bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The dynamic landscape of transcription initiation in yeast mitochondria
Authors: Sohn Byeong-Kwon , Basu Urmimala , Lee Seung-Won , Cho Hayoon , Shen Jiayu , Deshpande Aishwarya , Johnson Laura C. , Das Kalyan , Patel Smita S. , Kim Hajin
Published: August 2020

Controlling efficiency and fidelity in the early stage of mitochondrial DNA transcription is crucial for regulating cellular energy metabolism. Conformational transitions of the transcription initiation complex must be central for such control, but how the conformational dynamics progress throughout transcription initiation remains unknown. Here, we use single-molecule fluorescence resonance energy transfer techniques to examine the conformational dynamics of the transcriptional system of yeast mitochondria with single-base resolution. We show that the yeast mitochondrial transcriptional complex dynamically transitions among closed, open, and scrunched states throughout the initiation stage. Then abruptly at position +8, the dynamic states of initiation make a sharp irreversible transition to an unbent conformation with associated promoter release. Remarkably, stalled initiation complexes remain in dynamic scrunching and unscrunching states without dissociating the RNA transcript, implying the existence of backtracking transitions with possible regulatory roles. The dynamic landscape of transcription initiation suggests a kinetically driven regulation of mitochondrial transcription.
TET1 is a beige adipocyte-selective epigenetic suppressor of thermogenesis
Authors: Damal Villivalam Sneha , You Dongjoo , Kim Jinse , Lim Hee Woong , Xiao Han , Zushin Pete-James H. , Oguri Yasuo , Amin Pouya , Kang Sona
Published: August 2020

It has been suggested that beige fat thermogenesis is tightly controlled by epigenetic regulators that sense environmental cues such as temperature. Here, we report that subcutaneous adipose expression of the DNA demethylase TET1 is suppressed by cold and other stimulators of beige adipocyte thermogenesis. TET1 acts as an autonomous repressor of key thermogenic genes, including Ucp1 and Ppargc1a, in beige adipocytes. Adipose-selective Tet1 knockout mice generated by using Fabp4-Cre improves cold tolerance and increases energy expenditure and protects against diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance. Moreover, the suppressive role of TET1 in the thermogenic gene regulation of beige adipocytes is largely DNA demethylase-independent. Rather, TET1 coordinates with HDAC1 to mediate the epigenetic changes to suppress thermogenic gene transcription. Taken together, TET1 is a potent beige-selective epigenetic breaker of the thermogenic gene program. Our findings may lead to a therapeutic strategy to increase energy expenditure in obesity and related metabolic disorders.
Circadian clock mechanism driving mammalian photoperiodism
Authors: Wood S. H. , Hindle M. M. , Mizoro Y. , Cheng Y. , Saer B. R. C. , Miedzinska K. , Christian H. C. , Begley N. , McNeilly J. , McNeilly A. S. , Meddle S. L. , Burt D. W. , Loudon A. S. I.
Published: August 2020

The annual photoperiod cycle provides the critical environmental cue synchronizing rhythms of life in seasonal habitats. In 1936, Bünning proposed a circadian-based coincidence timer for photoperiodic synchronization in plants. Formal studies support the universality of this so-called coincidence timer, but we lack understanding of the mechanisms involved. Here we show in mammals that long photoperiods induce the circadian transcription factorBMAL2, in thepars tuberalisof the pituitary, and triggers summer biology through the eyes absent/thyrotrophin (EYA3/TSH) pathway. Conversely, long-duration melatonin signals on short photoperiods induce circadian repressors includingDEC1, suppressing BMAL2 and the EYA3/TSH pathway, triggering winter biology. These actions are associated with progressive genome-wide changes in chromatin state, elaborating the effect of the circadian coincidence timer. Hence, circadian clock-pituitary epigenetic pathway interactions form the basis of the mammalian coincidence timer mechanism. Our results constitute a blueprint for circadian-based seasonal timekeeping in vertebrates.
Warsaw Breakage Syndrome associated DDX11 helicase resolves G-quadruplex structures to support sister chromatid cohesion
Authors: van Schie Janne J. M. , Faramarz Atiq , Balk Jesper A. , Stewart Grant S. , Cantelli Erika , Oostra Anneke B. , Rooimans Martin A. , Parish Joanna L. , de Almeida Estéves Cynthia , Dumic Katja , Barisic Ingeborg , Diderich Karin E. M. , van Slegtenhorst Marjon A. , Mahtab Mohammad , Pisani Francesca M. , te Riele Hein , Ameziane Najim , Wolthuis Rob M. F. , de Lange Job
Published: August 2020

Warsaw Breakage Syndrome (WABS) is a rare disorder related to cohesinopathies and Fanconi anemia, caused by bi-allelic mutations in DDX11. Here, we report multiple compound heterozygous WABS cases, each displaying destabilized DDX11 protein and residual DDX11 function at the cellular level. Patient-derived cell lines exhibit sensitivity to topoisomerase and PARP inhibitors, defective sister chromatid cohesion and reduced DNA replication fork speed. Deleting DDX11 in RPE1-TERT cells inhibits proliferation and survival in a TP53-dependent manner and causes chromosome breaks and cohesion defects, independent of the expressed pseudogene DDX12p. Importantly, G-quadruplex (G4) stabilizing compounds induce chromosome breaks and cohesion defects which are strongly aggravated by inactivation of DDX11 but not FANCJ. The DNA helicase domain of DDX11 is essential for sister chromatid cohesion and resistance to G4 stabilizers. We propose that DDX11 is a DNA helicase protecting against G4 induced double-stranded breaks and concomitant loss of cohesion, possibly at DNA replication forks.
Lumenal Galectin-9-Lamp2 interaction regulates lysosome and autophagy to prevent pathogenesis in the intestine and pancreas
Authors: Sudhakar Janaki N. , Lu Hsueh-Han , Chiang Hung-Yu , Suen Ching-Shu , Hwang Ming-Jing , Wu Sung-Yu , Shen Chia-Ning , Chang Yao-Ming , Li Fu-An , Liu Fu-Tong , Shui Jr-Wen
Published: August 2020

Intracellular galectins are carbohydrate-binding proteins capable of sensing and repairing damaged lysosomes. As in the physiological conditions glycosylated moieties are mostly in the lysosomal lumen but not cytosol, it is unclear whether galectins reside in lysosomes, bind to glycosylated proteins, and regulate lysosome functions. Here, we show in gut epithelial cells, galectin-9 is enriched in lysosomes and predominantly binds to lysosome-associated membrane protein 2 (Lamp2) in a Asn(N)-glycan dependent manner. At the steady state, galectin-9 binding to glycosylated Asn175 of Lamp2 is essential for functionality of lysosomes and autophagy. Loss of N-glycan-binding capability of galectin-9 causes its complete depletion from lysosomes and defective autophagy, leading to increased endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress preferentially in autophagy-active Paneth cells and acinar cells. Unresolved ER stress consequently causes cell degeneration or apoptosis that associates with colitis and pancreatic disorders in mice. Therefore, lysosomal galectins maintain homeostatic function of lysosomes to prevent organ pathogenesis.
Diffusion of flue gas desulfurization reveals barriers and opportunities for carbon capture and storage
Authors: van Ewijk Stijn , McDowall Will
Published: August 2020

Addressing climate change may require rapid global diffusion of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS). To understand its potential diffusion, we analysed a historical analogy: Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD) in the global coal power market. Our findings challenge common patterns: diffusion of FGD is not described by a single S-curve but by multiple steps and does not slow down after materiality. The regulation-driven diffusion of FGD can be fast, especially for retrofit since it does not require new power plants. Owing to the mature size of coal power plants, the diffusion of FGD is driven by unit numbers instead of unit capacity growth. We find that the diffusion of CCS in climate change mitigation pathways, when normalised for economic growth, rarely exceeds the historical maximum diffusion rate of FGD. Our findings suggest that end-of-pipe abatement technology can diffuse fast and to a great extent provided deep, consistent long-term regulatory commitment.
Clinically applicable histopathological diagnosis system for gastric cancer detection using deep learning
Authors: Song Zhigang , Zou Shuangmei , Zhou Weixun , Huang Yong , Shao Liwei , Yuan Jing , Gou Xiangnan , Jin Wei , Wang Zhanbo , Chen Xin , Ding Xiaohui , Liu Jinhong , Yu Chunkai , Ku Calvin , Liu Cancheng , Sun Zhuo , Xu Gang , Wang Yuefeng , Zhang Xiaoqing , Wang Dandan , Wang Shuhao , Xu Wei , Davis Richard C. , Shi Huaiyin
Published: August 2020

The early detection and accurate histopathological diagnosis of gastric cancer increase the chances of successful treatment. The worldwide shortage of pathologists offers a unique opportunity for the use of artificial intelligence assistance systems to alleviate the workload and increase diagnostic accuracy. Here, we report a clinically applicable system developed at the Chinese PLA General Hospital, China, using a deep convolutional neural network trained with 2,123 pixel-level annotated H&E-stained whole slide images. The model achieves a sensitivity near 100% and an average specificity of 80.6% on a real-world test dataset with 3,212 whole slide images digitalized by three scanners. We show that the system could aid pathologists in improving diagnostic accuracy and preventing misdiagnoses. Moreover, we demonstrate that our system performs robustly with 1,582 whole slide images from two other medical centres. Our study suggests the feasibility and benefits of using histopathological artificial intelligence assistance systems in routine practice scenarios.
Thermodynamic feasibility of the four-stage chloride-induced depassivation mechanism of iron
Authors: Pang Qin , DorMohammadi Hossein , Isgor O. Burkan , Árnadóttir Líney
Published: August 2020

The atomistic mechanism of chloride-induced depassivation of iron is still debated. A recent study suggests a four-stage depassivation mechanism, in general agreement with the point defect model. The proposed four-stage mechanism is based on reactive force field molecular dynamics simulations and is rather complex but here we use density functional theory to confirm the thermodynamic feasibility of the proposed mechanism. We find that the four surface species, formed in the four stages, have decreasing surface stability, which is consistent with the order of species formed in the depassivation process proposed in the reactive force field molecular dynamics study. The Fe vacancy formation energy, that is the energy needed to form a surface Fe vacancy by removing different surface species, indicates that surface species with more chlorides dissolve more easily from the surface, suggesting that chloride acts as catalyst in the iron dissolution process. The results are consistent with the suggested four-stage reaction mechanism and the point defect model.
Contributors to the black-white life expectancy gap in Washington D.C.
Authors: Roberts Max , Reither Eric N. , Lim Sojung
Published: August 2020

Although the black-white gap in life expectancy has been shrinking in the U.S., national improvement conceals ongoing disparities. Nowhere is this more evident than Washington D.C., where the black-white gap has persistently exceeded 10 years. Using 1999–2017 mortality data from the National Center for Health Statistics, we employed demographic techniques to pursue three aims: first, we created period life tables to examine longevity trends in Washington D.C.; second, we decomposed black-white life expectancy differences into 23 causes of death in three time periods (2000, 2008, 2016); third, we assessed age-specific contributions for each cause of death. Findings revealed that heart disease (4.14 years), homicide (2.43 years), and cancer (2.30 years) contributed most to the 17.23-year gap among males in 2016. Heart disease and cancer contributed most at ages 55–69; homicide contributed most at ages 20–29. Among females in 2016, heart disease (3.24 years), cancer (2.36 years), and unintentional injuries (0.85 years) contributed most to the 12.06-year gap. Heart disease and cancer contributed most at ages 55–69, and unintentional injuries at ages 50–59. Our investigation provides detailed evidence about contributors to the black-white longevity gap in Washington D.C., which can aid in the development of targeted public health interventions.
Deep learning and feature based medication classifications from EEG in a large clinical data set
Authors: Nahmias David O. , Civillico Eugene F. , Kontson Kimberly L.
Published: August 2020

The amount of freely available human phenotypic data is increasing daily, and yet little is known about the types of inferences or identifying characteristics that could reasonably be drawn from that data using new statistical methods. One data type of particular interest is electroencephalographical (EEG) data, collected noninvasively from humans in various behavioral contexts. The Temple University EEG corpus associates thousands of hours of de-identified EEG records with contemporaneous physician reports that include metadata that might be expected to show a measurable correlation with characteristics of the recorded signal. Given that machine learning methods applied to neurological signals are being used in emerging diagnostic applications, we leveraged this data source to test the confidence with which algorithms could predict, using a patient’s EEG record(s) as input, which medications were noted on the matching physician report. We comparatively assessed deep learning and feature-based approaches on their ability to distinguish between the assumed presence of Dilantin (phenytoin), Keppra (levetiracetam), or neither. Our methods could successfully distinguish between patients taking either anticonvulsant and those taking no medications; as well as between the two anticonvulsants. Further, we found different approaches to be most effective for different groups of classifications.
Natural Clay Minerals for Hydrocracking Reactions
Authors: Amaya Jahaziel , Moreno Sonia , Molina Rafael
Published: August 2020

Based on the contextualization of the current problem of the worldwide oil refining industry and the need to transform heavy crude to medium distillates, gasoline and diesel, this chapter highlights the use of hydrocracking as a versatile and flexible process for the treatment of this type of crude. Herein we describe the main characteristics and challenges (deactivation due to contaminants or coke formation, control of molecular traffic and acid modulation) that a catalyst must face for its good performance in this reaction. A review of the most reported catalysts for hydrocracking processes points to zeolites and, to a lesser extent, to silica-alumina as the main solids used and highlights the lesser attention that has been given to other materials such as clay minerals that, by their very nature, offer potential interest, particularly in the context of current environmental needs and restrictions. Within this context, the fundamental characteristics of natural clay minerals are set forth, emphasizing the main methodologies used to modify them and highlighting the potential they offer as supports and as a source of acid sites for the conformation of new, potentially efficient and competitive catalysts for hydrocracking processes.
Application of Heterogeneous Catalysts for the Conversion of Biomass-derived Feedstocks into Fuel Components and Eco-additives
Authors: Yeletsky P. M. , Kukushkin R. G. , Alekseeva M. V. , Smirnov A. A.
Published: August 2020

This chapter is aimed at highlighting several hot subjects in the catalytic processing of biomass-derived feedstocks using heterogeneous catalysts to obtain products important for the energy sector. The role of catalysts in biomass processing is inestimable: none of the value-added biomass-derived products described below could be obtained without their application. The first two sections of this chapter present the current state of the art in catalytic processing of fast pyrolysis bio-oil and lipid-based feedstocks (e.g. vegetable oils) into motor fuel components. The last section describes recent advances in the field of obtaining fuel additives from various components of the both lignocellulosic biomass and vegetable lipids. The main aspects of the use of heterogeneous catalysts in these processes are considered.
Application of Ionic Liquids for Sustainable Catalysis
Authors: Granger P. , Parvulescu V. I.
Published: August 2020

Sustainability in chemistry is strongly connected to the green chemistry and circular economy concepts, having as objectives the reduction of the usage of hazardous substances and of energy consumption, the minimization of the resource input and wastes and the minimization of the emissions and energy leakage. On this basis, a sustainable chemistry must ensure the longevity of humans, animals and ecosystems by allowing for serene development, and also maintaining economic competitiveness to create profit and business. In this multidisciplinary approach, the role of the solvent is very important. Many organic solvents are harmful, toxic and environmentally damaging, and their use poses risks to both human health and the environment. Therefore, to avoid any negative effects, in addition to eliminating solvents exhibiting such negative properties, a proper solvent should: (1) act simultaneously as solvent and reagent; (2) control the quality of the products; (3) reduce the number of synthetic steps; (4) avoid the formation of by-products; (5) improve product separation; and (6) be able to be recycled. In this context, ionic liquids (ILs) emerged as promising green solvents for environmentally friendly synthesis. Although their production is not always green, these structures demonstrate efficiency in several ways, such as process intensification through catalysis, sustainable catalytic biocatalytic processes for biomass valorization, CO2 valorization and sustainable reactions in organic and pharmaceutical chemistry. In addition, there are examples in which ILs functionalized on various supports demonstrated enhanced catalytic efficiency. All of these offer new perspectives in the utilization of these compounds.
Spatiotemporal distribution and speciation of silver nanoparticles in the healing wound
Authors: Roman Marco , Rigo Chiara , Castillo-Michel Hiram , Urgast Dagmar S. , Feldmann Jörg , Munivrana Ivan , Vindigni Vincenzo , Mičetić Ivan , Benetti Federico , Barbante Carlo , Cairns Warren R. L.
Published: August 2020

First observation of AgNPs dynamics in the wounds of real patients through elemental imaging and speciation.
Novel RP-HPLC based assay for selective and sensitive endotoxin quantification
Authors: Bucsella Blanka , Hoffmann Anika , Zollinger Mathieu , Stephan Fabio , Pattky Martin , Daumke Ralph , Heiligtag Florian J. , Frank Brian , Bassas-Galia Mònica , Zinn Manfred , Kalman Franka
Published: August 2020

The paper presents a novel instrumental analytical endotoxin quantification assay.
Correction: Efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution over hydrogenated ZnO nanorod arrays
Authors: Lu Xihong , Wang Gongming , Xie Shilei , Shi Jianying , Li Wei , Tong Yexiang , Li Yat
Published: August 2020

Correction for ‘Efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution over hydrogenated ZnO nanorod arrays’ by Xihong Lu et al., Chem. Commun., 2012, 48, 7717–7719, DOI: 10.1039/C2CC31773G.
Probing the binding modes and dynamics of histidine on fumed silica surfaces by solid-state NMR
Authors: Swanson Haley L. , Guo Chengchen , Cao Michael , Addison J. Bennett , Holland Gregory P.
Published: August 2020

Silica nanoparticles can be designed to exhibit a diverse range of morphologies (e.g.non-porous, mesoporous), physical properties (e.g.hydrophobic, hydrophilic) and a wide range of chemical and biomolecular surface functionalizations.
Towards molecular movies with X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy
Authors: Perakis Fivos , Gutt Christian
Published: August 2020

We highlight perspective research opportunities of making molecular movies of biomolecular condensates and supercooled water using X-ray synchrotrons and XFELs.
Titanium catalysis for the synthesis of fine chemicals – development and trends
Authors: Manßen Manfred , Schafer Laurel L.
Published: August 2020

Atlas as a Titan(ium) is holding the earth-abundant chemistry world. Titanium is the second most abundant transition metal, is a key player in important industrial processes (e.g. polyethylene) and shows much promise for diverse applications in the future.
Two new layered metal chalcogenide frameworks as photocatalysts for highly efficient and selective dye degradation
Authors: Wu Sijie , Wu Zhou , Wang Xiao-Li , Wang Xiang , Zhou Rui , Li Dong-Sheng , Wu Tao
Published: August 2020

Dye photodegradation is an important research topic, and great efforts have been made to target the photocatalysts with highly efficient and selective performance.
Correction: X-ray pair distribution function analysis and electrical and electrochemical properties of cerium doped Li5La3Nb2O12 garnet solid-state electrolyte
Authors: Dong Bo , Stockham Mark P. , Chater Philip A. , Slater Peter R.
Published: August 2020

Correction for ‘X-ray pair distribution function analysis and electrical and electrochemical properties of cerium doped Li5La3Nb2O12 garnet solid-state electrolyte’ by Bo Dong et al., Dalton Trans., 2020, 49, 11727–11735, DOI: 10.1039/d0dt02112a.
Understanding the nature of the passivation layer enabling reversible calcium plating
Authors: Forero-Saboya Juan , Davoisne Carine , Dedryvère Rémi , Yousef Ibraheem , Canepa Pieremanuele , Ponrouch Alexandre
Published: August 2020

As for other multivalent systems, the interface between the calcium (Ca) metal anode and the electrolyte is of paramount importance for reversible plating/stripping.
“Influence of diet on mood and social cognition: a pilot study”
Authors: Ugartemendia L. , Bravo R. , Castaño M. Y. , Cubero J. , Zamoscik V. , Kirsch P. , Rodríguez A. B. , Reuter M.
Published: August 2020

Diet, mood & social cognition.
One-pot chemoenzymatic reactions in water enabled by micellar encapsulation
Authors: Hastings Courtney J. , Adams Nicholas P. , Bushi Jurgen , Kolb Samuel J.
Published: August 2020

Micelle-forming surfactants in water provide an optimal reaction medium for transition metal and enzyme catalysts, enabling efficient one-pot chemoenzymatic reactions in water.
Speciation of iron sulfide compounds by means of X-ray emission spectroscopy using a compact full-cylinder von Hamos spectrometer
Authors: Wansleben Malte , Vinson John , Wählisch André , Bzheumikhova Karina , Hönicke Philipp , Beckhoff Burkhard , Kayser Yves
Published: August 2020

We present experimental and theoretical X-ray emission spectroscopy (XES) data of the Fe Kβ line for iron(ii)sulfide (FeS) and iron(ii)disulfide (FeS2).
Critical barriers to the large scale commercialization of silicon-containing batteries
Authors: Schwan Joseph , Nava Giorgio , Mangolini Lorenzo
Published: August 2020

The progress towards the integration of silicon into commercial batteries is critically assessed. Improving the quality of the silicon nanostructures is identified as one of the key areas requiring further attention.
Production of Fe nanoparticles from γ-Fe2O3 by high-pressure hydrogen reduction
Authors: Dirba I. , Schwöbel C. A. , Zintler A. , Komissinskiy P. , Molina-Luna L. , Gutfleisch O.
Published: August 2020

In this work, the reduction of iron oxide γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticles by hydrogen at high pressures is studied.
Circularly polarized luminescence of nanoassembliesviamulti-dimensional chiral architecture control
Authors: Chen Wenjie , Ma Kai , Duan Pengfei , Ouyang Guanghui , Zhu Xuefeng , Zhang Li , Liu Minghua
Published: August 2020

Circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) is currently an important chiroptical properties among chiral systems. By tuning the dimensional architectures of nanoassemblies, the CPL properties could be effectively tuned and boosted.
Oxidative damage of proline residues by nitrate radicals (NO3˙): a kinetic and product study
Authors: Nathanael Joses G. , White Jonathan M. , Richter Annika , Nuske Madison R. , Wille Uta
Published: August 2020

Kinetic studies in acetonitrile revealed that proline residues in peptides are considerably protected against radical-induced oxidative damage by the neighbouring peptide bonds, compared with the single amino acid.
Doping molecular organic semiconductors by diffusion from the vapor phase
Authors: Peterson Kelly A. , Patterson Ashlea , Vega-Flick Alejandro , Liao Bolin , Chabinyc Michael L.
Published: August 2020

Spiro-OMeTAD can be doped by infiltration of F4TCNQ from the vapor phase without causing crystallization. Optical spectroscopy and thermopower measurements examined the question of the formation of dication states by charge transfer doping.
Sex and gender aspects in vascular pathophysiology
Authors: Connelly Paul J. , Jandeleit-Dahm Karin A.M. , Delles Christian
Published: August 2020

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of global mortality in men and women. The prevalence, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations and outcomes of CVD observed in these two populations is being increasingly recognized as distinct. In this editorial, we provide an overview of mechanisms related to differences in vascular pathophysiology between men and women and explore the contributions of both sex and gender.
Alerting the immune system to DNA damage: micronuclei as mediators
Authors: MacDonald Kate M. , Benguerfi Soraya , Harding Shane M.
Published: August 2020

Healthy cells experience thousands of DNA lesions per day during normal cellular metabolism, and ionizing radiation and chemotherapeutic drugs rely on DNA damage to kill cancer cells. In response to such lesions, the DNA damage response (DDR) activates cell-cycle checkpoints, initiates DNA repair mechanisms, or promotes the clearance of irreparable cells. Work over the past decade has revealed broader influences of the DDR, involving inflammatory gene expression following unresolved DNA damage, and immune surveillance of damaged or mutated cells. Subcellular structures called micronuclei, containing broken fragments of DNA or whole chromosomes that have been isolated away from the rest of the genome, are now recognized as one mediator of DDR-associated immune recognition. Micronuclei can initiate pro-inflammatory signaling cascades, or massively degrade to invoke distinct forms of genomic instability. In this mini-review, we aim to provide an overview of the current evidence linking the DDR to activation of the immune response through micronuclei formation, identifying key areas of interest, open questions, and emerging implications.
Human–Technology Interaction Considerations in Hearing Health Care: An Introduction for Audiologists
Authors: Convery Elizabeth , Heeris Jason , Ferguson Melanie , Edwards Brent
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Innovations in user-driven hearing technology and services have placed greater control in the hands of the patient. While these advances could address issues of hearing health care accessibility, their success rests on the assumption that patients possess sufficient technological competence to self-manage these products and services successfully. The purpose of this tutorial is to highlight the importance of focusing on usability, rather than just performance outcomes, during the design, development, and evaluation of user-driven hearing technology and services.

Method

This tutorial explores human–technology interaction and usability and discusses practical methods for applying these concepts in hearing health care research and development. Two case studies illustrate how usability can inform the design and development of interactive educational materials for patients and the evaluation of a commercially available mHealth app.

Conclusions

In order to derive benefit from innovations in hearing health care, products and services must be intuitively usable in addition to being accessible and affordable. The discipline of human–technology interaction provides a relevant and useful framework to guide future research and development efforts in user-driven hearing health care.
Acuity to Changes in Self-Generated Vocal Pitch in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Abur Defne , Stepp Cara E.
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Given the role of auditory perception in voice production, studies have investigated whether impairments in auditory perception may underlie the noted disruptions in speech in Parkinson's disease (PD). Studies of loudness perception in PD show impairments in the perception of self-generated speech, but not external tones. Studies of pitch perception in PD have only examined external tones, but these studies differed in terms of the interstimulus intervals (ISIs) that were used, did not examine the impact of cognition, and report conflicting results. To clarify pitch perception in PD, this work investigated perception of self-generated vocal pitch, controlling for cognition and ISI.

Method

A total of 30 individuals with and without PD completed (a) hearing threshold testing, (b) the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, and (c) an adaptive just-noticeable-difference paradigm under two separate ISIs (100 ms and 1,000 ms) to assess acuity to self-generated vocal pitch.

Results

There was no significant difference in acuity between individuals with and without PD. Both groups demonstrated significantly worse acuity for longer compared to shorter ISIs. Montreal Cognitive Assessment scores were not a significant predictor of acuity.

Conclusions

The results suggest that acuity to self-generated vocal pitch does not differ between individuals with and without PD.
Injuries and Overuse Syndromes in Rink Hockey Players
Authors: Husen Martin , Burgsmüller Lars , Burggraf Manuel , Jäger Marcus , Dudda Marcel , Kauther Max
Published: August 2020

Rink Hockey is a high-speed low-contact sport with a widely recognized injury
potential. Played with a hard ball by players wearing little or no protective
gear, the rates of concussions and head injuries are of high interest. In this
study, we reviewed and investigated injuries sustained by 108 German National
League rink hockey players. We conducted an epidemiological cross-sectional
study to determine sport-specific injuries and injury patterns in female and
male rink hockey players. Data were collected by a standardized questionnaire. A
total of 108 players participated in the study. The combined rate of injuries
were 9.4/1000 athlete exposures. There was no significant difference
between injury rates during games and practice. A sex-specific difference was
not detected. Head injuries were the most frequent type (20.8% of all
injuries). Concussions made up 7% of all head injuries with a rate of
0.76/1000 athlete exposure. Ball contact was the cause for 31%
of injuries, while player contact generated 26.2% of all injuries. High
rates of ball-contact-related injuries resulted in time loss and medical
consultations. Head injuries were frequent, however did not result in
significant time loss as compared to other injuries. The use of protective gear
should be recommended.
An Approach to Nonsymmetric Bis(tertiary phosphine oxides) Comprising Heterocyclic Fragments via the Pd-Catalyzed Phosphorylation
Authors: Zakirova Gladis G. , Mladentsev Dmitrii Yu. , Borisova Nataliya N.
Published: August 2020

Nonsymmetric tertiary phosphine oxides with different five- and six-membered heterocyclic fragments such as pyridine, 2,2′-bipyridine, 1,10-phenantroline, quinoline, imidazole, and thiazole were synthesized in good yields via the successive introduction of phosphine oxide groups into the initial dihalogenated heterocycles by means of Pd-catalyzed phosphorylation reaction. The synthesis of pyridine-type compounds is hindered by competing double coupling, while for five-membered heterocycles the principal difficulty is the dehalogenation. Both side processes were successfully suppressed by the use of an excess of a dihalide (which can be easily recovered during the product purification step), proper phosphine ligand for palladium, and nonpolar solvent such as toluene.
Safety and Efficacy of Higher Order Multifetal Pregnancy Reduction: A Single-Center Retrospective Study
Authors: Liu Yan , Wang Xie Tong , Li Hong Yan , Hou Hai Yan , Wang Hong , Wang Yan Tun
Published: August 2020

Objective This research was aimed to study the safety and efficacy of higher order multifetal pregnancy reduction (MFPR).

Study Design This was a retrospective study of patients from an academic maternity center between 2005 and 2015. We evaluated outcomes of 131 consecutive patients who underwent higher order MFPR (quadruplets and greater). MFPR was performed at 11 to 18 weeks of gestation in all cases. In total, 122 of 131 cases of higher order multiple pregnancy were reduced to twins. We discuss the perinatal outcomes of patients who underwent higher order MFPR, followed by a comparative analysis between the 122 cases of MFPR that were reduced to twins and 101 cases of nonreduced twin pregnancies.

Results The study included 104 sets of quadruplets, 20 sets of quintuplets, 5 sets of sextuplets, 1 set of septuplets, and 1 set of octuplets. The perinatal outcomes of the 131 cases were as follows: pregnancy loss, preterm deliveries at 28 to 33 (+6/7) weeks, and preterm deliveries at 34 to 36 (+6/7) weeks occurred in 23.66, 9, and 37% of cases, respectively. The mean time of delivery was 36.56 ± 1.77 weeks, and mean birth weight was 2,409.90 ± 458.16 g, respectively. A total of 122 cases that were reduced to twins were compared with nonreduced twins. The pregnancy loss rate for reduced twins was significantly higher than that for nonreduced twins. The preterm labor rate, mean delivery week, mean birth weight, birth-weight discordance, incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus, and pregnancy-induced hypertension were not significantly different between the groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion Perinatal outcomes were significantly improved by reducing the number of fetuses in higher order multifetal pregnancies. This study involved a large, diverse sample population, and the results can be used as a reference while conducting prenatal counseling.
Pricing ambiguity in catastrophe risk insurance
Authors: Dietz Simon , Niehörster Falk
Published: August 2020

Ambiguity about the probability of loss is a salient feature of catastrophe risk insurance. Evidence shows that insurers charge higher premiums under ambiguity, but that they rely on simple heuristics to do so, rather than being able to turn to pricing tools that formally link ambiguity with the insurer’s underlying economic objective. In this paper, we apply an $$\alpha$$
α
-maxmin model of insurance pricing to two catastrophe model data sets relating to hurricane risk. The pricing model considers an insurer who maximises expected profit, but is sensitive to how ambiguity affects its risk of ruin. We estimate ambiguity loads and show how these depend on the insurer’s attitude to ambiguity, $$\alpha$$
α
. We also compare these results with those derived from applying model blending techniques that have recently gained popularity in the actuarial profession, and show that model blending can imply relatively low aversion to ambiguity, possibly ambiguity seeking.
Theoretical models of diffusion-attenuated magnetic resonance signal in biological tissues
Authors: Sukstanskii Alexander L. , Yablonskiy Dmitriy A.
Published: August 2020

Diffusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) plays a very important role in studying biological tissue cellular structure and functioning both in health and disease. Proper interpretation of experimental data requires the development of theoretical models that connect the diffusion MRI signal to salient features of tissue microstructure at the cellular level. In this short review, we present some theoretical approaches to describing diffusion-attenuated magnetic resonance signals. These range from the models based on statistical properties of water molecules diffusing in the tissue- cellular environment, to models allowing exact analytical calculation of the magnetic resonance signal in a specific single-compartment environment. Such theoretical analysis gives important insights into mechanisms contributing to the formation of diffusion magnetic resonance signal and its connection to biological tissue cellular structure.
On the possible similarity between electroweak and gravitational interactions
Authors: Pashitskii E. A. , Pentegov V. I.
Published: August 2020

Based on the coincidence of the dimensions of the Newtonian gravitational constant GN and the Fermi phenomenological constant GF for weak forces in the natural system of units (ħ = c = 1), a version of the quantum field theory of gravity is proposed, whose structure is similar to that of the Glashow–Salam–Weinberg theory of the unified electroweak interaction.
Non-uniform along thickness spin excitations in magnetic vortex-state nanodots
Authors: Kakazei G. N. , Guslienko K. Y. , Verba R. V. , Ding J. , Liu X. M. , Adeyeye A. O.
Published: August 2020

We summarize our experimental findings in the arrays of Ni80Fe20 circular nanodots with diameter 300 nm and thickness 20 nm ≤ L ≤ 100 nm, probed by broadband ferromagnetic resonance spectroscopy in the absence of external magnetic field. Spin excitation modes related to the vortex core gyrotropic dynamics were observed in the gigahertz frequency range. Micromagnetic simulations revealed that they are flexure oscillations of the vortex core string with n = 0, 1, 2 nodes along the dot thickness. It was found that for L > 70 nm the intensity of more complicated n = 1 vortex gyrotropic mode is unexpectedly higher than the one of the lowest n = 0 gyrotropic mode. This behavior was clarified on the basis of the inhomogeneous vortex mode phase profiles extracted from micromagnetic simulations and calculated analytically. Precise measurements of the dependence of resonance frequency of the vortex n = 0 mode on the dot thickness demonstrated a clear maximum around L = 70 nm, that was theoretically explained by introducing a vortex mass, which is a result of the vortex distortion due to interaction with spin waves having azimuthal indices m = ±1. Finally, several azimuthal spin-wave modes having curled structure at the dot top and bottom faces were found in the spectrum of the dots with thicknesses L ≥ 40 nm.
Enhancement of thermoelectric figure of merit by using nonequilibrium state between electrons and phonons
Authors: Yabuuchi Shin , Kurosaki Yosuke , Fukatani Naoto , Hayakawa Jun
Published: August 2020

We investigated the thermoelectric properties of a metal/semiconductor multilayer by using a simple parabolic band model and two-temperature model. The multilayer enables not only reducing thermal conductivity but also enhancing the power factor by using a nonequilibrium state between electrons and phonons created by the interface. Our results revealed that combining a metal with low lattice thermal conductivity and a semiconductor with high lattice thermal conductivity can compensate for their weak points each other in the thermoelectric properties, resulting in the remarkable enhancement of the figure of merit.
Opportunities and challenges of 2D materials in back-end-of-line interconnect scaling
Authors: Lo Chun-Li , Helfrecht Benjamin A. , He Yanbo , Guzman David M. , Onofrio Nicolas , Zhang Shengjiao , Weinstein Dana , Strachan Alejandro , Chen Zhihong
Published: August 2020

As the challenges in continued scaling of the integrated circuit technology escalate every generation, there is an urgent need to find viable solutions for both the front-end-of-line (transistors) and the back-end-of-line (interconnects). For the interconnect technology, it is crucial to replace the conventional barrier and liner with much thinner alternatives so that the current driving capability of the interconnects can be maintained or even improved. Due to the inherent atomically thin body thicknesses, 2D materials have recently been proposed and explored as Cu diffusion barrier alternatives. In this Perspective article, a variety of 2D materials that have been studied, ranging from graphene, h-BN, MoS2, WSe2 to TaS2, will be reviewed. Their potentials will be evaluated based on several criteria, including fundamental material properties as well as the feasibility for technology integration. Using TaS2 as an example, we demonstrate a large set of promising properties and point out that there remain challenges in the integration aspects with a few possible solutions waiting for validation. Applications of 2D materials for other functions in Cu interconnects and for different metal types will also be introduced, including electromigration, cobalt interconnects, and radio-frequency transmission lines.
Ultrafast coherent control of higher-order spin waves in a NiFe thin film by double-pulse excitation
Authors: Okano Makoto , Takahashi Tomohiro , Watanabe Shinichi
Published: August 2020

By using a double-pulse excitation scheme, we demonstrate the optical control of higher-order spin waves in a ferromagnetic permalloy thin film. Three spin precession modes are observed in the film under single pulse excitation. Based on a theoretical calculation, these spin precession modes are assigned to the fundamental Kittel mode and the first- and second-order perpendicular standing spin-wave (PSSW) modes. In order to excite the first-order PSSW mode selectively, we use double-pulse excitation at 400 nm. We show that, by choosing an appropriate time interval between the two pump pulses, it is possible to obtain a relatively large amplitude of the first-order PSSW mode while the amplitudes of the other two modes are almost completely suppressed. By analyzing the spin dynamics, it is found that the spin precession motion under the double-pulse excitation condition can be explained by the interference between the spin waves that have been induced by the first and second pulses. Our finding indicates that the selective excitation of a spin precession mode with a high precession frequency in a ferromagnetic metal may be realized by a multiple-pump pulse excitation scheme with more than two pulses.
High photoconductive gain in a GaAs/PbS heterojunction based SWIR detector
Authors: Manis-Levy Hadar , Shikler Rafi , Golan Yuval , Sarusi Gabby
Published: August 2020

An internal quantum efficiency (IQE), defined as the electron–hole pair to photon conversion ratio, of ∼10 was obtained for an n-GaAs/p-PbS heterojunction when illuminating the device with short wavelength infrared (SWIR) light in the wavelength range of 1300 nm–1500 nm. The PbS layer, which was comprised of nano-scale domains (NDs) grown by Chemical Bath Deposition (CBD), was quantum confined to absorb SWIR light. The heterojunction showed tunneling characteristics with a soft breakdown at a relatively low reverse bias (∼−1 V) and a strong photoconductive response at a negative bias above −1.8 V. The voltage dependent behavior is explained using the band structure of the heterojunction. The high IQE observed in the photoconductive response at −2 V is attributed to a high photoconductive gain of more than 40. This assumption was confirmed by mixed conduction behavior observed in a magnetic field dependence Hall effect measurement. These measurements enabled extracting concentrations and mobilities of both electrons and holes. It was found that the CBD grown p-type PbS NDs layer has a mixed conduction nature due to the high electron-to-hole mobility ratio of more than one order of magnitude. This explains the high photoconductive gain achieved and, thus, the high IQE measured for these devices.
Hypnotic effect of thalidomide is independent of teratogenic ubiquitin/proteasome pathway
Authors: Hirose Yuki , Kitazono Tomohiro , Sezaki Maiko , Abe Manabu , Sakimura Kenji , Funato Hiromasa , Handa Hiroshi , Vogt Kaspar E. , Yanagisawa Masashi
Published: August 2020

Significance

Thalidomide was introduced in 1950s as a safe and effective hypnotic but was subsequently withdrawn from the market due to its devastating teratogenicity in humans. More recently, thalidomide has reemerged as an antineoplastic and immunomodulatory medicine. The teratogenic and immunomodulatory effects of thalidomide have been attributed to direct inhibition of the cereblon-mediated ubiquitin/proteasome pathway. Here we show that cereblon is not involved in the hypnotic effect of thalidomide, using mice that carry a thalidomide-resistant mutant allele of the cereblon gene. Our results suggest the possibility for dissociating the hypnotic effect of thalidomide and its analogs from its teratogenicity.
Structural cavities are critical to balancing stability and activity of a membrane-integral enzyme
Authors: Guo Ruiqiong , Cang Zixuan , Yao Jiaqi , Kim Miyeon , Deans Erin , Wei Guowei , Kang Seung-gu , Hong Heedeok
Published: August 2020

Significance

The physical principles of membrane protein folding are not well understood. Because of the lack of water inside the cell membrane, the hydrophobic effect cannot drive the folding of membrane-embedded structural elements. Therefore, van der Waals packing interaction becomes a crucial driving force, which may imply that the membrane protein interior is tightly packed. Paradoxically, membrane proteins such as channels, transporters, receptors, and enzymes require cavities (i.e., voids, pockets, and pores) for function. Then, how do membrane proteins achieve the stability carrying out function? Using experiment and molecular dynamics simulation, we show that cavities in membrane proteins can be stabilized by favorable interaction with surrounding lipid molecules and play a pivotal role in balancing stability and flexibility for function.
β2 Integrins differentially regulate γδ T cell subset thymic development and peripheral maintenance
Authors: McIntyre Claire L. , Monin Leticia , Rop Jesse C. , Otto Thomas D. , Goodyear Carl S. , Hayday Adrian C. , Morrison Vicky L.
Published: August 2020

Significance

γδ T cells reside in barrier tissues and provide immune protection against infection and cancer. Their antitumor potential has led to recent advances in the development of γδ T cell immunotherapy. However, our understanding of the basic biology of these cells, including which molecules and pathways control their maintenance within barrier tissues, remains poor. We demonstrate that β
2
integrin adhesion molecules play a major role in regulating γδ T cell subset numbers during homeostasis: the loss of β
2
integrin expression results in a striking increase in IL-17–producing γδ T cells in the lungs and uterus due to enhanced survival. These findings illustrate a mechanism of γδ T cell regulation that may have significant implications for immunotherapy development.
The allometry of movement predicts the connectivity of communities
Authors: Hartfelder Jack , Reynolds Chevonne , Stanton Richard A. , Sibiya Muzi , Monadjem Ara , McCleery Robert A. , Fletcher Robert J.
Published: August 2020

Significance

Connectivity, or the degree to which individuals can move across landscapes, is essential for species persistence and the maintenance of biodiversity. While connectivity is increasingly understood for some individual species and landscapes, understanding and predicting connectivity for entire communities remains elusive despite its importance for biodiversity theory and conservation practice. We address this long-standing problem by providing a framework based on allometric scaling, the relationship between morphology and organism traits. We apply the framework to a diverse community of birds using field experiments and observed data on dispersal and species distribution. Based on our framework, we are able to explain substantial variation in the observed bird community structure, highlighting how species traits related to movement can predict biodiversity across landscapes.