Effect of simulated acid rain on fluorine mobility and the bacterial community of phosphogypsum

Abstract

Contamination of soil and water with fluorine (F) leached from phosphogypsum (PG) stacks is a global environmental issue. Millions of tons of PG is produced each year as a by-product of fertilizer manufacture, and in China, weathering is exacerbated by acid rain. In this work, column leaching experiments using simulated acid rain were run to evaluate the mobility of F and the impact of weathering on native bacterial community composition in PG. After a simulated summer rainfall, 2.42–3.05 wt% of the total F content of PG was leached and the F concentration in leachate was above the quality standard for surface water and groundwater in China. Acid rain had no significant effect on the movement of F in PG. A higher concentration of F was observed at the bottom than the top section of PG columns suggesting mobility and reprecipitation of F. Throughout the simulation, the PG was environmentally safe according the TCLP testing. The dominant bacteria in PG were from the Enterococcus and Bacillus genus. Bacterial community composition in PG leached by simulated acid rain (pH 3.03) was more abundant than at pH 6.88. Information on F mobility and bacterial community in PG under conditions of simulated rain is relevant to management of environmental risk in stockpiled PG waste.

http://ift.tt/2GanvU0

Biochemical and morphological biomarkers of the liver damage in the Neotropical fish, Piaractus mesopotamicus , injected with crude extract of cyanobacterium Radiocystis fernandoi

Abstract

Cyanobacterial proliferation in river and lakes is the result of eutrophication. The cyanobacterium Radiocystis fernandoi strain R28 produces mostly two MC variants MC-RR and MC-YR and small amounts of other oligopeptides, but does not produce MC-LR. The present study investigated the hepatotoxic potential of the crude extract of the R. fernandoi strain R28 on the Neotropical fish, Piaractus mesopotamicus, at 3, 6, and 24 h after intraperitoneal injection (100 μg MC-LR equivalent per kg⁻¹ body mass) using biochemical and morphological biomarkers of liver damage. Although the protein phosphatases PP1 and PP2A were not inhibited during the 24-h treatment, liver parenchyma and hepatocyte structure were disrupted. Alkaline phosphatase increased at 3 h post-injection and decreased after 24 h; alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase increased in a time-dependent manner up to 24 h indicating impaired liver function. Progressive histopathological changes were consistent with biochemical results demonstrating alterations in liver structure and function. In conclusion, the crude extract of R. fernandoi strain R28 has high hepatotoxic potential and can severely compromise fish health.

http://ift.tt/2HN0BPV

Effect of photobiomodulation on connective tissue remodeling and regeneration of skeletal muscle in elderly rats

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on morphological aspects, IL-6 and IL-1β expressions, as well as the distribution and organization of collagen in the tibialis anterior (TA) muscle of elderly rats submitted to cryoinjury. Histological photomicrographs were taken of TA muscles stained with HE and picrosirius red. Immunohistochemistry was used for the evaluation of IL-6 and IL-1β. Male Wistar rats, aged 20 months, were distributed into three groups: (1) control animals not injured or treated with LLLT (n = 5), (2) cryoinjury without LLLT treatment (n = 15), and (3) cryoinjury treated with infrared LLLT (n = 15). LLLT was applied to the TA 2 h after of the injury induction and consisted of daily applications until the sacrifice (1, 3, and 7 days). The following parameters were used: λ = 780 nm, power density 1 W/cm², output power 40 mW, 10 s per point, 8 points, and 3.2 J of total energy. In the histomorphological analysis, the treated group exhibited a significant decrease in inflammatory infiltrate (p < 0.001) as well as an increase immature fibers and new blood vessels at 7 days compared to the untreated group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, treatment induced a better collagen distribution and organization at 7 days in comparison to the untreated group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, LLLT demonstrated a modulatory effect on the muscle repair process in elderly animals with regard to the collagen remodeling and morphological aspects of muscle tissue.

http://ift.tt/2ptQeZB

Er:YAG laser, piezosurgery, and surgical drill for bone decortication during orthodontic mini-implant insertion: primary stability analysis—an animal study

Abstract

It is important to identify factors that affect primary stability of orthodontic mini-implants because it determines the success of treatment. We assessed mini-implant primary stability (initial mechanical engagement with the bone) placed in pig jaws. We also assessed mini-implant insertion failure rate (mini-implant fracture, mini-implants to root contact). A total of 80 taper-shaped mini-implants (Absoanchor® Model SH1312-6; Dentos Inc., Daegu, Korea) 6 mm long with a diameter of 1.1 mm were used. Bone decortication was made before mini-implant insertion by means of three different methods: Group G1: Er:YAG laser (LiteTouch®, Light Instruments, Yokneam, Israel) at energy of 300 mJ, frequency 25 Hz, fluence 38.2 J/cm2, cooling 14 ml/min, tip 1.0 × 17 mm, distance 1 mm, time of irradiation 6 s; Group G2: drill (Hager & Meisinger GmbH, Hansemannstr, Germany); Group G3: piezosurgery (Piezotom Solo, Acteon, NJ, USA). In G4 group (control), mini-implants were driven by a self-drilling method. The primary stability of mini-implants was assessed by measuring damping characteristics between the implant and the tapping head of Periotest device (Gulden-Medizinteknik, Eschenweg, Modautal, Germany). The results in range between − 8 to + 9 allowed immediate loading. Significantly lower Periotest value was found in the control group (mean 0.59 ± 1.57, 95% CI 0.7, 2.4) as compared with Er:YAG laser (mean 4.44 ± 1.64, 95% CI 3.6, 5.3), piezosurgery (mean 17.92 ± 2.73, 95% CI 16.5, 19.3), and a drill (mean 5.91 ± 1.52, 95% CI 5.2, 6.6) (p < 0.05). The highest failure rate (33.3%) during mini-implant insertion was noted for self-drilling method (G4) as compared with G1, G2, and G3 groups (p < 0.05). The small diameter decortication by Er:YAG laser appeared to provide better primary stability as compared to drill and piezosurgery. Decortication of the cortical bone before mini-implant insertion resulted in reduced risk of implant fracture or injury of adjacent teeth. The high initial stability with a smaller diameter of the mini-implant resulted in increased risk of fracture, especially for a self-drilling method.

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Photobiomodulation effect on children’s scars

Abstract

The management of burn scars has become one of the major clinical challenges in the developing countries which involve enormous treatment cost; this needs new methods for better cost benefit relationship. The objective of the study is to analyze the effectiveness of low-level laser therapy on post-burn scar tissue in children. A randomized controlled study included 15 children, ranging from 2 to 10 years of age, presenting with burn scars. They received diode laser and topical treatment. Each scar was divided into two halves. One half was treated with laser therapy and topical treatment (study area), and the other half was treated with topical treatment only (control area). The children were evaluated before and after 3 months of the study by Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS), ultrasonography (U/S), and laser Doppler perfusion imaging. Significant improvement was reported in the studied area compared to the control area for patients with P values (P = 0.005) and (P = 0.0001) for VSS and U/S scores, respectively. No difference was detected for blood perfusion to the scar between both areas (P = 0.18). In addition, no adverse effect was reported. Photobiomodulation is an efficient and safe therapeutic modality for post-burn hypertrophic scars in children and should be considered a part of combination therapy for better results.

http://ift.tt/2ptQ2tl

Comparison of the effect of root surface modification with citric acid, EDTA, and aPDT on adhesion and proliferation of human gingival fibroblasts and osteoblasts: an in vitro study

Abstract

Root demineralization is used in Periodontics as an adjuvant for mechanical treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of root surface modification with mechanic, chemical, and photodynamic treatments on adhesion and proliferation of human gingival fibroblasts and osteoblasts. Root fragments were treated by scaling and root planing (C—control group), EDTA (pH 7), citric acid plus tetracycline (CA—pH 1), and antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) with toluidine blue O and red laser (pH 4). Cells were seeded (104 cells/well, 6th passage) on root fragments of each experimental group and cultured for 24, 48, and 72 h. Cells were counted in scanning electron microscopy images by a calibrated examiner. For fibroblasts, the highest number of cells were present at 72-h period (p < 0.05). EDTA group showed a very low number of cells in relation to CA group (p < 0.05). CA and aPDT group presented higher number of cells in all periods, but without differences between other treatment groups (p > 0.05). For osteoblasts, there was a significant increase in cell numbers for aPDT group at 72 h (p < 0.05). In conclusion, aPDT treatment provided a positive stimulus to osteoblast growth, while for fibroblasts, aPDT and CA had a tendency for higher cell growth.

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aPDT for periodontitis treatment in ovariectomized rats under systemic nicotine

Publication date: June 2018
Source:Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy, Volume 22
Author(s): Valdir Gouveia Garcia, Erivan Clementino Gualberto, Edilson Ervolino, Maria José Hitomi Nagata, Juliano Milanezi de Almeida, Letícia Helena Theodoro
BackgroundThis study evaluated the antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) as an adjunctive therapy to scaling and root planning (SRP) for the treatment of experimental periodontitis (EP) in ovariectomized rats under systemic nicotine.MethodsFemale ovariectomized rats (n = 180) were divided into two groups: vehicle administration (Veh) and nicotine administration (Nic). Mini-pumps containing either vehicle or nicotine were inserted in the rats 30 days before the induction of EP, which was induced by placing a ligature around the left mandibular first molar. The rats were randomly divided into three treatment subgroups: SRP, SRP plus low-level laser therapy (LLLT), and SRP plus aPDT. aPDT consisted of the application of a phenothiazine photosensitizer followed by LLLT. Ten animals from each group were euthanized at days 7, 15, and 30 after periodontal treatment. The furcation region was evaluated using histological, histometric analyses and immunolabelling for PCNA, TRAP, RANKL, and OPG.ResultsNicotine administration resulted in greater bone loss (BL). aPDT resulted in lower BL compared to SRP. aPDT showed higher quantities of PCNA-positive cells compared to SRP, regardless of the nicotine status. aPDT resulted in less recruitment of osteoclasts and lower RANKL immunolabelling compared to LLLT and SRP.ConclusionaPDT was effective in animals treated with nicotine.

Graphical abstract

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Multifunctional manganese-doped Prussian blue nanoparticles for two-photon photothermal therapy and magnetic resonance imaging

Publication date: June 2018
Source:Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy, Volume 22
Author(s): Lamiaa M.A. Ali, Emna Mathlouthi, Marilyn Kajdan, Morgane Daurat, Jérôme Long, Rahima Sidi-Boulenouar, Maïda Cardoso, Christophe Goze-Bac, Nourredine Amdouni, Yannick Guari, Joulia Larionova, Magali Gary-Bobo
Here we demonstrate for the first time that Mn²⁺-doped Prussian blue nanoparticles of c.a. 70 nm act as effective agents for photothermal therapy under two-photon excitation with an almost total eradication of malignant cells (97 and 98%) at a concentration of 100 μg mL⁻¹ 24 h after NIR excitation. This effect combined with interesting longitudinal NMR relaxivity values offer new perspectives for effective imaging and cancer treatment.

Graphical abstract

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Editorial Board

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy, Volume 21





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Endovascular trans-jugular occlusion of congenital intrahepatic porto systemic venous shunt using simultaneous fluoroscopy and trans-abdominal ultrasound guidance: Report of two cases

Publication date: Available online 20 March 2018
Source:Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology
Author(s): Ujjwal Gorsi, Naveen Kalra, Pankaj Gupta, Karthik Rayasam, Babu Ram Thapa, Hemant Bhagat, Niranjan Khandelwal
Congenital intrahepatic portosystemic venous shunts (CIPVS) are rare anomalies that can be detected before birth or in early infancy or later in life. Symptomatic shunts are treated as they carry high risk of complications like hepatic encephalopathy. Various treatment options include surgery, endovascular embolization and percutaneous closure devices. We treated two infants with CIPVS successfully by endovascular embolization of the shunt using vascular plug through transjugular route. Trans-abdominal ultrasound guidance in addition to fluoroscopy was used at the time of vascular plug placement. We emphasize that the use of transabdominal ultrasound during endovascular occlusion enhances the safety and technical success rate.



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Factors Influencing Choice of Radiology and Relationship to Resident Job Satisfaction

Publication date: Available online 20 March 2018
Source:Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology
Author(s): Shanna A. Matalon, Jeffrey P. Guenette, Stacy E. Smith, Jennifer W. Uyeda, Alicia S. Chua, Glenn C. Gaviola, Sara M. Durfee




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Angiomyolipoma of the Kidneys: Current Perspectives and Challenges in Diagnostic Imaging and Image-Guided Therapy

Publication date: Available online 20 March 2018
Source:Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology
Author(s): Abdul Razik, Chandan J. Das, Sanjay Sharma
Angiomyolipomas (AML) are benign tumors of the kidneys frequently encountered in radiologic practice in large tertiary centers. In comparison to renal cell carcinomas (RCC), AML are seldom treated unless they are large, undergo malignant transformation or develop complications like acute hemorrhage. The common garden triphasic (classic) AML is an easy diagnosis, however some variants lack macroscopic fat in which case the radiologic differentiation from RCC becomes challenging. Several imaging features, both qualitative and quantitative, have been described in differentiating the two entities. Although minimal fat AML is not entirely a radiologic diagnosis, the suspicion raised on imaging necessitates sampling and potentially avoids an unwanted surgery. Recently a new variant, epitheloid AML has been described which often has atypical imaging features and is at a higher risk for malignant transformation. Apart from the diagnosis, the radiologist also needs to convey information regarding nephrometric scores which help in surgical decision making. Recently, more and more AMLs are managed with selective arterial embolization and percutaneous ablation, both of which lack the amount of morbidity associated with surgery. The purpose of this article is to review the imaging and pathologic features of classic AML as well as the differentiation of minimal fat AML from RCC. In addition, an overview of nephrometric scoring and image-guided interventions is also provided.



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Top 100 Cited articles on Radiation Exposure in Medical Imaging: A Bibliometric Analysis

Publication date: Available online 20 March 2018
Source:Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology
Author(s): Jason Kinnin, Tarek N. Hanna, Marc Jutras, Babar Hasan, Rick Bhatia, Faisal Khosa
BackgroundBibliometric analyses by highest number of citations can help researchers and funding agencies in determining the most influential articles in a field. The main objective of this analysis was to identify the top 100 cited articles addressing radiation exposure from medical imaging and assess their characteristics.MethodsRelevant articles were extracted from the Scopus database after a systematic search by researchers using an iteratively defined Boolean search string. Subsequently, exclusion criteria were applied. A list of top 100 articles was prepared, and articles were ranked according to the citations they had received. No time restriction was applied. Descriptive statistics of the data were compiled.ResultsThe top-cited articles were published from 1970–2013, with the most articles published in 2009 and 2010 (12 articles in each year). The citations ranged from 107–1888 with a median of 272. Manuscripts from our top-cited list originated from 20 different countries, with contributions made by 158 authors and 160 organizations. Eighty-eight percent of studies evaluated patient-related radiation exposure, 7% health care workers, and 5% both or were not specified. Thirty-two percent of studies examined adult populations, 14% pediatric, and 54% included both populations or did not specify. Seventy-two percent of studies were dedicated to Computed Tomography, 8% to radiography/fluoroscopy, 9% to interventional procedures, 4% to nuclear medicine, and 7% to a combination of two or more modalities.ConclusionThe top 100 cited articles in medical imaging related to radiation exposure are diverse, originating from many countries with numerous contributing authors. The most common topics covered involve CT and adult patients. The recent peak in the most-highly cited articles (2010) suggests increased attention has been devoted to this field in recent years. Based on these results, it would appear research on radiation exposure in medical imaging is poised to continue expanding.



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Interventional Radiology-Operated Endoscopy as an Adjunct to Image-Guided Interventions

Publication date: Available online 20 March 2018
Source:Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology
Author(s): Rajiv N. Srinivasa, Jeffrey Forris Beecham Chick, Kyle Cooper, Ravi N. Srinivasa
Interventional radiology-operated endoscopy is an underutilized technique which may have a significant impact on the ability to treat patients with a variety of conditions. Interventional radiologists are in a unique position to implement endoscopy into routine practice given the manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination already required to perform other image-guided interventions. When used in combination, endoscopy adds an entirely new dimension to the fluoroscopic-guided procedures of which interventional radiologists are accustomed. A number of new and innovative interventions may be performed in the biliary, genitourinary, and gastrointestinal systems through percutaneous access that interventional radiologists already create. Although other specialists traditionally have performed endoscopic interventions and local politics often dictate referral patterns, a collaborative relationship amongst these specialists and interventional radiology will allow for improved patient care. A concerted effort is needed by interventional radiologists to learn the techniques and equipment required in order to successfully incorporate endoscopy into practice. The article presents the setup, equipment, and potential clinical uses of interventional radiology-operated endoscopy.



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Cosmetics, Vol. 5, Pages 24: Mechanism of Cuticle Hole Development in Human Hair Due to UV-Radiation Exposure

Cosmetics, Vol. 5, Pages 24: Mechanism of Cuticle Hole Development in Human Hair Due to UV-Radiation Exposure

Cosmetics doi: 10.3390/cosmetics5020024

Authors: Kazuhisa Maeda Jun Yamazaki Nana Okita Masami Shimotori Kyouhei Igarashi Taiga Sano

Hair is easily damaged by ultraviolet (UV) radiation, bleaching agents or permanent wave treatments, and as damage progresses, hair loses its gloss, develops split ends and breaks. However, the causes of hair damage due to UV radiation have not yet been clarified. We discovered that in one mechanism facilitating damage to wet hair by UV radiation, the unsaturated fatty acids in wet hair produce hydroxy radicals upon exposure to UV radiation, and these radicals produce cuticle holes between the cuticle layers. In wet hair exposed to UV radiation, cuticle holes were produced only between the cuticle layers, whereas when human hair was immersed in a solution containing hydroxy radicals produced by Fenton's reaction, a random production of cuticle holes was noted. It is thought that hydroxy radicals are produced only between the cuticle layers by exposure to UV radiation, and cuticle holes are formed only in this region because one of the polyunsaturated fatty acids, linoleic acid, with a bis-allyl hydrogen, is found between the cuticle layers.

http://ift.tt/2GP4Mvh

Antibody–Drug Conjugates for the Treatment of Hematological Malignancies: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) are an emerging class of therapeutic agents that bring new opportunities for the treatment of hematological malignancies by meeting unmet medical needs. These drugs consist of a cytotoxic agent connected by a linker to a human, humanized, or chimeric antibody targeting a surface antigen specifically expressed by tumor cells. These ADCs are being developed to specifically deliver the cytotoxic agent into tumor cells. The cytotoxic payload is released from the ADC after internalization and cleavage of the linker, ultimately triggering the death of the cancer cell. Second- and even third-generation ADCs are currently being developed and have more stable linkers and more potent payloads, which should improve ADC efficacy even further. In this review, we analyze the results for the main ADCs currently developed and discuss the advantages and drawbacks of this therapeutic option.

http://ift.tt/2IDI4H9

Pillared graphene as excellent reinforcement for polymer-based nanocomposites

Publication date: 5 June 2018
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 147
Author(s): Ke Duan, Yijun Li, Li Li, Yujin Hu, Xuelin Wang
Three-dimensional (3D) novel architectures consisting of graphene and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) possess a host of attractive properties with applications for numerous fields. In this study, we adopted molecular dynamics (MD) to investigate the capability of a kind of typical 3D carbon nanomaterial (termed as pillared graphene nanostructures (PGNs)) as reinforcement for polymer nanocomposites. The obtained results show that PGNs can significantly enhance the mechanical property of polyethylene (PE) matrix, yielding an increase about 62% in elastic modulus compared with neat PE. Moreover, the PGNs-reinforced PE nanocomposites exhibit excellent property characteristic in all studied three directions, which is quite different compared to the graphene or carbon nanotubes reinforced polymer nanocomposites (which only show improvement in the in-plane direction). Such substantial improvement originates from two aspects: 1) the synergetic effect between the graphene layers and vertically oriented CNTs that enables 3D enhancement; 2) the interlock effect between PE chains and PGNs which is arising from the unique structure of PGNs (graphene layers supported by vertical CNTs). Our results show that PGNs are really extraordinary fillers in reinforcing mechanical property of polymer-based nanocomposites.

Graphical abstract

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Design of a multistable composite laminate by variable cross-section method and applying the displacement constraint

Publication date: 5 June 2018
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 147
Author(s): Weihong Jiang, Ming Li, Yongtao Yao, Fuhong Dai
This paper presents a multistable variable cross-section laminate (MVCL), which is designed by applying the displacement constraint at the two opposing ends of the laminate. A theoretical model describing the MVCL as rigid bars connected with compliant hinges is built to predict the equilibrium configurations and snap-through loads of the MVCL. The snap-through process of the multistable structure is investigated via experiment and finite element analysis (FEA). Subsequently, the theoretical model is improved by simplifying the middle segment of the MVCL as an elastic beam. Good agreement is obtained between the experimental test, FEA, and improved theoretical model results. It is shown that the current approach can be successfully applied to predict the equilibrium configurations and snap-through loads of an MVCL. The snap-through loads can be adjusted by changing the middle segment length of an MVCL.

Graphical abstract

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Time-effective synthesis of rhombohedral CuAlO2 from mesoporous alumina substrate

Publication date: 5 June 2018
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 147
Author(s): Ali Saffar Shamshirgar, Marina Aghayan, Tripurari S. Tripathi, Maarit Karppinen, Michael Gasik, Irina Hussainova
The development of p-type transparent semiconductors with large optical bandgaps and high electrical conductivity is needed for a wide range of applications in optoelectronics and solar cell technologies. The experimental techniques currently used are limited to complex procedures and time consuming processing. In this work, we propose a versatile, simple and reproducible method of rapid reactive dip-coating using a mesoporous network of highly aligned γ-alumina nanofibers for synthesis of delafossite CuAlO2 by a time-effective process of 2h duration. The rhombohedral CuAlO2 was densified with the help of spark plasma sintering in vacuum. Electrical conductivity improves with increase in annealing temperature while its room temperature value for a sample annealed at 1100°C was 0.07Sm⁻¹ measured with four-probe method. Direct optical bandgap of 3.79eV was estimated with the help of diffuse reflection data for the sample sintered at optimal temperature. Both Seebeck coefficient and Hall measurements confirmed the p-type conductivity of the material.NoveltyThe major number of CuAlO2 synthesis approaches require complex instrumentation, templating, and long processing time. Therefore, scalable and cost-effective production of CuAlO2 remains a challenge. Herein, we report a rapid synthesis of CuAlO2, in a straightforward and scalable approach, which reduces the processing cost and overal energy consumption of the process.

Graphical abstract

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Microstructural and micromechanical investigations of surface strengthening mechanisms induced by repeated impacts on pure iron

Publication date: 5 June 2018
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 147
Author(s): David Tumbajoy-Spinel, Xavier Maeder, Gaylord Guillonneau, Sergio Sao-Joao, Sylvie Descartes, Jean-Michel Bergheau, Cécile Langlade, Johann Michler, Guillaume Kermouche
Mechanical surface treatments based on repeated impacts are known to create a graded strengthening in-depth by the means of severe plastic deformation. However microstructural evolution mechanisms leading local progressive grain refinement and the resulting surface mechanical hardening are not yet fully understood. It is shown in this paper that micro-percussion testing represents an interesting case scenario to emulate conventional treatments such as shot peening and better characterize microstructural changes at local and global scales. For this technique, every impact is made at the same position by a rigid conical indenter, controlling the number, angle and velocity of each impact. The main issue of this work is as follows: (i) to describe the transformed microstructures by the means of SEM microscopy and EBSD mapping; (ii) to quantify the mechanical gradient in-depth using the micro-pillar compression testing; and (iii) to converge both descriptions to understand the mechanisms involved on the strengthening of refined structures. This coupled experimental analysis would reveal the influence of different strengthening effects as the Hall-Petch effect or the dislocation hardening. This investigation is carried out in pure α-iron.

Graphical abstract

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Effects of low-temperature transformation and transformation-induced plasticity on weld residual stresses: Numerical study and neutron diffraction measurement

Publication date: 5 June 2018
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 147
Author(s): Wenchun Jiang, Wei Chen, Wanchuck Woo, Shan-Tung Tu, Xian-Cheng Zhang, Vyacheslav Em
In this study, the weld residual stresses (RS) in a 25mm thick ferrite steel plate with newly developed low-temperature transformation (LTT) welding wire were investigated by finite element method and neutron diffraction (ND) measurement. A thermo-elastic–plastic finite element model coupled with solid-state phase transformation (SSPT) was developed to investigate the distribution and formation mechanism of RS, which has been verified by ND measurement. The results demonstrate that the developed LTT alloy can significantly reduce the RS and even generate compressive RS in the weld zone, due to the interrupted cooling shrinkage caused by the LTT. The higher inter-pass temperatures related to the microstructure evolution result in an increased region of compressive stress within the weldment. Moreover, the longitudinal RS in the weld zone gradually changes to tension as the initial temperature of martensitic transformation increases. Notably, the relaxation effect of transformation-induced plasticity on RS and its influence on model accuracy were discussed.

Graphical abstract

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“Adding fuel to the fire”? Does exposure to non-consenting adult or to child pornography increase risk of sexual aggression?

Publication date: Available online 21 March 2018
Source:Aggression and Violent Behavior
Author(s): Neil Malamuth
This article is the first to integrate the vast research literatures on non-consenting adult and on child pornography (also a form of non-consenting pornography) by using the framework of the Confluence Model of sexual aggression. In contrast to the contradictory conclusions reached by various reviewers and commentators who have typically emphasized a particular methodology or parts of the literature, this review finds a great deal of consistency and convergence among the differing methodologies and literatures that have examined the impact of pornography on individuals. It is concluded that pornography use may add to risk of sexual aggression only for those men already predisposed to aggress sexually due to more primary causes than pornography use.



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A case of disseminated sporotrichosis caused by Sporothrix brasiliensis

Publication date: Available online 21 March 2018
Source:Medical Mycology Case Reports
Author(s): Rachel Basques Caligiorne, Blenda Fernandes, Dayana Monteiro Coutinho, Renata R. Gomes, Amanda Sanchez Machado, Emanoelle Fernandes Rutren La Santrer, Maria Silvia Laborne, Mauricio Buzelin Nunes, Vania A. Vicente, Sybren de Hoog
This paper presents a case of disseminated sporotrichosis in a 13-year-old female, originating from a rural area in Minas Gerais state, Brazil. The patient was hospitalized with hyporexia, prostration, fever and disseminated ulcerative lesions, besides anemia, leucopenia and sepsis of probable cutaneous focus. The patient was admitted without proven immunosuppression. She was diagnosed with cutaneous-disseminated sporotrichosis. The drug therapy chosen was itraconazole during 12 months, leading to important clinical improvement and healing of cutaneous lesions.



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Performance and mechanism of fluoride adsorption from groundwater by lanthanum-modified pomelo peel biochar

Abstract

To obtain an economical and effective adsorbent for fluoride removal, lanthanum-loaded pomelo peel biochar (PPBC-La) was synthesized using a facile approach. The batch adsorption experiments were investigated to determine adsorbent performance. The PPBC-La and its pristine biochar (PPBC) were characterized by scanning electronic microscopy (SEM), zeta potential, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) methods. Experimental results showed that the adsorption data were described well by the pseudo-second-order kinetic and Freundlich isotherm models. The maximum fluoride adsorption capacity for PPBC-La was found to be 19.86 mg/g at 25 °C and pH 6.5. The PPBC-La worked well at pH 2.4–9.6 and carried positive charge at pH < 5.8. The presence of SO₄²⁻, Cl⁻, and NO₃⁻ had a slight effect on fluoride uptake except HCO₃⁻ and PO₄³⁻. The real groundwater study testified that 9.8 mg/L of fluoride was removed effectively at 1.0 g/L of dosage and pH 5.2. The regeneration results revealed that the PPBC-La had a good reusability. According to FTIR, XPS analysis and the anion exchange experiment, anions (NO₃⁻ and OH⁻) exchange with fluoride ions was mainly responsible for fluoride adsorption.

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Predicting fundamental and realized distributions based on thermal niche: A case study of a freshwater turtle

Publication date: April 2018
Source:Acta Oecologica, Volume 88
Author(s): João Fabrício Mota Rodrigues, Marco Túlio Pacheco Coelho, Bruno R. Ribeiro
Species distribution models (SDM) have been broadly used in ecology to address theoretical and practical problems. Currently, there are two main approaches to generate SDMs: (i) correlative, which is based on species occurrences and environmental predictor layers and (ii) process-based models, which are constructed based on species' functional traits and physiological tolerances. The distributions estimated by each approach are based on different components of species niche. Predictions of correlative models approach species realized niches, while predictions of process-based are more akin to species fundamental niche. Here, we integrated the predictions of fundamental and realized distributions of the freshwater turtle Trachemys dorbigni. Fundamental distribution was estimated using data of T. dorbigni's egg incubation temperature, and realized distribution was estimated using species occurrence records. Both types of distributions were estimated using the same regression approaches (logistic regression and support vector machines), both considering macroclimatic and microclimatic temperatures. The realized distribution of T. dorbigni was generally nested in its fundamental distribution reinforcing theoretical assumptions that the species' realized niche is a subset of its fundamental niche. Both modelling algorithms produced similar results but microtemperature generated better results than macrotemperature for the incubation model. Finally, our results reinforce the conclusion that species realized distributions are constrained by other factors other than just thermal tolerances.



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Initial response of human bone marrow–derived stem cells after contact with ultrahigh-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) material: An in vitro study on cell viability and interleukin-6 expression

Iwan B Anwar, Asep Santoso, Eko Saputra, Rifky Ismail, J Jamari, Emile van der Heide

Journal of Pharmacy And Bioallied Sciences 2018 10(1):43-47

Introduction: Ultrahigh-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is a thermoplastic polymer useful in biomaterial applications, especially in orthopedic field. Yet, little is known concerning its initial effect on human bone marrow stem cells (hBMSCs) after implantation. Materials and Methods: A cytotoxicity analysis was performed with a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol 2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium assay after 24, 48, and 72h of incubation of hBMSC culture. Expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6) was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Cell viability was measured with Inhibitory concentration 50% (IC50) formula. Results: All treatment groups showed a cell viability of >50% ranging from 78% to >100%. Lower expression of IL-6 of hBMSC compared to control group was found in 48h of incubation period. Conclusion: hBMSC showed high cell viability after initial contact with UHMWPE material. Modulation of IL-6 expression was present at the initial stage as a response to foreign material.

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Knowledge and attitude of health-care professionals toward adverse drug reactions reporting at King Saud Medical City

Khaja Moinuddin, Sheraz Ali, Amal Qadri Al-Aqqad, Sara Osama Salem, Maram Abdullah Al-Dossari, Abdullah Mohammad Ananzeh, Jaffer Bin Baqar

Journal of Pharmacy And Bioallied Sciences 2018 10(1):29-34

Background: Health-care professionals across the globe are obligated to report adverse drug reactions (ADRs). The knowledge of ADRs and attitude of health-care professionals toward ADRs reporting is vital for patient safety. This study intends to investigate the knowledge of ADRs and attitude of health-care professionals toward ADRs reporting. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study using an anonymous questionnaire was conducted over a period of 3 months (September 2016 to November 2016) at King Saud Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This study included 399 questionnaires submitted by health-care professionals. Results: A total of 399 questionnaires were submitted by health-care professionals, of which only 14.8% knew the term "ADR" and 55.1% of the respondents reported ADRs during their practice. A total of 93.8% of the respondents agreed that ADR reporting should be made mandatory for health-care professionals, and 94.5% agreed that it improves the patient safety. Conclusion: The findings generally indicate that health-care professionals in a tertiary care setting have low awareness regarding the term "ADR." Lack of pharmacovigilance training, amount of workload, and legal liabilities are the main causes of underreporting. More than half of the respondents agreed that ADR reporting eventually improves patient safety.

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Knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding the risk of cardiovascular diseases in patients attending outpatient clinic in Kuantan, Malaysia

Nursyafiza B Mohammad, Nor Azlina A Rahman, Mainul Haque

Journal of Pharmacy And Bioallied Sciences 2018 10(1):7-14

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of death around the world including Malaysia. Ischemic heart disease (IHD) is the single largest cause of death in the developed countries and is one of the main contributors to the disease burden in developing countries. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted to determine knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding the risk of CVD in patients attending an outpatient clinic in Kuantan, Malaysia. A total of 100 patients comprising 52 male and 48 female subjects were selected through convenient sampling method. Results: Of the total subjects, 86% were Malays. The mean scores (standard deviation) for KAP were 60.75±4.823, 54.36±8.711, and 33.43±4.046, respectively, whereas the maximum scores obtained by the subjects for KAP were 71, 65, and 43, respectively. Regarding questions related to knowledge, 88% subjects knew irregular eating pattern can cause disease and the benefits of vegetable intake. Most subjects recognized that smoking and obesity were CVD risk factors. Regarding questions related to attitude, 96% agreed that exercise can prevent CVD. More than half of the subjects followed healthy lifestyle. There were statistically significant differences observed in knowledge level between sexes (P = 0.046) and races (P = 0.001). Nevertheless, there was no statistically significant difference observed in KAP across different education levels of the subjects regarding the risk of CVD (P-value = 0.332, 0.185, and 0.160, respectively). Conclusion: This study revealed that patients had good knowledge and attitude regarding CVD risk factors. Yet, the number of smokers is still quite high. Development of better public information system is essential for the well-being of the society.

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Evaluation of bloodletting cupping therapy in the management of hypertension

Moawia M Al-Tabakha, Farah Tariq Sameer, Mai Hafiz Saeed, Rahaf Montaser Batran, Nada Tarek Abouhegazy, Alaa A Farajallah

Journal of Pharmacy And Bioallied Sciences 2018 10(1):1-6

Background: Bloodletting cupping therapy (Hijama) is a traditional alternative medicine practiced in different cultures. Claims about the therapeutic efficacy of Hijama in hypertension are contradictory. The aim of this project was to determine if Hijama therapy is beneficial in the treatment of patients with hypertension. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective study, 60 files for patients treated for hypertension, aged 40–60 years and whose systolic blood pressure (SBP) is at least 140mm Hg, were used. The data from 30 patient files were obtained from three licensed Hijama centers (study group), whereas data from the rest of 30 patient files were collected from a hospital (control group). The data from Hijama centers included age, date of Hijama therapy, and blood pressure measured before each Hijama session. Both diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and SBP data were obtained over 3-month period. Results: The results showed a significant reduction in SBP (P value < 0.01) over three sessions of wet cupping (from 149.2 to 130.8mm Hg), but this was not significant for DBP over three sessions (P = 0.074). The study also found that the mean SBP in the study group was 9.6mm Hg less than that in the control group (130.8 vs. 140.4mm Hg, P = 0.019), whereas there was no significant difference in DBP between the study group and the control group (87.0 vs. 86.0mm Hg, P = 0.75). Conclusions: Our study shows clear relationship between Hijama and the reduction and control of SBP in patients with hypertension. Therefore, Hijama can be used as an adjunct to conventional therapy, which may allow downtitration of given doses of antihypertensive drugs. The possible association of SBP reduction by Hijama and pain reduction needs an investigation.

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Phytochemical constituents and antimicrobial activity of the ethanol and chloroform crude leaf extracts of Spathiphyllum cannifolium (Dryand. ex Sims) Schott

Arunachalam Dhayalan, Daniel E Gracilla, Renato A Dela Peña Jr, Marilyn T Malison, Christian R Pangilinan

Journal of Pharmacy And Bioallied Sciences 2018 10(1):15-20

Context: The study investigated the medicinal properties of Spathiphyllum cannifolium (Dryand. ex Sims) Schott as a possible source of antimicrobial compounds. Materials and Methods: The phytochemical constituents were screened using qualitative methods and the antibacterial and antifungal activities were determined using agar well diffusion method. Statistical Analysis: One-way analysis of variance and Fisher's least significant difference test were used. Results: The phytochemical screening showed the presence of sterols, flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, glycosides, and tannins in both ethanol and chloroform leaf extracts, but triterpenes were detected only in the ethanol leaf extract. The antimicrobial assay revealed that the chloroform leaf extract inhibited Candida albicans, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, whereas the ethanol leaf extract inhibited E. coli, S. aureus, and B. subtilis only. The ethanol and chloroform leaf extracts exhibited the highest zone of inhibition against B. subtilis. The antifungal assay showed that both the leaf extracts have no bioactivity against Aspergillus niger and C. albicans. Conclusions: Results suggest that chloroform is the better solvent for the extraction of antimicrobial compounds against the test organisms used in this study. Findings of this research will add new knowledge in advancing drug discovery and development in the Philippines.

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In vivo evaluation of the anticancer activity of the gemcitabine and doxorubicin combined in a nanoemulsion

Mayson H Alkhatib, Wafa S Alshehri, Faiza B Abdu

Journal of Pharmacy And Bioallied Sciences 2018 10(1):35-42

Context: Doxorubicin (DOX) and gemcitabine (GEM) are anticancer drugs that were combined in a nanoemulsion (NE) to reduce their adverse side effects. Aim: To detect the antitumor activity of the combination formulas of GEM and DOX, loaded either in water (GEM+DOX-Sol) or in NEs (GEM–DOX combination/loaded NE [GEM+DOX/LNE]), in female Swiss albino mice inoculated with Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC). Settings and Design: The anticancer assessment of the NE formulas was implemented in 200 mice, which were divided into 10 groups. Materials and Methods: It includes the detection of the change in body weight, analysis of the hematological and serum biochemical profiles, and study of the histopathologic alterations of the heart tissues. Statistical Analysis: One-factor analysis of variance was used. Results: Mice treated with GEM + DOX/LNE, which have an z-average of 155.38±2.33nm and zeta potential of −38.5±1.3 mV, recorded a considerable improvement in the mean survival time (MST), which was 60 days, as compared to the EAC control group, which has an MST of 28 days. It also restored the hematological and serum biochemical parameters toward normal values. Conclusions: The combination of GEM and DOX in NE has significantly diminished the cardiotoxicity of DOX and hematotoxicity of GEM while improving their antitumor properties.

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Safety evaluation of various vector repellents in combination with deltamethrin in Wistar rats

Anitha Magesh, Senthilkumar Sivanesan, Vijayaraghavan Rajagopalan, Royapuram Veeraragavan Geetha, Anitha Roy

Journal of Pharmacy And Bioallied Sciences 2018 10(1):21-28

Background: Vector repellents are used globally to avoid insect bites and control transmission of diseases. It is important to ensure safety levels of these compounds, although they are noxious to insects. Vector repellents when used in combination are known to bring additional benefits in getting rid of the harmful insects. Unfortunately, the safety levels of various vector repellents such as Deet (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide), Depa (N,N-diethyl phenylacetamide), and Deb (N,N-diethylbenzamide) are not studied in combination with the widely used pyrethroid deltamethrin (Del). Materials and Methods: In this study, safety evaluation of various vector repellents by oral route in combination with Del was studied by assessing body weight and organ weight changes, hematological parameters, and biochemical parameters in Wistar rats. Results: The results revealed significant changes in liver marker enzymes in Del, Deb, Del + Depa, and Del + Deet groups. Urea levels were significantly altered after treatment with various repellents and in combination with Del, except Deb-alone group. Hematological and rest of the biochemical parameters were found to be unaltered in all the treatment groups. Significant changes in the liver weight were found in Deb, Depa, Deet, Del + Deb, and Del + Deet groups. Conclusions: Taken together, the overall results of this study indicate that single, high oral dose of various insect repellents did not show any additive toxicity.

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Hypnotic effect of red cabbage (Brassica oleracea) on pentobarbital-induced sleep in mice

Azar Hosseini, Mohammad-Ali Sobhanifar, Fatemeh Forouzanfar, Azita Aghaee, Hassan Rakhshandeh

Journal of Pharmacy And Bioallied Sciences 2018 10(1):48-53

Objective: The present study was performed to investigate the effect of hydroalcoholic extract of red cabbage and its fractions on sleeping behavior in mice. Materials and Methods: The extract and its fractions were injected to mice and sleep duration as well as sleep latency were recorded. Furthermore, toxicity of the extract was determined both in vivo and in vitro. Results: The extract increased sleep duration at doses of 50–200mg/kg (P < 0.001). This observed hypnotic effect was comparable to that of diazepam (3mg/kg) (P < 0.001 in comparison with control group). Ethyl acetate, n-butanol, and aqueous fractions could increase sleep duration (P < 0.001). The sleep latency was decreased by the extract (P < 0.001) and only ethyl acetate fraction (P < 0.001). LD50 value for red cabbage extract was 2.4g/kg. There was no toxic effect on viability of cultured neuronal cells (PC12). Rotarod test results showed that there were no significant differences between the extract groups and the control group. Conclusion: The results suggest that red cabbage potentiates pentobarbital hypnosis without any toxic effect. The main component(s) responsible for this effect is most likely to be intermediate polar agent(s) such as flavonoids, which are found in ethyl acetate fraction of this plant.

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Letter from the Editor: Abdominal Imaging

Publication date: April 2018
Source:Seminars in Ultrasound, CT and MRI, Volume 39, Issue 2
Author(s): Gabriela Gayer




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The anuran skin peptide bradykinin mediates its own absorption across epithelial barriers of the digestive tract

Publication date: Available online 20 March 2018
Source:Peptides
Author(s): Constantijn Raaymakers, Elin Verbrugghe, Benoit Stijlemans, An Martel, Frank Pasmans, Kim Roelants
When faced with a potential predator, a wide range of frog species secrete a mixture of peptide toxins from their skin to defend themselves. We have recently shown that antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) in a frog's defensive poison enhance the uptake of these peptides across epithelia, thereby speeding up the process of predator intoxication. This study provides evidence that bradykinin, a widespread peptide toxin in anurans (frogs), is capable to pass through epithelial barriers independent of this delivery system. We quantified bradykinin peptides secreted by Bombina orientalis during acute stress, and found that at biologically relevant concentrations, bradykinin passage across model epithelia occurs even in the absence of AMPs. Monitoring of transepithelial electric resistance showed that bradykinin treatment caused a subtle yet prolonged reduction in barrier function, indicating that the peptide itself is capable to increase the permeability of epithelia. Yet, bradykinin does not cause cells to leak lactate dehydrogenase, suggesting that it does not damage cell membranes. Moreover, imaging of bradykinin-treated monolayers shows no endocytosis of fluorescent propidium iodide, indicating that the peptide does not perforate cell membranes at smaller scale and therefore is unlikely to cross epithelia via a transcellular passage. Together, these observations suggest that bradykinin, unlike other amphibian neuropeptide toxins, mediates its own passage across mucosal barriers, possibly through a paracellular route. This "self-administering" property, combined with the fact that bradykinins can potently disturb multiple physiological processes, could explain why these peptides are one of the most widespread antipredator peptides in the defensive secretions of frogs.



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Carbon quantum dots from natural resource: A review

Publication date: June 2018
Source:Materials Today Chemistry, Volume 8
Author(s): Rashmita Das, Rajib Bandyopadhyay, Panchanan Pramanik
Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) are a new class of fluorescence small carbon nanoparticles with a particle size of less than 10 nm and have vast applications in the field of bioimaging, biosensing and disease-detection. These are promising materials for nano-biotechnology since it has smaller particle size, excellent biocompatibility and excitation wavelength dependent photoluminescence (PL) behavior, photo induced electron transfer, chemical inertness and low toxicity. These materials have excellent fluorescent properties such as broad excitation spectra, narrow and tunable emission spectra, and high photostability against photo bleaching and blinking than other fluorescent semiconductor quantum dots. This review article demonstrate the recent progress in the synthesis, functionalization and technical applications of carbon quantum dots using electrochemical oxidation, combustion/thermal, chemical change, microwave heating, arc-discharge, and laser ablation methods from various natural resources. Natural carbon sources are used for the preparation of CQDs due to its low cost, environmental friendly and widely available.

Graphical abstract

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Ongoing brain rhythms shape I-wave properties in a computational model

Publication date: Available online 20 March 2018
Source:Brain Stimulation
Author(s): Natalie Schaworonkow, Jochen Triesch
BackgroundResponses to transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) are notoriously variable. Previous studies have observed a dependence of TMS-induced responses on ongoing brain activity, for instance sensorimotor rhythms. This suggests an opportunity for the development of more effective stimulation protocols through closed-loop TMS-EEG. However, it is not yet clear how features of ongoing activity affect the responses of cortical circuits to TMS.Objective/HypothesisHere we investigate the dependence of TMS-responses on power and phase of ongoing oscillatory activity in a computational model of TMS-induced I-waves.MethodsThe model comprises populations of cortical layer 2/3 (L2/3) neurons and a population of cortical layer 5 (L5) neurons and generates I-waves in response to TMS. Oscillatory input to the L2/3 neurons induces rhythmic fluctuations in activity of L5 neurons. TMS pulses are simulated at different phases and amplitudes of the ongoing rhythm.ResultsThe model shows a robust dependence of I-wave properties on phase and power of ongoing rhythms, with the strongest response occurring for TMS at maximal L5 depolarization. The amount of phase-modulation depends on stimulation intensity, with stronger modulation for lower intensity.ConclusionThe model predicts that responses to TMS are highly variable for low stimulation intensities if ongoing brain rhythms are not taken into account. Closed-loop TMS-EEG holds promise for obtaining more reliable TMS effects.



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Coming into Focus: Mechanisms of Microtubule Minus-End Organization

Publication date: Available online 20 March 2018
Source:Trends in Cell Biology
Author(s): Maud Martin, Anna Akhmanova
Microtubule organization has a crucial role in regulating cell architecture. The geometry of microtubule arrays strongly depends on the distribution of sites responsible for microtubule nucleation and minus-end attachment. In cycling animal cells, the centrosome often represents a dominant microtubule-organizing center (MTOC). However, even in cells with a radial microtubule system, many microtubules are not anchored at the centrosome, but are instead linked to the Golgi apparatus or other structures. Non-centrosomal microtubules predominate in many types of differentiated cell and in mitotic spindles. In this review, we discuss recent advances in understanding how the organization of centrosomal and non-centrosomal microtubule networks is controlled by proteins involved in microtubule nucleation and specific factors that recognize free microtubule minus ends and regulate their localization and dynamics.



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Assessment of dosimetric errors induced by deformable image registration methods in 4D pencil beam scanned proton treatment planning for liver tumours

Publication date: Available online 20 March 2018
Source:Radiotherapy and Oncology
Author(s): Cássia O. Ribeiro, Antje Knopf, Johannes A. Langendijk, Damien C. Weber, Antony J. Lomax, Ye Zhang
PurposeRespiratory impacts in pencil beam scanned proton therapy (PBS-PT) are accounted by extensive 4D dose calculations, where deformable image registration (DIR) is necessary for estimating deformation vector fields (DVFs). We aim here to evaluate the dosimetric errors induced by different DIR algorithms in their resulting 4D dose calculations by using ground truth(GT)-DVFs from 4DMRI.Materials and methodsSix DIR methods: ANACONDA, Morfeus, B-splines, Demons, CT Deformable, and Total Variation, were respectively applied to nine 4DCT-MRI liver data sets. The derived DVFs were then used as input for 4D dose calculation. The DIR induced dosimetric error was assessed by individually comparing the resultant 4D dose distributions to those obtained with GT-DVFs. Both single-/three-field plans and single/rescanned strategies were investigated.ResultsDifferences in 4D dose distributions among different DIR algorithms, and compared to the results using GT-DVFs, were pronounced. Up to 40 % of clinically relevant dose calculation points showed dose differences of 10 % or more between the GT. Differences in V95(CTV) reached up to 11.34 ± 12.57 %. The dosimetric errors became in general less substantial when applying multiple-field plans or using rescanning.ConclusionIntrinsic geometric errors by DIR can influence the clinical evaluation of liver 4D PBS-PT plans. We recommend the use of an error bar for correctly interpreting individual 4D dose distributions.



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Chemical and biological evaluation of moxifloxacin-benzimidazole mixed ligands complexes: Anti-cancer and anti-oxidant activities

Publication date: 5 July 2018
Source:Journal of Molecular Structure, Volume 1163
Author(s): Heba M. Refaat, Doaa A. Noor El-Din
Novel complexes of the formula [M(MOX)(Ben)Cl(H2O)m].nH2O and [Ag(MOX)(Ben)] 3.5H2O; M = Co, Ni, and Zn, n = 1.5, 2 and 1, m = 0 or 2, MOX; Moxifloxacin and Ben; benzimidazole, were synthesized. Their effect on different cancer cells together with bacterial and fungal activity was determined. Formulation of the complexes was based on elemental analyses, different spectrophotometric methods (FT-IR, UV/Vis, NMR), and magnetic studies. FT-IR data indicated that the bonding of the Co(II), Ni(II) and Zn(II) ions with MOX to be achieved through the quinolone and carboxylate oxygen atoms. On the other hand Ag(I) bonded to the MOX through hydro-pyrrolopyridine nitrogen atom. TGA and DTA studies for the metal complexes showed them to possess considerable stability. Thermodynamic parameters ΔE*, ΔS* and ΔH* were evaluated and the appearance of fractional orders suggested that the reactions proceed via complicated mechanisms. The novel mixed ligands complexes were evaluated for their biological activity against the bacterial species (S. aureus) and (E. coli) and the fungal species Aspergillus flavus and Candida albicans. The complexes were found to possess better antibacterial and antifungal activities compared to the Moxifloxacin ligand. The compounds' effects were also screened for their anti-oxidant activity by DPPH method and were tested for their cytotoxicity activity against Breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7), Colon carcinoma cells (HCT) and Hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2) by viability assay method.

Graphical abstract

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Recovery of indium based on the combined methods of ionic liquid extraction and electrodeposition

Publication date: 7 August 2018
Source:Separation and Purification Technology, Volume 201
Author(s): Masahiko Matsumiya, Maori Sumi, Yuuki Uchino, Itaru Yanagi
The diluent characteristics and the wide electrochemical window of the ionic liquid (IL), n-hexyl-trimethyl ammonium bis(trifluoromethyl-sulfonyl)amide; [N1116][TFSA], have been exploited for the extraction of In(III) from 1,1,1-trifluoro-N-[(trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl]methane sulfonamide (H[TFSA]) aqueous solution using 1.0 M tri-n-butylphosphate (TBP) in [N1116][TFSA], followed by direct electrodeposition as In metal from organic phase. The extraction mechanism of In(III) with TBP/[N1116][TFSA] has been investigated from the slope analysis. As a result, it was revealed that the extraction mechanism of In(III) in IL system was based on the following solvation extraction by TBP and the [N1116⁺] cation exchange extraction; [In(III)]aq + 3[TBP]IL + [N1116][TFSA]IL + 2[TFSA⁻]aq ↔ [In(TBP)3³⁺(TFSA⁻)3]IL + [N1116⁺]aq. Moreover, the selective extraction of In(III) from the aqueous phase including Ni(II) and Zn(II) was performed in the range of pH = 1.5–4.0.The electrochemical behavior of extracted [In(TBP)3³⁺] complex in [N1116][TFSA] on a platinum quartz crystal electrode was investigate by EQCM analysis. The reduction peak at −1.0 V was assigned at the [In(TBP)3³⁺]/In(0) couple on the voltammogram. Potentiostatic electrodeposition of [In(TBP)3³⁺] at −1.0 V allowed us to obtain the blackish electrodeposits, which were identified as most of In metal by EDX and XRD analyses.

Graphical abstract

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N,N′-dimethyl-N,N′-dicyclohexylsuccinamide: A novel molecule for the separation and recovery of Pd(II) by liquid-liquid extraction

Publication date: 7 August 2018
Source:Separation and Purification Technology, Volume 201
Author(s): Maria Clara Costa, Ana Assunção, Ruben Almeida, Ana Maria Rosa da Costa, Carlos Nogueira, Ana Paula Paiva
N,N′-dimethyl-N,N′-dicyclohexylsuccinamide (DMDCHSA) is investigated as a potential molecule for the liquid-liquid extraction of Pd(II) from chloride solutions for the first time. The effect of several parameters on Pd(II) extraction, such as the contact period between both phases, hydrochloric acid, extractant and hydrogen ion concentrations, is evaluated. Pd(II) extraction equilibrium is very fast (30 s) and the extraction percentage (%E) increases with the HCl concentration in the aqueous phases, being higher than 60% for [HCl] > 5 M. The loading capacity of DMDCHSA for Pd(II) is reasonable (molar ratio extractant/metal higher than 16). Several stripping agents (e.g. distilled water, 1 M HCl, seawater and 20 g/L chloride solution as NaCl) were successfully used to transfer Pd(II) to a new aqueous phase, and data obtained from five successive extraction-stripping cycles suggest a good DMDCHSA stability pattern. Attempts to replace 1,2-dichloroethane (1,2-DCE) by commercial and more environmentally friendly diluents showed much worse %E for Pd(II). Selectivity tests with binary, ternary and more complex metal ion solutions were carried out to evaluate the performance of DMDCHSA towards Pd(II) recovery from 6 M HCl, when in presence of Pt(IV), Fe(III), Zn(II), Al(III) and Ce(III), metal ions usually present in solutions that may result from the hydrometallurgical treatment of spent automobile catalytic converters. It was generally observed that the additional metal ions do not affect the recovery of Pd(II) by DMDCHSA, although Fe(III) and Pt(IV) were co-extracted in a great extent. A solvent extraction (SX) scheme is proposed, based on a previous separation of Fe(III) with tributylphosphate (TBP) and on the selective and sequential stripping of Pt(IV) and Pd(II) from the loaded DMDCHSA with 0.01 M thiourea in 0.5 M HCl and seawater, respectively. The dependence of the Pd(II) distribution ratios on DMDCHSA and acidity, complemented with UV–Visible spectroscopy data, points out to DMDCHSA:Pd(II) extracted species with a 2:1 molar ratio and suggests the occurrence of an outer-sphere ion pair reaction, in which both [PdCl4]²⁻ and HCl are extracted.



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Synthesis of a zinc(II) complex with hexadentate N4S2 donor thioether ligand: X-ray structure, DNA binding study and DFT computation

Publication date: 15 July 2018
Source:Journal of Molecular Structure, Volume 1164
Author(s): Apurba Sau Mondal, Mahendra Sekhar Jana, Chandan Kumar Manna, Rahul Naskar, Tapan Kumar Mondal
A new zinc(II) complex, [Zn(L)](ClO4) with hexadentate N4S2 donor azo-thioether ligand (HL) was synthesized and characterized by several spectroscopic techniques. The structure was confirmed by single crystal X-ray analysis. The interaction of the complex with CT DNA was investigated by UV–vis method and binding constant is found to be 6.6 × 10⁴ M⁻¹. Competitive binding titration with ethidium bromide (EB) by fluorescence titration method reveals that the complex efficiently displaces EB from EB-DNA system and the Stern-Volmer dynamic quenching constant, Ksv is found to be 2.6 × 10⁴ M⁻¹. DFT and TDDFT calculations were carried out to interpret the electronic structure and electronic spectra of the complex.

Graphical abstract

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Chronopotentiometry of an anion-exchange membrane for treating a synthesized free-cyanide effluent from brass electrodeposition with EDTA as chelating agent

Publication date: 7 August 2018
Source:Separation and Purification Technology, Volume 201
Author(s): Kayo Santana Barros, Denise Crocce Romano Espinosa
The promising substitution of cyanide by EDTA as chelating agent in brass electrodeposition has been evaluated by many researchers in the last few years. This is very interesting for treating the effluent generated, since the presence of EDTA facilitates the recovery of the metals using electrodialysis, for example. Hence, using chronopotentiometry, our aim was to investigate the transport properties of the chelates involved in the potential treatment by electrodialysis of the effluent generated in the free-cyanide brass electrodeposition. We assessed the limiting current density, ohmic resistance, plateau length, concentration polarization and the undesirable precipitate formation in function of the solution pH, Cu²⁺/Zn²⁺ proportion and EDTA/Cu²⁺ molar ratio using the anionic HDX200 membrane. The pH solution showed a strong relation with all the properties and under higher pH, precipitate formation by the curves behavior was verified. Besides, the precipitate formation was also observed for the lower proportion of Cu²⁺, while no unexpected behavior was verified for Cu²⁺ concentrations ≥ Zn²⁺. Finally, the EDTA concentration altered only the limiting current density, since similar typical chronopotentiograms and current-voltage curves were obtained. It was found that the better conditions of the effluent to be treated may be pH 9/10, Cu²⁺ proportion = 50% and EDTA/Cu²⁺ = 2.5.



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Optical and thermogravimetric analysis of Zn1-xCuxS/PVA nanocomposite films

Publication date: 5 July 2018
Source:Journal of Molecular Structure, Volume 1163
Author(s): Mohamed Bakr Mohamed, Zein K. Heiba, N.G. Imam
Cu doped ZnS nanoparticles with cubic blend structure had been prepared successfully through thermolysis route and then composited with poly vinyl alcohol using casting method. Zn1-xCuxS/PVA nanocomposites were characterized using different characterization techniques. The quantum dot nature of the ZnS:Cu phase was confirmed by transmission electron microscope technique. Thermal stability was studied by thermogravimetric analysis. The ultra violet measurements illustrated that addition of Zn1-xCuxS nanoparticles to PVA matrix increased the film absorbance. Furthermore, the energy gap and refractive index of the composites were obtained from ultra violet and photoluminescence spectrophotometers. The photoluminescence spectra of ZnS:Cu/PVA nanocomposite films demonstrated a quite broad emission peak at 435 nm with highest photoluminescence intensity in nanocomposite doped with 1% Cu.

Graphical abstract

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Photoactivity inhibition of zinc phthalocyanine choline derivatives (Cholosens) by sodium alginate

Publication date: August 2018
Source:Dyes and Pigments, Volume 155
Author(s): Vladimir B. Sheinin, Olga M. Kulikova, Irina M. Lipatova, Anna A. Yusova, Oscar I. Koifman
With the aim of achieving supramolecular structures with controlled phototoxicity of photosensitizer the features of formation, stoichiometry, spectral and aggregation properties of alginate polyelectrolyte complex of Zn-phthalocyanine hepta- and octacholine derivatives were investigated. Chlorides of such Zn-phthalocyanine choline derivatives enter into the composition of photosensitizer Cholosens, developed for photodynamic therapy of oncological and infectious diseases. Cholosens cations possessed high, but different resistance to aggregation. In an aqueous solution saturated with sodium chloride, heptacations exist as H-dimers, in contrast to more hydrophilic octacations. Cholosens interaction with sodium alginate leads to a rapid self-assembly of the alginate polyelectrolyte complex with octacations and heptacations H-dimers. At the equivalence point, a jump-like collapse of the polymer coils occurs to form a suspension of the electroneutral nanogel of polyelectrolyte complex. Cholosens cations fluorescence in obtained nanogel is completely quenched. This fluorescence quenching is due to the H-dimerization of heptacathions, and the octacations interaction with alginate environment inside the polymer coil. Result of this work demonstrates the possibility of the Cholosens phototoxicity inhibition, promising for "on/off" systems developing.

Graphical abstract

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Analysis of metal(loid)s contamination and their continuous input in soils around a zinc smelter: Development of methodology and a case study in South Korea

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Environmental Pollution, Volume 238
Author(s): Sung-Wook Yun, Philippe C. Baveye, Dong-Hyeon Kim, Dong-Hyeon Kang, Si-Young Lee, Min-Jae Kong, Chan-Gi Park, Hae-Do Kim, Jinkwan Son, Chan Yu
Soil contamination due to atmospheric deposition of metals originating from smelters is a global environmental problem. A common problem associated with this contamination is the discrimination between anthropic and natural contributions to soil metal concentrations: In this context, we investigated the characteristics of soil contamination in the surrounding area of a world class smelter. We attempted to combine several approaches in order to identify sources of metals in soils and to examine contamination characteristics, such as pollution level, range, and spatial distribution. Soil samples were collected at 100 sites during a field survey and total concentrations of As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Ni, Pb, and Zn were analyzed. We conducted a multivariate statistical analysis, and also examined the spatial distribution by 1) identifying the horizontal variation of metals according to particular wind directions and distance from the smelter and 2) drawing a distribution map by means of a GIS tool. As, Cd, Cu, Hg, Pb, and Zn in the soil were found to originate from smelter emissions, and As also originated from other sources such as abandoned mines and waste landfill. Among anthropogenic metals, the horizontal distribution of Cd, Hg, Pb, and Zn according to the downwind direction and distance from the smelter showed a typical feature of atmospheric deposition (regression model: y = y0 + αe^−βx). Lithogenic Fe was used as an indicator, and it revealed the continuous input and accumulation of these four elements in the surrounding soils. Our approach was effective in clearly identifying the sources of metals and analyzing their contamination characteristics. We believe this study will provide useful information to future studies on soil pollution by metals around smelters.

Graphical abstract

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Fluoroimmunoassays for the detection of zearalenone in maize using CdTe/CdS/ZnS quantum dots

Publication date: 30 July 2018
Source:Food Chemistry, Volume 255
Author(s): Fuyuan Zhang, Bing Liu, Wei Sheng, Yan Zhang, Qi Liu, Shijie Li, Shuo Wang
CdTe/CdS/ZnS quantum dots (QDs) were synthesized in aqueous phase and conjugated with a new anti-zearalenone (ZEN) monoclonal antibody. Using this novel fluorescent probe, a fluoroimmunoassay (FLISA) and a rapid immunochromatographic strip (ICTS) were developed for the detection of ZEN in maize. Our proposed FLISA allowed for ZEN determination in the range of 0.038–0.977 ng/mL with an IC50 of 0.162 ng/mL and a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.012 ng/mL occurring in maize. The rapid ICTS had a visual LOD of 1.0 ng/mL in buffer solution and 1.5 ng/mL in maize extract. These two QDs-based immunoassays were all successfully verified by commercial ELISA kits. The results confirmed that: firstly, the FLISA can be used as a robust method for the sensitive detection of ZEN; and secondly, the ICTS is ideally suited for rapidly screening large numbers of samples.



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Structural, electronic and magnetic properties of Mn-doped and vacancy-doped 2D LiZnP

Publication date: 15 July 2018
Source:Journal of Magnetism and Magnetic Materials, Volume 458
Author(s): Hualong Tao, Linlin Su, Mengxia Wang, Ming He, Bo Song, Long Lin, Zhihua Zhang
The electronic and magnetic properties of Mn-doped 2D LiZnP with and without vacancy are investigated within the framework of density functional theory. Our results indicate that the pristine 2D LiZnP still exhibit semiconductor character with a narrower band gap about 1.3 eV due to change of crystal structure. The Mn-doped 2D LiZnP favors spin-polarized ground states. The magnetic coupling results show that the Mn-doped 2D LiZnP exist the ferromagnetic stable state, which is mediated by the stronger interaction between Mn-3d and P-2p state. Both Li and Zn vacancies acting as acceptor defect increase the carrier concentration and thus enhance the magnetism. Among them, Li vacancies system can result in antiferromagnetic coupling among Mn impurities, while Zn vacancies system enhances the ferromagnetic stable state.

Graphical abstract

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Syntheses, crystal structures and photoluminescence properties of five Cd/Zn–organic frameworks

Publication date: 15 July 2018
Source:Journal of Molecular Structure, Volume 1164
Author(s): Qing Li, Dong-Xu Xue, Yu-Feng Zhang, Zong-Hui Zhang, Ziwei Gao
Luminescent metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have displayed extensively potential applications for photocatalysis, photoluminescence, electroluminescence, chemical sensors et al. Herein, five new Cd/Zn−organic frameworks of [Cd(HL)C2H5OH] (1), [Cd(HL)(2,2′-Bpy)H2O] (2), [Cd2(HL)2(Phen)2] (3), [Zn(HL)BIMB] (4), [Cd3(HL)3(4,4′-Bpy)DMF]·(H2O) (5) have been deliberately constructed via solvothermal reactions of d¹⁰ transition metal salts, i.e. Cd(NO3)2∙4H2O or Zn(NO3)2·6H2O, and a V-shaped semi-rigid organic linker of 4,4'-(hydroxymethanediyl) dibenzoic acid (H3L) along with the auxiliary poly-nitrogen ligands of 2,2′-Bpy(2,2′-bipyridine), Phen(phenanthroline), BIMB(1,1′-benzene-1,4-diyldimethanediyl-bis-1H-imidazole) and 4,4′-Bpy(4,4′-bipyridine). The crystal structures of compounds 1–5 were precisely determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SC-XRD), Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and Thermogravimetic analysis (TGA). As revealed by SC-XRD, the isolated 1 presents a 2-periodic framework encompassing side-by-side channel-typed helical tubes. Compounds 2–4 display Z-shaped 1-periodic single chains, concomitant with twin chains and tubular structure, respectively. Interestingly, compound 5 demonstrates a two-fold interpenetrated 3-periodic skeleton in the presence of a rigid pillar of 4,4′-Bpy. Additionally, photoluminescence properties of 1–5 were lastly investigated.

Graphical abstract

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Spectroscopic characteristic (FT-IR, 1H, 13C NMR and UV–Vis) and theoretical calculations (MEP, DOS, HOMO-LUMO, PES, NBO analysis and keto–enol tautomerism) of new tetradentate N,N′-bis(4-hydroxysalicylidene)-1,4-phenylenediamine ligand as chelating agent for the synthesis of dinuclear Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II) complexes

Publication date: 5 July 2018
Source:Journal of Molecular Structure, Volume 1163
Author(s): Iman Rajaei, Seyed Nezamoddin Mirsattari
The synthesis and characterization of a novel symmetrical Schiff base ligand N,Nʹ-bis(4-hydroxysalicylidene)-1,4-phenylenediamine (BHSP) was presented in this study and characterized by FT-IR, NMR (¹H and ¹³C) and UV–Vis spectroscopy experimentally and theoretically. Also a series of binuclear Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II) complexes of BHSP ligand have been synthesized by conventional sequential route in 1:1 equivalent of L:M ratio and characterized by routine physicochemical characterizations. The molecular geometry and vibrational frequencies of the BHSP in the ground state were calculated by using density functional theory (DFT) B3LYP method invoking 6-31G(d,p) and 6–31++G(d,p) basis sets. To study different conformations of the molecule, potential energy surface (PES) scan investigations were performed. The energetic behavior of the ligand compound (BHSP) in solvent media has been examined using B3LYP method with the 6-31G(d,p) and 6–31++G(d,p) basis sets by applying the polarized continuum model (PCM). In addition, DFT calculations of the BHSP ligand, molecular electrostatic potential (MEP), contour map, natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis, frontier molecular orbitals (FMO) analysis, NMR analysis and TD-DFT calculations were conducted. The calculated properties are in agreement with the available experimental data and closely related molecule BSP. The calculated results show that the optimized geometry can well reproduce the crystal structural parameters.

Graphical abstract

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Synthesis, characterization, antimicrobial activity and DFT studies of 2-(pyrimidin-2-ylamino)naphthalene-1,4-dione and its Mn(II), Co(II), Ni(II) and Zn(II) complexes

Publication date: 5 July 2018
Source:Journal of Molecular Structure, Volume 1163
Author(s): Festus Chioma, Anthony C. Ekennia, Collins U. Ibeji, Sunday N. Okafor, Damian C. Onwudiwe, Aderoju A. Osowole, Oguejiofo T. Ujam
A pyrimidine-based ligand, 2-(pyrimidin-2-ylamino)naphthalene-1,4-dione (L), has been synthesized by the reaction of 2-aminopyrimidine with 2-hydroxy-1,4-napthoquinone. Reaction of the ligand with Ni(II), Co(II), Mn(II) and Zn(II) acetate gave the corresponding metal complexes which were characterized by spectroscopic techniques, (infrared, electronic), elemental analysis, room-temperature magnetometry, conductance measurements and thermogravimetry-differential scanning calorimetry (TG-DSC) analyses. The room-temperature magnetic data and electronic spectral measurements of the complexes gave evidence of 4-coordinate square planar/tetrahedral geometry. The thermal analyses values obtained indicated the monohydrate complexes. The antimicrobial screening of the compounds showed mild to very good results. The Mn(II) complex showed the best result within in the range of 11.5–29 mm. The electronic, structural and spectroscopic properties of the complexes were further discussed using density functional theory. Molecular docking studies showed significant binding affinity with the drug targets and the metal complexes have potentials to be used as drugs.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2ICYf7o

Soil micronutrient pools and their transfer to paddy-crops in semi-arid agro-ecosystems, Central India

Publication date: August 2018
Source:Soil and Tillage Research, Volume 180
Author(s): Kriti Shukla, Anshumali
Irrigation is a key component of crop productivity, environmental protection and sustainable agriculture. To understand this, paddy-crops and soil samples were collected from rainfed (RFS) and irrigated (IRS) soils of semi-arid agro-ecosystems, Central India. The objectives of the current study were to (1) determine total concentrations of Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn in paddy-soils and paddy-crops, (2) chemical fractionation of operationally defined pools of Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn content in paddy-soils. Total micronutrient concentrations followed the order as: Fe > Mn > Zn > Cu with higher values in RFS paddy-soils. High residual fraction indicated the existence of micronutrients within mineral lattice structure, which resulted in low to moderate mobility factor (MF) of Cu, Fe, and Zn in the paddy-soils. The high Mn concentrations in non-residual fractions resulted in MF more than 50%. The transfer factors of total micronutrients (TFTM) showed high transfer of Zn and Mn to paddy-crops. The high TFEMF (transfer factor of exchangeable micronutrient fractions) of Cu and Fe revealed significant accumulation in paddy-roots. Paddy-grains differed significantly (P < 0.05) in total micronutrient content with high values in IRS agro-ecosystems. The correlation and multiple linear regression analyses showed control of micronutrient fractions on availability, uptake, transfer and translocation in paddy-crops through root system.

Graphical abstract

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Origin and migration of trace elements in the surface sediments of Majuro Atoll, Marshall Islands

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Chemosphere, Volume 202
Author(s): Lisa Ito, Takayuki Omori, Minoru Yoneda, Toru Yamaguchi, Ryuta Kobayashi, Yoshio Takahashi
The sediments of Majuro Atoll, Marshall Islands, consist of bioclastic materials, including foraminifera and coral debris. The sedimentary depth profiles of elements showed that various elements including zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) were enriched in the upper layers of the islands of Majuro Atoll. Carbon-14 dating revealed that the sedimentation of the upper layer was completed before 1670 and 542 cal BP in Laura and Calalen, respectively. The enriched elements could be categorized by their origins: (a) terrestrial elements transported as dust (aluminum (Al) and rare earth elements (REEs)); (b) anthropogenic elements (Zn and Cu); and (c) elements supplied by seabirds (phosphorus (P)). From the results of the total amount of Al supplied to sediments for ca. 2000 years, Al in Majuro Atoll was suggested to be airborne origin. The enrichment factors of the elements normalized to Al concentration of continental crust showed that REEs were also transported as dust, while Zn and Cu were mainly of anthropogenic origin. The speciation analysis by X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) showed the presence of Zn–Cu alloys originated from industrial products. It was also revealed that Zn was enriched in the surface due to anthropogenic emission after urbanization on Majuro Atoll and fixed by carbonate and phosphate at the upper layer, which inhibits migration of Zn into the deeper layer and its release to the groundwater and costal water. Hence, the fixation of heavy metals at the surface prevents their exposure to aquatic organisms and residents via fresh groundwater in the island.

Graphical abstract

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Ectopic expression of SaNRAMP3 from Sedum alfredii enhanced cadmium root-to-shoot transport in Brassica juncea

Publication date: 30 July 2018
Source:Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, Volume 156
Author(s): Ying Feng, Yingjie Wu, Jie Zhang, Qian Meng, Qiong Wang, Luyao Ma, Xiaoxiao Ma, Xiaoe Yang
SaNRAMP3 gene cloned from a Zn/Cd hyperaccumulator Sedum alfredii was ectopicly expressed in Brassica juncea, a fast-growing and high-biomass crop plant. In a tissue culture experiment, transgenic plants were grown on MS medium with 0, 25, 50, 100, 200 μM Cd. It was shown that, at the same Cd treatment, the Cd tolerance of transgenic plants had no significant difference with those of wild-type plants (WT). However, the shoot Cd content and accumulation were improved significantly while the root Cd content and accumulation were descended significantly by SaNRAMP3 gene expression, which obviously enhanced the Cd root-to-shoot translocation factor (TF). In the hydroponic experiment, plants were cultured in nutrition solution with 0, 2.5, 25 μM Cd. Data showed that the Cd tolerance of transgenic plants had no significant difference with that of WT under the same Cd exposure. Whereas, the shoot Cd content and accumulation was increased 1.43–1.81 times and the TF was enhanced 3.09–3.51 times by SaNRAMP3 gene expression. Those results indicated that ectopic expression of SaNRAMP3 in B. juncea didn't lead to Cd sensitivity, but enhanced Cd root-to-shoot transport, so that increased shoot Cd accumulation. This study provided a possibility to improve phytoextraction efficiency of heavy metal through gene engineering.



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Plant uptake and availability of antimony, lead, copper and zinc in oxic and reduced shooting range soil

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Environmental Pollution, Volume 238
Author(s): Kerstin Hockmann, Susan Tandy, Björn Studer, Michael W.H. Evangelou, Rainer Schulin
Shooting ranges polluted by antimony (Sb), lead (Pb), copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) are used for animal grazing, thus pose a risk of contaminants entering the food chain. Many of these sites are subject to waterlogging of poorly drained soils. Using field lysimeter experiments, we compared Sb, Pb, Cu and Zn uptake by four common pasture plant species (Lolium perenne, Trifolium repens, Plantago lanceolata and Rumex obtusifolius) growing on a calcareous shooting range soil under waterlogged and drained conditions. To monitor seasonal trends, the same plants were collected at three times over the growing season. Additionally, variations in soil solution concentrations were monitored at three depths over the experiment. Under reducing conditions, soluble Sb concentrations dropped from ∼50 μg L⁻¹ to ∼10 μg L⁻¹, which was attributed to the reduction of Sb(V) to Sb(III) and the higher retention of the trivalent species by the soil matrix. Shoot Sb concentrations differed by a factor of 60 between plant species, but remained at levels <0.3 μg g⁻¹. Despite the difference in soil solution concentrations between treatments, total Sb accumulation in shoots for plants collected on the waterlogged soil did not change, suggesting that Sb(III) was much more available for plant uptake than Sb(V), as only 10% of the total Sb was present as Sb(III). In contrast to Sb, Pb, Cu and Zn soil solution concentrations remained unaffected by waterlogging, and shoot concentrations were significantly higher in the drained treatment for many plant species. Although showing an increasing trend over the season, shoot metal concentrations generally remained below regulatory values for fodder plants (40 μg g⁻¹ Pb, 150 μg g⁻¹ Zn, 15–35 μg g⁻¹ Cu), indicating a low risk of contaminant transfer into the food chain under both oxic and anoxic conditions for the type of shooting range soil investigated in this study.

Graphical abstract

Teaser

Sb, Pb, Cu and Zn concentrations in plants growing on shooting range soil did not increase under waterlogging and generally remained below regulatory values for fodder plants.


http://ift.tt/2pvxlFJ

Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System in the Pathogenesis of Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension

Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes
DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-102008

Hypertension occurs in 7–10% of pregnant women. Despite the continuous development of medicine, it is still an important risk factor for perinatal mortality of both mothers and fetuses. Pregnant women with hypertension are at greater risk of complications such as: placental abruption, cerebral and cardiac incidents, multiorgan failure, and disseminated intravascular coagulation. The aim of this review was to discuss multilevel disorders of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in the etiopathogenesis of pregnancy-induced hypertension.
[...]

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

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Alogliptin and Gliclazide Similarly Increase Circulating Endothelial Progenitor Cells in Type 2 Diabetes Patients

Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes
DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-122383

Aim We investigated the effect of alogliptin and gliclazide on endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in type 2 diabetes. Methods Eighty patients with type 2 diabetes and HbA1c between 7.5% and 8.5% were randomized to receive either alogliptin (25 mg/daily) or gliclazide extended-release (30 mg/daily for HbA1c 7.5-8.0% and 60 mg/daily for HbA1c 8.0-8.5%) in combination with metformin for 4 months. At baseline and 4 months, clinical and laboratory parameters of EPCs were determined. Results After 4 months of treatment, alogliptin and gliclazide resulted in a similar significant reduction in HbA1c (%) (8.0±0.3 vs. 7.1±0.2, and 8.0±0.3 vs. 7.0±0.2, respectively; P<0.05) and a similar and significant increase in EPC count (cells/106 WBC) (CD45−CD133+KDR+ : 2.2±1.2 vs. 3.7±1.6, CD45−CD34+KDR+: 3.3±1.8 vs. 4.9±1.8; P<0.05 for alogliptin; CD45−CD133+KDR+: 2.3±1.3 vs. 3.6±1.5, CD45−CD34+KDR+: 3.1±1.3 vs. 4.6±1.7; P<0.05 for gliclazide). Conclusions Both alogliptin and gliclazide demonstrated a beneficial effect in increasing EPCs in poorly controlled type 2 diabetes. As alogliptin and gliclazide exhibit different mechanisms of action, the observed increase in EPCs seems to be due to their glucose-lowering effect.
[...]

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

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Amiodarone-Induced Thyroid Dysfunction: A Clinical Update

Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes
DOI: 10.1055/a-0577-7574

Amiodarone is one of the most commonly prescribed antiarrhythmic agents in clinical practice owing to its efficacy, even with high toxicity profile. The high iodine content and the prolonged biological half-life of the drug can result in thyroid dysfunction in a high proportion of patients treated with amiodarone even after cessation of amiodarone. Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are common side effects that mandate regular monitoring of patients with thyroid function tests. Amiodarone-induced hypothyroidism (AIH) is diagnosed and managed in the same way as a usual case of hypothyroidism. However, differential diagnosis and clinical management of amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis (AIT) subtypes can be challenging. With the aid of a case snippet, we update the current evidence for the diagnostic work up and management of patients with amiodarone-induced thyroid dysfunction in this article.
[...]

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

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Association of Vitamin D Levels and type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Asian Indians is Independent of Obesity

Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes
DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-124076

Background A large proportion of subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in India are non-obese. Asian-Indian subjects with diabetes have been shown to have low vitamin D levels. Whether low vitamin D levels and T2DM in Asian-Indians is attributable to the associated obesity as in caucasians is unclear. Hence we studied the association of vitamin D levels and T2DM in Asian-Indians with or without obesity. Methods Total of 213 subjects were recruited in four groups, group 1-Non-obese diabetic, group 2-Non-obese non-diabetic, group 3-Obese diabetic and group 4-Obese non-diabetic. Subjects recruited under various groups were matched for age and sex. Anthropometry, skin-fold thickness, fasting and postprandial plasma glucose, HbA1c, fasting insulin, lipids and vitamin D levels were measured in all study subjects and were compared between the groups. Results Mean age of study population was 41.23±7.43 years. Mean BMI in groups 1,2,3 and 4 was 21.34±1.41, 20.53±2.27, 27.72±2.94 and 27.62±3.37 kg/m2 respectively. Overall 64.3% study subjects had vitamin D deficiency and 27.7% had insufficient vitamin D levels. Significantly lower vitamin D levels were found in diabetic groups 1 and 3 compared to non-diabetic groups 2 and 4. No significant difference was observed in vitamin D levels between groups 1 and 3. Similarly, no significant difference was observed in vitamin D levels between groups 2 and 4. Vitamin D levels did not show any significant correlation with BMI, waist or body fat. Conclusion Vitamin D levels do not appear to be related to obesity in diabetic as well non-diabetic Asian-Indian individuals.
[...]

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

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Detection and molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium species and Giardia assemblages in two watersheds in the metropolitan region of São Paulo, Brazil

Abstract

Cryptosporidium and Giardia are associated with cases of water and foodborne outbreaks in the world. This study included 50 samples of surface raw water collected from two watersheds in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. The isolation of (oo)cysts was performed in accordance with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's methods 1623 and genotypic characterization and quantification were carried out by Nested PCR and qPCR assays based on 18S rRNA and gdh genes, respectively. U.S. EPA 1623 method showed the presence of (oo)cysts in 40% ( \( \overline{\mathrm{x}} \)  = 0.10 oocysts/L) and 100% ( \( \overline{\mathrm{x}} \)  = 7.6 cysts/L) of samples from São Lourenço River, respectively, and 24% ( \( \overline{\mathrm{x}} \)  = 0.8 oocysts/L) and 60% ( \( \overline{\mathrm{x}} \)  = 1.64 cysts/L) of Guarapiranga Reservoir, respectively. The qPCR assay detected C. hominis/parvum in 52% (0.06 to 1.85 oocysts/L) of São Lourenço River and 64% (0.09 to 1.4 oocysts/L) of Guarapiranga Reservoir samples. Presence/absence test for Giardia intestinalis was positive in 92% of São Lourenço River and 8% of Guarapiranga Reservoir samples. The assemblage A was detected in 16% (0.58 to 2.67 cysts/L) in São Lourenço River and no positive samples were obtained for assemblage B in both water bodies. The characterization of anthroponotic species C. parvum/hominis, G. intestinalis, and assemblage A was valuable in the investigation of possible sources of contamination in the watersheds studied confirming the need of expanding environmental monitoring measures for protection of these water sources in our country.

http://ift.tt/2HSoJRj

Rate constants for the reactions of OH radicals with CF 3 CX=CY 2 (X = H, F, CF 3 , Y = H, F, Cl)

Abstract

The rate constants of OH radicals with CF₃CF=CCl₂, CF₃CH=CF₂, CF₃CF=CH₂, CF₃CH=CH₂, and (CF₃)₂C=CH₂ have been measured over the temperature range 250–430 K. Kinetic measurements have been carried out using flash photolysis and laser photolysis methods combined respectively with laser-induced fluorescence technique. The Arrhenius rate parameters have been determined as k(CF₃CF=CCl₂) = (6.50 ± 0.22) × 10⁻¹³∙exp[(200 ± 10)/T], k(CF₃CH=CF₂) = (4.85 ± 0.14) × 10⁻¹³∙exp[(120 ± 10)/T], k(CF₃CF=CH₂) = (1.54 ± 0.03) × 10⁻¹²∙exp[− (100 ± 10)/T], k(CF₃CH=CH₂) = (1.06 ± 0.02) × 10⁻¹²∙exp[(80 ± 10)/T], and k((CF₃)₂C=CH₂) = (8.75 ± 0.23) × 10⁻¹³∙exp[− (20 ± 10)/T] cm³ molecule⁻¹ s⁻¹. Infrared absorption spectra of the halogenated alkenes have been measured at room temperature. The atmospheric lifetime, global warming potential, ozone depleting potential, and photochemical ozone creation potential have been estimated. The change in the reactivity of halogenated alkenes by the substitution has been examined by considering the structure containing the atoms or atomic groups attached to the carbons on both sides of the double bond.

http://ift.tt/2GbTNhO

Effect of catalyst calcination temperature in the visible light photocatalytic oxidation of gaseous formaldehyde by multi-element doped titanium dioxide

Abstract

The present study investigates the influence of calcination temperature on the properties and photoactivity of multi-element doped TiO₂. The photocatalysts were prepared by incorporating silver (Ag), fluorine (F), nitrogen (N), and tungsten (W) into the TiO₂ structure via the sol-gel method. Spectroscopic techniques were used to elucidate the correlation between the structural and optical properties of the doped photocatalyst and its photoactivity. XRD results showed that the mean crystallite size increased for undoped photocatalysts and decreased for the doped photocatalysts when calcination was done at higher temperatures. UV-Vis spectra showed that the absorption cut-off wavelength shifted towards the visible light region for the as-synthesized photocatalysts and band gap narrowing was attributed to multi-element doping and calcination. FTIR spectra results showed the shifting of OH-bending absorption bands towards increasing wave numbers. The activity of the photocatalysts was evaluated in terms of gaseous formaldehyde removal under visible light irradiation. The highest photocatalytic removal of gaseous formaldehyde was found at 88%. The study confirms the effectiveness of multi-element doped TiO₂ to remove gaseous formaldehyde in air by visible light photocatalysis and the results have a lot of potential to extend the application to other organic air contaminants.

http://ift.tt/2G0k7I3

Persistent Maladies: The Case of Two-Mind Syndrome

Publication date: April 2018
Source:Trends in Cognitive Sciences, Volume 22, Issue 4
Author(s): Magda Osman




http://ift.tt/2u7vjBm

Pint-Sized Public Relations: The Development of Reputation Management

Publication date: April 2018
Source:Trends in Cognitive Sciences, Volume 22, Issue 4
Author(s): Ike M. Silver, Alex Shaw
Until recently, many psychologists were skeptical that young children cared about reputation. New evidence suggests that by age five, children begin to understand the broad importance of reputation and to engage in surprisingly sophisticated impression management. These findings prompt exciting new questions about the development of a fundamental social competency.



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