Correction to: Multiple diversity concepts and their ethical-epistemic implications

The original version of this article unfortunately contained a mistake. The fourth author's name is Bianca Crewe, not Bianca Crew. The original article has been corrected.

Environmental functions of biochar—a special issue for the 3 rd Asia Pacific Biochar Conference (APBC 2016)

Mercury contamination in the sludge of drinking water treatment plants dumping into a reservoir in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Abstract

Although sludge piles from drinking water treatment plants can contain harmful substances, in many countries, their disposal methods are still unregulated. Besides aluminum, which is a major constituent in these residues, many other contaminants—like trace metals—can be present and may result from the quality of the raw materials used for water treatment. The application of these chemicals for the treatment of drinking water can generate toxic sludge and contaminate the produced water. In the present work, mercury contamination in the sludge piles of two drinking water treatment plants located along the margins of the Juturnaíba Reservoir, Southeast Brazil, was evaluated to verify whether contaminants are incorporated during water treatment. In the summer 2012, five cores were collected from the piles, and were analyzed for Eh, granulometry, total carbon, total nitrogen, and total mercury. The results indicated an anoxic environment, reflecting composition of the suspended matter. Carbon and nitrogen presented elevated concentrations, but also seemed to reproduce the characteristics of the suspended matter in the raw water. The concentrations of mercury were extremely variable but presented unexpectedly high values in some of the layers, reaching 18,484 ng g⁻¹. On the other hand, concentrations ten times lower than those observed in the natural system (8 ng g⁻¹) could be observed. It was concluded that the only possible source for the contamination of the sludge was the chemicals used for water treatment.

Suicide: A Taboo Topic That We Must Talk About Now

Violence and Gender, Ahead of Print.

Incorporating diffusion- and perfusion-weighted MRI into a radiomics model improves diagnostic performance for pseudoprogression in glioblastoma patients

Abstract

Background

Pseudoprogression is a diagnostic challenge in early post-treatment glioblastoma. We therefore developed and validated a radiomics model using multiparametric MRI to differentiate pseudoprogression from early tumor progression in patients with glioblastoma.

Methods

The model was developed from the enlarging contrast-enhancing portions of 61 glioblastomas within 3 months after standard treatment with 6472 radiomic features being obtained from contrast-enhanced T1-weighted imaging, fluid-attenuated inversion recovery imaging, and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), and cerebral blood volume (CBV) maps. Imaging features were selected using a least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) logistic regression model with 10-fold cross-validation. Diagnostic performance for pseudoprogression was compared with that for single parameters (mean and minimum ADC and mean and maximum CBV) and single imaging radiomics models using the area under the receiver-operating-characteristics curve (AUC). The model was validated with an external cohort (n = 34) imaged on a different scanner and an internal prospective registry data (n = 23).

Results

Twelve significant radiomic features (3 from conventional, 2 from diffusion and 7 from perfusion MRI) were selected for model construction. The multiparametric radiomics model (AUC 0.90) showed significantly better performance than any single ADC or CBV parameter (AUC 0.57-0.79, P<.05), and better than single radiomics model using conventional MRI (AUC 0.76, P =.012), ADC (AUC 0.78, P =.014), or CBV (AUC 0.80, P=.43). The multiparametric radiomics showed higher performance in the external validation (AUC 0.85) and internal validation (AUC 0.96) than any single approach, thus demonstrating robustness.

Conclusions

Incorporating diffusion- and perfusion-weighted MRI into a radiomics model improved diagnostic performance for identifying pseudoprogression and showed robustness in a multicenter setting.

Trust in Police and Fear of Crime Among Young People from a Gender Perspective: The Case of Mexico

Violence and Gender, Ahead of Print.

Hypersensitivity Reactions to Antiepileptic Drugs in Children: Epidemiologic, Pathogenetic, Clinical, and Diagnostic Aspects

Publication date: Available online 10 August 2018

Source: The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice

Author(s): Semanur Kuyucu, Jean-Christoph Caubet

Epilepsy affects approximately 10 million children globally. Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are among the most frequent causes of drug hypersensitivity reactions (DHRs), especially severe ones. However, systematic studies about AED hypersensitivity among children are very rare. In this review, we aimed to gather all relevant and important data about different aspects of DHRs to AEDs in children by conducting a PubMed search including English-language studies published between January 1990 and June 2017. In these studies, aromatic AEDs were mostly incriminated in DHRs, but still being dominantly prescribed in both developed and developing countries. Although newer AEDs were increasingly prescribed owing to their presumed low toxicity profile, surveillance of DHRs is strongly recommended because case reports about severe reactions were recently reported. The pathogenesis seemed to be multifactorial including metabolic, genetic, and immunologic factors. Recent pharmacogenomic studies demonstrated strong genetic associations between some human leucocyte antigens and/or polymorphisms of AED metabolic enzymes and AED-induced DHRs among both adults and children. Young children, concurrent medications, a high starting dose and rapid dose escalation, and some genetic markers are important risk factors for AED-induced hypersensitivity. There were a very limited number of studies in the pediatric population evaluating the efficacy of different available diagnostic tools, such as intradermal, patch, and drug provocation tests. Data including mostly adult patients showed that patch tests had relatively high diagnostic value to identify the culprit with a positivity rate that ranged between 19.7% and 100% in delayed reactions to AEDs. Clinical cross-reactivity rates of 15% to 70% have been reported mainly between aromatic AEDs. In selected cases, where there is no other option, desensitization can be considered, although experience in children remained limited.

Combination therapy with montelukast and loratadine alleviates pharyngo-laryngeal symptoms related to seasonal allergic rhinitis

Publication date: Available online 10 August 2018

Source: The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice

Author(s): Yoshimasa Imoto, Tetsuji Takabayashi, Masafumi Sakashita, Takahiro Tokunaga, Taiyo Morikawa, Takahiro Ninomiya, Masayuki Okamoto, Norihiko Narita, Shigeharu Fujieda

One-Piece Nasal Osteotomy for the Correction of a Centrally Deviated Nose

Abstract

Background

A severely crooked nose due to trauma or other causes is difficult to correct. Although various nasal osteotomy techniques have been suggested, satisfactory outcomes have not always been achieved especially in centrally deviated noses. Definite correction of the midline and shape of the bony framework is necessary. We aimed to investigate a novel one-piece nasal bone osteotomy approach consisting of transverse osteotomy continued with bilateral lateral osteotomies for the correction of a centrally deviated nose.

Methods

This retrospective chart review included 66 consecutive patients who underwent corrective rhinoplasty with nasal bone osteotomy for a deviated nose. Group 1 was treated with one-piece osteotomy, and group 2 was treated with conventional lateral and/or medial osteotomy. Available preoperative and postoperative three-dimensional facial bone computed tomography images were used to quantify nasal landmarks through three-dimensional reconstruction. Patient satisfaction was evaluated using a rhinoplasty outcome evaluation questionnaire.

Results

Measurements of nasal landmark angles toward the longitudinal facial midline plane showed a statistically narrowed postoperative angle in group 1 (subnasale landmark: preoperative angle 1.66 ± 0.29° [group 1] vs. 0.76 ± 1.09° [group 2]; postoperative angle 0.96 ± 0.77° [group 1] vs. 0.31 ± 0.29° [group 2]). The questionnaire scores revealed higher satisfaction (3.11 ± 2.38 vs. 1.157 ± 1.147) and a higher proportion of 4-point scores in group 1.

Conclusions

This is the first study to introduce the one-piece nasal osteotomy technique for centrally deviated noses. The technique consists of transverse osteotomy with bilateral osteotomies in one stage, thus the name "one-piece." Considering anatomic variances in Asian rhinoplasty, a deviated nose should be effectively corrected to obtain satisfactory outcomes. We demonstrated the efficacy and satisfactory outcomes of this new technique.

Level of Evidence IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.

The Application of the Acellular Dermal Matrix in the Correction of the Tear Trough Deformity

Abstract

Objective

The acellular dermal matrix (ADM) used in correcting the tear trough deformity has been reported, but there were only a few cases. The long-term effectiveness of ADM was not clear. We aim to discuss the technique and the effect of using ADM to correct the tear trough deformity through more cases.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted from January 2012 to January 2017. Twenty-six patients who showed obvious tear trough deformity with moderate or severe orbital fat bulging and excess of lower eyelid skin were treated with ADM to improve the appearance of the midface. Follow-up was performed for 2–12 months in 26 cases. The level of postoperative satisfaction was assessed by interview during the follow-up and rated as very satisfied, satisfied, acceptable, or unacceptable.

Result

Twenty patients were very satisfied for having achieved complete correction. Three patients were satisfied for having achieved obvious improvement. Three patients felt the results were just acceptable and were refilled because of the insufficiency of the filler. No one was unacceptable. There were no complications such as rapid resorption, rejection, or inflammation.

Conclusion

The method of using ADM for the correction of tear trough deformity has the advantages of low absorption rate, good appearance, and high security. It provides a new choice for the treatment of tear trough deformity.

Level of Evidence IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.

Mycosis fungoides presenting with pigmented purpuric rash

A 55-year-old woman presented with a pruritic rash existing for three months which was unresponsive to topical steroids. Dermatologic examination revealed generalized purpuric patches with unclear borders primarily localized on buttocks, abdomen, wrists and upper legs. Biopsy taken with diagnoses of pigmented purpuric dermatosis, pityriasis Rosea and mycosis fungoides, showed superficial and middermal lymphoid infiltrate with epidermotrophism and atypical large cerebriform cells as well as basaloid vacuolization, spongiosis and extravasated erythrocytes in the superficial dermis.

Prospective pilot evaluation of the efficacy and safety of adjuvant topical ingenol mebutate gel for localized patch/plaque-stage mycosis fungoides

Introduction: Whether ingenol mebutate (IM) is effective as adjuvant topical treatment for mycosis fungoides (MF) remains undetermined.

Paraneoplastic angiomatosis: A new entity

Paraneoplastic syndromes result from tumor secretion of hormones, peptides, or cytokines or from immunologic cross reactions between malignant and normal cells. Numerous organ systems may be affected by paraneoplastic conditions, including the skin. We report 2 cases of benign cutaneous vascular proliferations occurring in the setting of malignancy and propose the term paraneoplastic angiomatosis. Case 1: A 62-year-old man with multiple comorbidities presented with a large, irregular, blanching erythematous abdominal plaque.

Pilot evaluation of safety, efficacy, and tolerability of a new topical formulation for facial hyperpigmentation, combining ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate and crosslinked resilient hyaluronic acid

This study evaluated therapy of facial hyperpigmentation with a novel topical formulation combining two synergistic melanogenesis inhibitors: ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate (ATIP), the esterified form of vitamin C (concentration equivalent to 8% L-ascorbic acid), and crosslinked resilient hyaluronic acid (RHA). Vitamin C inhibits multiple oxidative steps during melanogenesis, diminishing tyrosinase activity. Clinical challenges with L-ascorbic acid include low skin penetrance, instability due to oxidation, and potential irritation.

No disclosure of support by ISDIN SA on poster

"Antiaging facial serum containing melatonin, bakuchiol, and ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate up-regulates antioxidant gene expression in medaka embryos"

Predictors of response to tildrakizumab for moderate-to-severe chronic plaque psoriasis

Introduction: Efficacy of tildrakizumab (TIL), a high-affinity, humanized, IgG1/κ monoclonal antibody against IL-23p19, has been evaluated for chronic plaque psoriasis (Pso) in 2 phase 3 randomized controlled trials. The objective of this analysis was to determine predictors of response to TIL treatment in the 2 trials.

Pembrolizumab-induced bullous pemphigoid

Background: Bullous pemphigoid (BP) is an autoimmune blistering disorder characterized by autoantibody deposition at the epithelial basement membrane zone. It classically presents in elderly adults and can be idiopathic or drug-induced. The 2 major bullous pemphigoid antigens do not differ between the drug-induced and idiopathic variants of the disease, nor do the direct and indirect immunofluorescence (DIF and IIF) findings. Pembrolizumab is an anti–programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) antibody which inhibits the negative immune regulation caused by PD-1 receptor signaling resulting in reversal of T-cell suppression and induction of antitumor responses.

Omalizumab for chronic spontaneous urticaria in real-life practice

Background: Omalizumab has been shown to be highly effective in phase III clinical trials in treatment of chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU).

National trends in staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome

Background: Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS) is a potentially fatal superficial blistering disorder caused by infection with exfoliative toxin producing strains of Staphylococcus aureus.

Comparison of Er:YAG laser, short pulse-duration pulsed dye laser, and long pulse-duration pulsed dye laser in treating sebaceous hyperplasia

Background: Patients of sebaceous hyperplasia (SH) usually seek treatment due to cosmetic concern. A few nonsurgical ablative devices are effective in treating SH, including carbon dioxide laser and erbium-doped yttrium aluminium garnetlaser (Er:YAG) laser. But these options bear the considerable risk of postoperative discoloration and scar formation. Pulsed dye laser (PDL) has been reported effective in treating SH. However, only short pulse-duration PDL (SPDL) has been used in previous studies.

Pseudomelanocytic nests leading to a misdiagnosis of lentigo maligna

Introduction: Dermoscopy of facial pigmented lesions is sometimes challenging and clinical-histologic correlation is essential.

Primary cutaneous mucinous carcinoma: Incidence and survival

Background: Primary cutaneous mucinous carcinoma (PCMC) is a rare eccrine carcinoma with a propensity to affect the head, especially the eyelid. It has the potential to be locally destructive with high rates of recurrence but low metastatic potential. Owing to its rarity, demographic and cancer-related data for PCMC are limited.

Poly-L-lactic injectable acid in the treatment of facial and extra facial flaccid areas: A case series

Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) is a synthetic, biocompatible and biodegradable polymer used as a sterile injectable solution to stimulate collagen production, leading to cutaneous filling, but do not act as a true volumizer. It has been used in facial and extrafacial areas to correct flaccidity, loss of volume, improve contour and skin elasticity. We report four female patients treated with PLLA, one vial per session. The final dilution was 10 cc for facial and 20 cc for extra facial injections. Case 1: 56 yo, treatment of medial region of the arms in 3 sessions.

Phase II study of KX2-391 ointment 1%, a novel field treatment for actinic keratosis, based on Src/tubulin polymerization inhibition

Background: KX2-391, a dual Src tyrosine kinase and tubulin polymerization inhibitor, inhibits the growth of human keratinocytes with IC50 of 32 nM and induces apoptosis in dividing cells. A phase I study demonstrated that KX2-391 ointment 1% reduced actinic keratosis (AK) lesion counts and was well tolerated following 3 or 5 days of treatment on the forearm. Aim: To determine the activity, safety and pharmacokinetics of KX2-391 ointment 1% (5 or 3 days) in adults with AK on the face or scalp.

Patient-reported global severity of atopic dermatitis is valid in adults

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is associated with a heterogeneous presentation and clinical course. There are many different patient-reported outcome measures available that measure different aspects of the disease. However, there are few simple, intuitive and validated severity assessments that are feasible for clinical practice and epidemiologic research. We sought to validate patient-reported global AD severity in adults. We performed a prospective dermatology practice-based study using questionnaires and evaluation by a dermatologist (n = 265).

Oral Polypodium leucotomos extract and its impact on visible light–induced pigmentation

Background: Visible light has multiple effects on the skin including erythema, DNA damage secondary to free radical production, and pigmentation. Few sunscreens protect against visible light, which can exacerbate photodermatoses. Polypodium leucotomos extract (PLE) has antioxidant, photoprotective, chemoprotective, antiinflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties that may offer protection against visible light induced effects.

Objective assessment of dry skin roughness in a pediatric population

Introduction and objectives: Dry skin is a common condition during childhood. Clinical scoring of dry skin includes tactile evaluation of the skin surface to assess roughness. It also includes visual examination of the appearance of the skin and for severe cases the presence of dander. To our knowledge, no instrumental evaluation of roughness has ever been performed to objectively score skin dryness in a pediatric population, nor to document the clinical efficacy of skin care products specifically developed to address dry skin condition.

Neurofibromatosis type 1 and birth size: A retrospective registry-based total population study in Finland

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is the most common dominantly inherited cancer predisposition syndrome with prevalence of ∼1:2,000. It is caused by mutations in NF1 gene on chromosome 17. The protein product of NF1 gene is neurofibromin, which acts as a tumor suppressor protein inhibiting Ras signaling pathway. The hallmark signs of the disorder are found on the skin, but NF1 is a multisystem disorder with increased risk for e.g., cancer, pregnancy complications, osteoporosis and learning difficulties.

T-helper cell phenotype expression in cutaneous lesions of angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma

Background: Angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma (AITL) is a common type of peripheral T-cell lymphoma. AITL can be missed until lymphadenopathy develops in patients initially presenting with skin lesions, as skin biopsy may lack conclusive findings. The expression of follicular helper T-cell (THF) markers in the skin can be an important diagnostic clue. We present a case of AITL with skin lesions positive for CD10 and dim PD-1 T cells, with the purpose of highlighting the potential for diagnosing cutaneous AITL via skin biopsy.

A facewash containing specific plant-derived monoterpenes reduced Propionibacterium acnes burden and improved acne symptoms

The pathogenesis of acne is multifactorial, including increased sebum production, ductal epidermal proliferation, bacterial colonization and inflammation. While the sequence of events involved in acne pathogenesis have not yet been established, there is a strong corelationship between the presence of acne and growth of the microorganism Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) leading to suggestions that P. acnes is associated with acne. Recent studies have also shown an increased level of Staphylococcus epidermidis (S.

The Avoidance and Management of Complications, and Revision Surgery of the Lower Face and Neck

Complications are an inherent occurrence in surgery. In rhytidectomy, many complications are avoidable with thorough preoperative assessment and optimal intraoperative and postoperative care. Nevertheless, complications do occur. In certain situations, avoidance of risks is the best way to decrease the occurrence. Once complications do occur, there is a large body of literature to aid in the correction.

Difficult Necks and Unresolved Problems in Neck Rejuvenation

Neck rejuvenation attempts to correct the unattractive features that result from the process of facial aging. The aesthetic goals of surgery include creating a well-defined jaw contour, optimal cervicomental angle, smooth-appearing skin, and a healthy redistribution of soft tissue volume. Unique patient characteristics create inherent challenges that may limit the degree to which improvement can be made. Psychological expectations and motivations influence patient satisfaction and must be understood through careful evaluation and counseling. This article describes common difficult situations encountered during neck rejuvenation and discusses unresolved problems. Several clinical examples along with specific surgical solutions are included.

Reduction Neck Lift

A description of the deep structures of the neck that are responsible for submandibular fullness and a systematic surgical approach to reduce them are presented. The structures susceptible to surgical management include the subplatysmal fat, inter-sternocleidomastoid origin fat, anterior belly of the digastric muscle, hyoid bone, submandibular gland and the tail of the parotid gland. A thorough analysis of the key anatomic landmarks of the young and attractive neck is detailed in resting and dynamic positions. A clinical classification of parotid reduction in the face lift/neck lift patient is also presented.

Surgical and Nonsurgical Perioral/Lip Rejuvenation

Lip rejuvenation options have evolved from surgical augmentation with plastic to far more natural options to include fat, tissues, resurfacing, and surgical manipulation of lip borders and contour. An overview of different options contrasts the risks, benefits, costs, and results between available surgical options. The ideal treatment varies from patient to patient, but optimally incorporates numerous simultaneous procedures.

Management of the Submandibular Gland in Neck Lifts

Neck contour deformities are common among patients who present for facial rejuvenation. A thorough physical examination and photographic analysis, including an upward view of the flexed neck, enable the surgeon to determine which structures should be treated. Common causes of neck concerns include hypertrophy of the subplatysmal fat, the anterior belly of the digastric muscle, and/or the submandibular salivary glands. Partial removal of the submandibular salivary glands requires advanced knowledge of subplatysmal anatomy and surgical expertise but can be performed safely and reliably to yield favorable results of neck rejuvenation.

Gender Reassignment

Facial stigmata associated with one's assigned gender can be very distressing for the gender dysphoric patient. The lower face and neck contain several structures that play a significant role in their ability to "pass" as their desired gender. Clinical recognition and modification of these structures will allow the patient to have facial and neck features that are consistent with their desired gender. This article reviews the techniques of mandibular angle contouring, genioplasty, chondrolaryngoplasty, facelift, and neck lift as they pertain to the feminization and masculinization of the face and neck of the patient with gender dysphoria.

Editorial Board

Publication date: September 2018

Source: Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology, Volume 186

Author(s):

The Use of Ultrasound-Guided Injections for Tendinopathies

Abstract

Purpose of Review

The purpose of the study was to review the efficacy and safety of common ultrasound-guided injections for tendinopathy conditions. Corticosteroid injections have historically been the most common injection used for tendinopathy; however, there are an increasing number of injections including platelet-rich plasma, hyaluronan, polidocanol, botulinum toxin, and high volume saline injections.

Recent Findings

There is growing evidence that while corticosteroid injections for tendinopathies usually have short-term efficacy, they may result in medium-term harm, particularly for tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis). Corticosteroid injections appear to have more clinical utility for tenosynovitis conditions. There is insufficient evidence regarding other injection options to make a broad recommendation in favour, although individual trials for certain tendons illustrate benefits for some of the non-corticosteroid options.

Summary

When considering the use of ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injections for tendinopathies, the risk of possible medium-term harm must be weighed up against any short-term efficacy. Other injection-based therapies may be appropriate in certain clinical situations; however, the evidence and clinical circumstances must be considered for the particular tendon and patient. Load-based rehabilitation remains the cornerstone of tendinopathy management.

Intracortical facilitation within the migraine motor cortex depends on the stimulation intensity. A paired-pulse TMS study

Connectivity within the primary motor cortex can be measured using the paired-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) paradigm. This evaluates the effect of a first conditioning stimulus on the motor evo...

Relationship Between Platelet Count and Insulin Resistance in Korean Adolescents: A Nationwide Population-Based Study

Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders, Ahead of Print.

CMTM4 regulates angiogenesis by promoting cell surface recycling of VE-cadherin to endothelial adherens junctions

Abstract

Vascular endothelial (VE) cadherin is a key component of endothelial adherens junctions (AJs) and plays an important role in maintaining vascular integrity. Endocytosis of VE-cadherin regulates junctional strength and a decrease of surface VE-cadherin reduces vascular stability. However, disruption of AJs is also a requirement for vascular sprouting. Identifying novel regulators of endothelial endocytosis could enhance our understanding of angiogenesis. Here, we evaluated the angiogenic potential of (CKLF-like MARVEL transmembrane domain 4) CMTM4 and assessed in which molecular pathway CMTM4 is involved during angiogenesis. Using a 3D vascular assay composed of GFP-labeled HUVECs and dsRED-labeled pericytes, we demonstrated in vitro that siRNA-mediated CMTM4 silencing impairs vascular sprouting. In vivo, CMTM4 silencing by morpholino injection in zebrafish larvae inhibits intersomitic vessel growth. Intracellular staining revealed that CMTM4 colocalizes with Rab4⁺ and Rab7⁺ vesicles, both markers of the endocytic trafficking pathway. CMTM4 colocalizes with both membrane-bound and internalized VE-cadherin. Adenovirus-mediated CMTM4 overexpression enhances the endothelial endocytic pathway, in particular the rapid recycling pathway, shown by an increase in early endosomal antigen-1 positive (EEA1⁺), Rab4⁺, Rab11⁺ , and Rab7⁺ vesicles. CMTM4 overexpression enhances membrane-bound VE-cadherin internalization, whereas CMTM4 knockdown decreases internalization of VE-cadherin. CMTM4 overexpression promotes endothelial barrier function, shown by an increase in recovery of transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) after thrombin stimulation. We have identified in this study a novel regulatory function for CMTM4 in angiogenesis. CMTM4 plays an important role in the turnover of membrane-bound VE-cadherin at AJs, mediating endothelial barrier function and controlling vascular sprouting.

Novel combined method of biosorption and chemical precipitation for recovery of Pb 2+ from wastewater

Abstract

A novel combined biosorption-precipitation process has been designed and applied to recycle Pb²⁺ from low concentration lead containing wastewater. Pb²⁺ was firstly removed selectively from wastewater by pyromellitic dianhydride (PMDA) modified sugarcane bagasse (SB) fixed-bed column, and then, it was desorbed into the concentrated eluate and recycled by adding chemical precipitant. Adsorption performance of the column and optimum desorption and precipitation condition for Pb²⁺ were investigated in detail. Results showed that the as-prepared column could efficiently remove Pb²⁺ from aqueous solution and optimum condition for Pb²⁺ precipitation in eluate was at pH 3.0 and molar ratio of precipitant to Pb²⁺ of 5:1 by using Na₃PO₄ as precipitant. Recovery experiment illustrated that Pb²⁺ was selectively removed from wastewater containing ions of Pb²⁺, Zn²⁺, Cd²⁺, Ca²⁺, K⁺, and Na⁺ through competitive substitution adsorption on the modified SB, and mass ratio of the five metal ions in eluate was 96.8:0.7:0.7:0.7:0.5:0.5. Pb²⁺ in this concentrated and purified eluate solution was recycled efficiently by adding Na₃PO₄. The combined method had great potential in application of heavy metal recovery from wastewater.

Photo-catalytic deactivation of hazardous sulfate reducing bacteria using palladium nanoparticles decorated silicon carbide: A comparative study with pure silicon carbide nanoparticles

Publication date: Available online 10 August 2018

Source: Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology

Author(s): Umair Baig, M.A. Gondal, M.A. Dastageer, A.B. Khalil, S.M. Zubair

Abstract

Sulfate reducing bacteria (SRB) wreaks havoc in the oil industry by being an agent for oil souring and building corrosion in pipelines and thereby degrade the quality of crude oil. Palladium nanoparticles decorated silicon carbide nanomaterial (Pd-SiC) was synthesized by a facile single step synthesis process and this nanomaterial as a photo-catalyst, as compared to pure silicon carbide (SiC) nanoparticles showed a significant enhancement in the photo-catalytic efficiency in the process of the photo-catalytic deactivation of hazardous SRB. The morphological characterization studies such as Field emission scanning electron microscopy, Transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy unambiguously revealed that SiC surface was successfully decorated with palladium (Pd) nanoparticles. Also the Pd nanoparticles decorated on the SiC surface was further substantiated by EDX and elemental mapping analysis, which clearly revealed the presence of Pd along with Si and O. The band gap energy estimated using Diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS) showed the reduction of band gap energy from 2.82 eV to 2.72 eV. The observed enhancement in the efficiency of photo-catalytic deactivation of SRB with Pd-SiC can be attributed to the significant reduction in the recombination of photo-generated charge carriers, characteristically resulting from the metal (Pd) semiconductor (SiC) junction established by this synthesis process.

Graphical Abstract

Digital Technologies, Ethical Questions, and the Need of an Informational Framework

Abstract

Technologies have always been bearers of profound changes in science, society, and any other aspect of life. The latest technological revolution—the digital revolution—is no exception in this respect. This paper presents the revolution brought about by digital technologies through the lenses of a specific approach: the philosophy of information. It is argued that the adoption of an informational approach helps avoiding utopian or dystopian approaches to (digital) technology, both expressions of technological determinism. Such an approach provides a conceptual framework able to address the ethical challenges that digital technologies pose, without getting stuck in the dichotomous thinking of technological determinism, and to bring together ethics, ontology, and epistemology into a coherent account.

Organic contaminants in the effluent of Chinese wastewater treatment plants

Abstract

The effluents of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are the important sources for pollutants. These pollutants may entry into surface water, groundwater, and soil by recharging and irrigation then pose risk to human beings. Using reports from the past 20 years (n = 58), we conducted this review of organic contaminants (OCs) in the effluent of Chinese WWTPs. All the studies were during 2005 to 2017 and more than two papers were conducted in every year. Nineteen provinces (20 cities) were covered and most of the studies were located in the eastern part of China, especially the most developed and highest density of population areas. Two hundred eighty-four OCs were contained. E antibiotics, endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), and pharmaceuticals were the most commonly studied groups of OCs, and ofloxacin, norfloxacin, and sulfamethoxazole were the three most commonly reported OCs. The highest concentration appeared for bisphenol A (BPA). The relative standard deviations (RSDs) of concentrations of the most commonly studied compounds were high. In the future, more studies should pay attention on national analysis and more pollutants.

Effect of amendments on contaminated soil of multiple heavy metals and accumulation of heavy metals in plants

Abstract

The contamination of soil with heavy metals is a severe problem due to adverse impact of heavy metals on environmental safety and human health. It is essential to remediate soil contaminated with heavy metals. This study has evaluated the effects of pine biochar, kaolin, and triple super phosphate (TSP) on multiple heavy metals (Ni, Zn, Cu, and Cd) in contaminated soil and accumulation of heavy metals in plants. The amendments can reduce availability of heavy metals in soil by increasing pH, adsorption, complexation, or co-precipitation. Different amendments have variable effects on accumulation of heavy metals in plants and in soil due to its diverse mechanism of stability. The results showed that application of triple super phosphate (TSP) has significant reduced soil Cd exchangeable (EXC) fraction from 58.59 to 21.30%. Bound to carbonates (CAR) fraction decreased from 9.84 to 5.11%, and bound to Fe-Mn oxides (OX) fraction increased from 29.61 to 69.86%. The triple super phosphate (TSP) has the ability to stabilize Cu and especially Cd. However, triple super phosphate (TSP) has enhanced ecological risk of Zn and Ni. Application of pine biochar has significantly enhanced soil pH. The kaolin has significantly reduced EXC fraction of Cd and increased OX fraction of Cu. The amendments and heavy metals have not caused significant effect on SPAD value of Buxus microphylla Siebold & Zucc (B. microphylla). The triple super phosphate (TSP) has significant decreased biomass of B. microphylla and bamboo-williow (Salix sp.) by 24.91 and 57.43%, respectively. Pine biochar and kaolin have increased the accumulation of Zn and Cd in plants. It is concluded that triple super phosphate (TSP) was effective in remediation of Cd and kaolin was effective in remediation of Cd and Cu. Pine biochar was effective in remediation of Cd, Cu, and Zn.

Comparison of esophageal submucosal glands in experimental models for esophagus tissue engineering applications

Abstract

Objective

Esophagus tissue engineering holds promises to overcome the limitations of the presently employed esophageal replacement procedures. This study investigated 5 animal models for esophageal submucosal glands (ESMG) to identify models appropriate for regenerative medicine applications. Furthermore, this study aimed to measure geometric parameters of ESMG that could be utilized for fabrication of ESMG-specific scaffolds for esophagus tissue engineering applications.

Methods

Ovine, avian, bovine, murine, and porcine esophagus were investigated using Hematoxylin–Eosin (HE), Periodic Acid Schiff (PAS), and Alcian Blue (AB), with AB applied in 3 pH levels (0.2, 1.0, and 2.5) to detect sulphated mucous. Celleye^® (version F) was employed to gain parametric data on ESMGs (size, perimeter, distance to lumen, and acini concentration) necessary for scaffold fabrication.

Results

Murine, bovine, and ovine esophagus were devoid of ESMG. Avian esophagus demonstrated sulphated acid mucous producing ESMGs with a holocrine secretion pattern, whereas sulphated acid and neutral mucous producing ESMGs with a merocrine secretion pattern were observed in porcine esophagus. Distance of ESMGs to lumen ranged from 127–340 μm (avian) to 916–983 μm (porcine). ESMGs comprised 35% (avian) to 45% (porcine) area of the submucosa. ESMG had an area of 125000 μm² (avian) to 580000 μm² (porcine).

Conclusion

Avian and porcine esophagus possesses ESMGs. However, porcine esophagus correlates with data available on human ESMGs. Geometric and parametric data obtained from ESMG are valuable for the fabrication of ESMG-specific scaffolds for esophagus tissue engineering using the hybrid construct approach.

Complete lymph node dissection or observation in melanoma patients with multiple positive sentinel lymph nodes: A single‐center retrospective analysis

The Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.

Communications principles for inviting inquiry and exploration through science and data visualization

Abstract

Science, in the popular imagination, is about finding answers to questions. Scientists make discoveries, develop theories, and deliver those discoveries and theories to audiences with an interest in the truth as backed up by science. Well-designed data visualization (dataviz), by contrast, can generate and address not only new questions but new kinds of questions. It has the particular quality of allowing its viewers, users and makers the ability to generate new inquiries, and to put them in a better place to answer them. Dataviz offers aesthetic and interactive platforms for discussion and inquiry that can help scientists to both do their work and better communicate their work to broader audiences.Here I will illustrate and examine case studies from multiple points along the rich and varied possibility space that opens up when science and dataviz work together. I will also introduce three communication principles that I have learned from my involvement with hundreds of dataviz projects over the years. Well-designed dataviz can help scientists and those involved with science find ways to navigate the multiple competing interests and priorities inherent in both communication to non-scientists and exploratory data-rich interfaces.http://sicb.org/meetings/2018/abstracts/correctsymposia.php

Sexually dimorphic eye-loss driven by ecological selection in an ostracod crustacean: support for the reproductive role hypothesis

Abstract

Euphilomedes carcharodonta ostracods exhibit sex-specific eye-loss, with females lacking image-forming compound eyes compared to males and related species. The standard assumption is that sexual dimorphism is driven by sexual selection. However, previous work in E. carcharodonta suggests that male eyes are used to evade predators in the male-specific ecological niche, and that male-eyes lack the resolution to search for females. In this study, we examine whether sexual selection or ecological selection drives the retention of male eyes. Ecological niche differentiation was hypothesized by Darwin (1871) to be an alternative selective force for sexual dimorphism either through food competition or through dimorphic sex-role behavior, the reproductive role hypothesis. As of yet, there is little experimental evidence supporting this hypothesis. Here, we experimentally blindfold male E. carcharodonta to mimic the female phenotype and examine the effects on sex-specific niches and behavior. Blindfolding does not appear to grossly change male behavior, nor do females behave differently when exposed to blindfolded males. This leads us to conclude that the development of complex eyes in male E. arises from ecological selection rather than sexual selection.

Correction to: Estimating the Reproducibility of Experimental Philosophy

Appendix 1 was incomplete in the initial online publication. The original article has been corrected.

Bildgebende radiologische Diagnostik und Verlaufsbeurteilung beim HCC

Zusammenfassung

Hintergrund

Die bildgebende radiologische Diagnostik ist heute aus den Untersuchungen beim hepatozellulären Karzinom (HCC) nicht mehr wegzudenken. Die Multidetektor-Computertomographie (CT) und Magnetresonanztomographie (MRT) spielen hierbei eine entscheidende Rolle. Die Kontrastmittelsonographie (CE-US, „contrast enhanced ultrasound") stellt zudem für die Charakterisierung des HCC bei einer in der B‑Bild-Sonographie zufällig entdeckten Leberläsion bei Hochrisikopatienten eine Alternative dar.

Methode

Es wurden eine Recherche und Analyse aktueller Literatur durchgeführt.

Ergebnisse

Die CT ist als schnell und universell verfügbare Bildgebungsmodalität eine wichtige Methode zur Diagnostik des HCC. Sie profitiert von den technischen Weiterentwicklungen der letzten Jahrzehnte, die sich neben reduzierter Strahlendosis v. a. in schnellerer Akquisition niederschlagen. Mit der MRT können noch weitere Diagnosekriterien für die Evaluation und Differenzialdiagnose von fokalen Leberläsionen in der zirrhotischen Leber herangezogen werden. Sie ist heute ausreichend robust, um bei den allermeisten Patienten adäquate Bilder zu generieren. Die CE-US ist in der aktuellen nationalen S3-Leitlinie zur Diagnostik und Therapie des HCC als alternatives bildgebendes Verfahren zur CT und MRT für die Charakterisierung des HCC empfohlen, wenn ein unklarer Leberrundherd unabhängig von seiner Größe in einer Hochrisikogruppe in der B‑Bild-Sonographie detektiert wird. Die Vorteile liegen in den geringen Kosten, der raschen Verfügbarkeit, der fehlenden Strahlenbelastung und der fehlenden Nephrotoxizität. Im klinischen Alltag hat sich die Responsebeurteilung mit den mRECIST-Kriterien beim HCC weitestgehend durchgesetzt.