bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Colon-Targeted Therapy of Tacrolimus (FK506) in the Treatment of Experimentally Induced Colitis
Authors: Ali Ahmed S. , Altayari Abid A. , Khan Lateef M. , Alharthi Sameer E. , Ahmed Osama A. , El-Shitany Nagla A. , Ali Soad S. , Saadah Omar I.
Published: January 2020

Background/Aims: Inflammatory bowel disease is a chronic or remitting/relapsing intestinal inflammation, which comprises Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis (UC). Severe UC is a life-threatening condition that requires corticosteroids (CS) as a first-line rescue therapy. Some patients are refractory to CS and may require alternative immunosuppressive therapy. Oral tacrolimus (FK506), an immunosuppressive agent, has been reported to be effective in the management of severe refractory UC, but it can cause serious adverse effects. This work aims to study the effect of tacrolimus delivered by a colon-targeted delivery system (CTDS) in a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced animal model of colitis. Materials and Methods: We developed and evaluated an oral CTDS of tacrolimus (FK506) loaded pH-dependent polymeric microspheres, composed of Eudragit® S100 as a pH-sensitive polymer using the oil-in-water emulsion method. The physicochemical properties and drug release profiles of these microparticles in gastrointestinal tract (GIT) conditions were examined. A DSS-induced colitis rat model was used to evaluate the potential remedial and in vivo distribution of microspheres. Results: The pH-microspheres prevented a burst drug release in acidic pH conditions and showed sustained release at a colonic pH. The in vivo distribution study in the rat GIT demonstrated that pH-microspheres were successfully delivered to the inflamed colon. Moreover, it also demonstrated a significant decrease of disease activity and expression of proinflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and IL-6, and minimized the histological and morphometric changes. Conclusion: The results confirmed the efficacy of tacrolimus (FK506) CTDs in the management of DSS-induced colitis.
A Case of Subacute Combined Degeneration of Spinal Cord Diagnosed by Vitamin B12 Administration Lowering Methylmalonic Acid
Authors: Hara Daisuke , Akamatsu Masashi , Mizukami Heisuke , Kato Bunta , Suzuki Takaaki , Oshima Jun , Hasegawa Yasuhiro
Published: January 2020

Subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord (SCDS) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by subacute progression in the central and peripheral nervous systems mainly caused by vitamin B12 deficiency. It is known that typical SCDS is frequently accompanied by megaloblastic anemia and increased serum methylmalonic acid (MMA) or homocysteine (Hcy) levels on laboratory findings, and marked abnormalities on spinal cord magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A 45-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital with a 2-year history of worsening mild weakness, numbness in bilateral lower limbs, and gait disturbance. On admission, as laboratory findings, blood count showed macrocytosis without anemia, and biochemical tests showed mild reduction in total serum vitamin B12 level and no increase of MMA and Hcy levels; there were no abnormal findings on spinal cord MRI. After administration of vitamin B12, her sensorimotor symptoms were improved and laboratory examination showed that macrocytosis was improved, serum vitamin B12 was increased, and serum MMA levels were decreased. This improved clinical course and the laboratory findings following vitamin B12 administration confirmed the diagnosis of SCDS due to vitamin B12 deficiency. SCDS presents with highly variable symptoms and laboratory findings, and observation of MMA levels and neurologic symptoms before and after vitamin B12 administration may be useful for diagnosing SCDS.
Salivary Aldosterone, Cortisol, and Their Morning to Evening Slopes in Patients with Depressive Disorder and Healthy Subjects: Acute Episode and Follow-Up 6 Months after Reaching Remission
Authors: Izakova Lubomira , Hlavacova Natasa , Segeda Viktor , Kapsdorfer Daniela , Morovicsova Eva , Jezova Daniela
Published: January 2020

Background/Objective: Cortisol is thought to be involved in the pathophysiology of affective disorders. Less attention has been given to other neuroendocrine factors. The aim of the present study was to test the hypothesis that adrenocortical steroids aldosterone and cortisol show different dynamic changes in the course of clinical depression with the assumption that aldosterone is a state marker of depression. Methods: A total of 78 adult subjects (39 patients with depressive disorder and 39 healthy controls) participated in a prospective non-interventional clinical study. Patients were investigated at the time of an acute episode and 6 months after reaching remission. The clinical and personal characteristics, and morning and evening salivary concentrations of aldosterone and cortisol were evaluated. Results: Patients with an acute depressive episode exhibited higher evening aldosterone and lower morning cortisol concentrations compared to healthy subjects. In these patients, both hormone concentrations showed flatter morning to evening slopes. Salivary aldosterone, but not cortisol concentrations, were lower in patients 6 months after reaching remission compared to those in the acute state. Similarly, 6 months of remission resulted in a steeper morning to evening slope of salivary aldosterone compared to the acute state. The cortisol rhythm remained dysregulated. A significant negative correlation between trait anxiety scores and morning cortisol concentrations in patients at 6 months of clinical remission was observed. Conclusion: Diurnal changes in salivary aldosterone concentrations appear to be a state marker, whilst those of cortisol a trait marker of depression.
Large Idiopathic Macular Hole Surgery: Remodelling of Outer Retinal Layers after Traditional Internal Limiting Membrane Peeling or Inverted Flap Technique
Authors: Bottoni Ferdinando , Parrulli Salvatore , Mete Maurizio , D’Agostino Isabella , Cereda Matteo , Cigada Mario , Maggio Emilia , Maraone Giorgia , Iacovello Daniela , Bottega Elisa , Staurenghi Giovanni , Pertile Grazia
Published: January 2020

Objective: To investigate the influence of the inverted flap technique compared with traditional internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling in the postoperative remodelling of outer retinal layers of idiopathic macular holes (MHs) >450 µm. Methods: We analyzed medical records and imaging studies of all patients with an idiopathic MH >450 µm who underwent vitrectomy at the Sacco University Hospital, Milan, and the Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona, Italy, between January 2008 and December 2017. Out of 41 eyes evaluated, 17 were treated with traditional ILM peeling and 24 with the inverted ILM flap technique. All patients underwent follow-up examinations every 3 months and all of them completed a final visit 12 months after surgery. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) parameters were evaluated at each visit. The main outcome measures were the postoperative recovery rate of the external limiting membrane (ELM) and ellipsoid zone (EZ), and postoperative BCVA. Correlations between OCT measurements and visual outcome were analyzed. Results: The ELM recovery rate in the ILM peeling group (15/17 eyes, 88%) was higher than in the ILM flap group (14/24 eyes, 58%) (p = 0.079). The EZ recovery rate was similar in the 2 groups, 7/17 eyes (41%) in the ILM peeling and 8/24 eyes (33%) in the ILM flap group (p = 0.744). Eyes without a persistent hyper-reflective “plug” at the edges of the MH showed a significantly higher EZ recovery rate (11/18, 61%) compared with eyes showing a persistent plug (4/23, 17%) (p = 0.008). The mean BCVA improved significantly in both groups: from 0.93 logMAR (20/170) to 0.26 logMAR (20/36) in the ILM peeling and from 0.98 logMAR (20/190) to 0.37 logMAR (20/46) in the ILM flap group. The final BCVA tended to be better in the ILM peeling group (p = 0.085). Conclusions: Given the limited information about the influence of ILM flap versus traditional ILM peeling in the postoperative remodelling of large idiopathic MHs, our data provides some new insights into the healing process of MHs >450 µm. This should be considered as part of the decision process about whether to perform an ILM flap in these patients.
Composição do leite humano: o alimento ideal
Authors: Calil Valdenise Martins Laurindo Tuma , Falcão Mário Cícero
Published: January 2020

Todas as mães devem ser encorajadas a oferecer seu próprio leite para seus filhos. Apesar do advento das fórmulas infantis, nenhuma dessas se equipara ao leite humano. O leite humano possui inúmeras vantagens: aspectos higiênicos, imunológicos, psico-sociais e cognitivo, bem como aquelas relativas à prevenção de doenças futuras; devem ser consideradas ainda as vantagens econômicas provenientes do menor custo e do efeito anticoncepcional, bem como os benefícios do aleitamento sobre o organismo materno. O leite humano possui uma composição nutricional balanceada em termos de proteínas, carboidratos e gorduras, promovendo crescimento e desenvolvimento adequados. Por isto, aalimentação de recém-nascidos e lactentes com o leite de suas próprias mães é recomendado durante dois primeiros anos de vida.
Avaliação perioperatória da viabilidade intestinal
Authors: Esteves Fernando Pinho , Caravatto Pedro Paulo De Paris , Yamakami Lucas Yugo Shiguehara , Araújo Sérgio Eduardo Alonso , Genzini Tércio , Perosa Marcelo
Published: January 2020

A determinação da viabilidade de segmentos intestinais e do grau de isquemia a partir de critérios clínicos pode ser de extrema dificuldade para o cirurgião. Faz-se necessário lançar mão de métodos auxiliares para se atestar o grau de comprometimento da alça intestinal, muitas vezes inaparenteà avaliação clínica. O presente trabalho apresenta uma revisão de literatura dos principais métodos existentes para se fazer essa avaliação, descrevendo a técnica e equipamentos necessários para cada um, bem como os resultados da aplicação dos mesmos. Os principais métodos auxiliares encontrados na literatura se dividem em experimentais: eletromiografia, laser Doppler sem contato e Imagem térmica; e clínicos: avaliação exclusiva por critérios clínicos, Doppler ultrassom, laser Doppler, injeção intravascular de corantes, oximetria superficial, oximetria de pulso, termometria, pHmetria, tonometria e fotopletismografia infravermelha. São também reinterados os resultados da indicação e realização das relaparotomias no manejo de pacientes com insuficiência vascular mesentérica. Após a revisão de literatura, pudemos concluir que o Doppler ultrassom e a injeção intravenosa de fluoresceína representam os métodos auxiliares para a avaliação perioperatória da viabilidade intestinal mais utilizados devidoprincipalmente ao seu baixo custo e relativa facilidade de uso. Optamos por destacar o papel da laparoscopia pós-operatória no segmento de pacientes submetidos ao tratamento cirúrgico de insuficiência vascular mesentérica, em especial naqueles em que a avaliação da viabilidade intestinal foi duvidosa.
Tendências temporais da morbidade e da mortalidade por doenças respiratórias na cidade de São Paulo
Authors: Toyoshima Marcos Tadashi Kakitani , Ito Gláucia Munemasa , Gouveia Nelson
Published: January 2020

Doenças respiratórias são importante causa de morbi-mortalidade em todas as faixas etárias, com considerável impacto econômico e social. Diversos autores vêm apontando um aumento nas hospitalizações e mortes por algumas causas respiratórias, porém em nosso meio, poucos estudosanalisaram estas tendências recentemente. No presente trabalho, dados de hospitalizações para o período de 1995 a 2000 e de mortalidade para 1991-2000 foram analisados através de tabelas e gráficos descritivos, testes de correlação e de tendência linear. Observou-se que houve decréscimo na taxa de internações por doenças respiratórias entre 1995-1997 e tendência de aumento de 1997-2000 em todas as idades. Tendência crescente foi também observada na mortalidade por doenças respiratórias entre 1991-2000. Padrões específicos para diferentes grupos de doenças respiratórias, diferentes faixas etárias e sexos foramobservados. Concluímos que no período estudado, houve participação importante na morbi-mortalidade respiratória de doenças agudas, como as pneumonias, mas com tendência a diminuir a sua participação, ao contrário de doenças crônicas como a DPOC. Estes resultados indicam uma mudança no perfil destas doenças, o que traz conseqüências imediatas para a formulação de políticas de saúde.
Short-Term Exposure to Waterpipe/Hookah Smoke Triggers a Hyperactive Platelet Activation State and Increases the Risk of Thrombogenesis
Authors: Alarabi Ahmed B. , Karim Zubair A. , Ramirez Jean E. Montes , Hernandez Keziah R. , Lozano Patricia A. , Rivera José O. , Alshbool Fatima Z. , Khasawneh Fadi T.
Published: January 2020

Objective:

Cardiovascular disease is a major public health problem. Among cardiovascular disease’s risk factors, tobacco smoking is considered the single most preventable cause of death, with thrombosis being the main mechanism of cardiovascular disease mortality in smokers. While tobacco smoking has been on the decline, the use of waterpipes/hookah has been rising, mainly due to the perception that they are less harmful than regular cigarettes. Strikingly, there are few studies on the negative effects of waterpipes on the cardiovascular system, and none regarding their direct contribution to thrombus formation.

Approach and Results:

We used a waterpipe whole-body exposure protocol that mimics real-life human exposure scenarios and investigated its effects, relative to clean air, on platelet function, hemostasis, and thrombogenesis. We found that waterpipe smoke (WPS)–exposed mice exhibited both shortened thrombus occlusion and bleeding times. Further, our results show that platelets from WPS-exposed mice are hyperactive, with enhanced agonist-induced aggregation, dense and α-granule secretion, αIIbβ3 integrin activation, phosphatidylserine expression, and platelet spreading, when compared with clean air–exposed platelets. Finally, at the molecular level, it was found that Akt (protein kinase B) and ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinases) phosphorylation are enhanced in the WPS and in nicotine-treated platelets.

Conclusions:

Our findings demonstrate that WPS exposure directly modulates hemostasis and increases the risk of thrombosis and that this is mediated, in part, via a state of platelet hyperactivity. The negative health impact of WPS/hookah, therefore, should not be underestimated. Moreover, this study should also help in raising public awareness of the toxic effects of waterpipe/hookah.
Association of Left Atrial High-Resolution Late Gadolinium Enhancement on Cardiac Magnetic Resonance With Electrogram Abnormalities Beyond Voltage in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Kuo Ling , Zado Erica , Frankel David S. , Santangeli Pasquale , Arkles Jeffrey , Han Yuchi , Marchlinski Francis E. , Nazarian Saman , Desjardins Benoit
Published: January 2020

Background:

Conflicting data have been reported on the association of left atrial (LA) late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) with atrial voltage in patients with atrial fibrillation. The association of LGE with electrogram fractionation and delay remains to be examined. We sought to examine the association between LA LGE on cardiac magnetic resonance and electrogram abnormalities in patients with atrial fibrillation.

Methods:

High-resolution LGE cardiac magnetic resonance was performed before electrogram mapping and ablation in atrial fibrillation patients. Cardiac magnetic resonance features were quantified using LA myocardial signal intensity
Z
score (SI-Z), a continuous normalized variable, as well as a dichotomous LGE variable based on previously validated methodology. Electrogram mapping was performed pre-ablation during sinus rhythm or LA pacing, and electrogram locations were coregistered with cardiac magnetic resonance images. Analyses were performed using multilevel patient-clustered mixed-effects regression models.

Results:

In the 40 patients with atrial fibrillation (age, 63.2±9.2 years; 1312.3±767.3 electrogram points per patient), lower bipolar voltage was associated with higher SI-Z in patients who had undergone previous ablation (coefficient, −0.049;
P
<0.001) but not in ablation-naive patients (coefficient, −0.004;
P
=0.7). LA electrogram activation delay was associated with SI-Z in patients with previous ablation (SI-Z: coefficient, 0.004;
P
<0.001 and LGE: coefficient, 0.04;
P
<0.001) but not in ablation-naive patients. In contrast, increased LA electrogram fractionation was associated with SI-Z (coefficient, 0.012;
P
=0.03) and LGE (coefficient, 0.035;
P
<0.001) only in ablation-naive patients.

Conclusions:

The association of LA LGE with voltage is modified by ablation. Importantly, in ablation-naive patients, atrial LGE is associated with electrogram fractionation even in the absence of voltage abnormalities.
RADAR
Authors: Choudry Subbarao , Mansour Moussa , Sundaram Sri , Nguyen Duy T. , Dukkipati Srinivas R. , Whang William , Kessman Paul , Reddy Vivek Y.
Published: January 2020

Background:

Pulmonary vein isolation is insufficient to treat all patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (AF), and effective adjunctive ablation strategies are needed. Ablation of AF drivers holds promise, but current technologies to identify drivers are limited by spatial resolution. In a single-arm, first-in-human, investigator-initiated Food and Drug Administration Investigational Device Exemption study, we used a novel system for real-time, high-resolution identification of AF drivers in persistent AF.

Methods:

Patients with persistent or long-standing persistent AF underwent ablation using the RADAR (Real-Time Electrogram Analysis for Drivers of Atrial Fibrillation) system in conjunction with a standard electroanatomical mapping system. After pulmonary vein isolation, electrogram and spatial information was streamed to the RADAR system and analyzed to identify driver domains to target for ablation.

Results:

Across 4 centers, 64 subjects were enrolled: 73% male, age, 64.7±9.5 years; body mass index, 31.7±6.0 kg/m
2
; left atrium size, 54±10 mm, with persistent/long-standing persistent AF in 53 (83%)/11 (17%), prior AF ablation (re-do group) in 26 (41%). After 12.6±0.8 months follow-up, 68% remained AF-free off all antiarrhythmics; 74% remained AF-free and 66% remained AF/atrial tachycardia/atrial flutter-free on or off AADs (antiarrhythmic drugs). AF terminated with ablation in 35 patients (55%) overall and in 23/38 (61%) of de novo ablation patients. For patients with AF termination during ablation, 82% remained AF-free and 74% AF/atrial tachycardia/atrial flutter-free during follow-up on or off AADs. Patients undergoing first-time ablation generally had higher rates of freedom from AF than the re-do group.

Conclusions:

This novel technology for panoramic mapping of AF drivers showed promising results in a persistent/long-standing persistent AF population. These data provide the scientific basis for a randomized trial.

Clinical Trial Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT03263702; IDE#G170049.
Provider Perspectives on the Feasibility and Utility of Routine Patient‐Reported Outcomes Assessment in Heart Failure: A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Wohlfahrt Peter , Zickmund Susan L. , Slager Stacey , Allen Larry A. , Nicolau Jose Nativi , Kfoury Abdallah G. , Felker G. Michael , Conte Jorge , Flint Kelsey , DeVore Adam D. , Selzman Craig H. , Hess Rachel , Spertus John A. , Stehlik Josef
Published: January 2020

Background

Patient‐reported outcomes (
PRO
s) objectively measure health‐related quality of life and provide prognostic information. Advances in technology now allow for rapid, patient‐friendly
PRO
assessment and scoring, yet the adoption of
PRO
s in clinic has been slow. We conducted a multicenter qualitative study of diverse providers to describe the barriers and facilitators of routine
PRO
use in heart failure clinics.

Methods and Results

Sixty heart failure providers from 5 institutions participated in 8 focus groups to explore provider perspectives on the use of heart failure‐specific and generic
PRO
s in clinical practice. A qualitative editing approach was used to analyze the data, whereby a coding dictionary was iteratively developed and applied using the qualitative software program Altas.ti. Three main themes, supporting and impeding
PRO
use, emerged: (1) data collection; (2) presentation and interpretation; and (3) utility and value. For each construct, we identified perspectives that highlighted both barriers and facilitators. Providers identified burden, survey fatigue, and language/health literacy barriers as potentially impeding data collection. Optimal workflow,
PRO
frequency and length, use of
PRO
translations, and assistance of a patient's proxy were suggested as facilitators. Focus group discussions provided insight on how to display
PRO
s to support its interpretability and sharing. Furthermore, the need to educate providers on the utility and value
PRO
s over and above current clinical approaches emerged.

Conclusions

Overcoming the barriers and supporting facilitators of
PRO
adoption could potentially lead to more successful adoption of
PRO
s in heart failure clinics.
Ischemic Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack Risk Following Vitamin K Antagonist Cessation in Newly Diagnosed Atrial Fibrillation: A Cohort Study
Authors: Martinez Carlos , Wallenhorst Christopher , Rietbrock Stephan , Freedman Ben
Published: January 2020

Background

In nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (
AF
), oral anticoagulants prevent ischemic strokes and transient ischemic attacks (
TIAs
), but nonpersistence with vitamin K antagonist (
VKA
) oral anticoagulant therapy (20–50% at 1 year) is problematic. The precise risk of stroke/
TIA
after
VKA
cessation and its time course during extended follow‐up is unknown.

Methods and Results

The study cohort of incident
AF
in patients receiving initial
VKA
between 2001 and 2013 was identified from the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink (linked hospitalizations and causes of death). Using a nested case‐control analysis, patients with incident stroke/
TIA
were matched to patients without stroke/
TIA
(controls). Relative risk with time since
VKA
cessation compared with current
VKA
use was approximated from conditional logistic regression. We studied 16 696 patients with incident
AF
and initial
VKA
treatment. There were 489 stroke/
TIA
cases matched to 2137 controls (mean
CHA
2
DS
2
‐
VAS
c score 4.3). Compared with current
VKA
use, the excess incidence rate of stroke/
TIA
following
VKA
cessation in the first year after
AF
diagnosis was 2.29 (95%
CI
, 0.98–3.90) per 100 person‐years of
VKA
cessation or 1 additional stroke/
TIA
per 43 patients per year discontinuing
VKA
, compared with 1.43 (95%
CI
, 0.97–1.88) per 100 person‐years corresponding to 1 additional stroke/
TIA
per 70 patients per year, when
VKA
was discontinued more than 1 year after
AF
diagnosis.

Conclusions

VKA
cessation is associated with a continuous excess thromboembolic stroke/
TIA
risk. Increasing
oral anticoagulant
persistence, especially in the year after
AF
diagnosis, should be a therapeutic target to reduce stroke/
TIA
in
AF
.
Gene Expression Correlates of the Cortical Network Underlying Sentence Processing
Authors: Kong Xiang-Zhen , Tzourio-Mazoyer Nathalie , Joliot Marc , Fedorenko Evelina , Liu Jia , Fisher Simon E. , Francks Clyde
Published: January 2020

A pivotal question in modern neuroscience is which genes regulate brain circuits that underlie cognitive functions. However, the field is still in its infancy. Here we report an integrated investigation of the high-level language network (i.e., sentence-processing network) in the human cerebral cortex, combining regional gene expression profiles, task fMRI, large-scale neuroimaging meta-analysis, and resting-state functional network approaches. We revealed reliable gene expression–functional network correlations using three different network definition strategies, and identified a consensus set of genes related to connectivity within the sentence-processing network. The genes involved showed enrichment for neural development and actin-related functions, as well as association signals with autism, which can involve disrupted language functioning. Our findings help elucidate the molecular basis of the brain’s infrastructure for language. The integrative approach described here will be useful for studying other complex cognitive traits.
New species of the genus Macrogynoplax and new records of Anacroneuria (Plecoptera: Perlidae) from Roraima State, Brazil
Authors: MENEZES EMELY TRAJANO DE , BOLDRINI RAFAEL , NOVAES MARCOS CARNEIRO
Published: January 2020

Adults of Plecoptera of the family Perlidae were studied from seven municipalities of Roraima State, Brazil. One new species of Macrogynoplax Enderlein, 1909 was discovered and is described. We also report seven species of Anacroneuria Klapálek 1909 that represent two new country records for Brazil, A. caraca Stark, 1995 and A. cruza Stark, 1995, and five species, A. atrifrons Klapálek, 1922, A. blanca Stark, 1995, A. minuta Klapálek 1922, A. marlieri Froehlich 2001 and A. pictipes Klapálek 1923 that are new records for Roraima State. Additionally, we reported variant specimens of A. marlieri and A. minuta.
Atriadops macula (Wiedemann) inhabiting the canopy: the first record of Nemestrinidae (Diptera) in the Amazon Basin
Authors: RAFAEL JOSÉ A. , MARQUES DAYSE W. A. , LIMEIRA-DE-OLIVEIRA FRANCISCO
Published: January 2020

This is the first record of the family Nemestrinidae in the Amazon Basin, based on three females identified as Atriadops macula (Wiedemann, 1824). The specimens were collected in the canopy using flight interception traps. This species was previously known to inhabit understory open areas. The canopy, the new habitat record, is an open area stratum with higher insolation, higher temperature and less humidity. As the adults of A. macula have the mouthparts greatly reduced, they probably do not feed and their occurrence in the canopy probably is more likely related to the distribution of their hosts as well as the environmental factors.
Description of the female of Sattleria sophiae Timossi, 2014 (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)
Authors: TIMOSSI GIOVANNI , RUZZIER ENRICO
Published: January 2020

The female of Sattleria sophiae Timossi, 2014 is identified on the basis of DNA barcoding, described, illustrated and its habitat is discussed.
Terrain Trapped Airflows and Precipitation Variability during an Atmospheric River Event
Authors: Ryoo Ju-Mee , Chiao Sen , Spackman J. Ryan , Iraci Laura T. , Ralph F. Martin , Martin Andrew , Dole Randall M. , Marrero Josette E. , Yates Emma L. , Bui T. Paul , Dean-Day Jonathan M. , Chang Cecilia S.
Published: January 2020

We examine thermodynamic and kinematic structures of terrain trapped airflows (TTAs) during an atmospheric river (AR) event impacting Northern California 10–11 March 2016 using Alpha Jet Atmospheric eXperiment (AJAX) aircraft data, in situ observations, and Weather and Research Forecasting (WRF) Model simulations. TTAs are identified by locally intensified low-level winds flowing parallel to the coastal ranges and having maxima over the near-coastal waters. Multiple mechanisms can produce TTAs, including terrain blocking and gap flows. The changes in winds can significantly alter the distribution, timing, and intensity of precipitation. We show here how different mechanisms producing TTAs evolve during this event and influence local precipitation variations. Three different periods are identified from the time-varying wind fields. During period 1 (P1), a TTA develops during synoptic-scale onshore flow that backs to southerly flow near the coast. This TTA occurs when the Froude number (Fr) is less than 1, suggesting low-level terrain blocking is the primary mechanism. During period 2 (P2), a Petaluma offshore gap flow develops, with flows turning parallel to the coast offshore and with Fr > 1. Periods P1 and P2 are associated with slightly more coastal than mountain precipitation. In period 3 (P3), the gap flow initiated during P2 merges with a pre-cold-frontal low-level jet (LLJ) and enhanced precipitation shifts to higher mountain regions. Dynamical mixing also becomes more important as the TTA becomes confluent with the approaching LLJ. The different mechanisms producing TTAs and their effects on precipitation pose challenges to observational and modeling systems needed to improve forecasts and early warnings of AR events.
Designing Multimodel Applications with Surrogate Forecast Systems
Authors: Smith Leonard A. , Du Hailiang , Higgins Sarah
Published: January 2020

Probabilistic forecasting is common in a wide variety of fields including geoscience, social science, and finance. It is sometimes the case that one has multiple probability forecasts for the same target. How is the information in these multiple nonlinear forecast systems best “combined”? Assuming stationarity, in the limit of a very large forecast–outcome archive, each model-based probability density function can be weighted to form a “multimodel forecast” that will, in expectation, provide at least as much information as the most informative single model forecast system. If one of the forecast systems yields a probability distribution that reflects the distribution from which the outcome will be drawn, Bayesian model averaging will identify this forecast system as the preferred system in the limit as the number of forecast–outcome pairs goes to infinity. In many applications, like those of seasonal weather forecasting, data are precious; the archive is often limited to fewer than 26 entries. In addition, no perfect model is in hand. It is shown that in this case forming a single “multimodel probabilistic forecast” can be expected to prove misleading. These issues are investigated in the surrogate model (here a forecast system) regime, where using probabilistic forecasts of a simple mathematical system allows many limiting behaviors of forecast systems to be quantified and compared with those under more realistic conditions.
Emergent Concepts of Inclusion in the Context of Committed School Leadership
Authors: Naraian Srikala , Chacko Mary Ann , Feldman Claire , Schwitzman-Gerst Tara
Published: January 2020

Inclusion of students with disabilities within general education settings is increasingly accepted as the desirable response of school systems to student learning differences. It has triggered districtwide reforms that are differentially enacted and realized within different schooling contexts. This study explores meanings of inclusion that were produced when three school leaders in a large urban school district adopted buildingwide initiatives to facilitate inclusion. We interviewed building leaders, families, and teachers within three public schools over a period of approximately 11 months. Data disclosed that the enactment of initiatives at each school reflected particular understandings of disability as well as relations with teachers and families. Our analysis showed that schoolwide commitments to inclusion can simultaneously produce forms of exclusion, erase dis/ability as a form of diversity, and neglect to understand parents and families as “experts” on their children. We argue that the structural implementation of inclusion premised on placement of students with disabilities in a general education setting leaves intact and unquestioned school-based norms of ability that render both students and families as lacking.
Perceptions of the Language and Meaning of Poverty in Brunei Darussalam
Authors: Gweshengwe Blessing , Hassan Noor Hasharina , Ali Maricar Hairuni Mohamed
Published: January 2020

Despite the proliferation of poverty studies, poverty in Brunei Darussalam (hereafter, Brunei) is under-researched. What poverty means in Brunei is, therefore, little understood, and there is a local belief that poverty in the country is unique and relative. Moreover, the terms ‘poverty’ ( kemiskinan) and ‘poor’ ( miskin) are somewhat sensitive in Brunei, but the reason(s) for this sentiment and preferred terms are not known. This study examines the language and meaning of poverty in Brunei. It also sheds light on the local belief about poverty within the country. The study used an exploratory research methodology and data were collected from poor and non-poor households and key informants. Results show that Bruneians use different terms to refer to poverty or poor people, but preferred terms are ‘living in need’, ‘difficult life’ and ‘needy people’. Bruneians avoid the terms ‘poverty’ and ‘poor’ because they can erode one’s self-confidence or self-esteem. Poverty in Brunei is construed in different ways, but it is mostly perceived as relative, and its nature is not unique.
‘And part not with my revelations for a trifling price’: Reconceptualizing Islam’s Aniconism through the lenses of reification and representation as meaning-making
Authors: Kaminski Joseph J
Published: January 2020

This article contends that Islamic prohibitions on certain types of figural imagery serve a dual function. In addition to fulfilling their traditional Islamic role related to preserving Allah’s sovereignty, such prohibitions also facilitate in preventing Islam’s essential message from being transformed via crass and sentimentalist reproductions of its most sacred symbols and figures. The article first defines the term ‘icon’ and then engages with the more recent discourse surrounding representation as meaning-making. It then connects Islamic aniconism to Marxist and post-structuralist concerns related to reification, commodification, and the transformation of sacred symbols into forms of personal property. The final part of this article engages with the rulings of Yusuf al-Qaradawi and Taha Jabir al-Alwani regarding figural imagery to show that these prohibitions are not absolute and that there are varying degrees of acceptability based on form, content, and purpose.
Exploring the convergence between sustainability and local innovation systems from a southern perspective: What Brazilian empirical evidence has to offer
Authors: Podcameni Maria Gabriela , Cassiolato José Eduardo , Lustosa Maria Cecília , Marcellino Israel , Rocha Pedro
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we address some important issues regarding innovation, sustainability and entrepreneurship in selected case studies based on the Local Innovative and Productive Systems (LIPSs) approach. First, we provide a brief overview of the LIPSs theoretical approach and discuss the relationship between LIPS and sustainability, and then we analyze selected case studies from Brazil in order to understand the relationship between LIPS and sustainability. The case study summarized here were extensive studies carried out by researchers related to a research network specialized in LIPS called RedeSist. The final section provides a brief analysis of how LIPSs have incorporated sustainability and the challenges yet to face.
Therapeutic mechanisms of psilocybin: Changes in amygdala and prefrontal functional connectivity during emotional processing after psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression
Authors: Mertens Lea J , Wall Matthew B , Roseman Leor , Demetriou Lysia , Nutt David J , Carhart-Harris Robin L
Published: January 2020

Background:

Psilocybin has shown promise as a treatment for depression but its therapeutic mechanisms are not properly understood. In contrast to the presumed actions of antidepressants, we recently found increased amygdala responsiveness to fearful faces one day after open-label treatment with psilocybin (25 mg) in 19 patients with treatment-resistant depression, which correlated with treatment efficacy.

Aims:

Aiming to further unravel the therapeutic mechanisms of psilocybin, the present study extends this basic activation analysis. We hypothesised changed amygdala functional connectivity, more precisely decreased amygdala-ventromedial prefrontal cortex functional connectivity, during face processing after treatment with psilocybin.

Methods:

Psychophysiological interaction analyses were conducted on functional magnetic resonance imaging data from a classic face/emotion perception task, with the bilateral amygdala and ventromedial prefrontal cortex time-series as physiological regressors. Average parameter estimates (beta weights) of significant clusters were correlated with clinical outcomes at one week.

Results:

Results showed decreased ventromedial prefrontal cortex-right amygdala functional connectivity during face processing post- (versus pre-) treatment; this decrease was associated with levels of rumination at one week. This effect was driven by connectivity changes in response to fearful and neutral (but not happy) faces. Independent whole-brain analyses also revealed a post-treatment increase in functional connectivity between the amygdala and ventromedial prefrontal cortex to occipital-parietal cortices during face processing.

Conclusion:

These results are consistent with the idea that psilocybin therapy revives emotional responsiveness on a neural and psychological level, which may be a key treatment mechanism for psychedelic therapy. Future larger placebo-controlled studies are needed to examine the replicability of the current findings.
Entecavir downregulates interleukin-37 in patients with chronic active hepatitis B infection
Authors: Meng Jiang-Ping , Luo Peng , Bai Yao , Cui Fang
Published: January 2020

Objectives

Interleukin-37 (IL-37) has been identified as a potent inhibitor of the immune response. This study aimed to examine IL-37 expression in patients with chronic active hepatitis B (CAHB), and explore its possible regulatory role during inflammation.

Methods

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were collected from control (n = 20) and CAHB patients (n = 30) before and after treatment with entecavir (EVT) for 24 weeks. The PBMCs were cultured with lipopolysaccharide and IL-37 expression was determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction and flow cytometry. The mRNA and protein concentrations of IL-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in PBMCs were also measured.

Results

Levels of IL-37, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α were significantly increased in the supernatant of PBMCs from patients with CAHB. IL-37 significantly reduced the expression of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. EVT resulted in regression of intraocular inflammation in patients with CAHB, associated with decreased production of IL-37.

Conclusion

These results suggest that increased expression of IL-37 was associated with the suppression of the inflammatory response in patients with CAHB. Furthermore, EVT treatment of CAHB was also correlated with downregulation of IL-37, indicating that EVT may partially alleviate the immune response by modulating IL-37 production.
Analysis of high-resolution computed tomography phenotypes and pulmonary function in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: He Shi-Zhen , He Qian , Su Yun-Shan , Wang Peng , Xiang Shu-Tian , Su Wei , Mao Chong-Wen
Published: January 2020

Objective

To explore the correlation between high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) phenotype and pulmonary function in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Methods

Fifty-six patients with COPD were retrospectively evaluated using pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and HRCT, and phenotypic pulmonary function parameters were analyzed.

Results

Thirty-one patients were classified as having imaging phenotype A, 11 were phenotype E, and 14 were phenotype M. The total lung capacity (TLC)% of phenotype E was significantly higher than that of phenotypes A and M. The residual volume (RV) to TLC ratio (RV/TLC) in phenotype A was significantly lower than that in phenotypes E and M. The forced expiratory volume in one second percentage (FEV1%) and FEV1/forced vital capacity (FVC) of phenotype A was significantly higher than that of phenotypes E and M.

Conclusion

FEV1/FVC and FEV1% were higher and RV/TLC was lower, indicating less severe emphysema, in patients with phenotype A compared with patients with phenotypes E and M. TLC% of patients with phenotype E was significantly higher than that of patients with phenotypes A and M. The degree of airflow limitation was most severe in patients with phenotype M.
Nomogram based on clinical characteristics for preoperative prediction of perineural invasion in gastric cancer
Authors: Liu Jungang , Huang Xiaoliang , Chen Shaomei , Wu Guo , Xie Weishun , Franco Jeen P C , Zhang Chuqiao , Huang Lingxu , Tian Chao , Tang Weizhong
Published: January 2020

Purpose

Gastric cancer (GC) has a poor prognosis and high rate of recurrence. Perineural invasion (PNI) is a prognostic factor in GC that is associated with a high risk of systemic recurrence. Preoperative identification of PNI may facilitate patient stratification and optimal preoperative treatment. We therefore developed and validated a nomogram for the preoperative prediction of PNI.

Methods

We retrospectively collected clinical data from 261 GC patients, who were randomly assigned to training (n = 185) and validation (n = 76) sets. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression model was used to identify potentially relevant clinical parameters, and multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to develop the nomogram.

Results

The nomogram consisted of body mass index, immunoglobulin A level, and computed tomography-based T- and N-stages. Good calibration was observed for both the training and validation sets, with areas under the curve of 0.77 and 0.79, respectively. Decision curve analysis revealed that the nomogram was clinically relevant.

Conclusion

We developed and validated a nomogram for the preoperative prediction of PNI in patients with GC. Our nomogram may facilitate the identification of high-risk patients and optimization of preoperative decision-making.
The top 100 most impactful articles and recent trends in nasopharyngeal carcinoma from 1970 to 2018: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Wu QingWu , Yuan Tian , Zhang Zongping , Yang Qintai , Chen Mingyuan , Wang Qiong , Deng Huiyi , Qiu Huijun , Wang Xinyue , Huang Xuekun
Published: January 2020

Objective

To identify the top 100 most impactful articles in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

Methods

Articles on NPC from 1970 to 2018 were retrieved from the Web of Science (WoS). These articles were ranked in descending order based on the number of times they were cited, and all titles and abstracts were screened to identify the top 100 most-cited articles.

Results

The earliest and most recent articles were published in 1971 and 2016, respectively. The most prolific decade was the 2000s, with 51 articles published. The highest citation count reached 1223 and the lowest was 155. Thirty-four journals contributed to the 100 articles, with the International Journal of Radiation Oncology Biology Physics contributing the most articles (n=16). Notable contribution origins were Hong Kong (n=34), the United States (n=26), and China (mainland, n=12). The top three contributors were Chan ATC, Lee AWM, and Lo KW who were from Hong Kong. The types of articles included basic research (n=50), clinical research (n=36), and reviews (n=14).

Conclusions

This study identified the top 100 most impactful articles in NPC and stressed the multidisciplinary and multimodal nature of NPC management. Understanding historical articles may guide future NPC study.
Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor in the nasopharynx and oropharynx: a case report
Authors: Gu Wen-Jing , Chang Peng-yu , Wang Ling-Jing , Zhu Wei , Zhou Hong-Wei
Published: January 2020

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) in the nasopharynx and oropharynx has not been reported. A 3-year-old boy was referred to hospital after experiencing intermittent inspiratory dyspnea for 3 years. Preoperative imaging showed that the lymph nodes were clear. Therefore, neck lymph node dissection was not performed during the operation. This could have reduced the collateral damage. Complete excision and radiotherapy were performed because of the pathological diagnosis of MPNST. Because of the high location of the tumor, we chose the transoral approach instead of the cervical approach, avoiding tracheotomy, and we effectively improved the quality of life of the child. A mass in the nasopharynx and oropharynx was diagnosed pathologically as an MPNST after surgery. The patient’s inspiratory dyspnea was resolved. No recurrence was observed during a 3-year follow-up. After review of our case, we found that postoperative recovery in our patient was closely related to accurate preoperative imaging assessment, the choice of operation methods, thorough resection, and postoperative neoadjuvant radiotherapy. Prevertebral fascia acted as a barrier to surround the mass and prevented it from growing further toward the vertebral body, which was important for a good prognosis. Children undergoing tracheotomy often have long tube management and difficult extubation.
Optimization of Pavement Repair Construction Activities
Authors: Sprouse John B. , Bianchini Alessandra
Published: January 2020

Transportation infrastructures are essential for supporting any community activity, from economical function to emergency services. The importance of maintaining the infrastructure in serviceable conditions must be evaluated in relation to the impact that maintenance activities may induce to the communities served by roadways. Pavement repair is composed of different activities characterized by time, efficiencies, performance, and personnel availability, and the optimization of such activities can definitely limit the impact on the overall roadway service. The methodology proposed in this study is centered on fuzzy reasoning and aims to quantify the repair rate and, therefore, the impact of the overall activity. As in the examples proposed in the analysis, based on the repair size and thicknesses, road classification, and traffic, the maintenance agency has the possibility of making a sound choice in road closure or establishing a detour for a limited period of time. Combining the model results with additional knowledge about the repair location and roadway service level at the moment of the repair, agencies have the ability to reassign equipment, crews, or other element, with the objective of minimizing the construction activity impact on the community. The model’s results are promising; successive steps consist of tailoring such a model with each agency-specific scenarios, equipment fleet and related performance, crew skill level, and lastly, roadway network configuration.
Survey to Explore Behavior, Intelligent Transportation Systems Needs, and Level of Service Expectations for Student Parking at a University Campus
Authors: Gurbuz Okan , Cheu Ruey Long
Published: January 2020

University campuses generate large volumes of traffic, with students forming the largest user class with distinctive trip characteristics. This study examined the parking choices of students at a large urban campus. A student survey was conducted with 1,022 respondents to collect data on students’ parking behavior, intelligent transportation systems (ITS) needs, and level of service (LOS) expectations. The survey results included home-to-campus mode choices, arrival time buffers, parking locations, “last-mile” mode choices, and factors that influence the type of permit to purchase. Online permit sales, flexible parking zones, and real-time parking lot availability information were the three most preferred ITS enabled services. Using the survey feedback, new LOS criteria for parking search time are proposed, which range from up to 2 min for LOS A, to longer than 15 min for LOS F. This research makes several contributions. The survey results not only contribute to a better understanding of student transportation choices and parking patterns on campus, but the list of preferred ITS enabled services also gives the university valuable user feedback on where to improve the campus parking experience. More importantly, the LOS criteria for parking search time provides a new tool for traffic engineers to measure the quality of service of a parking facility. Although the survey was conducted on a particular campus, information gathered for the ITS enabled services for parking and LOS criteria for parking search time are likely to be transferable to other university campuses.