bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Digestive α-Amylase from Blue Crab (Portunus segnis) Viscera: Purification, Biochemical Characterization and Application for the Improvement of Antioxidant Potential of Oat Flour
Authors: Maalej Hana , Maalej Amina , Affes Sawsan , Hmidet Noomen , Nasri Moncef
Published: January 2021

This study reports on the purification and characterization of a digestive α-amylase from blue crab (Portunussegnis) viscera designated Blue Crab Amylase (BCA). The enzyme was purified to homogeneity by ultrafiltration, Sephadex G-100 gel filtration and Sepharose mono Q anion exchange chromatography, with the final purification fold of 424.02, specific activity of 1390.8 U mg−1 and 27.8% recovery. BCA, showing a molecular weight of approximately 45 kDa, possesses desirable biotechnological features, such as optimal temperature of 50 °C, interesting thermal stability which is enhanced in the presence of starch, high stability towards surfactants (Tween 20, Tween 80 and Triton X-100), high specific activity, quite high storage and broad pH range stability. The enzyme displayed Km and Vmax values, of 7.5 ± 0.25 mg mL−1 and 2000 ± 23 μmol min−1 mg−1 for potato starch, respectively. It hydrolyzed various carbohydrates and produced maltose, maltotriose and maltotetraose as the major end products of starch hydrolysis. In addition, the purified enzyme was successfully utilized for the improvement of the antioxidant potential of oat flour, which could be extended to other cereals. Interestingly, besides its suitability for application in different industrial sectors, especially food industries, the biochemical properties of BCA from the blue crab viscera provide novel features with other marine-derived enzymes and better understanding of the biodegradability of carbohydrates in marine environments, particularly in invasive alien crustaceans.
Application of 5-Methylcytosine DNA Glycosylase to the Quantitative Analysis of DNA Methylation
Authors: Choi Woo Lee , Mok Young Geun , Huh Jin Hoe
Published: January 2021

In higher eukaryotes DNA methylation is a prominent epigenetic mark important for chromatin structure and gene expression. Thus, profiling DNA methylation is important for predicting gene expressions associated with specific traits or diseases. DNA methylation is achieved by DNA methyltransferases and can be actively removed by specific enzymes in a replication-independent manner. DEMETER (DME) is a bifunctional 5-methylcytosine (5mC) DNA glycosylase responsible for active DNA demethylation that excises 5mC from DNA and cleaves a sugar-phosphate bond generating a single strand break (SSB). In this study, DME was used to analyze DNA methylation levels at specific epialleles accompanied with gain or loss of DNA methylation. DME treatment on genomic DNA generates SSBs in a nonsequence-specific fashion proportional to 5mC density, and thus DNA methylation levels can be easily measured when combined with the quantitative PCR (qPCR) method. The DME-qPCR analysis was applied to measure DNA methylation levels at the FWA gene in late-flowering Arabidopsis mutants and the CNR gene during fruit ripening in tomato. Differentially methylated epialleles were successfully distinguished corresponding to their expression levels and phenotypes. DME-qPCR is proven a simple yet effective method for quantitative DNA methylation analysis, providing advantages over current techniques based on methylation-sensitive restriction digestion.
Autophagy in HCV Replication and Protein Trafficking
Authors: Chu Ja Yeon Kim , Ou Jing-hsiung James
Published: January 2021

Autophagy is a catabolic process that is important for maintaining cellular homeostasis. It is also known to possess other functions including protein trafficking and anti-microbial activities. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is known to co-opt cellular autophagy pathway to promote its own replication. HCV regulates autophagy through multiple mechanisms to control intracellular protein and membrane trafficking to enhance its replication and suppress host innate immune response. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge on the interplay between HCV and autophagy and the crosstalk between HCV-induced autophagy and host innate immune responses.
Bioactive Betulin and PEG Based Polyanhydrides for Use in Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Niewolik Daria , Bednarczyk-Cwynar Barbara , Ruszkowski Piotr , Sosnowski Tomasz R. , Jaszcz Katarzyna
Published: January 2021

In the course of this study, a series of novel, biodegradable polyanhydrides based on betulin disuccinate and dicarboxylic derivatives of poly(ethylene glycol) were prepared by two-step polycondensation. These copolymers can be used as carriers in drug delivery systems, in the form of microspheres. Betulin and its derivatives exhibit a broad spectrum of biological activity, including cytotoxic activity, which makes them promising substances for use as therapeutic agents. Microspheres that were prepared from betulin based polyanhydrides show promising properties for use in application in drug delivery systems, including inhalation systems. The obtained copolymers release the active substance—betulin disuccinate—as a result of hydrolysis under physiological conditions. The use of a poly(ethylene glycol) derivative as a co-monomer increases the solubility and bioavailability of the obtained compounds. Microspheres with diameters in the range of 0.5–25 µm were prepared by emulsion solvent evaporation method and their physicochemical and aerodynamic properties were analyzed. The morphological characteristics of the microspheres depended on the presence of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) segment within the structure of polyanhydrides. The porosity of the particles depended on the amount and molecular weight of the PEG used and also on the speed of homogenization. The most porous particles were obtained from polyanhydrides containing 20% wt. of PEG 600 by using a homogenization speed of 18,000 rpm.
8q24.21 Locus: A Paradigm to Link Non-Coding RNAs, Genome Polymorphisms and Cancer
Authors: Wilson Claire , Kanhere Aditi
Published: January 2021

The majority of the human genome is comprised of non-protein-coding genes, but the relevance of non-coding RNAs in complex diseases has yet to be fully elucidated. One class of non-coding RNAs is long non-coding RNAs or lncRNAs, many of which have been identified to play a range of roles in transcription and translation. While the clinical importance of the majority of lncRNAs have yet to be identified, it is puzzling that a large number of disease-associated genetic variations are seen in lncRNA genes. The 8q24.21 locus is rich in lncRNAs and very few protein-coding genes are located in this region. Interestingly, the 8q24.21 region is also a hot spot for genetic variants associated with an increased risk of cancer. Research focusing on the lncRNAs in this area of the genome has indicated clinical relevance of lncRNAs in different cancers. In this review, we summarise the lncRNAs in the 8q24.21 region with respect to their role in cancer and discuss the potential impact of cancer-associated genetic polymorphisms on the function of lncRNAs in initiation and progression of cancer.
Clonal Expansion of Tumor-Infiltrating T Cells and Analysis of the Tumor Microenvironment within Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Relapsed after Definitive Chemoradiation Therapy
Authors: Mori Takahiro , Kumagai Kenichi , Nasu Keisuke , Yoshizawa Takamasa , Kuwano Koji , Hamada Yoshiki , Kanazawa Hideki , Suzuki Ryuji
Published: January 2021

(1) Background: Comparable prognoses after definitive chemoradiation therapy (CRT) to surgery alone for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) have been previously reported; however, no robust prognostic markers have been established. The clonality of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and tumor microenvironments (TMEs) in ESCC relapsed after CRT were examined to explore prognostic markers. (2) Methods: Clonality of TIL and TME were examined in ESCC with and without preceding CRT, as well as oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and healthy volunteers as controls. The clonality of TIL was assessed by T-cell receptor (TCR) α and β repertoire analyses and evaluated by diversity indices. The TME was assessed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction evaluating PD-L1 and CD8B. (3) Results: The clonal expansion of TIL was significantly induced within ESCCs and OSCCs, when compared to healthy volunteers, and was mostly induced within ESCCs after definitive CRT. Diversity indices of TIL were not associated with the prognosis, but the ratio of PD-L1 mRNA to CD8B mRNA in TME was significantly associated with a poor prognosis after salvage surgery (p = 0.007). (4) Conclusions: The clonal expansion of TIL is induced after definitive CRT for ESCC, and the ratio of PD-L1 mRNA to CD8B mRNA within tumor tissues is a prognostic marker candidate for salvage esophagectomy after CRT.
Profilin 1 and Mitochondria—Partners in the Pathogenesis of Coronary Artery Disease?
Authors: Paszek Elżbieta , Zajdel Wojciech , Rajs Tomasz , Żmudka Krzysztof , Legutko Jacek , Kleczyński Paweł
Published: January 2021

Atherosclerosis remains a large health and economic burden. Even though it has been studied for more than a century, its complex pathophysiology has not been elucidated. The relatively well-established contributors include: chronic inflammation in response to oxidized cholesterol, reactive oxygen species-induced damage and apoptosis. Recently, profilin 1, a regulator of actin dynamics emerged as a potential new player in the field. Profilin is abundant in stable atherosclerotic plaques and in thrombi extracted from infarct-related arteries in patients with acute myocardial infarction. The exact role of profilin in atherosclerosis and its complications, as well as its mechanisms of action, remain unknown. Here, we summarize several pathways in which profilin may act through mitochondria in a number of processes implicated in atherosclerosis.
UV-Induced Reduction of ACVR1C Decreases SREBP1 and ACC Expression by the Suppression of SMAD2 Phosphorylation in Normal Human Epidermal Keratinocytes
Authors: Tian Yu-Dan , Chung Min Hwa , Quan Qing-Ling , Lee Dong Hun , Kim Eun Ju , Chung Jin Ho
Published: January 2021

Activin A receptor type 1C (ACVR1C), a type I transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) receptor, has been implicated in sensitive skin and psoriasis and is involved in the regulation of metabolic homeostasis as well as cell proliferation and differentiation. In this study, we identified a novel role of ACVR1C in the ultraviolet (UV)-irradiation-induced reduction of epidermal lipogenesis in human skin. UV irradiation decreased ACVR1C expression and epidermal triglyceride (TG) synthesis in human skin in vivo and in primary normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEK) in vitro. Lipogenic genes, including genes encoding acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) and sterol regulatory element binding protein-1 (SREBP1), were significantly downregulated in UV-irradiated NHEK. ACVR1C knockdown by shRNA resulted in greater decreases in SREBP1 and ACC in response to UV irradiation. Conversely, the overexpression of ACVR1C attenuated the UV-induced decreases in SREBP1 and ACC. Further mechanistic study revealed that SMAD2 phosphorylation mediated the ACVR1C-induced lipogenic gene modulation. Taken together, a decrease in ACVR1C may cause UV-induced reductions in SREBP1 and ACC as well as epidermal TG synthesis via the suppression of SMAD2 phosphorylation. ACVR1C may be a target for preventing or treating UV-induced disruptions in lipid metabolism and associated skin disorders.
Skipping the Insect Vector: Plant Stolon Transmission of the Phytopathogen ‘Ca. Phlomobacter fragariae’ from the Arsenophonus Clade of Insect Endosymbionts
Authors: Dittmer Jessica , Lusseau Thierry , Foissac Xavier , Faoro Franco
Published: January 2021

The genus Arsenophonus represents one of the most widespread clades of insect endosymbionts, including reproductive manipulators and bacteriocyte-associated primary endosymbionts. Two strains belonging to the Arsenophonus clade have been identified as insect-vectored plant pathogens of strawberry and sugar beet. The bacteria accumulate in the phloem of infected plants, ultimately causing leaf yellows and necrosis. These symbionts therefore represent excellent model systems to investigate the evolutionary transition from a purely insect-associated endosymbiont towards an insect-vectored phytopathogen. Using quantitative PCR and transmission electron microscopy, we demonstrate that ‘Candidatus Phlomobacter fragariae’, bacterial symbiont of the planthopper Cixius wagneri and the causative agent of Strawberry Marginal Chlorosis disease, can be transmitted from an infected strawberry plant to multiple daughter plants through stolons. Stolons are horizontally growing stems enabling the nutrient provisioning of daughter plants during their early growth phase. Our results show that Phlomobacter was abundant in the phloem sieve elements of stolons and was efficiently transmitted to daughter plants, which rapidly developed disease symptoms. From an evolutionary perspective, Phlomobacter is, therefore, not only able to survive within the plant after transmission by the insect vector, but can even be transmitted to new plant generations, independently from its ancestral insect host.
Zebrafish Models of Cancer Therapy-Induced Cardiovascular Toxicity
Authors: Lane Sarah , More Luis Alberto , Asnani Aarti
Published: January 2021

Purpose of review: Both traditional and novel cancer therapies can cause cardiovascular toxicity in patients. In vivo models integrating both cardiovascular and cancer phenotypes allow for the study of on- and off-target mechanisms of toxicity arising from these agents. The zebrafish is the optimal whole organism model to screen for cardiotoxicity in a high throughput manner, while simultaneously assessing the role of cardiotoxicity pathways on the cancer therapy’s antitumor effect. Here we highlight established zebrafish models of human cardiovascular disease and cancer, the unique advantages of zebrafish to study mechanisms of cancer therapy-associated cardiovascular toxicity, and finally, important limitations to consider when using the zebrafish to study toxicity. Recent findings: Cancer therapy-associated cardiovascular toxicities range from cardiomyopathy with traditional agents to arrhythmias and thrombotic complications associated with newer targeted therapies. The zebrafish can be used to identify novel therapeutic strategies that selectively protect the heart from cancer therapy without affecting antitumor activity. Advances in genome editing technology have enabled the creation of several transgenic zebrafish lines valuable to the study of cardiovascular and cancer pathophysiology. Summary: The high degree of genetic conservation between zebrafish and humans, as well as the ability to recapitulate cardiotoxic phenotypes observed in patients with cancer, make the zebrafish an effective model to study cancer therapy-associated cardiovascular toxicity. Though this model provides several key benefits over existing in vitro and in vivo models, limitations of the zebrafish model include the early developmental stage required for most high-throughput applications.
The Prevalence of Enteropathy Symptoms from the Lower Gastrointestinal Tract and the Evaluation of Anorectal Function in Diabetes Mellitus Patients
Authors: Reszczyńska Małgorzata , Kempiński Radosław
Published: January 2021

Complications affecting the gastrointestinal tract often occur in the course of diabetes mellitus (DM). The aim of this study was to evaluate enteropathy symptoms and anorectal function using high-resolution anorectal manometry (HRAM). Fifty DM patients and 20 non-DM controls were enrolled into the study. Clinical data and laboratory tests were collected, physical examination and HRAM were performed. Symptoms in the lower gastrointestinal tract were reported by 72% of patients. DM patients with a long disease duration reported anal region discomfort (p = 0.028) and a sensation of incomplete evacuation (p = 0.036) more often than patients with shorter diabetes duration. Overall, DM patients had a lower maximal squeeze pressure (MSP) (p = 0.001) and a higher mean threshold of minimal rectal sensation (p < 0.01) than control subjects. They presented with enhanced features of dyssynergic defection than the control group. MSP and maximal resting pressure (MRP) were significantly lower in the group of long-term diabetes (p = 0.024; p = 0.026 respectively) than in patients with a short-term diabetes. The same observation was noted for patients with enteropathy symptoms that control for MSP (p < 0.01; p < 0.01; p = 0.03) and MRP (p < 0.001; p = 0.0036; p = 0.0046), respectively, for incontinence, constipation, and diarrhea. Symptoms in the lower gastrointestinal tract are often reported by DM patients. All DM patients have impaired function of the external anal sphincter and present enhanced features of dyssynergic defecation and also impaired visceral sensation. Patients with long-standing DM and patients with enteropathy symptoms have severely impaired function of both anal sphincters.
The Investigative Role of Statins in Ameliorating Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS): A Systematic Review
Authors: Russo Giorgio Ivan , Larganà Gaetano , Sebastianelli Arcangelo , Cocci Andrea , Di Mauro Marina , Rapallo Ilenia , Morgia Giuseppe , Morgia Matteo Mario , La Vignera Sandro , Condorelli Rosita , Calogero Aldo E. , Olivotto Iacopo , Morselli Simone , Serni Sergio , Gacci Mauro
Published: January 2021

Previous data have shown that patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS) and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) secondary to benign prostatic enlargement (BPE) could be refractory to the medical treatment. In this context, the evidence suggests a role for statin use in LUTS/BPE patients. The present systematic review aimed to evaluate the impact of statins on the treatment of men with LUTS/BPE. This review has been registered on PROSPERO (CRD42019120729). A systematic review of English-language literature was performed up to January 2020 in accordance with the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA statement) criteria. Retrieved studies had to include adults with LUTS connected to BPE treated with statins drugs for metabolic syndrome. After removing duplicates, a total of 381 studies were identified by the literature search and independently screened. Of these articles, 10 fit the inclusion criteria and were further assessed for eligibility. Data from our systematic review suggest that a long-term therapy with statins, at least 6 months, is required to achieve significant impacts on prostate tissue and LUTS. Moreover, besides statins’ direct activity, the risk reduction of LUTS might be connected to the improvement of hypercholesterolemia and MetS. The role of statins for the treatment of LUTS/BPE may be beneficial; however, evidence from robust studies is not enough, and more clinical trial are required.
Apolipoprotein ɛ4 Status and Brain Structure 12 Months after Mild Traumatic Injury: Brain Age Prediction Using Brain Morphometry and Diffusion Tensor Imaging
Authors: Hellstrøm Torgeir , Andelic Nada , de Lange Ann-Marie G. , Helseth Eirik , Eiklid Kristin , Westlye Lars T.
Published: January 2021

Background: Apolipoprotein E (APOE) ɛ4 is associated with poor outcome following moderate to severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). There is a lack of studies investigating the influence of APOE ɛ4 on intracranial pathology following mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI). This study explores the association between APOE ɛ4 and MRI measures of brain age prediction, brain morphometry, and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). Methods: Patients aged 16 to 65 with acute MTBI admitted to the trauma center were included. Multimodal MRI was performed 12 months after injury and associated with APOE ɛ4 status. Corrections for multiple comparisons were done using false discovery rate (FDR). Results: Of included patients, 123 patients had available APOE, volumetric, and DTI data of sufficient quality. There were no differences between APOE ɛ4 carriers (39%) and non-carriers in demographic and clinical data. Age prediction revealed high accuracy both for the DTI-based and the brain morphometry based model. Group comparisons revealed no significant differences in brain-age gap between ɛ4 carriers and non-carriers, and no significant differences in conventional measures of brain morphometry and volumes. Compared to non-carriers, APOE ɛ4 carriers showed lower fractional anisotropy (FA) in the hippocampal part of the cingulum bundle, which did not remain significant after FDR adjustment. Conclusion: APOE ɛ4 carriers might be vulnerable to reduced neuronal integrity in the cingulum. Larger cohort studies are warranted to replicate this finding.
Can CRP Levels Predict Infection in Presumptive Aseptic Long Bone Non-Unions? A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Tosounidis Theodoros H. , Holton Colin , Giannoudis Vasileios P. , Kanakaris Nikolaos K. , West Robert M. , Giannoudis Peter V.
Published: January 2021

Nonunion remains a major complication of the management of long bone fractures. The primary aim of the present study was to investigate whether raised levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and white blood cell count (WBC), in the absence of clinical signs, are correlated with positive intraoperative tissue cultures in presumptive aseptic long-bone nonunions. Infection was classified as positive if any significant growth of microorganisms was observed from bone/tissue samples sent from the theater at the time of revision surgery. Preoperatively all patients were investigated with full blood count, white blood count differential as well as C-reactive protein (CRP). A total of 105 consecutive patients (59 males) were included in the study, with an average age of 46.76 years (range 16–92 years) at the time of nonunion diagnosis. The vast majority were femoral (56) and tibial (37) nonunions. The median time from the index surgical procedure to the time of nonunion diagnosis was 10 months (range 9 months to 10 years). Positive cultures revealed a mixed growth of microorganisms, with coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (56.4%) being the most prevalent microorganism, followed by Staphylococcusaureus (20.5%). Pseudomonas, Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), coliforms and micrococcus were present in the remainder of the cases (23.1%). Overall, the risk of infection with normal CRP levels (<10 mg/L) was 21/80 = 0.26. Elevated CRP levels (≥10 mg/L) increased the risk of infection to 0.72. The relative risk given a positive CRP test was RR = 0.72/0.26 = 2.74. Overall, the WBC count was found to be an unreliable marker to predict infection. Solid union was achieved in all cases after an average of 6.5 months (3–24 months) from revision surgery. In patients with presumed aseptic long bone nonunion and normal CRP levels, the risk of underlying low-grade indolent infection can be as high as 26%. Patients should be made aware of this finding, which can complicate their treatment course and outcomes.
The Effectiveness and Recommendation of Motor Imagery Techniques for Rehabilitation after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pastora-Bernal José Manuel , Estebanez-Pérez María José , Lucena-Anton David , García-López Francisco José , Bort-Carballo Antonio , Martín-Valero Rocío
Published: January 2021

Motor imagery (MI) reported positive effects in some musculoskeletal rehabilitation processes. The main objective of this study was to analyze the effectiveness of MI interventions after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. A systematic review was conducted from November 2018 to December 2019 in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, The Cochrane Library, and Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro). The methodological quality, degree of recommendation, and levels of evidence were analyzed. A total of six studies were included. Selected studies showed unequal results (positive and negative) regarding pain, anxiety, fear of re-injury, function, and activities of daily living. Regarding the range of motion, anthropometric measurements, and quality of life, the results were not conclusive. Muscle activation, strength, knee laxity, time to remove external support, and neurobiological factors showed some favorable results. Nevertheless, the results were based on a limited number of studies, small sample sizes, and a moderate-weak degree of recommendation. In conclusion, our review showed a broader view of the current evidence, including a qualitative assessment to implement MI after ACL surgery. There was no clear evidence that MI added to physiotherapy was an effective intervention after ACL surgery, although some studies showed positive results in clinical outcomes. More adequately-powered long-term randomized controlled trials are necessary.
Risk Factors for Surgical Treatment of Endometrial Cancer Using Traditional and Laparoscopic Methods
Authors: Januszek Sławomir M. , Wita-Popow Barbara , Kluz Marta , Janowska Magdalena , Januszek Rafał , Wróbel Andrzej , Rogowski Artur , Malinowski Krzysztof P. , Zuzak Tomasz , Kluz Tomasz
Published: January 2021

Surgical treatment is the most important part of therapy for endometrial cancer. The aim of the study was to define factors having the most significant impact on surgical treatment of endometrial cancer when using traditional and laparoscopic methods. In the study, we evaluated 75 females who were treated for endometrial cancer via laparoscopic surgery in 2019 and used a historical control of 70 patients treated by laparotomy in 2011. The evaluated risk factors included the method of surgery, type of lymphadenectomy, patient’s age, various obesity parameters, histological grading, cancer clinical staging, pelvic dimensions, previous abdominal surgeries, comorbidities, and number of deliveries. The duration of hospitalization, operation time, loss of hemoglobin, and procedure-related complications were used as parameters of perioperative outcomes. Multivariable linear regression analysis confirmed the following factors as being predictors of worse perioperative outcomes: laparotomy, abdominal obesity (waist circumstance and waist-to-hip ratio), range of lymphadenectomy, prior abdominal surgeries, and larger pelvic dimensions. Abdominal obesity is a significant risk factor in the treatment of endometrial cancer. Laparotomy continues to be utilized frequently in the management of endometrial cancer in Poland as well as elsewhere, and adopting a minimally invasive approach is likely to be beneficial for patient outcome.
Over 10-Year Outcomes of Infantile-Onset Epilepsies
Authors: Kim Hyun-Jin , Jang Han Na , Ahn Hyunji , Yum Mi-Sun , Ko Tae-Sung
Published: January 2021

Seizures in infancy have highly variable courses and underlying etiologies. However, there are only a few long-term follow-up studies regarding infantile-onset epilepsy. Therefore, we aimed to describe the clinical courses, seizure outcomes, and risk factors of infantile-onset epilepsy followed up for more than 10 years in a tertiary center. Methods: Data of the patients with epilepsy, diagnosed under the age of 12 months and followed up for more than 10 years, were retrieved from the electronic medical records of Asan Medical Center Children’s Hospital. The patients’ medical records were retrospectively reviewed, and clinical outcomes were assessed based on the duration of seizure freedom at the last follow-up. Results: Of the 146 patients, 103 (70.5%) entered at least one remission, of whom epilepsy was resolved in 46 (31.5%). Forty-nine (33.6%) were found to be intractable at last contact. Delayed development, neurological deficits, and later onset (>3 months) were significantly associated with intractable epilepsies (p < 0.01). Conclusions: This study demonstrated that many patients with infantile-onset epilepsy can experience seizure remission. However, in some cases, early onset epilepsy was highly associated with various comorbidities and intractable seizures. Therefore, appropriate diagnosis and treatment are necessary to prevent further neuropsychiatric complications.
Assessment of the Restoration of the Remolar Dune System (Viladecans, Barcelona): The Resilience of a Coastal Dune System
Authors: Calafat Antoni , Vírseda Sara , Lovera Raúl , Lucena Joan Ramon , Bladé Carme , Rivero Lluís , Ninot Josep M.
Published: January 2021

The Remolar beach-dune system (700 m long and more than 100 m wide, 070N direction) borders a campground that was closed (2003), due to the Barcelona airport expansion. In order to recover and restore the dune ecosystem, a series of soft measures were performed. After 10 years, a study of the morphology, sedimentology, and vegetation of the ecosystem was carried out to evaluate the results of these measures. For this purpose, a series of topographic and ground-penetrating radar (GPR) profiles, grain-size analysis, and an analysis of plant communities found along the profiles were carried out. The data obtained were compared with data from a former 2004 study. The results show that the morphology of the dunes recovered, and a new primary dune has arisen. The system now has a greater process of aggradation than of progradation. The vegetation has recovered the global composition of dune systems, with a typical community of embryo dunes and others of primary dunes that are set in strips parallel to the coast. Despite this improvement, the opportunistic and ruderal component in the primary dune vegetation evidences a strong anthropic inheritance in the system.
Time Scale for Scour Beneath Pipelines Due to Long-Crested and Short-Crested Nonlinear Random Waves Plus Current
Authors: Myrhaug Dag , Ong Muk Chen
Published: January 2021

This article derives the time scale of pipeline scour caused by 2D (long-crested) and 3D (short-crested) nonlinear irregular waves and current for wave-dominant flow. The motivation is to provide a simple engineering tool suitable to use when assessing the time scale of equilibrium pipeline scour for these flow conditions. The method assumes the random wave process to be stationary and narrow banded adopting a distribution of the wave crest height representing 2D and 3D nonlinear irregular waves and a time scale formula for regular waves plus current. The presented results cover a range of random waves plus current flow conditions for which the method is valid. Results for typical field conditions are also presented. A possible application of the outcome of this study is that, e.g., consulting engineers can use it as part of assessing the on-bottom stability of seabed pipelines.
Review of Pharmacologic Considerations in the Use of Azole Antifungals in Lung Transplant Recipients
Authors: Klatt Megan E. , Eschenauer Gregory A.
Published: January 2021

Mold-active azole antifungals are commonly prescribed for the prevention of invasive fungal infections in lung transplant recipients. Each agent exhibits a unique pharmacologic profile, an understanding of which is crucial for therapy selection and optimization. This article reviews pharmacologic considerations for three frequently-used azole antifungals in lung transplant recipients: voriconazole, posaconazole, and isavuconazole. Focus is drawn to analysis of drug-interactions, adverse drug reactions, pharmacokinetic considerations, and the role of therapeutic drug monitoring with special emphasis on data from the post-lung transplant population.
Water-Facing Distribution and Suitability Space for Rural Mountain Settlements Based on Fractal Theory, South-Western China
Authors: Yu Hui , Luo Yong , Li Pengshan , Dong Wei , Yu Shulin , Gao Xianghe
Published: January 2021

The establishment of rural settlements in the topographically complex mountainous area of South-Western China is restricted by various geographical features. The fractal characteristics and water-facing distribution of rural mountain settlements and the suitability of spaces for rural mountain settlements were analyzed for a greater scientific understanding of what factors would facilitate a more appropriate selection of residential sites. The results showed that: (1) Rural mountain settlements have significant fractal characteristics—the fractal dimension values of rural mountain settlements in terms of elevation, slope, disaster risk, and water-facing level ranged from 0.853 to 1.071, 0.716 to 0.997, 0.134 to 0.243, and 0.940 to 1.110, respectively. (2) The fractal dimension value of rural mountain settlements initially increased and subsequently decreased with increasing elevation, and gradually decreased with increases in slope and disaster risk, but with wave-curve increases in water-facing levels. (3) The suitable spaces for rural mountain settlements were those with a low disaster risk and with slopes less of than 5° under a water-facing level of 0 ~ 500 m in the elevation range of 1500–2000 m. Currently, 8.77% of rural mountain settlements are situated in high-risk and sub-high-risk areas. The spatial planning of national land in China may enhance the land consolidation of rural mountain settlements and plan for the placement of settlements in suitable spaces while avoiding high-risk areas and sub-high-risk areas to ensure the safety of lives and property. The results from this study could be used as a reference for future revitalization activities and the site selection of rural mountain settlements.
Changing Fertilizer Management Practices in Sugarcane Production: Cane Grower Survey Insights
Authors: Hasan Syezlin , Smart James C. R. , Hay Rachel , Rundle-Thiele Sharyn
Published: January 2021

Improved fertilizer management practice in sugarcane production is a key component in plans to improve Great Barrier Reef (GBR) water quality. Research focused on understanding the wider systemic factors that drive behavioral change in agriculture is currently limited, with the dominant focus on individual farmer and psycho-social factors. Adopting a wider systems perspective, this study examines farming behavior change and the role of supporting services among 238 sugarcane growers (74,597 hectares) in Queensland’s Wet Tropics region who completed surveys reporting on changes in the method they used to calculate fertilizer application rates, along with information on their farm business, socio-demographics, and self-reported importance ratings on a variety of topics. Informed by the Theory of Planned Behavior, survey data are analyzed using regression models to identify factors influencing the change from traditional to improved practice, and early adoption of improved practice. Results indicate growers were less likely to change fertilizer practice if they regarded maintaining good relationships with other local growers as being extremely important, had off-farm income, or had not attended a government-funded fertilizer management workshop in the five years preceding the survey. Similar drivers acted to promote or delay early adoption of improved practice. Results demonstrate the influence of government-funded services to support practice change.
A New Life for Forest Resources: The Commons as a Driver for Economic Sustainable Development—A Case Study from Galicia
Authors: Bastida María , Vaquero García Alberto , Vázquez Taín Miguel Á.
Published: January 2021

Communal forests are a unique land tenure system and comprise a singular legal category in Galicia. Their persistence over time demonstrates that this community-owned resource has overcome the “tragedy of the commons”, showing their capability to successfully develop self-governing institutions. However, communal forests have rarely been studied through the lens of economics. This minimizes the opportunity to explore to what extent communities of communal forests might be a driving force of general well-being, citizen empowerment, equity, employment, and local development. In this paper, we focus on this gap and address the opportunities. We detail this special ownership structure that allows residents of rural areas to exploit the forest as if they were a single owner. Moreover, we highlight the potential of communal forests to exploit local resources far beyond extractive processes, enabling the generation of greater added value to the economy while favoring a responsible treatment of resources. This enables productive activity integrated with the rest of the primary sector, while allowing for the maintenance of the population and supporting the local economy. Our results reveal a set of inefficiencies that can jeopardize common forest opportunities to become a sustainable economic activity, such as underqualified management, a low level of interest and commitment among community members, and excessive focus on logging. Thus, we propose several actions to improve collective engagement and active membership to better manage Galicia’s forests.
Shoreline Dynamics in East Java Province, Indonesia, from 2000 to 2019 Using Multi-Sensor Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Arjasakusuma Sanjiwana , Kusuma Sandiaga Swahyu , Saringatin Siti , Wicaksono Pramaditya , Mutaqin Bachtiar Wahyu , Rafif Raihan
Published: January 2021

Coastal regions are one of the most vulnerable areas to the effects of global warming, which is accompanied by an increase in mean sea level and changing shoreline configurations. In Indonesia, the socioeconomic importance of coastal regions where the most populated cities are located is high. However, shoreline changes in Indonesia are relatively understudied. In particular, detailed monitoring with remote sensing data is lacking despite the abundance of datasets and the availability of easily accessible cloud computing platforms such as the Google Earth Engine that are able to perform multi-temporal and multi-sensor mapping. Our study aimed to assess shoreline changes in East Java Province Indonesia from 2000 to 2019 using variables derived from a multi-sensor combination of optical remote sensing data (Landsat-7 ETM and Landsat-8 OLI) and radar data (ALOS Palsar and Sentinel-1 data). Random forest and GMO maximum entropy (GMO-Maxent) accuracy was assessed for the classification of land and water, and the land polygons from the best algorithm were used for deriving shorelines. In addition, shoreline changes were quantified using Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS). Our results showed that coastal accretion is more profound than coastal erosion in East Java Province with average rates of change of +4.12 (end point rate, EPR) and +4.26 m/year (weighted linear rate, WLR) from 2000 to 2019. In addition, some parts of the shorelines in the study area experienced massive changes, especially in the deltas of the Bengawan Solo and Brantas/Porong river with rates of change (EPR) between −87.44 to +89.65 and −18.98 to +111.75 m/year, respectively. In the study areas, coastal erosion happened mostly in the mangrove and aquaculture areas, while the accreted areas were used mostly as aquaculture and mangrove areas. The massive shoreline changes in this area require better monitoring to mitigate the potential risks of coastal erosion and to better manage coastal sedimentation.
Future or Movement? The L2 Acquisition of Aller + V Forms
Authors: Leclercq Pascale
Published: January 2021

This study aims to advance the understanding of the impact of the discursive context in the form-function mappings of aller + V forms by native speakers (NSs) and learners of French (NNSs), and to further knowledge about the developmental patterns of use of such forms at three proficiency levels (lower intermediate, upper intermediate, and advanced). While aller + V is often referred to as a periphrastic future form, i.e., a way to express temporal reference, it also takes a range of diverse semantic values (including spatial, aspectual, and modal values), and discursive functions. We therefore set out to examine data from a cross-sectional oral narrative and a longitudinal semi-guided interview task to find out to what extent aller + V forms are used by NSs and NNSs in a study abroad context. Our main results show that at lower intermediate level, spatial values dominate, while temporal and modal values emerge at upper intermediate and advanced levels. As regards the discursive functions of aller + V, learners make context appropriate choices (among others, narrative function in oral narratives, and stance-marking in interviews), but even at advanced level, their range of semantic values and discursive functions is more restricted than native speakers’.
N-(6-Chloro-3-nitropyridin-2-yl)-5-(1-methyl-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)isoquinolin-3-amine
Authors: Wydra Valentin , Gerstenecker Stefan , Schollmeyer Dieter , Andreev Stanislav , Dimitrov Teodor , Massarico Serafim Ricardo Augusto , Laufer Stefan , Gehringer Matthias
Published: January 2021

Here we describe the synthesis of N-(6-chloro-3-nitropyridin-2-yl)5-(1-methyl-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)isoquinolin-3-amine via a three-step procedure including a Buchwald–Hartwig arylamination with benzophenone imine and a highly regioselective nucleophilic aromatic substitution. The title compound was analyzed by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H, 13C, HSQC, HMBC, COSY, DEPT90 and NOESY), high resolution mass spectrometry (ESI-TOF-HRMS) and infrared spectroscopy (ATR-IR) and its structure was confirmed by single crystal X-ray diffraction. The inhibitory potency of the title compound was evaluated for selected kinases harboring a rare cysteine in the hinge region (MPS1, MAPKAPK2 and p70S6Kβ/S6K2).
Directional Water Wicking on a Metal Surface Patterned by Microchannels
Authors: Abbaspour Nima , Beltrame Philippe , Néel Marie-Christine , Schulz Volker P.
Published: January 2021

This work focuses on the simulation and experimental study of directional wicking of water on a surface structured by open microchannels. Stainless steel was chosen as the material for the structure motivated by industrial applications as fuel cells. Inspired by nature and literature, we designed a fin type structure. Using Selective Laser Melting (SLM) the fin type structure was manufactured additively with a resolution down to about 30 μm. The geometry was manufactured with three different scalings and both the experiments and the simulation show that the efficiency of the water transport depends on dimensionless numbers such as Reynolds and Capillary numbers. Full 3D numerical simulations of the multiphase Navier-Stokes equations using Volume of Fluid (VOF) and Lattice-Boltzmann (LBM) methods reproduce qualitatively the experimental results and provide new insight into the details of dynamics at small space and time scales. The influence of the static contact angle on the directional wicking was also studied. The simulation enabled estimation of the contact angle threshold beyond which transport vanishes in addition to the optimal contact angle for transport.
Micromorphology of the Adhesive Interface of Self-Adhesive Resin Cements to Enamel and Dentin
Authors: Scholz Konstantin Johannes , Bittner Aleksandra , Cieplik Fabian , Hiller Karl-Anton , Schmalz Gottfried , Buchalla Wolfgang , Federlin Marianne
Published: January 2021

Interfaces between dentin, enamel and luting agents were characterized using low vacuum Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). After smear layer creation, one of three luting agents (RelyX Unicem 2, Clearfil SA Cement and Panavia F 2.0/ED Primer II) was applied on 60 enamel-dentin specimens and dual-cured or self-cured. Specimens were polished (Experiment 1) and subsequently demineralized and deproteinized (Experiment 2). Adhesive interfaces were analyzed (low vacuum SEM, ×3000). Presence of an interdiffusion zone, tag-like structures (dentin) and marginal gaps (enamel) were assessed. Non-parametrical tests (χ2-test, α = 0.05) were performed. The first null-hypothesis was that the adhesive interface micromorphology between enamel and dentin and self-adhesive resin cements (SARCs) is similar with conventional resin cement used with a self-etch adhesive (CRC+SE). The second null-hypothesis was that the micromorphology is not influenced by curing modes. Interdiffusion zones and tag-like structures (dentin) were observed more frequently for CRC+SE compared to SARCs. For each luting agent, there was a non-significant (p > 0.05) tendency for interdiffusion zone and tag-like structures detectable in more specimens after self-curing compared to dual-curing. Marginal gaps (enamel) were found only for SARCs. The first null-hypothesis was not rejected fully: Tag-like structures and interdiffusion zones in dentin were found for CRC+SE and SARCs. The second null-hypothesis was not rejected.
Characterization of Glass Insulating Thick Films with Ag Conductors for Multilayer Packages
Authors: Fang Jun , Fu Renli , Gu Xiguang , Zhang Xinyao , Li Guojun
Published: January 2021

In this paper, an insulating film was successfully prepared by sintering 35 wt % CaO-15 wt % Al2O3-10 wt % B2O3-40 wt % SiO2 glass at 875 °C. After sintering, the main component of the insulating film was glass-ceramics. The main crystal phase was CaAl2Si2O8, and the crystallization activation energy was 189.76 kJ/mol. After preparing the insulating film, its color turned yellow, and the diffusion of Ag was found by XPS and XRD data. When the temperature increased to 875 °C, the color of the insulating film became lighter, and the silver content decreased. The adhesion of the multilayer structure could reach 875 N. The dielectric constant of the insulating film in the multilayer structure was approximately 5, and the dielectric loss was 0.0011. After sintering, the dielectric strength of the insulating film could reach 13.11 kV/mm, which fully meets the requirements of a complex packaging structure.
Chemical Changes of Wood Treated with Caffeine
Authors: Kwaśniewska-Sip Patrycja , Woźniak Magdalena , Jankowski Wojciech , Ratajczak Izabela , Cofta Grzegorz
Published: January 2021

Earlier studies have revealed that wood treated with caffeine was effectively protected against decay fungi and molds. However, there is a need to establish how the caffeine molecule behaves after wood impregnation and how it can protect wood. The objective of the research was to characterize the interaction between caffeine and Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) wood as well as to assess the stability of the alkaloid molecule in lignocellulosic material. For this purpose, an elementary analyzer was used to assess the nitrogen concentration in the treated wood. The results showed that caffeine is easily removed from the wood structure through large amounts of water. The changes occurring in the wood structure after impregnation were evaluated with regard to the results obtained by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy of two model mixtures with caffeine and cellulose or lignin for the purpose of conducting a comparison with the spectrum of impregnated and non-impregnated samples. The observed changes in FTIR spectra involve the intensity of the C=O(6) caffeine carbonyl group and signals from guaiacyl units. It might indicate favorable interactions between caffeine and lignin. Additionally, molecular simulation of the caffeine’s interaction with the guaiacyl β-O-4 lignin model compound characteristic for the lignin structure using computational studies was performed. Consequently, all analyses confirmed that caffeine may interact with the methylene group derived from the aromatic rings of the guaiacyl group of lignin. In summary, scanning electron microscope (SEM) observations suggest that caffeine was accumulated in the lignin-rich areas of the primary walls.
Depletion-Induced Chiral Chain Formation of Magnetic Spheres
Authors: Heijnen Sandrine M. F. , van Vliet Patrick , Kuipers Bonny W. M. , Philipse Albert P. , Petukhov Andrei V. , Ouhajji Samia
Published: January 2021

Experimental evidence is presented for the spontaneous formation of chiral configurations in bulk dispersions of magnetized colloids that interact by a combination of anisotropic dipolar interactions and isotropic depletion attractions. The colloids are superparamagnetic silica spheres, magnetized and aligned by a carefully tuned uniform external magnetic field; isotropic attractions are induced by using poly(ethylene oxide) polymers as depleting agents. At specific polymer concentrations, sphere chains wind around each other to form helical structures–of the type that previously have only been observed in simulations on small sets of unconfined dipolar spheres with additional isotropic interactions.