April 2021

Lead is one of the important materials used as an electrode for batter application. With a good performance at the lowest price possible, using lead as an active material for lead-acid battery still high even though the fact that lead waste is very dangerous for the environment. Lead must be optimized to reduce lead waste with adding new material to the lead for the electrode. For this research lead and nano zinc oxide became a composite Pb-Nano ZnO and this composite tested into sulfuric acid solution with various solution temperature 10°C, 25°C, and 40°C. The structure and electrochemical behaviour were analysed with X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Potentiostat (LSV and CV) respectively. Detected phase from the spectrum shows lead phase with cubic FCC crystal structure. Linear Sweep Voltammetry and Cyclic Voltammetry test used to see is the composite can be used as an electrode for a battery and is the performance different than lead electrode. The result shows that the composite is electrochemically reversible and corrosion rate decrease when nano ZnO added with lowest corrosion rate 0.011852 mm/year in ZnO 20% wt composition on temperature variation 10°C.
A didactic experiment to evaluate the calibration of pressure gauges in low-medium vacuum range
Authors: Rodrigues Filho B A , Fagundes L M F , Medina N H
Published: April 2021

The present study shows a didactic experiment, carried out in the Physics Institute of the University of São Paulo, evaluating the differences among measurements of four distinct pressure gauges (Pirani, thermocouple, and two thermistors), when compared to a McLeod standard gauge, in low-medium vacuum, ranging from 100 Pa to 101 Pa. The experiment aims to evaluate the measurement differences between four distinct pressure gauges and a standard. The results show that all tested gauges presented different results, demonstrating that calibration is necessary in order to have a full understanding of the measurement results of the tested pressure gauges.
Nanotechnology measurements of the Young’s modulus of polymeric materials
Authors: Caicedo J D , Pandoli O G , Hernandez J D , Frota M N
Published: April 2021

Making use of atomic force microscopy (AFM) —known as the state-of-the-art technology for handling matter on an atomic and molecular scale—, this paper describes the use of a nanotechnology technique for characterizing properties of polymeric materials. AFM measurement on two materials (polyamide and polystyrene) allowed to compare the performance of two distinct multi-asperity adhesion models based on the JKR (Johnson-Kendall-Robert) and DMT (Derajaguin-Muller-Toporov) theories, when assessing the Young’s Modulus (modulus of elasticity) of the investigated materials. Experimental results confirm that the JKR model processed through a MatLab algorithm produces more reliable results of the Young’s Modulus than the DMT model built-in in the AFM software.
Standardization and regulation barriers to innovation faced by architectural and engineering services companies in Brazil
Authors: Sousa Manuel Calçada de , Almeida Maria Fatima Ludovico de
Published: April 2021

The present work aims to analyze problems and obstacles to innovation faced by architectural and engineering services companies in Brazil, focusing on standardization and regulation issues. We have drawn the data from the National Innovation Survey 2014 (Pintec 2014) to answer how the companies in this sector perceive the importance of problems and obstacles throughout their cycles of innovation concerning difficulties of meeting government regulations, legal or voluntary standards requirements, and accessing specialized technical/technological services. The respondent companies were asked to inform their perceptions of the importance of the barriers that they face to innovate in a three-point response scale (high, medium, and low importance or not relevant).
Luminescent emission spectrometer adapted to a TL/OSL reader for analysis of aluminum oxide detectors
Authors: Garcia Helena Cristina de Matos , Pacheco Daniel de Castro , Meira-Belo Luiz Cláudio
Published: April 2021

Thermoluminescent readings are widely used in radiation dosimetry to measure absorbed doses. The signal emitted by thermoluminescent detectors is due to defects in the crystal structure and their emission usually occurs in some specific wavelength ranges. The difficulty in studying the emission spectrum is that, in general, photomultiplier tubes do not discriminate wavelengths and therefore only provide intensity information. The objective of this work was to adapt a RISØ TL/OSL reader to operate as a luminescence emission spectrometer, allowing to select the wavelength to be analyzed before the acquisition of luminescent readings. A monochromator driven by a stepper motor connected to an Arduino module responsible for controlling wavelength adjustments during readings was used. The equipment added spectral resolution to the conventional reader, allowing the determination of the response surface as a function of temperature, wavelength and light emission intensity for the studied detectors.