bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scintigraphic evaluation of salivary gland function in thyroid cancer patients after radioiodine remnant ablation
Authors: Krčálová Eva , Horáček Jiří , Gabalec Filip , Žák Pavel , Doležal Jiří
Published: April 2020

Radioiodine (131I, RAI) has traditionally been used in thyroid cancer treatment but its benefit should be balanced against possible risks. Among them, salivary gland dysfunction has often been discussed, although the reported data have been inconsistent. The aim of our prospective study was to evaluate salivary gland function in 31 thyroidectomised patients (6 men, 25 women; median age 52 yr) before and 4–6 months after RAI remnant ablation (RRA), using activity of 3.7 GBq 131I‐NaI. Salivary gland uptake and excretion fractions were quantitatively assessed with 99mTc – pertechnetate salivary gland scintigraphy. Pre‐ and post‐treatment values were compared using Wilcoxon signed rank test. No statistically significant difference in the pre‐ and post‐treatment values was observed in parotid or submandibular glands uptake, or in the parotid or submandibular excretion fractions. The calculated power for minimum relevant difference of 25% with the sample size of 31 ranged between 86% and 96% for the individual variables, making our negative results reasonably reliable. The results suggest that RRA with the most commonly used activity of 3.7 GBq has no important impact on salivary gland function. Therefore, the concerns about putative salivary gland functional deterioration following RRA are probably unjustified.
Neutrosophic structured element
Authors: Edalatpanah Seyyed Ahmad
Published: April 2020

This paper presents a new concept in neutrosophic sets (NS) called neutrosophic structured element (NSE). Based on this concept, we define the operational laws, score function, and some aggregation operators of NS. Finally, as an application of this concept, we propose a decision‐making method for a multi‐attribute decision making (MADM) problem under NSE information. The results indicate that this concept is a useful tool for dealing with neutrosophic decision problems.
New kid on the block: lipid droplets in the nucleus
Authors: Barbosa Antonio D. , Siniossoglou Symeon
Published: April 2020

The regulation of lipid homeostasis is essential for normal cell physiology, and its disruption can lead to disease. Lipid droplets (LDs) are ubiquitous organelles dedicated to storing nonpolar lipids that are used for metabolic energy production or membrane biogenesis. LDs normally emerge from, and associate with, the endoplasmic reticulum and interact with other cytoplasmic organelles to deliver the stored lipids. Recently, LDs were found to reside also at the inner side of the nuclear envelope and inside the nucleus in yeast and mammalian cells. This unexpected finding raises fundamental questions about the nature of the inner nuclear membrane, its connection with the endoplasmic reticulum and the pathways of LD formation. In this viewpoint, we will highlight recent developments relating to these questions and discuss possible roles of LDs in nuclear physiology.
Characterizing biogeochemical fluctuations in a world of extremes: A synthesis for temperate intertidal habitats in the face of global change
Authors: Wolfe Kennedy , Nguyen Hong D. , Davey Madeline , Byrne Maria
Published: April 2020

Coastal and intertidal habitats are at the forefront of anthropogenic influence and environmental change. The species occupying these habitats are adapted to a world of extremes, which may render them robust to the changing climate or more vulnerable if they are at their physiological limits. We characterized the diurnal, seasonal and interannual patterns of flux in biogeochemistry across an intertidal gradient on a temperate sandstone platform in eastern Australia over 6 years (2009–2015) and present a synthesis of our current understanding of this habitat in context with global change. We used rock pools as natural mesocosms to determine biogeochemistry dynamics and patterns of eco‐stress experienced by resident biota. In situ measurements and discrete water samples were collected night and day during neap low tide events to capture diurnal biogeochemistry cycles. Calculation of pHT using total alkalinity (TA) and dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) revealed that the mid‐intertidal habitat exhibited the greatest flux over the years (pHT 7.52–8.87), and over a single tidal cycle (1.11 pHT units), while the low‐intertidal (pHT 7.82–8.30) and subtidal (pHT 7.87–8.30) were less variable. Temperature flux was also greatest in the mid‐intertidal (8.0–34.5°C) and over a single tidal event (14°C range), as typical of temperate rocky shores. Mean TA and DIC increased at night and decreased during the day, with the most extreme conditions measured in the mid‐intertidal owing to prolonged emersion periods. Temporal sampling revealed that net ecosystem calcification and production were highest during the day and lowest at night, particularly in the mid‐intertidal. Characterization of biogeochemical fluctuations in a world of extremes demonstrates the variable conditions that intertidal biota routinely experience and highlight potential microhabitat‐specific vulnerabilities and climate change refugia.
Management of nail psoriasis by topical drug delivery: a pharmaceutical perspective
Authors: Thatai Purva , Khan Arshad B.
Published: April 2020

The management of nail psoriasis is an arduous task owing to the disease manifestations and anatomical structure of the nail plate. Although various treatment therapies are available for nail psoriasis, topical therapy is contemplated as one of the most favorable options as systemic therapies are accompanied by numerous side effects that result in patient incompliance. The topical formulations including creams, gels, ointments, and nail lacquers have been used as delivery systems for various antipsoriatic drugs. Among these, nail lacquers emerge to be promising and patient friendly formulations. However, the major defiance with topical delivery is inefficacious penetration of drug through impenetrable keratinized nail plate to reach the target sites: nail matrix and nail bed. Therefore, in order to obtain effectual drug delivery systems that can retain/remain on the nail plate for a prolonged period of time and deliver the drug across it, systematic approaches like quality by design (QbD) need to be followed so that the desired quality can be “built in” the system rather than to rely solely on retrograde evaluation. Furthermore, more advances in research are still required to develop a validated animal model so as to determine the efficacy of the formulation and to establish a mathematical model that can help in predicting the desirable attributes of the formulation and permeation of various molecules through the nail plate.
Isolation of peanut protein aggregates using aqueous extraction processing combined with membrane separation
Authors: Liu Junjun , Zhang Wenbin , Li Pengfei , Jiang Zhumao , Yang Ruijin
Published: April 2020

A two‐stage microfiltration and ultrafiltration (MF/UF) for peanut protein recovery and water recycling from aqueous extraction processing (AEP) were investigated. Peanut protein aggregates and alkaline water were obtained using flat and wound MF/UF and alkaline water recycled in AEP. With this approach, most of the wastewater could be recycled to produce reusable water to solve wastewater problems in aqueous oil extraction processing from oilseeds. The result showed that a little oil and protein were lost (1.21% and 4.35%, respectively) during the recycling of permeate in AEP, which was still acceptable. Peanut protein aggregations (PPAs) were characterised by analysis with Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), sodium dodecyl sulphate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE), high‐performance gel filtration chromatography (HPGFC) and binding force analysis. Solubility analysis suggested that PPA had molecular structures with more hydrophobic groups on the surface than in the peanut protein isolate (PPI). In vitro, PPA was digested by both pepsin and trypsin more than PPI. FTIR profiles demonstrated there were more β‐sheet and less α‐helix in PPA, which means much more aggregation. In addition, binding force analysis showed hydrophobic interaction was the major force that restricted dissolution of PPA and disulfide bonds were of second importance, which provided a possible physical treatment opportunity for improving the solubility of PPA.
Guidelines for the medical management of pediatric vesicoureteral reflux
Authors: Miyakita Hideshi , Hayashi Yutaro , Mitsui Takahiko , Okawada Manabu , Kinoshita Yoshiaki , Kimata Takahisa , Koikawa Yasuhiro , Sakai Kiyohide , Satoh Hiroyuki , Tokunaga Masatoshi , Naitoh Yasuyuki , Niimura Fumio , Matsuoka Hirofumi , Mizuno Kentaro , Kaneko Kazunari , Kubota Masayuki
Published: April 2020

Urinary tract infection is a bacterial infection that commonly occurs in children. Vesicoureteral reflux is a major underlying precursor condition of urinary tract infection, and an important disorder in the field of pediatric urology. Vesicoureteral reflux is sometimes diagnosed postnatally in infants with fetal hydronephrosis diagnosed antenatally. Opinions vary regarding the diagnosis and treatment of vesicoureteral reflux, and diagnostic procedures remain debatable. In terms of medical interventions, options include either follow‐up observation in the hope of possible spontaneous resolution of vesicoureteral reflux with growth/development or provision of continuous antibiotic prophylaxis based on patient characteristics (age, presence/absence of febrile urinary tract infection, lower urinary tract dysfunction and constipation). Furthermore, there are various surgical procedures with different indications and rationales. These guidelines, formulated and issued by the Japanese Society of Pediatric Urology to assist medical management of pediatric vesicoureteral reflux, cover the following: epidemiology, clinical practice algorithm for vesicoureteral reflux, syndromes (dysuria with vesicoureteral reflux, and bladder and rectal dysfunction with vesicoureteral reflux), diagnosis, treatment (medical and surgical), secondary vesicoureteral reflux, long‐term prognosis and reflux nephropathy. They also provide the definition of bladder and bowel dysfunction, previously unavailable despite their close association with vesicoureteral reflux, and show the usefulness of diagnostic tests, continuous antibiotic prophylaxis and surgical intervention using site markings.
Polymer‐derived Co2Si@SiC/C/SiOC/SiO2/Co3O4 nanoparticles: Microstructural evolution and enhanced EM absorbing properties
Authors: Wu Yongfeng , Zhong Yunwang , Guan Yan , Gu Chong , Shao Guangyu , Shi Benyang , Su Zhiming , Xu Binbin , Yu Zhaoju , Liu Anhua
Published: April 2020

In this work, porous core‐shell structured Co2Si@SiC/C/SiOC/SiO2/Co3O4 nanoparticles were fabricated by a polymer‐derived ceramic approach. The in situ formation of mesopores on the shell, microstructural, and phase evolution of resulting nanoparticles were investigated in detail. The obtained nanoparticles‐paraffin composites possess a very low minimum reflection coefficient (RCmin) −60.9 dB, broad effective absorption bandwidth 3.50 GHz in the X‐band and 15.5 GHz in the whole frequency range (from 2.5 to 18 GHz). The results indicate outstanding electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorbing performance among all the reported cobalt‐based nanomaterials, due to the reasons as follows: (a) The unique core‐shell structure as well as complex phase composition of SiC/C/SiOC/SiO2/Co3O4 in the shell, result in a large number of heterogeneous interfaces in the nanoparticles; (b) Nanoparticles have both dielectric and magnetic loss; (c) Mesopores in the shell prolong the propagation path of EMW, thereby increasing the absorption/reflection ratio of EMWs. Thanks to the material structure design, the resulting core‐shell structured cobalt‐containing ceramic nanoparticles have great potential for thin and high‐performance EMW absorbing materials applied in harsh environment.
Unusual response to His‐refractory atrial premature complex: What is the mechanism?
Authors: Kara Meryem , Korkmaz Ahmet , Karimli Emin , Rencuzogullari Ibrahim , Demir Muhammed , Ozbek Mehmet , Ozeke Ozcan , Cay Serkan , Ozcan Firat , Aras Dursun , Topaloglu Serkan
Published: April 2020

A 32‐year‐old woman underwent radiofrequency catheter ablation of narrow QRS tachycardia that was terminated with intravenous adenosine.
Comprehensive germline mutation analysis and clinical profile in a large cohort of Brazilian xeroderma pigmentosum patients
Authors: Santiago K.M. , Castro L.P. , Neto J.P.D. , de Nóbrega A.F. , Pinto C.A.L. , Ashton‐Prolla P. , Pinto e Vairo F. , de Medeiros P.F.V. , Ribeiro E.M. , Ribeiro B.F.R. , do Valle F.F. , Doriqui M.J.R. , Leite C.H.B. , Rocha R.M. , Moura L.M.S. , Munford V. , Galante P.A.F. , Menck C.F.M. , Rogatto S.R. , Achatz M.I.
Published: April 2020

Background

Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) patients present a high risk of developing skin cancer and other complications at an early age. This disease is characterized by mutations in the genes related to the DNA repair system.

Objectives

To describe the clinical and molecular findings in a cohort of 32 Brazilian individuals who received a clinical diagnosis of XP.

Methods

Twenty‐seven families were screened for germline variants in eight XP‐related genes.

Results

All patients (N = 32) were diagnosed with bi‐allelic germline pathogenic or potentially pathogenic variants, including nine variants previously undescribed. The c.2251‐1G>C XPC pathogenic variant, reported as the founder mutation in Comorian and Pakistani patients, was observed in 15 cases in homozygous or compound heterozygous. Seven homozygous patients for POLH/XPV variants developed their symptoms by an average age of 7.7 years. ERCC2/XPD, DDB2/XPE and ERCC5/XPG variants were found in a few patients. Aside from melanoma and non‐melanoma skin tumours, a set of patients developed skin sebaceous carcinoma, leiomyosarcoma, angiosarcoma, mucoepidermoid carcinoma, gastric adenocarcinoma and serous ovarian carcinoma.

Conclusions

We reported a high frequency of XPC variants in 32 XP Brazilian patients. Nine new variants in XP‐related genes, unexpected non‐skin cancer lesions and an anticipation of the clinical manifestation in POLH/XPV cases were also described.
Best practices for non‐lethal blood sampling of fish via the caudal vasculature
Authors: Lawrence Michael J. , Raby Graham D. , Teffer Amy K. , Jeffries Ken M. , Danylchuk Andy J. , Eliason Erika J. , Hasler Caleb T. , Clark Timothy D. , Cooke Steven J.
Published: April 2020

Blood sampling through the caudal vasculature is a widely used technique in fish biology for investigating organismal health and physiology. In live fishes, it can provide a quick, easy and relatively non‐invasive method for obtaining a blood sample (cf. cannulation and cardiac puncture). Here, a general set of recommendations are provided for optimizing the blood sampling protocol that reflects best practices in animal welfare and sample integrity. This includes selecting appropriate use of anaesthetics for blood sampling as well as restraint techniques for situations where sedation is not used. In addition, ideal sampling environments where the fish can freely ventilate and strategies for minimizing handling time are discussed. This study summarizes the techniques used for extracting blood from the caudal vasculature in live fishes, highlighting the phlebotomy itself, the timing of sampling events and acceptable blood sample volumes. This study further discuss considerations for selecting appropriate physiological metrics when sampling in the caudal region and the potential benefits that this technique provides with respect to long‐term biological assessments. Although general guidelines for blood sampling are provided here, it should be recognized that contextual considerations (e.g., taxonomic diversity, legal matters, environmental constraints) may influence the approach to blood sampling. Overall, it can be concluded that when done properly, blood sampling live fishes through the caudal vasculature is quick, efficient and minimally invasive, thus promoting conditions where live release of focal animals is possible.
Evaluation of combination therapy with peeling added to minimal invasive blepharoplasty in lower eyelid rejuvenation
Authors: Asilian Ali , Shahmoradi Zabihollah , Talakoub Mahboobeh , Mokhtari Fatemeh , Siadat Amir Hossein , Mohaghegh Fatemeh , Adibi Neda , Mozafarpoor Samaneh , Kazemipour Samira , Danesh Farzaneh , Hafezi Hossein
Published: April 2020

Introduction

Aging is an inevitable process in life that can pose unsatisfactory changes in appearance. Recently, rejuvenation surgeries have opened an exciting new window toward people who are vulnerable according to their facial appearance. Periocular plastic microsurgeries are among the most common aesthetic surgeries with various outcomes. The current study was aimed to compare outcomes of blepharoplasty with and without peeling regarding lower eyelid rejuvenation.

Methods

This is a randomized clinical trial study conducted on 30‐patients referred for inferior lid rejuvenation in 2017‐18. Patients were randomly divided into two 15‐member subgroups of microinvasive blepharoplasty with and without peeling. Peeling for the group underwent blepharopeeling was performed all over the inferior periocular region using Phenol 89%. Then, skin and underlying muscle were incised superficially, and underlying fat tissue was excised. The other group underwent blepharoplasty without peeling. Patients were followed daily for 2 months to assess complications, patients' and physicians' satisfaction.

Results

Two assessed groups were not statistically different regarding age and gender distribution (P‐value = .417 and .666, respectively). Considering patients' opinion, symmetry, scar formation, skin laxity, swelling, and total satisfaction score were not different between two groups (P‐value > .05) while physicians presented similar outcomes except for better scar formation status of peeling add‐on therapy (P‐value = .042). Rate of adverse effects was significantly higher among those under blepharoplasty plus peeling treatment (P‐value < .05).

Conclusion

Outcomes of blepharoplasty alone versus blepharoplasty plus peeling were not significantly different regarding both patients' and physicians' assessments in general while fewer complications due to blepharoplasty without peeling were presented.
Regulated Dependence: Platform Workers’ Responses to New Forms of Organizing
Authors: Karanović Jovana , Berends Hans , Engel Yuval
Published: April 2020

Platform economy organizations often resolve fundamental organizing problems with novel solutions, thereby transforming their relationship with core stakeholders including regulators and workers. Despite the integral role played by platform workers, research on the interplay between platforms and regulatory conditions has yet to take workers into consideration. We investigate how Uber drivers engage with novel forms of organizing across different regulatory structures. Drawing on insights from resource dependence theory, we conduct a topic modeling analysis of drivers’ online forum posts and a complementary qualitative analysis of triangulated data sources. Our findings reveal that workers do not always succumb to organizing solutions imposed upon them; they also actively oppose or supplement them. Importantly, platform workers’ responses vary with the local regulatory structure, which affects the mutual dependency and balance of power between platforms and workers. We discuss implications for the literature on new forms of organizing and the platform economy.
An explanation for the isotopic offset between soil and stem water in a temperate tree species
Authors: Barbeta Adrià , Gimeno Teresa E. , Clavé Laura , Fréjaville Bastien , Jones Sam P. , Delvigne Camille , Wingate Lisa , Ogée Jérôme
Published: April 2020

A growing number of field studies report isotopic offsets between stem water and its potential sources that prevent the unambiguous identification of plant water origin using water isotopes. We explored the causes of this isotopic offset by conducting a controlled experiment on the temperate tree species Fagus sylvatica.

We measured δ2H and δ18O of soil and stem water from potted saplings growing on three soil substrates and subjected to two watering regimes.

Regardless of substrate, soil and stem water δ2H were similar only near permanent wilting point. Under moister conditions, stem water δ2H was 11 ± 3‰ more negative than soil water δ2H, coherent with field studies. Under drier conditions, stem water δ2H became progressively more enriched than soil water δ2H. Although stem water δ18O broadly reflected that of soil water, soil–stem δ2H and δ18O differences were correlated (r = 0.76) and increased with transpiration rates indicated by proxies.

Soil–stem isotopic offsets are more likely to be caused by water isotope heterogeneities within the soil pore and stem tissues, which would be masked under drier conditions as a result of evaporative enrichment, than by fractionation under root water uptake. Our results challenge our current understanding of isotopic signals in the soil–plant continuum.
FungalRoot: global online database of plant mycorrhizal associations
Authors: Soudzilovskaia Nadejda A. , Vaessen Stijn , Barcelo Milagros , He Jinhong , Rahimlou Saleh , Abarenkov Kessy , Brundrett Mark C. , Gomes Sofia I.F. , Merckx Vincent , Tedersoo Leho
Published: April 2020

Testing of ecological, biogeographical and phylogenetic hypotheses of mycorrhizal traits requires a comprehensive reference dataset about plant mycorrhizal associations.

Here we present a database, FungalRoot, which summarizes publicly available data about vascular plant mycorrhizal type and intensity of root colonization by mycorrhizal fungi, accompanied with rich metadata. We compiled and digitized data about plant mycorrhizal colonization in nine widespread languages.

The present version of the FungalRoot database contains 36 303 species‐by‐site observations for 14 870 plant species, tripling the previously available compiled information about plant mycorrhizal associations. Based on these data, we provide a recommended list of genus‐level plant mycorrhizal associations, based on the majority of data for species and careful analysis of conflicting data. The majority of ectomycorrhizal and ericoid mycorrhizal plants are trees (92%) and shrubs (85%), respectively. The majority of arbuscular and nonmycorrhizal plant species are herbaceous (50% and 70%, respectively).

Our publicly available database is a powerful resource for mycorrhizal scientists and ecologists. It features possibilities for dynamic updating and addition of data about plant mycorrhizal associations. The new database will promote research on plant and fungal biogeography and evolution, and on links between above‐ and belowground biodiversity and ecosystem functioning.
LaALMT1 mediates malate release from phosphorus‐deficient white lupin root tips and metal root to shoot translocation
Authors: Zhou Yaping , Neuhäuser Benjamin , Neumann Günter , Ludewig Uwe
Published: April 2020

Under phosphorus (P) deficiency, Lupinus albus (white lupin) releases large amounts of organic acid anions from specialized root structures, so‐called cluster or proteoid roots, to mobilize and acquire sparingly soluble phosphates from a restricted soil volume. The molecular mechanisms underlying this release and its regulation are, however, poorly understood. Here, we identified a gene belonging to the aluminium (Al)‐activated malate transporter (ALMT) family that specifically contributes to malate, but not citrate release. This gene, LaALMT1, was most prominently expressed in the root apices under P deficiency, including those of cluster roots and was also detected in the root stele. Contrary to several ALMT homologs in other species, the expression was not stimulated, but moderately repressed by Al. Aluminium‐independent malate currents were recorded from the plasma membrane localized LaALMT1 expressed in Xenopus oocytes. In composite lupins with transgenic roots, LaALMT1 was efficiently mutated by CRISPR‐Cas9, leading to diminished malate efflux and lower xylem sap malate concentrations. When grown in an alkaline P‐deficient soil, mutant shoot phosphate concentrations were similar, but iron and potassium concentrations were diminished in old leaves, suggesting a role for ALMT1 in metal root to shoot translocation, a function that was also supported by growth in hydroponics.
A case of unilateral linear capillaritis
Authors: Rodriguez‐Garijo Nuria , Tomas‐Velazquez Alejandra , Estenaga Angela , Antoñanzas Javier , Idoate Miguel Angel , Espana Agustin
Published: April 2020

Unilateral linear capillaritis is a rare variant of the pigmented purpuric dermatoses that can be misdiagnosed due to confusion with other cutaneous diseases that follow a linear distribution. We present the case of an 8‐year‐old boy with hyperpigmented patches linearly distributed on the right arm, initially diagnosed with segmental neurofibromatosis.
Post‐traumatic stress disorder mistaken for behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia: case series and recommendations of care
Authors: Bruneau Marie‐Andrée , Desmarais Philippe , Pokrzywko Klara
Published: April 2020

In late life, traumas may act cumulatively to exacerbate vulnerability to post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is also a risk factor for cognitive decline. Major neurocognitive disorder (MND) can be associated with worsening of already controlled PTSD symptoms, late‐life resurgence or de novo emergence. Misidentifying PTSD symptoms in MND can have negative consequences for the patient and families. We review the literature pertaining to PTSD and dementia and describe five cases referred for consultation in geriatric psychiatry initially for behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), which were eventually diagnosed and treated as PTSD in MND subjects. We propose that certain PTSD symptoms in patients with MND are misinterpreted as BPSD and therefore, not properly addressed. For example, flashbacks could be interpreted as hallucinations, hypervigilance as paranoia, nightmares as sleep disturbances, and hyperreactivity as agitation/aggression. We suggest that better identification of PTSD symptoms in MND is needed. We propose specific recommendations for care, namely: clarifying diagnosis by distinguishing PTSD symptoms coexisting with different types of dementia from a specific dementia symptom (BPSD), gathering a detailed history of the trauma in order to personalise non‐pharmacological interventions, adapting psychotherapeutic strategies to patients with dementia, using selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors as first‐line treatment and avoiding antipsychotics and benzodiazepines. Proper identification of PTSD symptoms in patients with MND is essential and allows a more tailored and efficient treatment, with decrease in inappropriate use of physical and chemical restraints.
The ‘great wait’ for diagnosis in pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Weatherald Jason , Humbert Marc
Published: April 2020

See related article
Effects of mobile text messaging on breast cancer and breast self‐examination (BSE) knowledge, BSE self‐efficacy, and BSE frequency: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Labrague Leodoro J. , Galabay Jolo R. , Anastacio Angeline L. , McEnroe‐Petitte Denise M. , Tsaras Konstantinos
Published: April 2020

Aims

Educating women regarding breast cancer and increasing breast self‐examination uptake continues to remain a major challenge despite the intensive campaigns. An innovative, cost‐effective and easily customised intervention is needed especially in under‐resourced and hard to reach communities. This paper is a report examining the effects of mobile text messaging on women’s knowledge of breast cancer and BSE, BSE self‐efficacy and frequency of BSE.

Methods

A randomised controlled trial design was used. The study sample consisted of 128 women of reproductive age (WRA) (64 in the experimental group and 64 in the control group) from two communities in the Philippines during the months of August to October 2018. Three to five short messages were sent to the participants in the experimental group daily for one month while the control group did not receive the messages.

Results

Women who received mobile text messages had higher knowledge of breast cancer (F = 21.756, p = 0.001) and breast self‐examination (F = 6.776, p = 0.010) than the control group. However, no significant improvements were seen in the BSE self‐efficacy (F = 1.446, p = 0.232) and frequency of BSE (F = 3.374, p = 0.69).

Conclusion

Mobile text messaging significantly improved the knowledge on breast cancer and breast self‐examination among women; however, it did not affect their breast self‐examination self‐efficacy and frequency. Mobile text messaging can be a viable tool that can be used by healthcare workers in order to educate women regarding breast cancer and breast self‐examination.
A method for automated digital image‐based tracking of delamination fronts in translucent glass fibre‐laminated composite materials
Authors: Bak Brian Lau Verndal , Lindgaard Esben
Published: April 2020

A new automated digital image‐based method for tracking both the position and shape of the crack front of delaminations in translucent glass fibre‐laminated test specimens is proposed. The method is applicable to both fracture toughness tests and fatigue tests. The digital image‐based algorithm identifies the newly formed crack area by the change in reflected light and then extracts both the crack front shape and the position. The method is used in a standard double cantilevered beam specimen test setup with the addition of light sources and a camera. The method does not rely on subjective test operator interpretations or calibrations. A reference pattern on the specimen is used to correctly map between the camera coordinate system and the specimen coordinate system, which makes the method insensitive to the camera position and camera or specimen movement during the test. Experimental test examples are provided, which shows that the whole crack front can be tracked with significantly higher accuracy than possible with existing methods.
Arabidopsis Raf‐like kinases act as positive regulators of subclass III SnRK2 in osmostress signaling
Authors: Katsuta Shohei , Masuda Goro , Bak Hyeokjin , Shinozawa Akihisa , Kamiyama Yoshiaki , Umezawa Taishi , Takezawa Daisuke , Yotsui Izumi , Taji Teruaki , Sakata Yoichi
Published: April 2020

Given their sessile nature, land plants must use various mechanisms to manage dehydration under water‐deficit conditions. Osmostress‐induced activation of the SNF1‐related protein kinase 2 (SnRK2) family elicits physiological responses such as stomatal closure to protect plants during drought conditions. With the plant hormone ABA receptors [PYR (pyrabactin resistance)/PYL (pyrabactin resistance‐like)/RCAR (regulatory component of ABA receptors) proteins] and group A protein phosphatases, subclass III SnRK2 also constitutes a core signaling module for ABA, and osmostress triggers ABA accumulation. How SnRK2 is activated through ABA has been clarified, although its activation through osmostress remains unclear. Here, we show that Arabidopsis ABA and abiotic stress‐responsive Raf‐like kinases (AtARKs) of the B3 clade of the mitogen‐activated kinase kinase kinase (MAPKKK) family are crucial in SnRK2‐mediated osmostress responses. Disruption of AtARKs in Arabidopsis results in increased water loss from detached leaves because of impaired stomatal closure in response to osmostress. Our findings obtained in vitro and in planta have shown that AtARKs interact physically with SRK2E, a core factor for stomatal closure in response to drought. Furthermore, we show that AtARK phosphorylates S171 and S175 in the activation loop of SRK2E in vitro and that Atark mutants have defects in osmostress‐induced subclass III SnRK2 activity. Our findings identify a specific type of B3‐MAPKKKs as upstream kinases of subclass III SnRK2 in Arabidopsis. Taken together with earlier reports that ARK is an upstream kinase of SnRK2 in moss, an existing member of a basal land plant lineage, we propose that ARK/SnRK2 module is evolutionarily conserved across 400 million years of land plant evolution for conferring protection against drought.
Investigating matrix effects of different combinations of lipids and peptides on TOF-SIMS data
Authors: Mizomichi Keisuke , Yamagishi Takayuki , Kawashima Tomoko , Dürr Michael , Aoyagi Satoka
Published: April 2020

Matrix effects, which cause a change in ion intensity, occur in mass spectrometry methods including time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF-SIMS). Matrix effects often cause large issues in quantitative analysis because secondary ions related to a particular molecule could be dramatically enhanced or suppressed regardless of the concentration. To investigate matrix effects in biological samples, the authors evaluated mixed lipid {POPC [1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidylcholine, molecular weight (MW) 759.6]}, peptide [leu-enkephalin, neo-leu-enkephalin (amino acid sequence: YAGFL, MW 569.3), and neo-angiotensin II (amino acid sequence: DRVYIHAF, MW 1019.5)] samples. Matrix effect features were investigated by analyzing the concentration dependence of secondary ions in lipid-peptide mixed samples to develop a method that enables quantitative analysis using TOF-SIMS. Matrix effects depended on the lipid-peptide combination. Interestingly, some secondary ions possessed an intensity that was highly dependent on concentration.
Critical differences in 3D atomic structure of individual ligand-protected nanocrystals in solution
Authors: Kim Byung Hyo , Heo Junyoung , Kim Sungin , Reboul Cyril F. , Chun Hoje , Kang Dohun , Bae Hyeonhu , Hyun Hyejeong , Lim Jongwoo , Lee Hoonkyung , Han Byungchan , Hyeon Taeghwan , Alivisatos A. Paul , Ercius Peter , Elmlund Hans , Park Jungwon
Published: April 2020

Seeing subtle nanoparticle differences

A challenge in the fabrication of nanoparticles is that even for particles of uniform size, there will still be a distribution in the atomic arrangements and surface capping ligands from one particle to the next. Using liquid-cell transmission electron microscopy, Kim
et al.
reconstructed the structure of individual nanocrystals synthesized in one batch while they were still in solution. A comparison of multiple particles showed structural heterogeneity and differences between the interior and the outer shell of the individual nanoparticles, as well as nanoparticles containing extended defects and thus differences in internal strain, all of which can affect the physical and chemical properties of each particle.

Science
, this issue p.
60
Structural basis for allosteric PARP-1 retention on DNA breaks
Authors: Zandarashvili Levani , Langelier Marie-France , Velagapudi Uday Kiran , Hancock Mark A. , Steffen Jamin D. , Billur Ramya , Hannan Zain M. , Wicks Andrew J. , Krastev Dragomir B. , Pettitt Stephen J. , Lord Christopher J. , Talele Tanaji T. , Pascal John M. , Black Ben E.
Published: April 2020

DNA death grip

Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase–1 (PARP-1) binds to DNA breaks and recruits DNA repair components. Cancer-killing PARP-1 inhibitor (PARPi) compounds all block the same catalytic site but exhibit vastly different efficacy. Zandarashvili
et al.
investigated the molecular impact of PARPi binding to PARP-1 (see the Perspective by Slade and Eustermann). Different PARPi molecules perturb PARP-1 allostery in diverse manners: Some drive allostery to promote release of PARP-1 from DNA, and others drive allostery to promote retention. These insights help explain the different efficacies in the clinic and enable conversion of a pro-release, ineffective cancer-killing compound to a pro-retention, more effective PARPi.

Science
, this issue p.
eaax6367
; see also p.
30
A plant’s diet, surviving in a variable nutrient environment
Authors: Oldroyd Giles E. D. , Leyser Ottoline
Published: April 2020

Root growth regulation by requirement

Plant productivity depends on the elemental nutrients nitrogen and phosphorus, which are drawn from the soil. Oldroyd and Leyser review how root growth patterns adjust according to the physiological needs of the above-ground plant. Systemic signals, including small peptide signals, mediate communication between the shoot's needs and the root's supply.

Science
, this issue p.
eaba0196
Pharmacokinetics-Pharmacodynamics of Enmetazobactam Combined with Cefepime in a Neutropenic Murine Thigh Infection Model
Authors: Bernhard Fabian , Odedra Rajesh , Sordello Sylvie , Cardin Rossella , Franzoni Samantha , Charrier Cédric , Belley Adam , Warn Peter , Machacek Matthias , Knechtle Philipp
Published: April 2020

Third-generation cephalosporin (3GC)-resistant
Enterobacteriaceae
are classified as critical priority pathogens, with extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) as principal resistance determinants. Enmetazobactam (formerly AAI101) is a novel ESBL inhibitor developed in combination with cefepime for empirical treatment of serious Gram-negative infections in settings where ESBLs are prevalent. Cefepime-enmetazobactam has been investigated in a phase 3 trial in patients with complicated urinary tract infections or acute pyelonephritis.
Monomeric NADH-Oxidizing Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductases fromMycobacterium smegmatisLack Flavin Coenzyme
Authors: Sah Shivjee , Lahry Kuldeep , Talwar Chandana , Singh Sudhir , Varshney Umesh
Published: April 2020

5,10-Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MetF/MTHFR) is an essential enzyme in one-carbon metabolism forde novobiosynthesis of methionine. Ourin vivoandin vitroanalyses of MSMEG_6664/MSMEI_6484, annotated as putative MTHFR inMycobacterium smegmatis, failed to reveal their function as MTHFRs. However, we identified two hypothetical proteins, MSMEG_6596 and MSMEG_6649, as noncanonical MTHFRs in the bacterium. MTHFRs are known to be oligomeric flavoproteins. Both MSMEG_6596 and MSMEG_6649 are monomeric proteins and lack flavin coenzymes.In vitro, the catalytic efficiency (kcat/Km) of MSMEG_6596 (MTHFR1) for 5,10-CH2-THF and NADH was ∼13.5- and 15.3-fold higher than that of MSMEG_6649 (MTHFR2). Thus, MSMEG_6596 is the major MTHFR. This interpretation was further supported by better rescue of theE. coliΔmthfrstrain by MTHFR1 than by MTHFR2. As identified by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, the product of MTHFR1- or MTHFR2-catalyzed reactions was 5-CH3-THF. TheM. smegmatisΔmsmeg_6596strain was partially auxotrophic for methionine and grew only poorly without methionine or without being complemented with a functional copy of MTHFR1 or MTHFR2. Furthermore, the Δmsmeg_6596strain was more sensitive to folate pathway inhibitors (sulfachloropyridazine,p-aminosalicylic acid, sulfamethoxazole, and trimethoprim). The studies reveal that MTHFR1 and MTHFR2 are two noncanonical MTHFR proteins that are monomeric and lack flavin coenzyme. Both MTHFR1 and MTHFR2 are involved inde novomethionine biosynthesis and required for antifolate resistance in mycobacteria.

IMPORTANCEMTHFR/MetF is an essential enzyme in a one-carbon metabolic pathway forde novobiosynthesis of methionine. MTHFRs are known to be oligomeric flavoproteins. Ourin vivoandin vitroanalyses ofMycobacterium smegmatisMSMEG_6664/MSMEI_6484, annotated as putative MTHFR, failed to reveal their function as MTHFRs. However, we identified two of the hypothetical proteins, MSMEG_6596 and MSMEG_6649, as MTHFR1 and MTHFR2, respectively. Interestingly, both MTHFRs are monomeric and lack flavin coenzymes.M. smegmatisdeleted for the majormthfr(mthfr1) was partially auxotroph for methionine and more sensitive to folate pathway inhibitors (sulfachloropyridazine,para-aminosalicylic acid, sulfamethoxazole, and trimethoprim). The studies reveal that MTHFR1 and MTHFR2 are novel MTHFRs involved inde novomethionine biosynthesis and required for antifolate resistance in mycobacteria.
Human Cytomegalovirus Protein UL94 Targets MITA to Evade the Antiviral Immune Response
Authors: Zou Hong-Mei , Huang Zhe-Fu , Yang Yan , Luo Wei-Wei , Wang Su-Yun , Luo Min-Hua , Fu Yu-Zhi , Wang Yan-Yi
Published: April 2020

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), a large double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) virus, encodes more than 200 viral proteins. HCMV infection causes irreversible abnormalities of the central nervous system in newborns and severe syndromes in organ transplantation patients or AIDS patients. It has been demonstrated that HCMV has evolved multiple immune evasion strategies to establish latent infection. Previous studies pay more attention to the mechanism by which HCMV evades immune response in the early phase of infection. In this study, we identified UL94 as a negative regulator of the innate immune response, which functions in the late phase of HCMV infection.
The role of eolian-fluvial interactions and dune dams in landscape change, late Pleistocene–Holocene, Mojave Desert, USA
Authors: Sweeney Mark R. , McDonald Eric V. , Chabela Lucas P. , Hanson Paul R.
Published: April 2020

The formation of the Kelso Dunes in the eastern Mojave Desert, California, was a landscape-changing event triggered by an increase in sediment supply that followed the incision of Afton Canyon by the Mojave River ca. 25 ka. Eastward migration of sand dunes occurred along a well-defined eolian transport corridor. Dunes temporarily blocked washes resulting in substantial aggradation of eolian and fluvial sediments. Stratigraphic exposures reveal numerous fining-up sequences with interbedded eolian sands that provide evidence of dune dams and subsequent aggradation. Luminescence ages reveal that dune blocking and aggradation correspond to a regional pulse of alluvial fan sedimentation that occurred ca. 14–9 ka. Meanwhile, relative landscape stability occurred downstream of dune dams, resulting in the formation of a moderately developed soil on abandoned fluvial deposits. The next pulse of alluvial fan activity ca. 6–3 ka likely resulted in the breaching of the dune dams, followed by incision. Eolian system sediment state theory suggests that eolian activity in the Mojave Desert is closely tied to enhanced sediment supply, primarily related to the Mojave River–Lake Mojave system. Our data suggests that Intermittent Lake Mojave I, ca. 26–22 ka, triggered a large dune-building event that impounded massive amounts of sediment derived from alluvial fans deposited during the Pleistocene-Holocene transition. Breaching of dune dams and sediment recycling may have also increased sediment supply that contributed to late Holocene eolian activity. This profound impact on the regional geomorphology highlights the critical importance of eolian-fluvial interactions in desert environments.
Geophysical analysis of the 30 July 1972 Sitka, Alaska, earthquake sequence
Authors: Ochoa Chavez Juan A. , Doser Diane I.
Published: April 2020

The 1972 Mw 7.6 Sitka earthquake is the largest historical event along the southeastern Alaska portion of the strike-slip Queen Charlotte fault, the transform boundary between the Pacific and North American plates. The fault is one of the fastest moving transform boundaries in the world, having accumulated enough slip since 1972 to produce an event of comparable size in the near future. Thus, understanding the controls on the rupture process of the 1972 mainshock is important for seismic hazard assessment in Alaska. Following the mainshock, the U.S. Geological Survey installed a network of portable seismographs that recorded over 200 aftershocks. These locations were never published, and the original seismograms and digital phase data were misplaced. However, we were able to scan paper copies of the phase data, convert the data to digital form, and successfully relocate 87 aftershocks. The relocations show two clusters of aftershocks along the Queen Charlotte fault, one ∼40 km north of the mainshock epicenter and the other just south of the mainshock, both regions adjacent to portions of the fault that experienced maximum moment release in 1972. Many of the northern aftershocks locate east of the Queen Charlotte fault. This pattern is similar to aftershocks observed in the 2013 Mw = 7.5 Craig, Alaska earthquake. Recent and pre-1971 (1925–1970) seismicity indicates that the regions where aftershocks clustered remained active through time. Gravity, magnetic, and bathymetric anomalies suggest that the structural variations in both the Pacific and North American plates (e.g., age, density, rock type, and thickness) play roles in rupture nucleation and termination along the northern Queen Charlotte fault.
What is proteomics?
Authors: McArdle Andrew James , Menikou Stephanie
Published: April 2020

Proteomics is the study of a large number of proteins in biological systems. We aim to introduce the complex field to paediatricians and present some recent examples of applications to paediatric problems. Various approaches have been used to study proteomes. The current mainstay is tandem mass spectrometry of enzymatically digested proteins (‘bottom-up proteomics’), and we describe the experimental and computational approach further. Proteomics can offer advantages over transcriptomics by giving direct information about proteins rather than RNA; however, typically data are obtained at lower depth and the confident identification of mass spectra can be challenging. Proteomics frequently complements transcriptomics and other -omics. Used effectively, proteomics offers promise to help answer important clinical and biological questions.
Outcome measures evaluating physical functioning and their measurement properties in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a protocol for a systematic review
Authors: Alamrani Samia , Rushton Alison , Gardner Adrian , Falla Deborah , Heneghan Nicola R
Published: April 2020

Introduction

Physical functioning (PF) is the ability to carry out the physical activity of daily living. It is an important outcome that provides a meaningful evaluation of individuals’ life. PF can be assessed using patient-reported outcome measures, performance-based outcome measures or body structure and function measure. Measures need to be valid, reliable and responsive to change to evaluate the effects of an intervention. Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is the most common deformity among the paediatric population and impacts on individuals’ lives. This systematic review will appraise evidence on the measurement properties of PF tools in individuals with AIS.

Methods/analysis

A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis informed by Cochrane guidelines is reported in line with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis-P. MEDLINE, PsycINFO, EMBASE, CINAHL, SPORTdiscus, Web of Science and PubMed will be searched in two stages, from inception until December 2019. Search 1 will inventory all studies that assessed PF in participants with AIS, without any limitations. The search terms will be scoliosis, adolescent and PF-related terms. Search 2 will include studies which investigated instrument measurement properties in the same population for measures identified in search one. Two reviewers will independently perform study selection, data extraction, risk of bias and overall quality assessment. The COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) risk of bias and a modified Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) guidelines will be used. A meta-analysis will be conducted if possible, or the evidence will be synthesised and summarised per measurement property per outcome measure per measurement type.

Ethics and dissemination

This review will provide recommendations for practice and future research, considering psychometric properties of outcome measures of PF in AIS. The results of this study will be disseminated through a peer-reviewed publication and conference presentation.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42019142335.