bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Downregulation of SMOC2 expression in papillary thyroid carcinoma and its prognostic significance
Authors: Kim Hye Sung , Choi Jae Hyuck , Lee Jae Young , Kang JiHoon , Myung Jae Kyung , Kim Woo Ho , Jang Bo Gun
Published: March 2020

Secreted Protein Acidic and Rich in Cysteine (SPARC)-related modular calcium-binding protein-2 (SMOC2), a secreted matricellular protein, is reported to be involved in various processes related to cancer progression such as regulating the cell cycle, angiogenesis, and invasion. However, its expression and prognostic significance in papillary thyroid carcinomas (PTCs) remains unknown. Using immunohistochemistry, we evaluated the expression profile of SMOC2 and its prognostic value in a large cohort of PTCs. Real time-PCR analysis with fresh-frozen tissues showed that SMOC2 mRNA expression in PTCs was substantially lower than the expression in matched non-cancerous thyroid tissues, consistent with the results from thyroid cancer cell lines. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated that SMOC2 was normally present in thyroid follicular epithelial cells and the expression level was maintained in nodular hyperplasia. However, SMOC2 expression was significantly lower in lymphocytic thyroiditis and follicular tumors including follicular adenomas and carcinomas. In particular, 38% of PTCs exhibited a complete loss of SMOC2 expression, which was associated with the presence of BRAF (V600E) mutation. Moreover, SMOC2 further declined during lymph node metastasis in PTCs. DNA methylation chip analysis revealed one hypermethylated CpG site in the promoter region of SMOC2 gene, suggesting an epigenetic regulation of SMOC2 in PTCs. Remarkably SMOC2 positivity was associated with improved recurrence-free survival along with female sex, tumor size, and the N stage. However, SMOC2 was not identified as an independent prognostic marker in multivariate analyses. Taken together, SMOC2 expression is significantly down-regulated in PTCs and SMOC2 positivity is closely associated with better clinical outcomes, suggesting that SMOC2 can be a prognostic marker in PTC patients.
Preclinical assessment of the VEGFR inhibitor axitinib as a therapeutic agent for epithelial ovarian cancer
Authors: Paik E Sun , Kim Tae-Hyun , Cho Young Jae , Ryu Jiyoon , Choi Jung-Joo , Lee Yoo-Young , Kim Tae-Joong , Choi Chel-Hun , Kim Woo Young , Sa Jason K. , Lee Jin-Ku , Kim Byoung-Gie , Bae Duk-Soo , Han Hee Dong , Ahn Hyung Jun , Lee Jeong-Won
Published: March 2020

Axitinib, small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitor, demonstrates anti-cancer activity for various solid tumors. We investigated anti-cancer effect of axitinib in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). We treated EOC cells (A2780, HeyA8, RMG1, and HeyA8-MDR) with axitinib to evaluate its effects on cell viabilty, apoptosis and migration. Western blots were performed to assess VEGFR2, ERK, and AKT levels, and ELISA and FACS to evaluate apoptosis according to axitinib treatment. In addition, in vivo experiments in xenografts using A2780, RMG1, and HeyA8-MDR cell lines were performed. We repeated the experiment with patient-derived xenograft models (PDX) of EOC. Axitinib significantly inhibited cell survival and migration, and increased apoptosis in EOC cells. The expression of VEGFR2 and phosphorylation of AKT and ERK in A2780, RMG1, and HeyA8 were decreased with axitinib treatment in dose-dependent manner, but not in HeyA8-MDR. In in vivo experiments, axitinib significantly decreased tumor weight in xenograft models of drug-sensitive (A2780), and clear cell carcinoma (RMG1) and PDX models for platinum sensitive EOC compared to control, but was not effective in drug-resistant cell line (HeyA8-MDR) or heavily pretreated refractory PDX model. Axitinib showed significant anti-cancer effects in drug-sensitive or clear cell EOC cells via inhibition of VEGFR signals associated with cell proliferation, apoptosis and migration, but not in drug-resistant cells.
Characterization of the CCAAT-binding transcription factor complex in the plant pathogenic fungus Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Kim Jung-Eun , Nam Hyejin , Park Jiyeun , Choi Gyung Ja , Lee Yin-Won , Son Hokyoung
Published: March 2020

The CCAAT sequence is a ubiquitous cis-element of eukaryotic promoters, and genes containing CCAAT sequences have been shown to be activated by the CCAAT-binding transcription factor complex in several eukaryotic model organisms. In general, CCAAT-binding transcription factors form heterodimers or heterotrimeric complexes that bind to CCAAT sequences within the promoters of target genes and regulate various cellular processes. To date, except Hap complex, CCAAT-binding complex has been rarely reported in fungi. In this study, we characterized two CCAAT-binding transcription factors (Fct1 and Fct2) in the plant pathogenic fungus Fusarium graminearum. Previously, FCT1 and FCT2 were shown to be related to DNA damage response among eight CCAAT-binding transcription factors in F. graminearum. We demonstrate that the nuclear CCAAT-binding complex of F. graminearum has important functions in various fungal developmental processes, not just DNA damage response but virulence and mycotoxin production. Moreover, the results of biochemical and genetic analyses revealed that Fct1 and Fct2 may form a complex and play distinct roles among the eight CCAAT-binding transcription factors encoded by F. graminearum. To the best of our knowledge, the results of this study represent a substantial advancement in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the functions of CCAAT-binding factors in eukaryotes.
Rhein, a novel Histone Deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor with antifibrotic potency in human myocardial fibrosis
Authors: Barbosa David Monteiro , Fahlbusch Pia , Herzfeld de Wiza Daniella , Jacob Sylvia , Kettel Ulrike , Al-Hasani Hadi , Krüger Martina , Ouwens D. Margriet , Hartwig Sonja , Lehr Stefan , Kotzka Jorg , Knebel Birgit
Published: March 2020

Although fibrosis depicts a reparative mechanism, maladaptation of the heart due to excessive production of extracellular matrix accelerates cardiac dysfunction. The anthraquinone Rhein was examined for its anti-fibrotic potency to mitigate cardiac fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition (FMT). Primary human ventricular cardiac fibroblasts were subjected to hypoxia and characterized with proteomics, transcriptomics and cell functional techniques. Knowledge based analyses of the omics data revealed a modulation of fibrosis-associated pathways and cell cycle due to Rhein administration during hypoxia, whereas p53 and p21 were identified as upstream regulators involved in the manifestation of cardiac fibroblast phenotypes. Mechanistically, Rhein acts inhibitory on HDAC classes I/II as enzymatic inhibitor. Rhein-mediated cellular effects were linked to the histone deacetylase (HDAC)-dependent protein stabilization of p53 under normoxic but not hypoxic conditions. Functionally, Rhein inhibited collagen contraction, indicating anti-fibrotic property in cardiac remodeling. This was accompanied by increased abundance of SMAD7, but not SMAD2/3, and consistently SMAD-specific E3 ubiquitin ligase SMURF2. In conclusion, this study identifies Rhein as a novel potent direct HDAC inhibitor that may contribute to the treatment of cardiac fibrosis as anti-fibrotic agent. As readily available drug with approved safety, Rhein constitutes a promising potential therapeutic approach in the supplemental and protective intervention of cardiac fibrosis.
Author Correction: G Protein-Coupling of Adhesion GPCRs ADGRE2/EMR2 and ADGRE5/CD97, and Activation of G Protein Signalling by an Anti-EMR2 Antibody
Authors: Bhudia Nisha , Desai Sapna , King Natalie , Ancellin Nicolas , Grillot Didier , Barnes Ashley A. , Dowell Simon J.
Published: March 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Metabolic mapping with plasmonic nanoparticle assemblies
Authors: Le Nguyen H. , Ye Gang , Peng Chun , Chen Jennifer I. L.
Published: March 2020

Discrete plasmonic gold nanoparticle assemblies rapidly detect ATP in single cells and microenvironments without labelling, extraction, purification or separation.
Supramolecular prodrugs based on host–guest interactions
Authors: Geng Wen-Chao , Sessler Jonathan L. , Guo Dong-Sheng
Published: March 2020

The concept, detailed progress, advantages and opportunities of supramolecular drugs via host–guest chemistry are summarized.
Colonization and immunoregulation ofLactobacillus plantarumBF_15, a novel probiotic strain from the feces of breast-fed infants
Authors: Zhang Na , Li Chen , Niu Zhihua , Kang Hongyan , Wang Miaoshu , Zhang Bo , Tian Hongtao
Published: March 2020

Immunosuppression is a manifestation imbalance in the immune system, often during unhealthy states.
Bok-choy promotes growth performance, lipid metabolism and related gene expression in Syrian golden hamsters fed with a high-fat diet
Authors: Naseri Emal , Xiangyu Kong , Hu Chunmei , Ayaz Aliya , Rahmani Mohammad Malyar , Nasim Maazullah , Hamdard Enayatullah , Zahir Ahmadullah , Zhou Qian , Wang Jianjun , Hou Xilin
Published: March 2020

This study aims to investigate the beneficial effects of two cultivars of bok-choy, ‘Suzhouqing’ (green cultivar) and ‘Ziluolan’ (purple cultivar), on growth performance, lipid metabolism and related gene expressions in Syrian golden hamsters.
The on-demand engineering of metal-doped porous carbon nanofibers as efficient bifunctional oxygen catalysts for high-performance flexible Zn–air batteries
Authors: Dinh Khang Ngoc , Pei Zengxia , Yuan Ziwen , Hoang Van Chinh , Wei Li , Huang Qianwei , Liao Xiaozhou , Liu Chuntai , Chen Yuan , Yan Qingyu
Published: March 2020

A dual-functional metal template achieves on-demand control of metal–N–C sites, porous structures, and surface wettability in a carbon nanofiber catalyst, enabling flexible zinc–air batteries with outstanding performance under various mechanical deformations.
Rapid detection of 21 β-lactams using an immunochromatographic assay based on the mutant BlaR-CTD protein from Bacillus Licheniformis
Authors: Li Yue , Xu Xinxin , Liu Liqiang , Kuang Hua , Xu Liguang , Xu Chuanlai
Published: March 2020

In this study, a gold immunochromatographic assay (GICA) based on a penicillin receptor protein (PBP) is proposed to simultaneously detect penicillin, cephalosporin, and carbapenem antibiotics in milk and chicken.
Amino-containing tannic acid derivative-mediated universal coatings for multifunctional surface modification
Authors: Cheng Yan Fang , Pranantyo Dicky , Kasi Gopinath , Lu Zhi Song , Li Chang Ming , Xu Li Qun
Published: March 2020

An amino-containing tannic acid derivative was self-polymerized to form colorless and uniform coatings on various substrate surfaces, and the resultant coatings can be further utilized to construct bioactive, antifouling and antibacterial surfaces.
Visible-light induced decarboxylative coupling of redox-active esters with disulfides to construct C–S bonds
Authors: Xiao Zhiwei , Wang Lu , Wei Junjie , Ran Chongzhao , Liang Steven H. , Shang Jingjie , Chen Guang-Ying , Zheng Chao
Published: March 2020

A novel method has been established for the construction of C–S bonds using redox-active esters with disulfides in the presence of Ru-photoredox catalyst.
Poly(dihydroxybenzoquinone): its high-density and robust charge storage capability in rechargeable acidic polymer–air batteries
Authors: Oka Kouki , Furukawa Shuhei , Murao Saki , Oka Tatsuya , Nishide Hiroyuki , Oyaizu Kenichi
Published: March 2020

A rechargeable acidic polymer–air battery was firstly fabricated, which exhibited a long-lifetime of >500 cycles and high rate capabilities.
Synthesis of CH2-linked α-galactosylceramide and its glucose analogues through glycosyl radical-mediated direct C-glycosylation
Authors: Hidaka Yu , Kiya Noriaki , Yoritate Makoto , Usui Kazuteru , Hirai Go
Published: March 2020

Direct C-glycosylation of a conformationally constrained and stable C1-sp3 hybridized carbohydrate donor with a carefully designed sphingosine unit afforded the CH2-linked analogue of antitumor-active KRN7000 and its glucose congener.
A halide perovskite as a catalyst to simultaneously achieve efficient photocatalytic CO2 reduction and methanol oxidation
Authors: Dong Guang-Xing , Zhang Wen , Mu Yan-Fei , Su Ke , Zhang Min , Lu Tong-Bu
Published: March 2020

We have firstly demonstrated the photocatalytic utilization of a halide perovskite for combining reduction of CO2 with selective oxidation of methanol.
Switching the type of V-loop in sugar-modified G-quadruplexes through altered fluorine interactions
Authors: Haase Linn , Weisz Klaus
Published: March 2020

The interplay of specific fluoro interactions determines conformational features of G-quadruplexes with two different 2′-fluoro-substituted residues.
Iridium-catalyzed C–H amidation of s-tetrazines
Authors: Xiong Huan , Gu Yuang , Zhang Shuning , Lu Fengping , Ji Qun , Liu Lili , Ma Peixiang , Yang Guang , Hou Wei , Xu Hongtao
Published: March 2020

Synthesis of ortho-amino substituted s-tetrazines by iridium-catalyzed C–H activation for bioconjugation and DNA-encoded library.
Hydride generation-flame atomic absorption spectrometric quantification of trace lead after the extraction by fatty acid functionalized Fe3O4 nanoparticles assisted dispersive solid-phase extraction: a sensitive, precise and accurate analytical method
Authors: Akkaya Erhan , Er Elif Öztürk , Kasa Nursu Aylin , Çetin Gülten , Komesli Okan Tarık , Bakirdere Sezgin
Published: March 2020

This study presents a DSPE method based on fatty acid (stearic acid) functionalized magnetite nanoparticles for the extraction and preconcentration of ultra-trace lead from aqueous samples for sensitive determination by an HG-FAAS system.
Metal ions modulation of the self-assembly of short peptide conjugated nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Authors: Fu Wenjiao , Farhadi Sabet Zeinab , Liu Jiaming , You Min , Zhou Huige , Wang Yaling , Gao Yuan , Li Jiayang , Ma Xiaomei , Chen Chunying
Published: March 2020

Naproxen-FF shows superb responsiveness to multiple metal ions and its assembly capacity is obviously improved due to its methoxy group.
Diversity oriented multi-component reaction (DOS–MCR) approach to access natural product analogues: regio- and chemo-selective synthesis of polyheterocyclic scaffolds via one-pot cascade reactions
Authors: Palanivel Lakshmanan , Gnanasambandam Vasuki
Published: March 2020

Skeletally diverse and complex polyheterocyclic hybrid scaffolds have been accessed via one-pot three-component reaction by exploiting the build/couple/pair strategy of diversity oriented synthesis.
Topomeric aza/thia cryptands: synthesis and theoretical aspects of in/out isomerism using n-alkyl bridging
Authors: Taschner Ian S. , Walker Tia L. , M. Sharath Chandra , Schrage Briana R. , Ziegler Christopher J. , Gao Xinfeng , Wheeler Steven E.
Published: March 2020

A series of heterobicyclic aza/thia-lactams and cryptands incorporating changes in n-alkyl bridging length have been synthesized, characterized, chelated to heavy metals and computationally assessed.
Nanostructural catalyst: metallophthalocyanine and carbon nano-onion with enhanced visible-light photocatalytic activity towards organic pollutants
Authors: Regulska Elzbieta , Olejnik Piotr , Zubyk Halyna , Czyrko-Horczak Justyna , Chaur Manuel N. , Tomczykowa Monika , Butsyk Olena , Brzezinski Krzysztof , Echegoyen Luis , Plonska-Brzezinska Marta E.
Published: March 2020

The photocatalytic studies revealed that metallophthalocyanine–carbon nano-onion nanostructural materials simultaneously exhibited a high absorption capacity and an excellent visible-light-driven photocatalytic activity towards rhodamine B.
Resonance Raman view of the active site architecture in bacterial DyP-type peroxidases
Authors: Silveira Célia M. , Moe Elin , Fraaije Marco , Martins Lígia O. , Todorovic Smilja
Published: March 2020

The solution active site architecture of DyPs, which is sensitively revealed by RR spectroscopy, is crucial for comprehension of their physiological roles and for evaluation of their potential for biotechnological application.
Liquid photonic crystal detection reagent for reliable sensing of Cu2+ in water
Authors: Zhang Yixin , Ge Jianping
Published: March 2020

A salicylic acid-containing liquid photonic crystal can detect Cu2+ through its reflection blueshift due to the release of H+.
The influence of oxygen vacancy and Ce3+ ion positions on the properties of small gold clusters supported on CeO2−x(111)
Authors: Engel Julien , Schwartz Elise , Catlow C. Richard A. , Roldan Alberto
Published: March 2020

We studied the influence of oxygen vacancies on small Au clusters supported on CeO2 using dispersion-corrected density functional theory (DFT-D3).
Knockdown of GINS2 inhibits proliferation and promotes apoptosis through the p53/GADD45A pathway in non-small-cell lung cancer
Authors: Chi Feng , Wang Zhou , Li Yuzhu , Chang Ning
Published: March 2020

Lung cancer is a malignant tumour type with the highest morbidity and mortality, and non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common pathological type. GINS complex subunit 2 (GINS2) is a member of the GINS family and is closely related to DNA replication and damage, participates in cell cycle regulation and plays a key role in cell proliferation and apoptosis. In the present study, we aimed to explore the role and underlying molecular mechanism of GINS2 in the development of NSCLC. The results showed that GINS2 is significantly increased in NSCLC tissues and cell lines. Knockdown of GINS2 significantly decreases cell proliferation, causing G2/M phase cell cycle arrest. Knockdown of GINS2 reverses the effect of nocodazole on the levels of cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1) and cyclin-B1. Meanwhile, knockdown of GINS2 significantly elevates the apoptosis rate and apoptosis-related protein Bax and decreases Bcl-2. In addition, GINS2 knockdown induces an increase in the levels of p53 and growth arrest and DNA damage 45A (GADD45A). Co-transfection with GINS2-siRNA and siRNA against p53 (p53-siRNA) or co-transfection with GINS2-siRNA and siRNA against GADD45A (GADD45A-siRNA) partially reverses the effects of GINS2 knockdown on cell proliferation and apoptosis. Taken together, these results indicate that GINS2 knockdown down-regulates cell proliferation, induces G2/M phase cell cycle arrest and increases apoptosis, possibly through the p53/GADD45A pathway.
KRT84 is a potential tumor suppressor and good prognosis signature of oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Liu Yi , Li Ronghua , Ren Gang
Published: March 2020

Aims: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a common oral cancer; however, current therapeutic approaches still show limited efficacy. Our research aims to explore effective biomarkers related to OSCC.

Main methods: Gene expression profiles of paired OSCC tumor and paracancerous samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) were analyzed. mRNA and protein levels of KRT84 in OSCC cell line HSC-3 were measured by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blot. KRT84 protein levels in OSCC tumor samples of different stages were determined by immunohistochemistry. Overall survival (OS) of OSCC samples was evaluated and association of multiple factors with OS was assessed.

Key findings: Compared with paracancerous samples, 4642 DEGs were identified in OSCC tumor samples. Among them, KRT84 expression level in OSCC tumor tissues was obviously decreased, which was validated in HSC-3 cells. KRT84 expression level showed decreasing tendency with the increase of tumor grade and stage. Patients with low KRT84 expression level had inferior OS independently of multiple factors. Besides, antigen processing and presentation pathway were significantly activated in OSCC samples with high KRT84 expression. Elevated KRT84 mRNA as well as protein levels were confirmed by RT-qPCR and Western blot in OSCC and normal cell lines, and immunohistochemistry in OSCC tumor and paracancerous tissues.

Significance: Our study suggests KRT84 as a tumor suppressor and good prognostic indicator for OSCC, which might be significant for OSCC diagnosis and treatment.
Evoked Potentials Reveal Noise Exposure–Related Central Auditory Changes Despite Normal Audiograms
Authors: Bramhall Naomi F. , Niemczak Christopher E. , Kampel Sean D. , Billings Curtis J. , McMillan Garnett P.
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Complaints of auditory perceptual deficits, such as tinnitus and difficulty understanding speech in background noise, among individuals with clinically normal audiograms present a perplexing problem for audiologists. One potential explanation for these “hidden” auditory deficits is loss of the synaptic connections between the inner hair cells and their afferent auditory nerve fiber targets, a condition that has been termed
cochlear synaptopathy
. In animal models, cochlear synaptopathy can occur due to aging or exposure to noise or ototoxic drugs and is associated with reduced auditory brainstem response (ABR) wave I amplitudes. Decreased ABR wave I amplitudes have been demonstrated among young military Veterans and non-Veterans with a history of firearm use, suggesting that humans may also experience noise-induced synaptopathy. However, the downstream consequences of synaptopathy are unclear.

Method

To investigate how noise-induced reductions in wave I amplitude impact the central auditory system, the ABR, the middle latency response (MLR), and the late latency response (LLR) were measured in 65 young Veterans and non-Veterans with normal audiograms.

Results

In response to a click stimulus, the MLR was weaker for Veterans compared to non-Veterans, but the LLR was not reduced. In addition, low ABR wave I amplitudes were associated with a reduced MLR, but with an increased LLR. Notably, Veterans reporting tinnitus showed the largest mean LLRs.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that decreased peripheral auditory input leads to compensatory gain in the central auditory system, even among individuals with normal audiograms, and may impact auditory perception. This pattern of reduced MLR, but not LLR, was observed among Veterans even after statistical adjustment for sex and distortion product otoacoustic emission differences, suggesting that synaptic loss plays a role in the observed central gain.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.11977854
Young Children's Attitudes Toward Peers Who Wear Hearing Aids
Authors: Wheeler Lindsey R. , Tharpe Anne Marie
Published: March 2020

Purpose

This study examined whether young children with normal hearing demonstrated negative attitudes toward peers wearing hearing aids, often described as the “hearing aid effect.” The effect of age on these attitudes was also examined.

Method

Forty-five typically developing children with normal hearing, aged 6–11 years, were recruited to answer questions about and rate photos of children with and without hearing aids in areas of peer acceptance as well as physical and cognitive competence. Participants completed a forced-choice task, a perceived competence rating task, and a sociometric rating task.

Results

Children in this study perceived their peers who wore hearing aids as having less physical competence and less peer acceptance than peers without hearing aids, thus confirming a hearing aid effect in children as young as 6 years of age. Both younger and older children were more likely to choose pictures of children wearing hearing aids as having less peer acceptance than pictures of children who were not wearing hearing aids. Older children were also more likely to choose a picture of a child with hearing aids as having less physical competence than a picture of a child without hearing aids.

Conclusion

These findings should serve to alert professionals who work with children who have hearing loss that additional support and education might be warranted for these children and their peers with normal hearing.
Self-Reported Drug Use and Hearing Measures in Young Adults
Authors: Torre Peter , Reed Mark B.
Published: March 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine marijuana or other substance use on pure-tone thresholds and distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs) in young adults.

Method

Young adults (
n
= 243; 182 women, 61 men;
M
age
= 20.9 years,
SD
= 2.7 years) participated in this study. Survey data included personal music system use, marijuana use, and misuse of prescription medications. Otoscopy, tympanometry, pure-tone audiometry, and DPOAEs were obtained. Pure tones from octave frequencies of 0.25 through 8 kHz were obtained, and DPOAEs were recorded between f
2
frequencies of 1 and 6 kHz using two continuously presented stimulus tones swept in frequency.

Results

Those who reported marijuana or stimulant use had similar pure-tone averages (0.5, 1, 2, and 4 kHz) compared to those who reported never using marijuana or stimulants. Women who reported marijuana use in the past 30 days > two times had statistically significant higher mean DPOAEs compared to women who reported ≤ two times or no marijuana use in the past 30 days. Men, however, who reported marijuana use in the past 30 days > two times had lower, but not statistically significant, mean DPOAEs compared to men who reported ≤ two times or no marijuana use in the past 30 days. Women who reported ever using stimulants had statistically significant higher mean DPOAEs compared to women who reported never using stimulants; for men, mean DPOAEs were similar between those who reported ever using stimulants and those who never used stimulants.

Conclusions

The results of this study demonstrate different and contradictory associations between marijuana use, stimulant use, and hearing outcomes as a function of sex. Future research is needed to explore these associations utilizing larger sample sizes while accounting for additional harmful exposures to other noise exposures.
Auditory Training to Improve Speech Perception and Self-Efficacy in Aging Adults
Authors: Fostick Leah , Taitelbaum-Swead Riki , Kreitler Shulamith , Zokraut Shelly , Billig Miriam
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Difficulty in understanding spoken speech is a common complaint among aging adults, even when hearing impairment is absent. Correlational studies point to a relationship between age, auditory temporal processing (ATP), and speech perception but cannot demonstrate causality unlike training studies. In the current study, we test (a) the causal relationship between a spatial–temporal ATP task (temporal order judgment [TOJ]) and speech perception among aging adults using a training design and (b) whether improvement in aging adult speech perception is accompanied by improved self-efficacy.

Method

Eighty-two participants aged 60–83 years were randomly assigned to a group receiving (a) ATP training (TOJ) over 14 days, (b) non-ATP training (intensity discrimination) over 14 days, or (c) no training.

Results

The data showed that TOJ training elicited improvement in all speech perception tests, which was accompanied by increased self-efficacy. Neither improvement in speech perception nor self-efficacy was evident following non-ATP training or no training.

Conclusions

There was no generalization of the improvement resulting from TOJ training to intensity discrimination or generalization of improvement resulting from intensity discrimination training to speech perception. These findings imply that the effect of TOJ training on speech perception is specific and such improvement is not simply the product of generally improved auditory perception. It provides support for the idea that temporal properties of speech are indeed crucial for speech perception. Clinically, the findings suggest that aging adults can be trained to improve their speech perception, specifically through computer-based auditory training, and this may improve perceived self-efficacy.
Properties of Spoken Persuasive Language Samples From Typically Developing Adolescents
Authors: Heilmann John , Malone Thomas O. , F. Westerveld Marleen
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Persuasive communication skills are vital for achieving success in school, at work, and in social relationships. To facilitate assessment of persuasive discourse, we developed a clinically feasible persuasive speaking protocol and used it to compile a database of language samples. This database allowed us to describe the properties of adolescents' persuasive speaking skills.

Method

We collected spoken language samples from 179 typically developing students in Grades 8–12, recruited from the United States and Australia. Participants were asked to persuade an authority figure to make a change in a rule or policy.

Results

Language performance data reflecting both microstructural and macrostructural properties of spoken language were summarized and broken down by grade. We completed a factor analysis that documented three latent variables (syntax, discourse difficulties, and content). To test the validity of the persuasive measures, a subset of the participants completed an additional battery of assessments, which revealed weak to moderate relationships between the persuasive measures, general language ability, and working memory. There was no significant relationship between the persuasive language measures and an assessment of personality.

Conclusion

Our persuasive language sampling protocol facilitated the collection of valid language performance data. The summary data can be used as benchmarks for clinical evaluations of adolescents suspected of having language difficulties.
Controller design for MTDC grid to enhance power sharing and stability
Authors: Yadav Omkar , Prasad Sheetla , Kishor Nand , Negi Richa , Purwar Shubhi
Published: March 2020

Voltage droop control is considered as a reliable control approach for multi‐terminal DC (MTDC) grid system. A low value of droop constant may result in a high dynamic variation associated with oscillations for power and DC voltage deviation. Thus, the stability of the MTDC grid is at risk. This study presents a linear quadratic regulator (LQR) control design with an adaptive droop to achieve appropriate power sharing among the converter terminals. A control strategy with the combination of adaptive droop and LQR is designed in this study. The weights of LQR are tuned using the Gramian analysis. The closed‐loop stability analysis is carried out using Lyapunov's stability approach. The proposed control scheme improves the closed‐loop system dynamics by reducing the overshoots/undershoots and time to reach steady‐state condition. In addition, power sharing according to converter rating is appropriately achieved. The performance of the proposed control scheme is validated on five terminal MTDC grid system simulated in MATLAB®.
Gamma-ray burst jet propagation, development of angular structure, and the luminosity function
Authors: Salafia O. S. , Barbieri C. , Ascenzi S. , Toffano M.
Published: March 2020

The fate and observable properties of gamma-ray burst jets crucially depend on their interaction with the progenitor material that surrounds the central engine. We present a semi-analytical model of this interaction (which builds upon several previous analytical and numerical works) aimed at predicting the angular distribution of jet and cocoon energy and Lorentz factor after breakout given the properties of the ambient material and of the jet at launch. Using this model, we constructed synthetic populations of structured jets, assuming either a collapsar (for long gamma-ray bursts – LGRBs) or a binary neutron star merger (for short gamma-ray bursts – SGRBs) as progenitor. We assumed all progenitors to be identical, and we allowed little variability in the jet properties at launch: our populations therefore feature a quasi-universal structure. These populations are able to reproduce the main features of the observed LGRB and SGRB luminosity functions, although several uncertainties and caveats have yet to be addressed. We make our simulated populations publicly available.
Looks can be deceiving
Authors: Temmink K. D. , Toonen S. , Zapartas E. , Justham S. , Gänsicke B. T.
Published: March 2020

Context. White dwarfs (WDs) are important and abundant tools to study the structure and evolution of the Galactic environment. However, the multiplicity of WD progenitors is generally neglected. Specifically, a merger in a binary system can lead to a single WD, which could result in wrongly inferred quantities if only single stellar evolution (SSE) is considered. These mergers are linked to transients such as luminous red novae and Type Ia supernovae.

Aims. We investigate the impact of binary evolution (BE) upon observable single WDs, and compare their properties to WDs formed through SSE. We assess the evolutionary channels and the age and mass distributions of the resulting single WDs.

Methods. We employed SeBa to model the evolution of single star and binary populations. We synthesised the observable single WD population within 100 pc, including cooling and observational selection effects. Additionally, we constructed models with different evolution and primordial population properties to study the effects on the properties of the resulting single WDs.

Results. White dwarfs from binary mergers make up about 10−30% of all observable single WDs and 30−50% of massive WDs. On average, individual WDs take 3.1−5 times longer to form through BE than SE, and so appear ∼1 Gyr younger than they are if BE is ignored. In all models, the effect of mergers on the age distribution is clearly noticeable. The median age typically increases by 85−430 Myr and 200−390 Myr for massive WDs. Although abundant, we do not find evidence that WDs from mergers significantly alter the shape of the WD mass distribution.

Conclusions. Assuming SSE for inferring properties of single WDs gives rise to intrinsic errors as single WDs can also be formed following a binary merger. Strategies for mitigating the effect of mergers on the WD age distributions are discussed.
Power spectra of solar brightness variations at various inclinations
Authors: Nèmec N.-E. , Shapiro A. I. , Krivova N. A. , Solanki S. K. , Tagirov R. V. , Cameron R. H. , Dreizler S.
Published: March 2020

Context. Magnetic features on the surfaces of cool stars lead to variations in their brightness. Such variations on the surface of the Sun have been studied extensively. Recent planet-hunting space telescopes have made it possible to measure brightness variations in hundred thousands of other stars. The new data may undermine the validity of setting the sun as a typical example of a variable star. Putting solar variability into the stellar context suffers, however, from a bias resulting from solar observations being carried out from its near-equatorial plane, whereas stars are generally observed at all possible inclinations.

Aims. We model solar brightness variations at timescales from days to years as they would be observed at different inclinations. In particular, we consider the effect of the inclination on the power spectrum of solar brightness variations. The variations are calculated in several passbands that are routinely used for stellar measurements.

Methods. We employ the surface flux transport model to simulate the time-dependent spatial distribution of magnetic features on both the near and far sides of the Sun. This distribution is then used to calculate solar brightness variations following the Spectral And Total Irradiance REconstruction approach.

Results. We have quantified the effect of the inclination on solar brightness variability at timescales down to a single day. Thus, our results allow for solar brightness records to be made directly comparable to those obtained by planet-hunting space telescopes. Furthermore, we decompose solar brightness variations into components originating from the solar rotation and from the evolution of magnetic features.
Approach to the evaluation of manufacturing and economic feasibility of technical systems based on real options modeling
Authors: Drogovoz Pavel , Yusufova Olga , Gutenev Alexander
Published: March 2020

The features of the application of the system engineering methodology, technology and manufacturing readiness levels metrics when creating high-tech industrial products in the digital transformation of the economy are considered. The concept of manufacturing and economic feasibility of a perspective technical system is introduced. An approach to the economic and mathematical modeling of real options is proposed for a formalized description and decision support for managing multi-stage and interconnected processes for creating a goal technical system and supporting manufacturing system. The directions of further research are determined and the tasks of applied development of real options pricing models are posed.
Suizidalität: Risikoabschätzung, Krisenintervention und Psychotherapie
Authors: Teismann Tobias , Friedrich Sören
Published: March 2020

In Deutschland sterben pro Jahr in etwa 10000 Menschen an einem Suizid. 90 % der Betroffenen leiden zum Zeitpunkt der Selbsttötung an einer psychischen Erkrankung. Entsprechend ist die Auseinandersetzung mit Suizidgedanken und -versuchen ein häufiges Thema klinisch-therapeutischen Handelns. Der Artikel zeigt Strategien im Umgang mit Suizidversuchen und legt den Schwerpunkt auf kognitiv-verhaltenstherapeutische Ansätze.
Professioneller Umgang mit Gewalt und Aggressionen: das Präventionskonzept ProDeMa
Authors: Weissenberger Gerd
Published: March 2020

Das Arbeitssicherheitskonzept „Professionelles Deeskalationsmanagement“ (ProDeMa®) vermittelt Mitarbeitenden aus dem Bereich des Gesundheits- und Sozialwesens professionelles Handeln im Umgang mit Gewalt und Aggression. Entwickelt wurde es 2002 von Dipl.-Psych. Ralf Wesuls, Thomas Heinzmann (Fachkraftpfleger für Psychiatrie) sowie Ludger Bringer von der Unfallkasse Baden-Württemberg. 1
ENDSTATION OP – Arthrofibrose Teil 2: Chirurgische Therapie
Authors: Jagodzinski Michael , Traut Philipp
Published: March 2020

Operative Eingriffe für einen Gelenk- oder Kreuzbandersatz sind heute Routine. Dennoch entwickeln manche Patienten im Nachhinein eine Arthrofibrose. Sind die konservativen Maßnahmen ausgeschöpft, kann ein erneuter operativer Eingriff helfen.
Synthesis of Aromatic and Aliphatic Di-, Tri-, and Tetrasulfonic Acids
Authors: Christoffers Jens , Wickleder Mathias S.
Published: March 2020

Oligosulfonic acids are promising linker compounds for coordination polymers and metal-organic frameworks, however, compared to their carboxylic acid congeners, often not readily accessible by established synthetic routes. This Account highlights the synthesis of recently developed aromatic and aliphatic di-, tri- and tetrasulfonic acids. While multiple electrophilic sulfonations of aromatic substrates are rather limited, the nucleophilic aromatic substitution including an intramolecular variant, the Newman–Kwart rearrangement, allows the flexible introduction of up to four sulfur-containing moieties at an aromatic ring. Sulfonic acids are then accessed by oxidation of thiols, thioethers, or thioesters either directly with hydrogen peroxide or in two steps with chlorine (generated in situ from N-chlorosuccinimide/hydrochloric acid) to furnish sulfochlorides which are subsequently hydrolyzed. In the aliphatic series, secondary alcohols as starting materials are converted into thioethers, thioesters, or thiocarbonates by nucleophilic substitutions, which are also subsequently oxidized to furnish sulfonic acids.

1 Introduction

2 Electrophilic Aromatic Substitution

3 Nucleophilic Aromatic Substitution

3.1 Intermolecular SNAr

3.2 Intermolecular with Subsequent Oxidation

3.3 Intramolecular with Subsequent Oxidation

4 Nucleophilic Aliphatic Substitution with Subsequent Oxidation

5 Oxidation

5.1 Oxidation of Thiocarbonates

5.2 Oxidation of Thioethers

5.3 Oxidation of Thioesters

6 Thermolysis of Neopentylsulfonates

7 Functionalization via Diazonium Ions

8 Conclusion
Methotrexate-Related Pancytopenia: A Case Report
Authors: Mehta Yatin , Nanda Chinmaya
Published: March 2020

Methotrexate (MTX) is a commonly used drug in the treatment of autoimmune disorders. Although a very safe drug, it can rarely have serious side effects like pancytopenia and hepatotoxicity. We present here a case of methotrexate-induced pancytopenia leading to sepsis and multiorgan failure.
Objective Evaluation of Psychosocial Stress and Its Association with Cardiovascular Risk in Women
Authors: Preetham B. Shashi , Upadhyayula Aditya , Taranikanti Madhuri , Kumar M. Aswin , Fatima Farheen , D. Swapna , M. Srinivas
Published: March 2020

Background Psychosocial stress in women is an emerging problem that is by and large unnoticed. Workplaces are being stressful places for women, but the degree of the stress as perceived by them is highly subjective.

Aim To evaluate the stress using the 10-item perceived stress scale (PSS-10) and dividing the participants into low, moderate, and severe stress groups based on the scores. To objectively assess the cardiovascular risk using heart rate variability (HRV) as an index.

Methods After obtaining informed and written consent, a mixed population of 50 women working at various levels in the hospital, and home-makers were included in the study. PSS-10 questionnaires were administered and scores were obtained. Electrocardiogram was obtained from lead II at rest for 10 minutes, and HRV was estimated using the LabChart Pro software (ADInstruments).

Results Of the participants, 72% were in the moderate perceived stress group. Mean PSS scores were 10.33 ± 0.82, 19.72 ± 3.4, and 29.3 ± 2.3 in low, moderate, and high stress groups, respectively. Frequency-domain measures showed very significant difference across the groups. Very low frequency (VLF) was reduced (p = 0.04) and low frequency (LF) was higher (p = 0.01) in the high stress group.

Conclusions Reduced VLF in the high perceived stress group is an indicator of higher cardiovascular mortality risk, which also signifies posttraumatic stress disorder. High LF and reduced high-low frequency powers signify autonomic imbalance in these women. Their perceptions of the stress were also more toward the inability to contain positive emotions when compared with having negative emotions related to stress.
Electronic Fetal Monitoring Credentialing Examination: The First 4000
Authors: Tomlinson Mark W. , Brumbaugh Sara A. , O'Keeffe Marin , Berkowitz Richard L. , D'Alton Mary , Nageotte Michael ,   on behalf of the Perinatal Quality Foundation
Published: March 2020

Objective Recognized variability in fetal heart rate interpretation led the Perinatal Quality Foundation (PQF) to develop a credentialing exam. We report an evaluation of the 1st 4000 plus PQF Fetal Monitoring Credentialing (FMC) exams.

Study Design The PQF FMC exam is an online assessment for obstetric providers and nurses. The exam contains two question types: traditional multiple-choice evaluating knowledge and Script Concordance Theory (SCT) evaluating judgment. Reliability was measured through McDonald's Total Omega and Cronbach's Alpha. Pearson's correlations between knowledge and judgment were measured.

Results From February 2014 through September 2018, 4,330 different individuals took the exam. A total of 4,057 records were suitable for reliability analysis: 2,105 (52%) physicians, 1,756 (43%) nurses, and 196 (5%) certified nurse midwives (CNMs). As a measure of test reliability, total Omega was 0.80 for obstetric providers and 0.77 for nurses. There was only moderate correlation between the knowledge scores and judgment scores for obstetric providers (0.38) and for nurses (0.43).

Conclusion The PQF FMC exam is a reliable, valid assessment of both Electronic Fetal Monitoring (EFM) knowledge and judgment. It evaluates essential EFM skills for the establishment of practical credentialing. It also reports modest correlation between knowledge and judgment scores, suggesting that knowledge alone does not assure clinical competency.
Abortion for Fetal Genetic Abnormalities: Type of Abnormality and Gestational Age at Diagnosis
Authors: Grossman Tracy B. , Chasen Stephen T.
Published: March 2020

Background Advances in genetic screening can identify patients at high risk for common genetic conditions early in pregnancy and can facilitate early diagnosis and early abortion. Less common abnormalities might only be diagnosed with invasive testing is performed after structural abnormalities are identified.

Objective Our objective was to compare gestational age (GA) at diagnosis and abortion for genetic abnormalities identified based on screening with abnormalities that were not discovered after screening.

Study Design All prenatal diagnostic procedures from 2012 to 2017 were reviewed, and singleton pregnancies terminated following diagnosis of genetic abnormalities were identified. Cases diagnosed as the result of screening tests were compared with remaining cases. Conditions were considered “screened for” if they can be suspected by cell-free DNA testing, biochemistry, carrier screening, or if the patient was a known carrier of a single-gene disorder. When abnormal karyotype, microarray, or Noonan's syndrome was associated with abnormal NT, these cases were considered “screened for.” GA at abortion was the primary outcome. Fisher's exact test and Mann–Whitney's U test were used for statistical comparison.

Results In this study, 268 cases were included. A total of 227 (85%) of abortions were performed for “screened for” disorders, with 210 (93%) of these for karyotype abnormalities, 5 (2%) for microarray abnormalities, and 12 (5%) for single-gene disorders. Forty-one (15%) of abortions were performed for conditions not included in screening, with 8 (19%) of those for karyotype abnormalities, 25 (61%) for microarray abnormalities, and 8 (19%) for single-gene disorders. Invasive testing and abortion occurred at earlier median GA for those with conditions that were screened for: 122/7 versus 155/7 weeks, p ≤0.001 and 135/7 versus 200/7 weeks; p ≤0.001.

Conclusion Most abortions were for abnormalities that can be suspected early in pregnancy. As many structural abnormalities associated with rare conditions are not identifiable until the mid-trimester, prenatal diagnosis and abortion occurred significantly later. Physicians and patients should be aware of the limitations of genetic screening.
Hantzsch-Like One-Pot Three-Component Synthesis of Heptaazadicyclopenta[a,j]anthracenes: A New Ring System
Authors: Abdelhamid Ismail A. , Abdelmoniem Amr M. , Sroor Farid M. , Ramadan Muhammed A. , Ghozlan Said A. S.
Published: March 2020

A concise and efficient approach to novel tetrahydroheptaazadicyclopenta[a,j]anthracene-5,7-diones, by the reaction of aldehydes with two moles of 7-amino-2-methyl-3-phenylpyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-5-one is reported. Also, pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrido[3,2-e]pyrimidine-7-carbonitrile derivatives were prepared by a three-component reaction of aldehydes, 7-amino-2-methyl-3-phenylpyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-5-one, and 3-aminocrotononitrile.
Pd(0)-Catalyzed Direct Inter- and Intramolecular C–H Functionalization of 4-Carboxyimidazoles
Authors: Frippiat Steven , Baudequin Christine , Hoarau Christophe , Peresson Antoine , Perse Thibaut , Ramondenc Yvan , Schneider Cédric , Querolle Olivier , Angibaud Patrick , Poncelet Virginie , Meerpoel Lieven , Levacher Vincent , Bischoff Laurent
Published: March 2020

The palladium-catalyzed arylation and alkenylation of N-substituted methyl imidazole-4-carboxylates are described through inter- and intramolecular pathways. Both direct C2–H and C5–H arylation and alkenylation proceed under Pd(0)/Cu(I) cooperative catalysis and Pd(0) catalysis, respectively, in low-polarity 1,4-dioxane solvent. The methodology gives access to C2 (hetero)aryl or alkenyl imidazoles as well as innovative C2- and C5-arylated fused imidazoles tricycles with a five- to seven-membered middle ring.