bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of key molecular targets that correlate with breast cancer through bioinformatic methods
Authors: Tang Wan , Guo Xianmin , Niu Liang , Song Dong , Han Bing , Zhang Haipeng
Published: November 2019

Background

The present study aimed to identify key molecular targets of breast cancer for targeted treatment and to improve the survival rate.

Methods

Overlapped difference expression genes in three datasets were identified in a weighted gene co‐expression network analysis (WGCNA) module and MetaDE.ES analysis. Combined with the prognosis information [time, death, status and relative survival (RS)] in GSE42568, single‐factor Cox regression analysis was used to screen the genes that were significantly related to the prognosis in the target gene set.

Results

In total, 13 optimal gene combinations with a significantly correlated prognosis were obtained, including SSPN, NELL2, AGTR1, NRIP3, IKZF2, NAT1, CXCL12, NPY1R, PRAME, PPP1R1B, CRISP3, NMU and GSTP1. In addition, there was a significant correlation between the samples given by the prognostic prediction system and the validation dataset (GSE20685 and TCGA), with p values of 0.0299 in GSE20685 and 1.461 × 10–5 in TCGA, and an area under the receiver operating characteristic of 0.942 and 0.923, respectively. RS‐related differentially expressed genes between high‐ and low‐risk groups were significantly related to biological processes such as cell period and the hormone stimulation response, and were also significantly involved in KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) pathways such as cell period, the peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor signaling pathway and the cancer pathway.

Conclusions

By predicting the survival risk of breast cancer patients based on the 13 optimal genes, high‐risk patients would be detected early. Accordingly, this would help in the formulation of an appropriate treatment plan for patients.
Synthesis and antitumor evaluation of some new derivatives and fused heterocyclic compounds derived from thieno[2,3‐b]pyridine: Part 2
Authors: Hassan Aisha Y. , Sarg Marwa T. , El‐Sebaey Samiha A.
Published: November 2019

As a continuation of our research on developing anticancer agents and based on the proven proprieties of thieno[2,3‐b]pyridines as anticancer, we have designed to synthesize novel thieno[2,3‐b]pyridine derivatives that incorporate different biologically active heterocycles through various chemical reactions. All of the newly obtained compounds, compared with the standard anticancer drug (doxorubicin), were screened in vitro for their antitumor activity against hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG‐2) and human breast cancer (MCF‐7) cell lines. The results revealed that compounds 3, 7, 12, and 19 were found to be the most potent against both HepG‐2 and MCF‐7 cell lines exhibiting IC50 values ranging from 3.67 to 11.50 and 5.13 to 11.80 μg/mL, respectively, among which compound 7 has a more potent activity than the reference drug doxorubicin against HepG‐2 cell line, showing IC50 value of 3.67 μg/mL (doxorubicin 4.65 μg/mL).
Synthesis, radiosynthesis, and positron emission tomography neuroimaging using 5‐[18F]fluoro‐L‐amino suberate
Authors: Alluri Santosh R. , Pitman Kathinka E. , Malinen Eirik , Riss Patrick J.
Published: November 2019

System xc‐ (Sxc‐) has emerged as a new biological target for PET studies to detect oxidative and excitotoxic stress. Notably, applications have, thus far, been limited to tumour imaging although Sxc‐) may play a major role in neurodegeneration. The synthesis procedures of tosylate precursor and its translation to Sxc‐ PET tracer 5[18F]fluoro‐L‐amino suberate by manual and automated radiosyntheses are described. A brain‐PET study has been conducted to evaluate the tracer uptake into brain in healthy mice.
Toward high pressure miniature protein mass spectrometer: Theory and initial results
Authors: Hou Chenyue , Xu Qian , Zhang Fei , Jiang Ting , Xu Wei
Published: November 2019

Current miniature mass spectrometers mainly focus on the analyses of organic and small biological molecules. In this study, we explored the possibility of developing high resolution miniature ion trap mass spectrometers for whole protein analysis. Theoretical derivation, GPU assisted ion trajectory simulation, and initial experiments on home‐developed “brick” mass spectrometer were carried out. Results show that ion‐neutral collisions have smaller damping effect on large protein ions, and a higher buffer gas pressure should be applied during ion trap operations for protein ions. As a result, higher pressure ion trap operation not only benefits instrument miniaturization, but also improves mass resolution of protein ions. Dynamic mass scan rate and generation of low charge state protein ions are also found to be helpful in terms of improving mass resolutions. Theory and conclusions found in this work are also applicable in the development of benchtop mass spectrometers.
An Inexpensive, simple calibration method for MALDI TOF/TOF systems
Authors: O'Rourke Matthew B. , Padula Matthew P.
Published: November 2019

The array of analytes that can be measured by MADLI MS has created an equally vast range of calibration mixtures. The inherent problem with this is that acquiring all of them at commercial rates can be prohibitively expensive. With this in mind, we have created a low‐cost alternative to the most commonly used peptide calibrants.

We were able to achieve an overall 78 ppm mass accuracy across a mass range of 900 to 2500 Da which was comparable to the mass accuracy achievable with commercial peptide mixes and hence has become a viable alternative.
Phylogenetic analysis of open reading frame of 11 gene segments of novel human‐bovine reassortant RVA G6P[1] strain in Pakistan
Authors: Tamim Sana , Heylen Elisabeth , Zeller Mark , Ranst Marc Van , Matthijnssens Jelle , Salman Muhammad , Aamir Uzma Bashir , Sharif Salman , Ikram Aamer , Hasan Fariha
Published: November 2019

Multiple Rotavirus A (RVA) strains are linked with gastrointestinal infections in children that fall in age bracket of 0 to 60 months. However, the problem is augmented with emergence of unique strains that reassort with RVA strains of animal origin. The study describes the sequence analysis of a rare G6P[1] rotavirus strain isolated from a less than 1 year old child, during rotavirus surveillance in Rawalpindi district, Pakistan in 2010. Extracted RNA from fecal specimen was subjected to high throughput RT‐PCR for structural and nonstructural gene segments. The complete rotavirus genome of one isolate RVA/Human‐wt/PAK/PAK99/2010/G6P[1] was sequenced for phylogenetic analysis to elucidate the evolutionary linkages and origin. Full genome examination of novel strain RVA/Human‐wt/PAK/PAK99/2010/G6P[1] revealed the unique genotype assemblage: G6‐P[1]‐I2‐R2‐C2‐M2‐A3‐N2‐T6‐E2‐H1. The evolutionary analyses of VP7, VP4, NSP1 and NSP3 gene segments revealed that PAK99 clustered with bovine, or cattle‐like rotavirus strains from other closely related species, in the genotypes G6, P[1], A3 and T6 respectively. Gene segments VP6, VP1, VP2, VP3, NSP2 and NSP4 all possessed the DS‐1‐like bovine genotype 2 and bovine (‐like) RVA strains instead of RVA strains having human origin. However, the NSP5 gene was found to cluster closely with contemporary human Wa‐like rotavirus strains of H1 genotype. This is the first report on bovine‐human (Wa‐like reassortant) genotype constellation of G6P[1] strain from a human case in Pakistan (and the second description worldwide). Our results emphasize the significance of incessant monitoring of circulating RVA strains in humans and animals for better understanding of RV evolution.
Inhibition effect of polyvinyl chloride on ferrihydrite reduction and electrochemical activities of Geobacter metallireducens
Authors: Li Jiajia , Liu Fanghua , Yang Cuiyun , Zheng Shiling , Xiao Leilei , Li Jinhua , Tu Chen , Luo Yongming
Published: November 2019

Geobacter metallireducens GS15, a model of dissimilatory iron‐reducing bacteria, is the key regulator in biogeochemical iron cycling. How the emerging contaminant microplastics involved in the iron cycling are driven by microbes on the microscale remains unknown. Hence, the influences of two typical microplastics, polybutylene terephthalate‐hexane acid (PBAT) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), were explored on the activity of G. metallireducens GS15 with ferrihydrite or ferric citrate as the respective electron acceptors. The results showed that the iron (II) contents in PBAT‐ and PVC‐treatment groups were 16.79 and 6.81 mM, respectively, at the end of the experiment. Compared with the PBAT‐treatment group, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectrometery revealed that merely a small amount of iron‐containing products covered the surface of PVC. Moreover, PBAT and PVC could both retard the electroactivity of G. metallireducens GS15 at the beginning of microbial fuel cell operation. On the basis of the results above, microplastic PVC might exhibit potential inhibition of the iron cycling process driven by G. metallireducens GS15 with ferrihydrite as the terminal electron acceptor. This study extended our understanding of the influence of the microplastics PBAT and PVC on microbially mediated biogeochemical iron cycling. The findings might have an important implication on the biogeochemical elements cycling in the ecosystem with the involvement of emerging contaminant microplastics.
A study on variability in rainfall over India contributed by cyclonic disturbances in warming climate scenario
Authors: Singh Kasturi , Panda Jagabandhu , Kant Sunny
Published: November 2019

Every year cyclonic disturbances (CDs) cause destructions along the coastal areas of the designated world basins. Apart from strong winds generated by CDs, torrential rain causes flood and landslides over the places of landfall. By using high‐quality daily rainfall data, the contribution of rainfall by the North Indian Ocean (NIO) CDs over India is investigated in this study. Eastern Indian states suffer landfalling CDs from the Bay of Bengal and the western coastal states experience the influence from those formed over the Arabian Sea. Among eastern coastal states, the accumulated rainfall is higher over Andhra Pradesh (AP), Tamil Nadu (TN), Odisha and southern West Bengal during pre‐monsoon season. Among western coastal states, Karnataka and Kerala suffer maximum rainfall from CDs. During post‐monsoon season, coastal AP, TN, Odisha, Karnataka and coastal Kerala received higher accumulated rainfall. Gujarat received ~70% and both AP and TN received up to 20–30% of rainfall by CDs during pre‐monsoon months. During post‐monsoon season, Gujarat, Odisha and AP received maximum rainfall contribution up to 50%. In most of the states, the overall rainfall contribution by CDs is observed to have a decreasing trend during both seasons. Owning to the stable average rainfall trend over India along with decreasing CD frequency during the post‐monsoon season, the results indicate an increased amount of rainfall by CDs. CDs contribute a considerable amount of rainfall to central and northern India during the post‐monsoon season, which is helpful for agricultural purpose.
COMP in the Infrapatellar Fat Pad—Results of a Prospective Histological, Immunohistological, and Biochemical Case–Control Study
Authors: Grevenstein David , Heilig Juliane , Dargel Jens , Oppermann Johannes , Eysel Peer , Brochhausen Christoph , Niehoff Anja
Published: November 2019

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) involves several structures and molecules in the joint, which interact in a pathophysiological process. One of these molecules is the cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP). Elevated COMP levels in the synovial fluid as well as in the serum have been described in OA patients. However, this has not been described in the infrapatellar fat pad (IPFP) tissue before. In this prospective trial, we collected 14 IPFPs from patients with high‐grade OA (mean age 63.8 ± 17.6 years) who underwent total knee replacement (OA group) and from 11 healthy patients (mean age 33.7 ± 14.8 years) who underwent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (control group). The presence of macrophages (CD68 and CD206) and proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin 1β [IL‐1β] and IL‐6) was analyzed. Histological and immunohistological examinations as well as immunoblotting analysis for COMP, leptin, and matrix‐metalloproteinase‐3 were performed. The IPFPs of both the OA and control group consisted of adipose tissue and fibrous tissue, and the fibrous tissue showed higher score values than the adipose tissue for COMP staining (intensity as well as stained area) in both groups. Although COMP could be detected in most samples, leptin expression was found only in single specimens. COMP could be detected mostly in the fibrous tissue portion of the IPFP. We speculate that it is involved in a remodeling process taking place in the IPFP during OA. Presence of leptin was irregular in immunohistology, and the control group showed higher scores in case of presence. Interestingly, immunoblotting could detect leptin in all analyzed samples. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Orthopaedic Research® published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Orthopaedic Research Society J Orthop Res 38:747‐758, 2020
Diabetes Mellitus and Gender Have a Negative Impact on the Outcome of Hip Fracture Surgery—A Pilot Study
Authors: Galbraith Adam S. , Sanz‐Nogués Clara , Glynn Sharon , Coleman Cynthia M. , Murphy Colin
Published: November 2019

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with an elevated risk of post‐operative complications. The impact it has on patients living with DM following hip fracture surgery (HFS) is not completely understood and may represent a predictor of increased mortality. This study investigates the impact of DM, gender, American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) grade, and fracture location, on the outcome of HFS in Ireland. The Hospital Inpatient Enquiry (HIPE) database records all fragility hip fractures within Galway University Hospital. Retrospective data collection was performed over a 3‐year period. Data collected included patient age, gender, date of HFS, anatomical fracture location, type of operation, ASA grade, DM status, and mortality. A database of 650 individuals was created including 461 females and 189 males, with an average group age of 80.2 ± 9.3 years. Results showed a significantly higher incidence of hip fractures in males with DM (19.57%) than females with DM (12.36%) (χ2 test, p = 0.020). Cox regression survival analysis indicated that DM status and ASA grade were the two main independent predictors of patient survival following HFS. Nevertheless, when examining the combined impact of gender and DM status on survival after HFS, results showed that survival post HFS differed significantly with gender and presence of DM (log‐rank test, p < 0.001), with males with DM performing worse than females with DM (p = 0.021) or males without DM (p = 0.001). This gender and disease‐associated outcome should prompt an early multi‐disciplinary team approach to the management of hip fractures in patients with DM. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 38:834‐842, 2020
Public Access for Pheasant Hunters: Understanding an Emerging Need
Authors: Wszola Lyndsie S. , Madsen Anastasia E. , Stuber Erica F. , Chizinski Christopher J. , Lusk Jeffrey J. , Taylor J. Scott , Pope Kevin L. , Fontaine Joseph J.
Published: November 2019

Ring‐necked pheasant (Phasianus colchicus; i.e., pheasant) hunting participation is declining across North America, reflecting a larger downward trend in American hunting participation and threatening benefits to grassland conservation and rural economies. To stabilize and expand the pheasant hunting population, we must first identify factors that influence pheasant hunter participation. We used an extensive in‐person hunter survey to test the hypothesis that hunter demographics interact with social‐ecological traits of hunting locations to affect hunter decisions, outcomes, and perceptions. We built a series of Bayesian mixed effects models to parse variation in demographics, perceptions, and hunt outcomes of pheasant hunters interviewed at public access hunting sites across 3 regions in Nebraska, USA, that varied in pheasant abundance and proximity to urban population centers. Among pheasant hunters in Nebraska, access to private lands was negatively related to the human population density of a pheasant hunter's home ZIP code and the distance a hunter had traveled to reach a hunting location. Pheasant hunters interviewed closer to metropolitan areas tended to be more urban and travel shorter distances, and their parties were more likely to include youth but less likely to include dogs. Hunter satisfaction was positively associated with seeing and harvesting pheasants and hunting with youth. Whereas youth participation and the number of pheasants seen varied by study region, hunter satisfaction did not differ across regions, suggesting that hunters may calibrate their expectations and build their parties based on where they plan to hunt. The variation in hunter demographics across hunting locations and disconnects between social and ecological correlates of hunter satisfaction suggests that diverse pheasant hunting constituencies will be best served by diverse pheasant hunting opportunities. © 2019 The Wildlife Society.
Dynamics of ephemeral streams at the foot of degraded catchments in northern Ethiopia
Authors: Demissie Biadgilgn , Van Eetvelde Veerle , Frankl Amaury , Billi Paolo , Asfaha Tesfaalem G. , Haile Mitiku , Nyssen Jan
Published: November 2019

The magnitudes of flash floods and their effect on channel width changes were investigated for Hara River in the Raya graben (northern Ethiopia). Precipitation was measured using rain gauges evenly distributed over the study catchment. Event peak discharges were measured with crest‐stage gauges at a reference cross‐section. Changes in channel width were measured at six monitoring sites along a 1.5 km long reach. Decadal channel width change was analyzed over the period 1965–2014. The average rainfall depth of the rainy days was 14.2 ± 9.4 mm whereas the highest was 41.9 mm and the lowest, capable to generate some flow in the river, was only 1.8 mm. The maximum calculated discharge peaked at 408 m3/s whereas the lowest flow was 19.5 m3/s. An average widening of 0.11 ± 0.19 m per flood (for a total of 3.74 m) was measured. The cumulative precipitation and cumulative channel widening suggest that larger and longer lasting rains have substantial influence on channel width change. A marked increase in channel width commonly accompanies 2–3 days of flood duration; it is less marked where there is riparian vegetation on the banks. The long‐term (1965, 1986, 2005, and 2010) measurements indicate that channel width increased rapidly over the last 50 years; nearly 25 m of widening. Generally, channel changes are mainly induced by the duration of floods rather than by their intensity and the data clearly show that ephemeral streams channel dynamics can be triggered also by floods much smaller than bankfull.
Assessing the adequacy of SWAT model to simulate postfire effects on the watershed hydrological regime and water quality
Authors: Basso Marta , Vieira Diana C.S. , Ramos Tiago B. , Mateus Marcos
Published: November 2019

Forest fires have intensified in the Mediterranean area over the last decades, becoming increasingly destructive. Catastrophic wildfires, such as the ones that occurred on the Portuguese territory during 2017, have emphasized the need for developing management tools capable of rapidly assessing their impact on downstream water bodies. This study focuses on the effects of the 2017 forest fires on the water quality of the Zêzere River (Portugal), one of the major sources of freshwater to Lisbon and the surrounding areas. During 2017, more than 100,000 ha (30% of the Zêzere watershed) were affected by wildfires, making it one of the largest burned areas in Portugal. Using the soil water assessment tool, the land use (curve number, crop vegetation management factor) and soil (soil erodibility factor) parameters were modified considering different magnitudes of the fire event (low, medium, and high severity). The impact of the different wildfires was then assessed at the subbasin level and at the entrance of Castelo de Bode reservoir. Simulations showed a significant increase in runoff and sediment concentration at the subbasin level in the years following the fire events, with high concentrations of nutrients occurring at the reservoir inlet. Nitrate concentration slightly overcame the threshold limits foreseen in legislation for drinking water, meaning that fires could have additional impact on human health. Phosphate concentration recurrently exceeded the legislation threshold, representing a severe risk to the ecosystem by potentially promoting the eutrophication of downstream water bodies, oxygen deficiency in the bottom substrate, and reduced biodiversity.
Fragile X syndrome carrier screening accompanied by genetic consultation has clinical utility in populations beyond those recommended by guidelines
Authors: Johansen Taber Katherine , Lim‐Harashima Jeraldine , Naemi Harris , Goldberg Jim
Published: November 2019

Background

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common inherited form of intellectual disability. Many providers offer preconception or prenatal FXS carrier screening. However, guidelines recommend screening only for those with a family history or undergoing fertility evaluation. Wider screening has been resisted because of concerns about patient understanding of FXS‐associated inheritance patterns and phenotypes. Additionally, the clinical utility has been questioned.

Methods

We addressed these concerns by analyzing reproductive decision‐making and pregnancy management informed by post‐test genetic consultation among 122 FMR1 premutation carriers identified by expanded carrier screening.

Results

Sixty‐three percent of those screened met guidelines screening criteria; the remaining 37% did not. Ninety‐eight percent had undergone post‐test genetic consultation. Of respondents screened preconceptionally, 74% reported planning or pursuing actions to reduce the risk of an affected pregnancy; the extent to which couples planned/pursued these actions was not significantly different between those meeting either screening criterion (76%) versus those meeting neither criterion (55%). Of respondents screened prenatally, 41% pursued prenatal diagnostic testing; the extent to which couples pursued prenatal diagnosis was not significantly different between those who met either screening criterion (37%) versus those who met neither criterion (31%).

Conclusion

These results support the expansion of FXS screening criteria in guidelines.
The Potential of Probiotics in the Prevention and Treatment of Atherosclerosis
Authors: O'Morain Victoria L. , Ramji Dipak P.
Published: November 2019

Atherosclerosis, the underlying cause of cardiovascular diseases such as myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular accident, and peripheral vascular disease, is the leading cause of global mortality. Current therapies against atherosclerosis, which mostly target the dyslipidemia associated with the disease, have considerable residual risk for cardiovascular disease together with various side effects. In addition, the outcomes from clinical trials on many promising pharmaceutical agents against atherosclerosis (e.g., low‐dose methotrexate, inhibitors against cholesteryl ester transfer protein) have been disappointing. Nutraceuticals such as probiotic bacteria have, therefore, generated substantial recent interest for the prevention of atherosclerosis and potentially as add‐ons with current pharmaceutical drugs. This review will discuss the current understanding of the anti‐atherogenic actions of probiotics from preclinical and clinical studies together with their potential underlying mechanisms of action.
Dynamic MR image reconstruction based on total generalized variation and low‐rank decomposition
Authors: Wang Dong , Smith David S. , Yang Xiaoping
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Propose a novel decomposition‐based model employing the total generalized variation (TGV) and the nuclear norm, which can be used in compressed sensing‐based dynamic MR reconstructions.

Theory and Methods

We employ the nuclear norm to represent the time‐coherent background and the spatiotemporal TGV functional for the sparse dynamic component above. We first design an algorithm using the classical first‐order primal‐dual method for solving the proposed model and then give the norm estimation for the convergence condition. The proposed model is compared with the state‐of‐the‐art methods on different data sets under different sampling schemes and acceleration factors.

Results

The proposed model achieves higher SERs and SSIMs than kt‐SLR, kt‐RPCA, L+S, and ICTGV on cardiac perfusion and breast DCE‐MRI data sets under both the pseudoradial and the Cartesian sampling schemes. In addition, the proposed model better suppresses the spatial artifacts and preserves the edges.

Conclusions

The proposed model outperforms the state‐of‐the‐art methods and generates high‐quality reconstructions under different sampling schemes and different acceleration factors.
The apparent mechanical effect of isolated amyloid‐β and α‐synuclein aggregates revealed by multi‐frequency MRE
Authors: Bigot Mathilde , Chauveau Fabien , Amaz Camille , Sinkus Ralph , Beuf Olivier , Lambert Simon A.
Published: November 2019

Several biological processes are involved in dementia, and fibrillar aggregation of misshaped endogenous proteins appears to be an early hallmark of neurodegenerative disease. A recently developed means of studying neurodegenerative diseases is magnetic resonance elastography (MRE), an imaging technique investigating the mechanical properties of tissues. Although mechanical changes associated with these diseases have been detected, the specific signal of fibrils has not yet been isolated in clinical or preclinical studies. The current study aims to exploit the fractal‐like properties of fibrils to separate them from nonaggregated proteins using a multi‐frequency MRE power law exponent in a phantom study. Two types of fibril, α‐synuclein (α‐Syn) and amyloid‐β (Aβ), and a nonaggregated protein, bovine serum albumin, used as control, were incorporated in a dedicated nondispersive agarose phantom. Elastography was performed at multiple frequencies between 400 and 1200 Hz. After 3D‐direct inversion, storage modulus (G'), phase angle (ϕ), wave speed and the power law exponent (y) were computed. No significant changes in G' and ϕ were detected. Both α‐Syn and Aβ inclusions showed significantly higher y values than control inclusions (P = 0.005) but did not differ between each other. The current phantom study highlighted a specific biomechanical effect of α‐Syn and Aβ aggregates, which was better captured with the power law exponent derived from multi‐frequency MRE than with single frequency‐derived parameters.
Demonstrating the Value of the Nutrition Support Team to the C‐Suite in a Value‐Based Environment: Rise or Demise of Nutrition Support Teams?
Authors: Barrocas Albert
Published: November 2019

Nutrition support teams (NSTs) in the United States have had to justify their existence since their inception in the 1970s. Concomitant with those efforts, changes in healthcare financing have challenged hospital administrators to adapt their reimbursement strategies and methods. NSTs, if they are to survive and/or thrive, must be aware of the convulsive currents of change faced by those who determine which programs move downstream and which find their demise on the banks of the stream. This review provides a historical perspective of both the US healthcare financing system and the NST experiences of nutrition clinicians over the past 4 decades. Focused discussions of 5 teams are provided from individual members of those varied NSTs. Additional recommendations from the administrative side of the equation are presented by 3 administrators. Whether NSTs will “rise or demise” depends on many factors. Understanding what those who control the purse strings are seeking in terms of salutary cost and quality outcomes in the current value‐based system will facilitate the NST's communication with them. The demonstration of the NST's value is more likely to succeed when bolstered by current evidence‐based data as applied to the specific institution. These efforts can be carried out by a formal NST in larger or academic institutions or a “virtual” team with a single individual coordinating the services in a transdisciplinary fashion, employing the acronym ACT (accountability, communication, [transdisciplinary] teamwork).
A place‐based participatory mapping approach for assessing cultural ecosystem services in urban green space
Authors: Jones Lizzie , Holland Robert A. , Ball Jennifer , Sykes Tim , Taylor Gail , Ingwall‐King Lisa , Snaddon Jake L. , S.‐H. Peh Kelvin
Published: November 2019

Cultural Ecosystem Services (CES) encompass a range of social, cultural and health benefits to local communities, for example recreation, spirituality, a sense of place and local identity. However, these complex and place‐specific CES are often overlooked in rapid land management decisions and assessed using broad, top–down approaches.

We use the Toolkit for Ecosystem Service Site‐based Assessment (TESSA) to examine a novel approach to rapid assessment of local CES provision using inductive, participatory methods. We combined free‐listing and participatory geographic information systems (GIS) techniques to quantify and map perceptions of current CES provision of an urban green space. The results were then statistically compared with those of a proposed alternative scenario with the aim to inform future decision‐making.

By identifying changes in the spatial hotspots of CES in our study area, we revealed a spatially specific shift towards positive sentiment regarding several CES under the alternative state with variance across demographic and stakeholder groups. Response aggregations in areas of proposed development reveal previously unknown stakeholder preferences to local decision‐makers and highlight potential trade‐offs for conservation management. Free‐listed responses revealed deeper insight into personal opinion and context.

This work serves as a useful case study on how the perceptions and opinions of local people regarding local CES could be accounted for in the future planning of an urban greenspace and how thorough analysis of CES provision is important to fully inform local‐scale conservation and planning for the mutual benefit of local communities and nature.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Film formation and mechanical properties of an opaque titanium dioxide and transparent polyvinyl alcohol composite films
Authors: Bozdoğan Altan , Aksakal Baki , Yargi Onder
Published: November 2019

Mechanical, optical, and film formation properties of titanium dioxide/polyvinyl alcohol (TiO2/PVA) composites were studied. Two identical experimental sets of % TiO2content were prepared that one set is in the range of 1, 3, 5, 7, 10, 13, and 20 wt% for the film formation and the second set is 5 and 50 wt% for the mechanical measurements. Photon transmission technique (PT) at room temperature was used for the film formation process after annealing for 10 min at the temperatures changing from 100 to 270°C. The increase and decrease in the transmission light intensity (Itr) from the composite films were attributed to void closure and interdiffusion models, respectively. The results were consistent with the data obtained from the film formation processes and mechanical measurements that the addition of TiO2in PVA had remarkable improvement on mechanical properties, for example, increment in the Young's modulus and the rigidity as TiO2content increased from 5 to 50 wt%, and it had also good film forming especially above 10 wt% TiO2for the void closure processes leading to lower the activation energy. It was observed that for the lower content of TiO2such as 5 wt%, the tensile strength and Young's modulus increased remarkably for heating temperature increased up to 150°C. However, with the increase of TiO2content, the maximum values of the mechanical strength and modulus were shifted to 180°C for 50 wt% TiO2from 150°C for 5 wt% TiO2because of the thermal stability of TiO2.
Is there still a role for nuchal translucency measurement in the changing paradigm of first trimester screening?
Authors: Bardi Francesca , Bosschieter Pien , Verheij Joke , Go Attie , Haak Monique , Bekker Mireille , Sikkel Esther , Coumans Audrey , Pajkrt Eva , Bilardo Caterina
Published: November 2019

Objectives

To give an overview of the genetic and structural abnormalities occurring in fetuses with nuchal translucency (NT) measurement exceeding the 95th percentile at first‐trimester screening and to investigate which of these abnormalities would be missed if cell‐free fetal DNA (cfDNA) were used as a first‐tier screening test for chromosomal abnormalities.

Methods

This is a national study including 1901 pregnancies with NT≥95th percentile referred to seven university hospitals in the Netherlands between 1 January 2010 and 1 January 2016. All cases with unknown pregnancy outcome were excluded. Results of detailed ultrasound examinations, karyotyping, genotyping, pregnancy and neonatal outcomes, investigation by a clinical geneticist and post‐mortem investigations were collected.

Results

In total, 821 (43%) pregnancies had at least one abnormality. The rate of abnormalities was 21% for fetuses with NT between 95th and 99th percentile and 62% for fetuses with NT≥99th percentile. Prevalence of single‐gene disorders, submicroscopic, chromosomal and structural abnormalities was 2%, 2%, 30% and 9%, respectively.

Conclusion

Although cfDNA is superior to the combined test, especially for the detection of trisomy 21, 34% of the congenital abnormalities occurring in fetuses with increased NT may remain undetected in the first trimester of pregnancy, unless cfDNA is used in combination with fetal sonographic assessment, including NT measurement.
Ionizing radiation for maternal medical indications
Authors: Lowe Sandra A.
Published: November 2019

Ionizing radiation should be considered an avoidable exposure although all pregnant women receive some radiation from their environment. The potential effect of ionizing radiation on the fetus is determined by the dose and the timing of the exposure with growing interest in the potential risks of transgenerational effects of radiation as an epigenetic phenomenon. High dosage exposure is very unlikely in routine situations such as occupational, diagnostic, or therapeutic exposures. Individual diagnostic radiation procedures (fetal dosage <50 mGy), are not associated with any increase in lethality (miscarriage or stillbirth), genetic damage, teratogenicity, growth impairment, mental retardation, or sterility. More recent modeling has suggested that a 10 mGy fetal dose is associated with an excess risk of childhood cancer risk as low as 1 in 4545, well below historical estimates.When the mother's condition necessitates diagnostic radiation it is necessary to balance the risks of the procedure with the benefits to be gained. As almost all diagnostic imaging involves doses below the 50 mGy threshold, clinically indicated investigations should not be withheld because of concerns regarding fetal radiation exposure. Even radiotherapy directed away from the abdomen or pelvis may be considered during pregnancy, if the benefits outweigh the risks and no suitable alternative is available.
High risk for carriers of de novo balanced structural chromosomal aberrations in prenatal diagnosis: Latin America data
Authors: Méndez‐Rosado Luis A. , Lardoeyt‐Ferrer Roberto
Published: November 2019

What's already known about this topic?

Warburton's classic work, on the carriers of de novo balanced structural chromosomal aberrations, reported risk values of an affected phenotype of 6.7% (for reciprocal translocations and inversions).

What does this study add?

Present study is the most extensive on this topic in Latin America. It reports risk values of an affected phenotype (for reciprocal translocations and inversions) that are twice what Warburton reported. It highlights the importance of long‐term follow‐up for patients with these rearrangements.
Rheology of Cellulose/Alginic Acid Blends with 1‐Allyl‐3‐Methylimidazolium Chloride as Solvent
Authors: Xu Zhi , Yao Yongbo , Sheng Junlu , Li Zhe , Yang Qun , Yan Zhiyong , Zhang Yumei
Published: November 2019

In this study, cellulose/alginic acid blend solutions were prepared with 1‐allyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride as solvent. The effect of cellulose/alginic acid blend ratios on the rheological properties was studied. It was found that the viscosity and dynamic modulus decreased with the increase of alginic acid ratio. And the calculated viscosity values, which were obtained from the log‐additivity rule, are less than the experimental viscosity values. This may be caused by the hydrogen bonding interaction between cellulose and alginic acid, which is beneficial to the miscibility of the blends. In order to prove the rheological result, cellulose/calcium alginate films were prepared from the solution, the hydrogen bonding between cellulose and alginate were investigated, which was related to the good miscibility of the blend solutions. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 60: 243–249, 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Timing of Initiation of Oral Anticoagulation after Acute Ischemic Stroke in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Smythe Maureen A. , Parker Dennis , Garwood Candice L. , Cuker Adam , Messé Steve R.
Published: November 2019

Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who suffer an acute ischemic stroke are at risk for both hemorrhagic transformation and recurrent ischemic stroke in the acute post‐stroke period. Oral anticoagulants are recommended for secondary stroke prevention in patients with AF. The optimal time to initiate anticoagulant therapy after acute ischemic stroke in patients with AF is uncertain. There is concern that early initiation increases the risk of hemorrhagic transformation, whereas delayed initiation leaves the patient at risk for recurrent ischemic stroke. In this article, we provide a review of the risk of hemorrhagic transformation of acute ischemic stroke as well as review the literature and major guidelines addressing the timing of anticoagulation initiation after an acute ischemic stroke in patients with AF. Relevant articles published from 1990 to the present were identified using the PubMed and Embase databases. The majority of available literature is observational data. Large ischemic lesions, cerebral microbleeds, thrombolytic therapy, and other clinical factors may increase the risk of hemorrhagic transformation of an acute ischemic stroke. Parenteral anticoagulation within 48 hours is associated with an increased risk of hemorrhagic transformation and is not recommended. Insufficient data exist to support the safety of routine oral anticoagulant (direct oral anticoagulants or warfarin) initiation within 48 hours of an acute ischemic stroke. Direct oral anticoagulant initiation within 2 days of an acute ischemic stroke is associated with a 5% rate of hemorrhagic transformation. Infarct size and presence of hemorrhage are important factors in identifying the optimal time to initiation and should guide decisions when available. A recommended framework for patient decision making is provided. Randomized controlled trials in this area are needed to identify the optimal timing of anticoagulation initiation, and such trials are under way.
Surface macro‐fabric analysis of relict rock glaciers in the Cantabrian Mountains (NW Spain)
Authors: González‐Gutiérrez R. Blanca , Santos‐González Javier , Gómez‐Villar Amelia , Redondo‐Vega José M.
Published: November 2019

Relict rock glaciers are widespread in the Cantabrian Mountains, with more than 250 lobate, tongued‐shaped and complex landforms identified. Located mostly within glacial cirques, facing north and northeast, these landforms are indicative of the distribution of ancient permafrost. Macro‐fabric analysis allows us to reconstruct the past dynamics of these landforms. Surface macro‐fabric analysis of 34 rock glaciers including both ridge and furrows was performed. The orientation and dip of 50 clasts was determined in each case. All data were plotted in equal‐area stereograms and the eigenvalue method was used for statistical analysis of the data. The data show weak fabric shapes, with the transitional and the girdle shapes being the most representative, with 67.6% of the samples studied. The main fabric direction (eigenvalue S1) is found in 40–60% of the clasts, and only 11.7% present values ≥0.60. Clast concentration density in the stereograms gives concentrations <10% in more than 73.5% of the samples. Ridge samples have a more intense fabric than those of the furrows. The tongue‐shaped rock glaciers show more diverse values than those with lobate and complex forms.
Periglacial environments and frozen ground in the central Pyrenean high mountain area: Ground thermal regime and distribution of landforms and processes
Authors: Serrano Enrique , de Sanjosé‐Blasco José Juan , Gómez‐Lende Manuel , López‐Moreno Juan Ignacio , Pisabarro Alfonso , Martínez‐Fernández Adrián
Published: November 2019

The periglacial belt is located in the highest parts of temperate mountains. The balance between mean air and ground temperatures and the presence of water determine the effectiveness of periglacial processes related to permafrost, the active layer or seasonally frozen ground (SFG). This study combines thermal and geomorphological data obtained in four Pyrenean massifs (Infierno‐Argualas, Posets, Maladeta and Monte Perdido) to improve knowledge on the occurrence and distribution of frozen ground. The methodology used is based on the study of landforms as frozen ground indicators, mapping processes, ground temperature analysis, basal temperature of snow, thermal mapping and geomatic surveys on rock glaciers and protalus lobes. In the Pyrenean high mountain areas the lower limit of frozen ground is at ~2,650m a.s.l., possible permafrost appears above 2,650m a.s.l. on north‐ and south‐facing slopes, and probable permafrost is dominant above 2,900m a.s.l. Unfrozen ground with cold‐associated geomorphological processes reach 2,900m a.s.l. and unfrozen and frozen ground distribution points to a patchy pattern throughout the periglacial belt. The most widespread frozen grounds are SFG. The thermal data, mean annual ground temperature, cold season temperatures, bottom temperature snow measurements, freeze/thaw cycles and distribution of landforms permit the establishment of a periglacial land system divided into three main belts: infraperiglacial, middle periglacial and supraperiglacial. The large number of processes and landforms that are involved and their altitudinal and spatial organization make up a complex environment that determines the geoecological dynamics of high mountain areas.
Identification of FAM181A and FAM181B as new interactors with the TEAD transcription factors
Authors: Bokhovchuk Fedir , Mesrouze Yannick , Delaunay Clara , Martin Typhaine , Villard Frédéric , Meyerhofer Marco , Fontana Patrizia , Zimmermann Catherine , Erdmann Dirk , Furet Pascal , Scheufler Clemens , Schmelzle Tobias , Chène Patrick
Published: November 2019

The Hippo pathway is a key signaling pathway in the control of organ size and development. The most distal elements of this pathway, the TEAD transcription factors, are regulated by several proteins, such as YAP (Yes‐associated protein), TAZ (transcriptional co‐activator with PDZ‐binding motif) and VGLL1‐4 (Vestigial‐like members 1–4). In this article, combining structural data and motif searches in protein databases, we identify two new TEAD interactors: FAM181A and FAM181B. Our structural data show that they bind to TEAD via an Ω‐loop as YAP/TAZ do, but only FAM181B possesses the LxxLF motif (x any amino acid) found in YAP/TAZ. The affinity of different FAM181A/B fragments for TEAD is in the low micromolar range and full‐length FAM181A/B proteins interact with TEAD in cells. These findings, together with a recent report showing that FAM181A/B proteins have a role in nervous system development, suggest a potential new involvement of the TEAD transcription factors in the development of this tissue.
Oligomerization of RIG‐I and MDA5 2CARD domains
Authors: Zerbe Cassie M. , Mouser David J. , Cole James L.
Published: November 2019

The innate immune system is the first line of defense against invading pathogens. The retinoic acid‐inducible gene I (RIG‐I) like receptors (RLRs), RIG‐I and melanoma differentiation‐associated protein 5 (MDA5), are critical for host recognition of viral RNAs. These receptors contain a pair of N‐terminal tandem caspase activation and recruitment domains (2CARD), an SF2 helicase core domain, and a C‐terminal regulatory domain. Upon RLR activation, 2CARD associates with the CARD domain of MAVS, leading to the oligomerization of MAVS, downstream signaling and interferon induction. Unanchored K63‐linked polyubiquitin chains (polyUb) interacts with the 2CARD domain, and in the case of RIG‐I, induce tetramer formation. However, the nature of the MDA5 2CARD signaling complex is not known. We have used sedimentation velocity analytical ultracentrifugation to compare MDA5 2CARD and RIG‐I 2CARD binding to polyUb and to characterize the assembly of MDA5 2CARD oligomers in the absence of polyUb. Multi‐signal sedimentation velocity analysis indicates that Ub4 binds to RIG‐I 2CARD with a 3:4 stoichiometry and cooperatively induces formation of an RIG‐I 2CARD tetramer. In contrast, Ub4 and Ub7 interact with MDA5 2CARD weakly and form complexes with 1:1 and 2:1 stoichiometries but do not induce 2CARD oligomerization. In the absence of polyUb, MDA5 2CARD self‐associates to forms large oligomers in a concentration‐dependent manner. Thus, RIG‐I and MDA5 2CARD assembly processes are distinct. MDA5 2CARD concentration‐dependent self‐association, rather than polyUb binding, drives oligomerization and MDA5 2CARD forms oligomers larger than tetramer. We propose a mechanism where MDA5 2CARD oligomers, rather than a stable tetramer, function to nucleate MAVS polymerization.