International Journal of Cosmetic Science, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.
Τρίτη 26 Ιουνίου 2018
Body odor aldehyde reduction by acetic acid bacterial extract including enzymes: alcohol dehydrogenase and aldehyde dehydrogenase
Crocin, a natural molecule with potentially beneficial effects against skin aging
International Journal of Cosmetic Science, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.
Vichy Thermal Spring Water (VTSW), a cosmetic ingredient of potential interest in the frame of skin aging exposome: an in vitro study
International Journal of Cosmetic Science, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.
In Vitro Skin Penetration of Petrolatum and Soybean Oil and Effects of Glyceryl Monooleate
International Journal of Cosmetic Science, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.
Cinnamic acid derivatives in cosmetics ‐ current use and future prospects
International Journal of Cosmetic Science, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.
Exploring pathways for sustained melanogenesis in facial melasma: an immunofluorescence study
International Journal of Cosmetic Science, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.
Effects of water temperature and light intensity on the acute toxicity of herbicide thiobencarb to a green alga, Raphidocelis subcapitata
Abstract
The present study investigated how principal environmental factors such as temperature and light intensity change the toxicological properties of thiobencarb (TB) herbicide to the green alga, Raphidocelis subcapitata. At first, we investigated the inhibitory effect of TB (0, 15.6, 31.2, 62.4, and 125 μg L−1) on growth of R. subcapitata at five temperatures (10, 15, 20, 25, or 30 °C) for 144 h exposure and calculated 72- and 144-h effective concentration values (EC10, 20, and EC50) for growth rate. All EC values significantly decreased with an increasing temperature. The maximum quantum yield of photosystem II in R. subcapitata exposed to 125 μg L−1 of TB was also significantly inhibited with increased temperature. These physiological effects could explain the lower EC values at high temperatures. Then, single and interactive effects of TB, temperature, and light intensity on growth rate were investigated by three-way of analysis of variance. As a result, single and interactive effects were detected in all explanatory variables. These results suggest that temperature and light intensity change the acute toxicity parameter in R. subcapitata exposed to TB and must be considered in evaluating the risk of TB.
Estrogen agonistic/antagonistic activity of brominated parabens
Abstract
The estrogen agonistic/antagonistic activity of 16 brominated by-products of parabens was assessed by using a yeast two-hybrid assay transfected with the human estrogen receptor α. Characterization of synthetic compounds including novel brominated parabens was performed using 1H-NMR spectroscopy and high-resolution mass spectrometry. For the agonist assay, five C3–C4 alkylparabens exhibited significant activity (P < 0.05) relative to that of 17β-estradiol, ranging from 3.7 × 10−5 to 7.1 × 10−4. In contrast, none of the brominated alkyl parabens exhibited agonistic activity. In the antagonist assay, 12 brominated alkylparabens and butylparaben exhibited significant antagonistic activity (P < 0.05). Their antagonistic activity relative to 4-hydroxytamoxifen ranged from 0.11 to 2.5. The antagonist activity of C1–C4 alkylparabens increased with the number of bromine substitutions. Benzylparaben exhibited both agonistic and antagonistic activity, and these activities dissipated or were weakened with increased bromination. Thus, increased bromination appeared to attenuate the estrogen agonistic activity of most parabens such that it resulted in increased antagonistic activity, a feature of parabens that had not been previously described.
The coupled study of metal concentrations and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) of lichens ( Hypogymnia physodes ) from the Świętokrzyski National Park—environmental implications
Abstract
SO2, NOx, and metals (including Cd, Cu, Pb, Zn, Mn, Mg, Fe) present in airborne particulate matter are a major threat to preserving good air quality. The complicated pathways and transformation processes that can change their physical/chemical state in the atmosphere renders identifying their origin extremely difficult. With the objective of alleviating this difficulty, we identified and characterized potential local and regional sources of atmospheric pollutants using bioindicators (Hypogymnia physodes) from the Świętokrzyski National Park (SE Poland): 20 lichen samples were collected during winter (February; heating period) and summer (June; vegetative period) seasons and analyzed for metal contents and free radicals concentrations. Our results indicate that the highest gaseous pollutant levels were observed during the heating season, along roads (NO2) and at the highest elevation (SO2). The semiquinone/phenoxyl radical concentrations correlated during the heating season with the atmospheric SO2: ln (free radicals concentrations) = 0.025 SO2atmosphere + 39.11. For Mn/Fe ≥ 2, the electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectra presented a hyperfine splitting. Results showed that since 1994 metal concentrations increased for Cd, Mn, and Mg, Fe remained somewhat constant for Zn and Cu but slightly decreased for Pb, in agreement with the phasing out of lead in gasoline. Finally, a principal component analysis (PCA) identified two main factors controlling variability within the analyzed parameters: air pollutants transport over long distances and local fuel combustion by both transport and home heating.
Extension of Disease Risk Score-Based Confounding Adjustments for Multiple Outcomes Of Interest- An Empirical Evaluation
Abstract
Use of disease risk score (DRS)-based confounding adjustment when estimating treatment effects on multiple outcomes is not well studied. Using an empirical example comparing dabigatran versus warfarin on ischemic stroke and major bleeding risk in 12 sequential monitoring periods (90 days each) using the Truven Marketscan database, we compared two approaches for combining DRS for multiple outcomes: (1) 1:1 matching on prognostic propensity scores (PPS), created using DRS for bleeding and stroke as independent variables in a propensity score (PS) model; and (2) simultaneous 1:1 matching on DRS for bleeding and stroke using Mahalanobis (M)-distance, against traditional PS-matching. M-distance matching appeared to produce more stable results in the early marketing period compared to both PPS and traditional PS-matching; hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) for unadjusted, traditional PS-matching, PPS-matching, and M-distance matching after 4 periods were 0.72 (0.51-1.03), 0.61 (0.31-1.09), 0.55 (0.33-0.91), and 0.78 (0.45-1.34) for stroke, and 0.65 (0.53-0.80), 0.78 (0.60-1.01), 0.75 (0.59-0.96), and 0.78 (0.64-0.95) for bleeding. In later periods, estimates were similar for traditional PS-matching and M-distance matching, but suggested potential residual confounding with PPS-matching. These results suggest that M-distance matching may be a valid approach for extension of DRS-based confounding adjustments for multiple outcomes of interest.Prolonged Leisure-Time Spent Sitting in Relation to Cause-specific Mortality in a Large U.S. Cohort
Abstract
The majority of leisure-time is spent in sedentary behaviors such as television viewing. Studies have documented that prolonged leisure-time sitting is associated with higher risk of total, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and "all other causes" of mortality, but few have examined the "other" causes of death in detail. To examine associations of leisure-time sitting with risk of specific causes of death, data were analyzed from the CPS-II Nutrition Cohort, a prospective U.S. cohort including 127,554 men and women who were free of major chronic disease at study entry and among whom 48,784 died during 21 years of follow-up (1993-2014; median=20.3 years, IQR=4.6 years). After multivariable adjustment, prolonged leisure-time sitting (6+ vs <3 hours/day) was associated with higher risk of all-cause, cardiovascular disease (including coronary heart disease and stroke-specific mortality), cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, suicide, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pneumonitis due to solids and liquids, liver and other digestive disease, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, nervous disorders, and musculoskeletal disorders mortality. These findings provide additional evidence for associations between a broad range of mortality outcomes and prolonged sitting time. Given the pervasive nature of sitting in contemporary lifestyle, this study further supports that encouraging individuals to reduce sedentary time may provide health benefits.Groundwater nitrate contamination and associated human health risk assessment in southern districts of Punjab, India
Abstract
Consumption of high NO3 containing water may pose serious health hazard especially in children (< 5 years). The source of NO3 in groundwater includes surface leaching from wastewater and waste dump sites, animal excreta disposal, industrial effluents, and N-based fertilizers, etc. This study aimed to investigate the concentration of NO3 in groundwater of 14 intensively cultivated districts of Malwa Punjab, India, and its possible health hazards in local residents. The sampling of 76 sites revealed the concentration of NO3 in ranges of 38.45–198.05 mgL−1, and over 92% sites showed the high level of it than the safe limits as decided by the Bureau of Indian standards (45 mg L−1) and World Health Organization (50 mg L−1). The possible health hazards of high NO3 intake was estimated using USEPA human health risk assessment (HHRA) model for both adult and children. Results of this study suggested the chronic daily intake (CDI) in the ranges of 1.09–5.65 and 2.56–13.20 in adult and children population of this region, respectively. The hazard quotient (HQnitrate) value was > 1 in most sampling locations ranging 1.09–5.65 for the adult and 2.56–13.20 for children population of Malwa. This study indicates that 93.42% adult and 100% young population of the Malwa are at higher risk of chronic toxicity by excess NO3 intake. The HHRA results suggested a high vulnerability of a local community to NO3 toxicity in this region; therefore, there is an instant need to take preventive measures to safeguard the health of local residents.
Early Drug Development in the era of Immuno-Oncology: are we ready to face the challenges?
Abstract
The classical development of drugs has progressively faded away, and we are currently in an era of seamless drug-development, where first-inhuman trials include unusually big expansion cohorts in the search for early signs of activity and rapid regulatory approval. The fierce competition between different pharmaceutical companies and the hype for immune combinations obliges us to question the current way in which we are evaluating these drugs. In this review, we discuss critical issues and caveats in immunotherapy development. A particular emphasis is put on the limitations of pre-clinical toxicology studies, where both murine models and cynomolgus monkeys have underpredicted toxicity in humans. Moreover, relevant issues surrounding dose determination during phase 1 trials, such as dose-escalation methods or flat vs. body-weight dosing, are discussed. A proposal of how to face these different challenges is offered, in order to achieve maximum efficacy with minimum toxicity for our patients.Comprehensive molecular classification of localized prostate adenocarcinoma reveals a tumour subtype predictive of a non-aggressive disease
Abstract
Background
Management of localized prostate cancer is a major clinical challenge since most of these cancers won't evolve but a majority of patients will still undergo a life-changing radical surgery. Molecular studies have shown that prostate cancer can be classified according to their genomic alterations but none of the published prostate cancer molecular classifications could identify a subtype corresponding to non-evolutive tumours. Materials and methods
Multi-omics molecular profiling was performed on post-radical prostatectomy material from a cohort of 130 patients with localized prostate cancer. We used unsupervised classification techniques to build a comprehensive classification of prostate tumours based on three molecular levels: DNA copy number, DNA methylation, and mRNA expression. Merged data from our cohort and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) cohort were used to characterize the resulting tumour subtypes. We measured subtype-associated risks of biochemical relapse using Cox regression models and survival data from five cohorts including the two aforementioned. Results
We describe three prostate cancer molecular subtypes associated with specific molecular characteristics and different clinical outcomes. Particularly, one subtype was strongly associated with the absence of biochemical recurrence. We validated this finding on 746 samples from five distinct cohorts (P = 3.41 x 10−8, N = 746 tumour samples), and showed that our subtyping approach outperformed the most popular prognostic molecular signatures to accurately identify a subset of patients with a non-evolutive disease. We provide a set of 36 transcriptomic biomarkers to robustly identify this subtype of non-evolutive cases whose prevalence was estimated to 22% of all localized prostate cancer tumours. Conclusion
At least 20% of patients with localized prostate cancer can be accurately predicted to have a non-evolutive disease on the basis of their molecular subtype. Those patients should not undergo immediate surgery and rather be placed under active surveillance.Potentials of cocoa pod husk-based compost on Phytophthora pod rot disease suppression, soil fertility, and Theobroma cacao L. growth
Abstract
Cocoa black pod disease caused by Phytophthora megakarya and reduced soil fertility are major constraints to cocoa production resulting in high yield losses. In the absence of effective control measures and constraints related to the use of chemical fungicides and fertilizers, there is a need to develop additional and sustainable disease and fertilization management strategies. With the lack of studies related to the use of compost in cocoa cultivation, the present study aims to evaluate the potential of cocoa pod husk (CPH)-based compost as a soil amendment to reduce the severity of cocoa black pod disease and enhance plant growth. In vitro antagonism test showed that compost water extracts (CWE) reduced mycelial growth with inhibition rate reaching 100% associated with microorganisms. Disease score of cocoa plantlets grown on compost-amended soils significantly reduced compared to plantlets grown on non-amended soil (control). All compost rates tested significantly increased populations of actinomycetes and fungi and biological activity in the soil. Compost application increased soil pH and majority of the essential elements but decreased Al content, which is toxic to cocoa growth in acidic soils. Soil application of compost at the dose of 20% (v/v) significantly increased stem length and number of leaves compared to the control. This study shows that CPH-based compost can not only improve soil fertility and cocoa growth but also reduce cocoa black pod disease severity by direct effects on inoculums level in the soil and by inducing resistance in the plant.
Preparation and characterization of PSF/PEI/CaCO 3 nanocomposite membranes for oil/water separation
Abstract
Ultrafiltration (UF) is one of the significant advanced processes for oily wastewater treatment due to its clear advantages, for instance, ease in operation and efficient separation. The main drawback of these processes is the fouling problem and many researchers' effort on fabrication of high-performance membranes with higher hydrophilicity and antifouling properties. In this study, flat-sheet polysulfone (PSF)/polyethylenimine (PEI)/CaCO3 nanocomposite membranes were prepared by phase inversion method for oil/water emulsion separation. Structural properties of membranes were characterized by SEM, FT-IR, contact angle, tensile strength, and atomic force microscopy analysis. Increasing the CaCO3 nanoparticle loading exhibited the increased the water flux and BSA rejection. PSF/PEI/10 wt% CaCO3 nanocomposite membranes have 145 L/m2 h water flux at 2 bar with a contact angle of 84° and with 92% BSA rejection. All prepared CaCO3 nanocomposite membranes reached similar oil rejections at above 90%. Besides the higher water flux and oil removal efficiencies, 10 wt% of CaCO3 nanoparticle-blended PSF membranes has notable antifouling capacity with the highest flux recovery ratio (FRR) and lowest flux decay ratio (DR) values. The results showed that there is a great potential to use PSF/PEI/CaCO3 nanocomposite membranes for the treatment of oil water emulsions with higher permeability and antifouling capacity.
Effects of Experimental Anthropogenic Noise Exposure on the Reproductive Success of Secondary Cavity Nesting Birds
Abstract
Artificial nest boxes are critical nesting sites for secondary cavity-nesting birds; however, they are often placed near roadways and in urban areas that experience noise pollution and other human-caused stressors. Recent correlative studies document both negative and positive influences of noise pollution on reproductive success. Additionally, observational studies have not determined which stage of the breeding process is most vulnerable to noise pollution- settlement, incubation, and/or provisioning. Here, we controlled for possible effects from non-random settlement and eliminated potential effects of roadways, such as collisions and chemical and light pollution, by experimentally introducing traffic noise into nest boxes after clutch initiation in two secondary-cavity nesting bird species. We found no evidence for an influence of noise on clutch size, brood size, number of fledglings or overall nest success in western bluebirds (Sialia mexicana). In contrast, we found that ash-throated flycatcher (Myiarchus cinerascens) nests exposed to noise had lower reproductive success than quiet nests due to higher rates of abandonment at the incubation stage. Our results match recent research demonstrating that ash-throated flycatchers avoid energy-sector noise in their nest placement and, when they do nest in noise, experience stress hormone dysregulation and fitness costs. The lack of a response among western bluebirds differs from reported declines in reproductive success due to exposure to energy-sector noise; however, the absence of a response matches the response seen in other species using an in-box noise playback experiment. These results suggest that in-box noise exposure experiments may be appropriate for assessing noise impacts at the nest, and through some pathways (e.g., direct effects of noise on nestlings), but do not capture other ways in which noise can negatively affect birds during the breeding season that may ultimately cause declines in fitness. Additionally, although manipulative experiments that examine the influence of a single anthropogenic stressor on a single life stage can help reveal causal pathways, urban and other human-dominated environments are characterized by many stressors and future studies should seek to understand how noise interacts with other stressors to impact birds and other wildlife. Finally, in light of mounting evidence demonstrating declines in reproductive success due to noise, our results suggest that nest box placement near roads may be counterproductive to efforts to bolster population densities of some species.Effects of the mitochondrial and nuclear genomes on nonshivering thermogenesis in a wild derived rodent
Abstract
A key adaptation of mammals to their environment is their ability to maintain a constant high body temperature, even at rest, under a wide range of ambient temperatures. In cold climates, this is achieved by an adaptive production of endogenous heat, known as nonshivering thermogenesis (NST), in the brown adipose tissue (BAT). This organ, unique to mammals, contains a very high density of mitochondria, and BAT correct functioning relies on the correct functioning of its mitochondria. Mitochondria enclose proteins encoded both in the maternally inherited mitochondrial genome and in the biparentally inherited nuclear genome, and one overlooked hypothesis is that both genomes and their interaction may shape NST. By housing under standardised conditions wild-derived common voles (Microtus arvalis) from two distinct evolutionary lineages (Western and Central), we show that Western voles had greater NST than Central voles. By introgressing those two lineages over at least 9 generations, we then experimentally tested the influence of the nuclear and mitochondrial genomes on NST and related phenotypic traits. We found that between-lineage variation in NST and BAT size were significantly influenced by the mitochondrial and nuclear genomes, respectively, with the Western mitochondrial genotype being associated with higher NST and the Western nuclear genotype with a larger BAT. There were significant mito-nuclear interactions on whole animal body weight and resting metabolic rate. Hybrid voles were lighter and had higher resting metabolic rate. Overall, our findings turn new light on the influence of the mitochondrial and nuclear genomes on thermogenesis and building adaptation to the environment in mammals.Mitochondrial dysfunction and infection generate immunity-fecundity tradeoffs in Drosophila
Abstract
Physiological responses to short-term environmental stressors, such as infection, can have long-term consequences for fitness, particularly if the responses are inappropriate or nutrient resources are limited. Genetic variation affecting energy acquisition, storage, and usage can limit cellular energy availability and may influence resource-allocation tradeoffs even when environmental nutrients are plentiful. Here, we utilized Drosophila mitochondrial-nuclear genotypes to test whether disrupted mitochondrial function interferes with nutrient-sensing pathways, and whether this disruption has consequences for tradeoffs between immunity and fecundity. We found that an energetically-compromised genotype was relatively resistant to rapamycin – a drug that targets nutrient-sensing pathways and mimics resource limitation. Dietary resource limitation decreased survival of energetically-compromised flies. Furthermore, survival of infection with a natural pathogen was decreased in this genotype, and females of this genotype experienced immunity-fecundity tradeoffs that were not evident in genotypic controls with normal energy metabolism. Together, these results suggest that this genotype may have little excess energetic capacity and fewer cellular nutrients, even when environmental nutrients are not limiting. Genetic variation in energy metabolism may therefore act to limit the resources available for allocation to life-history traits in ways that generate tradeoffs even when environmental resources are not limiting.Toward an Ethics of AI Assistants: an Initial Framework
Abstract
Personal AI assistants are now nearly ubiquitous. Every leading smartphone operating system comes with a personal AI assistant that promises to help you with basic cognitive tasks: searching, planning, messaging, scheduling and so on. Usage of such devices is effectively a form of algorithmic outsourcing: getting a smart algorithm to do something on your behalf. Many have expressed concerns about this algorithmic outsourcing. They claim that it is dehumanising, leads to cognitive degeneration, and robs us of our freedom and autonomy. Some people have a more subtle view, arguing that it is problematic in those cases where its use may degrade important interpersonal virtues. In this article, I assess these objections to the use of AI assistants. I will argue that the ethics of their use is complex. There are no quick fixes or knockdown objections to the practice, but there are some legitimate concerns. By carefully analysing and evaluating the objections that have been lodged to date, we can begin to articulate an ethics of personal AI use that navigates those concerns. In the process, we can locate some paradoxes in our thinking about outsourcing and technological dependence, and we can think more clearly about what it means to live a good life in the age of smart machines.
Factors associated with quality of life in facial melasma: a cross‐sectional study
International Journal of Cosmetic Science, EarlyView.
Achieving low concentrations of chromium in drinking water by nanofiltration: membrane performance and selection
Abstract
This study evaluates nanofiltration as a feasible process to reach low concentrations of chromium in drinking water and provides means for the selection of the most suitable membrane based on the specific treatment needs. Chromium removal is concerning since new stringent limits (10 μg/L) for hexavalent Cr concentration in potable water were recently adopted in various countries. Three commercial nanofiltration membranes were tested against this threshold value: two membranes made of semi-aromatic polyamide and the third having a sulfonated polyethersulfone asymmetric film as the selective layer. The rejection observed as a function of chemical composition in the feed solution suggests that electrostatic effect is an important mechanism of chromium(VI) removal for the membranes with higher surface charge and lower film density. The performance of such membranes is strongly affected by the presence of salts, especially divalent cations, which reduce both Cr(VI) rejection and the permeate flux. The removal of Cr(VI) by denser membranes is dominated by solution-diffusion and is not influenced by feed ionic strength. The exposure of membranes to high chromium concentrations and to hypochlorite, typically employed as an oxidizing agent in water treatment plants, was also investigated. An analysis of the operational membrane life is thus discussed, based on the loss in performance due to active film degradation. All three membranes showed adequate rejection of chromium from tap and well water of diverse chemical composition, suggesting that nanofiltration is an effective process to remove chromium for the production of safe drinking water. However, membranes with different properties should be adopted depending on specific feed water composition and on the productivity required from the system. A final analysis is presented to help with the choice of the most suitable nanofiltration membrane based on initial and target Cr(VI) concentration in feed and product water, respectively.
Coupling and decoupling effects of agricultural carbon emissions in China and their driving factors
Abstract
The relationship between agricultural carbon emissions and agricultural economic growth has attracted a significant research attention. A key issue to address in the development of agriculture is the reduction of agricultural carbon emissions while maintaining agricultural economic growth. This study investigated the interactions between agricultural carbon emissions and agricultural economic growth from multiple perspectives based on agricultural carbon emission data from 30 provinces in China measured from 1997 to 2015. Using this dataset, the coupling and decoupling effects of agricultural carbon emissions and the underlying driving factors were explored using a coupling development degree model, the Tapio decoupling assessment model, and a logarithmic mean Divisia index (LMDI) decomposition model. The results were as follows: (1) at the regional scale, the degree of coupling development between agricultural carbon emissions and agricultural economic growth is high in the central region of China and low in the western region. At the provincial scale, the coupling effects of agricultural carbon emissions exhibited four levels: minimal, low, moderate, and high coupling. (2) With the exceptions of Beijing, Zhejiang, Fujian, Guangdong, Inner Mongolia, and Shanghai, the relationships between agricultural carbon emissions and agricultural economic growth in the other 24 provinces were in a weak decoupling state. (3) The effects of agricultural development scale and agricultural technical progress were the major driving factors associated with increases and decreases in agricultural carbon emissions, respectively.
Combined effects of co-exposure to formaldehyde and acrolein mixtures on cytotoxicity and genotoxicity in vitro
Abstract
FA (formaldehyde) and ACR (acrolein) are common pollutants in environment, which often occur together in air. So, adverse health effects may not only result from their individual toxicity but also from the combined toxicity. While often studied alone, combination effects of these pollutants are inconclusive. Here, we examined the combined cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of FA and ACR on A549 cells based on CCK-8 assay, comet assay, and cytokinesis-block micronuclei assay. FA and ACR mixtures showed significant cytotoxicity and genotoxicity even at NOECs (no observed effect concentrations). Moreover, FA and ACR administrated jointly at doses from NOECs to sub-cytotoxic concentrations demonstrated significant interactions in cytotoxicity, DNA strand breaks, and chromosome damage. Co-exposure to FA and ACR significantly showed a lower responses on DNA strand break and chromosome damage than those expected for additivity, while an opposite result was obtained on cytotoxicity. Taken together, these results indicated that there was significant interactions on cytotoxicity and genotoxicity for FA and ACR, and prolonged exposure to mixtures of FA and ACR below sub-cytotoxic concentrations can produce a serious threat in human's health.
Decoupling effect and forecasting of economic growth and energy structure under the peak constraint of carbon emissions in China
Abstract
The decoupling effect between economic growth and energy structure was quantitatively analyzed from 1999 to 2014 across China. The results showed it existed weak decoupling effects in most regions. Based on the analysis of the influence of energy structure on carbon intensity, using scenario simulation methods and Markov chain modeling, the carbon intensity was predicted for China in 2020. The impact of energy structure adjustment on the carbon intensity to meet China's carbon target by 18 possible scenarios are calculated. Furthermore, the peak value of carbon emissions was also calculated in 2030. The results showed that the carbon intensity predicted for China in 2020 can be achieved regardless of whether the energy structure was adjusted or not when energy saving and carbon reduction policies maintained with economic growth at 6–7%. Moreover, given fixed energy structure growth, for each 1% of economic growth, the carbon intensity will decrease by about 3.5%. Given fixed economic growth, the decrease of energy intensity will be greater if the control of energy consumption is stronger. The effect of energy structure adjustment on the decreasing of carbon intensity will be 4% higher under constraints than without constraints. On average, the contribution of energy structure adjustment to achieving the carbon intensity target was calculated as 4% higher than that with constraints. In addition, given relatively fixed economic growth at 6–7%, the peak value of carbon emission in 2030 was calculated as 13.209 billion tons with constraints and 14.38 billion tons without constraints.
Cyanobacterial removal by a red soil-based flocculant and its effect on zooplankton: an experiment with deep enclosures in a tropical reservoir in China
Abstract
As one kind of cheap, environmentally-friendly and efficient treatment materials for direct control of cyanobacterial blooms, modified clays have been widely concerned. The present study evaluated cyanobaterial removal by a red soil-based flocculant (RSBF) with a large enclosure experiment in a tropical mesotrophic reservoir, in which phytoplankton community was dominated by Microcystis spp. and Anabaena spp. The flocculant was composed of red soil, chitosan and FeCl3. Twelve enclosures were used in the experiment: three replicates for each of one control and three treatments RSBF15 (15 mg FeCl3 l−1), RSBF25 (25 mg FeCl3 l−1), and RSBF35 (35 mg FeCl3 l−1). The results showed that the red soil-based flocculant can significantly remove cyanobacterial biomass and reduce concentrations of nutrients including total nitrogen, nitrate, ammonia, total phosphorus, and orthophosphate. Biomass of Microcystis spp. and Anabaena spp. was reduced more efficiently (95%) than other filamentous cyanobacteria (50%). In the RSBF15 treatment, phytoplankton biomass recovered to the level of the control group after 12 days and cyanobacteria quickly dominated. Phytoplankton biomass in the RSBF25 treatment also recovered after 12 days, but green algae co-dominated with cyanobacteria. A much later recovery of phytoplankton until the day of 28 was observed under RSBF35 treatment, and cyanobacteria did no longer dominate the phytoplankton community. The application of red soil-based flocculant greatly reduces zooplankton, especially rotifers, however, Copepods and Cladocera recovered fast. Generally, the red soil-based flocculant can be effective for urgent treatments at local scales in cyanobacteria dominating systems.
Effect of pressure and temperature on anaerobic methanotrophic activities of a highly enriched ANME-2a community
Abstract
This study investigated the effect of temperature and methane partial pressure on the anaerobic methane-oxidizing and sulfate-reducing (AOM-SR) activities by a highly enriched ANME-2a community. The ANME-2a-enriched biomass was incubated at different pressures, i.e., 2, 10, 20, and 30 MPa at 15 °C for 80 days. The response of the microbial community with temperature was investigated in incubations at 4, 15, and 25 °C at 10 MPa. Among all tested conditions, the incubation at 10 MPa pressure and 15 °C showed the highest AOM-SR activity of the studied ANME-2a phylotype, whereas activity at 2 MPa pressure and 15 °C was almost comparative to the response at 10 MPa pressure. The finding of the most favorable conditions for AOM-SR activity by the studied AOM-SR community comparable to the in situ pressure and temperature (15 °C at 10 MPa) suggests that the studied ANME-2a phylotype was well adapted to the conditions similar to its origin. The microbial community analysis showed that the bacterial community composition shifted upon changing the incubation temperature and pressure.
The impact of kraft pulping effluent on egg survival and hatching success in two species of Clupeiformes (Teleostei)
Abstract
The anchoveta (Engraulis ringens) and sardine (Strangomera bentincki) are coastal pelagic species with important spawning areas off the coast of Chile. The discharge of secondary-treated effluents from a kraft pulp plant near one of these spawning areas has raised environmental concerns. Therefore, effluent effects on the development of anchoveta and sardine eggs were assessed by in vitro exposure. Eggs were sampled between 2007 and 2010 off Talcahuano, Chile. Subsequent toxicity tests (96 h duration, 12 °C) were performed using increasing effluent concentrations, a filtered seawater control, and two potassium dichromate concentrations (to verify consistent embryonic sensitivity). Egg mortality and hatching success were evaluated. For anchoveta, mortality (9.9 ± 7.1%) did not significantly differ among groups in five toxicity tests except the final toxicity test that showed significant differences in mortality (5.6% control vs 27.8% in 100% effluent). For sardines, no differences in mortality existed between the effluent dilutions (2.6 ± 3.6%) and control (6.3 ± 3.9%). Notably, anchoveta egg survival and hatching success rates were inconsistent, i.e., the highest rates of hatching failure occurred on the same sampling date with the highest rates of survival for the 100% effluent group (72%). In conclusion, the obtained results indicate that (i) anchoveta egg mortality and hatching failure increase only under 100% effluent exposure, coinciding with decreased egg quality near the end of spawning season and (ii) high effluent dilutions not significantly increase sardine and anchoveta egg mortalities. Nevertheless, the recorded adverse effects to the hatching process should be studied in greater detail, particularly considering interspecific variability and the complexity of reproductive processes, especially during early development.
Treatment of keloid scars with intralesional triamcinolone and 5-fluorouracil injections – a randomized controlled trial
Publication date: Available online 25 June 2018
Source:Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery
Author(s): KE Hietanen, TA Järvinen, H Huhtala, TT Tolonen, HO Kuokkanen, IS Kaartinen
Keloids have high recurrence rates. Current first-line therapy is triamcinolone (TAC) injection, but it has been suggested that approximately 50% of keloids are steroid -resistant. We compared the efficacy of intralesional 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and triamcinalone injections in a double-blind randomized controlled trial. Forty-three patients with 50 keloid scars were treated with either intralesional TAC or 5-FU-injections over 6 months.There was no statistically significant difference in the remission rate at 6 months between the 5-FU and TAC groups (46% vs 60%, respectively). Local adverse effects were higher in the TAC group compared to the 5-FU group. Occurrence of skin atrophy in TAC group was 44% and in the 5-FU group 8% (p<0.05). Also the occurrence of telangiectasia in the TAC group was 50% and in the 5-FU 21% (p<0.05). Vascularity of the keloids, assessed by spectral imaging and immunohistochemical staining for blood vessels before and after treatment decreased in the TAC group, but not in the 5-FU group (p<0.05). Fibroblast proliferation evaluated by Ki-67 staining decreased in the TAC group (p<0.05) but increased in the 5-FU group (p<0.05).TAC and 5-FU injections did not differ in their clinical effectivity in this randomized study, but 5-FU injections lead to increased proliferation rate and did not affect vascular density in histological assessment. Due to the greater number of adverse effects observed after TAC treatment, 5-FU injections may be preferable for cosmetically sensitive skin areas.
Abnormal soft palate movements in patients with microtia
Publication date: Available online 25 June 2018
Source:Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery
Author(s): M.N. Kolodzynski, BTJA van Hoorn, M. Kon, C.C. Breugem
IntroductionMicrotia is a congenital malformation of the auricle, ranging in severity. It can be isolated or associated with (craniofacial) anomalies. Most of these anomalies together are described as being part of the oculo-auriculo-vertebral spectrum (OAVS). Velar abnormalities have been described to occur in patients with OAVS, however the incidence in patients with microtia without OAVS is largely unknown. The primary purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence of velar palsy in patients with isolated microtia, and in patients with microtia and signs of OAVS. The secondary purpose was to identify possible risk factors associated with the presence of velar palsy.MethodsAll patients with microtia presented to our department between January 2015 and March 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. Medical images, information of the palate and demographics were subtracted from the patients' medical files.ResultsVelar palsy was present in 18 out of 42 patients with isolated microtia (43%; no signs of OAVS), and in 33 out of 41 patients with microtia and signs of OAVS (80%). Patients with signs of OAVS were found to be independently associated with a higher prevalence of velar palsy (OR: 4.8; 95% CI: 1.7 to 13).ConclusionThis study demonstrates a clear relationship of abnormal velar movement and microtia. We believe that isolated microtia should not be seen as a separate entity but as a part of OAVS. Abnormal velar movement can lead to velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI), which can affect children's speech development. Physicians should exam the palate in all microtia patients, not only those with speech difficulties.
Volume change in the rectus abdominis muscle after deep inferior epigastric perforator flap harvest
Publication date: Available online 25 June 2018
Source:Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery
Author(s): Hyun Ho Han, Min Kyu Kang, Sin Young Song, Hyung Chul Lee, Eun Key Kim, Jin Sup Eom
Deep inferior epigastric perforator flap has less donor site morbidity than that of transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap. However, abdominal muscle atrophy and donor site complications caused by denervation during pedicle dissection cannot be avoided. This retrospective study investigated the change in rectus abdominis muscle volume after deep inferior epigastric perforator flap harvest. Of 395 patients who underwent unilateral deep inferior epigastric perforator flap breast reconstruction between August 2007 and July 2017, 25 patients with >2-year postoperative abdominal computed tomography data were evaluated. Preoperative and postoperative images of the abdominal muscle after pedicle dissection and of the nonoperated side were compared. The volume of the muscles from the lower margin to the umbilicus was determined by using OsiriX image analysis. The volume on the side of pedicle dissection decreased from 72.63 ± 23.29 cm3 preoperatively to 53.09 ± 16.93 cm3 postoperatively(p < 0.001). The corresponding volumes on the side without dissection were 73.29 ± 19.25 cm3 and 60.89 ± 18.79 cm3 (p < 0.001). The percentage of postoperatively retained volume relative to the preoperative volume was 75.65% ± 19.18% on the pedicle dissection side and 84.65% ± 19.00% on the contralateral side. The 9% difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.10). No major abdominal complications were observed. Despite nerve injury during deep inferior epigastric perforator flap surgery, the volume loss of the involved and contralateral muscle did not differ. More than 75% of the abdominal muscle volume was retained. Muscle integrity was well maintained without any postoperative complications.
Comparing Transversus Abdominus Release and Anterior Component Separation Techniques in Reconstructing Midline Hernias – A Cadaveric Study
Publication date: Available online 25 June 2018
Source:Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery
Author(s): Charles Yuen Yung Loh, Metin Nizamoglu, R Raja Shanmugakrishnan, Alethea Tan, Cecilia Brassett, Bryony Lovett, Makarand Tare, Naguib El-Muttardi
Exploration of intrinsic brain activity in migraine with and without comorbid depression
Major depressive disorder is a common comorbidity in migraineurs. Depression may affect the progression and prognosis of migraine. Few studies have examined the brain function in migraineurs that may cause thi...
Upper cervical two-point discrimination thresholds in migraine patients and headache-free controls
Chronic pain including migraine is associated with structural and functional changes in the somatosensory cortex. Previous reports proposed two-point discrimination (TPD) as a measurement for cortical alterati...
Abnormal brain white matter in patients with right trigeminal neuralgia: a diffusion tensor imaging study
Idiopathic or classical trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a chronic painful condition characterized by intermittent pain attacks. Enough evidence demonstrates classical TN is related to neurovascular compression (N...
OnabotulinumtoxinA in the treatment of refractory chronic cluster headache
Cluster headache (CH) is a clinically well-defined primary headache disorder, approximately 20% of cluster headache sufferers experience recurrent attacks without periods of significant remission. For the trea...
Effects of sildenafil and calcitonin gene-related peptide on brainstem glutamate levels: a pharmacological proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy study at 3.0 T
Studies involving human pharmacological migraine models have predominantly focused on the vasoactive effects of headache-inducing drugs, including sildenafil and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP). However...
Itching at night: A review on reducing nocturnal pruritus in children
Pediatric Dermatology, EarlyView.
Quantifying Direct DNA Damage in the Basal Layer of Skin Exposed to UV Radiation from Sunbeds
Photochemistry and Photobiology, EarlyView.
Composite cutaneous lymphoma of diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma‐leg type and subcutaneous panniculitis‐like T‐cell lymphoma
Journal of Cutaneous Pathology, EarlyView.
The assessment of changes to the nontuberculous mycobacterial metabolome in response to anti-TB drugs
Abstract
Mycobacterium species can cause a range of nontuberculous infections of healthy and immunocompromised people as well as infect people during and after surgical procedures. The similarity of nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) to the tuberculosis bacilli (TB) could ultimately enable the use of anti-TB drugs for the genus. Hence, three NTM (M. smegmatis, M. phlei and M. avium) were cultured under different lab conditions, causing two mycobacterial phenotypes (active and dormant), and treated with isoniazid (INH) and ethambutol (EMB) independently or in combination. Metabolite profiling was applied to facilitate the investigation and characterisation of intracellular targets affected by the antibiotics. Aliquots of the cell culture were taken over the treatment period and the metabolite profile of the cells analysed by GC/MS. Comparative analysis of the metabolite levels to untreated mycobacteria confirmed the successful action of the antibiotics on the metabolism of all three species. Furthermore, single metabolites and metabolite pathways affected by the antibiotics could be identified and included, besides the known target sites for INH and EMB on mycobacterial cells, changes in e.g. nucleotide and saccharide levels. The combined treatment highlighted the property of EMB to enhance the effects of INH even under hypoxic culture conditions.Effect of gpd box copy numbers in the gpdA promoter of Aspergillus nidulans on its transcription efficiency in A. niger
Abstract
In this study, we characterised PgpdA, PgpdA2B, PgpdA3B, and PgpdA4B promoters, containing 1–4 copies of gpd box by modifying the gpdA promoter, and constructed pSZHGX-xynB expression vectors, which were introduced into Aspergillus niger CICC2462 through Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. Thus, An (PgpdA-xynB), An (PgpdA2B-xynB), An (PgpdA3B-xynB), and An (PgpdA4B-xynB) homozygous recombinant strains were obtained. The xylanase activity of homozygous recombinant strains was measured. The enzymatic activities of An (PgpdA-xynB), An (PgpdA2B-xynB), An (PgpdA3B-xynB), and An (PgpdA4B-xynB) peaked on the 7th day of fermentation, at 1578.67, 2333.88, 3588.38, and 3183.51 U·mL−1, respectively. SDS-PAGE and qRT-PCR analysis indicated that An (PgpdA3B-xynB), containing three copies of gpd box demonstrated the highest levels of protein expression and transcription. These results suggested that the PgpdA3B promoter promotes highly efficient transcription and may serve as a strong constitutive promoter for efficient recombinant protein expression. Additionally, a number of constitutive promoters with various transcription efficiencies were identified for the metabolic engineering of A. niger. Accordingly, this study provides a new approach for obtaining promoters with different transcription efficiencies.Environmentally friendly remediation of lead/cadmium co-contaminated loess soil in northwestern China using a humificated straw solution
Abstract
The remediation of heavy metal-contaminated soils is a great challenge and an important issue for global environmental sciences and engineering. Soil washing technology is popularly used for soil remediation, but there are issues that must be solved. These include selecting an environmentally friendly washing solution and preventing damage to the soil during the washing process. The aim of the present work is to reveal the effects of operational conditions on soil remediation contaminated by lead/cadmium, and the effects on soil physicochemical properties caused by the washing reaction. A loess soil sample was collected from northwestern China, and a humificated straw solution was used as the washing solution. The remediation efficiency was investigated using a small-scale experimental device. The remediation efficiency could be improved by optimizing the operational conditions, and we found that the Elovich equation fits better the reaction process compared to the double-constant equation and the first-order kinetics equation. The washing rate of cadmium was slightly faster than that of lead. Compared to the topsoil in the column, the concentration of lead/cadmium was higher in the bottom soil, and the content of lead/cadmium in the inner layer soil was lower than that in the outer layer soil. The washing process had little influence on the surface characteristics and functional groups of soil. The humificated straw solution could be used effectively to remove lead/cadmium and preserve nutrients in loess soil.
Δευτέρα 25 Ιουνίου 2018
Sun sensitivity and sun protective behaviors during sun exposure among indoor office workers in the American Midwest
Photodermatology, Photoimmunology &Photomedicine, EarlyView.
Regulation of contact sensitivity in non‐obese diabetic (NOD) mice by innate immunity
Contact Dermatitis, EarlyView.
Allergic contact dermatitis caused by benzyl salicylate in hair products
Contact Dermatitis, EarlyView.
Effects of Bacillus subtilis and nanohydroxyapatite on the metal accumulation and microbial diversity of rapeseed ( Brassica campestris L.) for the remediation of cadmium-contaminated soil
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of the co-application of Bacillus subtilis and nanohydroxyapatite (NHAP) on plant growth, soil cadmium (Cd) dynamics, and the microbiological characteristics (such as enzyme activity and bacterial species richness) of the rhizosphere soil. Rapeseed was used as a model plant in pot experiments. Different concentrations of B. subtilis and 0.5% NHAP were applied alone and in combination to Cd-contaminated soil. The Cd contents in soils and plants as well as the rhizospheric microorganism diversity were assessed. The addition of B. subtilis or NHAP alone increased the soil Cd content and decreased the plant Cd content, while their co-application more effectively increased the soil and plant Cd contents than either treatment alone. B. subtilis and NHAP reduced the plant Cd content by 43.15–57.04% compared with that in the control. Rhizosphere community richness and bacterial diversity were significantly increased after co-application of B. subtilis and NHAP. Co-application of B. subtilis and NHAP effectively promoted rapeseed growth and improved Cd-contaminated soil remediation.
Hydrophilic modification and anti-fouling properties of PVDF membrane via in situ nano-particle blending
Abstract
Two hydrophilic poly-vinylidene fluoride (PVDF) ultrafiltration membranes were prepared via in situ embedment of nanoparticles (NP), i.e., TiO2 and Al2O3, respectively, and their anti-organic-fouling and anti-biofouling were comprehensively investigated. Characterization of modified PVDF-NP membranes by XRD and FTIR exhibited that nanoparticles were embedded successfully. Series of fast filtration tests demonstrated that in contrary to virgin PVDF membrane, PVDF-NP membranes have high permeability and anti-organic-fouling ability by decreasing the possibility of organic matters deposition and accumulation. Co-existed Ca2+ in feed solution deteriorated the organic fouling in virgin PVDF and PVDF-NP membranes, which was mainly caused by gelation of macromolecular foulants. PVDF-NP membranes were used to form MBR modules for domestic wastewater treatment, and the long-term monitoring evidenced that hydrophilic modified membranes achieved stably high COD and \( {\mathrm{NH}}_4^{+}-\mathrm{N} \) rejection efficiencies, and better organic rejection capability than mAO process. PVDF-NP membranes possessed consistently high anti-biofouling ability to maintain stable membrane permeability.
Mercury, cadmium, and lead content in demersal sharks from the Macaronesian islands
Abstract
The overexploitation of shark and ray fishing as well as anthropogenic pollution in the sea has led to a large decline in their population, and because sharks occupy a high trophic position in the ecosystem, they could have high concentrations of heavy metals such as Hg, Pb, and Cd. This study is based on seven species of demersal sharks which were caught in the Macaronesian archipelagos (Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and the Azores Archipelago). Hg and Pb concentrations were found in the present study to be below those reported in other comparative studies, with the highest reported values of Hg and Pb being 281,738 μg/kg for Pb in Deania profundorum (Smith & Radcliffe, 1912) and 264,30 μg/kg for Hg in Centrophorus uyato, Rafinesque, 1810. As for Cd, the values found here are higher than those in the literature, the highest reported concentration being 120.36 μg/kg in Centrophorus squamosus (Bonnaterre, 1788).
Growth, physiological adaptation, and NHX gene expression analysis of Iris halophila under salt stress
Abstract
This study investigated the growth, physiological changes, and the transcript levels of NHX1 gene of Iris halophila in response to low NaCl concentration (50 mM) and high NaCl concentration (150 mM). Our results showed that both 50 and 150 mM NaCl had no obvious negative effects on plant growth; what is more, low NaCl concentration (50 mM) increased root length, root fresh weight, and the ratio of root length to leaf length compared with the control group. The malondialdehyde (MDA) contents in leaves and roots of I. halophila had no obvious difference as compared with control. Proline levels of I. halophila exhibited basically an enhancement under salt stress conditions. Particularly at 4 days, the proline contents in leaves reached 1.85 to 2.31-fold higher and the contents in roots reached 1.27 to 1.62-fold higher than that of control at 50 and 150 mM NaCl, respectively. The contents of the soluble sugar in leaves and roots of I. halophila under 150 mM NaCl at 7 days were 32.4 and 98.7% higher than that of control, respectively. The increase rate of K+ contents with the increasing concentration of salt was less than that of Na+ contents, but K+ contents in the seedlings under NaCl stress was still higher than Na+ contents and the ratio of K+ to Na+ was also greater than 1. The transcript levels of IhNHX1 in leaves of I. halophila at 4 and 7 days under 150 mM NaCl were higher than that of control; however, the transcript levels of IhNHX1 in roots had no significant difference compared with the control under low and high salt stress at 1, 4, and 7 days. Therefore, salt tolerance in I. halophila could be partially due to higher proline, soluble sugar, and K+ accumulation.
Volume change in the rectus abdominis muscle after deep inferior epigastric perforator flap harvest
Deep inferior epigastric perforator flap has less donor site morbidity than that of transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap. However, abdominal muscle atrophy and donor site complications caused by denervation during pedicle dissection cannot be avoided. This retrospective study investigated the change in rectus abdominis muscle volume after deep inferior epigastric perforator flap harvest. Of 395 patients who underwent unilateral deep inferior epigastric perforator flap breast reconstruction between August 2007 and July 2017, 25 patients with >2-year postoperative abdominal computed tomography data were evaluated.
Abnormal soft palate movements in patients with microtia
Microtia is a congenital malformation of the auricle, ranging in severity. It can be isolated or associated with (craniofacial) anomalies. Most of these anomalies together are described as being part of the oculo-auriculo-vertebral spectrum (OAVS). Velar abnormalities have been described to occur in patients with OAVS, however the incidence in patients with microtia without OAVS is largely unknown. The primary purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence of velar palsy in patients with isolated microtia, and in patients with microtia and signs of OAVS.
Comparing Transversus Abdominus Release and Anterior Component Separation Techniques in Reconstructing Midline Hernias – A Cadaveric Study
Midline hernias result in abdominal wall defects that can be reconstructed with autologous tissue utilizing component separation of the abdominal wall. The first technique described was anterior component separation described by Ramirez et al1 where the release of the external oblique aponeurosis allowed advancement of the rectus abdominus medially to the midline, thus allowing closure of ventral midline defects with autologous tissue. The technique, however, involved dissection of the subcutaneous tissues laterally which often created devascularized skin flaps and increased the risk of poor wound healing with the risk of skin necrosis.
Treatment of keloid scars with intralesional triamcinolone and 5-fluorouracil injections – a randomized controlled trial
Keloids have high recurrence rates. Current first-line therapy is triamcinolone (TAC) injection, but it has been suggested that approximately 50% of keloids are steroid -resistant. We compared the efficacy of intralesional 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and triamcinalone injections in a double-blind randomized controlled trial. Forty-three patients with 50 keloid scars were treated with either intralesional TAC or 5-FU-injections over 6 months.There was no statistically significant difference in the remission rate at 6 months between the 5-FU and TAC groups (46% vs 60%, respectively).
Erythematous‐violaceous plaques on the trunk and extremities of a child
JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, EarlyView.
Psychosocial distress and desire for support among skin cancer patients – impact of treatment setting
JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, EarlyView.
34‐year‐old patient with blackish macules on the dorsa of the hands and forearms
JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, EarlyView.
IgG4‐related disease with skin, submaxillary and pulmonary involvement
JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, EarlyView.
Ultrastructural changes of Trichophyton rubrum in tinea unguium after itraconazole therapy in vivo observed using scanning electron microscopy
Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, EarlyView.
The influence of ‘moral disengagement’ on conflict of interest: insights for dermatology from social psychology and qualitative research
British Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.
Detection of anti‐BP180 NC16A autoantibodies after the onset of dipeptidyl peptidase‐IV inhibitor‐associated bullous pemphigoid: a report of three patients
British Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.
Elevated serum interleukin‐29 levels in patients with Henoch–Schönlein purpura
Australasian Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.
Scleroderma‐like cutaneous lesions during treatment with paclitaxel and gemcitabine in a patient with pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Review of literature
International Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.
Primary extramammary Paget's disease of the skin: treatment and survival
International Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.
Difficult to diagnose small cutaneous melanoma metastases mimicking angiomas: utility of dermoscopy
International Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.
Efficacy of PUVA in Russian patients with mastocytosis: a case series and review of literature
International Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.
A case of melanocytic matricoma with prominent mitotic activity and melanocytic hyperplasia
International Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.
Skin fragility, woolly hair syndrome with a desmoplakin mutation – a case from India
International Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.
Exposure to Upper Arm Elevation During Work Compared to Leisure Among 12 Different Occupations Measured with Triaxial Accelerometers
Abstract
Regarding prevention of neck and shoulder pain (NSP), unsupported arm elevation is one factor that should be taken into account when performing work risk assessment. Triaxial accelerometers can be used to measure arm elevation over several days but it is not possible to differentiate between supported and unsupported arm elevation from accelerometers only. Supported arm elevation is more likely to exist during sitting than standing. The aim of the study was to evaluate the use of whole workday measurements of arm elevation with accelerometers to assess potentially harmful work exposure of arm elevation, by comparing arm elevation at work with arm elevation during leisure, in a population with diverse work tasks, and to assess how the exposure parameters were modified when upper arm elevation during sitting time was excluded. The participants, 197 workers belonging to 12 occupational groups with diverse work tasks, wore triaxial accelerometers on the dominant arm, hip, and back for 1–4 days to measure arm elevation and periods of sitting. None of the groups were found to have higher exposure to arm elevation during work compared to leisure. Even though some occupations where known to have work tasks that forced them to work with elevated arms to a large extent. A high proportion of arm elevation derived from sitting time, especially so during leisure. When arm elevation during sitting time was excluded from the analysis, arm elevation was significantly higher at work than during leisure among construction workers, garbage collectors, manufacturing workers, and domestic cleaners. Together this illustrates that it is not suitable to use whole workday measurments of arm elevation with accelerometer as a sole information source when assessing the risk for NSP due to arm elevation. Information on body posture can provide relevant contextual information in exposure assessments when it is known that the potential harmful exposure is performed in standing or walking.Emissions into the Air from Bitumen and Rubber Bitumen—Implications for Asphalt Workers’ Exposure
Abstract
The risk among asphalt workers of developing adverse health effects may increase due to their occupational exposure. One area of special concern arises when rubber granules are mixed into bitumen to enhance asphalt properties. This research characterizes and compares bitumen and rubber bitumen regarding the emissions of and workers' exposure to particulates, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and benzothiazole. A laboratory and a field study were carried out. In the laboratory, two types of bitumen, one with and one without rubber, were heated up to two temperatures (140°C and 160°C). The concentrations and chemical compositions of the emissions were determined. In the field at asphalt work sites, both emissions and worker exposure measurements were performed. The methods applied included direct-reading sampling techniques next to the asphalt work area and personal sampling techniques on asphalt workers. The exposure measurements on asphalt workers for respirable dust, total dust, particle number and mass, and total PAH concentrations showed similar concentrations when both standard and rubber bitumen were used. The asphalt-surfacing machine operators were the workers with the highest observed exposure followed by the screed operators and roller drivers. Both laboratory and field measurements showed higher concentrations of benzothiazole when rubber bitumen was used, up to 7.5 times higher in the laboratory. The levels of naphthalene, benzo(a)pyrene, and total particles were lower for both types compared with the Swedish occupational exposure limits, 8-h time weighted average concentrations. Benzo(a)pyrene exceeded however the health-based guideline value given by the WHO for both types of bitumen. The study concludes that several air pollutants such as benzothiazole and PAHs are emitted into the air during asphalt work, but it is not evident if exposure to rubber bitumen possesses a higher risk than exposure to standard bitumen in terms of asphalt worker exposure.Eosinophilic Esophagitis Is a Late Manifestation of the Allergic March
Publication date: Available online 25 June 2018
Source:The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice
Author(s): David A. Hill, Robert W. Grundmeier, Mark Ramos, Jonathan M. Spergel
BackgroundThe allergic march describes the natural history of allergic conditions as they develop during childhood. Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic allergic inflammatory disease that can be triggered by specific foods. Despite its allergic pathophysiology, the epidemiologic relationship between EoE and established members of the allergic march is unknown.ObjectiveWe sought to determine whether EoE meets epidemiologic criteria for being considered a member of the allergic march.MethodsUsing a primary care birth cohort of 130,435 children, we determined the natural histories of atopic dermatitis (AD), IgE-mediated food allergy (IgE-FA), asthma, EoE, and allergic rhinitis (AR) in individual patients. We then performed case-control analyses to establish the extent that existing allergic conditions influence the rate of subsequent EoE diagnosis.ResultsA total of 139 children developed EoE during the observation period (prevalence of 0.11%). The peak age of EoE diagnosis was 2.6 years, as compared with 0.3 years, 1 year, 1.1 years, and 2.1 years for AD, IgE-FA, asthma, and AR, respectively. The presence of AD (hazard ratio [HR] 3.2, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.2-4.6), IgE-FA (HR 9.1, 95% CI 6.5-12.6), and asthma (HR 1.9, 95% CI 1.3-2.7) was independently and cumulatively associated with subsequent EoE diagnosis. The presence of AR was associated with subsequent EoE diagnosis (HR 2.8, 95% CI 2.0-3.9), and the presence of EoE was associated with subsequent AR diagnosis (HR 2.5, 95% CI 1.7-3.5).ConclusionsAllergic comorbidities are positively associated with EoE diagnosis. Together, our findings suggest that EoE is a late manifestation of the allergic march.
Photodynamic activity of Temoporfin nanoparticles induces a shift to the M1-like phenotype in M2-polarized macrophages
Publication date: Available online 25 June 2018
Source:Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology
Author(s): Zhenxin Zhu, Claudia Scalfi-Happ, Anastasia Ryabova, Susanna Gräfe, Arno Wiehe, Ralf-Uwe Peter, Victor Loschenov, Rudolf Steiner, Rainer Wittig
The monocyte/macrophage cell lineage reveals an enormous plasticity, which is required for tissue homeostasis, but is also undermined in various disease states, leading to a functional involvement of macrophages in major human diseases such as atherosclerosis and cancer. We recently generated in vivo evidence that crystalline, nonfluorescent nanoparticles of the hydrophobic porphyrin-related photosensitizer Aluminum phthalocyanine are selectively dissolved and thus may be used for specific fluorescent labelling of rejected, but not of accepted xenotransplants. This led us to hypothesize that nanoparticles made of planar photosensitizers such as porphyrins and chlorins were preferentially taken up and dissolved by macrophages, which was verified by in vitro studies. Here, using an in vitro system for macrophage differentiation/polarization of the human monocyte THP-1 cell line, we demonstrate differential uptake/dissolution of Temoporfin-derived nanoparticles in polarized macrophages, which resulted in differential photosensitivity. More importantly, low dose photodynamic sensitization using Temoporfin nanoparticles can be used to trigger M1 re-polarization of THP-1 cells previously polarized to the M2 state. Thus, sublethal photodynamic treatment using Temoporfin nanoparticles might be applied to induce a phenotypic shift of tumor-associated macrophages for the correction of an immunosuppressive microenvironment in the treatment of cancer, which may synergize with immune checkpoint inhibition.
Measuring and comparing extinction events: Reconsidering diversity crises and concepts
Synopsis
To understand our present diversity crisis, it is natural to look to past crises for parallels and indicators. This is difficult because the present crisis is unlike the "Big Five" of the past: it is mostly terrestrial (with an increasing marine component), involves widespread habitat destruction and alteration of climate, and is largely anthropogenic, with confounding effects of differences in loss of diversity among continents and the difficulty of separating anthropogenic extinctions from natural Pleistocene and post-Pleistocene extinctions. In contrast, the "Big Five" crises of the geologic record are mainly marine (in the first two, no land vertebrates existed), and because marine taxa outnumber terrestrial taxa by a margin of about 25:1, global analyses of diversity crises have tended to lump together all phyla and environments. As a result, terrestrial evidence has been "swamped" statistically by the marine data. Both synchroneity and causality of terrestrial and marine events have usually been assumed, but without decisive data. Terrestrial vertebrate faunas do not seem to have been suddenly and catastrophically affected at the ends of the Permian, the Triassic, and the Cretaceous; rather, the pattern generally seems to be of steady turnover and replacement of groups and sometimes of slow decline.Here I suggest a revision of the concept of "mass extinction," which has no definitional limits on the application of the term with respect to duration, geography, ecology, or taxa affected. Unusual drops in taxonomic diversity have traditionally focused on increases in extinction rates, with scarce consideration of origination rates and their interplay with extinction rates. Analyses of hypothesized diversity crises should be operationally and situationally defined and statistically normalized through the histories of taxa and biotas, and should explicitly include both origination and extinction rates. The term "mass extinctions" would be usefully replaced by "diversity crises." These parameters require not absolute numerical (or percentage) limits but situational ones.Oxidation of ethylenethiourea in water via ozone enhanced by UV-C: identification of transformation products
Abstract
Ethylenethiourea (ETU) is a toxic degradation product of one class of fungicide which is largely employed in the world, the ethylenebisdithiocarbamates. In this study, ETU was degraded by ozonation enhanced by UV-C light irradiation (O3/UV-C) in aqueous medium. Degradation experiments were conducted at natural pH (6.8) and neutral pH (7.0, buffered). ETU was promptly eliminated from the reactive medium during ozonation in the presence and absence of light. Within the first few minutes of reaction conducted in natural pH, the pH decreased quickly from 6.8 to 3.0. Results show that ETU mineralization occurs only in the reaction conducted in neutral pH and that it takes place in a higher rate when enhanced by UV-C irradiation. Main intermediates formed during the O3/UV-C experiments in different conditions tested were also investigated and three different degradation mechanisms were proposed considering the occurrence of direct and indirect ozone reactions. At pH 7, ethylene urea (EU) was quickly generated and degraded. Meanwhile, at natural pH, besides EU, other compounds originated from the electrophilic attack of ozone to the sulfur atom present in the contaminant molecule were also identified during reaction and EU was detected within 60 min of reaction. Results showed that ozonation enhanced by UV-C promotes a faster reaction than the same system in the absence of light, and investigation of the toxicity is recommended.
Bio-concentration potential and associations of heavy metals in Amanita muscaria (L.) Lam. from northern regions of Poland
Abstract
Fruiting bodies of Amanita muscaria and topsoil beneath from six background areas in northern regions of Poland were investigated for the concentration levels of Ag, Al, Ba, Ca, Cd, Co, Cu, Fe, Hg, K, Mg, Mn, Na, Rb, Sr, and Zn. In addition, the bioconcentration factors (BCF values) were studied for each of these metallic elements. Similar to studies from other basidiomycetes, A. muscaria showed species-specific affinities to some elements, resulting in their bioconcentration in mycelium and fruiting bodies. This mushroom growing in soils with different levels of the geogenic metallic elements (Ag, Al, Ba, Ca, Co, Cu, Fe, Hg, K, Mg, Mn, Na, Rb, Sr, and Zn) showed signs of homeostatic accumulation in fruiting bodies of several of these elements, while Cd appeared to be accumulated at a rate dependent of the concentration level in the soil substrate. This species is an efficient bio-concentrator of K, Mg, Cd, Cu, Hg, Rb, and Zn and hence also contributes to the natural cycling of these metallic elements in forest ecosystems.
Pathological assessment of resection specimens after neoadjuvant therapy for metastatic melanoma
Abstract
Background
Clinical trials have recently evaluated safety and efficacy of neoadjuvant therapy among patients with surgically resectable regional melanoma metastases. To capture informative prognostic data connected to pathological response in such trials, it is critical to standardize pathologic assessment and reporting of tumor response after this treatment. Methods
The International Neoadjuvant Melanoma Consortium meetings in 2016 and 2017 assembled pathologists from academic centers to develop consensus guidelines for pathologic examination and reporting of surgical specimens from AJCC (8th Edition) stage IIIB/C/D or oligometastatic stage IV melanoma patients treated with neoadjuvant targeted or immune therapy. Patterns of pathologic response provided context to inform these guidelines. Results
Based on our collective experience and guided by efforts in well-established neoadjuvant settings like breast cancer, procedures directing handling of pre- and post-neoadjuvant therapy treated melanoma specimens are provided to facilitate comparison of findings across different trials and centers. Definitions of pathologic response are provided together with guidelines for reporting and quantifying the extent of pathologic response. Finally, the spectrum of histopathologic responses observed following neoadjuvant targeted and immune checkpoint therapy is described and illustrated. Conclusions
Standardizing pathologic evaluation of resected melanoma metastases following neoadjuvant targeted or immune-checkpoint therapy allows more robust stratification of patient outcomes. This includes recognizing the spectrum of histopathologic response patterns to neoadjuvant therapy and a standard approach to grading pathologic responses. Such an approach will facilitate comparison of results across clinical trials and inform ongoing correlative studies into the mechanisms of response and resistance to agents applied in the neoadjuvant setting.Accuracy of data buoys for measurement of cyanobacteria, chlorophyll, and turbidity in a large lake (Lake Erie, North America): implications for estimation of cyanobacterial bloom parameters from water quality sonde measurements
Abstract
Microcystin (MCY)-producing harmful cyanobacterial blooms (cHABs) are an annual occurrence in Lake Erie, and buoys equipped with water quality sondes have been deployed to help researchers and resource managers track cHABs. The objective of this study was to determine how well water quality sondes attached to buoys measure total algae and cyanobacterial biomass and water turbidity. Water samples were collected next to two data buoys in western Lake Erie (near Gibraltar Island and in the Sandusky subbasin) throughout summers 2015, 2016, and 2017 to determine correlations between buoy sonde data and water sample data. MCY and nutrient concentrations were also measured. Significant (P < 0.001) linear relationships (R2 > 0.75) occurred between cyanobacteria buoy and water sample data at the Gibraltar buoy, but not at the Sandusky buoy; however, the coefficients at the Gibraltar buoy differed significantly across years. There was a significant correlation between buoy and water sample total chlorophyll data at both buoys, but the coefficient varied considerably between buoys and among years. Total MCY concentrations at the Gibraltar buoy followed similar temporal patterns as buoy and water sample cyanobacterial biomass data, and the ratio of MCY to cyanobacteria-chlorophyll decreased with decreased ambient nitrate concentrations. These results suggest that buoy data are difficult to compare across time and space. Additionally, the inclusion of nitrate concentration data can lead to more robust predictions on the relative toxicity of blooms. Overall, deployed buoys with sondes that are routinely cleaned and calibrated can track relative cyanobacteria abundance and be used as an early warning system for potentially toxic blooms.
Gibberellins application timing modulates growth, physiology, and quality characteristics of two onion ( Allium cepa L.) cultivars
Abstract
Lack of scientific literature exists regarding the effects of gibberellic acid (GA3) application timings on various phenological and physiological aspects of seed crop of locally available onion cultivars. Therefore, current study was planned in Vegetable Research Area, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad to optimize the growth stage for GA3 application on seed production in two local onion cultivars (Phulkara and Dark Red) during 2013 and 2014. Application timings of gibberellins at 100 mg/L of H2O were as (G1) control (no spray), (G2) foliar application at 2–3 leaf stage, (G3) foliar application at 6–7 leaf stage, and (G4) foliar application at the time of flowering. Data on average of both years showed that tallest plants (66.15 cm) and maximum number of leaves per plant (84.56) were noted in cv. Phulkara when GA3 was applied at 2–3 leaf stage. Minimum number of days to initiate flowering (47.92) and maximum number of umbels per plant (15.45) were noted with GA3 application at 6–7 leaf stage in Phulkara and Dark Red, respectively. The highest seed yield per umbel (2.94 g) was recorded in cv. Dark Red when GA3 sprayed at 6–7 leaf stage, while GA3 application at the time of flowering in the cv. Phulkara produced seeds with highest seedling vigor index (586.79). Overall, it appears that seed yield and quality characters were promoted by the application of GA3 at different growth stages and could be valuable for seed production of onion.
Levels, distribution, and ecological risk of organochlorines in red mullet ( Mullus barbatus ) and annular sea bream ( Diplodus annularis ) from the Gulf of Izmir, Eastern Aegean, in 2009–2012
Abstract
Organochlorine (OCs) concentrations were measured in two fish species, Mullus barbatus and Diplodus annularis, collected from Izmir Gulf during 2009–2012 in order to explain the status of these contaminants in edible fish. No data is available on the levels of organochlorines in marine organism from Izmir Gulf. In both fish species from the study area, Aroclors were determined in higher concentrations than organochlorine pesticides (OCPs). Maximum concentrations of OCPs and PCBs measured in the edible part of D. annularis were 45–165 and 530–1591 ng g−1 lipid weight (lw), respectively. DDTs (sum of DDT and metabolites) and cyclodienes ranged from 4–56 to 16–110 ng g−1 lw, respectively. The levels of DDTs measured in the present study were generally comparable or lower than those found in studies from other Mediterranean and non-Mediterranean regions. The potential risks for fish consumers were assessed. Although the estimated daily intake (EDI) for DDTs, heptachlor, and drins through the sampled fish species by Izmir inhabitants was quite lower than the ADI (acceptable daily intake) established by the FAO/WHO, EDI for Aroclor 1254 was close to the ADI value of 20 ng g−1 recommended by the IPCS (2000).
Isolation and identification of specific bacteriophage against enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) and in vitro and in vivo characterization of bacteriophage
Abstract
In recent years, the increasing resistance of enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) to commonly used antibiotics has made it difficult to choose the best treatment option. Bacteriophage therapy could be a potent alternative to antibiotic therapy for antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The aim of the present study was to isolate and identify a specific bacteriophage against enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC) and characterize bacteriophage in vitro and in vivo. The specific bacteriophage was isolated and the effect of phage therapy on 48 mice (Balb/c) was investigated. Animals were divided into six groups, including A: PBS (negative control), B: bacteria (positive control), C: bacteria + ciprofloxacin (after 24 hours), D: bacteria + bacteriophage (after 24 hours), E: bacteria + ciprofloxacin + bacteriophage (after 24 hours), and F: bacteriophage + bacteria (after 24 hours). Specific bacteriophage against EPEC was isolated from hospital sewage. The bacteriophage had an icosahedral head (120 nm) and a tail (138 nm). The single dose of the bacteriophage (2 × 109 pfu ml−1) was able to control the infection. Unfortunately, because of the misuse of antibiotics by EPEC infected patients, the antibiotic resistant bacteria will become prevalent in the future and the treatment of EPEC infection is going to become more difficult than ever.A new approach to study attached biofilms and floating communities from Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains of various origins reveals diverse effects of divalent ions
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen associated with nosocomial infections and disease complications. In the lungs of cystic fibrosis (CF) individuals, biofilm growth plays a crucial role in the persistence and antibiotic resistance of P. aeruginosa. Some strains, adapted to the CF lung microenvironment, show distinguishable phenotypes linked to biofilm production when compared to other strains. Using a novel image analysis quantification approach with crystal violet-stained biofilms, we compared the biofilm formation of four different P. aeruginosa isolates in 24-well plates: PAO1, the reference strain, LESB58 from CF patients' lungs, and PPF-1 and Urg-7, two environmental isolates from dental unit waterlines. We also observed the formation of biofilm-like structures (BLSs) floating in the medium and investigated growth inhibition of the attached biofilm and BLS with Mg2+ or Zn2+. Urg-7 produced the most attached biofilms, but not the most BLSs. Attached biofilms had different responses to cations than BLSs did, but the effect of the cations was similar for all strains. These results demonstrate some diversity of biofilm formation in P. aeruginosa and indicate that chemical inhibition of attached biofilm formation for a specific strain or isolate cannot be predicative of a result on other P. aeruginosa strains or on BLSs.Death of scientific journals after 350 years
Abstract
Scientific journals have virtually disappeared as subscription-based familiar paper copies. These have been replaced by article by article access on internet sites (either subscription based paid for by libraries in multi-journal often million dollar 'Big Deal' packages, or by author prepayments of thousand dollars 'article processing fees' (Omary and Lawrence 2017) followed by open access). The result appears to be the death of the traditional scientific journal as a familiar means of communication, after nearly 350 years from the time of Anton van Leeuwenhoek and Robert Hooke (for 2 early microbiology examples). Rather than journals with page numbers, individual reports are accessed using titles or manuscript file code numbers. This commentary is knowingly provocative, describing the rapidly-changing situation in scientific publication at the beginning of the 21st century and predicting a bad future, basically the end of the long-time most-used vehicles for scientific communication, the paper scientific journal with volumes and issues. This view is not particular to this author and appears frequently today (e.g. The Scientist 2012; https://scholarlykitchen.sspnet.org/2016/10/26/revisiting-why-hasnt-scientific-publishing-been-disrupted-already/). This negative conclusion offers no better possibilities, as it is concluded that it is already too late and too far along this pathway for any meaningful middle ground. This commentary is intended for a broad group of potential readers, including authors and readers of this journal (who are active microbial scientists who need to adapt to individual manuscript identification numbers replacing volumes and page numbers), as well as the larger community interested broadly in scientific communication, and even our institutional librarians (who have experienced the disappearance of paper copies on their shelves, and especially unsustainable rapid increases in money costs at a time of very limited resources.Metal release and sequestration from black slate mediated by a laccase of Schizophyllum commune
Abstract
Schizophyllum commune is a filamentous basidiomycete which can degrade complex organic macromolecules like lignin by the secretion of a large repertoire of enzymes. One of these white rot enzymes, laccase, exhibits a broad substrate specificity and is able to oxidize a variety of substances including carbonaceous rocks. To investigate the role of laccase in bioweathering, laccase gene lcc2 was overexpressed, and the influence on weathering of black slate, originating from a former alum mine in Schmiedefeld, Germany, was examined. The metal release from the rock material was enhanced, associated with a partial metal accumulation into the mycelium. A sequestration of metals could be shown with fluorescent staining methods, and an accumulation of Zn, Cd, and Pb was visualized in different cell organelles. Additionally, we could show an increased metal resistance of the laccase overexpressing strain.
The evaluation of elasticity after nonablative radiofrequency rejuvenation
Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, EarlyView.
VEGF-C Sustains VEGFR2 Activation under Bevacizumab Therapy and Promotes Glioblastoma Maintenance
Abstract
Background
Glioblastoma ranks among the most lethal cancers with current therapies offering only palliation. Paracrine vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling has been targeted using anti-angiogenic agents, whereas autocrine VEGF/VEGF Receptor 2 (VEGFR2) signaling is poorly understood. Bevacizumab resistance of VEGFR2-expressing glioblastoma cells prompted interrogation of autocrine VEGF-C-VEGFR2 signaling in glioblastoma. Methods
Autocrine VEGF-C/VEGFR2 signaling was functionally investigated using RNA interference and exogenous ligands in patient-derived xenograft lines and primary glioblastoma cell cultures in vitro and in vivo. VEGF-C expression and interaction with VEGFR2 in a matched pre- and post-bevacizumab treatment cohort were analyzed by immunohistochemistry and proximity ligation assay. Results
VEGF-C was expressed by patient-derived xenograft glioblastoma lines, primary cells and matched surgical specimens before and after bevacizumab treatment. VEGF-C activated autocrine VEGFR2 signaling to promote cell survival, whereas targeting VEGF-C expression reprogrammed cellular transcription to attenuate survival and cell cycle progression. Supporting potential translational significance, targeting VEGF-C impaired tumor growth in vivo, with superiority to bevacizumab treatment. Conclusions
Our results demonstrate VEGF-C serves as both a paracrine and autocrine pro-survival cytokine in glioblastoma, promoting tumor cell survival and tumorigenesis. VEGF-C permits sustained VEGFR2 activation and tumor growth, where its inhibition appears superior to bevacizumab therapy in improving tumor control.Planning for agricultural return flow allocation: application of info-gap decision theory and a nonlinear CVaR-based optimization model
Abstract
A new methodology is proposed for sizing the required infrastructures for water and waste load allocation in river systems receiving return flow from agricultural networks. A nonlinear optimization model with a constraint based on conditional value at risk (CVaR) is developed to provide water and waste load allocation policies. The CVaR-based constraint limits the probabilistic losses due to existing uncertainties in available surface water. The deep uncertainties of return flow simulation model parameters, which have significant impacts on the simulated quantity and quality of agricultural return flows, are handled by using the info-gap theory. Total dissolved solid (TDS) is selected as water quality indicator and diverting a fraction of return flows to evaporation ponds is considered to control the TDS load of agricultural waste load dischargers. Quantity and TDS load of agricultural return flows over a 1-year cultivation period are simulated by using a calibrated SWAP agro-hydrological model. The results of many runs of SWAP model for different combinations of important uncertain parameters in their ranges of variations provide some response (impact) matrixes which are used in optimization model. The applicability of the proposed methodology is illustrated by applying it to the PayePol region in the Karkheh River catchment, southwest Iran. The selected strategy for water and waste load allocation in the study area is expected to provide total annual benefit of 48.64 million US dollars, while 7.84 million m3 of total return flow should be diverted to evaporation ponds. The results support the effectiveness of the methodology in incorporating existing deep uncertainties associated with agricultural water and waste load allocation problems.
Integrated adsorption-solar photocatalytic membrane reactor for degradation of hazardous Congo red using Fe-doped ZnO and Fe-doped ZnO/rGO nanocomposites
Abstract
In this work, synergistic effect of solar photocatalysis integrated with adsorption process towards the degradation of Congo red (CR) was investigated via two different approaches using a photocatalytic membrane reactor. In the first approach, sequential treatments were conducted through the adsorption by graphene oxide (GO) and then followed by photocatalytic oxidation using Fe-doped ZnO nanocomposites (NCs). In the second approach, however, CR solution was treated by photocatalytic oxidation using Fe-doped ZnO/rGO NCs. These nanocomposites were synthesized by a sol-gel method. The NCs were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), photoluminescence (PL), Fourier transmission infrared (FTIR), ultraviolet–visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). It was observed that Fe-doped ZnO could enhance the photoactivity of ZnO under solar light. When Fe-doped ZnO were decorated on GO sheets, however, this provided a surface enhancement for adsorption of organic pollutants. The photocatalytic performances using both approaches were evaluated based on the degradation of CR molecules in aqueous solution under solar irradiation. Nanofiltration (NF) performance in terms of CR residual removal from water and their fouling behavior during post-separation of photocatalysts was studied. Serious flux declined and thicker fouling layer on membrane were found in photocatalytic membrane reactor using Fe-doped ZnO/rGO NCs which could be attributed to the stronger π–π interaction between rGO and CR solution.
Fodder radish seed cake biochar for soil amendment
Abstract
In this work, fodder radish seed cake (FRSC) was pyrolyzed in a rotary kiln reactor at 0, 3, and 6 rpm, at final temperature of 500 °C. Maximum biochar yield was observed at 0 rpm (≈ 26 wt.%). Increase of the rotary speed decreased the volatile matter content and increased the ash content of the biochars. Biochars exhibited alkaline pH (≈ 9.0), low electrical conductivity (< 105.6 dS m−1), and high cation exchange capacity (69 to 78 cmolc kg−1), as well as high nitrogen contents (≈ 80 g kg−1). FTIR analysis presented biochars with similar spectra, with carboxyl and carbonyl groups within the structure, along with aromatic rings and nitrogen containing functions (amides). Biochar incubation experiments in an acrisol at different biochar doses (5 g L−1 soil to 40 g L−1 soil) were performed in order to evaluate changes in soil fertility parameters caused by FRSC biochar application. Results indicated that most of macro (N, P, K, Ca, Mg) and micronutrients (S, Cu, Zn, Mn, B, Na) increased with increase of the dosage, along with the decrease in Al and H+ Al contents. An increase in pH (from 4.25 to 5.33) was also observed, in electric conductivity (from 30.0 to 45.7 dS m−1), and a decrease in soil real density (from 3.67 to 2.99 kg L−1) at the dosage of 40 g char L−1 soil.
Calibration and application of the Chemcatcher® passive sampler for monitoring acidic herbicides in the River Exe, UK catchment
Abstract
Acidic herbicides are used to control broad-leaved weeds. They are stable, water-soluble, and with low binding to soil are found frequently in surface waters, often at concentrations above the EU Drinking Water Directive limit of 0.10 μg L−1. This presents a problem when such waters are abstracted for potable supplies. Understanding their sources, transport and fate in river catchments is important. We developed a new Chemcatcher® passive sampler, comprising a 3M Empore™ anion-exchange disk overlaid with a polyethersulphone membrane, for monitoring acidic herbicides (2,4-D, dicamba, dichlorprop, fluroxypyr, MCPA, MCPB, mecoprop, tricolpyr). Sampler uptake rates (Rs = 0.044–0.113 L day−1) were measured in the laboratory. Two field trials using the Chemcatcher® were undertaken in the River Exe catchment, UK. Time-weighted average (TWA) concentrations of the herbicides obtained using the Chemcatcher® were compared with concentrations measured in spot samples of water. The two techniques gave complimentary monitoring data, with the samplers being able to measure stochastic inputs of MCPA and mecoprop occurring in field trial 1. Chemcatcher® detected a large input of MCPA not found by spot sampling during field trial 2. Devices also detected other pesticides and pharmaceuticals with acidic properties. Information obtained using the Chemcatcher® can be used to develop improved risk assessments and catchment management plans and to assess the effectiveness of any mitigation and remediation strategies.
Κυριακή 24 Ιουνίου 2018
Critical analysis and mapping of research trends and impact assessment of polyaromatic hydrocarbon accumulation in leaves: let history tell the future
Abstract
The article is basically an attempt to provide a consolidated report on impact assessment and trends in research pertaining to accumulation and curbing the menace of polyaromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) accumulation in leaves. Emphasis is given to understand the consequences of the fact that edible/medicinal plants cultivated in PAH contaminated soil or close to such places which are potential liberators of PAHs can virtually act as transporters for direct PAH entry into biological systems. An attempt has been made to predict the future by digging out golden facts from history. Extensive Scopus-based data mining has been done to dig out research data since last 10 years (2006–2016) pertaining to the said area. Critical analysis of statistical data on research trends highlighting the different aspects of evaluation of PAH accumulation in leaves has been described. The concentrate of all researches for the said period have been presented as few golden principles which shall serve as important facts for researchers and policy makers for curbing the menace of PAH-induced oxidative stress in plants and shall also provide start-up ideas for researchers new to the area. Critical analysis of trends in phytoremediation aspect has also been duly highlighted to measure the intensity of restoration steps taken by researchers and government to safeguard the future generations.
Mitigation of NOx and smoke emissions in a diesel engine using novel emulsified lemon peel oil biofuel
Abstract
Lemon peel oil (LPO) is considered to be a viable alternative fuel for diesel engine applications due to its wider availability, renewable nature, easy extraction process, almost equivalent calorific value as neat diesel, and low viscosity. The present work aims to investigate the effect of novel emulsified LPO in a diesel engine in order to reduce the NOx emission without compromising the engine performance. A new ionic surfactant is introduced in the present study, namely methyl-dihydroxy propyl imidazolium chloride due to its higher hydrophilic-lipophilic balance value which helps to prepare stable water in oil emulsion. Also, Span 80 has been selected as another suitable surfactant for water in oil emulsion. Four emulsified fuel samples have been prepared using LPO, water, and different concentrations of surfactants. All the fuel samples are tested for their stability through gravitational technique for 7 days. Among the emulsified samples, 92% LPO + 5% water + 2% Span 80 + 1% methyl-dihydroxy propyl imidazolium chloride by volume (LPOE2) and 93.5% LPO + 5% water + 1.5% surfactant Span 80 by volume (LPOE4) have showed better stability when compared to other emulsion fuel samples. It is also revealed that the stability of LPO emulsion is improved by the addition of two emulsions. The experimental results showed that the brake thermal efficiency of LPO emulsion is reduced to 29.87 from 34.58% of pure LPO at full load condition. Oxides of nitrogen emission and smoke emission are reduced by 21–32 and 6–15% for the LPO emulsion samples compared to pure LPO. Moreover, the diesel engine operation with emulsified form of LPO increases the HC emission about 0.1 g/kWh for LPOE4 and 0.15 g/kWh for LPOE2 fuels from 0.053 g/kW for pure LPO at maximum power output condition. The reformulation of LPO into emulsified form increases the CO emission by 25–53% compared to pure LPO. Moreover, the reformulation of LPO into emulsions has resulted in lower cylinder pressure and heat release rate compared to pure LPO and diesel fuels.
Incidence of vulval squamous cell carcinoma in women with vulval lichen sclerosus in an Australian tertiary referral centre
Australasian Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.
Leishmania tropica successfully treated with photodynamic therapy
Australasian Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.
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A Case of Diprosopus Tetraophthalmos: Ocular Findings and Surgical Treatment of Exposure KeratopathyDiprosopus is a rare variation of conjoined twinning. In this report, ophthalmic findings in an infant with diprosopus tetraophthalmos are p...
