bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lipoaminoacids Enzyme-Based Production and Application as Gene Delivery Vectors
Authors: Ribeiro Maria , Carvalho Patricia , Martins Tiago , Faustino Célia
Published: November 2019

Biosurfactant compounds have been studied in many applications, including biomedical, food, cosmetic, agriculture, and bioremediation areas, mainly due to their low toxicity, high biodegradability, and multifunctionality. Among biosurfactants, the lipoplexes of lipoaminoacids play a key role in medical and pharmaceutical fields. Lipoaminoacids (LAAs) are amino acid-based surfactants that are obtained from the condensation reaction of natural origin amino acids with fatty acids or fatty acid derivatives. LAA can be produced by biocatalysis as an alternative to chemical synthesis and thus become very attractive from both the biomedical and the environmental perspectives. Gemini LAAs, which are made of two hydrophobic chains and two amino acid head groups per molecule and linked by a spacer at the level of the amino acid residues, are promising candidates as both drug and gene delivery and protein disassembly agents. Gemini LAA usually show lower critical micelle concentration, interact more efficiently with proteins, and are better solubilising agents for hydrophobic drugs when compared to their monomeric counterparts due to their dimeric structure. A clinically relevant human gene therapy vector must overcome or avoid detect and silence foreign or misplaced DNA whilst delivering sustained levels of therapeutic gene product. Many non-viral DNA vectors trigger these defence mechanisms, being subsequently destroyed or rendered silent. The development of safe and persistently expressing DNA vectors is a crucial prerequisite for a successful clinical application, and it one of the main strategic tasks of non-viral gene therapy research.
Synthesis of Plasmonic Photocatalysts for Water Splitting
Authors: Kawamura Go , Matsuda Atsunori
Published: November 2019

Production of H2, O2, and some useful chemicals by solar water splitting is widely expected to be one of the ultimate technologies in solving energy and environmental problems worldwide. Plasmonic enhancement of photocatalytic water splitting is attracting much attention. However, the enhancement factors reported so far are not as high as expected. Hence, further investigation of the plasmonic photocatalysts for water splitting is now needed. In this paper, recent work demonstrating plasmonic photocatalytic water splitting is reviewed. Particular emphasis is given to the fabrication process and the morphological features of the plasmonic photocatalysts.
Comparison of the Effect of Two Hyaluronic Acid Preparations on Fibroblast and Endothelial Cell Functions Related to Angiogenesis
Authors: Ciccone Valerio , Zazzetta Marco , Morbidelli Lucia
Published: November 2019

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is used in substitutive and aesthetic medicine with various applications. Ultrapure absorbable HA (Bioregen®) and a mix of reticulated and free low molecular weight HA (Regenyal Idea Bioexpander®) (both provided by Regenyal Laboratories Srl, San Benedetto del Tronto (AP), Italy) represent a reliable hydrating device and skin filler, useful for skin blemishes, lines and wrinkles, and lip widening, respectively. The commercial products are known for their safety, but data on the molecular, cellular, and tissue responses are lacking. We aimed to evaluate the bioavailability and the pro-angiogenic features of the products Bioregen® and Bioexpander® in vitro on cultured endothelial cells (ECs) and dermal fibroblasts in vivo when injected into experimental animals. When added to fibroblasts and ECs, Bioexpander® induced cell migration. The two HA preparations were well tolerated, while a transient proangiogenic behavior of Bioexpander®, when implanted subcutaneously in mice, was found. The neovascular response was evident in the first week with higher levels of VEGF and FGF-2 before undergoing regression. In conclusion, our data strengthen the safety of HA synthetic preparations both in vitro and in vivo. Even if a proangiogenic response is documented, it is modest and transient, leading to tissue recovery and absence of an inflammatory infiltrate.
MicroRNA—A Tumor Trojan Horse for Tumor-Associated Macrophages
Authors: Syed Shahzad Nawaz , Frank Ann-Christin , Raue Rebecca , Brüne Bernhard
Published: November 2019

MicroRNAs (miRs) significantly contribute to the regulation of gene expression, by virtue of their ability to interact with a broad, yet specific set of target genes. MiRs are produced and released by almost every cell type and play an important role in horizontal gene regulation in the tumor microenvironment (TME). In the TME, both tumor and stroma cells cross-communicate via diverse factors including miRs, which are taking central stage as a therapeutic target of anti-tumor therapy. One of the immune escape strategies adopted by tumor cells is to release miRs as a Trojan horse to hijack circulating or tumor-localized monocytes/macrophages to tune them for pro-tumoral functions. On the other hand, macrophage-derived miRs exert anti-tumor functions. The transfer of miRs from host to recipient cells depends on the supramolecular structure and composition of miR carriers, which determine the distinct uptake mechanism by recipient cells. In this review, we provide a recent update on the miR-mediated crosstalk between tumor cells and macrophages and their mode of uptake in the TME.
Molecular Insights into the Mechanism of Necroptosis: The Necrosome as a Potential Therapeutic Target
Authors: Chen Jing , Kos Renate , Garssen Johan , Redegeld Frank
Published: November 2019

Necroptosis, or regulated necrosis, is an important type of programmed cell death in addition to apoptosis. Necroptosis induction leads to cell membrane disruption, inflammation and vascularization. It plays important roles in various pathological processes, including neurodegeneration, inflammatory diseases, multiple cancers, and kidney injury. The molecular regulation of necroptotic pathway has been intensively studied in recent years. Necroptosis can be triggered by multiple stimuli and this pathway is regulated through activation of receptor-interacting protein kinase 1 (RIPK1), RIPK3 and pseudokinase mixed lineage kinase domain-like (MLKL). A better understanding of the mechanism of regulation of necroptosis will further aid to the development of novel drugs for necroptosis-associated human diseases. In this review, we focus on new insights in the regulatory machinery of necroptosis. We further discuss the role of necroptosis in different pathologies, its potential as a therapeutic target and the current status of clinical development of drugs interfering in the necroptotic pathway.
pMHC Structural Comparisons as a Pivotal Element to Detect and Validate T-Cell Targets for Vaccine Development and Immunotherapy—A New Methodological Proposal
Authors: Vianna Priscila , Mendes Marcus F.A. , Bragatte Marcelo A. , Ferreira Priscila S. , Salzano Francisco M. , Bonamino Martin H. , Vieira Gustavo F.
Published: November 2019

The search for epitopes that will effectively trigger an immune response remains the “El Dorado” for immunologists. The development of promising immunotherapeutic approaches requires the appropriate targets to elicit a proper immune response. Considering the high degree of HLA/TCR diversity, as well as the heterogeneity of viral and tumor proteins, this number will invariably be higher than ideal to test. It is known that the recognition of a peptide-MHC (pMHC) by the T-cell receptor is performed entirely in a structural fashion, where the atomic interactions of both structures, pMHC and TCR, dictate the fate of the process. However, epitopes with a similar composition of amino acids can produce dissimilar surfaces. Conversely, sequences with no conspicuous similarities can exhibit similar TCR interaction surfaces. In the last decade, our group developed a database and in silico structural methods to extract molecular fingerprints that trigger T-cell immune responses, mainly referring to physicochemical similarities, which could explain the immunogenic differences presented by different pMHC-I complexes. Here, we propose an immunoinformatic approach that considers a structural level of information, combined with an experimental technology that simulates the presentation of epitopes for a T cell, to improve vaccine production and immunotherapy efficacy.
Femtosecond Pulsed Laser Deposition of Chromium Diboride-Rich Thin Films
Authors: De Bonis Angela , Galasso Agostino , Latini Alessandro , Rau Julietta V. , Santagata Antonio , Curcio Mariangela , Teghil Roberto
Published: November 2019

Chromium borides are promising candidates for several structural applications including protective coatings for materials exposed to corrosive and abrasive environments. In this paper the pulsed laser deposition of chromium diboride-rich thin films has been carried out in vacuum by using a frequency doubled Nd:glass laser with a pulse duration of 250 fs. The films have been deposited at different substrate temperatures and characterized by X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Lastly, the film’s hardness has been studied by Vickers indentation technique. The results indicate that only the films deposited at a substrate temperature of 500 °C are crystalline and formed by chromium diboride, together with a certain amount of boron and chromium, which suggests that, as main mechanism, a process taking place on the surface from atoms and ions from the gas phase. This hypothesis has been confirmed by the study of the plasma produced by the ablation process.
Effect of Heat Treatment on the Microstructure and Phase Composition of ZrB2–MoSi2 Coating
Authors: Kovaleva Marina , Goncharov Igor , Novikov Vseslav , Yapryntsev Maxim , Vagina Olga , Pavlenko Ivan , Sirota Viacheslav , Tyurin Yuri , Kolisnichenko Oleg
Published: November 2019

Composite ZrB2–MoSi2 coating modified by Y2O3 and Al was prepared by a new multi-chamber detonation accelerator (MCDS) on carbon/carbon composites. Postdeposition heat treatment of the samples at 1500 °C for 1 and 6 h was carried out in air. The effect of heat treatment on the microstructure and phase composition of the ZrB2–MoSi2 coating was investigated by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction phase analysis. The as-sprayed coating presented as a dense lamellar structure, composed of m-ZrO2, t-ZrO2, some hexagonal ZrB2, and cubic Al phases. The m-ZrO2, c-ZrO2, and h-(α-Al2O3) formed at 1500 °C. The coatings after heat treatment (1 and 6 h) exhibited a structure without cracks. The porosity (~1%) of the coating did not change after heat treatment. Thin, continuous, silica-rich film covered the surfaces of ZrO2 and Al2O3 particles, and could have played a role during heat treatment by acting as a grain lubricant for particle rearrangement.
Lithium-Doped Biological-Derived Hydroxyapatite Coatings Sustain In Vitro Differentiation of Human Primary Mesenchymal Stem Cells to Osteoblasts
Authors: Florian Paula E. , Duta Liviu , Grumezescu Valentina , Popescu-Pelin Gianina , Popescu Andrei C. , Oktar Faik N. , Evans Robert W. , Roseanu Constantinescu Anca
Published: November 2019

This study is focused on the adhesion and differentiation of the human primary mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC) to osteoblasts lineage on biological-derived hydroxyapatite (BHA) and lithium-doped BHA (BHA:LiP) coatings synthesized by Pulsed Laser Deposition. An optimum adhesion of the cells on the surface of BHA:LiP coatings compared to control (uncoated Ti) was demonstrated using immunofluorescence labelling of actin and vinculin, two proteins involved in the initiation of the cell adhesion process. BHA:LiP coatings were also found to favor the differentiation of the hMSC towards an osteoblastic phenotype in the presence of osteoinductive medium, as revealed by the evaluation of osteoblast-specific markers, osteocalcin and alkaline phosphatase. Numerous nodules of mineralization secreted from osteoblast cells grown on the surface of BHA:LiP coatings and a 3D network-like organization of cells interconnected into the extracellular matrix were evidenced. These findings highlight the good biocompatibility of the BHA coatings and demonstrate that the use of lithium as a doping agent results in an enhanced osteointegration potential of the synthesized biomaterials, which might therefore represent viable candidates for future in vivo applications.
Evaluation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Osteoblasts’ Adhesion and Proliferation in the Presence of HA-AL Biomaterials
Authors: Nicolaescu Oana-Elena , Turcu-Stiolica Adina , Varut Renata-Maria , Mocanu Andreea-Gabriela , Belu Ionela , Sima Livia Elena , Neamtu Johny
Published: November 2019

There is an increased interest in developing biocomposite implants with high biocompatibility in order to be used as grafts or prostheses in orthopedic surgery. The purpose of the study was to determine the biocompatibility of titanium implants coated with synthesized hydroxyapatite-alendronate composites. The implants were obtained using Matrix Assisted Pulsed Laser Evaporation technique (MAPLE). The hydroxyapatite-alendronate composites were synthesized using the wet precipitation method. Immunofluorescence microscopy showed that composites support mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) adhesion. Bone cells as well as human MSCs adhere to hydroxyapatite (HA)-based thin films obtained by matrix assisted laser deposition onto titanium. Alendronate doping into the films increased the number of cell-biomaterial focal points as compared to HA only. Thus, the synthesis of hydroxyapatite-alendronate composite (HA-AL) may be considered a viable solution for including the bisphosphonate on the surface of metallic prosthetic components used in orthopedics.
Shear Bond Strength of Nanohybrid Composite to Biodentine with Three Different Adhesives
Authors: Carretero Víctor , Giner-Tarrida Luís , Peñate Lissethe , Arregui María
Published: November 2019

Biodentine® is a bioactive dentin coating widely used for dental restoration; however, its adhesion to the substrate could limit its clinical success. The aim of this study was to evaluate the shear bond strength (SBS) between Biodentine® and a composite resin, using different types of adhesive. In total, 120 acrylic blocks with a central hole were prepared. They were fully filled with Biodentine®, and divided into two time groups: 12 min (n = 60) and 24 h (n = 60); each group was subdivided into four groups according to the adhesive: three-step etch and rinse (3-E&R) (n = 15), two-step etch and rinse (n = 15), and a universal adhesive subdivided into two groups, two-step etch and rinse (n = 15) and one-step self-etch adhesive system (n = 15). After adhesive application, the composite was applied and stored at 100% humidity, at 37 °C, for 24 h, before the SBS test. Data were analyzed with one-way ANOVA, Fisher post hoc test, and Kolmogorov–Smirnov test. The 12-min group showed statistically significant differences (p = 0.009), with the highest values of adhesion for 3-E&R. No statistically significant differences were observed for the 24-h group (p = 0.813) and between adhesive systems (p = 0.071) regardless of adhesion time. Higher adhesion values were found at 24 h. It is essential to consider the longest setting time for Biodentine®. In terms of adhesive, 3-E&R had the highest adhesion values.
Coating Mechanism of AuNPs onto Sepiolite by Experimental Research and MD Simulation
Authors: Karataş Deniz , Senol Arslan Dilek , Kursun Unver Ilgin , Ozdemir Orhan
Published: November 2019

The amenability of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) coating on natural and modified (hexadecyl trimethyl ammonium bromide, CTAB) sepiolite surfaces was studied both experimentally and theoretically. The zeta potential experiments and Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer (FTIR), environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses were carried out with the sepiolite samples in the presence of AuNPs. In addition, the adsorption of three gold-nanoparticles on the sepiolite surface (100) in the absence and presence of CTAB was investigated by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The AuNPs showed no significant change in the zeta potential of natural sepiolite surfaces due to negative charges of both the sepiolite and AuNPs at natural pH. The surface charge of modified sepiolite decreased with the increase in AuNPs concentration indicating the significance AuNPs adsorption. FTIR, ESEM, and TEM analyses indicated the coating of AuNPs onto the modified sepiolite surface were higher than that of the natural sepiolite surface. The MD simulation results showed that AuNPs can easily adsorb onto the basal surface of the sepiolite due to its hydrophilicity in the presence and absence of CTAB as indicated in the experimental studies. In short, the modification of sepiolite with CTAB made the charge positive, and in turn considerably increased the AuNPs coating on sepiolite surfaces due to electrostatic attraction.
Amplified Spontaneous Emission and Optical Gain in Organic Single Crystal Quinquethiophene
Authors: Zeb Muhammad , Tahir Muhammad , Muhammad Fida , Mohd Said Suhana , Mohd Sabri Mohd Faizul , R. Sarker Mahidur , Hamid Md Ali Sawal , Wahab Fazal
Published: November 2019

In this paper, we report optical characteristics of an organic single crystal oligomer 5,5⁗-diphenyl-2,2′:5′,2″:5″,2‴:5‴,2⁗-quinquethiophene (P5T). P5T crystal is a thiophene/phenylene co-oligomer that possesses better charge mobility as well as photoluminescence quantum efficiency (PLQE) as compared to other organic materials. Stimulated emission in P5T is investigated via amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) measurements within broad pump energies ranging from 35.26 to 163.34 µJ/cm2. An Nd-YAG femtosecond-tunable pulsed laser is used as a pump energy source for the ASE measurements of P5T crystals at an excitation wavelength of 445 nm. The ASE spectra exhibit optical amplification in P5T crystals at a 625 nm peak wavelength with a lower threshold energy density (Eth) ≈ 52.64 μJ/cm2. P5T also demonstrates higher optical gain with a value of 72 cm−1, that is calculated by using the variable stripe-length method. The value of PLQE is measured to be 68.24% for P5T. This study proposes potential applications of P5T single crystals in organic solid state lasers, photodetectors, and optical amplifiers.
Photochemical On–Off Switching of One-Dimensional Photonic Crystals Consisting of Azo-Functionalized Liquid Crystal Polymer and Polyvinyl Alcohol
Authors: Kim Sunnam , Kurihara Seiji
Published: November 2019

One-dimensional (1D) photonic crystals (PCs) are prepared from multi-bilayered films stacked with alternating azo-functionalized liquid crystal polymer (PAz) films and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) films. Reflection with a wavelength that depends on the thickness of the films is observed, and the reflection can be turned on and off by switching between the two states, based on whether there is a difference in the refractive index between the two films. The refractive index change of PAz can be photochemically caused by a phase transition, based on the alignment states of the liquid crystal (LC). In this review, we focused on an effective photo-induced on–off switching approach in 1D PCs using LC properties and described the basic optical and chemical principles, the experimental results, and further optimizations.
Diagnostic Approach to Traumatic Axonal Injury of the Spinothalamic Tract in Individual Patients with Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Jang Sung Ho , Lee Han Do
Published: November 2019

Objectives: We investigated an approach for the diagnosis of traumatic axonal injury (TAI) of the spinothalamic tract (STT) that was based on diffusion tensor tractography (DTT) results and a statistical comparison of individual patients who showed central pain following mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) with the control group. Methods: Five right-handed female patients in their forties and with central pain following mTBI and 12 age-, sex-, and handedness-matched healthy control subjects were recruited. After DTT reconstruction of the STT, we analyzed the STT in terms of three DTT parameters (fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), and fiber number (FN)) and its configuration (narrowing and tearing). To assess narrowing, we determined the area of the STT on an axial slice of the subcortical white matter. Results: the FN values were significantly lower in at least one hemisphere of each patient when compared to those of the control subjects (p < 0.05). Significant decrements from the STT area in the control group were observed in at least one hemisphere of each patient (p < 0.05). Regarding configurational analysis, the STT showed narrowing and/or partial tearing in at least one hemisphere of each of the five patients. Conclusions: Herein, we demonstrate a DTT-based approach for the diagnosis of TAI of the STT. The approach involves a statistical comparison between DTT parameters of individual patients who show central pain following mTBI and those of an age-, gender-, and handedness-matched control group. We think that the method described in this study can be useful in the diagnosis of TAI of the STT in individual mTBI patients.
Ensemble and Greedy Approach for the Reconstruction of Large Gene Co-Expression Networks
Authors: Gómez-Vela Francisco , Delgado-Chaves Fernando M. , Rodríguez-Baena Domingo S. , García-Torres Miguel , Divina Federico
Published: November 2019

Gene networks have become a powerful tool in the comprehensive analysis of gene expression. Due to the increasing amount of available data, computational methods for networks generation must deal with the so-called curse of dimensionality in the quest for the reliability of the obtained results. In this context, ensemble strategies have significantly improved the precision of results by combining different measures or methods. On the other hand, structure optimization techniques are also important in the reduction of the size of the networks, not only improving their topology but also keeping a positive prediction ratio. In this work, we present Ensemble and Greedy networks (EnGNet), a novel two-step method for gene networks inference. First, EnGNet uses an ensemble strategy for co-expression networks generation. Second, a greedy algorithm optimizes both the size and the topological features of the network. Not only do achieved results show that this method is able to obtain reliable networks, but also that it significantly improves topological features. Moreover, the usefulness of the method is proven by an application to a human dataset on post-traumatic stress disorder, revealing an innate immunity-mediated response to this pathology. These results are indicative of the method’s potential in the field of biomarkers discovery and characterization.
Stochastic Entropy Solutions for Stochastic Scalar Balance Laws
Authors: Wei Jinlong , Liu Bin , Tian Rongrong , Ding Liang
Published: November 2019

We are concerned with the initial value problem for a multidimensional balance law with multiplicative stochastic perturbations of Brownian type. Using the stochastic kinetic formulation and the Bhatnagar-Gross-Krook approximation, we prove the uniqueness and existence of stochastic entropy solutions. Furthermore, as applications, we derive the uniqueness and existence of the stochastic entropy solution for stochastic Buckley-Leverett equations and generalized stochastic Burgers type equations.
OTEC Maximum Net Power Output Using Carnot Cycle and Application to Simplify Heat Exchanger Selection
Authors: Fontaine Kevin , Yasunaga Takeshi , Ikegami Yasuyuki
Published: November 2019

Ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) uses the natural thermal gradient in the sea. It has been investigated to make it competitive with conventional power plants, as it has huge potential and can produce energy steadily throughout the year. This has been done mostly by focusing on improving cycle performances or central elements of OTEC, such as heat exchangers. It is difficult to choose a suitable heat exchanger for OTEC with the separate evaluations of the heat transfer coefficient and pressure drop that are usually found in the literature. Accordingly, this paper presents a method to evaluate heat exchangers for OTEC. On the basis of finite-time thermodynamics, the maximum net power output for different heat exchangers using both heat transfer performance and pressure drop was assessed and compared. This method was successfully applied to three heat exchangers. The most suitable heat exchanger was found to lead to a maximum net power output 158% higher than the output of the least suitable heat exchanger. For a difference of 3.7% in the net power output, a difference of 22% in the Reynolds numbers was found. Therefore, those numbers also play a significant role in the choice of heat exchangers as they affect the pumping power required for seawater flowing. A sensitivity analysis showed that seawater temperature does not affect the choice of heat exchangers, even though the net power output was found to decrease by up to 10% with every temperature difference drop of 1 °C.
Effective Receiver Design for MIMO Visible Light Communication with Quadrichromatic LEDs
Authors: Le Tran Manh , Kim Sunghwan
Published: November 2019

In this paper, we propose a receiver designing principle for the multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) visible light communication (VLC) systems with quadrichromatic light emitting diodes (QLEDs). To simultaneously transmit multiple data streams, the system consists of multiple QLEDs and multiple receivers; each includes four photodiodes (PDs). We optimize the Euclidean distance of the received signal over some constraints by considering the normal vectors of the receivers. The numerical results show that our proposed receiver design has a better bit error rate (BER) performance in comparison with the conventional receiver.
A Decentralized Solution for Transmission Expansion Planning: Getting Inspiration from Nature
Authors: Lumbreras Sara , Wogrin Sonja , Navarro Guillermo , Bertazzi Ilaria , Pereda Maria
Published: November 2019

Transmission expansion planning is a problem of considerable complexity where classical optimization techniques are unable to handle large case studies. Decomposition and divide-and-conquer strategies have been applied to this problem. We propose an alternative approach based on agent-based modeling (ABM) and inspired by the behavior of the Plasmodium mold, which builds efficient transportation networks as result of its search for food sources. Algorithms inspired by this mold have already been applied to road-network design. We modify an existing ABM for road-network design to include the idiosyncratic features of power systems and their related physics, and test it over an array of case studies. Our results show that the ABM can provide near-optimal designs in all the instances studied, possibly with some further interesting properties with respect to the robustness of the developed design. In addition, the model works in a decentralized manner, using mostly local information. This means that computational time will scale with size in a more benign way than global optimization approaches. Our work shows promise in applying ABMs to solve similarly complex global optimization problems in the energy landscape.
Robust and Fast State Estimation for Poorly-Observable Low Voltage Distribution Networks Based on the Kalman Filter Algorithm
Authors: Antončič Mitja , Papič Igor , Blažič Boštjan
Published: November 2019

This paper presents a novel approach for the state estimation of poorly-observable low voltage distribution networks, characterized by intermittent and erroneous measurements. The developed state estimation algorithm is based on the Extended Kalman filter, where we have modified the execution of the filtering process. Namely, we have fixed the Kalman gain and Jacobian matrices to constant matrices; their values change only after a larger disturbance in the network. This allows for a fast and robust estimation of the network state. The performance of the proposed state-estimation algorithm is validated by means of simulations of an actual low-voltage network with actual field measurement data. Two different cases are presented. The results of the developed state estimator are compared to a classical estimator based on the weighted least squares method. The comparison shows that the developed state estimator outperforms the classical one in terms of calculation speed and, in case of spurious measurements errors, also in terms of accuracy.
Forestry Policy, Conservation Activities, and Ecosystem Services in the Remote Misuku Hills of Malawi
Authors: Coutts Christopher , Holmes Tisha , Jackson April
Published: November 2019

Research Highlights: Most of Malawi’s land area has been deforested; however, expansive indigenous forests remain in the remote Misuku Hills in Malawi’s northern region. Despite its conservation potential, this region of Malawi has been overlooked in forestry conservation research. Background and Objectives: The Misuku Hills is one the most floristically diverse regions in Malawi, but this region is facing similar pressures and forestry policy enforcement challenges that drive deforestation of other regions. This study therefore addresses the questions: What are the forestry policy challenges and opportunities for forest conservation in Malawi? What conservation activities are taking place in the Misuku Hills in support of these policies? What ecosystem services are residents using that are in need of protection? Materials and Methods: A comprehensive inventory and review of the national forest policies and current programs in the Misuku Hills region was compiled through document reviews and communications with governmental and non-governmental stakeholders. A Photovoice exercise was conducted with residents of Chikutu village to create an inventory of resident-identified ecosystem services. Results: While there is an impressive array of policies in place to protect the forests of Malawi, there is little institutionalization or enforcement of these policies. There have been funded conservation programs in the Misuku Hills, but these have been limited to the areas surrounding the three small public forest reserves. The Photovoice exercise revealed that residents rely on an abundance of forest ecosystem services to support their livelihoods, including food, medicine, and timber products. Conclusions: The challenges to conserving forests and their ecosystem services are being met at a local level in a variety of creative ways in the Misuku Hills (e.g., tree planting, beekeeping) that could be used as community-based models for other areas in Africa and elsewhere, where people depend directly on these services to meet daily needs.
Size–Density Trajectory in Regenerated Maritime Pine Stands after Fire
Authors: Enes Teresa , Lousada José , Aranha José , Cerveira Adelaide , Alegria Cristina , Fonseca Teresa
Published: November 2019

Research Highlights: This study bridges a gap of knowledge about the maximum size–density trajectory for juvenile stands of maritime pine. The continuity of the trajectory along the development stages to maturity is assured with a straightforward approach providing support to determine optimum density along all the revolution periods for the species. Background and Objectives: Forest fire is a significant threat to forests in the Mediterranean regions, but also a natural disturbance that plays a vital role in the perpetuation of forest stands. In recent decades, there has been an increase of burnt area in maritime forests in Portugal, followed by an increased interest in managing the natural and usually abundant regeneration occurring after the fires. The gap in the knowledge of growth dynamics for juvenile stages, for these forest systems, currently constrains their correct management, for forest planning, particularly in determining the optimal densities. The study aims to identify the maximum attainable density trajectory at the early stages of development of the species that could support a non-empirical definition of silvicultural prescriptions and thinning decisions, along the revolution. Materials and Methods: A representative data set collected in stands regenerated after fire supports the analysis of the maximum size–density trajectory for the species. Results: The maximum size–density trajectory for the juvenile stands deviates from the expected trajectory defined in the self-thinning line published for the species. Significant deviation occurs at the lower end of the line, indicating the need for a reevaluation of the existing self-thinning line. We propose a new self-thinning model for the species that explicitly considers the behavior of size–density for juvenile stands. The new model assures a logical continuity for the trajectory from the young stages of development to maturity. Conclusions: The proposed model based on the maximum attainable size–density trajectory provides ecological-based support to define silvicultural guidelines for management of the species.
Assessing the Importance of Tree Cover Threshold for Forest Cover Mapping Derived from Global Forest Cover in Myanmar
Authors: Lwin Kay Khaing , Ota Tetsuji , Shimizu Katsuto , Mizoue Nobuya
Published: November 2019

Comprehensive forest cover mapping is essential for making policy and management decisions. However, creating a forest cover map from raw remote sensing data is a barrier for many users. Here, we investigated the effects of different tree cover thresholds on the accuracy of forest cover maps derived from the Global Forest Change Dataset (GFCD) across different ecological zones in a country-scale evaluation of Myanmar. To understand the effect of different thresholds on map accuracy, nine forest cover maps having thresholds ranging from 10% to 90% were created from the GFCD. The accuracy of the forest cover maps within each ecological zone and at the national scale was assessed. The overall accuracies of ecological zones other than tropical rainforest were highest when the threshold for tree cover was less than 50%. The appropriate threshold for tropical rainforests was 80%. Therefore, different optimal tree cover thresholds were required to achieve the highest overall accuracy depending on ecological zones. However, in the unique case of Myanmar, we were able to determine the threshold across the whole country. We concluded that the threshold for tree cover for creating a forest cover map should be determined according to the areal ratio of ecological zones determined from large-scale monitoring. Our results are applicable to tropical regions having similar ecological zones.
Performance of Scots Pine Seedlings from Seeds Graded by Colour
Authors: Novikov Arthur , Sokolov Sergey , Drapalyuk Michael , Zelikov Vladimir , Ivetić Vladan
Published: November 2019

Research Highlights: One of the ways to improve the quality of a seedlot used in the forest nursery is the grading of seed by colour. Background and Objectives: The study is intended for forest’s engineers and owners because it offers an alternative solution for forest seeds improvement before sowing. The success of forest establishment program mainly depends on the quality of Forest Reproductive Material. At this time usual practices during the seed processing is seed grading on size. This causes a lot of controversy about the possible reduction of genetic diversity through directional selection. Materials and Methods: Aiming to study the effect of seed coat colour on seedling performance, a one-year old container seedlings of Pinus sylvestris L. were planted at the post-fire site. Seedlings were produced from three fractions, previously graded in the visible wavelength range on a standard optical separator, plus control obtained without separation by colour. Results: Seedlings from different seed fractions performed differently in the first growing season after planting on the field. Seedlings from light seed fraction grow better in height, but those from dark seed fraction resulted with the highest survival rate. Light-dark seeds, which constitute the largest group in the initial sample by absolute weight, resulted with seedlings of the lowest growth rates and survival. The good results showed by seedlings from the control, for both growth rates and survival, indicate the weak effect of seed colour grading on seedlings field performance, but also the need for the more comprehensive studies in the future.
Application of a Digital Filter Method to Separate Baseflow in the Small Watershed of Pengchongjian in Southern China
Authors: Liu Zheng , Liu Shiyu , Ye Jingping , Sheng Fei , You Kunming , Xiong Xinhao , Lai Guilin
Published: November 2019

Baseflow plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability of streamflows, especially in watersheds. To reveal the evolution of baseflow in watersheds in southern China, this study investigated the variation in baseflow across the small watershed of Pengchongjian in Jiangxi Province. A digital filter method was applied to separate baseflow from local daily streamflow records for 1983–2014 using different values of filtering parameter (β) and filtering times (T). The separation results were validated by the baseflow index (BFI) method to determine the optimal parameters. When β = 0.90 and T = 2, the baseflow separation results conformed to the actual field situation in the watershed. The average monthly baseflow increased at first and then decreased, being unevenly distribution within a year, whereas average monthly BFI followed the opposite trend. On the seasonal scale, baseflow was ranked as spring > summer > winter > autumn, and the BFI as winter > spring > autumn > summer. Both the annual baseflow and BFI decreased at a rate of 2.30 mm/year and 0.0005/year, respectively. When considered on the annual scale, the BFI was lower in the wet years and higher in the dry years compared with normal years, averaging 0.22 in the watershed for the 1983–2014 period. This study obtained key optimal parameters for baseflow separation and revealed baseflow variation in the Pengchongjian watershed. These results provide a useful reference for studying the patterns of baseflow evolution in watersheds in southern China.
Functional Similarity and Difference among Bra-MIR319 Family in Plant Development
Authors: Hu Ziwei , Liu Tingting , Cao Jiashu
Published: November 2019

miR319 was the first plant miRNA discovered via forward genetic mutation screening. In this study, we found that miR319 family members had similar sequences but different expression patterns in Brassica campestris and Arabidopsis thaliana. RT-PCR analysis revealed that Bra-MIR319a and Bra-MIR319c had similar expression patterns and were widely expressed in plant development, whereas Bra-MIR319b could only be detected in stems. The overexpression of each Bra-MIR319 family member in Arabidopsis could inhibit cell division and function in leaf and petal morphogenesis. Bra-miR319a formed a new regulatory relationship after whole genome triplication, and Bra-MIR319a overexpressing in Arabidopsis led to the degradation of pollen content and affected the formation of intine, thereby causing pollen abortion. Our results suggest that Bra-MIR319 family members have functional similarity and difference in plant development.
Clinical and Genetic Findings of Autosomal Recessive Bestrophinopathy (ARB)
Authors: Habibi Imen , Falfoul Yosra , Todorova Margarita G. , Wyrsch Stefan , Vaclavik Veronika , Helfenstein Maria , Turki Ahmed , El Matri Khaled , El Matri Leila , Schorderet Daniel F.
Published: November 2019

Mutations in BEST1 cause several phenotypes including autosomal dominant (AD) Best vitelliform macular dystrophy type 2 (BVMD), AD vitreo-retino-choroidopathy (ADVIRC), and retinitis pigmentosa-50 (RP50). A rare subtype of Bestrophinopathy exists with biallelic mutations in BEST1. Its frequency is estimated to be 1/1,000,000 individuals. Here we report 6 families and searched for a genotype-phenotype correlation. All patients were referred due to reduced best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), ranging from 0.1/10 to 3/10. They all showed vitelliform lesions located at the macula, sometimes extending into the midperiphery, along the vessels and the optic disc. Onset of the disease varied from the age of 3 to 25 years. Electrooculogram (EOG) revealed reduction in the EOG light rise in all patients. Molecular analysis revealed previously reported mutations p.(E35K);(E35K), p.(L31M);(L31M), p.(R141H);(A195V), p.(R202W);(R202W), and p.(Q220*);(Q220*) in five families. One family showed a novel mutation: p.(E167G);(E167G). All mutations were heterozygous in the parents. In one family, heterozygous children showed various reductions in the EOG light rise and autofluorescent deposits. Autosomal recessive Bestrophinopathy (ARB), although rare, can be recognized by its phenotype and should be validated by molecular analysis. Genotype-phenotype correlations are difficult to establish and will require the analysis of additional cases.
Transcriptome Sequencing Reveals the Traits of Spermatogenesis and Testicular Development in Large Yellow Croaker (Larimichthys crocea)
Authors: Luo Shengyu , Gao Xinming , Ding Jie , Liu Cheng , Du Chen , Hou Congcong , Zhu Junquan , Lou Bao
Published: November 2019

Larimichthys crocea is an economically important marine fish in China. To date, the molecular mechanisms underlying testicular development and spermatogenesis in L. crocea have not been thoroughly elucidated. In this study, we conducted a comparative transcriptome analysis between testes (TES) and pooled multiple tissues (PMT) (liver, spleen, heart, and kidney) from six male individuals. More than 54 million clean reads were yielded from TES and PMT libraries. After mapping to the draft genome of L. crocea, we acquired 25,787 genes from the transcriptome dataset. Expression analyses identified a total of 3853 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), including 2194 testes-biased genes (highly expressed in the TES) and 1659 somatic-biased genes (highly expressed in the PMT). The dataset was further annotated by blasting with multi-databases. Functional genes and enrichment pathways involved in spermatogenesis and testicular development were analyzed, such as the neuroactive ligand–receptor interaction pathway, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways, cell cycle pathway, and dynein, kinesin, myosin, actin, heat shock protein (hsp), synaptonemal complex protein 2 (sycp2), doublesex- and mab-3-related transcription factor 1 (dmrt1), spermatogenesis-associated genes (spata), DEAD-Box Helicases (ddx), tudor domain-containing protein (tdrd), and piwi genes. The candidate genes identified by this study lay the foundation for further studies into the molecular mechanisms underlying testicular development and spermatogenesis in L. crocea.
Genetic Spectrum of ABCA4-Associated Retinal Degeneration in Poland
Authors: Tracewska Anna M. , Kocyła-Karczmarewicz Beata , Rafalska Agnieszka , Murawska Joanna , Jakubaszko-Jablonska Joanna , Rydzanicz Małgorzata , Stawiński Piotr , Ciara Elżbieta , Khan Muhammad Imran , Henkes Arjen , Hoischen Alexander , Gilissen Christian , van de Vorst Maartje , Cremers Frans P. M. , Płoski Rafał , Chrzanowska Krystyna H.
Published: November 2019

Mutations in retina-specific ATP-binding cassette transporter 4 (ABCA4) are responsible for over 95% of cases of Stargardt disease (STGD), as well as a minor proportion of retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and cone-rod dystrophy cases (CRD). Since the knowledge of the genetic causes of inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) in Poland is still scarce, the purpose of this study was to identify pathogenic ABCA4 variants in a subgroup of Polish IRD patients. We recruited 67 families with IRDs as a part of a larger study. The patients were screened with next generation sequencing using a molecular inversion probes (MIPs)-based technique targeting 108 genes involved in the pathogenesis of IRDs. All identified mutations were validated and their familial segregation was tested using Sanger sequencing. In the case of the most frequent complex allele, consisting of two variants in exon 12 and 21, familial segregation was tested using restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). The most prevalent variant, a complex change c.[1622T>C;3113C>T], p.[Leu541Pro;Ala1038Val], was found in this cohort in 54% of all solved ABCA4-associated disorder cases, which is the highest frequency reported thus far. Additionally, we identified nine families displaying a pseudo-dominant mode of inheritance, indicating a high frequency of pathogenic variants within this population.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Nursing Outcome Knowledge: Pain Management in People with Chronic Pain
Authors: Pancorbo-Hidalgo Pedro Luis , Bellido-Vallejo José Carlos
Published: November 2019

Pain has a major impact on health and quality of life. Since the level of knowledge of painful conditions can influence how these are addressed and managed, assessing this knowledge in patients becomes crucial. As a result, it is necessary to have culturally adapted and validated instruments that specifically measure patients’ knowledge of chronic pain management. The objective of this study was to carry out the Spanish cultural adaptation and the validation of the outcome Knowledge: Pain Management of the Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC) in patients with chronic pain, defined as extent of understanding conveyed about causes, symptoms, and treatment of pain. A three-stage study was designed: (1) translation and cultural adaptation through an expert panel, (2) content validation, (3) clinical validation. This study provides nurses with a Spanish version of this scale adapted to their context, as well as a set of structured indicators to measure patients’ knowledge about chronic pain. The results indicated that the culturally adapted Spanish version of the outcome Knowledge: Pain Management had a high level of content validity (CVI = 0.92), with 27 indicators being distributed between two factors. This version has been shown to be reliable in terms of inter-observer agreement (κ = 0.79) and internal consistency (α = 0.95). In conclusion, Knowledge: Pain Management has been shown to be reliable and valid to measure knowledge of chronic pain.
Association of Serum Uric Acid with Cardiovascular Disease Risk Scores in Koreans
Authors: Lee Seung Yun , Park Won , Suh Young Ju , Lim Mie Jin , Kwon Seong-Ryul , Lee Joo-Hyun , Joo Young Bin , Oh Youn-Kyung , Jung Kyong-Hee
Published: November 2019

As the prevalence of gout and hyperuricemia increases, the comorbidities of gout and hyperuricemia have become a public health burden. In particular, risks of cardiovascular disease (CVD)-related complications are increasing. However, a few guidelines exist for the management of hyperuricemia. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the association of serum uric acid with CVD risk in the general population of Korean adults. We examined cross-sectional data from the first and second years of the seventh Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2016–2017. Among 16,277 participants, 8781 were analyzed. We estimated the CVD risk using a 10-year CVD risk score prediction formula. There was a significant association of serum uric acid with 10-year CVD risk scores after adjusting for physical activity, body mass index, serum creatinine, and alcohol consumption in both sexes (p < 0.001). In the fitted fractional polynomial model, an approximate U-shaped association between serum uric acid levels and 10-year CVD risk scores was found in men. At the serum uric acid level of 6.9 mg/dL, the CVD risk was lowest. An approximate J-shaped association between serum uric acid levels and 10-year CVD risk scores was found in women. Our study showed that hyperuricemia was associated with an increased CVD risk. Hypouricemia was also associated with an increased CVD risk in men. We, therefore, recommend proper management of uric acid levels in the general population to reduce CVD risks.