Coastal erosion—a “new” land-based source of labile mercury to the marine environment

Abstract

Mercury (Hg) can be introduced into the marine environment in many different ways. In the case of the Baltic Sea, rivers and atmospheric deposition are the predominant ones. However, in the face of ongoing climate change, a new potential source, coastal erosion, is starting to become more important and is currently considered to be the third largest source of Hg in the Gdansk Basin region. It is especially significant along sections of coastline where, due to the higher frequency of extreme natural phenomena such as storms, heavy rains, and floods, increased erosion processes have already been noted. Cliffs, which account for about 20% of the Polish coastline, are particularly vulnerable. The aim of the study was to estimate the annual load of labile Hg entering the Gdansk Basin as a result of coastal erosion. Samples of down-core sediments (0–65 cm) were collected in the years 2016–2017 from selected cliffs situated in the Gulf of Gdansk area. The thermodesorption method was used to distinguish between labile and stable fractions of Hg. Considering the mean total Hg concentrations in the collected sediments (9.7 ng g⁻¹) and the mean share of labile (64%), bioavailable mercury, it was estimated that the load of labile Hg originating from coastal erosion entering the Gdansk Basin is 10.0 kg per year. The load can increase by up to 50% in the case of episodic abrasion events during heavy storms and rains.

Deterrence and Norms to Foster Stability in Cyberspace

Abstract

Deterrence in cyberspace is possible. But it requires an effort to develop a new domain-specific, conceptual, normative, and strategic framework. To be successful, cyber deterrence needs to shift from threatening to prevailing. I argue that by itself, deterrence is insufficient to ensure stability of cyberspace. An international regime of norms regulating state behaviour in cyberspace is necessary to complement cyber deterrence strategies and foster stability. Enforcing this regime requires an authority able to ensure States compliance with the norms at an international level, run investigations into suspected State-run (or Statesponsored) cyber operations to define attribution, expose breaches of the norms, and impose adequate sanctions and punishments. These requirements define a political mandate for an authority that will have a deep impact on international relations and geo-political equilibriums. The UN Security Council has the necessary resources and the political and coercive power to meet these requirements. The time has come to embrace this power to consolidate and enforce an international regime of norms to regulate state behaviour in cyberspace. Problems, mistakes, and even failures are to be expected, but they must not hinder the process.

Blunt Cerebrovascular Injuries: Advances in Screening, Imaging, and Management Trends [LETTERS]

Reply: [LETTERS]

Simultaneous Bipedicular Radiofrequency Ablation Combined with Vertebral Augmentation for Local Tumor Control of Spinal Metastases [INTERVENTIONAL]

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE:

Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation combined with vertebral augmentation has emerged as a minimally invasive treatment for patients with vertebral metastases who do not respond to or have contraindications to radiation therapy. The prevalence of posterior vertebral body metastases presents access and treatment challenges in the unique anatomy of the spine. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of simultaneous bipedicular radiofrequency ablation using articulating bipolar electrodes combined with vertebral augmentation for local tumor control of spinal metastases.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Imaging-guided simultaneous bipedicular radiofrequency ablation combined with vertebral augmentation was performed in 27 patients (33 tumors) with vertebral metastases selected following multidisciplinary consultations, to achieve local tumor control in this retrospective study. Tumor characteristics, procedural details, and complications were documented. Pre- and postprocedural cross-sectional imaging was evaluated to assess local tumor control rates.

RESULTS:

Thirty-three tumors were successfully ablated in 27 patients. Posterior vertebral body or pedicle involvement or both were present in 94% (31/33) of cases. Sixty-seven percent (22/33) of the tumors involved ≥75% of the vertebral body volume. Posttreatment imaging was available for 79% (26/33) of the treated tumors. Local tumor control was achieved in 96% (25/26) of tumors median imaging follow up of 16 weeks. No complications were reported, and no patients had clinical evidence of metastatic spinal cord compression at the treated levels.

CONCLUSIONS:

Simultaneous bipedicular radiofrequency ablation combined with vertebral augmentation is safe and effective for local tumor control of vertebral metastases. Articulating bipolar electrodes enable the placement and proximity necessary for optimal confluence of the ablation zones. Local tumor control may lead to more durable pain palliation, prevent disease progression, and reduce skeletal-related events of the spine.

Evaluation of Thick-Slab Overlapping MIP Images of Contrast-Enhanced 3D T1-Weighted CUBE for Detection of Intracranial Metastases: A Pilot Study for Comparison of Lesion Detection, Interpretation Time, and Sensitivity with Nonoverlapping CUBE MIP, CUBE, and Inversion-Recovery-Prepared Fast-Spoiled Gradient Recalled Brain Volume [ADULT BRAIN]

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE:

Early and accurate identification of cerebral metastases is important for prognostication and treatment planning although this process is often time consuming and labor intensive, especially with the hundreds of images associated with 3D volumetric imaging. This study aimed to evaluate the benefits of thick-slab overlapping MIPs constructed from contrast-enhanced T1-weighted CUBE (overlapping CUBE MIP) for the detection of brain metastases in comparison with traditional CUBE and inversion-recovery prepared fast-spoiled gradient recalled brain volume (IR-FSPGR-BRAVO) and nonoverlapping CUBE MIP.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A retrospective review of 48 patients with cerebral metastases was performed at our institution from June 2016 to October 2017. Brain MRIs, which were acquired on multiple 3T scanners, included gadolinium-enhanced T1-weighted IR-FSPGR-BRAVO and CUBE, with subsequent generation of nonoverlapping CUBE MIP and overlapping CUBE MIP. Two blinded radiologists identified the total number and location of metastases on each image type. The Cohen was used to determine interrater agreement. Sensitivity, interpretation time, and lesion contrast-to-noise ratio were assessed.

RESULTS:

Interrater agreement for identification of metastases was fair-to-moderate for all image types ( = 0.222–0.598). The total number of metastases identified was not significantly different across the image types. Interpretation time for CUBE MIPs was significantly shorter than for CUBE and IR-FSPGR-BRAVO, saving at least 50 seconds per case on average (P < .001). The mean lesion contrast-to-noise ratio for both CUBE MIPs was higher than for IR-FSPGR-BRAVO. The mean contrast-to-noise ratio for small lesions (<4 mm) was lower for nonoverlapping CUBE MIP (1.55) than for overlapping CUBE MIP (2.35). For both readers, the sensitivity for lesion detection was high for all image types but highest for overlapping CUBE MIP and CUBE (0.93–0.97).

CONCLUSIONS:

This study suggests that the use of overlapping CUBE MIP or nonoverlapping CUBE MIP for the detection of brain metastases can reduce interpretation time without sacrificing sensitivity, though the contrast-to-noise ratio of lesions is highest for overlapping CUBE MIP.

Quantitative MRI of Perivascular Spaces at 3T for Early Diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment [ADULT BRAIN]

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE:

The limitations inherent in the current methods of diagnosing mild cognitive impairment have constrained the use of early therapeutic interventions to delay the progression of mild cognitive impairment to dementia. This study evaluated whether quantifying enlarged perivascular spaces observed on MR imaging can help differentiate those with mild cognitive impairment from cognitively healthy controls and, thus, have an application in the diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

We automated the identification of enlarged perivascular spaces in brain MR Images using a custom quantitative program designed with Matlab. We then quantified the densities of enlarged perivascular spaces for patients with mild cognitive impairment (n = 14) and age-matched cognitively healthy controls (n = 15) and compared them to determine whether the density of enlarged perivascular spaces can serve as an imaging surrogate for mild cognitive impairment diagnosis.

RESULTS:

Quantified as a percentage of volume fraction (v/v%), densities of enlarged perivascular spaces were calculated to be 2.82 ± 0.40 v/v% for controls and 4.17 ± 0.57 v/v% for the mild cognitive impairment group in the subcortical brain (P < .001), and 2.74 ± 0.57 v/v% for the controls and 3.90 ± 0.62 v/v% for the mild cognitive impairment cohort in the basal ganglia (P < .001). Maximum intensity projections exhibited a visually conspicuous difference in the distributions of enlarged perivascular spaces for a patient with mild cognitive impairment and a control patient. By means of receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, we determined the sensitivity and specificity of using enlarged perivascular spaces as a differentiating biomarker between mild cognitive impairment and controls to be 92.86% and 93.33%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS:

The density of enlarged perivascular spaces was found to be significantly higher in those with mild cognitive impairment compared with age-matched healthy control subjects. The density of enlarged perivascular spaces, therefore, may be a useful imaging biomarker for the diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment.

Adjunctive Efficacy of Intra-Arterial Conebeam CT Angiography Relative to DSA in the Diagnosis and Surgical Planning of Micro-Arteriovenous Malformations [INTERVENTIONAL]

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE:

Micro-arteriovenous malformations are an underrecognized etiology of intracranial hemorrhage. Our study aimed to assess the adjunctive efficacy of intra-arterial conebeam CTA relative to DSA in the diagnosis and surgical planning of intracranial micro-AVMs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

We performed a retrospective study of all micro-AVMs (≤1-cm nidus) at our institution. Blinded neuroradiologists qualitatively graded DSA and intra-arterial conebeam CTA images for the detection of specific micro-AVM anatomic parameters (arterial feeder, micronidus, and venous drainer) and defined an overall diagnostic value. Statistical and absolute differences in the overall diagnostic values defined the relative intra-arterial conebeam CTA diagnostic values, respectively. Blinded neurosurgeons reported their treatment approach after DSA and graded the adjunctive value of intra-arterial conebeam CTA to improve or modify treatment. Intra-arterial conebeam CTA efficacy was defined as interobserver agreement in the relative intra-arterial conebeam CTA diagnostic and/or treatment-planning value scores.

RESULTS:

Ten patients with micro-AVMs presented with neurologic deficits and/or intracranial hemorrhages. Both neuroradiologists assigned a higher overall intra-arterial conebeam CTA diagnostic value (P < .05), secondary to improved evaluation of both arterial feeders and the micronidus, with good interobserver agreement ( = 0.66, P = .018) in the relative intra-arterial conebeam CTA diagnostic value. Both neurosurgeons reported that integrating the intra-arterial conebeam CTA data into their treatment plan would allow more confident localization for surgical/radiation treatment (8/10; altering the treatment plan in 1 patient), with good interobserver agreement in the relative intra-arterial conebeam CTA treatment planning value ( = 0.73, P = .025).

CONCLUSIONS:

Adjunctive intra-arterial conebeam CTA techniques are more effective in the diagnostic identification and anatomic delineation of micro-AVMs, relative to DSA alone, with the potential to improve microsurgical or radiosurgery treatment planning.

Investigation of a New Version of the Liquid Embolic Agent PHIL with Extra-Low-Viscosity in an Endovascular Embolization Model [INTERVENTIONAL]

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE:

The type and composition of an embolic agent have a relevant influence on the performance of endovascular embolization. The aim of this study was to investigate a new version of the liquid embolic agent precipitating hydrophobic injectable liquid (PHIL) with extra-low-viscosity in an in vivo embolization model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Twenty-four embolization procedures were performed in the porcine rete mirabile. Eight embolizations were performed with PHIL 25% low viscosity, Squid 12, and standard PHIL 25%, respectively. Procedure time, required volume of embolic agent, visibility of the embolic agent, embolization control, embolization extent (ie, penetration of the rete mirabile), amount of reflux, and degree of embolization distal to the rete mirabile were assessed.

RESULTS:

All embolic agents were adequately visible. The embolization extent was not significantly different among the 3 investigated agents; however, there was a tendency toward a higher embolization extent for PHIL 25% low viscosity (median embolization extent: 88% [PHIL 25% low viscosity]; 65% [Squid 12]; 60% [PHIL 25%]; P = .146). The amount of reflux was significantly lower for the extra-low-viscosity agents PHIL 25% low viscosity and Squid 12 compared with the standard PHIL 25% (median reflux distance: 8 mm [PHIL 25% low viscosity]; 6 mm [Squid 12]; 17 mm [PHIL 25%]; P = .011). All other embolization features did not differ among agents.

CONCLUSIONS:

PHIL 25% low viscosity is a promising liquid embolic agent for endovascular embolization, featuring effective distal penetration, adequate visibility, a low amount of reflux, and good flow control.

Brachial Plexus Ultrasound and MRI in Children with Brachial Plexus Birth Injury [PEDIATRICS]

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE:

Brachial plexus birth injury is caused by traction on the neck during delivery and results in flaccid palsy of an upper extremity commonly involving C5–C6 nerve roots. MR imaging and MR myelography help to assess the anatomic location, extent, and severity of brachial plexus injuries which influence the long-term prognosis along with the surgical decision making. Recently, sonography has been increasingly used as the imaging modality of choice for brachial plexus injuries. The aim of this study was to assess the degree of correlation among brachial plexus sonography, MR imaging, and surgical findings in children with brachial plexus birth injury.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This prospective study included 55 consecutive patients (girls/boys = 32:23; mean age, 2.1 ± 0.8 months) with brachial plexus birth injury between May 2014 and April 2017. The patients were classified according to the Narakas classification and were followed up at 4- to 6-week intervals for recovery by the Modified Mallet system and sonography without specific preparation for evaluation. All patients had MR imaging under general anesthesia. Nerve root avulsion-retraction, pseudomeningocele, and periscalene soft tissue were accepted brachial plexus injury findings on imaging. Interobserver agreement for MR imaging and the agreement between imaging and surgical findings were estimated using the statistic. The diagnostic accuracy of sonography and MR imaging was calculated on the basis of the standard reference, which was the surgical findings.

RESULTS:

Forty-three patients had pre- and postganglionic injury, 12 had only postganglionic injury findings, and 47% of patients underwent an operation. On sonography, no patients had preganglionic injury, but all patients had postganglionic injury findings. For postganglionic injury, the concordance rates between imaging and the surgical findings ranged from 84% to 100%, and the diagnostic accuracy of sonography and MR imaging was 89% and 100%, respectively. For preganglionic injury, the diagnostic accuracy of MR imaging was 92%. Interobserver agreement and the agreement between imaging and the surgical findings were almost perfect for postganglionic injury ( = 0.81–1, P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS:

High-resolution sonography can identify and locate the postganglionic injury associated with the upper and middle trunks. The ability of sonography to evaluate pre- and the postganglionic injury associated with the lower trunk was quite limited. Sonography can be used as a complement to MR imaging; thus, the duration of the MR imaging examination and the need for sedation can be reduced by sonography.

Gadolinium Deposition within the Pediatric Brain: No Increased Intrinsic T1-Weighted Signal Intensity within the Dentate Nucleus following the Administration of a Minimum of 4 Doses of the Macrocyclic Agent Gadoteridol [PEDIATRICS]

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE:

Our aim was to evaluate whether serial administration of the macrocyclic gadolinium-based contrast agent gadoteridol in children is associated with T1-weighted hyperintensity within the dentate nucleus, an imaging surrogate for gadolinium deposition.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

We identified a retrospective cohort of 10 patients younger than 18 years of age who underwent between 4 and 8 gadoteridol-enhanced MR imaging examinations of the brain from 2016 to 2017. For comparison, we identified a retrospective cohort of 9 pediatric patients who each underwent 6 gadodiamide-enhanced MR imaging examinations. For each examination, both dentate nuclei were contoured on unenhanced images and the mean dentate-to-pons signal intensity ratio was calculated. Dentate-to-pons signal intensity ratios from the first and last scans were compared using paired t tests.

RESULTS:

In the gadoteridol group, there was no significant change in the mean dentate-to-pons signal intensity ratio from the first to the last scan (0.99 versus 0.99, P = .59). In the gadodiamide group, there was a significant increase in the mean dentate-to-pons signal intensity ratio from the first to the last scan (0.99 versus 1.10, P = .001).

CONCLUSIONS:

Repeat administration of the macrocyclic gadolinium-based contrast agent gadoteridol in children was not associated with T1-weighted dentate hyperintensity, while the repeat administration of the linear gadolinium-based contrast agent gadodiamide was associated with T1-weighted dentate hyperintensity, presumably due to gadolinium deposition.

Comparison of a Photon-Counting-Detector CT with an Energy-Integrating-Detector CT for Temporal Bone Imaging: A Cadaveric Study [HEAD & NECK]

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE:

Evaluating abnormalities of the temporal bone requires high-spatial-resolution CT imaging. Our aim was to assess the performance of photon-counting-detector ultra-high-resolution acquisitions for temporal bone imaging and compare the results with those of energy-integrating-detector ultra-high-resolution acquisitions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Phantom studies were conducted to quantify spatial resolution of the ultra-high-resolution mode on a prototype photon-counting-detector CT scanner and an energy-integrating-detector CT scanner that uses a comb filter. Ten cadaveric temporal bones were scanned on both systems with the radiation dose matched to that of the clinical examinations. Images were reconstructed using a sharp kernel, 0.6-mm (minimum) thickness for energy-integrating-detector CT, and 0.6- and 0.25-mm (minimum) thicknesses for photon-counting-detector CT. Image noise was measured and compared using adjusted 1-way ANOVA. Images were reviewed blindly by 3 neuroradiologists to assess the incudomallear joint, stapes footplate, modiolus, and overall image quality. The ranking results for each specimen and protocol were compared using the Friedman test. The Krippendorff α was used for interreader agreement.

RESULTS:

Photon-counting-detector CT showed an increase of in-plane resolution compared with energy-integrating-detector CT. At the same thickness (0.6 mm), images from photon-counting-detector CT had significantly lower (P < .001) image noise compared with energy-integrating-detector CT. Readers preferred the photon-counting-detector CT images to the energy-integrating-detector images for all 3 temporal bone structures. A moderate interreader agreement was observed with the Krippendorff α = 0.50. For overall image quality, photon-counting-detector CT image sets were ranked significantly higher than images from energy-integrating-detector CT (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS:

This study demonstrated substantially better delineation of fine anatomy for the temporal bones scanned with the ultra-high-resolution mode of photon-counting-detector CT compared with the ultra-high-resolution mode of a commercial energy-integrating-detector CT scanner.

Organ transplant recipients express enhanced skin autofluorescence and pigmentation at skin cancer sites

Publication date: Available online 9 August 2018

Source: Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology

Author(s): Katrine Togsverd-Bo, Peter Alshede Philipsen, Merete Haedersdal, Hans Christian Wulf

Abstract

Background

Skin autofluorescence and pigmentation can estimate photodamage and sun exposure. These techniques may quantify differences in actinic damage between high-risk organ transplant recipients (OTRs) and immunocompetent patients.

Methods

Age and gender-matched OTRs (n = 15) and immunocompetent controls (n = 15) with a new keratinocyte carcinoma (KC) were included. We measured skin autofluorescence (370 nm excitation, F370) and skin pigmentation at five standardized body sites; and determined black light-evaluated solar lentigines on the shoulders and photosensitivity to UVA and simulated solar radiation (SSR) as minimal erythema doses (MED).

Results

F370 autofluorescence values were enhanced at KC site versus other body sites in OTRs (2208 vs. 1458–1898 AU, p < 0.05). Compared with non-OTRs, OTRs expressed higher F370 autofluorescence at KC site (2208 vs. 1385 arbitrary units AU, p = 0.01) and the shoulder (1898 vs. 1525, p = 0.05). Likewise, OTRs had increased skin pigmentation (25.0 vs. 20.8 pigment%, p = 0.05) and solar lentigines (3.5 vs. 3.0, p = 0.048) on the shoulders. MED tests showed increased UVA photosensitivity in OTRs (2.4 vs. 1.7 times higher than expected, p = 0.03), whereas SSR photosensitivity was similar.

Conclusion

Quantified F370 autofluorescence, skin pigmentation, and density of solar lentigines could serve to assess photodamage in OTR. Increased UVA photosensitivity may account for higher skin photodamage.

Tracing the sources of suspended sediment and particle-bound trace metal elements in an urban catchment coupling elemental and isotopic geochemistry, and fallout radionuclides

Abstract

The excessive supply of contaminants from urban areas to rivers during the last centuries has led to deleterious impacts on aquatic ecosystems. The sources, the behavior, and the dynamics of these contaminants must be better understood in order to reduce this excessive anthropogenic pollution. Accordingly, the current research investigated the particle-bound trace element (TE) contamination of the 900-km² Orge River (Seine basin, France) and the potential sources of these particles (agricultural or forest soils, channel banks, road deposited sediments), through the analysis of multiple fallout radionuclides, elemental geochemistry, and lead isotopic composition on suspended particulate matter (SPM) collected during a hydrological year at four stations following an increasing urbanization gradient (300 to 5000 inhab.km⁻²). Fallout radionuclide measurements showed an increasing contribution of recently eroded particles from urban areas to the SPM in downstream direction. However, this contribution varied depending on hydrological conditions. A greater contribution of particles originating from urban areas was observed during low stage periods. On the contrary, the contribution of agricultural soils and channel banks that are less enriched in contaminants and fallout radionuclides was higher during seasonal floods, which explained the dilution of radionuclide contents in sediment transiting the river during those events. Trace element contamination of SPM in Cu, Zn, Pb, and Sb increased from moderate to significant levels with urban pressure in downstream direction (with corresponding enrichment factors raising from 2 to 6). In addition, Pb isotopic ratios indicated that the main source of Pb corresponded to the "urban" signature found in road deposited sediments. The low variations in lead isotope ratios found in the SPM for contrasting hydrological conditions demonstrated the occurrence of a single source of Pb contamination. These results demonstrate the need to better manage urban runoff during both flood and low precipitation events to prevent the supply of diffuse particle-bound contamination to rivers draining urban areas.

Development of hybrid processes for the removal of volatile organic compounds, plasticizer, and pharmaceutically active compound using sewage sludge, waste scrap tires, and wood chips as sorbents and microbial immobilization matrices

Abstract

This study evaluated the reutilization of waste materials (scrap tires, sewage sludge, and wood chips) to remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs) benzene/toluene/ethylbenzene/xylenes/trichloroethylene/cis-1,2-dichloroethylene (BTEX/TCE/cis-DCE), plasticizer di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), and pharmaceutically active compound carbamazepine from artificially contaminated water. Different hybrid removal processes were developed: (1) 300 mg/L BTEX + 20 mg/L TCE + 10 mg/L cis-DCE + tires + Pseudomonas sp.; (2) 250 mg/L toluene + sewage sludge biochar + Pseudomonas sp.; (3) 100 mg/L DEHP + tires + Acinetobacter sp.; and (4) 20 mg/L carbamazepine + wood chips + Phanerochaete chrysosporium. For the hybrid process (1), the removal of xylenes, TCE, and cis-DCE was enhanced, resulted from the contribution of both physical adsorption and biological immobilization removal. The hybrid process (2) was also superior for the removal of DEHP and required a shorter time (2 days) for the bioremoval. For the process (3), the biochar promoted the microbial immobilization on its surface and substantially enhanced/speed up the bioremoval of toluene. The fungal immobilization on wood chips in the hybrid process (4) also improved the carbamazepine removal considerably (removal efficiencies of 61.3 ± 0.6%) compared to the suspended system without wood chips (removal efficiencies of 34.4 ± 1.8%). These hybrid processes would not only be promising for the bioremediation of environmentally concerned contaminants but also reutilize waste materials as sorbents without any further treatment.

Kinetics, isotherm, and optimization of the hexavalent chromium removal from aqueous solution by a magnetic nanobiosorbent

Abstract

Sorption is the most effective approach to the treatment of acid mine drainage (AMD) and wastewaters, but the removal of the adsorbents from water has always been a challenging problem which may be resolved by using magnetic separation. In this work, a magnetic bioadsorbent was prepared using low cost and high-performance sources and applied in Cr(VI) removal from a synthetic solution. Initially, magnetite nanoparticles were synthesized from iron boring scraps by chemical co-precipitation method. Results of dynamic light scattering (DLS) and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM) analyses showed that the synthesized nanoparticles were around 40 nm in size and had a significant magnetization. Then, the magnetite nanoparticles were attached to the dead and alkaline activated biomass of Aspergillus niger. Central composite design (CCD) was applied to determine the optimal condition of Cr(VI) adsorption on the produced magnetic nanobiocomposite. The maximum chromium removal (~ 92%) was achieved at pH 5.8, Cr concentration 23.4 mg/l, adsorbent dose 3.72 g/l, agitation rate 300 rpm, and duration 11 min. Kinetic studies showed that regardless of temperature, the process was controlled by mass transfer and intraparticle diffusion with an equilibrium constant of 0.74 mg/g min^1/2 at 40 °C. Also, the adsorption isotherms followed the Temkin model, which indicated the physical adsorption of Cr(VI) on the produced sorbent. Therefore, the magnetic nanobiocomposite has a perfect ability to be used as the chromium adsorbent and can be collected by a low external magnetic field.

Graphical abstract

Synthesis of the magnetic nanobiosorbent and its application in the removal of Cr(VI) from wastewaters.

Air pollution, biological marker and lung function in children

Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma: Immediate or Delayed Implant Replacement?

Abstract

Introduction

Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a rare and recently described type of peripheral T-cell lymphoma. Fewer than 550 cases have been reported worldwide. Although BIA-ALCL is usually indolent, early diagnosis and treatment have been shown to improve outcome.

Case Description

This case report describes the management of a 50-year-old healthy Caucasian woman presenting with rapid painful enlargement of the left breast. Imaging revealed findings consistent with BIA-ALCL. This diagnosis was confirmed by fine needle aspiration cytology and subsequent pathological analysis. Bilateral removal of implants, complete left capsulectomy and immediate bilateral implant exchange were performed.

Conclusion

No consensus currently exists regarding optimal time of implant exchange and management of the contralateral capsule. The immediate replacement with smooth implants was thoroughly discussed with the patient and endorsed by expert opinion, given complete removal of the disease. There was no sign of recurrence at 6 months. Close clinical and radiological visits are planned for the next years.

Level of Evidence V

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.

Response of soil phosphatase activities to contamination with two types of tar oil

Abstract

Tar oil is a complex mixture of hydrocarbon compounds obtained from high-temperature distillation of coal tar. It has been used for over 100 years from now to protect wood and has been applied to wood products, primary utility poles, and railroad ties by pressure methods. Composition of the tar oil depends on the source and typically consists of 85% polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), 10% phenolic compounds, and 5% heterocyclic compounds. In this research, we performed the laboratory experiment to compare two types of tar oil: C and GX-Plus, and their effects on P-cycling enzymes (phosphatases) in sandy loam and loamy sand. Tar oil was applied to soil samples at the following doses: 2, 10, and 50 g kg⁻¹. Soil without tar oil was used as a control sample. The experiment showed that the contamination of soil with tar oil affects the enzyme activities measured and with this most probably the P-cycle in soil. Phosphomonoesterases were the most sensitive to the contamination of soil with both type of tar oil: typeC and type GX-Plus. Greater changes in the enzymatic activity were observed in the loamy sand. Moreover, the type C tar oil demonstrated higher toxicity for phosphatases than type GX-Plus.

Effects of biological clogging on 1,1,1-TCA and its intermediates distribution and fate in heterogeneous saturated bio-augmented permeable reactive barriers

Abstract

Biological clogging in porous media was an important concern in the design of bio-augmented permeable reactive barriers (Bio-PRBs) that were used to remediate groundwater with dense non-aqueous phase liquids (DNAPLs). Here, we used laboratory sandbox experiments to develop and calibrate reactive transport models (C1 and C2) simulating 1,1,1-trichloroethane (1,1,1-TCA) change in heterogeneous saturated porous media. The routine (1,1,1-TCA chain kinetic reactions) and subroutine (the relationship between hydraulic conductivity (K) and time (t)) were included in the model computer code. The simulation results suggested that the model C1 had the applicability for simulating contaminant transport and fate in bio-augmented flow field. By using the model C1 which was suitable for constant K condition, the performance of different types of Bio-PRBs was evaluated, and the regularity of contaminants chain kinetic reactions in different heterogeneous saturated porous media was obtained. The results demonstrated that Bio-PRBs in immobilized microorganism (IM) protocol were more superior to Bio-PRBs in free microorganism (FM) protocol. In addition, by using the model C2 (updated model C1) which was suitable for decreasing K condition, the different and optimized regularity of contaminants transport and transformation was obtained. The results showed that microbial growth which further decreased K was beneficial to preventing the transport of contaminants and accelerating the transformation of contaminants. However, the negative effects of biological clogging on hydraulic conductivity and relative hydraulic conductivity ratio in FM Bio-PRBs were significantly stronger than that in IM Bio-PRBs. Deploying IM Bio-PRBs for groundwater remediation would be much more efficient and meet the design criteria. The research work had guiding significance to engineering and provided consultation for designing and optimizing Bio-PRBs system. To make the design and optimization of Bio-PRBs system convenient, it was very essential to choose the suitable mathematical model (C1 or C2).

Voxel-wise radiogenomic mapping of tumor location with key molecular alterations in patients with glioma

Abstract

Background

This study aims to evaluate the impact of tumor location on key molecular alterations on a single voxel level in patients with newly-diagnosed glioma.

Methods

A consecutive series of n=237 patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma and n=131 patients with lower-grade glioma was analyzed. Volumetric tumor segmentation was performed on preoperative MRI with a semi-automated approach and images were registered to the standard Montreal Neurological Institute-152 space. Using a voxel-based lesion-symptom mapping (VSLM) analysis, we identified specific brain regions that were associated with tumor-specific molecular alterations. We assessed a predefined set of n=17 molecular characteristics in the glioblastoma cohort and n=2 molecular characteristics in the lower-grade glioma cohort. Permutation adjustment (n=1000 iterations) was used to correct for multiple testing and voxel t-values that were greater than the t-value in >95% of the permutations were retained in the VLSM results (α=0.05, power >0.8).

Results

Tumor location predilection for isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH)-mutant tumors was found in both glioblastoma and lower-grade glioma cohorts, each showing a concordant predominance in the frontal lobe adjacent to the rostral extension of the lateral ventricles (permutation-adjusted p=0.021 for the glioblastoma and 0.013 for the lower-grade glioma cohort). Apart from that, the VLSM analysis did not reveal a significant association of the tumor location with any other key molecular alteration in both cohorts (permutation-adjusted p>0.05, each).

Conclusions

Our study highlights the unique properties of IDH-mutations and underpins the hypothesis that the rostral extension of the lateral ventricles is a potential location for the cell of origin in IDH-mutant gliomas.

Scholarly reputation

Abstract

The aim of this literature review on scholarly reputation is: (1) to clarify the concept of scholarly reputation; and (2) to identify the opportunities for scholars (and especially the early career ones among them) to build, maintain and showcase their reputation in today's increasingly open-values based, digital and networked environment. Thus, an in-depth discussion of the notion of scholarly reputation, inclusive of its multi-dimensional sub-constructs and antecedents, is followed by an attempt to establish how it is to be achieved and managed.

Bacterial type III secretion systems: A complex device for delivery of bacterial effector proteins into eukaryotic host cells

Abstract

Virulence-associated type III secretion systems serve the injection of bacterial effector proteins into eukaryotic host cells. They are able to secrete a great diversity of substrate proteins in order to modulate host cell function, and have evolved to sense host cell contact and to inject their substrates through a translocon pore in the host cell membrane. T3SS substrates contain an N-terminal signal sequence and often also a chaperone-binding domain for cognate T3SS chaperones. These signals guide the substrates to the machine where substrates are unfolded and handed over to the secretion channel formed by the transmembrane domains of the export apparatus components and by the the needle filament. Secretion itself is driven by the proton motif force across the bacterial inner membrane. The needle filament measures 20–150 nm in length and is crowned by a needle tip that mediates host cell sensing. Secretion through T3SS is a highly regulated process with early, intermediate, and late substrates. A strict secretion hierarchy is required to build an injectisome capable of reaching, sensing, and penetrating the host cell membrane, before host cell acting effector proteins are deployed. Here we review the recent progress on elucidating assembly, structure, and function of T3SS injectisomes.

Technique for Nonsurgical Lifting Procedures Using Polydioxanone Threads

This Surgical Pearl presents the technique for performing nonsurgical lifting procedures with polydioxanone threads.

Pliability and Elasticity of the External Nasal Skin in Patients With Unilateral Nasal Valve Collapse

This cohort study of patients with unilateral nasal valve collapse compares the pliability and elasticity of the external nasal skin on the side of the nose with valve collapse vs the side of the nose without collapse.

Static and Dynamic Ultrasound Imaging of the Iliotibial Band/Fascia Lata: Brief Review of Current Literature and Gaps in Knowledge

Abstract

Purpose of the Review

The physiopathology of iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS) remains obscure and ultrasound (US) imaging could be a low-cost modality improving our understanding of this condition as well as its diagnosis and management. This brief review synthesizes the up-to-date knowledge on static and dynamic US imaging measurements of the fascia lata and iliotibial band (ITB) in both asymptomatic individuals and patients with ITBS.

Recent Findings

Mean ITB thickness values for asymptomatic individuals ranged from 1.10 to 1.95 mm. Only three studies with very small sample size focused on ITBS patients and no quantitative data were reported. All dynamic US imaging studies involved asymptomatic participants. One study demonstrated a lateral movement of the ITB relative to the femoral condyle and a group of investigators showed 3D displacement of the fascia lata. No study could be found on ITB loose connective tissue measurements.

Summary

This review clearly indicates a paucity of research in the field of static and dynamic US measures. Measuring the loose connective tissue that lies between the deep fascia layers could be an interesting target to help our understanding of ITBS and improve care for the patients.

Are urban vertebrates city specialists, artificial habitat exploiters or environmental generalists?

Synopsis

Although urbanization is a major threat to biodiversity, some species are able to thrive in cities. This might be because they have specific adaptations to urban conditions, because they are able to cope with artificial habitats in general or because they are generalists that can live in a wide range of conditions. We use the latest version of the IUCN database to distinguish these possibilities in 25,985 species of the four classes of terrestrial vertebrates with the help of phylogenetically controlled methods. We first compare species occurrence in cities with that of the five other artificial habitats recognized by the IUCN and use principal components analyses to ask which of these most resembles cities. We then test whether urban species have a wider habitat breadth than species occurring in other, non-urban, artificial habitats, as well as species that occur only in natural habitats. Our results suggest that the proportion of terrestrial vertebrates that occur in urban environments is small and that, among the species that do occur in cities, the great majority also occur in other artificial habitats. Our data also show that the presence of terrestrial vertebrates in urban habitats is skewed in favor of habitat generalists. In birds and mammals, species occurrence in urban areas is most similar to that of rural gardens, while in reptiles and amphibians, urban areas most resemble pasture and arable land. Our study suggests that cities are likely not unique, as is often thought, and may resemble other types of artificial environments, which urban exploiters can adapt to because of their wide habitat breadth.

Clinical Characteristics of Asymmetric Bilateral Gynecomastia: Suggestion of Desirable Surgical Method Based on a Single-Institution Experience

Methadon gegen Krebs

Zusammenfassung

Die Wirksamkeit von Methadon als Krebstherapeutikum wird von einigen Ärzten und Wissenschaftlern propagiert. Grundlage dafür sind mehrere In-vitro-Studien und individuelle Heilversuche. Die große mediale Aufmerksamkeit hat in der Öffentlichkeit zu dem Eindruck geführt, Methadon sei ein vielversprechendes Heilmittel gegen Krebs. In unserem Beitrag analysieren wir die ethischen Aspekte dieser Debatte. Ethische Fragen ergeben sich hinsichtlich der guten wissenschaftlichen Praxis, der Selbstbestimmung von Patienten und der Darstellung von Methadon in den Medien. Wir kommen zu dem Schluss, dass nach derzeitigem Stand der Forschung die Propagierung von Methadon als Heilmittel gegen Krebs ethisch unzulässig ist. Einerseits gerät ein solches Vorgehen aufgrund der mangelnden empirischen Evidenz mit der guten wissenschaftlichen Praxis in Konflikt. Andererseits sind dadurch die Selbstbestimmung von Patienten und das Patientenwohl gefährdet. Des Weiteren führt besonders die mediale Darstellung der Thematik zu Konflikten in der Beziehung von Patient und Arzt.

Selenium and drinking water quality indicators in Mongolia

Abstract

Mongolia is characterized by restricted sources of drinking water and intensive water pollution due to high rates of urbanization, mining industry development, enormous amount of livestock, and ever-growing attempts in domestic production of cereals and vegetables. Among others, Se is the least studied element in Mongolian water resources. Based on fluorimetric method of analysis, the first results on Se levels in drinking water of five aimags, Ulaanbaatar, and Erdenet were obtained. Uneven distribution of Se in Mongolia was manifested, the highest Se concentrations being typical for the southern resources (up to 18,600 μg/L) and the lowest, for the Northern ones (up to 0.022 μg/L). ICP-MS data of Al, As, B, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, I, K, Li, Mg, Mn, Na, Ni, P, Pb, Si, Sn, Sr, V, and Zn contents indicate poly-microelementosis existence in the South of Mongolia (Dorno-Gobi aimag) where ground water is characterized by elevated levels of As and extremely high levels of Se, Li, Na, F, Cl, B, and nitrates ions, exceeding maximum permissible levels by 1.86; 4.3; 3.1; 3.1; 2.7; 3.4; and 1.8 times respectively. Toxic concentrations of Se in groundwater of Dorno-Gobi aimag contradict with the published low human serum Se and low content of the element in horseflesh that suggests the possible effect of the above pollutants on Se bioavailability. Revealed phenomenon and mosaic distribution of heavy metals in areas with high and low Se content in water resources indicate the need of direct search for Se and other pollutant transfer in food chain in various ecological loading conditions, creation of a map of Se distribution in water resources of other Mongolian regions, and large-scale evaluation of the human poly-elemental status.

Behavior and histopathology as biomarkers for evaluation of the effects of paracetamol and propranolol in the neotropical fish species Phalloceros harpagos

Abstract

Pharmaceutical drugs in the aquatic environment can induce adverse effects on nontarget organisms. This study aimed to assess the short-term effects of sublethal concentrations of both paracetamol and propranolol on the fish Phalloceros harpagos, specifically light/dark preference, swimming patterns, skin pigmentation, histopathology, and liver glycogen levels. Fish were acutely exposed to sublethal concentrations of both paracetamol (0.008, 0.08, 0.8, 8, 80 mg L⁻¹) and propranolol (0.0001, 0.001, 0.01, 0.1, 1 mg L⁻¹) under controlled conditions. For scototaxis, a significant preference for the dark compartment was observed for the group exposed to the highest concentration of paracetamol (80 mg L⁻¹). Propranolol exposure significantly altered the swimming pattern, especially in fish exposed to the 0.001 mg L⁻¹ concentration. Pigmentation was reduced in propranolol-exposed fish (0.1, 1 mg L⁻¹). The lowest concentration of propranolol (0.0001 mg L⁻¹) induced a decrease of histochemical reaction for hepatic glycogen. These data demonstrate that pharmaceuticals can induce sublethal effects in nontarget organisms, even at low concentrations, compromising specific functions of the individual with ecological relevance, such as energy balance and behavior.

Hepatozelluläres Karzinom

Answers to the comments on “Air pollution, biological marker and lung function in children”

Deep surgical site infection after ankle fractures treated by open reduction and internal fixation in adults: A retrospective case‐control study

International Wound Journal, EarlyView.

Readiness for Responding to a Severe Pandemic 100 Years After 1918

Abstract

The 1918 H1N1 pandemic caused unprecedented mortality worldwide. The tools to deal with the global emergency were limited with insufficient surveillance systems and a dearth of diagnostic, treatment, and prevention options. With continuing focus on pandemic planning, technologic advances in surveillance, vaccine capabilities, and 21st century medical care and countermeasures, we are more prepared for a severe pandemic than 100 years ago; however, notable gaps remain.

Time-Series Analysis of Air Pollution and Health Accounting for Covariate-Dependent Overdispersion

Abstract

Time-series studies are routinely used to estimate associations between adverse health outcomes and short-term exposures to ambient air pollutants. Poisson log-linear model with the assumption of constant overdispersion is the most common approach, particularly when estimating association between daily air pollution concentrations and aggregated counts of adverse health events over a geographical region. We examined how the assumption of constant overdispersion plays a role in air pollution effect estimation by comparing estimates derived from standard approach to those estimated from covariate-dependent Bayesian generalized Poisson and negative binomial models that accounted for potential time-varying overdispersion. Through simulation studies, we found that while there was negligible bias in effect estimates, the standard quasi-Poisson approach can result in larger standard error when the constant overdispersion assumption is violated. This was also observed in a time-series study of daily emergency department visits for respiratory diseases and ozone concentration in Atlanta, Georgia, 1999-2009. Allowing for covariate-dependent overdispersion resulted in a reduction in ozone effect standard error, while the ozone-associated relative risk remained robust to different model specifications. Our findings suggest that improved characterization of overdispersion in time-series modeling can result in more precise health effect estimates in studies of short-term environmental exposures.

An innovative study design to assess the community effect of interventions to mitigate HIV epidemics using transmission-chain phylodynamics

Abstract

Given globalization and other social phenomena, controlling the spread of infectious diseases has become an imperative public health priority. A plethora of interventions which in theory can mitigate the spread of pathogens have been proposed and applied. Evaluating the effectiveness of such interventions is costly and in many circumstances unrealistic. Most importantly, the community effect (i.e. the ability of the intervention to minimize the spread of the pathogen from people who received the intervention to other community members) can rarely be evaluated. Here we propose a study design that can build and evaluate evidence in support of the community effect of an intervention. The approach exploits molecular evolutionary dynamics of pathogens in order to track new infections as having arisen from either a control or an intervention group. It enables us to evaluate whether an intervention reduces the number and length of new transmission chains in comparison to a control condition, and thus let us estimate the relative decrease in new infections in the community due to the intervention. We provide as an example one working scenario of how the approach can be applied with a simulation study and associated power calculations.

The 1918-19 Influenza Pandemic in Portugal: A Regional Analysis of Mortality Impact

Abstract

Although many archeo-epidemiological studies have assessed the mortality impact of the 1918-19 influenza pandemic, detailed estimates are not available for Portugal. We applied negative binomial models to monthly mortality data from respiratory and all-causes at the national and district-level from Portugal, 1916-1922. Influenza-related excess mortality was computed as the difference between observed and expected deaths. Poisson regression was used to estimate the association between geographic, socio-demographic factors and excess mortality. Two waves of pandemic influenza were identified between July 1918-January 1919 and April- May 1919, representing an excess all-cause death rate of 195.7 per 10,000. All districts of Portugal were affected. The pandemic hit earlier in southeastern districts and the main cities, while excess mortality was highest in the Northeast, in line with the high mortality burden experienced by northern Spanish provinces. During the period of intense excess mortality (fall winter 1918-19), population density was negatively associated with pandemic impact. This pattern changed in the March 1919-June 1920 wave, where excess mortality increased with population density, and north and west directions. Portuguese islands were less and later affected. Given the geographic heterogeneity evidenced in our study, subnational socio-demographic characteristics and connectivity should be integrated in pandemic preparedness plans.

Live Birth Bias and Observed Associations between Air Pollution and Autism

Abstract

A recent analysis found that exposure to air pollution in specific pregnancy weeks is negatively associated with risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) when mutually adjusted for postnatal air pollution exposure. In this commentary, we describe two possible selection bias processes that may lead to such results, both related to live birth bias, i.e. the inevitable restriction of the analyzed sample to live births. The first mechanism is described using a directed acyclic graph and relates to the chance of live birth being a common consequence of both exposure to air pollution and another risk factor of ASD. The second mechanism involves preferential depletion of fetuses susceptible to ASD in the higher air pollution exposure group. We further discuss the assumptions underlying these processes and their causal structures, their plausibility, and other studies where similar phenomenon may have occurred.

The layered anatomy of the jawline

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, EarlyView.

Italian consensus report on the aesthetic use of onabotulinum toxin A

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, EarlyView.

Measurements of tension on wound edges after strip harvest surgery

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, EarlyView.

The posterior temporal supraSMAS minimally invasive lifting technique using soft‐tissue fillers

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, EarlyView.

The study of histological changes of the arterial vascular structure after hyaluronidase exposure

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, EarlyView.

Literature review of the adverse events associated with botulinum toxin injection for the masseter muscle hypertrophy

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, EarlyView.

Acne fulminans associated with lymecycline intake: a case report

Nematicidal potential of Taraxacum officinale

Abstract

This study was aimed to investigate the activity of the Asteraceae species Taraxacum officinale against the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita. Leaf and root extracts of T. officinale were tested in vitro at a range of 62.5–1000 and 250–1000 μg mL⁻¹ concentrations on nematode juveniles and eggs, respectively, whereas treatments with 10–40 g kg⁻¹ soil rates of dry leaf and root T. officinale biomass were applied to soil infested by M. incognita in greenhouse experiments on potted tomato. Peak 36 and 50% juvenile mortality and 14.8 and 23.8% egg hatchability reduction were recorded at the maximum concentration of leaf and root extracts, respectively. Soil treatments with T. officinale leaf and root material strongly suppressed nematode multiplication and gall formation on tomato roots and significantly increased plant growth. Chicoric acid and 3-O- and 3,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid were found to be the main components of leaf and root extract, respectively, and proved, as the total hydroalcoholic extracts from T. officinale leaf and root material, for an antioxidant activity. Data from this study indicate the suitability of plant materials from T. officinale for a potential formulation of nematicidal products to include in sustainable nematode management strategies.