bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photocatalytic Activity of Nonprecious Metal WSe2/g-C3N4 Composite Under Visible Light Irradiation
Authors: Wang Jieqiong , Yang Jie , Fang Jian , Li Yuhang , Zhang Hongyuan , Zhao Zhenbo , Ao Yuhui
Published: February 2020

The WSe2/g-C3N4 (graphite carbon nitride) composite with photocatalytic properties was synthesized using a hydrothermal method. This synthesis pathway can be characterized by being simple, inexpensive and nonpolluting, integrating the concept of green chemistry. The WSe2/g-C3N4 composite could effectively degrade methyl orange solution under visible light irradiation. The decolorization experiment of methyl orange solution shows that the degradation rate of the 30[Formula: see text]wt.% WSe2/g-C3N4 composite can reach 98.7% after 100[Formula: see text]min of illumination, while the degradation rate of pure g-C3N4 was only 87.6% under the same conditions. This can be attributed to the fact that the combination of WSe2 and g-C3N4 nanosheets can increase the number of active binding sites, increasing the rate of charge separation and transport ability, decreasing the recombination rate of the photogenerated electron–hole pairs. Therefore, the WSe2/g-C3N4 composite will have potential development as a new material with low cost, easy synthesis and excellent performance in photocatalytic degradation of water pollution.
Symmetric functions of the k-Fibonacci and k-Lucas numbers
Authors: Boussayoud Ali , Kerada Mohamed , Araci Serkan , Acikgoz Mehmet
Published: February 2020

In this paper, we introduce a new operator in order to derive some new symmetric properties of [Formula: see text]-Fibonacci and [Formula: see text]-Lucas numbers and Fibonacci polynomials. By making use of the new operator defined in this paper, we give some new generating functions for [Formula: see text]-Fibonacci and Pell numbers and Fibonacci polynomials.
Modeling of Autonomous Hydrofoil Craft Tracking a Moving Target
Authors: Matveev Konstantin I.
Published: February 2020

The interest in autonomous marine vessels has been continuously growing in the recent years. Most platforms of the autonomous surface watercraft involve traditional mono- or multi-hulls. Advanced marine vehicle concepts, such as hydrofoils, can provide high-speed and high seakeeping capabilities. In this study, a modeling effort is initiated for a small autonomous hydrofoil boat intended for intercepting operations. A 3-DOF model, including surge, sway and yaw, is applied for simulating maneuvering motions of the boat in the foilborne state. Forces generated by the propulsor, rudder and struts are accounted for in the simulations of the horizontal-plane boat dynamics. Two scenarios of a hydrofoil boat pursuing a moving target are investigated. In the pure pursuit, the interceptor always attempts to aim at the target and uses full thrust to quickly reach the target at a high speed. In the constant-bearing scenario, the interceptor approaches the target with diminishing speed trying to achieve a rendezvous. The presented models and results can help engineers to design more effective control methods for fast boats intended for intercepting operations.
Efficient handling of fault properties using the Juxtaposition Table Method
Authors: Knai Tor Anders , Lescoffit Guillaume
Published: February 2020

Faults are known to affect the way that fluids can flow in clastic oil and gas reservoirs. Fault barriers either stop fluids from passing across or they restrict and direct the fluid flow, creating static or dynamic reservoir compartments. Representing the effect of these barriers in reservoir models is key to establishing optimal plans for reservoir drainage, field development and production.

Fault property modelling is challenging, however, as observations of faults in nature show a rapid and unpredictable variation in fault rock content and architecture. Fault representation in reservoir models will necessarily be a simplification, and it is important that the uncertainty ranges are captured in the input parameters. History matching also requires flexibility in order to handle a wide variety of data and observations.

The Juxtaposition Table Method is a new technique that efficiently handles all relevant geological and production data in fault property modelling. The method provides a common interface that is easy to relate to for all petroleum technology disciplines, and allows a close cooperation between the geologist and reservoir engineer in the process of matching the reservoir model to observed production behaviour. Consequently, the method is well suited to handling fault property modelling in the complete life cycle of oil and gas fields, starting with geological predictions and incorporating knowledge of dynamic reservoir behaviour as production data become available.
NanoSIMS Imaging and Analysis in Materials Science
Authors: Li Kexue , Liu Junliang , Grovenor Chris R.M. , Moore Katie L.
Published: February 2020

High-resolution SIMS analysis can be used to explore a wide range of problems in material science and engineering materials, especially when chemical imaging with good spatial resolution (50–100 nm) can be combined with efficient detection of light elements and precise separation of isotopes and isobaric species. Here, applications of the NanoSIMS instrument in the analysis of inorganic materials are reviewed, focusing on areas of current interest in the development of new materials and degradation mechanisms under service conditions. We have chosen examples illustrating NanoSIMS analysis of grain boundary segregation, chemical processes in cracking, and corrosion of nuclear components. An area where NanoSIMS analysis shows potential is in the localization of light elements, in particular, hydrogen and deuterium. Hydrogen embrittlement is a serious problem for industries where safety is critical, including aerospace, nuclear, and oil/gas, so it is imperative to know where in the microstructure hydrogen is located. By charging the metal with deuterium, to avoid uncertainty in the origin of the hydrogen, the microstructural features that can trap hydrogenic species, such as precipitates and grain and phase boundaries, can be determined by NanoSIMS analysis on a microstructurally relevant scale.
The General Factor of Psychopathology
Authors: Smith Gregory T. , Atkinson Emily A. , Davis Heather A. , Riley Elizabeth N. , Oltmanns Joshua R.
Published: February 2020

An important advance in understanding and defining mental disorders has been the development of empirical approaches to mapping dimensions of dysfunction and their interrelatedness. Such empirical approaches have consistently observed intercorrelations among the many forms of psychopathology, leading to the identification of a general factor of psychopathology (the p factor). In this article, we review empirical support for p, including evidence for the stability and criterion validity of p. Further, we discuss the strong relationship between p and both the general factor of personality and the general factor of personality disorder, substantive interpretations of p, and the potential clinical utility of p. We posit that proposed substantive interpretations of p do not explain the full range of symptomatology typically included in p. The most plausible explanation is that p represents an index of impairment that has the potential to inform the duration and intensity of a client's mental health treatment.
Vitiligo: Mechanisms of Pathogenesis and Treatment
Authors: Frisoli Michael L. , Essien Kingsley , Harris John E.
Published: February 2020

Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease of the skin that targets pigment-producing melanocytes and results in patches of depigmentation that are visible as white spots. Recent research studies have yielded a strong mechanistic understanding of this disease. Autoreactive cytotoxic CD8+T cells engage melanocytes and promote disease progression through the local production of IFN-γ, and IFN-γ-induced chemokines are then secreted from surrounding keratinocytes to further recruit T cells to the skin through a positive-feedback loop. Both topical and systemic treatments that block IFN-γ signaling can effectively reverse vitiligo in humans; however, disease relapse is common after stopping treatments. Autoreactive resident memory T cells are responsible for relapse, and new treatment strategies focus on eliminating these cells to promote long-lasting benefit. Here, we discuss basic, translational, and clinical research studies that provide insight into the pathogenesis of vitiligo, and how this insight has been utilized to create new targeted treatment strategies.
Combined effect of canagliflozin and exercise training on high-fat diet-fed mice
Authors: Tanaka Kenichi , Takahashi Hirokazu , Katagiri Sayaka , Sasaki Kazuyo , Ohsugi Yujin , Watanabe Kazuki , Rasadul Islam M. D. , Mine Keiichiro , Nagafuchi Seiho , Iwata Takanori , Eguchi Yuichiro , Anzai Keizo
Published: February 2020

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) have been reported to improve obesity, diabetes, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in addition to exercise training, whereas the combined effects remain to be elucidated fully. We investigated the effect of the combination of the SGLT2i canagliflozin (CAN) and exercise training in high-fat diet-induced obese mice. High-fat diet-fed mice were housed in normal cages (sedentary; Sed) or wheel cages (WCR) with or without CAN (0.03% of diet) for 4 wk. The effects on obesity, glucose metabolism, and hepatic steatosis were evaluated in four groups (Control/Sed, Control/WCR, CAN/Sed, and CAN/WCR). Numerically additive improvements were found in body weight, body fat mass, blood glucose, glucose intolerance, insulin resistance, and the fatty liver of the CAN/WCR group, whereas CAN increased food intake and reduced running distance. Exercise training alone, CAN alone, or both did not change the weight of skeletal muscle, but microarray analysis showed that each resulted in a characteristic change of gene expression in gastrocnemius muscle. In particular, in the CAN/WCR group, there was acceleration of the angiogenesis pathway and suppression of the adipogenesis pathway compared with the CAN/Sed group. In conclusion, the combination of an SGLT2i and exercise training improves obesity, insulin resistance, and NAFLD in an additive manner. Changes of gene expression in skeletal muscle may contribute, at least in part, to the improvement of obesity and insulin sensitivity.
Ductal Adenocarcinoma Ex Pleomorphic Adenoma of the Lacrimal Gland: a Rare and Morbid Malignancy
Authors: Ashok Kumar Prashanth , Paulraj Shweta , Mirchia Kanish , Hahn Seung Shin , Sivapiragasam Abirami
Published: February 2020

Carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma (Ca ex PA) is a rare malignant transformation of a benign primary pleomorphic adenoma (PA). We report the case of a 62-year-old male who presented with a swelling over his left temple. Imaging revealed a lytic lesion over the left orbital wall with soft tissue extension suggestive of malignancy. He underwent an en bloc resection of the mass with orbital exenteration, craniotomy, and reconstruction. Pathology demonstrated a lacrimal gland ductal adenocarcinoma arising from a PA which led to the diagnosis of ductal adenoCa ex PA. Postoperatively, he received chemotherapy with 6 cycles of cisplatin and concurrent radiation therapy (RT), but his course was complicated by recurrent bacterial meningitis and abscesses and he ultimately opted for comfort measures. Patients with PA of the lacrimal gland experience an insidiously enlarging painless swelling of the orbit with transformation to Ca ex PA highlighted by a rapid onset of bulbar enlargement, displacement, and often proptosis. Ductal adenoCa ex PA is aggressive with a poor prognosis and has no established standard of care. This case highlights the rarity of this condition and the need for more literature to help direct treatment.
Investigation to Improve the Pool Boiling Heat Transfer Characteristics Using Laser-Textured Copper-Grooved Surfaces
Authors: Mani Dharmendra , Sivan Suresh , Ali Hafiz Muhammad , Ganesan Udaya Kumar
Published: February 2020

Improving the performance of pool boiling with critical heat flux of pool boiling and enhancing the coefficient of heat transfer through surface modification technique have gained a lot of attention. These surface modifications can be done at different scales using various techniques. However, along with the performance improvement, the durability and stability of the surface modification are very crucial. Laser machining is an attractive option in this aspect and is gaining a lot of attention. In the present experimentation research work, pool boiling attributed performance of copper-grooved surfaces obtained through picosecond laser machining method is investigated. The performance of the modified surfaces was compared with the plain surface serving as reference. In this, three square grooved patterns with the same pitch (100 μm) and width (100 μm) but different depths (30, 70, and 100 μm) were investigated. Different depths were obtained by varying the scanning speed of the laser machine. In addition to the microchannel effect, the grain structuring during the laser machining process creates additional nucleation sites which has proven its effectiveness in improving the pool boiling performance. In all aspects, the pool boiling performance of the grooved laser-textured surface has showed increased surface characterisation as compared with the surface of copper.
Solving Capacitated Facility Location Problem Using Lagrangian Decomposition and Volume Algorithm
Authors: Alenezy Eiman J.
Published: February 2020

In this research, we will focus on one variant of the problem: the capacitated facility location problem (CFLP). In many formulations of the CFLP, it is assumed that each demand point can be supplied by only one open facility, which is the simplest case of the problem. We consider the case where each demand point can be supplied by more than one open facility. We first investigate a Lagrangian relaxation approach. Then, we illustrate in the problem decomposition how to introduce tighter constraints, which solve the CFLP faster while achieving a better quality solution as well. At the same time, we apply the volume algorithm to improve both the lower and the upper bound on the optimum solution of the original problem for the large problem size.
A New MPPT Technique for Fast and Efficient Tracking under Fast Varying Solar Irradiation and Load Resistance
Authors: Xu Libin , Cheng Ruofa , Yang Jiajing
Published: February 2020

The maximum power point tracking (MPPT) is a strategy that allows imposing the PV array operation point on the maximum power point (MPP) or close to it under any environmental condition. The conventional incremental conductance (INC) algorithm is the most popular algorithm. But due to the fixed step size, its response speed is low under the rapid change of the solar irradiation level or load resistance. In this paper, a new MPPT technique is proposed to enhance the response speed. It consists of two stages: (1) the computing stage and (2) the regulating stage. The computing stage includes the coarse positioning operation and fine positioning operation. And an initial value of the duty cycle is generated in the computing stage, according to the characteristics of the DC-DC converter and the characteristics of the I‐V curve. The regulating stage regulates the duty cycle of the DC-DC converter with a small step size, which can improve the tracking efficiency. And the computing stage can enhance the response speed. A simulation comparison of the proposed MPPT technique with other techniques is carried out in MATLAB/Simulink under different scenarios. The simulation results reveal that the response of the proposed algorithm is 4.6 times faster than that of the INC under these scenarios, and the proposed algorithm has higher efficiency.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells Attenuate Diabetic Lung Fibrosis via Adjusting Sirt3-Mediated Stress Responses in Rats
Authors: Chen Yang , Zhang Fuping , Wang Di , Li Lan , Si Haibo , Wang Chengshi , Liu Jingping , Chen Younan , Cheng Jingqiu , Lu Yanrong
Published: February 2020

Diabetes affects a variety of organs such as the kidneys, eyes, and liver, and there is increasing evidence that the lung is also one of the target organs of diabetes and imbalance of Sirt3-mediated stress responses such as inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, autophagy, and ER stress may contribute to diabetic lung fibrosis. Although previous studies have reported that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have beneficial effects on various diabetic complications, the effect and mechanisms of MSCs on diabetes-induced lung injury are not clear. In this study, the STZ-induced diabetes model was constructed in rats, and the effect and potential mechanisms of bone marrow MSCs on diabetic lung fibrosis were investigated. The results revealed that fibrotic changes in the lung were successfully induced in the diabetic rats, while MSCs significantly inhibited or even reversed the changes. Specifically, MSCs upregulated the expression levels of Sirt3 and SOD2 and then activated the Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway, thereby controlling MDA, GSH content, and iNOS and NADPH oxidase subunit p22phox expression levels in the lung tissue. Meanwhile, high levels of Sirt3 and SOD2 induced by MSCs reduced the expression levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, ICAM-1, and MMP9 by suppressing the NF-κB/HMGB1/NLRP3/caspase-1 signaling pathway, as well as regulating the expression levels of cleaved caspasese-3, Bax, and Bcl2 by upregulating the expression level of P-Akt, thereby inhibiting the apoptosis of the lung tissue. In addition, MSCs also regulated the expression levels of LC3, P62, BiP, Chop, and PERK, thereby enhancing autophagy and attenuating endoplasmic reticulum stress. Taken together, our results suggest that MSCs effectively attenuate diabetic lung fibrosis via adjusting Sirt3-mediated responses, including inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, autophagy, and endoplasmic reticulum stress, providing a theoretical foundation for further exploration of MSC-based diabetic therapeutics.
Exendin-4 Improves Diabetic Kidney Disease in C57BL/6 Mice Independent of Brown Adipose Tissue Activation
Authors: Fang Shu , Cai Yingying , Lyu Fuping , Zhang Hongbin , Wu Chunyan , Zeng Yanmei , Fan Cunxia , Zou Shaozhou , Zhang Yudan , Li Ping , Wang Ling , YaomingXue  , Guan Meiping
Published: February 2020

Background. The role of exendin-4 in brown adipose tissue (BAT) activation was not very clear. This study is to verify the role of BAT involved in renal benefits of exendin-4 in diabetes mellitus (DM). Methods. In vivo, C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into nondiabetic (control) and diabetic groups (DM). The diabetic mice were randomized into a control group (DM-Con), BAT-excision group (DM+Exc), exendin-4-treated group (DM+E4), and BAT-excision plus exendin-4-treated group (DM+Exc+E4). The weight, blood glucose and lipids, 24 h urine albumin and 8-OH-dG, and renal fibrosis were analyzed. In vitro, we investigated the role of exendin-4 in the differentiation process of 3T3-L1 and brown preadipocytes and its effect on the rat mesangial cells induced by oleate. Results. The expressions of UCP-1, PGC-1α, ATGL, and CD36 in BAT of DM mice were all downregulated, which could be upregulated by exendin-4 treatment with significant effects on ATGL and CD36. BAT-excision exacerbated high blood glucose (BG) with no significant effect on the serum lipid level. Exendin-4 significantly lowered the level of serum triglycerides (TG) and low-density lipoprotein- (LDL-) c, 24 h urine albumin, and 8-OH-dG; improved renal fibrosis and lipid accumulation; and activated renal AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in diabetic mice regardless of BAT excision. In vitro, there was no significant effect of exendin-4 on brown or white adipogenesis. However, exendin-4 could improve lipid accumulation and myofibroblast-like phenotype transition of mesangial cells induced by oleate via activating the AMPK pathway. Conclusions. Exendin-4 could decrease the renal lipid deposit and improve diabetic nephropathy via activating the renal AMPK pathway independent of BAT activation.
Histone Demethylase JMJD1A Promotes Tumor Progression via Activating Snail in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Tang Dong-E , Dai Yong , Fan Ling-Ling , Geng Xin-Yan , Fu De-Xue , Jiang Hao-Wu , Xu Song-Hui
Published: February 2020

The histone demethylase JMJD1A plays a key functional role in spermatogenesis, sex determination, stem cell renewal, and cancer via removing mono- and di-methyl groups from H3K9 to epigenetically control gene expression. However, its role in prostate cancer progression remains unclear. Here, we found JMJD1A was significantly elevated in prostate cancer tissue compared with matched normal tissue. Ectopic JMJD1A expression in prostate cancer cells promoted proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro, and tumorigenesis in vivo; JMJD1A knockdown exhibited the opposite effects. Mechanically, we revealed that JMJD1A directly interacted with the Snail gene promoter and regulated its transcriptional activity, promoting prostate cancer progression both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, we found that JMJD1A transcriptionally activated Snail expression via H3K9me1 and H3K9me2 demethylation at its special promoter region. In summary, our studies reveal JMJD1A plays an important role in regulating proliferation and progression of prostate cancer cells though Snail, and thus highlight JMJD1A as potential therapeutic target for advanced prostate cancer.

Implications:

Our studies identify that JMJD1A promotes the proliferation and progression of prostate cancer cells through enabling Snail transcriptional activation, and thus highlight JMJD1A as potential therapeutic target for advanced prostate cancer.
Citrate-Based Self-Circulation Anticoagulation Protocol for Discontinuity of Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy
Authors: Weng Yonglin , Zhou Fang , Fu Yueqiang , Li Jing , Fan Dejun , Bai Ke , Liu Chengjun , Xu Feng , Zuo Zelan
Published: February 2020

Background/Aims: Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) has been used widely in the treatment of critically ill children for its continuity. However, sometimes we have to interrupt the continuity for necessary surgeries or blood transfusions. Our objective was to demonstrate a feasible self-circulation anticoagulation protocol based on citrate (CSAP) to address discontinuity during CRRT. Methods: We conducted a prospective observational study of 57 pediatric patients undergoing 88 CRRT sessions that were receiving CSAP during the treatment discontinuity period by using an anticoagulation regimen containing 5 mL 4% sodium citrate in 50 mL of saline to maintain the continuity. We documented the reasons for CSAP and the total duration of the treatment. We assessed the in-line pressure recordings, blood routine examination, blood electrolytes, and blood gas analysis before, throughout, and after the period of CSAP. Results: The average duration of CSAP was 118.5 ± 45.3 min. There was no significant increase in arterial pressures, venous pressures, and transmembrane pressures and no significant decreases in blood cell counts observed at the end of the CSAP, compared to the data recorded at the beginning of the CSAP. Compared to before the CSAP, there was no significant change in the ratio of total to ionized calcium, Na+, HCO3–, and pH value after CSAP. Conclusions: CSAP might be a safe, effective, and easy approach for use during the treatment discontinuity of CRRT in children.
Perinatal Probiotic Mixture and Development of Allergic Sensitization up to 13 Years of Age
Authors: Peldan Päivi Susanna , Kukkonen Anna Kaarina , Savilahti Erkki , Kuitunen Mikael
Published: February 2020

Background: Probiotics have shown promising results in primary prevention of allergies in early years, but the long-term effects on allergic sensitization need more evaluation. Objectives: We conducted a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study to determine whether the use of a mixture of pre- and probiotics perinatally affects the prevalence of immunoglobulin E (IgE) sensitization up to 13 years in high-risk children. Methods: One thousand two hundred twenty-three pregnant women were randomized to receiving probiotics or placebo from 36 gestational weeks until delivery, and their infants received pre- and probiotics or placebo from birth until 6 months. At 2, 5, and 13 years, blood samples were taken to determine specific IgE levels against common foods, pollen, and animal antigens. Results: The prevalence of IgE sensitization to any allergen was high and increased with age. No significant difference in the prevalence of IgE sensitization to any particular one of the tested allergens was found between the groups. At 2, 5, and 13 years these prevalence rates of IgE sensitization to any allergen were 31.1 and 34.1%, 50.1 and 45.6%, and 61.4 and 56.8% in the probiotic and placebo groups, respectively. At 13 years, IgE sensitization to cat/dog dander was more frequent in the probiotic group compared to the placebo group (40.2 vs. 31.0%, p = 0.03). Conclusions: In high-risk children, perinatal use of a mixture of probiotics did not affect the prevalence of sensitization to any one of the tested allergens, but it was associated with more frequent IgE sensitization to cat/dog dander at 13 years.
An Assessment of the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Patients and Families with Diagnoses of Hereditary Neuromuscular Disorders
Authors: Ahmed Hamza Mohiuddin , Advani Rohan , Arif Ahmed A. , Khan Sara
Published: February 2020

Background: Hereditary neuromuscular disorders (NMDs) result in progressive disability with no definitive disease modifying treatments. There is a delay in diagnosis, and lack of awareness among affected individuals about these disorders, which can affect quality of life of patients. Objective: The aim of this study is to identify gaps in patient knowledge, factors affecting attitudes toward the diagnoses, and specific practices to create better awareness among patients and healthcare providers to improve care and overall outcomes. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study of 130 patients diagnosed with an NMD, recruited from the outpatient neurology clinics at the Aga Khan University Hospital. After telephonic consent, a 28 item survey questionnaire was administered. Knowledge, attitude, and practice scores were measured. Results: One hundred and thirty of 198 study participants responded. The average age was 26.3 years; 75% were male. More than 38% (n = 50) had a middle grade or less education. The average knowledge, attitude, and practice scores were 7.9, 2.7, and 3.8 respectively. There was a low but statistically significant correlation between knowledge-attitude and attitude-practice scores. Almost 80% of respondents believed that dystrophy or spinal muscular atrophy is curable, while a majority considered that physical activity should be avoided. Conclusions: Our study presents new insights into the role of clarifying misconceptions about NMD and to correct attitudes among patients, their families and communities. It underscores the need for early interventions with demonstrably positive effects on disease progression such as physical therapy, as well as emphasizes the provision of accessible and affordable centers for such services.
Upper Endoscopy in Patients with Extra-Oesophageal Reflux Symptoms: A Multicentre Study
Authors: Zullo Angelo , Fiorini Giulia , Bassotti Gabrio , Bachetti Francesco , Monica Fabio , Macor Daniele , Paoluzi Omero Alessandro , Scaccianoce Giuseppe , Portincasa Piero , De Francesco Vincenzo , Lorenzetti Roberto , Saracino Ilaria Maria , Pavoni Matteo , Vaira Dino
Published: February 2020

Background: There are no evidence-based recommendations for performing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (UGIE) in patients with extra-oesophageal symptoms of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD). However, UGIEs are often performed in clinical practice in these patients. We aimed to assess the prevalence of gastro-oesophageal lesions in patients with atypical GORD symptoms. Methods: Patients complaining of at least one extra-oesophageal GORD symptom and undergoing UGIE in seven centres were prospectively enrolled. Clinically relevant lesions (Barrett’s oesophagus, erosive oesophagitis, gastric precancerous conditions, peptic ulcer, cancer, and H. pylori infection) were statistically compared between groups regarding GORD symptoms (atypical vs. both typical and atypical), type of atypical symptoms, age, and presence of hiatal hernia. Results: Two hundred eleven patients were enrolled (male/female: 74/137; mean age: 55.5 ± 14.7 years). Barrett’s oesophagus was detected in 4 (1.9%), erosive oesophagitis in 12 (5.7%), gastric precancerous conditions in 22 (10.4%), and H. pylori infection in 38 (18%) patients. Prevalence of clinically relevant lesions was lower in patients with only atypical GORD symptoms (28.6 vs. 42.5%; p = 0.046; χ2 test), in patients ≤50 years (20 vs. 44.8%; p = 0.004; χ2 test), and in those in ongoing proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy (21.1 vs. 40.2%; p = 0.01; χ2 test). No clinically relevant lesions were detected in patients ≤50 years, without alarm symptoms, and receiving PPI therapy. Hiatal hernia was diagnosed in only 6 patients with cardiologic and in 41 patients with ear-nose-throat symptoms (11.3 vs. 35.1%; p = 0.03; χ2 test). Conclusions: Clinically relevant lesions are uncommon among young (≤50 years) patients with extra-oesophageal GORD symptoms. Hiatal hernia is not more prevalent in patients with cardiologic symptoms and suspicion of GORD. The usefulness of UGIE in these patients is questionable.
The Effect of Acupressure on the Severity of Nausea, Vomiting, and Retching in Pregnant Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Tara Fatemeh , Bahrami-Taghanaki Hamidreza , Amini Ghalandarabad Masoud , Zand-Kargar Ziba , Azizi Hamideh , Esmaily Habibollah , Azizi Hoda
Published: February 2020

Introduction: Nausea and vomiting are common problems during pregnancy. Previous studies have shown that stimulation at Neiguan (PC6) acupoint can be effective in controlling pregnancy-induced nausea and vomiting. However, more evidence is required for approving this method on controlling pregnancy-induced nausea and vomiting. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of PC6 acupoint pressure stimulation on the severity of nausea, vomiting, and retching in pregnant women. Method: This randomized, multi-center clinical trial was conducted on pregnant women referring to Health Centers and Ommolbanin Hospital in Mashhad, Iran, during December 2016 to September 2017. Women with first singleton pregnancy and below 12 weeks were included. Patients were randomly allocated into three groups of (1) PC6 pressure (4 times a day, for 10 min), (2) sham acupressure, and (3) medication with vitamin B6 and metoclopramide. Assessment of severity of nausea, vomiting, and retching was done based on the Rhodes Index on the first and fifth day (before and after the intervention). Pearson chi-square test, one-way ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis, and Wilcoxon tests were used for statistical analysis using SPSS version 18. This clinical trial was registered at the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT) with the code IRCT201512187265N6. Results: Ninety patients with a mean age of 26.40 ± 4.73 years were studied in 3 groups of 30. There was no significant difference between the 3 groups in terms of the severity outcomes before the intervention, while, after the intervention, the three groups were significantly different on the fifth day in terms of vomiting frequency, distress from retching, distress from vomiting, duration of nausea, distress from nausea, amount of vomiting, frequency of nausea, and frequency of retching (p < 0.001 for each outcome). According to the linear regression analysis, the correlation between occupation with vomiting frequency (beta coefficient = 0.252) and nausea severity (beta coefficient = –0.213) was statistically significant. Conclusion: It seems that PC6 acupoint pressure can reduce the severity of nausea, vomiting, and retching in pregnant women.
Can a Pretreatment Visual Analog Scale Predict Treatment Outcome in Allergic Rhinitis?
Authors: Kirtsreesakul Virat  , Leelapong Jitanong , Ruttanaphol Suwalee
Published: February 2020

Background: The visual analogue scale (VAS) is a simple and useful tool to assess the severity of allergic rhinitis. Whether a pretreatment VAS score can guide appropriate medication is unclear. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate whether a pretreatment VAS score could be used to predict therapeutic response. Methods: A prospective 4-week cohort study involving 101 allergic rhinitis patients was carried out. All patients were treated with triamcinolone acetonide aqueous nasal spray 220 μg once daily for 28 days. The treatment outcomes were evaluated using VAS scores (0–10 cm), total nasal symptoms scores (TNSSs), nasal mucociliary clearance times (NMCCTs), and global symptom controls (GSCs). The minimal clinically important differences (MCIDs) method was used to separate the patients into with and without improvement groups. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed to evaluate the predictive value of pretreatment VAS scores in relation to MCIDs after treatment. Results: Pretreatment VAS scores showed a positive correlation with pretreatment TNSSs and NMCCTs (ρ = 0.66, p < 0.001 and r = 0.44, p < 0.001, respectively), and a negative correlation with GSCs after treatment (r = –0.53, p < 0.001). The MCID values of TNSSs and NMCCTs were 3.19 and 2.78, respectively. The cutoff value of pretreatment VAS ranged between 6.5 and 7.7 points, with an average value of 7.1. Conclusion: A pretreatment VAS score of 7 or higher was associated with an unfavorable treatment outcome, which suggests the potential therapeutic predictive value of VAS scoring.
A Novel Mutation in PIGA Associated with Multiple Congenital Anomalies-Hypotonia-Seizure Syndrome 2 (MCAHS2) in a Boy with a Combination of Severe Epilepsy and Gingival Hyperplasia
Authors: Neuhofer Christiane M. , Funke Rudolf , Wilken Bernd , Knaus Alexej , Altmüller Janine , Nürnberg Peter , Li Yun , Wollnik Bernd , Burfeind Peter , Pauli Silke
Published: February 2020

Multiple congenital anomalies-hypotonia-seizures syndrome 2 (MCAHS2) is a rare disease caused by mutations in the X chromosomal PIGA gene. Clinically it is characterized by early-onset epilepsy, hypotonia, dysmorphic features, and variable congenital anomalies. PIGA codes for the phosphatidylinositol glycan-class A protein, which forms a subunit of an enzymatic complex involved in glycophosphatidylinositol (GPI) biosynthesis. We present a new case of MCAHS2 and perform a comprehensive review of the available literature to delineate the phenotypical traits associated with germline PIGA mutations. Furthermore, we provide functional evidence of pathogenicity of the novel missense mutation, c.154C>T; (p.His52Tyr), in the PIGA gene causative of MCAHS2 in our patient. By flow cytometry, we observed reduced expression of GPI-anchored surface proteins in patient granulocytes compared to control samples, proving GPI-biogenesis impairment. The patient's severe epilepsy with several daily attacks was refractory to treatment, but the frequency of seizures reduced temporarily under triple therapy with perampanel, rufinamide and vigabatrin. Our study delineates the known MCAHS2 phenotype and discusses challenges of diagnosis and clinical management in this complex, rare disease. Furthermore, we present a novel mutation with functional evidence of pathogenicity.
Brief Report: A Case of Tramadol Overdose: Extracorporeal Life Support and Hemoperfusion as Life-Saving Treatment
Authors: Ferrari Fiorenza , Carletti Alessandro , Peroni Nicola , Mongodi Silvia , Esposito Pasquale , Orlando Anita , Mojoli Francesco , Ronco Claudio , Belliato Mirko , Iotti Giorgio A.
Published: February 2020

We describe the case of a 49-year-old woman with a Tramadol intoxication associated with multiorgan failure. Veno-arterial femoro-femoral extracorporeal life support (VA-ECLS) and hemoperfusion (HP) were used as rescue treatments. The emergency medical service found a woman at home unconscious. Once in the hospital, she was intubated and catecholamines support was immediately started for a severe shock. Brain CT was normal, whereas EEG revealed a metabolic encephalopathy pattern. Toxic levels of Tramadol and Quetiapine were detected. VA-ECLS was implanted due to persistent multiorgan failure, and HP with a charcoal cartridge was set to increase the Tramadol clearance. To quantify the charcoal cartridge’s removal efficiency of Tramadol, Tramadol concentration was measured before and after the cartridge and before and after the treatment in the patient’s blood. The charcoal cartridge showed good extraction ratio during the treatment and no significant rebound effect. VA-ECLS and HP allowed the patient to be weaned from vasoconstrictors and the resolution of the organ failures. These treatments might be lifesaving in the Tramadol intoxication.
Spontaneous Hyphema from Iris Microhemangiomatosis in an Elderly Patient with Hypertensive Crisis
Authors: Nuova Pedro J.  , Zur Dinah , Loewenstein Anat , Iglicki Matias
Published: February 2020

Background: Iris microhemangiomatosis is a rare vascular iris tumor, with potential severe complications such as increased intraocular pressure (IOP). We aim to describe a case report of a patient presenting with hyphema secondary to iris microhemangiomatosis triggered by excessive high blood pressure. Case Presentation: A 74-year-old woman was treated for hypertensive crisis. After her high blood pressure had been controlled and stabilized, she was discharged home. However, the same day, she complained about an acute decrease in vision in her left eye. Best corrected visual acuity was 20/20 on the right eye and 20/200 on the left eye. On biomicroscopy, a hyphema was seen. Iris neovascularization was absent, IOP and fundus examination were normal. After spontaneous resolution of the hyphema, a fluorescein angiography of the anterior segment was performed, which revealed bilateral subtle early hyperfluorescence with late staining scattered at the pupillary margin. The patient was diagnosed with iris microhemangiomatosis. During the follow-up of 24 months, the blood pressure was stable and well controlled. The patient did not experience any recurrent hemorrhage. Discussion and Conclusion: Spontaneous hyphema is the most common complication of iris vascular tumors. We report the occurrence of a spontaneous hyphema triggered by uncontrolled blood pressure in a patient with a very rare condition, i.e., iris microhemangiomatosis. In order to avoid complications of microhemangiomatosis such as uncontrolled glaucoma or recurrent bleeding requiring surgery, blood pressure should be monitored closely and controlled.
19th EURETINA Congress Keynote Lecture: Diabetic Retinopathy Today
Authors: Bandello Francesco , Cicinelli Maria Vittoria
Published: February 2020

In the last decades, significant changes have been taking place regarding the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy (DR) and the complex mechanisms that eventually lead to the various manifestations of the disease, including diabetic macular edema (DME). DR was first considered a pure microvascular disease, due to the evident capillary structural changes (microaneurysms), fluid extravasation, and lipid exudation. With the advent of fundus fluorescein angiography, the concept of ischemia and the correlation between peripheral nonperfusion and neovascularization has been introduced, which was eventually followed by the advent of new therapeutic strategies, such as peripheral photocoagulation. Nowadays, thanks to more advanced imaging techniques, namely optical coherence tomography (OCT), OCT angiography, and wide-field imaging (imaging up to 200° of the retina in a single shot), it became clear that other elements participate in the occurrence of DR and DME, including inflammation and neurodegeneration. In the future, integration of standard investigations with new diagnostic devices would allow the prompt recognition of DR even before clinical signs of the disease are ophthalmoscopically evident, and the development of personalized treatment for both retinopathy and DME will be available.
Longitudinal Trajectories of Post-Election Distress Track Changes in Neural and Psychological Functioning
Authors: Tashjian Sarah M. , Galván Adriana
Published: February 2020

The shift in political climate after the 2016 U.S. presidential election had a distressing effect on many individuals. To date, no research has identified how changes in societal-level distressing experiences affected ongoing neurobiological and psychological functioning. Fifty-five participants (Mage = 21.746, 37 women) were tested at two time points. fMRI and psychological measures were used to test the hypotheses that increases in distress over 1 year would relate to worsening mental health symptomology and blunted neurobiological response to reward during the same period. Because individual experiences of distress occurred within a larger macroclimate of societal attitudes, measures were standardized to reflect relative change within the sample. Distress changes over 1 year were positively associated with problematic mental health symptomology and nucleus accumbens (NAcc) response to reward, with dissociable effects for anticipation and outcome. Worsening distress was associated with increased NAcc response to reward anticipation but decreased NAcc response to reward outcome. Individuals who exhibited increased sensitivity to anticipatory reward were those who exhibited more avoidance distress symptoms, whereas intrusion and hyperarousal were associated with decreased sensitivity to reward outcome. This study highlights the importance of considering individual variation in profiles of change in response to ongoing distress, suggests that individual response styles yield differences in reward sensitivity, and extends neurobiological understanding of exposure to stressful life experiences to political events.
‘Seek that Radiance which Sanāʾī Expounded, that Unique One whose Uniqueness ʿAṭṭār Revealed’: Decoding a Verse of Sanāʾī through Rūmī’s Works, and a Verse of Rūmī through His Quotation of ʿAṭṭār
Authors: Moqaddam Sassan Zand , Nourian Mehdi
Published: February 2020

This article suggests new readings for two controversial lines of Persian mystical literature, and is divided into two parts. Part one concerns a line of Sanāʾī (d. 525/1131) in his Ḥadīqat al-ḥaqīqat: ‘Sūfīs undergo two festivals in a moment, while spiders make jerky out of flies.’ We present an interpretation for this enigmatic statement by an intertextual reading of lines by Mawlānā Jalāl al-Dīn Rūmī (d. 672/1273), which arguably constitute subtle commentaries on Sanāʾī’s works. In Part two, we propose that the doctrine of the ‘Changing of Temperaments’ can help explain the notion of ‘spiritual food’. Part three examines the following line in Rūmī’s Mathnawī: ‘Every druggist (‛aṭṭār) whose intellect became acquainted with Him dropped the trays into the water of the river.’ We argue that this line subtly alludes to a controversial ghazal of Farīd al-Dīn ‛Aṭṭār (d. 618/1221), which can provide a new symbolic key to understanding the somewhat obscure meaning of certain words in this line. As the title of this article, taken from a line in the Kulliyyāt-i Shams, suggests, Rūmī clearly and repeatedly acknowledges the influence of ‛Aṭṭār and Sanāʾī on his work. Using an intertextual interpretive method and a close reading of the works of Rūmī, Sanāʾī, and ‛Aṭṭār, we propose new interpretations of the lines in question that are more homogeneous with the text of the Mathnawī.
Lecanoroid lichens in the Galapagos Islands: the genera Lecanora, Protoparmeliopsis, and Vainionora (Lecanoraceae, Lecanoromycetes)

Authors: BUNGARTZ FRANK , ELIX JOHN A. , PRINTZEN CHRISTIAN
Published: February 2020

As part of the Galapagos lichen inventory, species in the genus Lecanora and closely related genera have been revised, using both historic and recent collections. A total of 34 species are reported of which fourteen are new to science: Lecanora atro-ocellata, L. cactacea, L. cerebriformis, L. cerebrosorediata, L. confusoides, L. darwiniana, L. kalbii, L. malagae, L. ombligulata, L. pyrrhosporoides, L. subaureoides, L. terpenoidea, Protoparmeliopsis ertzii, and Vainionora nugrae. The taxonomy of Lecanora s.l. remains poorly resolved. Based on morphological similarities we assign the species treated here to several informal groups: the largest, with thirteen species, is the Lecanora subfusca-group, i.e., the core of Lecanora s.str. In the archipelago, most species in this group grow on bark but a few occur on rock. Seven species, assigned here to the L. marginata-group, occur exclusively on rock. Two species are included in the L. pallida-group, which may also include L. cactacea. However, this species is retained in the L. subfusca-group as it lacks densely pruinose discs. Three species are treated as part of the L. pinguis group. Six species belong to a heterogeneous assemblage commonly referred to as the L. varia-group. Species in this group are not necessarily closely related, but assigning them to phylogenetically defined, “natural” clades, i.e., the L. symmicta- or L. polytropa-groups, is currently not possible. Species of Vainionora share characteristics with these species as well as with species in the L. subfusca-group; the characters used to distinguish Vainionora from Lecanora are reviewed. A total of seven Lecanora species previously reported for the Galapagos could not be confirmed. Detailed descriptions for all thirty-four species of Lecanora, Protoparmeliopsis and Vainionora so far known from Galapagos are presented. An identification key for these species is provided. Bryonora granulata Fryday is reported as new to Galapagos.
Algae of bromeliad phytotelmata in the Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Authors: PONIEWOZIK MAŁGORZATA , DUANGJAN KRITSANA , PEKKOH JEERAPORN , WOŁOWSKI KONRAD
Published: February 2020

Inhabiting of bromeliad tanks by algae and other organisms is a very interesting phenomenon. Although the conditions in these water tanks are challenging, the occurrence of different algae and cyanobacteria in such specific ecological niches may suggest wide adaptive abilities among these organisms. This work presents the first report of algae in microhabitat of bromeliads in Thailand. In this study, the diversity of algae in small water bodies within bromeliad phytotelmata from the Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden was investigated. We presented both LM and SEM documentation of the taxa identified during the study. We also provided basic physical-chemical data of water gathered in the studied tanks. The results illustrated that 118 taxa classified to eight major lineages including Chlorophyta (35 taxa), Euglenophyceae (31 taxa), Cyanobacteria (18 taxa), Bacillariophyceae (17 taxa), Zygnematophyceae (13 taxa), Cryptophyceae (2 taxa), Synurophyceae (1), and Xanthophyceae (1). Among the algae, Ankistrodesmus fusiformis, Oedogonium sp., Mougeotia parvula, and species belonging to diatoms (Eunotia spp., Gomphonema spp., Pinnularia spp.) were found to be the dominant taxa. This study is the first inventory of the phytotelmata in Thailand and contributes to the understanding of the geographic distribution of taxa. Most taxa recorded are first records for Chiang Mai Province, and 8 species, Aphanothece conferta, Aph. elabens, Astasia comma, Gyropaigne ukrainica, Kirchneriella obtusa, Mougeotia parvula, Nephrochlamys subsolitaria and Oedogonium curvum, are new records for Thailand. The results indicate that botanical gardens provide relatively constant conditions in microhabitats and play an important role in biodiversity and terrestrial ecological systems. The microscale of bromeliad tanks may be repeatable in macroscale (lakes, ponds, reservoirs).