bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disorganized Attachment pattern affects the perception of Affective Touch
Authors: Spitoni Grazia Fernanda , Zingaretti Pietro , Giovanardi Guido , Antonucci Gabriella , Galati Gaspare , Lingiardi Vittorio , Cruciani Gianluca , Titone Giulia , Boccia Maddalena
Published: June 2020

Touch, such as affective caress, can be interpreted as being pleasant. The emotional valence that is assigned to touch is related to certain bottom-up factors, such as the optimal activation of C-tactile (CT) afferents. Tactile processing with a hedonic or emotional component has been defined as affective touch—a component that CT fibers are likely to convey. Tactile deficiencies are frequent in the psychiatric population but also in healthy people with disorganized attachment; accordingly, it is likely that affective difficulties in adults with disorganized attachment are reflected in altered perception of affective touch. To test this hypothesis, we combined methods from clinical psychology, psychophysics, and neuroimaging. We found that people with a history of traumatic parental bonds and a disorganized attachment pattern perceive a “caress-like” stimulus as being unpleasant, whereas participants with organized attachment consider the same tactile stimulation to be pleasant. Further, unlike in organized adults, the responses of disorganized adults to CT and non-CT stimulation activated limbic and paralimbic structures in a fight-or-flight manner, suggesting that early experiences with parental deficiencies shape the physiological responses of peripheral CT fibers and central nervous networks.
Transcriptome profiling of the flowering transition in saffron (Crocus sativus L.)
Authors: Hu Jing , Liu Yuping , Tang Xiaohui , Rao Huajing , Ren Chaoxiang , Chen Jiang , Wu Qinghua , Jiang Yi , Geng Fuchang , Pei Jin
Published: June 2020

Saffron, derived from the stigma ofCrocus sativus, is not only a valuable traditional Chinese medicine but also the expensive spice and dye. Its yield and quality are seriously influenced by its flowering transition. However, the molecular regulatory mechanism of the flowering transition inC. sativusis still unknown. In this study, we performed morphological, physiological and transcriptomic analyses using apical bud samples fromC. sativusduring the floral transition process. Morphological results indicated that the flowering transition process could be divided into three stages: an undifferentiated period, the early flower bud differentiation period, and the late flower bud differentiation period. Sugar, gibberellin (GA3), auxin (IAA) and zeatin (ZT) levels were steadily upregulated, while starch and abscisic acid (ABA) levels were gradually downregulated. Transcriptomic analysis showed that a total of 60 203 unigenes were identified, among which 19 490 were significantly differentially expressed. Of these, 165 unigenes were involved in flowering and were significantly enriched in the sugar metabolism, hormone signal transduction, cell cycle regulatory, photoperiod and autonomous pathways. Based on the above analysis, a hypothetical model for the regulatory networks of the saffron flowering transition was proposed. This study lays a theoretical basis for the genetic regulation of flowering inC. sativus.
A Feedforward Loop within the Thyroid-Brown Fat Axis Facilitates Thermoregulation
Authors: Sun Lijuan , Goh Hui Jen , Govindharajulu Priya , Sun Lei , Henry Christiani Jeyakumar , Leow Melvin Khee-Shing
Published: June 2020

Thyroid hormones (TH) control brown adipose tissue (BAT) activation and differentiation, but their subsequent homeostatic response following BAT activation remains obscure. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between cold- and capsinoids-induced BAT activation and TH changes between baseline and 2 hours post-intervention. Nineteen healthy subjects underwent 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron-emission tomography (18F-FDG PET) and whole-body calorimetry (WBC) after 2 hours of cold exposure (~14.5 °C) or capsinoids ingestion (12 mg) in a crossover design. Standardized uptake values (SUV-mean) of the region of interest and energy expenditure (EE) were measured. Plasma free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine (FT4) and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) were measured before and 2 hours after each intervention. Subjects were divided into groups based on the presence (n = 12) or absence (n = 7) of BAT after cold exposure. 12 of 19 subjects were classified as BAT-positive. Subjects with BAT had higher baseline FT3 concentration, baseline FT3/FT4 ratio compared with subjects without BAT. Controlling for body fat percentage, FT3 concentration at baseline was associated with EE change from baseline after cold exposure (P = 0.037) and capsinoids (P = 0.047). Plasma FT4 level significantly increased associated with reciprocal decline in TSH after acute cold exposure and capsinoids independently of subject and treatment status. Circulating FT3 was higher in BAT-positive subjects and was a stronger predictor of EE changes after cold exposure and capsinoids in healthy humans. BAT activation elevates plasma FT4 acutely and may contribute towards augmentation of thermogenesis via a positive feedback response.
Cardiac transcriptional and metabolic changes following thoracotomy
Authors: Heckmann Markus B. , Rangrez Ashraf Yusuf , Finke Daniel , Jungmann Andreas , Kreußer Julia S. , Rosskopf Alexandra , Schmiedel Nesrin , Katus Hugo A. , Frey Norbert , Müller Oliver J.
Published: June 2020

Non-cardiac surgery is associated with significant cardiovascular complications. Reported mortality rate ranges from 1.9% to 4% in unselected patients. A postoperative surge in pro-inflammatory cytokines is a well-known feature and putative contributor to these complications. Despite much clinical research, little is known about the biomolecular changes in cardiac tissue following non-cardiac surgery. In order to increase our understanding, we analyzed whole-transcriptional and metabolic profiling data sets from hearts of mice harvested two, four, and six weeks following isolated thoracotomy. Hearts from healthy litter-mates served as controls. Functional network enrichment analyses showed a distinct impact on cardiac transcription two weeks after surgery characterized by a downregulation of mitochondrial pathways in the absence of significant metabolic alterations. Transcriptional changes were not detectable four and six weeks following surgery. Our study shows distinct and reversible transcriptional changes within the first two weeks following isolated thoracotomy. This coincides with a time period, in which most cardiovascular events happen.
Outcome of robot-assisted pancreaticoduodenectomy during initial learning curve versus laparotomy
Authors: Zhou Jiangjiao , Xiong Li , Miao Xiongying , Liu Juan , Zou Heng , Wen Yu
Published: June 2020

To analyze the initial learning curve (LC) for robot-assisted pancreaticoduodenectomy (RAPD) and compare RAPD during the initial LC with open pancreaticoduodenectomy (OPD) in terms of outcome. This study is a retrospective review of patients who consecutively underwent RAPD and OPD between October 2015 and January 2020 in our hospital. 41 consecutive RAPD cases and 53 consecutive open cases were enrolled for review. Compared with OPD, RAPD required a significantly longer operative time (401.1 ± 127.5 vs. 230.8 ± 44.5 min, P < 0.001) and higher cost (194621 ± 78342 vs. 121874 ± 39973 CNY, P < 0.001). Moreover, compared with the OPD group, the RAPD group revealed a significantly smaller mean number of lymph nodes harvested in malignant cases (15.6 ± 5.9 vs 18.9 ± 7.3, P = 0.025). No statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of incidence of Clavien–Dindo grade III–V morbidities and 90-day mortality and readmission (P>0.05). In the CUSUM graph, one peak point was observed at the 8th case, after which the operation time began to decrease. LC for RAPD may be less than 30 cases, and RAPD is safe and feasible during the initial LC.
Optimization and standardization of the culturomics technique for human microbiome exploration
Authors: Diakite Ami , Dubourg Grégory , Dione Niokhor , Afouda Pamela , Bellali Sara , Ngom Issa Isaac , Valles Camille , Tall Mamadou lamine , Lagier Jean-Christophe , Raoult Didier
Published: June 2020

Culturomics is a high-throughput culture approach that has dramatically contributed to the recent renewal of culture. While metagenomics enabled substantial advances in exploring the microbiota, culturomics significantly expanded our knowledge regarding the bacterial gut repertoire through the discovery and the description of hundreds of new taxa. While this approach relies on the variation of culture conditions and media, we have tested so far more than 300 conditions since the beginning of culturomics studies. In this context, we aimed herein to identify the most profitable conditions for optimizing culturomics approach. For this purpose, we have analysed a set of 58 culturomics conditions that were previously applied to 8 faecal specimens, enabling the isolation of 497 bacterial species. As a result, we were able to reduce the number of conditions used to isolate these 497 of more than a half (i.e. to 25 culture conditions). We have also established a list of the 16 conditions that allowed to capture 98% of the total number of species previously isolated. These data constitute a methodological starting point for culture-based microbiota studies by improving the culturomics workflow without any loss of captured bacterial diversity.
A Lattice Distortion Theory for Promotor Containing Clathrate Hydrates
Authors: Thakre Niraj , Jana Amiya K.
Published: June 2020

A lattice distortion theory for promotor containing clathrate hydrates is formulated using the statistical thermodynamics based model of van der Waals and Platteeuw in association with the ab initio quantum mechanics to compute the cavity potentials. Despite of high degree of lattice distortion anticipated for large and polar molecules of liquid promotors, their variable lattice energy concept is unreported. With this intention, we estimate the lattice stabilization energy from spin-component scaled second order Møller-Plesset (SCS-MP2) perturbation theory applied with the augmented correlation-consistent polarized double zeta valence (aug-cc-pVDZ) basis set. Implementing this to compute cavity potential for different promotors, the reference properties of hydrates are harvested by regressing against the phase equilibrium conditions of their binary hydrates with methane. Our study confirms the exponential relation of reference chemical potential difference with van der Waals volume of the promotors. Moreover, using the excess Gibbs free energy theory, the higher order distortions for the multiple guests are captured. The proposed lattice distortion theory is attested with phase equilibrium conditions of eight promotors containing clathrate hydrate systems, namely propylene oxide, acetone, tetrahydrofuran, pyrrolidine, iso-butanaldehyde, cyclopentane, furan and thiophene, all having methane as a co-guest.
Omentin: a biomarker of cardiovascular risk in individuals with axial spondyloarthritis
Authors: Genre Fernanda , Rueda-Gotor Javier , Remuzgo-Martínez Sara , Pulito-Cueto Verónica , Corrales Alfonso , Mijares Verónica , Lera-Gómez Leticia , Portilla Virginia , Expósito Rosa , Mata Cristina , Blanco Ricardo , Llorca Javier , Hernández-Hernández Vanesa , Vicente Esther , Fernández-Carballido Cristina , Martínez-Vidal María Paz , Castro-Corredor David , Anino-Fernández Joaquín , Rodríguez-Lozano Carlos , Gualillo Oreste , Quevedo-Abeledo Juan Carlos , Castañeda Santos , Ferraz-Amaro Iván , López-Mejías Raquel , González-Gay Miguel Á.
Published: June 2020

Cardiovascular (CV) disease is the main cause of mortality in axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). CV risk is enhanced by dysregulation of adipokines. Low omentin levels were associated with metabolic dysfunction and CV disease in conditions different from axSpA. Accordingly, we evaluated the genetic and functional implication of omentin in CV risk and subclinical atherosclerosis in a cohort of 385 axSpA patients. Subclinical atherosclerosis was evaluated by carotid ultrasound. Omentin rs12409609, in linkage disequilibrium with a polymorphism associated with CV risk, was genotyped in 385 patients and 84 controls. Serum omentin levels were also determined. omentin mRNA expression was assessed in a subgroup of individuals. Serum and mRNA omentin levels were lower in axSpA compared to controls. Low serum omentin levels were related to male sex, obesity, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and high atherogenic index. rs12409609 minor allele was associated with low omentin mRNA expression in axSpA. No association was observed with subclinical atherosclerosis at the genetic or functional level. In conclusion, in our study low omentin serum levels were associated with CV risk factors in axSpA. Furthermore, rs12409609 minor allele may be downregulating the expression of omentin. These data support a role of omentin as a CV risk biomarker in axSpA.
Measurement of the fluorescence lifetime of GFP in high refractive index levitated droplets using FLIM
Authors: Davidson N. M. , Gallimore P. J. , Bateman B. , Ward A. D. , Botchway S. W. , Kalberer M. , Kuimova M. K. , Pope F. D.
Published: June 2020

This work demonstrates that green fluorescent protein (GFP) can be used as a probe to study aerosols and droplets; in particular GFP, can be used as a probe of refractive index.
Single-molecule methods in structural DNA nanotechnology
Authors: Platnich Casey M. , Rizzuto Felix J. , Cosa Gonzalo , Sleiman Hanadi F.
Published: June 2020

In this tutorial review, we explore the suite of single-molecule techniques currently available to probe DNA nanostructures and highlight the relationship between single-molecule method development and DNA nanotechology.
Linking the submicroscopic and symbolic level in physical chemistry: how voluntary simulation-based learning activities foster first-year university students’ conceptual understanding
Authors: Schwedler Stefanie , Kaldewey Marvin
Published: June 2020

Research in the past decades repeatedly revealed university students’ struggles to properly understand physical chemistry concepts. In contrast to school, tertiary teaching relies heavily on the symbolic level, mainly applying abstract representations such as equations and diagrams. To follow the lessons and generate conceptual understanding, students need to connect those representations with macroscopic and submicroscopic aspects of the scientific concept depicted. For German first-year chemistry students, this increase in abstraction in a major subject of study contributes to excessive demand and demotivation (especially during out-of-class learning) and increases the risk of early dropouts. We designed a simulation-based learning environment (BIRC: Bridging Imagination and Representation in Chemistry) to suit the needs of first-year students and support them when learning physical chemistry at home. Our approach, featuring molecular dynamics simulations, requires students to assess their own mental models on the submicroscopic level and connect them to equations and diagrams on the symbolic level. Prior studies did already highlight the potential of individual BIRC learning units to foster conceptual understanding on specific topics. In this paper, we investigate if and how students of a broader sample use these learning activities as voluntary supplement beside regular coursework. During the term, we used think-aloud protocols, interviews and eight online questionnaires to analyse students’ mental and emotional interaction while working on BIRC, assessing whether students perceived BIRC as a suitable, enjoyable and supportive resource to enhance learning. Via two paper & pencil achievement tests we examined students’ retention concerning submicroscopic mental models and their ability to connect these mental models with symbolic representations 5–10 weeks later. Our findings indicate a cognitively engaging, comparably enjoyable learning process, which strengthens conceptual understanding and – despite the necessary time and effort – induces a broad number of students to voluntarily work on several units at home.
Field induced fragmentation spectra from reactive stage-tandem differential mobility spectrometry
Authors: Fowler P. E. , Pilgrim J. Z. , Lee G. , Eiceman G. A.
Published: June 2020

A planar tandem differential mobility spectrometer was integrated with a middle reactive stage to fragment ions which were mobility selected in a first analyzer stage using characteristic compensation and separation fields.
H2-gas sensing and discriminating actions of a single-yarn sensor based on a Pd/GO multilayered thin film using FFT
Authors: Su Pi-Guey , Lin-Kuo Sheng
Published: June 2020

A single-yarn H2-gas sensor was fabricated by self-assembling Pd/GO/PAH/PSS/PAH/yarn multilayer thin film in situ self-assembled on a single-yarn.
A diamino-substituted carbodiphosphorane as strong C-donor and weak N-donor: isolation of monomeric trigonal-planar L·ZnCl2
Authors: Kroll Alexander , Steinert Henning , Scharf Lennart T. , Scherpf Thorsten , Mallick Bert , Gessner Viktoria H.
Published: June 2020

Studies of the reactivity and coordination properties of the diamino-carbodiphosphorane 1 revealed that 1 is a weak N donor, but strongly coordinates via the carbon atom thus allowing the isolation of low-valent metal species.
Sensitive photoelectrochemical assay of Pb2+ based on DNAzyme-induced disassembly of the “Z-scheme” TiO2/Au/CdS QDs system
Authors: Meng Leixia , Liu Mengyue , Xiao Ke , Zhang Xiaohua , Du Cuicui , Chen Jinhua
Published: June 2020

Based on DNAzyme-induced disassembly of the “Z-scheme” TiO2/Au/CdS QDs system, a facile and sensitive photoelectrochemical biosensor was developed for lead ion assay.
Asymmetric catalysis with a chiral-at-osmium complex
Authors: Wang Guanghui , Zhou Zijun , Shen Xiang , Ivlev Sergei , Meggers Eric
Published: June 2020

Stereogenic osmium center mediates enantioselective ring-closing C(sp3)–H aminations of sulfonylazides and azidoformates.
Luminescent coordination polymers constructed using a mixed-ligand strategy for highly selective luminescence sensing of nitrobenzene, Fe3+ and Cr2O72− ions and photodegradation of rhodamine B
Authors: Wang Jun-Jie , Wu Fei-Fan , Su Ning , Li Pan-Pan , Wang Si-Yin , Ma Hui-Yan , Li Yun-Wu , Yu Mei-Hui
Published: June 2020

Using a mixed ligand strategy, ten new LCPs were constructed. They all display highly sensitive and selective luminescence sensing for NB, Cr2O72−and Fe3+ ions. Moreover, 3–10 also exhibit high photocatalytic activities toward the degradation of RhB.
Design, synthesis and investigations of a series of energetic salts through the variation of amines and concentration of picrate anions
Authors: Mathpati Ramling S. , Dharavath Srinivas , Kumar Nikhil , Ghule Vikas D. , Paul Avijit Kumar , Tittal Ram Kumar
Published: June 2020

Eight energetic salts combining N-bases with picrate ion were synthesized in high yields. The structures and energetic properties were regulated by the variation of N-base molecules and the concentration of the picric acid in the reaction mixture.
In situ X-ray diffraction computed tomography studies examining the thermal and chemical stabilities of working Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3−δ membranes during oxidative coupling of methane
Authors: Matras Dorota , Vamvakeros Antonis , Jacques Simon D. M. , Middelkoop Vesna , Vaughan Gavin , Agote Aran Miren , Cernik Robert J. , Beale Andrew M.
Published: June 2020

In situ XRD-CT and post-reaction SEM/EDX were used to study the solid-state chemistry and structural changes of Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3−δ membrane reactors during the oxidative coupling of methane reaction.
Gas–solid interactions with reactive and inert gas molecules by NAPUPS: can work function be a better descriptor of chemical reactivity?
Authors: Ghosalya Manoj Kumar , Prabhakar Reddy Kasala , Mhamane Nitin B. , Ranjan Ravi , Gopinath Chinnakonda S.
Published: June 2020

Work function alteration due to any chemical/electronic changes can be measured precisely by NAPUPS and correlated to the activity changes.
Multiscale structured low-temperature solid oxide fuel cells with 13 W power at 500 °C
Authors: Shin Sung Soo , Kim Jeong Hun , Bae Kyung Taek , Lee Kang-Taek , Kim Sang Moon , Son Ji-Won , Choi Mansoo , Kim Hyoungchul
Published: June 2020

A multiscale architectured solid oxide fuel cell is demonstrated by applying a large-area ceramic micropatterning and thin-film deposition processes.
Efficient palladium catalysis for the upgrading of itaconic and levulinic acid to 2-pyrrolidones followed by their vinylation into value-added monomers
Authors: Louven Yannik , Haus Moritz O. , Konrad Marc , Hofmann Jan P. , Palkovits Regina
Published: June 2020

Bio-based monomers are produced in a two-step process starting from common platform chemicals. The heterogeneously catalyzed reduction of bio-based acids into 2-pyrrolidones makes for a promising drop-in technology for the industrial NVP production.
High adsorption activated calcium silicate enabling high-capacity adsorption for sulfur dioxide
Authors: Wang Feng , Zhang Yongfeng , Mao Zhihui
Published: June 2020

Fly ash, with its abundant silicon sources and high porosity, is an excellent precursor of porous silica-based sorbents, which are the key to obtaining high SO2 adsorption performance.
A suspended metasurface achieves complete light absorption: a 50 nm-thick optical nanomicrophone
Authors: Xu Jipeng , Jiang Xiaowei , Guo Chucai , Guo Yanting , Yan Rui , Zhang Jianfa , Zhu Zhihong , Tan Zhongqi , Liu Ken
Published: June 2020

A compact absorber composed of an optical cavity with an ultrathin dielectric metasurface, which can detect ultrasonic signals with extreme sensitivity.
Spectral attributes of sub-amorphous thermal conductivity in cross-linked organic–inorganic hybrids
Authors: Morshedifard Ali , Moshiri Amir , Krakowiak Konrad J. , Abdolhosseini Qomi Mohammad Javad
Published: June 2020

Comparison of thermal conductivity in hybrid and pristine inorganic models and the modal spectrum of each sample showing the approximately unchanged number of propagating modes and a significant number of added localized modes in the hybrid sample.
Inter-particle biomolecular reactivity tuned by surface crowders
Authors: Scheepers M. R. W. , Haenen S. R. R. , Coers J. M. , van IJzendoorn L. J. , Prins M. W. J.
Published: June 2020

The specific surface reactivity of biofunctionalized particles is quantified and tuned by adding passive surface crowder molecules on the particle surface.
1D topological phases in transition-metal monochalcogenide nanowires
Authors: Jin Kyung-Hwan , Liu Feng
Published: June 2020

The Su–Schrieffer–Heeger (SSH) model is a prototypical one-dimensional (1D) diatomic lattice model for non-trivial topological phases and topological excitations.
Membrane active Janus-oligomers of β3-peptides
Authors: Szigyártó Imola Cs. , Mihály Judith , Wacha András , Bogdán Dóra , Juhász Tünde , Kohut Gergely , Schlosser Gitta , Zsila Ferenc , Urlacher Vlada , Varga Zoltán , Fülöp Ferenc , Bóta Attila , Mándity István , Beke-Somfai Tamás
Published: June 2020

Self-assembly of an acyclic β3-hexapeptide with alternating side chain chirality, into nanometer size oligomeric bundles showing membrane activity and hosting capacity for hydrophobic small molecules.
Correction: Triple cation additive NH3+C2H4NH2+C2H4NH3+-induced phase-stable inorganic α-CsPbI3 perovskite films for use in solar cells
Authors: Ding Xihong , Chen Haibin , Wu Yahan , Ma Shuang , Dai Songyuan , Yang Shangfeng , Zhu Jun
Published: June 2020

Correction for ‘Triple cation additive NH3+C2H4NH2+C2H4NH3+-induced phase-stable inorganic α-CsPbI3 perovskite films for use in solar cells’ by Xihong Ding et al., J. Mater. Chem. A, 2018, 6, 18258–18266, DOI: 10.1039/C8TA04590A.
Molecular architecture of the acetohydroxyacid synthase holoenzyme
Authors: Zhang Yingying , Li Yang , Liu Xiao , Sun Jixue , Li Xin , Lin Jianping , Yang Xue , Xi Zhen , Shen Yuequan
Published: June 2020

The acetohydroxyacid synthase (AHAS) holoenzyme catalyzes the first step of branch-chain amino acid biosynthesis and is essential for plants and bacteria. It consists of a regulatory subunit (RSU) and a catalytic subunit (CSU). The allosteric mechanism of the AHAS holoenzyme has remained elusive for decades. Here, we determined the crystal structure of the AHAS holoenzyme, revealing the association between the RSU and CSU in an A2B2 mode. Structural analysis in combination with mutational studies demonstrated that the RSU dimer forms extensive interactions with the CSU dimer, in which a conserved salt bridge between R32 and D120 may act as a trigger to open the activation loop of the CSU, resulting in the activation of the CSU by the RSU. Our study reveals the activation mechanism of the AHAS holoenzyme.
Thermogenic adipocytes: lineage, function and therapeutic potential
Authors: Pollard Alice E. , Carling David
Published: June 2020

Metabolic inflexibility, defined as the inability to respond or adapt to metabolic demand, is now recognised as a driving factor behind many pathologies associated with obesity and the metabolic syndrome. Adipose tissue plays a pivotal role in the ability of an organism to sense, adapt to and counteract environmental changes. It provides a buffer in times of nutrient excess, a fuel reserve during starvation and the ability to resist cold-stress through non-shivering thermogenesis. Recent advances in single-cell RNA sequencing combined with lineage tracing, transcriptomic and proteomic analyses have identified novel adipocyte progenitors that give rise to specialised adipocytes with diverse functions, some of which have the potential to be exploited therapeutically. This review will highlight the common and distinct functions of well-known adipocyte populations with respect to their lineage and plasticity, as well as introducing the most recent members of the adipocyte family and their roles in whole organism energy homeostasis. Finally, this article will outline some of the more preliminary findings from large data sets generated by single-cell transcriptomics of mouse and human adipose tissue and their implications for the field, both for discovery and for therapy.
BAME scientists: the hidden pioneers?
Authors: Shyamsundar Hanshikaa , Asaria Ayman , Bajra Ideja
Published: June 2020

2020: The year of inclusion, scrapping labels, where previous divisions become archaic and dated. The promise of communities thriving from foundations built upon equality, diversity and inclusion. Why then is there still a lack of Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) representation within Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)? In this article, we showcase the experience of BAME scientists as it has progressed through the decades, before exploring the goals and possibilities for a future without inequality in science.
How do histone modifications contribute to transgenerational epigenetic inheritance in C. elegans?
Authors: Woodhouse Rachel M. , Ashe Alyson
Published: June 2020

Gene regulatory information can be inherited between generations in a phenomenon termed transgenerational epigenetic inheritance (TEI). While examples of TEI in many animals accumulate, the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans has proven particularly useful in investigating the underlying molecular mechanisms of this phenomenon. In C. elegans and other animals, the modification of histone proteins has emerged as a potential carrier and effector of transgenerational epigenetic information. In this review, we explore the contribution of histone modifications to TEI in C. elegans. We describe the role of repressive histone marks, histone methyltransferases, and associated chromatin factors in heritable gene silencing, and discuss recent developments and unanswered questions in how these factors integrate with other known TEI mechanisms. We also review the transgenerational effects of the manipulation of histone modifications on germline health and longevity.
Behavioral Audiology Procedures in Children With Down Syndrome
Authors: Nightengale Emily E. , Wolter-Warmerdam Kristine , Yoon Patricia J. , Daniels Dee , Hickey Fran
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Normative data regarding behavioral audiologic testing procedures are based upon the general population and often do not apply to children with Down syndrome (DS). Testing children with DS can be challenging, and outcomes may be unreliable due to their different cognitive demands and delays. The aim of this study was to assess optimal audiologic testing procedures for specific age groups of children with DS.

Method

This study used a retrospective investigation of 273 children with DS (145 boys, 128 girls; average age at evaluation = 5.92 ± 4.74 years) who received an audiologic evaluation during 2013 as part of their medical care at a large pediatric hospital (satellite facilities included).

Results

Age ranges for the completion of audiometry procedures in children with DS are provided. Average age to reliably complete behavioral testing in children with DS was delayed by up to 30 months compared to typically developing children. The majority of children with DS achieved at least good-to-fair reliability for audiologic results starting at 16 months (85.7%) and two ear results at 6–10 years (76.1%). Though not statistically significant, the use of a two-tester assistant compared to a single tester appeared to be helpful in obtaining reliable results.

Conclusion

The results provide a guide to optimal audiologic test procedures for children with DS, as the standard audiologic guidelines for typically developing infants and children do not apply.
The Effects of an Online Training on Preservice Speech-Language Pathologists' Use of Family-Centered Skills
Authors: Mandak Kelsey , Light Janice , McNaughton David
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Despite the recognition that family-centered services are best practice in augmentative and alternative communication services, many speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are lacking in their acquisition and implementation of family-centered skills. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of online instruction in a family-centered, relational skills strategy on preservice SLPs use of family-centered skills.

Method

A switching replications design was used to evaluate the effects of an online training on the use of family-centered behaviors by 15 preservice SLPs who were randomly assigned to two groups. The online training taught the students a four-step relational skills strategy (summarized by the acronym LAFF): (a) Listen, empathize, and communicate respect; (b) Ask questions; (c) Focus on the issues; and (d) Find a first step. Participants were videotaped during interactions with simulated parents before and after the training.

Results

After an average of 61 min of instruction via the online module, all of the preservice SLPs significantly improved their demonstration of relational skills. Additionally, one parent of a child who used augmentative and alternative communication viewed the video recordings and chose 14 of the 15 postinstruction role plays as more family-centered.

Conclusion

The findings from this study provide support for the use of an online environment to teach preservice SLPs family-centered relational skills. In order to prepare future SLPs and ensure the delivery of family-centered services, future research is necessary, including investigations to determine whether other family-centered skills can be effectively taught through an online environment.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.12462344
The Impact of Interactive Shared Book Reading on Children's Language Skills: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Noble Claire , Cameron-Faulkner Thea , Jessop Andrew , Coates Anna , Sawyer Hannah , Taylor-Ims Rachel , Rowland Caroline F.
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Research has indicated that interactive shared book reading can support a wide range of early language skills and that children who are read to regularly in the early years learn language faster, enter school with a larger vocabulary, and become more successful readers at school. Despite the large volume of research suggesting interactive shared reading is beneficial for language development, two fundamental issues remain outstanding: whether shared book reading interventions are equally effective (a) for children from all socioeconomic backgrounds and (b) for a range of language skills.

Method

To address these issues, we conducted a randomized controlled trial to investigate the effects of two 6-week interactive shared reading interventions on a range of language skills in children across the socioeconomic spectrum. One hundred and fifty children aged between 2;6 and 3;0 (years;months) were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: a pause reading, a dialogic reading, or an active shared reading control condition.

Results

The findings indicated that the interventions were effective at changing caregiver reading behaviors. However, the interventions did not boost children's language skills over and above the effect of an active reading control condition. There were also no effects of socioeconomic status.

Conclusion

This randomized controlled trial showed that caregivers from all socioeconomic backgrounds successfully adopted an interactive shared reading style. However, while the interventions were effective at increasing caregivers' use of interactive shared book reading behaviors, this did not have a significant impact on the children's language skills. The findings are discussed in terms of practical implications and future research.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.12420539
Hochaktive Kaumuskeln – S3-Leitlinie Diagnostik und Behandlung von Bruxismus
Authors: Hoffmann Marisa , von Piekartz Harry
Published: June 2020

Kürzlich ist eine neue Leitlinie zum Thema Bruxismus erschienen. Ein solider Kenntnisstand darüber ist auch in der therapeutischen Praxis wichtig. Marisa Hoffmann und Prof. Dr. Harry von Piekartz tragen die Fakten zusammen.
PEDros kleine Schwester – DiTA – neue Online-Datenbank für Testverfahren und Assessments
Authors: Moers Stephanie
Published: June 2020

Vor lauter Tests verliert man in der Untersuchung schnell mal den Überblick. Dazu kommt, dass nicht jeder Test sinnvoll und genau ist. Unterstützung verspricht nun eine neue Datenbank für die Genauigkeit von diagnostischen Tests – DiTA. Themenscout Stephanie Moers hat das neue Angebot getestet.
Wie verändert die COVID-19-Pandemie unsere Sexualitäten? Eine Übersicht medialer Narrative im Frühjahr 2020
Authors: Döring Nicola , Walter Roberto
Published: June 2020

Einleitung Anlässlich der COVID-19-Pandemie wurden ab März 2020 in Deutschland und vielen anderen Ländern weitreichende Infektionsschutzmaßnahmen verhängt. Deren Auswirkungen auf Individuen und Gesellschaft waren sofort Gegenstand intensiver medialer Debatten.

Forschungsziele Vor diesem Hintergrund verfolgt die vorliegende Studie das Ziel, die medialen Narrative speziell zu sexualitätsbezogenen Veränderungen durch die COVID-19-Pandemie herauszuarbeiten.

Methoden Dazu wurde eine Stichprobe von N = 305 massenmedialen Beiträgen aus dem Februar und März 2020 hinsichtlich 1) der behandelten Aspekte von Sexualität (z. B. Partnersex, Solosex), 2) der angebotenen Corona-Sex-Narrative (z. B. Mehr-Partnersex-Narrativ; Weniger-Partnersex-Narrativ) sowie 3) der Meta-Narrative (z. B. Krise als Chance, Krise als Risiko, Krise als Chance und Risiko zugleich) analysiert. Zudem wurden exemplarisch Beiträge aus Sozialen Medien untersucht. Die Studie folgt dem Open Science Ansatz: Stichprobe, Codebuch, Reliabilitätskoeffizienten und Datensatz sind über den Server der Open Science Foundation zugänglich (
https://osf.io/ew6t3/
).

Ergebnisse Es zeigte sich, dass in den Massenmedien Veränderungen beim Partnersex und Solosex sowie hinsichtlich verschiedener Aspekte sexueller und reproduktiver Gesundheit und Rechte auf der Agenda standen. Dabei wurden für Partnersex teilweise und für Solosex durchgängig Corona-Sex-Narrative angeboten, die eine Verbesserung der Situation in dem Sinne behaupten, dass es zu mehr und zu lustvollerem Sex kommt. Gleichzeitig gingen die problembezogenen Corona-Sex-Narrative fast durchgängig von einer Verschlimmerung der Lage aus, etwa einem Mehr an sexualisierter häuslicher Gewalt, einem Mehr an Zugangshürden zum Schwangerschaftsabbruch, einem Mehr an Ungewissheiten bei Schwangerschaft und Geburt, einem Mehr an ökonomisch existenzbedrohlichen Lagen in der Sexarbeit und einem Mehr an Diskriminierung von LGBTIQ-Personen.

Schlussfolgerung Im medialen Diskurs über sexualitätsbezogene Auswirkungen der COVID-19-Pandemie zeigten sich zwei auffällige Tendenzen: Eine sehr sexpositive, kommerzfreundliche bis geradezu glorifizierende Würdigung von Solosex und Onlinesex sowie eine starke Sensibilisierung für bestimmte Einschränkungen der sexuellen und reproduktiven Selbstbestimmung. Es bleibt unklar, inwiefern die medialen Corona-Sex-Narrative tatsächliche Veränderungen umfassend und akkurat abbilden, da dazu empirische Daten fehlen.
Quantification and Pathogenicity of Candida albicans in Denture-Wearing and Nondenture-Wearing Elderly
Authors: Bachtiar Boy M. , Fath Turmidzi , Widowati Retno , Bachtiar Endang W.
Published: June 2020

Objective The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the microbial loads and pathogenicity traits of oral Candida albicans in denture-wearing (DW; n = 15) and nondenture-wearing (NDW; n = 15) elderly persons.

Materials and Methods The fungal counts of the saliva, tongue dorsa, and prosthesis-fitting surfaces of the participants were assessed using real-time polymerase chain reaction to compare the quantity and expression of selected C. albicans biofilm-associated genes (ALS3, HWP1, and YWP1).

Statistical Analysis The obtained data were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance, followed by Bartlett’s test. When appropriate, the Student’s t-test was also used; a value of p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results In both groups, the count of C. albicans was found to be significantly higher in saliva than in other oral samples. The expression of the hypha-specific genes (ALS3 and HWP1) in the tongue dorsa was higher in the DW group (p < 0.05), whereas the transcription level of the yeast-specific gene (YWP1) was significantly higher in the NDW group.

Conclusion Both tongue dorsa and dentures appear to be sharing factors that are important for C. albicans biofilm growth in abiotic and biotic oral surfaces of the elderly.
Bound states and the potential parameter spectrum
Authors: Alhaidari A. D. , Bahlouli H.
Published: June 2020

In this article, we answer the following question: If the wave equation possesses bound states, but it is exactly solvable for only a single non-zero energy, can we find all bound state solutions (energy spectrum and associated wavefunctions)? To answer this question, we use the “tridiagonal representation approach” to solve the wave equation at the given energy by expanding the wavefunction in a series of energy-dependent square integrable basis functions in configuration space. The expansion coefficients satisfy a three-term recursion relation, which is solved in terms of orthogonal polynomials. Depending on the selected energy, we show that one of the potential parameters must assume a value from within a discrete set called the “potential parameter spectrum” (PPS). This discrete set is obtained from the spectrum of the above polynomials and can be either a finite or an infinite set. Inverting the relation between the energy and the PPS gives the bound state energy spectrum. Therefore, the answer to the above question is affirmative.
Enhancement of Er luminescence in microdisk resonators made of Er,O-codoped GaAs
Authors: Higashi R. , Ogawa M. , Tatebayashi J. , Fujioka N. , Timmerman D. , Ichikawa S. , Fujiwara Y.
Published: June 2020

We report on the fabrication and optical characteristics of microdisk (MD) resonators with Er,O-codoped GaAs (GaAs:Er,O) as an active component. MD resonators based on GaAs:Er,O with different sidewall angles are fabricated by electron beam lithography followed by two different processes: dry and wet etching. Numerical simulations using a finite-difference time-domain method demonstrate an increase in the cavity quality (Q) factor of the MDs when sharpening the taper angle of the MDs. Micro-photoluminescence characterization of the MD resonators with excitation by a He–Ne laser reveals an 11.4-fold enhancement of Er-related luminescence and a cavity Q factor of 4.2 × 103. For the MD resonators with tapered sidewalls, further enhancement of Er luminescence and increased Q factor (>9.0 × 103) are observed.
Electron-exchange potential correction on dynamics of multidimensional ion acoustic waves in quantum plasmas
Authors: Roy Debasish , Sahu Biswajit
Published: June 2020

We describe the propagation of arbitrary amplitude ion acoustic waves with electron exchange-correlation effects for two-dimensional quantum plasmas by using the quantum hydrodynamic model. The evolution of nonlinear waves in such plasmas is described by deriving a pseudoenergy-balance like equation, involving a Sagdeev-type pseudopotential. The effects of the key plasma configuration parameters, viz., quantum diffraction, electron exchange-correlation, and the angle of propagation of the wave, on the periodic and solitonic characteristics are studied in detail by employing the concept of dynamical systems. Also, we extend our investigation by considering an external periodic perturbation in a modified pseudoforce model. It is found that the dynamics of nonlinear ion acoustic oscillations in quantum plasma support periodic and quasiperiodic behavior depending on the external pseudofrequency. The implications of our results may have relevance in various dense astrophysical environments as well as in laboratory plasmas.
Superconducting qubits free of fabrication residues
Authors: Mandel Savannah
Published: June 2020

A stencil lithography technique for fabricating superconducting qubits results in almost no residual contamination and increased control over device-wafer surface optimization.
Impact of edge magnetic perturbation (MP) on multi-scale turbulence and turbulent transport across a MP-induced edge transport reduction in the TEXTOR tokamak
Authors: He Y. , Xu Y. , Shesterikov I. , Vergote M. , Van Schoor M. , Krämer-Flecken A. , Cheng J.
Published: June 2020

Reduced particle losses have been observed during the operation of an m/n = 6/2 resonant magnetic perturbation in the TEXTOR tokamak. The influence of the perturbation field on multi-scale turbulence and turbulent transport has been surveyed in detail across the perturbation-induced reduction of edge transport. The results indicate that with magnetic perturbation (MP), both the large-scale zonal flows and small-scale drift-wave turbulence are significantly reduced. At high MP currents, a reduction of edge transport can be realized due to primarily the decline of small-scale ambient turbulence and turbulent transport in the ergodic zone, where the turbulence eddy size is largely decreased. Investigation on the dynamic process of fluctuation quantities during the perturbation current ramp-up phase further shows that geodesic acoustic mode zonal flows and their nonlinear interaction with background turbulence decrease incessantly with increasing perturbation current. The transport reduction takes place only after small-scale turbulence starts to be strongly reduced by the MP when the MP strength reaches a certain threshold value.
Influence of ionization on sheath structure in electropositive warm plasma carrying two-temperature electrons with non-extensive distribution
Authors: Dhawan Rajat , Kumar Mayank , Malik Hitendra K.
Published: June 2020

A collisional electropositive plasma having two-temperature (hot and cold) electrons with non-extensive distribution and warm ions is investigated for the sheath structure by taking into account the ionization in plasma. A modified Bohm's sheath criterion is realized in such a plasma, which shows considerable dependence on the non-extensive parameter, collisional parameter, ionization, ion temperature, and concentration and temperature of hot electrons. The corrected choice for the initial value of the electric field at the sheath edge is obtained for a given set of plasma parameters. The sheath thickness and the electric potential in the sheath show significant modification under the effect of non-extensive parameters and temperature and concentration of hot electrons. A noticeable change in the sheath characteristics is also recorded for different ionization rates, collisional parameters, and ion temperatures. A comparative study for the two-temperature electrons having non-extensive distribution with the electrons having Boltzmann distribution and single-temperature electrons having non-extensive distribution is also done in order to uncover the role of two-temperature, i.e., hot and cold electrons.
Investigating shear flow through continuum gyrokinetic simulations of limiter biasing in the Texas Helimak
Authors: Bernard T. N. , Stoltzfus-Dueck T. , Gentle K. W. , Hakim A. , Hammett G. W. , Shi E. L.
Published: June 2020

Previous limiter-biasing experiments on the Texas Helimak, a simple magnetized torus, have been inconclusive on the effect of flow shear on turbulence levels. To investigate this, the first gyrokinetic simulations of limiter biasing in the Helimak using the plasma physics code Gkeyll have been carried out, and the results are presented here. For the scenarios considered, turbulence is mostly driven by the interchange instability, which depends on gradients of steady-state density profiles. An analysis of both experimental and simulation data demonstrates that shear rates are mostly less than local linear growth rates, and not all requirements for shear stabilization are met. Rather, the mostly vertical shear flow has an important effect on bulk transport and experimental steady-state density profiles, and changes in the gradients correspond to changes in turbulence levels.
Solvation structure and dynamics of the dimethylammonium cation diluted in liquid water: A molecular dynamics approach
Authors: Skarmoutsos Ioannis , Guardia Elvira
Published: June 2020

Classical molecular dynamics simulation techniques were employed to investigate the local solvation structure and related dynamics of the dimethylammonium cation diluted in liquid water at ambient conditions. The translational and orientational order around the dimethylammonium cation was investigated in terms of the corresponding radial and angular distribution functions. The results obtained revealed that the first solvation shell of the dimethylammonium consists mainly of two and, less frequently, three water molecules. The two nearest water neighbors form hydrogen bonds with the ammonium hydrogen atoms of the cation, whereas the third neighbor interacts with the methyl hydrogen atoms as well. The distribution of the trigonal order parameter exhibits a bimodal behavior, signifying the existence of local orientational heterogeneities in the solvation shell of the dimethylammonium cation. The calculated continuous and intermittent residence and hydrogen bond lifetimes for the cation–water pairs have also been found to be longer in comparison with the water–water ones. The very similar self-diffusion coefficients of the dimethylammonium cation and the water molecules in the bulk dilute solution indicate that the translational motions of the cation are mainly controlled by the translational mobility of the surrounding water molecules.