Heavy metal contamination in “chemicalized’ green revolution banana fields in southern India

Abstract

The present report is a general assessment of the level of nutrient and toxic heavy metals as an impact of "chemicalized" cultivation practices for decades in banana fields in the three south Indian states, Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamilnadu. The major objective was to critically analyze the status of metallic content in green revolution fields, where chemical fertilizers or plant protective chemicals remain the major source of heavy metal contaminants. Since soil series being a soil taxonomic category that includes slightly variant soils of similar origin and common parent materials, the 286 field samples of the broad south Indian region were further grouped into composite samples representing 47 different soil series for limiting the sample analysis. The quantitative assessment of ten metals done in these soils using the Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer included Ca, Mg, Mn, Zn, Fe, Cu, Pb, Ni, Cr, and Co. The amount of Cu observed in many fields was higher than all the previous reports of the same in the "chemicalized" fields. Similarly, the amount of Co observed in 25 fields was above its threshold levels expected for normal soils. The amount of Pb observed in all the soils appeared quite normal. The amount of Ni observed in 14 soil series was higher than its threshold levels for normal soils, except in 4 soil series, where its amount exceeded the upper limit of contamination. Cr was detected in all the samples, but found higher than its threshold level in 31 soil series. Significant positive correlations were observed between the amounts of different metals in the study. PCA results indicated that variables were correlated to four principal components, and 74.36% of the total variance was justified.

Editorial Board

Publication date: August 2018

Source: Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology, Volume 185

Author(s):

Clinical Utility of a Novel Ultrafast T2-Weighted Sequence for Spine Imaging [SPINE]

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE:

TSE-based T2-weighted imaging of the spine has long scan times. This work proposes a fast imaging protocol using variable refocusing flip angles, optimized for blurring and specific absorption rate.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A variable refocusing flip angle echo-train was optimized for the spine to improve the point spread function and minimize the specific absorption rate, yielding images with improved spatial resolution and SNR compared with the constant flip angle sequence. Data were acquired from 51 patients (35 lumbar, 16 whole-spine) using conventional TSE and the proposed sequence, with a single-shot variant for whole-spine. Noninferiority analysis was performed to evaluate the efficiency of the proposed technique.

RESULTS:

The proposed multishot sequence resulted in a 2x shorter scan time with a >1.5x lower specific absorption rate. The variable flip angle sequence was noninferior to the conventional TSE (P < .025) for all image-quality and clinical criteria except signal-to-noise ratio for the lumbar spine protocol. However, mean image scores for the TSE-variable refocusing flip angle were ≥4.3 for all criteria, and concordance analysis showed high agreement (>90%) with the TSE, indicating clinical equivalence. The single-shot sequence resulted in 4x shorter whole-spine scans, and image scores were ≥4.4 for all criteria, attesting to its clinical utility.

CONCLUSIONS:

We present a fast T2-weighted spine protocol using variable refocusing flip angles, including a single-shot variant. The sequences have better point spread function behavior than their constant flip angle counterparts and, being faster, should be less sensitive to patient motion, often seen in the longer TSE scans.

Clinically Relevant Imaging Features for MGMT Promoter Methylation in Multiple Glioblastoma Studies: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis [ADULT BRAIN]

BACKGROUND:

O6-methylguanine methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter methylation status has been reported as a prognostic biomarker in clinical trials.

PURPOSE:

Our aim was to systematically evaluate imaging features of MGMT promoter methylated glioblastoma and to determine the diagnostic performance of MR imaging for prediction of MGMT promoter methylation in patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma.

DATA SOURCES:

A computerized search of Ovid MEDLINE and EMBASE up to February 27, 2018, was conducted.

STUDY SELECTION:

We selected studies evaluating imaging features of MGMT promoter methylated glioblastoma and the diagnostic performance of MR imaging for prediction of MGMT promoter methylation.

DATA ANALYSIS:

Pooled estimates of sensitivity and specificity were calculated using a hierarchic logistic regression model. Meta-regression and sensitivity analysis were performed.

DATA SYNTHESIS:

Twenty-two articles including 2199 patients were included. MGMT promoter methylated glioblastoma is likely to show less edema, high ADC, and low perfusion. Ten articles including 753 patients were included in the meta-analysis. The summary sensitivity was 79% (95% CI, 72%–85%), and the summary specificity was 78% (95% CI, 71%–84%). In the meta-regression, MGMT promoter methylation and mean age were associated with heterogeneity. Sensitivity analysis excluding 1 study resolved the heterogeneity.

LIMITATIONS:

Included studies used a variety of different MR imaging techniques to predict MGMT promoter methylation.

CONCLUSIONS:

MGMT promotor methylated glioblastoma is likely to show less aggressive imaging features than MGMT promotor unmethylated glioblastoma. Despite the variety of different MR imaging techniques used, MR imaging in patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma was shown to have the potential to predict MGMT promoter methylation noninvasively.

Preoperative Mapping of the Supplementary Motor Area in Patients with Brain Tumor Using Resting-State fMRI with Seed-Based Analysis [FUNCTIONAL]

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE:

The supplementary motor area can be a critical region in the preoperative planning of patients undergoing brain tumor resection because it plays a role in both language and motor function. While primary motor regions have been successfully identified using resting-state fMRI, there is variability in the literature regarding the identification of the supplementary motor area for preoperative planning. The purpose of our study was to compare resting-state fMRI to task-based fMRI for localization of the supplementary motor area in a large cohort of patients with brain tumors presenting for preoperative brain mapping.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Sixty-six patients with brain tumors were evaluated with resting-state fMRI using seed-based analysis of hand and orofacial motor regions. Rates of supplementary motor area localization were compared with those in healthy controls and with localization results by task-based fMRI.

RESULTS:

Localization of the supplementary motor area using hand motor seed regions was more effective than seeding using orofacial motor regions for both patients with brain tumor (95.5% versus 34.8%, P < .001) and controls (95.2% versus 45.2%, P < .001). Bilateral hand motor seeding was superior to unilateral hand motor seeding in patients with brain tumor for either side (95.5% versus 75.8%/75.8% for right/left, P < .001). No difference was found in the ability to identify the supplementary motor area between patients with brain tumors and controls.

CONCLUSIONS:

In addition to task-based fMRI, seed-based analysis of resting-state fMRI represents an equally effective method for supplementary motor area localization in patients with brain tumors, with the best results obtained with bilateral hand motor region seeding.

Application of 3D Fast Spin-Echo T1 Black-Blood Imaging in the Diagnosis and Prognostic Prediction of Patients with Leptomeningeal Carcinomatosis [ADULT BRAIN]

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE:

Contrast-enhanced 3D fast spin-echo T1 black-blood imaging selectively suppresses the signal of blood flow and could provide a higher contrast-to-noise ratio compared with contrast-enhanced 3D ultrafast gradient recalled echo (contrast-enhanced gradient recalled echo) and 2D spin-echo T1WI (contrast-enhanced spin-echo). The purpose of our study was to evaluate whether black-blood imaging can improve the diagnostic accuracy for leptomeningeal carcinomatosis compared with contrast-enhanced gradient recalled-echo and contrast-enhanced spin-echo and, furthermore, to determine whether the grade of leptomeningeal carcinomatosis evaluated on black-blood imaging is a significant predictor of progression-free survival.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Leptomeningeal carcinomatosis (n = 78) and healthy (n = 31) groups were enrolled. Contrast-enhanced gradient recalled-echo, contrast-enhanced spin-echo, and black-blood imaging were separately reviewed, and a diagnostic rating (positive, indeterminate, or negative) and grading of leptomeningeal carcinomatosis were assigned. The diagnostic accuracies of the 3 imaging sequences were compared in terms of leptomeningeal carcinomatosis detection. The Kaplan-Meier and the Cox proportional hazards model analyses were performed to determine the relationship between the leptomeningeal carcinomatosis grade evaluated on black-blood imaging and progression-free survival.

RESULTS:

Black-blood imaging showed a significantly higher sensitivity (97.43%) than contrast-enhanced gradient recalled-echo (64.1%) and contrast-enhanced spin-echo (66.67%) (P < .05). In terms of specificities, we did not find any significant differences among contrast-enhanced gradient recalled-echo (90.32%), contrast-enhanced spin-echo (90.32%), and black-blood imaging (96.77%) (P > .05). A Cox proportional hazards model identified the time to metastasis, Karnofsky Performance Scale status, and a combination of the leptomeningeal carcinomatosis grade with a linear pattern as independent predictors of progression-free survival (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS:

Black-blood imaging can improve the diagnostic accuracy and predict progression-free survival in patients with leptomeningeal carcinomatosis.

Ultrafast Brain MRI Can Be Used for Indications beyond Shunted Hydrocephalus in Pediatric Patients [PEDIATRICS]

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE:

Evaluation of shunted hydrocephalus is the most common indication for ultrafast brain MRI. Radiation-/sedation-free imaging capabilities make this protocol more desirable over CT and standard brain MRI. We hypothesized that ultrafast brain MRI can be used for selected indications beyond shunted hydrocephalus without adverse outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Ultrafast brain MRI was performed with axial, sagittal, and coronal HASTE. The radiology information system was used to identify pediatric patients (0–18 years of age) who underwent ultrafast brain MRI between March 2014 and May 2016. A retrospective chart review was completed to identify indications other than shunted hydrocephalus, such as ventriculomegaly, macrocephaly, or intracranial cyst. All ultrafast brain MRIs were evaluated by a certified neuroradiologist and a neurosurgeon. Ultrafast brain MRI was deemed of sufficient diagnostic value for these indications if no further standard brain MRI was required for the study indication or if additional imaging was performed for an alternate indication.

RESULTS:

The radiology information system identified 800 patients who had undergone an ultrafast brain MRI during the study period. One hundred twenty-two of these patients had ventriculomegaly, macrocephaly, or intracranial cyst as the study indication. Twenty-one of the 122 patients were excluded due to insufficient follow-up. Of the remaining 101 patients, only 5 had a standard brain MRI for the same indication, with no additional clinically significant information identified on those studies.

CONCLUSIONS:

These results suggest that ultrafast brain MRI is sufficient to evaluate ventriculomegaly, macrocephaly, or intracranial cyst. Ultrafast brain MRI is radiation- and sedation-free; therefore, we recommend its use as the primary screening neuroimaging study for these indications.

Cyanobacteria and microcystins in Koka reservoir (Ethiopia)

Abstract

The composition and abundance of cyanobacteria and their toxins, microcystins (MCs), and cylindrospermopsins (CYN) were investigated using samples collected at monthly intervals from the Amudde side of Koka Reservoir from May 2013 to April 2014. Cyanobacteria were the most abundant and persistent phytoplankton taxa with Microcystis and Cylindrospermopsis species alternately dominating the phytoplankton community of the reservoir and accounting for up to 84.3 and 11.9% of total cyanobacterial abundance, respectively. Analyses of cyanotoxins in filtered samples by HPLC-DAD and LC-MS/MS identified and quantified five variants of MCs (MC-LR, MC-YR, MC-RR, MC-dmLR, and MC-LA) in all samples, with their total concentrations ranging from 1.86 to 28.3 μg L⁻¹ and from 1.71 to 33 μg L⁻¹, respectively. Despite the presence and occasional abundance of Cylindrospermopsis sp., cylindrospermopsin was not detected. Redundancy analysis (RDA) showed that the environmental variables explained 82.7% of the total variance in cyanobacterial abundance and microcystin concentration. The presence of considerably high levels of MCs almost throughout the year represents a serious threat to public health and life of domestic and wild animals.

Vitamin E alleviates phoxim-induced toxic effects on intestinal oxidative stress, barrier function, and morphological changes in rats

Abstract

Phoxim is an organic phosphorus pesticide that remains easily in the environment, such as human food and animal feed. The objective of this study was to explore the effect of vitamin E on phoxim-induced oxidative stress in the intestinal tissues of Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. Forty-eight Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to a control group and three treatment groups: treatment group 1 (phoxim: 20 mg/kg·BW), treatment group 2 (phoxim: 180 mg/kg·BW), and treatment 3 (vitamin E + phoxim: 200 mg/kg·BW + 180 mg/kg·BW). Phoxim was given by gavage administration once a day for 28 days. The results showed that phoxim significantly reduced jejunum villus height in rats (P < 0.05), and decreased the mRNA expression of junction protein genes of rats, including Occlidin and Claudin-4 (P < 0.05). Phoxim reduced GSH content and T-AOC level in the intestinal mucosa (P < 0.05). The mRNA expression levels of oxidative stress-related genes (Nrf2 and GPx2) were decreased. The mRNA expression of SOD was significantly increased. In addition, phoxim increased the level of interleukin-6 (IL-6) in jejunum mucosa and significantly reduced the level of IL-8 in ileum mucosas, while significantly increased TNF-α secretion. The mRNA expression levels of IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8 were significantly decreased, and mRNA expression of TNF-α was significantly increased (P < 0.05). Phoxim also increased the DNA expression of total cecal bacteria and Escherichia coli, inhibited the DNA expression of Lactobacillus and destroyed the intestinal barrier. Two hundred milligrams per kilogram BW vitamin E reduced the effect of phoxim on intestinal structure, alleviated the oxidative stress in intestinal tissue, and decreased the level of TNF-α. The mRNA expressions of antioxidative stress genes (SOD and GPx2) were significantly increased. The DNA expression level of Lactobacillus was significantly increased. In conclusion, vitamin E helped reduce the toxicity of organophosphate pesticides, such as phoxim on rat intestinal tissue.

Impact of ozonation and biologically enhanced activated carbon filtration on the composition of micropollutants in drinking water

Abstract

A pilot-scale drinking water treatment process for Songhua River, including conventional treatment (coagulation-settlement and rapid sand filtration), ozonation, biological enhanced activated carbon (BEAC) filtration, and chlorination disinfection, was carried out in this study. To investigate the impact of ozonation and BEAC filtration on removing the composition of micropollutants in drinking water, we detected the micropollutant composition from each stage of the treatment process by non-targeted analysis using a GC-MS technique and compared the results between effluents of single BEAC and O₃-BEAC processes. Aromatic compounds and esters could be abated efficiently during single BEAC filtration via biodegradation and adsorption; however, possible metabolic products (i.e., alkenes) were formed by biodegradation. Comparatively, O₃-BEAC process could reduce micropollutants much more significantly than single BEAC process especially for aromatic compounds including substituted benzenes and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) without the formation of metabolic products through the coupling effect of oxidation, biodegradation, and adsorption, suggesting that ozonation improved the removal potential of micropollutants in the BEAC process. In addition, conventional and novel chlorinated disinfection by-products were also measured during post-chlorination.

Educating Semiosis: Foundational Concepts for an Ecological Edusemiotic

Abstract

Many edusemiotic writers have begun to closely align edusemitoics to biosemiotics; the basic logic being that, if the life process can be defined through the criterion of semiotic engagement, so can the learning process (Stables in J Curr Stud 38(4):373–387, 2006). Thus, the ecological concept of umwelt has come to be a central area of investigation for edusemiotics; allowing theorists to address learning and living concurrently, from the perspective of meaning and significance. To address the conceptual and experiential foundations of the edusemiotic perspective, this paper will focus its attention on the basic semiosic processes that sustain the learner's primary modelling system or umwelt—the world of meaning and sensory engagement that the organism is immersed in. This focus enables us to identify and explore four basic principles that an ecologically concerned edusemiotic perspective can be said to rest upon; the Iconicity Hypothesis, the Principle of Suprasubjective Relation, the Natural Learning Flow Principle, and the Continuity Principle. The identification and elaboration of these basic philosophical orientations will help establish the importance and relevance of the edusemiotic perspective for educational philosophy and theory in general. This task requires the methodological framework of Sebeok and Danesi's (The forms of meaning: modeling systems theory and semiotic analysis, vol 1, Walter de Gruyter, Berlin, 2000) Modelling Systems Theory (MST), which; (a) provides a biosemiotically grounded approach to understanding the diversity of modelling phenomena across all species, and; (b) contextualizes the specific focus of this study within the broader forms of learning and knowing encompassed by a semiotic theory of learning. Hopefully such attention to the foundational doctrina of this new perspective will encourage more educational research to take what Semetsky (J Philos Educ 48:490–506, 2014) has called the edusemiotic turn.

Side effects of intra-gastric photodynamic therapy: An in vitro study

Publication date: Available online 12 July 2018

Source: Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology

Author(s): Paola Faraoni, Alessio Gnerucci, Francesco Ranaldi, Barbara Orsini, Giovanni Romano, Franco Fusi

Abstract

Since many years it has been acknowledged that some bacterial species, among which H. pylori, P. aeruginosa, P. acnes accumulate endogenous photosensitizers (PS) in the form of porphyrins. This makes antibacterial photodynamic therapy (PDT) easier to perform due to the possible avoidance of external PS. In this study, we focus on gastric infections associated with the presence of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), known to accumulate and release both protoporphyrin IX (PPIX) and coproporphyrins. PDT versus H. pylori can be carried out by modified endoscopes or by new ingestible luminous devices under development.

In both cases of in vitro and in vivo applications, either for therapy (PDT) or diagnosis, scientific literature lacks studies on the possible side-effects of light treatments on the surrounding tissues. To this aim we evaluated in vitro side-effects due to a possible intrinsic photosensitivity of gastric mucosa or to a photosensitization by the PS released from the bacterium itself. Photo-toxicity studies were conducted on the AGS cell line (ATCC® CRL-1739™), commonly used as a model for the stomach mucosa tissue, considering PPIX as the photosensitizing agent. After first evaluations of PPIX dark toxicity, its uptake and accumulation sites, photo-toxicity tests were conducted using a LED light source peaked at 400 nm, by varying both PPIX concentration (50 nM – 2 μM) and light dose in the range 0.6–13 J/cm², representing different treatment procedures found in literature. The oxidative stress consequent to irradiation was investigated both in terms of ROS production and assessment of the activity of enzymes involved in ROS-related biological mechanisms. A significant phototoxic effect was found only for PPIX concentration > 100 nM for all tested light doses. This indicates that the evaluated photo-treatments do not cause side effects even with the sensitization due to PPIX released by the bacteria.

Origins and discrimination between local and regional atmospheric pollution in Haiphong (Vietnam), based on metal(loid) concentrations and lead isotopic ratios in PM 10

Abstract

Southeast Asia is a hotspot of anthropogenic emissions where episodes of recurrent and prolonged atmospheric pollution can lead to the formation of large haze events, giving rise to wide plumes which spread over adjacent oceans and neighbouring countries. Trace metal concentrations and Pb isotopic ratios in atmospheric particulate matter < 10 μm (PM₁₀) were used to track the origins and the transport pathways of atmospheric pollutants. This approach was used for fortnightly PM₁₀ collections over a complete annual cycle in Haiphong, northern Vietnam. Distinct seasonal patterns were observed for the trace metal concentration in PM₁₀, with a maximum during the Northeast (NE) monsoon and a minimum during the Southeast (SE) monsoon. Some elements (As, Cd, Mn) were found in excess according to the World Health Organization guidelines. Coal combustion was highlighted with enrichment factors of As, Cd, Se, and Sb, but these inputs were outdistanced by other anthropogenic activities. V/Ni and Cu/Sb ratios were found to be markers of oil combustion, while Pb/Cd and Zn/Pb ratios were found to be markers of industrial activities. Pb isotopic composition in PM₁₀ revealed an important contribution of soil dusts (45–60%). In PM₁₀, the Pb fraction due to oil combustion was correlated with dominant airflow pathways (31% during the north-easterlies and 20% during the south-easterlies), and the Pb fraction resulting from industrial emissions was stable (around 28%) throughout the year. During the SE monsoon, Pb inputs were mainly attributed to resuspension of local soil dusts (about 90%), and during the NE monsoon, the increase of Pb inPM₁₀ was due to the mixing of local and regional inputs.

Design of natural elements in open spaces of cities with a Mediterranean climate, conditions for comfort and urban ecology

Abstract

More than half the world's population lives in cities that were designed with a complete disregard for nature. Then, it is vital that nature should be present in these spaces to provide ecological support for urban areas. Natural elements that are in these spaces should be designed with people's comfort in mind. This research explores the application of the PET and UTCI biometeorological comfort indices in urban microspaces, where the general environmental parameters of the city are not valid and each space must be measured individually. The research looked into the influence of the design of natural elements on improving comfort. The results show that in the children's playing spaces, the absence of thermal comfort and considerable thermal stress were detected in summer. This effect is more easily seen in the PET values. The benefits to comfort of having double layers of vegetation in the gardens have also been shown. The micro-droplets of water from the jets in the fountains are carried by the breeze and modify the human-biometeorological conditions around the fountains and reduce thermal stress. This improvement needs an appropriate design of the fountains and an awareness of the breeze patterns in these spaces.

Soil sustainable utilization technology: mechanism of flavonols in resistance process of heavy metal

Abstract

The soil ecosystem is critical for agricultural production, affecting many aspects of human health. Soil has more unknown biodiversity and edaphic parameters than any other ecosystem especially when polluted. Metagenomics and metatranscriptomics were applied to research on toxicological characteristics of Pb and resistance mechanism of flavonols. Rhizosphere microorganisms–plants system, a unified system closely related to soil environment was taken as research object. Results emphasize gene expression changes in different test groups. Gene ontology enrichment and eggNOG showed that Pb has a toxic effect on gene and protein function which concentrated on ATPase and ATP-dependent activity. Differentially expressed genes in the flavonols group indicated that flavonols regulate amino acid transport and other transportation process related to Pb stress. Kegg analysis represents that Pb interferences energy production process via not only the upstream like glycolysis and tricarboxylic acid (TCA) circle but also oxidative phosphorylation process, which can also produce reactive oxygen species and impact the eliminating process. Flavonols have shown the ability in alleviating toxic effect of Pb and improving the resistance of plants. Flavonols can recover the electronic transmission and other process in TCA and oxidative phosphorylation via ascorbic acid-glutathione metabolism. Flavonols activated antioxidative process and non-specific immunity via vitamins B₂–B₆ metabolism.

Indications and Outcomes of Single-Pedicle vs 2-Pedicle Thigh Free Flaps in Head and Neck Reconstruction

This case series study examines the indications and outcomes of a single-pedicle anterolateral thigh flap vs a thigh free flap with 2 pedicles in head and neck reconstruction.

Follicular Penetration of Caffeine from Topically Applied Nanoemulsion Formulations Containing Penetration Enhancers: In vitro Human Skin Studies

Background/Aims: This study aimed to investigate transfollicular delivery enhancement of caffeine from nanoemulsion formulations incorporating oleic acid (OA) and eucalyptol (EU) as chemical penetration enhancers. Methods: Caffeine permeation was evaluated from nanoemulsions containing OA or EU and an aqueous control solution through excised human full-thickness skin with hair follicles opened, blocked, or left untreated. Differential tape stripping was performed, followed by cyanoacrylate skin surface biopsies to determine the amount of caffeine in the hair follicles, and skin extraction to determine the retention of caffeine in the skin. Results: Nanoemulsions significantly increased caffeine permeation through open and untreated skin over control (untreated: 36- and 42-fold for OA and EU, respectively; open: 40- and 49-fold). The follicular route contributed 53.7% of caffeine permeation for the OA nanoemulsion and 51% for EU when follicles were opened. Nanoemulsions promoted 4- and 3.4-fold increases in caffeine retention in open follicles, for OA and EU, respectively. Retention of caffeine in the stratum corneum and skin was almost equal in all cases. Conclusions: This study demonstrated effective delivery of caffeine as a hydrophilic model drug into and through hair follicles and showed that follicles and surrounding regions may be targeted by optimised formulations for specific treatments.
Skin Pharmacol Physiol 2018;31:252–260

45th meeting of the Arbeitsgemeinschaft Dermatologische Forschung

JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, Volume 16, Issue 7, Page 956-957, July 2018.

Patientenakzeptanz und ‐vertrauen in die automatisierte, computergestützte Diagnostik des Melanoms mithilfe der Dermatofluoroskopie

JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, Volume 16, Issue 7, Page 854-860, July 2018.

Praxis der Teledermatologie

JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, Volume 16, Issue S5, Page 6-57, July 2018.

Issue Information

JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, Volume 16, Issue S5, Page 1-4, July 2018.

VORWORT

JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, Volume 16, Issue S5, Page 5-5, July 2018.

Blistering of the hands following a manicure at a nail salon

JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, EarlyView.

Lenalidomide for treatment of recurrent oral aphthae in Adamantiades‐Behçet’s disease

JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, EarlyView.

Hemodialysis improves skin moisture and sebum secretion but not elasticity in chronic renal disease patients

JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, EarlyView.

Position paper: Telemedicine in occupational dermatology – current status and perspectives

JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, EarlyView.

Basic skin care in atopic dermatitis – new and established treatment options

JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, EarlyView.

Aktualisierung der S1‐Leitlinie zur Definition und Therapie der primären Hyperhidrose

JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, Volume 16, Issue 7, Page 945-953, July 2018.

Erythematös‐violette Plaques am Stamm und an den Extremitäten eines Kindes

JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, Volume 16, Issue 7, Page 928-931, July 2018.

Nachruf

JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, Volume 16, Issue 7, Page 958-961, July 2018.

34‐jährige Patientin mit schwärzlichen Maculae an Handrücken und Armen

JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, Volume 16, Issue 7, Page 937-939, July 2018.

Systemische Therapien des Ulcus cruris

JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, Volume 16, Issue 7, Page 873-892, July 2018.

Journal‐Club

JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, Volume 16, Issue 7, Page 954-954, July 2018.

Update of the S1 guidelines on the definition and treatment of primary hyperhidrosis

JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, Volume 16, Issue 7, Page 945-952, July 2018.

Kongresskalender 2018

JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, Volume 16, Issue 7, July 2018.

In Memoriam Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. mult. Otto Braun‐Falco

JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, Volume 16, Issue 7, Page 955-955, July 2018.

Eine ungewöhnliche erythematöse Plaque am Rücken einer älteren Frau

JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, Volume 16, Issue 7, Page 940-944, July 2018.

Correlation of natural autoantibodies and cardiovascular disease‐related anti‐bacterial antibodies in pericardial fluid of cardiac surgery patients

Clinical &Experimental Immunology, Volume 193, Issue 1, Page 55-63, July 2018.

Inflammation and immune resolution

Clinical &Experimental Immunology, Volume 193, Issue 1, Page 1-2, July 2018.

Issue Information

Clinical &Experimental Immunology, Volume 193, Issue 1, July 2018.

Stroma: the forgotten cells of innate immune memory

Clinical &Experimental Immunology, Volume 193, Issue 1, Page 24-36, July 2018.

CME Part II Psoriasis: Which Therapy for Which Patient Focus on special populations and chronic infections

Despite the availability of several new systemic agents for psoriasis treatment, it can be challenging to choose the right therapy in certain patient populations. There are few up-to-date reviews on systemic drugs for moderate to severe psoriasis in pregnant and pediatric patients and in patients with concomitant chronic infections such as hepatitis, HIV and latent tuberculosis. These groups are usually excluded from clinical trials and much of the available evidence is based on anecdotal case reports and case series.

CME Part I Psoriasis: Which Therapy for Which Patient Psoriasis comorbidities and preferred systemic agents

Psoriasis is a systemic inflammatory disease associated with increased risk of comorbidities such as psoriatic arthritis, Crohn disease, malignancy, obesity and cardiovascular diseases. All these factors have a significant impact on the decision to use one therapy over another. The past decade has seen a paradigm shift in our understanding of the pathogenesis of psoriasis which has led to identification of new therapeutic targets. Several new drugs have gained FDA approval, expanding the psoriasis armamentarium but still a large number of patients continue to be untreated or undertreated.

Angiogenic capacity in pre-eclampsia and uncomplicated pregnancy estimated by assay of angiogenic proteins and an in vitro vasculogenesis/angiogenesis test

Abstract

Objective

The purpose of the study was to determine the angiogenic capacity of sera in early and late pregnancy and in umbilical blood serum after childbirth, and to define how angiogenic properties assessed in a functional in vitro test are related to individual angiogenic proteins in six women with pre-eclampsia and in six healthy pregnant controls.

Methods

Maternal first and third trimester serum samples, and umbilical blood samples after childbirth, were tested in an in vitro human adipose stromal cell—human umbilical vein endothelial cell (hASC-HUVEC) vasculogenesis/angiogenesis assay. The angiogenic properties of the samples were measured by quantifying tubule formation. Concentrations of total placental growth factor (PlGF), total vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt-1) and soluble endoglin (sEng) were determined by immunoassay.

Results

First-trimester maternal sera of both groups had a stimulatory effect on angiogenesis in vitro and levels of angiogenic proteins did not differ between the groups. Third-trimester maternal sera in the pre-eclampsia group had an inhibitory effect on tubule formation, while those from normal pregnancies remained stimulatory. Compared with the first trimester there was a significant change in the concentrations of angiogenic proteins toward an anti-angiogenic state in pre-eclampsia. Umbilical blood serum exhibited strong anti-angiogenic effects without a significant difference between groups.

Conclusions

Third-trimester serum of pre-eclamptic patients is anti-angiogenic. This phenomenon is not yet present in the first trimester. Umbilical blood serum shows inhibitory effects on angiogenesis after normal as well as pre-eclamptic pregnancy.

Assessment of pain in chronic wounds: A survey of Australian health care practitioners

International Wound Journal, EarlyView.

In vitro interactions between 17‐AAG and azoles against Exophiala dermatitidis

Mycoses, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

Sexual Behaviour and Extra‐genital Colonization in Women treated for Recurrent Candida Vulvo‐vaginitis

Mycoses, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

Expression of 15‐lipoxygenase‐1 in Merkel cell carcinoma is linked to advanced disease

Clinical Otolaryngology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

The radial forearm free flap for scalp and forehead reconstruction: a 20 year experience

Clinical Otolaryngology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

Different rhinologic diseases cause a similar multidimensional decrease in generic health‐related quality of life

Clinical Otolaryngology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

Hexavalent chromium in tattoo inks: Dermal exposure and systemic risk

Contact Dermatitis, EarlyView.

Psoriasis and cancer. An Australian/New Zealand narrative

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.

Exome sequencing identifies novel compound heterozygous mutations in GJB3 gene that cause erythrokeratodermia variabilis et progressiva

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.

ALIGNed on Adherence: subanalysis of adherence in immune‐mediated inflammatory diseases in the DACH region of the Global‐ALIGN study

Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

Efficacy of non‐surgical treatments for androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and network meta‐analysis

Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, EarlyView.

Position Statement for the Management of Comorbidities in Psoriasis

Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis: a case‐series of 13 patients in Brazil

Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

Factors influencing sessions’ and speakers’ evaluation: an analysis of seven consecutive EADV congress editions

Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

EEMCO—European group on efficacy measurement and evaluation of cosmetics and other products

Skin Research and Technology, Volume 24, Issue 3, Page 349-350, August 2018.

Issue Information

Skin Research and Technology, Volume 24, Issue 3, Page i-iv, August 2018.

Should Liberal States Subsidize Religious Schooling?

Abstract

Many liberals and secularists believe that religious schooling should not be publicly funded or that it should simply be banned. Challenging those views, I claim that although liberal states may refuse to fund and may even ban certain illiberal separate religious schools, it is impermissible, for distinctively liberal reasons, to completely ban publicly funded religious schooling. I will however argue that providing religious instruction within common public schools is more desirable than having separate religious schools. I argue that providing religious instruction within common public schools (for all religious options with enough adherents) is a better way to balance the educational interests of parents, children and society than (1) banning religious schooling altogether; (2) authorizing it but refusing to fund it; (3) or having publicly funded separate religious schools.

Goods, Principles, and Values in the Brighouse, Ladd, Loeb and Swift Framework for Educational Policy-Making

Abstract

This article presents the promising framework for educational decision makers developed by Brighouse, Ladd, Loeb, and Swift (BLLS). The framework consists of an account of the educational goods, distributional principles and independent values at stake in education, and a method for making policy decisions on the basis of these and solid social science. I present three criticisms of this approach. The first says that the derivation of educational goods proceeds on the basis of a too narrow conception of values. I suggest that this foundation should consist of an overlapping consensus, rather than flourishing. The second criticism has to do with the way that the distributive principles are characterized. I argue that BLLS's characterization of distributive principles should be complemented with accounts of what domains of social life these principles regulate and a specification of whether the distributive principles should be understood as applying over time or at specific instances. The final criticism is that BLLS's conception of independent values focuses solely on values that constrain the pursuit of educational goods. I claim that this part of the framework should be revised to include aspects of values that also support this pursuit. I conclude arguing that the BLLS frameworks should be further developed rather than rejected.

The skin barrier: Epidermis versus environment

Experimental Dermatology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

Rare clinical manifestations of leukemia cutis

Journal of Cutaneous Pathology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

Epithelial barrier dysfunctions in atopic dermatitis: a skin–gut–lung model linking microbiome alteration and immune dysregulation

British Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.

In situ bio‐distribution and residency of a topical anti‐inflammatory using fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy

British Journal of Dermatology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

Stratum corneum analysis provide a minimal invasive tool to study immune response and skin barrier in atopic dermatitis children

British Journal of Dermatology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

Quality of life in patients with acquired pigmentation: An observational study

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, EarlyView.

Nonsurgical treatment of earlobe aging in Mowlawi stages I and II earlobe ptosis with Hyaluronic acid fillers

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, EarlyView.

Pemphigus foliaceus associated with imatinib therapy in a patient with gastrointestinal stromal tumor

International Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.

Eccrine hamartoma with spectrum of histologic findings associated with limb deformity

International Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.

A comparative study of various modalities in the treatment of keloids

International Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.

Pediatric Wells syndrome (eosinophilic cellulitis) after vaccination: A case report and review of the literature

Pediatric Dermatology, EarlyView.

Exogenous silicon alters ascorbate-glutathione cycle in two salt-stressed indica rice cultivars (MTU 1010 and Nonabokra)

Abstract

Silicon is widely available in soil and is known to mitigate both biotic and abiotic stress in plants. Very low doses of silicon are becoming increasingly essential in rice for biofortification and preventing water loss. Soil salinity is a matter of grave concern in various parts of the world, and silicon is a suitable candidate to mitigate salinity-induced stress of important plants in affected areas. The present study investigates the protective capability of exogenously applied silicon in ameliorating NaCl-induced toxicity in two rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivars, the salt-sensitive MTU 1010, and salt-tolerant Nonabokra. Rice seedlings were treated with three doses of NaCl (25, 50, and 100 mM), initially alone and subsequently in combination with 2 mM sodium silicate (Na₂SiO₃, 9H₂O). After 21 days, these plants were examined to determine levels of reduced glutathione, ascorbic acid, cysteine, and activities of different enzymes involved in the ascorbate-glutathione cycle, viz., glutathione reductase (GR), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione S-transferase (GST). Though ROS levels increased in both the cultivars with increasing NaCl concentrations, cv. MTU 1010 accumulated comparatively higher amounts. A differential response of NaCl-induced toxicity on the two cultivars was observed with respect to the various enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants. APX and GST activities, as well as, cysteine contents, increased concomitantly with salt concentrations, whereas GR activity declined at increasing salt concentrations, in both cultivars. Activity of GPx increased in cv. Nonabokra but declined in cv. MTU 1010, under similar NaCl concentrations. Reduced glutathione (GSH) contents decreased in both cultivars, whereas ascorbate contents declined in only the sensitive cultivar. Application of silicon, along with NaCl, in the test seedlings of both the cultivars, reduced ROS accumulation and boosted antioxidant defense mechanism, through enhancing ascorbate and GSH levels, and activities of ascorbate-glutathione cycle enzymes as well. However, amelioration of salt-induced damages in the sensitive cv. MTU 1010 was more pronounced upon silicon administration, than the tolerant cv. Nonabokra. Thus, cv. MTU 1010 was found to be more responsive to applied silicon. Hence, this study was instrumental in realizing a successful strategy in silicon-mediated amelioration of salinity stress in plants.