Volatile fatty acid augmentation and microbial community responses in anaerobic co-fermentation process of waste-activated sludge mixed with corn stalk and livestock manure

Abstract

This study investigated the acidogenic and microbiological perspectives in the anaerobic co-fermentation of waste-activated sludge (WAS) mixed with corn stalk (CS) and pig manure (PM). The volatile fatty acids (VFAs) increased dramatically to over 5000 mg COD/L accumulation just within 4–5 days with the feedstock carbon to nitrogen (C/N) ratio regulation of 20/1. The CS and PM addition enhanced the compressibility of fermentation residuals by increasing the particle distribution spread index (DSI). Moreover, the external carbon addition conduced to bacterial consortia diversity rising and uneven population distribution in the co-fermentation, which contributed to VFAs accumulation potentially. The organic loading rate (OLR) correlated with bacterial community closely at the early stage (days 1–5), while the oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) and pH played more important roles on bacterial consortia at the terminal stage (days 6–10). The C/N ratio adjustment by CS and PM and proper optimizations of OLR, pH, and ORP at various running stages facilitated VFA accumulation during the co-fermentation operation.

http://ift.tt/2iGQJ3x

Temporal-spatial variations and influencing factors of nitrogen in the shallow groundwater of the nearshore vegetable field of Erhai Lake, China

Abstract

Nitrogen export from the nearshore vegetable field of Erhai Lake seriously threatens the water quality of Erhai Lake, which is the second largest highland freshwater lake in Yunnan Province, China. Among the nitrogen flows into Erhai Lake, shallow groundwater migration is a major pathway. The nitrogen variation and influencing factors in the shallow groundwater of the nearshore vegetable field of Erhai Lake are not well documented. A 2-year field experiment was conducted to determine the concentrations of nitrogen species in the shallow groundwater and their influencing factors in the nearshore vegetable field of Erhai Lake. The results showed that concentrations of TN, NO₃⁻-N, and NO₂⁻-N gradually increased with increasing elevation and distance from Erhai Lake, but the opposite was observed for NH₄⁺-N in the shallow groundwater. The concentrations of nitrogen species in the rainy season were greater than those in the dry season. NO₃⁻-N accounted for more than 79% of total nitrogen in shallow groundwater. Redundancy analysis showed that more than 70% of the temporal and spatial variations of nitrogen concentrations in the shallow groundwater were explained by shallow groundwater depth, and only approximately 10% of variation was explained by the factors of soil porosity, silt clay content of soil, and NH₄⁺-N and NO₃⁻-N concentrations of soil (p < 0.05). The shallow groundwater depth had more notable effects on nitrogen concentrations in the shallow groundwater than other factors. This result will strongly support the need for further research regarding the management practices for reducing nitrogen concentrations in shallow groundwater.

http://ift.tt/2ACXLgB

Hydraulic connection affects uranium distribution in the Gas Hure salt lake, Qaidam Basin, China

Abstract

The widespread hydraulic connection is necessary for the formation of a salt lake. However, only limited studies have ever been carried out to investigate the influence of the hydraulic connection on the distribution of elements around certain salt lake. In this study, a total of 66 water samples (including river water, stream water, spring water, brine, intercrystalline brine, well water, and drilling brine) were collected around the Gas Hure salt lake (GSKLH) to investigate the relationship between hydraulic connection and uranium (U) distribution via hydrochemistry and isotope (²³⁴U/²³⁸U, δ¹¹B) techniques. The results suggested that the GSKLH was recharged by water from the Kulamulekesay and Atetikan rivers, groundwater (borehole brine and some intercrystalline brine), and deep fluid (some intercrystalline brine), with each contributing 44.03%, 14.95%, and 41.02% of total recharge, respectively. The U-bearing rock was dominated mainly by silicates, carbonates, and evaporites in the high mountain area (region 1), overflow area (region 2), and plain area (region 3) of the GSKLH, respectively. In the GSKLH, the U distribution was strongly correlated with hydraulic connection and the U concentration was influenced by both groundwater flow system and flow velocity (represented by the γCl⁻/γCa²⁺ ratio). Thus, U was enriched under the conditions of regional groundwater flow system and slow velocity in the GSKLH.

http://ift.tt/2iH0Wg1

Flocculation performance of lignin-based flocculant during reactive blue dye removal: comparison with commercial flocculants

Abstract

A novel lignin-based flocculant (LBF) with superior flocculation performance was prepared from paper mill sludge in this work. The functional groups of LBF and alkaline lignin (AL) were determined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The flocculation performance of LBF integrated with polyaluminum chloride (PAC) was tested in reactive dye wastewater treatment. Floc properties and color removals in multiple flocculation systems were discussed. Results indicated that the dye removal (93%) was greatly facilitated as the LBF was integrated with PAC (PAC + LBF). In addition, floc properties and color removals were significantly improved in the presence of Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺. In contrary, flocculation performance was greatly restricted in the presence of SO₄²⁻. LBF was less pH sensitive and shear sensitive than polyacrylamide (PAM) due to the enhanced charge neutralization and bridging action. On the basis of that, LBF could be used as a promising flocculant in dye wastewater treatment.

http://ift.tt/2AGGpPE

Testing ZnO nanoparticle ecotoxicity: linking time variable exposure to effects on different marine model organisms

Abstract

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) are increasingly used in several personal care products, with high potential to be released directly into marine environment with consequent adverse impact on marine biota. This paper aimed to compare the ecotoxicological effect of ZnO NPs (< 100 nm) towards three marine organisms widely used in toxicity assessment: an algal species (Dunaliella tertiolecta), a bioluminescent bacterium (Vibrio fischeri), and a crustacean (Artemia salina). Bulk ZnO (ZnO bulk, 200 nm) and ionic zinc were also investigated for understanding the role of size and of ionic release in the ZnO toxic action. To this aim, different ecotoxicological tests were used: the inhibition of bioluminescence with V. fischeri at three exposure times (5, 15, and 30 min); the D. tertiolecta growth inhibition at 24, 48, and 72 h; the A. salina mortality at 24–96 h, and A. salina mortality and body growth each 3 days along chronic exposure (14 days). For all selected species, ZnO NPs toxicity was strictly dependent on the exposure time and different sensitivities were recorded: ZnO NPs were more toxic towards algae (EC₅₀ 2.2 mg Zn/L) but relatively less toxic towards bacteria (EC₅₀ 17 mg Zn/L) and crustaceans (EC₅₀ 96 h 58 mg Zn/L). During the 14-day chronic exposure of A. salina, ZnO NPs had a significant inhibition of vitality and body length (EC₅₀14d 0.02 mg Zn/L), while the effect of ZnSO₄ was not statistically different from the control. ZnO NP toxicity was related to zinc ions and to interactions of particle/aggregates with target organisms and therefore to NP behavior in the testing matrix and to the different testing time exposures.

http://ift.tt/2iFtXJg

In situ reduced graphene oxide-based polyurethane sponge hollow tube for continuous oil removal from water surface

Abstract

Graphene oxide (GO) was prepared by using the natural graphite as raw materials via the modified Hummers' method and ultrasonic stripping method. GO was reduced online after its anchoring on the surface of polyurethane sponges by a dip-coating method, then in situ reduced graphene oxide-based polyurethane (IRGOPU) sponges were fabricated. The characterizations of IRGOPU sponges were investigated using Field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and contact angle measurement. The IRGOPU sponges had an adsorption capacity for a broad range of oils up to 21.7 ~ 55 g/g. A simulation experiment of large-scale oil spill using a simple IRGOPU sponge hollow tube component was designed. The process of continuous oil removal from water surface was quick and effective, and the oil/water separation efficiency could be up to 99.6%. The results indicated that the IRGOPU sponge hollow tube may be an optimum candidate for the oil/water separation of large-scale oil spill.

http://ift.tt/2AGko3B

The Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Complaints and Pain Intensity in Furniture Industry Workers in Brazil

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 12
Author(s): Vinicius Tieppo Francio, Luana Tasca, Chris Towery, Saeid Davani, Travis Allen




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Ed Board page

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 12





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2017 ACRM Annual Conference Late-Breaking Research Abstracts

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 12





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Table of Contents

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 12





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Editors' Selections From This Issue: Volume 98 / Number 12 / December 2017

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 12





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Utilization of Spinal Manipulation in a Case of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS)

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 12
Author(s): Vinicius Tieppo Francio, Chris Towery, Saeid Davani, Travis Allen




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Masthead

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 12





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Exploring Disability Compensation Among Veterans with Spinal Cord Injury

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 12
Author(s): Denise Fyffe, Carol Gibson-Gill, Joyce Williams, Ashleigh Quinn




http://ift.tt/2AH8yWQ

Outcomes Among Patients with HIV/AIDS in the Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility Population, Years 2011 to 2014

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 12
Author(s): Margaret DiVita, Sarah Beshers, Rebecca Gordon, Madison Terrillion, Jacqueline Mix




http://ift.tt/2iGVgmw

Physical Therapy Treatment of a Patient Diagnosed with Sporadic Inclusion Body Myositis: A Case Study

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 12
Author(s): Trent Jackman, Tyler Harrigfeld




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Archives Manuscript Reviewers

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 12





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Information/Education Pages (I/EPs)

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 12





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RCT of Peer-Led Phone-Based Empowerment Intervention for Persons with Chronic Spinal Cord Injury Improves Health Self-Management

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 12
Author(s): Bethlyn Houlihan, Miriam Brody, Sarah Skeels, Diana Pernigotti, Judi Zazula, Sam Burnett, Christa Green, Subramani Seetharama, Stathis Hasiotis, Timothy Belliveau, David Rosenblum, Alan Jette




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Differential Item Functioning on Physical Disability Measure Across Direct and Proxy Interview

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 12
Author(s): Ickpyo Hong, Mi Jung Lee, Catherine Hay, Timothy Reistetter




http://ift.tt/2AGaS0i

Toward the Evaluation of Daily Wheelchair Usage with Upper Limb Pattern Classifier: A Pilot Study

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 12
Author(s): Pin-Wei Chen, Kerri Morgan




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Withdrawn

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 12





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The Effect of Swimming on the Rehabilitation of a Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty: A Case Study

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 12
Author(s): Margaret McDowell, Chelsea Griffiths, Mariana Dawida, Tadeusz Laska




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Prevalence and Patterns of Spasticity Severity and Medication Use in Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 12
Author(s): Nicole DiPiro, Chao Li, James Krause




http://ift.tt/2AGwucS

KCC2, EPILEPTIFORM SYNCHRONIZATION, AND EPILEPTIC DISORDERS

Publication date: Available online 2 December 2017
Source:Progress in Neurobiology
Author(s): Graziella Di Cristo, Patricia N. Awad, Shabnam Hamidi, Massimo Avoli
The K⁺-Cl⁻ co-transporter KCC2 is a neuron-specific, Cl⁻ extruder that uses K⁺ gradient for maintaining low intracellular [Cl⁻]. It is indeed well established that sustaining an outwardly-directed electrochemical Cl⁻ gradient across the neuronal membrane is fundamental for a proper function of postsynaptic GABAA receptor signaling. In particular, studies in the last two decades have shown that KCC2 activity is important to maintain a hyperpolarizing GABAergic neurotransmission. Conversely, low KCC2 activity should lead to depolarizing, and under specific conditions, excitatory GABAergic transmission. Not surprisingly given the critical role of KCC2 in regulating the inhibitory drive, alterations in its expression levels and activity are linked with epilepsy. Here, we will first summarize data regarding the role of KCC2 in epileptiform synchronization. Next, we will review evidence indicating that KCC2 expression and function is altered in chronic epileptic disorders, both in the developing and adult brain. We will also go through recent findings regarding the molecular mechanisms underlying the changes in KCC2 activity that occur following seizures. Finally, we will consider the modulation of KCC2 function as a potential, novel therapeutic target for the treatment of epileptic disorders.



http://ift.tt/2icAvv6

Crustacean olfactory systems: a comparative review and a crustacean perspective on insect olfactory systems

Publication date: Available online 2 December 2017
Source:Progress in Neurobiology
Author(s): S. Harzsch, J. Krieger
Malacostracan crustaceans display a large diversity of sizes, morphs and life styles. However, only a few representatives of decapod taxa have served as models for analyzing crustacean olfaction, such as crayfish and spiny lobsters. Crustaceans bear multiple parallel chemosensory pathways represented by different populations of unimodal chemosensory and bimodal chemo- and mechanosensory sensilla on the mouthparts, the walking limbs and primarily on their two pairs of antennae. Here, we focus on the olfactory pathway associated with the unimodal chemosensory sensilla on the first antennal pair, the aesthetascs. We explore the diverse arrangement of these sensilla across malacostracan taxa and point out evolutionary transformations which occurred in the central olfactory pathway. We discuss the evolution of chemoreceptor proteins, comparative aspects of active chemoreception and the temporal resolution of crustacean olfactory system. Viewing the evolution of crustacean brains in light of energetic constraints can help us understand their functional morphology and suggests that in various crustacean lineages, the brains were simplified convergently because of metabolic limitations. Comparing the wiring of afferents, interneurons and output neurons within the olfactory glomeruli suggests a deep homology of insect and crustacean olfactory systems. However, both taxa followed distinct lineages during the evolutionary elaboration of their olfactory systems. A comparison with insects suggests their olfactory systems – especially that of the vinegar fly – to be superb examples for "economy of design". Such a comparison also inspires new thoughts about olfactory coding and the functioning of malacostracan olfactory systems in general.



http://ift.tt/2jFXJd6

Brodmann area 10: Collating, integrating and high level processing of nociception and pain

Publication date: Available online 2 December 2017
Source:Progress in Neurobiology
Author(s): Ke Peng, Sarah C. Steele, Lino Becerra, David Borsook
Multiple frontal cortical brain regions have emerged as being important in pain processing, whether it be integrative, sensory, cognitive, or emotional. One such region, Brodmann Area 10 (BA 10), is the largest frontal brain region that has been shown to be involved in a wide variety of functions including risk and decision making, odor evaluation, reward and conflict, pain, and working memory. BA 10, also known as the anterior prefrontal cortex, frontopolar prefrontal cortex or rostral prefrontal cortex, is comprised of at least two cytoarchitectonic sub-regions, medial and lateral. To date, the explicit role of BA 10 in the processing of pain hasn't been fully elucidated. In this paper, we first review the anatomical pathways and functional connectivity of BA 10. Numerous functional imaging studies of experimental or clinical pain have also reported brain activations and/or deactivations in BA 10 in response to painful events. The evidence suggests that BA 10 may play a critical role in the collation, integration and high-level processing of nociception and pain, but also reveals possible functional distinctions between the subregions of BA 10 in this process.



http://ift.tt/2icH6p4

Activiated Galanin receptor 2 attenuates insulin resistance in skeletal muscle of obese mice

Publication date: Available online 2 December 2017
Source:Peptides
Author(s): Penghua Fang, Lei Zhang, Mei Yu, Zhongqi Sheng, Mingyi Shi, Yan Zhu, Zhenwen Zhang, Ping Bo
The results of our and other's studies showed that activation of galanin receptor 1 could mitigate insulin resistance via promoting glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) expression and translocation in the skeletal muscle of rats. But no literature are available regarding the effect of galanin receptor 2 (GALR2) on insulin resistance in skeletal muscle of type 2 diabetes. Herein, in this study we intended to survey the effect of GALR2 and its signal mechanisms in the mice with high fat diet-induced obese. The mice were intraperitoneally injected with vehicle, GALR2 agonist M1145 and antagonist M871 respectively once a day for continuous 21 days. The skeletal muscles were processed for determination of glucose uptake, and GLUT4 mRNA and protein expression levels. The PGC-1α, AKT, p38MAPK, AS160, pAKT, pP38MAPK and pAS160 expression levels were quantitatively assessed too. We found that pharmacological activation of GALR2 enhanced energy expenditure, and increased GLUT4 expression and translocation in skeletal muscle of mice during high-fat diet regimens. Activation of GALR2 alleviated insulin resistance through P38MAPK/PGC-1α/GLUT4 and AKT/AS160/GLUT4 pathway in the skeletal muscle of mice. Overall, these results identify that GALR2 is a regulator of insulin resistance and activation of GALR2 represents a promising strategy against obesity-induced insulin resistance.



http://ift.tt/2AFlSuN

Primary cutaneous histiocytic sarcoma: A report of five cases with primary cutaneous involvement and review of the literature

Publication date: Available online 2 December 2017
Source:Annals of Diagnostic Pathology
Author(s): Cynthia M. Magro, Najiyah Kazi, Aimee E. Sisinger
IntroductionHistiocytic sarcoma is an extremely rare hematologic malignancy of histiocytic origin. Five cases of primary cutaneous histiocytic sarcoma are presented.Materials and methodsCases of primary cutaneous histiocytic sarcoma were identified using a natural language search from the dermatopathology data base of Cornell University.ResultsThere was a male predominance (4 males and 1 female) ranging in age from 33years to 92years (mean age of 73years); all presented with a solitary nodule which involved the head and neck area in four and thigh in one. The 73-year-old male had chronic myeloproliferative disorder. Biopsies showed a nonepitheliotropic dermal-based atypical large cell histiocytoid appearing infiltrate dermis showing positivity for common leukocyte antigen, CD4, CD14, CD68, CD163, CD2, CD11c, and lysozyme. Markers of terminal histiocytic differentiation such as S100, langerin, MXA, and CD83 were not seen. In two of the cases there was evidence of extracutaneous dissemination. The treatment in three of the cases was wide excision; there was no evidence of recurrent or metastatic disease. One case was given palliative radiation; the patient died. The other patient with underlying myelodysplastic syndrome died within a few weeks of initial cutaneous presentation.ConclusionHS must be differentiated from other malignant histiocytoid lesions. Staining for common leukocyte antigen and CD163 are the most reliable markers allowing this distinction. Patients who present with primary involvement of the skin may have a variable favorable outcome but only if treated relatively early in the course of the disease with complete excision.



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Evolution of natural sea surface films: a new quantification formalism based on multidimensional space vector

Abstract

Spatial and temporal variability of natural surfactant sea surface film structural parameters were evaluated from force-area isotherms, film pressure-temperature isochors, dynamic surface tension-time relations performed on samples collected in Baltic Sea shallow coastal waters. The film structure state was postulated as a 10-D dimensionless vector created from the normalized thermodynamic, adsorptive, and viscoelastic film parameters. The normalization procedure is based on the concept of self-corresponding states known in thermodynamics. The values taken by all the reduced parameters indicated a significant deviation from the reference ideal-2D gas behavior. The exhibited deviations of the surface parameters from the background values of the same thermodynamic state of each film were independent on the film-collecting procedure, sample solvent treatment, and temperature. The structural similarity was expressed quantitatively as a (Cartesian, street, and Czebyszew) distance between two vectors of the analyzed film and the standard one from the database, and appeared to be related to environmental conditions, surface-active organic matter production, and migration in the studied coastal sea region. The most distinctive parameters differing the films were y, M _w and E _isoth, as established from Czebyszew function application. The proposed formalism is of universal concern and could be applied to any natural water surfactant system (seawater, inland water, rain water, and snowmelt water).

http://ift.tt/2jaLl5r

Metatranscriptomics analysis of cyanobacterial aggregates during cyanobacterial bloom period in Lake Taihu, China

Abstract

Molecular mechanism of interaction between the bloom-forming cyanobacterial species and attached microbios within cyanobacterial aggregates has not been elucidated yet and understanding of which would help to unravel the cyanobacteria bloom-forming mechanism. In this study, we profiled the metabolically active community by high-throughput metatranscriptome sequencing from cyanobacterial aggregates during cyanobacterial bloom period in Lake Taihu, China. A total of 308 million sequences were obtained using the HiSeq 2500 sequencing platform, which provided a great sequence coverage to carry out the in-depth taxonomic classification, functional classification, and metabolic pathway analysis of the cyanobacterial aggregates. The results show that bacteria dominated in cyanobacterial aggregates, accounting for more than 96.66% of total sequences. Microcystis was the most abundant genus, accounted for 26.80% of total assigned sequences at the genus level in cyanobacterial aggregates community; however, Proteobacteria (46.20%) was found to be as the most abundant active bacterial populations at the phylum level. More importantly, nitrogen, phosphonate, and phosphinate metabolism which associated with eutrophication were found in this study. Especially, the enzymes and organisms relating to denitrification and anammox of nitrogen metabolism, which reduced nitrogen concentration by reducing nitrate to nitrogen to inhibit the eutrophication, were first discovered in Lake Taihu during cyanobacterial bloom period. The present study provides a snapshot of metatranscriptome for cyanobacterial aggregates in Lake Taihu and demonstrates that cyanobacterial aggregates could play a key role in the nitrogen cycle in eutrophic water.

http://ift.tt/2BvQEmR

One-Year Follow-up Study Detects Myocardial Changes with Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Tagging in Active Rheumatoid Arthritis

Publication date: Available online 1 December 2017
Source:Academic Radiology
Author(s): Lauri Lehmonen, Aino-Maija Vuorinen, Riitta Koivuniemi, Marjatta Leirisalo-Repo, Miia Holmström, Sari Kivistö, Touko Kaasalainen
Rationale and ObjectivesTo evaluate the effects of 1 year of medical treatment on myocardial function in active rheumatoid arthritis (RA).Materials and MethodsThirty-nine female patients with RA without any known cardiovascular disease underwent a cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) examination before and after 1 year of antirheumatic treatment. The population comprised untreated active early RA (ERA) and chronic RA patients, who were grouped accordingly. The CMR protocol included volumetric determinations, late gadolinium enhancement imaging, myocardial tagging, and native T1 mapping. DAS28-CRP disease activity scores were calculated before and after the treatment.ResultsResults are reported as median (quartile 1–quartile 3). Time to peak diastolic filling rate improved in ERA (495 [443–561] ms vs 441 [340–518] ms, P = .018). Peak diastolic mean mid short-axis circumferential strain rate of all six segments was improved (82 [74–91] %/s vs 91 [77–100] %/s, P = .05), particularly in the anterior segment (82 [63–98] %/s vs 86 [77–109] %/s, P = .013). DAS28-CRP decreased in ERA (3.8 [3.2–4.1] vs 1.6 [1.4–2.2], P < .001). In chronic RA, no statistically significant improvement was detected.ConclusionsEarly treatment of active RA is important, as myocardial function detected with CMR tagging improved in ERA in parallel with decreasing inflammatory activity.



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Bone Marrow Involvement in Malignant Lymphoma

Publication date: Available online 1 December 2017
Source:Academic Radiology
Author(s): Ulrika Asenbaum, Richard Nolz, Georgios Karanikas, Julia Furtner, Ramona Woitek, Ingrid Simonitsch-Klupp, Markus Raderer, Marius E. Mayerhoefer
Rationale and ObjectivesThis study aimed to determine the diagnostic utility of standardized uptake values (SUV) and apparent diffusion coefficients (ADC) for assessment of focal and diffuse bone marrow involvement in patients with malignant lymphoma.Materials and MethodsSixty treatment-naive patients (28 males; mean age 51.2 ± 16.7 years) with histologically proven lymphoma, who underwent fludeoxyglucose (¹⁸F) positron emission tomography-computed tomography ([F18]-FDG-PET/CT) and whole-body diffusion-weighted imaging (WB-DWI) within 7 days, and also routine bone marrow biopsy, were included in this institutional review board-approved, retrospective study. The maximum SUV (SUVmax) on [F18]-FDG-PET/CT, and the mean ADC (ADCmean, ×10⁻³ mm²/s) on whole-body-DWI, were extracted from focal lesions, or, in their absence, from the thoracic (Th8) and lumbar vertebral bodies (L4), the sacral bone (S1), and the iliac crest. Lesion-to-liver-ratios (SUVmax-ratio) were calculated. Pearson correlation coefficients were used to assess the correlation between SUVmax-ratios and ADCmean values.ResultsBone marrow involvement was observed in 16 of 60 patients (8 of 16 with diffuse infiltration). The SUVmax-ratio cutoff value was 95.25% for focal and 70.2% for diffuse bone marrow involvement (sensitivity/specificity of 87.5%/86.4% and 100%/43.2%, respectively). The ADCmean cutoff value was 0.498 for focal and 0.401 for diffuse bone marrow involvement (sensitivity/specificity of 100%/90.9% and 87.5%/56.8%, respectively). No significant correlations were found between SUVmax-ratios and ADCmean values in the different groups.ConclusionWith the liver as reference tissue, quantitative [F18]-FDG-PET/CT may be useful to differentiate bone marrow involvement from normal bone marrow in patients with lymphoma, even though the specificity for diffuse marrow involvement is rather low. Quantitative DWI can be used only to distinguish focal bone marrow lesions from normal bone marrow.



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Interpreting Change in Quantitative Imaging Biomarkers

Publication date: Available online 1 December 2017
Source:Academic Radiology
Author(s): Nancy A. Obuchowski
Rationale and ObjectivesQuantitative imaging biomarkers (QIBs) are becoming increasingly adopted into clinical practice to monitor changes in patients' conditions. The repeatability coefficient (RC) is the clinical cut-point used to discern between changes in a biomarker's measurements due to measurement error and changes that exceed measurement error, thus indicating real change in the patient. Imaging biomarkers have characteristics that make them difficult for estimating the repeatability coefficient, including nonconstant error, non-Gaussian distributions, and measurement error that must be estimated from small studies.MethodsWe conducted a Monte Carlo simulation study to investigate how well three statistical methods for estimating the repeatability coefficient perform under five settings common for QIBs.ResultsWhen the measurement error is constant and replicates are normally distributed, all of the statistical methods perform well. When the measurement error is proportional to the true value, approaches that use the log transformation or coefficient of variation perform similarly. For other common settings, none of the methods for estimating the repeatability coefficient perform adequately.ConclusionMany of the common approaches to estimating the repeatability coefficient perform well for only limited scenarios. The optimal approach depends strongly on the pattern of the within-subject variability; thus, a precision profile is critical in evaluating the technical performance of QIBs. Asymmetric bounds for detecting regression vs progression can be implemented and should be used when clinically appropriate.



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Screening Mammography Utilization and Medicare Beneficiaries' Perceptions of Their Primary Care Physicians

Publication date: Available online 1 December 2017
Source:Academic Radiology
Author(s): Andrew B. Rosenkrantz, Margaret M. Fleming, Linda Moy, James S. Babb, Richard Duszak
Rationale and ObjectivesTo assess associations between screening mammography utilization and Medicare beneficiaries' relationships with, and impressions of, their primary care physicians.Materials and MethodsUsing the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey Access to Care Public Use File, we retrospectively studied responses from a national random cross section of Medicare beneficiaries surveyed in 2013 regarding perceptions of their primary care physicians and their screening mammography utilization. Statistical analysis accounted for subject weighting factors to estimate national screening utilization.ResultsAmong 7492 female Medicare beneficiaries, 62.0% (95% confidence interval 59.8%–64.2%) underwent screening mammography. Utilization was higher for beneficiaries having (vs. not) a regular medical practice or clinic (63.2% vs. 34.6%) and a usual physician (63.8% vs. 50.3%). Utilization was higher for beneficiaries very satisfied (vs. very dissatisfied) with the overall quality of care they received (66.0% vs. 35.8%), their ease of getting to a doctor (67.7% vs. 43.2%), and their physician's concerns for their health (65.7% vs. 53.4%), as well as for beneficiaries strongly agreeing (vs. strongly disagreeing) that their physician is competent (66.0% vs. 54.1%), understands what is wrong (66.3% vs. 47.1%), answers all questions (67.0% vs. 46.7%), and fosters confidence (66.0% vs. 50.6%). Independent predictors of screening mammography utilization (P < .05) were satisfaction with quality of care, having a regular practice or clinic, and satisfaction with ease of getting to their physician.ConclusionsScreening mammography utilization is higher among Medicare beneficiaries with established primary physician relationships, particularly when those relationships are favorable. To optimize screening mammography utilization, breast imagers are encouraged to support initiatives to enhance high-quality primary care relationships.



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Epidemiology of Hepatic Steatosis at a Tertiary Care Center

Publication date: Available online 2 December 2017
Source:Academic Radiology
Author(s): Tyler J. Fraum, Daniel R. Ludwig, Scott Kilian, William A. Curtis, Thomas K. Pilgram, Claude B. Sirlin, Kathryn J. Fowler
Rationale and ObjectivesLittle is known about the frequency and risk factors of hepatic steatosis in the tertiary care setting. Such knowledge is essential to clinicians making decisions about testing for this condition. Thus, our aim was to describe the epidemiology of hepatic steatosis, as captured by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), at a tertiary care center.Materials and MethodsA near-consecutive cohort of 1006 adult patients underwent standard-of-care liver MRIs. Images were retrospectively processed to derive proton density fat fraction (PDFF) maps. Data from three spatially distinct regions of interest (ROIs) were aggregated to derive overall hepatic PDFF values. Demographic, anthropometric, clinical, and laboratory variables were included in a multivariate analysis to determine predictors of hepatic steatosis grades (based on established PDFF cutoffs). Hepatic steatosis grades derived from single vs aggregated ROIs were compared.ResultsHepatic steatosis was observed in 25% of patients (19% grade 1; 3% grade 2; 3% grade 3). Controlling for all other variables, the odds of hepatic steatosis increased by 7%–9% (P < .001) for each whole point increase in body mass index (BMI), whereas elevated serum bilirubin was associated with lower odds of hepatic steatosis (P = .002). Race, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and metabolic syndrome were not independently predictive of hepatic steatosis when controlling for other variables (eg, BMI). Employing single ROIs (rather than three aggregated ROIs) resulted in incorrect steatosis grading in up to 8.0% of patients.ConclusionMany adult patients undergoing liver MRI at a tertiary care center have hepatic steatosis, with larger BMIs as the only independent predictor of higher grades. This information can be used by clinicians at such centers to make evidence-based decisions about when to test for hepatic steatosis in their patients.



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Growth response to growth hormone treatment in patients with SHOX deficiency can be predicted by the Cologne prediction model

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Issue: Ahead of print


http://ift.tt/2BEk1UM

Allergic and non-allergic skin reactions associated with growth hormone therapy: elucidation of causative agents

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Issue: Ahead of print


http://ift.tt/2khxe1G

Quantitative and time-resolved detection of lithium plating on graphite anodes in lithium ion batteries

Publication date: Available online 1 December 2017
Source:Materials Today
Author(s): Johannes Wandt, Peter Jakes, Josef Granwehr, Rüdiger-A. Eichel, Hubert A. Gasteiger
The ability of fast and safe charging is critical for the further success of lithium ion batteries in automotive applications. In state-of-the-art lithium ion batteries, the charging rate is limited by the onset of lithium plating on the graphite anode. Despite its high importance, so far no analytical technique has been available for directly measuring lithium plating during battery charge. Herein, we introduce operando electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy as the first technique capable of time-resolved and quantitative detection of lithium metal plating in lithium ion batteries. In an exemplary study, the C-rate dependence of lithium metal plating during low-temperature charging at −20 °C is investigated. It is possible to quantify the amount of 'dead lithium' and observe the chemical reintercalation of plated lithium metal. In this way, it is possible to deconvolute the coulombic inefficiency of the lithium plating/stripping process and quantify the contributions of both dead lithium and active lithium loss due to solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) formation. The time-resolved and quantitative information accessible with operando EPR spectroscopy will be very useful for the optimization of fast charging procedures, testing of electrolyte additives, and model validation.

Graphical abstract

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A new therapeutic proposal for inoperable osteosarcoma: Photodynamic therapy

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy, Volume 21
Author(s): Guilherme Chohfi de Miguel, Ana Margarida Abrantes, Mafalda Laranjo, Ana Yoshie Kitagawa Grizotto, Bruno Camporeze, José Aires Pereira, Gonçalo Brites, Arménio Serra, Marta Pineiro, António Rocha-Gonsalves, Maria Filomena Botelho, Denise Gonçalves Priolli
BackgroundOsteosarcoma, a malignant tumor characterized by bone or osteoid formation, is the second most common primary bone neoplasm. Clinical symptoms include local and surrounding pain, unrelieved by rest or anesthesia. Osteosarcoma has a poor chemotherapeutic response with prognosis dependent on complete tumor excision. Therefore, for inoperable osteosarcoma new therapeutic strategies are needed. The present study aimed to develop murine models of cranial and vertebral osteosarcoma that facilitate simple clinical monitoring and real-time imaging to evaluate the outcome of photodynamic therapy based on a previously developed photosensitizer.MethodsBalb/c nude mice were divided into two groups: the cranial and vertebral osteosarcoma groups. Each group was further subdivided into the photodynamic therapy-treated and untreated groups. Images were obtained by scintigraphy with ^99mTc-MIBI and radiography. Tumor growth, necrotic area, osteoid matrix area, and inflammatory infiltration were analyzed.ResultsCranial and vertebral tumors could be macroscopically observed and measured. Radiographic and scintigraphic images showed tumor cells present at the inoculation sites. After photodynamic therapy, scintigraphy showed lower tumoral radiopharmaceutical uptake, which correlated histologically with increased necrosis. Osteoid matrix volume increased, and tumor size decreased in all photodynamic therapy-treated animals.ConclusionCranial and vertebral osteosarcoma models in athymic mice are feasible and facilitate in vivo monitoring for the development of new therapies. Photodynamic therapy is a potential antitumoral treatment for surgically inoperable osteosarcoma.

Graphical abstract

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The effect of photodynamic therapy with talaporfin sodium, a second-generation photosensitizer, on oral squamous cell carcinoma: A series of eight cases

Publication date: Available online 2 December 2017
Source:Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy
Author(s): Hisazumi Ikeda, Seigo Ohba, Kazuhiro Egashira, Izumi Asahina
Objective: To assess the effect of photodynamic therapy (PDT) with talaporfin sodium, a second-generation photosensitizer, on oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).MethodsEight patients who were diagnosed with oral SCC without any metastasis and underwent talaporfin sodium-mediated PDT (t-PDT) were included in this study. Biopsies were performed 4 to 6 weeks after t-PDT. The clinical response was evaluated using Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors.ResultsComplete response (CR) was achieved in six of eight cases, and two cases showed partial response (PR) as a clinical outcome of t-PDT. Recurrence occurred in one of the CR cases 9 months after irradiation. The patient underwent tumor resection and no recurrence was found after surgery. The two cases with PR died from the cancer despite additional PDT.Conclusiont-PDT is an effective treatment strategy for oral SCC. Talaporfin sodium has an advantage with regard to early elimination from the body compared with porfimer sodium.



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SYNTHESIS OF CALCIUM PHOSPHATE NANOSTRUCTURES BY COMBUSTION IN SOLUTION AS A POTENTIAL ENCAPSULANT SYSTEM OF DRUGS WITH PHOTODYNAMIC PROPERTIES FOR THE TREATMENT OF CUTANEOUS LEISHMANIASIS

Publication date: Available online 2 December 2017
Source:Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy
Author(s): A.A Lopera, A. Montoya, I.D. Vélez, S.M. Robledo, C.P. Garcia
The traditional drugs used in the treatment of cutaneous leishmanisis (CL) have multiple disadvantages, such as high toxicity, high costs, and more recently the appearance of parasites resistant to those drugs. For this reason, some research has focused on the development of new drugs or treatment therapies. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) that involves the use of a photosensitive or photosensitizing compound capable of producing reactive oxygen species to which Leishmania parasites are sensitive, has emerged as an alternative for the treatment of CL. However, some of these sensitizing compounds exhibit some toxicity (cytotoxicity, allergic reaction, etc), low selectivity, and some of them are insoluble in aqueous media limiting their use. Therefore, the PDT can be improved using encapsulation systems which protect drugs, prevent their degradation, help them overcome physical barriers and increase their selectivity. In this study, we propose the use of calcium phosphate as a potential encapsulant or photodynamic support for photoactive drugs, using hypericin (HY) as a photosensitizer agent. The self-combustion route was used to synthesize the CP nanostructures. The structure and morphology of CP nanoparticles were evaluated via X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman and field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). Phases rich in hydroxyapatite and CP β phase, with granular morphology and an average grain size of 42.9nm were obtained. The encapsulation uptake and the interactions between HY and the encapsulated system were evaluated by fluorescence spectroscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), respectively. Approximately 13% of HY was enapsulated per 1μg of nanoparticles of calcium phosphate. Composites were submitted to in vitro assays of cytotoxicity and anti-leishmanial activity. The CP nanoparticles did not affect the photodynamic activity of HY. On the contrary they showed antileishmanial response.

Graphical abstract

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Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy mediated by Photodithazine® in the treatment of denture stomatitis: a case report

Publication date: Available online 2 December 2017
Source:Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy
Author(s): Fernanda Alves, Gabriela Caroline Alonso, Juliana Cabrini Carmello, Ewerton Garcia de Oliveira Mima, Vanderlei Salvador Bagnato, Ana Cláudia Pavarina
Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy (aPDT) mediated by Photodithazine^® (PDZ) has shown efficacy in the inactivation of Candida spp. in in vitro and in vivo studies. This preliminary study reports five clinical cases of patients with denture stomatitis (DS) treated with PDZ-mediated aPDT. Five individuals diagnosed with DS were selected and submitted to aPDT 3 times a week for 15days (6 sessions). In each session, 200mg/L of PDZ gel was applied on the upper prostheses and on the palate of the patients for 20minutes, then, illuminated by a light emitting diode at 660nm (50J/cm²). Microbiological samples from prostheses and palates were also performed and cultured on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar and Blood Agar. The values ​​of colony forming units per milliliter (CFU/mL) were determined. Standardized photographs of the palates were taken prior the treatment (initial), at the end (final) and until 45days after the completion of treatments. The results demonstrated that the aPDT treatment reduced Candida spp. and the total microbiota viability ​​at the end of the treatment. For most patients, the CFU/mL values obtained in the last microbiological collection (day 45) were lower than those found before the treatment (initial). Three patients presented clinical resolution of DS (no DS signal) after aPDT treatment. One individual demonstrated reduction in palatal inflammation and another one did not show improvement in the oral lesion. Recurrence of DS was observed in all individuals in the follow-up period. PDZ-mediated aPDT may be a promising treatment for DS.



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Fascial well-being: Mechanotransduction and manual and movement therapies

Publication date: Available online 1 December 2017
Source:Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies
Author(s): Leon Chaitow




http://ift.tt/2iBZyLP

Adsorptive performance of coal-based magnetic activated carbon for cyclic volatile methylsiloxanes from landfill leachate

Abstract

Bituminous coal-based magnetic activated carbon (MAC) was prepared, characterized, and used successfully for removal of cyclic volatile methylsiloxanes (cVMSs) from treated landfill leachate. Batch adsorption studies were performed at different adsorption dosages and contact times. With adsorptive dosage of 0.75 g/L and contact time of 60 min, the removal efficiencies achieved by MAC for octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (D₄), decamethylcyclopentasiloxane (D₅), and dodecamethylcyclohexasiloxane (D₆) are 100, 82.8, and 71.4%, respectively. The specific magnetization coefficients of MAC before and after adsorption are 4.6 × 10⁻⁷ and 5.2 × 10⁻⁷ m³/kg, between 1.26 × 10⁻⁷ and 3.8 × 10⁻⁵ m³/kg, which suggests that MAC can be recycled by the high-intensity magnetic separators.

http://ift.tt/2BvuuAX

High temperature and pH favor Microcystis aeruginosa to outcompete Scenedesmus obliquus

Abstract

Competition between cyanobacteria and green algae affects phytoplankton succession and the well-known cyanobacteria blooms. Climate warming and water acidification are two concerned environmental issues changing the freshwater ecosystems. To investigate the competitive responses of phytoplankton to warming and acidification, we co-cultured Microcystis aeruginosa and Scenedesmus obliquus at a temperature range of 15–35 °C and a pH range of 5–9. Results showed that S. obliquus was superior competitor at 15 °C. At 20–30 °C, the populations of both Scenedesmus and Microcystis were inhibited by the presence of each other. S. obliquus was in competitive domination at the initial phase of cultivation, but was finally replaced by M. aeruginosa. Microcystis kept competition advantage at 35 °C, whereas Scenedesmus outcompeted Microcystis at acidic conditions (pH ≤ 6). Neutral and weakly alkaline conditions (pH 7–9) supported the replacement of competition domination from Scenedesmus to Microcystis. The present study revealed that climate warming may accelerate the phytoplankton succession from green algae to cyanobacteria, with the predicted promoted cyanobacteria blooms. Nonetheless, water acidification causes Microcystis to be a weak competitor with green algae, suggesting that the advantageous effect of Microcystis toward green algae at high temperatures was controlled by other variables like the water pH.

http://ift.tt/2ja8cya

Stress response pathways, appetite regulation, and drug addiction

Publication date: Available online 2 December 2017
Source:Biological Psychology
Author(s): Mustafa al'Absi




http://ift.tt/2jEejtY

Adipose-derived stem cells for treatment of chronic cutaneous ulcers in patients with critical limb ischemia: a pilot study

Abstract

Background

Therapeutic approaches based on stem cells have recently been introduced to treat chronic ulcers, with good results. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the topical application of adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for the treatment of ischemic cutaneous ulcers modified the skin perfusion of the treated areas.

Methods

Perilesional laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) and transcutaneous oximetry (tcpO₂) values were recorded for a 3-month period in seven arteriopathic and diabetic patients with ischemic ulcers of the lower limb candidates to amputation, who had been previously treated with single co-administered perilesional and intralesional injections of ASCs+PRP.

Results

Significant differences were found between pretreatment (T0) and 3 month post-treatment (T3) values regarding both LDF values (basal mean values: T0 30.7; T3 50.4; declivous mean values: T0 23; T3 38.9;) and tcpO₂ levels (basal mean values: T0 6.7; T3 45.9; declivous mean values: T0 17.6; T3 47.3).

Conclusions

According to the values of LDF and TcpO₂, the multidisciplinary treatment of severe ulcers with ACSs+PRP associated or not with revascularization therapy allowed a perilesional improvement of oxygenation and perfusion such to avoid limb amputation, with complete wound healing. Early treatment with ASCs associated or not with reperfusion therapy is an effective treatment even in severe ulcers in advanced stage once treated with amputation of limb.

Level of evidence: Level V, therapeutic study

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The distribution of tritium in aquatic environments, Lithuania

Publication date: Available online 1 December 2017
Source:Journal of Environmental Radioactivity
Author(s): Olga Jefanova, Jonas Mažeika, Rimantas Petrošius, Žana Skuratovič
The aim of this study is to investigate mobile radionuclide tritium (³H or T) activity dynamics in aquatic environments related to Ignalina NPP (INPP) site and water bodies located in remote areas unaffected by the INPP. The ³H excess in the INPP environment was analyzed and compared to the variable ³H background level over the period of operation of the INPP (end of 1983 – end of 2009) and during the initial stage of decommissioning (2010–2017). ³H in the INPP vicinity has been studied in the water of artificial channels related to operation of the INPP and site drainage, in natural surface water bodies and, at a smaller scale, in unconfined groundwater. This study presents an extensive ³H data set extending back to 1980, i.e. before INPP operation started. To assess the contribution of global sources to ³H dynamics, monthly precipitation was also studied, along with water from the Baltic Sea, Curonian Lagoon and Nemunas River were studied as well, all three of these located in the Lithuanian maritime zone. The ³H activity concentration in water was measured using liquid scintillation counting (LSC) techniques (direct counting and counting after enrichment). During the period of INPP operation, ³H from liquid effluent could be clearly observed in discharge channels, occurring in rather low diluted conditions, as well as in Lake Druksiai, the cooling basin, at an even more diluted level. The highest ³H activity concentration in Lake Druksiai was observed in 2003 and reached 201.3 ± 1.3 TU at a time when ³H activity concentrations in background water bodies was 9.2 ± 3.5 TU. After the closure of the INPP, the ³H liquid effluent rate reduced by approximately two orders of magnitude (from 10¹² Bq in 1991 to 10¹⁰ Bq in 2016) and when decommissioning activity commenced then the ³H activity concentration fell to that approaching the background level (19–27 TU) that can still be observed in industrial discharge and rainwater drainage channels. ³H as a result of leakage from the INPP can be observed in groundwater only in direct proximity to the INPP site near the radioactive waste storage zone.



http://ift.tt/2iC5GDB

Identifying radon priority areas and dwellings with radon exceedances in Bulgaria using stored CD/DVDs

Publication date: Available online 1 December 2017
Source:Journal of Environmental Radioactivity
Author(s): D. Pressyanov, I. Dimitrova, K. Mitev, S. Georgiev, D. Dimitrov
The implementation of the 2013/59/EURATOM directive in the part related to radon exposure imposes challenges for radon measurement methodology and radon survey design. Among them is the need to have estimates (preferably direct) of the annual average radon concentrations, which can be directly compared to the recommended reference levels. On this basis, the surveys should make possible the identification of dwellings with indoor radon above the reference levels and "radon priority areas" where significant proportion of the dwellings falls in this category. The performance of the CD/DVD method for radon measurements as a tool to address these issues is presented. A recent large scale field study based on the CD/DVD method that was carried out in the suburb area of Sofia, Bulgaria is described. Part of the studied area was affected in the past by the uranium mining and milling industry. In total 462 disks (CDs and DVDs) taken from 335 private dwellings from 10 districts in the region were analyzed. The results revealed the large heterogeneity in radon distribution in the area, with the percentage of dwellings with a ²²²Rn level above 300 Bq m⁻³ ranking from about 7% to 74%. The district of Yana, for which this percent was 74, was identified as the area of highest radon priority in the region. The paper also discusses how prompt identification of dwellings with radon above the reference level by CD/DVDs can be incorporated within an integrated approach to the radon problem. Within this approach the radon hazard is identified shortly after the stakeholder's decision to test, which allows fast solution of the problem without waiting the long (and usually demotivating) one-year period needed for direct results by the commonly used prospective methods.



http://ift.tt/2APrH9I

Adverse bioeffect of perfluorooctanoic acid on liver metabolic function in mice

Abstract

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a kind of manufactured material, is widely accumulated around environmental system and into wildlife, including human beings. Toxicologically, PFOA induces hepatomegaly (liver enlargement) in the dose- and time-dependent manners. However, biological mechanism of hepatotoxicity warrants to be further investigated. In the present study, mature male mice were exposed to dosed PFOA for 21 days before conducting biochemical tests and immunoassays. As results, decreased fast blood glucose and elevated insulin contents were observed in PFOA-dosed mice. In addition, PFOA-dosed mice resulted in increased liver functional enzymes (GPT, GOT) in serum. And lipid contents (TG, lipoproteins) in serum and liver were changed abnormally. As shown in immunohistochemistry, increased insulin- and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP)-positive cells were showed in PFOA-exposed pancreatic tissues. Moreover, CD36-positive cells were increased in PFOA-exposed livers, while ApoB-labeled cells were reduced. Further, immunoblot data showed that hepatocellular fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) in PFOA-exposed liver was down-regulated dose-dependently. Taken together, our preliminary findings demonstrated that PFOA-induced hepatocellular lipotoxicity may be linked to impairing lipid-regulated proteins, as well as inducing insulin expression from pancreatic tissue.

http://ift.tt/2BtPFUb

Selective Laser Melted Digital Hydraulic Valve System

3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing , Vol. 0, No. 0.


http://ift.tt/2iyUWGq

3D Printed Hierarchical Gyroid Structure with Embedded Photocatalyst TiO2 Nanoparticles

3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing , Vol. 0, No. 0.


http://ift.tt/2iyUJmC

Encephalitis and Thalamic Injury From Neuroinvasive West Nile Virus in Children on Treatment for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Publication date: Available online 2 December 2017
Source:Pediatric Neurology
Author(s): Lauge Farnaes, Deborah Schiff, Anita K. McElroy, Nicole G. Coufal, John R. Crawford, Christopher Cannavino




http://ift.tt/2nk7bbc

New-Onset Status Epilepticus in Pediatric Patients: Causes, Characteristics, and Outcomes

Publication date: Available online 1 December 2017
Source:Pediatric Neurology
Author(s): Saba Jafarpour, Ryan M. Hodgeman, Carolina De Marchi Capeletto, Mateus Torres Avelar de Lima, Kush Kapur, Robert C. Tasker, Tobias Loddenkemper
Background: Many pediatric patients presenting with status epilepticus do not have any history of seizures. Methods: We retrospectively studied clinical characteristics in patients aged 1 month to 21 years who presented during 6 consecutive years with convulsive status epilepticus and without a prior history of seizures. New-Onset Refractory Status Epilepticus (NORSE) was defined as status epilepticus refractory to two lines of treatment, without an identified cause in the first 48 hours. Results: Of 460 patients with status epilepticus, 79 (17.2%) presented with new-onset status epilepticus, including 4 (0.9%) with NORSE. Of those, 54.4% were female, and the median age was 3.5 years (IQR: 1.08-6.75). Median seizure duration was 20 minutes (IQR: 10-40). Etiology was unknown in 36.7%, symptomatic in 30.3%, provoked in 16.5%, and provoked with an existing symptomatic etiology in 16.5%. EEG was abnormal in 70.9% of the patients, while MRI was abnormal in 54.7%. Patients were followed for a median duration of 63 months (IQR: 21-97). The mortality rate was 3.8%. Of 55 patients who were developmentally normal at baseline, 29.1% had a significant cognitive impairment at last follow-up, and 20% had academic difficulties or behavioral problems. Patients with symptomatic etiology had greater odds of having cognitive and behavioral problems compared to the unknown etiology (OR=3.83, p=0.012), while there was no difference between the provoked and the unknown groups (OR=0.62, p=0.50). Conclusion: New-onset status epilepticus patients are at risk of recurrent seizures, recurrent status epilepticus, death, and subsequent cognitive/behavioral impairment. Specific monitoring and care interventions might be required in this high-risk population.



http://ift.tt/2zJr11g

Post Varicella Arterial Ischaemic Stroke in Denmark 2010-2016

Publication date: Available online 1 December 2017
Source:Pediatric Neurology
Author(s): Ida Glode Helmuth, Kåre Mølbak, Peter Vilhelm Uldall, Anja Poulsen
Background: Varicella, most often a benign disease of childhood, is associated with an increased risk of arterial ischaemic stroke (AIS) in children. The aim of the present study was to estimate the incidence of post varicella AIS in the Danish child population and describe clinical characteristics of children admitted with post varicella AIS. Methods: In the Danish National Patient Register, we identified inpatients 28 days-16 years of age with a discharge diagnosis of stroke and/or cerebrovascular disease from 2010-2016. Medical files were reviewed and children with AIS and varicella infection <12 months before onset of symptoms included. Results: We identified 15 children with AIS and varicella <12 months before. In nine children, the diagnosis was confirmed by detection of VZV DNA or VZV IgG in cerebrospinal fluid. All children were previously healthy, the mean age was 4 years and 67% were male. The median time from varicella rash to AIS was 4.6 months. The most common location of AIS was the basal ganglia and affected vessels were most often in the anterior circulation. Fifty-three percent experienced neurologic sequelae of varying degree. Conclusions: In Denmark, where varicella vaccination is not part of the childhood vaccination programme the estimated risk of post varicella AIS was 1 case (including possible cases) out of 26, 000 children with varicella.



http://ift.tt/2nmDXIF

Independent and interactive associations of negative affect, restraint, and impulsivity in relation to binge eating among women

Publication date: 1 February 2018
Source:Appetite, Volume 121
Author(s): Tyler B. Mason, Kathryn E. Smith, Jason M. Lavender, Robin J. Lewis
There is growing recognition that impulsivity may serve as an underlying risk factor for binge eating. In addition, the association of impulsivity with binge eating may be moderated by other affective and cognitive risk factors. This study examined independent and interactive associations of negative affect, dietary restraint, and facets of impulsivity with binge eating. A diverse sample of 566 undergraduate women completed online questionnaires of study variables. Results revealed a three-way interaction of negative affect, dietary restraint, and attentional impulsivity in relation to binge eating. Women who were high on each of these three variables reported the greatest levels of binge eating. In addition, a two-way interaction was found for negative affect and nonplanning impulsivity in relation to binge eating, such that nonplanning impulsivity strengthened the association between negative affect and binge eating. Attentional and nonplanning facets of impulsivity may function as an underlying trait-level risk factor interacts with affective and/or cognitive risk (e.g., negative affect, dietary restraint) factors to predict elevated binge eating.



http://ift.tt/2zJfzTt

An assessment of the real-world driving gaseous emissions from a Euro 6 light-duty diesel vehicle using a portable emissions measurement system (PEMS)

Publication date: February 2018
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 174
Author(s): José M. Luján, Vicente Bermúdez, Vicente Dolz, Javier Monsalve-Serrano
Recent investigations demonstrated that real-world emissions usually exceed the levels achieved in the laboratory based type approval processes. By means of on-board emissions measurements, it has been shown that nitrogen oxides emitted by diesel engines substantially exceed the limit imposed by the Euro 6 regulation. Thus, with the aim of complementing the worldwide harmonized light vehicles test cycle, the real driving emissions cycle will be introduced after 1 September 2017 to regulate the vehicle emissions in real-world driving situations.This paper presents on-board gaseous emissions measurements from a Euro 6 light-duty diesel vehicle in a real-world driving route using a portable emissions measurement system. The test route characteristics follow the requirements imposed by the RDE regulation. The analysis of the raw emissions results suggests that the greatest amount of nitrogen oxides and nitrogen dioxide are emitted during the urban section of the test route, confirming that lower speeds with more accelerations and decelerations lead to higher nitrogen oxides emissions levels than constant high speeds. Moreover, the comparison of the two calculation methods proposed by the real driving emissions regulation has revealed emissions rates differences ranging from 10% to 45% depending on the pollutant emission and the trip section considered (urban or total). Thus, the nitrogen oxides emissions conformity factor slightly varies from one method to the other.



http://ift.tt/2iFxcjI

The theory-practice gap of black carbon mitigation technologies in rural China

Publication date: February 2018
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 174
Author(s): Weishi Zhang, Aitong Li, Yuan Xu, Junfeng Liu
Black carbon mitigation has received increasing attention for its potential contribution to both climate change mitigation and air pollution control. Although different bottom-up models concerned with unit mitigation costs of various technologies allow the assessment of alternative policies for optimized cost-effectiveness, the lack of adequate data often forced many reluctant explicit and implicit assumptions that deviate away from actual situations of rural residential energy consumption in developing countries, where most black carbon emissions occur. To gauge the theory-practice gap in black carbon mitigation – the unit cost differences that lie between what is estimated in the theory and what is practically achieved on the ground – this study conducted an extensive field survey and analysis of nine mitigation technologies in rural China, covering both northern and southern regions with different residential energy consumption patterns. With a special focus on two temporal characteristics of those technologies – lifetimes and annual utilization rates, this study quantitatively measured the unit cost gaps and explain the technical as well as sociopolitical mechanisms behind. Structural and behavioral barriers, which have affected the technologies' performance, are discussed together with policy implications to narrow those gaps.



http://ift.tt/2ACqOkb

On-road assessment of light duty vehicles in Delhi city: Emission factors of CO, CO2 and NOX

Publication date: February 2018
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 174
Author(s): Jaiprakash, Gazala Habib
This study presents the technology based emission factors of gaseous pollutants (CO, CO2, and NOX) measured during on-road operation of nine passenger cars of diesel, gasoline, and compressed natural gas (CNG). The emissions from two 3-wheelers, and three 2-wheelers were measured by putting the vehicles on jacks and operating them according to Modified Indian Driving Cycle (MIDC) at no load condition. The emission factors observed in the present work were significantly higher than values reported from dynamometer study by Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI). Low CO (0.34 ± 0.08 g km⁻¹) and high NOX (1.0 ± 0.4 g km⁻¹) emission factors were observed for diesel passenger cars, oppositely high CO (2.2 ± 2.6 g km⁻¹) and low NOX (1.0 ± 1.6 g km⁻¹) emission factors were seen for gasoline powered cars. The after-treatment technology in diesel vehicles was effective in CO reduction. While the use of turbocharger in diesel vehicles to generate high combustion temperature and pressure produces more NOx, probably which may not be effectively controlled by after-treatment device. The after-treatment devices in gasoline powered Post-2010, Post-2005 vehicles can be acclaimed for reduced CO emissions compared to Post-2000 vehicles. This work presents a limited data set of emission factors from on-road operations of light duty vehicles, this limitation can be improved by further measurements of emissions from similar vehicles.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2ACyzGU

Book Review: Dermatological Signs of Systemic Disease, Fifth Edition

Publication date: Available online 2 December 2017
Source:Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
Author(s): Bryan Baillis




http://ift.tt/2zX77Ee

An age-dependent interaction between sex and geographical UV index in melanoma risk

Publication date: Available online 2 December 2017
Source:Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
Author(s): Feng Liu-Smith, Argyrios Ziogas
BackgroundUV exposure may not equally impact melanoma development in different sexes and ages. Whether and how these factors interact with each other in melanoma risk is unknown.ObjectiveThis study attempts to estimate interactions among UVI, sex and age in melanoma risk.MethodsMelanoma incidence data was collected from 42 cancer registries. Geographical UV index (UVI) was collected from local satellite stations. Negative binomial regression models were used to estimate the impact of each risk factor and their interactions.ResultsSex, UVI and age, as well as interactions between any two of these factors were significantly associated with melanoma risk. In younger age groups, the female sex is an independent risk factor for melanoma that is not impacted by ambient UV exposure. In older age groups, however, the female sex interacts with UV exposure as a risk factor, exhibiting a protective effect. The switching age category is 45-49, which correlates with dramatic hormonal changes.Limitationsthe interaction between sex and UVI is measured at an ecological level.ConclusionThe interaction between sex and UVI is age-dependent. The female sex is an independent risk factor for early onset melanoma, but the female sex also protects against UV-associated melanoma in older age groups.

Teaser

UV exposure may differentially impact risk of melanoma by sex and age group.The female sex plays a significant and independent role in early onset melanoma.More effective preventive strategies can be developed based on the understanding of sex- and age-specific melanoma causes.


http://ift.tt/2APsvLH

Pemphigus and hematologic malignancies: A population-based study of 11,859 patients

Publication date: Available online 2 December 2017
Source:Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
Author(s): Khalaf Kridin, Shira Zelber-Sagi, Doron Comaneshter, Erez Batat, Arnon D. Cohen
BackgroundThe association of non-paraneoplastic pemphigus with comorbid hematologic malignancies is yet to be established.ObjectiveTo estimate the association between pemphigus and the common types of hematologic malignancies.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted comparing pemphigus patients with age-, sex- and ethnicity-matched control subjects regarding the prevalence of 6 comorbid hematologic malignancies. The study was performed utilizing the computerized database of Clalit Health Services ensuring 4.5 million subjects.ResultsThe study included 1985 pemphigus patients and 9874 control subjects. The prevalence of chronic leukemia (0.9% vs. 0.4%; OR, 2.1; 95% CI, 1.2-3.6), multiple myeloma (0.8% vs. 0.4%; OR, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.2-3.9), and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (1.8% vs. 1.2%; OR, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.0-2.2) was greater in patients with pemphigus than in controls. The association with chronic leukemia remained significant following the adjustment for immunosuppressive therapy (adjusted OR, 2.0; 95% CI, 1.1-3.7). No significant associations between pemphigus and acute leukemia, Hodgkin lymphoma, myelodysplastic syndrome, and polycythemia vera were observed.LimitationsLack of immunopathological validation of the diagnosis of pemphigus.ConclusionsSignificant association was observed between pemphigus and chronic leukemia, multiple myeloma, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Further research is warranted to establish this observation in other cohorts.

Teaser

Hematologic malignancies have been reported sporadically in patients with pemphigus.In the current study, significant associations were observed between pemphigus and chronic leukemia, multiple myeloma, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.Further research is needed to confirm these findings in other cohorts.


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Dihydrofisetin exerts its anti-inflammatory effects associated with suppressing ERK/p38 MAPK and Heme Oxygenase-1 activation in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages and carrageenan-induced mice paw edema

Publication date: January 2018
Source:International Immunopharmacology, Volume 54
Author(s): Kai Kai Li, Shan Shan Shen, Xiangyi Deng, Hoi Ting Shiu, Wing Sum Siu, Ping Chung Leung, Chun Hay Ko, Bao Hui Cheng
Dihydrofisetin is a flavanonol derived from some edible wild herbs and traditional Chinese medicines. It has been found to possess many biological activities. However, the anti-inflammatory potential of Dihydrofisetin remains uncharacterized. The aim of the present study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory activity of Dihydrofisetin and its underlying mechanisms. We found that Dihydrofisetin dose-dependently inhibited lipopolysaccharide-induced productions of nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in RAW 264.7 macrophages, probably through suppressing the protein expressions of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). The expressions of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP-1) were also suppressed. We further demonstrated that Dihydrofisetin inhibited the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) pathway and phosphorylation of IκB-α whereas upregulated the expression of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). The in vivo carrageenan-induced mice paw edema study also indicated that treatment with 100 mg/kg of Dihydrofisetin could significantly inhibit carrageenan induced paw edema, decrease the levels of TNF-α, IL-6 and MDA, and increase the activity of GSH-Px in paw tissues. Taken together, Dihydrofisetin may act as a natural agent for treating inflammatory diseases by targeting MAPK, NF-κB and HO-1 pathways.

Graphical abstract

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Progesterone suppresses Aβ42-induced neuroinflammation by enhancing autophagy in astrocytes

Publication date: January 2018
Source:International Immunopharmacology, Volume 54
Author(s): Yang Hong, Yunjiang Liu, Geng Zhang, Honghai Wu, Yanning Hou
Autophagy is an intracellular catabolic mechanism essential for recycling intracellular unfolding protein and eliminating toxic protein aggregates. Several studies have shown that deficient autophagy is implicated in the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD) progression. To date, rapidly emerging evidence suggests that neurosteroid progesterone (PG) may play an important role in ameliorating AD. However, the role of PG and its neuroprotective mechanism in regulating autophagy still require further investigation. Here, we investigated the protective effects of PG against Aβ-induced inflammatory responses in astrocytes and its underlying mechanism in mediating autophagy. Remarkably, Aβ induced astrocyte dysfunction in autophagic activation and up-regulated inflammatory secretion. However, the autophagy inducer rapamycin (RAPA) significantly suppressed Aβ-induced inflammation in astrocytes. In astrocytes, treatment with Aβ caused autophagy deficiency, whereas PG significantly increased autophagy activation. Finally, PG suppressed Aβ-induced neuroinflammatory production via enhancing autophagy together with regulating mTOR signaling. Taken together, these results show that autophagy is a vital mechanism against Aβ-induced neuroinflammatory responses in astrocytes and demonstrate the potential neuroprotective mechanism of PG in suppressing neuroinflammatory responses by enhancing autophagy. Therefore, uncovering the neuroprotective mechanism of PG may provide new insight into novel therapies for the amelioration of AD.



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In contrast to morphine, buprenorphine enhances macrophage-induced humoral immunity and, as oxycodone, slightly suppresses the effector phase of cell-mediated immune response in mice

Publication date: January 2018
Source:International Immunopharmacology, Volume 54
Author(s): Iwona Filipczak-Bryniarska, Katarzyna Nazimek, Bernadeta Nowak, Michael Kozlowski, Magdalena Wąsik, Krzysztof Bryniarski
BackgroundOpioid receptors are commonly expressed on various immune cells, macrophages especially. Thus, these cells are prone to stimulation with opioids, which seems to be responsible for opioid-induced immunomodulatory effects. While morphine, fentanyl and methadone influence on mouse immune response was recently studied, little is known about the potential immunomodulatory impact of buprenorphine and oxycodone.AimThe current research aimed to investigate the influence of buprenorphine and oxycodone on immune responses in mice under homeostatic conditions.Methods and resultsRepeated administration of morphine led to intensification of CHS response in actively sensitized mice, while buprenorphine or oxycodone administration exerted the opposite effect. Further, hapten-conjugated macrophages from mice treated with morphine, when transferred into naive recipients, induced more potent CHS response. The enhanced generation of reactive oxygen intermediates and nitric oxide by macrophages from mice treated with buprenorphine, oxycodone or morphine was also shown, along with increased release of IL-6, TNFα and TGFβ. Treatment with opioids altered expression of antigen phagocytosis and presentation markers. Finally, the inhibitory effect of morphine treatment on induction of humoral immunity by macrophages was demonstrated, while oxycodone failed to influence humoral immune response and buprenorphine actually enhanced B-cell activation.ConclusionsCurrent observations confirm that macrophages greatly contribute to immunomodulatory effects of opioids. Studies on immunomodulation by opioids have great importance related to the evaluation of its beneficial and adverse effects on patient condition. Our research showed that oxycodone exerts the weakest immunomodulatory properties, allowing us to assume this drug as safer than morphine during prolonged therapy.



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Repression of interferon β-regulated cytokines by the JAK1/2 inhibitor ruxolitinib in inflammatory human macrophages

Publication date: January 2018
Source:International Immunopharmacology, Volume 54
Author(s): Marie Febvre-James, Valérie Lecureur, Yu Augagneur, Abdullah Mayati, Olivier Fardel
Ruxolitinib is a Janus kinase (JAK) 1/2 inhibitor, currently used in the treatment of myeloproliferative neoplasms. It exerts potent anti-inflammatory activity, but the involved molecular and cellular mechanisms remain poorly understood. In order to gain insights about this point, ruxolitinib effects towards expression of main inflammatory cytokines were studied in human macrophages, which constitute a key-cell type implicated in inflammation. Analysis of mRNA expression of cytokines (n=84) by PCR array indicated that, among those induced by the pro-inflammatory stimulus lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (n=44), 61.4% (n=27) were repressed by 5μM ruxolitinib. The major inflammatory cytokines, interleukin (IL) 6 and tumor necrosis factor α, were notably down-regulated by ruxolitinib at both the mRNA and protein level. Other repressed cytokines included IL27 and the chemokines CCL2, CXCL9, CXCL10 and CXCL11, but not IL1β. The interferon (IFN) β/JAK/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathway, well-activated by LPS in human macrophages as demonstrated by increased secretion of IFNβ, STAT1 phosphorylation, and up-regulation of reference IFNβ-responsive genes, was concomitantly blocked by the JAK inhibitor. Most of cytokines targeted by ruxolitinib were shown to be regulated by IFNβ in a JAK-sensitive manner. In addition, counteracting the IFNβ/JAK/STAT cascade using a blocking monoclonal antibody directed against IFNβ receptor resulted in a similar profile of cytokine repression to that observed in response to the JAK inhibitor. Overall, these data provide evidence for ruxolitinib-mediated repression of inflammatory cytokines in human macrophages through inhibition of the LPS/IFNβ/JAK/STAT signalling pathway, which probably contributes to the anti-inflammatory effects of the JAK inhibitor.



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Isotopes and human burials at Viking Age Birka and the Mälaren region, east central Sweden

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Journal of Anthropological Archaeology, Volume 49
Author(s): T. Douglas Price, Caroline Arcini, Ingrid Gustin, Leena Drenzel, Sven Kalmring
Isotopic proveniencing has been applied to human inhumations and cremations as well as fauna from the Viking Age site of Birka and the surrounding Mälaren region, located in east-central Sweden. Human enamel from inhumations has been measured for strontium, oxygen, and carbon isotope ratios (petrous bone from cremations was measured for strontium only) to obtain information on mobility and diet. Seven graves from the larger Mälaren region and several at Birka had distinctive grave goods thought to have originated in Finland. The isotopic values from these graves indicate that they may have been local individuals. The faunal remains from the Mälaren region corresponded closely with samples from Birka providing a baseline for strontium isotopic ratios in this area. At the site of Birka, two distinct groups of burials can be identified among the measured values, along with several outliers. The data suggest that Birka was a multi-ethnic settlement in the Viking period, consistent with historical sources and concomitant with its role as an important center of economy and trade on the east coast of Sweden.



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Cover 2/Editorial Board

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Journal of Anthropological Archaeology, Volume 48





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Impaired perception of facial emotion in developmental prosopagnosia: A reply to Van den Stock’s commentary

Publication date: Available online 2 December 2017
Source:Cortex
Author(s): Federica Biotti, Richard Cook




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Estimation of sodium adsorption ratio indicator using data mining methods: a case study in Urmia Lake basin, Iran

Abstract

Water quality is a major concern around the world, particularly in dry climates. Usually, assessment of surface water quality is costly and time-consuming. In this situation, a method which could estimate the water quality accurately with the minimum of hydro-chemical parameters would be appealing. In this study, three data mining methods, namely, M5 model tree, support vector machine (SVM), and Gaussian process (GP), were employed to estimate the sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) indicator in the Shahrchay River located in the west of the Urmia Lake basin, Iran. Results from these methods were compared with an artificial neural network (ANN). Different hydro-chemical parameters were assessed and the most effective parameters were selected. Five combinations of the selected parameters were developed as input parameters to the models. The results indicated that the M5 model tree has a superior performance among the data mining methods, where the combination of sodium and electrical conductivity (Na and EC) is used as input parameters, with a coefficient of determination (R²) = 0.987, root mean squared error (RMSE) = 0.017, mean absolute error (MAE) = 0.012, and mean relative error (MRE) = 5.584. Also, a sensitivity analysis was carried out which reported that the SAR is more sensitive to Na, Ca, and EC, respectively. This research highlights that the M5 model tree can be successfully employed for the estimation of SAR. It also indicates that the practical and simple linear equations and optimization performed with the M5 model tree reduce time and cost.

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The synthetic evaluation of CuO-MnO x -modified pinecone biochar for simultaneous removal formaldehyde and elemental mercury from simulated flue gas

Abstract

A series of low-cost Cu-Mn-mixed oxides supported on biochar (CuMn/HBC) synthesized by an impregnation method were applied to study the simultaneous removal of formaldehyde (HCHO) and elemental mercury (Hg⁰) at 100–300° C from simulated flue gas. The metal loading value, Cu/Mn molar ratio, flue gas components, reaction mechanism, and interrelationship between HCHO removal and Hg⁰ removal were also investigated. Results suggested that 12%CuMn/HBC showed the highest removal efficiency of HCHO and Hg⁰ at 175° C corresponding to 89%and 83%, respectively. The addition of NO and SO₂ exhibited inhibitive influence on HCHO removal. For the removal of Hg⁰, NO showed slightly positive influence and SO₂ had an inhibitive effect. Meanwhile, O₂ had positive impact on the removal of HCHO and Hg⁰. The samples were characterized by SEM, XRD, BET, XPS, ICP-AES, FTIR, and H₂-TPR. The sample characterization illustrated that CuMn/HBC possessed the high pore volume and specific surface area. The chemisorbed oxygen (O_β) and the lattice oxygen (O_α) which took part in the removal reaction largely existed in CuMn/HBC. What is more, MnO₂ and CuO (or Cu₂O) were highly dispersed on the CuMn/HBC surface. The strong synergistic effect between Cu-Mn mixed oxides was critical to the removal reaction of HCHO and Hg⁰ via the redox equilibrium of Mn⁴⁺ + Cu⁺ ↔ Mn³⁺ + Cu²⁺.

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Scholar : These new articles for International Journal of Rail Transportation are available online

The online platform for Taylor & Francis Online content New for International Journal of Rail Transportation and online now on Taylor & Francis Online: Original Articles Evaluating the influence of ballast degradation on its shear behaviour Akbar Danesh, Massoud Palassi & Ali Asghar Mirghasemi Pages: 1-18 | DOI: 10.1080/23248378.2017.1411212 Browse articles in this special issue on: 'Advancements in Civil and Structural Engineering' To update which email alerts you receive, manage your alerts within the My Account area. You can also unsubscribe from this alert with one click. If you need any further help, please contact us at support@tandfonline.com Please do not reply to this email. To ensure that you receive your alerts and information from Taylor & Francis Online, please add "alerts@tandfonline.com" and "info@tandfonline.com" to your safe senders list. Taylor & Francis, an Informa business. Taylor & Francis is a trading name of Informa UK Limited, registered in England under no. 1072954. Registered office: 5 Howick Place, London, SW1P 1WG.

Scholar : Transport, Volume 32, Issue 4, December 2017 is now available online on Taylor & Francis Online

The online platform for Taylor & Francis Online content Transport, Volume 32, Issue 4, December 2017 is now available online on Taylor & Francis Online. This new issue contains the following articles: Original papers Evaluation of speed–flow characteristics on two-lane highways with mixed traffic Pritam Saha, Ashoke Kumar Sarkar & Manish Pal Pages: 331-339 | DOI: 10.3846/16484142.2015.1004369 Modeling the sailing risk of RoPax ships with Bayesian Network Qingcheng Zeng, Luyan Yang & Qian Zhang Pages: 340-347 | DOI: 10.3846/16484142.2014.943806 The method for evaluation of efficiency of the concept of centrally managed distribution in cities Mariusz Wasiak, Marianna Jacyna, Konrad Lewczuk & Emilian Szczepański Pages: 348-357 | DOI: 10.3846/16484142.2017.1345005 Integration of exponential smoothing with state space formulation for bus travel time and arrival time prediction Selvaraj Vasantha Kumar, Krishna Chaitanya Dogiparthi, Lelitha Vanajakshi & Shankar Coimbatore Subramanian Pages: 358-367 | DOI: 10.3846/16484142.2015.1100676 A multi-intersection model and signal timing plan algorithm for urban traffic signal control Wenbin Hu, Huan Wang, Bo Du & Liping Yan Pages: 368-378 | DOI: 10.3846/16484142.2014.940606 A comparison between prediction power of artificial neural networks and multivariate analysis in road safety management Mario De Luca Pages: 379-385 | DOI: 10.3846/16484142.2014.995702 Optimizing phase compression for transit signal priority at isolated intersections Xuedong Hua, Wei Wang, Yinhai Wang & Ziyuan Pu Pages: 386-397 | DOI: 10.3846/16484142.2017.1345787 A case study of the Iranian national railway and its absolute capacity expansion using analytical models Bayan Bevrani, Robert L. Burdett & Prasad K. D. V. Yarlagadda Pages: 398-414 | DOI: 10.3846/16484142.2015.1099053 Review paper Application of modern warehouse technology in the Slovenian automotive industry Sebastjan Škerlič, Robert Muha & Edgar Sokolovskij Pages: 415-425 | DOI: 10.3846/16484142.2017.1354315 Report: acknowledgements for reviewers The research journal TRANSPORT: peer-reviewing process in 2017 Olegas Prentkovskis, Raimundas Junevičius & Paulius Skačkauskas Pages: 426-434 | DOI: 10.3846/16484142.2017.1401891 Erratum Erratum on the article 'A feasibility study of using composite reinforcement in transport and power industry structures' (doi:10.3846/16484142.2017.1342689) Pages: 435-435 | DOI: 10.3846/16484142.2017.1358932 The Journal of International Maritime Safety, Environmental Affairs, and Shipping is an open access journal publishing topics such as: ship design, marine pollution, maritime security, shipping port management and more. Find out how you can publish with the journal today. To update which email alerts you receive, manage your alerts within the My Account area. You can also unsubscribe from this alert with one click. If you need any further help, please contact us at support@tandfonline.com Please do not reply to this email. To ensure that you receive your alerts and information from Taylor & Francis Online, please add "alerts@tandfonline.com" and "info@tandfonline.com" to your safe senders list. Taylor & Francis, an Informa business. Taylor & Francis is a trading name of Informa UK Limited, registered in England under no. 1072954. Registered office: 5 Howick Place, London, SW1P 1WG.

Intrinsic insula network engagement underlying children's reading and arithmetic skills

Publication date: 15 February 2018
Source:NeuroImage, Volume 167
Author(s): Ting-Ting Chang, Pei-Hong Lee, Arron W.S. Metcalfe
The neural substrates of children's reading and arithmetic skills have long been of great interest to cognitive neuroscientists. However, most previous studies have focused on the contrast between these skills as specific domains. Here, we investigate the potentially shared processes across these domains by focusing on how the neural circuits associated with cognitive control influence reading and arithmetic proficiency in 8-to-10-year-old children. Using a task-free resting state approach, we correlated the intrinsic functional connectivity of the right anterior insula (rAI) network with performance on assessments of Chinese character recognition, reading comprehension, subtraction, and multiplication performance. A common rAI network strengthened for reading and arithmetic skill, including the right middle temporal gyrus (MTG) and superior temporal gyrus (STG) in the lateral temporal cortex, as well as the inferior frontal gyrus (IFG). In addition, performance measures evidenced rAI network specializations. Single character recognition was uniquely associated with connectivity to the right superior parietal lobule (SPL). Reading comprehension only, rather than character recognition, was associated with connectivity to the right IFG, MTG and angular gyrus (AG). Furthermore, subtraction was associated with connectivity to premotor cortex whereas multiplication was associated with the supramarginal gyrus. Only reading comprehension and multiplication were associated with hyper connectivity within local rAI network. These results indicate that during a critical period for children's acquisition of reading and arithmetic, these skills are supported by both intra-network synchronization and inter-network connectivity of rAI circuits. Domain-general intrinsic insular connectivity at rest contained also, functional components that segregated into different sets of skill-related networks. The embedded components of cognitive control may be essential to understanding the interplay of multiple functional circuits necessary to more fully characterize cognitive skill acquisition.



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